Shifting Gears appears to prioritize casting for maximum box-checking over organic storytelling. Character backgrounds and identities are frequently spotlighted in place of traditional arcs or earned growth, making the entire ensemble a diversity sampler plate rather than a realistic crew. Some lead characters border on flawless, apparently immune to mistakes or consequences, which drains any real suspense from the plot.

There’s a clear attempt to subvert traditional family roles and make masculinity the butt of most jokes. Religion and legacy values barely get a mention and, when they do, it's usually through critique or a snide quip. The show seems more interested in lecturing viewers than respecting foundational cultural cornerstones.

Dissent and pluralism must have missed the casting call, every significant character parrots the same modern progressive beliefs. Traditional or alternative perspectives, if they’re shown at all, are presented as a punchline or as the problem to overcome. The worldview feels as uniform as a factory assembly line.