The Source Material Comics Podcast

Cowabunga! Join Jesse Starcher, Chris Armstrong, and Evan Bevins as they take a nostalgic journey back to the 1990s and dive into the radical world of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comics. In this episode, the trio uncovers the gritty and violent side of the beloved heroes in a half-shell, exploring the Image Comics series that dared to push the boundaries of the franchise. Prepare to be shell-shocked as the hosts dissect the fourth issue of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic from Image comics, where Donatello's shocking transformation into a half-machine, half-turtle cyborg takes center stage. Witness the emotional turmoil of the remaining turtles as they grapple with the perceived loss of their brother, only to uncover a darker, more sinister twist to his fate. Evan Bevins provides insights into the fifth issue, delving into the turtles' assault on the villainous Lord Komodo's headquarters and the startling revelation of Splinter's potential mutation. Meanwhile, Chris Armstrong and Jesse Starcher reminisce about their personal connections to the Turtles, from cherished action figures to the iconic live-action movies of the 90s. Join these radical dudes as they navigate the grim and gritty landscape of the Image Comics' Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series, where the heroes in a half-shell face their darkest challenges yet. Cowabunga, dudes! It's a shell of a good time you won't want to miss!

Welcome to the very first "Primer" episode for the Source Material Comics Podcast feed. Just a really quick episode you may see on Sundays prior to the main episode dropping on Monday. The goal is to cover some facts that we maybe didn't get to in the core episode, familiarize you with the characters and creative team, and mainly get you ready for what is to come tomorrow. So please enjoy our first "Primer" for "Unspoken Issues" episode #113 on Image Comics "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" #4!

In this delightfully geeky episode, hosts Evan and Jesse dive deep into their Marvel fandom, meticulously crafting their top five wishlist of characters they'd love to see added to the hit game Marvel Snap. Prepare for an entertaining journey as they unleash their encyclopedic knowledge of the Marvel Universe, discussing everything from obscure heroes like Mimic and Maggot to heavy-hitters such as Captain Britain and Cable. With infectious enthusiasm, Evan and Jesse debate potential abilities, costs, and lore implications for each character, leaving no stone unturned. Their creative ideas and witty banter breathe new life into these heroes, making even the most casual fans eager to see them realized in Marvel Snap. From the whimsical notion of a Tim Horton's location to the strategic concept of a character who can manipulate their opponent's cards, this episode is a treasure trove of inventive theorycrafting. Whether you're a diehard Marvel fan or simply appreciate clever game design discussions, this installment of "Snap Material" is an absolute must-listen.

Enter the Exiles in Marvel Snap! Join hosts Evan and Jesse as they dive deep into the upcoming Exiles season in Marvel Snap. This reality-hopping band of misfits is bringing chaos and excitement to the game, and Evan and Jesse break down all the new cards and locations you can expect. From the powerful Blink that swaps out cards to the unpredictable Nocturne who changes locations, there's no shortage of twists and turns. The guys theorize deck strategies, explore character backstories, and get hyped over locations like the Panopticon that buff cards not starting in your deck. And you don't want to miss their take on the game-changing Cancun location where power doesn't count towards winning! Whether you're an Exiles superfan or new to their interdimensional adventures, Evan and Jesse's insightful banter and deep Marvel knowledge make this a must-listen. Get ready for high-stakes combos, zany hypotheticals, and the diehard comic book appreciation only these two can deliver. It's an exhilarating glimpse into the future of Marvel Snap!

EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! Jesse and Mark are taking a deep dive into one of the most compelling recent Lois Lane stories from DC Comics. In the first 4 issues of this 12 issue maxi-series by Greg Rucka, Lois Lane: Enemy of the People, the indomitable reporter finds herself in the crosshairs as she fearlessly pursues the truth behind a corrupt corporation's shady dealings. Strap in as Jesse and Mark dissect every twist and turn, from Lois's team-up with The Question to her tense interactions with Superman himself. They'll analyze Rucka's bold storytelling choices, evaluating how he depicts Lois navigating personal conflicts while never backing down from exposing injustice - no matter how powerful the forces arrayed against her. But that's not all! The guys will also break down the intriguing parallel storyline featuring a mysterious ritual in the UK. Is it linked to the main plot or does it hint at deeper mysteries yet to be revealed? Find out their theories and so much more on this can't-miss episode! If you're a Lois Lane fan or just love smart, thought-provoking comics, you won't want to miss their insightful analysis.

Buckle up, Marvel Snap enthusiasts! In this riveting episode, Evan and Jesse delve into the heart of the previous season's meta, sharing their personal experiences and strategies. From the dreaded "nil" decks to the unstoppable force of Red Hulk, they leave no stone unturned. Get ready to gain invaluable insights into building effective decks, countering formidable opponents, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of Marvel Snap. But that's not all! The dynamic duo also takes a deep dive into their latest unlocks, showcasing an impressive array of variants and cards. From pixel Abominations to Dan Hipp masterpieces, prepare to be dazzled by the sheer variety on display. Whether you're a collector seeking to complete your collection or a strategic player looking for that edge, this episode promises to satisfy your cravings. With their signature wit and camaraderie, Evan and Jesse provide a thoroughly entertaining and informative experience. Join them as they dissect the meta, analyze their unlocks, and even engage in a friendly debate over the merits of Rian Johnson's "The Last Jedi." Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the Marvel Snap world, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their understanding and enjoyment of the game.

Get ready for an exciting dose of Marvel Snap strategy and analysis! In this episode of "Snap Material," hosts Evan and Jesse dive deep into the aftermath of the Thunderbolts season, which ran from April to May 2024. Brace yourselves as they dissect the impact of the newly released cards, including Baron Zemo, Red Hulk, U.S. Agent, Red Guardian, White Widow, and Valentina. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting your journey, this episode promises to offer invaluable insights into deck-building and gameplay tactics. But that's not all! Evan and Jesse also turn their attention to the unique locations introduced during the Thunderbolts season, such as Castle Zemo and Thunderbolts Tower. Get ready to explore the intricacies of these battlegrounds and how they influenced the meta. From Annihilus decks to Legion combos, the hosts leave no stone unturned, sharing their personal experiences and strategies for navigating these challenging environments. With their signature blend of humor and expertise, Evan and Jesse provide a comprehensive analysis that will undoubtedly elevate your Marvel Snap game. Whether you're seeking to optimize your current decks or gain a deeper understanding of the game's mechanics, this episode is a must-listen for any Marvel Snap enthusiast. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and get ready to snap into action with "Snap Material"!

On the latest episode of the "Unspoken Issues" podcast, hosts Dean, Darry, and Jesse dive deep into the world of "Badrock and Company" and OHHHH BUDDY! You're not gonna believe the insane action that goes down! It's like the writers at Image were totally 'roiding out on a pure adrenaline rush when they penned these explosive issues! So it starts off with Badrock, this hulking mass of heroic muscle, getting caught up in some twisted bet between two brothers. But that's just the start! Before you know it, Badrock is trading haymakers with the legendary Pitt in an earth-shattering rumble that'll blow your mind! But wait, it gets even crazier! Badrock ends up in a CHARITY WRESTLING MATCH against the unstoppable Fuji, but some shady lady named Impulse is trying to rig the whole thing! I'm talking flat-out murders for hire, dude! The action gets so insane it spills out into the harbor in this wet 'n' wild slobberknocker! Then Badrock teams up with the gritty Grifter on this covert operation to rescue his mom from some sword-swinging psychos. There's gunfights, betrayals, and family secrets getting blown wide open! It's a non-stop thrill ride of explosive storytelling and in-your-face art that will pump you up! And. That's. Not. All! Badrock has to deal with the tragic HIV storyline of Shadowhawk in a heart-wrenching tale about sacrifice and heroism in the face of devastation. I'm telling you, by the end, you'll be straight-up bawling into your issue like a baby after getting rocked by Badrock's massive feels-pounding fists! This series has it all - hulking heroes, explosive action, gritty underworld dealings, and pathos that'll leave you reeling! Strap in and get ready for the most EXTREME comic experience of the 90s! BADROCK AND COMPANY RULES!

Welcome back to Source Material, where we dive deep into the crossroads of comics and creativity! 🎶 In this electrifying episode, we're cranking up the volume as we unveil a symphony of AI-generated tunes inspired by the very comics we've explored together. Picture this: seven somewhat original songs, each pulsating with the essence of our favorite characters and storylines. From the thunderous beats of a superhero's origin to the haunting melodies of a villain's lament, we'll traverse the sonic landscapes of the comic universe like never before. Join us as we dissect the AI's musical interpretations, dissecting the subtle nods to iconic panels and character arcs. Tracks 01 - Not All Robots (inspired by Mark Russell's "Not All Robots") 02 - Booster Gold (inspired by Booster Gold "52 Pick-Up") 03 - Shadows of Despair (inspired by Marvel Comics Presents "Claws and Webs") 04 - Darkman (inspired by Marvel's adaptation of "Darkman" from 1990) 05 - SM (the intro to the podcast) 06 - The Punisher's Here (inspired by various Punisher books) 07 - WildC.A.T.s (AI funk-infused hard rock cover of the 90s cartoon intro)

Welcome to part 2 of "Wonder Woman: The Artemis Saga" Wonder Woman issues #94-100 '90s comic fans, prepare to be blown away by the latest insane Unspoken Issues podcast! Hosts Dean, Jesse, and Darry go full XTREME on the bodacious Wonder Woman storyline from the radical writer William Messner-Loebs. This isn't your dad's Wonder Woman, bro! The totally boss Artemis crashes onto the scene to claim Wondy's tiara in an out-of-this-world contest. But she's not the only new player - get ready to meet villains with ridiculous names like THE CHAUVINIST and THE EXPLOITER! Yeah, they're seriously called that! Dean, Jesse, and Darry break down all the crazy subplots, from Boston gang wars to disturbingly phallic tentacle scenes that'll make you say "WHOA MAMA!" You'll never look at Wonder Woman's lasso the same way again after hearing their in-depth analysis if you know what I mean! wink wink But it's not all freaky stuff, my comic reading compadres! This righteous arc features epic fights, killer artwork, and hellacious DC Universe cameos from baddies like Poison Ivy and THE JOKER HIMSELF! Guaranteed to blow your mind with insane reveals and twist endings galore. Don't snooze and lose on this one, bookworms! Tune in to the Unspoken Issues podcast and prepare to have your world rocked by the most extreme, ram-jammed, in-your-face Wonder Woman story of the 1990s!

"Wonder Woman: The Artemis Saga" part 1 Wonder Woman issues #90-93, and issue #0 HOLY MOLEY, HOLY COW, HOLY EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN!! You gotta check out this EPIC episode of "Unspoken Issues" all about the MIND-BLOWING Artemis Saga in the Wonder Woman comics of the 90s, DUDE! This is the kind of story that'll make your eyeballs POP right out of your head, I'm telling you! Our hosts Dean, Darry, and Jesse are diving head-first into the tumultuous times that rocked Wonder Woman's world, when she got STRIPPED of her title and this totally radical chick named Artemis stepped up to take on the mantle! Talk about a wild ride, am I right or am I right?! These guys break down all the juicy details - the family drama between Diana and her mom Hippolyta, the crazy visions Diana's having of the past, and the epic contest to decide the NEW Wonder Woman! It's like a nineties EXPLOSION of spandex-clad awesomeness, complete with gnarly art from the one and only Mike Deodato Jr.! Seriously, if you ever wanted to know why the 90s were the BEST time for comic book fans, this episode's got all the goods. The hosts dive deep into the themes of legacy, identity, and what it really means to be a hero - and they do it with such infectious enthusiasm, you can't help but get pumped up! Whether you're a die-hard Wonder Woman devotee or you just love those radical nineties comics, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN. Dean, Darry, and Jesse are gonna blow your mind with their insights and passion for this truly unsung Wonder Woman classic. So what are you waiting for, true believer?! Get in on the action before the NEXT crisis hits!

Whoa, dude! You gotta check out this totally radical episode of the podcast where our buddy Jesse takes us back to the glory days of Saturday morning cartoons on the NBC network! It's a total blast from the past, featuring a gnarly lineup of shows that'll have you feeling all kinds of nostalgic. From the sick adventures of "Wish Kid" starring the one and only Macaulay Culkin, to the out-of-this-world antics of the "Space Cats," this episode is a treasure trove of 90s cartoon gold. Jesse dives deep into the behind-the-scenes scoop, revealing the network's desperate attempts to keep up with the competition and the epic fails that went down. But trust me, it's all kinds of hilarious and way more fun than trying to beat the final boss on your Nintendo. So, what are you waiting for, dude? Get pumped and tune in to this totally tubular episode that'll have you feeling like a kid again, rocking those sweet Saved by the Bell kicks and dreaming of your own magic baseball glove. It's a wild ride you won't want to miss!

A Madcap Finale to The Mask Trilogy Join Jesse and Mark as they dive into the wacky and wild conclusion to the comic book trilogy of The Mask. In "The Mask Strikes Back," the famous green mask of chaos and comedy falls into new hands, leading to a series of outrageous misadventures. After the massive success of the 1994 film starring Jim Carrey, the tone of the comics shifted to match the over-the-top zaniness that audiences craved. Get ready for reality-bending sight gags, twisted character arcs, and an abundance of slapstick violence as a group of teens wrestle with the reality-warping powers of the mask. What started as a shockingly dark and grim deconstruction of the superhero genre ultimately transformed into an animated romp through madcap mayhem. Jesse and Mark dissect the tonal shift, analyzing how the Hollywood juggernaut of the movie impacted the comic's direction for better or worse. Was sticking closer to the film's irreverent spirit a blessing or a curse? Did sacrificing some of the edge blunt the book's satirical bite? Tune in for a lively discussion evaluating the strengths, pitfalls, and head-scratching moments of this wacky trilogy capper.

Hey there, fellow Marvel Snap addicts! 🌟 You absolutely cannot miss this electrifying episode of Snap Material—it's like uncovering a hidden treasure in Wakanda! 🎉 Hosts Evan and Jesse are about to take you on a whirlwind adventure through the top 5 villain cards in the game, and trust me, it's more thrilling than a showdown between Spidey and Doc Ock! 🕷️💥 Prepare to be blown away as they dissect the sheer awesomeness of villains like Knull, whose chaos-inducing abilities will leave you on the edge of your seat! And let's not forget about Magneto, whose magnetic charm and power are unmatched in the Marvel Snap universe! 🔥 But wait, there's more! Evan has a bonus top 5 list that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about villainy! 🤯 These morally ambiguous characters are as complex as the Infinity Gauntlet itself, and Evan and Jesse dive deep into their intriguing backstories. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as these two Marvel aficionados explore every nook and cranny of the villainous side of the Marvel universe! 🌌 Whether you're a seasoned Marvel Snap veteran or just starting your journey, this episode promises non-stop excitement and insight into the game we all know and love. So grab your phone, fire up Marvel Snap, and get ready for the ultimate showdown—it's about to go down in the most epic way possible! 💥 Don't miss out, true believers! Excelsior! 🚀🌟

Discover the origins of Darkman in this riveting discussion of the 1990 film and its comic book adaptation. Jesse and Chris provide an in-depth analysis of the tragic tale of Dr. Peyton Westlake and his transformation into the vengeance-seeking vigilante Darkman after a brutal attack leaves him scarred. Follow along as they break down key scenes and characters from the cult classic movie directed by Sam Raimi, comparing and contrasting it to the 3-issue Marvel comic released later that year. From the shocking inception of Darkman amid an explosion at Westlake's lab to his climactic confrontation with crime boss Robert Durant, you'll gain new insights into this intensely dramatic story. But the analysis doesn't stop in 1990 – stick around to learn about the surprising comic spinoffs and movie sequels Darkman spawned in the years after his big-screen debut. From a 1990s comic series written by none other than Kurt Busiek to a crossover event with Army of Darkness, the hosts leave no stone unturned tracing Darkman's strange journey in pop culture. Filled with lively discussion, nostalgic reminiscing, and some choice panel selections, this podcast shines a light on the unique graphic violence, psychological intensity, and patching plot holes that have made Darkman endure as a b-movie icon. So tune in to explore the making of a superhero in a way you've never appreciated before!

Evan and Jesse duke it out on the Marvel SNAP battlefield with decks embodying order and chaos! Tune in to find out who wins!

Snap Material is the ultimate podcast for Marvel Snap enthusiasts, delivering in-depth analysis and insights on the latest cards, strategies, and meta shifts. In this episode, hosts Evan and Jesse dive deep into the new Thunderbolts season, which just launched on April 2nd, 2024. They meticulously examine each new card, from the powerful Baron Zemo to the versatile US Agent, discussing their strengths, synergies, and potential counters. The dynamic duo also explores the new Thunderbolt-themed locations, revealing clever tactics and deck compositions to maximize their impact. Listeners will be left with a comprehensive understanding of the Thunderbolts season and valuable strategies to gain an edge in their Marvel Snap matches. Whether you're a seasoned player or newcomer, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead of the game. Tune in as Evan and Jesse navigate the ever-evolving world of Marvel Snap, offering a unique blend of expertise, humor, and camaraderie that has made Snap Material a go-to resource for the community. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive advantage and level up your Marvel Snap gameplay.

It's a new month, which means Evan and Jesse are back to recap the previous season of Marvel Snap and share all their unlocks from the latest Series Drop. In this episode, the two hosts dive deep into the highs and lows of March 2024, where Jesse achieved the coveted Infinite rank for the first time ever, only to struggle mightily in the rankings afterward. Meanwhile, Evan's journey was a rollercoaster ride that saw him hit dizzying heights before plummeting back down to earth. No matter their in-game performances, both hosts still managed to unlock a treasure trove of new Variants, including highly sought-after picks like Cannonball, Ms. Marvel, and the Art Germ Disco Dazzler. With their usual casual banter and deep dives into Marvel lore, Evan and Jesse break down each new addition to their collections, explaining the significance (or lack thereof) behind unique Variants like the King of Hell Strong Guy. It's an insightful and entertaining look at the latest crop of Marvel Snap cards. Whether you're a hardcore Snap player or just a Marvel fan, this episode offers an engaging and humorous discussion filled with personal stories, strategic insights, and unabashed comic book geekery. Join Evan and Jesse as they put a bow on March and look ahead to the challenges and unlocks awaiting them in the new season. It's the kind of podcast that any True Believer can appreciate and enjoy.

Get ready for an action-packed recap of the latest Marvel Snap season, Avengers vs. X-Men! In this riveting episode, hosts Jesse and Evan dive deep into the cards, locations, and strategies that defined the March 2024 season. From the versatile Hope Summers to the game-changing Cannonball, they break down the strengths and weaknesses of each new addition to the ever-expanding Marvel Snap universe. Brace yourself for hilarious anecdotes, insightful analysis, and a healthy dose of friendly banter as they relive their most memorable moments from the past month. But that's not all! This dynamic duo also provides a sneak peek into the latest season, Thunderbolts, sharing their initial impressions and speculations about the newly released cards. Whether you're a seasoned Marvel Snap veteran or a newcomer to the game, this episode is an absolute must-listen for anyone eager to stay ahead of the curve in the world of digital card-battling mayhem.

Join hosts Jesse Starcher and Mark Radulich as they delve into the second installment of the iconic "The Mask" comic book series by Dark Horse Comics. "The Mask Returns" takes readers on a thrilling ride, picking up a few months after the events of the first book. Prepare for a wild and chaotic adventure as the supernatural mask finds its way into the hands of new, unsuspecting individuals, unleashing a whirlwind of mayhem and violence. In this episode, Jesse and Mark dissect the story, exploring the consequences of the mask's power falling into the wrong hands. Witness the explosive aftermath as meek mob getaway driver Nunzio becomes the mask's new host, determined to build a criminal empire by eliminating rival gangs in gloriously over-the-top fashion. Brace yourself for a no-holds-barred analysis of the comic's unapologetic depiction of cartoonish yet brutal violence that pushed the boundaries of its time. But the masks' influence doesn't end there. The dynamic duo also delves into the character of Kathy, who dons the mask in an attempt to stop Don Mozzo’s reign of terror. Prepare for a thought-provoking discussion on the writers' portrayal of gender dynamics and the contrasting corruption experienced by male and female characters when wielding the mask's immense power.