Hither Came Conan

Prepare your swords and sharpen your wits, for today on Hither Came Conan, Steeven takes us into the heart-pounding action of Conan the Barbarian #27, The Blood of Bel-Hissar. It’s a tale of betrayal, banditry, and one very cursed jewel!

After escaping the war-torn city of Makkalet, Conan rides into the windswept Hyrkanian plains, only to stumble upon a brutal assault. The barbarian’s intervention sparks a chain of chaos that leads him to the fortress of Bab-El-Shaithan, a den of outlaws ruled by the cunning Skol Abdhur. Inside, Conan must navigate deadly rivalries, survive a giant’s wrath, and contend with a mysterious ruby—the Blood of Bel-Hissar—that promises power but leaves death in its wake.

When treachery strikes in the dead of night, Conan is accused of murder and theft, forcing him to battle an entire fortress of outlaws while uncovering dark secrets that could spell doom for them all. Will the Cimmerian survive the clashing blades, or will the ruby’s curse claim him as its next victim?

Steeven brings his signature wit, deep dives, and hilarious commentary to this thrilling issue. Join us as we unravel the tangled web of conspiracies, marvel at the intricate art of John Buscema, and try to make sense of the blood-soaked power of the ruby that everyone’s dying to own—literally.

Tune in now for a tale of bloody vengeance and barbaric badassery that will leave you breathless!

Conan the Barbarian #27: The Blood of Bel-Hissar by Roy Thomas, John Buscema, Ernie Chan, John Costanza, and Glynis Wein was published by Marvel Comics in March, 1973.

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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THE MAP

Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

In this rare and candid special episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven steps away from the blood-soaked pages of the Hyborian Age to confront a beast of his own making: the challenges of juggling multiple creative projects. With the launch of his Comic Book Show just around the corner, the barbarian of podcasting wrestles with deadlines, legal scares, and the pressure of delivering top-notch content for his loyal listeners.

Listen as Steeven lays bare his struggles, his plans for the future of Hither Came Conan, and the reasons behind the current hiatus. He shares a glimpse into his neurodivergent process, reveals the joys and frustrations of podcasting, and assures fans that Conan’s adventures will resume—better than ever.

This is a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a podcaster who refuses to settle for anything less than epic storytelling. It’s raw, real, and as entertaining as the Cimmerian himself.

Grab your maps of Hyboria and buckle up—because even in a pause, Steeven brings the thunder!

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Welcome to The Comic Book Show, a podcast that's a show about comic books!

Join your host, Steeven as he devotes full seasons of episodes to one singular comic book mini series or storyline, one issue per episode.

Coming July 10, 2024 - Season One: The Man of Steel (DC Comics: 1986)

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

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The city of Makkalet burns as the Hyborian Age’s most explosive war reaches its thunderous finale in Conan the Barbarian #26: The Hour of the Griffin! In this episode, Steeven takes you deep into the chaos of battle, where Conan’s blade cuts through deceit, despair, and armies of foes.

As Turanian forces storm the city, Conan finds himself entangled in a labyrinth of betrayal and bloodshed. With the Living Tarim revealed to be a grotesque mockery of divinity, and enemies pressing on all sides, the Cimmerian fights his way through secret tunnels, fiery confrontations, and even a saber-toothed mole (yes, really). Will Conan escape the ruins of Makkalet, or will the weight of an entire war drag him into oblivion?

Steeven brings his signature blend of humor, lore, and passionate critique to this epic issue, exploring everything from John Buscema’s evolving art style to the absurdity of Trojan-horse-esque plots and mystical mirrors. It’s a conclusion packed with action, intrigue, and one of the most jaw-dropping reveals in Conan’s adventures so far.

Tune in for the thrilling wrap-up of the Hyrkanian Holy War and discover why Hither Came Conan is your ultimate destination for all things barbaric!

Conan the Barbarian #26: The Hour of the Griffin by Roy Thomas, John Buscema, Ernie Chan, John Costanza, and Glynis Wein was published by Marvel Comics in February, 1973.

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

Who Created Wolverine? Marvel’s Roy Thomas Speaks Out On The Controversy

Prepare yourself for a no-holds-barred deep dive into the January 1973 Marvel Comics masterpiece, Conan the Barbarian #25: The Mirrors of Kharam-Akkad! This issue marks a turning point in Conan lore, as the legendary John Buscema takes up the pencil for the first time, kicking off a breathtaking 14-year artistic reign.

Steeven guides you through the swirling chaos of Hyborian politics, ancient wizardry, and visceral combat as Conan faces the mad High Priest Kharam-Akkad and a demon from a mystical mirror. Along the way, we uncover the chilling origins of these haunted mirrors, which stretch back to King Kull himself in the fabled House of a Thousand Mirrors. It’s a saga of betrayal, prophecy, and blood-soaked vengeance that explodes from every panel!

Plus, we celebrate the unsung hero of this issue, Captain Chumbala Bey, and dissect every jaw-dropping moment, from Conan’s adrenaline-fueled plank-smashing escape to the unforgettable finale where the barbarian defies destiny with a sword stroke.

Whether you’re a seasoned Conan fanatic or a Hyborian novice, this episode of Hither Came Conan promises thrills, chills, and a hearty dose of barbarian badassery. Don't miss it—this one’s for the ages!

Conan the Barbarian #25: The Mirrors of Kharam-Akkad by Roy Thomas, Barry Windsor Smith, John Buscema, Sal Buscema, John Severin, Marie Severin, and Artie Simek was published by Marvel Comics in January, 1973.

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

Attack of the 50 Year Old Comic Books

This week, Hither Came Conan takes a bold leap back in time as host Steeven dusts off a long-lost gem from over five years ago! In this nostalgic and raw retrospective, we revisit Steeven’s earliest exploration of the Conan mythos with Dark Horse Comics’ Conan Vol. 1: The Frost Giant’s Daughter and Other Stories.

Join us as Steeven, recording in the echoing chambers of a car with just a phone and a lot of passion, dives into the stunningly illustrated, vividly colored world crafted by Kurt Busiek, Cary Nord, and Dave Stewart. From towering frost giants and mind-bending Hyperborean sorcery to Conan’s unrelenting thirst for freedom and vengeance, this episode revisits a young barbarian’s formative adventures in all their bloody, frostbitten glory.

Hear Steeven’s off-the-cuff impressions, wild theories (including a surprising connection to G.I. Joe), and the humorously unfiltered musings of a budding podcaster discovering Conan for the first time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Hyborian Age or new to the savage saga, this unique look at Conan’s adventures offers fresh perspectives and a hearty dose of unpolished charm.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind trip down memory lane as we close out Season Six with a tale of nostalgia, discovery, and raw barbarian spirit!

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

In this riveting episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven delves into Conan #7: Blood for Blood, the explosive conclusion to Dark Horse Comics’ first arc of the legendary barbarian.

Struggling through the frozen wilderness below Hyperborea, Conan fights to survive against biting cold and haunting memories of his fallen comrades. Driven by vengeance, he tracks the treacherous Asgardians, Sjarl and Einar, whose betrayal led to the enslavement and deaths of his allies. The young Cimmerian’s relentless pursuit leads to brutal confrontations, shocking revelations, and a final act of justice that’s as savage as it is devastating.

But even the blood of his enemies cannot quench Conan’s inner turmoil. As he moves southward, weighed down by grief and guilt, a mysterious assassin in the distant province of Poitain sets the stage for future conflicts. With stunning artwork and a masterful narrative by Kurt Busiek, this issue is a raw and emotional exploration of loss, fury, and the hollow echoes of revenge.

Join Steeven as he breaks down this unforgettable tale, from Conan’s icy trek to the blood-soaked vengeance that leaves his soul unfulfilled. Don’t miss this epic discussion of one of Conan’s most harrowing adventures!

Conan #7: Blood for Blood by Kurt Busiek, Cary Nord, Thomas Yates, Richard Starkings, and Dave Stewart was published by Dark Horse on August 25, 2004.

Oh, and if the Bloopers this week feel like they are full of both rage and F-Bombs, well, that's because they are. Sometimes I just get in a mood.

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

In this heart-wrenching episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven dives into Conan #6: Day of Farewell from Dark Horse Comics—a story of rebellion, sacrifice, and the devastating cost of failure.

As Conan leads a daring revolt against the immortal Hyperboreans, he inspires his enslaved comrades with raw strength and unrelenting resolve. But victory turns to ashes when dark sorcery and betrayal unravel his carefully laid plans. Faced with the brutal consequences of his choices, Conan must grapple with unimaginable loss: the death of his closest allies, the haunting fate of Iasmini, and the horrifying realization that freedom comes at a steep price.

This issue is a masterclass in storytelling, with breathtaking art by Cary Nord and Thomas Yates bringing every moment of tragedy and fury to life. Steeven unpacks it all: the emotional stakes, the stunning visuals, and what this devastating chapter means for the young barbarian as he ventures into an uncertain future.

Don’t miss this gripping exploration of one of Conan’s darkest and most defining moments. By Crom, this is an episode that will leave you both shaken and eager for more!

Conan #6: Day of Farewell by Kurt Busiek, Cary Nord, Thomas Yates, Richard Starkings, and Dave Stewart was published by Dark Horse on July 28, 2004.

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

The fires of Hyperborea burn bright in this action-packed episode of Hither Came Conan! Steeven takes you into Conan #5, the 2004 Dark Horse classic, where Kurt Busiek and Cary Nord unravel a tale of rebellion, dark sorcery, and survival against impossible odds.

In the twisted city of Hyperborea, Conan finds himself fighting not only for his life but for the souls of his enslaved comrades. Hunted by a pride of ferocious lions and trapped in a labyrinth of deceit and dark magic, the young Cimmerian must summon every ounce of cunning and raw power to survive. As rebellion brews among the enslaved Aesir, secrets of Hyperborea's sinister past come to light—complete with giant apes, life-draining sorcery, and a society on the verge of collapse.

Steeven dives deep into this richly layered issue, unpacking Conan’s desperate battles, the eerie backstory of Hyperborean civilization, and how Busiek’s storytelling creates a vibrant yet haunting vision of the Hyborian Age. Plus, find out why this issue might just be the perfect starting point for new Conan fans!

Will Conan lead his comrades to freedom, or will the dark sorcery of Hyperborea claim them all? Tune in and discover the fiery path of one barbarian’s fight for survival!

Conan #5: Ashes of a Great Fire by Kurt Busiek, Cary Nord, Thomas Yates, Richard Starkings, and Dave Stewart was published by Dark Horse on June 23, 2004.

Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press

Step into the twisted shadows of Hyperborea as Steeven takes on Conan #4: Gates of Paradise, the 2004 Dark Horse classic where wonder meets nightmare in equal measure!

Enslaved and drugged into servitude, Conan fights to retain his identity in the city of eternal summer—a place ruled by immortal sorcerers and powered by a dark secret. As Conan uncovers the grotesque machinery of Hyperborean magic, fueled by the very souls of the enslaved, he vows to free his comrades and burn this gilded hell to the ground. Along the way, he encounters Lady Iasmini, a fellow captive who holds the key to both escape and heartbreak.

Steeven dives deep into this haunting tale, breaking down Kurt Busiek’s rich storytelling, Cary Nord’s breathtaking art, and the eerie world-building that turns Hyperborea into a character of its own. From sinister rituals to jaw-dropping revelations, every page brims with tension, beauty, and a barbarian’s defiance.

Will Conan escape the Gates of Paradise, or will he fall to the sorcery that ensnares all within its grasp? Tune in for a wild, bloody, and unforgettable ride through one of the darkest corners of the Hyborian Age!

Conan #4: Gates of Paradise by Kurt Busiek, Cary Nord, Thomas Yates, Richard Starkings, and Dave Stewart was published by Dark Horse on May 26, 2004.

Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Hither Came Conan is a production of Steeven Orr Else Media. For more nerdy goodness from me, visit somanypodcasts.com.

Got questions or comments? Drop us a line at [email protected].

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps us reach more fans! And don’t forget: if you’d like early, ad‑free access to all our podcasts, join our exclusive subscription program, Steeven Orr Else Beyond. Start your free trial today at beyond.steevenorrelse.com.

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Mike's Amazing World of Comics

Cimmerian Press