Distance NERDing

Episode Summary

Holy story editor, Batman! 🦇 This episode, we sit down at LA Comic Con with the legendary Stan Berkowitz — the writer and story editor who helped shape Batman: The Animated Series, Batman Beyond, Justice League, and Superman: The Animated Series. Stan takes us from his start in journalism to scripting superheroes, shares behind-the-scenes stories from the DCAU, and talks about his brand-new book Beyond the Bat: Secrets of a Superhero Scribe. Whether you're a DC diehard, an aspiring writer, or just someone who knows the pain of losing Artax (😭), this episode is packed with nerdy gold.

⸻

⏰ Timestamps and Topics

• [00:00] Intro – Capes, motherboxes, and Comic Conversations!

• [00:44] Live from LA Comic Con: welcoming Stan Berkowitz

• [01:11] Early career beginnings and writing roots

• [01:26] From Florida to LA: working on Superboy in 1990

• [01:46] Growing Up Geeky: Stan's first fandom (George Reeves' Superman)

• [More topics continue throughout: shaping Batman Beyond, crafting Justice League arcs, and writing Beyond the Bat]

⸻

🗝️ Key Takeaways

• Stan Berkowitz's career started in journalism before moving into live-action TV and then dominating superhero animation.

• He wrote for iconic series like Batman Beyond, Justice League, and Superman: The Animated Series.

• His new book, Beyond the Bat: Secrets of a Superhero Scribe, mixes memoir, behind-the-scenes tales, and writing wisdom.

• Stan's first fandom? The George Reeves Superman — proving some fandoms really are forever.

• From LA roots to Emmy-winning scripts, Stan's journey is a masterclass in creative longevity.

⸻

📣 Call to Action

If you loved this episode, don't just keep it in your Batcave — share it with your nerd crew!

👉 Subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast app.

👉 Tag us with your thoughts using #DistanceNERDing on social media.

⸻

🔗 Links and Resources

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere nerds stream.

🌐 DistanceNERDing.com

☕ Buy Us a Taco → BuyMeACoffee

🎤 Comic Cons: Colossus Girl Ent

🤝 Friends: Project Wish Upon A Star | SAC Geeks | Comic Con Radio

🛒 Stores: Kyber Cave Sabers | Toy Fusion

⚡ Sponsors: Dubby Energy (Code: NERDing10 for 10% off)

🧢 Merch: Grab your gear and rep the nerd fam at cons near you!

⸻

📱 Follow Us

• Instagram: @DistanceNERDing

• Twitter/X: @DistanceNERDing

• Threads: @DistanceNERDing

• TikTok: @DistanceNERDing

• Facebook: Distance NERDing

⸻

❓ Listener Questions

Got a question for a future guest? Want us to tackle your favorite fandom topic? Drop us a line on social media or at DistanceNERDing.com — your question might be featured on the next episode!

⸻

Apple Podcast Tags (SEO): Stan Berkowitz, Batman Beyond, Justice League Unlimited, Superman The Animated Series, DCAU, Batman TAS, DC Animation, Comic Con Interviews, Beyond the Bat, Distance NERDing Podcast, Superhero Writing, Nerd Culture

Episode Summary

This week on Distance NERDing, the crew spirals through Marvel multiverse madness—because who needs one storyline when you can mash-up Secret Wars, House of M, Mojo World, and Days of Future Past all at once? We break down wild rumors, drop some Scarlet Witch theories, argue over Captain America's "anchor being" status, and even bring tacos to the table (literally). Oh, and we might've summoned James Gunn in the process. You're welcome, internet.

From cons in California and Oregon to anime breaking box office records, this episode is wall-to-wall geeky chaos—just the way we like it.

⸻

Timestamps & Topics

• [05:04] – Con recap: Cali cons, Oregon cons, and all the cons

• [06:02] – Shoutout to our sponsor Dubby Energy + Geek Freaks Network love

• [12:36] – Multiverse mayhem: Battleworld, Mojo, Fantastic Four rumors

• [18:25] – Cameo roulette: America Chavez, Madison, and Doritos cravings

• [19:50] – Is Captain America the anchor being of the MCU? Tacos on the table

• [29:25] – House of M, Days of Future Past, Morlocks, and too many storylines

• [32:34] – The Download: Demon Slayer dethrones Spirited Away

• [01:56:27] – James Gunn liked it?! Jen's multiverse of theories

• [01:57:25] – Closing plugs, Pacific Time arguments, and Jeff's grand reveal

⸻

Key Takeaways

• Scarlet Witch isn't done yet—expect bigger things in future Marvel films.

• Captain America may be the true "anchor being" holding the MCU together.

• House of M deserves its own arc, not a rushed mashup.

• Con season is wild: Cali cons and Oregon cons are bringing the nerd energy.

• Demon Slayer just proved anime doesn't knock—it owns the building.

• James Gunn secretly tunes in? Challenge accepted.

⸻

Quotes from the Episode

"My tacos are on the table—Captain America is the MCU's anchor being."

"Marvel owns Aliens. You know what that means? Avengers vs. Xenomorphs, baby."

"We've spilled secrets, served tacos, and summoned the Scarlet Witch."

"Anime isn't niche anymore. It owns the damn building."

⸻

Call to Action

Love what you hear? Smash that subscribe button, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with your fellow nerds using #DistanceNERDing. Every share powers our multiverse of madness.

⸻

Links & Resources

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere nerds stream.

🌐 DistanceNERDing.com

☕ Buy Us a Taco → BuyMeACoffee

🎤 Comic Cons: Colossus Girl Ent

🤝 Friends: Project Wish Upon A Star | SAC Geeks | Comic Con Radio

🛒 Stores: Kyber Cave Sabers | Toy Fusion

⚡ Sponsors: Dubby Energy (Code: NERDSYNC for 10% off)

🧢 Merch: Grab your gear and rep the nerd fam at cons near you.

⸻

Follow Us

📲 Instagram | Threads | Facebook | TikTok – @DistanceNERDing

🎥 YouTube – Subscribe for live shows, interviews & giveaways

⸻

Listener Questions

Got a theory crazier than Mojo running the MCU? Drop us a question or topic idea and we might feature it on the next episode!

⸻

Apple Podcasts Tags

Marvel, Scarlet Witch, Secret Wars, House of M, Captain America, MCU rumors, comic con, anime, Demon Slayer, Distance NERDing podcast, geek culture, nerd podcast, multiverse, James Gunn

Episode Summary

This week the NERDs squanch hard and shpongle even harder! From debating the absurd brilliance of LEGO Star Wars (yes, Jaxxson the space bunny is canon now, fight us) to recapping Emmy wins, anime mall takeovers, and whether Alan Ritchson should trade in Batman for Hawkman's wings —we leave no geeky stone unturned. Oh, and don't worry, we still made plenty of jokes about dipping your shpongle in pickle brine . Chef's kiss.

It's nerd news, geek debates, and enough inside jokes to make Squanchy proud.

⸻

Timestamps & Topics

• [02:15] – The birth of "Squanching the Schpongle": Rick & Morty meets Smurfs

• [05:20] – Pickle brine, dub energy drinks, and keeping your shpongle moist

• [07:13] – RIP Robert Redford: celebrating his legendary career (and Marvel villain era)

• [43:47] – Demon Slayer takes over the mall: anime fashion FTW

• [54:07] – How to Train Your Dragon live-action remake: Zaddy Toothless vibes

• [01:00:15] – Foundation, Ahsoka in LEGO, and the glorious chaos of Star Wars Brickheadz

• [01:14:26] – Who should Alan Ritchson play in the DCU? Hawkman vs. Green Arrow

• [01:26:29] – Emmy recap: "My shpongle is better than yours"

• [01:45:35] – Social plugs, OnlyFans jokes, and Bruce being told to go to bed

⸻

Key Takeaways

• Nerd debates can go from Foundation on Apple TV to stormtroopers in hot tubs real quick.

• The crew officially declared malls are making a comeback—powered by Demon Slayer cosplay.

• Alan Ritchson could definitely pull off Green Arrow… but Hawkman? Squanch that shpongle.

• Toothless is now a Zaddy, and no one's mad about it.

• The Emmys prove once and for all: your shpongle is only as good as your flex.

⸻

Best Quotes

• "Nothing like a good brine for your shpongle. Chef's kiss."

• "You almost shpongled that squanch."

• "Also a stormtrooper in a hot tub—because even the Empire needs a spa day."

• "Slay queen. Slay."

• "It's only pictures of Aaron Watson's feet in Mandels, and The beard on our OnlyFans."

⸻

Call to Action

👉 If you loved the chaos, help us keep shpongling:

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you squanch.

• Leave a 5-star review so we can keep nerding together.

• Share this episode on social with the hashtag #DistanceNERDing.

⸻

Links & Resources

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere nerds stream.

🌐 DistanceNERDing.com

☕ Buy Us a Taco → BuyMeACoffee

🎤 Comic Cons: Colossus Girl Ent

🤝 Friends: Project Wish Upon A Star | SAC Geeks | Comic Con Radio

🛒 Stores: Kyber Cave Sabers | Toy Fusion

⚡ Sponsors: Dubby Energy (Code: NERDSYNC for 10% off)

🧢 Merch: Grab your gear and rep the nerd fam at cons near you.

⸻

Follow Us

📲 Stay squanchy with us everywhere:

• Instagram | Facebook | Twitter (not X, never X)

• TikTok | Twitch | YouTube | Discord | Threads | BlueSky

• Also: Myspace, GeoCities, Friendster, FarmersOnly, and… OnlyFans (feet & beards only).

⸻

Listener Questions

💌 Got a question, a nerd debate, or a hot shpongle take?

Send it to [email protected] and we might read it LIVE on the show .

⸻

Apple Podcasts Tags

nerd culture, geek podcast, distance nerding, comic con, marvel, dc comics, anime podcast, lego star wars, emmy recap, how to train your dragon, demon slayer cosplay, alan ritchson, peacemaker, hawkman, green arrow, rick and morty jokes

Episode Summary

Live from Phil's cursed hotel Wi-Fi, the crew battles technical chaos while diving headfirst into nerd news, wild rumors, and tacos on the table. Jon Bernthal's Punisher may team up with White Tiger, Spider-Man might face more villains than a Costco Sinister Six, and Daisy Ridley swaps lightsabers for a flying boat. We debate Ariana Grande as a Bond girl, roast Sony for its Morbius-level moves, and lose it over a $3.6M Darth Vader lightsaber. Oh, and somewhere in there… we may have offended Scotland. Sorry, ancestors.

⸻

Timestamps & Topics

• [00:00] Chaos & Phil vs. hotel Wi-Fi

• [03:28] Rumors: hot sauce, Lexo suits & angry ancestors

• [07:11] Punisher's sidekick, Spidey villain montage, Daisy's flying boat & Bond girl rumors

• [23:22] The Download: Scrubs reboot, cartel judges, Ed Harris in Yellowstone, asteroid-mining XR cinema

• [32:00] Quick Bites: Ryan Reynolds, Sony's flop factory, K-pop demon hunters

• [39:08] Shut Up & Take My Credits: Vader's $3.6M lightsaber flex

• [41:17] Lanterns: DCU's noir buddy-cop space cops

• [44:43] Peacemaker Season 2 bends canon harder than a Bloomin' Onion

⸻

Key Takeaways

• Punisher's rumored new sidekick could be Amy Bendix or White Tiger.

• Spider-Man: Brand New Day may cram in eight villains via montage.

• Daisy Ridley leads Disney's swashbuckling "female Indiana Jones" with a flying boat.

• Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, & Ariana Grande headline Bond casting rumors.

• Sony still can't Spider-Man right.

• A Darth Vader saber sold for $3.6M. Nerds = broke & loaded.

• DCU's Lanterns could be its gritty prestige hit.

⸻

Best Quotes

• "Banned in Belarus! Belarus! Belarus!"

• "My angry, vengeful tacos are on the table."

• "I'd spend $3.7 million on Hailee Steinfeld's mac and cheese."

• "Spider-Man's villains form committees! The Subtle Four, the Treacherous Three…"

• "Maybe Ryan Reynolds hasn't stepped foot on set… but Deadpool has."

⸻

Call to Action

💥 Smash that subscribe, drop us a 5-star review, and share the chaos using #DistanceNERDing. Every click keeps tacos on the table and lightsabers in the vault.

⸻

Links & Resources

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or anywhere nerds stream.

🌐 DistanceNERDing.com

☕ Buy Us a Taco → BuyMeACoffee

🎤 Comic Cons: Colossus Girl Ent

🤝 Friends: Project Wish Upon A Star | SAC Geeks | Comic Con Radio

🛒 Stores: Kyber Cave Sabers | Toy Fusion

⚡ Sponsors: Dubby Energy (Code: NERDING10 for 10% off)

⸻

Follow Us

👾 Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X | Threads | Twitch | Bluesky | Discord → @DistanceNERDing

⸻

Listener Questions

Got a spicy nerd take? Email [email protected] (yes, AOL still exists). We might feature it live!

⸻

Apple Podcasts Tags

pop culture podcast, nerd news, marvel rumors, dc comics, scrubs reboot, spider-man villains, punisher mcu, bond rumors, daisy ridley disney, peacemaker season 2, geek podcast, distance nerding

🎙 Episode Summary

The tacos are on the table in this jam-packed episode! The crew dives headfirst into Marvel rumors, from Punisher's rumored co-starring role with Spider-Man to a possible secret Avengers movie hidden in Marvel's 2027 slate. We also argue whether Paramount's Call of Duty movie will be hot fire or hot garbage, and we spiral into DC chaos with James Gunn's Peacemaker season 2 teases (spoiler: someone yells "It's Morbin' time!").

Along the way, we roast Disney for another "quirky teen with powers" movie, shout out our fellow podcasters, and debate whether good storytelling can survive under superhero fatigue. Spoiler: it can—if it's wrapped in an orgy.

⏱ Timestamps & Topics

• [06:30] Geek Freaks Network shoutout & "Challenge Accepted" love-fest

• [11:40] Call of Duty movie talk – will it respect the lore or be another Halo disaster?

• [18:00] Punisher joins Spider-Man? The tacos hit the table

• [27:30] Marvel's secret 2027 movie – Avengers, Illuminati, or Young Avengers?

• [51:10] Disney's formula problem & the Elio flop

• [01:09:40] James Gunn teases huge Peacemaker cameos

• [01:17:00] Superhero fatigue vs. bad storytelling

• [01:45:24] Taco Party shoutouts, Lego giveaways, and how to support the pod

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Punisher's role in the next Spider-Man project could reshape his relationship with Marvel's webhead.

• Marvel might be secretly cooking up an unannounced Avengers or Illuminati movie for 2027.

• Paramount's Call of Duty movie has fans nervous after Halo's failure.

• Disney's recycled teen-magic formula isn't fooling fans anymore.

• Peacemaker season 2 might be the key to DCU's "Gods and Monsters" era.

• Superhero fatigue isn't real—bad writing fatigue is.

💬 Best Quotes

• "Frank Castle is kind of a dick… and that's me being polite."

• "It's Morbin' time!"

• "Peacemaker is a good story with good characters… wrapped in an orgy. And it works."

• "My camouflage tacos are reluctantly on the table."

📢 Call to Action

If you're vibing with our nerdy chaos, smash that subscribe button, drop us a 5-star review, and share this episode with your fellow geeks using #DistanceNERDing. Every taco counts! 🌮⚡️

🔗 Links & Resources

👉 Support the show and win LEGO kits when we hit 500 subs!

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your audio fix.

🚨 DON'T FORGET TO LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE! 🚨

Website: ⁠https://distancenerding.com/⁠

INSTAGRAM: ⁠ ⁠

⁠ / distancenerding ⁠

⁠The NERDington Post: ⁠ ⁠

⁠ / 2788063091522643 ⁠

Podcast Playlist: ⁠ ⁠

⁠ • The DOWNLOAD LIVE! Latest Nerdy News ... ⁠

SUPPORT US!

Buy Us a Taco! ⁠⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/distance...⁠

COMIC CONS

Colossus Girl Ent : ⁠http://www.colossusgirlent.com/⁠

⁠⁠WEEKEND BLENDER: ⁠ ⁠

⁠ / theweekendblender1 ⁠

FRIENDS

⁠Project Wish Upon A Star : ⁠http://www.pwuas.org/⁠

SAC GEEKS : ⁠https://www.sacgeeks.org/⁠

COMIC CON RADIO : ⁠https://comiccon-radio.com/show/podca...⁠

STORES

Kyber Cave Sabers : ⁠http://kybercave.com/⁠

Toy Fusion : ⁠http://toyfusion.com/⁠

⁠

SPONSORS

Dubby (Get 10% off your order!)

⁠https://www.dubby.gg/products/dragona...⁠

📲 Follow Us

Stay nerdy with us on social media:

• Facebook: @DistanceNERDing

• Instagram: @DistanceNERDing

• X / Twitter: @DistanceNERDing

• TikTok: @DistanceNERDing

• Threads: @DistanceNERDing

• Bluesky: @DistanceNERDing

❓ Listener Questions

Got a hot take, wild theory, or taco-fueled question? Send it our way! We might feature YOU on a future episode of Distance NERDing.

🍏 Apple Podcast Tags

Marvel, MCU, Spider-Man, Punisher, Avengers, Marvel Phase 6, Thunderbolts, Illuminati, Young Avengers, Call of Duty Movie, DCU, Peacemaker Season 2, James Gunn, Disney Movies, Elio, Superhero Fatigue, Comic Book Movies, Nerd Podcast, Geek Culture

Episode Summary

Taco Tuesday went full geek! The Distance Nerding crew dives into the latest rumors, casting news, and pop culture chaos—from Doctor Doom plotting across the multiverse to Tobey and Andrew's possible Spider-Man swan song. We debate villains for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Yelena's role in a street-level MCU, and whether Alison Brie could steal the show as Evil-Lyn in Masters of the Universe.

The rundown keeps rolling with Percy Jackson season three casting, the Weasleys joining HBO's Harry Potter series, True Detective updates, and Karen Gillan stepping into Highlander. Quick hits cover Super Troopers, del Toro's Frankenstein, Cody Rhodes as Guile in Street Fighter, Zack Snyder's next drama, Star Wars Visions Vol. 3, Marvel's animated Spidey, The Office spin-off (The Paper), and a McFarlane–Miller team-up.

We close by unpacking James Gunn's DCU blueprint—his three "power blocs," secret project teases, and a sharp philosophy on recasting that ties back to Peacemaker.

Highlights & Takeaways

• Doctor Doom framed as a harsh savior makes sense—every villain thinks they're the hero.

• A final swing for Tobey & Andrew only works if it supports Tom Holland's arc.

• Brand New Day opens the door for villains like Mr. Negative or Rhino

• Yelena could be the connective tissue for MCU street-level stories.

• Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn fits modern MOTU, where the "#2" villain steals the spotlight.

• The Batman Part Two could shine with gritty rogues like Calendar Man or Mr. Pyg.

• Percy Jackson casting nails the youthful divine energy needed for season three.

• Karen Gillan joining Highlander adds star power and room for richer female roles.

• Del Toro's gothic Frankenstein has a smart festival-to-streaming rollout.

• Gunn's DCU is actor-proof, built to endure recasts without losing momentum.

Quotes We Loved

• "Every villain sees themselves as the hero of their own story."

• "Yelena could be the new connective tissue for the street-level side of the MCU."

• "Give me Professor Pyg and an investigation trail across Gotham."

• "Del Toro in the gothic pocket is always a win."

• "Gunn is writing, directing, and steering—keeping the DCU alive even if faces change."

Call to Action

Love the show? Hit follow, drop a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend using #DistanceNERDing—it helps more nerds find us!

Follow Us

🎧 Linktree

📰 More at: DistanceNERDing.com

Listener Question

What rumor or casting reveal hyped you the most this week? Drop your hot takes and we might feature you next episode!

Tags (SEO Optimized)

Doctor Doom, Avengers Doomsday, Secret Wars, Spider-Man Brand New Day, Yelena Belova, Masters of the Universe, Evil-Lyn, The Batman Part Two, Percy Jackson, Harry Potter series cast, True Detective, Highlander, Karen Gillan, Super Troopers, Guillermo del Toro Frankenstein, Cody Rhodes Guile, Street Fighter, Zack Snyder The Last Photograph, Star Wars Visions, Marvel Animated Spider-Man, Gwen Stacy Spider-Gwen, The Office The Paper, Todd McFarlane, Frank Miller, James Gunn DCU

Distance Nerding: Robot Peyote, Buffy's Return, and Big Studio Power Plays

Episode Summary

Distance Nerding is back with fast, funny takes on the latest in movies, TV, and geek news! Jen, Young Phil, and James break down X-Men casting chatter, a ginger Bond rumor, Kristen Wiig as Roboto, and Orla Brady joining Vision Quest. We cover Paramount's big swings (World War Z 2, new Star Trek films, Duffer Brothers deal), Zack Cregger's Resident Evil and possible Batman spinoff, Ballerina's box office stumble, and a Jason Bourne franchise shake-up.

We also dive into Buffy's New Sunnydale, The Boys spinoff Vought Rising, Lego Star Wars: Pieces of the Past, Jessica Cruz starring in a Green Lantern animated series, Superman's digital release syncing with Peacemaker season two, updates on Daredevil: Born Again, Spider-Man's "Brand New Day" leaks with Punisher and a savage Hulk, and Avengers: Doomsday rumors. Oh, and yes—we debate if a burger is really a sandwich.

Timestamps & Highlights

• 00:00 – Cold open & chaos

• 03:00 – Weekend update recap & sponsor shoutouts

• 09:07 – Ginger Bond casting rumor

• 11:34 – Kristen Wiig joins Masters of the Universe

• 12:42 – Orla Brady in Vision Quest

• 17:21 – Paramount goes big on World War Z 2

• 18:33 – Zack Cregger's Resident Evil details

• 22:07 – Ballerina box office performance

• 26:55 – Jason Bourne rights deal

• 29:37 – Duffer Brothers linked to Paramount

• 33:02 – K-pop Demon Hunters limited run

• 35:16 – Buffy: New Sunnydale rumors

• 38:39 – Two new Star Trek films in dev

• 41:19 – The Boys: Vought Rising spinoff

• 44:14 – Lego Star Wars: Pieces of the Past

• 46:39 – Jessica Cruz leads new Green Lantern animated series

• 51:07 – Superman early digital release

• 54:10 – Peacemaker season 2 teases

• 59:17 – Daredevil Born Again clarification

• 60:01 – Spider-Man: Brand New Day set leaks

• 63:01 – Avengers: Doomsday rumors heat up

Key Takeaways

• Paramount doubles down on familiar IP: World War Z 2, Star Trek, courting the Duffer Brothers.

• Zack Cregger is making waves with Resident Evil and a rumored Batman project.

• Ballerina struggles to match John Wick hype.

• Jessica Cruz shines in DC's animated future.

• Superman's early digital drop keeps DCU timeline clean.

• Daredevil Born Again is continuing despite earlier confusion.

• Spider-Man: Brand New Day hints at Punisher & Hulk chaos.

• Buffy returns in a Gen Z + mentor era twist.

Memorable Quotes

• "Robot peyote strikes again."

• "Is a burger a sandwich? Yes—and I will die on this hill."

• "Peacemaker is the chaotic heart of this DCU run right now."

Call to Action

Enjoy the show? Hit follow, drop a 5-star review, and share with a friend! Tag us with #DistanceNerding and we might shout you out on the next stream.

Links

All news sourced through GeekFreaksPodcast.com

Listener Questions

• Should Paramount prioritize Star Trek's new crew or Kelvin's return?

• Which Lantern should join Jessica Cruz in animation?

Tags

movies, tv, geek news, marvel, dc, star wars, anime, video games, pop culture, streaming, comics

Yung Phil and Jen tackle the week's loudest geek stories—live with a crowd. We kick off with Stranger Things spin-off chatter (possibly with a Twin Peaks vibe), Rey leading a new Jedi Order, and a Gotham tale about a low-level goon who might accidentally take down Batman. Spider-Man rumors swirl—Scorpion suit sightings, Punisher crossovers, Venom possibilities—plus animated plans for R-rated Venom and Spider-Woman, a TV-MA Marvel Zombies run, and hopes for a Maximum Carnage arc.

Casting buzz: Dave Bautista in Highlander, Sebastian Stan in a Romanian Frankenstein, Matt Smith in Starfighter with Ryan Gosling and Mia Goth, and Demon Slayer's Infinity Castle arc with Channing Tatum and Rebecca Wang. In news, Netflix revives TJ Hooker, AMC trims pre-show ads, Disney+ cancels Goosebumps, and Gina Carano settles with Disney. We close with a bigger industry talk on the Skydance-Paramount deal, Disney's IP strategy, and whether studios are truly funding new stories.

Episode flow:

00:00 Live show disclaimer & cold open

00:51 Show intro / where to listen

04:00 Geek Freaks Network shoutouts & binges

09:02 Stranger Things final season & spin-off rumor

13:02 Star Wars—Rey's Jedi Order, clone lore, Luke's hand

19:19 DCU—Henchman story nod to "The Man Who Killed Batman"

22:12 Spider-Man street saga: Scorpion, Punisher, Venom, Hand

28:12 Animated Venom & Spider-Woman with Seth Rogen; Maximum Carnage hopes

33:01 Marvel Zombies TV-MA led by Scarlet Witch

38:02 Highlander update; Road House 2

41:24 Frankenstein with Sebastian Stan

42:10 Starfighter casting news

43:30 Demon Slayer dub casting & release

48:16 Netflix's TJ Hooker movie

49:59 AMC trims pre-show ads

52:33 Disney+ cancels Goosebumps

53:56 Gina Carano settlement

60:33 Darth Vader lightsaber hilt auction

62:08 Jon Bernthal wraps Punisher special

64:08 James Marsden returns as Cyclops in Avengers: Doomsday

67:02 Lanterns' Sinestro update

68:40 Peacemaker S2 ties to new DCU

70:28 Industry zoom-out on Skydance, Paramount, Disney

Hot takes & themes:

• A moody Stranger Things spin-off could lean into cryptic vibes.

• Rey's New Jedi Order may finally define a post-Skywalker era—if it embraces moral grey areas.

• A Gotham goon tale works if it channels Sid the Squid without copying it.

• Spider-Man's street-level era could test Peter's optimism against Punisher's brutality.

• Animated Spider projects can push tone further than live action.

• Marvel Zombies TV-MA is a safe horror testbed for Marvel.

• Casting news shows momentum across fandoms—from Highlander to Demon Slayer.

• AMC's ad cuts score points with moviegoers.

• The Carano settlement sparks debate on studio guardrails.

• Big picture: Bold IP roadmaps mean nothing if new stories don't get greenlit.

Pull quotes:

• "We are here to nerd together."

• "Are we entering a cryptic era of Hawkins, or is this smoke with no upside down fire?"

• "Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences."

• "I want to see an unhinged, monstrous Carnage."

• "If he doesn't monologue about fear while floating, is he even Sinestro?"

• "This is going to get dark. Really dark."

If you enjoyed the episode, follow or subscribe, leave a quick five-star review, and share with a friend. Post your takes with #GeekFreaksNetwork for a feature on the next show.

News hub & show notes: ⁠https://geekfreakspodcast.com⁠

More from us: ⁠https://linktr.ee/Distancenerding⁠ | ⁠https://gfpods.com/distance-nerding/⁠

Apple Podcasts Tags: Geek Freaks, Distance Nerding, Stranger Things, Twin Peaks, Star Wars, Rey, Jedi Order, DCU, Batman, Joker, Spider-Man, Venom, Scorpion, Punisher, Daredevil, Marvel Zombies, Highlander, Dave Bautista, Henry Cavill, Sebastian Stan, Frankenstein, Matt Smith, Starfighter, Demon Slayer, Channing Tatum, AMC Theatres, Goosebumps, Gina Carano, Darth Vader lightsaber, Jon Bernthal, Punisher, James Marsden, Cyclops, Sinestro, Lanterns, Peacemaker, Paramount, Skydance, Disney, A24

On this live Taco Tuesday, Phil and Jen bring another fun and fast episode of Distance Nerding. They kick things off with laughs, audience shoutouts, and reminders to subscribe. The duo covers everything from Spider-Man rumors and Marvel updates to drama renewals and surprise K-pop hits. There's also DC casting news, Star Wars talk, and even ethical debates about where filmmakers choose to shoot. Special guest Sandra from DeLong Family Cosplay recaps Nova Con and teases the upcoming Tri-Cities Powerhouse Comic Con. Whether it's serious fandom conversations or playful speculations, this episode is packed with everything nerds love.

Timestamps and Topics

• 0:00 Intro and parental advisory

• 0:45 Taco Tuesday and community shoutouts

• 2:00 GeekFreaks Network and partner shows

• 3:50 Rumor Mill – Spider-Man, Scorpion, Punisher, Sinister Six, X-Men costumes, Mattson Tomlin, Goonies 2

• 14:00 The Gilded Age renewed for season four

• 17:00 Netflix's K-pop Demon Hunters expands to trilogy and stage show

• 23:00 Buffy revival update and A Quiet Place Part III announced

• 30:00 Star Wars and Marvel news including Taika Waititi and Sean Levy projects

• 39:00 James Gunn responds to Comic-Con hecklers and toxic fandom

• 48:00 Filmmaking ethics and controversy over filming in Western Sahara

• 55:00 Sandra recaps Nova Con and previews Tri-Cities Powerhouse Comic Con

• 1:10:00 Closing thoughts and call to action

Key Takeaways

• Spider-Man rumors are heating up, with talks of Scorpion, Punisher, and Sinister Six potential

• Marvel may be leaning into comic-accurate costumes, especially with reports around Cyclops

• The Gilded Age continues to thrive and is confirmed for another season

• K-pop Demon Hunters is proving to be a breakout hit with major expansion plans

• Taika Waititi's Star Wars project is still in motion with new collaborators

• James Gunn urges fans to focus on positivity and creativity, not trolling

• There's growing conversation around the responsibility of filmmakers when choosing shooting locations

• Nova Con had great energy and Tri-Cities Powerhouse Comic Con is shaping up to be a big one

Memorable Quotes

• "It's Taco Tuesday. You know what that means. You are now experiencing Distance Nerding." – Phil

• "I have my ear to the ground – or an ear to the ground? I want that to be a thing." – Jen

• "Kindness is punk rock." – Phil

• "We don't do gatekeeping here. Everyone's welcome in this fandom community." – Jen

Call to Action Enjoying the show? Help Distance Nerding grow. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode using the hashtag #DistanceNerding. Got questions or topic suggestions? Email us at [email protected] or hit us up on social.

Links and Resources

• GeekFreaksPodcast.com – The source for all news discussed

• DeLong Fam Cosplay – Sandra's cosplay and con coverage

• Tri-Cities Powerhouse Comic Con – Coming August 16–17

Follow Us

• Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, Twitch, Threads, BlueSky, and Discord: @distancenerding

• YouTube: Subscribe to our livestreams and game show The Buzzer

• TikTok: Clips, reactions, and cosplay highlights

Listener Questions

• What pop culture rumor do you wish were true?

• How do you handle toxic fans in your favorite fandoms?

• Which con are you most excited for this year?

Apple Podcast Tags: entertainment, pop culture, movies, tv news, comics, geek culture, conventions, interview, gaming, sci-fi, fantasy, marvel, dc

Jen has zero patience for giant cat people and The Walking Dead's European vacation, while Phil's just here trying to sling merch!

Plus, we're joined by Thomas from The Geek Freaks Network to break down San Diego Comic-Con 2025 coverage — and the DeLongs drop in with Meadowlark Comic-Con goodness!

🤯 This Week on Distance NERDing:

🧑‍🔬 Fantastic Four Villain Rumors Explode

Marvel's First Family is cracking open the vault — and Doom might not be the only threat.

🦾 Robert Downey Jr. as DOOM?!

Sources say RDJ's Marvel return might outlive Secret Wars in a whole new role.

🐍 Dutch Might Be Back in Badlands

Fans of the cult hit, your favorite desert rogue may ride again.

⚔️ Anakin Skywalker Returns

Hayden Christensen rumored to appear regularly in Ahsoka Season 2.

👽 Margot Robbie Goes Sci-Fi Supersized

Tim Burton's back. Robbie's leading. Chaos is guaranteed.

👾 Chris Pine & Lily-Rose Depp Join Alien Comedy

Alpha Gang is giving space weirdness, laser beams, and prestige giggles.

🧠 James Gunn's DCU: Loud, Layered, & In Motion

Every announcement has people screaming, "Wait, what?!", and we love it.

🛠️ Avengers: Doomsday Still Under Construction

Marvel's next major team-up is massive — and still in the lab.

🧬 X-Men Reboot Gets Mutant-Sized Ambition

Marvel's not holding back. Bigger. Bolder. More Jean Grey trauma.

🕸️ Spider-Verse 3 Lands in 2027

Prepare for emotional web-slinging, even more Spider-People, and wild animation leaps.

🌊 Avatar Goes Anthology Mode

Pandora's branching out — multiple stories, timelines, and probably new merch.

🧟 Daryl & Carol Go to Spain

Because zombies need tapas too.

🪓 God of War Show Will Break Your Heart

Kratos: the god who feels. (And yells. A lot.)

🦁 Voltron Movie Gets Wild

Sterling K. Brown says it's massive, weird, and nothing like you expect.

🔥 Spawn Movie Gets New Legs

After decades in development hell, the Spawn reboot finally moves forward.

🎤 Hall H Meltdown!

From Marvel's bombshells to indie insanity, SDCC 2025's main stage was a nerdcore war zone.

🌀 From Cameos to Chaos

Side quests, celebrity surprises, and WTF moments that made fans scream and squint.

💥 Welcome to the Reboot Zone

Where nostalgia is currency, citrus-powered superheroes fight stink, and yes, wearable pets are trending.

🤡 SDCC Embraces the Weird

Killer clowns, dusty bots, slime-drenched antiheroes — Comic-Con went feral this year.

⸻

🦸‍♀️ Destroying Comic-Con BO forever… it's Distance NERDing!

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your audio fix.

🚨 DON'T FORGET TO LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE! 🚨

Website: https://distancenerding.com/

INSTAGRAM:

/ distancenerding

⁠The NERDington Post:

/ 2788063091522643

Podcast Playlist:

• The DOWNLOAD LIVE! Latest Nerdy News ...

SUPPORT US!

Buy Us a Taco! ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/distance...

COMIC CONS

Colossus Girl Ent : http://www.colossusgirlent.com/

⁠⁠WEEKEND BLENDER:

/ theweekendblender1

FRIENDS

⁠Project Wish Upon A Star : http://www.pwuas.org/

SAC GEEKS : https://www.sacgeeks.org/

COMIC CON RADIO : https://comiccon-radio.com/show/podca...

STORES

Kyber Cave Sabers : http://kybercave.com/

Toy Fusion : http://toyfusion.com/

⁠

SPONSORS

Dubby (Get 10% off your order!)

https://www.dubby.gg/products/dragona...