Getting to Know the Hosts of 'The Middle' Podcast

In this episode of 'The Middle' podcast, hosts Rodney and Derek return after a six-week hiatus to catch up and share their experiences. They discuss their personal and professional lives, including recent family events, work projects, and the importance of maintaining relationships and communicating with loved ones. Rodney and Derek offer insights into their friendship, which dates back to 1994, and the origins of their podcast, which initially started during the global pandemic. They reflect on how the podcast has evolved, the topics they enjoy discussing, and how their professional experiences shape their perspectives. The episode also delves into their thoughts on sports conspiracy theories, the nature of work and life challenges, and their personal beliefs and values.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:45 Catching Up: Life Updates and Reflections
03:59 The Impact of Tariffs and Personal Anecdotes
05:32 Get to Know Your Hosts: Rodney and Derek
06:11 The Origin Story: How We Met and Started the Podcast
10:37 The Podcast's Purpose and Evolution
16:27 Favorite Topics and Show Moments
22:20 Professional Insights and Personal Growth
23:25 Navigating Team Dynamics in Projects
24:23 Fast Food Jobs: Humbling Experiences
26:14 Work-Life Balance and Professional Growth
28:35 Transitioning to HR: A Personal Journey
35:08 Life Lessons and Personal Beliefs
38:54 Conspiracy Theories: Sports vs. Politics
46:52 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

In this episode of 'The Middle...A podcast', hosts Derek and Rodney conclude their discussion on the potential economic impacts of tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, particularly focusing on how individuals can prepare. The episode dives deep into personal budgeting strategies inspired by Dave Ramsey's methods, sharing Derek's journey of paying off nearly $300,000 in debt. The discussion includes insights into emergency funds, debt repayment, and conscious spending while also addressing the practical aspects of dealing with increasing costs due to tariffs. Rodney and Derek emphasize the importance of controlling personal finances, making deliberate choices, and prioritizing value over cost. They also touch on broader financial principles, such as stewarding money wisely and the balance between saving and enjoying life. The episode concludes on an encouraging note, urging listeners to stay resilient and proactive amidst economic fluctuations.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Show Summary: In this episode, Rodney and Derek take a moment to provide a recap of the college football season, NFL regular season and Superbowl predictions, and close with the NBA trade deadline reflections.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Host: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

Intro 0-1:00

College Football Championship /Playoffs recap-1:30-10:15

Super Bowl Preview/NFL Recap- 10:20-19:26

NBA Trades 19:30-29:47

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like, share and subscribe.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Show Summary: In this episode, Rodney and Derek take the Middle Podcast to new heights, soaring at fifteen thousand feet! They dive into the latest on D.O.G.E., H1B visas, the Treasury Department takeover, and Cabinet pick updates. Plus, they share strategies for navigating turbulence caused by recent actions of the current administration. The episode wraps up with a deep dive into process improvement and a special shout-out to a loyal listener. Tune in for an engaging and informative ride!

0-5:25 Intro

5:30-9:00 D.O.G.E/ H1B Visas

11:01-12:45 Prom Queens and Jocks

18:11- 20:03 Outsourcing/Time is a Flat Circle

20:45- 21:48 Did MAGA Turn on Elon?

22:49-24:00 Contributions with No Commas

24:23-30:33 The salute/He!! I'm Awkward

32:00-33:23 View it like a Corporation

36:00-38:35 No one Talks to Me

39:00-43:00 Cabinet Picks Update

49:00-51:00 Treasury Department takeover

52:50-54:00 Kiss rolls and 6m's

1:02:00-1:02:46 Closing

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Show Summary: In this episode Rodney and Derek recap the recent football National Championship playoffs and the impacts of NIL on college sports and professional sports. They end with humorous reflections in the oh damn moments/lessons learned segment where Rodney offers witty perspectives on Hulk Hogan and his ability to transcend time.

This episode was partially inspired by a YouTube video by FD Signifier from his B-Sides YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4AXpJi-VIQ&authuser=1

0-1:46 Intro

1:47-12:03 College Football Play Recap

14:09-15:10 Shout out Boobie and GHSA Highschool Playoffs

15:30 – 28:00 NIL Reflections/Proposed Restructuring

28:01- 30:00 The Money Breakdown of NIL

30:10-33:50 Future of College Sports

34:00-34:55 Dick Dastardly with A Beard

35:10-40:20 Oh Damn Moments/Lessons Learned

41:00-41:46 Closing

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Rodney and Derek are back for episode 11, feeling refreshed and recharged after some quality time with family and friends. In this episode, they dive into the initial phase of cabinet confirmation hearings, giving you a sneak peek at what’s to come. They’ll take a closer look at the nominees for Attorney General, Health and Human Services Secretary, and Secretary of Defense: Pam Bondi, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Pete Hegseth. Plus, they’ll wrap up with the latest confirmations and a little teaser about NIL. Tune in for an exciting start to the new year!

The Show: Dive into the minds of two Generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Host: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Show Summary: In this episode, Rodney and Derek break down the Presidential election. They spend time recapping their thoughts on election night and how they navigated as the results came in. They also delve into post-election reactions at work and with friend groups the next day. They close the episode with what may have been the deciding factors in how people voted.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two Generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Host: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA

Show Summary: In this episode Rodney and Derek review the recent Cabinet picks and close the episode with a hilarious recap of the Jake Paul and Mike Tyson fight, locking eyes, and thug NFL coaches in oh damn moments and lessons learned.

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Host: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

0-1:23 Intro

2:15-3:55 Attorney General, Matt Gaetz

5:30-7:00 Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr

7:25 - 8:40 Secretary of Education Linda McMahon

11:15-13:00 Border Czar, Tom Homan

14:00-16:35 Department of Government Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy

20:00-21:59 Navigating Post election feelings

23:08-24:00 Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard

Oh Damn Moments/Lessons Learned

24:00-25:13 Thankful Reflections

25:15-31:00 Jake Paul and Mike Tyson

34:29-35:57 Thug Coaches

The Show: Dive into the minds of two generation X-men as they share their perspectives on politics, sports, finance, family, and more. Join in, have your thoughts challenged, and hopefully experience a laugh or two as these co-hosts share their takes.

The Hosts: Rodney is a quiet but efficient communicator who spends his days testing and improving IT systems for a Fortune 500 company. He’s a proud husband, dad, and pop pop. Derek, a reformed operations leader turned HR professional, is a proud empty nester and husband who loves to tell a good story and savor fine bourbon. Friends for over 30 years, these two bring a wealth of experience and camaraderie to every episode.

We would love to hear your feedback. Please like share and subscribe.

Email: back2themiddlepodcast@gmail.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/middlepod_?igsh=c2hiNWV6ZjZxdWM=

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2jl8XF2FUXiCBD86QIIhKv?si=n74K-59iTUeCjyyNLF56FA