Middle Outcast Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/middle-outcast Middle Outcast is a podcast dedicated to bridging the divides in our society by fostering honest, meaningful dialogue. We go beyond surface-level pleasantries and memes to explore the ideas, values, and perspectives that shape our lives—socially, politically, and philosophically. Inspired by the belief that the best answers often lie somewhere in the middle, we focus on connecting with people who think differently, creating a space for deep, thoughtful discussions without the noise of traditional media or combative debates. Join us as we challenge assumptions, share stories, and discover what it means to find common ground in a world that feels increasingly polarized. It’s time for real talk. © 2026 Middle Outcast 69d26873-077f-55ed-8696-bedeafe129a0 yes en Fri, 05 Sep 2025 23:35:31 -0500 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 11:11:35 -0600 https://middleoutcast.com https://img.transistorcdn.com/T-E1xYgnQL6g2ctoEOsDDTYPpUBePx909440QEeWO8Y/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9iMGJj/YjA4MGEzMDM4OTE2/YTM2YmMzNTI4MmQx/YzRhNy5qcGc.jpg Middle Outcast https://middleoutcast.com episodic Middle Outcast Middle Outcast is a podcast dedicated to bridging the divides in our society by fostering honest, meaningful dialogue. We go beyond surface-level pleasantries and memes to explore the ideas, values, and perspectives that shape our lives—socially, politically, and philosophically. Inspired by the belief that the best answers often lie somewhere in the middle, we focus on connecting with people who think differently, creating a space for deep, thoughtful discussions without the noise of traditional media or combative debates. Join us as we challenge assumptions, share stories, and discover what it means to find common ground in a world that feels increasingly polarized. It’s time for real talk. Middle Outcast is a podcast dedicated to bridging the divides in our society by fostering honest, meaningful dialogue. real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values Myke Bates, Tom Rankin No Yes Smurfs, Tariffs, and Our Friend from Texas 5 5 Smurfs, Tariffs, and Our Friend from Texas full 7b9196ff-12a8-4ce6-9f1f-d4b924a8d2f1 https://middleoutcast.com/5 📌 Our guest, Bobby Vickers joins the conversation at 1:37:27


We’re back after a long stretch. The last episode came out in March, and since then it’s been tough not only to stay consistent but to bring in guests who don’t just echo our own worldview. Episode 5 was recorded on April 2nd, the day after Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day.” What began as a throwaway recording became something more when our good friend Bobby Vickers jumped in from Texas.


This conversation runs long and ranges wide—from tariffs and trade wars, to morality and leadership, to the question of whether today’s turbulence is just politics-as-usual or a genuine break with history.


At its heart, this episode is about trying to find real dialogue across divides—whether that’s confronting visceral dislike for Trump, Bobby’s more measured contrarian stance, or wrestling with what “normal” even means anymore.

]]> 📌 Our guest, Bobby Vickers joins the conversation at 1:37:27


We’re back after a long stretch. The last episode came out in March, and since then it’s been tough not only to stay consistent but to bring in guests who don’t just echo our own worldview. Episode 5 was recorded on April 2nd, the day after Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day.” What began as a throwaway recording became something more when our good friend Bobby Vickers jumped in from Texas.


This conversation runs long and ranges wide—from tariffs and trade wars, to morality and leadership, to the question of whether today’s turbulence is just politics-as-usual or a genuine break with history.


At its heart, this episode is about trying to find real dialogue across divides—whether that’s confronting visceral dislike for Trump, Bobby’s more measured contrarian stance, or wrestling with what “normal” even means anymore.

]]> Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:25:46 -0500 Middle Outcast Middle Outcast 12106 📌 Our guest, Bobby Vickers joins the conversation at 1:37:27


We’re back after a long stretch. The last episode came out in March, and since then it’s been tough not only to stay consistent but to bring in guests who don’t just echo our own worldview. Episode 5 was recorded on April 2nd, the day after Trump’s so-called “Liberation Day.” What began as a throwaway recording became something more when our good friend Bobby Vickers jumped in from Texas.


This conversation runs long and ranges wide—from tariffs and trade wars, to morality and leadership, to the question of whether today’s turbulence is just politics-as-usual or a genuine break with history.


At its heart, this episode is about trying to find real dialogue across divides—whether that’s confronting visceral dislike for Trump, Bobby’s more measured contrarian stance, or wrestling with what “normal” even means anymore.

]]> real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values No Myke Bates Tom Rankin Bobby Vickers God, Guilt, and What the Hell Comes Next 4 4 God, Guilt, and What the Hell Comes Next full 237cddc8-a4dd-40e6-9862-c11d7bfcdbd2 https://middleoutcast.com/4 In a world where religion has done as much harm as good, what does faith even mean anymore? In this episode, we talk with Tona Rowett and Michelle Scott-Huffman about what happens when belief gets messy, and how people are reclaiming spiritual identity after trauma.


We get into the damage done by the Church, the quiet power of personal theology, and why it’s okay to question everything. In a cultural moment where DEI programs are being dismantled across the country and religious nationalism is gaining steam, this is a conversation about belief, belonging, and the hard work of figuring out what comes next.

]]> In a world where religion has done as much harm as good, what does faith even mean anymore? In this episode, we talk with Tona Rowett and Michelle Scott-Huffman about what happens when belief gets messy, and how people are reclaiming spiritual identity after trauma.


We get into the damage done by the Church, the quiet power of personal theology, and why it’s okay to question everything. In a cultural moment where DEI programs are being dismantled across the country and religious nationalism is gaining steam, this is a conversation about belief, belonging, and the hard work of figuring out what comes next.

]]> Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:55:41 -0500 Middle Outcast Middle Outcast 5739 In a world where religion has done as much harm as good, what does faith even mean anymore? In this episode, we talk with Tona Rowett and Michelle Scott-Huffman about what happens when belief gets messy, and how people are reclaiming spiritual identity after trauma.


We get into the damage done by the Church, the quiet power of personal theology, and why it’s okay to question everything. In a cultural moment where DEI programs are being dismantled across the country and religious nationalism is gaining steam, this is a conversation about belief, belonging, and the hard work of figuring out what comes next.

]]> real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values No Myke Bates Tona Rowett Michelle Scott-Huffman Tom Rankin National Divorce: A Bad Idea, or Inevitable? | Elijah Haahr 3 3 National Divorce: A Bad Idea, or Inevitable? | Elijah Haahr full 00ce8e15-c505-4ace-b658-b55121c03a85 https://middleoutcast.com/3 In this episode of Middle Outcast, we talk with Elijah Haahr, former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, about the shifting landscape of American politics. We discuss how long-form conversations are changing political engagement, the role of social media in deepening polarization, and whether the United States is truly headed for a national divorce. Elijah shares his thoughts on political realignment, the rapid pace of technological change, and the growing divide between urban and rural America. Are we more divided than ever, or is that just another illusion?

]]> In this episode of Middle Outcast, we talk with Elijah Haahr, former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, about the shifting landscape of American politics. We discuss how long-form conversations are changing political engagement, the role of social media in deepening polarization, and whether the United States is truly headed for a national divorce. Elijah shares his thoughts on political realignment, the rapid pace of technological change, and the growing divide between urban and rural America. Are we more divided than ever, or is that just another illusion?

]]> Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:10:52 -0600 Middle Outcast Middle Outcast 8014 In this episode of Middle Outcast, we talk with Elijah Haahr, former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives, about the shifting landscape of American politics. We discuss how long-form conversations are changing political engagement, the role of social media in deepening polarization, and whether the United States is truly headed for a national divorce. Elijah shares his thoughts on political realignment, the rapid pace of technological change, and the growing divide between urban and rural America. Are we more divided than ever, or is that just another illusion?

]]> real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values No Elijah Haahr Tom Rankin Myke Bates Who? 2 2 Who? bonus ef46ec21-13db-442c-8c58-6ec35274f086 https://middleoutcast.com/bonus2 In this episode of Middle Outcast, we take a step back and introduce ourselves—Tom and Myke—and share the stories that shaped who we are today. From Myke's journey as a Midwest tinkerer turned community-building tech guru to Tom’s path from a small-town kid to a Marine Corps veteran with a passion for creating and problem-solving, we explore the unique experiences that drive our perspectives.

We also dive into what fuels our dynamic: optimism vs. pragmatism, shared values of honesty, and a commitment to understanding others through meaningful dialogue. Along the way, we reflect on our influences, the philosophies that shape us, and why we believe in the power of slowing down and having real conversations.

This is just the beginning, but it’s a raw and honest look at the foundation of Middle Outcast and what’s to come. Join us as we kick off this journey. Sign up, let’s talk, and as always, remember to zoom out.

]]> In this episode of Middle Outcast, we take a step back and introduce ourselves—Tom and Myke—and share the stories that shaped who we are today. From Myke's journey as a Midwest tinkerer turned community-building tech guru to Tom’s path from a small-town kid to a Marine Corps veteran with a passion for creating and problem-solving, we explore the unique experiences that drive our perspectives.

We also dive into what fuels our dynamic: optimism vs. pragmatism, shared values of honesty, and a commitment to understanding others through meaningful dialogue. Along the way, we reflect on our influences, the philosophies that shape us, and why we believe in the power of slowing down and having real conversations.

This is just the beginning, but it’s a raw and honest look at the foundation of Middle Outcast and what’s to come. Join us as we kick off this journey. Sign up, let’s talk, and as always, remember to zoom out.

]]> Mon, 27 Jan 2025 21:04:56 -0600 Middle Outcast Middle Outcast 1966 In this episode of Middle Outcast, we take a step back and introduce ourselves—Tom and Myke—and share the stories that shaped who we are today. From Myke's journey as a Midwest tinkerer turned community-building tech guru to Tom’s path from a small-town kid to a Marine Corps veteran with a passion for creating and problem-solving, we explore the unique experiences that drive our perspectives.

We also dive into what fuels our dynamic: optimism vs. pragmatism, shared values of honesty, and a commitment to understanding others through meaningful dialogue. Along the way, we reflect on our influences, the philosophies that shape us, and why we believe in the power of slowing down and having real conversations.

This is just the beginning, but it’s a raw and honest look at the foundation of Middle Outcast and what’s to come. Join us as we kick off this journey. Sign up, let’s talk, and as always, remember to zoom out.

]]> real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values No Myke Bates Tom Rankin New Year New Pod 1 1 New Year New Pod full c32b697a-9c1f-4168-8ad9-ebfd3be4b68d https://middleoutcast.com/1 In the inaugural episode of Middle Outcast, hosts Myke and Tom set the stage for their ambitious mission to foster real conversations in a fractured world. They discuss the challenges of polarization, the harm of “memeification,” and the power of honest dialogue in bridging ideological divides. With humor, humility, and a vision for connection, they share their motivations, outline their goals, and introduce the philosophy behind the podcast’s name. If you’re seeking meaningful discussion that transcends echo chambers, this is the perfect starting point.

]]> In the inaugural episode of Middle Outcast, hosts Myke and Tom set the stage for their ambitious mission to foster real conversations in a fractured world. They discuss the challenges of polarization, the harm of “memeification,” and the power of honest dialogue in bridging ideological divides. With humor, humility, and a vision for connection, they share their motivations, outline their goals, and introduce the philosophy behind the podcast’s name. If you’re seeking meaningful discussion that transcends echo chambers, this is the perfect starting point.

]]> Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:11:11 -0600 Middle Outcast Middle Outcast 1582 In the inaugural episode of Middle Outcast, hosts Myke and Tom set the stage for their ambitious mission to foster real conversations in a fractured world. They discuss the challenges of polarization, the harm of “memeification,” and the power of honest dialogue in bridging ideological divides. With humor, humility, and a vision for connection, they share their motivations, outline their goals, and introduce the philosophy behind the podcast’s name. If you’re seeking meaningful discussion that transcends echo chambers, this is the perfect starting point.

]]> real conversations, bridging divides, polarization, honest dialogue, middle ground, ideological divide, social discourse, connection, civil debate, podcasting, communication, philosophy, politics, media bias, technology and society, cultural commentary, societal issues, challenging assumptions, diverse perspectives, unifying ideas, constructive conversations, thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking, collaboration, shared values No Myke Bates Tom Rankin