Hither Came Conan

Sharpen your swords and brace your thews, adventurers! In this thrilling episode, Steeven tackles Conan the Barbarian #7, The Lurker Within, a 1971 Marvel classic that blends sword-and-sorcery with a locked-room murder mystery.

Conan’s journey through the Hyborian Age takes a detour into Nemedian intrigue when he rescues a damsel, tangles with the law, and gets roped into a high-stakes heist at the infamous House of Relics. But this isn’t your average smash-and-grab. A cursed golden bowl, a treacherous femme fatale, and a slithering, man-serpent horror await our Cimmerian as the body count rises and ancient evils are unleashed.

Steeven dives deep into the differences between this issue, Robert E. Howard’s original story The God in the Bowl, and later adaptations. He serves up a feast of lore, humor, and analysis, including Conan’s knack for upsetting city guards, smashing through mysteries, and proving (once again) that greed and betrayal are a barbarian’s best motivation.

Prepare for action, horror, and a giant snake-monster you’ll never forget. It’s Conan at his most dangerous, and Hither Came Conan at its most entertaining. Tune in now, or face the wrath of Thoth-Amon!

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

Brace yourselves, Hyborian adventurers! In this thrilling episode, Steeven Or Else plunges into the shadowy streets of Shadizar to dissect Conan the Barbarian #6, a 1971 Roy Thomas original with jaw-dropping art by Barry Windsor-Smith.

This time, Conan faces a city full of scoundrels, a cult of red-robed fanatics, and a not-so-divine giant bat known as the Night-God. When an alluring blonde, Jenna, catches Conan’s eye, he finds himself cracking skulls, melting stolen gold into a suspiciously metaphorical heart, and awkwardly learning the finer points of romance—until cultists crash the date. What follows is a whirlwind of infiltrations, fiery brazier-swinging action, and a midair battle against a bat-beast that would terrify even Gotham’s Dark Knight!

Can Conan save Jenna from the clutches of the monstrous Night-God? Will he ever escape the indignities of a yak-horned helmet? And what’s a barbarian to do when his gold—and his girl—vanish into the night?

Steeven dives deep into this wild ride, offering insights, humor, and just the right amount of snark about cult logistics and the mysteries of giant bats. It’s a fiery tale of love, betrayal, and the enduring badassery of everyone’s favorite Cimmerian.

Tune in, because this episode is a heart of gold (and may or may not be easier to carry)!

This issue was published by Marvel Comics in March, 1971.

Plus... Bloopers!

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

Prepare your steel and summon your courage because in this electrifying episode, Conan the Barbarian faces his most surreal challenge yet! Host Steeven Or Else dives sword-first into Conan the Barbarian #5, a 1971 Marvel masterpiece by Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith.

In this issue, Conan tangles with Zukala, a flamboyant masked wizard with questionable fashion sense, and his daughter Zephyra, who doubles as a deadly tiger! With a demon tax collector prowling the land and a gaudy dragon-hilted sword on the line, Conan must navigate betrayals, sorcery, and a prophecy of doom that could spell disaster for our favorite barbarian.

Marvel as Conan shatters masks, slays demons, and casually loots gold like the unapologetic force of nature he is. Steeven takes you on a raucous page-by-page journey, blending lore, laughs, and irreverent critiques of art that sees demons and tigers defy all color consistency. Plus, hear Steeven’s musings on Marvel’s early attempts to mix superheroes with Hyborian fantasy—and the eternal mystery of Conan’s "costume."

This isn’t just an episode; it’s an odyssey into the heart of Hyborian chaos! So grab your cloak, dodge the tiger, and join us for a roaring good time. And remember—never underestimate Conan’s brains, brawn, or ability to walk off with the spoils.

Enjoy!

The Cromcast Season 18, Episode 9: Conan in Comics with Jim Zub!

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

Brace yourself for Conan’s deadliest and most thrilling adventure yet! In this episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven dissects Marvel’s Conan the Barbarian #4 (1971)—a groundbreaking adaptation of Robert E. Howard’s classic tale, The Tower of the Elephant.

Join Conan as he enters a decadent city of thieves and dreamers, where danger lurks in every shadow. Venturing into the legendary tower said to hold unimaginable treasures—and curses—Conan teams up with the enigmatic Taurus of Nemedia. What lies inside is more than gold and jewels; it’s a secret that could shake the foundations of reality itself. Foes both mortal and otherworldly stand in his path, but with sword in hand and savage cunning, Conan seeks to defy fate, death, and even the gods.

Fueled by Roy Thomas’ faithful storytelling and Barry Windsor-Smith’s visually stunning art, this episode explores the perfect blend of high adventure, cosmic horror, and brutal heroics. Steeven’s enthusiastic breakdown captures the mythic wonder of this iconic tale, while comparing it to other adaptations and the original prose.

Enter the Tower of the Elephant if you dare—but remember, what you find might change you forever!

Enjoy!

The Hyborian Age of Conan Map

The Power Principle

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

Prepare to plunge into the heart of war and myth as Conan strides into a world teetering on the brink of destruction! In this episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven unpacks the epic tale from Marvel’s Conan the Barbarian #3 (1970), a story charged with divine fury, treachery, and battlefields soaked in blood.

Conan’s chains become weapons of vengeance as he joins a brutal war between Hyperborea and Brythunia—two kingdoms entwined in a deadly dance of betrayal and conquest. Enslaved, furious, and armed with his barbarian grit, the young Cimmerian sets out to carve revenge into the ranks of his oppressors. Standing in his way are scheming commanders, enchanted armor, and the ominous presence of the Grim Gray God, Borri, whose fate hangs in the balance as even gods can die.

Fueled by Roy Thomas’ masterful adaptation of Robert E. Howard's mythic tale The Gray God Passes and Barry Windsor-Smith’s art that burns brighter with every panel, this issue roars with all the raw, savage power you’d expect from Conan at his bloodiest. With insights, humor, and a touch of philosophical musing about the mortality of gods, Steeven delivers an unmissable breakdown of one of Conan’s most haunting adventures.

Come for the barbarism; stay for the mythic spectacle!

Enjoy!

https://magazinesandmonsters.com/

Check out the Brave and the Bob episode I was on: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-brave-and-the-bob-episode-22-worlds-finest-252/id1459643898?i=1000610674672

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 frosty wilds of the Aesgardian wilderness, where Conan the Cimmerian faces a gauntlet of ferocious trials that redefine peril! In this episode of Hither Came Conan, host Steeven dives deep into Marvel Comics' Conan the Barbarian #2 (1970)—a thunderous tale brimming with monstrous yeti battles, treacherous seductions, and brutal subterranean kingdoms.

Join us as Conan topples into the icy clutches of Brutheim's Beastmen, where human slaves tremble under a crown of tusks and despair reigns supreme. With betrayal at every corner and the spark of rebellion glimmering in the dark, can our barbarian hero outwit a city ruled by bloodthirsty savages? Featuring Barry Windsor-Smith’s stunning art and Roy Thomas’ gripping script, this epic saga dares to capture the untamable fire of Conan himself.

Fueled by Steeven's wit, passion, and relentless eye for detail (alongside a few creative mispronunciations), this episode celebrates the larger-than-life heroics of a comic that defied expectations. Beastmen, betrayals, and battering rams—Conan brings it all in this episode of high adventure!

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

Prepare yourselves for the beginning of an epic journey!

In this milestone episode of Hither Came Conan, Steeven dives into Conan the Barbarian #1, the iconic Marvel Comics issue from 1970 that launched the Cimmerian into comic book stardom. With Roy Thomas's gripping script and Barry Windsor-Smith's early art style (a fascinating mix of promise and raw potential), this first issue brings Conan to life as a young warrior caught in the midst of a battle between the Aesir and Vanir—and an encounter with otherworldly forces that will shape his destiny.

Witness the birth of Conan’s comic legacy as he battles winged demons, resists a scheming shaman, and glimpses a mysterious vision of his future—crown and all. Steeven dissects the issue’s breathtaking storytelling, Kirby-esque art, and world-building grandeur, connecting it to the rich mythology of Robert E. Howard’s Hyborian Age.

This is more than a review—it’s a celebration of where it all began for Marvel's Conan. Join us for sword-swinging action, fiery commentary, and an unforgettable first step into the untamed world of the Hyborian Age!

Conan the Barbarian #1: "The Coming of Conan!" was written by Roy Thomas, Barry Windsor Smith, Dan Adkins, and Sam Rosen.

This issue was published by Marvel Comics in July of 1970.

Enjoy!

The Hyborian Age LINK

Howard's Hyborian Age on Conan.com LINK

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

Strap on your broadsword and journey with Hither Came Conan as we unveil the epic tale of how Conan the Barbarian leapt from the pulp pages of Weird Tales to the colorful, action-packed world of Marvel Comics—and beyond!

In this electrifying episode, Steeven digs into the fascinating origins of Conan’s comic book legacy, from the bold gambit Roy Thomas took to secure the licensing rights, to the creative genius of Barry Windsor-Smith that brought the Cimmerian to life on the page.

Discover the twists, turns, and near-misses—Thongor, anyone?—that nearly derailed Conan’s ascent to comic book stardom. Marvel (pun intended) at the unparalleled success of Conan the Barbarian and Savage Sword of Conan, which helped shape the sword-and-sorcery genre. From obscure Mexican comics to the iconic Marvel series that ran for decades, Steeven charts Conan’s path to becoming one of the most enduring icons in pop culture.

Get ready for trivia, history, and more Conan content than you can shake a Stygian serpent at. Whether you're a seasoned Hyborian scholar or just dipping your toes into the crimson-stained sands of Aquilonia, this episode is not to be missed! Grab your ale, sit by the fire, and join us for this legendary deep dive into the making of a barbarian comic book king!

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

Hold on to your swords and shields because this week, Hither Came Conan dives into the pulpy depths of Robert E. Howard's blood-soaked brilliance with The Scarlet Citadel! Join your intrepid host Steeven as he takes you through one of Conan's most harrowing adventures. Trapped, chained, and battling horrific monsters in the dungeons of a cursed citadel, our favorite barbarian king faces cunning wizards, grotesque horrors, and armies of betrayal—but not without dishing out brutal vengeance in true Conan style!

From the grisly showdown in a dungeon labyrinth to an epic, blood-splattered final battle, this episode explores Howard's vivid storytelling and the chilling depths of Sotha's dark magic. Plus, Steeven delves into the two comic book adaptations—from Marvel's gritty Savage Sword of Conan to Dark Horse's gorgeously rendered King Conan—dissecting how each interprets this unforgettable tale.

Tune in for sword-clashing action, fiery hyperbole, and Steeven's fiery commentary. Will The Scarlet Citadel become your new favorite Conan tale? Let the battle commence!

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

In this epic installment of Hither Came Conan, Steeven explores The Phoenix on the Sword, the very first Conan story published by Robert E. Howard. This tale finds the Cimmerian not as a roguish adventurer, but as the King of Aquilonia, battling treacherous conspirators, an ancient sorcerer, and a demon summoned straight from the depths of hell!

As traitors gather in the shadows to overthrow him, Conan faces an uprising led by a cunning outlaw, Ascalante, and his enslaved Stygian sorcerer, Thoth-Amon. Little do the schemers know, Thoth-Amon regains his mystical ring of power and unleashes a terrifying demon to exact his revenge. Conan must defend his throne against overwhelming odds, wielding a broken blade and a newly-imbued phoenix symbol that may be the kingdom’s last hope.

Steeven also dives into the tale’s comic book adaptations, from Marvel’s faithful Conan the Barbarian Annual #2 to Dark Horse’s richly illustrated miniseries. Which version captures the heart of Howard’s prose? Tune in to find out as Steeven dissects the battles, the betrayals, and the brilliance of this foundational Conan adventure!

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