Podcast
Up The Middle: Politics for the Rest of US!
Hosted by Up The Middle: Politics for the Rest of US! · EN
Hey gang!
Tired of the extreme left and far right dominating the conversation? Welcome to Up The Middle: Politics for the Rest of US, the podcast dedicated to balanced news analysis and political commentary. We cut through the partisan noise to examine today’s biggest headlines from both sides of the political spectrum.Whether you identify as an independent, a moderate, or simply someone looking for rational, fact-based discussions, this show is your home for common sense. Every week, we break down complex current events, interview diverse voices, and search for common ground in a deeply divided world. For more information, please visit www.Mastiff.Media/utm.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.
Tired of the extreme left and far right dominating the conversation? Welcome to Up The Middle: Politics for the Rest of US, the podcast dedicated to balanced news analysis and political commentary. We cut through the partisan noise to examine today’s biggest headlines from both sides of the political spectrum.Whether you identify as an independent, a moderate, or simply someone looking for rational, fact-based discussions, this show is your home for common sense. Every week, we break down complex current events, interview diverse voices, and search for common ground in a deeply divided world. For more information, please visit www.Mastiff.Media/utm.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
"Don't Be a Sucker" - Applying History to the Modern MAGA Movement
1w ago00:12:42Tap to summarize"Don't Be a Sucker" - Applying History to the Modern MAGA MovementA Call to Action Against Division, Bigotry and Political CultsEpisode: 162Date: 260614.3I. Sports & Health UpdatesYergz casually predicts the Carolina Hurricanes will win the Stanley Cup.He mentions Mitch McConnell's recent hospitalization and comments on Donald Trump's appearance at a UFC event, criticizing the "blinding" presence of his plane.II. The Importance of Historical ContextYergz praises a recent video by Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor, which draws parallels between current political rhetoric and past historical events.He emphasizes the importance of looking back at history, specifically the 1940s and 1950s, to understand the dangers of fascism.III. A Message from 1947: "Don't Be a Sucker"Yergz plays a significant portion of the 1947 anti-fascist short film, "Don't Be a Sucker," produced by the U.S. Department of War.The clip highlights the dangers of prejudice, division, and the slow erosion of rights, warning against groups that seek to divide Americans.Yergz pauses the clip to emphasize the phrase "American American" and challenges the audience to define what that actually means, noting that the only true Americans are Native Americans.IV. The Threat of Fascism and the MAGA MovementYergz resumes the clip, which details the historical rise of Nazi Germany and how Hitler used "practical weapons" to divide the nation.He compares the rhetoric in the 1947 film to the current political climate, directly accusing the MAGA movement and Donald Trump of using fascist tactics.He calls out politicians like Ted Cruz, referencing a specific instance where Cruz refused to stand up to Trump after Trump insulted his wife.V. The Call to Action: Stand TogetherYergz passionately argues that the true "enemy" is not the opposing political party or different demographic groups, but rather the politicians and individuals who try to divide the country.He reiterates that "MAGA" is not a political movement, but a cult, and that its actions are not conservative, Christian, or patriotic.He challenges listeners to speak up, use their platforms, and fight against bigotry and division.VI. Personal Updates & OutroYergz provides a brief update on Matrix, mentioning that he has been struggling but is resting.He announces he will be taking the next few days off to care for Matrix.He wishes his mother a happy 75th birthday.The segment ends with plugs for his affiliated creators, including Jeff Klein, Bradley Schlegel, and Phil Repko, before the show's outro audio plays.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →Fact-Checking "Save America", The Meet the Press Walkout, Voter Suppression and the "Media Offenders" List
1w ago00:31:16Tap to summarizeFact-Checking "Save America", The Meet the Press Walkout, Voter Suppression and the "Media Offenders" ListEpisode: 161Date: 260614.2I. The "Save America" Election Fraud NarrativeYergz directs his audience to a webpage (WhiteHouse.gov/SaveAmerica) created by the Trump administration.He dissects the specific goals outlined on the page, starting with the goal of ending mail-in ballots.He points out the hypocrisy of Trump and other Republicans using mail-in ballots, including a reference to Rep. Thomas Massie's recent primary loss.II. Analyzing the Meet the Press WalkoutYergz plays a clip of Donald Trump's interview with Kristen Welker on Meet the Press.He notes Trump's claim that his agitation was due to the sound of rain, while the clip clearly shows him struggling to answer Welker's questions about his election fraud conspiracy theories.He uses CNN fact-checker Daniel Dale's analysis to emphasize the lack of evidence for Trump's claims.III. Debunking Unconstitutional ClaimsYergz reviews more claims from the "Save America" page, specifically the call for "proof of citizenship" and biometric databases like those used in India and Brazil.He argues that proof of citizenship is already required and protected under the Constitution for both voting and holding public office.He counters the administration's claim that illegal aliens are voting in US elections, calling it a baseless conspiracy theory.IV. State vs. Federal Voting RightsYergz analyzes the administration's attempt to eliminate early voting and dictate election protocols based on models from Denmark and Sweden.He asserts that the Constitution grants states the authority to determine their own election processes, including the allowance of early voting.He emphasizes that Election Day is legally defined as the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, and any attempt to restrict voting beyond this is voter suppression.V. Personal Update: Caring for MatrixA brief, emotional segment where Yergz discusses his dog Matrix (named after the Mastiff Media network).He details Matrix's battle with megaesophagus and the constant care required to keep him healthy.Yergz shares that he may need to take time off due to Matrix's declining health but expresses profound gratitude for his time with the dog.VI. Commercial BreakBear Fever: It's Catching (Chapter 1 by Diane O'Sullivan).Network invitation for content creators to join Mastiff Media.Promotional read for Momentum Fitness and Wellness in Florida.VII. Confronting "Media Offenders"Yergz returns to the WhiteHouse.gov site to look at the "Media Offenders" page.He specifically looks at an entry for CNN's Jonathan Reiner and Kate Baldwin regarding their coverage of President Trump's health and potential "somnolence" (drowsiness).The White House page attacks the report as a "fringe talking point for chronically online leftists" and claims Trump is in perfect health.Yergz laughs at the partisan vitriol on an official government website before wrapping up the segment.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →The Threat of Synchronized Militaries and the NDAA; Massie's Warning
1w ago00:22:12Tap to summarizeThe Threat of Synchronized Militaries and the NDAA; Massie's WarningEpisode: 160Date: 260614.1I. The Threat of Military IntegrationYergz points out the ideological differences between the U.S. and Israeli militaries (volunteer vs. mandatory).He claims Trump wants to bring back the draft.He introduces the upcoming NDAA legislation, which contains a provision (Section 224) that would "synchronize" the IDF and the US military.Yergz plays a clip of Representative Thomas Massie speaking out against Section 224, calling it a compromise to US national security.II. The Middle East and Embassy LawYergz argues Netanyahu has been pushing for a war with Iran since the early 2000s, but past presidents (Bush, Obama, Trump, Biden) managed to keep him in check.He pivots to an educational point about embassy law, explaining that an embassy is considered the sovereign soil of the country it represents.He references the 1979 Iranian Hostage Crisis as an example of this law being broken.Yergz discusses Ronald Reagan's alleged involvement in the Hostage Crisis, claiming he negotiated a delay in their release to sabotage Jimmy Carter's re-election chances.III. Commercial BreaksBe Inspired podcast with Jane StahlYergz's new full-time job at Best Buy in Wesley Chapel, Florida.Rad Rooster Coffee Roasting Company in Boyertown, Pennsylvania.The Colebrookdale Railroad, connecting Boyertown and Pottstown.IV. ConclusionYergz concludes the segment, noting the abrupt ending is due to the live radio show format.He encourages listeners to tune in live on Sunday evenings at www.mastiff.media/utm.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →Left-Wing Lunacy: Evaluating the Government's War on Free Press
2w ago00:28:33Tap to summarizeLeft-Wing Lunacy: Evaluating the Government's War on Free PressEpisode 159Episode Date: 260607.4Intro and Media DiscrepanciesHigh-energy opening and the "Up the Middle" theme song.Host Yergz walks through varying media descriptions of an incident at Delany Hall, comparing headlines from Fox News, Mother Jones, The New York Times, and the Daily Targum.Reflections on mainstream media honesty, citing the firing of Scott Pelley from 60 Minutes and bias on CBS.White House Website & Enmity ListsYergz highlights independent journalists Brian Tyler Cohen and David Pakman being targeted on an official government portal.Pulling up a live section of whitehouse.gov titled "Media Offenders," detailing the official administration's attack on CNN anchors Jonathan Reiner and Kate Baldwin under the category of "Left-Wing Lunacy."The "Save America Act" & Voter Suppression AnalysisDebunking the language of the "Save America Act" regarding proof of citizenship.Explaining the constitutional framework where voter qualification methods (early voting and mail-in voting) fall strictly under state, not federal, authority.Pointing out the hypocrisy of Trump utilizing mail-in voting himself while simultaneously attempting to ban it federally.Commercial BlockPublic interest ad for Bear Fever: It's Catching (Chapter 1 by Diane O'Sullivan).Network invitation for content creators to join talk radio at Mastiff Media.Promotional read for Momentum Fitness and Wellness located on US-19 in Florida.Jet Trends Feature & Wrap-upReviewing mechanical services at Jet Trends in New Port Richey, Florida.Closing standard disclaimer about the podcast architecture being sourced from his live weekly two-hour broadcast, directing viewers to mastiff.media/utm.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →Enmeshed: Section 224 and Netanyahu's Long War with Iran
2w ago00:17:44Tap to summarizeUp the Middle: Enmeshed: Section 224 and Netanyahu's Long War with IranEpisode 158Episode Date 260607.3Episode OverviewEpisode BreakdownHost Commentary: Military DifferencesTopic Introduction: The host mentions that Thomas Massie will be discussed further later in the hour.Mandatory Service: The host highlights a major difference between the US and Israeli militaries: Israeli citizens are legally required to serve in the military.Political Commentary: The host claims that during "Trump 1.0", there was an attempt to bring back the military draft to create large armies at his disposal as the "President of Peace."Audio Clip: Representative Thomas MassieNDAA Legislation: Republican Representative Thomas Massie (4th Congressional District of Kentucky) discusses Section 224 of the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act).Military Synchronization: Rep. Massie warns that this section intends to synchronize and enmesh the IDF with the US military, combining technology and supply chains.National Security Concerns: Rep. Massie argues this creates an asymmetric relationship that compromises US national security and obligates the US to defend Israel at any cost.Host Commentary: Geopolitics and HistoryTechnical Difficulties: The host briefly expresses frustration with Facebook streaming issues when using Chrome.Middle East Tensions: The host voices outrage over the NDAA provision and states that Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has wanted a war with Iran since before the Bush 43 administration.Past Administrations: He notes that Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden managed the relationship without giving Netanyahu everything he wanted regarding Iran.Embassy Laws & Hostage Crisis: The host explains international embassy laws (an embassy is considered sovereign soil) and references the 1979 Iranian Hostage Crisis—and the movie Argo—as an example of this law being violated.Reagan Allegations: The host claims that Republican presidential candidate Ronald Reagan negotiated to delay the release of the hostages to sabotage Jimmy Carter's re-election.Commercial BreakBe Inspired Podcast: Promotes the Be Inspired podcast hosted by Jane Stall, a retired English teacher who also co-hosts Both Sides Now on Yirgs Radio.Best Buy Mobile: The host (Yirgs) advertises his full-time job at the Best Buy mobile department in Wesley Chapel, Florida, where he partners with Verizon from Thursday through Monday.Rad Rooster Coffee: Advertises Rad Rooster Coffee Roasting Company from Boyertown, Pennsylvania, owned by Cory and Lindsay Mason, offering ethically harvested beans and free shipping on orders over $50.Colebrookdale Railroad: Promotes historical, civil war-era train rides and first-class service in Southeastern Pennsylvania, connecting Boyertown and Pottstown.Outro & Show InformationCall to Action: Yirgs asks the audience to like, share, subscribe, and bookmark the show.Show Format Disclaimer: He explains that the podcast episodes are abruptly cut excerpts from his two-hour weekly live radio show.Live Broadcast Info: Listeners are invited to tune into the live broadcast of Up the Middle on Sunday evenings at 10:00 PM Eastern at www.mastiff.media/utm.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →ICE Operations in NJ: The Hidden Truth About Delany Hall
2w ago00:32:41Tap to summarizeICE Operations in NJ: The Hidden Truth About Delany HallIntro SegmentShow opening theme track and intro music.Host Yergz opens the segment by highlighting an upcoming investigation into ICE operations.ICE Facilities & The New Jersey Budget PivotYergz addresses "Delany Hall" in New Jersey as a facility being utilized by ICE as what he terms a concentration camp.Discussion of a $12 million funding boost announced by Governor Murphy for the Detention Deportation Defense Initiative (DDDI).Yergz offers a harsh critique of ICE personnel, arguing their methods do not align with traditional federal law enforcement standards based on his 21-year tenure as a federal agent.The History of DHS & Federal Law Enforcement AgenciesA deep-dive into the organizational transition from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Bush administration.How the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and U.S. Customs merged to create modern-day ICE.Yergz recounts his personal history in the Secret Service and details high-profile legal scandals involving ICE contractors and prison guards.Commercial Break BlockJane Stahl plug for the Be Inspired and Both Sides Now podcasts.Yergz promotes his personal schedule at Best Buy mobile in Wesley Chapel.Ad copy for Rad Rooster Coffee Roasting Company (Boyertown, PA) and the historical Colebrookdale Railroad excursions.Moms for Liberty and the San Diego Library Ransom ScandalA transition into Pride Month discussions, looking back at a scandal where "Moms for Liberty" checked out all LGBTQ+ literature from a San Diego library and held them for "ransom."How the community out-funded the censorship attempt, resulting in $30,000 for new books.Yergz analyzes "Moms for Liberty" and links their playbook to the Christian nationalism policies of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.Disney Pride & Jet Trends Maintenance SpotlightReflections on "Disney Pride" week in Orlando and how the gay community historically takes over the theme parks.A rapid local business spotlight on Jet Trends on US-19 in New Port Richie for specialized watercraft maintenance.Outro SegmentStandard disclaimer regarding show segments being cut straight from the longer, live weekly broadcast.Livestream schedule details for tuning in Sundays at 10 PM Eastern.Episode Date: 260607.2Episode: 157Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →Blame it on the Rain: Trump’s Interview Walkout and the Milli Vanilli Defense
2w ago00:24:50Tap to summarizeBlame it on the Rain: Trump’s Interview Walkout and the Milli Vanilli DefenseMonologue Part 1Host Yergz addresses his tardiness, technical issues with TikTok, and challenges MAGA supporters to justify their allegiance.Monologue Part 2Yergz compares Trump's walkout during a Meet the Press interview to the disgraced lip-sync duo Milli Vanilli, specifically referencing the song "Blame it on the Rain."Audio Clip / CommentaryAudio of Milli Vanilli's "Blame it on the Rain," followed by Yergz commenting on the duo's downfall and comparing lip-syncing to modern pop stars like Britney Spears.Monologue Part 3Yergz pivots to election fraud investigations in the California primary and points out that Rep. Thomas Massie was recently defeated via mail-in ballots.Audio Clip: CNN / NBCA CNN broadcast covering Trump's abrupt walkout during an interview with NBC's Kristen Welker, featuring fact-checking from Daniel Dale.Commercial BreakPromos for the Bear Fever book, Mastiff Media, Momentum Fitness & Wellness, and Inn on the Gulf.OutroShow wrap-up and live broadcast schedule.Episode Date:260607.1Episode 156Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →MAGA Listener vs The World
Jun 101:07:09Tap to summarizeMAGA Listener vs The WorldYergz critiques a MAGA listener, then speaks "From The Heart"www.Mastiff.Media/utmBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →MAGA Gets Even MORE Pathetic; Ofc Kristen Yeager Dies in the Line of Duty
Jun 100:24:03Tap to summarizeMAGA Gets Even MORE Pathetic; Ofc Kristen Yeager Dies in the Line of DutyDonald Trump cries about musical performers backing out of the 250th Celebration. Even former Apprentice star and Poison front man Bret Michaels has left The Donald hanging.Central Berks County, Pennsylvania, says good-bye to one of their finest. Officer Kristen Yeager, a 42 year old mom, wife, daughter and sister-in-blue died on Friday in a vehicle crash in Earl Township, PA (the home of Yergz' parents!) while responding to assist another department in an emergency. Services are being held Monday evening, June 1st at 8pm.www.Mastiff.Media/utmBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →James Talarico Warns Texas About Paxton, Trump Says HE'S the Main Event
Jun 100:20:08Tap to summarizeJames Talarico Warns Texas About Paxton, Trump Says HE'S the Main EventIn an extended Campaign Message, James Talarico points out the corruption of Republican Opponent, James Paxton. Donald Trump cries about performers bailing out and says HE'S the main event!www.Mastiff.Media/utmBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at Newz@Yergz.com. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:salez@yergz.com2026 The Yerger Group
Transcribe →