Stuck In The Middle - A Gen X Podcast

Hello, neighbor, I mean, Slackers!This week we are going to explore the educational live-action children's shows of the 1970s and 1980s that defined the Generation X experience. These programs were foundational, delivering lessons with creativity and care in an era before digital media. From the community spirit of Sesame Street to the gentle guidance of Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, it's all about the shows that made education engaging and actually fun. My personal GOATs? Fred Rogers and Captain Kangaroo! The Electric Company used characters like Morgan Freeman's (!) Easy Reader to teach reading to older children, while Romper Room's Miss Nancy instilled manners through her Magic Mirror. Reading Rainbow, hosted by LeVar Burton, encouraged a love for literature, and Mr. Wizard's World made science accessible with Don Herbert's experiments. Each program contributed to a foundation of curiosity and empathy.There are also a ton of lesser-known shows like Zoom, which empowered children to create their own content, and The Big Blue Marble, which introduced global perspectives. Villa Alegre promoted bilingual learning, and 3-2-1 Contact brought STEM to life. These shows were more than entertainment; they were trusted sources of knowledge and connection for a generation.Available on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, and major streaming platforms. Connect with the podcast via email at stuckinthemiddlepod@yahoo.com, or follow on Instagram, X, and YouTube at  @stuckpodx, and on Facebook at the Stuck in the Middle Podcast page. 

Finish him, Slackers! This week's episode is all about how PC games like DOOM, console titles such as Mortal Kombat - on Sega Genesis of course - and early games on the first Xbox sparked intense controversy.We dive into the societal fears that linked pixelated violence to real-world crimes, from Senate hearings scrutinizing Night Trap to media reports tying Grand Theft Auto and DOOM's gory first-person action to youth aggression. It's crazy looking back on how these games became scapegoats for violence, while also embodying our generation's embrace of new technology, set against a backdrop of parental advisory stickers and early internet culture. Long before there was WiFi and Xbox live, there were LAN servers - we have had this kind of online gaming culture far longer than we sometimes recognize! Fun? Yes! Toxic? Probably!There were some wild true crime connections amid widespread cultural debates surrounding PC and console gaming. These controversies continue to influence modern gaming culture today. Whether gaming is good, or bad, or otherwise -  who knows? I mean, who didn't play Halo into the wee hours of the morning!?

What is up, Slackers!On this week's episode we explore the evolution of grunge beyond its iconic pioneers. Sometimes it is easy to forget that grunge had a second (early to mid-1990s) and even third wave (late 1990s to early 2000s) of bands that shaped the genre's legacy. We highlight 14 second-wave acts, from Seattle's sludgy core to punk-infused and noise-rock outliers - some initially dismissed as posers who would go on to be massive stars. Then, we cover six third-wave bands, blending "grunge" with more alt-rock and indie rock influences. Who knew there were this many grunge bands not named Nirvana, Soundgarden, or Pearl Jam?! Oh, and I fully blame a certain early 2000's band with completely taking down guitar driven rock music - possibly forever.Listen now on Spreaker, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Follow the show:   Instagram: @stuckpodx  X: @stuckpodx  YouTube: @stuckpodx  Facebook: Stuck in the Middle      • Email: stuckinthemiddlepod@yahoo.com

I hate rain, Slackers,This week, we're digging into ten rainy day songs that capture the gray and the heavy. Spanning the late '70s to the late '90s, the list pulls from dark corners and quiet moments—think industrial beats, NY alt metal, acoustic ballads, and lyrics that can get pretty dreary. It's the kind of music that fits a slow drizzle or a full downpour, perfect for staring out a window, preferably with a hot cup of coffee. Mildly depressing? Maybe. Carthartic? Also, maybe. But probably.Got a rainy day song I missed? Hit us up on X, Instagram, and YouTube @stuckpodx or head on over to the The Stuck in the Middle Podcast page on Facebook. Drop a comment wherever you stream this podcast.

Trigger warning: We're diving into the heavy stuff related to mental health—stats, struggles, the works. If it hits too close to home, skip it and come back next week. I will not be offended. It's 2025, and Gen X (born ‘65–‘79, now 45–60) is wrestling a quiet crisis—too many of us are taking our own lives. Gen X men at a rate of 27–29 per 100,000, women at 7–8, both up since 2002. In this episode we unpack why—financial struggles, loneliness, physical & mental health issues—and how to fight back. I will share my own experiences and what I've learned and the steps I've taken. Resources:  988 Crisis Line (call/text)  NAMI.org (support groups)  SAMHSA.gov (local help)  Veterans Crisis Line (988, press 1)  Text HOME to 741741

Hip Hop Hooray, Slackers!Today, we're diving into ‘80s rap—a new genre that was exploding right before our eyes. We'll cover the top-selling albums and the pioneers who started it all. Rap kicked off in the early ‘80s in New York City. LL Cool J's debut record Radio sold over a million units with “I Can't Live Without My Radio” as the lead single. Then Run-D.M.C.'s Raising Hell broke huge, selling three million copies, led by the first rock/rap hybrid track - their reimagining of Aerosmith's “Walk This Way.” The Beastie Boys' Licensed to Ill  hit ten million thanks to the massive anthem that was “Fight for Your Right (To Party).” Rick Rubin produced all three of these breathrough records.Eric B. & Rakim's Paid in Full sold a million records—“I Ain't No Joke” set a new bar. Seriously, it wasn't until I started revisiting this stuff that I recalled how ahead of his time Rakim really was.Public Enemy's It Takes a Nation of Millions moved a million units with songs like “Don't Believe the Hype” and “Bring the Noise,” merging hip hop with social commentary. N.W.A's Straight Outta Compton sold three million records with no radio support since almost all of it was censored. Only “Express Yourself” was clean enough to get airplay! Dr. Dre was already a genius in the studio - that album sounds amazing.On the pop side of rap was Salt-N-Pepa's “Push It,” DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince with “Parents Just Don't Understand,” while the big dog was none other than MC Hammer's massively popular Please Hammer Don't Hurt 'Em, which sold ten million—“U Can't Touch This” was a party staple.For Gen X, rap was fresh and ours. These pioneers turned a street sound into a movement, selling millions on vinyl and cassettes.

Be kind and rewind, Slackers!This week we take a dive into cinema's cult classics - films that took the long road to legendary status. These films - think dark humored high school flicks like Heathers or demonic, medieval chaos courtesy of Army of Darkness - often stumbled at the box office, barely making a dent with opening crowds.But at Blockbuster, they found their groove, turning late-night rentals into a rite of passage for fans. The question is, what exactly makes a cult classic a cult classic? Its a combination of unforgettable characters, quotable lines, and those unexpected moments that make you question what you just watched. It's about stories that mix heart, humor, and a little madness - all the ingredients of the Gen X mindset.What makes these movies stand the test of time isn't flashy red carpet premieres and huge box office numbers but the way they kind of snuck into our lives. Some weave fairy-tale romance with clever twists, others bring vampires to the teenage coming of age story, or maybe just toss a trucker into some ancient, mystical weirdness. I mean, how do you even describe the awkward charm of a movie like Napoleon Dynamite? It's sad that streaming has replaced the local video store, where so many of us found these weird little movies, turning often overlooked releases into beloved classics. This isn't just nostalgia; it's a nod to films that took time to find their people, proving that some of the best stories don't need a red carpet - just a rewind button and a little love.

It's time for more fun with artificial intelligence, Slackers!During a past episode, we asked ChatGPT to spill the beans on Generation X, but this round, it's Grok's turn  - unpacking ten ways us 45-to-60-year-olds are handling 2025.Grok says we're snapping up multigenerational homes to bunk with parents or kids—practical as ever. Gen X women are flipping the script on midlife, dropping bold takes on living fully.We're stretched thin, financially propping up family above and below, and spending just enough to keep retirement in sight. Politically, we're leaning pretty hard one way. More of us are sharing roofs, work's throwing tech challenges at us, and health's a toss-up—carrying extra weight but hitting the gym, too. Nostalgia's alive with ‘80s reboots. Millennials tip their hats to our grit; zoomers think it's nuts we survived without apps.It's Gen X just doing what we do—quietly piecing it together. Grok's take feels a little sharper than ChatGPT's, but regardless, AI is still kinda creepy.

Let's go out to the lobby and grab ourselves a treat, Slackers!A few episodes back, I dove into my most-listened-to albums. Now, it's time to switch gears and talk about my most-watched movies of all time. No shocker here: Star Wars ranks high. What Gen Xer hasn't rewatched those classics dozens of times?The list has all the usual suspects—Indiana Jones, Back to the Future, Mad Max—but I've also got some newer favorites like John Wick, Tom Hardy's Mad Max: Fury Road, and smaller gems like Rushmore and Mystery Men. You'll spot former SNL stars like Will Ferrell and Adam Sandler, plus some 21st-century Disney juggernauts.And of course there's got to be some Kurt Russell!Sam Raimi reps the superhero genre, while Wes Craven brings his horror A-game. We've got sprawling, hours-long epics, goofy comedies, action-packed blockbusters, and, of course, time travel—because who doesn't love a solid time-travel flick?I'd love to hear about your most-watched movies! Drop them over on social media and let's compare notes.

Why do I feel so guilty, Slackers?In a recent podcast, Tom Morello and Billy Corgan discussed a number of topics, but when Billy talked about  "Gen X not having a second act” and Tom said he had “Punk Rock Guilt”, this really struck a chord with me.Growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s—amid economic flux, cultural cynicism, and punk's rebirth via hardcore and grunge — gave us a somewhat strange worldview. In 1989 Family Ties ended while Seinfeld just started to air. We went from wholesome to cynical in the blink of an eye.Morello talked about the uneasy feeling of raging against the system only to end up part of it - is that just an inevitable part of growing up or have we somehow let our younger, more idealistic selves down?As a parent I often wrestle with whether I have done the right things for my kids. And I certainly lament my restless, rudderless youth. This episode is a reflection on my own personal (and Gen X's) struggle to reconcile our hedonistic, yet oddly idealistic, youth with the quiet regrets of middle age.

Feeling old yet, Slackers?When we were young, there were so many movie stars—and not just the Brat Pack. Sean Penn, Kiefer Sutherland, and Elisabeth Shue come to mind. Fast forward to today, and these former young heartthrobs and beloved teen idols have become Hollywood royalty, winning some of the industry's most prestigious awards, including Golden Globes, Academy Awards, Emmys, and Tonys. Movies like TAPS and Fast Times at Ridgemont High boast numerous award winners, including multiple Oscar wins.While Sean Penn received recognition fairly early in his career, actors like Christian Slater and Jennifer Jason Leigh didn't receive any significant award buzz until 30+ years into their careers. Though I'm an avowed Ferris Bueller hater, it was still pretty cool to see Alan Ruck (Cameron) receive nominations for his role on Succession.Although I don't typically pay much attention to award shows, I'm rooting for Demi Moore to finally win the big one for her role in The Substance.We dive into how these stars have evolved—not just in their careers, but in their artistry—transforming from iconic teen roles into multi-award-winning performances. We explore their journeys from being the faces of an era to becoming respected actors and performers across different genres. It's fascinating to see these once-young stars redefine what it means to age gracefully in Hollywood while staying relevant, admired, and celebrated.

Top 5 all time, Slackers!Ever wonder why we have always been "list" oriented - or maybe that's just me? "Top 5" this or "Top 10" that - from Casey Kasem's American Top 40, MTV's Top 20 Countdown, later TRL, to Rolling Stone Magazine's Top 500 series, lists have been a regular part of our lives.With the advent of the internet, many of us were the early adopters of "listicles" on web forums where we chimed in on "Top 5 Tag Teams" or "Top 5 Video Games". Fast forward 20+ years and the list format drives everything from Netflix & Spotify algorithms, to targeted ads. In fact, lists likely drive commerce!For many of us, lists are what drives debates, and as long as people keep it civil, this has always been  our way of communicating. Back in the day it could be debates on "best running backs", or "best metal guitarist". It's all subjective but that's what makes it fun.There's also some talk about the Big Game, Boston sports, and the many opinions on the Half TIme show.

I don't know about you, but I didn't watch any of this year's Grammy Awards. This used to be appointment viewing back in the day, but now - not so much. I thought, let's revisit the ceremonies of 1975, 1985, and 1995. While we might not be tuning in now, these past shows seems to actually matter - and I recognize that is because I am an old man yelling at clouds!While you early Xers may recall the '75 awards, for me it was 1985. Tina Turner, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, and Lionel Richie were huge stars, while Huey Lewis & the News had their big breakout with “Sports”.The Best New artist award went to Cyndi Lauper. The other nominees? Sheila E., Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Corey Hart, and The Judds! I think Cyndi might have deserved that one!I'm not sure if it just being a middle aged man that informs my lack of interest in modern awards shows - it seems as though the industry has changed since our youth. While it has always been about the record labels and their influence, it at least seemed as thought the artistry was equally, if not more important, than record sales alone.So, did you watch the Grammys this year and are there any artists I should actually take the time to listen to?

Diamonds are forever, Slackers!In this episode we will revisit the Diamond-certified albums from the 1980s that dominated the charts. These weren't just records—they were the soundtrack for our generation.From Michael Jackson's Thriller, which owned the airwaves, to AC/DC's Back in Black, the 80s gave us albums that endure today. Bon Jovi's Slippery When Wet gave us new global superstars (and a few timeless hits), while Def Leppard's Hysteria was the comeback of all comeback records. From MTV marathons to the mix tapes we swapped, these records defined an era. If you were rocking a mullet (I did), a jean jacket (yep, me too) and music was your life, these albums were pretty big deals.So, grab your Walkman, hit play, and let's take a trip down memory lane to the music that defined Generation X.Also, AI is pretty dumb - at least for now.

Get on your tin foil hats, Slackers!In this episode, we take a look at the wild conspiracies that shaped the 1980s—a decade full of political scandals, social upheaval, and a growing sense of mistrust in authority.Some of the most notable were the Iran-Contra Affair, The Crack Epidemic, Denver International Airport and the Satanic Panic.We dive into how these conspiracies became the backdrop for Gen X's formative years, and how they still influence the way we view power and truth today. We might just be a little distrustful of authority!Tune in for a trip down memory lane and a look at the conspiratorial mindset that defined a generation.

They're out to get me, Slackers!In this episode, we explore the rise, fall, and enduring legacy of Guns N' Roses, one of rock's most iconic bands. From their formation in 1985 to the release of Appetite for Destruction, we cover their breakthrough into superstardom and the cultural shift they sparked. We delve into key moments, including lineup changes, controversies, and their influence on hard rock and popular culture.We also examine their lasting impact, from the sleazy early days on the Sunset Strip, their unraveling due to the trappings of sudden fame, to their 2016 reunion tour, and discuss how Guns N' Roses reshaped rock music while inspiring generations of musicians. And, let's face it, “Rocket Queen” absolutely rules!

Hey, Slackers!Ever miss the old TV guides? I know I would love to look at that crazy grid and plan on what to watch during the week. Thanks to TVTango.com, you can find pretty much every TV listing going all the way back to 1950.While we were raised on the "Big Three" networks of ABC, CBS, and NBC, there was another network before FOX was launched in 1987 - The Dumont Television Network, which ran from 1946 to 1956. But that's a little before our time.Throughout the episode we will jump around from the 60's, through the 90's, with particular attention paid to Tuesday and Thursday night programming. ABC dominated Tuesdays, with NBC controlling Thursdays.Oddly, for a period of time in the 1960's, one hour dramas would start at the half hour, which seems so strange to me. For most of my life, those TV dramas often aired in later timeslots, often starting at 10:00 PM. Who programs a drama to start at 8:30 or 9:30!? What were some of your favorites? And do you recall shows like the Yellow Rose or Riptide?

Happy New Year, Slackers!This is a year in review episode, diving into the music, movies, and TV that topped the charts in 2024.  Unlike the retrospective shows I do from the 70s, 80's or 90's, it is amazing how I don't know very much about new music, I am slightly more aware of current TV shows, but I do have a pretty good handle on the box office.Did I become a cinephile at some point?!How many of the top Billboard artists do you know or listen to? How many of the big blockbusters have you seen? And did you watch any of the top shows from this year? Let me know.Thank for listening in 2024. I hope you keep listening in 2025!

Merry Christmas, Slackers!This is a short but hearfelt episode of the podcast.A quick review of Krampus, a surprisingly great Christmas-horror flick with an amazing cast, some reflections on the spirit of Christmas and a series of obnoxious events, and even a recitation of the Night Before Christmas.Wishing you all a Happy & Healthy holiday no matter what you celebrate. Be back next year with a brand new episode!

Jingle, Jingle, Jingle, Slackers!Back with a Christmas themed "Whatever Wednesday"! Topics include:Those we lost in 2024 and the Christmas (or Hanukkah) movies they performed in.Bizzare Christmas Movies like Santa With Muscles or Anna and the Apocalypse.Weird Christmas songs - let's just say that Tiny Tim had a very strange sense of humor related to STDs, while "Weird" Al Yankovic had some feelings about the Cold War and the threat of nuclear annihilation - and both decided that Christmas songs would be the way to go to express themselves!Also, drones! I saw some drones!

It's the Christmas Season, Slackers!Did you know that Santa Claus first appeared in a short film all the way back in 1897?!Since then, there have been dozens of live action (and animated) movies and shows starring that jolly old elf. Given the iconic nature of the character, finding the right actor is important. And when Hollywood captures lightning in a bottle, you know they are going to capitalize on it!There have been a handful of actors that so nailed the role that they were brought back numerous times, across genres, film, TV, you name it. Can you guess who played the role in live action more than any other? The answer might surprise you.And no, it isn't Tim Allen.

Gimme a break, Slackers!Sometimes, things end up lost to time. Great albums. Cult favorite movies. And of course, sitcoms. Some sitcoms are truly forgotten gems, while others are just forgettable - and perhaps best left in the past.This week's episode is dedicated to those sitcoms that might have been huge hits but lacked that rewatchability factor, the solid shows with extra life in syndication, and the shows that never made it past one season. Two shows that we will discuss boasted the earliest work of future superstars Juliette Lewis and Jason Bateman - proving that even great performers can be hampered by bad writing, a faulty premise, or a lousy timeslot.And can someone explain how a show can consistently win its timeslot but still not be a hit? For SIX SEASONS!Also, just a reminder that Jane Curtain and Ted Knight (RIP) are brilliant comedic actors.

 Happy Thanksgiving, Slackers!This episode is just me giving thanks for you, the listeners of the Stuck in the Middle Podcast.So, listen to the pod, then go eat some pumpkin pie. Watch Planes, Trains & Automobiles. Enjoy time with friends and family. Maybe listen to Depeche Mode. Or the new Linkin Park.Peace!

Let's go crazy, Slackers!Ah, it's been 40 years since 1984, a year filled with superstars and franchise movies topping the charts. This is definitely one of those oddly Gen X defining years. The early X-ers celebrated their last year as teenagers, while kids like me were just starting to explore music and movies separate from our parents.The music charts featured numerous songs from hit movie soundtracks, new wave artists, and established superstars. Stars like Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Billy Joel were sharing the charts with Prince, Cyndi Lauper, and Madonna. Bands really hitting their stride were The Cars, Duran Duran, and Huey Lewis & the News. And so many pop groups making the charts with their biggest hits, often unreplicated in their later careers. The box office top 10 was filled with first installments of huge franchises, mixed in with sequels to established series. Plus we have the first hit movie for a sitcom actor that would go on to be one of the biggest stars in the world.

Time to get back to music, SlackersOn this week's episode, I give my top 10 most listened to albums of all time. While there are many other records that I would put among my favorite records if all time, this list is based on listens. Many of these albums are from my teen years - when I would listen to cassetes until the lettering had worn away or the tape became frayed or tangled - but these are the ones I keep going back to all these years later.A healthy mix of 80's hair and thrash metal, 90's hardcore & alternative, and mid to late 90's indie rock are all part of the soundtrack of my life. I also give some book recommendations - did you all know about Paul G. Tremblay? I didn't and now I am reading all of his stuff.Anyway - have you subscibed yet? You should do that. Like, right now.

How we doing today, Slackers?!It's the day after Election Day and we may or may not know who the next President of the United States will be. In the spirit of Election Day, let's take a dive into all the elections that have occurred since 1965. Nixon, Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden - those have been the winning candidates since Gen X has been alive.From third party segregationists, lewd scandals, national tragedies, and assassination attempts, the past 60 years have been interesting to say the least. One of the more interesting - if not most controversial - elements of the US Presidential elections, is the electoral college. There have been winners that failed to win the popular vote, while many had massive blowouts, winning both the electoral college and popular vote handily.So, what happened since this podcast was recorded? Who knows? But regardless of how you vote, remember to love your fellow citizens and may God Bless America.

Happy Halloween, Slackers!Remember those hard plastic masks, with edges sharp enough to cut you, while completely obstructing your vision and breathing?! Perfect for a nighttime activity like trick or treating!Were you ever a Princess Leia, ET, Indiana Jones, or Michael Myers? What about Elvis, Michael Jackson, or Madonna?On this week's episode we break down the most popular costumes of the late 60's through the 90's. It is really a reflection of what was in the news, in the movie theaters, and on the radio. Politicans, movie heroes, pop stars, and strange characters all got some attention on All Hallows' Eve.Whether the costumes were store bought or homemade, Halloween was (almost) always a fun night. I mean, free candy while dressed in disguise - what more could a kid ask for?Then many of us have had the opportunity to watch our own kids experience that same sense of excitment while getting dressed up to hit the town to ask strangers for candy.Always one of my favorite holidays. It's an absolutely crazy concept, but an awful lot of fun in practice.

Spooky SZN continues, Slackers!This week we break down the “top 36” 80's horror flicks as ranked by Slashfilm. While I can't say I agree with the exact order of these movies - and admittedly some I've never seen - the top 10 is pretty solid.The 80's was peak horror in many ways, with not only slashers, but great tales of hauntings, monster movies, body horror, and worst of all - the evils of man.Some of the best directors of all time got their start in horror, so the list is full of absolute masters of the genre. Names like Cronenberg, Carpenter, Craven, and Cameron. Let's not forget Raimi, Romero, and Hooper.The 80's brought us Xenomorphs, Freddy, Jason, Pinhead & Chucky. But it was little Carol Anne that really scared us! What are your favorite horror films of the 80s?

It's spooky time once again, Slackers!Although I say it often, I really think that there is a certain sensibility that is convyed by Gen X filmmakers. There is something that I can't exactly put my finger on, but everything from shot selection, dialogue, pacing, and most significantly, the film score, all have an intangible that can only come from growing up in our era.Perhaps it is due the rise of the slasher genre in our childhoods, but modern horror is definitely influenced by the films of the 70's and 80's, from directors like John Carpenter, Tobe Hoope, Wes Craven, and Sam Raimi (and even films from Spielberg & Lucas). Now our peers, fed a steady diet of Jason, Freddy, and Michael Myers have become some of the best filmmakers in the horror genre. Who are the best of the best? Check out the episode for my picks!This is the first of three Halloween themed episodes, so take a listen and please subscribe today!

Do you love 'em or hate 'em, Slackers?!After decades of having an ambivelent stance on this legendary group, I have recently started to go down The Police rabbit hole. Starting with Stewart Copeland's Drumeo video, I began to go back through the band's history and it's few but mighty records. With a career that lasted only 7 years, the five records that they did record have gone down in history as some of the most diverse and influential records of all time.While I certainly know all the hits, it has only been with this recent dive into their catalouge that I have been able to discover the complexity of their songs - songs that on the surface seem simple - with this huge voice cutting through it all. Now I know that Sting, Andy Summers, and Stewart Copeland were dynamic musicians with plenty of backstage drama that both contributed to their success and likely their abrupt exit from the scene. But what better way to end a career than with your biggest album and tour - then have a single reunion tour that becomes one of the biggest tours of all time!For the early Gen Xers, this was probably one of your favorite bands - I mean if I was turning 13 in 1978, I would have been all about them - but I was just a little too young to have appreciated them at the time. With the benefit of hindsight and some great content available online, I have just begun to explore and appreciate their music and legacy.

Will Gen X ever truly “arrive”, Slackers? With the Boomers basically holding on to power with every bit of strength they have left and the Millennials seemingly leapfrogging us, when do we get into those top power positions? While we have not made the impact in the political sphere that I would like, we have several members of our generation seated at the heads of many well known corporations. Unsurprisingly, many of them are in the tech field.Sure everyone knows Elon Musk, but did you know that Michael Dell (of that Dell) is a Gen Xer? Did you know that the heads of McDonald's, Microsoft, and Electronic Arts (EA) are all counted among Gen X?Yet, another Presidential election cycle will come and go with no Gen X representation on the ticket.Maybe in 2028?!

This is a scandalous episode, Slackers!While we see a new scandal hit the news seemingly every day, this is nothing new. This week I take a look at the biggest scandals of the 70's, 80's, and 90's.There are tawdry affairs, criminal activities, murder, mayhem and much more!Names like Madonna, Jane Fonda, Roman Polanski, Jerry Seinfeld - and yes, even way back in the 90's, Sean Combs - they all had their fair share of scandals making the front page news. To think that back then “social media” was really the paparazzi, evening news, and the TV tabloids like Entertainment Tonight and Inside Edition. Imagine how many things didn't make the news!Don't forget to subscribe to the show. Find me on social media - https://linktr.ee/stuckinthemiddleagenxpod

Sure, everyone has heard of Coppola and Scorsese and Spielberg. But those guys are two silent generations and a Boomer!What about those Gen X filmmakers that have really made an impact on Hollywood? It turns out that there were way more notable directors from our generation than I had originally expected. This is only part one.Part 1 covers those directors born between 1965 and 1969. You may recognize names like Michael Bay, Wes Anderson, Antoine Fuqua, James Gunn, Zack Snyder, and Denis Villeneuve. Billions of dollars in box office between them, with some more “artistic” projects in their filmographies as well. We can also get so caught up the “big name” directors, that it is forgotten how the Pixar films have been - up until very recently - very high quality films, regardless of being animated. So guys like Byron Howard and Andrew Stanton, who have made some of the best of the Pixar flicks, are not household names outside the hardcore animation fans. It should come as no surprise that the movies that have most resonated with me in recent years have been Gen X directed. What are some of your favorites?

Let's take a trip into the past, Slackers.What was happening in the world, 30, 40, and 50 years ago? Was the world that different of a place?On this episode, we take a look at the economy, the political climate, top TV shows, music, movies, and general pop culture from 1974, 1984, and 1994. While many things are different, the general themes of the day never seem to change all that much. Between election year craziness, dark times with war, terrorism, and crime, it all seems so familiar.I'm sure the day will come when things will be different, but for now, let's take a look into the past, and instead of pining for “the good old days”, recognize how humanity is still doing the same old nonsense - same stuff, different decade.

Time to access the memory banks, Slackers.A few weeks ago we covered one hit wonders, but what about those one season TV shows? Why does a show that was barely on our TV screens have such a strong imprint in our memories?Regardless of quality, shows like Misfits of Science and Manimal have somehow endured in pop culture. Was it because they were actually terrible, were they any good, or were they just a product of their time? They were probably terrible, but some shows that only got one season definitely deserved at least one more chance. Shows like Battlestar Galactica had a much more successful reimagining in the 2000's - while the Joss Whedon space western, Firefly, was plagued by a bad time slot - although thankfully they got a feature film that served to finish the story.One thing is certain - many of these one season shows were the career launching points for future stars like Sarah Jessica Parker, Courtney Cox, and Nathan Fillion.What are some of your favorites?

Who doesn't love a comeback, Slackers?Many huge stars of the 80's & 90's had their careers stalled at some point. Some due to substance abuse. Some had legal issues. Others just made poor business decisions. While for many, Hollywood just no longer viewed them as bankable stars.One example is Winona Ryder. Ms. Ryder was one of the most popular and successful stars of the late 80's and early 90's. But after an arrest for shoplifting, her career came to a grinding halt. After year of smaller roles, she one again became a big time star with her role as Joyce on Stranger Things. After amassing huge debts, both with private creditors and the IRS, Nicolas Cage set off to pay these debts off - by taking every single role that came his way. It's actually really respectable that he just went to work, reputation be damned. But after paying off those debts, Mr. Cage is back to taking a more discerning approach to his roles. So, while he never really went away, he somehow made a comeback within an active career!These are just two example of Hollywood comebacks - take a listen to hear them all!

All it takes is one, Slackers.One hit is all a band really needs to leave a lasting impact on music history. More importantly, one hit song can sustain a band for many, many years. The so-called “one hit wonders”, have often found lasting success, just from fans wanting to hear “the big one”. Now the main source for this episode didn't exactly vet their information - shame on me for not vetting their information! Some of the artists mentioned have actually had one, if not several additional hit songs!Regardless, songs like “Come On Eileen” or “Electric Avenue” are timeless and even Zoomers know these hits.Join me for this little dive into the one hit wonders of the 1980's.And what do you think of the new logo? Thumbs up or thumbs down?

Where did you fit in, Slackers?Were you a jock? A nerd? A theater kid? Or did you just kind of blend in? Some of us were definitely rockers, with a side of dragger, and some geek mixed in. Maybe you were a drifter? Or maybe, just maybe, you were a punk/goth?It's strange to think how little of this was in our control. We liked what we liked, wore what we wore, and hung out with the people that made us feel comfortable - at a time in our lives when many of us were really unsure of where we fit in. At least that's how it was for me.Some of those arbitrary designations were pretty spot on when we look back on things. And some of those friendships have stood the test of time. We are truly blessed to have come across people that made our lives better in those weird teenage years - doubly so if we still call them friends all these years later.

Howdy, Slackers!The Whatever Wednesday has returned. What does that mean, you ask? It means a muddled mass of disparate - but still Gen X related - topics.We have some less than stellar health news, both my own and of our whole generation, a little retirement talk, a Gen X icon continues being both inspiring and cringey at the same time, we discover which demo rules the box office, and some of the big concerts tours for Summer 2024.Oh, and some college kid went off on Blink-182 for being…Blink-182.That's it. That's the episode. Just listen to it. You'll enjoy it.

USA! USA! USA! One thing about getting older that kind of sucks is not being as excited about things as we did as kids and young adults. I'll admit, I haven't watched any of the 2024 Olympics - but as a kid, the 1984 games in Los Angeles was a major event. I can remember where I was that summer and some moments are forever etched in my memory.I clearly remember the amazing Carl Lewis dominating, Mary Lou Retton becoming “America's Sweetheart”, Greg Louganis sweeping the diving events, and the men's basketball team (before pros were eligible) putting forth a squad made up of future hall of famers. Ever hear of Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, or Chris Mullin?With the USSR counter-boycotting the US's boycott of the 1980 games, the US team absolutely destroyed the field, with an overall medal count of 174. Second place? Federal Republic of (West) Germany with 59! While I wish I still got as hyped as I did when I was 10, it is still pretty cool that all the nations of the world gather once every four years to (mostly) put our differences aside and allow friendly competition through sports.  Plus, I share some fun stuff that occurred this weekend and other random musings…

Heeere's, Johnny!Everyone knows author Stephen King. And while I have read many of his books, purely based on my age, I saw the movies adaptations long before I started reading his novels.It is crazy how quickly Hollywood caught on to his work. His first novel was Carrie, published in 1974 - resulting in his first movie treatment just two years later - followed by the TV mini-series Salem's Lot in 1979. That one gave me nightmares for years!From this point on, King's published works we almost instantly optioned to Hollywood. In fact, once the 80's had arrived, there was a movie or TV adaptation every year except 1981 and 1988! It has pretty much remained like this all the way through 2024, with new projects dropping later this year and in 2025. There has been a major appetite for King's work, in both the literary & film worlds. This episode is just about the 70s & 80s entries, with plenty of future material to cover!

It's been a somber week, Slackers.The world has seemingly gone crazy, and we lost a true Gen X Icon - Shannen Doherty.Her career is filled with movies and TV shows that were a part of our childhood into young adulthood - from her early role in Little House on the Prairie, the family drama Our House, the cult classic (and one of my favorites) Heathers, the Gen X primetime soap opera, Beverly Hills 90210, another cult classic in Mallrats, and finally her starring role in Charmed - Shannen Doherty was not only a star, but one of our stars.After numerous heath issues, including Crohn's disease, it was a second diagnosis of breast cancer that ultimately led to her untimely passing. Fairly or unfairly, Shannen was often times labeled as difficult to work with, a fact she readily acknowledged, but spent the last months (years really) of her life trying to set the record straight and repairing relationships. That is hard for anyone to face with death approaching, yet she did this with dignity and grace.Rest in peace, Shannen Doherty.

What's in a band name, Slackers?Isn't amazing how some bands can have the absolutely stupidest name and go on to sell millions of records? I mean, who thought FOO FIGHTERS was a good name? Certainly not Dave Grohl, who once said it's "a stupid f'n name"!On this week's episode I'll break down some of the oddest names for bands that had some measure of success, in spite of - or is it because of - the name.We're talking about ORCHESTRAL MANOEUVRES IN THE DARK, OINGO BOINGO, and of course BUTTHOLE SURFERS! Plus, many more!Let me know on socials some of your favorite weird, strange, or outright stupid band names.

The past can be a difficult thing to face, and in the documentary “BRATS”, Andrew McCarthy tackles his past head on.Through interviews with other members of the “Brat Pack”, McCarthy explores the impact that being part of this group of super famous, but very young, movie stars had on their lives.While some viewed being labeled part of the “Brat Pack” as a negative influence on their careers, others found it to be a positive experience. It is interesting how the documentary serves to chronicle a journey towards acceptance of the past that I believe we all go through, particularly in middle age. With the films of the “Brat Pack” all having such an influence on Gen X, this doc is part nostalgia, part behind the scenes, within a truly emotional story of how the perceptions of others can frame our perceptions of ourselves.Was Andrew McCarthy's career derailed by being labeled a “Brat”, or was this all in his own head? Why have others like Rob Lowe and Demi Moore managed to have wildly successful careers despite being a part of this group? And more importantly, who declined to be a part of the documentary?It was quite an enjoyable watch and I recommend checking it out  - or just check out this episode for  my “review”!

It's been 30 years, Slackers! After watching a studio performance by WEEZER, celebrating the 30th anniversary of their amazing debut record, I looked into what other music dropped in 1994. Holy cow, that was a pretty good year for music! Records from RANCID, THE OFFSPRING, and GREEN DAY all came out in 1994, moving past the “grunge/punk” aesthetic into the pop-punk era that would drive the later shift into emo.Under the mainstream radar, were bands like BLACK TRAIN JACK, DOG EAT DOG, and LIFE OF AGONY, all on ROADRUNNER RECORDS, while huge legacy acts like THE ROLLING STONES, JOHNNY CASH, and TOM PETTY all had releases during the year.And not to be thrown to the wayside, grunge supergroups SOUNDGARDEN, PEARL JAM, and NIRVANA all had multiplatinum records. 1994 was also the year that KURT COBAIN took his own life, with “MTV Unplugged in New York” released posthumously. Basically, 1994 was a great year for music. And a little shoutout to my buddy Coop up there in Heaven - I told you WEEZER was a better band than PAVEMENT.

Time to adjust the old rabbit ears, Slackers!This week is dedicated to the old ultra high frequency television channels of our youth. Kids these days have no idea what VHF or UHF even mean, because even broadcast TV went digital in 2009! But we had two dials, one on top and one on the bottom.The cool stuff was always on the lower dial and in New England we had channels like 25, 38, and 56. Some of my fondest memories are of watching TV on Saturday afternoons - after the cartoons were over - and seeing the “Creature Double Feature” or later, “Kung Fu Theater”. The “Creature Double Feature” gave us Japanese monster movies (kaiju) like Godzilla and Gamera, or classic horror from Universal and Hammer Studios. Think Christopher Lee's Dracula. And lots of Roger Corman flicks.“Kung Fu Theater” brought the best of Chinese martial arts to America. Remember Pai Mei from Tarantino's “Kill Bill”? Do you remember that same character from the martial arts movies in the late 70's & 80's? Check out the Shaw Brothers “Shaolin” films.And with the advent of cable TV, similar shows were broadcast nationally with “Commander USA's Groovie Movies” and Elvira's “Movie Macabre”.Such a fun time to be a kid and getting to watch some really absurd, totally surreal filmmaking!

Here's Johnny, Slackers!Starting all the way back in 1954 with the Steve Allen led “The Tonight Show”, there has been a steady succession of late night talk shows - and hosts. What is so surprising is how much behind the scenes drama occurred, particularly when it comes to that “Tonight Show” gig.Starting with the retirement of Johnny Carson, much has been said about the internal struggles at NBC, ultimately leading to the departure of Dave Letterman from the network after not getting the “Tonight Show - which of course went to Jay Leno.Similar themes have played out over and over again at NBC, but also at CBS where Letterman launched his direct competitor to the “Tonight Show” called “The Late Show”.  Names like Conan O'Brien, Craig Ferguson, Jimmy Fallon, and many others have sat in the host's chair throughout the years - and that's just NBC & CBS!Don't worry, FOX, ABC, TBS, and others, will be covered!

Hey, Slackers! This is one of those, “I couldn't decide on a topic” episodes - so why not take a look at the latest posts on r/GenX?If there is a social media platform that feels both morbidly right and intuitively wrong for Gen X, Reddit is the one!I tried to keep it light - because you can go down some dark paths on that site - and it was mission accomplished. Some nostalgia, personal anecdotes, music, movies, a little bit of everything, really. Just what you would expect from r/GenX!

Raise your hands, Slackers!After being prompted by a listener to check out Thank you, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story, this week I give my thoughts on this legendary band and try to answer the question, “were they a hair band or just lumped in with them”?This is actually a really good question, and to be honest, it's hard to ignore the time in which they broke through, the sound of albums like Slippery When Wet and New Jersey, and the bands they toured with, when making that assessment. I think a case can be made that they were a hair band, but they didn't stay a hair band.While some bands tried to radically change their sound and image, Bon Jovi managed to shift ever so slightly within the framework of their existing catalog and sound. These subtle shifts kept fans interested, maintained the band's integrity, and allowed for them to continue producing platinum albums, with massive tours.There are only a few bona fide stadium level acts these days, and by sheer hard work and determination, Bon Jovi has remained one of the top tier rock acts for over 30 years. Not bad for a “hair band” out of New Jersey!

I don't wanna grow up, Slackers!This week is dedicated to the some of the best jingles from the 70s & 80s. I don't know about you, but I consider jingle writing to be an art form. Some of these are instantly recognizable and many actually occupy a place in my jaded little heart. From the Toys R Us theme to the the classic "I'd Like To Buy The World A Coke", many of these jingles have stood the test of time. Sure, they were written to help sell some consumer goods, but when the songs are this catchy, I can't help but have a certain sentimental reaction. I mean, doesn't your balogna have a first & last name!? And who doesn't love short shorts?Some of the commercials featured actors that would go on to have classic roles on stage and screen - everyone starts somewhere - but the Jaleel White sighting threw me for a loop!Anyway, check it out. I really enjoyed this one!

Witness me, Slackers!This week is a petal to the metal episode. No chit chat, no personal anecdotes from the week, nada - just straight out the gate just like the opening of every Mad Max movie. George Miller knows to keep all that pesky dialogue to a minimum and let the story unfold visually.From the very first installment, Max Rockatansky has been one of the most interesting cinematic characters, in large part because he says so little. Whether Max is played by Mel Gibson or Tom Hardy, so much is expressed via facial expressions and the chaos happening all around him. Paired with some memorable villains, and you get cinematic gold. Speaking of villains, what a list of names: Toecutter. Night Rider. Lord Humongous. Wez. Aunty Entity. Ironbar. And of course, Immortan Joe. They just keep getting more and more over the top as the franchise progressed.And what's truly remarkable is the fact that Max is actually the deuteragonist of Mad Max: Fury Road. That's right, he's the second most important character - the protagonist is one Imperator Furiosa, originally played to perfection by Charlize Theron, and soon to be embodied by Anya Taylor-Joy in the upcoming Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga. I don't know about you, but I am pretty stoked to see another installment in the franchise - Max or no Max!