Explore the comic book origins behind the AVP franchise in the wake of Predator: Badlands playing in cinemas as Ashley Victoria Robinson joins the fine folks of the Fanbase Weekly podcast for a special episode of Fanbase Features! Together they discuss the glories and pitfalls of 1990s comic books, the design language of both Xenomorphs and Predators, and ask if they can remember th ename of any character in this story?
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Wonder Woman MEGA Episode (Wonder Woman The Golden Age, Wonder Woman The Silver Age & Wonder Woman The Bronze Age)
Great Hera! Wonder Woman has an iconic solo series and DC Absolute Series on shelves right now! The toughest and kindest member of DC Comics' trinity is the character on everybody's lips. In celebration of the Goddess of War we present you these episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 164: Wonder Woman (The Golden Age) – Want to know where and how Diana Prince became Wonder Woman?!
GHL 350: Wonder Woman (The Silver Age) – Did you know Wonder Woman was a fashion editor?
GHL 526: Wonder Woman (The Bronze Age) – Discover the power George Perez wielded over Wondy
Welcome to Paradise Island! Or is it Themyscira? Join us for this epic celebration of the most powerful hero in the DC Comics Universe - Wonder Woman!
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Frankenstein MEGA EPISODE (Frankenstein in Pop Culture, DC Comics' Frankenstein)
It's alive! It's alive! The podcast is a live! #GHLSpookySeason2025 is in full swing and this year we have set our sights on the release of Guillermo Del Toro's Frankenstein. From Doctor Victor Frankenstein's hubris, to Mary Shelley's genius, to Elizabeth's innocence, and whether he's called "The Creature" or "The Monster" we break down the many distinct facets of a character who has simply come to be known as "Frankenstein" in these Creature-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 512: Frankenstein in Pop Culture – Uncover all the different pieces of media that were sown together to create the "Frankenstein" you know and love today
GHL 513: DC Comics' Frankenstein – Study up on the big guy from The Creature Commandos
Fire, bad! Podcast, good! Join us for this creepy celebration of all things Frankenstein!
Best Alien Movie
Alien: Earth has viewers gripping their television screens. Stories of Ripley and the Xenomorphs seamlessly horror and science fiction. This week on Geek History Lesson, Ashley is joined by writer Grant DeArmitt (Ratatosk, HUNT FOR THE SOLAVORE, and CONTAINMENT BREACH: VOL 2), to get to the bottom of the Best Movie in the Alien Franchise. Will your fave reign supreme? Read Grant's horror writing for Popverse here: https://www.thepopverse.com/authors/grant-dearmitt.
Robins MEGA EPISODE (Nightwing, Tim Drake, Red Hood, Damian Wayne, Signal, History of Robins)
Today, we celebrate (for almost 6 hours!) our shared favorite character in all of comic book history: Robin! From the first Robin to the most recent we break down some of the most beloved Boy Wonders who have ever donned the pixie boots with some of our favorite legacy character-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 21: Nightwing – Explore the life time of the character who defined the Dynamic Duo, Dick Grayson
GHL 65: Robin (Tim Drake) – Study up on the smartest Robin to ever deduce both Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson's alter-egos
GHL 155: Red Hood (Jason Todd) – Discover the tragic history of the first Robin who died and came back a villain
GHL 222: Robin (Damian Wayne) – Meet Bruce Wayne and Talia al Ghul's biological son, the scowly one
GHL 197: The Signal (Duke Thomas) – Follow the strange journey of the future Robin who never was
GHL 79: History of Robin - Live from NerdCon! – Jason & Ashley are joined live on stage by Omar Najam (writer Daredevil), and Mia Resella (creator Sam the Witch), for the ultimate Robin trivia game
Slide down the Batpole, jump onto the Redbird, and uncover in this epic celebration of all things Robin!
Best Fictional Schools
School may be out for the summer, but comic book always have havens for the strange and nerdy to find refuge in. On this week's episode we step into the hallowed halls of The Umbrella Academy, Kamar Taj, Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters, and Starfleet Academy to conclude which Universe offers the best education to a young superhero type. Did we miss your fave?
MAILBAG Superman before the James Gunn Movie
This week YOU lead the Superman discussion! We answer your questions about everything Superman from stories we love, tropes we want to retire, characters we want to see more of, and moments we never want to hear referenced ever again. Did your question make it to air? Listen to the full episode & find out!
Superman is Better than Batman
Hollywood has unleashed the latest adaptation of The Man of Steel on the big screen. The Big Blue Boy Scout has been reinvented for a whole new generation of movie-goers. On this week's episode we reignite the eternal debate between Superman and his super friend - Batman: The Dark Knight. We explore their respective strengths, leadership styles, sidekicks, rogues galleries and more. Will be still believe this title by the end of the pod? Will you?! Listen to hear how we defend your fave!
Wakanda MEGA EPISODE (Black Panther, Shuri, Dora Milaje, Ironheart)
Today, in celebration of Ironheart's first season on Disney+ we tie the threads between Riri Williams' Wakandan origins and her status as MIT's greatest superhero with some of our favorite Wakanda-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 198: Black Panther – Explore the science and the magic of the OG Black Panther king with Special Guest Jay Washington
GHL 201: Shuri (Black Panther) – Study up on the genius kid sister of T'Challa who became Black Panther in her own right
GHL 438: Dora Milaje (Back Panther Wakanda Forever) – Discover the elite female fighting force who hold up the Black Panther
GHL 437: Ironheart (Black Panther Wakanda Forever) – Follow the journey of Riri Williams who upgraded Iron Man's classic design with Wakandan flare
Suit up in red, black, and gold and time travel your way through the spirit plane of podcasting in this epic celebration of all things Wakanda! (Additional research and writing by Diego Anthony Nuñez)
Flash Family MEGA EPISODE (Barry Alan, Iris West, Wally West, Bart Allen)
Today, in celebration of the comic book series Absolute Flash, which is jumping off shelves worldwide, we've entered the Speed Force to summon the assistance of The Flash Family from some of our favorite Flash-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 228: The Flash (Barry Allen) with Stephen Schleicher – Explore the science fiction origins of investigator Barry Allen, who redefined the role of The Flash.
GHL 462: Iris West (The Flash) – Study up on the smartest woman in Central City and discover what led to her romance with Barry Allen
GHL 146: Kid Flash (Wally West) – Discover the boy who grew up loving The Flash then perfected what it meant to be The Flash
GHL 365: Impulse (Bart Allen) – Follow the journey of the slack speedster who became The Flash and died to save the world
Batman Movie Draft with DJ Wooldridge & Diego Anthony Nuñez
From the Warner Bros. tower in Los Angeles, California Geek History Lesson brings together three superheroic writers - Ashley Victoria Robinson, Jason Inman, and DJ Wooldridge - to compete in a fantasy football-style draft in order to create the best Batman movie for Commissioner Diego Anthony Nuñez. We pick from live action categories like: Batman, Female Lead, Alfred, and Needle Drop to get to the bottom of: what a a great Batman movie really needs? At the end each drafter pitches their movie, title, and storyline. Play along at home and join us in the first ever Batman Movie Draft!
New Avengers MEGA EPISODE (Photon, Blade, War Machine, Cassie Lang, Ironheart)
This week, in celebration of the upcoming Thunderbolts movie, which might just be the new Avengers team, we’ve assembled some of our favorite New Avengers-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 481: Photon – Explore the cosmic adventures of Monica Rambeau, her ties to Captain Marvel, and her electrifying role with the Avengers.
GHL 474: Blade – Sink your teeth into the origins and undead exploits of Blade, the vampire-hunting Daywalker.
GHL 468: War Machine – Discover the ironclad legacy of James Rhodes, Tony Stark’s closest ally, and his heroic transformation in the Marvel Universe.
GHL 450: Cassie Lang – Follow the journey of Ant-Man’s daughter, from adorable child to teenage hero known as Stature and Stinger.
GHL 437: Ironheart - Riri Williams – Meet the genius teen whose armor rivals Tony Stark's, as she prepares for her own Disney+ adventure.
Batman The Digital Age 2000 - 2012
From the shadows of Gotham City Geek History Lesson embarks on a gripping journey through Batman's Digital Age—spanning from 2000 to 2012. This era exploded the number of Batman Family members from introducing Terry McGinnis, to resurrecting Jason Todd, to the apparent birth of Damian Wayne. Amidst the rise of superhero movies and digital comics "Bruce Wayne: Murderer", "Identity Crisis", and "Final Crisis" made dark, controversial choices for the character we are still reading the ramifications of today. This period saw Dick Grayson emerge from the shadow and step into the cowl under the auspices of Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely and - hot take! - one of the co-hosts thinks we should have never gone back! Time to listen to Batman's Digital Age!
Listen to Batman The Golden Age here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/107-batman-the-golden-age--50775746
Listen to Batman the Silver Age here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/383-batman-the-silver-age--50775415
Listen to Batman the Bronze Age here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/446-batman-the-bronze-age-1970-1985--52438219
Listen to Batman the Dark Age here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/494-batman-the-dark-age-1985-2000--58894962
Why Do Batman and Spider-Man Work So Well in the Future? with DJ Wooldridge
What makes Batman and Spider-Man thrive in futuristic settings? This week on Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into the worlds of Batman Beyond and Spider-Man 2099 to uncover why these characters work so well in the future. Did Batman Beyond borrow ideas from Spider-Man 2099? And which other heroes could shine in a high-tech, dystopian future?Joining us for this sci-fi deep dive is writer and director DJ Wooldridge, who brings his expertise to the conversation and tells us all about his new futuristic comic, DANGER BOI -- a thrilling new Kickstarter project you don’t want to miss! Check out DJ’s comic here: dangerboicomic.com
Why Daredevil & Spider-Man Need an MCU Team-Up Movie (Daredevil: Born Again) with Erik Barnes
With Daredevil: Born Again swinging onto Disney Plus, it’s time to ask the big question: Why haven’t Daredevil and Spider-Man teamed up in the MCU yet?! This week on Geek History Lesson, we dive deep into why these two street-level heroes are perfect for a big-screen collaboration. Not only do we explore their comic book history and shared New York roots, but we also pitch our ideas for MCU Spider-Man 4 and 5, complete with Daredevil taking center stage! And joining us for this epic discussion is special guest Erik Barnes, improvisor, writer, and all-around Marvel expert. Follow Erik here: https://bsky.app/profile/erikwbarnes.bsky.social
Wonder Woman (The Bronze Age)
Wonder Woman’s history is so legendary, we had to break it into multiple episodes! This week on Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into the BRONZE AGE adventures of Wonder Woman -- a time when her stories bent the rules of this iconic timeline and introduced some of the most unique and imaginative tales in DC Comics history.We’ll explore her fantastical battles, bizarre foes, and how it redefined her character while still staying true to her Amazonian roots. Plus, we’ll praise the groundwork laid by creators like George Pérez, whose later work helped solidify Wonder Woman as one of the most important heroes in comics.
Does it Matter Who Wears the Mask Captain America
We’re asking the big question: Does it matter who wears the mask? With the release of Captain America: Brave New World, where Sam Wilson takes up the iconic shield, we dive deep into the debate of whether it’s the character or the mantle that truly defines a hero.From Captain America to Zorro, we explore the fascinating history of legacy characters and how passing the torch has shaped some of the greatest franchises in pop culture. Does the symbol outweigh the individual? Or does the person behind the mask bring the meaning to life?
And that’s not all—joining us for this discussion is special guest Jonathan London, director and writer of Paul London: Hero of the Prophecy, a brand-new comic hitting Kickstarter on February 4th! Don’t miss your chance to support it here: https://herooftheprophecy.com.
Does Comedy Work in Fantasy? - Toss a Coin to Your Witcher
We dive into the magical world of comedy in fantasy storytelling! From The Lord of the Rings to The Witcher, we examine how humor can elevate—or sometimes undercut—the epic stakes of swords, sorcery, and mythical worlds.To celebrate the release of The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, we ask the big questions: Does comedy belong in fantasy? Can it add depth to the story, or does it risk punching down at the genre’s gravitas? And how do you strike the balance between epic quests and laugh-out-loud moments? Plus, Jason takes on a fun challenge by writing a comedic fantasy scene live on the air!
Why Sherlock Needs a Watson a.k.a. Why We Need Sidekicks
Sherlock Holmes may be the world’s greatest detective, but even he can’t do it alone. In this episode of Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into Why Sherlock Needs a Watson—or as we like to call it, Why We Need Sidekicks! From Dr. John Watson to Robin to Samwise Gamgee, we explore why the greatest heroes always have someone by their side and how these partnerships make stories stronger.
We’re also celebrating the upcoming premiere of WATSON on CBS & Paramount Plus, debuting January 26, 2025! Starring Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson, this new take on the iconic character is one you won’t want to miss. And here’s the best part: our very own Jason was a staff writer on the show! So, we’re joined by someone who has actually written Dr. Watson themselves to discuss what makes this character so timeless and important. Grab your magnifying glass, call your favorite sidekick, and join us for this deep dive into the power of partnerships in storytelling!
Star Trek MEGA EPISODE (First Contact, Top 5 TNG Episodes, Star Trek vs Star Wars, Lower Decks, and Wrath of Khan)
In this special Geek History Lesson MEGA EPISODE, we’re celebrating the enduring legacy of Star Trek in honor of the upcoming Star Trek: Section 31 movie, hitting Paramount Plus on January 24, 2025. This jam-packed episode features some of our favorite Star Trek moments from the GHL archives, including:
Star Trek: First Contact LIVE!
Top 5 Star Trek: The Next Generation Episodes (GHL 294) with special guest John Champion from Mission Log: A Roddenberry Star Trek Podcast.
Star Wars vs. Star Trek (GHL 233), where Ken Napzok joins us to tackle one of the biggest nerd debates of all time.
Star Trek: Lower Decks (GHL 428), a hilarious and heartfelt dive into one of Star Trek’s most unique series.
Wrath of Khan (GHL 416), where we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan with behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and plenty of KHAN TALK!
Plus, Jason shares his excitement about working on the upcoming Star Trek: Section 31 movie, which follows Emperor Philippa Georgiou as she protects the Federation while grappling with the sins of her past. Hear more about his experience on Patreon at patreon.com/jawiin and in our Best & Worst Stories of Star Trek episode.