The JTrain Podcast: The Garbage Plate, Mascots, and Bathroom Rules - TICKED OFF TUESDAY

Host: Jared Freid
Release Date: April 1, 2025

1. Introduction to Ticked Off Tuesday

In this episode of The JTrain Podcast, host Jared Freid, affectionately known as Uncle J Train, delves into the frustrations and pet peeves that listeners commonly face every Tuesday. The segment, dubbed "Ticked Off Tuesday," invites both the host and his audience to air grievances and find camaraderie in shared annoyances.

2. Initial Rant: Show's Introductory Music

Jared kicks off the episode by addressing a personal gripe regarding the podcast's introductory music:

Jared Freid [01:15]: "If it's not gonna help the show, why tell me you don't like it?"

He humorously debates the necessity of the opening tune, questioning its impact on listeners and expressing frustration over a familial critique. This segment sets the tone for the episode, emphasizing the theme of airing and discussing everyday frustrations.

3. The Garbage Plate: Rochester’s Culinary Icon

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing the Garbage Plate, a quintessential Rochester, New York dish. Jared provides an in-depth exploration of its origins, composition, and cultural significance.

• Definition and Composition:

  Jared Freid [05:30]: "The garbage plate is an American dish consisting of hot dog or hamburger meat, hot meat sauce, and a variety of side dishes like macaroni salad and home fries."

He criticizes the term "American dish," advocating instead for its identification as a Rochester specialty to preserve local pride.

• Historical Context:

  Jared Freid [07:45]: "It originated in 1918 and has since become Rochester's signature dish, celebrated and reimagined by numerous local eateries."

• Cultural Impact:

  Jared recounts the Rochester Red Wings' temporary name change to the Rochester Plates in honor of the dish, highlighting the community's deep-rooted affection for it.

• Humorous Anecdotes:

  Jared Freid [09:20]: "The picture is exactly what it is. The picture is from afar. It's disgusting. I mean, if you saw..."

He humorously grapples with the unappetizing imagery versus his genuine appreciation for the dish's taste, adding a relatable humor element to the discussion.

4. Mascots: The Case of Rochester Plates

Transitioning from food, Jared addresses the mascot associated with the Rochester Plates, showcasing his penchant for quirky and representative mascots.

Jared Freid [12:10]: "It's basically a yellow version of Oscar the Grouch. Where his hat is the garbage can and he's wearing the garbage."

He praises the creativity and local relevance of the mascot, expressing enthusiasm for its unique design and its role in promoting community identity.

5. Listener Complaints: Social Media Addiction and Bathroom Accessibility

a. Social Media Overload from Older Relatives

One listener expresses frustration over older family members' relentless use of Facebook:

Listener [20:05]: "My issue is they're both severely addicted to Facebook and constantly send me memes and recipes on Facebook Messenger."

Jared empathizes, sharing his experiences with his parents' Facebook addiction and the intrusion it causes in daily life. He underscores the generational gap in social media usage and its impact on communication.

Jared Freid [21:15]: "Boomers on Facebook are wild. That is an addiction for them."

b. Bathroom Availability at Coffee Shops and Gas Stations

Another listener complaint revolves around the lack of accessible bathrooms in public establishments:

Listener [30:40]: "With so much driving, I inevitably end up needing to stop and find a bathroom. Last week, I pulled into a gas station without one."

Jared delves into the inconvenience and frustration caused by unavailable restrooms, especially during emergencies. He humorously narrates a personal anecdote about being denied bathroom access, highlighting the inconsiderate practices of some establishments.

Jared Freid [32:55]: "If someone says, 'Hey, it's really an emergency,' and you deny them, that's beyond frustrating."

He suggests practical solutions, such as implementing a small fee for bathroom use to offset maintenance costs, emphasizing the importance of customer-friendly policies.

6. Conclusion and Community Engagement

Wrapping up the episode, Jared encourages listeners to engage with the podcast through Patreon for exclusive content and to share their own complaints for future episodes. He reiterates the essence of "Ticked Off Tuesday" as a communal space for venting and finding solidarity in shared grievances.

Jared Freid [45:00]: "This is your space to complain and find others who get it. Join us on Patreon to be a part of our complaint duet."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• On Show Music:

  Jared Freid [01:15]: "If it's not gonna help the show, why tell me you don't like it?"

• On Garbage Plate Composition:

  Jared Freid [05:30]: "The garbage plate is an American dish consisting of hot dog or hamburger meat, hot meat sauce, and a variety of side dishes like macaroni salad and home fries."

• On Mascot Design:

  Jared Freid [12:10]: "It's basically a yellow version of Oscar the Grouch. Where his hat is the garbage can and he's wearing the garbage."

• On Social Media Addiction:

  Jared Freid [21:15]: "Boomers on Facebook are wild. That is an addiction for them."

• On Bathroom Accessibility:

  Jared Freid [32:55]: "If someone says, 'Hey, it's really an emergency,' and you deny them, that's beyond frustrating."

Final Thoughts

In this episode, Jared Freid masterfully balances humor with relatable frustrations, offering listeners a blend of laughter and empathy. From celebrating local culinary delights to addressing everyday inconveniences, "The Garbage Plate, Mascots, and Bathroom Rules" serves as a testament to finding humor and community in the mundane aspects of life.

Stay Connected:
For more insights, listener interactions, and exclusive content, visit Patreon.com/JaredFreid.