Geek History Lesson guides you through the fictional biography of a pop culture characters!
1 hour 10 minutes
What Makes The Hunger Games so Popular?
Survive the epic world of Panem, the setting of The Hunger Games, as Geek History Lesson unfolds the complex narrative history behind Suzanne Collins' YA dystopian franchise! In this arena of an episode, we dissect the classical structure shared in each Hunger Games novel, explore Collins' Greco-Roman mythological inspiration, debate which characters deserve solo stories next, and discuss the socio-political themes that shaped a generation of Young Adult fiction. With Sunrise on the Reaping in stores now, delve with us into the saga's multi-media evolution, offering an exploration for seasoned fans and newcomers alike! You'll want to read all 5 Hunger Games books after listening to this one!
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show our Teen Titans Podcast, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
From the shadows of Gotham City Geek History Lesson embarks on a gripping journey through Batman's Digital Age—spanning from 2000 to 2012. This era exploded the number of Batman Family members from introducing Terry McGinnis, to resurrecting Jason Todd, to the apparent birth of Damian Wayne. Amidst the rise of superhero movies and digital comics "Bruce Wayne: Murderer", "Identity Crisis", and "Final Crisis" made dark, controversial choices for the character we are still reading the ramifications of today. This period saw Dick Grayson emerge from the shadow and step into the cowl under the auspices of Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely and - hot take! - one of the co-hosts thinks we should have never gone back! Time to listen to Batman's Digital Age!
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Daredevil MEGA Episode (Best Daredevil Stories, Daredevil & The Man Without Fear Review)
This week, to celebrate Daredevil’s return in Daredevil: Born Again on Disney+, we’ve assembled some of our favorite Daredevil-themed episodes from the archives for this MEGA EPISODE:
GHL 232: Best Daredevil Stories – Your ultimate guide to Daredevil’s most iconic and essential tales, from Frank Miller’s groundbreaking arcs to modern classics.
GHL 59: Daredevil – A deep dive into Matt Murdock’s life as a lawyer by day and vigilante by night. Bonus: how he makes red spandex look this cool.
GHL 58: Man Without Fear Review – A breakdown of Frank Miller and John Romita Jr.’s legendary origin story for Daredevil. Learn how Matt became the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen.
So grab your billy clubs, embrace the darkness, and join us for this epic celebration of Daredevil! Even if you can’t see what’s coming, trust us—Matt Murdock can.
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show our Teen Titans Podcast, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Avengers MEGA Episode (Falcon, Vision, War Machine & Avengers Film 10th Anniversary Review)
This week, we’re suiting up for a Geek History Lesson MEGA EPISODE celebrating Earth’s Mightiest Heroes: The Avengers! We’ve curated some of our favorite Avengers-themed episodes from the archives for one epic journey through Marvel history.Here’s what’s on the lineup:
GHL 279: Falcon – Follow Sam Wilson’s journey from sidekick to shield-bearer. (Spoiler: his wings are cooler than Tony Stark’s tech. Fight us.)
GHL 352: Vision – Dive into the life of Marvel’s most emotional android, from WandaVision to questioning if robots can cry.
GHL 468: War Machine – Explore the ironclad legacy of James Rhodes, Tony Stark’s best friend and the Avenger who always has your back.
GHL 411: Avengers 10-Year Anniversary – Featuring special guest Brian Ibbott! We revisit the movie that changed superhero cinema forever.
Sit back, relax, and prepare to assemble for this star-studded journey through Avengers history. And don’t miss the post-credits debate: Who’s the best Avenger? (Spoiler: it’s not Hawkeye.)
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show our Teen Titans Podcast, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Why Do Batman and Spider-Man Work So Well in the Future? with DJ Wooldridge
What makes Batman and Spider-Man thrive in futuristic settings? This week on Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into the worlds of Batman Beyond and Spider-Man 2099 to uncover why these characters work so well in the future. Did Batman Beyond borrow ideas from Spider-Man 2099? And which other heroes could shine in a high-tech, dystopian future?Joining us for this sci-fi deep dive is writer and director DJ Wooldridge, who brings his expertise to the conversation and tells us all about his new futuristic comic, DANGER BOI -- a thrilling new Kickstarter project you don’t want to miss! Check out DJ’s comic here: dangerboicomic.com
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show our Teen Titans Podcast, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Why Daredevil & Spider-Man Need an MCU Team-Up Movie (Daredevil: Born Again) with Erik Barnes
With Daredevil: Born Again swinging onto Disney Plus, it’s time to ask the big question: Why haven’t Daredevil and Spider-Man teamed up in the MCU yet?! This week on Geek History Lesson, we dive deep into why these two street-level heroes are perfect for a big-screen collaboration. Not only do we explore their comic book history and shared New York roots, but we also pitch our ideas for MCU Spider-Man 4 and 5, complete with Daredevil taking center stage! And joining us for this epic discussion is special guest Erik Barnes, improvisor, writer, and all-around Marvel expert. Follow Erik here: https://bsky.app/profile/erikwbarnes.bsky.social
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show our Teen Titans Podcast, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Wonder Woman’s history is so legendary, we had to break it into multiple episodes! This week on Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into the BRONZE AGE adventures of Wonder Woman -- a time when her stories bent the rules of this iconic timeline and introduced some of the most unique and imaginative tales in DC Comics history. We’ll explore her fantastical battles, bizarre foes, and how it redefined her character while still staying true to her Amazonian roots. Plus, we’ll praise the groundwork laid by creators like George Pérez, whose later work helped solidify Wonder Woman as one of the most important heroes in comics.
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Why Procedural TV Shows Keep Us Hooked (Watson & Suits LA)
We’re cracking the case on why procedural TV shows have kept audiences hooked for decades. From the exciting debut of Watson to the legal drama of Suits LA, we break down what makes this storytelling format so addictive.We uncover the history of procedural television, including the fascinating discovery of the very first procedural TV show, and explore how the format has evolved over time. What makes these shows so binge-worthy? And what are the risks and rewards of telling self-contained stories in a serialized world?Whether it’s solving crimes, winning court cases, or unraveling mysteries, procedural TV shows continue to dominate our screens and we’re here to explain why.
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League or Teen Titans Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Does it Matter Who Wears the Mask Captain America with Jonathan London
We’re asking the big question: Does it matter who wears the mask? With the release of Captain America: Brave New World, where Sam Wilson takes up the iconic shield, we dive deep into the debate of whether it’s the character or the mantle that truly defines a hero.From Captain America to Zorro, we explore the fascinating history of legacy characters and how passing the torch has shaped some of the greatest franchises in pop culture. Does the symbol outweigh the individual? Or does the person behind the mask bring the meaning to life?
And that’s not all—joining us for this discussion is special guest Jonathan London, director and writer of Paul London: Hero of the Prophecy, a brand-new comic hitting Kickstarter on February 4th! Don’t miss your chance to support it here: https://herooftheprophecy.com.
Grab your shield, put on your mask, and tune in for this heroic conversation!
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Does Comedy Work in Fantasy? - Toss a Coin to Your Witcher
We dive into the magical world of comedy in fantasy storytelling! From The Lord of the Rings to The Witcher, we examine how humor can elevate—or sometimes undercut—the epic stakes of swords, sorcery, and mythical worlds.To celebrate the release of The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, we ask the big questions: Does comedy belong in fantasy? Can it add depth to the story, or does it risk punching down at the genre’s gravitas? And how do you strike the balance between epic quests and laugh-out-loud moments? Plus, Jason takes on a fun challenge by writing a comedic fantasy scene live on the air!
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin
Should all comics be all-ages? We dive deep into the history of the medium, debate how the darker tones of the 1980s changed comics forever, and discuss whether the industry has become too niche for its own good. With special guest Diego Anthony Nunez (https://x.com/Blackcrow521), we explore how comics can invite more readers into the fold, the importance of accessibility, and whether there’s still room for both gritty storytelling and family-friendly fun in today’s market. Whether you’re a fan of the grim and gritty or the bright and hopeful, this episode will give you plenty to think about. Tune in as we imagine a future where comics can truly be for everyone!
For exclusive bonus podcasts like our Justice League Review show, GHL Extra & Livestreams with the hosts, join the Geek History Lesson Patreon ► https://www.patreon.com/Jawiin