Episode Summary:

@WednesdayPull navigates a personal slump and the weight of current events before pivoting to a deep dive into Marvel’s latest experiment: Wonder Man. The episode examines how the series uses Hollywood satire and character-driven storytelling to breathe new life into a post-Endgame MCU.

Takeaways:

• Production Context: The host opted for a solo session after a brief hiatus; the series dropped as an eight-episode binge.

• The "Post-Endgame" Shift: Discussion on how Marvel's evolution has altered viewer expectations.

• Meta-Commentary: The show shines as a satire of Hollywood and the entertainment industry.

• Strengths: Refreshing, natural humor and standout character development for a lesser-known hero.

• • Critiques: Notable pacing issues, particularly regarding the series finale.
  • The Big Picture: Why Marvel should continue taking risks and the role of entertainment as a necessary distraction.

• Timestamps:

• • 00:00 – Introduction and Host's Reflections

  • 05:18 – Wonder Man Release & Initial Thoughts

  • 09:18 – Character Development & Standout Performances

  • 12:41 – Meta Commentary & Industry Themes

  • 17:23 – Pacing, Structure, and the Finale

• • 22:16 – Final Thoughts & Broader Implications

  Memorable Quotes:

• "I lost it at some point.""I really enjoyed it.""Marvel can take risks."

  
  

  How to Connect:

  Follow us on all social platforms for podcast updates.

  Visit our Patreon for additional content and episodes.

  Subscribe to "Wednesday Toast" on all platforms for future reviews and discussions.

  
  

  How to Support the Podcast:

  Leave a review on your podcast platform and share feedback.

  Spread the word about "Wednesday Toast" to fellow nerds!

  Consider supporting us on Patreon!

  
  

  Credits:

  Hosts: Lex (@wednesdaypull)

  Producer: Lex (@wednesdaypull)

  Intro Music: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linktr.ee/pollypocketmusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  
  

  Keywords: Wonder Man, Marvel, MCU, comic books, character development, current events, podcast, entertainment, storytelling, Hollywood satire

Summary

In this episode of Wednesday Toast, Lex reflects on the recent finale of My Hero Academia and the mixed reception of Stranger Things. He discusses the culture of critique in media, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism while also acknowledging the joy that fandom can bring. Lex shares his personal creative journey, detailing his plans to write scripts, collaborate with other creators, and engage with his audience through Substack and YouTube. He expresses excitement for upcoming projects and the importance of supporting various creative endeavors.

Takeaways

The importance of maintaining a consistent podcast schedule.

Fandom can bring joy and whimsy, even in critique.

Constructive criticism is essential for creative growth.

Engaging with the audience through various platforms is key.

Personal creative journeys can be fulfilling and rewarding.

Collaboration with other creators can enhance projects.

Substack is a useful tool for organizing content and updates.

YouTube can serve as a platform for sharing insights and experiences.

It's important to support different facets of creativity.

Finding joy in the creative process is paramount.

Sound bites

"I just didn't want to miss a week."

"I thought it was a lot of fun."

"I want to take it slow and do it right."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wednesday Toast

00:16 Reflections on My Hero Academia and Stranger Things

01:45 The Joy of Fan Theories

03:58 Criticism in Creative Works

08:02 Personal Creative Journey and Projects

12:24 Upcoming Comic Book Ventures

17:17 Substack and New Content Initiatives

19:38 The TMNT Fan Club and Future Plans

28:59 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

How to Connect:

Follow us on all social platforms for podcast updates.

Visit our Patreon for additional content and episodes.

Subscribe to "Wednesday Toast" on all platforms for future reviews and discussions.

How to Support the Podcast:

Leave a review on your podcast platform and share feedback.

Spread the word about "Wednesday Toast" to fellow nerds!

Consider supporting us on Patreon!

Credits:

Hosts: Lex (@wednesdaypull) Simon (@Sime_On_Toast)

Producer: Lex (@wednesdaypull)

Intro Music: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linktr.ee/pollypocketmusic⁠⁠⁠⁠

Keywords

comic books, Stranger Things, My Hero Academia, critique culture, creative journey, Substack, YouTube, podcasting, TMNT, storytelling

Episode Summary:After years of following the journey from UA High to the front lines of a superhuman war, the guys finally sit down to process the emotional conclusion of My Hero Academia. We explore how the show evolved from a "peppy" school-life anime into a tragic exploration of how society creates its own monsters.

We also compare the "academic" hero journey of Deku to the "blue-collar" hero workforce of One Punch Man, discuss the heartbreaking parallels between the series' greatest heroes and villains, and share why characters like Eraser Head and Lemillion stole the show.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• The Evolution of MHA: How the show transitioned from lighthearted classroom antics to a high-stakes, emotional war.

• Shigaraki vs. Deku: A deep look at "Nature vs. Nurture" and the tragic backstories that define the final arc.

• The "Workforce" Perspective: Why One Punch Man feels like the logical "adulthood" progression from the school-focused world of MHA.

• Heroism & Sacrifice: Discussing the "gut-punch" moments involving Eri, Lemillion, and the relentless Eraser Head.

• The Manga Gateway: How to use high-quality storytelling to get the next generation of "smooth brains" (aka our kids) into reading.

TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Intro and the "Token Tax" tangent.05:15 - Why it was finally time to talk the My Hero Academia finale.08:15 - THE HERO COMPARISON: School days (MHA) vs. the workforce (One Punch Man).12:00 - Using Manga to trick your kids into reading.18:00 - THE MHA DEEP DIVE: Sime’s journey to being emotionally wrecked on an elliptical.24:30 - THE TRAGEDY OF THE VILLAIN: Analyzing Shigaraki’s trauma.29:00 - Why Eraser Head is the "Batman" of the MHA universe.

MHA vs. ONE PUNCH MAN: THE QUICK TAKE

• My Hero Academia: Focuses on growth, legacy, and the education of a hero. It’s the journey of becoming an adult.

• One Punch Man: Focuses on the workforce. Heroes are government employees dealing with bureaucracy, paychecks, and boredom.

How to Connect:

Follow us on all social platforms for podcast updates.

Visit our Patreon for additional content and episodes.

Subscribe to "Wednesday Toast" on all platforms for future reviews and discussions.

How to Support the Podcast:

Leave a review on your podcast platform and share feedback.

Spread the word about "Wednesday Toast" to fellow nerds!

Consider supporting us on Patreon!

Credits:

Hosts: Lex (@wednesdaypull) Simon (@Sime_On_Toast)

Producer: Lex (@wednesdaypull)

Intro Music: ⁠⁠⁠⁠linktr.ee/pollypocketmusic⁠⁠⁠

Keywords

My Hero Academia Finale, MHA Ending, My Hero Academia Review, One Punch Man, One Punch Man Season 3, Anime Podcast, Shigaraki Backstory, Deku vs Shigaraki, Eraser Head, Lemillion, Solo Leveling, Manga vs Anime, Superhero Society, Shonen Jump, The Wednesday Toast, Wednesday Pull, Sime on Toast, Anime Analysis, Hero Association, UA High

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Wednesday Toast, hosts Lex and Simon discuss their hopes and expectations for 2026, including upcoming comic book releases, movies, TV shows, and video games. They delve into the exciting crossover between Superman and Spider-Man, the anticipated Supergirl movie, and the return of classic shows like X-Men 97. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of collectibles and toys, highlighting the changes in the industry and the impact of rising prices on collectors.

Takeaways

• The hosts are excited about the upcoming year and what it holds for comic book fans.
• They discuss the crossover between Superman and Spider-Man, showcasing the unique marketing strategies of DC and Marvel.
• The anticipation for the Supergirl movie is high, with hopes for a strong performance from the lead actress.
• Daredevil season 2 is on the horizon, generating buzz among fans.
• Marvel's Wolverine video game is finally set to release, promising an exciting experience for gamers.
• The hosts express their thoughts on the rising costs of collectibles and the impact on collectors.
• Magic the Gathering's collaboration with TMNT is an interesting development in the card game world.
• McFarlane's loss of DC rights raises questions about the future of their toy lines.
• Marvel Legends figures are improving, with collectors excited about new releases.
• The hosts toast to 2026, looking forward to what the year will bring.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and New Year Reflections

02:33 Looking Forward to 2026

05:13 Comic Book Anticipations

07:47 Marvel vs. DC: A Comic Book Debate

10:33 Upcoming Movies and Series

13:20 Excitement for New Characters and Storylines

17:38 Upcoming Marvel Video Games

20:50 Magic the Gathering Collaborations

23:16 Action Figures and Collectibles

28:23 Toy Industry Trends and Challenges

33:53 Podcast Outro

How to Connect:

Follow us on all social platforms for podcast updates.

Visit our Patreon for additional content and episodes.

Subscribe to "Wednesday Toast" on all platforms for future reviews and discussions.

How to Support the Podcast:

Leave a review on your podcast platform and share feedback.

Spread the word about "Wednesday Toast" to fellow nerds!

Consider supporting us on Patreon!

Credits:

Hosts: Lex (@wednesdaypull) Simon (@Sime_On_Toast)

Producer: Lex (@wednesdaypull)

Intro Music: ⁠⁠⁠linktr.ee/pollypocketmusic⁠⁠

Keywords

comic books, 2026, DC, Marvel, movies, TV shows, video games, collectibles, toys, podcast

Join us for a special 2025 recap episode of "Wednesday Toast," where we dive into the highs and lows of the year in comic book culture. Hosts Wednesday Pull and Sime On Toast reflect on the year's standout moments, from the resurgence of indie comics to the latest in superhero cinema. Tune in for candid discussions, personal insights, and a look ahead at what's to come in the world of comics and beyond. Don't miss this engaging wrap-up of a year filled with surprises and nostalgia!

Takeaways

• 2025 was the year of indie comics, capturing the attention of fans.
• Superhero movies continued to dominate, with mixed reviews from audiences.
• Hosts reflect on personal highlights and challenges faced throughout the year.
• The episode discusses the impact of social media on comic book fandom.
• Listeners are encouraged to share their own 2025 highlights with the hosts.
• The hosts express excitement for upcoming comic book releases in 2026.
• Discussion on the evolution of comic book art styles over the years.
• The episode touches on the role of nostalgia in comic book culture.
• Hosts share their favorite comic book moments of 2025.
• The episode concludes with a hopeful outlook for the future of comics.

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing the episode with a friend. You can also support us directly Patreon.

Connect With Us:

Instagram, TikTok, Threads: @wednesdaytoast

Twitter/X: @wednesday_toast

Email:

⁠askwednesdaytoast@gmail.com⁠

Episode Description:

Welcome back to Wednesday Toast! After a brief hiatus, hosts Lex and Simon return to dive deep into one of the most talked-about comic books of the year: the Absolute Batman Annual by the brilliant Daniel Warren Johnson (DWJ).

In this episode, we share personal updates on our return to the podcast and immediately jump into the intense online debate this new issue has sparked. We analyze the themes of violence in comics and why the creative choices in the Absolute Batman Annual have led to such extreme social media reactions and widespread misinterpretations.

• The Batman Symbol: We explore what Batman represents in modern societal discussions and the complex, blurred lines between good and evil that this story brings to the forefront.

• Fandom's Dark Side: The conversation confronts the reality of modern fandom culture, discussing how the amplification of extreme viewpoints on social media leads to toxic behavior and unwarranted hate.

• Storytelling & Truth: Ultimately, we emphasize the power of storytelling to confront uncomfortable truths and the vital importance of engaging in healthy discourse, even when facing opposing opinions.

Don't miss this crucial discussion on art, controversy, and the chaotic nature of online interactions.

---

Key Takeaways

• Podcast Relaunch: Lex and Simon are back after a hiatus with personal updates.

• Absolute Batman Annual (DWJ) Deep Dive: Analyzing the controversial new comic book issue.

• The Violence Debate: Discussing the misinterpretations and public reactions to the portrayal of violence in the story.

• Social Media Toxicity: Examining how social media amplifies extreme reactions and fandom hate.

• Good vs. Evil: Exploring Batman as a complex symbol and the nature of moral ambiguity in storytelling.

---

Highlighted Sound Bites

• "Batman doesn't kill, but..."

• "It's a knee-jerk reaction [on social media]."

• "These are bad people."

---

Chapters (Timestamps)

• 00:00 Welcome Back to Wednesday Toast

• 02:46 Life Updates and Podcast Hiatus

• 04:45 Exploring Absolute Batman Annual

• 11:58 Reactions & Controversies to the New Issue

• 19:37 DC's Choices and the Creative Process Behind the Book

• 24:11 The Violence Debate: Understanding Violence in Comics

• 27:38 The Complexity of Good and Evil in Batman Storytelling

• 33:28 Batman: A Symbol of Fear and Power

• 38:33 Social Media's Impact: Amplifying Discourse and Misinterpretations

• 46:00 Navigating Online Hate, Trolling, and Toxic Fandom

• 51:33 The Impact of Art: Confronting Uncomfortable Truths

• 59:28 The Absurdity of Fandoms and Online Reactions

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing the episode with a friend. You can also support us directly Patreon.

Connect With Us:

Instagram, TikTok, Threads: @wednesdaytoast

Twitter/X: @wednesday_toast

Email:

⁠askwednesdaytoast@gmail.com⁠

Episode Summary:

From the archives! Lex and Simon unpack the emotional depth and narrative ambition of Fantastic Four: Life Story. They break down the series issue by issue, comparing its approach to Spider-Man: Life Story while examining how the Fantastic Four evolve across decades of real-world events. From the pacing and art style to the inner struggles of characters like Reed Richards and Ben Grimm, the hosts explore the storytelling choices that shape this modern Marvel retelling.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Marvel’s First Family or new to the series, this episode offers sharp insight into the comic’s structure, emotional weight, and what it says about the legacy of superhero storytelling.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Allergies

02:58 Trade Review and Comic Book Opinions

05:03 Fantastic Four Life Story Overview

07:50 Character Development and Storytelling

10:19 Pacing and Art Style Discussion

12:53 Social Issues and Real-World Context

15:38 Character Relationships and Dynamics

18:25 Plot Developments and Future Implications

20:31 Character Arcs and Emotional Moments

23:10 Johnny Storm's Journey and Themes

25:37 Conclusion and Future Issues

39:35 The Scientist's Plan and the Castle's Secrets

40:31 Fantastic Four Life Story: Love and Loss

41:48 Unity in the Face of Galactus

44:13 Ben Grimm's Inner Turmoil and Proposal

49:04 Galactus Arrives: The Moment of Truth

53:51 Reed's Guilt and the End of the World

58:34 The Finale: Dr. Doom's Conquest

01:04:03 Reflections on the Journey and the Future

01:16:10 Podcast Outro

Takeaways:

The episode begins with a lighthearted trade review

The hosts express excitement for Fantastic Four: Life Story

Real-world context adds weight to the comic’s themes

Character development is central to the Fantastic Four’s dynamic

Pacing issues are discussed, with some arcs feeling rushed

Dr. Doom’s role is a highlight with strong narrative presence

The art style contributes to the tone and overall impact

Memorable moments and favorite issues are shared

Comparisons to Spider-Man: Life Story provide deeper analysis

The series opens conversation about the future of the Fantastic Four

Notable Quotes:

"I dug it and I hate that I did."

"This has been my favorite issue."

"This was a very Thing issue."

Keywords:

Fantastic Four, Life Story, comic book review, character development, storytelling, art style, superhero dynamics, Marvel, trade review, podcast

Support the Show:

If you're enjoying Wednesday Toast, leave us a review, share the episode with a friend, or support us directly at [your support link].

Connect With Us:

Instagram, TikTok, Threads: @wednesdaytoast

Twitter/X: @wednesday_toast

Email: askwednesdaytoast@gmail.com

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Wednesday Toast: A Podcast About Comic Book Stuff, Lex and Simon unpack their experiences with collecting action figures and dive deep into James Gunn’s upcoming Superman film. They explore the emotional side of comic book fandom, the evolving DC Universe, and how expectations shape the way audiences experience superhero movies.

They also discuss the importance of cultural representation, character development, and storytelling in comic book adaptations. Whether you're a longtime Superman fan or just trying to keep up with the ever-changing DCU, this episode offers a thoughtful take on where superhero cinema is heading.

Timestamps / Chapters:

• 00:00 - Intro to Comic Collecting
• 02:38 - Feeling Overwhelmed by Action Figures
• 04:33 - Marvel Legends vs. McFarlane Toys
• 08:29 - Collecting as a Personal Experience
• 12:26 - Gifts and Sentimental Value
• 15:59 - Recent Comic Picks
• 19:46 - The Business Side of Toy Collecting
• 23:23 - Artistry in Action Figures
• 28:28 - Superman: A New Hope
• 43:41 - First Thoughts on the New Superman Movie
• 46:07 - Superhero Movie Dynamics
• 49:01 - Expectations vs Reality in Comic Book Films
• 50:34 - Tone in the DC Universe
• 53:59 - Character Arcs and Storytelling
• 56:12 - Supporting Characters Matter
• 59:26 - Casting and Standout Performances
• 1:03:46 - Lex Luthor's Role
• 1:07:57 - New Characters in the DCU
• 1:10:13 - World-Building Through Background Characters
• 1:13:11 - Emotional Payoff and Development
• 1:16:34 - Pacing, Set Design, and Direction
• 1:21:52 - Political Themes and Controversy
• 1:28:16 - The Future of the DCU
• 1:33:45 - Outro

Key Takeaways:

• Action figure collecting is both joyful and overwhelming

• James Gunn’s Superman aims for hope and emotional complexity

• Fan expectations strongly influence how films are received

• Character development is what makes stories last

• Cultural representation adds real depth to superhero films

• Nostalgia is powerful, but new stories need room to grow

• The DC Universe has exciting potential with the right direction

  
  

Notable Quotes:

"I'm a creature of habit."

"I feel overwhelmed by action figures."

"We're talking about Superman."

Keywords:

comic books, Superman, DC Universe, action figures, James Gunn, movie reviews, collectibles, fandom, superhero movies, toy collecting, film analysis, character development, audience expectations, cultural representation, storytelling, movie controversies, cinematic tone

Support the Show:

If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we do, consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing the episode with a friend. You can also support us directly Patreon.

Connect With Us:

Instagram, TikTok, Threads: @wednesdaytoast

Twitter/X: @wednesday_toastEmail: askwednesdaytoast@gmail.com