Project Middle: Stories From & For The Middle Class
Project Middle
4.0from 1 ratings
- 16
- Episodes
- 1
- Ratings
- 2025
- First episode
About Project Middle: Stories From & For The Middle Class
What happened to the American Dream—and what’s it like trying to chase it today? Project Middle dives into the heart of America’s disappearing middle class. Hosted by Jon and Tony, this podcast tells honest, unfiltered stories about life in the middle—navigating rising costs, stagnant wages, and the growing sense that no matter how hard you work, it’s getting harder just to stay afloat. Each episode explores real experiences from real people—workers, parents, neighbors—who are living the squeeze. Through candid conversations, historical context, and a deep look at money, work, family, and the systems that shape them, Project Middle asks the big question: Why does it feel like we’re falling behind? This isn’t a show about celebrities or experts. It’s about the rest of us. The backbone of the country. The people holding things together while the middle gets pulled apart. Welcome to the conversation. Welcome to Project middle.
- Publisher
- Project Middle
- Category
- news · society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 26 Jun 2025
- Latest episode
- 24 Dec 2025
Latest episodes
16 episodes in the feed.
24 Dec 2025
Holiday Trivia For the Season
In this holiday edition of Project Middle Trivia, we engage in a festive trivia game covering various holiday traditions, songs, and historical facts related to Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and more. The conversation flows through questions about presidential history, popular holiday foods, and the origins of beloved traditions like the Christmas pickle and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the most common types of Christmas trees and the significance of holiday celebrations in American culture. 👉 Got some trivia you want us to use? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765)
23 Nov 2025
Thanksgiving Trivia for the Dinner Table
Join us for a lively Thanksgiving trivia episode where John, Tony, and friends dive into the quirkiest facts about this beloved holiday. From presidential proclamations to the origins of Black Friday, and even the surprising state that leads in turkey production, this episode is packed with laughter and learning. Discover the truth behind Benjamin Franklin's turkey tale, and find out which side dish reigns supreme at Thanksgiving tables across America. Whether you're a trivia buff or just here for the fun, this episode is sure to entertain and enlighten! 👉 Got some trivia you want us to use? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765)
20 Nov 2025
Meeting in the Middle: Healthcare Debate, Gov Shutdown, Epstein & Venezuela
Summary In this episode of Project Middle, John and Tony discuss pressing topics including the rising costs of healthcare and the implications of the Affordable Care Act. They delve into the impact of government shutdowns on healthcare access, analyze Trump's healthcare proposals, and explore the controversial bailout for Argentina. The conversation also touches on the release of the Epstein files and the ongoing issues of political accountability and justice in the legal system. Throughout the discussion, they highlight the disparities faced by average citizens compared to wealthy individuals, and the inconsistencies in marriage laws and age of consent. 👉 Got a news story you want us to dig into? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) — we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch or listen to full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765) Political Hypocrisy and Leadership Concerns car manufacturing, layoffs, corporate responsibility, CEO salaries, healthcare funding, immigration policy, ICE raids, national security
27 Oct 2025
The Great American Halloween Trivia
That's right, all the Halloween trivia that you can handle! Ever wonder where all those pumpkins come from for those PSL's? or how much money Americans spend on Halloween candy each year? Do you think the United States agrees with your favorite Halloween candy? (13% of the country just might!). We have a ton of Halloween facts to bring to your ears. Listen in for more excellent Halloween trivia for the 99%. 👉 Got some trivia you want us to use? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765)
16 Oct 2025
Meeting in the Middle: Navigating Corporate Layoffs and Economic & Social Challenges
We discuss various pressing issues affecting the American economy and society, including the recent layoffs in car manufacturing, corporate responsibility, CEO salaries, the government shutdown, healthcare funding, and immigration policy. They explore the cultural differences in corporate practices, the impact of layoffs on employee morale, and the need for better training and accountability within organizations like ICE. The conversation also touches on the disconnect between political leaders and the average American's experience, emphasizing the importance of long-term thinking in corporate and governmental decision-making. 👉 Got a news story you want us to dig into? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) — we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch or listen to full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765) Political Hypocrisy and Leadership Concerns car manufacturing, layoffs, corporate responsibility, CEO salaries, healthcare funding, immigration policy, ICE raids, national security
14 Oct 2025
Trivia for the 99% #1
In this engaging trivia session, the hosts explore various topics related to U.S. history, taxation, and social programs. The conversation covers the evolution of federal income tax rates, the implications of Prohibition, the history of minimum wage, and the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid. Additionally, the discussion highlights unique tax exemptions for Puerto Rico residents, the significance of SNAP benefits, and the impact of the Affordable Care Act on healthcare coverage. Through trivia questions and insightful commentary, the hosts aim to educate listeners on these important subjects while fostering a fun and interactive atmosphere. In this engaging conversation, the participants delve into various topics including healthcare, life expectancy, and the impact of cultural factors on health. They explore trivia related to life expectancy across different countries, analyze the results, and discuss the implications of universal healthcare. The conversation also touches on historical figures like Teddy Roosevelt and urbanization trends in America, culminating in a trivia challenge about firearms per capita and the middle class's share of national income. 👉 Got some trivia you want us to use? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) we’d love to hear from you. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765)
2 Oct 2025
All Good News #1
All Good News is our new biweekly installment designed as a break from the doom-scrolling and media gloom. Instead, we spotlight the positive, fascinating, and hopeful stories shaping our world right now. In this episode, we cover: LEGO’s big move to expand U.S. manufacturing A promising gene therapy slowing Huntington’s disease progression The boom in women’s sports bars and new community-friendly spaces Reports that China shot down a meteor with air defense systems Delta Air Lines tackling toxic cabin fumes Signs of possible ancient life on Mars Astronomers confirming 6,000+ planets beyond our solar system A UK school investing $150,000 to support low-income parents with uniforms and laptops Boston turning abandoned office space into affordable homes for over 1,000 people A grandmother donating her lottery winnings to charity for dementia research ✨ From science breakthroughs to acts of generosity, All Good News is here to remind you the of the good and cool things going on in the world. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765) Potential Life on Mars: https://science.nasa.gov/mars/the-mars-report/2025-september-special-edition/ (https://science.nasa.gov/mars/the-mars-report/2025-september-special-edition/) Astronomers Have Found 6000 Planets https://www.wired.com/story/6000-planets-have-been-found-outside-the-solar-system/ (https://www.wired.com/story/6000-planets-have-been-found-outside-the-solar-system/)
30 Sept 2025
Meeting in the Middle: Power, Politics & the Price We Pay
In this new biweekly format we call Meeting In the Middle, we aim to cut through the noise and meet in the middle — where real people live. From behind-the-scenes military meetings at Quantico with Pete Hegseth, to the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey, we unpack what these headlines mean beyond the spin. We dive into the latest redistricting battles reshaping political power in Texas and 13 other states, examine the controversy behind Jimmy Kimmel’s firing, and break down what’s next in the ongoing fight over vaccine mandates. Also on the table: a potential peace deal for Gaza and the rising electricity costs hitting households nationwide. No hype, no outrage — just grounded insights, honest questions, and conversations for the 99%. It’s time to meet in the middle. 👉 Got a news story you want us to dig into? Drop it in the comments or email us at info@projectmiddle.com (mailto:info@projectmiddle.com) — we’d love to hear from you.
17 Sept 2025
Crude Realities: What Oil Prices Reveal About the Economy, and the U.S. Energy Future
In this episode of The Project Middle Podcast: Stories from and for the 99%, we break down the often-confusing world behind the headlines of oil prices news and the crude oil price chart. From the current U.S. oil price per barrel to WTI and BRENT oil price trends and oil futures charts, our conversation dives deep into what these numbers really mean for everyday Americans. We explore the historical evolution of U.S. oil production, how much oil the U.S. actually has, and what percentage of U.S. oil is imported. The episode covers where the U.S. gets its oil, how much it still relies on foreign imports, and what that means for U.S. oil stocks and energy security. We also look at urban oil extraction, particularly in states like California, and how crude oil price investing ties into broader economic factors like wages and fuel costs. Listeners will learn how public policy, such as CAFE standards and gasoline taxes, shape both oil demand and the future of the automotive industry. We also unpack the role of ethanol, electric vehicles, and public transit in reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Whether you're tracking the crude oil price today in dollars per barrel or just want to understand how these energy trends affect your wallet, this episode connects the dots between energy markets and working-class realities. 🎧 Watch full episodes & subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765)
27 Aug 2025
The Food Pyramid Scheme: Sugar's Rise, Fall & Rise Again
In this episode we speak to John a biochemist and food scientist with over 40 years of experience with chemistry in food and drug industries from developing new food technologies, enzymes, processes to manufacture the foods of today. With recent news about Coca-Cola switching back to sugar from High-Fructose Corn Syrup, we evaluate if this change is actually beneficial to your health and evaluate its effects on the American economy. We look at Obesity trends in the United States over time and identify the real drivers to Americas obesity epidemic. Not only that, but we give you real solutions to improve your health and save $. We get past the the fluff and BS to tell you what you should really think about this announcement from Robert F Kennedy Jr, Donald Trump and the Make America Healthy Again Movement. For listeners here are graphs from the episode we used in our show notes: https://projectmiddle.com/blogs/news/show-references-for-episode-8-the-food-pyramid-scheme-rise-fall-and-rise-again-of-sugar (https://projectmiddle.com/blogs/news/show-references-for-episode-8-the-food-pyramid-scheme-rise-fall-and-rise-again-of-sugar) If you would like to support the channel by grabbing some merch, or joining us on our Patreon, you'll be helping us continue telling theses stories, defending the 99% and educating along the way visit: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) Project Middle: Stories From & For the 99%
19 Aug 2025
Crude Power: How Oil Shaped Modern America
From replacing whale oil in lamps to fueling the rise of the automobile, oil has shaped the American story like few other forces. In this episode of Project Middle, we trace the industry’s beginnings and follow its explosive growth through the vision and monopolistic grip of figures like John D. Rockefeller. We explore how oil consumption evolved, the harsh realities faced by workers, and the environmental costs of “black gold.” Along the way, we connect past to present, touching on today’s oil and gas headlines, technological shifts, and the uncertain future of global energy. 🎧 Listen or watch as we break it all down, with real stories & practical solutions for the 99%. 🌐 Website: https://zurl.co/FCtBT (https://zurl.co/FCtBT) 👕 Shop our merch: https://zurl.co/WgLGt (https://zurl.co/WgLGt) 💖 Patreon: https://zurl.co/Jpx0f (https://zurl.co/Jpx0f) Follow & Watch on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@TheProjectMiddle (http://www.youtube.com/@TheProjectMiddle)
12 Aug 2025
Public Lands Part 2: Stories, Sales, and Stewardship for the 99%
In this follow-up to our deep dive on America’s public lands, we unpack the tangled history of ownership, policy shifts, and the tug-of-war between federal and state management. We explore how much land each state holds, or has sold, and the reasons behind those decisions. You’ll hear comparisons between the U.S. and other countries’ public land systems, discover the costs and revenues tied to managing these spaces, and learn who the largest private landholders really are. Along the way, we share accounts from Project Middle listeners about their own experiences with public lands, from treasured memories to concerns about access and preservation. From inspiring stories of preservation to controversial sales, we shine a light on the power and politics shaping the lands that belong to us all. 🎧 Listen or watch as we break it all down, with real stories & practical solutions for the 99%. 🌐 Website: https://zurl.co/FCtBT (https://zurl.co/FCtBT) 👕 Shop our merch: https://zurl.co/WgLGt (https://zurl.co/WgLGt) 💖 Patreon: https://zurl.co/Jpx0f (https://zurl.co/Jpx0f) Follow & Watch on Youtube: www.youtube.com/@TheProjectMiddle (http://www.youtube.com/@TheProjectMiddle)
6 Aug 2025
America’s Common Ground: The Untold History of Public Lands - Part 1
Before debates over drilling, development, and conservation, America’s public lands were born out of conflict, ambition, and a vision of shared space for the people. In this first half of our two-part deep dive, we trace the history of the United States’ public land system—from the earliest land grabs and homestead dreams to the creation of the national parks we know today. Along the way, we uncover how these lands became a cornerstone of American identity, and why their story is far from finished. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we explore the battle over selling public lands, global comparisons, and the cases for and against keeping land in the hands of the people.
14 Jul 2025
Episode 3: FOOD PART 1 🍳 Milk & Eggs — Why Prices Are High & How We Can Fix It
In Episode 3 of the Project Middle Podcast, we tackle the rising costs of two kitchen staples: milk & eggs. Why have prices skyrocketed? How do they compare to historical trends? Who’s really driving the increases — and what can we actually do to bring costs back down? We also share surprising facts about labels (“cage-free,” "free-range", "pasture-raised", “grass-fed”) and what they really mean for your wallet and your health. 🎧 Listen as we break it all down, with real stories & practical solutions for the middle class. 🎧 Subscribe to Project Middle for more: 🌐 Website: www.projectmiddle.com (http://www.projectmiddle.com) 👕 Shop our merch: https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch (https://projectmiddle.com/collections/project-middle-merch) 💖 Patreon: https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle (https://patreon.com/ProjectMiddle) 🎙️ Listen on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc (https://open.spotify.com/show/2Zs2BMYHvZFTtLPfEoKAWi?si=bdc85c0ed3ef4bbc) 🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765 (https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823107765) #FoodPrices #Eggs #Milk #MiddleClass #AmericanDream #ProjectMiddle #eggprices #milkprice #milkpricehike #globalwarming why are eggs so expensive #eggs #inflation #weirdhistoryfood
30 Jun 2025
Priced Out: The American Dream and 50 Years of Rising Housing Costs
In Episode 2 of The Project Middle Podcast, we dig into one of the most pressing issues facing the middle class: housing. How has the cost of owning a home changed over the last 50 years? What’s driving today’s unprecedented housing surges—from foreign investment to the rise of corporate landlords? We examine whether homeownership, once a cornerstone of the American dream, is still within reach for the average American. Plus, we explore potential solutions to ease the squeeze, from zoning reform to new models of home ownership.
26 Jun 2025
Episode 1: Setting the Stage – What Happened to the Middle Class?
Welcome to Project Middle, a podcast exploring the realities, pressures, and personal stories of America’s middle class. In our very first episode, we lay the groundwork for what this show is all about—understanding where the middle class stands today and how the cost of the American Dream has shifted over the past 50 years. We dig into the numbers, comparing life in 1975 to now: median income, housing, healthcare, college tuition, and more. What could a middle-class paycheck cover back then—and what does it get you today? This episode sets the tone for the journey ahead, as we examine the economics, experiences, and evolving expectations shaping the middle class of America.
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