Shows
The Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastClickbait vs. Dead Air - The Best LEGO Podcast Episode You'll Hear While Listening to This LEGO Podcast EpisodeWell, I recorded it. Edited it. Now I'm uploading it. And I STILL don't know what this episode is about.2024-05-2127 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBuilding Recognition: Brick-Built Trophies and Tokens of AppreciationIn this episode I delve into the world of brick-built trophies and tokens of appreciation in the LEGO community. From the unique designs of trophies awarded at LEGO conventions to the growing trend of AFOLs leaving miniature creations as tokens of admiration at MOCs, I explore the origins, significance, and personal experiences with these forms of recognition.
2024-05-1434 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastExpanding the LEGO Calendar: The Case for Additional Month-Long Build ChallengesIn this episode, I explore the current landscape of themed month-long build challenges in the LEGO community, identifying gaps in the calendar and proposing creative solutions.
2024-04-2324 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastA Blast from the Past: Exploring 1980s Pop Culture Revival Through LEGO DesignsIn this episode we take you on a nostalgic journey filled with iconic TV shows and films. From discussing the recent LEGO Ideas contest themed around 1980s properties to exploring the possibility of a collaborative build focused on 1985's memorable releases at Bricks Cascade.
2024-04-1629 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastLEGO Dungeons & Dragons: Set Review, Collectable Minifigures Preview, and MoreDive into the exciting world of the LEGO and Dungeons & Dragons fusion. Explore the history of both hobbies, from childhood introductions to the highly anticipated collaboration between Wizards of the Coast and the LEGO Group. Get a review of the first-ever LEGO D&D set and a sneak peek at the upcoming collectible minifigures series, all while unraveling the nostalgic journey of discovery and creativity. Don't miss this thrilling episode that celebrates the 50-year milestone of Dungeons & Dragons and the magic of LEGO building.
2024-04-0232 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBuilding Beyond Canon: Unleashing Your Fanfic in LEGO CreationsIn this episode I delve into the intriguing world of fan fiction within LEGO creations. Exploring the blurred lines between original storytelling and established intellectual properties like Star Wars and Ghostbusters. I question whether creating MOCs set in existing universes qualifies as fan fiction.
2024-03-2630 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBricks Cascade Insider II: The Public Exhibition, Programming, and AardvarksIn memory of Dennis Halliday, this episode serves as a follow-up to the earlier Bricks Cascade episode, offering insights into the upcoming LEGO convention's public exhibition. I discuss ticket details, programming highlights including appearances by LEGO Masters cast members, and personal updates on my convention plans. Along with heartfelt memories of Dennis, a dear friend and avid supporter of the podcast. 2024-03-1914 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastLEGO Storytelling: Bringing MOCs to Life
In this episode I delve into the art of storytelling through LEGO creations. Reflecting on my childhood aspirations and the evolution of his creative journey, I share how storytelling has always been at the core of his passion.
2024-03-1231 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastRiding the Cosmic Range - Crafting LEGO Space Western AdventuresThis episode delves into the intriguing world of Space Western MOCs. Exploring the fusion of western-style narratives with science fiction environments, the episode uncovers the nuances of this subgenre while sharing personal experiences and creative insights. From discussing the origins and influences of Space Westerns in popular culture to detailing the process of building unique MOCs, listeners are treated to a captivating journey through the cosmic frontier. With anecdotes, design challenges, and imaginative concepts, this episode offers a rich tapestry of storytelling and LEGO craftsmanship, inviting enthusiasts to embark on their own space western adventures.
2024-03-0528 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastMarchikoma Madness: Crafting "Ghost in the Shell"-Style AI Spider Tanks with LEGOIn this episode we delve into the fascinating world of Marchikoma, a traditional month-long build challenge where LEGO enthusiasts create spider-like weapons platforms inspired by the iconic designs from the Ghost in the Shell franchise.
2024-02-2724 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastInto the Final Frontier - Crafting MOCs in the Star Trek UniverseIn this episode, we delve into the world of LEGO Star Trek creations, exploring the intersection of two beloved universes: LEGO and Star Trek. While LEGO has never officially obtained the license to produce Star Trek sets, the passion for building in the Star Trek universe remains strong among fans. We discuss the various non-LEGO plastic brick manufacturers who have dabbled in Star Trek sets, from Mega Blocks to Kre-O and beyond. Additionally, we explore the realm of Star Trek MOCs (My Own Creations), detailing the types of builds enthusiasts can create and where to find printed Starfleet uniform...2024-02-1332 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBricks Cascade Insider: LEGO Games, MOC Themes, and Convention Countdown
In this episode, I take you on a journey through the excitement building up to Portland Oregon's annual Bricks Cascade LEGO convention, just six weeks away. Delve into the world of LEGO games, MOC displays, presentations, workshops, and more. Discover the MOC themes, including the 2024 theme "Rose City," and get a sneak peek into the thrilling LEGO games lined up for the convention. Uncover the unique challenges of the draft, explore the exhibition hall, and learn about the diverse themes shaping this LEGO enthusiast's haven. Plus, find out about the quirky Aardvark theme and my campaign for...2024-02-0634 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastMaximizing My LEGO Space: From Dedicated Room to Open Living AreaReflecting on the evolution of my LEGO storage from childhood pillowcases to dedicated rooms, in this episode I explore the dream of having a personal LEGO space. I chronicle my journey from cramped living spaces to the realization of a LEGO room in my current apartment. After encountering impressive LEGO rooms in the community, the episode takes a surprising turn as I contemplates transforming my entire living area into a LEGO room and podcast studio. Fueled by late-night insomnia-induced ideas, I discusses the challenges and benefits of this "LEGO room inversion," promising more updates on this unique project.
2024-01-3025 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastCreative Orbits: LEGO Space Rovers UnearthedIn this episode, I delve into the upcoming FebRovery challenge, a month-long celebration of LEGO rover building. Exploring the history of classic space rovers, the accidental origins of FebRovery, and the freedom it brings to LEGO enthusiasts, Join the fun and check out what's rolling on this episode!
2024-01-2322 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastWhen LEGO Crime Falls Flat: The Disappointing Quest for a More Popular Podcast TopicIn this episode, join me in a revealing exploration of my experiment with True LEGO Crime, where I discuss my quest to attract True Crime enthusiasts to the LEGO world.
2024-01-1621 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastQuest for the Next "Monster Fighters": LEGO Themes in the Minifigure ExperimentIn this episode I take a peek at (my understanding of) the origin of the Monster Fighters theme stemming from the Collectable Minifigures series, and speculate about six other themes that could have potentially spun off from the same source.
2024-01-0931 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastLEGO 2024 Preview: New Themes and Sets Unveiled
In this episode, we break down the unveiling of Lego's 2024 offerings, from space-themed wonders to Animal Crossing adventures. But wait, there's more! We delve into third-party accessories, and we touch on the upcoming Bricks Cascade 2024 Lego convention.
2024-01-0241 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastRobot Revolutions: Navigating the Droneuary Build ChallengeIn this episode of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast, we delve into the world of the upcoming Droneuary build challenge, marking its tenth anniversary. Join me as we explore the origins, evolution, and unique characteristics of LEGO drones, moving beyond conventional definitions. Featuring insights from Michael Willhoit, one of the challenge's originators, I’ll unveil the cyberpunk-inspired humanoid robots that Droneuary celebrates.2023-12-2621 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastLongevity in LEGO Podcasting: Breaking the Episode 20 Barrier"Welcome to the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast, episode 21, where we break the LEGO podcasting barriers and dive into the secrets behind reaching the elite 1% of podcast longevity.
2023-12-1924 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastThe Art of Custom LEGO Minifigures: DIY and Third-Party Magic
In this episode I take you on a journey through the evolution of minifigure customization, sharing personal stories and insights. From the early days of hand-painted Spider-Man figures to the intricacies of purist customs and the realm of third-party upgrades, I unravel the artistry and creativity behind each customized piece. Discover the techniques of using stickers, waterslide decals, and even 3D printing to bring your minifigure visions to life. Dive into the vibrant world of professional and semi-professional customizers, offering a vast array of characters from various franchises, and learn about the unique and unexpected customs that...2023-12-1229 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastCollector's Quest: AFOLs and the Sets That Got AwayIn this episode we explore the world of Adult Fans of LEGO and their relentless pursuit of elusive sets known as "white whales" or "holy grails." Join the discussion on the diverse paths AFOLs take in obtaining their white whales, from vintage childhood sets to MOCs, minifigures, and individual pieces.
2023-12-0540 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastInside LEGO's Rulebook: Exploring What Makes the Brick Giant TickEpisode 18 of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast takes you on a journey through LEGO's values, addressing the recent stir around a TV-MA minifigure. Uncover the complexities of planned podcast topics, unexpected events, and the intricacies of LEGO's decision-making. Gain insights into LEGO's values and the list of topics they exclude, exploring the thin line between creativity and brand identity.
2023-11-2834 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBuilding Beyond: Inside the Space Jam Sci-Fi Build ContestDive into the cosmic world of LEGO creations in Episode 17 of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast, titled "Building Beyond: Inside the Space Jam Sci-Fi Build Contest." Host Mike Snethen explores the intricacies of the upcoming Space Jam, a two-month sci-fi build contest starting on December 1st. Uncover the origins, rules, and categories of this unique challenge that promises creativity, challenge, and, most importantly, fun. Discover how this contest, rooted in the love of sci-fi builds, evolved from the LEGO Castle community's Summer Joust and became a cornerstone in the AFOL community's calendar. Get ready for a journey through the past...2023-11-2129 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBuilding Holiday Magic: Christmas Shopping for LEGO Enthusiasts
In this episode, we explore the holiday shopping season, focusing on gift ideas for Lego fans. From Lego sets to exclusive deals, we've got your shopping guide covered.
2023-11-1434 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastLevel Up Your RPG: How LEGO Enhances Tabletop AdventuresThis episode reveals the magical fusion of LEGO and tabletop roleplaying games. Discover how integrating LEGO into your RPG sessions can enhance your adventures, from mimics to character minifigures, custom battle grids, and creative puzzles. Dive into a world of endless possibilities as you explore how LEGO can elevate your tabletop gaming experience.
2023-11-0727 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastFrom Bricks to Frankenstein - A LEGO Halloween Extravaganza
In this Halloween episode, host Mike Snethen delves into topics like trick-or-treating, costuming, and the iconic Frankenstein monster. He explores the world of LEGO-inspired Halloween, from polybags for trick-or-treaters to spooky minifigures.
Mike shares his vision of a future Halloween when he can be the favorite trick-or-treat destination by giving away LEGO. He also discusses the teal pumpkin project, which focuses on food allergies during Halloween.
The episode explores LEGO's connection to the Frankenstein mythos, with mentions of the Monster Fighters theme and collectible minifigures. Mike's complaint about the lack of the Bride...2023-10-3135 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastFrom Gradius to LEGO - Celebrating Vic Viper in NnoVVemberIn this episode, host Mike Snethen dives into the world of NnoVVember, the annual LEGO build challenge that celebrates Vic Viper starfighters. Mike explores the history of this challenge, its connection to the Gradius video game series, and the creative process of building these iconic spaceships. He shares insights into his personal journey with Vic Viper building and offers some advice for those interested in participating in NnoVVember.
2023-10-2427 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastDrunk on Creativity: LEGO, Alcohol, and MOC MixologyMike takes you on a journey through the world of adult fans of LEGO (AFOLs) and their love for adult beverages. While he might not partake in alcoholic drinks himself, Mike explores the many ways in which LEGO and alcohol connect, from casual evenings of Bricks and Booze to competitive drunken speed building competitions.
Discover how the trend of mixing LEGO and alcohol has evolved, and hear about some unique bars and events where adults come together to build and enjoy their favorite drinks.
Mike also delves into the world of creating LEGO bars, taverns...2023-10-1726 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastClone Bricks Exposed - The Pros and Cons of Alternative LEGOIn this episode, we dive deep into the intriguing world of clone bricks, revealing the pros and cons of these alternative LEGO products. We explore the history of clone bricks and their impact on the LEGO community. From the early days of Tyco Super Blocks to the rise of Mega Bloks and beyond, we unravel the choices that LEGO enthusiasts face when it comes to staying true to the LEGO brand or exploring clone alternatives. Discover the slippery slope that can lead even the most devoted LEGO purists into the realm of third-party accessories and counterfeit minifigures. Join us...2023-10-1033 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastThe Quest for LEGO’s Rare Goat - Collector’s Dream or Nightmare?Join your host, Mike Snethen, as he embarks on a whimsical journey into the world of LEGO's rarest and most coveted piece, the LEGO goat. In this episode, you'll discover the fascinating story behind this elusive goat, its rise to collector's fame, and the passionate community dedicated to acquiring it. From parts drafts to the quest for a new goat mold, this episode explores the quirky and endearing world of LEGO goats. Tune in for a LEGO adventure like no other!
2023-10-0330 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastMechtober Madness: Four Weeks of Epic Mecha BuildsIn this episode, we delve into the exciting world of Mechtober,
the October monthly build challenge that's captured the hearts of LEGO enthusiasts. But first, we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to explore the origins of October's brick-building traditions, from Ma.Ktoberfest to the birth of Mechtober.
Discover the fascinating backstory of Ma.Ktoberfest, a build
challenge inspired by the sci-fi universe of Maschinen Krieger. Uncover the twists and turns of this unique intellectual property's journey and its impact on the LEGO community.
Learn how Mechtober emerged during a global pandemic, thanks to...2023-09-2626 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastArchitects of Imagination - The Beauty of Semi-Permanent LEGO CitiesIn this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of personal LEGO City layouts, exploring the creativity and dedication of AFOLs who build their own semi-permanent LEGO cities. Join us as we discuss the intricacies of Minifigure Scale Urban Planning and the unique challenges and joys of constructing these miniature metropolises.
2023-09-1926 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastBrickCon Beyond Borders - A Virtual LEGO SpectacularMy story of attending BrickCon 2023 virtually from the comfort of my own computer chair.2023-09-1233 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastA Decade of Bricks – My First BrickCon Experience in 2013
Episode Description:
In this episode of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast, we're diving deep into a
nostalgic trip down memory lane as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Mike's
first-ever BrickCon experience in 2013. Join us as we explore the journey from
the initial decision to attend this LEGO convention to the unexpected twists,
building challenges, and the ultimate decision to bring a unique MOC (My Own
Creation) to the event. Along the way, we'll also share stories of fellow AFOLs
(Adult Fans of LEGO) and lessons learned during this remarkable convention adventure.
Tune in for an inspiring and...2023-09-0528 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastMastering Minimalism: the LEGO Haiku's Art of Expression in 5-7-5
In this episode of the Battle Gorilla LEGO Podcast (Episode 5), titled "Mastering Minimalism: The Lego Haiku's Art of Expression in 575," host Mike Snethen dives into a fascinating journey of creativity and minimalistic LEGO building. Mike introduces the concept of the "Lego Haiku," a specific build style he developed, inspired by the Japanese poetry form. He shares his thoughts on the significance of numbers and explains the process of crafting intricate creations with just 17 pieces, split into sections of 5 and 7 parts. The episode delves into the origins of the project, its challenges, and the unique satisfaction of creating meaningful narratives...2023-08-2931 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastSpaceship Odyssey - Exploring the SHIPtember Build ChallengeIn this episode of the Battlegorilla LEGO podcast, join host Mike Snethen on a journey through the captivating universe of the SHIPtember build challenge. As we take a deep dive into this annual event, get ready to uncover the secrets behind the SHIP acronym, its origins, and the remarkable enormity of the challenge. From humble beginnings to a thriving tradition, learn about the evolution of SHIPtember and how it has captured the imagination of AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) worldwide.
Episode Highlights:
Introducing SHIPtember: Discover the fascinating history and significance of SHIPtember, a month-long build challenge...2023-08-2226 min
The Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastFrom Classic Bricks to Modern Marvels - My 46 Year LEGO JourneyEpisode 01: From Classic Bricks to Modern Marvels, My 46 Year LEGO Journey
Join us in the inaugural episode of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast as we embark on a captivating journey through the world of LEGO bricks. In this episode, your host Mike Snethen takes you back to the moment of discovery, when the distinct sound of a LEGO set sparked a lifelong passion on Christmas morning, 1977. Uncover the origins of Mike's fascination with LEGO, from his early ventures into the Classic Space theme to the introduction of Technic sets that brought motorized creations to life.
Experience...2023-08-1532 min
The Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastAn In-Depth Look at the LEGO Dreamzzz Theme: Sets, Animation, and InspirationExplore the magical world of LEGO Dreamzzz in Episode 2 of the Battlegorilla LEGO podcast! Host Mike Snethen takes you on a journey through the development, characters, and sets of this captivating new theme. From leaked artwork to the animated series "Trials of the Dream Chasers," discover how LEGO Dreamzzz fosters creativity and imagination. Delve into Mike's insights on various sets, including Mrs. Castillo's Turtle Van and the intriguing guided creativity concept. Join the excitement for this imaginative theme's potential as Mike shares his hopes for its future. Plus, get a glimpse of upcoming rumored sets for 2024 and stay tuned...2023-08-1525 minThe Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastConstructing Dystopian Dreams: Cyberpunk MOC Building ExplainedEpisode 3: Constructing Dystopian Dreams: Cyberpunk MOC Building Explained
Dive into the neon-lit world of cyberpunk as we embark on Episode 3 of the Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast. In this electrifying episode, your host Mike Snethen takes you on a journey through the captivating realm of cyberpunk LEGO creations. Discover the essence of cyberpunk, its key elements, and its influence on literature, movies, and more. From defining the cyberpunk aesthetic to exploring the three distinct environments within this genre, Mike provides insights into creating your own cyberpunk-themed MOCs (My Own Creations).
Uncover the secret to designing cyberpunk characters...2023-08-1522 min
The Battlegorilla LEGO PodcastPre-Launch TrailerA quick summary of the upcoming Battlegorilla LEGO Podcast. We launch on August 15th!2023-07-3002 min