Tue, 15 Sep 2026 00:38:18 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1754830 en-us © 2026 Open World Chat yes a9146465-3972-5738-ad0e-77ccc61c8905 odum.john@gmail.com John Odum and Mark Card episodic false Discussing all "genre" media and geek culture. 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) John Odum and Mark Card odum.john@gmail.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/a35fo4u0f1hdqec77qn4cx2vo90i?.jpg https://www.buzzsprout.com/1754830 Absolutely Perfect TV episodes These are the TV episodes that hit every beat perfectly, that couldn't withstand a single thing changed, and that should never be edited or messed with in any way. Not just the "oh that was cool, but maybe they could have done 'x'," - these are the untouchables. Have a listen and see what we're missing.

]]> These are the TV episodes that hit every beat perfectly, that couldn't withstand a single thing changed, and that should never be edited or messed with in any way. Not just the "oh that was cool, but maybe they could have done 'x'," - these are the untouchables. Have a listen and see what we're missing.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19798495 Mon, 14 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400 5044 full false The Odyssey and beyond: Greek myths onscreen With Christopher Nolan's cinematic presentation of The Odyssey still making boffo box office, we spend some time going over the film before diving into a discussion of greek mythology (or some emblance thereof) on the big screen, the small screen, and even a little on the stage. Yeah it's a long one, but time just flies when you're having fun...

]]> With Christopher Nolan's cinematic presentation of The Odyssey still making boffo box office, we spend some time going over the film before diving into a discussion of greek mythology (or some emblance thereof) on the big screen, the small screen, and even a little on the stage. Yeah it's a long one, but time just flies when you're having fun...

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19726516 Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:00:00 -0400 5189 full false Roles that Can't be Recast (just pack 'em up and put 'em away) Some parts just can't be recast, and attempting to do so would only lead to disaster. Mark and John go through a suprisingly long and varied list of many of these roles - and aren't always in agreement! Take a listen and see if you agree.

]]> Some parts just can't be recast, and attempting to do so would only lead to disaster. Mark and John go through a suprisingly long and varied list of many of these roles - and aren't always in agreement! Take a listen and see if you agree.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19651439 Mon, 17 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4304 full false When Star Trek Has Failed Itself Star Trek has always been defined by its vision of a future Earth (if not a future galaxy) and a Federation of different societies as an expression of values. But on many occasions it hasn't lived up to its lofty ideals. Mark and John look at those times throughout the franchise where Star Trek has ethically failed itself.

]]> Star Trek has always been defined by its vision of a future Earth (if not a future galaxy) and a Federation of different societies as an expression of values. But on many occasions it hasn't lived up to its lofty ideals. Mark and John look at those times throughout the franchise where Star Trek has ethically failed itself.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19585187 Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4791 full false When We Make Contact Part 3: The International System In the finale of a three part series, Mark and John discuss the implications of potential first contact to global politics and international conflict.

]]> In the finale of a three part series, Mark and John discuss the implications of potential first contact to global politics and international conflict.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19516535 Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4738 full false When We Make Contact Part 2: Religion and Culture Mark and John continue the conversation about First Contact, this time speculating on what it would do to our religion and culture, including the philosophy and culture of capitalism.

]]> Mark and John continue the conversation about First Contact, this time speculating on what it would do to our religion and culture, including the philosophy and culture of capitalism.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19441722 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 3541 full false When We Make Contact Part 1: Economy and Politics Mark and John start their path down a rabbit hole they'll dig into in a multi-part series "When We Make Contact" where we consider the implications to the world of an actual First Contact scenario. In Part 1, we do some stage-setting and move into a conversation about the potential impacts to our political economy.

]]> Mark and John start their path down a rabbit hole they'll dig into in a multi-part series "When We Make Contact" where we consider the implications to the world of an actual First Contact scenario. In Part 1, we do some stage-setting and move into a conversation about the potential impacts to our political economy.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19376064 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4376 full false Our Favorite Fictional Sociopaths Diving back into the world of villainy, Mark and John discuss sociopathy and their favorite examples in film and TV.

]]> Diving back into the world of villainy, Mark and John discuss sociopathy and their favorite examples in film and TV.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19305549 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0400 5632 full false The Cli-Fi Episode! Climate and Environmental Destruction in Sci-Fi For obvious reasons, environmental doom is an increasing theme in sci-fi. So much so that the term "Cli-Fi" (with the "Cli" for "Climate," obviously) is an actual thing now. Mark and John dive into it, looking at some of the more well-known examples out there, with some discussion of other instances in sci-fi history where environmentalism has been at the heart of the premise.

]]> For obvious reasons, environmental doom is an increasing theme in sci-fi. So much so that the term "Cli-Fi" (with the "Cli" for "Climate," obviously) is an actual thing now. Mark and John dive into it, looking at some of the more well-known examples out there, with some discussion of other instances in sci-fi history where environmentalism has been at the heart of the premise.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19117192 Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 3334 full false Our favorite death scenes Settle in as we review nearly 20 of the best (or at least the best as we see them) death scenes in film and TV. Some obvious ones, some not so obvious ones - and Mark and John's lists are surprisingly different.

]]> Settle in as we review nearly 20 of the best (or at least the best as we see them) death scenes in film and TV. Some obvious ones, some not so obvious ones - and Mark and John's lists are surprisingly different.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19115750 Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 5851 full false Our Favorite Parasites It's tick season! We talk our favorite science fiction parasites (and a few symbiotes) in this episode honoring the return of the clingy bloodsuckers. Like James Gunn's "Slither?" We've got you covered. Have you ever thought of the Borg as parasites? We're on that conversation too. Give a listen!

]]> It's tick season! We talk our favorite science fiction parasites (and a few symbiotes) in this episode honoring the return of the clingy bloodsuckers. Like James Gunn's "Slither?" We've got you covered. Have you ever thought of the Borg as parasites? We're on that conversation too. Give a listen!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-19041135 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4354 full false A look at spoiled characters Let's call it the Hank Pym effect - one single choice by one writer making one character kind of wrecked forever. There are quite a few and we talk about some of them in this week's episode.

]]> Let's call it the Hank Pym effect - one single choice by one writer making one character kind of wrecked forever. There are quite a few and we talk about some of them in this week's episode.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18962246 Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4070 full false Sci-fi Bracketology 2026!!! It's March Madness folks, get your brackets out and pick the winners -- of the best sci-fi movies and TV! Thirty-two "teams" over four quadrants: Cyberpunk & AI, Space & Exploration, Aliens & Horror, Blockbusters & Franchises - all vying for the right to be the one true champion. Who's gonna win? Who's gonna get eliminated? Will there be a cinderella team? Only way to know is to LISTEN to Mark, John, and special guest Robert Heil!!!

]]> It's March Madness folks, get your brackets out and pick the winners -- of the best sci-fi movies and TV! Thirty-two "teams" over four quadrants: Cyberpunk & AI, Space & Exploration, Aliens & Horror, Blockbusters & Franchises - all vying for the right to be the one true champion. Who's gonna win? Who's gonna get eliminated? Will there be a cinderella team? Only way to know is to LISTEN to Mark, John, and special guest Robert Heil!!!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18903519 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 4880 full false Star Trek: State of the Franchise For the first time in a decade there's no Star Trek series currently in production. John and Mark take a look at the state of the Star Trek franchise in terms of stories and corporate status, and what we might expect going forward.

]]> For the first time in a decade there's no Star Trek series currently in production. John and Mark take a look at the state of the Star Trek franchise in terms of stories and corporate status, and what we might expect going forward.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18846009 Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 3418 full false Resistance Movements in TV and Movies Mark and John get into the political once again in an analysis of resistance movements in Sci-Fi on the big and little screens.

]]> Mark and John get into the political once again in an analysis of resistance movements in Sci-Fi on the big and little screens.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18771838 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 5424 full false Movies you wish you could see for the 1st time again There are favorite movies, and there are the movies you wish you could have that 1st-viewing experience with again. Sometimes they're your favorite movies, but sometimes they're movies that just hit you in a time and place. Heck, some of them might be movies you don't even like! Join us for a talk about those cinematic 1st times we wish we could repeat. Ah, nostalgia...

]]> There are favorite movies, and there are the movies you wish you could have that 1st-viewing experience with again. Sometimes they're your favorite movies, but sometimes they're movies that just hit you in a time and place. Heck, some of them might be movies you don't even like! Join us for a talk about those cinematic 1st times we wish we could repeat. Ah, nostalgia...

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18688601 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 3944 full false Sci-fi that will make aliens laugh their asses off at us Not quite our "dumb" sci-fi.... more the embarrassing ones. The ones that will make you cringe when we finally meet the extraterrestrials, sit down on the couch with them, and stumble on.

]]> Not quite our "dumb" sci-fi.... more the embarrassing ones. The ones that will make you cringe when we finally meet the extraterrestrials, sit down on the couch with them, and stumble on.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18604608 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4094 full false Movies that don't know they're horror movies Mark and John look at what makes a movie a horror movie (surprisingly complicated!) and apply that to movies that aren't generally considered to be horror. What movies pass the test of horror-that-doesn't-know-it's-horror?

]]> Mark and John look at what makes a movie a horror movie (surprisingly complicated!) and apply that to movies that aren't generally considered to be horror. What movies pass the test of horror-that-doesn't-know-it's-horror?

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18527673 Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4946 full false Science as the Bad Guy - When sci-fi hates science There are mad scientists aplenty in science fiction, but somethimes - perhaps ironically - it's the science itself that science fiction is demonizing. Mark and John look at the science that sci-fi hates and wind through some examples that you all know, and maybe a few you don't.

]]> There are mad scientists aplenty in science fiction, but somethimes - perhaps ironically - it's the science itself that science fiction is demonizing. Mark and John look at the science that sci-fi hates and wind through some examples that you all know, and maybe a few you don't.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18422855 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500 4879 full false "Look at Us Now: A Comic Book Movie" Filmmaker Vee Rodriguez on what comics mean to us "Look at Us Now: A Comic Book Movie" Filmmaker Vee Rodriguez has a conversation with Mark and John about what comics mean to readers and how they've shaped us over the years. As per imdb: "Based on the poem by VRO, The Poet, LOOK AT US NOW: A COMIC BOOK MOVIE follows a diverse group of urban comic book lovers, and tells the story of how geek culture went from being a punchline to a global phenomenon." 

]]> "Look at Us Now: A Comic Book Movie" Filmmaker Vee Rodriguez has a conversation with Mark and John about what comics mean to readers and how they've shaped us over the years. As per imdb: "Based on the poem by VRO, The Poet, LOOK AT US NOW: A COMIC BOOK MOVIE follows a diverse group of urban comic book lovers, and tells the story of how geek culture went from being a punchline to a global phenomenon." 

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18394605 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 4648 full false Villains who make a good point Baddies are a dime a dozen, but the really good ones are the ones that have a point and demand you listen. Mark and John discuss them (and go off on a couple tangents, but that happens...).

]]> Baddies are a dime a dozen, but the really good ones are the ones that have a point and demand you listen. Mark and John discuss them (and go off on a couple tangents, but that happens...).

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18310966 Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3927 full false TV themes! Mark and John Share Their Top 10s! There are way too many TV themes to call Mark's list and John's lists definitive, but they've got some good ones (and just to make the point, there was no overlap between the lists). That adds up to 20 awesome things ranging from the 1960s to the 2010s! We've left out a LOT but take a listen and see if you agree!

]]> There are way too many TV themes to call Mark's list and John's lists definitive, but they've got some good ones (and just to make the point, there was no overlap between the lists). That adds up to 20 awesome things ranging from the 1960s to the 2010s! We've left out a LOT but take a listen and see if you agree!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18239023 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 4272 full false Movie and TV apocalypses - what makes a good one and some examples Mark and John go apocalyptic. What's the difference between an apocalypse and a dystopia in TV and film? Do they have to be scary or can they be silly? Cute? Join us for a discussion of the big booms and why we love them.

]]> Mark and John go apocalyptic. What's the difference between an apocalypse and a dystopia in TV and film? Do they have to be scary or can they be silly? Cute? Join us for a discussion of the big booms and why we love them.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18158510 Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 4843 full false Genre Swapping! Movies that flip genre in mid-viewing You ever watch a movie of a particular genre and have it flip genres right in front of you, leaving you wondering what the heck just happened? We have! And we talk about them for an hour! Some are on the bubble, while others make your head explode - and while it could be a recipe for disaster (or at least crappiness), these are the films where it works. Have a listen!

]]> You ever watch a movie of a particular genre and have it flip genres right in front of you, leaving you wondering what the heck just happened? We have! And we talk about them for an hour! Some are on the bubble, while others make your head explode - and while it could be a recipe for disaster (or at least crappiness), these are the films where it works. Have a listen!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-18078078 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400 5147 full false Fascism in Sci-Fi Mark and John break out what the heck fascism is and then find it in Sci-Fi. Who gets it right?

]]> Mark and John break out what the heck fascism is and then find it in Sci-Fi. Who gets it right?

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17998394 Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400 4975 full false Time Travel in Film and TV (and what a mess it is) Mark and John look at examples of time travel across a broad range of movies, TV and other fiction to examine it's logic (or - more often - lack thereof) and it's use as a storytelling tool. Have a listen!

]]> Mark and John look at examples of time travel across a broad range of movies, TV and other fiction to examine it's logic (or - more often - lack thereof) and it's use as a storytelling tool. Have a listen!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17920750 Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400 3953 full false Utopian fiction (and is anybody buying in?) Mark and John start of with the grandaddy of all Utopias (that would be "Utopia") and segue into a discussion of our utopian fiction, or just fiction where utopia shows up, even if it's not the star. We may surprise you with some of our choices.

]]> Mark and John start of with the grandaddy of all Utopias (that would be "Utopia") and segue into a discussion of our utopian fiction, or just fiction where utopia shows up, even if it's not the star. We may surprise you with some of our choices.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17844053 Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400 4082 full false Our Favorite Fight Scenes Mark and John review and compare their favorite fight scenes and discuss what it is that makes a fight scene really stick with you (hint: it's not just choreography).

]]> Mark and John review and compare their favorite fight scenes and discuss what it is that makes a fight scene really stick with you (hint: it's not just choreography).

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17725838 Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400 5152 full false Why does the Right hate Superman (the movie AND the character)? With James Gunn's Superman still in theaters, Mark and John try to understand why the modern Right hates it so much - not just the movie, but the character. Why do they fixate on words like "refugee" in their anti-"woke" hysteria and why is Superman just not Homelander enough for them? 

]]> With James Gunn's Superman still in theaters, Mark and John try to understand why the modern Right hates it so much - not just the movie, but the character. Why do they fixate on words like "refugee" in their anti-"woke" hysteria and why is Superman just not Homelander enough for them? 

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17649650 Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400 4062 full false 20 Films to get you through the Trump Era Mark and John go through a whopping and eclectic list of movies to help you deal with these dark times. They deliver catharsis, escape, inspiration, education and more. It's a long one for sure, but worth it.

]]> Mark and John go through a whopping and eclectic list of movies to help you deal with these dark times. They deliver catharsis, escape, inspiration, education and more. It's a long one for sure, but worth it.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17607953 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400 5190 full false The Sounds of the Movies Mark and John are joined by Reinhard Denke, co-founder of RNDM ORDR and founder of award-winning  commercial sound-design studio firm Stimmüng to discuss sound in film; what's good, what's bad, and why it's so important.

]]> Mark and John are joined by Reinhard Denke, co-founder of RNDM ORDR and founder of award-winning  commercial sound-design studio firm Stimmüng to discuss sound in film; what's good, what's bad, and why it's so important.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17530672 Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2947 full false Jim Shooter: Superhero or Supervillain? On the passing of legendary writer and former Marvel Editor-in-Chief, John and Mark discuss his complicated legacy in the 70s, 80s, and beyond. While his impact on comics is unquestionable, some of his decisions, both creatively and editorially, may not have been so noble. We have a no-holds-barred conversation about this well-loved and well-hated leader.... genius or jerk (or both)?

]]> On the passing of legendary writer and former Marvel Editor-in-Chief, John and Mark discuss his complicated legacy in the 70s, 80s, and beyond. While his impact on comics is unquestionable, some of his decisions, both creatively and editorially, may not have been so noble. We have a no-holds-barred conversation about this well-loved and well-hated leader.... genius or jerk (or both)?

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17458000 Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2716 full false Identity in Sci Fi: Who Am I Really? From the mindbending epiphany to the hero's journey, knowing or finding out who you really are (AI? Hero? Simulation?) has always been a big part of genre fiction and Mark and John touch on what could easily be the topic of its own ongoing podcast all by itself. Amazingly we don't mention The Matrix. Oh well. The Matrix too.

]]> From the mindbending epiphany to the hero's journey, knowing or finding out who you really are (AI? Hero? Simulation?) has always been a big part of genre fiction and Mark and John touch on what could easily be the topic of its own ongoing podcast all by itself. Amazingly we don't mention The Matrix. Oh well. The Matrix too.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17374486 Sat, 21 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 3894 full true The best bits from film soundtracks Mark and John share their personal favorite, if not the "best" per se, songs from film soundtracks and why. Lots of fun!! 

]]> Mark and John share their personal favorite, if not the "best" per se, songs from film soundtracks and why. Lots of fun!! 

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17300930 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 4213 full false Cursed productions: figuratively and..... literally? Mark and John go through the disappointingly large list of films consigned to production hell (and maybe a couple where - so they say - Satan himself joined the production team). Wanta know what the hell (haha) that might mean? Give a listen!

]]> Mark and John go through the disappointingly large list of films consigned to production hell (and maybe a couple where - so they say - Satan himself joined the production team). Wanta know what the hell (haha) that might mean? Give a listen!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17227703 Mon, 26 May 2025 11:00:00 -0400 3850 full false The scariest moments in film and TV Mark and John wander down the broad and deep history of horror in film and TV to pick out some of their favorite moments, from the more "objectively" scary, to the disturbing, to the crap that freaked us out as kids. I guarantee you we've come up with some you haven't seen (as well as plenty you have, no doubt).

]]> Mark and John wander down the broad and deep history of horror in film and TV to pick out some of their favorite moments, from the more "objectively" scary, to the disturbing, to the crap that freaked us out as kids. I guarantee you we've come up with some you haven't seen (as well as plenty you have, no doubt).

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-17051698 Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400 4666 full false Hidden gems from legendary directors In part 2 of our "directors" series, Mark and John look at great movies from legendary directors that have flown WAY under the radar, and should be viewed immediately!!

]]> In part 2 of our "directors" series, Mark and John look at great movies from legendary directors that have flown WAY under the radar, and should be viewed immediately!!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16967515 Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 3132 full false The REAL masterpieces of legendary directors Mark and John look at directors who are generally accepted as having a particular masterwork and explain why - no - a DIFFERENT movie is actually their masterpiece and why. Part 1 in our 2 part director series.

]]> Mark and John look at directors who are generally accepted as having a particular masterwork and explain why - no - a DIFFERENT movie is actually their masterpiece and why. Part 1 in our 2 part director series.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16967501 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 3313 full false The Democracy Episode! Policy, Cybersecurity and more! Mark and John go full pundit and talk about the current state of elections and democracy in the US. Are our rights safe? Are our systems safe? What policies help us or hinder us? The answers, of course - complicated in the details, but maybe not so much at the end of the day. Join in for a break from our usual fare.

]]> Mark and John go full pundit and talk about the current state of elections and democracy in the US. Are our rights safe? Are our systems safe? What policies help us or hinder us? The answers, of course - complicated in the details, but maybe not so much at the end of the day. Join in for a break from our usual fare.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16885420 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400 3490 full false Christ figures in sci-fi and fantasy When Jesus turns up in your favorite stories! Mark and John talk about the archetype of the "Christ Figure," and it turns out it pops up everywhere.

]]> When Jesus turns up in your favorite stories! Mark and John talk about the archetype of the "Christ Figure," and it turns out it pops up everywhere.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16802778 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2679 full false How will DEI pushback affect geek media? The war on DEI is hitting companies like Disney and Warner Brothers and they've have already begun to alter their policies in response. Will this backlash affect our favorite movies, books, and comics?

]]> The war on DEI is hitting companies like Disney and Warner Brothers and they've have already begun to alter their policies in response. Will this backlash affect our favorite movies, books, and comics?

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16715971 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3035 full false Movies that Shouldn't be Remade (plus a few stinker remakes) It's the flip side of last time - this time Mark and John go through a bunch of movies that should never be remade, as well as several that should never have been remade (and the trainwrecks that came of it).

]]> It's the flip side of last time - this time Mark and John go through a bunch of movies that should never be remade, as well as several that should never have been remade (and the trainwrecks that came of it).

]]> Buzzsprout-16633629 Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500 3672 full false Movies that should be remade, and a few already remade well Mark and John throw out some ideas of movies that scream to be remade (in some cases remade again), while also reviewing some remakes that have been made and made well.

]]> Mark and John throw out some ideas of movies that scream to be remade (in some cases remade again), while also reviewing some remakes that have been made and made well.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16506549 Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2702 full false Franchise fatigue - is it a thing? Mark and John look at so-dubbed "franchise fatigue" and its cousins superhero fatigue, sequel fatigue, and throw in some multiverse fatigue. We discuss what genre franchises are doing better than others, and why.

]]> Mark and John look at so-dubbed "franchise fatigue" and its cousins superhero fatigue, sequel fatigue, and throw in some multiverse fatigue. We discuss what genre franchises are doing better than others, and why.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16501993 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2691 full false Underappreciated good stuff One episode after talking about dumb sci-fi, we return to talk about excellent sci fi and fantasy that doesn't get enough love, be it from critics, fanboys, general audiences, or just due to the fog of the passage of time.

]]> One episode after talking about dumb sci-fi, we return to talk about excellent sci fi and fantasy that doesn't get enough love, be it from critics, fanboys, general audiences, or just due to the fog of the passage of time.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16425509 Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2941 full false Dumb sci fi Dumb sci fi. The title says it all. Not just bad, not just ill-considered. Dumb. Come on, see if we mention your favorite book or movie We dare ya.

]]> Dumb sci fi. The title says it all. Not just bad, not just ill-considered. Dumb. Come on, see if we mention your favorite book or movie We dare ya.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16352876 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500 3011 full false The Top 18 Evil AIs It's the AI era! You want to know how bad it can get? Check out the list of most evil artificial intelligences. Come on and tell us what (who?) we missed, even if some of them are a little obvious (we're looking at you Stanley Kubrick).

]]> It's the AI era! You want to know how bad it can get? Check out the list of most evil artificial intelligences. Come on and tell us what (who?) we missed, even if some of them are a little obvious (we're looking at you Stanley Kubrick).

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16279128 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500 5196 full false Drugs, Drug Culture, and Addiction in Sci-Fi Mark and John get on drugs for an episode that looks at the different way drugs, drug culture, and addiction in general are treated in science fiction over the decades, and there turns out to be quite a bit to talk about. Come on in and get your OWC fix!

]]> Mark and John get on drugs for an episode that looks at the different way drugs, drug culture, and addiction in general are treated in science fiction over the decades, and there turns out to be quite a bit to talk about. Come on in and get your OWC fix!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16203632 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2625 full false The Love Episode!!! Love. Exciting and new. etc.

Come on aboard as we look back at love and romance in sci-fi over the decades, along with how it reflects society. Do we mention your favorite couple? (probably not since we forgot Han and Leia... oops). But that's okay. It's still super cool. From Flash Gordon and Dale to Willow and Tara, we've got it all (or at least all that could fit into 40 minutes).

]]> Love. Exciting and new. etc.

Come on aboard as we look back at love and romance in sci-fi over the decades, along with how it reflects society. Do we mention your favorite couple? (probably not since we forgot Han and Leia... oops). But that's okay. It's still super cool. From Flash Gordon and Dale to Willow and Tara, we've got it all (or at least all that could fit into 40 minutes).

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16122778 Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500 2625 full false Federation and Empire? Imperialism in Star Trek Dr. Leigh McKagen comes back - willingly, even - where we discuss the often disappointing but always interesting topic of the imperial nature of Star Trek and the Federation! Join us for a little Trek tough love.

]]> Dr. Leigh McKagen comes back - willingly, even - where we discuss the often disappointing but always interesting topic of the imperial nature of Star Trek and the Federation! Join us for a little Trek tough love.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-16039291 Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500 4384 full false Top 18 most influential sci-fi movies John and Mark tell you how it is as they go down their list of the 18 most influential sci-fi movies. Give a listen and nod your head, roll your eyes, or scowl at the picks and the reasons why.

]]> John and Mark tell you how it is as they go down their list of the 18 most influential sci-fi movies. Give a listen and nod your head, roll your eyes, or scowl at the picks and the reasons why.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15953734 Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400 4199 full false When Sci-Fi and Comics are Repackaged Greek Myths Mark and John examine stories in sci-fi and comics that are simply retellings of classical mythological stories. Turns out they're everywhere.

]]> Mark and John examine stories in sci-fi and comics that are simply retellings of classical mythological stories. Turns out they're everywhere.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15878498 Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2105 full false Star Trek and Military Power What is the nature of power and military strategy in Star Trek's Federation? Our own Mark Card examines this question. John just kind of goes "mm-hmm" a lot.

]]> What is the nature of power and military strategy in Star Trek's Federation? Our own Mark Card examines this question. John just kind of goes "mm-hmm" a lot.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15777188 Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2088 full false The 70s and sci fi paranoia cinema We always hear about those paranoid 70s political thrillers, but a similar phenomenon was happening in the sci fi of the era - and it set the pace for many of the sci fi movies to come. Come on in and join us for a heaping helping of Soylent Green and more...

]]> We always hear about those paranoid 70s political thrillers, but a similar phenomenon was happening in the sci fi of the era - and it set the pace for many of the sci fi movies to come. Come on in and join us for a heaping helping of Soylent Green and more...

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15679253 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2184 full false Cavemen vs Astronauts I don't know that it's an eternal one, but courtesy of Joss Whedon and Angel it is a debate - one that Mark and John bisect, trisect, and just all around sect. It turns out, as you might expect, to be a complicated question.

]]> I don't know that it's an eternal one, but courtesy of Joss Whedon and Angel it is a debate - one that Mark and John bisect, trisect, and just all around sect. It turns out, as you might expect, to be a complicated question.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15489232 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 1942 full false 9 sci fi movies that don't know they're sci fi Mark and John give you an underachieving top 10 list - 9 movies that don't realize they're actually science fiction. Or are maybe in denial. We define sci fi and dive right in, perhaps taking a few liberties, which only makes it more fun. Have a listen and yell at the speaker when you don't agree!

]]> Mark and John give you an underachieving top 10 list - 9 movies that don't realize they're actually science fiction. Or are maybe in denial. We define sci fi and dive right in, perhaps taking a few liberties, which only makes it more fun. Have a listen and yell at the speaker when you don't agree!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15412157 Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2827 full false Science, Church, and State: Revisiting 'A Canticle for Liebowitz' Mark leads John and the audience on a discussion of the seminal sci-fi novel "A Canticle for Liebowitz" and the questions it raises about cycles of history, Catholicism, and the role of the state in it all. Highbrow stuff guys! Jump in!

]]> Mark leads John and the audience on a discussion of the seminal sci-fi novel "A Canticle for Liebowitz" and the questions it raises about cycles of history, Catholicism, and the role of the state in it all. Highbrow stuff guys! Jump in!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15370773 Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2122 full false SO many vampires! Our fixation on vampires From Nosferatu to Angel to Lestat and Blade and - oh yeah, that Dracula guy. What is our obsession with vampires?

]]> From Nosferatu to Angel to Lestat and Blade and - oh yeah, that Dracula guy. What is our obsession with vampires?

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15175549 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2145 full false Invaders - How immigration fears have fueled horror Mark and John look at the ways fears of "the other" have informed the horror genre in the context of immigration - and it's a lot more than you think!

]]> Mark and John look at the ways fears of "the other" have informed the horror genre in the context of immigration - and it's a lot more than you think!

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15216458 Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400 1916 full false The Complex History of Women in Star Trek Dr. Leigh McKagen joins John and Mark (and puts up with some major audio issues) to talk about the sometimes inspiring and sometimes cringe-worthy history of women across the Star Trek franchise.

]]> Dr. Leigh McKagen joins John and Mark (and puts up with some major audio issues) to talk about the sometimes inspiring and sometimes cringe-worthy history of women across the Star Trek franchise.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15228352 Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400 3598 full false Scorsese, Coppola, Tarantino and hatin' on Marvel OPEN WORLD CHAT RETURNS! A little late to the convo, sure, but John and Mark still have a lot to say about the obnoxious disrespecting of Marvel films - and superhero films in general - levied by the mighty threesome of Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and (sadly) Quentin Tarantino.

]]> OPEN WORLD CHAT RETURNS! A little late to the convo, sure, but John and Mark still have a lot to say about the obnoxious disrespecting of Marvel films - and superhero films in general - levied by the mighty threesome of Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and (sadly) Quentin Tarantino.

]]> John Odum and Mark Card Buzzsprout-15175514 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400 2419 full false The War Episode! Sci-fi War, Honor and Fascism with Dr. David Kyle Johnson It's geek bingo folks. We touch on an absurd number of sci fi movies, TV series, and comics discussing the nature of war in the "progressive" mediuym of science fiction with Dr. David Kyle Johnson of Kings College, author of Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy and many more geek tomes.

]]> It's geek bingo folks. We touch on an absurd number of sci fi movies, TV series, and comics discussing the nature of war in the "progressive" mediuym of science fiction with Dr. David Kyle Johnson of Kings College, author of Sci-Phi: Science Fiction as Philosophy and many more geek tomes.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-13622902 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0400 2963 full false Paul Cornell talks PROJECT: CRYPTID and his other projects AHOY Comics’ latest anthology is  PROJECT: CRYPTID, featuring writer Paul Cornell (and others). Jim (sans John) talks this and other projects (such as the Secret Invasion - the original comics story - novelization) with Paul. Very very fun interview. John is a real loser for missing it.

]]> AHOY Comics’ latest anthology is  PROJECT: CRYPTID, featuring writer Paul Cornell (and others). Jim (sans John) talks this and other projects (such as the Secret Invasion - the original comics story - novelization) with Paul. Very very fun interview. John is a real loser for missing it.

]]> Buzzsprout-13517304 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400 1861 full false Is the Hollywood Blockbuster on the Way Out? Seven Days film critic and editor Margot Harrison returns to OWC where we dare to ask whether the age of the giant tentpole blockbuster is winding down. The answer turns out to be a bit complicated.

]]> Seven Days film critic and editor Margot Harrison returns to OWC where we dare to ask whether the age of the giant tentpole blockbuster is winding down. The answer turns out to be a bit complicated.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-13189621 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400 1345 full false What's with all these bad Supermen? Jim and John are joined by Hannibal Tabu and Quinn McGowan to unpack the modern fascination with evil Supermen and how it reflects our cultural mindset. And what a lot to unpack there is.

]]> Jim and John are joined by Hannibal Tabu and Quinn McGowan to unpack the modern fascination with evil Supermen and how it reflects our cultural mindset. And what a lot to unpack there is.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-13018273 Mon, 12 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2816 full false Dan Mishkin and Gary Cohn talk everything from Blue Devil to Geoff Johns to Leo Kottke Jim and John have more fun than they deserve when they talk to legendary comics writers Gary Cohn and Dan Mishkin. Naturally we talk about their legendary creations Blue Devil and Amethyst Princess of Gemworld, but also other projects, their perspective on the industry then and now, a wacky Geoff Johns story, Halloween at Dan's house... even Leo Kottke comes up (?). Too much fun to squeeze into a paltry 40 minutes, but by god OWC is forever your trusted source for fun-squeezing.

]]> Jim and John have more fun than they deserve when they talk to legendary comics writers Gary Cohn and Dan Mishkin. Naturally we talk about their legendary creations Blue Devil and Amethyst Princess of Gemworld, but also other projects, their perspective on the industry then and now, a wacky Geoff Johns story, Halloween at Dan's house... even Leo Kottke comes up (?). Too much fun to squeeze into a paltry 40 minutes, but by god OWC is forever your trusted source for fun-squeezing.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12929033 Mon, 29 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2464 full true Catching up on Screambox and more with Bloody Disgusting's Alex DiVincenzo Jim goes AWOL as John talks horror stuff with Screambox publicist and Bloody Disgusting contributor Alex DiVincenzo. We get the 411 on the horror streaming service and move on to other topics, including Alex's own film work and website.

]]> Jim goes AWOL as John talks horror stuff with Screambox publicist and Bloody Disgusting contributor Alex DiVincenzo. We get the 411 on the horror streaming service and move on to other topics, including Alex's own film work and website.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12837974 Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2209 full false Talking Picard Jim and John are joined by John's ol' pal John Thornberry to discuss the recently-wrapped Picard series from soup to nuts, or rather from the Borg queen to the musical score. Three Trek nerds telling you how it is! How can anyone possibly say no??

]]> Jim and John are joined by John's ol' pal John Thornberry to discuss the recently-wrapped Picard series from soup to nuts, or rather from the Borg queen to the musical score. Three Trek nerds telling you how it is! How can anyone possibly say no??

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12751042 Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2314 full false Science episode! AI and gray goo nanobots with Piper Welch and Kam Bielawski! Jim and John nerd out on artificial Intelligence and microbiological robots with PhDs-in-progess  Piper Welch and Kam Bielawski, who keep them from spiralling off into an oblivion they don't understand. Give it a listen and let Kam and Piper blow your minds for 40 minutes.

]]> Jim and John nerd out on artificial Intelligence and microbiological robots with PhDs-in-progess  Piper Welch and Kam Bielawski, who keep them from spiralling off into an oblivion they don't understand. Give it a listen and let Kam and Piper blow your minds for 40 minutes.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12655898 Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400 2317 full false Mark Russell talks Jesus (and other stuff) Mark Russell (Second Coming Trinity, Red Sonja, God is Disappointed in You, Fantastic Four, etc) talks with Jim and John about the latest issue of Second Coming Trinity and his other work, and reflects on his writing process and how Christianity has informed his work. Jim holds it all together as religion and sociology dork John goes off the rails a bit.

]]> Mark Russell (Second Coming Trinity, Red Sonja, God is Disappointed in You, Fantastic Four, etc) talks with Jim and John about the latest issue of Second Coming Trinity and his other work, and reflects on his writing process and how Christianity has informed his work. Jim holds it all together as religion and sociology dork John goes off the rails a bit.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12569338 Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400 1816 full false Grant Patterson of the WNFC esports Dojo on competitive gaming and game culture Grant Patterson of Champlain College's Wednesday Night Fight Club and the WNFC esports Dojo talks to Jim and John (well, mainly Jim because John is clueless about games) on competitive gaming, game culture, and what life lessons there are to learn from fighting games.

]]> Grant Patterson of Champlain College's Wednesday Night Fight Club and the WNFC esports Dojo talks to Jim and John (well, mainly Jim because John is clueless about games) on competitive gaming, game culture, and what life lessons there are to learn from fighting games.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12237675 Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500 2736 full false Star Trek Science Advisor and Professor of Biology Dr. Mohamed Noor Jim and John are joined by Duke University Dean of Natural Sciences Dr. Mohamed Noor. We talk about his experience as a science advisor on the Star Trek franchise (including his role in "sciencing out" things like The Burn and Species 10-C), Star Trek's approach to science, and his experience using Star Trek in the classroom. Then we just geek out a lot.

]]> Jim and John are joined by Duke University Dean of Natural Sciences Dr. Mohamed Noor. We talk about his experience as a science advisor on the Star Trek franchise (including his role in "sciencing out" things like The Burn and Species 10-C), Star Trek's approach to science, and his experience using Star Trek in the classroom. Then we just geek out a lot.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12141321 Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 2332 full false Steve Morris of Shelfdust on the top 50 comics events of all time Steven Morris of Shelfdust.com polled comics creators and critiques to compile the ultimate list of the Top 50 comics events of all time, and Jim and John invite him over to nitpick the result. Is your favorite in there? Is your favorite an "event?" What the hell is an "event," anyway? Have a listen for a look back at some cool comics, some bad comics, and in general the kind of navel-gazing that only true fans can do.

]]> Steven Morris of Shelfdust.com polled comics creators and critiques to compile the ultimate list of the Top 50 comics events of all time, and Jim and John invite him over to nitpick the result. Is your favorite in there? Is your favorite an "event?" What the hell is an "event," anyway? Have a listen for a look back at some cool comics, some bad comics, and in general the kind of navel-gazing that only true fans can do.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-12049213 Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500 1981 full false 2022 in TV! What's good and what's better John and Jim finish their look back at 2022, looking at the TV that was, genr. and otherwise 

]]> John and Jim finish their look back at 2022, looking at the TV that was, genr. and otherwise 

]]> Buzzsprout-11962520 Sun, 01 Jan 2023 21:00:00 -0500 3246 full false The 2022 review part 1! Comics and Movies and Games, Oh my! With no guests to defer to, Jim and John tell the world what was (and is) what in 2022 without a filter. Listen to it now so you can sound like the smartest geek in the room while toasting in the new year! Everything but TV in this one, but part 2 is but two weeks away...

]]> With no guests to defer to, Jim and John tell the world what was (and is) what in 2022 without a filter. Listen to it now so you can sound like the smartest geek in the room while toasting in the new year! Everything but TV in this one, but part 2 is but two weeks away...

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11894543 Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500 2474 full false Namor? Rorschach? Hannibal Lecter? Who is and isn't an anti-hero with author Philip Baruth Anti-heroes are all the rage, but does everyone who uses that term mean the same thing? John talks with novelist, biographer and University of Vermont English professor Philip Baruth about what makes an anti-hero, and then John and Jim do a deeper dive into antiheroes and comics.

]]> Anti-heroes are all the rage, but does everyone who uses that term mean the same thing? John talks with novelist, biographer and University of Vermont English professor Philip Baruth about what makes an anti-hero, and then John and Jim do a deeper dive into antiheroes and comics.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11807990 Mon, 05 Dec 2022 01:00:00 -0500 2114 full false The geek science episode! Jeffery Adkins talks black holes, time travel, and how sci fi gets it wrong! No podcast purporting to cover all things geek could possibly be complete without a geek science episode! John and Jim are joined by astronomy professor/teacher Jeffrey Adkins to cover the juicy pop science that all sci fi nerds love, from gravity waves to flash mobs, Niven-style! We also save some time to discuss Jeff's non-sci-fi book, The Boy Who Skipped.

]]> No podcast purporting to cover all things geek could possibly be complete without a geek science episode! John and Jim are joined by astronomy professor/teacher Jeffrey Adkins to cover the juicy pop science that all sci fi nerds love, from gravity waves to flash mobs, Niven-style! We also save some time to discuss Jeff's non-sci-fi book, The Boy Who Skipped.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11641498 Mon, 07 Nov 2022 01:00:00 -0500 2556 full false Andrew Liptak on the history, challenges, and power of cosplay Andrew Liptak, a veteran of Gizmodo, Grist, io9, Kirkus Reviews, Pando Daily, Polygon, Slate, The Verge and many many others (seriously) joins us to discuss his book Cosplay: A History: The Builders, Fans, and Makers Who Bring Your Favorite Stories to Life. 

]]> Andrew Liptak, a veteran of Gizmodo, Grist, io9, Kirkus Reviews, Pando Daily, Polygon, Slate, The Verge and many many others (seriously) joins us to discuss his book Cosplay: A History: The Builders, Fans, and Makers Who Bring Your Favorite Stories to Life. 

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11554165 Mon, 24 Oct 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2453 full false NY Comic Con chat! This is what happens when Jim and John run out of people to talk to. No one else in the sandbox this time. Jim schools John on all the comics he's not reading, John whines about Star Trek, and all is as it should be. Actual guests will return next go-around...

]]> No one else in the sandbox this time. Jim schools John on all the comics he's not reading, John whines about Star Trek, and all is as it should be. Actual guests will return next go-around...

]]> Buzzsprout-11468304 Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2514 full false Tim Russ Revisited! From the vault - Star Trek's Tuvok on diversity in Trek, greedy capitalists, and more! Back in the day, John and former co-host Liane Allen hosted Tim Russ ostensibly to talk about diversity in Star Trek - which we did - before the conversation just kind of went off (and we learned Mr. Russ is a man of strong opinions). We talk telecom policy, the "Jackass" Party, and more... an hour and a half trimmed down to a nice bite-sized half hour.

]]> Back in the day, John and former co-host Liane Allen hosted Tim Russ ostensibly to talk about diversity in Star Trek - which we did - before the conversation just kind of went off (and we learned Mr. Russ is a man of strong opinions). We talk telecom policy, the "Jackass" Party, and more... an hour and a half trimmed down to a nice bite-sized half hour.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11378110 Mon, 26 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2173 full false Sandman chat with Ryan Higgins (Comics Conspiracy)! Three comics geeks drooling over the Netflix Sandman series and comparing it to the comics. What's not to love? Ryan Higgins of the Comics Conspiracy store and podcast joins us.

]]> Three comics geeks drooling over the Netflix Sandman series and comparing it to the comics. What's not to love? Ryan Higgins of the Comics Conspiracy store and podcast joins us.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11298579 Mon, 12 Sep 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2716 full false John Ostrander! Suicide Squad! Grimjack! Hexer Dusk! The Treatment of Creators! More! John and Jim geek out over legendary comics writer John Ostrander who talks to us about his work, his writing process, the artists he gets into a groove with, the treatment of creators, and more more more! Don't miss this one!

]]> John and Jim geek out over legendary comics writer John Ostrander who talks to us about his work, his writing process, the artists he gets into a groove with, the treatment of creators, and more more more! Don't miss this one!

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11218321 Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400 3102 full false Kaitlyn Booth (Bleeding Cool) on Comic Con and Warner shenanigans Bleeding Cool Editor-in-Chief and lead film critic Kaitlyn Booth joins J&J to discussed the recently-passed 2022 San Diego Comic Con, Warner Brothers' new clear-cut business model (Batgirl, we hardly knew ye), and other stuff too.

]]> Bleeding Cool Editor-in-Chief and lead film critic Kaitlyn Booth joins J&J to discussed the recently-passed 2022 San Diego Comic Con, Warner Brothers' new clear-cut business model (Batgirl, we hardly knew ye), and other stuff too.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11133655 Mon, 15 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2601 full false Jim Infantino on his novels, Carmine, and The Ballad of Barry Allen Musician and author Jim Infantino joins John and the other Jim to talk about his Wakeful Wanderer series and his life as a musician. We also get into some tales of his uncle, comics legend Carmine Infantino, before digging into Jim's song "The Ballad of Barry Allen." Fun stuff.

]]> Musician and author Jim Infantino joins John and the other Jim to talk about his Wakeful Wanderer series and his life as a musician. We also get into some tales of his uncle, comics legend Carmine Infantino, before digging into Jim's song "The Ballad of Barry Allen." Fun stuff.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-11055849 Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2380 full false Joe Glass on The Pride, his brand new book Young Men in Love, and the state of LGBTQ+ representation in comics Joe Glass (Young Men in Love, The Pride) discusses his own work and career (so far) as a creator, as well as the state of queer representation in comics - the good, the bad, and the meh.

]]> Joe Glass (Young Men in Love, The Pride) discusses his own work and career (so far) as a creator, as well as the state of queer representation in comics - the good, the bad, and the meh.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10975309 Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2158 full false Luke Thompson enters a Wretched Hive of Scum and Villainy Jim is joined by Luke Thompson (A.V. Club, SuperHeroHype and more) ostensibly to talk about the recently concluded Obi-Wan series, which they do - before the conversation goes full tilt into all things Star Wars. Big fun with perspectives that'll make you pump your fist, and some that'll make you leave the room (with even a little ThunderCats thrown in...).

]]> Jim is joined by Luke Thompson (A.V. Club, SuperHeroHype and more) ostensibly to talk about the recently concluded Obi-Wan series, which they do - before the conversation goes full tilt into all things Star Wars. Big fun with perspectives that'll make you pump your fist, and some that'll make you leave the room (with even a little ThunderCats thrown in...).

]]> Buzzsprout-10904437 Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:00:00 -0400 2294 full false Captain America, "flag characters," and patriotism, with Dr. Mark Card Mark Card returns to look at the ways Captain America, Superman, and others have reflected, represented, and refined the meaning of patriotism over the generations. 

]]> Mark Card returns to look at the ways Captain America, Superman, and others have reflected, represented, and refined the meaning of patriotism over the generations. 

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10818338 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2478 full false All Things Zelda with Den of Geek's Matthew Byrd Okay Zelda fans, this is your show. Jim and John talk all things The Legend of Zelda with Matthew Byrd from Jim's online home, Den of Geek. We go from our favorite games to speculation on coming games, to convoluted timelines - and even that 80s cartoon.

]]> Okay Zelda fans, this is your show. Jim and John talk all things The Legend of Zelda with Matthew Byrd from Jim's online home, Den of Geek. We go from our favorite games to speculation on coming games, to convoluted timelines - and even that 80s cartoon.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10742308 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2345 full false Stuntwoman Elisabeth Carpenter on the industry and her work in projects such as Divergent and Obi-Wan Stuntwoman, musician, actor and all around polymath Elisabeth Carpenter talks with us about life and work as a Hollywood stunt performer including her work in genre projects such as Divergent, Captain Marvel and the Obi-Wan Disney+ series ..... where we try to get her to give us something insider-y, but she knew better than to incur the wrath of the House of Mouse. A great and truly unique episode of the show.

]]> Stuntwoman, musician, actor and all around polymath Elisabeth Carpenter talks with us about life and work as a Hollywood stunt performer including her work in genre projects such as Divergent, Captain Marvel and the Obi-Wan Disney+ series ..... where we try to get her to give us something insider-y, but she knew better than to incur the wrath of the House of Mouse. A great and truly unique episode of the show.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10661769 Mon, 23 May 2022 01:00:00 -0400 1779 full false Sarah Gailey on "The Vampire Slayer" and more! Hugo-winning Author and writer of the new BOOM! comic "The Vampire Slayer" joins Jim and John to talk about the comic, the impact of Buffy 25 years later, their upcoming novel, almost-wardrobe-malfunctions at the Hugo Awards, and more. Big fun!

]]> Hugo-winning Author and writer of the new BOOM! comic "The Vampire Slayer" joins Jim and John to talk about the comic, the impact of Buffy 25 years later, their upcoming novel, almost-wardrobe-malfunctions at the Hugo Awards, and more. Big fun!

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10577250 Mon, 09 May 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2062 full false Deconstructing the Prime Directive with Dr. Mark Card John and Jim are joined by International Conflict specialist Mark Card to poke, prod, pry, and dissect the Federations' legendary "General Order One" - Starfleet's "Prime Directive" barring interference in other cultures. Does it work as foreign policy? Is it portrayed consistently? How does it stack up to other international norms and rules?

]]> John and Jim are joined by International Conflict specialist Mark Card to poke, prod, pry, and dissect the Federations' legendary "General Order One" - Starfleet's "Prime Directive" barring interference in other cultures. Does it work as foreign policy? Is it portrayed consistently? How does it stack up to other international norms and rules?

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10482471 Mon, 25 Apr 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2532 full false The politics of the Krakoan X-Men with Elana Levin Tackling the rich politics of the ongoing Krakoa era of the X-Men with Elana Levin (Graphic Policy). Jim, Elana, and John look at the Krakoan X-Men's relationship to capitalism, governance, and more in the world that Hickman built.

]]> Tackling the rich politics of the ongoing Krakoa era of the X-Men with Elana Levin (Graphic Policy). Jim, Elana, and John look at the Krakoan X-Men's relationship to capitalism, governance, and more in the world that Hickman built.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10411902 Mon, 11 Apr 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2920 full false Librarian Carolyn Brennan on libraries as the front lines of censorship (with some video game recommendations thrown in) Carolyn Brennan, Co-Director of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Montpelier Vermont, Joins Jim and John for a discussion of Maus and other targets of book banning across the country, and how Librarians resist the pressure to censor (oh, and we ask her what games she's playing these days too).

]]> Carolyn Brennan, Co-Director of the Kellogg-Hubbard Library in Montpelier Vermont, Joins Jim and John for a discussion of Maus and other targets of book banning across the country, and how Librarians resist the pressure to censor (oh, and we ask her what games she's playing these days too).

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10326182 Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400 2933 full false Nate Cosby talks about his new "Alter Ego" comic Writer, editor, and general comics industry force-of-nature Nate Cosby (Cow Boy writer, editor of about a zillion things...) talks with Jim and John about his latest: the crowdfunded superhero character study Alter Ego.

]]> Writer, editor, and general comics industry force-of-nature Nate Cosby (Cow Boy writer, editor of about a zillion things...) talks with Jim and John about his latest: the crowdfunded superhero character study Alter Ego.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10241630 Mon, 14 Mar 2022 01:00:00 -0400 2321 full false Roy Thomas! Comics! Partying in Vermont! His life as a rocker! And more! Special video episode! John gets to talk with one of his heroes, the legendary Roy Thomas! We discuss his life in comics, antics at the legendary Rutland Vermont Halloween parade, singing at Carnegie Hall, his old band, Supersnipe, and what makes a hero super! How can you miss all that? Click on the episode link for the video, which includes rare photos of Roy from ages past!

]]> Special video episode! John gets to talk with one of his heroes, the legendary Roy Thomas! We discuss his life in comics, antics at the legendary Rutland Vermont Halloween parade, singing at Carnegie Hall, his old band, Supersnipe, and what makes a hero super! How can you miss all that? Click on the episode link for the video, which includes rare photos of Roy from ages past!

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-10078912 Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:00:00 -0500 3630 full false Does Gen Z Own Star Trek Now? Lacy Baugher Milas joins Jim and John to talk this and many other things. Lacy Baugher Milas (Den of Geek, The Nerdist, SyFy Wire, and more), Jim, and John discuss Star Trek's "generations" and the way the series has changed over the decades -- and on the way we digress all over the place. Big fun.

]]> Lacy Baugher Milas (Den of Geek, The Nerdist, SyFy Wire, and more), Jim, and John discuss Star Trek's "generations" and the way the series has changed over the decades -- and on the way we digress all over the place. Big fun.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-9883765 Mon, 17 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500 3074 full false Weekly World News CEO Greg D'Alessandro guests (with intro featuring Shannon Wheeler) John and Jim are joined by Weekly World News CEO and Editor-in-Chief Greg D'Alessandro on the rebirth of the revered publication and the many new projects in store for Bat Boy and more. We're joined in the introduction by last episode's guest, cartoonist Shannon Wheeler.

]]> John and Jim are joined by Weekly World News CEO and Editor-in-Chief Greg D'Alessandro on the rebirth of the revered publication and the many new projects in store for Bat Boy and more. We're joined in the introduction by last episode's guest, cartoonist Shannon Wheeler.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-9681644 Mon, 03 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500 2323 full false Shannon Wheeler (Too Much Coffee Man) on the Mueller Report, The Bible, the quality of Portland coffee, and what's still funny John and Jim have a freewheeling chat with Shannon Wheeler (God is Disappointed in You, The New Yorker) about Shannon's work, The Bible, social media, Too Much Coffee Man tattoos, and what's still funny in this world. 

]]> John and Jim have a freewheeling chat with Shannon Wheeler (God is Disappointed in You, The New Yorker) about Shannon's work, The Bible, social media, Too Much Coffee Man tattoos, and what's still funny in this world. 

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-9668745 Mon, 20 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500 2596 full false Jenny Jarzabski of United Paizo Workers and Paizo Freelancer Joe Blomquist: Are Unions Finally Coming to the Nerdosphere? John and Jim are joined by RPG company Paizo (Pathfinder, Starfinder) staffer Jenny Jarzabski (a member of the United Paizo Workers union) and freelancer Joe Blomquist to discuss the recent successful organizing campaign at the company. We discuss their efforts, along with the burgeoning organizing campaign at Image comics -- and what future efforts to organize at more "geek" companies might look like.

]]> John and Jim are joined by RPG company Paizo (Pathfinder, Starfinder) staffer Jenny Jarzabski (a member of the United Paizo Workers union) and freelancer Joe Blomquist to discuss the recent successful organizing campaign at the company. We discuss their efforts, along with the burgeoning organizing campaign at Image comics -- and what future efforts to organize at more "geek" companies might look like.

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-9608235 Sun, 05 Dec 2021 21:00:00 -0500 2835 full false Caitlin Rosberg (The AV Club) on Dune and the nexus of genre, format, form, and media. Caitlin Rosberg joins Jim and John to discuss the Dune film and the sometimes uneasy handshake between movie adaptations and their source material with a few digressions along the way, of course (who should play Alia in the next Dune movie?).

]]> Caitlin Rosberg joins Jim and John to discuss the Dune film and the sometimes uneasy handshake between movie adaptations and their source material with a few digressions along the way, of course (who should play Alia in the next Dune movie?).

]]> John Odum and Jim Dandeneau Buzzsprout-9575357 Mon, 22 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500 3244 full false George Marston (GamesRadar+) on NFTs, their role in the comics industry, and what the heck they are, anyway George Marston of GamesRadar+ is here to explain Non-Fungible Tokens to you. We discuss their appeal, their limitations, and their implications to artists, the comics industry, and the very nature of the art marketplace - as well as some perhaps unexpected environmental impacts...

]]> George Marston of GamesRadar+ is here to explain Non-Fungible Tokens to you. We discuss their appeal, their limitations, and their implications to artists, the comics industry, and the very nature of the art marketplace - as well as some perhaps unexpected environmental impacts...

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-9507631 Sun, 07 Nov 2021 17:00:00 -0500 2467 full false John and Jim review the buzz going into and coming out of DC Fandome DC Fandome has passed. What sounds good? What looked good? What looked "meh," and what's the buzz around the Milestone Initiative, the new bisexual Superman, and more.

]]> DC Fandome has passed. What sounds good? What looked good? What looked "meh," and what's the buzz around the Milestone Initiative, the new bisexual Superman, and more.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-9425271 Sun, 24 Oct 2021 20:00:00 -0400 2674 full false Peter Galbraith, in which we don't end up talking about the Prime Directive, on What Went Wrong in Afghanistan (and Who's to Blame) John and Special Guest Co-host Maryscott O'Connor break out of OWC's usual paradigm for an in-depth discussion with Author, Scholar, and Diplomat Peter Galbraith. From the perspective of his own involvement in the interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq, Peter shares his uniquely qualified analysis of what went wrong, and what an ethical foreign intervention should look like. (Yes, we were originally going to discuss the Prime Directive, but the universe had other ideas).

]]> John and Special Guest Co-host Maryscott O'Connor break out of OWC's usual paradigm for an in-depth discussion with Author, Scholar, and Diplomat Peter Galbraith. From the perspective of his own involvement in the interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq, Peter shares his uniquely qualified analysis of what went wrong, and what an ethical foreign intervention should look like. (Yes, we were originally going to discuss the Prime Directive, but the universe had other ideas).

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-9184090 Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400 3408 full false Archeologist Nathan White on Archeology in Genre Media (what they get wrong, and what they unfortunately get right) John and Liane talk with Nathan White, the District Archaeologist and Tribal Liaison, US Army Corps of Engineers, Huntington District. We discuss portrayals of archaeology and archeologists in genre film, how those portrayals perpetuate stereotypes and promote marginalization of indigenous peoples, and how the actual practice or archeology over the decades has itself been responsible for these and worse.

]]> John and Liane talk with Nathan White, the District Archaeologist and Tribal Liaison, US Army Corps of Engineers, Huntington District. We discuss portrayals of archaeology and archeologists in genre film, how those portrayals perpetuate stereotypes and promote marginalization of indigenous peoples, and how the actual practice or archeology over the decades has itself been responsible for these and worse.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-9103814 Mon, 30 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400 1760 full true Emmy-winner Steve Benen (The Rachel Maddow Show) on the politics of the past, present, and future - as well as Star Trek, Firefly (and X-Men...?) Steve Benen joins us to discuss his book The Impostors: How Republicans Quit Governing and Seized American Politics, living with a post-policy Republican Party, and blogging. We talk about Steve's early days as a blogger and podcaster, what's changed about our politics since the Trump presidency, why there is reason for optimism... and since this is OWC, we also talk some sci fi and comics.

]]> Steve Benen joins us to discuss his book The Impostors: How Republicans Quit Governing and Seized American Politics, living with a post-policy Republican Party, and blogging. We talk about Steve's early days as a blogger and podcaster, what's changed about our politics since the Trump presidency, why there is reason for optimism... and since this is OWC, we also talk some sci fi and comics.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-9031207 Sun, 15 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400 2298 full false Sean Branney and Andrew Leman (Co-founders, The H.P. Lovecraft Historical Society) on the "art vs. artist debate" and more Sean and Andrew join John and Liane for a deep dive into the art vs. artist debate, looking at H.P. Lovecraft and his life, but also discussing how Lovecraft's work has been re-imagined in work such as Lovecraft Country, We also expand the discussion to look at the contemporary art-vs-artist poster boy, Joss Whedon, Sean and Andrew also discuss some of the projects they're working on,before the whole things morphs into a conversation about RPGs (Call of Cthulhu, anyone?).

]]> Sean and Andrew join John and Liane for a deep dive into the art vs. artist debate, looking at H.P. Lovecraft and his life, but also discussing how Lovecraft's work has been re-imagined in work such as Lovecraft Country, We also expand the discussion to look at the contemporary art-vs-artist poster boy, Joss Whedon, Sean and Andrew also discuss some of the projects they're working on,before the whole things morphs into a conversation about RPGs (Call of Cthulhu, anyone?).

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8953737 Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400 2419 full false Alexander Dunst ("The World According to Philip K Dick"): PKD's Legacy, Impact, and more. Liane and I have a conversation with Alexander Dunst, Assistant Professor of American Studies at the University of Paderborn in Germany. Alex is a PKD scholar and edited the book of essays The World According to Philip K. Dick.  PKD's  work has, of course, been adapted into several Hollywood films (for better and for worse). and our discussion of the impact and implications of his work brings us to topics such as Artificial intelligence, the stigma of mental illness -- and we get to say "libertarian anarcho pacifist," ... nd how cool is that? Here's the conversation...

]]> Liane and I have a conversation with Alexander Dunst, Assistant Professor of American Studies at the University of Paderborn in Germany. Alex is a PKD scholar and edited the book of essays The World According to Philip K. Dick.  PKD's  work has, of course, been adapted into several Hollywood films (for better and for worse). and our discussion of the impact and implications of his work brings us to topics such as Artificial intelligence, the stigma of mental illness -- and we get to say "libertarian anarcho pacifist," ... nd how cool is that? Here's the conversation...

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8883216 Sun, 18 Jul 2021 18:00:00 -0400 2538 full false Film Critic Margot Harrison: The Ever-Changing Meaning of "Strong Woman Character" John and Liane are joined by Seven Days film critic and editor Margot Harrison discussing the evolution of the strong woman character in genre cinema and television (and in general) over the generations. Join us as we dive into horror, superheroes... and also contrast and compare the heroines of the Star Wars franchise.

]]> John and Liane are joined by Seven Days film critic and editor Margot Harrison discussing the evolution of the strong woman character in genre cinema and television (and in general) over the generations. Join us as we dive into horror, superheroes... and also contrast and compare the heroines of the Star Wars franchise.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8807235 Sun, 04 Jul 2021 22:00:00 -0400 2370 full false Rich Johnston (Bleeding Cool): comicsgate, the industry's cycles of outrage, and more Comics industry gossip columnist and Bleedingcool.com founder Rich Johnston discusses "comicsgate" and how it fits into perennial cycles of outrage and conflict in the comic book world. He also offers a different viewpoint on the political nature of superheroes.

]]> Comics industry gossip columnist and Bleedingcool.com founder Rich Johnston discusses "comicsgate" and how it fits into perennial cycles of outrage and conflict in the comic book world. He also offers a different viewpoint on the political nature of superheroes.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8733888 Sun, 20 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0400 2048 full false Jim Dandeneau (aka Jim Dandy, Den of Geek): cinematic universes and superhero politics Jim Dandy (Dandeneau) of Den of Geek drops in for a conversation about cinematic universes; which ones fly high, which ones crash and burn, and what makes them work (or not). Also, we discuss the political nature of superheroes. Are they left wing? Right wing? No wing? Listen as we hash it out.

]]> Jim Dandy (Dandeneau) of Den of Geek drops in for a conversation about cinematic universes; which ones fly high, which ones crash and burn, and what makes them work (or not). Also, we discuss the political nature of superheroes. Are they left wing? Right wing? No wing? Listen as we hash it out.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8646399 Sun, 06 Jun 2021 23:00:00 -0400 2247 full false A Conversation with Star Trek's Tim Russ (part 2) Following part 1's discussion which focused on race and diversity in Star Trek, we slide into a range of topics from a discussion of good TV (including what Tim is - and perhaps surprisingly isn't - watching) to boardrooms and broadband.

]]> Following part 1's discussion which focused on race and diversity in Star Trek, we slide into a range of topics from a discussion of good TV (including what Tim is - and perhaps surprisingly isn't - watching) to boardrooms and broadband.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8618548 Mon, 31 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400 1986 full true Paul Wilson and Tony Panacchio: The latest "Conjuring" Film, working with Shatner, Stan Lee, and much more A show that begins with Paul discussing his new film "The Conjuring: The Devil Made me Do It," (and teasing his role in Showtime's upcoming series "The First Lady") and Tony on his work with the likes of William Shatner and Stan Lee, turns into a freewheeling conversation covering comic creators' rights, Jon Favreau, Star Wars, the Tekwar video game, anti-trust law, Aristotle, and what to keep in mind when you work with Kevin Smith.

]]> A show that begins with Paul discussing his new film "The Conjuring: The Devil Made me Do It," (and teasing his role in Showtime's upcoming series "The First Lady") and Tony on his work with the likes of William Shatner and Stan Lee, turns into a freewheeling conversation covering comic creators' rights, Jon Favreau, Star Wars, the Tekwar video game, anti-trust law, Aristotle, and what to keep in mind when you work with Kevin Smith.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8581880 Mon, 24 May 2021 21:00:00 -0400 4017 full false Tim Russ (Tuvok): Race and diversity in Star Trek In part 1 of a 2 part discussion, Star Trek Voyager's Tim Russ joins Liane and John to discuss race in Trek and his portrayal of Voyager's Security Officer.

]]> In part 1 of a 2 part discussion, Star Trek Voyager's Tim Russ joins Liane and John to discuss race in Trek and his portrayal of Voyager's Security Officer.

]]> John Odum and Liane Allen Buzzsprout-8525804 Sat, 15 May 2021 17:00:00 -0400 2107 1 3 full false