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  • JLA Year One with Case Aiken

    JLA Year One with Case Aiken
    2025/10/08
    We’re back with another episode of Trade School! This week, we are looking back on an earlier time of the Justice League, when we look at JLA Year One! Our returning host is Case Aiken from the Men of Steel and Another Pass podcast! Find him at https://www.certainpov.com/men-of-steel​ and https://www.certainpov.com/another-pass-podcast Support us on Patreon! patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Edited by Case Aiken Scored by Bret Eagleston Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia ▶ Website: https://www.certainpov.com Outline Introduction to Trade School and JLA Year One (00:00 - 01:29) Case Aiken introduces the Certain Point of View's Trade School podcast focusing on comic book trade paperbacks. He discusses JLA Year One by Mark Waid, Brian Augustine, and Barry Kitson, originally published in 1998. Roster and Character Background (01:29 - 02:50) Case explains Black Canary's unique place as a founding member post-Crisis. He reflects on the odd decision to exclude Superman and Batman from the original lineup. Synopsis and Critique of JLA Year One (02:50 - 04:07) The series revolves around a doomsday cult and an alien invasion linked to the Justice League's origins. Case praises Mark Waid's peak storytelling and Barry Kitson's artwork. Personal Recommendations and Related Work (04:07 - 05:23) Case considers this series the best portrayal of Hal Jordan, comparable to other works by Mark Waid. He outlines the embedded Silver Age references such as cameo appearances by Doom Patrol and Sea Devils. Promotion of Other Projects and Audience Engagement (05:23 - 07:02) Case promotes his other podcasts Men of Steel and Another Pass on the Certain Point of View podcast network. He shares his social media handles for interaction, emphasizing community engagement. Ideas Use of a Nontraditional Justice League Roster Post-Crisis (00:30 - 01:30) Case explains the use of an unusual lineup excluding iconic heroes like Superman and Batman to align with post-Crisis retcons. Black Canary as Substitute for Wonder Woman (01:30 - 02:00) Black Canary's incorporation on the Justice League team offers a fresh dynamic contrasting the usual roster. Storyline Centered on Doomsday Cult and Alien Invasion (02:50 - 03:20) The trade paperback weaves a conspiracy theme tied to Justice League origins, offering layered storytelling. Highlighting Silver Age References (04:45 - 05:10) The comic includes nods to lesser-known Silver Age teams like Doom Patrol and Sea Devils, enriching the narrative world. Expanding Audience Engagement through Podcasts and Social Media (05:23 - 06:50) Case promotes engagement through various podcasts, YouTube content, and Discord community for deeper interaction with fans. Key Takeaways Unique Justice League Lineup (00:00 - 01:29) JLA Year One offers a rare and fascinating look at a Justice League lineup atypical in DC continuity due to post-Crisis retcon attempts. Quality Storytelling and Art (02:00 - 02:50) Mark Waid's writing and Barry Kitson's art present the characters, especially Barry Allen and Hal Jordan, in a humanized and compelling manner. Balanced Story Structure (02:50 - 04:07) The story structure balances overarching alien invasion plots with episodic Silver Age style adventures, appealing to fans of classic and modern comics alike. Comic's Availability and Quality (03:50 - 04:30) This run is overshadowed by contemporaneous Grant Morrison work but stands out for quality storytelling and is still accessible digitally and in print. Nostalgic Appeal (04:45 - 05:15) Case recommends the trade paperback for its nostalgic yet fresh take and highlights Silver Age references as a strong appeal point. Community Engagement (05:20 - 07:00) The podcast leverages this discussion to promote further content related to Superman and comics, encouraging community interaction through socials and Discord.
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    7 分
  • Legionnaires: Book One with Jim Fetters

    Legionnaires: Book One with Jim Fetters
    2025/10/01
    We’re back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we’re talking about Legionnaires: Book One! Our host is Jim Fetters from the Long Live the Legion podcast! Find him at https://www.certainpov.com/long-live-the-legion Support us on Patreon! patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Edited by Case Aiken Scored by Bret Eagleston Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia ▶ Website: https://www.certainpov.com Legion of Superheroes Continuity and Reader Accessibility The post-1994 reboot following DC's Zero Hour event provided a clear, accessible origin story for the Legion that resolved prior continuity confusion (02:55). DC’s Zero Hour reset in 1994 restarted the Legion’s continuity to fix complex character and timeline issues caused by Crisis on Infinite Earths (01:28) This reset replaced multiple overlapping versions with a single, streamlined origin narrative. Jim explained the editorial mandate forbidding references to Superman mythos, which had previously complicated Legion stories. The reboot featured two monthly titles, Legion of Superheroes and Legionnaires, targeting both longtime fans and new readers. This approach aimed to boost sales and simplify entry points for new audiences by telling the story in clear, sequential order. The Legionnaires Book One trade paperback collects the first six months of the reboot and offers a modernized, straightforward origin story (04:27) It focuses on the founding trio: Imra Ardean, Garth Ranzz, and R.J. Brand, establishing the team’s beginnings without confusing flashbacks. Each new Legionnaire receives character spotlighting, making motivations and team dynamics easy to understand. The story updates Silver Age themes with modern storytelling to engage contemporary readers. Jim positioned this as the best starting point for anyone interested in the Legion’s foundational history. Creative Team Strategy and Story Development The creative team led by Mark Waid meticulously planned the first year of the reboot, ensuring narrative cohesion and long-term story arcs (07:39). The team included Mark Waid (lead), Tom Pyre and Tom McCraw (writers), and Casey Carlson (editor), who held a focused retreat to map out story progression (07:39) The first six months introduce and gel the team, while the second six months, collected in Legionnaires Book Two, explore more complex themes. Book Two revisits some Silver Age stories but integrates current political and social relevance to deepen reader engagement. Jim emphasized the care in plotting to plant seeds for future storylines, enhancing continuity and reader investment. This planning approach supports sustained sales and fan loyalty by delivering thoughtful storytelling rather than episodic content. Artist contributions further defined the book’s tone, with Stuart Immonen illustrating the founding issue and Geoffrey Moy providing the main artwork for Legionnaires (09:12) Moy’s manga-inspired style, initially divisive, became recognized as distinctive and fitting for the youthful Legionnaires. The art style visually reinforced characters’ younger ages, enhancing story authenticity. This art consistency over six years helped cement Moy as one of the most prolific Legion illustrators. Jim noted this as a key factor in the reboot’s appeal and legacy among fans. Character and Storyline Modernization The reboot introduced new characters and refreshed existing ones to align with contemporary storytelling and reader interests (06:00). New characters like Xs, the granddaughter of Barry Allen, and Kinetix, a telekinetic magic user, expanded the Legion’s roster with fresh dynamics (06:00) These additions connected the Legion to broader DC continuity while enabling new story possibilities. Kinetix’s personal quest for power introduced deeper psychological themes. The reboot also reimagined classic characters like Gates, Shrinking Violet, and Apparition, blending legacy with new interpretations. Jim highlighted how these character updates helped modernize the team without losing core identity. The reboot’s narrative style emphasized chronological storytelling where past events clearly impacted future developments (10:40) This broke from previous Legion iterations that lacked a clear origin or used complex flashbacks. Jim contrasted this with the Three Boot and Retro Boot versions, which lacked cohesive origins and relied on retcons. The straightforward timeline made it easier for readers to follow character growth and team evolution. This approach supports long-term engagement by fostering investment in ongoing storylines. Community Engagement and Support ...
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    13 分
  • Scott Pilgrim Vol. 1: Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life with Matt aka Stormageddon

    Scott Pilgrim Vol. 1: Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life with Matt aka Stormageddon
    2025/09/24
    We’re back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we’re talking about Scott Pilgrim Vol. 1: Scott Pilgrim's Precious Little Life! Our host is Matt Storm aka DJ Stormageddon, a twitch streamer and video game podcaster! Find them at https://linktr.ee/dj_stormagedddon Support us on Patreon! patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia Edited by Case Aiken Scored by Bret Eagleston Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4 FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia ▶ Website: https://www.certainpov.com Overview The team is growing its podcast portfolio to deepen audience engagement and diversify content offerings. Matt (Stormageddon) highlighted the growth of their podcast Fun and Games, approaching 400 episodes (10:09) Fun and Games includes broad industry topics, retrospectives, and creator interviews, appealing to diverse gaming fans The Side Quests sub-series invites external hosts to share personal favorite games, expanding community involvement This format inspired Certain Point of View’s Trade School series, connecting comics and podcast audiences Open invitations for new contributors to Side Quests aim to increase content volume and variety Reignite podcast is evolving from a Mass Effect focus to a Dragon Age theme under Matt’s co-hosting (10:09) Currently in the middle of the Dragon Age 2 series, attracting niche fans of the Bioware franchise This thematic narrowing targets dedicated player bases for deeper engagement and loyalty Matt emphasized the queer nerd perspective, broadening appeal through inclusive representation This shift supports long-term audience retention by focusing on popular, story-rich games Scott Pilgrim Series Strategic Overview Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life is positioned as an accessible entry point to a multi-media franchise blending slice-of-life storytelling with surreal elements. Matt chose volume one of the Scott Pilgrim comic series as the best starting point for new readers (00:00) Volume one introduces key characters and the core plot device: battling Ramona’s seven evil exes The comic’s unique blend of relatable, flawed characters and video game-inspired action differentiates it from typical superhero comics The series benefits from cross-media exposure including a 2010 Edgar Wright film, a video game, and a forthcoming Netflix series This multi-platform presence boosts brand recognition and encourages entry into the original comics The story’s focus on character flaws and personal growth provides a strong emotional core amid its quirky style (06:30) Scott’s journey explores self-reflection and maturity, resonating with readers who prefer character-driven narratives The comic’s humor and heart balance appeal to both casual readers and dedicated fans of indie comics Matt noted the comic’s accessibility for readers with limited focus, making it an easy gateway for new audiences The interplay between comic and film enhances engagement by showing faithful adaptation of key dialogue and scenes Audience Engagement and Community Building Efforts are underway to strengthen community ties by leveraging multi-platform storytelling and interactive formats. Matt’s personal connection to Scott Pilgrim and their sharing of discovery stories foster authenticity that resonates with listeners (02:29) Recounting buying experiences and fandom growth builds trust and invites shared enthusiasm Highlighting the comic’s indie origins and crossover success underlines its cultural relevance The podcast encourages listener participation through invitations to record Side Quests episodes, increasing user-generated content This approach nurtures a loyal community by blending personal narrative with open collaboration The crossover between comics, video games, and podcasts creates a multi-dimensional engagement strategy (07:58) The Scott Pilgrim franchise’s presence in film, games, and streaming media provides multiple touchpoints for audience interaction Matt’s podcasts act as hubs that connect these communities, expanding reach beyond traditional comic readers The focus on slice-of-life and indie comics broadens the market by appealing to non-superhero fans This strategy supports sustained growth by tapping into overlapping fan bases across entertainment formats Content Accessibility and Consumption Trends There is a clear recognition of evolving audience habits favoring shorter, more relatable storytelling formats. Matt emphasized the ease of reading Scott Pilgrim comics for those with limited attention spans (09:05) The comic’s short, fast-paced chapters fit modern consumption patterns and reduce reading barriers The tie-ins with film and game ...
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    12 分
  • Runaways: Vol.1 Pride and Joy with Keith Lehtinen

    Runaways: Vol.1 Pride and Joy with Keith Lehtinen
    2025/09/17
    We’re back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we’re talking about Runaways Vol. 1: Pride and Joy! Our host is Keith Lehtinen, a podcaster and culture commentator! Overview
    • Keith Lehtinen introduced Certain Point of View's Trade School podcast format, focusing on discussions of beloved comic book trade paperbacks instead of new releases.
    • The meeting analyzed Marvel's New Generation Initiative, highlighting the lasting impact of the 2000s effort and recognizing Runaways as a foundational series for launching new characters.
    • Runaways Volume 1: Pride and Joy, created by Brian K. Vaughan and team in 2003, serves as a personal favorite linked to the host's connection to Vaughan’s earlier work.
    • The story centers on six California teenagers who uncover their parents' true nature during a party, showcasing diverse backgrounds and relatability to characters like Alex and Chase.
    • The dialogue style was compared to Aaron Sorkin's, emphasizing strong family dynamics and character development as standout elements of the series.
    • Runaways characters have made significant appearances in Marvel crossover events, including Civil War and Secret Invasion, indicating their ongoing relevance in the Marvel Universe.
    • Notable character arcs include Nico’s role in Strange Academy and Chase’s survival story in Avengers Arena, pointing to continued character development beyond the original series.
    • The Hulu TV adaptation of Runaways maintained the heart of the original story, albeit with mixed reviews on creative changes.
    • The meeting included a promotional segment for the 'We Have Issues' comic review show hosted by Keith and Josway, highlighting weekly coverage of multiple publishers.

    Notes ️ Introduction & Format (00:00 - 00:00)
    • Keith Lettanen introduces Certain Point of View's Trade School podcast format where different hosts discuss beloved comic book trade paperbacks.
    • Host explains deviation from normal purview of reviewing new releases to focus on older trades.
    ‍️ Marvel's New Generation Initiative Discussion (00:00 - 01:17)
    • Analysis of Marvel's pattern of introducing new hero generations, with 2000s effort having lasting impact on the brand.
    • Runaways identified as the foundational series that enabled other new character launches to reach print.
    Runaways Volume 1 Overview (01:17 - 02:39)
    • 2003 Runaways Volume 1: Pride and Joy by Brian K. Vaughan (writer), Adrian Alphona (pencils), David Newbold (inks), Brian Reber (colors), Paul Tutrone (letters).
    • Host's personal connection during comic reading lull, motivated by Vaughan's work on Y: The Last Man.
    ‍‍ Story & Character Analysis (02:39 - 03:58)
    • Six California teenagers from varying socioeconomic backgrounds discover their parents' true nature during annual house party.
    • Host's personal identification with characters: Chase (mechanical genius), Carolina (perfect daughter), Nico (goth), Molly (ignored), and especially Alex (too-smart gifted kid).
    • Aaron Sorkin-style dialogue and family dynamics highlighted as key strengths.
    Legacy & Continued Impact (03:58 - 05:09)
    • Characters integrated into Marvel crossover events: Civil War, Secret Invasion, One World Under Doom.
    • Nico's appearances in Strange Academy, A Force, Mystic Arcana.
    • Chase featured in Avengers Arena (Hunger Games-style survival story).
    • Molly joined Wolverine's young proteges group.
    • Hulu TV adaptation maintained story's heart with mixed success on changes.
    Promotional Segment (05:09 - 06:33)
    • Advertisement for 'We Have Issues' weekly comic review show with Keith and Josway, covering multiple publishers weekly.
    • Show available on Geek Elite Media and podcast platforms.
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    7 分
  • Supergirl: Many Happy Returns with Case Aiken

    Supergirl: Many Happy Returns with Case Aiken
    2025/09/10
    We are kicking off Trade School with Supergirl: Many Happy Returns! Our host for this one is Case Aiken, a podcaster and comic fan! Overview Case Aiken introduces "Trade School," a comic book podcast series aimed at discussing trade paperbacks with emotional significance for guests, targeting accessibility for new readers. The inaugural episode highlights "Many Happy Returns," the 2003 closing arc of Peter David's Supergirl run, which comprises issues 75-80. Aiken reflects on his personal connection to the trade, describing it as a lifeline during college, particularly due to the absence of a local comic shop. The storyline features a pivotal encounter between Linda Danvers and Silver Age Kara Zor-El, showcasing a blend of unique character backgrounds and abilities. Elements like the infamous pink Kryptonite scene introduce significant moments in comic history, including a canonical gay Superman moment. The arc aimed to rejuvenate the series for new readers, illustrating an accessible entry point despite not being the originally planned finale. Ed Bennis' artwork is commended for enhancing the story, though the series finale feels brief in comparison to the overall narrative. Linda Danvers is acknowledged as a complex character overshadowed by the resurgence of Kara Zor-El in the 2000s Superman fandom. Issues are now available on DC Universe Infinite, providing modern readers easy access to this trade. The podcast encourages audience engagement by inviting submissions of meaningful trade paperbacks for future episodes and provides contact information for participation. Notes ️ Introduction & Series Overview (00:00 - 01:17) Case Aiken introduces "Trade School," a comic book-focused podcast series similar to "Side Quests" from Fun and Games with Matt and Jeff. Series concept focuses on discussing trade paperbacks that guests have emotional attachments to, emphasizing accessibility for new readers. Opening episode dedicated to Peter David, who passed away a week before recording, acknowledging his controversial statements but emphasizing his importance in 1990s comics. Book Selection & Personal Context (01:17 - 02:40) Featured trade: "Many Happy Returns" - the 2003 closing arc to Peter David's Supergirl run, collecting issues 75-80. Story concludes the Linda Danvers storyline, the Matrix entity Supergirl who became an earthbound angel. Initial series popularity driven by iconic Gary Frank cover showing Supergirl in flannel shirt revealing S-symbol underneath while holding skateboard. Artwork transitioned to Ed Bennis by the final arc, who became a prominent 2000s artist. Personal Reading Experience (02:40 - 04:04) Aiken picked up the trade as a Colgate University student in 2003, struggling to access comics due to lack of local comic shop. Trade served as "lifeline" to comic hobby during college years when regular consumption was difficult. Represented both a return to beloved series and bittersweet ending to enjoyable run. ‍️ Plot Summary & Character Background (04:04 - 08:40) Story features two Supergirls meeting: Linda Danvers (Matrix entity) encounters Silver Age Kara Zor-El. Matrix Supergirl backstory: Created during John Byrne era as non-Kryptonian alternative, based on Lana Lang's DNA, protoplasmic shapeshifter. Peter David's approach: Fused Matrix with troubled human Linda Danvers, creating "earthborn angel" with flame wings and fire vision abilities. By "Many Happy Returns," angel elements removed, Linda retained flight, super strength, invulnerability, and psychokinetic powers. Contains infamous pink Kryptonite scene where Clark becomes interested in Jimmy, creating canonical gay Superman moment. Story Assessment & Accessibility (08:40 - 11:24) Arc originally intended as "shot in the arm" to revitalize series with new reader accessibility, not planned series finale. Ed Bennis artwork praised as fantastic, story flows well despite feeling too short. Effectively serves as capstone to series while remaining accessible to newcomers. Linda Danvers character unfortunately overshadowed by 2000s Kara Zor-El in Superman fandom memory. Issues available on DC Universe Infinite app for modern readers. Series Conclusion & Call to Action (11:24 - 12:44) Open invitation for audience to submit their meaningful trade paperbacks for future episodes. Contact information: @AceAiken on most platforms, @Quetzalcoatl5 on Instagram. Encourages reaching out via Discord server or Bluesky for episode submissions. Promotional outro for "Men of Steel" Superman podcast at certainpov.com.
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    13 分