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Intro WW84 review Background (03:30) Scarlet Witch, Wanda Maximoff created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in The X-Men #4 (March 1964) Vision created by Roy Thomas, Stan Lee, and John Buscema in Avengers 57 (Oct. 1968) Both were villains originally opposed to Avengers before joining their ranks Wanda and Quicksilver are twins, born of Magda, wife of Magneto - originally believed they were the children of the Whizzer, before becoming Magneto's children, and then not actually mutants - raised by Bova, a half cow woman genetically enhanced by the High Evolutionary - BECAUSE COMICS, PEOPLE Vision has the body of the original Human Torch, Jim Hammond, with the brain patterns of Simon Williams, aka Wonder Man - he was created by Ultron-5 in an effort to battle against Hank Pym - later learned that Immortus split Hammond into 2 entities, in an effort to prevent Wanda from having children In 1970, Wanda rejoins the team and soon becomes romantically involved with Vision, despite their obvious differences  They get married in Giant Size Avengers #4, and later star in 2 limited series titled Vision & Scarlet Witch - they move to Leonia, New Jersey Wanda uses her hex powers to give birth to twins, William and Thomas Vision is dismantled, and when he's rebuilt he no longer has Simon's brain waves, so he is an emotionless android The children are revealed to be fragments of Mephisto's soul, and are reabsorbed into him - this drives Wanda mad She uses chaos magic to create distractions and attack the Avengers, including taking control of Vision’s body and using it to launch Ultron drones - She-Hulk rips Vision in half Wanda’s insanity leads to House of M, where she recreates reality to a world where Magento and his family rule the world - as the heroes fight back, Wanda finally snaps and declares “no more mutants” - the world returns to “normal”, but the overwhelming majority of mutants have lost their powers, leaving only a few hundred with abilities Wiccan and Speed from the Young Avengers believe themselves to be reincarnations of William & Thomas, and seek out Wanda, hoping to undo her insanity Vision gets reassembled by Tony Stark, and although he forgives Jen for ripping him apart, he does not forgive Wanda for using him to attack their friends, and forbids her from entering Avengers Mansion Issues (25:18) Wanda - uncertainty about her past and family connections Vision - constantly questioning validity of his emotions, and whether he can truly feel connected to anyone (33:16) Marriage - constantly under threat not only from external forces, but their own unique pairing (41:35) Break (52:49) Plugs for Frigay the 13th, Huuh?, and Jeremy Whitley Treatment (54:43) In-universe - Doc and Wanda do journaling; ask Vision who and what he wants to be Out of universe - (58:36) Ending Recommended reading: Vision & Scarlet Witch miniseries Review read: dcdc23 - Fantastic show! If you’re a fan of superheroes and also fascinated by the human mind then You’ll love this show. Both the hosts are a delight and I’m so glad I found this podcast! Next episodes: Clones, Catwoman (Ariel), Levana Blackburn (Ruby) Plugs for social References: Hank Pym episode - Anthony (08:53) Rent “La Vie Boheme” - Doc (46:36) Triple H - I am the Game - Doc (64:22) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

Intro Welcome back for Season 5  Describe changes to show New website Patrons now guest on trade paperback reviews Ariel’s column - Some Of Its Parts Background (03:52) Maxwell Lord created by Keith Giffen, JM DeMatteis, and Kevin Maguire in Justice League #1 (May 1987) Father was a businessman who committed suicide after a product he created caused cancer, and his mother convinced him that powerful people cannot be trusted In the post-Crisis world, he wanted to bring the Justice League together - was actually under the control of a supercomputer created by Metron Later breaks free of the control of the computer, and befriends the League Gains mild telepathy during the Invasion event, and instead of using the powers for good, begins to distrust the metahuman community - using the powers gives him a nosebleed After being injured in a battle, he gains a cyborg-like body, but has to battle Kilg%re the computer for control Countdown to Infinite Crisis - he kills Ted Kord, the second Blue Beetle, and reveals that he is in control of a global surveillance network on the Justice League Controls Superman to have him attack Batman and Wonder Woman - Diana snaps his neck to stop him, but the footage goes viral and her reputation is destroyed Booster Gold tries to go back in time to prevent Lord from killing Ted Kord, but all it does is make things worse, so Booster realizes Ted has to die for a better future Lord is resurrected during Blackest Night/Brightest Day, and uses technology to boost his powers, making the world forget him - then uses tech to create an army of robots to attack the Justice League, and kills Jamie Reyes, the third Blue Beetle, the same way he killed Ted New 52/Rebirth - reboots him as head of Checkmate, a secret government organization - he is the Black King, and uses his position and power to pit metahumans against one another Later ends up as part of Amanda Waller’s Task Force XI, aka another Suicide Squad Issues (7:56) Distrust of metahumans despite being one of them Overbearing mother (17:30) Need to be in control (25:20) Break (33:43) Plugs for Not If I Reboot You First, Parent Quest, and Howard Mackie Treatment (35:53) In-universe - Use fibers of Lasso of Truth to keep Maxwell more honest and self-aware Out of universe - Use ketamine in place of lasso to help person experience things outside their immediate sphere Skit (42:14) Ending (49:52) Recommended reading: Justice League/Justice League International (The Giffen/DeMatteis years), Infinite Crisis Next episodes: Vision/Scarlet Witch relationship, Clones, Catwoman Plugs for social References: Booster Gold episode - Doc (6:28) “Parents Just Don’t Understand” - Anthony (25:12) She-Hulk episode - Doc (27:38) Lex Luthor episode - Anthony (41:49) Wilson Fisk episode - Anthony (41:50) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

Hi everyone, we're releasing this mini-episode for a few reasons: We want to test our RSS feed and make sure things still work correctly with the new site. To tell everyone about the changes to the website and our new domain! To let everyone know Ariel will be writing a column for us this year, "(Some Of) Its Parts". To tell everyone about the new additions to our Patreon, and how Patrons will be able to join us on our TPB review episodes! There's more to come in 2021, but we wanted to give you a sneak peek of what we're cooking up! -Anthony

We wrap up Season 4 as we cover Power Man, LUKE CAGE! How can Doc help this man of the streets be a better man off the streets? Plus a fun pitch for a new comic book - listen now! SHOW NOTES:  Issue 103 - Luke Cage (Ruby) Intro Season finale - Clones will be pushed to January Anthony’s livestream for Extra Life coming 11/28 Background (4:14) Luke Cage created by Archie Goodwin, Roy Thomas, George Tuska, and John Romita Sr. in Luke Cage, Hero for Hire #1 (June 1972) Carl Lucas grew up in Harlem with his best friend Willis Stryker, but Carl left the gang lifestyle while Willis embraced it After Willis’s girlfriend left him and sought Carl’s help, Willis framed Carl and sent him to prison, where he was beaten by a racist guard He volunteered for an experimental procedure for cellular regeneration, but the guard tampered with it in an attempt to kill him - the procedure gave him unbreakable skin and super strength He escaped prison, returned to Harlem, changed his name to Luke Cage, and sought to make a living as a hero for hire Befriends Danny Rand, the Iron Fist, and the two partner up  Has a drunken one-night stand with Jessica Jones, but the two begin dating after she reveals she’s pregnant During Civil War, he and Jessica work as part of the Secret Avengers underground - later takes the lead of the New Avengers team Leaves the team to focus on taking care of Jessica and their daughter Danielle Still assists heroes when Harlem or New York need saving Issues (12:10) Focus on street level issues instead of world saving stuff occasionally puts him at odds with other heroes Family man first & foremost - will not endanger his wife or daughter (22:36) Man unaccustomed to talking about feelings Break (44:33) Plugs for Grief Burrito, Perfect Package Podcast, and Erica Schultz Treatment (46:13) In-universe - Use nodal connections and put him in different situations to help him expand his circle Out of universe - Overcome stigma for Black men in therapy setting (51:09) Skit (62:03) Ending (68:19) Recommended reading: Power Man & Iron Fist Epic Collection, New Avengers by Brian Michael Bendis Thanks for love & support - see you in January! Plugs for social References: Jessica Jones episode - Anthony (05:54) Airplane - “I speak jive!” - Anthony (09:46) Click - Anthony (29:58) Bruce Lee - "Be water" - Anthony (41:56) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

The Mental Health Avengers have reunited, and this time we're taking on the prison system! Why do so many unwell prisoners get mistreated? What can be done to help them? Listen now! SHOW NOTES: Mental Health Avengers III: The Injustice System Intro GuardiansMH: Dr. Goku & Matt Freudian Sips: Anna References: Ashley Smith inquest - Dr. Goku (35:50) Project Hospitality | Rebuilding Lives Since 1982  - Matt Justice Involved Services - Dr. Issues Stepping Up Initiative - Anna Prison Policy Initiative - Anna Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We go back to the Robin well, this time for Tim Drake! Just because he may be the smartest Robin doesn't make him the best - find out why! SHOW NOTES:  Issue 102 - Tim Drake Intro Shoutout to To Know Her is to Fear Her, the Spider-Woman podcast - cohosted by Rey from ITK Reminder of TeePublic sale Background (02:48) Tim Drake created by Marv Wolfman and Pat Broderick in Batman #436 (August 1989) The third Robin, young Tim Drake visited the circus the night the Graysons were killed - later deduced Batman & Robin’s identities, and decided to teach himself martial arts to follow in their footsteps Offered himself to Dick Grayson as a new Robin following the death of Jason Todd - Bruce initially hesitant, but puts Tim through rigorous training before giving him the costume When Bruce retires after Knightfall, Tim works alongside Jean-Paul Valley, but distrusts him and his methods, and helps Bruce reclaim the Batman mantle Began dating Stephanie Brown (Spoiler), and then forced to retire from being Robin after his father discovered his secret After Stephanie and his father were both killed, he moved to Bludhaven to get away from Gotham Battled both a resurrected Jason Todd and Damian Wayne for the Robin title When Bruce “dies” and Dick takes over, he makes Damian the new Robin, so Tim becomes Red Robin and looks for Bruce - when Bruce returns, Tim takes over the Teen Titans New 52 - backstory rewritten - he’s a young hacker who draws the wrath of the Penguin, so his family goes into witness protection, and he’s taken under Bruce Wayne’s tutelage, where he becomes Red Robin out of respect for the dead Jason Todd - once again serves as leader of the Titans Rebirth - retcons to original backstory Issues (6:26) Being “self-taught” in any area leads to unknown pitfalls Loss of multiple fathers (13:08) Sole dissenter against Bruce’s death - loyalty vs. what’s “right” (22:36) Break (34:11) Plugs for Into the Knight, Sips Suds & Smokes, and Gail Simone Treatment (35:58) In-universe - Shadow Alfred, learn from him on how to serve while remaining humble Out of universe - Big Brother/Big Sister mentor type programs to help adolescents (39:33) Skit (46:44) Ending (53:14) Recommended reading: Robin, the Chuck Dixon run - any point of the series works Next episodes: Luke Cage, Clones Plugs for social References: Ra’s al Ghul episode - Anthony Jason Todd episode - Anthony Dick Grayson episode - Anthony Azrael episode - Anthony Damian Wayne episode - Anthony Alfred episode - Anthony (39:17) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

Flip a coin - heads, you listen to us analyze Two-Face. Tails, you listen to us analyze Harvey Dent. Either way, you're getting a realistic discussion of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. SHOW NOTES: Intro Mentioned in Podcast Magazine - “Under the Radar” section TeePublic sale - Nov. 4-6, 11-13, 17-20, 26-27, 29-30 Background (4:45) Two-Face (Harvey Dent) created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane in Detective Comics #66 (August 1942) In his first appearance, he's Harvey Kent, later renamed to avoid confusion with Superman  He's an attorney who gets acid thrown in his face during cross examination, and chooses to embrace the duality of his appearance - uses a coin flip to determine his actions "Cured" due to plastic surgery   Crisis reinvented his past - grew up with abusive father, who would flip a coin to determine whether to beat him   Diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, but he worked through them to become DA in Gotham - worked as an ally of Batman and Gordon, until he was attacked with acid by Sal Maroni  No Man’s Land - Two-Face controls a portion of Gotham, but during the “trial” of Commissioner Gordon, he calls upon Harvey Dent to serve as his defense attorney, forcing Dent to “cross-examine” Two-Face, and he acquits Gordon Healed by Dr. Thomas Elliot, aka Hush, who attempted to blackmail Dent to help him against Batman, but Dent is “cured” of his bipolar - until murders pop up with Two-Face’s MO, implicating Dent, and the Two-Face persona resurfaces, causing him to re-scar himself New 52 - now his origin is that of a defense attorney whose clients try to kill Commissioner Gordon - he then becomes DA and prosecutes them - one of them disfigures him with acid - later battles Batman and reveals he knows his identity, before attempting suicide Rebirth - The attempt effectively destroyed the Dent persona, but convinced Batman “Harvey” was still in there, if only Batman would help him with the cure - Batman sedated Dent and forced the dual identities to remain Issues (08:22) Bipolar - THAT’S NOT HOW IT WORKS Schizophrenia - THAT’S NOT HOW IT WORKS (15:32) Abusive childhood - OK, that’s fairly accurate (21:38) Break (28:25) Plugs for Occultae Veritatis, We’re All Mad Here, and Meredith Finch Treatment (30:12) In-universe - Treatment for recidivist activity stemming from trauma Out of universe - Work on assisting with decision fatigue, and use “coin flip” for small decisions while leaving thought and time for big ones (34:58) Skit (44:30) Ending (52:17) Recommended reading: The Long Halloween by Jeph Loeb & Tim Sale Next episodes: Tim Drake, Luke Cage, Clones Plugs for social References: Nadia van Dyne episode - Anthony (12:53) Deadpool episode - Doc (18:15) Joker episode - Doc (18:17) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

As a special bonus, here's the recap rap in our 100th episode! LYRICS: When Doc and I first dreamed about creating a podcast We never thought in a million years it was gon' last But more than two and a half years have gone past And one hundred episodes of absolutely fantastic Characters, drastic masters, and bombastic bastards As we mix the scholastic and sarcastic faster Than you can say gone to lightspeed But here's a little something that we thought you might need In case you haven't caught up on all of your downloads I'm'a rap a recap, are you ready, here it goes It all started off with Eddie Brock, y'know Venom No wonder he's so angry with a symbiote in 'em Then Doc's fave, the Joker, we had drinks with Tony Stark And my boy Moon Knight, you know things got pretty dark Badass chicks Quinn and Jones givin' men the boot Rorschach's issue's seeing everything as absolute Deadpool interrupted us with porn and masturbation Booster hopes one day that he can rise above his station Tried to break through Freeze, but yo that ice is pretty thick When it comes to Cyclops you know Scott is a dick Legion, Question, Sentry, they're too crazy for this rap And Hank Pym wishes everyone could just move past the slap Casey Jones and Scarecrow like to hide behind their masks While Jamie Madrox splits up so he handles many tasks Our fans picked the Governor, a good ol' Southern man Hank Henshaw only wishes he could be Superman Logan needs a break so he can find himself a lover Molecule Man needs to break away from control by his mother Stephen Strange should give up magic and go back to surgery Then we talked about the Hulk with friends Popcorn Psychology Kingpin threatened Doc, but that ended pretty badly Mister Miracle and Barda clearly love each other madly Jonah just wants pictures of that menace Spider-Man And Black Manta wants out of the shadow of Aquaman Chief and Negan think that tragedy makes them great While Doc told Cap America that he should masturbate Constantine and Talia needed better vocal actors While Nadia van Dyne is accurate on many factors Callum Cooper and the Riddler think they're both really smart Jen Walters takes being green with envy to an art Jason Todd and Cletus Kasady had messed up childhoods So did Ultimate Reed Richards, at least he started off as good Roy Harper made us cry with his story, it's so tragic And Colossus needs to work things out with his kid sister Magik Bane and terrorism go together, hand in glove But the Tick is too ridiculous and silly not to love Kamala should stop putting heroes up on a pedestal Shredder's history of failure is really quite incredible Dick Grayson does it all and also has the perfect ass While Laura needs to learn how to interact with some more class Forgotten Home's a story about learning who you are Raphael's anger is justified but he takes it too far Uatu watches over you and can be pretty creepy Damian had no childhood but isn't very weepy Apocalypse thinks he's the savior of all mutantkind Baphomet's development is truly quite divine The Beast's an intellectual, but all he does is worry If Ego's coming after you, you'd best leave in a hurry So that's all of our episodes, this rap has been a frenzy Spitting rhymes over this beat thanks to my buddy Eric Menzie And last not least thanks to our fans, especially our Patrons We appreciate you sticking with us, showing off your patience Who knows where the next hundred shows will take us, but I'll vouch That they'll be fun and helpful, that's what makes Capes on the Couch   Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

IT'S OUR 100TH EPISODE! We've got awards! We've got mailbags! We've got... a rap song? Listen now! SHOW NOTES: Intro Thank you’s Awards/AMA One thing you want on a billboard (06:40) Favorite thematic episode (11:34) What’s next for the show (14:21) Favorite Dr. Issues pun (23:34) Have you ever considered diagnosing a Transformer? (26:05) Worst vocal performance (28:05) What are you watching/reading (31:04) What character do you want to do but mythos is too shallow/deep (37:16) Favorite DC episode (42:21) Excited to see on the big screen (44:03) Favorite non sequitur/pop culture reference (46:02) Favorite humorous skit (49:16) Favorite in-universe treatment (52:18) Christmas or Halloween movies (53:10) Favorite Marvel episode (57:32) Favorite non-Big 2 episode (59:10) Best vocal performance (60:21) Most well-adjusted character (63:20) Favorite dramatic skit (67:49) Favorite overall skit (68:26) Patreon thank you’s (70:52)  Podcasting thank you’s (77:45) Recap rap (86:03) Favorite episode overall (91:00) Ending Next episodes: Two-Face Plugs for social References: Simpsons Planet of the Apes - Anthony (02:48) "I Know My Calculus" by 2Gether - Anthony (23:53) The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel - Doc (34:45) Chip n Dale’s Rescue Rangers - Anthony (38:02) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We travel to the Black Galaxy to examine our largest character yet - EGO THE LIVING PLANET! Strap in for a wild ride - this one goes deep into Ego's core! SHOW NOTES:   Intro New patrons - Mayor Jeanine & Local Official Travis A few days left to vote Background (05:25) Ego the Living Planet created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Thor #132 (Sept. 1966) A scientist named Egros tried in vain to save his planet and people from the Stranger, but when the planet exploded, Egros was merged with all of his people and the planet to create Ego, the Living Planet #becausecomics Began destroying ships that approached his area, until he was fought and defeated by Thor Later allied with Thor against Galactus, who wished to consume him - allowed a group called the Wanderers, who were homeless after Galactus destroyed their planet, to live on his surface - later consumed all the Wanderers after going mad due to experiments on him by a Rigellian scientist Heads to Earth seeking vengeance - defeated by the Fantastic Four, who use his rockets to propel him into the sun, where he disintegrates Reforms from a few particles - eventually goes mad again and attacks worlds, looking for similar planets - defeated by Professor X and other mutants Captured by the Kree and sent to Earth in spore form, in an attempt to weaponize him against the Earth - absorbed by Quasar Upon Quasar’s death, Ego was released back into the universe Learned he had a brother, Alter-Ego, who had been imprisoned since his creation, and seeks him out - Alter Ego attacks him, and Ego defeats him in self defense - the Elemental Zephyr recreates a smaller version of Alter-Ego, who now orbits Ego as a moon Eternity War - given a body by Galactus the Lifebringer, and joins the Eternity Watch to help save Eternity from imprisonment by the First Firmament Issues (09:23) Befitting his name, superiority complex Loneliness over being one of the only of his kind (19:45) Difficulty of logistically interacting with anyone (28:10) Break (37:07) Plugs for Cast Junkie, Last Sons of Krypton, and Al Ewing Treatment (39:20) In-universe - Focus on other planetary characters to get Ego’s worldview to change Out of universe - Discussion of psychotherapy (44:33) Skit (52:01) Ending (56:38) Recommended reading: older Thor books - 132-133, 155-161, 226-228 Next episodes: 100th episode awards special!!! Plugs for social References: Olaf Stapledon - Doc (41:45) Last and First Men - Doc (41:50) Star Maker - Doc (42:33) Thanos episode - Doc (44:10) Inside the mind of a master procrastinator | Tim Urban - Anthony (58:45) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

It's our hairiest episode yet - HANK MCCOY! What does Doc have to say about the brilliant Beast? Listen now to find out! SHOW NOTES: Intro Time’s almost up for nominees Some exciting news coming soon about promotion :) Background (3:10) Hank McCoy (Beast) created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in X-Men #1 (Sept 1963) A member of the original X-Men, he appears human, but has proportions and agility similar to a monkey, including prehensile feet Enjoys the resources for learning provided by Xavier, but soon joins the Brand Corporation as a scientist - there, he inadvertently transforms himself into a more animalistic form Joins the Avengers, where he remains a full-time and reserve member for many years Later joins the Defenders, and then X-Factor, reuniting him with the original X-Men team Rejoins the X-Men in 1991 Discovers a cure for the Legacy Virus, but Colossus chooses to sacrifice himself to release it, causing Hank much regret Has a secondary mutation, causing him to take on a more feline appearance Became disillusioned with Scott’s leadership, so he left the X-Men again and joined the Secret Avengers for a time In Avengers vs. X-Men, Hank sides with the Avengers against the Phoenix Five After Scott’s escape from prison and subsequent militant viewpoint, Hank travels back in time to bring the original, young X-Men to the present to talk Scott down Inhumans vs. X-Men - tries to get mutants to leave Earth before dying of Terrigen infection, but they imprison him - later reconciles with the team, when they realize he was right House/Powers of X - Serving on Krakoa, overseeing the data analysis systems Issues (06:42) Intellectualism to a fault - doesn’t believe there’s a problem he can’t solve by experimenting Struggles with the dichotomy between his physical form and mental capacity (16:30) Is Beast manic? (22:39) Break (31:57) Plugs for Bedknobs & Broomflicks, Varmints, and Chris Claremont Treatment (33:30) In-universe - Use Cerebro to create dull environments and figure out Hank at his core Out of universe - (38:10) Skit (48:49) Ending (54:28) Recommended reading: Astonishing X-Men by Joss Whedon Next episodes: Ego, 100th episode special Review read: Jo Anna, 07/13/2020, Capes to you! Great show. I love the banter and comic news Plugs for social References: Colossus episode - Anthony (04:25) Captain Phillips - “Look at me, I’m the captain now” - Doc (36:20) Duck Amuck - Anthony (36:48) Quipping episode - Doc (43:15) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We have our most magical episode yet - BLACK ADAM! What can we learn from this antihero? And we have our most electrifying skit ever - listen now! SHOW NOTES: Intro 2 weeks left to vote on awards show nominees Background (02:39) Black Adam (Teth-Adam) created by Otto Binder and C.C. Beck in The Marvel Family #1 (December 1945) Only made one appearance in original Fawcett comics run - an ancient Egyptian who was given his powers by the wizard Shazam, but became corrupted by them and was banished to a far star - he returned to Earth 5000 years later, and battled the Marvel family, only to be tricked into saying Shazam and instantly aging to death After DC bought Fawcett Comics and began using their characters, he was reintroduced to the larger DC universe, as an adversary of Captain Marvel/Shazam Similar origin story for DC, but buried in a tomb by Shazam until unearthed by an archaeologist named Theo Adam, with whom his spirit bonded (similar to Billy Batson & Shazam) He reformed and joined the Justice Society of America, serving as a darker, anti-heroic counter to most of the other members Became ruler of African nation of Kahndaq (where he was retconned to be from), after deposing the dictator (Atom Smasher killed him) 52/World War Three - Adam’s version of the Marvel Family are all killed, and Adam goes on a rampage that requires the entire Justice Society and other heroes to band together to defeat him - he is left powerless New 52 - rebooted as Adam, whose nephew Aman was given powers by Shazam - Adam was injured, and Aman shared his power with his uncle, who then turned on Aman and killed him - defeated by the Marvel family once again Rebirth - one of the Council of Immortals, and still serving as ruler of Kahndaq Issues (10:00) Unable to take any criticism Incredibly wrathful - if he feels even remotely slighted, he will stop at nothing to punish (18:45) Self-righteousness (28:15) Break (34:18) Plugs for Perfect Package Podcast, Petri Dish, and Cullen Bunn Treatment (35:51) In-universe - Use medication/magical stones to sedate Adam before beginning therapy Out of universe - Focus on making a safe environment, and then address the issues as they arise (39:52) Skit (47:51) Ending (51:23) Recommended reading: JSA: Black Reign Review read: super nerdy, Wonderful! This great unique show is a must listen! Hit subscribe now! Next episodes: Hank McCoy, Ego, 100th Episode Plugs for social Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

What do Captain America, Exodus, and Sleepwalker all have in common? They're strangers in a strange land! Come to a weird place with us as we examine what it's like to be in the unknown! SHOW NOTES: Intro Reminder to vote in awards show Background  Stories about characters displaced in time or space are innumerable Superman - last son of Krypton Captain America - man out of time Shining Knight (Sir Justin) - member of King Arthur’s Court, revived in 1941 and joined the Seven Soldiers of Victory (24:22) Exodus - born in 12th century Paris, sealed away in a tomb by Apocalypse (30:32) Martian Manhunter - last of his kind, aloof from mankind (34:47) Sleepwalker - displaced from the Mindscape, where everything changes based on subconscious needs and desires of inhabitants - to him, Earth is strange (40:22) So many more examples Real world analogues (48:56) Refugees/Immigrants/Exiles Coma patients Transitions with cognitive impairment Prisoners/detainees Break (72:27) Plugs for Ignorance Was Bliss, Play Comics, and Saladin Ahmed Treatment In-universe - Doc becomes Al (73:40) Out of universe - (76:41) Ending Next episodes: Black Adam, Hank McCoy, Mental Health Avengers Review read: Brian Wayne - Always a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ show! Great concept and extremely entertaining! Plugs for social References: Tolerance paradox - Anthony (19:15) Apocalypse episode - Anthony (30:35) Back to the Future Part II - Anthony/Doc (33:56) Consilience: The Unity of  Knowledge by Edward O. Wilson - Doc (35:55) Doctor Manhattan - Doc (39:36) Christopher Titus - Doc (44:45) Projective identification - Doc (46:30) Ethnic enclave  - Doc (53:30) "If I Could Turn Back Time" by Cher - Doc (62:15) Lost scene about Red Sox - Anthony (65:09) "Measure of a Man" by Elton John - Doc/Anthony (87:20) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We head back to the sewers to take on KILLER CROC! Does this raging reptile have a softer side? Also, stay tuned after the episode for a special bonus where we help a listener live! SHOW NOTES: Intro Shoutout to Comic Book Keepers - Chris and Lance review a character or topic each episode - thegeeklygrind.com Still taking votes for award show Background (02:55) Killer Croc created by Gerry Conway and Gene Colan in Detective Comics #523 (Feb 1983) Waylon Jones was born with lizard like features - raised by his abusive aunt, he killed her and became a criminal in Gotham, where he tangled with Batman numerous times Post Crisis, he got isolated for months after being trapped under rubble - he has several battles with Bane, who always bests him and he ends up in Arkham New 52 - he is Roy Harper's alcoholism sponsor In Arkham, befriended a woman named Sybil with DID, and when he got out, he found her daughter and promised to watch over her Rebirth - Joined the Suicide Squad, and had a brief romance with June Moon, human side of Enchantress, who saw him as more than just a monster Part of Harley Quinn's crew for a period, and later ran a hotel for redeemed villains/monsters Issues (09:56) History of abuse due to appearance, started in childhood Did not handle isolation well, and lashed out (17:36) Relationship with June made him feel worthy of love for the first time (26:40) Break (41:24) Plugs for Cult of Domesticity, Talk Me Into, and Meredith Finch Treatment (42:41) In-universe - dive into the sewer, don’t mind the smell Out of universe - (46:38) Skit (52:34)  Ending (56:43) Recommended reading: Suicide Squad v 5 Review read: The Villains Demand: If you want a a unique insight into your favorite characters then subscribe and tune in. As a huge comic book reader this an interesting perspective on heroes, villains and everyone in between. A channel with a massive YouTube reach should reach out and makes shorts based on these. It’s easily a million dollar idea. And someone hit Marvel up because Dr. Issues needs to set up shop by Night Nurse. Next episodes: Mental Health Avengers, Black Adam, Hank McCoy Plugs for social References: Roy Harper episode - Anthony (05:27) Sybil - Anthony (05:45) ItsJustSomeRandomGuy - Doc (58:20) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We take our first trip to the world of the Wicked + the Divine to examine Baphomet! And it's so complex, we enlisted Jered from the Fantom Zone to help us! Does this role playing god find a name he's comfortable with? Listen now to find out! SHOW NOTES: Intro Thanks to guest Jered from Fantom Zone Nominees for 100th episode award show + mailbag - nominations page Background (05:15) Baphomet created by Kieron Gillen, Jamie McKelvie, and Matthew Wilson in The Wicked + The Divine #2 (July 2014) Makes his debut in the London Underground holding the Morrigan’s severed head, but was interrupted by the Morrigan herself - they fought until Laura intervened Learns of the “Prometheus gambit”, where a god can extend their life by killing another god - initially targets Urdr but gets stopped by Morrigan, and focuses on Inanna instead Later revealed that he didn’t kill Inanna, and they went to Laura - witnessed her transformation into Persephone, and after Ananke killed Inanna, Baphomet took Persephone to the Underground to hide After sleeping with Persephone, he revealed that he’s actually Nergal, but changed his name because he was ashamed of the association with Warhammer 40K - before becoming a god, he was Cameron, a role-playing nerd in love with Marian - when Marian became the Morrigan, she convinced Ananke to turn him into a god, which he did not appreciate initially After Persephone kills Ananke, he and Morrigan resume their relationship, which turns abusive towards him - Morrigan becomes very controlling and physically abusive Later discovers that Morrigan wanted him to become a god so they could kill and resurrect each other forever Permanently kills the Morrigan’s 3 alters to provide bodies for the disembodied heads of Lucifer, Inanna, and Tara Sacrifices his brain to bring back Dionysus Issues (17:16) Scared, insecure, and afraid of death Postures as what he thinks masculinity should look like, as well as what he thinks Morrigan wants (24:20) Domestic abuse from a male perspective (31:54) Was an identity forced upon him, or did he refuse the identity gifted to him and make his own? (42:15) Break (55:48) Plugs for Popcorn Psychology, Bedknobs & Broomflicks, and Jeremy Whitley Treatment (56:42)  In-universe - Need a fan to infiltrate the Pantheon and feed information to him Out of universe Skit  Ending (74:58) Recommended reading: the entire Wicked + Divine series Next episodes: Killer Croc, Black Adam, Stranger in a strange land Plugs for social References: Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds - Anthony (06:27) Warhammer 40K - Anthony (10:05) My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Anthony (12:50) Spinal Tap/Goes to eleven - Doc (26:14) Hank Pym episode - Anthony (33:03) Personality Isn’t Permanent by Benjamin Hardy - Doc (49:05) Peppermint Patty - Anthony (64:54) "Didn’t I Blow Your Mind" - Anthony (75:40) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We take a serious look at a not-so-serious topic: quipping! Why do characters do it? Why do WE do it? And can we stop, or should we? Listen now to find out! SHOW NOTES: Intro Thanks for donations to Extra Life - beat the puzzle in 6:19:44 - still taking donations - potential video game livestream coming in a few weeks Last week for nominations - next week nominees will be announced for 100th episode Background (02:43) Quipping in comics is as old as the medium itself “It’s hailed as a sign of wittiness, but let’s call it what it is: a mechanism for covering up the manifestations of anxiety in high-stress situations… it’s still a problem screaming for attention, and there has to be better ways to deal with it” Ramped up in the 60s - Stan Lee wrote almost all of his characters as witty jokesters, ESPECIALLY Spider-Man Spider-Man is the patron saint, so much so that if he’s NOT cracking a joke, something is horribly wrong Flip side is Batman - no joking, which gives his rogues gallery plenty of room to do so Issues (09:44) Barry Allen’s words shouldn’t be able to be heard by anyone except other speedsters, and even then, it’s likely violative of physics in some way Obvious point - time - it’s a function of the medium, but there’s a LOT of talking during fights that shouldn’t be happening Wit as distraction vs Wit as humor - there is a difference between getting an opponent to respect your side or pause in debate, vs the (typical) comedic delivery in fictional prose (17:15) Personality and situation are key (why quips backfire in the wrong crowd) (27:15) Break (45:03) Plugs for Freudian Sips, Cage’s Kiss, and Al Ewing Treatment (46:58) In-universe Ending (60:30) Next episodes: Baphomet (with guest Jered from Fantom Zone), Killer Croc, Black Adam Plugs for social References: Talking is a Free Action - Anthony (10:06) Muhammad Ali - Doc (14:20) Armor Piercing Question - Anthony (22:20) But For Me, It Was Tuesday - Anthony (24:35) Wham Line - Anthony (26:45) "Things That Make You Go Hmm" by C+C Music Factory - Anthony (27:05) Jim Valvano/V Foundation - Doc (60:40) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

Listen now! It's En Sabah Nur - time has no meaning. It's 2020, so why not talk Apocalypse? How does Doc handle someone who bends timelines to his will? SHOW NOTES: Intro Shoutout to I Understood that Reference - Rob & Ross are two Irish friends who cover movies, comics, games Still taking nominations for award show Background (01:52) Apocalypse created by Louise Simonson and Jackson Guice in X-Factor #5-6 (June-July 1986) Apocalypse is believed to be the first mutant - over 5,000 years old, born in Egypt - his name, En Sabah Nur, is translated as “The First One” Abandoned as an infant because of his looks, he adopted a survival of the fittest mindset Mutant powers manifested after having his heart broken as a young man - combined with Celestial technology uncovered by Kang the Conqueror, he had incredible power, and became immortal Fostered war throughout the centuries, seeking the strongest warriors Put himself into suspended animation to wait for further developments - awakened by Cable’s arrival and summons a guard, known as the Four Horsemen - the original group included Warren Worthington, aka Angel Tries to kill Nathan Summers, who he believes will become strong enough to defeat him - inadvertently ends up responsible for turning him into Cable Age of Apocalypse - Legion travels in time to kill Magneto, but accidentally kills his father, which disrupts the timeline - with no Xavier, Apocalypse awakens and takes over the world - he is opposed by Magneto, leading a team of mutants Learns from Uatu that Onslaught is going to destroy the world, and temporarily allies with Cable to help defeat him, but ends up focusing on Franklin Richards, which allows Onslaught to escape Battles X-Force, and nearly killed by Archangel Resurrected as a child, and the new X-Force team debates what to do with him before Fantomex shoots him dead Another young clone, named Evan Sabahnur, joins the Jean Grey School for a time, and works on becoming a hero instead of what he is destined to become Currently living on Krakoa as part of the Quiet Council, helping oversee the laws on the island for all mutants Issues (14:09) Savior complex for mutantkind Survival of the fittest mentality Longevity’s impact on mental planning (29:14) Break (39:12) Plugs for Frigay the 13th, I Never Saw That, and Chris Claremont Treatment (40:47) In-universe - Befriend one of the Horsemen and convince Apocalypse to stay in his pyramid Out of universe - treatment of old racists stuck in their ways (45:42) Skit (54:45) Ending (60:23) Recommended reading: Age of Apocalypse Next episodes: Quipping, Baphomet (Wicked + Divine) with special guest Jered from Fantom Zone Podcast, Killer Croc Review read: Pittsburghnerd, 07/07/2020 Great idea - This is a great show with a wonderful concept. Extremely entertaining and worth a listen. I highly recommend you give it a try Plugs for social References: Marvel Mythos AoA breakdown - Anthony (05:25) Jay & Miles X-Plain the X-Men - Anthony (05:40) Legion episode - Anthony (05:55) Uatu episode - Anthony (08:06) Deadpool episode - Anthony (11:19) Four Horsemen - Doc (27:50) Evolution - Doc (28:10) Ra’s al Ghul episode - Anthony (29:22) Colonel Sanders/KFC - Doc (31:33) Stanford marshmallow experiment - Doc (34:25) Friends - Smoking and Hypnosis - Anthony (44:20) Stuart Smalley - Anthony (45:34) Vandal Savage episode - Anthony (45:54) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We examine our youngest character ever - DAMIAN WAYNE! Why does Doc want to send the Son of the Bat to the Phantom Zone for treatment? Listen to find out! SHOW NOTES: Intro Thanks to new Mayor Patron Chad from P3! Shoutout to Super Sons - Dan & Jake cover comic books, news, and anything else on their minds Reminder to vote in nominations Background (2:16) Damian Wayne created by Grant Morrison and Andy Kubert in Batman #656 (Sept 2006) Character was originally referenced as the son of Bruce Wayne & Talia al Ghul in Batman: Son of the Demon by Mike Barr and Jerry Bingham in 1987, a non-canonical story Grant Morrison brought the character into canon after Infinite Crisis Damian was the genetically engineered son of Bruce & Talia, born after a night of passion where Bruce was drugged - the drugging wasn’t supposed to stick, but later writers reaffirmed it, much to Ariel’s chagrin He was raised by Talia and the League of Assassins to be an incredible fighter - at the age of 13, he was left with Batman Due to his upbringing, he has no social skills, and believes the only way to earn his father’s respect is to kill any rival - this puts him in immediate conflict with Tim Drake, operating as Robin at the time After Bruce’s death, in the Battle for the Cowl Damian acts more childish, until he is corrected by Dick Grayson, who assumes the Batman mantle and asks Damian to serve as his Robin After a battle, Damian is paralyzed - he is healed by Talia, who implants a device in his spine which allows her to control his movements - he and Dick manage to undo the damage He is later disowned by Talia, who feels his acceptance of the Robin mantle is disrespectful to her and her family legacy After Bruce’s resurrection, Damian continues working alongside Dick, and joins the Teen Titans New 52 - Still working as Robin, this time alongside Bruce, while Dick is Nightwing again Killed by an adult clone of him created by Talia - after many battles to retrieve his corpse, Bruce finally resurrects Damian with the Chaos Shard, a stone controlled by Darkseid - the resurrection gives him superhuman strength for a brief period Rebirth - serves as leader of the Teen Titans Supersons - works alongside Jonathan Kent, aka Superboy - they do NOT get along well Issues (8:06) Petulant Child Split Family child rearing (16:36) First exposure to different viewpoints (26:19) Break (39:26) Plugs for Parent Quest, Perfect Package Podcast, and Meredith Finch Treatment (41:40) In-universe - send Damian and clones of the Bat-family to the Phantom Zone to hash things out Out of universe - use of “I am” statements to get person to examine self (44:08) Skit (52:46) Ending (57:07) Recommended reading: New 52 Batman & Robin, Super Sons by Peter Tomasi Next episodes: Apocalypse, Baphomet, and Quipping Review read: Batdan22 - Fan For Life I enjoy the way they tackle pop culture on this show. Hosts are fun and engaging, topics are right up my alley. Just a lot of fun being had by those who make it and those who listen. Reminder on nominations Puzzle fundraiser for Extra Life Plugs for social References: Talia episode - Anthony (5:12) Affluenza - Anthony (15:36) My Super Sweet 16 - Anthony (15:38) "P.I.M.P." by 50 Cent- Anthony (21:43) "You're Not Going To Believe What I'm About to Tell You" by the Oatmeal - Doc (38:11) It'll Happen To You! (The Simpsons) - Anthony (62:28) Harlem Shake - Anthony/Doc (63:00) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

We go from reading to watching, as we examine UATU! How does Doc propose to cure this voyeur of his addiction? Find out - listen now! SHOW NOTES: Intro Thanks to new Patron Local Official Kate! Announcement of nominations for award show - Google Doc will be open until 8/31/20 Request for sharing on social media Background (13:09) Uatu the Watcher created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in Fantastic Four #13 (April 1963) First introduced as The Watcher, who lived on the Blue Area of the Moon - introduced himself to the Fantastic Four, who discovered him when they landed there Part of a nearly immortal race of beings whose sole purpose was to observe civilizations - they made this vow after introducing nuclear power to one group of people, who used it to destroy one another Despite his vow of non-interference, he helped the Fantastic Four defeat Galactus by helping Johnny Storm find the Ultimate Nullifier Was later put on trial by his own people after numerous violations of the vow - released on his own recognizance Kicked out of the Watchers after disintegrating his own nephew, Aron, who went rogue, and used his energy to revive The One, leader of the Watchers Later reinstated, and popped up to observe major events - like Civil War & Secret Invasion Basically, every time Uatu shows up, one of two things happen - he either observes wordlessly, which worries the characters involved; or he interferes to aid humanity Original Sin - the Avengers discover his body on the moon, and his eyes removed - it was revealed that he was attacked and had one of his eyes stolen, and when Nick Fury showed up to interrogate him, he refused - so Nick killed him and stole his other eye so he could see what he had seen - revealing that the Orb and other villains had attacked his armory on the Moon Issues (17:02) Per Matt: addicted to interfering Repeating sins of the father - Uatu’s father, Ikor, was the one who decided to provide nuclear power to Prosilicus (24:42) Voyeurism (32:01) Break (40:50) Plugs for Sips Suds & Smokes, Perfect Package Podcast, and Howard Mackie Treatment (42:56)  In-universe - Install a “U-chip” to limit his watching Out of universe - Revolve team of therapists to avoid normalizing behavior (46:07) Skit (51:34) Ending (56:40) Recommended reading: Fantastic Four Galactus story, Nobody Gets Out Alive, and Original Sin Next episodes: Damian Wayne, Apocalypse, and Baphomet Plugs for social References: "Somebody’s Watching Me" by Rockwell - Anthony (33:03) Rule 34 - Doc (38:34) V-chip - Doc (44:28) Joker episode - Anthony (50:47) Nudge Nudge - Anthony (58:30) "Every Breath You Take" by the Police - Doc (61:06) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord

Things get downright inhuman as we examine READER! Is it a problem if a dog isn't just a man's best friend, but his only one? Plus a cross-country skit you have to hear - listen now! SHOW NOTES: Intro Two new Patrons - Humble Citizen Andrew & Mayor Jacob! 100th episode will be award show - more information at next episode Background (03:15) Reader created by Charles Soule and Ryan Stegman in Inhuman #4 (October 2014) An older Inhuman, he was part of a group that lived in Greenland Once the Terrigen Bomb went off, he worked as a finder for the Ennilux corporation, bringing them NuHumans When one of the Inhunmans brought to the company is going to be used as a vessel for the chairman and killed, though, he rescues her and they go on the run Later joins a team organized by Black Bolt to help search for Black Bolt’s son Ahura Often works with Agent Frank McGee, who operates as an intermediary between Inhumans and the human world Helps Daredevil work on rooting out the corruption in Wilson Fisk’s mayoral office Issues (08:16) Self-admitted loner - part of the Inhumans, but doesn’t really want to stay in Attilan Connection with his dog Forey - having a dog as a companion is interesting (15:45) Control over powers, but they’re limited - has to be judicious with usage (26:42) Break (36:12) Plugs for Ignorance Was Bliss, Play Comics, and Chris Claremont Treatment (37:26) In-universe - single word mantras for him to “read” Out of universe - use the pet to get the person talking about themselves Skit (45:15) Ending (51:16) Recommended reading: Uncanny Inhumans - good to see him working as part of a team, even if it’s not always smooth Next episodes: Uatu the Watcher (Matt), Damian Wayne (Ariel), Brian pick TBD Review read: SeaUnicorns - Never heard comics broken down this way! These guys are great! The way they break down comic books brings it home and they do a great job linking the woes and follies of comic heroes to real life! Plugs for social References: Deadpool episode - Anthony (01:28) Medusa episode - Anthony (03:42) Kamala Khan episode - Anthony (03:43) Daredevil episode - Anthony (05:54) Kingpin episode - Anthony (05:58) Tree fiddy - Anthony/Doc (15:02) Yorick Brown episode - Anthony (16:20) Emotional support peacock - Doc (20:15) Being John Malkovich - Anthony (51:18) Apple Podcasts: here Google Play: here Stitcher: here TuneIn: here iHeartRadio: here Spotify: here Twitter Facebook Patreon TeePublic Discord