Episodes

  • Why Procedural TV Shows Keep Us Hooked (Watson & Suits LA)
    Feb 18 2025
    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

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Does it Matter Who Wears the Mask Captain America with Jonathan London
    Feb 11 2025
    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

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Does Comedy Work in Fantasy? - Toss a Coin to Your Witcher
    Feb 4 2025
    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

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Should All Comics be All-Ages?
    Jan 28 2025
    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

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Why Sherlock Needs a Watson a.k.a. Why We Need Sidekicks
    Jan 21 2025
    Support the brave Los Angeles Firefighters & emergency personnel tackling the LA Wildfires here: https://supportlafd.org/

    Sherlock Holmes may be the world’s greatest detective, but even he can’t do it alone. In this episode of Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into Why Sherlock Needs a Watson—or as we like to call it, Why We Need Sidekicks! From Dr. John Watson to Robin to Samwise Gamgee, we explore why the greatest heroes always have someone by their side and how these partnerships make stories stronger.

    We’re also celebrating the upcoming premiere of WATSON on CBS & Paramount Plus, debuting January 26, 2025! Starring Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson, this new take on the iconic character is one you won’t want to miss. And here’s the best part: our very own Jason was a staff writer on the show! So, we’re joined by someone who has actually written Dr. Watson themselves to discuss what makes this character so timeless and important. Grab your magnifying glass, call your favorite sidekick, and join us for this deep dive into the power of partnerships in storytelling!

    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

    GHL RECOMMENDED READING from this episode► https://www.geekhistorylesson.com/recommendedreading

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    Follow Jason at https://www.threads.net/@jawiin or https://www.jasoninman.com/

    Thanks for showing up to class today. Class is dismissed!
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Star Trek MEGA EPISODE (First Contact, Top 5 TNG Episodes, Star Trek vs Star Wars, Lower Decks, and Wrath of Khan)
    Jan 17 2025
    In this special Geek History Lesson MEGA EPISODE, we’re celebrating the enduring legacy of Star Trek in honor of the upcoming Star Trek: Section 31 movie, hitting Paramount Plus on January 24, 2025. This jam-packed episode features some of our favorite Star Trek moments from the GHL archives, including:
    • Star Trek: First Contact LIVE!
    • Top 5 Star Trek: The Next Generation Episodes (GHL 294) with special guest John Champion from Mission Log: A Roddenberry Star Trek Podcast.
    • Star Wars vs. Star Trek (GHL 233), where Ken Napzok joins us to tackle one of the biggest nerd debates of all time.
    • Star Trek: Lower Decks (GHL 428), a hilarious and heartfelt dive into one of Star Trek’s most unique series.
    • Wrath of Khan (GHL 416), where we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan with behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and plenty of KHAN TALK!
    Plus, Jason shares his excitement about working on the upcoming Star Trek: Section 31 movie, which follows Emperor Philippa Georgiou as she protects the Federation while grappling with the sins of her past. Hear more about his experience on Patreon at patreon.com/jawiin and in our Best & Worst Stories of Star Trek episode.

    Before we dive into the Trek goodness, we also take a moment to address the recent fires in Los Angeles and highlight ways to support our community, including donating to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation here: https://supportlafd.org/
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    5 hrs and 55 mins
  • Star Trek's Best & Worst Episodes
    Jan 14 2025
    Support the brave Los Angeles Firefighters and emergency personnel tackling the LA Wildfires here: https://supportlafd.org/

    Boldly go where no podcast has gone before! In this episode of Geek History Lesson, we’re diving into Star Trek’s best and worst episodes across the entire franchise. Whether you’re a lifelong Trekkie or brand new to the final frontier, we’ll help you find the perfect episode to start your journey. From the groundbreaking brilliance of The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine to the occasional missteps of The Original Series and beyond, we explore the highs and lows of Star Trek’s incredible legacy. This episode also celebrates the upcoming Star Trek: Section 31 movie hits Paramount Plus on January 24, 2025 and did you know?... Jason worked on it! Set your phasers to fun and join us for this ultimate Trek-filled adventure!

    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

    GHL RECOMMENDED READING from this episode► https://www.geekhistorylesson.com/recommendedreading

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    Thanks for showing up to class today. Class is dismissed!
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Godzilla 70th Anniversary Retrospective (Fanbase Feature Crossover)
    Jan 7 2025
    Celebrate the legacy of Japanese icon, Godzilla, as Ashley Victoria Robinson joins the fine folks of the Fanbase Weekly podcast for a special episode of Fanbase Features! Together they discuss the power of Godzilla as a monster movie, perfecting the kaiju genre, the lessons that can be gleaned from it as modern day Western viewers, and try to crack the code on why American movie studios can't adapt this modern Eastern myth.

    Featuring: Bryant Dillon, Jack Phoenix, and Matthew Noe

    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

    GHL RECOMMENDED READING from this episode► https://www.geekhistorylesson.com/recommendedreading

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    Thanks for showing up to class today. Class is dismissed!
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    1 hr and 57 mins