Anazao Podcasts

Welcome to my dojo, this is Drunken Fist Happy Hour, a special edition of Kung Fu Pizza Party where I put aside the 30 minutes or less stipulation, and instead I grab a drink and a friend and we let the conversation meander like Drunken Fist Kung Fu. With me today is Joshua Noel of Be Living Water to discuss Christian Taoism or Taoist Christianity. We are all on a spiritual journey, and in Josh's case, he has found a path to living his truest self found in Jesus and pursing the Tao.

Be Living Water: https://be-living-water.captivate.fm/

Instagram: @kungfupizzaparty

Letterboxd: KungFuPizzaPrty

YouTube: youtube.com/StudioTwoOneNine

TJ Blackwell and Jill Elizabeth dive into the complex world of Cable from X-Men: The Animated Series, a character that raises some heavy-duty philosophical questions about time travel and the weight of choices. Right off the bat, they ponder whether you’d go back in time to prevent a war if given the chance—classic Cable conundrum, right? As they reminisce about their first encounters with the character, they highlight how Cable’s gritty backstory adds layers to the superhero narrative, making him not just a guns-blazing badass but also a figure of introspection and moral dilemma. Their banter flows from discussing Cable's iconic look to the nuances of his relationships with other characters, particularly the tension between him and Bishop. By the end of this episode, listeners are left not only with a greater appreciation for Cable’s role in the X-Men universe but also with a craving to revisit the animated series that made him a household name. A deep dive into the complexities of time travel and moral dilemmas unfolds as TJ Blackwell and Jill Elizabeth dissect the character of Cable from the beloved "X-Men: The Animated Series."

The episode kicks off with a thought-provoking question about the ethics of time travel, particularly if one could go back to prevent the wars of the future. This sets the stage for their exploration of Cable, a character who embodies the struggles of navigating a tumultuous timeline filled with moral ambiguity. TJ and Jill reminisce about their personal introductions to Cable, with Jill reflecting on her first encounter through the recent interpretation in "Deadpool," while TJ fondly recalls Cable's iconic presence in "Marvel vs. Capcom 2." The hosts share laughs and insights, emphasizing Cable's evolution from a mere character to a symbol of deeper philosophical inquiries surrounding sacrifice and the greater good. Through witty banter and engaging dialogue, they bring to life the essence of Cable's narrative, illustrating how he challenges both his allies and the audience to question the implications of their choices in a chaotic world.

Takeaways:

• The podcast dives into the character of Cable from X-Men the Animated Series, exploring his origin and significance in the X-Men universe.
• TJ and Jill discuss how Cable's unique abilities, including his telepathic powers and cybernetic enhancements, influence his character development.
• The conversation highlights the complex narrative of Cable's relationship with time travel, raising philosophical questions about fate and choice.
• Listeners are reminded of the nostalgic impact of the X-Men Animated Series, which remains a beloved part of many people's childhoods.
• The hosts share personal experiences of how they were introduced to Cable, showcasing the character's enduring appeal across different mediums.
• TJ and Jill humorously debate Cable's design and how it reflects the 90s comic aesthetic, noting the character's iconic status in geek culture.

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Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:

https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/

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Check out all of our 'On Loop' series to date:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/9e240d3d-6e05-46bc-870b-400afea1cb11

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Check out other episodes with TJ:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/f4c32709-d8ff-4cef-8dfd-5775275c3c5e

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Don't miss any of Jill's episodes:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/93b2d7c5-1f3a-4fdb-8d87-350f6ca167b9

Mentioned in this episode:

The Anazao Podcast Network

Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more!

Anazao Podcast Network

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Systematic Geekology

Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.

We're back with another round of theologian superlatives! Also, chaos. There's some chaos. Kristy blames the mockingbirds.

Joshua Noel dives deep with TJ Blackwell to unpack the dynamic character of Kaladin Stormblessed from Brandon Sanderson's epic "The Stormlight Archives." Right off the bat, they explore what makes Kaladin such a compelling figure—his unwavering commitment to protect those who can't protect themselves, a mantra that resonates throughout the series. As they meander through the narrative, TJ shares insights about Kaladin's evolution from a slave in Bridge Four to a powerful Windrunner, illuminating the nuances of his relationships, particularly with his Spren, Sylphrena. The conversation takes delightfully unexpected turns, mixing light-hearted banter with serious themes of sacrifice, leadership, and the moral complexities of heroism. It's a fascinating blend of humor and depth that brings the faces behind the character to life, leaving listeners eager to discover more about the world of Roshar and its intricately woven tales. In this engaging episode, listeners are taken on a journey exploring the intricacies of Kaladin Stormblessed, a character who serves as a beacon of hope in Brandon Sanderson's expansive fantasy series. TJ Blackwell shares his deep admiration for Kaladin, detailing his journey from a slave to a heroic figure capable of inspiring those around him.

The dynamic between TJ and Joshua creates an informal atmosphere where listeners feel like they are part of the conversation. They discuss not just Kaladin's heroic deeds but also the underlying themes of loyalty and sacrifice that make his character compelling. The dialogue cleverly navigates through the complexities of the Stormlight Archive's world-building, touching on the significance of Spren and the unique magical systems at play. With a mix of humor and thoughtful commentary, the episode highlights how Kaladin’s story resonates on a personal level, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own struggles and the importance of standing up for others. By the end, the audience is left not only intrigued by Kaladin’s journey but also motivated to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Sanderson's literary universe.

Takeaways:

• Kaladin Stormblessed is a pivotal character who embodies the ideals of protecting the helpless and leads by example, inspiring those around him.
• Bridge Four, initially a group of oppressed individuals, evolves into a family that finds strength and purpose through Kaladin's leadership and the power of their bonds with sprens.
• The relationship between Kaladin and his spren, Sylphrena, symbolizes the deeper connection between individuals and the spirits that guide them in their journeys.
• Brandon Sanderson's writing showcases a unique blend of complex world-building and character development that resonates with readers on multiple levels.
• The podcast delves into the significance of Kaladin's struggles and triumphs, reflecting themes of hope, resilience, and the quest for identity in a challenging world.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore the entire 'Stormlight Archive' series, as it intertwines rich narratives with profound philosophical questions about duty, honor, and personal growth.

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Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:

https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/

.

Check out other episodes in this ear's theme of "The Faces Behind Us":

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/dd903597-98be-49ed-998c-5cdaf73b6af4

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Listen to our other book series episodes:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/cd11887b-5998-452c-aa1f-330423162b51

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Check out other episodes with Joshua:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/642da9db-496a-40f5-b212-7013d1e211e0

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Check out other episodes with TJ:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/f4c32709-d8ff-4cef-8dfd-5775275c3c5e

Mentioned in this episode:

Systematic Geekology

Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.

Check out our Fourthwall site for quite literally everything to do with our show!

All SG merch, extra content, our youtube page, SG memberships, tips / donations, etc. can all be found at this one convenient spot!

SG on Fourthwall

Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky to keep up to date!

Follow our show on our socials to keep up to date and get some exclusive content and fun memes!

The Anazao Podcast Network

Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more!

Anazao Podcast Network

Become a member of Systematic Geekology on our Website!

Check out the link to become a member of Systematic Geekology! All member get exclusive extras and shout outs on the show! Some of the paid tiers of membership get store discounts, free merch, and more!

SG on Fourthwall

Dr. James McGrath, an esteemed scholar and returning guest, engages in a profound dialogue with Joshua Noel and TJ Blackwell regarding his latest literary endeavor, "Beyond Deconstruction: Building a More Expansive Faith." Central to this discourse is the exploration of faith reconstruction following the experience of deconstruction, a journey that many individuals navigate in contemporary religious contexts. Dr. McGrath elucidates the necessity of recognizing that faith can transcend rigid doctrinal confines, advocating for a more inclusive and expansive understanding of Christian belief. As he articulates his personal journey, he emphasizes the importance of humility and openness in fostering genuine community within the church. This episode serves as a critical reflection on the evolving nature of faith and the potential for unity amidst diversity within the Christian tradition.

Takeaways:

• Dr. James McGrath discusses the concept of unity within the church as articulated in Ephesians, emphasizing the necessity of humility in fostering communal bonds.
• The podcast explores the importance of understanding faith beyond rigid doctrines, advocating for a more expansive, inclusive perspective that embraces diverse beliefs.
• McGrath's book, 'Beyond Deconstruction: Building a More Expansive Faith', addresses the journey of reconstructing faith after deconstruction, focusing on positive affirmations rather than mere dismantling.
• A key takeaway from this episode is the idea that faith should not be viewed as a static system but as a dynamic, evolving relationship with God and community.
• The conversation highlights the significance of community in the church, positing that genuine fellowship can exist outside traditional church models, particularly for those who have experienced trauma in religious settings.
• Listeners are encouraged to approach differences within the church with empathy and understanding, recognizing the shared humanity that transcends doctrinal divides.

Welcome back to Page & Pixel! Today, after Page talks about her odd encounter with the concession stand worker at the movies, Pixel does a walk through of the latest installment in the Resident Evil franchise! Resident Evil Requiem just came out, which makes Pixel surprisingly timely with this review.

Follow on Instagram: @pageandpixelpc

"China must have an Emperor"

Welcome to my dojo, this is Kung Fu Pizza Party. Today, to celebrate Michelle Yeoh who earlier this year received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking the first time a Malaysian has received that recognition, I sit down to review 1993's The Heroic Trio. Yeoh stars alongside Maggie Cheung, and The Queen of CantoPop Anita Mui in a fun, bonkers Hong Kong action, sci-fi, fantasy, horror, superhero film. This episode also features the return of one of my favorite cinematic weapons!

Instagram: @kungfupizzaparty

Letterboxd: KungFuPizzaPrty

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StudioTwoOneNine

Kevin Schaefer, Andy Walsh, and Will Rose dive into the latest episode of What's News on Systematic Geekology, where they dissect the thrilling trailers that have just dropped and the highly anticipated film, "Project Hail Mary". Right off the bat, they’re buzzing about "Project Hail Mary", which Andy proclaims to be one of the best sci-fi films of the 21st century—though, of course, he has a soft spot for it. As they chat about the trailers for "Spider-Man", "Lanterns", and "Dune", the trio showcases their enthusiasm for geek culture, blending insightful commentary with their trademark light-hearted banter. Their discussions not only highlight the cinematic gems on the horizon but also explore the depth of storytelling in "Project Hail Mary", making for an engaging listen for fans and newcomers alike. So, grab your popcorn, kick back, and get ready for some stellar insights and laughs as they navigate the cosmos of geekdom! 

A trio of geeky aficionados came together to discuss the latest happenings in the realm of film and pop culture, diving headfirst into the thrilling world of movie trailers and the much-anticipated adaptation of the novel 'Project Hail Mary'. Kevin Schaefer, along with his trusty co-hosts Will Rose and Andy Walsh, shared their insights and banter that made the conversation engaging and humorous. They kicked things off by exploring a slew of exciting trailers, including those for 'Spider-Man', 'Lanterns', and 'Dune'. The guys dissected each preview, highlighting their thoughts on visuals and storytelling elements, all while sprinkling in witty remarks and light-hearted jabs at each other. As they moved on to 'Project Hail Mary', the discussion turned into a deep dive into the intricacies of the film's adaptation of Andy Weir's work, with Kevin praising the movie's cinematography and performances, especially by Ryan Gosling and the puppet portrayal of Rocky. The camaraderie and chemistry of the hosts, along with their shared passion for geek culture, made this episode not just informative but a delightful listen for fans.

Takeaways:

• The crew dives into the latest trailers, including the much-anticipated launch of the DC's Green Lantern series, which has stirred up plenty of buzz among fans.
• Kevin, Andy, and Will share heated debates about Project Hail Mary, with Andy being particularly passionate about the movie's fidelity to the book.
• Listeners get a sneak peek into the creative process behind bringing the beloved character Rocky to life in Project Hail Mary, showcasing innovative puppetry techniques.
• The podcast tackles the nuances of movie adaptations, emphasizing the balance between staying true to source material and making necessary cinematic adjustments.
• The trio discusses the importance of optimism in sci-fi narratives, especially in Project Hail Mary, which highlights collaboration for the greater good of humanity.
• The episode wraps up with a light-hearted reminder about the importance of balancing centrifuges, courtesy of Andy, blending humor with scientific insights.

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Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:

https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/

.

Check out all of our What's News episodes here:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/5abf15a7-d441-4638-8a4a-66ccf85e3343

.

Don't miss any of our other film reviews:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/6a01e00d-cfd7-4041-a7a4-1fd32c545050

.

Hear more episodes with Kevin here:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/84fd7d06-cf1f-48e5-b358-09a01c5a6bc9

.

Check out other episodes with Will:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/4559ab55-4b6a-4432-b0a7-b61540df8803

.

Don't miss any of Andy's episodes:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/c86f7a67-357b-4324-bf95-e42cedb9932a

Mentioned in this episode:

Get Your SG Merch now!

Check out the link to see all of our different t-shirts, backpacks, drinking glasses, pajamas, and more!

SG on Fourthwall

Systematic Geekology

Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.

Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky to keep up to date!

Follow our show on our socials to keep up to date and get some exclusive content and fun memes!

The Anazao Podcast Network

Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more!

Anazao Podcast Network

Become a Member of Systematic Geekology Today!

You can become a member of Systematic Geekology using the link below and gain access to free extra content, exclusive t-shirts, merchandise giveaways, and much more!

SG on Fourthwall

Christian is joined once more by Brandon Knight of My Seminary Life (https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/my-seminary-life/id1558302469) to discuss Judges 3.

Who are the nations God leaves to oppress Israel for their apostasy? Why would He do this? How does Othniel serve as Israel's first judge? How does Ehud lead differently? Is the Bible allowed to be graphic? Who is Shamgar and why does he matter?

The discussion dives deep into the mystical afterlife of Middle Earth, exploring whether dwarves, elves, and men share the same fate after their epic adventures. For a very special bonus segment following our exclusive episode on our website, Will Rose, joined by our favortie Tolkien Heads Tripp Fuller and Nick Polk, tackle the intriguing questions about what lies beyond the Grey Havens, and which dwarven clan they’d prefer to join. With a blend of thoughtful insights and witty banter, they navigate the complexities of Tolkien's universe, debating the afterlife and the potential for dwarven reincarnation while keeping it light-hearted and fun. This bonus segment, a special treat for the audience, is part of the Faces Behind Us series, designed to entice new listeners to join the Systematic Geekology community as official members on our website. So, grab your favorite drink and settle in for a whimsical journey through the realms of Tolkien's creations!

Gather 'round, fellow geekologists, because this podcast episode gets down and dirty with the nitty-gritty of Tolkien lore, diving into the afterlives of Middle-Earth's most beloved races: dwarves, elves, and men. Will Rose leads the charge with his trusty Tolkien heads, Tripp Fuller and Nick Polk, as they tackle some juicy bonus questions that any true Tolkien fan would be itching to dive into. First up on the agenda is the question of what happens to these races after the grand saga of the Lord of the Rings wraps up. Do they all end up in the same afterlife, or do they take separate paths? Nick offers a hot take, suggesting that since these characters intertwined their fates in life, why wouldn't they share the afterlife too? It's a thought-provoking discussion that weaves in both the philosophical and the theological, as they draw parallels to C.S. Lewis's musings on pets in heaven, creating a delightful blend of humor and insight.

Then, the trio transitions to explore the fate of the dwarves post-Rings. Tripp, with his usual charismatic flair, spins a narrative about Gimli's adventures in the glittering caves—a hidden treasure of Middle-Earth that becomes a Dwarven paradise. They imagine a reality show where Gimli leads the charge in transforming these caves into a dwarven resort, complete with all the bling and glory worthy of Durin's folk. It’s not just a whimsical idea but also a testimony to the rich tapestry of relationships and interactions between these races, showcasing how the camaraderie forged in battle translates into a shared legacy of creation and beauty. The banter flows freely, with plenty of laughs and clever remarks, as they speculate on the dwarves’ role in rebuilding the world after the darkness of Sauron fades.

As the bonus segment winds down, Will, Tripp, and Nick engage in a light-hearted debate over what makes a great dwarven realm to visit, with the glittering caves taking center stage. The imagery is vivid as they discuss the potential for these caverns to not only be stunning but also a cultural hub for dwarves looking to kick back and share stories of their legendary past. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and listeners are left feeling like they’ve just sat in on a lively pub discussion full of flair, insights, and a touch of nostalgia for the world Tolkien created. If there's one takeaway from this episode, it's that the connections formed in Middle-Earth resonate deeply beyond the pages of books, inviting fans to imagine a shared afterlife where friendship and legacy continue to thrive.

Takeaways:

1. Will, Tripp, and Nick dive into the afterlife of Middle Earth, raising speculative questions about where dwarves, elves, and men end up post-LOTR.
2. The trio engages in a light-hearted debate about which dwarven clan they would choose to join, revealing their personal preferences and humorous insights.
3. They explore the concept of whether the different races in Tolkien's world share the same afterlife, hinting at deeper connections forged through their adventures.
4. The conversation flows into the idea that Gimli's friendship with Legolas symbolizes unity among races, even extending into the afterlife, which is a sweet thought.
5. Tripp shares his theory that dwarves, particularly through Durin's lineage, might play a significant role in the afterlife, becoming master builders in the new creation.
6. The episode wraps up with some witty banter, leaving listeners with a sense of community and a desire to explore more of Tolkien's lore together.

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Don't forget to get your tickets to Theology Beer Camp 2026 in Kansas City (a 50% off code is available for members on our website):

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/theology-beer-camp-2026-tickets-1975196504917?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

.

Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:

https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/

.

Check out this year's annual theme, "The Faces Behind Us":

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/dd903597-98be-49ed-998c-5cdaf73b6af4

.

Listen to all of our episodes on Middle Earth:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/7bdc3a47-0c58-40f1-88da-9f14079772f7

.

Don't miss any of Will's episodes:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/4559ab55-4b6a-4432-b0a7-b61540df8803

.

Listen to other episodes with great guests like Tripp and Nick:

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/0d46051e-3772-49ec-9e2c-8739c9b74cde

Mentioned in this episode:

Check out our Fourthwall site for quite literally everything to do with our show!

All SG merch, extra content, our youtube page, SG memberships, tips / donations, etc. can all be found at this one convenient spot!

SG on Fourthwall

The Anazao Podcast Network

Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more!

Anazao Podcast Network

Systematic Geekology

Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.