Down the Middle: A Political Podcast - Podcast Rankings and reviews

I've been listening to these guys since the first episode, and I've worked my entire career in media. The growth that Rob has made in the field of punditry in 25 episodes is nothing short of amazing. His analysis is incredibly insightful, and his ability to take the news of the day and relate it to larger cultural issues in the country and in the west is a special talent. And somehow it is never so sophisticated that a political novice wouldn't understand the greater points, yet it is also thought provoking enough for the political junkie. He's also able to combine it all with humor and give the listener the impression that he takes politics with a grain of salt and recognizes the insignificance of vapid political quarreling, something that has turned so many of us off to the hyperbolic nature of the "news anchors" of the day. His indifference to the "thought police" that exist on both sides of the aisle and his confidence to express views on certain issues that are sometimes staunchly conservative and sometimes tremendously progressive would likely deny him an opinion spot on any of the current media networks, but that is precisely the point of why his analysis is such a breath of fresh air. It represents the lens in which the majority of Americans probably view these issues and why more and more of us are hungry for alternate media choices.

Justin has also developed an undeniably important role on the show as the historian and soft-spoken often-agreeable persona who expresses traditionally conservative viewpoints in a relatable and succinct manner. He is the perfect counterpoint to Rob, who is often fiery and protracted, because he has a knack for closing out a particular topic with one precise and honest statement, which is a great way of buttoning up a point that Rob is making. His expertise as a theologian is an asset to the show, especially for people like me who trend towards atheism. My viewpoints on religion and its place in society would be dramatically different if more religious people thought like Justin and had the ability to retain humility rather than arrogance and certitude in their faith. It's Justin's ability to see politics through a similar lens to that of which he sees religion that makes him perfect for a podcast that prides itself on being measured.

All in all, Down the Middle is as close to a perfect political podcast as is possible. It's compelling, funny, educational, and very entertaining. Perhaps my favorite element of the show is the fact that I can sense a deep and loving friendship between the two hosts that is rare and frankly inspiring. The listener gets a sense that the political conservations and debates taking place on the show are secondary to the sincere friendship and respect the hosts have for each other. They are so confident in their relationship that they're able to speak up when they think the other person is wrong about something without making the listener feel uncomfortable that one of them will take something too personally. Again, a breath of fresh air is the best term I can use to describe it. If more people listened to Rob and Justin and the Down the Middle Podcast, we'd be a better country. There's no doubt about it.

With so much toxic polarization going on right now - it’s a breath of fresh air to listen to two guys coming from opposite sides of center have intelligent, thoughtful, AND respectful discourse. Listening gives me hope that not EVERYONE has lost their minds. :)

I really like how this podcast has been fair to the political spectrum in presenting different viewpoints. They are respectful in their discussions and the way in which they host their guests. I feel educated after having listened to their latest podcast episode to date. Instead of appealing to emotions, these guys are dedicated to discussing issues in a factual way instead of using divisive rhetoric. It’s refreshing!

A moderate, honest, and engaging podcast that doesn’t polarize people, but instead brings them back into dialogue with each other - something that has been missing for the last decade in American politics. 5 stars!