Shows
Geeky StoicsDeconstructing "Balance" of the Force in Star WarsMay the Fourth be with you!What better way to celebrate than to watch a very special, video edition of the Geeky Stoics podcast.In this episode, Stephen Kent and Riley Blanton get into it! It is a Star Wars philosophical battle royale (ok, maybe thoughtful discussion) on the ever-controversial concept of "balance” of the Force. Balance is a big deal in Star Wars - it's basically the main job description of the Chosen One. But leave it to a couple of philosophy nerds like us to find 7 ways to interpret exactly what that means. ...
2024-05-0432 min
Geeky StoicsInterested in Stoicism? Watch Star WarsStephen Kent of Geeky Stoics lists off similarities between Stoic Philosophy and Star Wars. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.geekystoics.com/subscribe
2024-04-0807 min
Geeky StoicsMEGA-CAST: Star Wars Controversy, Storytelling Philosophies, and Creative ProcessesIn this episode of the Geeky Stoics Mega-Cast, Riley and Stephen delve into a recent controversy in the Star Wars community. We analyze an interview given by a certain upcoming Star Wars director and explore the fan reactions it sparked. Stephen provides insightful background on the director and quotes that particularly stuck with the fans, stirring up debate.Key Discussion Points:* Director's Controversial Interview: An exploration of the recent interview with Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy that has caused a stir among fans. Stephen provides context and examines the quotes that ignited fan discussions.* Storytelling Philosophies...
2024-01-0656 min
Geeky StoicsWhat Geeky Stoics Is Really AboutThis is what Geeky Stoics is all about. Identifying and celebrating those moments in modern stories that were in a sense, gifted to us. It’s an inheritance, one we’re grateful for. We focus on that rather than the predictable, angry, and shallow entertainment commentary that defines so much of our online lives. Even in movies we don’t particularly love, our attention is on finding the meaning or kernel of wisdom worth holding on to. It’s been a process of transformation and finding just the right message for this Substack. You might remember that this new...
2023-12-1801 min
Geeky StoicsAbout Those Bad DreamsWE ARE NOW GEEKY STOICS. Enjoy this new episode of the podcast where Stephen Kent walks through a connection between the writings of Seneca and the fall of Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars Episode III. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.geekystoics.com/subscribe
2023-11-2008 min
Geeky StoicsIn Prison Wherever You GoI’ve never met a person who wanted to not live free. The trick with human beings is that we’re all seeking freedom from different things, people, places, and ideas. One man’s prison is another’s retreat. In last week’s edition, What Sets You Free (paywall is now down) I outlined how the Jedi and Sith differ on what defines freedom, and how it relates to our own struggles with living the kind of lives we’d like to live. Today I have something else for you to consider, a controversial point — no doubt. Which is that...
2023-11-1305 min
Geeky StoicsIt's Okay To Say LessQui-Gon Jinn is a quote machine. Probably more than any Jedi Master in Star Wars, even more than Yoda. During his one film, Episode I: The Phantom Menace, Qui-Gon delivers a quip to Jar Jar Binks that is more important than you may realize. Jar Jar almost gets them both killed. Qui-Gon is a tad flustered by this and asks, “What are you, brainless?” Jar Jar says back, “I can speak”Qui-Gon responds, “The ability to speak doesn’t make you intelligent.” Many of you receiving this email today are new to This Is The Wa...
2023-11-0705 min
Geeky StoicsYou Fell In Love With A Dying Star: Embracing the pain of changeChange is painful, and yet it can still be so beautiful. In this episode, Stephen Kent reflects on parenting and a new song from musician Noah Gundersen called "Haunted House"Listen to the song herehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYTg47b2Xv4Follow us on Substack and join the communityhttps://thisistheway.substack.com/Join Walk The Way on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrtAeMhf3qJcD2xjeMNNE1AFollow us on Substack and join the community https://thisistheway.substack.com/Join...
2023-09-0814 min
Beltway BanthasWalk The Way: A New Podcast from Stephen KentIf you loved Beltway Banthas, you can still keep learning from Star Wars. Stephen Kent has a new podcast with co-host Riley Blanton, it's called Walk The Way. Inspired by the writing from How The Force Can Fix The World and This Is The Way, Walk The Way is dedicated to building a community around popular fiction and self-improvement. Myth can make us better, George Lucas knew that.
Find WALK THE WAY on your favorite podcast app today and Subscribe
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/23aR2KZ1r8l65...
2023-07-3002 min
Geeky StoicsThe Philosophy of Star Wars - The Skywalker IdentityIn this debut episode of Walk the Way, Riley and Stephen discuss the philosophy behind Rey Skywalker's choice to take on the Skywalker name in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. They talk about the theme of self-definition and identity in Star Wars and how pop culture stories can shape our worldviews and teach us virtues. They explain the focus of the Walk the Way podcast - diving deep into the philosophy they can learn from popular movies, TV shows, and books and how to apply those lessons to their own lives.Timestamps:[0:00:00...
2023-07-1933 min
Geeky StoicsRediscovery: Star Wars, Iceland, and the Birth of a New PodcastShow notes:Introduction and Background (0:00-1:00)Riley Blanton, the founder and long-term host of The Star Wars Report podcast, announces the new podcast "Walk the Way" co-hosted by Stephen Kent.Both hosts have a long history of Star Wars podcasting and intend to create a space that focuses on the philosophy and stories that define who we are.The Concept of "Walk the Way" Podcast (1:01-2:05)The podcast aims to delve deep into the stories and mythologies that inspire us and shape our identities.We hope to move beyond the surface-level Star Wars news...
2023-07-0913 min
Beltway BanthasTHIS IS THE WAY: General Leia, Marcus Aurelius and the state of the Beltway Banthas podcastWhat's going on with Beltway Banthas?! Why is Stephen Kent speaking so softly and what is this lovely background music?! Beltway Banthas is in a new season of it's life called 'This Is The Way,' a run of episodes focused on taking Star Wars wisdom and turning it out onto real life. Today Stephen answers a listener feedback email and has a call to action for everyone tuning in.
This is also the first episode of Beltway Banthas with a sponsored message for Anchor, a podcasting platform by Spotify. You'll hear that midway through. We use A...
2022-03-2612 min
Beltway BanthasTHIS IS THE WAY: Named your fear must be, before banish it you canWe live in a frightening time. Star Wars is steadfast in reminds us that Fear is the start of a road toward darkness. Fear leads to Anger, Anger leads to Hate, and Hate leads to Suffering. So says Yoda to a young Anakin Skywalker who admitted he missed his Mother. Understandably so, he was 9 years old and away from her and home for the first time in his life when he stood in the Jedi Council chamber on Coruscant. Surrounded by beady eyes and suspicion. What are you really afraid of? This is a meditation on FEAR, and you...
2021-11-0807 min
Beltway BanthasTHIS IS THE WAY: How Kylo Ren, Rey and love brought balance to the ForceWhy were the Jedi so obsessed with the prophecy of balance being brought to the Force? And why did they clearly fail so badly? It's because balance is easier said than done, and their moral commitments were out of step with the principle of what balance really is. This episode is an explainer on how Rey and Kylo Ren eventually brought balance to the Force, and why the Jedi and Sith both fail when it comes to having a healthy relationship with the emotion of LOVE.
This reflection is a new line of episodes leading up to t...
2021-11-0517 min
Beltway BanthasTHIS IS THE WAY: Rey Skywalker and your power to chooseDo we have free will and the power to choose our own destiny? Star Wars is clear eyed about both the power and reality of choice, but also the gravity of choices that were made FOR us. How have you had choices in your life limited by circumstance for the actions of others? We've all been there. But you can do something about it. In this Beltway Banthas miniseries, Stephen Kent offers a reflection on how to find and preserve your free will to shape the life you want to have. This reflection is a new line of episodes...
2021-11-0419 min
Beltway BanthasIn Star Wars, Faith & Life, Empathy Is A Dangerous NecessityOpportunities to discuss morality, virtue, and living well through the lens of Star Wars are all around us. For fans, this is part of what makes the galaxy far far away so special. Today's episode is a somewhat spontaneous look at the subject of Empathy, by way of a piece of writing by David French. A past guest of Beltway Banthas, French has a unique grasp of theology and a perspective on the Christian faith that ties neatly into numerous elements of the Star Wars story. Combining elements of French's post on his Substack, FrenchPress and my upcoming book...
2021-09-1242 min
Beltway BanthasMaking "How The Force Can Fix The World" into an audiobookEver wanted to peek behind the curtain of the making of an Audiobook? Now you can! In this episode of Beltway Banthas, check out what's going on with the making of How The Force Can Fix The World for Audible. Stick around for a preview of Stephen Kent's appearance on the Around The Galaxy podcast to talk about the politics of Star Wars fandom, and a review of the Bad Batch season one finale.
Get the book! HOW THE FORCE CAN FIX THE WORLD by Stephen Kent: https://www.centerstreet.com/titles/stephen-kent/how-the-force-can-fix-the-world/9781546000488/
Listen...
2021-08-1533 min
Beltway BanthasEmpathy is a gift to yourself, Star Wars can help you find it"Empathy does not make you a good person. Being able to employ it does not rid you of your own basement of horrors. It is a tool to enhance our thinking, for if we know how other people feel, we have a better chance of understanding their thoughts. Hence why it is best used in service of those you disagree with" - Ayishat A Akanbi.
Today's show is about empathy, and what Star Wars helps to teach us about this valuable principle. Star Wars tells numerous stories about the power of empathy to change lives, improve people a...
2021-07-301h 20
Beltway BanthasTyrants love your despair, but Star Wars is fighting for hopeHope is like the sun. So says General Leia. This week on Beltway Banthas, some thoughts on why the struggle for hope in hopeless times is the good fight. Logan Albright joins the show to talk about his recent op-ed on the problem of hopelessness & rising deaths of despair, and what it means for our politics and relationships. Of course, this all revolves around the wisdom of the galaxy far far away like any good Beltway Banthas episode would do.
Pre-Order the book! HOW THE FORCE CAN FIX THE WORLD by going here: https://l...
2021-07-1145 min
Beltway BanthasHow the FORCE can fix the world, weekly listener hangouts and Star Wars life lessonsBanthas! We're back and up and running after a brief disturbance in the Force. On this episode, Stephen Kent breaks down the latest in the journey toward publishing a book based on this very podcast and the life lessons embedded in Star Wars. Here you can listen to Stephen read the draft Introduction to the book: How The Force Can Fix The World: Lessons on Life, Liberty, and Happiness From a Galaxy Far, Far Away.
Announcement! Every Thursday we'll host a Video Hangout for friends of the show. The link is below and it starts tonight, May 27t...
2021-05-2729 min
Beltway BanthasRedemption, feeding the Shadow and how Star Wars conquers hubrisThis month on Beltway Banthas, host Stephen Kent speaks with writer Brittany Hunter about Star Wars' complicated narrative on redemption. What does it mean to "come back to the light" or to be redeemed in Star Wars' greatest character arcs? As Stephen works his way toward finishing his book, How The Force Can Fix America this conversation is meant to work through one of the most sticky issues in American life...our nation's own redemption story.
2021-04-051h 07
Beltway BanthasSelf-own or cancel culture? Gina Carano fired from The MandalorianGina Carano has been sacked by Disney Lucasfilm and will not be involved in The Mandalorian going forward. Today on Beltway Banthas, Stephen Kent speaks with Robby Soave of Reason Magazine and author of Panic Attack: Young Radicals in the Age of Trump. Robby and Stephen generally share the same concerns about what's known as cancel culture, but come down in different places on how we should think about Gina Carano's firing.
2021-02-1144 min
Beltway BanthasSearching for Star Wars after an insurrectionAmerica was attacked on January 6th, 2021 from within. A sitting president fulfilled his many years of promising to not concede a lost election and did so by sicking his craven supporters on Congress. Beltway Banthas is a Star Wars and politics podcast, but sometimes Star Wars is hard to find in the moments when history is being written on TV. In this episode Stephen Kent, Danielle Adams, Nick DiCo and Riley Blanton convene the day after an insurrection at the Capitol building and unload their thoughts.
2021-01-081h 10
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreDavid French (full interview) on Star Wars and saving America + "The Star Wars Book" ReviewHello Friends! I had a few people request by email that we release the entirety of my interview with David French (The Dispatch) for the recent episode on dismantling the Death Star threat of our politics + David’s new book “Divided We Fall”So…you can stream that right here (above)First, I loved the book. It’s written for anyone left, right or center and is even-handed in describing the problem we face and the upside of David’s solution to every faction. But he is clear-eyed about the risks and the likelihood we can...
2020-11-2243 min
Geeky StoicsDavid French (full interview) on Star Wars and saving America + "The Star Wars Book" ReviewHello Friends! I had a few people request by email that we release the entirety of my interview with David French (The Dispatch) for the recent episode on dismantling the Death Star threat of our politics + David’s new book “Divided We Fall”So…you can stream that right here (above)First, I loved the book. It’s written for anyone left, right or center and is even-handed in describing the problem we face and the upside of David’s solution to every faction. But he is clear-eyed about the risks and the likelihood we can achieve...
2020-11-2243 min
Beltway BanthasElection 2020 Rebel Alliance Situation Room RoundtableElection Day is upon us. ALL WINGS REPORT IN! On this months edition of the Beltway Banthas Roundtable, Stephen Kent is joined by Joe Tavano and Gabby Martin to ready for the 2020 election and break down our most recent episode. David French recently joined the podcast to explain why "Federalism" might be America's only salvation as polarization rips the union the asunder, and Stephen likened the stakes of our politics to a Death Star level threat. The panel will discuss this idea in-depth.
2020-11-021h 25
Beltway BanthasStar Wars, Court-Packing and Mike Lee vs the Galactic SenateIn this special broadcast of Beltway Banthas, host Stephen Kent and producer Riley Blanton react to Republican Senator Mike Lee's mention of Star Wars' Galactic Senate to describe Court-Packing. Why did he say this? Slate seems to suggest it's a lowkey expression of Lee's disdain for diversity and pluralistic government, but does that sort of miss the point?
We break it down in this short episode of the podcast!
2020-10-1819 min
Beltway BanthasRoundtable: Star Wars and the fight to save democracyOn this roundtable follow up to our most recent episode, "Does liberty always die in thunderous applause?" politicos Nick Dicolandrea and Danielle Adams rejoin Beltway Banthas to discuss the show. The panel grapples with the idea that democracy could die in the United States with barely a whimper, and why the political lessons of Star Wars still remain so poignant. Panel: Stephen Kent @Stephen_kent89 Danielle Adams @DanielleAdamsNC Nick Dicolandrea @NickDico
2020-09-2855 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreStar Wars' Identity Crisis Mirrors Our OwnKat Rosenfield wrote for Reason Magazine a feature piece on how Star Wars' three trilogies aligns almost perfectly with the politics of the time they were made in. What makes the sequel trilogy so unique, Episodes VII-IX, is that their chaotic nature almost mirrors the era we live in today. Stephen Kent and Kat discuss her article, living during COVID-19 and Kat shares a solid TV recommendation. Read Kat's article here: https://reason.com/2020/04/26/star-wars-identity-crisis/ Stream Stephen's EP, Color Me In With Green, on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1jJYBRBRhnbfYHFAtWsqXv?si=NHZd4...
2020-05-2843 min
Geeky StoicsStar Wars' Identity Crisis Mirrors Our OwnKat Rosenfield wrote for Reason Magazine a feature piece on how Star Wars' three trilogies aligns almost perfectly with the politics of the time they were made in. What makes the sequel trilogy so unique, Episodes VII-IX, is that their chaotic nature almost mirrors the era we live in today. Stephen Kent and Kat discuss her article, living during COVID-19 and Kat shares a solid TV recommendation. Read Kat's article here: https://reason.com/2020/04/26/star-wars-identity-crisis/ Stream Stephen's EP, Color Me In With Green, on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1jJYBRBRhnbfYHFAtWsqXv?si=NHZd4gh...
2020-05-2843 min
Beltway BanthasMayor Betsy Hodges on surviving, governing and escaping to TatooineMayor Betsy Hodges may be the former mayor of Minneapolis and now Washington, D.C., but she's really a citizen of Tatooine. In this special interview episode, the progressive activist and mayor joins Beltway Banthas to share how Star Wars saved her life (The Mary Sue). Beyond her personal story, which is a remarkable one, Stephen Kent and Betsy Hodges trace how Star Wars explains redemption and why that matters for the world we live in.
2020-04-1652 min
Geeky StoicsMayor Betsy Hodges on surviving, governing and escaping to TatooineMayor Betsy Hodges may be the former mayor of Minneapolis and now Washington, D.C., but she's really a citizen of Tatooine. In this special interview episode, the progressive activist and mayor joins Beltway Banthas to share how Star Wars saved her life (The Mary Sue). Beyond her personal story, which is a remarkable one, Stephen Kent and Betsy Hodges trace how Star Wars explains redemption and why that matters for the world we live in. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, v...
2020-04-1652 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreMayor Betsy Hodges on surviving, governing and escaping to TatooineMayor Betsy Hodges may be the former mayor of Minneapolis and now Washington, D.C., but she's really a citizen of Tatooine. In this special interview episode, the progressive activist and mayor joins Beltway Banthas to share how Star Wars saved her life (The Mary Sue). Beyond her personal story, which is a remarkable one, Stephen Kent and Betsy Hodges trace how Star Wars explains redemption and why that matters for the world we live in. Get on the email list at politicizeme.substack.com
2020-04-1652 min
Beltway BanthasCan the Force fix America? ft. Maggie LovittBeltway Banthas is back! In Episode 81, host Stephen Kent and guest host Maggie Lovitt review the latest Star Wars news including The High Republic era and The Rise of Skywalker novelization. We discuss theories around central planning and how some of the classic mistakes of governance might apply to the oddities in Star Wars storytelling since 2015. In our main segment, Maggie and Stephen discuss the principles of Star Wars that improve American politics and life. "Hope" and "Redemption"
2020-03-121h 02
Geeky StoicsCan the Force fix America? ft. Maggie LovittBeltway Banthas is back! In Episode 81, host Stephen Kent and guest host Maggie Lovitt (SAG AFTRA actress and contributor to Cantina Cast) review the latest Star Wars news including The High Republic era and The Rise of Skywalker novelization. We discuss theories around central planning and how some of the classic mistakes of governance might apply to the oddities in Star Wars storytelling since 2015. In our main segment, Maggie and Stephen discuss the principles of Star Wars that improve American politics and life. "Hope" and "Redemption" is what we get into and it's one of the best conversations yet...
2020-03-121h 02
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreCan the Force fix America? ft. Maggie LovittBeltway Banthas is back! In Episode 81, host Stephen Kent and guest host Maggie Lovitt (SAG AFTRA actress and contributor to Cantina Cast) review the latest Star Wars news including The High Republic era and The Rise of Skywalker novelization. We discuss theories around central planning and how some of the classic mistakes of governance might apply to the oddities in Star Wars storytelling since 2015. In our main segment, Maggie and Stephen discuss the principles of Star Wars that improve American politics and life. "Hope" and "Redemption" is what we get into and it's one of the best conversations yet...
2020-03-121h 02
FreemindThe Third Sex? Interview with Author Kent Philpott Live from NRBSeth and Nirva had the opportunity to attend the National Religious Broadcasters conference and interviewed multiple special guests! On this first episode, they interview the author of "The Third Sex? Revisited: Homosexual and Transgender Issues from a Biblical Perspective", Kent Philpott.
The Third Sex? Revisited: Homosexual and Transgender Issues from a Biblical Perspective on Amazon
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2020-03-0556 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & More#ReleaseTheJJCut: Star Wars and Conspiracy TheoryLook around the world today and you will see otherwise advanced societies overrun by misinformation, myth and conspiratorial thinking. Information echo chambers and media disruption has helped to polarize communities on everything from political viewpoints to opinions on Star Wars. Buzzfeed's Ryan Broderick wrote The “Star Wars” Misinformation Hell Is The New Future Of Everything" and he couldn't be more right. On this episode, Stephen Kent and guest Andrew Kenlon discuss the rise of #ReleaseTheJJCut and conspiracy theory within Star Wars fandom. It's always been there, but only recently has it been impossible to look away from, and that...
2020-01-0958 min
Geeky Stoics#ReleaseTheJJCut: Star Wars and Conspiracy TheoryLook around the world today and you will see otherwise advanced societies overrun by misinformation, myth and conspiratorial thinking. Information echo chambers and media disruption has helped to polarize communities on everything from political viewpoints to opinions on Star Wars. Buzzfeed's Ryan Broderick wrote The “Star Wars” Misinformation Hell Is The New Future Of Everything" and he couldn't be more right. On this episode, Stephen Kent and guest Andrew Kenlon discuss the rise of #ReleaseTheJJCut and conspiracy theory within Star Wars fandom. It's always been there, but only recently has it been impossible to look away from, and that matt...
2020-01-0958 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreA Rise of Skywalker Review Spectacular!What a merry time of year it is!! Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker crashed into theaters and has concluded the 42 year run of the Skywalker story that started in 1977. Stephen Kent saw it opening night and again the first weekend, and this is your REVIEW episode of the film. Stephen is joined by friends of the show to look at how The Rise of Skywalker does as a conclusion to STAR WARS, the good, the great, the bad and the ugly. We also feature reviews from LISTENERS: John Liang, Mike Harris, Ari Chavez, Andrew...
2019-12-281h 25
Beltway BanthasA Rise of Skywalker Review Spectacular!What a merry time of year it is!! Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker crashed into theaters and has concluded the 42 year run of the Skywalker story that started in 1977. Stephen Kent saw it opening night and again the first weekend, and this is your REVIEW episode of the film. Stephen is joined by friends of the show to look at how The Rise of Skywalker does as a conclusion to STAR WARS, the good, the great, the bad and the ugly. We also feature reviews from LISTENERS.
2019-12-281h 25
Geeky StoicsA Rise of Skywalker Review Spectacular!What a merry time of year it is!! Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker crashed into theaters and has concluded the 42 year run of the Skywalker story that started in 1977. Stephen Kent saw it opening night and again the first weekend, and this is your REVIEW episode of the film. Stephen is joined by friends of the show to look at how The Rise of Skywalker does as a conclusion to STAR WARS, the good, the great, the bad and the ugly. We also feature reviews from LISTENERS: John Liang, Mike Harris, Ari Chavez, Andrew...
2019-12-281h 25
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreThe Rise of Andrew Heaton and the case for EmpireThe Rise of Skywalker hits theaters this week! To discuss the hype and stakes for the film, comedian and baritone geek Andrew Heaton joins Beltway Banthas. We get into the return of Emperor Palpatine, Rey, fanboys vs The Last Jedi and Heaton's recent interview of Jonathan Last, who notoriously penned "The Case For Empire" in the Weekly Standard. Andrew Heaton and Stephen Kent review how and if the political right's penchant for trolling online tracks with Star Wars fandom and the common arguments in favor of the Empire over the Rebel Alliance. On Reddit, this part of fandom lives...
2019-12-171h 06
Geeky StoicsThe Rise of Andrew Heaton and the case for EmpireThe Rise of Skywalker hits theaters this week! To discuss the hype and stakes for the film, comedian and baritone geek Andrew Heaton joins Beltway Banthas. We get into the return of Emperor Palpatine, Rey, fanboys vs The Last Jedi and Heaton's recent interview of Jonathan Last, who notoriously penned "The Case For Empire" in the Weekly Standard. Andrew Heaton and Stephen Kent review how and if the political right's penchant for trolling online tracks with Star Wars fandom and the common arguments in favor of the Empire over the Rebel Alliance. On Reddit, this part of fandom lives...
2019-12-171h 06
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreThe Mandalorian, Legal Geeks and Baby YodaThe world loves The Mandalorian! This week on Beltway Banthas, guests Josh Gilliland (The Legal Geeks Podcast) and Gio Insignares (WUSA Channel 9 DC) join to discuss the new Star Wars series on Disney+. We review the show itself, Baby Yoda and the legal questions raised by the entire profession of bounty hunting. Gilliland helps us understand The Mandalorian in a whole new way. Then, Stephen reviews Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: The Official Black Spire Outpost cookbook from Insight Editions just in time for Thanksgiving. These foods from a galaxy far, far away will change the way you...
2019-11-281h 03
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreStar Wars in the Middle Kingdom, China and Hollywood censorshipWelcome back for another great show! This week Riley Blanton of The Star Wars Report and Mouse & Castle joins the show for a whirlwind of political chatter about a galaxy, far, far away. If you noticed the international controversy surrounding the NBA and their handling of political statements about the Hong Kong protests, this issue extends far beyond pro basketball. Disney actively makes some of the same calculations and accommodations for the Chinese Communist Party, as does every other American company operating there. Riley Blanton and Stephen Kent mix it up on how Star Wars fares in...
2019-10-171h 00
Geeky StoicsStar Wars in the Middle Kingdom, China and Hollywood censorshipWelcome back for another great show! This week Riley Blanton of The Star Wars Report and Mouse & Castle joins the show for a whirlwind of political chatter about a galaxy, far, far away. If you noticed the international controversy surrounding the NBA and their handling of political statements about the Hong Kong protests, this issue extends far beyond pro basketball. Disney actively makes some of the same calculations and accommodations for the Chinese Communist Party, as does every other American company operating there. Riley Blanton and Stephen Kent mix it up on how Star Wars fares in C...
2019-10-171h 00
Beltway BanthasGlenn Beck on Star Wars, redemption and a political culture of angerHold on to something! This week we've got a bonus episode of Beltway Banthas, a conversation with Glenn Beck, radio show host and founder of Blaze Media. Stephen Kent met up with Glenn at FreedomFest in Las Vegas to talk about his earliest memories with Star Wars, lessons on the political power of fear, generational change and the evolution (plus consistency) of Star Wars' message.
2019-09-0544 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreGlenn Beck on Star Wars, redemption and a political culture of angerHold on to something! This week we've got a bonus episode of Beltway Banthas, a conversation with Glenn Beck, radio show host and founder of Blaze Media. Stephen Kent met up with Glenn at FreedomFest in Las Vegas to talk about his earliest memories with Star Wars, lessons on the political power of fear, generational change and the evolution (plus consistency) of Star Wars' message. Now, THIS is podcasting!! If you follow this show closely you know that Stephen started appearing of Glenn's show regularly since 2017 to break down nerd culture and Star Wars news...
2019-09-0544 min
Geeky StoicsGlenn Beck on Star Wars, redemption and a political culture of angerHold on to something! This week we've got a bonus episode of Beltway Banthas, a conversation with Glenn Beck, radio show host and founder of Blaze Media. Stephen Kent met up with Glenn at FreedomFest in Las Vegas to talk about his earliest memories with Star Wars, lessons on the political power of fear, generational change and the evolution (plus consistency) of Star Wars' message. Now, THIS is podcasting!! If you follow this show closely you know that Stephen started appearing of Glenn's show regularly since 2017 to break down nerd culture and Star Wars news, s...
2019-09-0544 min
Beltway BanthasThe Fandom Reformation, religious history and Star WarsThe week on Beltway Banthas, in a 90-minute marathon run, we cover a lot of ground on Star Wars, politics and religion. In the main segment Stephen Kent is joined by Matthew Neugebauer to analyze Star Wars fandom and its troubles over the decades. A video from Wisecrack serves as the starting point for an analogy of fandom by understanding Protestant Reformation and the concept of a 'legitimation crisis'.
2019-08-281h 23
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreThe Fandom Reformation, religious history and Star WarsThe week on Beltway Banthas, in a 90-minute marathon run, we cover a lot of ground on Star Wars, politics and religion. In the main segment Stephen Kent is joined by Matthew Neugebauer to analyze Star Wars fandom and its troubles over the decades. A video from Wisecrack serves as the starting point for an analogy of fandom by understanding Protestant Reformation and the concept of a 'legitimation crisis'. Basically, in social science, what does it take to unravel social order and how can that be applied to the life of Star Wars fans. Starting off the...
2019-08-281h 23
Geeky StoicsThe Fandom Reformation, religious history and Star WarsThe week on Beltway Banthas, in a 90-minute marathon run, we cover a lot of ground on Star Wars, politics and religion. In the main segment Stephen Kent is joined by Matthew Neugebauer to analyze Star Wars fandom and its troubles over the decades. A video from Wisecrack serves as the starting point for an analogy of fandom by understanding Protestant Reformation and the concept of a 'legitimation crisis'. Basically, in social science, what does it take to unravel social order and how can that be applied to the life of Star Wars fans. Starting off the show...
2019-08-281h 23
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreWhat If We're On the Wrong Side? ft Nick DiColandreaWelcome back Banthas! The Beltway Banthas podcast has returned with regular shows now through 2020. Starting off this new season of Star Wars & politics chatter, Stephen Kent is joined by guest host Nick DiColandrea for a dive into the political conscience of Padme Amidala. In Revenge of the Sith, she opens up to Anakin about her uncertainty with the Republic's democratic virtue. What got Padme to the point of questioning her entire political position and that of the "democracy" she has served? Stephen and Nick also spent time on the 2020 Democratic primary, what Nick is seeing on the...
2019-08-141h 11
Beltway BanthasWhat If We're On the Wrong Side? ft Nick DiColandreaWelcome back Banthas! The Beltway Banthas podcast has returned with regular shows now through 2020. Starting off this new season of Star Wars & politics chatter, Stephen Kent is joined by guest host Nick DiColandrea for a dive into the political conscience of Padme Amidala. In Revenge of the Sith, she opens up to Anakin about her uncertainty with the Republic's democratic virtue. What got Padme to the point of questioning her entire political position and that of the "democracy" she has served?
2019-08-141h 10
Geeky StoicsWhat If We're On the Wrong Side? ft Nick DiColandreaWelcome back Banthas! The Beltway Banthas podcast has returned with regular shows now through 2020. Starting off this new season of Star Wars & politics chatter, Stephen Kent is joined by guest host Nick DiColandrea for a dive into the political conscience of Padme Amidala. In Revenge of the Sith, she opens up to Anakin about her uncertainty with the Republic's democratic virtue. What got Padme to the point of questioning her entire political position and that of the "democracy" she has served? Stephen and Nick also spent time on the 2020 Democratic primary, what Nick is seeing on the g...
2019-08-141h 11
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreThe Last Fodder and the future of Beltway BanthasHello Banthas! Since it's launch in 2015 during the heat of the presidential primaries for 2016, Beltway Banthas has been a proud home of political discourse within Star Wars fandom. We've featured prominent politicians, journalists and political operatives on the show to explore how Star Wars impacted their worldview and careers. 70 official episodes and well over 120 episodes including interviews and bonus content. The Force of Star Wars' politics is strong. Let's discuss! Follow Joe Tavano @JoeyWanKenobi John Liang @JuanJohnJedi Stephen Kent @Stephen_Kent89 Get on the...
2019-03-2259 min
Geeky StoicsThe Last Fodder and the future of Beltway BanthasHello Banthas! Since it's launch in 2015 during the heat of the presidential primaries for 2016, Beltway Banthas has been a proud home of political discourse within Star Wars fandom. We've featured prominent politicians, journalists and political operatives on the show to explore how Star Wars impacted their worldview and careers. 70 official episodes and well over 120 episodes including interviews and bonus content. The Force of Star Wars' politics is strong. Let's discuss! Follow Joe Tavano @JoeyWanKenobi John Liang @JuanJohnJedi Stephen Kent @Stephen_Kent89 This is a pu...
2019-03-2259 min
Geeky StoicsRacial, social and economic justice in Star WarsStar Wars deals very directly with questions of justice and injustice. Mohammad Shakibnia wrote an article for ElevenThirtyEight on the messages of social, racial and economic justice than can be derived from the Clone Wars animated series. He joins the podcast this month to co-pilot the show and discuss these themes with host Stephen Kent. Stephen and Mohammad get into the weeds of Clone Wars era politics, talk about Star Wars Celebration, their entry into fandom and share Bantha Fodder. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or...
2019-02-211h 03
Beltway BanthasRacial, social and economic justice in Star WarsStar Wars deals very directly with questions of justice and injustice. Mohammad Shakibnia wrote an article for ElevenThirtyEight on the messages of social, racial and economic justice than can be derived from the Clone Wars animated series. He joins the podcast this month to co-pilot the show and discuss these themes with host Stephen Kent.
2019-02-211h 03
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreRacial, social and economic justice in Star WarsStar Wars deals very directly with questions of justice and injustice. Mohammad Shakibnia wrote an article for ElevenThirtyEight on the messages of social, racial and economic justice than can be derived from the Clone Wars animated series. He joins the podcast this month to co-pilot the show and discuss these themes with host Stephen Kent. Stephen and Mohammad get into the weeds of Clone Wars era politics, talk about Star Wars Celebration, their entry into fandom and share Bantha Fodder. Get on the email list at politicizeme.substack.com
2019-02-211h 03
Beltway BanthasEp #67: You were my brother! Now you're a neoliberal shillThis week on Beltway Banthas, a discussion of the prequel trilogy as George Lucas' broadside against the neoliberal world order and capitalism. Stephen is joined by his brother, Michael Kent of the Toxic Schlock horror movie podcast to discuss and debate Lucas' critique of neoliberalism since the 1980's and how well he executed his analysis in Star Wars. Michael and Stephen also chat about the role horror played in Star Wars early on, old Star Wars horror novels and the battle between Netflix and the Academy establishment. ...
2019-01-031h 20
Geeky StoicsEp #67: You were my brother! Now you're a neoliberal shillThis week on Beltway Banthas, a discussion of the prequel trilogy as George Lucas' broadside against the neoliberal world order and capitalism. Stephen is joined by his brother, Michael Kent of the Toxic Schlock horror movie podcast to discuss and debate Lucas' critique of neoliberalism since the 1980's and how well he executed his analysis in Star Wars. Michael and Stephen also chat about the role horror played in Star Wars early on, old Star Wars horror novels and the battle between Netflix and the Academy establishment. ...
2019-01-031h 20
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #67: You were my brother! Now you're a neoliberal shillThis week on Beltway Banthas, a discussion of the prequel trilogy as George Lucas' broadside against the neoliberal world order and capitalism. Stephen is joined by his brother, Michael Kent of the Toxic Schlock horror movie podcast to discuss and debate Lucas' critique of neoliberalism since the 1980's and how well he executed his analysis in Star Wars. Michael and Stephen also chat about the role horror played in Star Wars early on, old Star Wars horror novels and the battle between Netflix and the Academy establishment. ...
2019-01-031h 20
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #61: Revenge of The Russian BotsAre Russian bots behind the divide around The Last Jedi? Stephen chatted with researcher Morten Bay to discuss the results of his study on Twitter reaction to the film. Swara and Stephen discuss whether or not Russian bots and trolls amplified the negative reaction to the film. Stephen and Swara also hash out their reactions to the new animated series Resistance, dish out their Bantha Fodder, and much more! Connect with Us Join us now on our Discord channel to keep this episodes' conversation going at: https://discord.gg/zYc9uYn. ...
2018-10-111h 09
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreStar Wars Get Out The Vote: A Stephen Kent StoryWelcome back to Beltway Banthas and brace yourself for a ride through hyperspace in higher quality audio with host, Stephen Kent. The show had some hiccups this week with the whole team migrating to new homes and getting unpacked, but Stephen found a closet and an article in SyFyWire about Star Wars politics to review. Ana Marie Cox and Cher Martinetti sounded off on how RD-D2 and other characters would vote in a piece titled "SPACE THE NATION: R2-D2 IS A LIBERTARIAN". Naturally, this is provocative but perfect for a spin on Beltway Banthas. Join Stephen...
2018-09-2731 min
Geeky StoicsStar Wars Get Out The Vote: A Stephen Kent StoryWelcome back to Beltway Banthas and brace yourself for a ride through hyperspace in higher quality audio with host, Stephen Kent. The show had some hiccups this week with the whole team migrating to new homes and getting unpacked, but Stephen found a closet and an article in SyFyWire about Star Wars politics to review. Ana Marie Cox and Cher Martinetti sounded off on how RD-D2 and other characters would vote in a piece titled "SPACE THE NATION: R2-D2 IS A LIBERTARIAN". Naturally, this is provocative but perfect for a spin on Beltway Banthas. Join Stephen f...
2018-09-2731 min
Beltway BanthasStar Wars Get Out The Vote: A Stephen Kent StoryWelcome back to Beltway Banthas and brace yourself for a ride through hyperspace in higher quality audio with host, Stephen Kent. The show had some hiccups this week with the whole team migrating to new homes and getting unpacked, but Stephen found a closet and an article in SyFyWire about Star Wars politics to review.
Ana Marie Cox and Cher Martinetti sounded off on how RD-D2 and other characters would vote in a piece titled "SPACE THE NATION: R2-D2 IS A LIBERTARIAN".
2018-09-2731 min
Beltway BanthasBeltway Banthas Interview: Stu Burguiere of The Glenn Beck ProgramHello Banthas! This week we are joined by radio producer and head writer for Glenn Beck, Mr. Stu Burguiere. Stu is a big time Star Wars fan and all around enjoyable radio personality. We thought you'd enjoy this behind the curtain conversation with a notable conservative radio personality and fan. Stephen and Stu discuss his career trajectory, working with Beck, Star Wars role in his life and how the theme of the new films is exposing frauds. Every other week we try to introduce our listeners to people in politics or media for whom Star Wars has ma...
2018-02-081h 04
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreBeltway Banthas Interview: Stu Burguiere of The Glenn Beck ProgramHello Banthas! This week we are joined by radio producer and head writer for Glenn Beck, Mr. Stu Burguiere. Stu is a big time Star Wars fan and all around enjoyable radio personality. We thought you'd enjoy this behind the curtain conversation with a notable conservative radio personality and fan. Stephen and Stu discuss his career trajectory, working with Beck, Star Wars role in his life and how the theme of the new films is exposing frauds. Every other week we try to introduce our listeners to people in politics or media for whom Star Wars has...
2018-02-081h 04
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #43: Palpatine, Manafort & Treason It's treason then! This week we discuss how the Jedi botched the removal of Chancellor Palpatine. Had they done it more carefully, maybe the Empire would have never risen. Stephen is joined by guests Josh Gilliland of The Legal Geeks and Kate Sanchez of the But Why Tho Podcast. Also on this episode, Stephen and guests discuss the indictments made by Bob Mueller in the investigation into Russian collusion with the Trump campaign. Josh explains the charges made against Paul Manafort and more. Later, we share our week in bantha fodder and read a bunch of awesome...
2017-11-091h 13
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEpisode #41: I Will Make It LegalIn this jam packed episode, we seek wise counsel from The Legal Geeks podcast. Jessica Mederson and Josh Gilliland run The Legal Geeks blog and podcast, where they break down the burning questions of law in sci-fi. They joined Beltway Banthas to address droids rights, liability for the Death Star, Han's right to stand his ground and much more. The Last Jedi trailer dropped this week! Our team also digs into the trailer and offers their takeaways. Swara and John also share their experiences from New York Comic-Con. Stephen & Swara share thoughts on Breitbart, the alt-right, Harvey...
2017-10-121h 17
Beltway BanthasHoly Star Wars: Vader, Christ, Hate & RedemptionHoly Star Wars Batman! Stephen was interviewed by Jason Flatt about defining redemption through the lens of Christianity. Together they apply this conversation to Star Wars and also our worlds nastiest politics - the politics of hate. This interview originally appeared on the Holy Star Wars podcast. We felt it was an awesome enough conversation on relevant topics to Beltway Banthas to share with you. Jason and Stephen go through the definition and cultural understanding of redemption. Next they tie the theme through Star Wars and also the film American History X, a dark tale of a m...
2017-09-2159 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreHoly Star Wars: Vader, Christ, Hate & RedemptionHoly Star Wars Batman! Stephen was interviewed by Jason Flatt about defining redemption through the lens of Christianity. Together they apply this conversation to Star Wars and also our worlds nastiest politics - the politics of hate. This interview originally appeared on the Holy Star Wars podcast. We felt it was an awesome enough conversation on relevant topics to Beltway Banthas to share with you. Jason and Stephen go through the definition and cultural understanding of redemption. Next they tie the theme through Star Wars and also the film American History X, a dark tale of a...
2017-09-2159 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreReturn of the Masket: Amusing Ourselves Into TyrannySeth Masket, political scientist and professor at the University of Denver, sees something ominous in the background of the Star Wars Holiday Special. He wrote about the politics of the campy Star Wars program in Mischiefs of Faction, a blog for Vox. The piece is called Amusing Ourselves Into Tyranny, sound familiar? Before the interview, Swara and Stephen react to news of Disney pulling out of their deal with Netflix and the promise of a Disney streaming service. Is this capitalism run amok or the best thing that's ever happened? Join us for the discussion.
2017-08-1030 min
Beltway BanthasBonus Episode: AdmiralNick22 on Star Wars Political CartographyBONUS EPISODE! Today on this special release of Beltway Banthas Stephen & Swara talk about the Vanity Fair Star Wars spread, are joined by Stephen's daughter and discuss fan theorizing. Next, AdmiralNick22 (follow him on Twitter) of the ElevenThirtyEight blog joins Stephen to talk about his recent piece outlining the political cartography of the galaxy after Return of the Jedi. It's a fascinating and in-depth piece of work we highly recommend you go check out for peak Star Wars nerdom. Read the blog here: http://eleven-thirtyeight.com/2017/04/republic-rising-a-political-and-cartographic-look-post-galactic-concordance-galaxy/ Follow everyone from this week's episode on Twitter...
2017-06-0137 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreBonus Episode: AdmiralNick22 on Star Wars Political CartographyBONUS EPISODE! Today on this special release of Beltway Banthas Stephen & Swara talk about the Vanity Fair Star Wars spread, are joined by Stephen's daughter and discuss fan theorizing. Next, AdmiralNick22 (follow him on Twitter) of the ElevenThirtyEight blog joins Stephen to talk about his recent piece outlining the political cartography of the galaxy after Return of the Jedi. It's a fascinating and in-depth piece of work we highly recommend you go check out for peak Star Wars nerdom. Read the blog here: http://eleven-thirtyeight.com/2017/04/republic-rising-a-political-and-cartographic-look-post-galactic-concordance-galaxy/ Follow everyone from this week's episode on Twitter
2017-06-0137 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #31: Money In Galactic Politics (Part I)Stephen and Swara discuss the role of money in politics in the Star Wars universe. The discussion covers the role of the Trade Federation in The Phantom Menace, and how the concern of money in politics is plays out in our own world. George Lucas' message in prequel trilogy on the dangers of money in politics was pretty clear. We discuss the roots of that message and how average Americans feel about this issue. Stephen and Swara also touch upon some real world political news, read a listener e-mail on Mon Mothma and offer their regular bantha...
2017-05-251h 01
Beltway BanthasEp #31: Money In Galactic Politics (Part I)Stephen and Swara discuss the role of money in politics in the Star Wars universe. The discussion covers the role of the Trade Federation in The Phantom Menace, and how the concern of money in politics is plays out in our own world. George Lucas' message in prequel trilogy on the dangers of money in politics was pretty clear. We discuss the roots of that message and how average Americans feel about this issue. Stephen and Swara also touch upon some real world political news, read a listener e-mail on Mon Mothma and offer their regular bantha...
2017-05-251h 01
Beltway BanthasEp #26: Live at Oak City ComiconIt’s our second Comic-Con panel! Stephen and Swara are joined by friend of the show Nick Dicolandrea of Coffee With Kenobi to discuss “Star Wars goes to Washington,” and a bit of the international perspective of Star Wars as well. In our live panel at Oak City Comic-Con, we discuss political use of Star Wars from the 1980s to modern day, why it resonates with people of various political persuasions, and we even delve into some international political perceptions of Star Wars. In the Q&A section, our awesome audience joined us in a conversation of topics such as: Who in...
2017-03-2352 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #26: Live at Oak City ComiconIt’s our second Comic-Con panel! Stephen and Swara are joined by friend of the show Nick Dicolandrea of Coffee With Kenobi to discuss “Star Wars goes to Washington,” and a bit of the international perspective of Star Wars as well. In our live panel at Oak City Comic-Con, we discuss political use of Star Wars from the 1980s to modern day, why it resonates with people of various political persuasions, and we even delve into some international political perceptions of Star Wars. In the Q&A section, our awesome audience joined us in a conversation of topics such as...
2017-03-2352 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #19: Rebellion & RadicalsIt’s finally here! Our pre-Rogue One episode! As we get increasingly amped up to see the film, Stephen Swara, and special guest Brittany Hunter delve into a discussion of why rebellions and revolutions occur. To do this we look at case studies including the American Revolution and the Arab Spring, and compare these events to the formation of the Rebel Alliance. We also speculate on what motivates individuals to rebel, and at what point they may be compelled to join movements they were once reluctant to support. Social movements are complicated, so we attempt to dissect that in this...
2016-12-151h 38
Beltway BanthasEp #19: Rebellion & RadicalsIt’s finally here! Our pre-Rogue One episode! As we get increasingly amped up to see the film, Stephen Swara, and special guest Brittany Hunter delve into a discussion of why rebellions and revolutions occur. To do this we look at case studies including the American Revolution and the Arab Spring, and compare these events to the formation of the Rebel Alliance. We also speculate on what motivates individuals to rebel, and at what point they may be compelled to join movements they were once reluctant to support. Social movements are complicated, so we attempt to dissect that in this sp...
2016-12-151h 38
Geeky StoicsEp #16: Star Wars Goes To WashingtonWelcome to the 16th episode of Beltway Banthas! We had the privilege of visiting Richmond, VA for Virginia Comic Con, to do a panel titled "Star Wars Goes to Washington" So we captured the live audio to give you a glimpse inside the panel. Star Wars Goes To Washington is really the crux of this podcast. How has politics and government been impacted by Star Wars? Each generation of Star Wars interacts with the politics of its day in different ways, some that are subtle and some that are the opposite. From Reagan to Obama, election 1980 to election 2016. Enjoy! We'd...
2016-11-0339 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #16: Star Wars Goes To WashingtonWelcome to the 16th episode of Beltway Banthas! We had the privilege of visiting Richmond, VA for Virginia Comic Con, to do a panel titled "Star Wars Goes to Washington" So we captured the live audio to give you a glimpse inside the panel. Star Wars Goes To Washington is really the crux of this podcast. How has politics and government been impacted by Star Wars? Each generation of Star Wars interacts with the politics of its day in different ways, some that are subtle and some that are the opposite. From Reagan to Obama, election 1980 to election 2016. Enjoy! We'd...
2016-11-0339 min
Beltway BanthasEp #16: Star Wars Goes To WashingtonWelcome to the 16th episode of Beltway Banthas! We had the privilege of visiting Richmond, VA for Virginia Comic Con, to do a panel titled "Star Wars Goes to Washington" So we captured the live audio to give you a glimpse inside the panel. Star Wars Goes To Washington is really the crux of this podcast. How has politics and government been impacted by Star Wars? Each generation of Star Wars interacts with the politics of its day in different ways, some that are subtle and some that are the opposite. From Reagan to Obama, election 1980 to election 2016. Enjoy! We'd...
2016-11-0339 min
Geeky StoicsBeltway Banthas Holiday Special: The Politics of CostumesHello, And welcome to a Beltway Banthas holiday special discussion! This week Tirso, Stephen, and our new co-host Swara, take some time on Halloween to discuss costuming, and what it might mean when we all want to dress up as the bad guy. Enjoy! Catch our live video recording of this discussion https://www.facebook.com/BeltwayBanthas We'd love to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the show and even questions at beltwaybanthas@gmail.com Find us on Twitter! @BeltwayBanthas Instagram @BeltwayBanthasPodcast Find us on RetroZap: wwww.retrozap.com/beltway-banthas Contact the Hosts on Twitter! Tirso Perez : @itsjusttirso...
2016-11-0218 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreBeltway Banthas Holiday Special: The Politics of CostumesHello, And welcome to a Beltway Banthas holiday special discussion! This week Tirso, Stephen, and our new co-host Swara, take some time on Halloween to discuss costuming, and what it might mean when we all want to dress up as the bad guy. Enjoy! Catch our live video recording of this discussion https://www.facebook.com/BeltwayBanthas We'd love to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the show and even questions at beltwaybanthas@gmail.com Find us on Twitter! @BeltwayBanthas Instagram @BeltwayBanthasPodcast Find us on RetroZap: wwww.retrozap.com/beltway-banthas Contact the Hosts on Twitter! Tirso Perez : @itsjusttirso...
2016-11-0218 min
Beltway BanthasBeltway Banthas Holiday Special: The Politics of CostumesHello, And welcome to a Beltway Banthas holiday special discussion! This week Tirso, Stephen, and our new co-host Swara, take some time on Halloween to discuss costuming, and what it might mean when we all want to dress up as the bad guy. Enjoy! Catch our live video recording of this discussion https://www.facebook.com/BeltwayBanthas We'd love to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the show and even questions at beltwaybanthas@gmail.com Find us on Twitter! @BeltwayBanthas Instagram @BeltwayBanthasPodcast Find us on RetroZap: wwww.retrozap.com/beltway-banthas Contact the Hosts on Twitter! Tirso Perez : @itsjusttirso...
2016-11-0218 min
Beltway BanthasEp #13: One Horny PoliticianThis week, we will have order! In this episode we delve into the character of Mas Amedda, that horned blue guy who lingers behind Palpatine throughout the prequels. Yes he is important. Yes he is powerful. His political career is meteoric and something fascinating that we discuss with Mike DeRose of the "You Seek Knowledge" podcast. Mike was an Amedda fan before it was cool. Connect with Mike on Twitter @LiveTheForce Tirso and Stephen also discuss Mark Hamill backing California legislation, Star Wars Rebels and dish bantha fodder. Our audience is amazing and so is this project. #WearStarWarsEveryDay founder James...
2016-09-2253 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #13: One Horny PoliticianThis week, we will have order! In this episode we delve into the character of Mas Amedda, that horned blue guy who lingers behind Palpatine throughout the prequels. Yes he is important. Yes he is powerful. His political career is meteoric and something fascinating that we discuss with Mike DeRose of the "You Seek Knowledge" podcast. Mike was an Amedda fan before it was cool. Connect with Mike on Twitter @LiveTheForce Tirso and Stephen also discuss Mark Hamill backing California legislation, Star Wars Rebels and dish bantha fodder. Our audience is amazing and so is this project. #WearStarWarsEveryDay founder James...
2016-09-2253 min
Geeky StoicsEp #13: One Horny PoliticianThis week, we will have order! In this episode we delve into the character of Mas Amedda, that horned blue guy who lingers behind Palpatine throughout the prequels. Yes he is important. Yes he is powerful. His political career is meteoric and something fascinating that we discuss with Mike DeRose of the "You Seek Knowledge" podcast. Mike was an Amedda fan before it was cool. Connect with Mike on Twitter @LiveTheForce Tirso and Stephen also discuss Mark Hamill backing California legislation, Star Wars Rebels and dish bantha fodder. Our audience is amazing and so is this project. #WearStarWarsEveryDay founder James...
2016-09-2253 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #8: OMG #SWCEOMG one more day till Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016! Also known to the cool kids of Twitter as #SWCE. On this weeks episode we have a little extra fun in the spirit of Celebration. Joined by friend of the show, Michael Nitz, the Beltway Banthas talk over some of the schedule, what may happen at Celebration, what will be revealed? Rogue One gets a new trailer this Friday. Intrigue abounds. Will you be at #SWCE over the weekend? Stephen and Tirso couldn't make it but our Senior Foreign Correspondent Swara Salih will be roaming the convention. Find him on Twitter...
2016-07-1456 min
Beltway BanthasEp #8: OMG #SWCEOMG one more day till Star Wars Celebration Europe 2016! Also known to the cool kids of Twitter as #SWCE. On this weeks episode we have a little extra fun in the spirit of Celebration. Joined by friend of the show, Michael Nitz, the Beltway Banthas talk over some of the schedule, what may happen at Celebration, what will be revealed? Rogue One gets a new trailer this Friday. Intrigue abounds. Will you be at #SWCE over the weekend? Stephen and Tirso couldn't make it but our Senior Foreign Correspondent Swara Salih will be roaming the convention. Find him on Twitter...
2016-07-1456 min
Geeky StoicsEp #6: Wherefore Art Thou "Newt" GunrayThank you for tuning in for another installment of Beltway Banthas, a Star Wars podcast at the intersection of Coruscant & Washington DC. On this weeks episode, Stephen breaks down his time at AwesomeCon 2016 that brought Kevin Smith and a million Kylo Rens to the nations capital. Stephen assembled a special assembly of the DC Jedi Council for a round table chat about Star Wars fandom. He was joined by Kristen Soltis Anderson (The Pollsters podcast & author of 'The Selfie Vote') and Mike Shields (President of the American Action Network, fmr Chief of Staff of the RNC and Communications Director for...
2016-06-1553 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #6: Wherefore Art Thou "Newt" GunrayThank you for tuning in for another installment of Beltway Banthas, a Star Wars podcast at the intersection of Coruscant & Washington DC. On this weeks episode, Stephen breaks down his time at AwesomeCon 2016 that brought Kevin Smith and a million Kylo Rens to the nations capital. Stephen assembled a special assembly of the DC Jedi Council for a round table chat about Star Wars fandom. He was joined by Kristen Soltis Anderson (The Pollsters podcast & author of 'The Selfie Vote') and Mike Shields (President of the American Action Network, fmr Chief of Staff of the RNC and Communications Director for...
2016-06-1553 min
Beltway BanthasEp #6: Wherefore Art Thou "Newt" GunrayThank you for tuning in for another installment of Beltway Banthas, a Star Wars podcast at the intersection of Coruscant & Washington DC. On this weeks episode, Stephen breaks down his time at AwesomeCon 2016 that brought Kevin Smith and a million Kylo Rens to the nations capital. Stephen assembled a special assembly of the DC Jedi Council for a round table chat about Star Wars fandom. He was joined by Kristen Soltis Anderson (The Pollsters podcast & author of 'The Selfie Vote') and Mike Shields (President of the American Action Network, fmr Chief of Staff of the RNC and Communications Director for...
2016-06-1553 min
Geeky StoicsEp #1: PilotBeltway Banthas is a Star Wars podcast about the intersection of fandom and the things that drive daily life. For hosts Stephen Kent & Tirso Perez, one of those things is politics. Star Wars draws from our worlds politics just as much as it contributes to it by influencing policy makers, journalists and thought leaders. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.geekystoics.com/subscribe
2016-05-0151 min
Beltway Banthas: Star Wars, Politics & MoreEp #1: PilotBeltway Banthas is a Star Wars podcast about the intersection of fandom and the things that drive daily life. For hosts Stephen Kent & Tirso Perez, one of those things is politics. Star Wars draws from our worlds politics just as much as it contributes to it by influencing policy makers, journalists and thought leaders. Get on the email list at politicizeme.substack.com
2016-05-0151 min
Beltway BanthasEp #1: PilotBeltway Banthas is a Star Wars podcast about the intersection of fandom and the things that drive daily life. For hosts Stephen Kent & Tirso Perez, one of those things is politics. Star Wars draws from our worlds politics just as much as it contributes to it by influencing policy makers, journalists and thought leaders.
2016-05-0151 min