The Middle...A Podcast

Rodney Adams

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.  

  1. OCT 19

    Episode 24 Navigating Black Fatherhood: Insights and Reflections from Two Gen X Dads

    In this episode of 'The Middle' podcast, co-hosts Rodney and Derek dive into the complex and rewarding world of fatherhood, sharing personal experiences and perspectives as two Gen X dads. The discussion revolves around life, finance, and the myriad of challenges they face while parenting. The hosts also reflect on their own fathers' influences, the evolving role of fatherhood, and the stereotypes surrounding black fatherhood. Rodney shares a humorous yet insightful story about his son's antics, while Derek explores the dynamics of single parenting. The episode ends with heartfelt lessons learned and a call to action for listeners to appreciate and engage with their fathers. Tune in for a blend of valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and meaningful reflections on the journey of raising children. 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

    1h 4m
  2. OCT 1

    Episode 23-- The Guide to Life Part 4 Personal Finance in your 50s and Beyond

    In this episode of 'The Middle,' Rodney and Derek delve into navigating financial decisions in your forties. They recap financial advice from previous episodes for those in their twenties and thirties, emphasizing the importance of building an emergency fund, eliminating debt, and investing wisely. They discuss lifestyle creep, habit formation, and practical steps to maintain financial stability. The episode also touches on personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and the significance of teaching financial responsibility to the next generation. Special guest Alexander Irving Cameron provides a disclaimer on the episode's financial advice. 00:01 Welcome to The Middle Podcast 01:22 Recap of Financial Advice for Your 30s 03:31 Diving into Financial Advice for Your 40s 04:14 Personal Stories and Challenges in the 40s 09:36 Lessons Learned and Practical Tips 14:41 Avoiding Lifestyle Creep and Financial Discipline 20:03 Planning for Your Fifties: Key Considerations 20:25 Debt Elimination Strategies 21:27 Avoiding Major Purchases in Your Fifties 24:08 Financial Planning and Professional Advice 24:48 Understanding Financial Management Fees 25:50 Investment Strategies: Set It and Forget It 26:23 Learning from Financial Mistakes 27:28 Reflecting on Financial Progress 30:00 Lessons Learned and Oh Damn Moments 33:29 Traveling with Your Partner: A Humorous Take 38:38 Final Thoughts and Farewell 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

    23 min
  3. SEP 24

    Episode 22--Guide to life Part 3 (Personal Finance in your 40s)

    In this episode of 'The Middle,' Rodney and Derek delve into navigating financial decisions in your forties. They recap financial advice from previous episodes for those in their twenties and thirties, emphasizing the importance of building an emergency fund, eliminating debt, and investing wisely. They discuss lifestyle creep, habit formation, and practical steps to maintain financial stability. The episode also touches on personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and the significance of teaching financial responsibility to the next generation. Special guest Alexander Irving Cameron provides a disclaimer on the episode's financial advice. 00:00 Welcome to The Middle Podcast 01:22 Recap of Financial Advice for Your 30s 03:31 Diving into Financial Advice for Your 40s 04:14 Personal Stories and Challenges in the 40s 09:36 Lessons Learned and Practical Tips 14:41 Avoiding Lifestyle Creep and Financial Discipline 20:03 Planning for Your Fifties: Key Considerations 20:25 Debt Elimination Strategies 21:27 Avoiding Major Purchases in Your Fifties 24:08 Financial Planning and Professional Advice 24:48 Understanding Financial Management Fees 25:50 Investment Strategies: Set It and Forget It 26:23 Learning from Financial Mistakes 27:28 Reflecting on Financial Progress 30:00 Lessons Learned and Oh Damn Moments 33:29 Traveling with Your Partner: A Humorous Take 38:38 Final Thoughts and Farewell 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

    41 min
  4. SEP 17

    Episode 21--The Guide to Life: Personal Finance in Your 30s. Also: Not Chuck E Cheese!

    In this episode of The Middle podcast, hosts Rodney and Derek, share financial advice for individuals in their thirties. Reflecting on the strategies discussed for the twenties, it is clear that they emphasize the importance of having an emergency fund, managing debt, budgeting, and investing for retirement. Rodney narrates his personal journey of managing debt, working multiple jobs, and stabilizing his finances. The episode also delves into practical tips for insurance and home purchases. An interesting segment includes a humorous 'oh damn' moment about a Chuck E. Cheese mascot getting arrested. The hosts conclude with a lesson on maintaining order during travels and a reminder to follow simple directions.  Per instructions from our reps at Addison, Issac, and Cameron:  The contents of this episode don't constitute financial advice.  Please consult a certified financial planner before planning  00:00 Welcome to The Middle Podcast 00:40 Recap of Financial Tips for Your Twenties 00:58 Financial Planning in Your Thirties 02:56 Personal Stories and Financial Lessons 08:30 Building Financial Stability and Direction 18:26 Oh Damn Moment: Chuck E. Cheese Arrest 21:15 Lesson Learned: Follow Directions 22:08 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Preview Oh Damn Moment story link: https://www.tallahassee.com/story/news/2025/09/04/chuck-e-cheese-arrest-caught-on-body-camera-in-florida/85975264007/ 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

    25 min
  5. SEP 10

    Episode 20-- The Middle Guide to Life and Personal Finances. Part 1 - Financing in your 20s.

    In this episode of "The Middle," co-hosts Rodney and Derek, two gentlemen nearing the age of 50, delve into the essential topic of personal finance. The conversation centers on preparing for the future, including retirement and making significant purchases like homes and cars. They emphasize the importance of saving, managing debt, and using credit wisely. Derek lays out the Ramsey Baby Steps for financial health, stressing the need for an emergency fund, debt reduction, and investing for retirement. They also share personal anecdotes and lessons learned from their financial journeys in their 20s, touching on budgeting and the pitfalls of credit card debt. The episode concludes with Rodney's "Oh Damn" moment involving a real-life incident in professional wrestling and Derek's lesson learned about the significance of long-term planning and maintaining a positive approach in life. 00:00 Welcome to The Middle Podcast 01:23 Introduction to Personal Finance 03:05 Weekly Updates and Anecdotes 04:36 Derek's Personal Finance Journey 08:55 Financial Advice for Your Twenties 21:46 Reflecting on Financial Lessons 29:05 Oh Damn Moment: Wrestling Incident 35:20 Lessons Learned and Closing Remarks 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

    37 min
  6. SEP 3

    Episode 19--Shannon Sharpe Drama Unpacked

    In this episode of the Middle Podcast, hosts Derek and Rodney dive deep into the recent controversies surrounding former NFL player and media personality Shannon Sharpe. They discuss Sharpe's impressive career, from his days with the Broncos and Ravens to his roles as a sports analyst and podcaster. The conversation then shifts to the serious accusations of sexual assault against Sharpe, exploring the details of the lawsuit, public reactions, and the subsequent legal settlements. The hosts also reflect on the life lessons that can be drawn from these events, emphasizing caution in personal relationships and the impact of one's digital footprint. Despite the turmoil, the episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for Sharpe's future and broader lessons for the audience. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:50 Shannon Sharp's Background and Career 02:37 The Sexual Assault Allegations 04:29 Public Reactions and Legal Context 07:22 Personal Reflections and Advice 20:00 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts 20:56 The Perils of 'Too Good to Be True' 22:30 Shannon Sharpe Case Update 22:57 Settlement Details and Public Reaction 24:21 Lessons from the Shannon Sharpe Case 29:11 Future Prospects for Shannon Sharpe 35:08 The Importance of Digital Footprint 37:21 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 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

    40 min
  7. AUG 26

    Episode 18 The Curious Case of Shedeur Sanders: NFL Draft Controversies and Beyond

    Navigating the NFL Draft and Shedeur Sanders' Journey In this episode of the Middle Podcast, two middle-aged hosts, Derek and Rodney, discuss various topics, including personal anecdotes, a summary of the NFL draft, and a deep dive into Shedeur Sanders' journey from college football to being drafted by the Cleveland Browns. The discussion includes the controversies surrounding Shedeur's draft position, his performance in training camp, preseason games, and how his family's media presence impacts perceptions. The episode also covers the importance of resilience and confidence, along with a quirky news story about a homeowner in China who refused to move for a highway construction. The hosts conclude with reflections on personal lessons and upcoming topics for future episodes. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Greetings 01:02 Weekend Recap and Personal Updates 02:01 Kindergarten Graduation and Early Education 03:29 Reading Habits and Book Recommendations 07:10 NFL Draft Discussion: Top Picks and Surprises 10:57 The Curious Case of Shedeur Sanders 17:59 Quarterback Stats and Draft Implications 26:31 Falcons Fans and Quarterback Reflections 27:10 Achilles Injury and Contract Expectations 28:14 Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Situation 29:41 Shedeur Sanders' NFL Journey 31:04 Preseason Performance and Injuries 32:47 Media Presence and Future Prospects 35:23 Comparisons and Reflections 49:03 Final Thoughts and Lessons Learned 53:00 Unexpected Homeowner Dilemma 54:25 Closing Remarks and Teasers 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

    57 min
  8. AUG 4

    Episode 17--Get to Know the Hosts Part 2: Life Lessons and Lifelong Friendships

    In this episode of Middle A Podcast, hosts Derek and Rodney continue their reflections in the 'Get to Know Your Host' series. They discuss how generational experiences and personal backgrounds shape perspectives on life and success. Highlights include the importance of time management, inner self-talk, and cultivating positive relationships. The hosts share their thoughts on legacy, influenced by their parents and grandparents, and emphasize kindness, love, and the value of enduring friendships. They reflect on their college days, career advice from their fathers, and the power of perseverance. The episode concludes with personal unwinding routines and reflections on the dynamics of long-term friendship. 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

    59 min

About

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.