Shows
Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 119: Final Fantasy VII Remake“You owe me a pizza.” This week, Aaron, James, and a returning special guest tackle the first entry in the remake of one of the most beloved video games of all time. This is a game with divisive plot changes, newly-fleshed out characters, a completely revamped and modernized combat system, and oh so much nostalgia. How does the remake fare with each of these things? And how does the game challenge what it means to remake a classic? Listen in and find out!
2026-02-021h 34
Kids Myth PlusThe Birth Time of the Gods - Japanese Creation StorySend us a textKids Myth Plus Episode 30!Chaos and Order - The Japanes Creation Story; The Birth Time of the GodsThis episode is the second in our series Chaos and Order. A beautifully written rendition of the Japanese creation myth adapted from the Book:Old-World Japan: Legends of the Land of the Gods" by Frank RinderIn this episode we'll discus some of the vocabulary brought up in the story and explore a couple differences between the shinto beliefes expressed in the Japanese myth and those we...
2026-01-2819 minKids Myth PlusChaos and Order - The Genesis Creation StorySend us a textWelcome to a fresh season of Kids Myth Plus! We're starting 2026 with a series of Creation Stories from around the world and back again. We're calling it Chaos and Order.Kids Myth Plus Episode 29 begins the series with the first creation story I remember -The Book Genesis. It's a story shared by the 3 faiths known collectivly as "people of the book" Abrahamic religions - Judaism, Christianity, and IslamWe open with a quick telling of our modern scientific creation story - The Big Bang Theory, and talk a...
2026-01-1417 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: The Pokémon RoundtableIt’s 2026, which means that everyone’s favorite monster-collecting RPG series is turning 30! Join Aaron, James, and a group of returning guests for a roundtable discussion of the video games from this ultra-popular franchise. From the current state of the games, personal memories, and favorite entries to constructive criticisms and predictions for the future, there’s no facet of this creature-battling phenomenon we don’t discuss. Enjoy this freeform discussion of a media juggernaut that is truly near and dear to our hearts (well, almost all of us).
2026-01-052h 09Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 116: Star Trek (2009)"Are you out of your Vulcan mind?!" This week, join Aaron, James, and a returning special guest as they boldy go into the sci-fi action reboot of a beloved and groundbreaking franchise. Does the film succeed at walking the tightrope between Trekkie expectations and mainstream appeal? Do Star Trek films need a little Star Wars DNA, or perhaps the other way around? And how much lens flare is too much lens flare? Questions abound in this spirited discussion -- beam aboard and join in!
2025-12-011h 52Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 115: Senritsu Kaiki File Kowasugi! File 04: The Truth! Hanako-san in the ToiletYes, you read that correctly. This week, Aaron, James, and their camera crew venture off to an abandoned school in Japan to investigate the urban legend of a ghost that might have taken residence in one of the toilets. If you’re still reading, your hosts welcome you to accompany them on this journey, as this low-budget found footage pseudo-documentary is full of crazy twists and turns that, despite its flaws, are worth watching if not just to experience some of the more entertaining stereotypical elements of this brand of Japanese horror.
2025-11-171h 07Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: 7/10 GamesRating scales and gaming have gone hand in hand for as long as games have been around - but how much do they really mean? Join Aaron, James, and a returning guest as they discuss the idea of a “7 out of 10” game. What does that say about the game? The reviewer? Listen to find out the answers!
2025-09-1559 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 109: Gex: Enter the Gecko“It’s tail time!” It certainly is tail time, folks. The time has come for Aaron and James to discuss a guilty pleasure, an icon of the mascot platformer era, and quite possibly the greatest video game of all time. Join Aaron as he’s dumbfounded by James’ shockingly extensive history with the game, after which your hosts dive into the gritty details of the Media Dimension and all the levels it has to offer. They also take some time to reflect on the game’s ironic (and unironic) fanbase and its place in 3D platformer history. Let’s hope Aaron and Jame...
2025-07-141h 50Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 107: Rogue One: A Star Wars Story“Rebellions are built on hope.” Having decided to take a break from covering some of the lesser loved (or fully hated) Star Wars movies, Aaron and James are joined this week by a very special returning guest to discuss one of the much better entries in the franchise. Join them as they go in depth on the performances, characters, pacing, nostalgia, and some of the more controversial moments. Heck, Aaron might have some controversial thoughts of his own. But say what you will about this entry, one thing’s for sure: Ben Mendelsohn must be starving because he devoured every last b...
2025-06-022h 25Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Movie and Video Game AdaptationsWe’ve seen that movie adaptations of video games can work - or, at least be financially successful. The reverse is true as well - as evidenced by many of the classic 90s hits like Goldeneye 007. But what makes adaptations work in either direction? Join Aaron, James, and a special returning guest as they discuss adaptation successes and failures, and what adaptations they’re each dying to see. Enjoy!
2025-05-262h 16Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: The Nintendo Switch 2 DirectSpecial Episode: The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct by Game & Watch with Aaron & James
2025-04-031h 19Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 104: Dragon Ball Fighting Games (Series Retrospective)"There's one thing a Saiyan always keeps: his pride!" This week, Aaron and James wade into the considerably large pool of video games from everyone’s favorite martial arts anime! Listen as they talk about the numerous series and one-offs this franchise has to offer, as well as personal experiences with the games and franchise as a whole. Thank you for everything, Toriyama-san!
2025-03-301h 05Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 103: Death Proof"Hey, Pam, remember when I said this car was death proof? Well, that wasn't a lie. This car is 100% death proof. Only to get the benefit of it, honey, you REALLY need to be sitting in my seat." It’s been a long time coming, but this week Aaron and James finally tackle a film from the legendary director (and terrible actor), Quentin Tarantino! Does this complete cut of the Grindhouse feature rise to the lofty heights the famed filmmaker is known for? Or does it get bogged down in his tendency for overindulgence? Or perhaps a little bit of bo...
2025-03-221h 37Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: The Game Pitch ChallengeJoin Aaron and James this week as they debut a new special episode format: the Game Pitch Challenge! Each of the hosts picks a game or series the other hasn't played (and might even be purposefully avoiding) and gives their enthusiastic reasons why the other should check it out! Aaron gives James a tour of the hit franchise Monster Hunter, and then James gives the 411 on the much-loved Yakuza/Like a Dragon series. Will minds be changed? Can gaming passion be adequately explained? And how does Joel Edgerton fit into all of this? The only way to find out is...
2025-03-162h 07Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 102: Wet Hot American Summer“I went to sleepaway camp so long ago that it was the Stone Age. No, but seriously, it wasn't the Stone Age... it was the Ice Age! No, really, it was the Stone Age.” Join Aaron and James this week on a trip back in time to a fictionalized 1981 summer camp romp! Director David Wain, numerous members of The State, and MANY other funny people combine talents to pull off what might the one of the funniest, most quotable, silliest cult comedies of all time. Listen in to catch our thoughts on the best gags and more!
2025-03-0248 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 101: Dark Souls II (Part 2)“Many monarchs have come and gone. One drowned in poison, another succumbed to flame. Still another slumbers in a realm of ice. Not one of them stood here, as you do now. You, conqueror of adversities. Give us your answer.” Aaron and James are joined again by a special guest to wrap up their discussion of an underappreciated entry in the Dark Souls series. This week, they explore the world and lore of Drangleic in detail -- its areas, its occupants, and its ties to the first game. Which areas of the game do they find most (and least) fascinating? Whic...
2025-02-173h 15Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 100: Dark Souls II (Part 1)"Bearer of the curse…Seek souls. Larger, more powerful souls. Seek the King, that is the only way. Lest this land swallow you whole… As it has so many others." For this momentous episode, Aaron and James are far from crestfallen as they are joined by a very special returning guest to discuss an entry in one of their all-time favorite video game series. A divisive game, it is not without its detractors, but you will not find any of them here. Join them as they discuss their histories with the game, its development, its gameplay, design, and themes, and, most...
2025-02-072h 28Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Remembering David Lynch“Ideas are like fish. If you want to catch little fish, you can stay in the shallow water. But if you want to catch the big fish, you’ve got to go deeper. Down deep, the fish are more powerful and more pure. They’re huge and abstract. And they’re very beautiful.” This week, Aaron and James pay tribute to the late director, David Lynch. Listen as they discuss the man himself, his artistry, their experiences with his contributions to film and TV, and -- most importantly of all -- why they encourage everyone to seek out at least one of his...
2025-01-251h 00Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesTop 10 Best Games We Played in 2024With the year coming to a close, Aaron and James reflect once more on the games they played in 2024. As usual, they'll surprise you (and each other) with some of their picks. Hopefully some of your favorites made their lists!
2024-12-231h 24Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 99: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)“One man's toxic sludge is another man's potpourri.” It’s the holiday season, and we’ve got a special present for all of our listeners! Join Aaron, James, and a surprise returning guest to discuss this controversial adaption of a holiday classic. Do the comedic style of Jim Carrey and the magic of Dr. Seuss work together? Or should Ron Howard get a lump of coal for his directorial efforts? Listen in and join the debate!
2024-12-152h 05Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 98: Mission: Impossible"Can I ask you something, Kittridge? If you're dealing with a man who has crushed, shot, stabbed, and detonated five members of his own IMF team, how devastated do you think you're gonna make him by hauling Mom and Uncle Donald down to the county courthouse?" Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to listen to Aaron and James discuss the finer points of this 1996 action spy film. Does Brian De Palma’s directorial style mesh with the sheer intensity of a Tom Cruise performance? Or should this film be disavowed for some of its odd sexual tension? Li...
2024-12-081h 08Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Remakes and RemastersLately, it seems like every other game announcement is a remake or remaster of an old favorite. But what’s the difference? And what games deserve a second chance at life? That’s what Aaron and James will debate in this episode! Each has their own ideas about the muddled differentiation between remakes, remasters, ports, and reboots, and each has a list of six games that deserve the treatment. There’s a blend of deep cuts and bonafide classics, so listen up and see if one of your nostalgic favorites made the list!
2024-11-2355 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: A Spooky Season SurpriseThought Spooky Season was over? Surprise! And the surprises don’t stop there. This week, Aaron leads James through a horror-themed mystery segment guaranteed to shock and provoke some divisive reactions, to say the least! James then takes the wheel and gives his thoughts on some of the MANY horror films he digested this October. May Spooky Season live in our hearts all year long!
2024-11-011h 16Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 91: Alien: Covenant“No one understands the lonely perfection of my dreams. I found perfection here. I've created it. A perfect organism.” This week, Aaron and James explore a later entry in the Alien series. Despite a great cast and strong direction from Ridley Scott, this is a strangely divisive film, and your hosts have set out to find out why. Join them as they discuss the tropes of the series, make inevitable comparisons to Prometheus, and more, all while picking a few nits along the way. And stick around for some intense controversy as Aaron and James reveal their Alien movie rankings.
2024-09-021h 40Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 90: Castlevania: Circle of the MoonGrab your holy water, knife, and, uh, cross (are we sure it isn’t a boomerang?) because it’s time to kill Dracula! This week, Aaron and James finally tackle an entry in the beloved Castlevania series. This being a Castlevania game, you know you can count on James doing quite a bit of gushing. But while that might be the reason to tune in, discovering Aaron’s takes on the game and genre is the reason to stay. We hope you enjoy!
2024-07-291h 27Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 86: Xenoblade Chronicles"Face me, Shulk! Successor of Zanza! I'll crush the Bionis, and spread its ashes across the world! Then I'll turn the Monado into dust. Only then will there be peace!" Sometimes a game comes along that sinks its hooks in and just won’t let go. Sometimes that game is an 80+ hour JRPG touching upon age-old themes like the futility of revenge, what it means to be human, and being a sexy anime teen who kills God at the end. Join Aaron, James, and a very special returning guest as they give the first entry in the Xenoblade Chronicles series th...
2024-06-103h 32Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesThe 2007 Video Game DraftWe're drafting yet again! Join Aaron, James, and three returning guests from the Game & Watch draft crew as they select games from the year all five of them made the transition from high school to college. In 2007, there were single player experiences aplenty, but there was also no shortage of multiplayer madness. This was also the year that launched some major franchises that changed storytelling in gaming. Listen in to find out if some of your favorites from this year got selected!
2024-05-201h 45Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 84: Serial Mom“Are those pussywillows?” This one is for all the moms out there. Happy Belated Mother’s Day from Aaron, James, and a delightfully unhinged Kathleen Turner! Join us as we discuss the John Waters’ 1994 dark comedy cult hit. Does she need a lawyer? Does she need an agent? What even IS satire anymore? Questions abound on this episode - listen with your mom and enjoy!
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The Oblivion Bar: A Comic Book PodcastINTERVIEW: James Tynion IV & Christian WardJoining us this week on the show is the creative team behind the highly-anticipated, prestige-formatted four-issue haunted ghost story at DSTLRY Publishing: Spectregraph.One is the Eisner Award-winning and New York Times Bestselling author of titles like Something is Killing the Children, Nice House on the Lake, Blue Book, Department of Truth, House of Slaughter, Worldtr33, and The Deviant. They also recently started a production company ‘Tiny Onion’, which plans to develop a number of those successful series we just listed and adapt them for both television and film.The other is the 3x Eisner-winning comi...
2024-04-221h 01Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 77: Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets"Rules are rules and this is a place where we make love, not war." This week, Aaron, James, and a very special guest jet off to the galactic melting pot city of Alpha, where there is no shortage of culture and wonder. Listen in as they discuss this very imaginative but flawed Luc Besson film. There is much to admire in this sci-fi adventure, and even more for which to criticize Dane DeHaan.
2023-12-111h 33Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 76: Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise Of Skywalker"My boy, I made Snoke." This week, join Aaron, James, and a special guest as they discuss the controversial last entry in the numbered Star Wars saga. Whether it’s the Frankensteining of Carrie Fisher, a deeply unearned kiss, or everyone’s favorite new character, Klaud, this is a film that makes many bold choices. You don’t have to be ALL the Sith to know that these choices have … mixed results, at best. (Okay, let's be honest, they're almost entirely bad results.) Buckle up and enjoy!
2023-12-042h 16Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 74: Sonic the Hedgehog 2Gotta go fast! This week, join Aaron, James, and very special returning guest as they discuss a (mostly) beloved sequel for one of gaming's most divisive mascots, Sonic the Hedgehog. This episode has no shortage of praise, but also no shortage of criticism and tough questions asked. For instance, is any Sonic game TRULY higher than a 7 out of 10? Are gamers deluding themselves? Does Sonic have a crippling gambling addiction? Should you take the time to get all the chaos emeralds? Strap on your racing shoes and find out!
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Indie BitesGrowing an audience, making difficult decisions and launching screencasting.com - Aaron FrancisAaron Francis is currently an Educator at Planet Scale, but you would have seen him all around the internet doing courses, YouTube videos, podcasts and more. Notably he was a founding member of the Hammerstone team, which he’s recently left, to focus his energy on doing something he loves. Most recently, Aaron has launched Screencasting.com, a course teaching you how to make better screencasts.Timestamps00:00 Intro01:25 Aaron's Background02:10 Learning Software Engineering through books03:24 Audience Building05:51 Benefits of each content medium08:07 Making time for everything09:27 Having a full time job10:23 Leaving Hammerstone12:36 Launching Screencasting.com14:33 Ho...
2023-10-0516 min
Filter: Biblical Clarity in a Confusing WorldSamuel James on Digital LiturgiesEvangelicals frequently address the need for discerning the content with intake online. However, we are less likely to draw attention to how the web as a medium forms our character. Samuel James argues that we must draw attention to the habitat of the web and raise our awareness of how it pulls us away from the wisdom of God. We discussed his new book Digital Liturgies which provides an excellent introduction to Christians for how to think wisely about the internet.Samuel James is the associate acquisitions editor at Crossway. He is the author of Digital Liturgies...
2023-09-2546 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 69: Run Ronnie Run"I was born without an accent." It's been a long road to get to Episode 69, and let's just say: we're coming all over you. This week, join Aaron, James, and a very special guest as they cover a truly baffling 2002 comedy from the same minds as Mr. Show. It is a movie, nay, a film, that makes us question what it means to be a man of the people, why anyone wants to see a dog eat vomit, and whether David Cross is bearable for more than five minutes at a time. And make sure to stay tuned to the...
2023-09-111h 38Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 68: Kiki's Delivery Service“Stop trying. Take long walks. Look at scenery. Doze off at noon. Don’t even think about flying. And then, pretty soon, you’ll be flying again.” With broomsticks in hand, Aaron, James, and a returning special guest navigate this wonderful, timeless Studio Ghibli film about growing up. Join them as they discuss their favorite Ghibli-isms present in the film, touch on the differences between the Japanese and English versions, and then explore the thematically-rich story in great detail. Much like the film, there is a lot to love here. Please enjoy!
2023-08-282h 12Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 67: The Dark Knight Rises"Someone get this hothead outta here!" This week, Aaron, James, and a very special guest take on Christopher Nolan's trilogy-capping Batman film. Does Nolan balance Bane, Catwoman, and common sense, all in one script? Or do the results get blown to hell, like a four-megaton bomb over the bay of Gotham? Only one thing is for certain: Ben Mendelsohn is a treasure.
So grab your popcorn and buckle up for a long episode, because there is much to discuss! Enjoy!
2023-08-213h 20Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Gaming Psychology — Completionism and BacklogsThis week, Aaron and James take a journey into the mind. Gaming psychology takes center stage in this special episode, where the boys discuss completionism and game backlogs. How do we typically choose games to play? What are our completionist tendencies? Why do we let our backlogs get so big? What is "game dread," and why does it plague James's life? All this and more!
2023-08-141h 08Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesThe 1994 Video Game DraftThe year is 1994. Some of us might have been wee lads, but our hearts were already filled with the love for gaming. Join Aaron, James, and three returning guests as they fantasy draft yet again -- this time from the 16-bit era! Buckle up for an absolutely insane variety of selections, from tried and true classics to wacky surprises. This draft is not one to miss!
2023-07-171h 59Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 63: Earthworm JimGroovy? This week, plasma blasters in hand, Aaron and James dive into the 1994 platformer that launched one of the stranger franchises of the 90s. Join them as they discuss the game in relation to other mascot platformers of the era, its surreal art style, and its origins, all while asking the big question: did it stand the test of time, or, like many other games of the 8-and-16-bit eras, did it age like rotten cheese? They'll also answer the other big question: will James' nostalgia for the TV show bias him? Let's find out together!
2023-06-261h 12Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 60: Final Fantasy IV"Everyone chooses death too hastily." Join Aaron, James, and a rotating selection of party members like Cecil, Rosa, Rydia, and Kain, as they work their way through this JRPG classic. They discuss how Square successfully elevated this game compared to the first three entries in the series, debate whether the lack of party management is a good thing, laud the differences between the OG and the Pixel Remaster (which might now be the definitive way to play the game), and much more! Plus, stick around to find out if Square does yet another late-game story dump and plot twist.
2023-05-082h 04Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesThe 2002 Video Game DraftWe’re drafting again! Join Aaron, James, and three special guests as they navigate the wealth of games released in 2002, reflect on their personal gaming histories, and share hearty stories about couch co-op and the earlier days of online gaming. The competition returns but, as always, common ground is found amongst all (particularly at the expense of one console). It’s the beauty of the medium. Gaming brings people together, so tune in to join the festivities!
2023-04-242h 17Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Top 5 Favorite TV ShowsIt's something Aaron and James have often pondered, both with each other and in their own heads -- what makes a television show one of our favorites? You'd think there should be a systematic, logical ranking system with agreed-upon criteria to evaluate such a thing, right? Well, it's not that simple. This week, join a sprawling romp through Aaron's and James' TV memories as they rank their personal favorite shows of all time. Listen in to find out why your favorites did (or didn't) make their lists. Needless to say, some surprises await. Enjoy!
2023-04-1045 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 57: What's Opera, Doc?"Kill the wabbit!" This week, Aaron and James, equipped with spears and magic helmets, break down this delightful, classic Looney Tunes short. Listen in as James reminisces about his early exposure to Looney Tunes and Richard Wagner's Der Ring des Nibelungen, all while your hosts contemplate how many children were first exposed to opera through this film.
2023-04-0332 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 56: Ib"A world where man will never stand ... to realize that world, I decided that I would engrave it on a canvas." This week, Aaron and James visit the Guertena Art Gallery and submit themselves to its Eldritch horrors as they explore every detail of this cult classic. Listen as they heap praise on the game’s premise and (most of its) tone, while also lamenting the ways in which it might have fallen short of their potentially-too-high expectations. And get ready to bring palm to face as Aaron adds yet another terrifying world to his list of worlds he wants to...
2023-03-201h 34Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesThe 1997 Video Game DraftThe year was 1997. We played outside, read Animorphs, and built LEGOs. But most of all, we played video games, and we stood in awe together as gaming continued to take its early steps into 3D. So, what better way to honor that year in gaming history than to host this podcast’s very first video game draft! Join Aaron, James, and two incredible return guests as they compete in good fun to draft their dream teams of video games released in 1997. It’s up to you to decide who comes away with the best team, so listen in and buckle up!
2023-03-061h 13Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 53: Hercules“Thanks for everything, Herc. It's been a real slice.” This week, Aaron and James are joined by a very special guest (the best guest of all time, James might say) to discuss this underrated Disney animated classic. The three of them break down the movie’s plot, music, and characters, weigh the pros and cons of the movie’s liberties with Greek Mythology, and contemplate how different (and sociopathic) it would have been had it strictly adhered to the traditional Greek stories.
2023-02-132h 03Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 52: Ex Machina"It's your decision. I'm interested to see what you'll choose." What is consciousness? What defines a human being? How do you pronounce Domhnall Gleeson's first name? Join Aaron and James as they ponder these questions and many others about this fantastic sci-fi thriller. Enjoy a deep-dive conversation about the characters, twists, and why James' cat might be inside his walls. Is this episode just Aaron and James administering the Turing test to each other? Let's find out!
2023-02-061h 44Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Top/Bottom Three Gen 1 PokémonGotta love 'em all! Or, maybe not. This week, Aaron and James tackle the first 151 Pokémon and discuss what makes Pokémon designs fly or flop. Tune in to hear them give their top and bottom three Pokémon, all while wondering which James hates more - the entirety of Pokémon Scarlet/Violet or [POKÉMON NAME REDACTED].
2023-01-0954 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 39: Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong QuestWe've got a Klear Klassic for you this week, folks. Join Aaron, James, and a very special guest as they talk about one of the most beloved platformers of all time. (And, to at least one of them, one of the best video games period.) Tune in as they explore every aspect of the game, from its fantastic character and level design to its diverse and glorious score. From its gorgeous backdrops to its well-balanced gameplay. From its replability to its ... uh ... questionable removal of oversexualized monkeys.
2022-08-082h 12Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 28: Mario Kart (Series Retrospective)I'm-a gonna win!! This week, Aaron and James were thrilled to talk about all of the console releases in this beloved kart racing series. Listen in as they discuss the series at a high level, delve deeper into each individual game, list some of their favorite courses, and break down what makes the series so special. (IMPORTANT NOTE: During the recording, James unfortunately forgot to bring up the sadistic joy he gets from ramming into Toad and knocking him off the track. So, let it be known here and now.)
2022-03-211h 47Kids Myth PlusThe Snow Queen Story Four - Hans Christian AndersenSend us a textEPISODE 27!Kids Myth Plus is excited to present a special 2022 rendition of Hans Christian Andersen's original fairytale first published in 1844 - The Snow Queen.A potent romantic era struggle between good and evil, packed with vivid symbolism.In KMP episode 27 we present story 4 of 7.The Prince and PrincessDo you Remember your dreams? What are dreams? Story Four points us toward the Romantics favorite source of creativity, the window into the soul of expression - our dreams. I...
2022-03-1824 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 24: Cats (2019)[Insert least annoying quote from the musical here, if possible.] This week, Aaron and James attempt to discuss what James would describe as the movie equivalent of eating broken glass. What is a Jellicle cat? Who is Rum Tum Tugger? Why is he a curious cat? Who am I? What is going on? We've got questions, but if you're looking for answers, well ... look elsewhere.
2022-02-141h 32Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 22: The New Adventures Of Winnie The PoohOh my! This week, Aaron and James take a trip to the Hundred Acre Wood to gush about one of their favorite TV shows. Join them as they discuss episode highlights and get into topics that no other podcast has the guts to touch. Topics like: Is Christopher Robin actually just a feral child living in his dead parents' house? Is Tigger actually kind of annoying? And last but not least, get ready for some controversey because Aaron and James join forces to put together the ultimate Winnie the Pooh character tier list.
2022-01-311h 23Kids Myth PlusThe Snow Queen Story Three - Hans Christian AndersenSend us a textEPISODE 26!Kids Myth Plus is excited to present a special 2022 rendition of Hans Christian Andersen's original fairytale first published in 1844 - The Snow Queen.A potent romantic era struggle between good and evil, packed with vivid symbolism.In KMP episode 26 we present story 3 of 7.The garden of the woman who knew magic. Listen for some examples of the romantic spirit in this story - and the love for the power of nature, the connection with the natural world and sp...
2022-01-2727 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 20: 9"We had such potential... such promise. But we squandered our gifts, our intelligence. Our blind pursuit of technology only sped us quicker to our doom." This week, Aaron and James discuss a forgotten animated endeavor of the late aughts. Join them as they explore the unrealized potential of the movie and interrogate, among other things, Aaron's hatred of the term "steampunk."
2022-01-171h 38Kids Myth PlusThe Snow Queen Story 1 & 2 - Hans Christian AndersenSend us a textEPISODE 25!Kids Myth Plus is excited to present a special 2022 rendition of Hans Christian Andersen's original fairytale first published in 1844 - The Snow Queen. A struggle between good and evil packed with vivid symbolism HCA's The Snow Queen is a wonderful treat packed with a powerful message. Enjoy and please reach out to share you reactions interpretations and thoughts on this intriguing masterwork of 19th century literature. Narration Score and original Sound Design by Aaron James.Thanks for listeningPlease reach out to us w...
2022-01-0126 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 15: Banjo-KazooieGuh-huh! For the final installment of their four-episode miniseries, Aaron and James break down a classic 3D platformer, and one of James' favorite and most-replayed games of all time. Listen as they talon trot their way through discussing the level design, swimming mechanics, and much more. And of course, the comparisons to Mario 64 are inevitable. (Recorded: 10/17/21)
2021-12-062h 15Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 14: MiseryThere's toxic fandom, and then there's hobbling. For the third installment of their four-episode miniseries, Aaron and James are held captive by one of Aaron's favorite movies and a definitive classic of the thriller genre. Pour a glass of wine and listen to them discuss casting choices, the psychology of the iconic Annie Wilkes character, and whether Rob Reiner is actually a good director. (Recorded: 9/26/21)
2021-11-292h 14Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 13: Chrono Trigger"All of our history ... our art and science ... All to meet the needs of that ... beast." In the second installment of their four-episode miniseries, Aaron and James travel back in time to the 90s era of JRPGs and discuss a universally-praised classic of the genre that James should have played decades ago. Follow them on their journey as they discuss the plot at length (36:36) - (1:50:06), explore the game's status as one of the greatest games of all time, and, perhaps most importantly, question Aaron's pronunciation of character names. (Recorded: 9/8/21)
2021-11-222h 44Game & Watch with Aaron & JamesEpisode 12: Holy Motors“Trois, douze, merde!” This week, Aaron and James begin a four-episode series in which each of them games and watches some of each other's favorite games and films for the very first time. And what a better way to start the series than isolating audiences with James' penchant for surrealism. Take a drive with the hosts through Paris as they decipher the film's events and discuss a character whose name translates to "Mr. Shit." Yes, you read that right. (Recorded: 9/1/21)
2021-11-152h 18Kids Myth PlusNordic Fairy Tale - The Giant Who Kept His Heart Hidden AwaySend us a textA wolf who eats a horse... 6 princess and princesses turned to stone... a salmon a raven and a giant who keeps his heart hidden away. In this week's episode we'll talk bit about learning to read and ponder on the concept of vulnerability. Our story is adapted from :The Norwegian Fairy BookEdited by Klara StroebePublished 1922Narration Score and original Sound Design by Aaron James.Thanks for listeningPlease reach out to us with any questions or comments,and don't forge...
2021-11-0224 minGame & Watch with Aaron & JamesSpecial Episode: Nintendo DirectsFor their very first "special episode," Aaron and James chat about the infamous Nintendo Directs. In addition to discussing the most-recent Directs, they break down what Directs are, talk about their dream announcements, and theorize about what led Nintendo to move away from its traditional E3 presentations. And as a final treat, Aaron attempts to guess the voice cast of the upcoming Super Mario movie, with wonderfully funny results(54:56).
2021-10-111h 26Kids Myth PlusNorse Mythology: How Frey Won Gerda the Giant Maiden, and How He Lost His Magic SwordSend us a textIntegrity, Loyalty, Honesty, characteristics of the Norse Gods? Judge for yourself. In this week's episode: How Frey Won Gerda , the Giant Maiden, and How He Lost His Magic Sword, Frey longs for his sister Freya, sits in a throne that is not his own and makes a fateful bargain. We also learn about Skadi the daughter of Thiazi the giant and how she comes to mary a Vanir. This week's story comes from Padraic Colum's classic:The Children of Odin: The Book of Northern Myths Pub...
2021-10-0723 min
Regular People Who Know Things: Stories of Wisdom From Everyday PeopleEpisode 3: Aaron James and Finding Your PurposeWhen we do not know our purpose, we wander aimlessly! Hear Aaron James in Episode 3, speak of finding purpose.
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2021-09-2253 minKids Myth PlusFinnish Fairy Tale - Mighty Mikko: The Story of a Poor Woodsman and a Grateful FoxSend us a textRemember to Dream Big ! Episode 22 is is a Finnish Tale -It’s called :MIghty Mikko, The Story of a Poor Woodsman and a Grateful Fox.Through the use of his cunning and witt - a little bit of digging up of some villagers gold and one roasted dragon but still, through largely non violent means the silver tongued fox creates a life the poor woodsman would never have allowed himself to even dream of.Episode 22 is adapted from the book first published in 1922 cal...
2021-09-1626 minKids Myth PlusGrimm's Fairy Tale - The RavenSend us a textThis week's episode is from perhaps the most famous of all the european fairy tale collections; The Grimm's, originally known as the Children's and Household Tales. Our Version is taken from the translations by Edgar Taylor and Marian Edwardes The Raven -A baby, (a princess baby) that could not be quieted is transformed. A person passing by has the chance to rescue her. Off course it won't be easy. He will be tested and fail but will he still be successful ? How will he do it...
2021-09-0419 minKids Myth PlusPunjabi Fairytale - The Faithful PrinceSend us a textThis week's story comes to us from the 1894 book; Tales from the Punjab.It’s is a book of folk tales collected from the people of the Punjab region of India translated and written down for publication by the English Author Flora Annie Steel. Flora Annie Steel lived from April 1847 – April 1929. She spent 22 years living in Punjab region of India.The prince starts his adventure by taking hold of a magical golden deer. The deer strikes a bargain with the prince to take him...
2021-08-2025 minKids Myth PlusSlavic Fairy Tale - The Twelve MonthsSend us a textThis week we bring you a chilly little tale called The Twelve Months. This story is popular in eastern and southern europe where hundreds of different variations have been told. Ours is based on the telling from the book :Fairy Tales of the Slav peasants and HerdsmenFrom the French of Alex. Chodsko Translated and Illustrated by Emily J. HardingAs we record this episode it is the hottest of hot summer days here in our corner of the world and a chilly winter tale s...
2021-08-1218 minKids Myth PlusRomanian Fairy Tale - Youth Without Age and Life Without DeathSend us a textEpisode 18 -Playing with the concept of time and the desire to escape it's clutches, this weeks story is adapted from the 1885 collection of Romanian fairy tales :Roumanian Fairy Tales Collected by MITE KREMNITZ Adapted and Arranged by J.M. PercivalNarration and original sound design by Aaron James.Please reach out to us with any questions or comments@kidsmythplus on facebook/instagram/ youtubeInstagramFacebookSupport the show
2021-08-0526 minKids Myth PlusNorse Mythology - Sif's Golden Hair: How Loki Wrought Mischief in AsgardSend us a textToday's story, Sif's Golden Hair: How Loki Wrought Mischief in AsgardLoki of course gets himself into some trouble and must use his cunning to redeem himself.After which he finds himself making another dangerous wager, a bet with a dwarf, that will risk the head on his shoulders Loki will transform himself into a gadfly and do his best to tip the scales in his own favor. The Warrior Goddess Sif will have a seriously bad hair daythe dwellers in asgard will ga...
2021-07-2936 minKids Myth PlusRussian Fairy Tale - Vasilissa the FairSend us a textEpisode 16 Vasilissa the FairIn this week's episode we’ll find out why it was so important to always keep a flame a light in your home. And what one brave girl will go through in order to obtain light for her dark world. She will face great hardship after losing her mother, travel through a dark dangerous forest, enter the house of a Baba Yaga, live with her and pass her tests all with the help of a special gift given to her by her mother as...
2021-07-2224 minKids Myth PlusSlavic Folklore - The Death of Koschei the DeathlessSend us a textThis weeks Episode comes from the world of Slavic Lore. The Death of Koschei the Deathless as told by Andrew Lang in his 1890 collection of fairy tales:The Red Fairy Book Narration and original sound design by Aaron James.Please reach out to us with any questions or comments or just to send some emojis!@kidsmythplus on facebook/instagram/ youtubeInstagramFacebookSupport the show
2021-07-1530 minKids Myth PlusJapanese Fairy Tale - The Star Lovers (The story of July 7 Tanabata Festival)Send us a textThis week's story is a special July 7th edition. A Japanese fairy tale depicting the myth and the story behind the Tanabata (star festival)More about Tanabata and some activity Ideas: @Globetrottinkids Tanabata Find The Stars Vega and Altair EarthSky.orgStory from the Book:Japanese Fairy Tales by Grace Jameswith Illustrations by Warwick Goble1923Narration and original sound design by Aaron James.Please reach out to us with any questions or comments or just t...
2021-07-0816 minKids Myth PlusCherokee Myth - ÛÑTSAIYĬ′ The GamblerSend us a textToday's story, ÛÑTSAIYĬ′ The Gambler is a Cherokee myth taken from the Book: Myths of the CherokeeBy James Mooney1902A boy has a scary rash all over his body and his mother sends him on a mission to find his father, Thunder. Thunder is a powerful healer. Along the way he meets ÛÑTSAIYĬ′ the gambler. He is challenged by his two brothers to a game of stick ball and with help from his father, two brothers and a beatle, captures and defeats the gambler.
2021-07-0219 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastAmanda NeedhamIn our 12th and final episode of Season One Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance custom designer Amanda Needham to the show. Amanda got her start designing costumes for going out at night in her younger days as a club-goer in 1990s Portland, Oregon. Fellow Mt. Freelance podcast guest David Cress gave her a shot at costume design for commercials and she never looked back. Amanda has worked on independent films like Wendy and Lucy and TV shows like Shrill, Portlandia, Baskets and Chad. Sometimes even on more than one at the...
2021-07-0139 minKids Myth PlusNorse Mythology: How Odin Lost His EyeSend us a textToday's story, How Odin Lost His Eye - is adapted from the telling found in the book:Myths That Every Child Should Know "A Collection of the Classic Myths of All Time for Young People"Edited by Hamilton Wright Mabie1906What will you sacrifice for Wisdom? Is it worth it? Narration and original sound design by Aaron James.Please reach out to us with any questions or comments or just to send some emojis!@kidsmythplus on facebook...
2021-06-2419 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastAmy MillerIn our 11th episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance stand-up comedian Amy Miller to the Mt. Freelance podcast who speaks about her creative process, being a woman in comedy and how challenging the pandemic has been for pandemic. Good news, she’s touring again! And you can buy tickets. Amy Miller is a headlining stand-up based in Los Angeles by way of Portland and Oakland. Prime-time TV watchers will remember her from Last Comic Standing, and comedy fans know her story-based style of comedy based on her own experiences and observations. When...
2021-06-2331 minKids Myth PlusScottish Ballad -Tamlane: A Story from an Old Scotch BalladSend us a textThis week's episode - Tamlane, is a tale from the Scottish Borders. A rural region of Scotland that runs along the border of Scotland and england.Our version is adapted from the book: Wonder Tales from Many Lands Written and illustrated by Katherine Pyle - First published August 1920 The fair maiden Janet hears the call from a fairy horn that no one else has heard. It is the call of Tamlane who has been imprisoned by fairies.Tamlane explains his predicament to...
2021-06-1713 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastBob SmithIn our 10th episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome designer and apparel designer, the one and only Bob Smith to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Like so many designers, Bob went to the Kinko’s school of design, getting his start making band posters and fliers for the deli he worked at. This landed him a short stint at the Wieden+Kennedy studio before getting a job designing t-shirts at Nike in the late 1990s. He couldn’t help but notice Nike was exclusively focused on performance. So, he found an empty office, transfor...
2021-06-1634 minKids Myth PlusHimalayan Folktale - The Snake's BrideSend us a textThis week's episode is a Himalayan folktale: The Snake's Bride.It's taken from the book: Simla Village Tales or, Folktales from the HimalayasBy Alice Elizabeth DracottThe Book was published in 1906As with many of the authors of this period A.E. Dracott was concerned about the impending loss of these tales to the modern era. She writes in the preface:From their cradle under the shade of ancient deodars, beside the rocks, forests and streams of the mighty Himalayan mountains, have I...
2021-06-1011 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastArlo RosnerIn our ninth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance producer and entrepreneur Arlo Rosner to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Arlo got his start in the creative world as a cinematographer, before becoming a producer and eventually running his own production company. He’s been instrumental in creating campaigns shot all over the world for almost any client you can think of. But what got us excited about talking with Arlo is how he uses being freelance and the skills he’s learned as a producer to create not just side pro...
2021-06-0932 minKids Myth PlusNorse Mythology: Iduna and Her Apples: How Loki Put the Gods in Danger Part 2Send us a textToday's episode is taken from the world of Norse mythology as interpreted by the master storyteller Podraic Colum in the book: The Children of Odin. Iduna and Her Apples: How Loki Put the Gods in DangerThis is the conclusion of a two part story.Sometimes it's best to just let go. In this episode the trickster God Loki teaches by example how holding on too tight and not seeing the inevitable can lead to trouble.In the end we learn that even after making s...
2021-06-0319 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastAyanna BerkshireIn our fifth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome actor Ayanna Berkshire to to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Ayanna started acting as a teenager and has been a working actor for two decades, with a career that spans Hollywood blockbusters, Independent films, episodic television, award-winning theater productions and yes, even commercial work. Perhaps best known for playing Cora in Twilight she is a resident artist of Artists Repertory Theatre and a 2020 recipient of the Fox Foundation Resident Actor Fellowship. What makes Ayanna’s career particularly impressive is the breadth and quality of h...
2021-06-0238 minKids Myth PlusNorse Mythology: Iduna and Her Apples: How Loki Put the Gods in Danger Part 1Send us a textToday's episode is taken from the world of Norse mythology as interpreted by the master storyteller Podraic Colum in the book: The Children of Odin. Iduna and Her Apples: How Loki Put the Gods in DangerSometimes it's best to just let go. In this episode the trickster God Loki teaches by example how holding on too tight and not seeing the inevitable can lead to trouble. This is the first part of a two part story. Narration and original sound design by Aaron James.
2021-05-2717 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastKate Bingaman-BurtIn our fifth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance illustrator and full-time professor Kate Bingaman-Burt to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Kate is one of the hardest working creative people we know. On the one hand she teaches design at Portland State University and is constantly innovating ways to help her students share their work and get exposure to the “real world”, even going as far as to host student portfolio reviews inside agencies like Instrument and Wieden+Kennedy. She also has a thriving career as an illustrator, which started years ago when...
2021-05-2637 minKids Myth PlusRussian Fairy Tale - Ivan Learns The Language of the BirdsSend us a textEpisode Seven is a classic Russian Tale : Ivan Learns the Language of The Birds.Birds carry so much meaning in our collective culture; from the messenger to the collaborator to omen. This weeks stories is taken from the book: Folk Tales From The RussianBy Xenopho Verra Xenophotovna Kalamatiano de Blumental1903Thanks for listening.Narration and sound design by Aaron JamesPlease contact us with any questions or comments@kidsmythplus on facebook / instagram/YouTubeI...
2021-05-2017 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastDavid CressIn our fifth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance producer David Cress to the Mt. Freelance podcast. David got interested in film and enrolled in Mt. Hood Community College, which offered him the chance to learn every aspect of filmmaking, from the expected like production and editing to the intangibles that most film schools neglect but are vital for actually making a film, like how to find funding. He started his career in infomercials but quickly formed an alliance with director Vance Malone and started Food Chain Films. Whereas most Por...
2021-05-1939 minKids Myth PlusCzech Fairy Tale - The Wood MaidenSend us a textThis week's episode is a Czech Fairy Tale taken from the book Czechoslovak Fairy - Tales stories gathered together by Parker FillmorePublished 1919A happy little girl who loves to sing and dance; cares for her goats and spins wool and flax faithfully. Until the day she meets the Wood Maiden, a mysterious forest fairy who dances by at noon and midnight to the music of treetop players. "with a song on the lips, work falls from the hand more easily" Thanks for listening.
2021-05-1320 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastKathy HepinstallIn our fifth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome freelance copywriter and novel writer Kathy Hepinstall to the Mt. Freelance podcast. In the advertising world, Kathy is a legend. She has been freelancing as a copywriter for the best agencies and clients around for decades, often coming on for a few days to write the manifesto that leads to years of great creative, or coming on as a creative director for a few months to help steer the work and mentor young and even not so young teams. At the same time she’...
2021-05-1235 minKids Myth PlusJapanese Fairy Tale - The Fisherman and the Moon-MaidenSend us a textEpisode 5 is adapted from the book:Japanese Fairy World : Stories From The Wonder-Lore Of JapanBy William Elliot Griffis1920This weeks story is a dreamy Japanese fairy tale. The tale is set in a place of contrast; the base of the tallest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji and where the waters of the Pacific Ocean meet the forest. A moon maiden is intrigued by the natural beauty of the bay and steals away for a visit, where she removes her winged robe and hangs it o...
2021-05-0615 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastAaron RuellIn our fourth episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome producer turned Oscar short-listed director Aaron Ruell, to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Aaron is an accomplished commercial director and art photographer known for his beautiful art direction, intentional choices, and wit. But it took him a little longer to get there as he did his friend a solid, agreeing to play “Kip” in a little indie film that has become a beloved cult classic called Napoleon Dynamite. In our episode Aaron will talk about the challenges of being a filmmaker and a dedicate...
2021-05-0637 minKids Myth PlusSlavic Folklore - Vasilisa The WiseSend us a textEpisode 4 is adapted from the book : Savitri and Other Women by Marjorie Strachey first published in 1920.Vasilisa is a recurring heroine of many Slavic tales and in this version she uses her cunning and intellect to rescue her husband Stavros from the dungeon of the tsar of Kief (present day Kiev capital of Ukraine)Thanks for listening.Narration and sound design by Aaron JamesPlease contact us with any questions or comments@kidsmythplus on facebook / instagram/YouTubeInstagramFacebookYouTube
2021-04-2921 minKids Myth PlusIrish Folklore: The Corpse WatchersSend us a textEpisode 3 was adapted from the wonderful old book : The Irish Fairy Book. The Irish Fairy Book was Edited by Alfred Perceval Graves and beautifully illustrated by George Denham. Published in 1909. The Corpse Watchers is an oft told Irish fairytale full of symbolism, mystery and heroism.A female protagonist embarks on an otherworldly out of body journey to rescue her sisters and a corpse cursed by a witch. The custom of the wake or the watching of the corpse can be found among many cultures. Our story cente...
2021-04-2214 minKids Myth PlusWhy The Eagle Defends AmericansSend us a textToday's episode is taken from the book "Stories The Iroquois Tell Their Children" by Mabel Powers. The book was published in 1917 and is in the public domain. The name Iroquois is an English corruption of a French corruption of an Algonquian word meaning "real snakes." This may have been an insulting nickname (the Algonquian and Iroquois Indians were traditional enemies,) or it could have just come from a place name which meant "Snake River." Today they call themselves the Haudenosaunee or Six Nations, though many pe...
2021-04-1515 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastSue KimIn our third episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome producer turned Oscar short-listed director Sue Kim, to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Sue Kim has spent her career as a print, commercial film, digital and experiential producer working for ad agencies and brands up and down the West Coast. But when she took her son to a Rubik’s Cube competition, she knew she had to take the reins and direct her first film. “The Speed Cubers” is a wonderful short documentary about a relationship within the world of competitive speed cubing that will make you cry...
2021-04-1443 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastMarcus SmithIn our second episode Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome globe-trotting, commercial photographer Marcus Smith to the Mt. Freelance podcast. Marcus Smith is a freelance photographer who has shot for the ESPN Body Issue, and created campaigns for Nike and Jordan Brand working with athletes like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James and even worked with Aaron on an adidas project with Damian Lillard. Marcus went to college for business, but discovered his passion for graphic design and photography creating album covers and fliers for musicians. But it was a personal project documenting a high school ba...
2021-04-1433 min
The Mt. Freelance PodcastLisa PrinceIn our first full episode hosts Aaron James and Andrew Dickson welcome Strategy Director and School of Ideas founder Lisa Prince to kick off the Mt. Freelance podcast. Lisa spent a decade working at Wieden+Kennedy, working her way up to Global Group Strategy Director providing guiding insights and ideas on accounts like Old Spice, American Express and Proctor and Gamble. She left to spend a year “doing nothing” which led to starting The School of Ideas, her business that helps brands and agencies use strategy and insights to come up with big creative ideas. Li...
2021-04-1438 min