Middling with Eden and Brock
Middling with Eden and Brock is a rewatch podcast dedicated to the ABC sitcom The Middle. Hosted by actors Eden Sher and Brock Ciarlelli, who played Sue Heck and Brad Bottig on the show, the podcast revisits each episode with behind-the-scenes stories and special guests. New episodes are released every Wednesday.
Episodes
510 - Sleepless in Orson
On today’s agenda: Episode 510, “Sleepless in Orson!" We’ve got behind-the-scenes tidbits, including the original, innuendo-filled name of the hot dog restaurant where Brad worked, a funny story about Eden handwriting Sue's speeches on consent, and just how polite Derrick Glossner (David Chandler) is in real life. Plus, we go off on plenty of tangents about Laura Dern and The Wizard of Oz
509 - The Christmas Tree
We're recapping episode 509, "The Christmas Tree" and Eden is gobsmacked that Brock has never heard "Cats in the Cradle." We're going behind the scenes on how specifically Eden had to sneeze and we've got plenty of Blue Bag Grab questions regarding Brick's Ponzi scheme!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week,
508 - The Kiss
Today, it's just us as we recap episode 508, "The Kiss!" We're talking about a limping Eden, a wonderful behind the scenes story about sharing readers, and a rewrite we have for the diner scene. Plus, a voicemail from a listener about her thoughts on Kenny's full life that the audience never sees!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patre
507 - Thanksgiving V
One of our favorite episodes! We're recapping ep 507, "Thanksgiving V," and we've got lots of BTS scoop! We talk about Jerry Van Dyke changing a particular line for the sake of comedy, how a storyline came to fruition because of a scheduling conflict, and Eden's body double!Will Harris' Interview with Jerry Van Dyke for Popdose, CLICK HERE.Will Harris' Interview with Jack McBrayer for Bullz-Eye, C
506 - The Jump (w/ Brooke Dillman)
We've got Brooke Dillman (The Office, Wrecked, Kickin' It) on the pod today! We're breaking down episode 506, "The Jump," and we're talking about the scene that gave the cast some grief, animal actors (Colin Firth!), and just how fabulous Brooke is in her debut episode as Coach Tink Babbitt!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deepe
504 - The 100th
Just us as we recap The Middle's 100th episode! We're talking about how Eden broke her foot hours before filming, the inspiration behind Sue and Brad's Summer Lovin' routine (and the price tag to get the rights!), and what the cast and crew gift was to celebrate this monumental moment for the series.Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we d
502 - Change In The Air
This week, we're breaking down episode 502, "Change In The Air!" Everything from Brad's iconic locker decorations, The Middle's use of cell phones, and just how spot on this storyline is. Plus we have some fact checks from our listeners!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deeper into that week’s episode, focusing on specific 'headl
501 - The Drop Off (w/ Tommy Bechtold)
We can't believe we're already at season 5! And to kick off the new season, we have a very special guest. You know the back of his head - and now you get to see his gorgeous face. Tommy Bechtold (Abbott Elementary, Glee) who played Kenny - Axl's college roommate - is here with us today! We're breaking down ep 501, "The Drop Off," and we're talking about Tommy's audition, Kenny's wig, and what it w
424 - The Graduation (w/ Tim Hobert)
We're joined by Tim Hobert (Scrubs, Community) who wrote today's episode! He's helping us break down episode 424, "The Graduation" - but first, Eden's raving about Tim's kid, Audrey Hobert. Then we talk about Eileen Heisler's first episode as a director, Patricia Heaton and Charlie McDermott's stunt doubles, and the iconic Marion Ross as Brick's Vice Principal!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report”
423 - The Ditch
There are four distinct storylines, and we're talking about each one! For episode 423, "The Ditch" we're discussing everything Brick and his unique fear of going to middle school, Mike and Axl's mud-filled obstacle, what makes Frankie such a good character, and Sue's exaggerated physical comedy on her anything-but-relaxing day off.Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusi
422 - Hallelujah Hoedown
Keeping it between us today as we breakdown episode 422, "Hallelujah Hoedown." We're discussing all things yellow pants! How they were made and where the story came from. Plus, driving on camera, Galadriel Stineman's phenomenal performance, and we get quizzed on our Middle knowledge with our listener voicemail.Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each
421 - From Orson With Love (w/ Robin Shorr)
We're joined today by none other than Robin Shorr (Diary of a Future President, The Carmichael Show) as we break down her episode 421, "From Orson With Love!" She's got her notebook with her thoughts on the episode, how she'd adjust the storyline today, and a hilarious story about Jerry Van Dyke and his on-set nudist tendencies. It's a riot - and we're so lucky to have her on!Our bonus episode - “
420 - Dollar Days
If you're looking for episode 419, "The Bachelor" - head our archives! We originally recapped it in September 2025 with Galadriel Stineman! Today, we're recapping episode 420, "Dollar Days!" Before we dive in, we're reading some listener comments - including one about a pair of adoptable dogs with the greatest names of all time. Then it's on to the episode as we talk all things Dr. Goodwin and Jac
418 - The Name
Just us today as we recap episode 418, "The Name!" We're discussing all things Molly Shannon, a reference to a classic cinematic moment in Axl's storyline, and - of course - Sue Sue Heck's almost-name-change. Plus, we answer a fun question from a listener who called in!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deeper into that week’s epi
417 - Wheel of Pain (w/ Jessica Marie Garcia)
Today we're joined by Jessica Marie Garcia (On My Block, Liv and Maddie, How to Get Away With Murder) as she helps us breakdown episode 417, "Wheel of Pain!" She's telling us about her audition, what she learned from The Middle that she takes with her to every job, and gives us her hot takes on this episode!Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each we
416 - Winners and Losers (w/ Carolyn Hennesy)
We've got quite the guest for today's episode! Carolyn Hennesy (General Hospital, Cougar Town) helps us breakdown episode 416, "Winners and Losers!" Carolyn played room parent on steroids - Connie - and we've created an entire backstory for her that may or may not include a loveless marriage and a tennis teacher. Plus, we answer a fan voicemail about the use of wigs in sitcoms!Our bonus episode -
414 - The Smile
We're recapping episode 414, "The Smile," and it's just us today! We're covering everything from the amazing Roger Rees as Sue's tough teacher, Red Lobster's ad within our episode, and we even spot Eden's acting teacher in a role! Plus we answer a listener voicemail who has a question about filming with mirrors.Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Eac
413 - The Friend (w/ Lee Shallat Chemel)
She directed over 80 episodes of The Middle, and she's back with us today! Lee Shallat Chemel joins us to revisit ep 413, "The Friend!" We dive into the challenges of shooting the big cheer-off scene, talk about how Lee navigates kissing scenes between co-stars, and even share rehearsal footage from the unforgettable Fame dance routine.Our bonus episode - “The Heck Report” - drops every Friday, ex
411 - Life Skills
Reminder: we're skipping ep 410 ("Twenty Years") because we already recapped it as an Ehlert's Exclusive bonus episode back in Nov. '25 -- only on Patreon! If you want to listen or watch, that's at Patreon.com/MiddlingPod.Today, we're recapping an episode many fans have deemed as their favorite -- and we can see why! We're chatting about episode 411, "Life Skills," and we're recounting the moment
409 - Christmas Help (w/ Paul Hipp)
Snack Daddy Paul Hipp is here with us today! That's right... Reverend Tim Tom himself joins us to break down ep 409, "Christmas Help." No one makes us laugh like Paul, and today is no exception. He shares stories about horsey school and ice skating school he had to do for The Middle, and even reads some unused Tim Tom lyrics he wrote for the episode.We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops ev
408 - Thanksgiving IV
A fabulous episode of The Middle, from start to finish. We're breaking down 408, "Thanksgiving IV," and we're talking all about one of Brad's best scenes of the series, hot marines, and we both give a whack at our Jerry Van Dyke impression.We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deeper into that week’s episode, focusing on specific 'he
407 - The Safe
Just us today as we breakdown episode 407, "The Safe." We’re spotlighting two TV legends who pop up in this episode: Jane Kaczmarek as Frankie’s dental school teacher and Rick Harrison from Pawn Stars. Plus, we’re sharing some unfiltered thoughts on the Axl & Cassidy storyline and playing an adorable voicemail from one of our youngest listeners.We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops eve
406 - Halloween III: The Driving
Today, we’re breaking down episode 406, “Halloween III: The Driving!” We’ve got a fun email from one of our directors, behind-the-scenes stories about filming the scene where Axl’s foot gets run over, and we chat about the wonderful and hilarious late Sam Lloyd.We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deeper into that week’s episode, fo
405 - The Hose (w/ Stacey Pulwer)
We've got another writer in studio with us today! Stacey Pulwer joins us to talk about episode 405, "The Hose!" She tells us all about her first table read mishap and some funny "B.S." from network. Plus, we've got a voicemail from an Australian fan and some listener follow ups!We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops every Friday, exclusively on Patreon. Each week, we dive deeper into that w
404 - Bunny Therapy (w/ Jana Hunter)
Today we’re joined by the always-hilarious Jana Hunter, the writer of this episode! She returns for a second appearance on the pod with plenty of behind-the-scenes stories from episode 404, "Bunny Therapy." We cover everything from Eden’s on-set partial concussion to Jana’s real-life experience as a dental hygienist...And, of course, the delight that is Dave Foley.We’ve got a new show! “The Heck R
403 - The Second Act
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402 - Last Whiff of Summer Pt 2
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401 - Last Whiff of Summer Pt 1
New season, new studio! Coming to you from our new podcast studio, we're recapping episode 401, "Last Whiff of Summer Pt 1." We've got lots of announcements -- including a brand new show, exclusively on Patreon! And then we're breaking it all down... including the trailer moment from Mike, a fun continuity error, and lots of comedy!We’ve got a new show! “The Heck Report” drops every Friday, exclus
324 - The Wedding (w/ Mary Birdsong)
We're at the season 3 finale, we can't believe it. Here to recap episode 324, "The Wedding," with us is Mary Birdsong (Reno 911!, Succession)! She's got a wonderful Norm Macdonald impression and lots of memories from the show - and she's sharing them all. Plus we've got some behind the scenes pictures we're releasing to the masses.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling!
LIVE SHOW! 822 - The Final Final
Live from The Stray Theater in Los Angeles! 🎭 In this December 2025 live show, we revisit one of our all-time favorites: Episode 822, “The Final Final”—complete with our La La Land-inspired musical number. We’re breaking it all down with the audience, sharing behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage, demo audio, and plenty of stories from filming. We also spot a young Sydney Sweeney, revisit the moment
323 - The Telling (w/ Chris Kattan)
We've got the one and only Chris Kattan (SNL, Night at the Roxbury) with us! He's here to help us break down episode 323, "The Telling." We're talking about Chris' characterization of Frankie's favorite work friend, the magic of doing things in one take, and we even spot some photo doubles for Sean and Darrin.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the
322 - The Clover
Just us today as we breakdown episode 322, "The Clover!" First we read some comments before breaking down the episode where we talk about block shooting, tricks of the camera for fire safety, and read out deleted scenes of Brick trying to dispose of his unlucky clover.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-
321 - The Guidance Counselor (w/ Brittany Ross & Natalie Lander)
Always known on set as "The Cheerleaders," today we're joined by Brittany Ross (Huge in France, Mythic Quest) and Natalie Lander (Goldie and Bear, Grey's Anatomy)! They played Courtney and Debbie, and they’re here to break down episode 321, "The Guidance Counselor." We dive into their unforgettable audition story, their real-life “life partnership,” and share TONS of Whoopi Goldberg stories - incl
518 - The Smell
We’re diving into Episode 318, “The Smell!” After reading a few reviews, we share our own deodorant journeys, talk about Eden’s outtake that made it into the final cut, and highlight the actress who appeared in three different roles across three separate episodes.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-neck
320 - Get Your Business Done (w/ Rob Capron)
Such a fun episode with Rob Capron (Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The Way Way Back)! He's helping us break down episode 320, "Get Your Business Done," where he tells us about his direct offer to be on The Middle, his vivid memories of Universal City Walk, and running into his TV mom from The Middle just a few short months ago. Plus we read out some deleted scenes and read a listener DM.WE HAVE MERCH! 
319 - The Paper Route
We're breaking down episode 319, "The Paper Route!" First we read some comments, and then we dive into this hilarious episode. We're talking all about Sue's headgear (and the challenges it brought!) -- and just how lucky we were to have icon, Ed Asner, as guest star.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-ne
318 - Leap Year (w/ Mackenzie Aladjem)
SUCH a fun episode today! We have Mackenzie Aladjem (Nurse Jackie, All My Children) and she helps us breakdown episode 318, "Leap Year!" First Eden tells all about filming her Hallmark movie (A Keller Christmas Vacation). Then we talk about the episode where we find out the cat storyline was lifted directly from Neil's life! Plus, a listener calls in with a very glaring plot hole regarding Sue's b
920 - Great Heckspectations (w/ Casey Burke)
Jumping ahead today with one of our personal favorite guests -- and one of YOUR favorites! Casey Burke (Joker: Folie à Deux, Modern Family) joins us for ep 920, "Great Heckspectations!" It's her final episode of the series and she tells us about when she knew it'd be her last, the touching wrap gift Atticus Shaffer gave her, and she even shares a video from her final moments as Cindy.WE HAVE MERCH
317 - The Sit Down
Today, it's just us as we recap ep 317, "The Sit Down!" Eden tells a hilariously embarrassing story about an event that took place in the Hair and Makeup Trailer -- and it involves her and a moth. Did it inspire this episode? We'll never know. Plus, we answer a voicemail from listener with two fashion degrees... and she's got a pressing question about Sue's wardrobe.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours a
316 - The Concert (w/ Phil Traill)
We're recapping episode 316, "The Concert," with our director! Phil Traill (All About Steve, St. Denis Medical) chats with us about where Axl's speed limit storyline came from, the incredible acting on The Middle, and tells us a hilarious story regarding red or white wine -- and which one is "funnier." Plus we read a letter from an international fan!WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bo
315 - Valentine's Day III
Today we're with Julie Brown (Clueless, Camp Rock)! You know her as Paula Norwood, and she's here to breakdown episode 315, "Valentine's Day III." She tells us about her 1 line audition, her very "Sue" moment regarding French kissing, and what it was like to be a judge on one of the most famous episodes of RuPaul's Drag Race. Plus be sure to listen to her new podcast, "Just Say Julie," releasing s
603 - Major Anxiety (w/ Rich Dahm)
The meaning behind Cindy’s name, the real-life trip and fall that inspired Mike’s stumble at work, and the origin of The Loneliest Locker. Our guest, Rich Dahm (The Colbert Report), shares these behind the scenes stories... and more! The man came prepared. A writer of some of your favorite episodes, Rich joins us to recap episode 603, “Major Anxiety.” Plus, we listen to an adorable voicemail from
314 - Hecking It Up (w/ Sean O'Bryan)
Today we’re recapping episode 314, “Hecking It Up,” with Sean O’Bryan (Princess Diaries, Olympus Has Fallen), who played Ron Donahue! He tells us how he didn’t have to audition for Ron, the pranks Neil Flynn pulled on set, and how it was sometimes hard to remember which fictional child belonged to him. We also put him to work as we read out lots of deleted scenes from the episode!WE HAVE MERCH!&nb
313 - The Map
Today, we're recapping episode 313, "The Map," and it's just us! We talk about the bold choice to make the entire first act a single scene in the car, the brilliant casting of Moisés Arias (Fallout, Hannah Montana), and Brock shares some rehearsal videos of the Sue Heck chant put together by the wrestling team.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the
312 - Year of the Hecks (w/ Grace Bannon)
Orson’s favorite God-fearing Wrestlerette, Ruth, is with us today! Grace Bannon (Grey's Anatomy, So Random!) joins us to break down her debut episode: ep 312 - "Year of the Hecks!" We’re dishing on Ruth’s wig, Brock shares a story about his wrestling singlet (featuring double-sided tape and his nipples), and we even spot a very young Casey Burke (aka “Cindy”) appearing as a background actor in thi
311 - A Christmas Gift (w/ Jen Ray)
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627The most perfect neighbor in sitcom history is with us toda
812 - Pitch Imperfect (w/ Melissa Kosar)
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627We’ve got the fabulous director of today’s episode, Melissa
310 - Thanksgiving III
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627Blow up the air mattress and hammer the frozen Thanksgiving
309 - The Play (w/ Tyson Fountaine)
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627We have a cast and crew favorite on the show today -- Tyson
308 - Heck's Best Thing (w/ Skip Torvinen)
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627"If you have one, you have none" is just one of the many le
916 - The Crying Game (w/ Rose Abdoo)
WE'RE DOING A LIVE RECORDING!! Friday, December 5th, 2025 @7pm at the Stray Theater in Los Angeles!! We'll be recapping one of our (and maybe your!) favorite episodes in front of a live audience! Trivia, behind the scenes clips and videos, and lots of laughs. Tickets are limited, get them here: https://buytickets.at/thestraytheater/1922627We've got the wonderful Rose Abdoo (Hacks, That's So Raven)
307 - Halloween II (w/ Julia Caston)
She's back again! Our costume designer, Julia Caston, is here to tell us all about the wardrobe in episode 307, "Halloween II!" She talks about having to compromise with Eileen and DeAnn about bringing their very funny visions to life, the construction of the famous dice costume, and just how much work goes into a holiday episode.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling!
306 - Bad Choices
A favorite of ours! Today we're breaking down ep 306, "Bad Choices!" We're playing our old rehearsal music, sharing a clever use of the split screen, and talking about how our friendship really started to solidify in real life during this episode. Plus, we answer a question from a fan who has a logic issue -- Eden's favorite! Remember, if you're wondering why we're skipping 305, it's because we al
304 - Major Changes (w/ DeAnn Heline + Eileen Heisler)
They're back again! The creators and showrunners of your favorite series, DeAnn Heline + Eileen Heisler, are here to recap one of their favorite episodes -- ep 304, "Major Changes!" Find out where the the infamous toenail story came from, who's the name sake of Pam Friggen' Staggs, and DeAnn even shares scrapped storylines from this episode. Plus, in a very Heck-coded mishap -- some technical diff
303 - Hecking Order
WE'VE GOT A HUGE ANNOUNCEMENT: Eden's pregnant! She's pleased to announce she is with child -- with only ONE child this time!! After the big news, we dive into episode 303, "Hecking Order." We chat about the adorable Chord Overstreet (Glee) guest-starring, a certain co-star who maaaybe arrived a little late to set, and the logistical chaos behind filming this episode. Plus, we answer a fan questio
419 - The Bachelor (w/ Galadriel Stineman)
Today, we're jumping ahead with Galadriel Stineman (Sugar Creek Amish Mystery)! She played Cassidy Finch, but she's also telling us about the other role she played on The Middle. We break down ep 419, "The Bachelor," and talk about tennis lessons with Eden, what it's like to play the girlfriend - knowing it'll eventually end, and singing Bruno Mars. Plus we've got a fan voicemail asking about the
Middling w/ Ray Romano + Patricia Heaton
They've got Emmys, they've got chemistry, and they've agreed to talk to us! Today, we're chatting with none other than Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton! These two have been making us laugh since the '90s on one of TV's most successful and funniest sitcoms, Everybody Loves Raymond - and now they’re back together to chat about their reunion on The Middle. We talk about Ray rewatching his own show and
301 - Forced Family Fun Pt 1
Next week: Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton reunite -- on this podcast!! You can catch them here or on YOUTUBE if you want to watch! That's on Sept 17th - you won't want to miss it. But for today, after we catch up and read some comments, we're breaking down episode 301, "Forced Family Fun Pt 1!" We point out a cameo from one of our writers, some crazy scheduling, and just how creative some of those
224 - Back to Summer
Coming up on September 17th, we've got none other than: Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton on the podcast!! But for now, we're recapping our season 2 finale, episode 224, "Back to Summer." We're chatting about a flub that made it on screen, deleted scenes, and the non-stop laughing at "Barb Heckie." Plus we answer a question from a fan about the writing process.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https:
617 - The Waiting Game
Today, it's just us as we recap a fan-favorite moment from the series: episode 617, "The Waiting Game," AKA the one where Mike Heck gets caught singing "More Than a Feeling!" We were totally caught off guard that THIS was the episode where Mike lets loose. Find out what Neil Flynn thought about that moment, hear about Brock’s re-do interaction with Brad’s dad, and stick around as we answer some tr
223 - The Bridge (w/ Roy Brown)
We're almost to the end of season 2 and we can't believe it! Today we’re joined by Roy Brown, a key figure in the writers’ room for all 9 seasons, rising from staff writer to executive producer. He's here to recap episode 223, "The Bridge," with us! We talk about a Big Mike storyline inspired by Roy’s dad, 19-year-old Eden’s thoughts on her swimsuit plot, and how this episode was the only one that
222 - The Prom (w/ Shanley Caswell)
Another fantastic, charismatic, and wildly talented guest today! We’re recapping episode 222, “The Prom,” with Shanley Caswell (Power Book III: Raising Kanan, NCIS: New Orleans) - and she does not disappoint. We talk about the time she pranked Josh Hutcherson on Punk’d, getting tough news right before a take, and Eden’s behind-the-scenes story about shooting that slow-motion sequence in the lunch
221 - Mother's Day II
Just us today as we break down episode 221, "Mother's Day II." From uncovering a logistical hiccup (Eden’s favorite) to finally revealing what Mike actually said to Frankie on the ferris wheel - we’re covering it all. Plus, we read your comments and answer a voicemail from a repeat customer!WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-
503 - The Potato (w/ Rachel Dratch)
We can’t believe we’re saying this, but… we have the one... the only... Rachel Dratch (SNL, Wine Country, 30 Rock) on the pod today!! After we Middle some Minutes, we dive into the episode where Eden’s dealing with some serious PTSD from her poster board monologue, and Kenny maybe - just maybe - was meant to show his face a whole lot earlier than expected. Then comes our fantastic convo with Rache
220 - The Royal Wedding (w/ Troy Metcalf)
It’s a fabulous episode with a fabulous guest - what more could you want? Troy Metcalf (aka Jim) joins us for episode 220, "The Royal Wedding," and shares his incredible weight loss journey from the past year, spills all the Rihanna tea from their time working together, and breaks down how he brought the character of Jim to life. Plus, Eden shares how she knew Emmy winner Lamorne Morris was destin
219 - The Legacy (w/ Rob Ulin)
We're talking cousin boxes, MVP Punctuality, and the way the storyline for this episode almost unfolded w/ Rob Ulin (Roseanne, Malcolm in the Middle)! He’s here to help us break down episode 219, “The Legacy” - the final episode he wrote for The Middle. Plus, we answer a voicemail about Sue’s hilarious swing set snafu from Season 4!WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling
218 - Spring Cleaning (w/ Julie Kaye Fanton)
Spring cleaning might feel like a chore - but talking to Emmy winner Julie Kaye Fanton about her work on The Middle was anything but! In episode 218, “Spring Cleaning,” our fabulous set decorator shares how she was the one who took the photo for the iconic “Hang in There, Kitty!” poster, what items of her actual son’s ended up in the Heck house, and her special fondness for the front porch geese.
217 - The Math Class
Grab your calculators and sharpen those #2 pencils... we're recapping episode 217, "The Math Class," and it's just us today! Before diving in, we’ve got some fresh fan insight on the iconic 'Hang in There, Kitty!' poster. Also, since Frankie had to go to Math Class, you’re headed to Hollywood Class: we're dishing out some helpful Hollywood vocab. Plus, Eden shares that one of her first jobs was wi
801 - The Core Group (w/ Greer Gammer)
"Hi, I'm April!" We're jumping ahead in the series to recap April's debut episode! We're joined by the lovely and talented Greer Gammer (Awkward, Frasier) as we talk about where she was when the casting press release dropped, the high-pressure table read that kicked things off, and how a flub from Patricia Heaton helped her relax. We also get into her experience being labeled a nepo-baby, as she p
215 - Friends, Lies, and Videotape
Just us today! First we talk about our wonderful lunch we had with The Middle's creators and showrunners, Eileen Heisler and DeAnn Heline. And after we read some comments, we break down episode 215, "Sex, Lies, and Videotape." We discuss Kristin Cavallari's cameo and the storyline that went with it, the incredible re-use of exteriors on the Warner Bros. Ranch, and even act out some amazing deleted
214 - Valentine's Day II (w/ Nick McDonald)
She's just a girl... standing in front of a boy... dressed like a Crayon. That’s right - Sue Heck’s first kiss is finally here! On the pod today, Nick McDonald (a.k.a. Joe, the mysterious Halloween smoocher) joins us to break down episode 214, "Valentine's Day II!" We cover everything from Sue’s desperate kiss quest to a full-blown on-set debate over how to say Reservoir Dogs. Plus, a sweet note N
213 - Super Sunday (w/ Melanie Gage)
Super is an understatement when it comes to our guest today who's helping us break down episode 213, "Super Sunday." Melanie Gage (Chicago, Boogie Nights) is our wonderful choreographer from The Middle and she's here to help us breakdown our Square Dancing with the Stars routine. We talk about everything from rehearsal, to being on set, to what it means to choreograph for the screen. Plus we recou
505 - Halloween IV: The Ghost Story (w/ Alphonso McAuley)
Alphonso McAuley (Breaking In, Love That Girl) joins us today to break down episode 505, "Halloween IV: The Ghost Story." It's his debut episode as Hutch! We discuss everything from Hutch's real name, instant chemistry, and making Vine's on set with Charlie. Plus we listen to not one, but two listener voicemails.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want t
212 - The Big Chill
After a series of fabulous guests, we're keeping it just us today. And honey, we've been let off our leashes. As we break down episode 212, "The Big Chill," we discuss our big ratings, a double iconic story line, and just how the wall crumbled from Sue and Brick's antics. Plus, we read a touching letter from a dedicated fan of The Middle and of the podcast.WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https:/
211 - Taking Back the House (w/ Pat Finn)
Today, we're thrilled to welcome Pat Finn back to Orson, Indiana! You know him as Bill Norwood, but Neil Flynn knows him as his buddy from Chicago. Pat helps us break down episode 211, "Taking Back the House," and he's a filled with great stories - from meeting Neil on a baseball diamond, to crossing paths at his audition, to his favorite episode (which, of course, features Neil). Plus we listen t
210 - A Simple Christmas (w/ Marsha Mason)
We still can’t believe it - Marsha Mason (The Goodbye Girl, Chapter Two) is on the podcast! With 4 Oscar nominations and 2 Golden Globe wins, she's a true icon. Middle-fans will know her as Frankie's mom, Pat Spence, and in this episode, Marsha helps us break down episode 210, “A Simple Christmas.” She shares her thoughts on Pat’s unforgettable frosting cap debut, stories from her life with Neil S
522 - Heck on a Hard Body (w/ Josh Brener)
It's the last Wednesday of the month, which means we're jumping ahead! Today's episode is all about competition: spelling bees, hands on a hard body, and beer pong to win back a desk. Of course we're talking about episode 522, "Heck on a Hard Body." We're joined by Josh Brener (Silicon Valley, The Last of Us) as he helps us recap the episode and acts out an entire deleted story line (3 scenes!) th
209 - Thanksgiving II (w/ G. Charles Wright)
WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-neck sweatshirt, or a t-shirt... we got you! They also come in a variety of colors and are so, so comfy. This merch a symbol of our shared love for the show and our podcast community. And we hope you love it as much as we do.Plus, if you order by Friday, April 25th, yo
208 - Errand Boy (w/ Tim Hobert)
WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-neck sweatshirt, or a t-shirt... we got you! They also come in a variety of colors and are so, so comfy. This merch a symbol of our shared love for the show and our podcast community. And we hope you love it as much as we do.Plus, if you order by Friday, April 25th, yo
207 - A Birthday Story
WE HAVE MERCH! Get yours at: https://www.bonfire.com/middling! Whether you want the famed yellow Cross-Country hoodie, a crew-neck sweatshirt, or a t-shirt... we got you! They also come in a variety of colors and are so, so comfy. This merch a symbol of our shared love for the show and our podcast community. And we hope you love it as much as we do.Plus, if you order by Friday, April 25th, yo
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