Episodes

  • Marvel vs DC Gaming Showdown, Pixar’s Elio Review, Next James Bond Director, Star Trek's Future, and Jon Bernthal in Spider-Man

    Marvel vs DC Gaming Showdown, Pixar’s Elio Review, Next James Bond Director, Star Trek's Future, and Jon Bernthal in Spider-Man
    Jun 24 2025

    Frank, Jonathan, and Squeaks explore why Marvel continues to dominate over DC in the video game industry and discuss potential strategies for DC’s gaming revival. Frank gives an insightful review of Pixar’s Elio, highlighting its originality and emotional storytelling. The hosts also debate the ideal director for the next James Bond film, speculate on the future of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and analyze Jon Bernthal’s return as Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Plus, catch some entertaining moments, including Squeaks' memorable appearance in a Donkey Kong onesie!

    Timestamps and Topics:

    • 00:00: Squeaks’ Donkey Kong Onesie and Halloween Plans

    • 01:26: Choosing Between Denis Villeneuve and Edgar Wright for Next Bond Film

    • 06:13: Jon Bernthal Returns as Punisher in Spider-Man: Brand New Day

    • 13:58: Russell Crowe Joins Henry Cavill in Highlander Reboot

    • 18:31: Blumhouse Acquires the Saw Franchise

    • 23:24: Upcoming Pixar Projects: Hoopers, Gato, and Toy Story 5

    • 28:01: Final Season Announcement for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds

    • 34:48: Pixar's Elio Movie Review and Analysis

    • 43:14: Marvel vs DC Gaming: How Marvel Wins and DC’s Path Forward

    Key Takeaways:

    • Marvel’s success in gaming is driven by varied partnerships, genre diversity, and risk-taking.

    • DC Gaming relies too heavily on Batman games; diversification is essential.

    • Pixar’s Elio delivers a fresh, emotionally rich story with strong visuals.

    • Strategic director choices for the James Bond franchise are critical for appealing to newer audiences.

    • Upcoming Marvel games (Wolverine, Iron Man, Marvel Tokken) maintain excitement, while DC needs fresh ideas.

    Memorable Quotes:

    • “Marvel isn't afraid to experiment; DC needs to step outside the Batman box.”

    • “It’s time to engage a younger audience—fresh ideas are essential for iconic franchises.”

    • “Superman deserves gameplay mechanics as exciting and satisfying as Spider-Man’s web-swinging.”

    Call to Action: Enjoy the conversation? Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts using #GeekFreaksPodcast!

    Links and Resources:

    • Get the latest geek news at GeekFreaksPodcast.com

    Follow Us:

    • Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast

    • Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast

    • Twitter: @geekfreakspod

    • Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast

    Listener Questions: Have suggestions or questions for future episodes? Reach out on social media or email us at Info@GFPods.com!

    Apple Podcast Tags: Marvel Games, DC Gaming, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Iron Man, Pixar Elio, Next James Bond, Jon Bernthal Punisher, Highlander Movie, Blumhouse Saw, Toy Story 5, Star Trek Strange New Worlds, Geek Culture, Video Game Industry, Geek Freaks Podcast
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Indie Game Renaissance in Sacramento - Capital Creative Showcase 2025 Recap

    Indie Game Renaissance in Sacramento - Capital Creative Showcase 2025 Recap
    Jun 15 2025

    In this special episode of Geek Freaks, Frank and Tyler from the Who's Got Next Podcast take you inside Sacramento's Capital Creative Showcase 2025. They explore the vibrant local indie video game scene, highlighting standout titles, engaging directly with developers, and sharing firsthand experiences from an event filled with creativity and innovation. From battle card games with food trucks to rhythm-driven platformers, the indie developers of Sacramento show impressive talent and polish.

    Timestamps and Topics:

    • 00:00 - Welcome & Event Introduction

    • 01:05 - Highlight: Ala Card Game Overview

    • 01:57 - Snap Quest: A Pokémon Snap-inspired Indie Gem

    • 03:17 - Interview: Andrew from Beat Heart Beat

    • 07:29 - Interview: Ash from Ala Card

    • 09:39 - Interview: Katie, Director & Writer of Starbright Agency

    • 17:16 - Interview: Garrett from BallBastic

    • 30:24 - Interview: Developers of Bounty Quest

    • 36:22 - Interview: Jason from Nerf Ground Assault

    • 38:11 - Interview: Ryan from Ghost Hunter Simulator

    • 40:50 - Interview: Teddy from Snap Quest

    • 44:04 - Event Wrap-Up and Impressions

    Key Takeaways:

    • Sacramento's indie game scene is thriving with increasingly polished and unique games.

    • Developers emphasize player feedback, iterative design, and continuous improvement.

    • Games ranged from classic inspirations (Super Monkey Ball, Pokémon Snap) to innovative hybrids (food trucks with card mechanics).

    • Many games will be available on Steam soon, offering demos or early access versions.

    Memorable Quotes:

    • "There's almost too much to consume in just a couple hours." - Tyler

    • "Indie game development is climbing a mountain, only to find another taller mountain waiting." - Garrett

    • "The juxtaposition of capitalism and heroism inspired Starbright Agency." - Katie

    • "Video games are the best form of storytelling." - Katie

    Call to Action: Enjoyed this dive into Sacramento's gaming scene? Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksGaming. Your support helps spotlight amazing indie creators!

    Links and Resources:

    • Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for the latest geek news and show updates.

    • Beat, Heart, Beat: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3239360/Beat_Heart_Beat/
    • A La Card: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3180680/A_la_Card/
    • Starbright Agency: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3449060/Starbright_Agency/
    • BallBastic: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2428170/BallBastic/
    • Bounty Quest Coming Soon
    • Nerf Ground Assault Coming Soon
    • Ghost Hunt Simulator Coming Soon
    • Snap Quest: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2327110/Snap_Quest/

    Follow Us:

    • Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast

    • Twitter: @geekfreakspod

    • Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast

    • Patreon: Support Us

    Listener Questions: Have a game or developer you'd like us to feature? Send your suggestions and questions to our social media channels—we'd love to hear from you!

    Apple Podcast Tags: indie games, Sacramento gaming, Capital Creative Showcase, indie developers, video game development, Beat Heartbeat, Ala Card, Starbright Agency, Ball Bastic, Bounty Quest, Nerf Ground Assault, Ghost Hunter Simulator, Snap Quest, video game industry, game interviews
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    52 mins
  • Switch 2 is HERE, 007 Game First Look, Clockwork Revolution Buzz, Resident Evil Requiem’s New Scares, Frost Comic Breakdown, IGN Live Reveals!

    Switch 2 is HERE, 007 Game First Look, Clockwork Revolution Buzz, Resident Evil Requiem’s New Scares, Frost Comic Breakdown, IGN Live Reveals!
    Jun 10 2025
    Is the new 007 game shaping up to be a hit or a miss? What’s changing in Resident Evil: Requiem? We’ve got fresh hands-on impressions, an IGN Live insider report, and a deep-dive interview with comic writer Scott Wilk about his John Wick-inspired Frost one-shot. Plus, Squeaks gives his review of the Switch 2, we break down the biggest Xbox Showcase reveals, and the Stranger Things final season is sparking big fan debates. Stick around for D&D updates and the latest Geek Freaks recommendations! Timestamps and Topics: 00:00:00 Welcome and episode intro 00:00:43 007 game reactions: Will it capture the magic of GoldenEye? 00:03:48 Resident Evil: Requiem gameplay shifts and first impressions 00:08:07 Xbox Showcase recap: Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox, Clockwork Revolution deep dive, Outer Worlds 2 details 00:16:51 New Xbox handheld hands-on discussion and potential 00:17:07 Netflix Tudum event and Stranger Things final season debate 00:21:02 D&D campaign updates and behind-the-scenes chatter 00:25:20 IGN Live recap with Thomas: Vox Machina, Invincible game, Critical Role 10th anniversary, top panels 00:41:05 Switch 2 review: Hardware impressions, game performance, and is it worth it yet? 00:51:18 Featured Interview: Comic writer Scott Wilk on Frost, the Periwinkle universe, and writing morally gray characters 01:06:45 Network updates: Capital Creative Showcase, Challenge Accepted, Disney Moms Gone Wrong, Anime Plus 01:07:52 Weekly recommendations: Marvel Knights, Marvel Rivals auto chess, and more 01:11:18 Closing remarks and Patreon shoutouts Key Takeaways: The new 007 game could recapture the GoldenEye spirit but needs to avoid Hitman’s frustrations. Resident Evil: Requiem will blend first and third person for new horror experiences, with a return to Raccoon City. Clockwork Revolution is one of the most exciting new Xbox titles, with Bioshock Infinite vibes and unique mechanics. IGN Live delivered great panels and early looks, including Critical Role’s next projects and a new Invincible fighter. Comic writer Scott Wilk’s Frost expands the dark, stylish Periwinkle universe with John Wick-style action and layered characters. Switch 2 hardware impresses, but the game library is still growing. Quotes: "You should be able to play 007 however you want." "Clockwork Revolution gave me BioShock Infinite vibes." "The Xbox handheld should have been an Xbox device, not a partnership." "Stranger Things seasons take so long I lose interest, but I’m still looking forward to closure." "Jack Frost is trying to break free of his father’s shadow and be more than what he was created to be." Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast platform, leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast and #IGNLive2025! Help more geeks discover the show. Links and Resources: Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all news and updates from this episode. SCOTT WILKE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottwilke24/ Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast Threads: threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspod Instagram: instagram.com/geekfreakspodcast Listener Questions: What did you think of the Xbox Showcase? Are you picking up the Switch 2? Let us know! Send your thoughts and questions on social media or through GeekFreaksPodcast.com and we might feature them on an upcoming episode. Apple Podcast Tags: 007 game, Resident Evil Requiem, Xbox Showcase 2025, IGN Live 2025, Clockwork Revolution, Outer Worlds 2, Invincible game, Switch 2 review, Scott Wilk interview, Periwinkle saga, Frost comic, Stranger Things final season, Geek Freaks Podcast
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • King of the Hill Is Back, EA Cancels Black Panther, Switch 2 Prep, and Comic Teacher Mark Daumier Joins Us

    King of the Hill Is Back, EA Cancels Black Panther, Switch 2 Prep, and Comic Teacher Mark Daumier Joins Us
    Jun 4 2025
    Here's the properly reformatted version, following your preferred timestamp style and spacing: In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank and Squeaks sit down with middle school teacher Mark Daumier, who’s using comic books to revolutionize how kids engage with reading. Mark shares how he turned his love of comics into a classroom staple, building a library of over 14,000 comics and using them to teach visual literacy, historical events, and critical thinking. Plus, the Geek Freaks crew breaks down everything from the new King of the Hill revival and Vision series casting to the cancellation of EA’s Black Panther game and the Switch 2 release. If you’re a fan of comics, games, or how pop culture shapes education, this one’s for you. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 – Introduction and Patreon shoutouts 00:45 – Guest Preview: Mark Daumier's comic-based classroom 02:09 – Comfort Games: Mass Effect, Space Marine, and Animal Crossing 04:01 – King of the Hill revival and modern updates to the cast 08:24 – Marvel Vision Series: Jocasta’s debut and Ultron’s return 12:12 – EA cancels Black Panther game, industry layoffs discussed 20:34 – Pokémon Legends Z-A and Switch 2 impressions 26:35 – Full breakdown of the Switch 2’s hardware, internet issues, and accessory talk 31:09 – Upcoming Switch 2 games and gimmicky features 33:00 – Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Cyberpunk on Switch 33:16 – Interview: Mark Daumier on comic books in the classroom 35:50 – Comic book reading comprehension and visual learning 38:01 – Mark’s early comic fandom and Spider-Man subscription 43:44 – Teaching narrative structures and novel writing with comics 47:12 – Star Wars and pop culture in student assignments 50:03 – Comic fandoms, MCU popularity, and Thunderbolts in class 59:19 – Advice for teachers: meeting students where they are 01:01:10 – Watchlist: Ironheart, The Bear, Squid Game Season 3 01:02:33 – Movie Talk: Ballerina, How to Train Your Dragon, 28 Years Later 01:04:22 – Pixar's Leo and the debate around Disney originals 01:06:13 – F1 with Brad Pitt and Megan 2.0 reactions 01:07:42 – Recommendations of the Week: Warhammer Darktide and Marvel’s Darth Vader (2020) Key Takeaways: Comics help bridge the gap for students who struggle with traditional reading. Mark Daumier uses over 14,000 comics in his curriculum, including creative assignments like comic-style reports. Comics like Watchmen and Dark Knight Returns are powerful but carefully used depending on student maturity. Star Wars, Captain America, and Spider-Man continue to resonate with students. The Vision series and Jocasta casting hint at deeper Marvel storytelling on the horizon. EA’s canceled Black Panther game reflects broader industry issues. The Switch 2 launches with improvements but raises concerns about internet requirements. Original stories from Disney and Pixar are in demand more than retellings. Memorable Quotes: “If you read 20–25 comic books, that's the same as reading a novel.” — Mark Daumier “Comics help kids visualize what they're reading. That unlocks everything else.” — Mark Daumier “I was like, can I teach in your class now?” — Frank Lourence “Nintendo throws stuff at the wall to see what sticks. Sometimes they reinvent the industry.” — Squeaks Call to Action: Love what you heard? Subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Share this episode with the hashtag #GeekFreaksPod to join the conversation. Links and Resources: Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest news, episode archives, and updates from the Geek Freaks Network. Follow Us: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Patreon: Geek Freaks on Patreon Listener Questions: Got a favorite comic you think would be perfect for a classroom? Want to share what game helps you unwind after a long day? Send us your thoughts on social or through our website, and we might feature them in a future episode. Apple Podcast Tags: comics in education, comic book teaching, King of the Hill revival, MCU Vision series, Jocasta, Marvel casting news, Nintendo Switch 2, Pokémon Legends Z-A, EA game cancellations, Star Wars comics, Darth Vader, Warhammer 40K, geek culture podcast, classroom learning, pop culture in schools
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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Galactus Leaks, Elden Ring Movie, Barry Lyga Interview, and More

    Galactus Leaks, Elden Ring Movie, Barry Lyga Interview, and More
    May 27 2025
    This packed Geek Freaks Headlines episode covers the biggest pop-culture stories of the week and features a candid interview with bestselling author Barry Lyga. Frank, Squeaks, and Jon trade thoughts on Marvel’s shifting release calendar, a photo-confirmed Galactus design, the surprise Elden Ring film from Alex Garland and A24, fresh casting for Street Fighter, Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, and Netflix’s Avatar seasons two and three. Squeaks reports from the brand-new Nintendo San Francisco store, and Barry Lyga reveals how Free Comic Book Day began, why writing Thanos kept him up at night, and what to expect from his new anthology Before the Hunt. Timestamps & Topics 00:00:00 Intro + Patreon extended-cut plug00:00:59 Underrated-comic spotlight00:07:50 Marvel delays — Doomsday & Secret Wars00:13:57 Galactus merch leak & reactions00:18:16 Elden Ring movie announcement00:24:55 Street Fighter casting rundown00:29:16 Kieran Culkin joins Hunger Games00:31:27 Netflix Avatar S2–S3 casting news00:33:48 Local-shop vs. trades discussion00:43:51 Barry Lyga interview begins01:06:50 Origin of Free Comic Book Day01:14:44 Nintendo San Francisco store deep-dive01:22:23 Network events & upcoming cons01:23:37 Host recommendations01:27:08 Outro Key Takeaways Marvel reshuffle: Avengers Doomsday arrives 18 December 2026, Secret Wars on 7 May 2027, pushing Spider-Man and other tie-ins. Galactus confirmed: Snapple merch shows the planet-eater in full armor, size will fluctuate just like classic issues. Elden Ring to cinema: Director Alex Garland promises practical effects and large-scale monsters in an atmospheric fantasy. Casting blitz: Jason Momoa and Roman Reigns circle Street Fighter roles, Kieran Culkin joins Hunger Games, and Avatar adds White Lotus alumnus Dichen Lachman as Avatar Yangchen. Nintendo SF: Two-story flagship offers exclusive Donkey Kong fleece, statues, and Mario Kart gaming bay overlooking Union Square. Barry Lyga insights: Superman writing anxiety eased by Mark Waid’s advice Thanos: Titan Consumed drafted before Infinity War yet matched the film’s tone “Free Comic Book Day started with zero budget and one bold letter.” Comics access: Trades, library shelves, and broad digital options remain vital for new readers. Memorable Quotes “I wrote that Thor line a month before I saw Infinity War.” – Barry Lyga “You can tell I do not take myself seriously, but I take the work very seriously.” – Barry Lyga “Walking into the Nintendo store feels like stepping inside a Switch home screen.” – Squeaks Call to Action Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, leave a quick review, and share the episode with friends using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Get the full uncut conversation plus bonus Wheel of Time chat free on Patreon. Links & Resources News source hub: https://GeekFreaksPodcast.com Barry Lyga’s works and “Before the Hunt” anthology: https://barrylyga.com Geek Freaks Patreon (extended cuts & perks): https://www.patreon.com/GeekFreaksPodcast Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast Threads: https://www.threads.net/@geekfreakspodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/geekfreakspodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/geekfreakspod Listener Questions Got thoughts on the Galactus look or Elden Ring casting dreams? Send questions or voice memos via our socials above and we may feature you next episode. apple podcast tags: marvel, galactus, elden ring, street fighter, hunger games, avatar the last airbender, nintendo, san francisco, barry lyga, free comic book day, comics, geek culture keywords: Marvel Secret Wars, Avengers Doomsday, Galactus leak, Elden Ring movie, Street Fighter film cast, Hunger Games Sunrise on the Reaping, Netflix Avatar casting, Nintendo store San Francisco, Barry Lyga interview, Free Comic Book Day origin
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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • Andor’s Legacy, Superman Returns, Ironheart Arrives and AI Vader Chaos | with Author Richard Sparks

    Andor’s Legacy, Superman Returns, Ironheart Arrives and AI Vader Chaos | with Author Richard Sparks
    May 20 2025
    Frank and Jonathan rate Andor’s Season-2 finale a near-perfect 9/10, debate the brand-new Superman trailer, and break down Marvel’s first Ironheart footage. They also react to Fortnite’s glitchy AI Darth Vader and sit down with fantasy author Richard Sparks to explore his MMO-inspired series New Rock, New Role. If you crave deep-dive Star Wars analysis, fresh trailer reactions, and book recommendations, this episode is your ultimate geek catch-up. Timestamps & Topics TimeTopic 00:00Intro & episode roadmap 00:00:30Richard Sparks teaser – New Rock, New Role 00:02:37Capital Creative Showcase + listener feedback 00:03:41 Ironheart trailer analysis (Riri Williams, The Hood, Mephisto) 00:08:25Tech vs. mysticism in Ironheart 00:10:00 Superman trailer deep-dive (Lois interview, DCU world-building) 00:17:21 Andor Season-2 spoiler review begins 00:25:40 Cassian meets K-2SO – humor & stakes 00:26:44 Trauma, sacrifice, and everyday rebels 00:29:24 Final ratings: Andor gets a 9/10 00:31:02 News flash: Jessica Jones, Punisher, Ralph Fiennes in Hunger Games 00:35:12 Avatar: The Last Airbender movie delay 00:38:48 Netflix’s Gears of War movie & tone worries 00:42:43 Thor 5 rumor—Chris Hemsworth wants a darker tone 00:44:47 AI Darth Vader glitch in Fortnite — ethics & chaos 00:50:01 Feature interview: Author Richard Sparks 01:25:44 Around-the-network updates & Jonathan’s watch-list 01:30:30 Weekly recommendations & sign-off Key Takeaways Andor sets a new Star Wars benchmark with mature politics, everyday-hero focus, and a finale that bridges perfectly into Rogue One. Ironheart promises a scrappy, community-driven story that contrasts Tony Stark’s privilege with Riri Williams’ Chicago roots. The new Superman trailer revives the Christopher Reeve optimism while dropping viewers into a fully populated DCU. AI voice clones (like Fortnite’s Darth Vader) are hype-worthy but need tighter safeguards before brands unleash them. Richard Sparks’ New Rock series mixes MMO mechanics, 80s fantasy, and laugh-out-loud camaraderie—perfect for fans of Ready Player One and Willow. Memorable Quotes “Andor proves real rebellion relies on janitors jamming door locks, not just Jedi with lightsabers.” – Frank “Riri Williams is Iron Man if Tony grew up on the South Side and had to build a Mark I from junkyard scraps.” – Frank “AI Vader sounded amazing…until the Internet taught him four-letter words.” – Jonathan Call to Action Love the show? Follow Geek Freaks on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Your shout-outs help other fans discover us! Links & Resources Full geek news feed: GeekFreaksPodcast.com (source of all stories) Richard Sparks’ books: New Rock, New Role & New Rock, New Realm Watch the Ironheart and Superman trailers on our site Follow Us Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter/X: @geekfreakspod Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Patreon: Geek Freaks Podcast Listener Questions What blew you away in the Andor finale? Are you hyped for Ironheart? Drop your questions or hot takes and we’ll feature them in a future mailbag segment! Apple Podcasts Tags Andor finale, Star Wars, Andor review, Ironheart trailer, Riri Williams, Superman trailer, DCU reboot, AI Darth Vader, Fortnite, Richard Sparks interview, New Rock New Role, Geek Freaks Podcast, Marvel Disney Plus, Star Wars podcast, geek news, fantasy books, pop-culture breakdown
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    1 hr and 33 mins
  • Star Wars' Toxic Fans, Peacemaker's Back, Clayface Rewrites, and GTA Delayed Again

    Star Wars' Toxic Fans, Peacemaker's Back, Clayface Rewrites, and GTA Delayed Again
    May 13 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank, Thomas, and Jonathan are back from the Mother's Day break with a packed discussion! They break down the new Peacemaker Season 2 trailer, explore the casting shake-up for the upcoming Clayface movie, and share thoughts on whether Star Wars fans are becoming too hard to please. Plus, hear which character deaths hit them hardest growing up, and catch updates on the booming Fallout series, Thunderbolts comic rebrand, and GTA 6’s delay. It’s a wild ride through geek culture, nostalgia, and fan expectations. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 Introduction and Disney Moms podcast shoutout 00:49 Which fictional character death hit the hardest 03:12 Instagram listener responses 05:47 Robb Stark’s betrayal and emotional impact 06:23 Peacemaker Season 2 trailer breakdown 10:12 Is the DCU off to a weak start? 14:44 Thoughts on the Clayface script rewrite 17:48 Thunderbolts rebranded as New Avengers 21:56 Is Marvel trying too hard to align comics with movies? 26:10 Forecasting Avengers: Doomsday’s five-team lineup 28:31 Fallout series future and New Vegas excitement 33:33 GTA 6 delayed until 2026 37:07 Are Star Wars fans too hard to please? 51:00 The toxic side of fandom and how to fix it 57:30 Why Star Wars casts need better protection 01:00:09 Final thoughts on nostalgia, missed chances, and evolution of fan behavior 01:01:30 Geek Freaks Network news 01:03:22 Weekly recommendations from the hosts Key Takeaways: Peacemaker Season 2 might bridge DCU timelines with multiverse twists. The Clayface film is shifting tone with a new writer, sparking concern. The new Thunderbolts comic is rebranded as The New Avengers, but not all fans are buying the change. Fallout is already planned through Season 5, signaling massive investment in the franchise. GTA 6 delay is seen as necessary to maintain Rockstar’s near-perfect track record. Star Wars discourse is dominated by vocal negativity, often before fans have seen new content. Healthy fan engagement means watching, evaluating, and building community—not canceling creators. Ahsoka, Andor, Skeleton Crew, and Acolyte show that Star Wars is diversifying for different audiences. Studios need to better protect and prepare actors for the toxic wave of online fandom. Memorable Quotes: "If you’re not watching Peacemaker, you’re doing yourself a disservice. It’s phenomenal TV." – Thomas "Star Wars didn’t change. You just didn’t know what it was about when you were a kid." – Frank "Shared trauma is what bonds us. Like Mufasa dying in The Lion King—we all lived through that." – Jonathan "It might not be for you. But it might be someone’s favorite Star Wars, and that matters." – Frank "The fandom won’t grow if we gatekeep. Let new fans fall in love the same way we did." – Thomas Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a fellow geek and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Use the hashtag #GeekFreaksPod to join the conversation online! Links and Resources: 🔗 GeekFreaksPodcast.com – your source for all our news and episodes 📘 Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast 📸 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast 🐦 Twitter: @geekfreakspod 🧵 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast 🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast Listener Questions: Have thoughts about Acolyte, Andor, or how fandoms are evolving? Send us your takes and we might read them on the next episode! Apple Podcast Tags: Geek Culture, Star Wars, Peacemaker, Fallout TV Series, GTA 6 Delay, Thunderbolts, Marvel Comics, Clayface Movie, DCU News, Fandom Culture, Podcast, Entertainment News
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Aubrey Sitterson Breaks Down Free Planet and the Fight for Real Freedom

    Aubrey Sitterson Breaks Down Free Planet and the Fight for Real Freedom
    May 7 2025
    In this special bonus episode of Geek Freaks, Frank is joined by acclaimed comic book writer Aubrey Sitterson to explore the radical, sci-fi world of Free Planet, his new series from Image Comics. Known for his bold storytelling and politically rich narratives, Aubrey takes us deep into the philosophical core of Free Planet, unpacking its themes of revolution, freedom, and the cost of building a better world. With deep dives into the creative process, the influence of history and anthropology, and the collaboration with artist Jed Dougherty, this episode is packed with insight and fire. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 – Intro: Why this bonus episode matters 00:19 – Who is Aubrey Sitterson? Background and work 01:03 – The concept behind Free Planet 02:08 – Revolution, history, and political roots 04:30 – Defining real freedom and post-war challenges 07:53 – Layouts, spreads, and comic as object 09:46 – Balancing personal drama with large-scale politics 12:30 – Research-driven worldbuilding over aesthetics 18:06 – Interpersonal conflict as a reflection of ideology 22:34 – Creative process with Jed Dougherty 25:54 – Lettering innovations and character voice 28:01 – The unreliable narrator and historical context 34:11 – Print vs digital: Why Free Planet demands paper 43:01 – Final reflections and what’s next Key Takeaways: Aubrey Sitterson uses Free Planet to challenge conventional ideas of freedom and revolution. The comic is deeply researched, pulling from real-world political and cultural movements. Free Planet is built as a print-first experience, with double-page spreads, maps, and dense visual storytelling. The creative team—Jed Dougherty, Taylor Esposito, and Vittorio Astone—elevate the book’s layered vision. The book includes in-world historical commentary that questions neutrality and narrative control. Sitterson aims to create work that demands attention and resists passive reading. Quotes: “The only freedom worth having is the freedom you fight for.” – Aubrey Sitterson “We made Free Planet for people who want to sit with something and really think.” – Aubrey “Talon’s fan reaction was so strong, I had to restructure the story just to give him more space.” – Aubrey “There’s a difference between mimicking aesthetics and actually building something from the same roots.” – Aubrey Call to Action: Love these kinds of deep-dive interviews? Subscribe to Geek Freaks, leave a review, and share this episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Bonus episodes like this are just one of the many ways we celebrate creators and storytellers in geek culture. Links and Resources: All news and updates from this episode at GeekFreaksPodcast.com Pick up Free Planet from Image Comics — Available now at your local comic shop! Follow Us: Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast Listener Questions: Got a favorite indie comic or creator you think we should feature? Let us know on social or at GeekFreaksPodcast.com! Apple Podcast Tags: comics, sci-fi comics, Free Planet, Aubrey Sitterson, Image Comics, political comics, comic book creators, independent comics, comic interviews, revolutionary stories, space opera, speculative fiction, graphic novels, comic book podcast
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    47 mins