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!
Star Trek MEGA EPISODE (First Contact, Top 5 TNG Episodes, Star Trek vs Star Wars, Lower Decks, and Wrath of Khan)
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.
Star Trek's Best & Worst Episodes
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!
Godzilla 70th Anniversary Retrospective (Fanbase Feature Crossover)
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
Green Lanterns MEGA EPISODE (Alan Scott, Guy Gardner, John Stewart)
Casting announcements for HBO's upcoming LANTERNS have been the talk of the internet for weeks! This week's Geek History Lesson is a MEGA EPISODE blasts through the comic book history of some of the most iconic Green Lanterns - many of whom will be appearing on the show! Featuring Alan Scott (#483), with Tim Sheridan, Guy Gardner (#299), and John Stewart (#293), with Jay Washington. This extra-long 3.5 hour long collection combines previous episodes primes the pump for upcoming series, embraces the power of WILL, and shows how unique characters DC Comics has put through brightest day and darkest night!
Spider-Man Villains MEGA EPISODE (Kraven, Doctor Octopus, Mysterio & Vulture)
It's nearly time for Venom: The Last Dance and movie studios love nothing more than cameos and crossover. This week's Geek History Lesson is a MEGA EPISODE delving into the Spider-Man Rogue's Gallery to uncover who may be joining Tom Hardy's Venom on screen featuring Kraven (#479), Doctor Octopus (#393), Mysterio (#260), The Vulture (#167), and Best Spider-Man Villains (#424). This extra-long 4.5 hour long collection combines previous episodes to highlight why Spidey's villains are so memorable and have had so much staying power in the Marvel Comics Universe both on and off screen. Whether you've read the comics or not this is a perfect primer to get to know Venom's friends and rivals.
Frankenstein in Pop Culture
Fire! Bad! Podcast! Good! This week, we enter #GHLSpookySeason2024 tackling all things Frankenstein. Starting with Mary Shelley's groundbreaking novel that invented the science fiction genre through the Universal Monsters Movies to the campy sitcom, The Munsters. We discuss Victor Frankenstein's lack of coping skills, whether or not he's called "The Monster" or "The Creature", and if the green skin is iconic or a mistake. Everyone knows who Frankenstein is - but how deep does your knowledge run? Whether you've been scared of the Creature your entire life or are a long time fan this episode is filled with jump scare, lightning, and Phil Hartman jokes!
The Lord of the Rings MEGA EPISODE
The Lord of the Rings has shaped fantasy for generations. From the original books to the Lord of the Rings movies to The Hobbit movies to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon, and The Rings of Power wrapping up its second season on streaming right now. This week's Geek History Lesson is a MEGA EPISODE delving into the lore of hobbits, wizards, and elves featuring The Fellowship of the Ring (#395), The Two Towers with Diego Anthony Nuñez (#422), and The Return of the King (#485). This extra-long almost 5 hour long collection combines previous episodes to highlight the mystical world of Middle-Earth and the creatures that inhabit it! New to The Rings of Power? An obsessive fan who has read The Silmarillion more than once? Step in alongside Jason, Ashley, Frodo, and Gandalf.
Batman Villains MEGA EPISODE (Penguin, Poison Ivy, Joker, Top 5 Batman Villains)
Batman has THE most iconic Rogues Gallery in all of comics and we're breaking it down in this week's Geek History Lesson episode. A MEGA EPISODE! Filled to the brim with baddies straight out of Arkham Asylum these are the worst of the worst DC Comics super villains, featuring The Penguin (#405), Poison Ivy with Patrick Schumacker (#374), The Joker (#274), and Top 5 Batman Villains with Comic Pop's Sal Crivelli. This extra-long collection combines previous episodes to highlight the most iconic comic book villain of all time, The Joker, ahead of the new movie Joker: Folie à Deux! Whether you are a deep cut comic book fan or excited for the new movie, this MEGA EPISODE is the evilest way for anyone to get in the show! Uncover what makes these DC Comics villains so bad!
Canon: Why It Does and Doesn't Matter
It's time to explore the biggest word in fandom this side of "continuity" on this week's Geek History Lesson as we dare to examine the thing that holds it all together - "CANON". What exactly does it mean? How can canon be applied to the things we love most? And, most important of all - does canon really matter? Jason and Ashley tackles canons with specific rules from DC Comics to Marvel Comics, canon that negate any kind of rules from Doctor Who to Sherlock Holmes, dive into their feelings on the canon of their own comic book properties, and reveal how much reverence they thing the concept of canon is due across multiple mediums: comic books, television, movies, and MOAR! It's time to talk canon!
Alien
In space no one can hear you pod! This week, we're battling through the horror scifi juggernaut of the Alien franchise. From its indie roots in the original 1979, to James Cameron's action reinvention of the 1980s, through the most recent installment that has nothing to do with Ripley whatsoever - Alien: Romulus. We'll discuss the creation of the xenomorph and the woman who takes them down, the erasure of Space Intern cat, Jonesy, from the ongoing Alien film franchise, with a spoiler free look at modern day Alien movies. Whether you're a longtime devotee of the Alien Queen or wondering if Alien: Romulus is a good jumping-on point, this episode is filled with strong female leads, shape-shifting aliens, and more face huggers than you can shake a stick at!
Additional research by Diego Anthony Nunez
How Wolverine Became the Best X-Man
It's a Mail Bag episode! It's Wolverine-themed! It's the best and what it does and what is does is podcasting! This week with your help we're going Canadian on the world of X-Men. From Deadpool and Wolverine on the silver screen to his humble origins as a villain to The Incredible Hulk, we'll explore how James Logan Howlett became everyone's favorite mutant. Patreon Super Fans asked us about the best Wolverine costume, what has sustained the public love for Logan, and his complex relationship as a mentor to younger X-Men. Whether you've loved him from the start or met Wolverine through Hugh Jackman's portrayal, this episode is packed with more secret origins than you can possibly need!
Teen Titans MEGA EPISODE (Teen Titans, Best Titans Team & Donna Troy)
When there's trouble you know who to pod - Geek History Lesson! We are bringing you a Teen Titans MEGA EPISODE! Fill up on superhero teen angst as we explore the interpersonal dynamics and superheroics of DC's best legacy characters, featuring Donna Troy (#308), Teen Titans (#125), Teen Titans Part 2 (#126), and Best Teen Titans Team Ever! (#219). This extra-long collection combines previous episodes to highlight the Amazonian icon Donna Troy (the OG Wonder Girl), and her legacy throughout Teen Titans from the page to the screen. Whether you're a Teen Titans GO! fan or have been reading since the 1960s, this MEGA EPISODE is the perfect companion for anyone gearing up to see their diverse shows on HBO Max! Discover why Titans Tower is the place to be and why the Teen Titans are the most profitable and BEST team DC Comics has to offer.
Dragon Ball Z with Diego Anthony Nuñez
Power up with us for an action-packed episode on Dragon Ball Z! Join us as we dive into the epic saga of Goku, Vegeta, and the Z Fighters, exploring their legendary battles, powerful transformations, and unforgettable adventures. In this special episode, we're joined by our GHL research assistant, Diego Anthony Nuñez (https://x.com/Blackcrow521), who brings his expert insights and deep knowledge of the Dragon Ball universe. Whether you're a Saiyan warrior or a Namekian novice, this episode is the perfect way to relive the greatest moments of Dragon Ball Z and discover why it remains one of the most beloved anime series of all time.
Batman Family MEGA EPISODE (Gotham City, Damian Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth)
We are vengeance, we are the night - we are bringing you a Batman Family MEGA EPISODE! Dive into the shadows of Gotham City as we explore the intricate dynamics and heroics of the Bat-Family, featuring Gotham City (#472), Damian Wayne (#222), and Alfred Pennyworth (#109). This extra-long collection combines previous episodes to highlight the pivotal roles each of these characters plays in the world of Batman and DC Comics. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the Bat-Family, this MEGA EPISODE is the perfect companion for anyone gearing up to watch the latest DC movie or series on HBO Max! Discover why Gotham City is more than just a backdrop, how Damian Wayne brings a new edge to the Robin legacy, and the unwavering support Alfred Pennyworth provides as the backbone of the Bat-Family.
GHL 498: Raven (Teen Titans)
Titans, GO! Dive into the shadows and soar through the mists of mystery with us on today's episode of Geek History Lesson, where we're summoning the enigmatic history of Raven from the vast universe of DC Comics. Unravel the arcane threads that tie her to the Teen Titans, and how she transcended the pages to become a pivotal character in the Wolfman and Perez renowned run, the Teen Titans GO! series,, and even made her mark within the DC Universe TV show. It's a journey through time, magic, and the complexities of being a teenager with dark powers. Ready to embrace the darkness? Our latest episode promises revelations, enchantments, and maybe a hint of Azarath Metrion Zinthos!
GHL 495: Magneto
Discover the captivating story of Magneto, one of Marvel's most iconic X-Men characters! This episode reveals Magneto's early years, from his harrowing experiences as a Holocaust survivor to his extraordinary rise as the master of magnetism. We delve into the secrets behind his powers, unravel his complex motivations, and explore the depth and complexity that make Magneto such a compelling figure. Uncover the rich history of this enigmatic villain and gain a deeper understanding of his impact on the X-Men universe before X-Men 97 hits Disney Plus. Additional research & Writing by Diego Anthony Nunez
GHL 494 - Batman The Dark Age 1985-2000
Dive deep into the shadows of Gotham as Geek History Lesson embarks on a gripping journey through Batman's Dark Age—spanning from 1985 to 2000. This era redefined the Caped Crusader, courtesy of visionary creators like Frank Miller, whose "The Dark Knight Returns" brought a gritty realism to Bruce Wayne's world. Alongside Alan Moore's "The Killing Joke," which delved into the twisted psyche of the Joker, and Grant Morrison's innovative narratives in "Arkham Asylum," these stories sculpted a darker, more complex Batman. This period ushered in a renaissance of the Dark Knight, transforming him into a symbol of vigilante justice steeped in moral ambiguity, setting the stage for Batman’s evolution for years to come. Time to listen to Batman's Dark Age!
X-Men MEGA EPISODE (Cyclops, Jean Grey & Professor X)
Unleash the ultimate mutant power as Geek History Lesson presents an awe-inspiring MEGA EPISODE on the X-Men! Elevate your Marvel experience as we dissect the intricate lives of Cyclops, the stoic leader; Jean Grey, the Phoenix incarnate; and Professor X, the visionary mind - the cornerstone trio that stands at the heart of Marvel Comics’ pulsating X-Men universe. This extra-long compilation brings together past episodes, that celebrates their triumphs, trials, and the indelible marks they've left on the realm of superheroes. The perfect companion piece for fans diving into X-Men 97 on Disney Plus! Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a Newbie curious about the magnetic draw of the X-Men, this MEGA EPISODE promises an immersive journey into the heart of mutantkind.
GHL 489 - Crisis on Infinite Earths: Why Are We Still Talking About It? with DJ Wooldridge
In this special discussion episode, Geek History Lesson joins forces with DJ Wooldridge (https://twitter.com/djtalkstrash) to unravel the mysteries of "Crisis on Infinite Earths." Explore its enduring impact on comics, media adaptations, and fan culture. Uncover the reasons behind its lasting legacy and why, even after 35 years, we're still captivated by this groundbreaking DC Comics event.