On this episode of Straight Dude Tries, Danny (like Phantom) gets his first Magical Girl experience! With no other knowledge than 'dark sapphic magical girls' Danny agrees to watch Puella Magi Madoka Magica. Valsaraptor and DokiDokiBunBun guide our resident straight guy through soul gems, contracts, and (clearly lesbian) heartbreak as we walk through the main series including currently released movies.

We read through some not-so-hot takes from Reddit, talk about what makes Madoka stand out from the magical girl genre, and of course, play everyone’s favorite bit... You know the one where BitkingDT makes the hosts guess the top ships on AO3.

Obviously there are spoilers here so this episode is only for fans of Madoka Magica. ;)

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes

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🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes

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👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt – KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA

👕 Sick Yaoi Merch – Kaiban Zero (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

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📚 Yuri & Yaoi Recs – Benable Manga Recommendations

https://www.benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes

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🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

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#MadokaMagica #PuellaMagiMadokaMagica #Anime #MadokaKaname #HomuraAkemi #PMMM #MagiaRecord #MadokaMagicaEdit #MadokaMagicalGirl #WLWAnime #YuriAnime #SapphicAnime #Yuri #QueerAnime #AnimePodcast #AnimeDiscussion #AO3Ships #GirlsGaysAnimes #StraightDudeTries #AnimeFandom #AnimeReview

This week, I (Valsaraptor) sit down with the founder of The Juice Box Shop, a small, Black, woman-owned business bringing queer romance, indie flair, and sustainable packaging straight to your doorstep.

We chat about yaoi, queer storytelling, and do a live unboxing of two of her bestsellers:

💘 The BL “Date Night with a Manga” Box — a spicy, self-care-packed treat for anyone who loves fictional men and real-life indulgence. Each box includes a BL manga, magnetic bookmark, enamel pin, and exclusive art print.

🌈 The GL Mystery Bag — flirty, sapphic, and full of surprises from queer creators.

Because let’s be real: The Juice Box has all the juiciest BL and GL manga you didn’t know you needed. Every item is made by indie queer artists and packaged with eco-friendly materials — because sustainability can be sexy. Subscriptions ship bi-monthly with options for a one-time treat, six-month fling, or full-year commitment.

📦 Website: https://shopethejuicebox.co

🛒 Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheJuiceBoxShop

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_juice_box_shop

🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejuiceboxshopBL

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejuiceboxshop

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.youtube.com/@GirlsGaysAnimes

🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.tiktok.com/@girlsgaysanimes

📸 Instagram: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.instagram.com/girlsgaysanimes

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt – KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA

👕 Sick Yaoi Merch – Kaiban Zero (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://tr.ee/TniJrRCNvq

📚 Yuri & Yaoi Recs – Benable Manga List

https://www.benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes

https://www.twitch.tv/girlsgaymesanimes

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

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🔗 Linktree: All Links

https://linktr.ee/girlsgaysanimes

This episode, Valsaraptor and DokiDokiBunBun hit the theater for the Given movie double feature—and we have some opinions. From angst-filled concerts to quiet crushes and awkward pacing, we break down both films with our usual chaotic love and a lot of spicy commentary. 🎤🔥

We talk about the highs (Akihiko actually apologizing??), the lows (Haruki’s storyline deserves better), and the tonal whiplash between the two films. (Hot take: the first movie was better.)

Also? We didn’t love the animation. And we’re just gonna say it: Given might’ve worked better as one strong movie—or a short series—than trying to stretch into two uneven films. 👀

Expect hot takes, big feelings, and absolutely no chill when it comes to The Thirsty Desert Scene™ (you’ll know it when you see it).

Whether you’re a longtime stan, a soundtrack simp, or just confused why your faves barely speak in the second film—this episode’s for you.

.

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.youtube.com/@GirlsGaysAnimes

🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.tiktok.com/@girlsgaysanimes

📸 Instagram: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.instagram.com/girlsgaysanimes

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt – KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA

👕 Sick Yaoi Merch – Kaiban Zero (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://tr.ee/TniJrRCNvq

📚 Yuri & Yaoi Recs – Benable Manga List

https://www.benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes

https://www.twitch.tv/girlsgaymesanimes

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

https://tr.ee/AanyE4I3Qu

🔗 Linktree: All Links

https://linktr.ee/girlsgaysanimes

Tags:

Given anime, Given movie, Given Hiiragi Mix, Given Uragawa no Sonzai, Given BL movie, Haruki and Akihiko, Mafuyu and Uenoyama, Hiiragi and Shizusumi, BL anime, boys love anime, queer anime, music anime, emotional anime, shonen ai, Valsaraptor podcast, Dokidokibunbun, anime podcast, queer media podcast, hot takes anime, anime movie reaction, GirlsGaysAnimes

Hashtags:

#GivenAnime #GivenMovie #HiiragiMix #BLAnime #YaoiAnime #ShonenAi #QueerAnime #BoysLove #AnimeHotTakes #AnimeInTheaters #MafuyuSato #UenoyamaRitsuka #AkihikoKaji #HarukiNakayama #GirlsGaysAnimes #AnimePodcast #QueerPodcast #GayAnime #EmoBandBL #MusicAnime #Dokidokibunbun #GivenReaction #AnimeDoubleFeature #BLDiscourse

This week on the podcast, Valsaraptor teams up with Courtney from Delusional Boyfriend Bookclub to explore the pastel-colored chaos of the iconic Webtoon, Boyfriends by Refrainbow.

We go deep on the entire cast—including the super cute Girlfriends! We unpack each character’s archetype, break down their dynamics within the polycule, and talk headcanons, tropes, and everything we love about this slice-of-life, queer celebration of found family and romance. We even do a "live" opening of exclusive Refrainbow Patreon art (Courtney brought surprises!)—yes, you’ll hear our real-time reactions and squeals 💖

We also touch on the existing discourse around the series—what fans are saying online, the mixed responses it gets, and how that’s shaped its place in queer webcomic fandom.

Whether you’re a longtime fan, a curious newcomer, or someone who just loves messy, pastel polycules and chaotic queer romance—this one’s for you!

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.youtube.com/@GirlsGaysAnimes

🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.tiktok.com/@girlsgaysanimes

📸 Instagram: @GirlsGaysAnimes

https://www.instagram.com/girlsgaysanimes

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt – KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA

👕 Sick Yaoi Merch – Kaiban Zero (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

https://tr.ee/TniJrRCNvq

📚 Yuri & Yaoi Recs – Benable Manga List

https://www.benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes

https://www.twitch.tv/girlsgaymesanimes

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

https://tr.ee/AanyE4I3Qu

🔗 Linktree: All Links

https://linktr.ee/girlsgaysanimes

Tags: Boyfriends Webtoon, Refrainbow, Webtoon analysis, queer comics, LGBTQIA+ media, polyamory, slice of life, webcomic fandom, character deep dive, pastel aesthetic, Delusional Boyfriend Bookclub, GirlsGaysAnimes, Valsaraptor podcast, BL webtoon, queer romance podcast, indie comics, problematic faves, queer polycule, webcomic commentary

Hashtags:

#BoyfriendsWebtoon #Refrainbow #WebtoonPodcast #QueerComics #Polyamory #LGBTQMedia #QueerRomance #SliceOfLifeComics #WebcomicLove #BLWebtoon #PodcastRecommendations #GirlsGaysAnimes #MangaPodcast #AnimePodcast #WebtoonFans #QueerStorytelling #BLManga #BLManhwa #Yaoi

What happens when two straight guys step into the chaotic, rose-petal-filled world of Ouran High School Host Club? This week, I (Valsaraptor) am joined by BitkingDT and Frankfurter (from Bakaco Podcast) to break down their reactions to this beloved reverse harem classic.

We dive into favorite ships, the fandom’s most popular pairings (determined by the sacred texts of fanfiction archives), and the super secret ship—the one even the mangaka shipped (bet you didn’t know about that one 👀). We also gush over everything we love about Ouran Academy, the beloved boys (and girl) of the Host Club, and—seriously—what even is a Host Club?

Plus, we talk about how Ouran plays with gender, romance, and queer themes, and how sometimes the subtext is just text.

Grab your cup of commoner coffee (or a plate of fancy tuna) and tune in!

✨ Follow for More Anime & Manga Content

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🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes – memes, outfit/manga/manhua/anime reviews & recs

📸 Instagram: @GirlsGaysAnimes – manga & anime recs

✨ Shopping Recommendations

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt: KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

📚 Manga Recs: Benable Manga Recommendations

🎮 Gaming & More

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🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

🔗 Linktree: GirlsGaysAnimes

💌 Contact Details: via Linktree

📌 Tags : Anime Podcast, Manga Podcast, Queer Anime, Anime for Queer Audiences, Ouran High School Host Club, Straight Guys React, Anime Reactions, LGBTQ+ Anime, Reverse Harem Anime, BL Anime, Boys Love, Fujoshi Culture, Shojo Anime, Anime Shipping, Anime Fandom, Anime Ship Wars, Tamaki Suoh, Haruhi Fujioka, Kyoya Ootori, Hikaru Hitachiin, Kaoru Hitachiin, Host Club Anime, Fanfiction Culture, AO3, Popular Anime Ships, LGBTQ+ Podcast, Podcast for Anime Lovers

#️⃣ Hashtags: #AnimePodcast #QueerAnime #BLAnime #AnimeFandom #OuranHostClub #LGBTQPodcast #MangaPodcast #AnimeShips #FanfictionCulture #OHSHC #AnimeChat

What happens when two straight guys step into the chaotic, rose-petal-filled world of Ouran High School Host Club? This week, I (Valsaraptor) am joined by BitkingDT and Frankfurter (from Bakaco Podcast) to break down their reactions to this beloved reverse harem classic.

We dive into favorite ships, the fandom’s most popular pairings (determined by the sacred texts of fanfiction archives), and the super secret ship—the one even the mangaka shipped (bet you didn’t know about that one 👀). We also gush over everything we love about Ouran Academy, the beloved boys (and girl) of the Host Club, and—seriously—what even is a Host Club?

Plus, we talk about how Ouran plays with gender, romance, and queer themes, and how sometimes the subtext is just text.

Grab your cup of commoner coffee (or a plate of fancy tuna) and tune in!

✨ Follow for More Anime & Manga Content

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes

🎵 TikTok: @GirlsGaysAnimes – memes, outfit/manga/manhua/anime reviews & recs

📸 Instagram: @GirlsGaysAnimes – manga & anime recs

✨ Shopping Recommendations

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt: KDM Anime Shirts (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

📚 Manga Recs: Benable Manga Recommendations

🎮 Gaming & More

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes – gaming content & playthroughs

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes

🔗 Linktree: GirlsGaysAnimes

💌 Contact Details: via Linktree

📌 Tags : Anime Podcast, Manga Podcast, Queer Anime, Anime for Queer Audiences, Ouran High School Host Club, Straight Guys React, Anime Reactions, LGBTQ+ Anime, Reverse Harem Anime, BL Anime, Boys Love, Fujoshi Culture, Shojo Anime, Anime Shipping, Anime Fandom, Anime Ship Wars, Tamaki Suoh, Haruhi Fujioka, Kyoya Ootori, Hikaru Hitachiin, Kaoru Hitachiin, Host Club Anime, Fanfiction Culture, AO3, Popular Anime Ships, LGBTQ+ Podcast, Podcast for Anime Lovers

#️⃣ Hashtags: #AnimePodcast #QueerAnime #BLAnime #AnimeFandom #OuranHostClub #LGBTQPodcast #MangaPodcast #AnimeShips #FanfictionCulture #OHSHC #AnimeChat

Ever fallen down the rabbit hole of fanfiction? We have, and we’re taking you with us! In this episode, Valsaraptor, DokiDokiBunBun, and Mim break down where to find fanfics, the different types out there, and the unspoken rules of fandom culture.

From Fifty Shades of Grey to H.P. Lovecraft, Star Trek, and yes—even My Immortal—we explore how fanfiction has shaped pop culture, including books and movies that technically started as fanfic. We also dive into fanfiction culture in Japan (doujinshi), the unexpected origins of some iconic stories, and the things you wish you didn’t know (dead dove, lemon/lime...).

Of course, we can’t talk about fanfiction without mentioning My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen, and the chaotic ships that come with them (Bakugo stans, we see you). We also discuss LGBTQ+ representation in fanfiction, why AO3 and Wattpad remain go-to platforms, and how MLM and WLW stories thrive in fandom spaces.

Whether you’re a reader, writer, or just morbidly curious, this one’s for you!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

✨ Follow for More Anime & Manga Content

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes (youtube.com/@GirlsGaysAnimes)

🎵 TikTok: GirlsGaysAnimes for memes, outfit/manga/manhua/anime reviews, and recommendations (tiktok.com/@girlsgaysanimes)

📸 Instagram: GirlsGaysAnimes for manga and anime recommendations (instagram.com/girlsgaysanimes)

✨ Shopping Recommendations

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt: KDM Anime Shirts (shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA) (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

📚 Manga Recs: Benable Manga Recommendations (benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes)

🎮 Gaming & More

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes for gaming content and playthroughs (twitch.tv/girlsgaymesanimes)

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes (tr.ee/AanyE4I3Qu)

🔗 Linktree: GirlsGaysAnimes (linktr.ee/girlsgaysanimes)

💌 Contact Details: Linktree

📌 Tags: fanfiction, fanfic culture, anime, manga, doujinshi, anime podcast, manga podcast, fandom, otaku, anime community, book adaptations, yaoi, yuri, shonen, shojo, anime recommendations, harry potter fanfic, my immortal, star trek, 50 shades of grey, wattpad, ao3, archive of our own, dead dove do not eat, LGBTQ+, MLM, WLW, My Hero Academia, Jujutsu Kaisen, Bakugo, Itadori

#fanfiction #anime #manga #doujinshi #animepodcast #mangapodcast #fandom #otaku #animecommunity #booktok #fanfic #ao3 #wattpad #myimmortal #harrypotterfanfic #50shadesofgrey #starwars #startrek #yaoi #yuri #shonen #shojo #mha #bnha #jujutsukaisen #bakugo #itadori #mlm #wlw #lgbtq

🎙️ Join hosts Valsaraptor, DokiDokiBunBun, and Mim as they explore the must-watch anime of the 2025 season! From returning favorites (Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun, My Happy Marriage, Apothecary Diaries) to fresh releases (From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad’s Been Reincarnated!, The Summer Hikaru Died, This Monster Wants to Eat Me), and even hidden gems (Tasokare Hotel, Zenshu), this episode has it all.

✨ Follow for More Anime & Manga Content

🎥 YouTube: GirlsGaysAnimes (youtube.com/@GirlsGaysAnimes)

🎵 TikTok: GirlsGaysAnimes for memes, outfit/manga/manhua/anime reviews, and recommendations (tiktok.com/@girlsgaysanimes)

📸 Instagram: GirlsGaysAnimes for manga and anime recommendations (instagram.com/girlsgaysanimes)

✨ Shopping Recommendations

👕 Notice Me Senpai Shirt: KDM Anime Shirts (shop.kdmvintage.com/?ref=GGA) (Use code GGA for 10% off!)

📚 Manga Recs: Benable Manga Recommendations (benable.com/GirlsGaysAnimes)

🎮 Gaming & More

🎮 Twitch: GirlsGaymesAnimes for gaming content and playthroughs (twitch.tv/girlsgaymesanimes)

🎧 Spotify: Podcast Episodes (tr.ee/AanyE4I3Qu)

🔗 Linktree: GirlsGaysAnimes (linktr.ee/girlsgaysanimes)

💌 Contact Details: Linktree

Tags: anime 2025, anime recommendations, new anime to watch, isekai anime, villainess anime, shonen anime, yuri anime, yaoi anime, anime season preview, top anime picks, hidden gem anime, anime podcast, Apothecary Diaries, Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun, Sakamoto Days, The Summer Hikaru Died, My Happy Marriage, Sk8 The Infinity OVA, Tasokare Hotel, Zenshu, This Monster Wants to Eat Me, The Other World's Books Depend on the Bean Counter, From Bureaucrat to Villainess: Dad’s Been Reincarnated!

Hashtags:

#Anime2025 #AnimeRecommendations #NewAnime #Isekai #VillainessAnime #ShonenAnime #YuriAnime #YaoiAnime #ApothecaryDiaries #ToiletBoundHanakoKun #SakamotoDays #TheSummerHikaruDied #MyHappyMarriage #Sk8TheInfinity #TasokareHotel #Zenshu #HiddenGemAnime #ThisMonsterWantsToEatMe #AnimePodcast

🤡🐺🌈 Dive into the Helluva Boss and Hazbin Hotel universe like never before! In this episode, we explore the chaotic and creative worlds of these shows, uncovering hidden details, deep lore, and some wild speculations.

🎙️ From the phenomenal voice cast—including Blitzo, Moxxie, Millie, and Angel Dust—to the rich mythology and worldbuilding that ties it all together, we cover it all! We’ll also dive into the writing, which is nothing short of brilliant, and discuss which characters in the Hellaverse could probably use a little therapy.

💥 Plus, we discuss Vivienne Medrano’s incredible journey as the creator of these shows, her worldbuilding mastery, and how some behind-the-scenes copyright battles affected the crossover potential in Helluva Boss.

This episode peels back the layers of chaos and creativity that make the Hellaverse so unique. Whether you’re a fan of dark humor, animation, or just need a good laugh (and maybe some therapy yourself), this episode is packed with all the Hellaverse goodness you need!

#HelluvaBoss #HazbinHotel #Hellaverse #VivziePop #Blitzo #Moxxie #Millie #AngelDust #CharlieMorningstar #Vaggie #MichaelKovach #BrandonRogers #MickLauer #VoiceCast #AnimationVoiceActors #BlitzoVoiceActor #AngelDustVoiceActor #VoiceTalent #AnimationPodcast #HellaverseLore #MythologyInAnimation #HellaverseSpeculation #VivziePopWorldbuilding #HellaverseWorldbuilding #FutureOfHelluvaBoss #AnimationFans #HellaverseAnimation #AnimatedSeriesLovers #HooHah #ShutUpMoxxie #YouReapWhatYouSow #YasssQueen #LetMeTellYouSomething #GimmeTheBeans

Tags:

Helluva Boss, Hazbin Hotel, Vivienne Medrano, VivziePop, Animation, Voice Acting, Voice Cast, Animation Voice Actors, Voice Talent, Mythology, Speculations, Future of Helluva Boss, Lore, TV Shows, Cartoons, Animation Podcast, TV Animation, Character Development, Biblical References, Mythological Inspirations, Hellaverse Worldbuilding, Animation Fans, Animated Series

Struggling to find the perfect gift for the anime lover in your life? Valsaraptor and Tea are here to save the day with a must-watch 2025 gift-giving guide! Whether they’re into Sailor Moon, Arcane, Hazbin Hotel, or beyond, we’ve got recommendations that go beyond the usual stickers and figures.

We’re spotlighting unique gifts from small shops (many with international shipping!) for every anime fan—from stylish low-key apparel (think shirts, skorts, and baby tees) to stunning ceramics, glass art, vinyl records, and even rugs! And yes, we’ve got options for babies, theybies, and everyone in between.

Tune in to discover thoughtful, creative ideas that your nerdy friends will actually love! 🎨✨

🔗 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more nerdy content!

✨ Bunpurr

✨ OhMonah

✨ Jennummi

✨ We Are Anime Collectors

✨ Kangaroomis

✨ Akemi Baby

✨ Bisoulovely

✨ The Viridian Realm

✨ Shop Koikay

✨ KokoSeoul

✨ Marwa Studio

✨ Quaphadoodle

✨ Moon Rose Café

✨ Echonyx Shop

✨ Ria Ceramics

✨ Mango Milk Studio

✨ Alchemic Oddities Co.

✨ Sora Clothing

✨ Daftpink Art

✨ Neon Freek

✨ KDM Vintage(Use this link for 15% off!)

#AnimeGifts #AnimeGiftGuide #AnimeMerch #OtakuGifts #WeebGifts #UniqueAnimeGifts #AnimeShoppingGuide #BestAnimeMerch #AnimeLoverGifts #GiftsForAnimeFans #OtakuGiftGuide #AnimeCollectorMerch #JujutsuKaisenMerch #BananaFishGifts #TomieMerch #ZeldaGifts #PokemonMerch #NarutoGifts #SailorMoonGifts #FruitsBasketMerch #AnimalCrossingGifts #StudioGhibliMerch #DemonSlayerGifts #OuranHighschoolHostClubMerch #SupportSmallAnimeShops #AnimeMerchandise #AnimeApparel #AnimeInspiredGifts #AnimeGiftIdeas2025 #AnimeFanGiftGuide #IndieAnimeShops