Shows
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 189: Agatha All Along Deep Dive (Ep 4)We may have lost Mrs. Hart (Sharon!), but we’re continuing to talk about the rest of the coven in our Deep Dive of Agatha All Along. Hear Joel and Kurt’s theories about who Teen and Rio really are, and their relationships to the title character, plus some musical talk from a recurring contributor.
2024-10-071h 24
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 188: Agatha All Along Deep Dive (Ep 3)We’re moving on down the road in Episode 3 of Agatha All Along. As the coven faces their first trial, Joel and Kurt are surprised to discover an old name get mentioned that they had relegated to the dead theory pile at the end of WandaVision.
2024-09-301h 25
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 177: Non-Powered SuperheroesInspired by a new listener question, Kurt goes through his definition of a “Non-Powered Superhero” (or Supervillain in one case), to see who qualifies in the Big 2 comic book universes. The answer may or may not surprise you, but you’ll have to listen to find out!
2024-04-2914 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 175: Who Are The New Warriors? (Volume 4)For the sixth anniversary of Welcome to Geektown, Kurt continues looking at the history of the New Warriors. However, this is the only incarnation of the team that does not have his favorite superhero, Speedball, as a member. Who are these new kids, and where do they get off taking the team’s name?
2024-03-2516 min
Gothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 23 - S2: Damned If You DoWelcome to an all new season of Gotham with our hosts, Kurt and Carla, ready to tuck in to all new stories of villainy and heroism and more!Join Gothamites on Twitter at @gothamitespodEmail us at gothamitespod@gmail.comLook us up on tumblr at gothamitespod.tumblr.comTheme and outro provided by the ever awesome Dom BalsamoSame Bat-Time, Same Bat-Channel!
2024-02-1355 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 5 - BONUS ViperAnother LOST episode, join Kurt and Carla as they learn a little about the future of Bane and just how easy it is to put young Bruce in peril.Join Gothamites on Twitter at @gothamitespodEmail us at gothamitespod@gmail.comLook us up on tumblr at gothamitespod.tumblr.comTheme and outro provided by the ever awesome Dom BalsamoSame Bat-Time, Same Bat-Channel!
2024-01-3038 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites BONUS Ep. 2 - Selina KyleSurprise! Kurt and Carla can't leave anything unfinished so we're going back and watching our lost episodes, starting with Selina Kyle! Why is this episode named after her?Join Gothamites on Twitter at @gothamitespodEmail us at gothamitespod@gmail.comLook us up on tumblr at gothamitespod.tumblr.comTheme and outro provided by the ever awesome Dom BalsamoSame Bat-Time, Same Bat-Channel!
2024-01-0934 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 20 - Under the KnifeGet ready for a rollercoaster ride of an episode with Kurt and Carla as they watch S1E20, "Under the Knife"! How cute can Bruce and Selina get? Who is Jim's 'loved one'? How many letters in Edward Nygma's name? All this and more as we barrel through to the season finale on Gothamites!SHOW NOTES:00:45 - Gotham Knights 08:30 - Lee's Weird Bathroom12:45 - "Mistake!"14:40 - Alexander Hamilton US Customs House15:20 - Batman Forever Bruce Off15:45 - Michael Potts16:25 - Connor the hit...
2023-12-0542 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 18 - Everyone Has a CobblepotIt's Cobblepots all the way down on this week's episode! Listen in on Kurt and Carla discussing the finer points of comic book publishing, pretty good TV CGI for 2014 and how the Gotham Gazette needs a new cover story journalist.01:47 - Joe Quesada Depicts a Powerful Batman on His Latest Cover02:28 - Batman & Joker: the Deadly Duo #6 cvr B by Bill Sienkiewicz03:06 - Transatlantic07:36 - "Groovy Mutation"08:16 - Colm Feore09:41 - Gotham Gazette headlines13:45 - Batman: Death of the Family14:48 - CLZ Comics
2023-10-1040 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 16 - The Blind Fortune TellerJUMPSCARE TIME! Everybody gather in as we listen to Kurt confront the first appearance of a character near and dear to every Gotham fan's heart: Jerome. 00:58 - Londo, the cat (pics coming soon)01:15 - Batman: the Killing Joke01:42 - The Dark Knight02:01 - Suicide Squad03:09 - James Gunn to direct the next Superman movie03:35 - Cameron Monaghan04:10 - Reign of the Supermen04:29 - PG Porn05:20 - Avatar: the Last Airbender05:38 - Winthrop Paroo06:48 - Bruce's Art
2023-09-2639 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 15 - The ScarecrowIn this final part to the two episode arc, Kurt and Carla learn the fate of the Crane family.Join Gothamites on Twitter at @gothamitespodEmail us at gothamitespod@gmail.comLook us up on tumblr at gothamitespod.tumblr.comTheme and outro provided by the ever awesome Dom BalsamoSame Bat-Time, Same Bat-Channel!
2023-09-2043 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 0 - Meet the HostsSurprise! A little half way through the season, Kurt and Carla realized they hadn't exactly introduced themselves so please enjoy this bonus "Zero Hour" episode on who we are, why were doing this and rush to drop as many names as we can. NOTES:00:35 - Welcome to Geektown01:15 - Batman '6601:18 - Adventures of Superman01:44 - Fantastic Four02:12 - "It always fits, eventually."02:17 - Speedball, the Masked Marvel02:22 - New Warriors02:30 - Super Friends03:30 - "Fox Block"03:32 - K...
2023-09-1926 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 14 - the Fearsome Dr. CraneThis week! We talk the science of the mind, comic book origins, social awkwardness, the dangers of a blank in a gun and weird medical lore with the Fearsome Dr. Crane!SHOW NOTES01:13 - Batman: Fear State03:19 - Psychiatrists are medical doctors, psychologists are not.03:42 - Year One: Batman/Scarecrow04:19 - Sean Murphy07:06 - an example from Batman #52311:05 - Bruce Jones11:02 - Devil Hulk11:15 - Betty Banner's Resurrection11:51 - The Incredible Hulk (vol. 2) #16812:22 - Frasier Crane
2023-07-1148 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 11 - Rogue's GalleryThis week on Gotham: what makes a Rogue? How do they form a Gallery? Who is the mystery electrocutioner? And will James Gordon and Lee Thompkins just get a room already? A great episode to bring in new fans, Kurt and Carla have fun with the first Arkham Asylum inmate riot.NOTES:00:39 - "Harvey Dent Cat", Lursa00:58 - History of the World Part II: Richard Kind as Saint Peter01:26 - Flash's Rogues02:37 - Nightwing #10003:10 - Guy Gardner 'killed' in Human Target #604:42 - Electrocutioner from Arkh...
2023-06-1338 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 9 - Harvey DentJoin Carla and Kurt this week as we're introduced to another early infamous Rogue, Harvey Dent; is it okay to smell people? How romantic are bagels? All this and probability and duality in this week's episode of Gotham!NOTES:01:31 - Detective Comics #6603:44 - Nicholas D'Agosto06:27 - "Heads or tails?"--a reachability bias in binary choice06:31 - Think a coin toss is a 50/50 shot? Think Again!19:34 - Mike Manley20:27 - Darkhawk20:24 - Nighthawk20:34 - Night Thrasher26:07 - Al Sapienza31:25 - W...
2023-05-3042 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 8 - the MaskKurt and Carla talk comics this week as Kurt is introduced to the wild world of Sionis Industries, Bruce's great punching form, and Gordon's theory of Gotham madness.NOTES:00:45 - The Creep - Lonely Island01:48 - The Mask 02:05 - Mr. Bones02:55 - Black Mask05:05 - Don Quixote07:42 - Batman #38607:53 - Crisis on Infinite Earths08:10 - Bronze Age of Comic Books09:06 - Birds of Prey and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn10:06 - Batman: Hush10:20...
2023-05-2445 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 151: Who is Kamandi?The Last Boy on Earth! This Jack Kirby creation is probably not known to many outside hardcore comic book fans, but thanks to an animated short, one listener discovered his existence and asked Kurt to explain more about the world of Kamandi.
2023-05-1516 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 3 - BalloonmanNOTE: Where's episode 2? Sadly lost in a computer move, but don't worry! We'll revisit our lost episodes after we finish season one. Is this truly the best episode to watch to lure someone into Gotham? Does Baloonman strike fear or inspire the citizens of Gotham? How much a part does destiny play in the life of Bruce Wayne? Watch along with Carla and Kurt as they start dipping their toes into what Gotham soon will become.Show Notes:5:05 - Batman #147 19:25 - the Kane family16:11 - Oath of the Horati 19:59 - Clark Middleton (RIP)21:4...
2023-05-0351 minGothamites: the Gotham Review PodcastGothamites Ep. 1 - PilotOur first episode! Much like the Pilot episode of a TV show, we have a lot to cover and a few speedbumps to smooth out...Meet Carla and Kurt as they reintroduce the latter to the former's current fan obsession: the FOX TV Show, Gotham. 2014 is looked back upon, we discuss the flavor of this very unique camp-teen-crime-drama show and go blow by blow through the Pilot episode and see what the city of Gotham had to offer.Join Gothamites on Twitter at @gothamitespodEmail us at gothamitespod@gmail.comLook us up on tu...
2023-04-251h 19
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 148: Who Are The New Warriors (Volume 3 and Civil War)Celebrating five years of Welcoming people to Geektown, Kurt continues his anniversary tradition of going over the history of his favorite character Speedball and his teammates on The New Warriors, this year reaching the short-lived Volume 3, leading into the epic event, Civil War.
2023-04-0314 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 2 (Remastered): Where to Start - Marvel EditionRemastered with improved audio! Where should one begin reading when they take their first foray into the Marvel Universe? That's the question asked today by listener Justin B., and Kurt offers a few different options with pros and cons for each.
2023-01-1614 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 138: The Replacements - The FlashComing back to a recurring series that hasn’t seen a new entry in over a year, Kurt looks at what happens to replacement heroes when the original (well, second or third in this case) returns. It’s a rare instance of Replacementception with this entry, none other than The Flash!
2022-11-1422 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 113: Who Are The New Warriors? (Volume 2)Continuing the anniversary tradition, Kurt moves forward in his chronological look at Speedball and the New Warriors team. Having finished up the 75 issue Volume 1 last year, we now move on to the short lived Volume 2, focusing on how they got back together and on the new members that joined, mutant teen Bolt, and the inner city youth turned mythological champion, Aegis!
2022-04-0116 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 111: Earth Numbering Systems in DC and MarvelYou may have heard of Earth 1, Earth 2, and possibly even Earth 616. But, how did all these names come to be, and who decides which is which? Wouldn’t they all want to be Earth 1? That’s what listener Joel L. asks, and Kurt answers for both the Marvel and DC Universes this episode.
2022-03-0418 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 108: The Why-Men (Lesser Known X-Men; Vulcan, Petra, Sway, and Darwin)Continuing this recurring series on the lesser known members of the X-Men, Kurt dives into the history of the mutant team to find the lesser-known characters that deserve some additional attention. This time we focus on the retconned “second team” introduced in the “Deadly Genesis” mini-series: Vulcan, Petra, Sway, and Darwin.
2022-01-2114 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 97: DC Defined (The Return of Barry Allen)Also available as part of a YouTube Playlist featuring many different creators, this episode discusses the story that really brought Kurt into the DC Comics Universe, and defined Wally West’s version of The Flash for years to come. Written by Mark Waid with art by Greg LaRocque, it’s “The Return of Barry Allen.”
2021-08-2120 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 96: Book to Movie Adaptations - Why Are They So Hard?If you’re a longtime fan of a book and you hear it’s being made into a movie, you may have a mix of joy and dread, as so many of the adaptations over the years have not met up to the book fans’ approvals. This episode, we look at some of the common follies that adapters will run into that cause fans to cry foul, then Kurt picks out a couple of films he think got it just right.
2021-08-0614 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 95: Loki - A Deep Dive (Episode 6)Kurt and Anne wrap up their conversation on the first season of Loki (Season 2 has already been announced!), including the mysterious power behind the TVA, and how this all feeds in to what is coming up in the next year or two in the MCU.
2021-07-2355 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 90: Loki - A Deep Dive (Episode 1)With the Loki show diving into one of Kurt’s favorite subjects (Time Travel), of course he’s going to dive deep into the show as well, looking at all the comic book connections, and theorizing with his guest, Anne V. This first episode we discuss the TVA, Mobius, and all the little moments that made the show so much fun.
2021-06-181h 21
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 84: Who Else Are The New Warriors? (Volume 1)For the first anniversary of the podcast’s release, Kurt’s favorite hero Speedball was introduced. In the 2nd-Anniversary episode, he introduced the rest of his teammates in the New Warriors, or at least the members of the team when it was first formed. For year 3, it’s time to look at the other heroes who joined the roster sometime after the first issue, but still in the original 75-issue run.
2021-03-2626 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 83: WandaVision - A Deep Dive Finale (Ep 9)Completing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-03-121h 28
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 82: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 8)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-03-051h 05
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 81: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 7)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-02-261h 26
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 80: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 6)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-02-191h 33
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 79: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 5)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-02-121h 52
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 78: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 4)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-02-051h 01
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 77: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 3)Continuing our look at the new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany on Disney+, Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides, theorize about the mysteries, and discuss the connections to the comics that inspired the series.
2021-01-2958 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 76: WandaVision - A Deep Dive (Ep 1 & 2)The new MCU show starring Elizabeth Olson and Paul Bettany is out on Disney+, and is so unusual that we decided to examine the show as closely as possible, discussing the connections between it and the Marvel Comics starring these characters. Kurt is joined by personal friend and frequent question asker Joel L. (an MCU fan, but not a regular comic reader) in order to see the show from all sides.
2021-01-2259 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 73: How Does a Comic Book Get Made?You see the names and titles in the opening credits of every book: Writer, Penciler, Inker, Letterer, Colorist, Editor. But, what does each of these people do specifically, and in what order? In other words, where do comics come from? Kurt goes over each role and what they contribute to this art form we all love.
2020-12-1118 min
The Panel GardenIssue #6 Costumes, The Immortal Hulk, Astrocity, and more with Special Guest Kurt OnstadKurt Onstad from the Welcome Geektown Podcast joined us to talk about superhero costumes, what he's reading, and the comics he enjoys.Find Kurt on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GeektownPodcastWelcome to Geektown's website can be found at https://www.welcome2geektown.com/--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/titular-characters/support
2020-11-2650 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 70: Vampire: The Masquerade Clan PrimerVampire: The Masquerade is one of the most popular role-playing systems ever, outside of D&D and its clones. However, if you’re just getting into it, there’s a lot of choices you have to make and a lot of lore to sift through. Probably the most important option is your clan, and Kurt is here to sum them up for you to make deciding easier.
2020-10-3016 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 69: Video Games to Movies and Vice Versa - What Goes Wrong?Since the early 90s, video games have been fodder for movie studios, but few of those adaptations seem to be successful. Why is that? Kurt goes over some of the possible reasons for that, as well as looking the other direction, and why few video games based around movies have been well-received.
2020-10-1616 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 66: How Important is “Lore” in RPGs?We dive into another aspect of Tabletop Role-Playing Games this episode, and discuss the importance of world lore. How much should a player know before they start playing in that world, and how do they go about learning those details? Take a listen and find out!
2020-09-0417 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 65: Comic Captains and a COVID ConundrumTwo questions are being answered this episode. First, is Wolverine a spreader of disease? Then, we look at various comic book Captains, Majors, Generals, and other characters named for military ranks to see who has earned those honors.
2020-08-2114 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 64: Heroes on the Clock - Peter Parker (aka Spider-Man’s Day Jobs)High school student, college student, photojournalist, teacher? Peter Parker, aka the Amazing Spider-Man has actually held a number of different jobs over the years. Going in chronological order, we look at the various career paths Peter has taken, starting all the way back at his first appearance to today.
2020-08-0717 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 63: Original Sin (What Happened to Nick Fury Sr?)Following up on Episode 51, where we found out how Nick Fury started looking like Samuel L. Jackson in the comics, we discuss the miniseries Original Sin, and how that led to a whole new status quo for the original Nick Fury. Warning: If you don’t like eyeballs by themselves, do not check out the show notes.
2020-07-2418 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 62: Board Game Rules - How Strict Should They Be?Board games are a more popular pastime than ever, but different people have grown up with their own house rules, and may want to go back and “redo” their turn from time to time. A listener asks how important it is to follow the exact rules and stick to player decisions, and Kurt (with decades of board game playing under his belt) gives his opinion on the subject.
2020-07-1016 min
Welcome to GeektownRODE Microphones Contest Episode - Comic Book "Doctors"This mini-sode (it was required to be 1-2 minutes) was done for a podcasting contest. Joel L. wants to know if the heroes and villains who use "Doctor" in their codename deserve that title, and we find a surprising answer.
2020-06-2601 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 61: Serious Issues in the Comic Book IndustryIt has been a rough few weeks for the comic book industry, with news of abusers and other bad actors coming into (or back into) the light. I want to stand with and support those who were brave enough to come forward, and so this episode is a statement on that subject, as well as the ongoing issue of minority representation in comics, and its relation to Black Lives Matter.
2020-06-2611 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 60: D&D On-Screen - Community’s “Advanced Dungeons & Dragons” EpisodeDungeons and Dragons has been seen played in many TV shows and movies. But, what did they get right, and what was totally wrong? A curious listener wants to know specifically about the “Advanced Dungeons and Dragons” episode of Community, and Kurt obligingly breaks it down for her.
2020-06-1224 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 59: What to Expect When You’re at the D&D Table (or any other RPG game)Let’s talk D&D Conventions! Well, not Conventions, but conventions, aka the social expectations one is likely to find when they first sit down at a table to play D&D, or other role-playing games. A new listener is afraid to start playing, and Kurt is here to assuage those fears, and let her (and you) know how you should behave at your first (and subsequent) session.
2020-05-2921 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 58: The Replacements - RobinIn this recurring feature, we look at the various heroes that have replaced the original, and what happens to them after their tenure is over. Maybe it’s because he’s a sidekick and not (usually) a solo hero, but Robin is one of the few cases where the original never actually came back. Instead, we’ve had a parade of Robins, which we’ll discuss in this episode.
2020-05-1519 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 57: Interview with Evan Skolnick, Part 4 (Finale)In the fourth and final portion of this multi-episode interview, Kurt wraps up his talk with comic book writer/game writer and producer/college professor Evan Skolnick with some listener questions, mostly about the video game industry.
2020-05-0124 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 56: Interview with Evan Skolnick, Part 3In part three of this multi-episode interview, Kurt continues his talk with comic book writer/game writer and producer/college professor Evan Skolnick, getting into his video game work, after briefly discussing his time at Acclaim Comics and the comic boom and bust of the 90s.
2020-04-2445 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 55: Interview with Evan Skolnick, Part 2In part two of this multi-episode interview, Kurt continues his talk with comic book writer/game writer and producer/college professor Evan Skolnick, this time focusing on the comic book writing portion, with special emphasis on his two-year stint on The New Warriors, but we also talk about writing licensed books and running the company softball team..
2020-04-1742 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 54: Interview with Evan Skolnick, Part 1In the first part of this multi-episode interview, Kurt talks to comic book writer/game writer and producer/college professor Evan Skolnick about the earliest part of his career, up to his editorial stint at Marvel Comics.
2020-04-1022 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 53: Who Are The New Warriors? (Volume 1)For the first anniversary of the podcast’s release, Kurt’s favorite hero Speedball was introduced. On this 2nd-Anniversary episode, we introduce the rest of his teammates in the New Warriors, or at least the members of the team when it was first formed, plus a little bit about why the “Heroes for the 90s” continue to be re-read by fans 30 years later.
2020-03-2719 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 52: Fifty-Two (The DC Mini-Series)No, I’m not just repeating the episode number again, but spelling it out. 52 (or Fifty-Two) was an important work in the DC Universe, so much so that the number keeps popping up in DC Lore ever since. This year-long weekly series was the first in a few that DC did, but is the only one that really left a lasting impact. Because this is Episode 52, I decided to go into more detail on this story, introducing the basic set-ups and talking about what made the story one of my personal favorites.
2020-03-1318 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 51: When Did Nick Fury Start Looking Like Samuel L. Jackson?Nick Fury started out as a square-jawed white Sergeant with adventures taking place in World War II. So, how did he go from that to the Samuel L. Jackson look-alike we see today, running a super-spy agency? That’s the question that gets asked and answered in this week’s episode.
2020-02-2816 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 50: Story Length and Continuity ConundrumsHow much back reading is required to get into comic books today? Elyse (of the OHotMU or Not? podcast) wrote in to ask this question among others. We look at how comic story lengths have changed over time, and how continuity has become a more important factor in the tales of today.
2020-02-1417 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 49: DC Around the World (DC Characters based outside the United States)A continuation of last episode, where we discussed Marvel characters based outside the United States, this time we turn our attention to DC, and what heroes they have created who originate from a (non-fictional) foreign country. I apologize in advance if I get any of the pronunciations wrong. I did my best, but I’m not perfect!
2020-01-3120 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 48: Marvel Around the World (Marvel Characters based outside the United States)Although most Marvel comic book stories are based in United States (and even more specifically New York), there are heroes in many other countries in the Marvel Universe. We take a look at a few of them, trying to avoid the ones completely based around a stereotype of that country (except maybe Kangaroo). Let’s romp around the world and check out the international heroes of Marvel!
2020-01-1720 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 47: Two More Questions from the Ladies of the “OHotMU or Not?” PodcastBeing non-comic readers (for the most part), but having to deal with things in the comic book world, I was curious to find out if the ladies from the OHotMU or Not podcast had questions they needed answered about comics. And they delivered! Two questions were answered last episode and now we finish them off with questions from Shotgun and Emelie!
2020-01-0617 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 47: Two More Questions from the Ladies of the “OHotMU or Not?” PodcastBeing non-comic readers (for the most part), but having to deal with things in the comic book world, I was curious to find out if the ladies from the OHotMU or Not podcast had questions they needed answered about comics. And they delivered! Two questions were answered last episode and now we finish them off with questions from Shotgun and Emelie!
2020-01-0317 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 46: Two Questions from the Ladies of the “OHotMU or Not?” PodcastBeing non-comic readers (for the most part), but having to deal with things in the comic book world, I was curious to find out if the ladies from the OHotMU or Not podcast had questions they needed answered about comics. And they delivered! Two questions coming this week, and two more next episode!
2019-12-2020 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 45: Stephen Sondheim vs. Andrew Lloyd Webber - Why the Drama?We’re comparing two giants of pop culture again, but not in the comics or sci-fi realm. This time, we’re looking at musical theater. Stephen Sondheim fans often disparage Andrew Lloyd Webber. Why the vitriol, and how different are the two composers anyways?
2019-12-0618 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 44: The Replacements - HulkAnother in the recurring feature, where we look at other characters who have taken on the superheroic identity from another, both how that occurred and what happened to them after the original comes back. The Smashing character known as The Hulk is under the spotlight this time.
2019-11-2224 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 43: A (Semi-)Brief History of Valiant ComicsVin Diesel has a new movie coming out next February titled Bloodshot, based on the Valiant Comics character. But, what is Valiant Comics, and what makes it any different from Marvel or DC? From the early 90s up to the current stable of titles, we look at the history of Valiant Comics/Entertainment.
2019-11-0818 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 42: Batgirl and Batwoman - Who’s Who? (Barbara Gordon, Kate Kane, Stephanie Brown, and Cassandra Cain)After hearing a little about Batwoman from last episode, a listener has a question on the various Bat-ladies, and how to tell them apart. We dive into the history of Batgirl and Batwoman from the 1950s all the way to the present.
2019-10-2524 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 41: Let’s Get Caught Up on the Arrowverse! (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, and Batwoman)In anticipation of this year’s massive Crisis on Infinite Earths TV event, we get caught up on the main characters of all of the Arrowverse shows, so that you’ll be ready even if you don’t normally watch all of them.
2019-10-1123 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 40: Weird Hero/Villain Match-Ups (Emperor Joker and Acts of Vengeance)We look at some of the more bizarre tussles between heroes and villains. That includes when Superman fought an ultra-powerful Joker, and Acts of Vengeance, including the “Cosmic Spider-Man” story.
2019-09-2717 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 39: Whatever Happened to Donald Blake? (Thor's "Secret Identity")Inspired by a Twitter conversation, Kurt dives into the strange and twisted history of Donald Blake, the original secret identity of Thor. Who was he, and where did he go?
2019-09-1320 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 38: Who is She-Hulk (Jennifer Walters)?Marvel/Disney just announced that She-Hulk will be getting her own show on Disney+. But, who is She-Hulk, and what would such a show be about? Kurt dives into the distaff counterpart of Bruce Banner, and what makes her so compelling a character in her own right.
2019-08-3021 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 37: The Kryptonite Rainbow - What Do They Do?Green Kryptonite, Red Kryptonite, Blue, White, Jewel? How many varieties of Kryptonite are there, and how does each of them effect the Man of Steel and the other Kryptonians in the DC Universe? Kurt goes through every single published version of Kryptonite so you’ll now know.
2019-08-1619 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 36: Non-Traditional Comic Recommendations (or Non-Superhero Comics)Superheroes have been and continue to dominate the sales charts of American comics, but that doesn’t mean that’s all there is. Thanks to a question from a Reddit user, Kurt goes into non-spoiler details about some of his favorites that he recommends you try out, if you haven’t already.
2019-08-0218 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 35: Death Becomes You - Mary Jane Watson-ParkerA new recurring feature begins, where we’ll look deeper into some of the more unusual deaths that have happened in comics, beginning with an out-of-continuity tale called “Spider-Man: Reign” and the untimely demise of Spider-Man’s wife, Mary Jane Watson-Parker. (Content warning: Mature themes, though handled non-explicitly.)
2019-07-1914 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 34: Firefly and Serenity - Why Are “Browncoats” Still So Obsessed?If the word "Shiny" means something special to you, or you know about the "special hell" that Mal could be going to, then you're probably already a fan of Firefly. If not, take a listen to learn all about the Joss Whedon-created sci-fi/western show, and find out why its fanbase endures after all these years.
2019-07-0517 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 33: The Replacements - Iron ManNow that Tony’s gone from the MCU, let’s look at some of his possible replacements, specifically those who have already done so in the comics. It’s the third installment of “The Replacements,” which previously covered those who have replaced Captain America and Superman. This time, we look at the history of those who have taken up the Armored Avenger’s mantle.
2019-06-2117 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 32: Dungeon Crawlers (aka RPG-Style Board Games)What if you want to kill some monsters, but don’t want to get bogged down in all that pesky role-playing? Well, these games, past and present, may just be what you’re looking for. Kurt covers the highlights of the history of dungeon crawler board games this episode.
2019-06-0718 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 31: Time Travel Rules (Back to the Future, Bill & Ted, and Avengers: Endgame)A comparison of time travel rules in a few well-known movies that feature it extensively, from Back to the Future, up to Avengers: Endgame. SPOILER WARNING: Details of Endgame will be from 11:24 to 15:43, if you want to avoid that still.
2019-05-2417 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 30: The DC Animated Universe OverviewFirst, a note from a listener about the Star Trek Economy. Then, from Batman: The Animated Series to Justice League Unlimited; a brief look at the history of one of the greatest TV and movie universes created.
2019-05-1018 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 29: The Economics of Star Trek (Part 2)Kurt concludes his discussion with economy professor Matt Dobra on the supposedly money-less economy of the Federation from the world of Star Trek. Discussion includes the Universal Basic Income, interstellar trade, and the Rules of Acquisition.
2019-04-2630 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 28: The Economics of Star Trek (Part 1)Kurt calls up economy professor Matt Dobra again, this time to discuss the economy of the Federation from the world of Star Trek. They famously say they do not use money in the future, and we dive into whether or not that would work. Learn about post-scarcity, the hedonic treadmill, and other economic terms through the lens of one of the most famous science fiction franchises of all time!
2019-04-1231 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 27: Who is Robbie Baldwin (aka Speedball, the Masked Marvel)?Celebrating one full year of Welcome to Geektown, Kurt answers a question about his favorite character, diving into Robbie Baldwin’s history, and why Kurt is the World’s Biggest Speedball Fan.
2019-03-2918 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 26: Who is Billy Batson (aka Shazam! aka Captain Marvel)With his movie coming out next month, we look at the comic history of Billy Batson, the original Captain Marvel, aka Shazam!
2019-03-1519 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 25: Batman Movie Order and Their Comic InfluencesBatman has been portrayed on screen a number of times. A listener wants to know where to start with those films, and how they’ve influenced and been influenced by the comics, so we go through them all chronologically, from the 1943 serial, all the way to what’s planned for the future.
2019-03-0117 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 24: Doctor Who Viewing Order and Star Trek vs Star WarsDoctor Who? That is the question, isn’t it. Which Doctor should be your first, and in what order should you watch? Also, why do so many fans insist on choosing between Star Wars and Star Trek?
2019-02-1515 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 23: Star Trek TV and Movie Viewing OrderWith all of the different Star Trek shows that have aired, what’s the best order for a burgeoning Trekkie to watch them in? Kurt gives his opinion on which option is best, and why. But first, for the non-initiated, what are all those acronyms?
2019-02-0115 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 22: Gatekeeping - What Is It, Why Is It Bad, and How To Fight ItI’ve been mentioning “gatekeepers” in the opening of nearly every episode, but what is a gatekeeper? This week, we define gatekeeping, explain how it harms, and try to figure out where it comes from and how to fight against it.
2019-01-1800 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 21: Getting Medieval on FantasyThis episode, Kurt is asked about why so much of fantasy takes place in a Medieval-like setting, and discusses a few of those reasons why that is the case. Plus more famous quotes are given their origins; this time all coming from the same source.
2019-01-0414 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 20: Introduction to Dungeons and DragonsWhat is Dungeons and Dragons, and how to explain its long-term popularity? Also, is it possible to try the game out without committing a lot of time and/or money? I take the time to answer these questions on this episode. If you’re at all curious what all the hype is about, take a listen!
2018-12-2115 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 19: Female Superhero Movies - Why aren't there more and who should be next?With nearly a dozen new comic-book movies each year, why do so few of them have women in their leading roles? That’s what listener Justin B. asked, and what I attempt to answer, as well as giving thoughts on which superheroines should get the spotlight next.
2018-12-0715 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 18: Stan Lee History and TributeThis week’s episode, instead of answering a question, is a history of and tribute to Stan Lee, who died recently. We look at his beginnings in the industry, and some of the important contributions he made throughout the years.
2018-11-2200 min
Welcome to GeektownFixed Episode 17 - Comics vs. Graphic NovelsThis week’s episode has a two-part question about the difference between comic books and graphic novels (if there is one), as well as wanting to know what options are out there for people who want to read about the Marvel Universe in straight prose, rather than words and art together. Finally, another famous catchphrase gets its origins explained.
2018-11-1200 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 17: Comics vs Graphic NovelsThis week’s episode has a two-part question about the difference between comic books and graphic novels (if there is one), as well as wanting to know what options are out there for people who want to read about the Marvel Universe in straight prose, rather than words and art together. Finally, another famous catchphrase gets its origins explained.
2018-11-0900 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 16: Min-Maxing and Meta-GamingMin-Maxing and Meta-Gaming. If you're sitting at a table playing D&D, you likely do not want to be accused of either of these. But, what are they exactly, and can they ever be a force for good? Find out in this week's episode. Bonus: Where does the opening phrase of the podcast come from?
2018-10-2600 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 12: Wakandan EconIn order to answer a listener's question about the economics of Wakanda, home of the Black Panther, Kurt talks to economics professor Dr. Matt Dobra about how the economics of Wakanda would (or would not) work in the real world. Learn about Dutch Disease, the Resource Curse, and more, through the lens of pop culture!
2018-08-3100 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 6: Marvel vs. DC - A HistoryKurt looks at the history of Marvel and DC's fan rivalry, and the root causes behind it.
2018-06-0800 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 4: Why Are Mutants Hated?Mutants are "hated and feared" by many humans in the Marvel Universe, but listener Aaron L. wants to know why they're treated so differently from the other super-powered beings. Kurt tackles this question, as well as announcing a contest!
2018-05-1115 min
Welcome to GeektownEpisode 1: The Starts and Restarts of the DC UniverseHost Kurt Onstad goes into the history of the various reboots of the DC Universe, both hard and soft. From Action Comics #1 in 1938 all the way to 2016's Rebirth, learn the big continuity shake-ups that have changed the history of some of your favorite characters.Show notes are available at http://www.welcome2geektown.com Questions for future episodes can be sent to welcometogeektown@gmail.com
2018-03-3018 min