Stuck in the '80s celebrates 20th anniversary

Stuck in the ‘80s celebrates its 20th anniversary today, becoming the longest-running podcast devoted to 80s pop culture. Created and co-hosted by award-winning Orlando-based journalist Steve Spears, the show is marking the milestone with a special two-hour retrospective.

“Episode 750 is a nostalgic look back at some favorite Stuck in the ‘80s moments – of ours and our patrons – from the last two decades,” says Spears. “It is also a heartfelt thank you to our devoted listeners. We wouldn’t be here without them.”

Stuck in the ‘80s entertains a longtime global audience of listeners across North America and in such faraway outposts as Australia and New Zealand. Co-host Brad Williams attributes the podcast’s enduring popularity to the duo’s off-air connection.

“Steve and I really are friends, and I think that comes through in our banter,” Williams said. “There’s no one else I would want to be on this podcast time machine with.”

The podcast has welcomed scores of beloved ‘80s artists and personalities over the years, including: Huey Lewis, Steve Perry, Dennis DeYoung, Lou Gramm, Nancy Wilson, Thomas Dolby, Kenny Loggins, Richard Marx, Rick Springfield, Molly Ringwald, Michael McKean, the original MTV veejays and more. Several famous fans have shared congratulatory video messages: Midge Ure, John Parr, Berlin’s Terri Nunn, Pete Byrne of Naked Eyes and Musical Youth. The messages can be seen on Stuck in the ‘80s Facebook page, while audio snippets appear in episode 750, which dropped today.

In addition to reminiscing, roundups and interviews, Stuck in the ‘80s features weekly challenges testing listeners’ knowledge of ‘80s movie clips and TV theme songs. Fans can also connect through SIT80s Zoom happy hours and Facebook live chats.

SIT80s is the official trivia host for The 80s Cruise. Trivia sessions on board the popular annual 7-night sailing attract standing room only crowds. First-time ‘80s cruisers can receive $250 cabin credit for the tenth voyage, set for February 27-March 6 2026, by using promo code STUCK.

Stuck in the ’80s has been recognized with many of journalism’s top accolades: Best Online Commentary from the Online News Association, an Eppy Award for Best Media-Affiliated Entertainment Blog and the FSNE award for Innovation in Driving a Digital Audience.

“So many people have contributed to the show. I’m grateful to everyone who has helped us reach this milestone,” Spears said.