Join us on a retro journey as we wrestle with the past, present, and future of the wrestling world. Our effervescent guest E will be ringside as we share our personal stories of backyard wrestling, cherished moments of WrestleMania's gone by, and our thoughts on the transformation of the wrestling landscape.

We'll touch on health challenges, safety measures, and the ever-evolving commercialization of wrestling. Our conversation will honor those athletes who've risked their lives in the ring, and we'll tip our hats to the legendary Stone Cold Steve Austin.

As we continue to grapple with the raw emotions of wrestling nostalgia, we'll pull back the curtain on the theatrics that gave wrestling its captivating allure. We'll share personal accounts of meeting the iconic Macho Man, Randy Savage, and unfold our thoughts on the memorable stars like China, Trish Stratus, and Miss Kitty. Gird your loins for a healthy critique of Hulk Hogan and how he grappled with his own missteps.

Finally, we'll pin down the realism of wrestling with discussions on title exchanges, the toys from Hasbro that made the 90s even sweeter, and our favorite wrestling moves. We'll tackle the competition between wrestling companies and the thrill of the 'Attitude Era'.

We'll explore the drama between Matt Hardy and Lita, and the importance of fan loyalty for the success of wrestlers. So, lace up your wrestling boots and get ready for a body-slamming episode that celebrates the world of wrestling.

🚨Please subscribe, and share this podcast.

Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever  you get your podcasts.

New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

Mortal Kombat didn't just change the fighting game genre; it changed the entire video game industry forever. In this episode of the After School Special Podcast, we’re diving deep into the blood, the lore, and the legacy of the franchise that forced the creation of the ESRB rating system.

From the grainy digitized sprites of the original arcade cabinets to the high-octane cinematic experience of the modern era, we explore what makes Mortal Kombat an enduring cultural phenomenon.

In this episode, we discuss:

• ​The Genesis of Gore: How Midway’s decision to use digitized real-life actors (like the legendary Johnny Cage inspiration) set the game apart from Street Fighter II [05:47].

• ​The "Fatalities" Controversy: Why the finishing moves were so revolutionary and how they sparked a national debate on video game violence [10:40].
• ​

• ​From Pixels to the Big Screen: Analyzing the 1995 cult classic film and how it successfully translated the game's "Arcana" and spirit to cinema [13:30].
• ​

• ​Character Evolution: Why icons like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Raiden remain the "gods" of the fighting world [18:30].
• ​

• ​The Modern Era: How the series successfully rebooted its own timeline and continues to push technical boundaries today [39:43].
• ​I

Whether you were a "button masher" at the local arcade or a pro mastering combos on the Super Nintendo, this trip down memory lane is for every gamer who ever heard the words "Finish Him!"

Watch the full video version of this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S-KYUUpuQYg

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#MortalKombat #RetroGaming #GamingHistory #Podcast #VideoGames #Fatalities #Midway #JohnnyCage #Scorpion #SubZero #ArcadeGames

Have you ever wondered why your pulse quickens at the sight of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader locked in a lightsaber duel, or why you find yourself rooting for a scrappy team of rebels against the vast, faceless Empire? Well, we have, and in this episode, we're delving deep into the Star Wars universe to uncover the secrets behind its enduring appeal.Buckle up, fellow Star Wars fans, because we're about to embark on a thrilling nostalgia-fueled journey through Return of the Jedi, the iconic third installment of the original Star Wars saga.We're not alone in this galactic adventure. With us is our special guest, "E", adding her unique insights to our lively discussions. From the toys and video games that defined our 90s childhoods to our shared love for Chewbacca and the fascinatingly complex character of Boba Fett, we cover it all. Prepare to be intrigued as we debate the morality of the independent contractors working on the Death Star and imagine an alternate Star Wars universe where the Empire triumphed.As we explore the power dynamics between Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine and consider the implications of Vader's return to the light, we also delve into Star Wars' moral ambiguity. This episode is not only a deep dive into the Star Wars universe but also an exploration of its impact on our lives. So, as you listen, feel free to join in the conversation. Send us your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, or just your favorite Star Wars memories. May the Force be with you!🚨Please subscribe, and share this podcast. Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever  you get your podcasts.New episodes every Friday.Find us onTwitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / TwitterDa Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3Email [email protected]

Support the show

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/supportHey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

Ever dreamed of being caught in a heated debate about who shot first - Greedo or Han Solo? Or perhaps you're intrigued by the impact of computer animation on how we watch and experience films today?

Well, get ready to tickle your nostalgic nerve as we rekindle the magic of the original Star Wars trilogy, tracing George Lucas's inspired journey from conception to controversy. In this fascinating exploration, we'll also shed light on the significance of diversity in sci-fi, looking at iconic characters like Billy Dee Williams and Landau Cal Rizzien who shifted our perspectives.

In the second half, the conversation goes beyond galaxies far, far away to our very own Earth, where advancements in technology have transformed the cinematic landscape. We compare and contrast the use of visual effects in today's films like The Hobbit with classics like The Lord of the Rings.

But it's not all about the glitz and glamour of big screen effects. We'll also be discussing the importance of script quality and the profound impact it has on the overall success of a movie. So, whether you're a Star Wars fan, a film buff, or just intrigued by the evolution of cinema, this episode is a must-listen.

🚨Please subscribe and share this podcast.

Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.

New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

This week all bets our off! The guys discuss sexy cartoon vixens and bad tv shows they love to hate.

The show quickly goes down a pop culture wormhole.

We talk about the new Garfield Religion
Lil Nas X controversy .
Bad tv shows we love to watch.
Today’s generation.
Aaron tells a story about being lonely in a cabin and bad dreams.

🚨Please subscribe, and share this podcast.

Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever  you get your podcasts.

New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

Ever found yourself reminiscing about the good old days of unwrapping a new Happy Meal toy? Those plastic treasures were more than just playthings; they were symbols of childhood joy and innocence. We're taking a trip down memory lane to chat about the captivating world of kids' meal toys. From the thrill of unveiling a new toy to the excitement of collecting iconic figures like the Changeables, Simpsons dolls, Batman mugs, and the Muppet Babies, we spill all the nostalgic beans. We even ponder on the adult equivalent of a Happy Meal toy and wrap up with a reveal of our all-time favorite McDonald's toys.

Hold on to your seats as we switch gears to dissect the epic film Godzilla vs. Kong. Relive the heart-stopping punch from King Kong, the mysteries of the hollow earth, and Godzilla's spiked dorsal fin—all from the comfort of your headphones. As if that's not enough, we revisit the hall of fame for the biggest toy flops, casting our discerning gaze on merchandise from Michael Jordan, the legendary Tamagotchi, and the Fox Kids-branded Tobi Maguire toys. So, tune in for a ride through nostalgia, a sprinkle of laughter, and some unexpected, mind-blowing revelations.

🚨Please subscribe and share this podcast.

Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.

New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

Want to take a trip down memory lane? We've got a one-way ticket to the unforgettable era of the Fox Children's Network and Fox Kids Network, where the brilliant art deco visuals and spine-tingling theme tunes of the Batman animated series left a lasting mark. From the chilling Joker to the enigmatic Penguin, and the fearsome Bane to the icy Mr. Freeze, we plumb the depths of Gotham's most notable villains. Plus, we shed light on Harley Quinn's unexpected origins and voice actor Kevin Conroy's unsung contribution to the series.But don't adjust your dial just yet, because we're also rekindling memories of the world outside Gotham. Think back to 'The Simpsons', 'Garfield', 'Heathcliff', and even 'Attack of the Killer Tomatoes' - didn't they just make your Saturday mornings? We also take a nostalgic look at 'Eek the Cat' and his love affair with the obese Clairbale - a relationship that brought size acceptance to the forefront of kids' cartoons, long before it was trendy. Remember Sharky, the dog like no other, who was hell-bent on giving Eek a reality check? And Annabelle, the morbidly obese Southern Belle, who taught us that beauty comes in all shapes?Finally, we dig into how cartoons evolved from being just for kids to a form of entertainment for adults as well. We reminisce about the popular Fox Kids Network shows like 'The Tick' and 'Spider-Man', and discuss how they came about, and the talents behind them. By the end of this trip down memory lane, you'll be longing for the good old days of Saturday morning cartoons. So, grab your cereal bowl and tune in for a fun-filled trip to the past!🚨Please subscribe and share this podcast. Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.New episodes every Friday.Find us onTwitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / TwitterDa Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3Email [email protected]

Support the show

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/supportHey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

First episode!

Ever wondered about the history and depth of the X-Men universe? Do you know who the original X-Men were and how they've evolved over time? We invite you to join us on a journey into the exhilarating world of X-Men comics, as we explore its history, the beloved characters, their intricate relationships and superpowers.

Brace yourself as we dissect the opposing ideologies of Charles Xavier and Magneto. Come discover the riveting contrasts and similarities between the original comics and their adaptations to the big screen, cartoons, toys, and video games.

In the second part of our discussion, we delve into the resonance of the X-Men lore within black culture. Not just confined to the comics, we discuss its impact on arcades, cartoons, movies, and more.

We highlight the nuanced relationships and engaging storylines between characters like Wolverine and Jean Grey, and the multi-layered character of Storm. The representation and significance of female characters within the superhero universe takes center stage as we debate the controversial marriage between Storm and Black Panther.

As we wrap up, we share our personal favorite X-Men characters. From Cyclops to Beast, Nightcrawler, and Gambit, we discuss why these characters resonate with us and stand out among the rest.

 We also touch on our experiences with X-Men themed video games and how we introduce our kids to these iconic characters. As a bonus, we share our views about the importance of mindfulness and self-care amidst our busy lives. Remember, our podcast is available for download every Friday, so don't miss out on our upcoming episodes!

🚨Please subscribe and share this podcast.

Please rate this podcast 5 stars ⭐️ and write “latchkey kid” in the review section on Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.

New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak

Our podcast began as a small project aimed at exploring local bands and the underground culture. Over time, we've evolved into a nostalgic trip down memory lane, engaging in after-school-type conversations about everything from 90’s Sitcoms to fast food mascots. This evolution of our podcast reflects our dedication to the craft, our commitment to our audience, and our continuous quest to improve.

To all our listeners, if you haven't done so already, make sure to subscribe and download our show on your favorite podcast platform. It's going to be a rollercoaster ride you won't want to miss!

 New episodes every Friday.


Find us on
Twitter - After School Special Podcast (@AfterSchoolSpe3) / Twitter
Da Gram - After School Special podcast (@afterschoolspecialpodcast)
TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@afterschoolspecial3

Email us
[email protected]

Become a supporter of the show here > https://www.buzzsprout.com/1729520/support

Hey, Latchkey Kids, 👋 We would love to hear from you!
Please record and send us a voice message⬇️⬇️
https://www.speakpipe.com/Latchkey_Kids_Speak