Why are we so drawn to Fantasy lands and larger-than-life characters? How can Fantasy stories help us better engage with our world? Derrick is joined by the return of Joseph, Jason, and Nick to take a deep dive into the Fantasy genre using JRR Tolkien as our guide. We also discuss our recent experiences at Mega Con Orlando.

Why are we drawn to heart-bounding adventurous and perilous journeys? Proverb Newsome joins us to explore Action stories, and how they challenge us to face our conflicts courageously. We discuss some of our favorite Action films, including 2022's hit Top Gun Maverick, and how going to college relates to the Hero’s Journey.

You ever had an experience with a story that stirred something profound within you? Though most stories explore one's inner-life, there is an often neglected category of stories that specialize in the metaphysical. These journeys examine the philosophical, religious, and spiritual components that reshape our identity and make life meaningful. Jason and Nick return to the podcast to explore why these stories resonate with us so much, and what it's like for us to embark on our own metaphysical journeys.

It's a Valentine's Day Special! One of the most popular genres in novels and film is the Romance. But is the Romance more than just a simple love story? In the first entry of our new series on genres, Derrick and his wife define what constitutes a Romance story. Along the way, they discuss examples in fiction (including Romeo & Juliet & 500 Days of Summer), stories from their dating years, and how Romances speak to the love and acceptance we most long for in life.

In this final episode of 2022, Derrick and the guys reflect on some past episodes while also discussing everything from grief in stories, to different trends in cinema, and other great film series' such as Transformers, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Planet of the Apes. We also look ahead to the new year and discuss some potential ideas for new episodes.

It's time to jump back into our conversation about Derrick's favorite collection of films: Studio Ghibli, Japan's most influential animation studio. With their focus on strong female protagonist coming-of-age stories, along with themes of environmentalism and war, Studio Ghibli has earned a global reputation for creating beautiful works of animation for all ages that stand the test of time. Derrick's wife Tori joins the discussion to chronicle their journey of watching every Studio Ghibli film in order (and for the first time). We also share our perspectives as parents on what these films offer young people. Join us as we explore how this collection of diverse films became among our all-time favorites.

The time has come to discuss Derrick's favorite collection of films: Studio Ghibli, Japan's most influential animation studio. With their focus on strong female protagonist coming-of-age stories, along with themes of environmentalism and war, Studio Ghibli has earned a global reputation for creating beautiful works of animation for all ages that stand the test of time. Derrick's wife Tori joins the discussion to chronicle their journey of watching every Studio Ghibli film in order (and for the first time). We also share our perspectives as parents on what these films offer young people. Join us as we explore how this collection of diverse films became among our all-time favorites.

This one's for all the outcasts, the misfits, to anyone who doesn't quite fit in, because today we're talking about the Uncanny X-Men! We dive into the complicated history of Marvel's mutants, while discussing our favorite moments in the comics, shows, and films along the way.