In this episode of Puny Pod, Ryan and David return to Phase Four with Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings! From Wenwu’s centuries-spanning backstory to Shang-Chi’s comic origins and the film’s ties to Chinese mythology, the hosts unpack one of Marvel’s most distinct and heartfelt stories. They dig into the film’s incredible martial arts choreography, its pandemic-era theatrical release, and how Shang-Chi changed the MCU’s trajectory. Along the way, they discuss Simu Liu’s rise from stock-photo model to Marvel star, the legacy of Fu Manchu in the comics, and the cultural importance of seeing authentic AAPI representation on screen. Expect laughs, Marvel deep dives, karaoke appreciation, and a few well-placed digs at Trevor Slattery. It’s equal parts history lesson and fan celebration—because Shang-Chi deserves its flowers. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Monthly Bugle is back, and Ryan and David are unpacking all the Marvel madness fresh out of New York Comic Con! We’ve got release windows, casting news, and wild footage reveals from across the Multiverse of Marvel content. On the animation side, Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man Season 2 swings in Fall 2026 with the return of Venom, and X-Men ’97 Season 2 lands Summer 2026 with the OG creative team back in the mix—plus talk of a third season already underway! In TV news, Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 drops March 4, 2026 (with Jessica Jones and a new political foe for Kingpin), Wonder Man shifts to January 27, 2026 as a meta-comedy about Hollywood itself, and Vision Quest promises a mind-bending finale to the WandaVision trilogy with a dream lineup of Tony Stark’s AI creations—yes, including Ultron. We also got a tease of Punisher returning between Daredevil and Spider-Man, plus a first crossover special—Spidey and Iron Man: Avengers Team Up!—that’s already on repeat in Ryan’s house. And since it’s spooky season, we round out the episode with our essential Marvel Halloween Watchlist: Werewolf by Night, Zombies, Blade, New Mutants, Agatha All Along, and the iconic WandaVision Halloween episode. New seasons, new shows, and new reasons to keep your Disney+ subscription active—this one’s packed! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s another jam-packed Monthly Bugle! Ryan and David kick things off with the second trailer for Marvel Zombies—the undead MCU hits Disney+ on September 24, and we’ve got the comic book history, the hype, and why this four-episode event could be one of Marvel’s weirdest swings yet. We also celebrate Disney’s Emmy wins (including Andor’s big night), and break down everything you need to know about the Fantastic Four: First Steps home release, from deleted scenes to featurettes and when it might hit Disney+. Then, we pause for an In Memoriam honoring Robert Redford, reflect on his role as Alexander Pierce, and wrap things up with ScreenRant’s definitive MCU movie rankings (and our thoughts on where they nailed it—or totally missed). From zombies to the First Family, this month’s Bugle covers it all! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we crack open the multiverse with Marvel Studios’ first animated series, What If…? Season 1. From Captain Carter’s heroics to Doctor Strange’s dark descent, Killmonger’s betrayal to Party Thor’s cosmic chaos, we revisit each reality-twisting episode and explore how the show reimagines the MCU we thought we knew. We break down the animation style, storytelling risks, and the Watcher’s role as both observer and participant. Plus, we dig into the season’s team-up finale, its connections to the wider multiverse saga, and what it all means for Marvel’s Phase 4 and beyond. Packed with speculation, laughs, and a healthy dose of “what if” scenarios of our own, this is your ultimate debrief on one of Marvel’s most creative and mind-bending projects. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month on Puny Pod’s Monthly Bugle, Ryan and David dive into the debut of Eyes of Wakanda! We explore the show’s sweeping history of the Hatut Zeraze—from Crete to Troy to K’un-Lun and beyond—plus break down the cast, critical reaction, and what it adds to the legacy of Wakanda in the MCU. We also check out Iron Man and His Awesome Friends (yes, with a Mark Hoppus theme song), preview October’s Marvel Zombies with its stacked new cast, and look ahead to the next Spider-Man movie (Brand New Day) with confirmed returning heroes and villains. Plus, we run through the latest updates on Black Panther 3, Blade, and some big teases from Ryan Reynolds. All that, along with our usual bet check-in and a dash of ConciEARS magic, makes for one jam-packed episode of Marvel news and nerdy fun. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we take aim at Black Widow, Marvel’s long-awaited solo outing for Natasha Romanoff. We break down the film’s blend of espionage thrills, high-flying action, and emotional family drama, exploring how it bridges the gap between Civil War and Infinity War while finally giving Natasha the spotlight she deserves. Join us as we discuss Scarlett Johansson’s powerful farewell performance, Florence Pugh’s breakout turn as Yelena Belova, and the Red Room’s dark legacy. We dive into the film’s stunt work, humor, and heartfelt moments, plus what its post-credit scene means for the MCU’s future. With sharp analysis, a dash of spy puns, and plenty of Marvel deep dives, this episode is your debrief on one of the MCU’s most overdue and action-packed stories. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Puny Podians Assemble—literally! Ryan and David are back with a blockbuster-sized deep dive from our Super Secret Spoiler Show archives, and this time we’re revisiting Marvel’s The Avengers, the film that changed the superhero genre forever. This epic team-up brought Earth’s Mightiest Heroes together for the first time, blending gods, billionaires, super soldiers, and rage monsters into one unforgettable battle for New York. We’re talking portal skies, shawarma jokes, and the start of a cinematic universe firing on all cylinders. From Loki’s villainy to the Hulk’s scene-stealing rage, we’re breaking down the action, the chemistry, and the legacy of this monumental MCU moment. Want more spoiler-filled Marvel talk, early episodes, and exclusive extras? Join the EarzUp Patreon and stay up to date with every deep dive and hot take. Whether The Avengers is your favorite MCU movie or just the start of something bigger, this episode is packed with gamma-powered insight and nostalgic hype. Smash that play button and let’s assemble! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This July, Ryan and David are diving into the premiere of Ironheart—critics gave it a 77%, audiences gave it a 47%, but what did we think? Then we go cosmic with a deep dive into Fantastic Four: First Steps! We explore the film’s comic book roots, the all-star cast (hello Pedro Pascal, Julia Garner, and Galactus!), and how this new take sets the stage for the MCU’s future. We also break down Kevin Feige’s flurry of interviews pre-SDCC no-show, including big shake-ups for Disney+, news on Spider-Man: Brand New Day, updates on Blade, X-Men, and Black Panther 3, and some major behind-the-scenes shifts—like Marvel stepping away from Kang before Quantumania even hit theaters. Finally, we preview the upcoming animated series Iron Man and His Awesome Friends (yes, that theme song is by Mark Hoppus). New shows, new teams, and maybe a little chaos—just another month in the MCU. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we tumble through the Sacred Timeline with Loki Season 1, Marvel’s trippy, time-bending Disney+ series. Join us as we unpack the God of Mischief’s surprising character growth, his dynamic with Mobius, and the multiverse-shattering consequences of his TVA adventure. We explore the show’s bold aesthetic, philosophical themes, and that jaw-dropping finale reveal of He Who Remains. Plus, we talk Sylvie, variants, jet ski dreams, and what Loki means for the future of the MCU and Phase 4. With plenty of fan theories, time-travel debates, and chaotic laughs, this is a Puny Pod episode you won’t want to prune from your queue. In this part 2 we cover episodes 3-6 and we give our final reviews Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we tumble through the Sacred Timeline with Loki Season 1, Marvel’s trippy, time-bending Disney+ series. Join us as we unpack the God of Mischief’s surprising character growth, his dynamic with Mobius, and the multiverse-shattering consequences of his TVA adventure. We explore the show’s bold aesthetic, philosophical themes, and that jaw-dropping finale reveal of He Who Remains. Plus, we talk Sylvie, variants, jet ski dreams, and what Loki means for the future of the MCU and Phase 4. With plenty of fan theories, time-travel debates, and chaotic laughs, this is a Puny Pod episode you won’t want to prune from your queue. In this part one we go over the comic history, production story and episodes 1 and 2 Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we dive into the action-packed and politically charged The Falcon and The Winter Soldier. Join us as we explore Sam Wilson’s journey to accept the mantle of Captain America, Bucky Barnes’ path to redemption, and the complex moral ground the series treads with the Flag Smashers and John Walker. We break down key moments, from thrilling fight scenes to emotional character arcs, and discuss how the show tackles real-world themes like legacy, identity, and race in America. Plus, we weigh in on the return of Sharon Carter, Zemo’s dance moves, and what this all means for the future of the MCU. With thoughtful insights, a few laughs, and plenty of Marvel speculation, this episode is your debrief on one of the MCU’s most grounded and timely series. In this part 2 we cover episodes 3-6 and we give our final reviews Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we dive into the action-packed and politically charged The Falcon and The Winter Soldier. Join us as we explore Sam Wilson’s journey to accept the mantle of Captain America, Bucky Barnes’ path to redemption, and the complex moral ground the series treads with the Flag Smashers and John Walker. We break down key moments, from thrilling fight scenes to emotional character arcs, and discuss how the show tackles real-world themes like legacy, identity, and race in America. Plus, we weigh in on the return of Sharon Carter, Zemo’s dance moves, and what this all means for the future of the MCU. With thoughtful insights, a few laughs, and plenty of Marvel speculation, this episode is your debrief on one of the MCU’s most grounded and timely series. In this part one we go over the comic history, production story and episodes 1 and 2 Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June's Monthly Bugle is here, and the Puny Pod crew is breaking down all the latest Marvel mayhem! We kick things off with a preview of Ironheart—what to expect, where Riri’s headed next, and how it might tie into the broader MCU. Then, we dive into James Gunn’s recent comments about studio interference and explore how corporate mandates could be shaping the MCU’s creative direction. We also unpack the latest major schedule shake-up and what it means for upcoming releases. Plus, we talk about Liza Colón-Zayas joining Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and we highlight the best recent drops on Marvel Unlimited. Don’t miss this deep dive into the multiverse of Marvel news! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Puny Podians Assemble! Ryan and David are back with another star-spangled episode from our Super Secret Spoiler Show archives—this time, we're suiting up for Captain America: The First Avenger. Before there was an Avengers Initiative, before Cap wielded Mjolnir, there was skinny Steve Rogers—a kid from Brooklyn with a big heart and bigger dreams. We’re diving into the MCU’s first true period piece, a World War II-set origin story that gave us Hydra, the Tesseract, and one heck of a heroic glow-up. From serum science to shield-slinging action, we’re breaking down the film’s old-school charm, its pulp-inspired style, and how it set the tone for one of the MCU’s most iconic heroes. Want more Marvel deep dives, early episodes, and spoiler-packed discussions? Subscribe to the EarzUp Patreon for the latest drops and exclusive content. Whether you think The First Avenger is an underrated gem or just a stepping stone to bigger battles, this episode is bursting with patriotic passion and MCU insights. Press play and join the fight! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month on Puny Pod’s Monthly Bugle, we’re wrapping up Daredevil: Born Again with a full review of episode 9—was the finale a knockout or just a whisper in Hell’s Kitchen? Then it’s time to dig deeper into Thunderbolts and where this wild MCU team-up could be headed. But wait—David went to Star Wars Night at Disneyland, and you better believe we’re talking about it. We also chat about Red Guardian showing up in Avengers Campus (he lives!), and round things out with what’s new on comic shop shelves this month. Hit play and stay caught up on everything Marvel and mildly Marvel-adjacent. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we dive into the reality-bending world of WandaVision, Marvel Studios’ bold and emotional Disney+ series. Join us as we unpack the show’s sitcom-inspired structure, explore Wanda Maximoff’s journey through grief, and break down the mysteries behind Westview’s magical hex. We cover everything from Vision’s philosophical moments to Agatha Harkness’s surprise reveal (yes, it was her all along). Plus, we dig into that explosive finale, post-credit teases, and what it all means for the future of the MCU. Whether you're a longtime Marvel fan or just love weird TV, this episode blends smart analysis with our usual chaotic banter. Don’t miss our take on one of the MCU’s most unique and emotional entries! This is part two, we cover episodes 4-9 and our closing thoughts including favorite episode and MVPs Themes by the incomparable J.R. Trimpe, go check out more of his music here: ⁠https://trimpe.org/⁠ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the ⁠EarzUp! Patreon⁠ Visit us on Etsy for the ⁠official Puny Pod Merch⁠ Come say hi on⁠ Discord⁠! Subscribe on ⁠iTunes⁠ Start your own podcast with ⁠Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Puny Pod, we dive into the reality-bending world of WandaVision, Marvel Studios’ bold and emotional Disney+ series. Join us as we unpack the show’s sitcom-inspired structure, explore Wanda Maximoff’s journey through grief, and break down the mysteries behind Westview’s magical hex. We cover everything from Vision’s philosophical moments to Agatha Harkness’s surprise reveal (yes, it was her all along). Plus, we dig into that explosive finale, post-credit teases, and what it all means for the future of the MCU. Whether you're a longtime Marvel fan or just love weird TV, this episode blends smart analysis with our usual chaotic banter. Don’t miss our take on one of the MCU’s most unique and emotional entries! This is part one, we cover the production details, comic history and episodes 1-3 Themes by the incomparable J.R. Trimpe, go check out more of his music here: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This month on Puny Pod’s Monthly Bugle, we’re diving deep into the upcoming Thunderbolts movie—get the comic book background, a refresher on where each team member came from in the MCU, and why we’re hyped (or skeptical). We also review episodes 5–8 of Daredevil: Born Again as the series heats up, break down the massive Avengers: Doomsday cast announcement, and preview this year’s Free Comic Book Day highlights. Oh—and yes, the yearly wager is alive and well. Tune in to find out where things stand! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Puny Podians Assemble! Ryan and David are back with another thunderous deep dive into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, straight from our Super Secret Spoiler Show archives. This time, we’re heading to Asgard (and briefly, New Mexico) to revisit Thor—the film that introduced us to the God of Thunder, laid the cosmic groundwork for the MCU, and gave us one of the greatest sibling rivalries in movie history. From hammer-throwing heroics to Shakespearean family drama, we’re breaking down what struck gold and what got lost in the Bifrost. Want more Marvel breakdowns, superhero movie analysis, and exclusive spoiler shows? Subscribe to the EarzUp Patreon for up-to-date episodes and behind-the-scenes content. Whether you see Thor as a mythic masterpiece or just Hemsworth doing his best fish-out-of-water impression, this episode is packed with lightning-charged takes and deep dives. Hit play and let’s get into it. Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Buckle up, Puny Pod listeners! In a rare detour from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Ryan cashes in on his hard-earned bet victory, forcing us to swap Infinity Stones for NOS canisters as we watch The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift! Join us as we break down the high-speed action, questionable Southern accents, and the surprising MCU connections hidden in this fan-favorite Fast & Furious installment. Is Tokyo Drift the true underdog of the franchise? Does Han deserve his legendary status? And most importantly—how would Dominic Toretto fare in the Avengers? Hit play and drift along with us for this high-octane, off-the-rails episode! Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Support the show! Check out our super secret spoiler show on the EarzUp! Patreon Visit us on Etsy for the official Puny Pod Merch Come say hi on Discord! Subscribe on iTunes Start your own podcast with Zencastr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices