Opposite of Neutral

An exciting discovery above the fridge. A cease-and-desist we’d actually celebrate. A snake story we can’t un-hear. From there, Chris and Evan dive into the big theme of Season 3: Into the Unknown! We talk about stepping into uncertainty with humor, honesty, and a plan to “do the next right thing.” We trace the unexpected comfort of Frozen II during COVID, Rumsfeld’s known/unknowns, and a history-nerd detour through Lewis & Clark. Chris shares his new-job/new-city “adventure mode” in Spokane (yes, there’s a sleeper sofa), and we close with why support systems matter when the map runs out.Got a story about your own “into the unknown”? Drop us a note or a voice memo. How did you pick the next right thing?Follow @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads, and email us at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.Next episode title : Up!

In this landmark 30th episode, Chris and Evan dive into the concept of milestones—both literal and metaphorical.Exploring the origin of the term, they discuss milestones from the Roman Empire, connecting the historical markers with the metaphorical milestones in life. Reflecting on personal experiences, they uncover how milestones shift from tangible childhood achievements, like learning to ride a bike, to more nuanced adult realizations, such as recognizing a friendship or the bittersweet milestones of cleaning out a parent's home. Chris defines his lack of enthusiasm for explaining embarrassing accidents to ER doctors as a sign of reaching adulthood, and Evan shares the milestones reached after two years of doing the podcast.Note: we had some internet issues during this episode, so the quality is a bit off in some places. Don't let that get in the way - we had a good time recording this.Remember to follow us at @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads, and email your ideas and thoughts to oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.We look forward to having you joining us for the kickoff of Season 3 when we will be discussing the topic "Into the Unknown”.

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan launch into a whirlwind of topics that range from cheese (per usual) to pillow preferences, before getting into the subject of blueprints. Evan breaks down the origins of blueprint-making—chemicals, UV light, and all—and dig into its existence as everything from a design essential to a metaphor for life’s plans. They also get into the philosophy of planning—when it’s necessary, when it’s useless, and how blueprints became the perfect symbol for translating wild ideas into something tangible. Is the blueprint the point where ideas become real? Or is a blueprint the theory, and the reality is the building, widget, or whatever else the blueprint is used to make? Expect jokes about cheese fondue, debates about emergency drills, and a teaser about their next milestone-themed episode. Grab a snack (may we suggest a hunk of Tillamook?) and join them for this exploration of structure, spontaneity, and the art of the happy accident.

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan dig into the messy world of miscommunication. They kick things off with a lighthearted dive into misheard song lyrics—Taylor Swift’s “Starbucks lovers,” anyone?—and how a simple misunderstanding can turn a phrase into something hilariously off the mark. From there, they take a closer look at how assumptions and lack of clarity can derail even the best intentions, whether it’s in relationships, work chats, or global diplomacy. Evan brings in his tech expertise, breaking down how computers handle miscommunication through error-checking systems like checksums, and why humans could learn a thing or two from these methods. Chris ties it all together with a story about the Cuban Missile Crisis, where poor communication nearly led to nuclear disaster—talk about stakes. Throughout the episode, they reflect on the challenges of balancing clarity with brevity, the role of over-communication in avoiding disaster, and how power dynamics shape who feels responsible for making sense of things. The conversation ends with a reminder that while most miscommunications are low stakes (misheard lyrics and grocery store texts), some really do matter (grading deadlines, anyone?). Stick around until the end for a preview of the next episode: Blueprints—where Chris and Evan will explore the frameworks and hidden plans that shape our lives. Follow @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads for more insights and share your thoughts at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.  00:00 Game Day Confusion 01:24 Podcasting for Fun 03:38 New Year Resolutions 09:12 Miscommunication Mishaps 16:16 Understanding Checksums in Communication 17:15 Error Correction Techniques 18:52 Human Communication and Misunderstandings 20:32 The Role of Emojis and Non-Verbal Cues 22:39 Miscommunication in Everyday Situations 26:37 The Importance of Clear Instructions 32:04 Power Dynamics in Communication 39:44 High-Stakes Communication: Lessons from History 41:05 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Next Topic

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan engage in a lighthearted discussion about sandwiches, generations, and the completely unrelated topic of the sandwich generation.  Evan does a deep dive into data from the original 1981 paper that coined the term. Together, they explore how generational relationships have changed (and stayed the same) over the past four decades. They also explore how community and family structures can provide crucial support, making a case for the importance of collective care in society.  Next episode's theme: Miscommunication and Misunderstandings Follow @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads for more insights and share your thoughts at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.  00:00 Introduction and Nature Fair Mishap 01:26 Sandwich Stories and Preferences 08:54 Generational Differences and Technology 19:20 Gen X: The Slacker Generation? 20:43 Millennials and Gen Z: The New Slackers? 21:40 The Sandwich Generation: A Deep Dive 22:28 Generational Shifts in Family Dynamics 23:25 The Role of Education in Birth Rates 24:31 The Evolving Role of Grandparents 26:10 Challenges of the Sandwich Generation 34:18 Community Support vs. Family Support 38:36 The Joy and Burden of Caregiving 43:20 Concluding Thoughts on Generational Responsibilities

In this episode of "Opposite of Neutral," Chris and Evan explore the world of myths, exploring their emotional and cultural significance. They discuss the connection between myths and a ‘willing suspension of disbelief,’ from the Tiki-tiki room at Disneyland to cultural legends like the tooth fairy (or the Chilean Ratoncito Perez), with a focus on how they shape our perceptions and identity. They explore power of storytelling in creating shared experiences that resonate across generations, and the need for new, inclusive myths to address modern societal challenges and promote unity. They also talk about tucking in sweatshirts. Is that weird? Listen to find out.  Stay tuned for the next episode, which will explore the challenges and dynamics of the 'sandwich generation'. Follow @oppositeofneutral for more insights and share your thoughts at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.  00:00 Nostalgic Radio Memories 00:25 Defining Weirdness 01:56 Welcome to The Opposite of Neutral 02:24 Absentee Lesson Plans 03:38 Celebrity Encounters 08:27 The Magic of Myths 18:45 The Power of Shared Experiences 19:26 Cultural Erasure and Reclamation 20:19 Creation Myths Across Cultures 21:20 The Role of Myths in Identity 22:56 Myths of Hope and Oppression 25:43 Magical Realism and Family Lore 29:24 American Myths and National Identity 34:58 Conflicting Myths and Modern Challenges 38:35 Creating New Myths for Unity 41:49 The Magic of Belief

Evan and Chris dive into “The Best Words” as they explore the evolution of their language skills and the fascinating world of word origins. They discuss their personal experiences with different languages, emphasizing how context, culture, and travel have shaped their understanding of language. Throughout the episode, Evan and Chris reflect on how language learning is influenced by visual cues and pronunciation nuances, sharing stories from their teaching days and travels. They marvel at the way words like "inshallah" and "albóndigas" carry cultural and emotional weight, illustrating the deep connections between language, identity, and memory. They also touch on language mix-ups, like the British-American confusion over the term "rubber." They highlight how certain words sound good to say, hear, type, or spell. Oh, and the first ever bleeped words of the podcast happen in this episode! Stay tuned for the next episode, where they will explore myths and the storytelling traditions that shape our understanding of the world. We’ve had over 1,000 listens to the podcast since we started! Thank you for being with us along the way. Remember to follow @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and share your thoughts and episode ideas at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com. 

In this episode of 'Opposite of Neutral,' Chris and Evan explore their eight-year friendship, delve into the mysterious code 'IO2P16,' and speculate on its potential meanings, ranging from chemical formulas to cultural references. They discuss their personal experiences transitioning between different teaching roles and reflect on the dehumanization of being labeled by numbers, using characters like R2-D2 and Jean Valjean as examples. The conversation broadens into the philosophical realm of how creativity and monumental ideas can sprout from seemingly trivial beginnings, debating whether it's driven by divine inspiration or human ingenuity. Along the way, they also touch on light-hearted topics like the intricacies of udders versus teats and the misuse of the word 'guesstimate.' This episode is a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and thoughtful exploration of what it means to make something out of nothing. Remember to follow us at @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads, and share your thoughts and episode ideas at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.  In the next episode titled “The Best Words,” Chris and Evan will explore the personal significance of their favorite words across different languages. 00:00 Reflecting on Eight Years of Friendship 00:12 Volunteering for Friends of the Forest 00:47 Defining Age Categories 01:18 Miscommunication and Clarity 01:54 Introduction to the Podcast 02:13 Evan's Return to Santiago 04:04 Chris's End of Summer Markers 06:00 Seasonal Produce and Local Delights 08:47 The Mystery of IO2P16 17:24 Making Something Out of Nothing 18:27 The Serendipity of Creation 18:58 Michelangelo's Divine Inspiration 20:48 The Science of Crystal Growth 23:00 Humanity's Search for Patterns 25:21 Mountains Out of Molehills 25:33 The Pettiest Arguments 27:39 The Problem with Misattributed Quotes 34:09 The Significance of Serial Numbers 37:05 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes

In this episode of "Opposite of Neutral," Chris and Evan embark on an expansive discussion of space, beginning with personal anecdotes that reveal how different cultures have reshaped their understanding of personal, physical, digital, and professional spaces.  They delve into stories of adjusting to crowded environments overseas, the peculiarities of personal space in various countries, and how these experiences have influenced their perspectives on having and managing their own spaces. From the challenges of digital clutter on their devices to the emotional aspects of creating personal sanctuaries at home, the conversation broadens to explore the diverse meanings of space in their lives. Then their talk ascends into the cosmic realm, discussing the night sky and the universe at large, reflecting on celestial phenomena and their significance in human culture and science. Remember to follow us at @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and share your thoughts and episode ideas at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.  Stay tuned for the next episode's mysterious theme "io2p16”. What does it mean!? 

In this episode of "Opposite of Neutral," Chris and Evan dissect the concept of "Side Hustle," delving into its broader societal implications and personal meaning. As they explore a variety of side hustles—from the routine to the unique—they challenge the idea of a side job being more than just additional income. They discuss how side hustles can stem from passion, necessity, or the pursuit of new skills. They also reflect on the personal experiences that shaped their understanding of work and side hustles, emphasizing the importance of finding fulfillment in one's endeavors, whether they are central careers or peripheral projects. Next episode’s theme? Space! Don't forget to follow us at @oppositeofneutral on Instagram and Threads, and share your thoughts and episode ideas at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.

In this overflowing episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan navigate the amusing world of international toilets. They explore the vast array of toilet designs and customs they've encountered around the world: squat toilets in Asia, self-cleaning units in Europe, and the indulgence of Japanese toilets in airports. They discuss the practicalities and cultural nuances of toilet use and the societal implications of bathroom facilities. Join Chris and Evan as they flush out the details and plunge into the fascinating topic of international toilets on this episode of "Opposite of Neutral." Next episode’s topic: Side Hustle.  Don’t forget to follow @oppositeofneutral on both Instagram and Threads. You can continue to send your thoughts, comments, and episode ideas to oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com.

First, some exciting news! Come follow us with our new account @oppositeofneutral on both Instagram and Threads. You can continue to send your thoughts, comments, and episode ideas to oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com. In this episode, Chris and Evan dive into the realm of imposter syndrome. Why do we struggle to accept that our successes are real? What makes us struggle to feel like we belong?  Chris shares its origins in the 1970s as different groups felt the impact of external factors on reinforcing feelings of not belonging. Evan recounts a personal experience from high school, where he felt like an imposter in a math class. Chris reflects on social situations where he felt out of place, from punk clubs to climbing gyms, highlighting the influence of perceived "uniforms" and group dynamics.  Together, they examine how societal structures and the "good old boys club" contribute to imposter syndrome today. They ponder the complexities of belonging, the importance of inclusive cultures, and the challenge of dismantling systemic barriers. Join Chris and Evan as they dig into this common experience. You can also check out this article they reference during the episode:https://hbr.org/2021/02/stop-telling-women-they-have-imposter-syndrome

In Season 2, Episode 4 of "Opposite of Neutral," Chris and Evan take a nostalgic journey back to their childhoods, exploring the curiosity and adventures that shaped their young minds. From Chris's memories of adventures on waterslides to Evan's fascination with hamsters and astronomy, they reminisce about the joys of exploration and the freedom of youth. This includes the impact of supportive parents on their hobbies and the lasting memories created by simple pleasures like climbing trees, playing in creeks, and visiting Chuck E. Cheese. They also acknowledge a justification for the lack of a Tillamook reference in the last episode - pointed out by those of you paying extra close attention. And for the first time that either of them could remember in the history of the podcast, there was a perfect “that’s what she said” moment. They also look ahead to the next episode, where they'll tackle the topic of imposter syndrome, hopefully with fewer references to pasta.

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, Chris and Evan explore the concept of the 'small world.' Evan shares his small world experience where he ran into comedian and actor Will Ferrell in New York, an encounter that reinforced his decision to teach there. They then share small world stories about teaching internationally and traveling around the world. They also discuss assumptions about the world becoming 'smaller' with the advent of the internet, when from personal experiences, it appears to be becoming even vaster.  They close the episode by seeking your input on future episode topics: 'Just press send', 'Imposter syndrome', 'When we were young', or 'Side hustle.' Be sure to vote on which one you want for the next episode on the Spotify poll! 00:00 Introduction and Cold Open Discussion 00:48 Meet the Hosts: Evan and Chris 01:09 Evan's Disney Experiences 03:06 Chris's Lost and Found Story 07:13 Evan's Small World Story: Meeting Will Ferrell 15:24 Chris's Small World Story: Pearl Jam Concert 17:54 Reflecting on Will Ferrell's Career 19:51 Sidetracked: The Career of Will Ferrell 19:59 The Small World: A Personal Experience 21:24 The Unexpected Reunion 22:53 The Science Teacher Chris: Another Small World Story 23:41 The International Teaching World: A Web of Connections 24:28 The Sixth Grade Class: Another Unexpected Connection 25:14 The Small World Connections: Jake’s Story 30:32 The Small World vs Big World: A New Perspective 36:21 The World's Fair: A Glimpse into the Past 40:48 The World Expo: A Sampler Platter of the World 41:19 The Internet: A Double-Edged Sword 42:34 The Small World: Bringing Us Together 42:45 Next Week's Topics: A Poll for Listeners

In this episode, Chris and Evan sift through the quirky and curious aspects of spam, both as an email nuisance and a canned delicacy. In a blend of facts, fiction, and fun, they explore the unexpected connections between email spam and Monty Python and discuss the global phenomenon of Spam, the food product. Evan reads through some of the spam received at the podcast's email address. They do a deep dive into the concept of digital hoarding - why do we cling to old emails, documents, and even USB cables from the early 2000s? Or is that just Evan? They then pull at the thread of decluttering and the challenge of letting go, whether it's physical items or digital files. What big milestone is Chris about to hit on Instagram? Why does Evan still have robotics shirts from fifteen years ago? And what did Chris make with spam that has Evan pining for onigiri? Listen to find out.  And don't forget to tune in for our next episode exploring the marvels of small world experiences. Do you have your own stories of digital clutter? Have a small world encounter to share in advance of the next episode? Share with us at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com. 

Welcome back! In this premiere episode of Opposite of Neutral: Season 2, Evan and Chris dive right back into their thoughtful and lively discussions, this time exploring the world of first impressions. From their significance in professional settings and personal relationships to our responses to media, Chris and Evan share stories, reflections, and laughs. They delve into how first impressions shape our experiences, from job interviews and teaching moments to the changing perspectives on TV shows like 'Friends' and 'Schitt's Creek.' They also examine how first encounters with books can evolve, highlighting the importance of giving stories a fair chance. They then move on to the challenge of deciding how to feel about heavier societal issues. The conversation spans the complexities of global events, like the Israel-Palestine conflict, underscoring the challenges of forming balanced opinions amidst the pressure of snap judgments. They also share personal anecdotes, including experiences with students working with fire, and (of course) a nod to their beloved Tillamook cheese. Join Chris and Evan as they discuss how life, much like their conversation, is full of surprises and opportunities for growth.  Have thoughts on first impressions or stories of your own? Share them with us at oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com. And stay tuned for our next episode, 'Potential Spam', where we explore the unexpected finds in life's digital and real junk drawers.

In this final episode for the first season of Opposite of Neutral, hosts Evan and Chris invite listeners to join them for a recording made live on the road. Plus, Evan makes a bonus on-location recording from the Tillamook factory in Oregon. While Chris drives, he narrates the trip through the towns of Anacortes and Edison, Washington. He and Evan discuss the stories that bubble up from being in both familiar and unfamiliar places. They explore road trips in literature, the concept of “micro-travel”, driving habits, and their favorite road trips. This episode is a celebration of journeys, both literal and metaphorical, and the shared experiences that make them memorable. Thank you for riding along with us for the past fifteen episodes! This episode marks the end of the first season. The podcast will resume once Evan gets settled in Chile. Since you will all be hankering for new episodes during the break, it's time to keep the podcast email box from getting dusty. Maybe something in the first fifteen episodes resonated with you. Perhaps you have a top ten list of your own. Whatever it is...we want to hear from you! Please send an email to ⁠⁠oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠ with your ideas, comments, and guest suggestions. 

In this episode of Opposite of Neutral, join hosts Evan, Chris, and guest Clayton as they navigate the world of titles (or their lack thereof.) From their significance in art to implications in professional settings, they explore ways that titles inform, classify, and influence. They debate apple preferences, untitled artworks, and courtesy titles, along with their frustration with untitled assignments submitted by students. The next episode, titled 'On The Road', is the first to be recorded with Chris and Evan in person! It will also be the final episode of season one. Don't miss it. If you have ideas for future episodes, have comments on something on the show, or have an idea for a future guest, please send an email to ⁠oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com⁠. 

In the twelfth episode of Opposite of Neutral, join hosts Chris, Evan, and special guest Tuan Phan as they dive deep into the theme of "Beginnings." Tuan is the author of the newly published book: “Remembering Water: A Memoir of Departure and Return”.  Tuan ties the topic of "beginnings" into his experiences with fatherhood and a return to his homeland, Vietnam, as well as his experiences becoming a father. Evan's impending move to Santiago, Chile inspires an in-depth discussion on the challenges and uncertainties of plunging into new territory, whether that's parenthood, or moving to a new country. Chris shares his feelings of not feeling at home in the city where he lives. From contemplation of alternate life paths to an exploration into the concept of beginnings as a kind of return, the three of them discuss how their shared experiences of living overseas connects with broader themes of personal growth and identity. Chris put Tuan on the spot before he had to go to a meeting to suggest next week’s topic, and he delivered! Tuan challenged Chris and Evan to dive in to the topic of “Home” for the next episode.   If you have ideas for future episodes, have comments on something on the show, or have an idea for a future guest, please send an email to ⁠oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com⁠.  Want to learn more about Tuan’s story? You can order his book, Remembering Water, at this link: ⁠https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/remembering-water-tuan-phan/1143368294⁠

In the 'Seasons' episode of Opposite of Neutral, hosts Evan and Chris engage in a year-long culinary and cultural exploration, illustrating the profound ways in which the seasons impact our lives. From the freshness of spring crops to our instinctual winter cravings for warmth and comfort, they take listeners on a flavorful journey that might leave you with an appetite for more than just their stories! Discover why Chris likens August to the Sunday of months for teachers, and see if Evan actually holds any opinion on fall sports. And listen up for Evan and Chris making bold claims for their favorite seasons and the fruits, vegetables, and beers that pair best with each. Thanks to friends of the podcast, Tuan and David, for their suggestions for this episode. Chris and Evan wrap up their seasonal expedition by handing over the reins next episode's topic to their most important contributors - their listeners. Be sure to send an email to oppositeofneutralpodcast@gmail.com to let them know what you're eager to hear them discuss next week.  If you're interested in sharing your own experiences and perspectives on the show, or if you have diverging opinions about the best season for asparagus and stone fruits, they're all ears. Or, if you are ready to be the opposite of neutral yourself, you might even consider being a guest on a future show. This is your chance to shape the future content of Opposite of Neutral, so make your voice heard! Or you can just keep using the Q&A on Spotify - nothing wrong with tradition.