Unpacking the Power of Power Pack

Episode 1: Power Pack #1

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 11:04:00 -0700

Our inaugural episode! Jeff and Rick begin their podcasting journey by playing around with some recording gear, drinking some beer, and talking about the first issue of Power Pack.

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 2: Power Pack #2

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 12:51:00 -0700

In this episode, Jeff and Rick attempt to break their personal record of the number of podcasts they have produced by doubling their library…..will they succeed? Who knows!! Also, they compare Skeletor to Nixon, determine the morality of babies stealing candy from adults, and some science stuff. And the kids get some snazzy new costumes…..Whoo hoo!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 3: Power Pack #3

Tue, 24 Apr 2018 08:35:00 -0700

In this episode, a discussion about the new game of car tossing makes the demented duo reminisce about an orange car while drinking an IPA. They also talked about a comic book. Jack takes the lead as the Snarks finally succeed in their war against against a small clutch of children. It really is embarrassing how this elite cadre of soldiers keep failing against a group of pre-adult, cosmic powered, untrained humans….CHILDREN POWER! I am not going to get sued for that, am I? Our resident Cowboy Scientist delves into the awesome mystery of clouds while Rick reviews a young adults book from the 1950's.

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 4: Power Pack #4

Sun, 13 May 2018 17:10:00 -0700

With beers in hand, the dungeon dwelling duo join the questing quartet as they search a snark ship for their parents and a way to escape. Will the children be recaptured? Will they argue? Will Katie lose her tooth? Spoiler alert….YES! Jeff and Rick continue to throw caution and accents to the wind as they try to chronicle the Power kids amazing fight in space as they continue to learn about their powers. Additionally, you will be treated to fantastic bonus content featuring a day in the life of a Snark! How awesome is that? Spoiler alert….VERY!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cyborg Ninja by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3577-cyborg-ninja
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 5: Power Pack #5

Sun, 27 May 2018 13:21:00 -0700

A young lad goes on a quest through the magic world of Hyrule….wait….this is Power Pack, not Legend of Zelda. In that case, let us tell you the story of the Power family, now back on Earth, after being kidnapped by Aliens. Their house is destroyed, their mental facilities are in questionable shape, a psychopath is after them...and they have lost their only chair. How is the family able to go on? Additionally, we say things to each other to make ourselves laugh and prepare ourselves for the inevitable cease and desist from Nintendo!!!! COSTUMES ON!!!!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Call to Adventure by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3470-call-to-adventure
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Overworld by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4189-overworld
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 6: Power Pack #6

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 12:45:00 -0700

What do you get when you mix four young superheroes, Spider-man, a synthetic dragon, a couple of mutated runaway teens, a kidnapped professor, and a variety of opportunities to sing?….a cacophony of chaos. Jeff and Rick try to keep up with the powered up pre-teens as they hop around New York chasing adventure. And, through the use of various bad analogies and singing, the boys prevail. Jeff even tries his hand at Broadway. He begins by serenading a beer, and finishes by challenging Lin-Manuel Miranda to a rap battle. It does not go well. Also, you can use egg whites for casts and flamethrowers are cool…..This is why we are here!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Video Dungeon Crawl by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4584-video-dungeon-crawl
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Overworld by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4189-overworld
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 7: Power Pack #7

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 18:12:00 -0700

Featuring the caped darkness of Cloak and the impossibly costumed Dagger. The dynamic duo join the kids, fresh off their first half-day at their new school, to try and do some superhero stuff. Since they are underage and in a new city and are still figuring out how to do this heroing thing, I am sure everything will turn out all right…..Hang on….getting handed a message….Nope...it all goes terribly wrong. But never fear, with beer in hand and some knowledge about fire retardants, Jeff and Rick are here to save the day. Let the sound effects commence!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Crisis by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3561-crisis
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Anguish by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3373-anguish
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Penumbra by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4203-penumbra
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 8: Power Pack #8

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 19:00:00 -0700

The final issue of the Dragon Man/Cloak and Dagger arc….Hooray! The children were left in a perilous position in the final pages of last issue. There is drugs, robots, fighting, and dancing. So many questions were asked, but probably none of them were like this. What beer will see the talkative twosome of Jeff and Rick through these pages? What crazy concepts and witty words will be dreamed up by the Power children? What silly songs will escape the confines of Jeff’s beard? Tune in to another exquisite episode of our family friendly podcast to find out. Featured in this episode are shout outs to: The Cardboard Kingdom ( @TheCardboardK ), Stumptown ( @ruckawriter ), and Resurrections Podcast ( @AdamThanosPod). And you can now support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent.

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

8bit Dungeon Boss by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3330-8bit-dungeon-boss
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 9: Power Pack #9

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 10:00:00 -0700

It is time for a new arc and a new adventure! The Power children are taken to the aquarium for a pleasant afternoon with their grandpa. Too bad there is a GIANT ALIEN SNAKE that spoils their good time. Man, I hate it when that happens. It reminds me of this one time, at work, I was having this fantastic nap, and my boss woke me up to tell me I was snoring too loud. Man, what a jerk…..what was I talking about? Anyway, Jeff and Rick get ready to rumble with a reptile in the latest installment of our (yet to be) award winning podcast. Join us! Rate us! Love Us! And support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. Featured in this episode are shout outs to: Star Scouts ( @MikeLawillustra), Alphabet Flight Podcast ( @alphaflightpod ), Jay and Miles Xplain the X-Men ( @XPlaintheXmen) and Marvel’s Secret Wars and Beyond podcast ( @Sean42AZ )

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Complex by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4488-the-complex
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Future Gladiator by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3793-future-gladiator
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 10: Power Pack #10

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 10:23:00 -0700

We made it to Episode 10, get outta here. You know how you should celebrate, support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. Or just listen to the show. Seriously, that makes us happy too. And if you do listen to the show, you get to find out how they solve the snake situation as the plucky Power Pack pints team up with Marrina and Friday to go on an incredible sea adventure. Grab your flippers and deep sea masks, cause we are going for some deep dives. We may also talk about dogs, ukes, dolphins, and GI Joe. And Rick fails to correctly identify the Arctic from the Antarctic, so we can tease him about that for a while…that should be good for a laugh. Now to miss quote LL Cool J in Deepest, Bluest Gee..."My Gee is like a Sharks Fin." Featured in this episode are shout outs to: GeoGearHeads ( @Geogearheads ), Alphabet Flight Podcast ( @alphaflightpod ), Titan up the Defense ( @ttwasteland_ ).

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Winner Winner! by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4630-winner-winner-
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 11: Power Pack #11

Sun, 19 Aug 2018 17:15:00 -0700

In this episode, Tone Deaf Rick and Pom Pom Jeff follow the kids as they dive to new depths, in the sewers? What, wait…that cannot be safe. And it is not. But they have to throw away their safety, sanity, and sense of smell in order to save a kitten……seriously…a kitten…they are like, so much better than me, which is a really low bar. Anyway. You should support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent so we can save more kittens from sewers. Do you want to hear us talk about a really cool book from the 70’s written by David Macaulay called Underground? Do you want to hear us talk like a copper with a bad accent? Do you want to hear Rick sing……Ok...nobody wants that, but you should listen anyway! Featured in this episode are shout outs to: Underground (https://www.scholastic.com/teachers/books/underground-by-david-macaulay/) and Secret Wars and Beyond podcast ( @Sean42AZ ) & ( @garaujo1). Oh…Support your local library!!!!

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

RetroFuture Clean by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4277-retrofuture-clean
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ritual by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4293-ritual
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 12: June Brigman Interview

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 09:18:00 -0700

Our first interview!!! And it is with June Brigman!!! And it was sooooo cool!! Join us for this very special episode as we get the amazing opportunity to speak with the co-creator and first artist of Power Pack. June was kind enough to answer questions about how she got her start as an artist, her start into comics, and her start on Power Pack. My daughter also helps us get June to open up about important questions, like what Jack’s voice sounds like, how long Julies rainbow lasts, how adorable is Katie, and the number of animals June lives with. Seriously, it is adorable. And why are we talking about cats again….this is like the second episode in a row. Well, it probably won’t continue Make sure you check out June’s gallery (http://www.artwanted.com/artist.cfm?ArtID=1321), her work on the daily comic strip Mary Worth (http://maryworthcomics.com/), and her upcoming comic book Captain Ginger (http://www.comicsahoy.com/series/captain-ginger). Also, shout outs to the people we mentioned in this episode: Ahoy Comics Ahoy Comics ( @AhoyComicMags ), Jay and Miles Xplain the X-Men ( @XPlaintheXmen ) and Nicole Chung ( @nicole_soojung ). And don’t forget to support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 13: Power Pack #12

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 09:53:00 -0700

Don’t be sad, we are back with a brand new episode of Power Pack!! And, as Jeff so eloquently(?) sings, we are back in the sewers again! On the hunt for their lost backpacks, the team of pre-teens head into the dark...and meet a mess of mutants! That’s right, they are in the Morlock tunnels. Hopefully a couple of X-Men can get them out of this scrape. Along the way, we discuss depression and electricity….not at the same time. This episode, does not suck....but I may be biased! And if you think there are too many song parodies, blame the Irredeemable Shagg ( @onceuponageek ) for this fine mess. Additional shout outs include: Secret Wars and Beyond ( @Sean42AZ ) & ( @garaujo1), Titan up the Defense ( @ttwasteland_ ), and WMQ Comics ( @wmqcomics ). And don’t forget to grab your cat and support us on Patreon,https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 14: The Uncanny X-Men #195

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 10:46:00 -0700

Crossover Time! X-cellent! Jeff and Rick sit down with an X-pensive beer and X-amine an X-cellent X-Men X-travaganza. That’s right, Power Pack is hiding behind a weird teal covered book. The Power Kids embark on their darkest adventure yet...yeah, this ain’t no kiddy book. Make sure you check out Jay and Miles Xplain the X-Men, Episode 41 “Hated and Feared” (https://www.xplainthexmen.com/2015/01/41-hated-and-feared/) for their take on this issue of X-Men. Featured in this episode are shout outs to: Jay & Miles XPlain the X-Men( @XPlaintheXmen ), Smash Fiction (@SmashFicPodcast ) and a BIG SHOUT OUT to Hub at Titan Up the Defense for his contribution ( @ttwasteland_ )

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 15: Power Pack #13

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 10:34:00 -0700

There comes a time, in every podcast’s life, where a guest host appears…..this is that time! Jeff and Rick are joined by one of the rowdy boys of the Secret Wars and Beyond podcast. Sean joins the dysfunctional duo to down some drinks and discuss some dugouts as Power Pack goes to Shea Stadium. They are out at the ballpark to take in a professional baseball game with their granpa….what trouble could they possibly get into…….I am being handed a note….this says that they could get into a lot of trouble. But never fear…with three hosts and a ton of silliness...and a slightly longer episode....you get the enjoyment of a grand slam home run. Thanks once again to Sean from Secret Wars and Beyond ( @Sean42AZ ) for joining us on this episode. Be sure to check out his wonderful podcasts. http://secretwars.libsyn.com/ And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Spacial Winds by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3883-spacial-winds
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Overworld by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4189-overworld
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 16: Power Pack #14

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 08:49:00 -0700

The Power Pack Podcast is Rollin On!! Every caped crime fighter has their nemesis. Batman/Joker, Spiderman/Green Goblin, Ronald McDonold/Hamburgler… So it is for Power Pack. That’s right, Carmody is back and he has his own power suit to hunt down those adventurous adolescents. But, will his new suit be enough to capture the kids, or did he dive to the depths of the dollar bin for his duds? Spoiler….he has 99 problems and the dollar bin is one of them…. That is not all of the drama in this issue. Julie, in the face of a math test she has not studied for, is being pressured to …...CHEAT!!! Will she do it? Will she take answers unearned? Will she sully her good name or will she rat out her classmates? These are all fine questions that will probably be answered in this weeks installment of Unpacking the Power of Power Pack! Big, huge, heartfelt shout out to Tim Price ( @timprice17 )! You are a truly dedicated fan to not only our show, but to many other podcasts as well. Thank you for your gift. Also, in podcast mentions to And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Batty McFaddin by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3427-batty-mcfaddin
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 16.666: Mephisto vs The Fantastic Four #1

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 21:30:00 -0700

Wait….What is going on? Mephisto has taken over our Power Pack podcast and is forcing us to review one of the issues of his strange “Mephisto vs” from the 1980’s! What madness! How can Jeff and Rick survive this Halloween terror? Never fear true believer! Greg from Secret Wars and Beyond ( @garaujo1 ) has been sent to FWOOSH with the Power Pack Pals. Also, since this is a crossover event, Mephisto has left a breadcrumb trail of tortured souls for the listeners to follow. Be sure to check out these other podcasts to complete this insanity. Unpacking the Power of Power: Mephisto vs The Fantastic Four Secret Wars and Beyond: Mephisto vs The X-Factor Resurrections- An Adam Warlock and Thanos Podcast: Mephisto vs The X-Men Married With Comics: Mephisto vs The Avengers

Episode 17: Thor 357 and Fantastic Four 282

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 10:50:00 -0800

Two!!!! Two comics for the price of one podcast! What a deal! We are doing something a little different this week, covering parts of two comics featuring Power Pack. Thor 357 and Fantastic Four 282. We examine one page from Thor where our powered up pint sized people have a chance encounter with the Warriors Three. Then, in Fantastic Four, our Fabulous Family of Four find themselves in a fevered fantasy of Franklin Richards. Along the way we somehow go down rabbit holes of the Monster at the End of this Book, Shakespeare, and beer…..well, you know we were going to talk about beer….that was a given. We also somehow tie in the War Rocket Ajax podcast ( @TheMattDWilson and @theisb ) and THOR: The Lightning and the Storm ( @thelightningand )

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Shiny Tech by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4347-shiny-tech

License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 18: Power Pack #15

Sun, 25 Nov 2018 08:28:00 -0800

Part two of the “Oh No! Julie got in trouble!” story arc. What would you do if you were accused of cheating on a math test? If you said ‘Runaway to Asgard’, then you win our fabulous prize: An unscheduled appearance of Beta Ray Bill and the Warriors Three. But, due to budget constraints, we can only show you Horse Thor for one page. Thanks for playing, we hope you enjoy your prize! The good news is that we are drinking a pretty good beer, and we get to see Volstagg shot in the tuckus with some darts. Jeff also gets to mock Rick who has a head cold. Does this sound like a fun episode or what? And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Chipper Doodle v2 by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3500-chipper-doodle-v2
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 19: Power Pack #16

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 10:35:00 -0800

And, as it was written, so it is. FRANKLIN POWER IS IN DA HOUSE!!!! That is right true believers, the fantastic Franklin from the Fantastic Four finally found the family of four! And it is a good thing he did, because he has a message for them. A great green booger head is coming from space to kill them! And there is a pony boy coming too! Gadzooks, how will this podcasting duo handle this potentially team increasing issue? (Hint, probably with a beer) Join us for this exciting adventure as we turn a page in the history of this amazing family, and help us figure out the bigger question….what is up with Katie? And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Take Me Out to the Ballgame by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3413-take-me-out-to-the-ballgame
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 20: Power Pack #17

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 08:36:00 -0800

We last left our heroes being vacuumed off of the Statue of Liberty's crown. How will they get out of this mess? And will Katie stop being a brat? And what is a bubble? If you want to know the answers to these questions, and if you want to laugh while answering them, then check out our newest episode. But while you are laughing, also take a moment to stop and respectfully wave goodbye to June Brigman. This is the final book of the main series that she illustrates. She was one of the co-creators, and deserves a lot of credit for really establishing their look. And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

“MASK: Theme Song”, MIDI version by SelfDestructBoy, who granted permission for its use.
Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 21: Power Pack #18

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 16:30:00 -0800

Good news and bad news time kids. The good news is that we have another excellent edition of our (soon to be) award winning podcast. The bad news is that this is a Secret Wars II tie in episode. The other good news is that the comic is still really really good despite being tied to an inferior product. The other bad news is that The Beyonder makes an appearance and something really bad happens to a member of the Power family. The other other good news is that the cover is done by Walt Simonson……. Jeff has just handed me an editing note telling me to knock off the good/bad news schtick…...that would be the other bad news. Additionally, we talk about Kipling, the new She-Ra being amazing, the benefits of revenge, live in teleporting house guests, and the worst way to drink a tire fire masquerading as a beer. All this and more!!!! Also, please check out Sean ( @Sean42AZ ) and Greg’s ( @garaujo1 ) excellent Secret Wars and Beyond podcast to learn more about Secret Wars II. http://secretwars.libsyn.com/-marvels-secret-wars-beyond-season-2-episode-6 And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Crunk Knight by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3566-crunk-knight
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 22: Thor #363

Sun, 20 Jan 2019 12:34:00 -0800

I hate to tell you guys…..but we've got one more issue with the Beyonder. And he doesn’t even have the decency to drive around his friend's dad’s Ferrari or go to an art museum. But, we also get two Thor’s…. Which is only fitting because it is a Thor book. Walt Simonson invites over Power Pack to play in his sandbox as Thor and Beta Ray Bill battle the Beyonder for all of the hammers. Jeff and Rick discuss many Asgardian topics, especially around what type of Santa costume Thor would wear. This is more important than you would think. Would it be more piraty or more Scandinavian? These are the questions that keep Thor up at night. The important thing to remember, the life lesson we should all take from this experience, is that you should always ask for help when battling an overpowered godlike being.....and to be careful when chewing bubble gum. Also, please check out Sean ( @Sean42AZ ) and Greg’s ( @garaujo1 ) excellent Secret Wars and Beyond podcast to learn more about Secret Wars II and to hear Rick talk with them about this issue. http://secretwars.libsyn.com/-marvels-secret-wars-beyond-season-2-episode-6 And also check out The Lightning and the Storm podcast for more Thor action. Specifically episode 8: Of Frogs and Men. https://www.thelightningandthestorm.com/2017/06/episode-8-of-frogs-and-men/ And don’t forget to support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Go Cart by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3813-go-cart
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 23: Power Pack #19

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 08:56:00 -0800

If you only listen to one episode of our podcast this month, then first, shame on you, and second it should be this one!!!! So call a friend and tell them!!!! Here it is, the double sized infamous Thanksgiving issue! That’s right! This is the one with the insane meal that includes Beta Ray Bill, Wolverine, Leech, Cloak and Dagger, AND MORE!!! It also has errant balloons and angry lizards! YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO LISTEN TO THIS!!! DO IT!!!! Or we will stick you in a box, like Leech!!!! Seriously, this is one of the most iconic issues of this series. And it is a beautiful book and a great story. It also includes balloons...and everybody likes balloons. Except Wolverine. So listen to this episode! And don't forget to tie your shoes! Also, please check out Sean ( @Sean42AZ ) and Greg’s ( @garaujo1 ) excellent Secret Wars and Beyond podcast to learn more about Secret Wars II and to hear Rick talk with them about this issue. http://secretwars.libsyn.com/-marvels-secret-wars-beyond-season-2-episode-6 You can support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Episode 24: Power Pack #20

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 08:26:00 -0800

You know what a comic book about super-powered kids needs….No....not babies, more super-super powered kids!!! That’s right. This week we have got the New Mutants stopping by for a visit. And since that book about the teenage pre-X-Men team is known for cheery, bright, and happy stories, I am sure nothing bad will happen while they guest star…..hold on, just getting something handed to me… Ahh..demons, death, Manhattan sucked into Limbo, Katie kidnapped…..sigh. Well, at least we know there will be some beer to get us through the bad night at the hospital. At least they don’t have to mention the Beyonder this time…….I have just been handed another piece of paper...oh are you kidding me? So get ready and turn on some bright lights, pull Santa out of the street, and smoke em if you got em, cause it is gonna be a dark and stormy night! Don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Episode 25: The Uncanny X-Men #205

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 09:52:00 -0800

We are back in the pages of X-Men for this amazing Katie and Wolverine adventure. Uncanny X-Men #205 is an amazing and dark issue that features body horror, cyborgs, sacrificing humanity, torture, violence, death and, our favorite, REVENGE!. Of course you want to have a kidnapped five year old on hand for these shenanigans. Join us for this dive into an amazing issue, as we just gush over the awesome art by Barry Windsor Smith. Helping us out with this is Rick’s good friend TJ. A a lifelong comic book fan who continually put Rick in dangerous or unsafe situations when they were children, he was a good resource to talk to about this book. There are many lessons to take from this book. Lessons like don't sell your soul,keep your fluids inside your body, always bring a sparkler to a knife fight, and always bring a buddy when you head out into the snow! Be sure to check out the Jay & Miles XPlain the X-Men episode 55, How Nightcrawler Got His Groove Back. ( https://www.xplainthexmen.com/2015/05/55-how-nightcrawler-got-his-groove-back/ ) Don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Episode 26: Power Pack #21

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 08:26:00 -0700

Oh, a wiseguy….huh!!!! Half of Power Pack finds themselves mixed up in a kidnapping plot of Katie’s favorite author….and the bad guys are two thirds of the Stooges…..I swear to some deity that I am not making this up. Yup, it is the Great Goo-Gam Treasure Hunt! We have instructions for escaping trunks, really bad impressions, a new microphone, an exotic beer, and a web-head cameo….cause why not. Things are happening in the Jeff and Rick Production office! We have the next two episodes recorded, and they are both very….very special, so be sure you are ready to listen to some great upcoming content. And also be sure to visit us on our website to see some pictures from this comic. https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/ Don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Episode 26.5: BONUS EPISODE - Power Pack V3 #1

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 09:29:00 -0700

Our first full length Patreon Episode. And all thanks to the lovely people who donated to us. Thank you so much for your help, assistance, and patience. We will try to upload one of these a month, in between our regular programming. These Patreon episodes will focus on the all ages mini-series that started showing up in 2005. They are a lot of fun, but different than the regular continuity, and so we have changed some of the format. In this alternate universe setting, we find slightly older Power kids still figuring things out after getting their powers over the prior summer. And right now their biggest worry is Katie outing them as she uses their origin story as a school report. Marc Sumerak and Gurihiru bring us some truly entertaining stories in an all ages telling of Power Pack!! Make sure to come back next week for our interview with Marc Sumerak! And if you like this story, you can hear more by supporting us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent.

Episode 27: Marc Sumerak Interview

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 08:08:00 -0700

This week, we are pleased to present a fantastic interview with Marc Sumerak. This gentleman has an amazing list of writing credits, but we are only really interested in his work on Power Pack. Marc is responsible for bringing back the quartet of cool for the mini-series starting in 2005. This successful series pushed Marvel to develop a total of 11, four issue mini-series. During the interview, we had a wonderful opportunity to ask questions about the choices made to age up the characters, redefining their personalities, super hero tropes, and how he developed the overall feel of the mini-series. We also laid the foundation for a new podcast idea (TM) as Marc joins us in pairing cheeses with the Marvel Universe. Marc’s clear and fun writing style and love of the characters and property show in these books. We have been reviewing theses series as bonus content for our Patreons, but we highly recommend everybody read them. They are available as part of the Marvel Unlimited subscription. If you would like to find out more about Marc and his other books, please check out his website. http://sumerak.com/ And if you would like to hear us review his Power Pack comics, support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers.

Episode 28: Louise ”Weezie” Simonson Interview

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 07:36:00 -0700

You read that correctly, Weezie Simonson is on our show this week!!! The co-creator and main writer of Power Pack agreed to join us for a long and rambling conversation about Power Pack. And we do eventually get around to talking about our pint sized super powered team. But first, we have to handle some important questions about food, wine, and beer. And we asked her the story behind these pictures! Weezie’s love of literature, and her adventurous youth have factored into her creations, and she gladly shared stories about her creative process. We discuss how she began her comic career, and how she developed her idea into an actual comic with June Brigman. We also make her laugh, which I cannot help but think is the most important sentence of this paragraph. We may sound like rambling and blithering fan boys, but that's because we are. A year ago, we never imagined we would be in a place where we would be talking to one of the great comic book writers. And we are immensely grateful to her, and the Power Pack fans who support us. We hope that you enjoy our talk with her. Make sure you check out our web page, https://wordpress.com/post/jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/686. And don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

Special Announcement

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 08:55:46 -0700

We are changing our podcast hosting site. Hopefully this will not affect your listening, but you never know. Please be patient while we figure this all out.

Episode 29: Power Pack #22

Sun, 28 Apr 2019 07:54:53 -0700

I bet you forgot that we are not an interview show….we certainly did. Lucky for you, we eventually remembered that we are a baking show!!

Nope….that is not right….Are we a winter sports show?

Does not feel accurate! Oh, we are a show that talks about haunted houses and ghosts!h

"NO YOU IDIOTIC HATCHLINGS! THIS IS A SNARK SHOW!"

Close....we are a Power Pack show. And in this issue, we have the prelude to the Snark Wars. Before that storyline can start, we decided to let the kids play in the snow. What could possibly go wrong?

Oh, yeah...Alex can behave like a possessive jerk and get into a brawl with another kid. That seems about right.

But at least they can trust Jarvis!

Just sit back, have a nice bath,

....And wait for a nice girl to propose to you while listening to our podcast!

Don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005. And also be sure to visit us on our website to see some pictures from this comic. https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/

Episode 30: Power Pack #23

Sun, 12 May 2019 09:32:05 -0700

Do you ever wake up and realize that life is just not going your way.... You were taking a nice nap, frozen in the ice, and then you get yanked back into the real world...

Yeah, I just got back from vacation, and I realized that I had not prepped this synopsis. And that just makes me cranky. Kinda like this.

Ya see, when the Fantastic Four vacation, they do not mess around. They pack everything. And they have to, I mean, how else can they show their powers.

Power Pack just packs Jack.

Ok, time to get serious. The kids have been kidnapped and are being forced to find the hidden and frozen Jakal, and then are flown across the universe. I wonder how they feel about this, wonder if they will fight?

Oh yeah....they will fight. Yes...They will fight. They will also escape, but find them selves on Snarkworld.

But I am sure everything will turn out fine. Nothing bad will happen to anyone.

Beyond this awesome story, I would also like to point your attention to one of our fans, Gibson, who created this amazing PAWody. He is an artist and writer and does some great work. Please check out his work. https://lloydandthebear.com/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. Right now it is just shirts and other knick-knacks featuring our logo. Eventually we will come up with some more stuff. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Episode 31: Power Pack #24

Sun, 26 May 2019 09:14:28 -0700

I would like to apologize for the low energy in this episode. Rick was not feeling well, so we can just blame it on him.

And it is a shame too, because this is a pretty good issue. Sure, it starts off in a dark cave with Katie drowning in a pool of water, and the other Power kids are still captured, and Franklin runs away from home, and Kofi is shot at……

Hang on…..this sounds horrible! Why would anyone do this to a bunch of kids! I thought this was supposed to be a happy, silly, kids book!?!? What is going on with all of this capturing, torturing, maiming, and war!

Don’t worry folks, low energy Rick or not, this duo of daddies will dust themselves off and deliver you, our listeners, a delightful detailed description of these deeds. So sit back, relax, and listen to the gentle popping of lava bubbles.

And also, check out our website, https://wordpress.com/post/jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/740, to see the panels we selected for our refrigerator gallery.

Episode 32: Power Pack #25

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 09:04:24 -0700

With Special Guest-Star, Kwanza Osajyefo!!

Jeff and Rick are proud to have Kwanza join them for their double-sized, 25th issue special event. We really needed the extra help. We have Jakal brimming with power, Katie brimming with defeat, Maraud brimming with overconfidence and Bhadsha brimming with poison. There is just a lot of brimming going on around here...and we do not like it... OK, we like Katie brimming with power, but not Jakal.

We actually like a lot n this book. This is a fantastic issue with a mess of stuff going on. The writer and artists are swinging for the Snark equivalent of the fences, and they are connecting. Man, I really love to mix my metaphors.

I guess what we are saying is that you really should drag your friends over to listen to this podcast. And if they resist, improvise.

But for now, let me tell you more about our guest. Kwanza is, in his own words,

...a story-maker – cobbling together tales made of little daydreams, memories, and discoveries.

An alchemist of words seeking immortality in scriptures that live on when I am done and dust, but still warm in minds and hearts of sons and daughters I will never know.

I wear hats.

We really could not say it better ourselves. He is a lifelong fan of Power Pack, and is also the writer of a an amazing series of books, Black and Black: America's Sweetheart, both by Black Mask Studios. And he has more coming out, including a title from Humanoids called Ignited with Mark Waid.

Be sure to check out his website: https://kwanzaosajyefo.com/ and be sure to order his books: https://www.blacksuperpower.com/

And also, check out our website, https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/06/09/power-pack-25-power-trip/, to see the panels we selected for our refrigerator gallery.

Episode 33: Power Pack #26

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 09:54:09 -0700

Take me home...old country roads...to the planet...I am from!!!!

There is a reason I do not sing, but I cannot remember why? Anywho, the kids are heading home from their space oddity. And is a good thing too. I mean, the Power Parents are worried, Cloak and Dagger are getting all fidgity…..and the Fantastic Four even noticed….I mean, look, they left a note!

There is not much action in this comic, but that is ok. Instead, we have some really good character beats and moments, and a scene where Jack grabs Dagger. But mostly, this is about families and dads. Which is good, because we got two big daddies bringing you this fantastic Power Pack action. And there is also this moment where Alex seems to have forgotten talking to Katie back in issue number 13....

During the thank you portion of our show, we mentioned Stephen Gray and the really cool Friday 3D printed model he made. If you are interested in trying it out, here is the website where you can download the design. www.thingiverse.com/thing:3643404

Don’t forget to support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

And you can always check out our webpaqe at, www.jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com

Episode 34: Power Pack #27

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 10:11:20 -0700

We have one word for you: SMORELOCKS…… Don’t worry, you will get it later.

Oh….I have more words for you: Miles Stokes from Jay and Miles Xplain the X-Men! ( https://www.xplainthexmen.com/ )

Yes! We have the most awesome and excellent Miles on our show…..because it is about time we did! Ok...to be fair, that may not have worked as well as I wanted it to. Moving on, don’t look back! This episode is the intense Mutant Massacre crossover. While primarily focusing on the mutant X-Titles, the Simonsons decided to bring in their own properties of Thor and Power Pack to witness the horrific death and destruction brought on by the Marauders…..yay? Don't you worry none, there is some fun stuff too...I guess.

And what do our sweet, sweet kids have to endure? Just death, violence, a nearly shirtless Wolverine, and Sabertooth. So grab your galoshes and check your Red Cross Donor card, because it is time to go back in the sewers!

Like always, if you don't want to listen you don't have to...but if you don't, guess what....Jack will hit you....and you would not want that.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/07/07/power-pack-27-whose-power/

We had a listener, Mark Melton, who sent one of his friends pieces of artwork which we have added below. Mark Marianelli is the artists name and this is his website. http://www.6amcomics.com

Check it out!

Episode 35: Jeremy Whitley Interview

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 07:59:39 -0700

We had the amazing opportunity to speak with Jeremy Whitely, the writer of Princeless, My Little Pony, the Unstoppable Wasp, and the upcoming Future Foundation comic which will feature Alex and Julie Power!

Jeremy has an amazing skill with writing all ages comics, specializing in developing solid characters with unique personalities. We had a wonderful time talking to him about his past work and his upcoming series, which comes out August 7, 2019!

According to Marvel Comics:

A BRAND-NEW SERIES STRAIGHT FROM THE PAGES OF FANTASTIC FOUR! When the Richards family is called back to Earth to be the Fantastic Four again, they left behind the Future Foundation — a think tank of the most brilliant young minds in the universe — with one mission: to find the pieces of and rebuild their friend Molecule Man. But that’s proved harder than imagined as this crew of young geniuses, Atlanteans, Mutants, Moloids and androids have run into every problem in the Multiverse. Now, with the leadership of Alex and Julie Power and a little extra firepower from guest professor Yondu Udonta, the team will undergo their most dangerous mission yet — a PRISON BREAK!

Be sure to check out Jeremy's web-page, http://jeremywhitley.com/.

And be sure to check out our web-page: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/07/21/interview-with-jeremy-whitley/

Also, don’t forget support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Episode 36: Power Pack #28

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 08:57:31 -0700

Don't you, forget about me...

I'll be eating breakfast with Hercules...

Good morning campers, and welcome to a new day...well actually it is the same day from the last issue where our awesome adolescents climbed out of the sewers after facing Stephen King levels of horror. Instead of returning home, they have gone to the Avengers Mansion. Why you might ask, 'cause Franklin is sad and wants his parents.

A little light breaking and entering later, with some minor property damage, the kids sit down for flapjacks with some of Earth's mightiest heroes.

So what is in this issue, well holy space junk....we have two clobberin' time sightings!?!? What else do we have? Oh, the Fantastic Four making some fascinating choices while in space.

So check out this episode of our amazing podcast....or else I may have to send Mr. Fantastic out to give you a hug.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/08/04/power-pack-28-the-breakfast-club/

Episode 37: Power Pack #29

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 08:30:07 -0700

With Special Guest-Star, Tim Price!!

We have the fantastic honor to host one of our favorite, and first fans, Tiiiiiiiiim Price! (insert Price is Right sound effects here). Tim, a serial podcast listener, fried chicken eater, and commentator, has been a long time Power Pack fan and a great supporter of our show. He flew in and asked us really nicely if he could cover this episode with us....that should have been a sign.

What to say about this issue...well, first of all, most of what you need to know is on this cover. We have Spidey, Hobgoblin, Alex and Johnny Rival fighting, a gun, and a whole lotta chicken talk. This also kicks off the Alex/Crack story arc, so hang onto your pigeons, 'cause things are about to get serious.

Look, I don't want to ruffle any feathers, but I told you to keep hold of your birds. I am not responsible for all of the aviary accidents around here. Just keep your fowl comments to yourselves. And don't you dare preen in front of me, Mr. Rooster, I will not stand for that. Awww.....have I gone and hurt your little soft and feathery feelings? Does someone need a bowl of chicken noodle soup and a hug? Well pluck up and fly right because these chickens have come home to roost and this poultry won't tell it's own story. The fox is in the hen house, we have counted our eggs before they have hatched and a bird in the stone is worth two bushes........I may have just cracked.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/08/04/power-pack-29-obsession/

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 38: June Brigman & Louise ”Weezie” Simonson Interview

Sat, 31 Aug 2019 22:47:55 -0700

In celebration of the newest addition to Power Pack cannon, Grow Up #1, we are proud to present our interview with June Brigman and Louise Simonson. These two wonderful ladies were gracious enough to join us for an extended talk.

We had the opportunity to talk about a number of topics including Weezie's inspiration for the crack story-line in Power Pack, June's awesome work on Captain Ginger and the changing world of the comics marketplace. We also found out a few surprises......and if you want to know what they are, you are going to have to listen to the episode. Trust me, listen to the episode, you will want to know the surprises.

Of course the majority of conversation was on Power Pack: Grow Up #1.

If you have not read the comic yet, beware:

THERE BE SPOILERS AHEAD!!

You have been warned. Also, we should warn you that this episode contains heaps of praise, a ton of respect, and an Infinity Stone's amount of love.

These two friends and co-workers have worked on many projects together and have nothing but respect for each other. And it was our pleasure to talk to them about this great book.

And in this book....Power Pack is back! The feel and the look of this comic is like falling back in time. So sit back and enjoy a trip down memory lane!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/09/01/interview-with-june-brigman-louise-weezie-simonson/

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 39: The TV Pilot (LIVE)

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 07:40:10 -0700

IT'S A-LIVE!!

Live.....LIVE?....ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!

Yup, we did a live show! It was in front of a small audience of friends at Champoeg State Park, in the middle of a 4 day, semi-annual camping trip we go on. The theme was Sci-Fi/Aliens. We felt that this fit.

It was really wonderful to do this in front of a group of friends. And it was very special to have my daughter join us "on stage"...even though she thought it would be very scary. She did great.

But what could we possibly be talking about? Well, how about the unaired 1991 TV pilot, Power Pack! Yeah....yeah....that is exactly what we did too. Oh boy!

Hey, at least we got to discuss it with our friends and family...and a fan. Jeff Polier came down with his daughter to check out the show. How awesome was that?

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/09/15/power-pack-the-tv-pilot-live/

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 40: Power Pack #30

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 12:36:39 -0700

Issue one of the Crack Saga. This is the issue that Alex begins his crusade against the insidious drug....CRACK! But, how is our blonde boy going to find out about this drug and what it does? Why through his new bestest (and possibly only) friend Johnny Rival and his gang. What a nice group of boys.

I would like to tell you that this is a sunny tale, full of rainbows and unicorns, but there is not one equine looking creature around, and even the rainbow quota is low..which is impressive since one of the team can make rainbows at will.

What we do have is a lot of physical abuse against family members and friends, criminal activities, drug use and, overdosing, and homicide. Remember how this is supposed to be a "kids book?"

But we try to lighten the mood as much as we can, so don't be too sad.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/09/29/power-pack-30-crack-up/

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

During the episode, we referenced a fantastic article written by Osvaldo Oyola. Here is the link to read it. https://themiddlespaces.com/2015/12/22/power-pack-says-crack-is-wack/

Episode 41: Power Pack #31

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 09:48:09 -0700

All the way from the deep dark stories of cosmic Marvel, we are proud to welcome Al Sedano from the Resurrections- An Adam Warlock and Thanos Podcast. And we welcome him to this weeks edition of the adventures of Furious Boy. He hates drugs, he is a teenager, and he has super powers. Oh Boy....What trouble can he get into now! Short answer....a lot. But luckily he has brought along his family for back up....right....right?

Okay, wait a minute. I am getting confused. Isn't Alex supposed to be on a rage infused, one boy crusade against the evils of crack ever since the brother of his former long time rival, current short time best friend was killed by cops for robbing a grocery store

What, am I boring you now!!?

Well that is just rude!

Okay...in all seriousness, we continue our talk about how Alex has really gone off the deep end. He is sure that he can single handedly rid the world of crack. And he is just not caring who he upsets. And his attitude has a lot to be desired....but at least Jack is wearing a mustache through the whole issue.

We are also proud to provide you with your own recipe for crack, straight from our science corner. We did not know we had the recipe hidden back there, but after we cleaned out all of the rats, we found a lot of interesting stuff. So join us as we try to clear up some of the fog that probably exists after reading these confusing notes

Oh...also there is the super villain (?) team Trash....so yeah.... probably should have mentioned them.

You can find more of Al Sedano's podcasts at this website: https://asedano.podbean.com/, or find him on your favorite podcatcher at Resurrections- An Adam Warlock and Thanos Podcast. You can also find him on Twitter as, @AdamThanosPod.

During the episode, we referenced a fantastic article written by Dr. Osvaldo Oyola. Here is the link to read it. https://themiddlespaces.com/2015/12/22/power-pack-says-crack-is-wack/

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/10/13/power-pack-31-crack-down/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 42: Power Pack #32

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 09:04:18 -0700

As we crack (see what I did there) into this final episode of the Power Pack Crack Saga, we realized we needed help. So, we called a doctor! We are pleased to have Dr. Osvaldo Oyola from The Middle Spaces website. And boy are we glad he is on hand to untangle this comic with us.

This is it, the final issue of the Crack Saga. Alex and his family have finally made it to the top of this food chain. And the powerful pints are powered up on pancakes and ready to to be pugilistic. So we have pancakes, punchy punks, preteen pranks, powered protagonists, and a professor to provide powerful points on these prose, sounds pretty promising, prepare for the punch. Alliteration aside, we really try to get into this new team of Trash and their boss Garbage Man. Do they work, are there problems, and how much hanky-panky will our family show talk about. So hold on tight as we fly through this issue of Power Pack. Please read the article we discussed during this episode that was written by Dr. Osvaldo Oyola. Here is the link to read it. https://themiddlespaces.com/2015/12/22/power-pack-says-crack-is-wack/, and do not get angry about our comments...that is rude.crack

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/10/27/power-pack-32-whos-the-villain/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 42.666: Sandman #18 - A Dream of a Thousand Cats

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 22:52:26 -0700

Remember last year when Mephisto took over our podcasts......well guess what....He is back!!

And this time, Slim Hadey is not messing around! This time he wants to attack us in our dreams. So, he threw us into the Sandman books, and he sent us Sean from the Secret Wars and Beyond podcast to "suffer". He also cursed us with bad audio problems. What a jerk.

No really...that was his master plan. Corrupt us through quality. I really do not think he is playing with a full deck. It is like he is just howling at the moon or something.

Anywho...we are going to talk about cats.....

A lot of cats....

A cemetery full of cats...

And that is about all you need to know about this show....that, and Happy Halloween!

Follow the entire crossover event
"Mephisto vs The Podcasters 2: Electric Boogaloo in Dream Country"
using the links below!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 43: X-Factor Annual #2

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 09:59:33 -0800

Would you believe, we covered another comic, one that just guest stars Power Pack?...And we are not just goofing on Elvis.....

OK, Andy Kaufman allusions aside....let's talk about this inconsequential little Giant-Sized book. I say that because it really does not further any Power Pack story-line...or any real story-line about Franklin Richards. It does not really affect X-Factor, or is at least never referred back to, to my knowledge. So why are we covering this. Why, to make you cry!

Well...Why not? It has the Pack doing some cool stuff, so why not?

Your still crying, aren't you....well, it pads out how many episodes we get to do, which means we have to sometimes bend a bit to make things work.

And the art is intresting.

And it has Lockjaw...so, bonus points!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/11/10/x-factor-annual-2-the-man-in-the-moon/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 44: Power Pack #33

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 09:29:49 -0800

Do you know what one of my favorite mini-series was?

The Fallen Angels from the 1980's. And, it seems appropriate that we are releasing this episodes which features the wrap up of Sunspot and Warlock's adventures with that group.

Ya see, they are kinda on their way home, and they meet up with Power Pack and wackiness ensues.

What kind of wackiness, and how much wackiness......? Well, if we were to tell you that, then you would not listen to the show. And you know you want to listen to it. I mean...Why else would I waste my time writing this?

Wait....Why do I waste my time writing this? Do you read it? Well DO YOU!!!!

OK...I just need to relax and have a soda....or go to bed....or something. Oh yeah, Frank and Spider-Man are in this too.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/11/24/power-pack-33-special-effects/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 45: Power Pack #34

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 10:01:25 -0800

Put down that picket sign and make sure you grab an air horn, 'cause Hub from Titan up the Defense is in DA HOUSE!!!!

You read that correctly dear listener! In our ever growing quest to invite all of the Portland area comic book pod-casters to Rick's house to spill beer on the carpet, we have managed to capture another one!

And if these sentences smell funny to you, that is because we are reviewing a strange little tale. Guest staring... Madcap?!?!

So I am assuming that you have never heard about Madcap, well I am not surprised. He is on the odd side of Marvel villains. He's a little to powerful and crazy for most writers to want to play with. But that will not stop us from hiking up our pants and tackling this nut, and answering the following questions:

Why did those guys just shoot Frank?

Why is Madcap cutting off his fingers?

Why does Four Freedom Plaza look like a Phillips head screwdriver?

Why does the Thing look French?

Why am I am crying?

All I know is that you need to listen to this episode, don't be a L7!

That joke will make sense if you listen to the show.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/12/08/power-pack-34-childs-play/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 46: Power Pack #35

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 09:58:06 -0800

Back before crossovers got out of control, there were simpler and more contained Summer events, such as Fall of the Mutants. Luckily for us, but unlucky for the Power kids, Louise Simonson was writing Power Pack and X-Factor. So guess who gets to play with the adults for an issue!

So what are we talking about here? Well, some yahoo named Apocalypse decided to drive into New York for the evening with some of his buddies.....you know, the Four Horseman. And when they drive in, they drive in in style!

This issue has wonderful art, amazing writing, and some top notch scenes. Plus, it ties in perfectly with X-Factor #25. Seriously, some of the scenes are directly linked. And, this issue has amazing insults!

So don't answer that phone!

Turn on the lights!

And don't be confused!

Just listen to us....and READ THIS BOOK! Or, you may just be sent.....to the NY Transit Tunnels!

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2019/12/08/power-pack-34-childs-play/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 47: Power Pack #36

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 08:48:29 -0800

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 46.

An issue featuring Jon Bogdanove's first crack at writing the kids and the plot line of Franklin Richards as one of the infamous 12!!!! Man, we are going to need some help on this one! We need Matt Matt Lazorwit z from WMQ Comics!

I was sitting around cleaning the bathroom the other day, thinking about how awesome this issue was, and it occurred to me that this really is a game changer for this series. This was the first issue that Jon Bogdonav, normally an artist, wrote. This guy is going to go on to be the main series writer soon.....Mind BLOWN!

I mean, I do not want Louise Simonson to go away, but if we are going to have a new writer, I am glad it will be someone familiar with the series....so, I guess that is a reason to dance. I know what you are saying, why all this random chatter about who the writer will be on the series...blah...blah...blah....Tell us what is in THIS book!

Have you ever thought about me or what I want...have you. Maybe I am putting all of my heart and soul into this. I am not just some giant, robotic killing machine. Is that how you see me....A GIANT KILLING ROBOT! Maybe I am more than that. Maybe I am a fun loving goofy uncle that plays with fire. Maybe I am a deep thinking scientist. Maybe I am a really good cook that likes to share recopies. You don't know....You never ask!

Ok, actually I am just a mean evil robot. I also may just be coming up with random statements to preface random pictures we got from the book. As it is, if you are not reading this on our web page, it will probably not make any sense. Speaking of which, you should check out our web-page. We work really hard on it. We work our poor little hands to the bones just to entertain you, and you never look at our page. It makes me just want to slap you like a fly.

See, I bet that made no sense at all. I bet you just feel underwater with all of these weird non sequitur that I am throwing out. Did that upset you? Do feel angry? Do you want to hit me with a pillow? Do you want to have a pillow fight? WELL COME AT ME BRO!

You thought you were safe in your little playground, just enjoying your podcast, never knowing that there was this evil giant robot writing weird things in show notes...well....now you do! And now that you are are all angry and confrontational, what are you going to do? Might I suggest coming over to our web-page and write us a note about your feelings! Yeah...do that. Just unload on us!

And now that I have said my peace, I think that I will relax by having some nice freshly baked bread....and maybe reread this excellent comic where Franklin sleeps over at the Power Pack house and gets attacked by a giant robot.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/01/05/power-pack-36-the-twelfth/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 48: Power Pack #37

Sun, 19 Jan 2020 09:03:23 -0800

Greetings from the Pack-Men (trademark pending....yeah right)! We are back with another tale of four kids with powers doing that New York thing.....wait a minute, my esteemed partner in chat has just thrown a wadded up piece of paper at my head....oh...yeah....right. I meant to say FIVE kids with powers doing that New York thing.

And we ain't talking about Franklin Power! But what is this New York thing that I am talking about? Honestly, being from the west coast, I have no idea, and it just sounded cool. Also, I really do run out of witty things to say sometimes. Ow....just got hit with another balled up piece of paper. You better stop that Jeff... you would not like me to get angry.

I guess we should talk about this issue a bit. Like I alluded to above, we have a new powered up child. This is Rebbeca Littlehale. She has stars in her eyes and is going places.

No.....seriously! She literally has STARS in her EYES and she is GOING PLACES. I do not just write random things and make jokes based on pictures we chose during our podcast! And again with the paper ball......oh yeah, that is exactly what I do. Still, I am not going to write anything else until Jeff apologizes to me.

Ok...fine...I will write some more. The kids meet and help a young girl who has some truly terrifying powers.

Luckily, these kids have everything under control. I mean, they are Power Pack! The greatest kid team EVER! FIGHT ME!

That is about it for our little synopsis. Pretty simple little story. I guess we just have one thing left to say!

That's right...Costumes Off!

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You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/01/19/power-pack-37-seeing-the-light/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 49: Strange Tales #12 to 14

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 00:30:00 -0800

Now...I know what you are thinking. You are sitting there, reading about this podcast, and wondering if you left your stove on. I do not want you to worry about this, so I will assure you that I have no idea. But in order to distract you even further, we are going to discuss not one, not two, not four...but three....THREE issues. That's a lot of reading!

With so many pages, comes so many characters. One could even say, there are so many characters, that they are falling out of the sky!

Get it?....Oh, never mind. Okay, besides Cloak and Dagger, who are the stars of this serialized story, and Power Pack, who are the reason we are even here, we also have the Punisher. You know, the guy who has guns and drives a Battle Wagon (or a battle van as some other guy on the internet insists on calling it).

We also have a priest, and another guy related to Dagger.....

And we have the Kingpin, who is kinda the shady dude causing the conflict with heroes fighting heroes fighting priests. It is a whole drug and blame thing.

And then we have a hamster.....'nuff said!

Oh, we also talked about my daughter showing a comic she made with her cousin to Todd McFarlane and I Like Comics...but that has nothing to do with Power Pack or this issue....I just like to brag.

[gallery ids="1179,1180" type="rectangular"]

So, I guess that just leaves me with the part of the synopsis where I have to threaten you, the listener/reader to listen to our show. But this time I am going to ask Julie to take on the task. I mean, if she can yell at the Punisher, she can yell at anyone.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/02/02/strange-tales-12-to-14-disorderly-conduct/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 50: Power Pack #38

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 08:40:25 -0800

You better listen to this podcast or I will send a gang of mean (pirate) girls to smack you around and steal your toys!

What....too much?...Fine, I will tone it down a bit. How about if I threaten to send a monster to scare them? Can I do that?

Fine, fine.....this is just a nice little story about Julie having a present stolen and how she got it back. But it is a nice story, and we want you to listen to our funny podcast. What if I told you that you will get a bunch of gifts if you listen?!

What do you mean false advertising?! How do you know that I wasn't going to follow through on this?....They don't know! What do you mean I just told them? Just look at this shiny thing, OK!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/02/16/power-pack-38-little-bo-peep-has-lost-her-sheep/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 51: Power Pack #39

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 08:41:49 -0800

This issue sees the return of old villains and a new friend....I wonder how that combination will work out. I mean, I know that I just said villain and friend, so that insinuates a level of animosity between the two, but you never know...Right?

According to that pictures we posted on our website, it looks like the nice Mr. Boogeyman just caught Rebecca from falling a very great distance. Awwww...and he saved her dog too!

And look, the bag he put her in is protecting her from that chemical cloud! Why did Power Pack not

Probably because they can't even get over a wall. What a disappointing showing for Alex. Why did he fail at such an easy task?

Well...it was probably because he was worn out from carrying Alison's books. Yeah, that can do it. You do not learn this in school, but carrying books actually makes you tired. True fact!

See, Alex should be more like Jack. He should not be carrying book, he should be carrying cars. Building up those car carrying muscles now will save your knees in the future. This is a real fact that I saw on the news!

We also need to talk about that lady that hit Rebecca...who happens to be the same reporter that told me all of these news facts! These can't be true if the reporter hits kids.....Why that is just criminal!!!!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/03/01/power-pack-39-lights-camera-action/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 52: Power Pack #40

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 08:39:11 -0700

When last we left our courageous kids, they had been hit with a couple of major setbacks. First, their friend Rebecca was kidnapped by their mortal enemy, the Boogeyman. Then the boys were grounded because said mortal enemy dropped off some pictures of them hanging out of their apartment window in their civilian clothes. But things could always be worse....I mean, none of Power Pack has turned into a demon queen.

Yeah....that would be worse and harder to explain. No, the family should be happy. They have each other. I mean, as long as they don't tear each other apart.

They also have friends, like the New Mutants! That's right....the other teen team that was kicking around the Marvel Universe at this time. Boy, they can sure make an entrance though.

You know what is tricky about describing these comics through pictures that we chose and talked about a month ago, and then started to set up the page with a gag, and then forgot about it until the night before you are supposed to launch the podcast and the website? That...That is the tricky thing. It is a bit like a kick to the trousers.

I guess there is not much more I can say about this issue except that it features two teams of kids that Louise Simonson loved to write about during the 80's. And that is pretty cool. It makes you wanna fly high in the sky, being all nigh invulnerable and stuff.

Because we launch on Sunday's, and because the next picture I show is the parents getting all dressed up, I guess I should tell you that it is time to put on your Sunday best and listen to our podcast. But you are such great listeners, I really do not want to tell you what to wear while listening to us. Except clown shoes....no clown shoes.

We do have great listeners and fans. We wish we could shake every one of your hands. Unfortunately, our fat stacks of money have not yet rolled in, so we cannot fly out to each and every one of your houses. If we did, I am sure Jeff would give you a kiss. (Except not because of social distancing....actually the flying thing sounds frightening right now)

And speaking of thanks, a BIG final thanks to Hoover Jeremiah for an amazing gift. This is truly a thing of beauty (the poster, not Jeff and Rick). Thank you so much.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/03/15/power-pack-40-fire-with-fire/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Pinball Spring 160 by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4217-pinball-spring-160
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 53: Marvel Fanfare #55

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 08:06:11 -0700

We love to draw outside the lines...or at least read other books featuring Power Pack. That made sense, right? OK, another question for you....does this book make sense?

Considering the kids costumes are changed (which happens after Inferno) and Magik is in her pre-Inferno age....I would say that there is a bit of a time warp issue. But that is OK, right? We still got the Power kids we know and love....right?

While this feels like an "After School Special", there are some interesting surprises, things you may not have seen coming. Maybe Jack has started to worship the all mighty nuclear god. While we did expect that to happen, we are just surprised it took this long. The funny thing is that he is not the reason that there is a demonic Asgardian beast attacking Power Pack and friends....

No, this is really all Magik's fault....although it is not...it is just a dangling thread from a really old (and awesome) New Mutants/X-Men tale when they go to Asgard....but I digress.

Long story short, Katie holds a daisy and keeps being mean to Jack. And she rides Warlock like a rocking horse. There are certain words or sentences that you never know you are going to write until you do. This is where I am at right now.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/03/29/marvel-fanfare-55-the-battle-of-p-s-87/

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We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Noise Attack by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4142-noise-attack License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 54: Power Pack #41

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 11:09:09 -0700

We are still here, reading comics and sharing beers. We have made it to Louise Simonson's final appearance as writer of the main series...I will give you all a moment to collect yourselves. For her final story, Weezie is having Alex take on gunrunners and smoking. So let's dive directly into the deep end of the pool, shall we?

Now you may be asking, how does Alex deal with stress? If you are, it is a good question, and we do have an answer. Ya see, he shoves it all into a little ball and puts it into the pit of his stomach. Which is not good. He really should follow Jack's lead and change his hair color every panel. It really helps.

Another way Alex deals with stress is by taking out the garbage. It really does help with calming that which ails you. First, it keeps the house from stinking, and second, it allows you to power up so you can blast bad guys.

We can also point out ways not to deal with stress. First, do not chew on pens. It is not hygienic, and you could accidentally chew off the top, swallow it, and suffocate.

Going back to Alex and good ways of stress management, is cardio. Alex does a lot of running, and that really does help to soothe the soul.

Some people find that going to a gun range and sending a few rounds down range really cools them off. This can be a reasonable release as long as it is done in a safe manner and environment.

And to be clear, an alley way is not a safe environment...and it will make Alex cranky.

So, there are some steps to deal with stress that do not involve tying it up in your stomach. Now, if we can just stop people from being jerks to Power Pack, all would be well.

As promised, here are some of the pictures of the Power Pack figures that Stephen Gray made for his kids. Be jealous that you cannot play with these.

Also, make sure you order your copy of the Power Pack Classic Omnibus Volume 1. We found a good deal at In Stock Trades.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/03/29/marvel-fanfare-55-the-battle-of-p-s-87/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 55: Power Pack #42

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 08:37:42 -0700

Are y'all ready to talk about the first book of this series that my daughter just could not finish? Are you ready to talk about what is the darkest, bloodiest, creepiest issue we have seen in this "kiddie book"? Okay, then buckle up, cause it is time to ignite Inferno!

Usually I go for a funny series of non-sequiturs or stream of conscience thoughts based on the pictures from the book, but we have to take some time to appreciate how Jon Bogdonove and Glynis Oliver just kill this book. They convey the feelings, the smell, the air and the despair with such detail.

We get to see every bit of suffering and torment that is inflicted on the family, not only by the city, but by the Boogeyman.

The disgust and filth, and the families reaction to it all is palpable. You can feel the slime and disgust pouring off the pages. And we get a literal hell on Earth, courtesy of some demons.

We also get to see the final form of Carmody, the Boogeyman. This pathetic former boss of James Power has finally been given his wish, to have the power to crush his nemeses.

He receives this power by sacrificing the only thing he had, his humanity. And it is torn away from him with out his consent.

Do you get how dark this issue is....do you!!!!? Okay then.....now that I have made my point, I will leave you with one moment of levity. Alex falling out of a bed. Laugh...laugh at his misery!

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website:https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/04/26/power-pack-42-revenge-of-the-boogyman/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Road to Hell by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4297-road-to-hell
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 56: Power Pack #43

Sun, 10 May 2020 07:31:10 -0700

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 56.

We have a special guest star this week! You all have asked for her, well here she is!!!! MY DAUGHTER CARRIE!!!

This is a big deal for us, and for her. I mean, when I first asked her if she could do this, her response was pretty impressive. It was like a cartwheel with an explosive word balloon....or she just said sure.

We have had her on one of our Patreon episodes, and when we recorded live in front of our friends, but this was an opportunity for her to really participate. And she did great! But I guess we should talk about the issue she covered.

Yup, in the midst of the Inferno Crossover event with all Limbo breaking loose. I may be a bad parent. Still, this is a great issue, following on the heels of our new top, number one Power Pack pick. We have danger, despair, and.....repair?

I really needed a good D word there, but I was struggling for a moment...Diagnostics! That's a D word that would have worked! Speaking of D words, we have displays of new powers in this book. Julie finally gets that power upgrade that she has been begging her DM for. Hey, cool...another D word.

Maybe we can think of other D words, like Displaying Dangers of Drops, like the kids did to their parents near the end of the book.

Hmm...that is pretty dangerous. Hmmmm, but how about the duo of doofuses demonstrating deaf displays.

Hmmm...I may be off the track here with my D words. And I may just be stretching for time and space. I think it is time for me to go to bed. Hope you all enjoy the show.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/05/10/power-pack-43-the-boogeyman-must-die/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Tempting Secrets by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5005-tempting-secrets
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 57: Power Pack #44

Sun, 24 May 2020 07:29:12 -0700

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 57.

We are in the dark depths of Inferno! Demons have taken over New York City, the kids are fighting to save the city, and the Power parents now know that the kids have powers! Egad!!!

So let's take a look at this demon run New York. Is it really that bad. I mean, sure, there is an increase of out-of-towners, and they are pretty rude. Still, screaming at the kids is just not the right way to go. Even worse than that is when your towns public transportation works against you. That is when you know things have gone really bad. I mean I can understand vacuum cleaners and mailboxes...but evil buses is too much.

Ok...Demon cars are also bad too. But this cannot be what this book is about, can it. I mean, the parents just found out about the kids powers, right? There has to be some fallout from that, right. What about the parents, how are they dealing with all of this?

I guess we can assume things are going badly since the parents are kinda...creepy. Let's just move back to the kids fighting demonic things. What have we got there?

Farting demonic Grandma....ok. I give up. What about the New Mutants, they are in here right.

Ok...wait what? You know....I should just listen to the show. And yes, I had to add a flatulence joke....cause I am a child.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/05/24/power-pack-44-what-price-victory/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Spider's Web by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4406-spider-s-web
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Chucky the Construction Worker by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3506-chucky-the-construction-worker
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 58: Power Pack #45

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 08:51:42 -0700

Big news folks. Not only do we have Carrie back on to help us with this episode, but we have another super special guest as well. The author joined our crazy trio of talkers to answer some questions. Welcome to our show, Julianna Jones!

The daughter of Weezie Simonson and the writer of a few Power Pack comics, Julianna provided us with some great behind the scenes information about how she came up with her stories, and how she ended up writing Power Pack comics.

I promise you, we behaved while we were speaking to her and we did not hit any shuttlecocks at her head.

This is the point where I talk about the pictures we have chosen and included, and somehow tie them into a non sequitur conversation. So here we go. First, after our guest joined us, Jeff dumped a plate of food on his head.

As Carrie and I started to yell at Jeff, that silly boy ran off...making a mess as he went.

Then Jeff took off his pants.

After that, things got really crazy. Somehow, Jeff inverted gravity. We are really not sure how he did this. It was everything that Carrie and I could do to make sure Julianna did not leave. We even had to promise to clean her house. Of course, that was after Jeff started to walk on her walls...ARGHH! At least Jeff did not throw anything at Julianna....that would have been the final straw.

Ok, maybe we were a little bad during the recording, but I think Julianna had some fun.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/06/07/power-pack-45-who-am-i-this-time/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Semi-Funk by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4333-semi-funk
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 59: Marvel Age Annuals #1-3 & Girl Comics #3

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 11:27:54 -0700

We have a special treat for you all this week. We brought in special guest star Zack from the Battle of the Atom podcast and the Xavier Files website. But why would we bring in a such an esteemed mutant expert who knows very little about Power Pack? Well let me tell you dear listener, it is because we are going to talk about baby Cable

Yup, that would be none other than Nathan Christopher Charles Dayspring Askani Summers. The big gun wearing, time displaced, angry techno-cursed boy.....as a baby....

Are we worried? Heck no. We got Power Pack on the case! I mean....Katie even picked up a gun!

And that is only after she nails him some snarks from downtown! I mean she is on fire tonight....well, not really on fire, just energized.

But what about Jack you may say.....What about our favorite little cloud boy? Well, he is just fine...thanks for asking.

But this is all crazy....I mean....these are not their powers. What is going on!!!! Oh wait....that was all just an alternate little story wasn't it. Yeah....this picture looks more todayish. Ok....Moving on.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/06/21/girl-comic-3-the-job-marvel-age-annuals-1-3/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Tempting Secrets by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5005-tempting-secrets
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 60: Power Pack #46

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 09:08:42 -0700

Big Power welcome to our friend, Nicholas Prom from the Comic Reflections podcast and the Captain Freak-Out's Psychedelic Radio. He has also terrorized Rick with old school Legion of Super-hero stories. Nicholas's knowledge of comic creators and comic history is deep and profound...about as much as his love for Dakota North.

During this show, we drank a beer called Private Eyes.....I think there may be something about the eyes in this book.....

We have eyes that are concentrating, and we have eyes that are private.
We have angry little girl eyes.....and this time it is not all Jack's fault.
We have gun-fury filled dark eyes that guide the bullets to their ridiculous location
We have eyes that are ridiculed, upset, and embarrassed.
We have eyes that are scared Goo-Less....and possibly chlorine filled.
And finally, we have eyes that are in love.....aaahhhhh.

I hope you enjoyed our ocular journey through this issue. If not, we leave you with a happy rainbow.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://je https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/07/05/power-pack-46-the-great-goo-gam-rip-off/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Showdown by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4352-showdown
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 61: Power Pack #47

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 07:41:05 -0700

Hold onto your understanding of physics and your library card cause things are about to go 90 degrees with this no holds barred dive into where the costumes go where the kids say "Costumes Off". That is right, it is time for Elsewhere! And you want to know who is really happy about it....Walt and Weezie.....errr I mean Jim and Maggie Power!

I will also tell you who is not happy....Mr Jar Head Alex. Even though this is all his idea....well, the changing around of costumes is... he still is the guy who ends up looking really silly.

But we are getting ahead of ourselves. What we need to do before we go on this great adventure is eat a great breakfast while your father recites poetry....and your mommy drinks.

But let us move on to Elsewhere. What is this magical place where Katie has found herself? What magical adventures await our brave young hero.

Well, for starters, it is drawn and written by the incredible Jon Bogdonove. That right there should tell you this place ROKS! Get it....Roks!!!

Seriously folks. This place has the logic and physics of a four year olds interpretation of an Escher painting. And it is chock full of literary references too. It is a beautiful, if not crazy trip into comic land.

And by the end of the trip, you may be just a little exhausted. Never forget to tuck yourself in and catch a few winks when you can.

Also, this story is nothing more than an excuse to explain why these two panels work. That is it. An entire comic book to explain this one panel.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/07/19/power-pack-47-elsewhere/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Past The Edge by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4997-past-the-edge
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 62: Power Pack and Cloak & Dagger: Shelter From the Storm

Sun, 02 Aug 2020 09:35:30 -0700

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 62.

Hold on to your high tops and get ready for a Blast from the Past, because we are going Back to the Future in our Hot Tub Time Machine. And by that I mean, we are reviewing a book that came out at the same point we are at in our regular series, but it deals with the kids at a point about two years earlier. Man, so glad that we decided to call in Cullen Stapleton from the Worst Comic Podcast Ever to help us out of this wibbly wobbly timey wimey snafu so that we can get back to having an Excellent Adventure.

The kids are all in their original costumes with their original powers, and they have already met and befriended Cloak and Dagger. They also have had Cloak and Dagger over to their home, so let's just say that this takes place after the Thanksgiving episode. Sure. That sounds good. Now we should talk about this issue.

Cloak and Dagger are on hand to provide a McGuffin for the plot to kinda/sorta talk about runaways., Power Pack showing up to help, and characters having nightmares.

And all of this leads up to a giant pedophilia purple people eater showing up to be the big bad in the final act. Good times.

The book features some questionable story beats and interesting artistic choices that leave our team really scratching our heads. But at least Dagger gets to try and steal a baby, so that's cool.

This issue does allow Cloak an opportunity to get out from Daggers shadow....see what I did there? Unfortunately, it emphasizes his dependence on her as well, which could have made a more interesting story arc.

It is nice to see Cloak enjoying his work, you don't often see that in today's world.

One final thought: When in doubt, mock the way someone else is dressed, because it always pays to be catty.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 62 Our theme music is "Eighties Action". Also featured in this episode is "Disquiet ". All music is by Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com, and is licensed under Creative Commons. By Attribution 4.0 License
Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Disquiet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3659-disquiet License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 63: Jon Bogdonove Interview

Sun, 16 Aug 2020 00:10:21 -0700

A fan can be described as a collector of objects or things. By that token, you could call Jeff and Rick fans of Power Pack. And what better things can we collect but interviews with the creators that have made the series what it is. In the past this has included the two original creators, Louise Simonson and June Brigman, as well as some of the more recent caretakers of the series, Mark Sumerak and Jeremy Whitley. To be true collectors, we really needed to get one more.

It was such an honor to sit down with someone who we admire and respect to talk about comics. It was also an amazing experience to instantly lose control of our interview by having the guest interview us about our families. What began as an interview with a solid list of questions, quickly turned into a chat between three guys about anything and everything.

Who is Jon Bogdonove? He is a husband and father who will talk to you about how amazing his son is, and how much he loves his wife. He is a fan boy that lucked out and fell into doing works that he loves. He is a friend and student to some of the greatest comic legends the world has seen. He is a great story teller.

Jon also is someone who has nothing but respect and love for Weezie and Walt Simonson. And if you want to find out why, you should probably listen to our episode.

You can also check out the art we talk about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/08/16/interview-with-jon-bogdanove/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 63 Our theme music is "Eighties Action". All music is by Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com, and is licensed under Creative Commons. By Attribution 4.0 License Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 63.5: Jon Bogdonove Interview Part 2

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 09:37:33 -0700

We had sooooo much content left over from our first interview, we had to share it with our listeners. This is mostly the non Power Pack things we talked about during our long conversation with Jon Bogdonove. If you are not really interested in three guys talking about their families or current events, or if you are looking for a narrative thread in an interview, this may not be that interesting to you. We promise that we will be back next episode with a discussion on Power Pack issue 48. For now, we are using this as a nice break in our regularly scheduled recording ....schedule.

And again, a big thank you to Jon Bogdonove for the great conversation.

You can also check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/08/16/interview-with-jon-bogdanove/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 64: Power Pack #48

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 10:39:31 -0700

We are back from our two episode interview break with a new story line! Jon Bogdonove is taking the kids, and us, all the way to his favorite little island for a nice, simple vacation....with FRANKLIN RICHARDS!!! We also have our favorite little fan to help us out....TIM PRICE!!!!

But you may be asking yourself, "Self, how did I get here? This is not my wonderful car?...."

"...These are not my wonderful parents?...."

".....These are not my wonderful friends?....."

"....Letting the days go by....let the water hold me down!"

RICK!!!!

Yeah Jeff?

Focus!!!!

Right.....Okay...So the Power Pack plus one are going out in the beautiful New England country to do some serious R&R...and they are probably not singing a Talking Heads song.

But while they are on their vacation, the Power Pack signal lights up the night, calling them out of their vacation and into action!!

Dude, that is a lighthouse!

Whatever....

Faster than you can say "Okay, Charlie", the kids find themselves caught up in the plight of sick dolphins, and poor Franklin finds himself in the dreams of dolphins, and we the reader are treated to some AMAZING art!

But at least the kids appreciate their fathers once in a lifetime car purchase......

You can also check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/09/13/power-pack-48-dolphin-dreaming/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Night Break by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4125-night-break License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 65: Power Pack #49

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 08:56:25 -0700

Last episode, I found myself stuck in a song, and I brought you all along for the ride. The question is, will I do the same thing this issue? I mean, this is part two of the island vacation adventure. Just to try and be different, I will resist the urge to break into song.

This will be a real test right here. I mean, if I was to just be boring and not creative, I would just resort to making some off hand, under the sea reference, which would cause everyone reading this to start singing like a crab trying to convince a mermaid to stay where she was. But I am not going to do that. I will just say that the kids are a little wet behind the ears this issue. GET IT! HA! I am a funny guy.

This is too easy. I do not need to resort to simple songs or music to describe these pictures, or this story. Even if the kids are going to a whole new world, they are not riding on a carpet in an Arabian desert. I mean...that does not even make sense. Anyone could tell that they are just doing some Earth science study's, because geography rocks. HA!

I think I have proven that I can move beyond easy pop culture references. I mean, during the show, I make the simple joke, but I will not mention any 90's sitcom character. No, I shall not. Besides, you can tell that Katie is just continuing her school studies by doing some shop class work. I am pretty sure that was a joke.

Wait. Are you trying to tell me that my jokes are toxic and that they stink? I don't have to take this! I can go and play with people that really like me!

No, these are not my friends. They are the people that are having more fun than me. I am stuck here trying to make jokes that you will all like. But it is hard. And I would rather be playing with dolphins.

That's it! I am going to smash you all, like the enemies you are! EAT TOXIC BARREL !!!

We would like to apologize for the author breaking down in front of you. It has been a stressful time. He even broke the color here. It has just been a tough time all around. Our bad.

You can also check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/09/27/power-pack-49-the-wasting/https:

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Master Disorder by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4025-master-disorder License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 66: Spider-Man/Power Pack: Runaway

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 09:07:28 -0700

We are going to start with a trigger warning on this issue. This deals with family issues, child abuse, and runaways. We understand if these are upsetting topics and you want to skip this episode.

That said, we need to say a big thank you to our friend Alexander, aka Waffles (@wafflesthemagic). He joins us all the way from New Zealand to help us review the good half of this free comic book from 1986.

Because this episode deals with more serious content, this will be a more subdued post about the issue. In fact, I think we will post some information that we talk about during the episode.

How to report sexual child abuse:

It is a crime no matter how young the victim or who the offender is. There is an agency in every state that is mandated by state law to receive and investigate reports.

Treatment for sexual abuse:

Sexual abusers and their families can be helped. Parents United is one national self-help organization. https://www.nsvrc.org/find-help

Help if you’ve been sexually abused:

The low self esteem, anger and guilt often experienced by victims can lead to a variety of problems later. Discussion and therapy groups are often helpful. There are local organizations to help survivors. https://www.rainn.org/national-resources-sexual-assault-survivors-and-their-loved-ones

Want to help or need more information:

More information can be found at the following address. https://preventchildabuse.org/

The number one thing we cannot repeat enough, if you are a survivor of child abuse, it is not your fault. There are trained, professional people who are around to help you. Never be afraid to reach out if you need to.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/10/11/spider-man-power-pack-runaway/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Raving Energy (faster) by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5030-raving-energy-faster- License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 67: Power Pack #50

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 08:30:58 -0700

GIANT SIZED 50th ISSUE!!!!!

And we are back with a BIG ole issue. Yes, this is the Special Giant Sized Issue! You see, it is right there on the cover.

We have been on Earth to long! It is about to time to taste that sweet, sweet vacuum of space. Thanks to the timely arrival of Kofi and Friday, the Powers and Franklin can head out to the stars and make some new friends.

And of course they pick a fight and Alex overuses his power. This is why we cannot have nice things. I don't care if the Kymelians started it, I blame Alex. I mean, he probably did it, right?

I mean look, we have a picture where he is about to punch Kofi in the snout. What is that about? What did pony boy do to him. Did he take away Alex's hair gel? Maybe. But you should not punch your friends in the mouth.

Then he starts destroying a room. Yes, I understand that his youngest siblings are also throwing stuff around, but still, he is the leader. He started this. They came to space and are now tearing it all up. What is this book even about.

And then Alex gets a death log. Why would you give Alex a death log. This kid has a power complex and you have given him an ultimate weapon. What, do you think he is going to use it to gently power wash the house? No. I do not think so. He is going to be using this to do bad stuff. You just watch.

I am not going to say I told you so, even though I just did right there. This is what happen when you give a teenage boy a death log. Just don't do it. They are not responsible enough. This is just so upsetting. I need something to make me happy.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/10/25/power-pack-50-fridays-children/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Spy Glass by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4410-spy-glass License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 67.666: Frankenstein Alive, Alive #3 & #4

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 23:28:09 -0700

Happy Halloween!!!! Would you believe that Mephisto showed up again? Yup...he is causing mischief...but his heart just is not in it this year. I guess he feels that there is enough bad stuff happening that he just does not have enough energy for us. Whatever. His loss our gain.

Due to some Zoom and Gmail hi jinks, Rick, Tim, and Al end up chatting about Frankenstein Alive, Alive issues 3 and 4. And it is a good thing too. Earlier, on the Resurrections podcast they were reviewing the first two issues.

What is there to say about these books.....well...according to the run time, a lot. The art is gorgeous, and the story hints at a deeper narrative that was supposed to go longer than it did.

Time caught up with the creator, Bernie Wrightson, before he could properly end the book. He was able to pick his successor to finish his drawings based on sketches. What we are left with is a beautiful and tragic collection.

This was an interesting book to read and experience for the first time, and it was an enjoyable conversation with some friends. It is always fascinating to discover something new and beautiful.

Normally these narratives are funny or silly, sometimes downright nonsense. This time, it just did not feel appropriate. This time it just felt better to celebrate the delicate pencils and drawings of the artist.

Sometimes you just need to take a moment, and really look at some art work, and appreciate the skill and craftsmanship.

Follow the entire crossover event
“Mephisto vs The Podcasters”
using the links below!

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 68: Power Pack #51

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 09:57:42 -0800

Yes....that is Whoopi Goldberg on the cover.

This is a thing. You know it is coming, you talk to the creator about why, but nothing really prepares you for the reality of....Whoopi.

Yup...we are right there with Power Pack. But wait. I am forgetting something....Oh yeah. We have a guest! All the way from the Worst Comic Podcast Ever (https://wcpever.com/), we have our second of the the three hosts, Jerry McMullen (@EssentialShowca) to join us on this ......It is WHOOPI flipping Goldberg!

The kids are busting through the door and want me focus on the comic book and just ....let it go. Fine. Fine. I will try to focus on the issue. Let's see, what do we have here.

Oh look, Maraud has blown up the gas giant behind the Kymellian space station with the giant murder log that she burgled....burglar.... BURGLAR!!!! No...wait...not going down the rabbit hole.

Ok...what else. Oh...look. It is Alex loosing control of his power by getting high on taking in too much energy. Oh goody. And now he is standing next to Jack while he is jumping with joy as he is flashing with power.....wait....hang on......Jumping....Jack....Flash...NO!

And now we have Queen Maraud bursting with power as she has stolen all of the Powers from the powers. So a power transfer. Again. Listen sister, we have seen this act before and we know that is going to end bad for....for...wait.. SISTER ACT! C'Mon!

We cannot get away from this. Whoopi is in this issue, and that is just a thing we all have to deal with. But the good news is that I am through all of the images we wanted to share. Well....there is just one more. Sigh. Ladies and Gentlemen...the bathroom.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/11/08/power-pack-51-the-numinus/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ One-eyed Maestro by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4170-one-eyed-maestro License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 69: Power Pack #52

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 09:21:40 -0800

Did you all check out that cover....Yes? No? Check again. Notice the costumes. Got it? Good. This happens.

You may be asking yourself how we got here. If you are, good. That is a great way to start. Well let me tell you, it is because of a lot of unpleasantness from the big Q.

She has been mean before, but now she has really pushed the line. She has made her bed, and she has to sleep in it. She has crossed the proverbial line, and now must pay the piper.

Not only has she taken the kid's powers, but she is holding them up by the hair. There is mean and evil, and then there is just bad manners. You do not go pulling someone's hair just because you can. Are we on a playground here!?

Apparently we are. Way to keep things classy there Franklin. I mean....sticking out your tongue at a queen. What kind of manners have your parents taught you....you know...when your parents were around and not in another dimension?

But now we get to the good stuff. Now we get to the part in the western where the bar fight happens, and the scrappy hero starts to throw the punches around.

You know the scene. Everything looked hopeless and then the tide turned. Then a second wind happens. Then the small child has the alien on its back. Then it is time for the final act.

And what a final act it is with the hero boy bright and glowing and ready to lay the smacketh down.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/11/22/power-pack-52-the-bitter-end/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Tenebrous Brothers Carnival - Snake Lady by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4476-tenebrous-brothers-carnival---snake-lady License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 70: Power Pack #53

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 09:18:58 -0800

Let me be real with you guys....this is not our favorite issue. There are problems within it. Art, story, characters....you name it. With that in mind, let's see if we can start off with the positives.

This really awesome interior cover was done by friend of the show, Jon Bogdanove. It features the kids with their new powers, and Franklin. Katie is holding up Franklin and Jack, who is shooting a powerball. Julie and Alex are flying in the background. It is pretty awesome.

Then we have the rest of the book. Okay. Positive...positive.......Dr. Doom is in the book as part of Acts of Vengeance. He also has a plan. But, he is not the best Doom and his plan is kinda lame.

I guess you could say this issue is a giant puzzle. But it is a 20 piece puzzle made of big pieces that are all individual colors and they don't go together and they don't form anything.

And your brother jumps over the puzzle knocking it over repeatedly.

Positive....positive....Okay...here is something positive. It looks like Alex and Julie are hitting that serious growth spurt that comes in the teenage years. I mean, they are as tall, or taller than their father, and they are just giants compared to Jack and Katie. So, that is a positive, right?

Maybe I was a little too sassy in that last paragraph. Let me try again....how about this note. It has great cursive, and looks very nice. As far as the content goes and how it is the weakest trap that was ever set yet Alex falls for it......well.

What about that trap? Well, let's take a look at that. The bad gal waits for Alex to show up, reveals herself, then has him watch as she harms his dad. Fine....Okay. At least she has a nice coat.

Keeping on with the positive theme, it also appears that Alex is really hitting the protein shakes to help with those growth spurts. 'Cause the boy is getting THICK. I mean, Gold's Gym has a new spokesman. Watch out.

All in all....I guess this could have been worse. I mean...it was not Weekend at Bernie's 3!

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 71: Power Pack #54

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 09:16:11 -0800

Do you like dinosaurs! That is not a question, it is a statement! YOU....LIKE......DINOSAURS!!!

OKAY! You are a kid with some money! You are at a mall with your bestest friend! There is a food court, a toy store, and a DINOSAUR EXHIBIT! What can make this any better?????

How about having the writer of the New Warriors Continuity Conundrum,Corey (@NewWarriorsTalk) on to help us out! Like I said....BEST! DAY! EVER!

The best thing!!!!The most wonderful thing!!!! Your story is being told by Judy Bogdanove and drawn by Jon Bogdanove. Is that cool or what? It is like beating up a dino-Mr. Fantastic!

But what are we doing here? Watching some kids play, having fun, kicking some booty...or cleaning their rooms? Why we are doing all of those things, and we are having a lot of fun doing it!

Many people will tell you that when you are fighting dinosaurs, you should always lead with your right foot. Actually, nobody says that, but what people do say is that Jack fighting a dino is awesome!

What about villains....do we have any cool villains....? Well, sure...I guess....you could say that. I mean, I guess that the Mad Thinker is a well known villain, and he has a pedigree. You could also say that Jack is a villain in training.

Speaking of double vision, check out there being two Franklins. How did that happen? What is going on? Why does our sweet little boy have a duplicate?

Just because we want to leave you in a little bit of suspense, we will not tell you what is happening, but we will leave you with a couple of images of him being eaten.....that should make you afraid.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2020/12/20/power-pack-54-dino-might/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Hit the Streets v2 by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3878-hit-the-streets-v2 License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 72: Judy and Jon Bogdonove Interview

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 09:02:05 -0800

We have a very cool hobby. We get to sit, drink beer, talk comics, and every now and again, we get to talk to creators. This is the bit of the job that we love. We are also lucky that we can talk to certain creators more than once. Ain't that cool.

This time, the focus of the chat is to meet the author of the last episode, Judy Bogdanove. Not only did she write a Power Pack book, but she also wrote a few other books as well. Which is great, and you should check these books out as well.

But what did we talk about? Oh, the usual things, ugly sweaters, awesome islands, farms and chickens, and of course....cheese.

This may not be as long as the first interview we did. We had a few technical problems, and some scheduling conflict, but we still had a wonderful discussion with an amazing couple.

You can also check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/01/03/interview-with-judy-and-jon-bogdanove/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 73: Power Pack #55

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 09:06:36 -0800

Get ready for a creepy and spoooooooky issue!!!!!!!

Now, you may have noticed I mentioned that this would be spooky, and it is. But it is also funny. I mean, yes...there are ghosts and ghouls and jump scares, but there are also a lot (and we mean a lot) of toilets.

We have a ghost cam, a toilet cam, a wire cam, and even just people mentioning toilets. You could say that we are left with nothing but potty humor.

Now that Maggie has stuck her tongue at us, we must ask ourselves, what else should we talk about. And should we do it in the bathroom?

To be fair, the kids are not hanging out in the bathroom all day, waiting for some TP robber to come along. The kids do get out and interact with art at a museum. Of course Jack ruins it...but it in a tasteful way.

I guess the question would be why is this all occurring? Is this a giant plan to drive mama Power insane? Why do people hate toilets so much? If only Alex would discover something.

Also, we cover a couple of Fantastic Four issues that have some Power Pack moments in them. Not enough to have their own episodes, so we did a drop in. For posterity sake, these would be Fantastic Four #337 and Fantastic Four Annual #23. Now that we have said that, here are some monsters.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/01/17/power-pack-55-mysterio/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 74: Power Pack #56

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 08:50:45 -0800

And welcome to the beginning of the end of the regular series. We are not going to sugar coat this folks. This is where the series starts to take a big, huge tonal shift from everything we have known before. New creative team, new story, new characterizations.

So when we say "new", what do we mean. Well, the letterer and the editor in chief are the same, but the rest of the team is different. That can be a problem to the readers when they are expecting a story or narrative to follow through. Without someone to keep it all consistent, things get left behind.

"Gosh, you guys are sounding so serious, where are the funny jokes?"

Good question disembodied voice. Well, we felt the need to give our listeners a warning, and we like to change things up sometimes. I mean, poor Rick is sitting there, typing non-sense at 2 in the morning on the weekends. At times he forgets what he is talking about or what he is doing. Can you imagine what the stress is doing to him?

Maybe his hair is coming out, we really cannot be sure. One reason is COVID, the other is we know he owns super glue. But we digress.

And there is nothing to bring us back into focus than Galactus. I mean, he commends respect when he enters the room.....or the planet....if the planet is a room size.....Galactus is big folks. Do you GET IT!

Maybe Galactus is not big and tall and powerful. Maybe he just has good lighting...hear me out. If we look at the heralds he has had, like Silver Surfer and Nova, we see that he chooses beings who can cast just the right illumination on him. I think it is all an illusion.

Jack has just reminded me that this is a Power Pack comic, and I should talk more about them. Honestly, I forget they were in this issue. But now that Jack is a buffed up little ball of energy, I will not refuse his request.

Most of the action in the book is with Nova and Star Stalker fighting on an abandoned and dead planet while a weird being called an Elan lies dying nearby. And Power Pack makes and appearance.

On a completely different note, our friend Gary gave us each an amazing gift. He hand made us each a coaster in resin with the Power Pack logo's inside. It was a very thoughtful gift that we both appreciate.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/01/31/power-pack-56-childhoods-end/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 75: Power Pack #57

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 08:49:03 -0800

Who is that knocking on the door to our spaceship?.....Why none other than Shagg from the Fire and Water Network! While he may have heard the word fire, and seen a pretty lady on the cover, I think that he thought that Storm was going be in this issue as he kept saying, and messing up, her name.

Firestorm, Firestorm, Firestorm...the man is confused. This isn't an X title and that isn't Storm's proper name anyways. But, that said, I can see how he might have been confused. If this was Storm, and she now had flame powers then this name makes perfect sense. After all, this character could be a "Super Star"!!

Wait, was this Storm in one of the X titles? Maybe an Inferno issue that I missed? So hard to keep up with all the different storylines and heel turns that go on every six months.

Ahhh, our resident Talking Head informs me that I am the one that is confused. Shagg is referencing his favorite character that happens to be on a different network and that this is actually Nova...no, not that one...in her Human Torch form and her in her Twisted Cosmic Tea form that somehow turned her incompetent and evil. Good to know Talking Head, thanks for the info!

Talking Head says that there is a price for knowledge that I must pay. I wonder what he means by that?

My hair!! Talking Head ate my hair! This is driving me loopy!!

And speaking of going loopy. Julie feels the same way about Talking Heads unexpected prices.

Also unexpected, were a couple of beefy adults cosplaying as Alex and Jack.

And speaking of beefy adults, feast your eyes on these guys! (Shagg, Rick and Jeff...only one of us was smart enough to bring an action figure to play with in case they got bored.

And speaking of feasting your eyes, these eyes seem like they have feasted to much. They have seen things. Things they were never meant to see. Things like:

A spaceship fighting a giant lizard man in Central Park that is only wearing their tighty whities...yeah, you heard me right.

And this Underoos championing space beast can only be defeated by The Stimulator!! Just to make sure you heard me: The Stimulator has to be used on the bikini briefs beast before bedtime...boy, what a bother!

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/02/14/power-pack-57-fire/

Don’t forget to support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPrecnsent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer and greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Neon Laser Horizon by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/7015-neon-laser-horizon License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 76: Power Pack #58

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 10:54:45 -0800

Well helllllo there big boy, how are you doing? It will sure be nice to see an old familiar like Galactus in this issue. I mean, we have been inundated with with a mess of characters of mysterious origins or deep Marvel past, so it will be nice to have an old familiar.

We need a big, and I mean BIG star to show up and set this Power Pack ship right. And the big purple people and planet eater is just what the doctor ordered.

Wait.....that is it. Like a few panels and the gifting of a parting gift. What is this nonsense! I want a planetary visit I want an invasion! I want a comedic misunderstanding where he walks in on someone changing! I want my MTV!

Instead, it seems that I just get some mysterious Joe Schmoe, creeping up in our favorite spaceship, with our favorite unconscious little boy. Yeah, bring on the lounge songs after your free spa day on Friday. I mean...WHO IS THIS GUY?

Ok. Not a big fan of any of these rando's in the comic, but if you can give me an alien packing a very large Terminator type gun, you will have my attention for a moment. I am just hoping that he is on his way to have a talk with some of the creative team.

At this point, we really do not know who is doing the most heavy lifting on this book. It probably is the fans, wanting something new or better than what we are getting. The concept is good, but it just fails in the wrong hands.

Speaking of the people who are really upset, I think we all nee to take a moment for Jim Power. Just take a look at this poor guy. One day, he has a wonderful beard, full of life and wonderful texture, then the next day...just a mustache. Why, I bet tomorrow it comes back...with a vengeance. We shall have to see. Oh, also he just found out his kids have super powers.

We will continue to look for and celebrate the positive as we move forward with this book. Sometimes it will take a really big energy blast to keep us on track, but that is OK. Sometimes we need to have a swift kick in the script to keep us in line.

And on this disturbing note, and picture, let's take our leave of our fair heroes. They have got their hands full with this new team, and Alex's changes and other stuff. Let's just take a break for now, shall we?

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/02/28/power-pack-58-star-struck/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Tyrant by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5031-tyrant License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 76.5: New Mutants #83(Acts of Vengeance)

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 09:00:12 -0800

Wait!!!! What is happening here! This is a Power Pack podcast, what is this New Mutants comic doing here? This is not Halloween.....What is Mephisto up to????

ACTS OF VENGEANCE!!!!

Oh....ok....that explains it. Jeff and Rick have been invited to play with a mess of other pod-casters who are all covering different issues of the Acts of Vengeance crossover from the 1990's. Luckily they invaded Derek Crabbe from the Fanholes website to help them out.

Ok., the Acts of Vengeance thingy was this big event where heroes fought villains who were outside of their own rogues gallery. In this case, they used two characters who were tan gently associated with the New Mutants to fight the Vulture.

That is right, Rusty and Skids, those two crazy kids from the early days of X-Factor are in prison and trying to stop a bad guy. Good on you two! Way to not let the man keep you down.

But what about the real New Mutants you might task, where are they during this chaos? Are they sitting around trying on new costumes in preparation for the Leifeld run? Are they shrinking their feet? Nah.....well yeah....but they are really just on Asgard.

Back on earth, we are left with the worst episode of Judge Judy. A plan that is so bad......we have a few how bad are they jokes. And we have a guy that explodes.

So what does this mean to our listeners.....well probably just a lot of laughs. I mean, it is always enjoyable to watch people fall off a high-wire.

A Proud Participant in the Merry Marvel MARCHing Society 2021 event!
3rd Degree Byrne
Back 2 The Bins/Avengers Spotlight
Coffee & Comics
Comic Book Time Machine
DoomSpeak
Fanholes Podcast
Fire & Water Podcast Presents
Head Speaks
Into The Weird
Justice Not Entirely Dissimilar To Lightning - A Thunderbolts Podcast
Longbox Crusade
Make Ours Marvel
Married With Comics
Resurrections: An Adam Warlock Podcast
Rolled Spine PodcastsViews From The Longbox

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/03/07/new-mutants-83-bang-youre-dead/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Strength Of The Titans by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5744-strength-of-the-titans License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 77: Power Pack #59

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 08:16:23 -0800

Step right up! Step right up! Welcome one and all to the greatest show on Earth, presented by Jeff and Rick! It is the one...the only...UNPACKING THE POWER OF POWER PACK!!!!

See! The lights of the universe! The infinity of the world! The grandness of timeless space!!! The insanity that comes from seeing it all!!!

Bring your family! Bring your friends! If your family has left you alone, then bring a completely mysterious stranger! Just bring yourself! You do not want to miss this!!!! Even if your family hates you!!!

Enjoy the magic of the big top! Experience the smells and sounds!!! Take a trip, and do it now!!! Don't wait for anyone to tell you no!!! RUNAWAY FROM HOME AND JOIN THE CIRCUS!

Meet the master of the circus! Listen to his riveting speeches and watch his mesmerizing performances!!! Enjoy the feeling of your wallet being lightened by the wondrous side shows and entertainment!!!

Meet the wonderful and amazing performers! Listen to their tales of mystery and excitement! Watch how they hop, leap, fly, and steal their way into your heart and imagination! Be one of the audience and experience the wonder!!!

Come to the circus!!!! Enjoy the sites and the sounds!!!! Meet your new family!!! Learn how to steal, rob, and take everything you possibly can from anybody and everybody!!!

NOW FORGET YOU WERE EVER TOLD ANY OF THIS!!!!!

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/03/14/power-pack-59-at-the-circus/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Urban Gauntlet by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5012-urban-gauntlet
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 78: Power Pack #60

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 08:27:34 -0700

Schooooool's Back AFTER summer!!!! Wow!!!! Yeah...I did just sing that line. New issue, with the same creator team from the past few issues.....sooooooo, here we are.

The most awkward memory of my first days of school never involved showing up in the wrong clothes or looking much older than my age. Mostly because I did not care about fashion and I never played my younger self. But that is just me, and your mileage may vary.

My speed at school was mostly being awkward and odd. Running into things, wearing t-shirts for things I thought were cool and hip but were not, and generally being a spaz. Looking back, I think of my time with fond memories, selectively editing out the teasing, bullying, and embarrassment I often faced. I did not have it as bad as others. And I never had to deal with being a pony alien and a teenager, so I had that going for me.

Oh yeah, you might not have noticed but.....Alex turns into a Kymellian in this issue. I bring it up because it is pretty subtle.

Also, the kids find themselves involved in a weird fight with alien snails that are poor stand ins for TMNT knockoffs. Something about the Puppet Master's new step-son or something....I stopped paying attention, if I am being honest, because of reasons.

We did mention that Alex is a full on Kymellian now....right? Again, I bring it up because a lot of people missed this.

There are other things we could talk about, like Maggie waking up in sexy clothes, and Franklin starting school, but it really is not worth it to type. Let's just move on for know and see....or hear what is on the podcast.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/03/28/power-pack-60-back-to-school/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Right Behind You by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4286-right-behind-you License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 79: Power Pack #61

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 08:47:00 -0700

We are at the penultimate issue of the original Power Pack run...and it is not looking good folks. There have been some really good story lines in the past 60 issues of this run, and there are some really good threads that the book could go out on, but focusing on a plot by the Red Ghost was never in the running.

So where did we start and where are we now? There is a maxim that states something about giving an infinite number of monkeys an infinite number of typewriters with an infinite amount of time, they will eventually write the works of Shakespeare. Things are feeling like it is two "scientists" playing with an old Russian guy, three apes, and 24 page count.

Let's unpack a bit, shall we. This feels like a Fantastic Four jam. It has the worlds greatest comic team, and it features an old FF villain. The Pack takes a a back seat in this story while the adults rush in.

And when we say heroes, we may not mean real heroes. Real heroes take time to deal with all of the damage caused by some bad thing. Here we have the heroes rushing in to save heroes. Which is a choice I guess.

You would think and hope that with all of this rushing some cool stuff would be happening, but it really just all leads to more rushing.

And then, then we have Jim in a Kymellian costume with a body by P90X. So....we got that going for us.

I really do not know who needed or asked for this, but here we are.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website:https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/04/11/power-pack-61-ghost-of-a-chance/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Rainbows by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4261-rainbows
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 80: Power Pack #62

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 08:27:39 -0700

This is the end....the end of Power Pack! The end of the original series! The final issue! Nothing else .......well...actually......we have a a lot more content....BUT THIS IS THE END!!!!

There are tears!!!! There are feeling!!!!! There are rain clouds!!!! RAIN!!!! CLOUDS!!!!! I mean....can you acknowledge the absolute finality of this issue? I mean...it is, except for more content that is coming soon.

I guess we should talk about the contend of the book, but we are so sad, we have decided to join Alex, standing in the rain, asking deep philosophical questions. Deep questions that only be answered if you put on a trench coat, stand in a shadow, and brood. Questions like, why is this comic ending and why is Alex still a horse?

Sometimes standing in the rain is not enough. Sometimes you need a friend. Sometimes you need a good cup of coffee. And sometimes, just sometimes, you really cannot find any of those things and you are stuck with Reed Richards and some instant Folgers. It happens, and we should not get upset about it.

Or....maybe we should get mad about it. I mean, Power Pack is still fighting the Red Ghost. You know, that classic Power Pack villain. Yeah, that is the arch-nemesis I would (not) use for the final issue of a 62 issue run of comics. Forget the Snarks and Boogeyman. Forget about the revenge of Johnny Rival. Make no mention of the Boulder Crusher or Trash! The Red Ghost is where it is at.

I am starting to see why Jim is so mad!

As we close out on volume 1 of Power Pack....for now....let us gaze into a hazy Alex and think about the good times and friends we have met along the way. Let's try and remember the laughs and joy from issues earlier in this series, And lets be back for more content in a couple of weeks.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website:https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/04/25/power-pack-62-lo-there-shall-be-an-ending/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Rising Tide (faster) by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5028-rising-tide-faster- License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 81: Excalibur #29

Sun, 09 May 2021 06:51:47 -0700

And just when you thought life could not get any darker, you discovered this comic book. We are not done with this Power Pack yet, no way, no how. We have to tie up some loose ends with some stories that make you say…."Who OK'ed this?" And first up, is Excalibur #29

Life in a lighthouse is better than no life at all. I expect. You'd have a chance at least. You could sit in there thinking, well, at least I’m not in an apartment. In a minute, somebody’s going to fly a spaceship over head and tell me to come out. (knocks) "Hey you! What's your team name? Come out of there!"

I know that one man who wishes he never woke up and dealt with this nonsense, and that is Nightcrawler. He is a simple man, with simple needs. He just wants to live a life of swashbuckling adventure, and not be judged for being a mutant. But instead, he has to deal with shenanigans.

Seriously, look at this insanity, we have the worst asparagus cosplay I have ever seen, riding a horseafied Rachel Summers like a pony. This is just ridiculous in an issue where Alex Power is still a pony. Just saddle up old cloud boy and giddyup.

Then we can talk about the rave that Excalibur goes to. Worst. Dub-step. Ever. I mean, they were not even trying to be creative with the beats. It is called rhythm and bass. If you are just going to keep a one note pedal beat over Ring My Bell, you are gonna lose the audience.

And this only leads to someone losing their head.

At least Alex and Nightcrawler got some moments to chill and reconnect after not seeing or talking to each other since the one time Power Pack was kidnapped and their minds were altered. Good times....yup.....awesome.....so.....you know any good gyms?

OH DEAR GOD WHAT AM I LOOKING AT! TURN THE PAGE!!! TURN THE PAGE

To view the art from this issue, check out our website:https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/05/09/excalibur-29-dream-a-little-dream/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Dragon and Toast by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3673-dragon-and-toast
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 82: Marvel Super-Heroes #6

Sun, 23 May 2021 08:01:54 -0700

It is time for a vacation! I mean who does not love getting away from it all, going to a land of sun and surf, beautiful women, hunky men, and a catatonic mother!

Ahhhh, who am I kidding, Maggie does not appear in this book. The kids have no time to worry about their mom. They have lifeguards to ogle and women to annoy. And let's not forget about diving deep....and we mean DEEP...into Fantastic Four lore!

What? You do not know about the Creature from the Lost Lagoon, Mowfus from the Planet Quon? How can you call yourself a Marvel fan if you do not know who this character is? Can I fill this paragraph with any more question marks?

We are talking high-jinx on the high seas, with a high amount of high-larity. This story is .....something. It deals with things that occur to characters in a manner that unfolds in a story. This all occurred.

Boats....this story had many boats. Much of the action was on or near water so they needed boats to be on the water while the action occurred. Some of those boats broke. Others were damaged. But there definitely were boats.

And....other stuff.....ok....look. Let us level with you all. This was not very good. This is a story that was put out in an anthology book of stories from dead books. There are some definite rewrites that happened, and it just falls apart. If you want our advise, just head out and find a nice bar and have a drink. Who knows, maybe you will see a human looking horse.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website:https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/05/23/marvel-super-heroes-6-natives-in-a-strange-land/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Fife and Drum by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3748-fife-and-drum License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 83: Power Pack Holiday Special #1 (Part 1)

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 08:35:36 -0700

YESSSSS!!!! We made it.! This is the content you crave by the creators you love! The PACK IS BACK BABY!!!! WHOOOOO HOOOOO

Ok, we needed to get that out of our system. This is some prime time, grade A, Power to the Packing good time. The kids are on their way (finally) to talk to the horse heads about what is happening to their family. And you better believe it is all going to hit the fan!

We have Kymelians, Snarks, Smartships, and freaky eye balls...and...oh my word....do we have a human looking Alex!!! How did that happen, what is going on? Is Alex actually a lizard? Did he finally shed his horse skin for his original human form? Is this Kymelian puberty? TUNE IN TO FIND OUT!

When all is said and done, we have a good book with the original creators, banging out a great retcon that fixes the problems the past creators left. This is a good thing. And well deserved. And, they did not need to blow up the story with a missile pointed at the floor.

Oh...I guess they did. Well, as we always say here on UPtPoPP....There is nothing worth doing if you are not willing to overdo it. This applies to blowing things up too!

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/06/06/power-pack-holiday-special-1-part-1-small-changes/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ There It Is by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4519-there-it-is License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 84: Power Pack Holiday Special #1 (Part 2)

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 08:01:35 -0700

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 84

We are back with two stories for the price of one! Can you believe the value you are getting?? Trust me, it is a lot since you are not paying for this effort and work we put in to give you this entertainment.

Speaking of taking something....it looks like Jack is up to his old tricks. I mean, look at this. He has broken into the Bat Cave and is taking some of the ultra big items Batman has aquired over the years. JACK....This is why w can't have nice things.

What we want and expect is needless and destructive violence. That is all we crave. Give me a big lizard swinging a broadsword or a brother kidnapping another brother and we are happy.

Sure, some romance is nice.....I guess....and who does not like drama.....well, us actually. But there is drama we all have to deal with, and sometimes that is from romance...and sometime it is from giant lizards with swords. You don't know! Don't judge me!

I guess we should mention the flaming skull in the room. I really don't want to, but I guess we should. Sigh. Ok....it is glowing.

Now that we have finished talking about that, I guess we should talk about how Jack is really not all that bad. He is a good kid that is trying to make it in the world. Sure, he slips sometimes, but who among us have not pushed a drug dealer off of a two story building.

In conclusion, I would like to leave you with the immortal words from Abraham Lincoln; Be excellent to each other. and Party on Dudes!

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/06/20/power-pack-holiday-special-1-part-2-sweet-young-blondes-awww-christmas/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 85:What The?! #1

Sun, 04 Jul 2021 08:55:11 -0700

Satire is a lesson, parody is a game. - Vladimir Nabokov

I can make that into a new song. - Weird Al (probably)

It is time to get silly! And we are not going to dive into the madness alone. We are going to bring a fan with us.

No, not that kind of fan. The type of fan that actually sees us perform live at a campground and trades a mess of Hero-clix for a really cool tricycle. Of course I am talking about Jeff Polier. He is the guy who reminded us about this issue, and he gets to suffer through it with us.

What type of insane story is this? Why would we even be covering a parody? Why would anyone want to mock the comic book series they love? None of these are good questions, so we are just going to say that 2/3rds of us find this to be pretty funny, and it is always a sign that you have made it if people want to mock you. At least, that is the story I told myself while I was growing up.

Do not get us wrong, we love these kids and the comics. But we have to take the time to give them both a little ribbing once in a while. Besides, most of the people working on this issue have done work on the main book. You can tell they love these kids.

Now for those of you who do not like parody, well, that is just sad. A good parody is fun. A bad parody is cruel. I am pretty sure that I just made up that quote. Feel free to spread it around and use it in every day communication. I am hoping to one day be remembered as the creator of a useless and annoying quote.

And I guess we should mention Cloak and Dagger are mocked as well. We hope you enjoy this episodes silliness.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/07/04/what-the-1-the-bower-brats-meet-clunk-and-dagnabbit/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Hackbeat by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3843-hackbeat
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 86: New Mutants#49 and X-Force Annual #1

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 05:37:15 -0700

I know this is a little unusual, but it is going to really get weird soon. We are past the border and heading into the wild west, but first we have to go back and forth in time to cover some stories with a touch of the pack in them.

So we have an older Katie sporting all of the Power powers in a New Mutants issue that takes place in the future.

And we have a young lady who is a descendant of some member of the team also sporting all the powers and also in the future. It feels like some wires are crossed here.

So what should we talk about first. Well, we should talk about the definite change in storytelling. I mean, really, this is technically the same book/team. New Mutants became X-Force...so this should be a straight comparison, right?

Not really. We have moved from the 80's to the hard 90's. We have moved from matching costumes to belts and pouches. How many pouches? All of the pouches. All of the time...and guns. Do not forget the guns.

New writers, new characters, new art. Also, a new future. I mean, DaCosta is the bad guy in one and just a team member in another. These are the choices made and the dimensions we explore.

As you can tell, I am really skating around, looking for an interesting topic to fill this space with. We promise our listeners a chance to see the images we are talking about, so we should show them. I sometimes just struggle to keep a narrative going.

I need an idea to come in like a cannonball. Really surprise me or inspire me. I know you all count on me to be funny and stuff....but the future can get depressing. Especially when we are talking authoritarian rule. We need something wacky or silly to make us happy.

Yeah....a duck skateboard raspberry should just about do the trick. I think that is a good place to wrap this up. Hopefully you all will enjoy the trip to the future. Remember, all experiences are personal and may have nothing to do with the real world when you return.

To view the art from this issue, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/07/18/new-mutants-49-ashes-of-the-soul-and-x-force-annual-1-the-mirror-liars/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Le Grand Chase by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4670-le-grand-chase License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 87: Carl Potts Interview

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 07:39:07 -0700

Like Pokeman, we gotta catch them all. Carl Potts was the original editor of Power Pack, and shepherded the book for 52 issues. As the editor, he not only brought together world class talent for the book, but he also developed a passion and team that made it one of the books creators wanted to be on.

His influence also appeared in some artistic and plot choices as well. His passions for marine biology and baseball snuck into a couple of early stories, and his sense of style helped guide a few of the artistic choices as well.

Beyond his work on our favorite book, Carl has a deep creative history with comics that may have began with drawing, but has developed into his own inspired stories and work with so many other amazing artists and writers in comics. A teacher as well as a mentor, Carl has been passing on his knowledge of art and storytelling to guide new creators, while at the same time still developing new content.

We hope you enjoy our two episodes as we talk to this amazing individual about his past and experiences.

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/08/01/interview-with-carl-potts/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 88: Carl Potts Interview Part 2

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 10:21:45 -0700

And this is our second part of our chat with Carl Potts. We hope you enjoy this shorter episode as we ask him some fan questions and get some more information about why Carl is so fascinating.

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/08/01/interview-with-carl-potts/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 89: Hilary Barta Interview

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 08:52:43 -0700

Another interview....are we insane!!!????!!! Well, maybe. We were not sure what we would be getting into once we asked Power Pack Inker Hilary Barta to talk with us...and we are still not sure what happened, but we do know it was a lot of fun.

The range of topics for the discussion wandered over art styling, development of skill, breaking into the business, lawn work, and animals. We also talked about some music, or at least his work on the comic version of Shakedown Street.

We also managed to talk a bit about his work on Power Pack and his friendship with Jon Bogdanove. It is always amazing to talk to creators who work with other great creators, and listening to stories and tales about how much they respect each other.

We also managed to ask him about some of his other work, specifically giving some of the love to Plastic Man. Hilary had the opportunity to draw a mini-series that he was very proud about.

But above all else, we were able to talk about his love of the wacky and crazy. From his Screwy Tuesday posts to his Mars Attacks work and especially his work on What The!? Hilary is someone who loves the silly and goofy.

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/08/29/interview-with-hilary-barta/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 90: The New Warriors: Overview #1

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 10:13:31 -0700

With special guest star Corey (@NewWarriorsTalk) from the New Warriors Continuity Conundrum and covering:

The New Warriors #47 - 50
Night Thrasher #11 - 12
Nova #6 - 7

OK, what is going on. This is a Power Pack Podcast and it is not Halloween. What is happening here?

So you see, after the original Power Pack run, Alex got his briefs in a bundle and he decided it was time to make a new family. One that really has issues...and I ain't talking about volume count.

So there is a reason why we are devoting some time to these books, but why so many at one time? Thank you disembodied voice for asking such a deep question.

We do not want to hit each issue for what is a passing reference to the oldest Power kid, so we are doing them in blocks. Four to be precise. After this, we promise to get back to single issues. This is just an experiment. Don't get mad.

Awkward. It will be interesting to see what we do the next time we run into one of these long series. But for now, we are just trying something out. Let us know how it is going.

Oh, I guess I should talk about this run....uhm....the New Warriors are tossed in the time-stream by some Egyptian dude and a new team is put together to save them.

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/09/12/the-new-warriors-overview-1/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4218-pinball-spring
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episocde 91: The New Warriors: Overview #2

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 11:00:23 -0700

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With special guest star Delvin "The Dark Web" Williams (@dee_ray1977) from the The Longbox Crusade and covering:

The New Warriors #51 - 60

No matter what you may have heard, the co-hosts did not get into a punching match on this show. There was no need to. We both know who Delvin likes more between us, so we will not dwell on that. What we will talk about is how much fun it is to have guests that know the New Warriors and have some serious love and knowledge of the property.

And while there is a lot of clowning around, we should be clear that we did do some serious introspection on these books. This is really the start of the new writer Evan Skolnick's run on the books, and it is our chance to see what his team looks like. And what do they look like?

They look a lot like Turbo, or they should. I mean, Turbo rocks, right! She is also drawn really tight........I should probably stop talking about Turbo. Right? Okay.

We should talk about the other Warriors, cause there is a lot of them. Well, there are a lot of them at the beginning, but then the group gets a little smaller and a lot more stable...sort of...for the moment.

It is a work in progress people. They are working on an image and it takes some serious work. It also takes some costume changes.

We should all keep our eye on the prize, even when the prize might be found in someone's spandex. I really have lost the thread about what I am talking about, but I will reiterate, that we all know who won the fight......but we will not say.....

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/09/26/the-new-warriors-overview-2/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Pinball Spring by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4218-pinball-spring
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Episode 92: The New Warriors: Overview #3

Sun, 10 Oct 2021 10:51:39 -0700

With special guest star Tawmis (@New_Warriors) from New Warriors Dot Com website:

The New Warriors #61- 67
Spider-Man: Maximum Clonage: Alpha #1
Spectacular Spider-Man #228
Web of Spider-Man #129
Green Goblin #2
Web of Scarlet Spider #3 - 4

We have books and clones, and clones, and book, and books, and clones. You see what I am doing here.

I guess we also have the rest of the Warriors as well, which means there are a ton of characters that we are covering. And yet, the only reason we are here is to talk about Alex, and he is barely here.

But we do get some Friday. That is right, the little spaceship that could has shown up to party with the Warriors, and then she gets treated like a rental car on Spring Break by Nova. I mean, really....let me clutch my pearls.

Speaking of showing up, we have Timeslip. A new character to add to the mix with a very fascinating costume and a power that screams out deus ex-machina. I am glad that we are not taking a drink every time a new character shows up.

Speaking of characters, Namorita is still bouncing around. Still on her evil kick, and still somewhat pursued by her one true love, Nova, who starts hanging out with his ex-girlfriend. Nice, real nice.

So, there is a lot of drama going on, and a mess...A MESS... of Spiders-Men. Clones...everywhere there are clones. And then there are clones of clones. There is clones pretending they are not clones, and vice versa. It is a whole lot of story that eventually really hurt the flag bearer. So, there is that.

All in all, we had a really fun time talking to our guest. It is always great having some new views from someone who really knows the source material and the characters. It was also fascinating to find out that he also knows a lot about.....other properties from last century.

All in all, it is a barn burner of an episode. We laugh and talk and talk and laugh and are eventually taken over by clones. In fact, we may be clones. You do not know, and we are not going to tell you.

And on that note, I guess that I am done. Sometimes you just do not know how to end a rant, so I will leave on the heels of Spider-Man's butt. Don't judge me, it may be a clones.

Check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/10/10/the-new-warriors-overview-3/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Hit the Streets by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3879-hit-the-streets License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 93: The New Warriors: Overview #4

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 05:09:32 -0700

With special guest star comic and video game writer and creator, David Gallaher (@DavidGallaher):

The New Warriors v1 #68 - 71
Venom: The Hunted: #1-3
The New Warriors v2 #1

We did it! We made it to the end of our New Warriors coverage. And let me just say, it is not the content, it is the pure volume of books we were covering. I just do not think that we will be doing this again. And yet we have at least two more series that we could do just like this.....Oh dear.

Well, we should get on with the real reason we are here. I mean, we pay for some named talent to show up, we should talk about him. (FYI, we did not pay for him to be on.) David Gallaher is an actual comic book writer, known for Darkstar and the Winter Guard, The Only Living Boy, Box 13, and Green Lantern Corps. He is also a huge fan of the New Warriors, which is good, because Rick and Jeff need all the help they can get.

Now that we are at the end of this series, we have a sick number of Warriors. They may be down one smartship, but they have a powered up Nova, the correct Speedball, and a new time manipulator. Not too shabby for a team that started with attitude and an unlimited supply of money.

We really only covered these books to get a sense of Alex on another team, and we really were not impressed. Alex was more of a tool that the Warriors used, but he never was a real character. He faded into the background and was more white paint than he usually is.

Speaking of background, we should talk about some of the great details in the background of these books. They were pretty incredible, funny, and foreshadowy. Yes, I just made up a word because I was making a list and I needed a third thing. Don't you judge me. I spend time and effort doing this when I really do not need to. You will cry when I am gone.

Ok, done with my rant for now. But you better behave, or I will start another one! Now, where was I? Probably pontificating on a life lost, a body destroyed, and the hopes of a sequel.

Well, that about wraps it up for this experiment. I am not sure how we will tackle other large runs with one Power Pack character, but it will not be like this. But we will think of something.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/10/24/the-new-warriors-overview-4/

Don’t forget to support us on Patreon, https://www.patreon.com/JeffandRickPresent. We have started to release monthly episodes for our Energizer ad greater tiers. We are covering the alternate versions mini-series that started in 2005.

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Peppy Pepe by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4205-peppy-pepe
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 93.666: My Little Pony/Transformers: Friendship in Disguise #2

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 10:00:39 -0700

Happy Halloween!!!! Would you believe that Mephisto showed up again? Yup...he is causing mischief...and he has a twisted idea. Apparently, he likes to watch cartoons to unwind, a choice we can support. He also wants us to review Friendship in Disguise. OK then, grab your sugary cereal and pull u[p the bean bag chair!

So what fresh hell is this. Transformers and My Little Ponies. Well, ok then. We are in a whole new level of insanity and I am here for it. I mean, this is crashing toys on a whole new level.

We should talk about how this happened, and who had the idea, and how many drugs the editors at IDW were doing, but that would be thinking too small. I mean. We are talking robots and ponies here. We need to be thinking bigger.

There is also the cute factor which could distract us. I mean....just look at those robots. Have you ever seen such lines, such design. Those are some sleek and wonderful machines, you just want to cuddle with them. Nothing makes me happier than cold hard steal against my cheek when I am sleeping at night. What...too much?

I guess the ponies are cute too....if you are into that type of thing.

We should talk about the round robin aspect where we have people on each others shows and how we get to spend time with our favorite podcasters, but whatever...we have been doing this for four years and.....wait...No Sean, but we have Tim Price....ugh...

In the end, we are being forced to read something that (spoiler) we absolutely love. Because of that, you should listen to all of the podcasts below as we talk about these books. And if you don't, we will have to send Shockwave to beat you.

Follow the entire crossover event
“Mephisto vs The Podcasters”
using the links below!

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 94: Power Pack V2 #1: Power Re-Play

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 09:25:24 -0700

The Pack is Back! No more minor guest stars! No more lame walk on rolls! No more multi book reviews! We are back with a Pack story, a couple of beers, and a beating stick for anyone who stands in our way!!!

Awwwww man, that was my favorite beating stick. Okay, well, I guess that we will just do what we can do....Let's start with the kids and their costumes. I mean...They have masks...MASKS MAN!!! That is a start, right!?

While there are some things that have changed, like new costumes, a change of location, skipped grades, and parents knowing about powers, there are things that are the same. Things like: there are four kids, two parents, and one blown up smartship.

Speaking of Katie, she has been surfing the Matrix and has become one with science. Or her love of Friday has really pushed her to new heights. This is all something....interesting.

Like usual though, when we are talking about Power Pack, we have to be talking about the Snarks, right? You remember the Snarks? Big, green, teethy, bureaucratic.... we all love them.

New creators new art.....and yet, a lot of the same stories. A new series has a new chance for success, if the ship is sailing the right way with the right height. What does this mean? Heck if I know, I was just trying riff on the picture.

Well, we are here to review these books. Whether good, or bad, we are here to do the dew.......or something. We will always be there, especially when Katie releases a plethora of power balls.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/11/07/power-pack-v2-1-power-re-play/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Ice Giants by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5745-the-ice-giants License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 95: Power Pack V2 #2:Snark Attack!

Sun, 21 Nov 2021 08:41:47 -0800

In art, media, and life, the Sophomore attempt is seen as the moment when the world can see what the thing is really like. They have come out, made an attempt or impression on the world, shy, new....and then they come back with their real statement for the world.

This is the second issue of what will become a four issue mini series. The first had promise, with some worry. This second issue is where we are really looking for the hook, the theme that will keep all the kids coming back for it's milkshakes.

Boy howdy......this book is selling something, and it just might be a hot mess or whatever. Their is tone problems, and issues with story beat, replaying old tunes, and other audio analogies that I will forego at the moment.

This hodgepodge of stuff has left us pretty cold on this issue, and very hesitant of the rest of the series. It is difficult to compare what is happening here, in this 2000 book, with what will happen in five years with Marc Sumerak and GuriHiru. We know what this property is capable of. We know it can be better.

There could be an argument against the property turning into a teen or tween book with a focus on romance. That would be fine, if it was done well, or done with consistency. Spoiler for the next book and the rest of the series, the romance angles really get shelved. it is not a good showing of the kids actually trying to live normal lives.

While the first issue felt like an opportunity, this one just fell flat. There was a lot happening that could have set up some story lines, but a few were rehashing of old plots while the rest were just uncomfortable. And really, it just made us want to lie down for a bit.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/11/21/power-pack-v2-2-snark-attack/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Sweeter Vermouth by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4450-sweeter-vermouth License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 96: Power Pack V2 #3:Split Decision

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 08:34:57 -0800

Issue three of four.....we have to keep telling ourselves that.

The kids are fighting this issue. They are fighting the snarks, they are fighting each other, they are fighting logic, they are fighting the narrative. They are fighting.

They fight so much, that they ran out of pages of content. I am serious. We do not get to see the scary ships that cause them all to be in awe. We were not in awe.

You may be rolling your eye or eyes at us (depending on how you are drawn), but we are trying our best. There is good, there is bad, and there is this. We just want more from our kids.

There was some promise in this series, but as we move towards the end, we are starting to see that it is falling apart. How bad is it going.....? Well, we have one word!

Marg. That is the word. Marg. Sigh.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/12/05/power-pack-v2-3-split-decision/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Quirky Dog by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4259-quirky-dog
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 97: Power Pack V2 #4: Ascension

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 11:29:34 -0800

And we made it to the end of this mini series, and the end of a regular all Power Pack story for a while. So, sit right back, make yourself comfortable and get ready for a tale.

Woahh there chief, not that comfortable. Remember, family show so let's keep it neat and tidy, OK! Remember, Julie is watching you and your inappropriate moves.

We are pretty sure that this series was cut short. There were a number of plots and stories that just dissipated to no where. There was a lot of "remember that" and "let's bring back this thing", and it was not....great....

What was great? Well, some of the stuff that is coming up. I mean, we should look forward to what is the good stuff. Some new stories, some new writers, some new artists. The era of this Power Pack is over.

I guess this could be seen as a new book that would give the new readers a chance to meet Power Pack, and bring in interest to the book. There are just a couple of problems with this. First, the characters as they are presented are not fun or interesting. Second, they drop the group until the alternate universe all ages book in five years later.

So as we run away from this series and towards whatever is coming up next, let's remember that we will not fight. If you liked these books more than we did, it is OK. It is alright to like something we did not like. This is our opinion only.

One last thing, we do love hearing from you, our fans. Please let us know how we are doing. We plan to keep going with our coverage of comics featuring the Power Kids, so we want to know what you think.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2021/12/19/power-pack-v2-4-ascension/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Winner Winner! by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4630-winner-winner-
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 98: Various Issues - Cameos

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 09:51:02 -0800

There comes a time in every podcast, where you need to talk about inconsequential cameo appearances made by the members of the team of heroes that you are podcasting about. Trust me, there is a law about that somewhere. I am sure I have read it. The point is, Power Pack has been mentioned or has done some drive-byes in a few issues that we wanted to mention. This is also a nice break before a change to what we have been doing.

Luke Cage is crazy because the demon Boogey Man has taken over his brain. Yeah, we have all been there. Interesting career move for a Power Pack villain. A strange issue with a cameo by Dakota North?

We are on Madripoor Island for some sexy swimsuit times. And because Alex headed over with the New Warriors....here we are. Can we appreciate how Alex has not been skipping bicep days? I really do not know what else to say here.

Remember that time when Power Pack wiped the floor with Mysterio? Well the pack does. And during one of Mysterios fights with Daredevil, he replays his entire life, all of the moments that made an impact on him....and then he disses the Pack. Seriously!!!

HYDRA is attacking and all the heroes are responding, including Power Pack. That is just about it. Thanks for coming folks!

And now we have a comic about C class super-villains who are bad at doing what they do, finding better uses for their "talents", and becoming better. And yet...AND YET....the losers still need to belittle the Pack. Man....give our kids some love.

OK, it is time for the kids to get some respect. The kids need to be part of the universe. They need to be part of some great teams. Unfortunately, this is the Great Lakes Avengers. Still, we will take it.

And that is what we have folks. Stay tuned for a new direction next episode.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/01/02/various-issues-cameos/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Some Amount of Evil by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4388-some-amount-of-evil
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 99: Runaways V2 #1: True Believers Chapter 1

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 09:27:01 -0800

Welcome to our slightly revamped format as we start to review some guest appearances in comics with our Power Pack members. That is right, we are doing full issue recaps of issues with our favorite kids. That means we are starting with Runaways.

So who are the Runaways? Well, they are the children of fine, upstanding citizens of our society who live happy lives with their wonderful parents. It is a story of a happy and kind group of children who strive to create a wonderful....ok....you know that I am lying.

They are really a group of children whose parents were super-villains. When they discovered this, they....get this....ran away. At this point, they each found out about their own special, happy fun time gifts. Does that sound like fun?

These kids are on their own, kicking rears, and taking names. They are making choices that are pretty special. Now that they are on their own, they are establishing their own mission statement. Save other children from other evil parents. Well, this should be fun.

But why are we talking about this? Sure, we like kids with superpowers, but why choose this book to cover? I have one word, Excelsior! That is right, Stan Lee.....wait....what.....?

No...not Stan Lee. The name is in honor of the man, but it is also the name of a support group of former child super-heroes. They meet to talk and support each other in their attempt at healing the damage done by wearing capes and tights when they were younger.

And one of those children who is part of this group is our favorite flier with a rainbow, Julie Power. She is hanging out in LA because she wants to be an actress, and she is networking. Sounds good...I guess. But what else should we know?

Oh, and don't do drugs.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/01/16/runaways-v2-1-true-believers-chapter-1/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Steel and Seething by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4417-steel-and-seething
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 100 Runaways V2 #2: True Believers Chapter 2

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 10:07:23 -0800

We are still running away from our original idea....I mean it is the second issue, we have not given up yet.

So let's talk about this book. OK, there are a bunch of kids who have superpowers and some of them want to stop another kid from being a villain and others want to stop the others from being supers at all. Got that?...Good.

And what about this bad guy? Who is he, and why is he so important? Why does everyone want him? Why does he become evil? When will he become evil? And why is he wearing that uniform?

Well, we do not know much of the future, but we do know now...or at least the now being 15 years after the comic, and the now of the comic, but not the future of the then that was when the comic came out. Man, I hate time travel.

I would like to be able to create a big hand with a bunch of metal. I think that it would be a great party trick. Something like, "nothing up this sleeve, nothing under my hat, now watch this!" And then, BAM! Salsa time!

To be truthful, I would just use the power for evil. And for burritos. And for a touchdown. I mean, wouldn't it be cool if you could use your powers to kick amazing touchdowns? Or am I just thinking too small?

So no to the touchdown, OK. Then I will use my unknown about super-powers to create roller skates whenever I need them. I mean, think about it, isn't that what you always wanted? There you are walking down the street and then you think, can't I be skating. Why yes, yes I can be.

I have just been given a message saying that if I do not stop it (stop coming up with, and I quote, lame powers) I will receive a boot to the head. I do not want a boot to the head. I want to go on holiday.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/01/30/runaways-v2-2-true-believers-chapter-2/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Divertimento K131 by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3663-divertimento-k131
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 101 Runaways V2 #3: True Believers Chapter 3

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 08:20:38 -0800

It may be an overused trope in comic books, but when heroes meet for the first time, they must fight. It is a law or a commandment, or at least a statute or a local ordinance somewhere. The point being is that it must happen. And with two teams of superheroes, that means more fighting.

So, we know what is going to happen, but what if it does not happen, what then? Well first, they take away your SAG card and you cannot work again. That would be the Superhero Awesomeness Guild card for those that are not in the know.

Even worse than that, the offending superhero also will have to pay a fine. This hurts more than the loss of the card. There are always locations that will let you work without being in the guild, but you are limited. The real problem is the fines. Do you know how little an amateur cape makes...in this economy!!!

It is a slippery slope for out of work supers. They need the good paying jobs of saving kids and disarming bombs just to afford their kit. Let's be honest, Parker may be smart and naturally gifted, but he did NOT sew that suit himself. Feeding exotic pets, servicing custom vehicles, and hospital bills for interplanetary infections, this all takes cash folks.

The long and short of it is that all superheroes need to know the requirements to remain in good standing. In order to satisfy the HOHO's (Hero On Hero Oppositions), a costumed hero needs to actively participate in at least one misunderstanding, active conflict meeting, or dispatching a rogue good guy each quarter. Failure to do so will cause a review and possible termination of your status.

Many questions are raised about non-fighting interactions. We need to be clear. These do not count. In order for the HOHO credit to be received, the heroes must be fighting. Over-complementing each other does not reflect the spirit of this rule. Throw some punches and then apologize later. For example, "I am sorry that I punched you in your pretty pretty face." See? It's easy!

One interesting situation that is often reviewed and adjudicated on a case-by-case basis is the SONIC (Super Observing and Not Interfering or Challenging). This is where a hero is watching another group of heroes fighting each other. Some consider this to be encouraging the interaction by not interfering, while others see this as having no effect on anything. It often depends on who is observing this entire scene and the impact it has. Most of the time, a decision is made that this would not count. It is always better to join in the fray and be the difference.

Please remember to always document interactions and send in your receipts when completing your paperwork. Also, remember to have fun. Being a superhero is the best activity in the world; you help people, inspire greatness, and see amazing things. While you may bruise an ego or two, and possibly a rib, during these fights, you will mostly come out the other side with a new friend, and possible team mate.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/02/13/runaways-v2-3-true-believers-chapter-3/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Artifact by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3382-artifact License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-licensed

Episode 102 Runaways V2 #4: True Believers Chapter 4

Sun, 27 Feb 2022 09:20:41 -0800

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 102

We are back with another exciting issue of comic books to talk about. We are also back with another random chat about the wonders and mysteries of being a resident of the Marvel Universe.

You must think that it is all sunshine and tar pits, but you would be wrong. Living in the BIG U means being ready for big things and big fights. These are the things that characters must deal with. This and a lot of cotton candy.

So if you are a group of kids..or two groups of kids, you really need to make a choice about what you want in this great big world. I mean, we know that you want the cotton candy, everybody does, but what else do these kids want. With the powers that they have, they could take the whole world.

At least the family has a home. Shelter is very important, even if that home is underground and cheap. Actually, it is better that way. No bills and no rent control. Free food would be cool. And maybe a little less evil overtones. That could be cool.

The kids have each other, they have friends. In this world, you can do anything if you have friends. They help you when you are down, laugh when the funny things happen, and they will usually answer your call when you need help burying a body. Maybe I have said too much.

I guess that what I am trying to say is that the kids do just fine without the parents. I mean, look at some of the goobers who are their parents. Especially that robot guy…you know that one who is Vic's father. I mean, that guy is a jerk.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/02/27/runaways-v2-4-true-believers-chapter-4/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Psychedelic Crater by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4248-psychedelic-crater License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 103 Runaways V2 #5: True Believers Chapter 5

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 11:25:32 -0700

We are back with another exciting issue of comic books to talk about. We are also back with another story of teen drama and angst.

To quote Jean-Paul Sartre; Hell is other people. And that is so on the nose for this episode.

There are so many people in this book that are trying to be hell to other people in this book. You have the Runaways, Excelsior, Vic and his mom, and of course the daddy issue. And all of these people are really making Vic's life a living hell.

The poor boy was dealing with acne and keeping up with the popular music, now he has his future life of being a big bad to drag him down. People are pulling him into traps, or using big guns. It ain't cool man.

OK, I will concede that the big gun is pretty dang sweet. I mean, who would not like to wield a big old cannon to shoot fools in the face. That is taking back the power and showing others what hell is. But we digress, we need to keep talking about the angst and feelings of Vic. This is his book and he is the one who has to deal with this insanity. How would you feel if your dad turned out to be an incredibly powerful villain and a robot? You would lash out, right?

Fire, violence, angry words.... these are all strong options. Angst and teenage confusion can lead to poor choices, leading us down the path to different lifestyle or living choices. Things like loving and stroking flying vehicles.

The other big issue is family. If people are hell, then family is the cherry on top. No one can rattle your cage more than the parents. They know your buttons, especially if you are a robot.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/03/13/runaways-v2-5-true-believers-chapter-5/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Political Action Ad by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4227-political-action-ad License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 104 Runaways V2 #6: True Believers Chapter 6

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 07:56:34 -0700

All things must come to and end...except this podcast, which will never, ever end!

As I sit here and try to quickly sum up our snapshot into the Runaways, I have to ponder my own feelings on the book, characters, concept, and execution. When I started to get back into comics a few years ago, this was one of the first series I dove into. It was such an interesting take and perspective to the 90's era I had last been really invested in.

The art and storytelling style informed me of some of the new aesthetics prevalent in the comic book medium and it introduced me to the new audience of consumers. Except for some references to the overall universe and an occasional drop in, this was a new group that was not tied to Marvel Legacy.

I like that comic books can evolve and change. Storytelling needs to adapt to include fresh information and new content. The world consumes information at a faster pace, and the demand for improvements and new things are constant. While we may have loved the creators of our youth, we know they will not be around for ever, and we do not really want them to be trying to copy or improve on older styles.

As I am writing this, I kinda feel like an old dude that is trying to justify his love of comic books, especially those that feel aimed at a much younger target audience. And I am probably correct in thinking that the only ones still reading are fellow old nerds like myself. But, I would contend that it is ok to interact with any medium (in this case comics) in any fashion you like.

I think I have lost the thread of what I was talking about, so let me try to sum it up. I like comics. I like the old and the new, I like the success and the failures. I think that the Runaways is a great book that has new characters and fresh ideas. It has a new art style and feels of the time.

If I were to get more philosophical or delve into personal introspection, I would say that I am accepting my childhood, or reliving it. I would try to juxtapose my current moods and maturity against.....

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/03/27/runaways-v2-6-true-believers-chapter-6/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 105 The Loners V1 #1: Fear of Flying

Sun, 10 Apr 2022 07:47:11 -0700

New series....Continuing story.....sort of.... But let's talk about this awesome cover! I mean, I am a sucker for 80's movies, and there is no more 80's movie than a John Hughes movie....Holla if you hear me!

Oh, you are a little preocupied to answer right now. I understand. This is a little more complex than your normal comic, what with it dealing with......uhm...hey....I think I know what he was looking at in that picture.

Fine, throw a disk in my eye, see if I care. Let me get back to talking about addiction and recovery. We have some former super-hero kids that are trying to not wear the tights anymore and trying to get over their trauma of the drama of their youth. But why do we, your silly bearded boys care? Because of Julie Power.

We love our flying girl and her pink onesie and her bookish ways.....What's that? Seventeen....actress...halter tops and low ride jeans....blond hair.....Nope....Nope this is not going to do at all. Wait....that is her flying!!! BURN THE EYES!

OK. The cleansing is done. On with the goofy narrative and derivative non sequiturs. How about seamstresses? We do not appreciate the work they do or the skills they have creating the clothes we wear. Let's just take a moment to review an average Marvel character on the street and evaluate their clothing choices. How about Nekra?

Wow.....That is a choice. I mean, don't ya get cold....or ever run out of double sided tape? Just have to take a minute to stare and ponder that costume for a bit....

I am getting tired of getting hit with things or blasted with Darkhawks purple beam of purpleness. I do not have to take it, and neither do you nice people. Run away while you still can!

And that was the story of how I killed all of our listeners.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/04/10/the-loners-v1-1-fear-of-flying/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Sheep May Safely Graze - BWV 208 by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4345-sheep-may-safely-graze---bwv-208 License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 106 The Loners V1 #2: Reflex Actions

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 09:00:27 -0700

There are good days we always remember in our lives. The day you meet the love of your life, the day you take that fantastic walk where you see all of the pretty flowers, the day you pull off the perfect vending machine bingo when you get three items for the price of one, and the day you skip school with your best friends and fight crime.

You know what I am talking about. You fake the cough, you give off the vague symptoms that show something being off without a trip to the hospital. You fake out your parents, your partner, your roommates...you call into school, work, the military....you get the day off. And then....then you rock out in your underwear.

Then you reach out to those friends who are actually sick, or have the day off, or who got fired for covering for you the last time you pulled a stupid stunt like this. You convince them to get out of their pajamas (or put some on, depending on the type of day you are contemplating), and you take off to carpe the day.

Oh the hi-jinx you can pull when you are off and have no real obligations to anyone. You can party, visit museums, pretend you are the hamburger prince of Des Moines. The world is your oyster, you are the boss of you and your friends. You write the songs and sing the lyrics. You can do anything, from visiting the tallest tower, to breaking into the most broken building.

Just make sure that you take along that special someone. That person you want to spend time with, snuggle up with...smooch with. There is nothing worse than watching a school of fish swim by you at the aquarium without a partner to lock eyes and lips with.

But what if you do not have the charisma to "get away with it". What if you are more of a introvert that tries to slide by and not be noticed? What if you are more of a Rick than a Jeff? Then you need to go out and find that shining star. Don't worry, many charismatic people are looking for that perfect wing-person to make them look great. You too will find your Maverick.

If you don't take the chances to explore the world by skipping out on your responsibilities, you are missing one of life's greatest joys. You have to recharge the batteries with no responsibilities. If you don't take the time to really take that day off, then you are going to be a sad Gus, and nobody likes that.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/04/24/the-loners-v1-2-reflex-actions/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Volatile Reaction by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5014-volatile-reaction License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 107 The Loners V1 #3: What Lies Beneath

Sun, 08 May 2022 08:49:07 -0700

Into every generation, there comes a sad sack. A person who lives to make others depressed, down, or discover that their lives are better. They live to serve as a warning to others, cautionary tales that provide guides of what not to do. Today, we will talk about these people.

The first sign that the person you hang with is the reason you are constantly down, is when you notice them talking to themselves in the mirror. While this may be a bad sign, remember that it can always get worse. The mirror could be answering them back.

Another really good sign is that the person does not like to be touched. Now, consent is everything, and no one should be touched against their will. But if you have that friend who punches butterflies when they land on their arm......Just saying. They may have a problem.

Speaking of which, we have the other side. The happy people. The sunny people. The people that will try to bring the sunshine into the grumpy pants rain cloud. This is the yin and yang, the chalk and cheese, the mortar and scotch egg.....maybe not the last one, but you get the idea.

Our dark little rain clouds really do not like people, but they really hate happy people. The brighter the smile, the more galling it is. These people have spent their lives building up walls of dark hate and misery, and then someone walks in with a can of yellow paint. That there spells trouble.

Now we do not condone violence, but we also like to give fair and proper warning to people. Do not try to go and deal with a sad sack by yourself. They are dangerous when out in the wild. They have strong feelings of mistrust and anger....or they are just lonely. Really...I am just making this all up.

Just be careful out there...ok.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/05/08/the-loners-v1-3-what-lies-beneath/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Court of the Queen by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3557-court-of-the-queen License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 108 The Loners V1 #4: What you Don’t Know

Sun, 22 May 2022 09:22:56 -0700

Rick usually does these wacky little stories or diatribes each month, but this time he is doing something different. He is just going to set up the pictures in a random order and let Jeff describe the book or tell a story....or whatever. This is a little social experiment. He is not even going to tell him about this. Let's hope Jeff edits this one.

Memories, ah yes, the sweet heady feeling we get with the nostalgia of memories. Like looking back at childhood photos and remembering things, I look back weeks ago when I saw Rick's little social experiment, laughed, made a mental note to get back to it and then moved on with my life. Then Rick text's me asking if I had done the thing yet...gulp.

Now I have to pretend to be a functioning adult and do some writing to make a deadline of our own devising. This means that I have to cosplay like Julie and Johnny and act like someone that I am not. I hope that the special effects department is a good one to hide the rainbow of deficiencies that I am bringing to the role, as I literally just got woken up to do it.

Yup, that's right. I was asleep and dreaming on the concrete of my driveway while my daughter drove big circles around me and our car in her peddle car. I was awake enough that every time she passed by me, ringing her bell at me, that I would reach out and boop her nose and play with her until she was ready to start her long slow circle again and I would drift off waiting for her return.

Now you might sit there and look down at me in judgement, but I was exhausted and the game that we were playing prior to that was putting me to sleep on my feet. The game was called red light and it entailed me pretending to be in a car at a red light. She would then drive up behind me, ring and ring and ring her bell at me while yelling at me to move. Eventually she would drive around me and through the red light, but I was stuck at it and couldn't move. Then she would cycle around and the game would begin again.

So there I was, stuck in my "car" waiting to be allowed to move into the great big exciting world around me and not ever getting that green light. Eventually it all became to much and I pulled my "car" over to the side of the "road" and stretched out.

The warmth of the day embraced me. The podcast I was listening to lulled me to my ease and the knowledge that my entertained and happy daughter was nearby let me drift off to the edges of a pleasant slumber.

Then it all came bwwaaashhhing down. I heard my daughter dump her car and go inside so that she could have a snack and hangout with her mom. Then Rick disturbs my rest with a text, and I wake up enough to realize that I now just look like a person that may have been hit by a car in a driveway that needs help instead of the tired, partially negligent parent that is both playing with his kid and kinda taking a nap in his front yard. So up I get and into the house I go.

Any ways, in this issue Julie outs her and Johnny's superpoweredness to a movie director to get an acting gig and then said director attempts to sexually assault her because yuck. Also, some other stuff happened with the other characters, but it felt really place holdery so I wouldn't worry too much about it.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/05/22/the-loners-v1-4-what-you-dont-know/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Thunderhead by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4528-thunderhead License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 109 The Loners V1 #5: Chinks in the Armor

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 09:11:17 -0700

We are coming in for a landing folks, and We need know if any of these kids are going to make it. Especially when they have fights breaking out in their special place. Wow, that sounded dirty. Whatever, let's do this thing.....huh...that sounded dirty too.

So what do we have happening in this book? That is a good answer, and I can sum it up in one word, bad choices. Some may call that two words, but I would like to point out that I never learned to count, so it is not my fault. As I was saying decisions were made and the outcomes were negative. This of course means drama. Huh, drama would be a better word to sum up this issue with.

Is there drama in burgers? Sure! Especially when you call them cow sandwiches. Speaking of which, is a hotdog a sandwich or a taco? Is a taco a sandwich? Now we are talking drama, and opinions, and possibly a food fight.

And there is drama of a new person with no memory. Who is she, why is she here, what is her favorite color, how will she betray and kill us? These are the kinds of questions that lead to or from trust. Plus, she looks pretty awesome.

Then we have the drama-mama-llama-rama. This takes the cake, don't it. Goblin boy, who is off his rocker, with the power of the hawk crystal which has been ramping up Chris? This is a combo meal of doom, with a side order of DRAMA.

Buuuuuuut, I am not going to be the one to tell him that.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/06/05/the-loners-v1-5-chinks-in-the-armor/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Clenched Teeth by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3517-clenched-teeth License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 110 The Loners V1 #6: Double Identities

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 06:08:35 -0700

This is it, the end of the Loners....well, sort of. We still have a couple more appearances of this team, but this is the final issue of this crazy run, so we should reflect on what we have learned.

I think we can say that this series is not complete, and is a little strange. It was experimental and challenging, and unexpected. And whether you like it or not, you have to appreciate the ambition of it's creators. Experiments are not always successful, but they can be interesting.

So what failed in this series. Probably some of the re-characterization of Julie. You can see some of the characterization that Weezie originally conceived, but there are some changes that are uncomfortable. She is an underage woman who has been sexualized. While I am glad that it is not more than just the eye candy view, and her response to being attacked was great, it still felt strange.

Speaking of which, there was a definite effort to make this more of a teen+ book with the more adult themes. More relationships, discussions of addiction and trauma, and sex. There is a lot of meat that the creators where sewing into the story in order to build a future story. They just did not make it.

I would not punch this series and call it bad. I would say that the series is not for everyone, and it is not complete. But I want to recognize some of the great beats the story provided, and the discussion we had. And it is always about the journey....right?

Sometimes we read some content that leaves us feeling a couple of different ways, possibly fighting feelings about how we will land on the material. That can be good. It is always helpful to challenge the status quo. We need some growth and change...and we need to see two Darkhawks beat each other up.

We are going to see these cats in a a few more issues, but this is the end of The Loners series. Bye The Loners!

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/06/19/the-loners-v1-6-double-identities/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 111 Interview With Chris Eliopoulos

Sun, 03 Jul 2022 19:58:11 -0700

Every so often we get the opportunity to talk to someone extraordinary, this is not one of those times Extraordinary is too small of a word. Chris Eliopoulos may have has simple beginnings, just a young boy who liked doodling at pizza parlors. From there, he has gone on to having a small empire.

Chris got his break in comics to be a letterer, working on thousands of books over the years. During this time, he mad friend and had some incredible opportunities, including one to set up his own digital lettering shop. Virtual Calligraphy (VC) now completes the majority of the Marvel digital lettering.

His love of drawing never diminished, and he was able to contribute to a few books before he got the opportunity to develop a series dear to our hearts, Franklin Richarrds, Son of a Genius. A truly fun and entertaining series that utilizes his great whimsy and talent to create a unique take on the child of our second favorite team of four.

But that is not all. Chris is also the co-writer and artist of the very successful I Am series of books. These children's books look at the fascinating lives of histories most important figures. Presenting them in an easy to digest format.

And then, just to cap it all off he also has his own TV show. Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum, which is about Xavier, his sister and their friends at the Secret Museum. They time travel to the past to interact and learn from historical heroes.

This just goes to show you that your dreams can come true, even if you only want to draw on napkins in a pizza parlor.

You can visit our webpage to see the pictures we talked about:

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 112 Marvel Holiday Special 2007: Secret Santa

Sun, 17 Jul 2022 19:14:26 -0700

Time to break out that holly, eggnog, and mistletoe, we need to have ourselves a merry little holiday party with The Loners.

Don't be too confused, this all makes perfect sense. See, we are releasing this July, with the sun blazing and the total lack of snow. This is the perfect time to think about all things winter, and cold, and not hot.

OK, I am stretching to make this make sense, but whatever...just go with it. You know, I do a lot for you people. I give and I give and I give....and I try to make things original. You know, sitting here writing is really hard.

Maybe I am just whining. Maybe I just want to be out and about. Maybe I am antsy to go camping but I decided to tie myself up with a couple of recordings right before I was supposed to leave. Maybe I should just kick someone in the face.

Nah, that is too mean. I should just be like Julie, happy to be hanging with my friends...and flying.

Wait a minute! I CAN'T FLY!

Happy (non) Holidays to you all.

Please check out some images mentioned on the show: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/07/17/marvel-holiday-special-2007-secret-santa/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Summer Hit by WinnieTheMoog
Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/6036-summer-hit
License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 113 Interview With Fred Van Lente

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 07:09:57 -0700

This is a first for us. A creator that one of us has had the opportunity to meet in person before we interviewed them. Fred Van Lente wrote three of the Power Pack all ages mini series as well as many other works, but of course we are going to ask him about Power Pack, I mean....that is the height of his career, right?

Known initially for his work on Action Philosophers with Ryan Dunlavey, Fred has developed a very good bibliography of writing credit within the comic community. He also has had the opportunity to work with other fantastic creators. Plus, he is a pretty funny guy with some interesting stories to share.

But how does someone become a writer, what is catalyst to move a person into this realm where many dare but few succeed. The first step is to find yourself in a place you want to get out of, followed by choosing a career path that you quickly realize is not for you. These were, fortunately for Fred, the exact elements that put him on the path to where he is today.

But it is not all about Zombies and big headed creations bent on evil. Sometimes Fred give back something for the kids. Like we mentioned at the top of this rant, Fred worked on some wonderful Power Pack story lines. And while he did not get the opportunity to pull out a full series, he was able to produce a set of work to be very proud of.

So sit right back and take a listen as we bother this nice man about his past and what makes him such a fascinating writer.

Check out some pictures online at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/07/31/interview-with-fred-van-lente/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 114 War of Kings: Darkhawk #1

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 07:04:15 -0700

It is time to do the hawk....do the Darkhawk that is! You know what it is like, you want to do a dance but your only partner has a ruby stuck in his chest. We have all been there.

So this is what it is like to read a Darkhawk-centric issue in the 2000's. A lot of fire, a bit of brimstone, and some serious close-ups. This is just a lot of a lot. Of course people say that about us too.

Chris has a bit going on in his life, and for the most part, it is good. Loving mother and brothers, a good paying job, a plethora of bad guys to beat up. You could ask for a better life, but you would probably have to pay for it.

We should talk about Julie Power. She was in this issue and did not say anything......we have now talked about Julie.

Back to Chris and his mom. This seems like a pretty good relationship. Chris and his mom are talking, and they are not keeping secrets anymore. Sure, he is living back at home, which is such a drag, but he is making it work and making the change.

But what about the new guy, what is his deal? Why should we even care? Why does he have to be all....y'know..Darkhawky? Why can't he know his own dance? Betcha did not think we would circle back to that.

Boom....Mind blown...I know, right?

You can look at some of the artwork we talked about at the webpage for this episode at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/08/14/war-of-kings-darkhawk-1/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Old Walls by Frank Schroeter https://filmmusic.io/song/6706-old-walls License (CCTBY 4.0): https://www.facebook.com/frank.schroeter.52

Episode 115 War of Kings: Darkhawk #2

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 14:44:23 -0700

We are back with the second of our two part coverage of the dual issues of Darkhawk in this pair of issues. Yee haw cowboy, let's get ready to ride!

Now, you may be asking yourself, where can I get me one of those sweet sweet Raptor gun suits. Let me tell you, we have a wild deal down here at Crazy Carl's Used Armor Emporium. We can sell you a slightly used and lovingly restored suit for the small price of your dignity and your families safety. That's right, put that family in danger, they knew what they were signing up for.

Not only will we give you this overpowered covering of glory, but we will also set you up with our one of a kind stress inducer and emotional de-stabilizer. Cause there is nothing more satisfying than blowing up at your loved ones.

And what about your friends, you want to get them in on this wonderful deal. Well, we have you covered. We will provide your friends with the greatest protection in the world...Not being your friend anymore! Win Win!

(The bonus significant other extraction tool is a complimentary add on)

The best part of this deal is the financing we offer. We have many clients that need the suit now, now, now! The rival is heading down the street as we speak and I want to knock his head into next week. Take my SANITY PLEASE. We have you covered with our use now, sanity later plan. You will love it.

So what are you waiting for! Operators are standing by! Salespeople are drinking their coffee! It is time to become the broken down hero of your dreams. Be the difference and wreck that everyone knows you can be.

Get this offer now, cause it will be gone soon!

Check out the artwork we talked about at this website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/08/28/war-of-kings-darkhawk-2/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 116 New Warriors Annual #1 & Wolverine #37

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 08:11:52 -0700

Two stories for the price of one! Why are we doing this? Because we can do ever we want! We are not playing by your strict rules dealing with time and space! So let's bounce into it.

Let me tell you what I like about comic book conventions. At con's, people can and are allowed to let their freak flag fly. And they do. And people can find all that makes there heart sing. And they can dress themselves with as many spikey bits as they want.

Sure, at times you will see someone in a creepy cosplay, maybe too much blood or gore, maybe too much like a plastic dollar store barbie. Still, it is there look and they can enjoy themselves.

Another con specialty is all of the great panels. You do not get such great opportunities to listen to creators talk about all of the great people and and things and events that occurred while creating whatever they created. These stories are amazing and interesting, and they rarely involved bodily harm.

While at a con, you do have to dodge other people, because there are a lot of people. Some people ignore people, some run them over, others politely wait, and others juke and jive like a master snake.

And where are these people going, why they are all going to look at the toys and stuff. The con is filled with things to buy and see. This is great. But, you must be careful, if you touch these, cause if you break them you buy them.

Now let's talk about the physical strain on your body. You are walking all day and carrying your stuff. This could include wearing a backpack. Your feet and your lower back and many of your other parts are going to be hurting. The pain is real my friends.

So those are the thoughts on comic book cons, probably because Rick is currently at the Rose City Comic Con and is writing this at the last minute. If you have a problem with this, you can fight him.

Please check out the art from this episode at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/09/11/new-warriors-annual-1-wolverine-37/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Open Sea (Epic) by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9447-open-sea-epic License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frank.schroeter.52

Episode 117 Fantastic Four #574: Days of Future Franklin

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 08:59:04 -0700

PARTY PEOPLE IN THE HOUSE!!!! Shakka Lakka BOOM baby! We are starting the Fantastic Four/Future Foundation/ Hickman RUN! Hold onto your seats, it is about to get HOT in here!

OK, what do we need to know before we start this run. We probably need to know some basic fundamentals about this book, so pay attention. We are only going to do this one time.

First, this is a comic book, which means that you will be expect to find and interpret a combination of picture and words that together form a cohesive story told in some semblance of a linear fashion. Of course, there are a variety of ways to convey thoughts and ideas, but this is the traditional method we are used to.

Because we are consulting a known periodical variety, this physical copy will be made of paper and have on average two staples holding multiple pages together. Do not be alarmed, this medium is perfectly safe and the gross number of deaths from paper cuts or rusty staples has dramatically fallen over the years.

I have just been informed that my helpful information is apparently too "basic" for what we are presenting. Apparently I was supposed to provide information on the Marvel super-hero team known as the "Fantastic Four" in order to prepare our listeners for this next run of comics.

Well, this is a heck of a problem. I had an entire thesis prepared on the the development of the modern comic story line juxtaposed with the decadence of the west and cultural influences from Japan. I guess putting time and effort into redefining comic book ages is just not something the masses are ready for. You all just want to sit around and eat cake.

Whatever. The Fantastic Four are a group of super-heroes in the Marvel Universe and they are known by a lot of people. The end.

Oh, you need more. OK. They know Power Pack too.

My feelings are hurt and I did not prepare for this. I just am done. What do you people want from me? Get off my back.

If you want to check out our website, please visit: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/09/25/fantastic-four-574-days-of-future-franklin/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Joy In Your Bright Face by MusicLFiles https://filmmusic.io/song/7538-joy-in-your-bright-face License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://cemmusicproject.wixsite.com/musiclibraryfiles

Episode 118 Fantastic Four #579: The Future Foundation

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 08:45:07 -0700

I don't care if Monday's blue
Tuesday's gray and Wednesday too
Thursday I don't care about you
It's Friday I'm in love

What are you doing?

Monday you can fall apart
Tuesday, Wednesday break my heart
Or Thursday doesn't even start
It's Friday I'm in love

This makes no sense to anyone.

Saturday wait
Sunday always comes too late
But Friday never hesitate

No preamble, no segue-way.

I don't care if Monday's black
Tuesday, Wednesday heart attack
Thursday never looking back
It's Friday I'm in love

You are setting up our podcast for failure.

Monday, you can hold your head
Tuesday, Wednesday stay in bed
Or Thursday watch the walls instead
It's Friday I'm in love

You are not even listening to me.

Saturday wait
And Sunday always comes too late
But Friday never hesitate

Can you at least inform people that this is a bit?

Dressed up to the eyes
It's a wonderful surprise
To see your shoes and your spirits rise
Throw out your frown
And just smile at the sound
And as sleek as a sheikh
Spinning round round round
Always take a big bite
It's such a gorgeous sight
To see you in, in the middle of the night
You can never get enough
Enough of this stuff
It's Friday I'm in love

Can you at least recognize that I am talking?

I don't care if Monday's blue
Tuesday's gray and Wednesday too
Thursday I don't care about you
It's Friday I'm in love

We are doing the whole song, aren't we?

Monday you can fall apart
Tuesday, Wednesday break my heart
Thursday doesn't even start
It's Friday I'm in love

I hope you are proud of yourself.

Be sure to check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/10/09/fantastic-four-579-the-future-foundation/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Zone by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/270-the-zone License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://www.sascha-ende.de

Episode 119 Fantastic Four #580: The Frank-tastic Four

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 09:27:50 -0700

This episode features our favorite toe-headed kid, his best friend, and a guy made of fire, invading a toy store owned by a guy with a bow tie and featuring an alien who pops. In honor of that, I would like to review some of the excellent offerings in this years Amazon Holiday Kids Gift Book: Share the Adventure.

I was surprised to get a toy catalog in the mail this year. It moved me back to my childhood at the same time as shocking me to see something so analog in the digital age. But my cynical nature took a back seat when I turned to page 49 and I saw a transforming Lego version of Optimus Prime. I mean, c'mon folks. This book is the dreams of my childhood today!

Actually, if we want to move a page prior to the last one, we have even more Lego sets. One flavor for every child. You have sets that cover fantasy, history, magic...and popular franchises that ask us to buy everything associated with it. But I digress into negativity as I review this trove of treasures.

Let us turn to page 42. Since that is the answer to Life, the Universe, and Everything, I would expect to find some truly inspiring toys, and I was not mistaken. Batman takes this page, and a bit of the next with He-Man and other. What we are given is a treat of awesome action. Not only can you fulfill your desire to explore a Bat-Cave, but you can also carry a Lego Havoc staff that stands 40.5 inches tall. One moment, I need to add something to my wish list.

Sometimes you have to think about more than just the kids in the world, sometimes we need to think about the adults, especially the really cranky ones, like Maestro. In those cases, I would suggest page 51. There is an amazing selection of plushys from teeturtle. I mean, who would say no to and Octopus plushy. And there is also the Care Bears....THE CARE BEARS. Caring is in their name!

Everyone loves to play a game. And this catalog has some ideas for you. On page 65, they dare to ask the question, what Monopoly variations have we not done? My question back to Hasbro, where is my Power Pack Monopoly game? Checkmate!

No Love for the Human Torch in this book, it is all about the wall-crawler on page 37. Spidey and his Amazing friends (not featuring Iceman or Firestar, cowards!) have an entire page to entice the kids. you have these cute little characters and vehicles, and of course more Lego. There is always room for more Lego.

There is so much more in this book that we can talk about, but I really do not have time. I kinda chose this as a framing device because I thought it would make writing this page go faster, but instead I am looking up pages that I find interesting and not getting this podcast out. Besides, you stopped reading a while ago.

We need to just sit back and thank Amazon for giving us a catalog. As children, we used these as a gateway to imagine all of the wonderful things we wanted, and then to have the crushing weight of reality destroy us as we opened presents. We should pass on that tradition to our children.

If you want to see some images, check out our webpage for this episode at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/10/23/fantastic-four-580-the-frank-tastic-four/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Tides Of Iron by Alexander Nakarada Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/8382-tides-of-iron License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://www.serpentsoundstudios.com/

Episode 119.666: Halloween Roundtable

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 07:16:57 -0700

Happy Halloween!!!! Would you believe that Mephisto showed up again? Unfortunately we were all way too lazy to provide him with any sport this year. So, instead, we got the gang together and had a fun round table where we talked about spoooky media that we enjoy. We hope you enjoy our annual break from all things Power Pack!

Please visit our partners in crime at their podcasts!

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 120 Fantastic Four #584: Congratulations Mister Grimm, You’re Handsome Again

Sun, 06 Nov 2022 08:38:43 -0700

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 120

A tale as old as time. Man becomes a monster. Man lives as a monster. Man wishes not to be a monster. Man drinks potion made by kids to not be a monster. Yes, this is the story we all know like the back of our scarred and deformed hands.

Beer and book

So what are we talking about folks. My take is that it is nothing more than a retelling of Frankenstein. I mean look, you have the mad scientist with questionable social skills (looking at you Reed) trying to capture the fire of the gods and creating a monster. Hang on, I think that we are actually reading into this allegory beyond the normal childish prattle.

Oh, You Again

In this retelling of the classic story, the monster is always wishing to be human and the creator always fails. Luckily the creator has decided to get some kids to help out. Which means that there is a chance that the monster can be human again, for a short while. Now if we put that idea on the original story, would that mean that the Monster of Frankenstein would rip apart and each element would become human again.

You Should Moisturize

Now that you all have that terrafying vision in your head, let's think about the happy things you would do if you were not a monster. I mean, the first thing you need to do is make sure you have a sweet ride. Get a friend with a nice car or just steal one. It is OK, you will become a monster again in a short while and grand theft auto will not be pressed to hard.

Heroes Playing Poker

Now you are out on the town, living it up, enjoying yourself. Nobody is pointing at you or mocking you. You are not frightening small children or little old ladies. And you certainly not throwing children into rivers for fun and profit....ok, maybe you are, but just for the profit. You are out and enjoying the awesomeness of the world with people, and you are having fun. But maybe you are still hurting inside. That might be because monsters have better metabolism and you should not eat the triple decker burrito with jalapeno sauce.

Creeper

Oh...and do not forget to work on forging your connection with another human....if you know what I mean...Nuff Said!

Don't Look Up My Skirt

Keep in mind, this offer is not for everyone. Some people will not have the ability to not be a monster, or they just do not want to be a human. Either way, this is special just for the monster that takes it or wants it. And if it is only for a short time, they need to seize the moment. Not unlike seizing a planet, but on a smaller scale.

I Mean...Look at Him!

Oh...and Namor is in this book, so if you want to look at something, check him out and not Ben.

If you want to see some images, check out our webpage for this episode at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/11/06/fantastic-four-584-congratulations-mister-grimm-youre-handsome-again/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Dark Universe by Frank Schroeter Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9338-dark-universe License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frank.schroeter.52

Episode 121 Fantastic Four #585: The Kings of Atlantis

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 05:54:44 -0800

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 121

In honor of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, we are bringing you this special issue of Fantastic Four with Namor on the cover. It has nothing to do with random chance and luck that we just happened to have this cover out at the same time as that movie. Completely planned......yup.

Can we be real for a moment here? Let's be honest about the Fantastic Four. On the whole, their stories hit a plateau a while ago. But like the Fast and the Furious movies, they keep coming back to talk about family. So why do we keep coming back to talk about them? Is it the science, the people, the villains....the cars?....Okay, it may be the cars.

I think that it may be the guests they have on....or at least certain guests. Be honest, how many times have you seen Paste Pot Pete on the cover and said, "Yes...I shall speculate."? No, we are talking about good guests. Guys who make their presence felt...guys that stand tall and then stand taller. Guys like Galactus.

Let us spend a moment to gaze upon the Kirby wonder that is Galactus. The planet eater himself. A man that can TRULY wear purple and blue in a non ironic way. He is a force in the universe, and he wears the dorkiest hat of all times. He is da man.

Fashion wise, the giant being does make choices. I personally reserve my kilt wearing for special occasions, but maybe everyday is a special occasion for him. Every morning he wakes up and determines if it is pancakes or planets.

Galactus is fun. He is a cosmic entity that always brings the wacky to the Fantastic Four comic. Once you go big, you never go back. At least that is what my mom always said. Huh, I wonder what she meant by that?....Hmmmm, now that I've had time to think about it, this is awkward.

Now let us talk about Namor....Mr. Speedo Pants....the Abs of Abslantis....The Prince of Pearls....The Feathered Feet.....The Arrogant and Bossy....The True Hero of the Deep.....etc...etc...etc.

You have to like Namor...If you don't, he will probably kill you. He is Namor, for fish's sake. He is the king and chosen ruler of the underwater kingdom. Not just one small patch of land...but the...UNDERWATER. All of it!! You are nothing compared to him. And he knows it.

And when this guy shows up in the Fantastic Four....fuggetboutit! No other man stands a chance. Just look at that chiseled and smooth body. He does not smell like Old Spice, he is Old Spice. Excuse me...I need a moment.

If you want to see our website, check us out at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/11/20/fantastic-four-585-the-kings-of-atlantis/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Robot Rebellion by WinnieTheMoog Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9774-robot-rebellion License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://linktr.ee/taigasoundprod

Episode 122 Fantastic Four #586: World-Eater

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 15:06:57 -0800

Can we talk about about robots please....Are we pro or anti sentient machines sent to kill us. Or are we just hoping that they will help us in case our home is attacked by something worse. I am going to go with the later in order to sleep better at night.

According to Wikipedia, an Infestation is "the state of being invaded or overrun by pests or parasites. It can also refer to the actual organisms living on or within a host. I bring this up because we will be looking at three different infestations in this book, and I find that doing a minimal internet search is a way to start.

I guess we could start with humans. Many bugs and lesser animals find humans to be the pest that they just cannot get rid of. They have their planet evolving just the way they want it and then bam! Farming and cars and bureaucracy and locksmiths. It is just never ending with these humans. And then they use deodorant....I just cant with the human race.

Maybe we should step back and look at the bug infestation that we sometimes get when we leave out a pack of donuts for a week. Sure, I may have been told to put them away, but I do not recognize your RULES, MAN. Besides, the ants looked hungry.

Let us move on from the why, let's talk about the how do we handle the mysterious problem. Now, I think that we can use many of the same techniques for a lot of different types of infestations, but I prefer to move past the least invasive and head straight for the nuclear option. I mean, why mess around, am I right. We have developed the tools to salt the earth, let's get to pickling!

Oooh...when choosing this option, be sure and not to read any instruction. It adds spontaneity and unpredictable results to an already annoying situation. It also allows you to plead ignorance when government agencies like the EPA or non-profits like PETA start to ask questions. And trust me...the like to ask questions.

As we alluded to earlier, there are three types of infestations in this book, bugs, humans, and fish people. I will be honest, I have no clue how to deal with fish people. I have read a lot of Lovecraft, but I really do not think just curling up in a ball while your mind melts is helpful to anyone, so...nuke option it is.

Big picture, find a path and own it. You are the master of your own story, and no mamby pamby lawyer is going to get in between you, your target, and your illegal propane blowtorch. I may suggest some gloves, but that is just because you should have a drink afterwards, and that is hard when you your fingers are smoking.

If you want to see our website, check us out at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/12/04/fantastic-four-586-world-eater/\

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Video Dungeon Crawl by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4584-video-dungeon-crawl License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://incompetech.com

Episode 123 Fantastic Four #587: The Last Stand

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 11:36:03 -0800

Don't you wish you could go back in time and experience something for the first time. That you could now what it was like to feel the terror of aliens attacking when War of the Worlds was playing. That you could watch the crackling image of a man walking on the moon. That you could laugh at the insanity of Groundhogs Day....Yeah....this book and run would have been fun to experience first hand.

Well, hindsight is 20/20, or something like that. We cannot go back in time, or relive things. We can just live in the now, not the yesterday. We strive for tomorrow while we reminisce on what we previously did. We try to remember what we planned to do, but end up just faking it.

Maybe it would be cool to just reset your mind so you are always experiencing new emotions and feelings. It would be very interesting to shake up the mundane with a new experience. It would be like looking at a blank piece of paper each day and saying, what am I going to pontificate on today.

You do know that I could just be rambling about these existential questions in an attempt to fill in space. I really should be working on editing the next episode since I have slipped behind a little bit. I also need to go and buy more beer this weekend. And I have scripts to do....sigh.

Ok, back to the topic at hand; what do you all think about Hickman on this run? Are we happy, did he lay out good stories and arc? Did he develop the characters well? Spoilers, we think he did a good job. We liked the way this story has unfolded so far.

You really need to go big or go home with a book like this. You cannot just lie down and hope that it will figure itself out. That is not cool man. Not cool at all. You need to develop the ideas and lay out some long term plot points. You can't just go randomly eating planets.....well you could...but, you know.

And then....then we have to talk about the end of this book. About what is a hero, and what is a sacrifice.

And we need to talk about sorrow and morning.

Yeah, I wish I read the series when it came out.

Check out the mentioned artwork at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2022/12/18/fantastic-four-587-the-last-stand/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Car On Dark Road by Brian Holtz Music Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/7628-car-on-dark-road License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://brianholtzmusic.com

Episode 124 Fantastic Four #588: Month of Morning

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 12:04:06 -0800

In honor of the loss of a hero, the silent nature of this comic book, and the fact that I am lazy, we will present this artwork with no pretext, comments, or silliness. And so....

You can see some artwork at this website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/01/01/episode-124-fantastic-four-588-month-of-morning/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Welcome to the Show by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4614-welcome-to-the-show License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license Artist website: https://incompetech.com

Episode 125 FF #1: The Club

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 09:59:51 -0800

A new book, a new number one, a new member on the team. Let's all give a big hello to the worlds favorite humanoid arachnid. It is an honor to be chosen to fill in the ranks on this legendary team. Let's hope he does not screw this up like he does everything else in his life.

Oh to be young and starting a new job. New opportunities, new mistakes, new highs and lows. When you are a superhero of Spidey's caliber, you have seem and been a lot of places. And there have been some amazing opportunities. The best opportunity is to take over from your dead friend.

And new colleges and friends and places to go. It must be pretty cool to get to go to such wonderful locations and kick booty with new peeps....especially when one of the coworkers wears size rocky gravel kickers.

I have heard a rumor that new employers provide fantastic meals to their new victims...I mean team members.

We cannot forget a new roster of clients. You get a new job and you start to talk to new people. Remember, customers can be internal as well as external. Sometimes they are both. And sometimes they are evil.

What happens if your new work is in a rock band. It can happen, do not be such a naysayer. You could get that magical dream offer you have always wanted, lead singer, and then the rock and roll life style.

Things are looking up for the old web head. You never know what life is going to throw at you, so make sure to duck.

If you want to see some images from the issue, check out the webpage at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/01/15/episode-125-ff-1-the-club/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Dead Lights by Keith Wolk Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10189-dead-lights License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 126 Amazing Spider-Man V1 #658: The Fantastic Spider-Man

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 08:17:02 -0800

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 126

Great news folks! We have an actual expert on the show! You know, someone who actually reads comic books, studies them, and has written a few books! It's true, we actually got a real life author and he wanted to come on to our little show to talk about Spider-Man and his Fantastic Friends. So put your paws together and welcome Douglas Wolk, author of the Eisner award winning All of the Marvels!

And what are All of the Marvels, well it is a book. As we know, books are made with paper, the same type of material used to make comic books and bills. So, why am I telling you this? Why to waste your time of course.

But in all seriousness, All of the Marvels is one mans journey through the complex and twisted world of all of the stories published by Marvel Comics. That is right, this guy read all the comics.....at least the ones published by Marvel. So, that is pretty cool....right. Yeah....that is pretty cool.

Now, what has this to do with Spider-Man you may ask. First, thank you for asking, and second...well, Spider-Man is one of the main dudes in the Marvel bullpen. He is the guy, the web-head, the poster boy. He is the lynch pin. He is the world. Everybody wants to meet him.

Ok, he is one of many super-heroes in the Marvel Universe. Just like the former Fantastic Four. And together they make a wonderful team that goes wherever the story tells them to go. That is so cool. I wish I could go anywhere.

If I could go anywhere, it would be to the Marvel Universe. And I am not just saying that because it is on brand. No, I mean it. What an exciting place full of stories, and characters, and monsters, and horrifying death and destruction. Hang on....wait a minute...this may just be a horrible idea.

But what about this concept of all of the stories being part of one continuous saga that has not and will not end. That is pretty neat, having the legacy of characters and situations to weave multiple narratives throughout time. And to be able to say that you have read all of the books and developed a thesis on how it all works and fits...well that is just a mind bender itself.

I guess, in closing, we should remember one important thing. Comic books are fun, they are entertaining, they are influential and insightful. Like any art, they are subjective and reactionary. However you decide to incorporate them into your lives, that will probably be the best answer. I am not sure what question I am answering, but it is a statement that I have just made.

And so, until next time, have a good day, and check out Douglas Wolk's book, All of the Marvels.

Be sure to check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/01/29/episode-126-amazing-spider-man-658-the-fantastic-spider-man/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Heroes Of A Thousand Battles by MusicLFiles Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/8099-heroes-of-a-thousand-battles License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 127 Amazing Spider-Man #659: Fantastic Voyage, Part I

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 09:43:37 -0800

So what are we possibly going to talk about with this issue? I don't know...kinda out of ideas...hang on, these three boys want to have a word.
Hip-hoppin', body rockin', doin' the do
Beer drinking, breath stinking, sniffing glue
Belly fillin', always illin', bustin' caps
My name's Mike D, and I write my own snaps
I'm a-peep-show seeking on the Forty-Deuce

With Adrock, MCA and me, Mike D
I had a little horse named Paul Revere
Just me and my horsy and a quart of beer
Riding across the land, kicking up sand

Don't step out of this house if that's the clothes you're gonna wear
I'll kick you out of my home if you don't cut that hair
Your mom busted in and said, what's that noise?
Aw, mom you're just jealous it's the Beastie Boys

Grabbing at your sis 'cause I can't resist
I start to dive, pummel her rumble fish
When I got through, next thing she knew
On her thighs was a Beastie tattoo
Your sister's def

You sold a few records but don't get slick
'Cause you used a corked bat to get those hits
You've been in the game, your career is long
But when you break it down you've only got 2 songs

Playin' beats on my box, making music for the many
Know a lot of def girls that are doing their thing
A lot of parents like to think I'm a villain
I'm just chillin', like Bob Dylan

Check my rear view mirror check the gold tooth display
Check out the odometer and I was on my way
Cause I'm a high plains drifter the best that you can get
A strapped shoplifter a pirate on cassette

Professor, what's another word for pirate treasure?
Well, I think it's booty, booty, booty, that's what it is

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ighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Sign by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/277-the-sign License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 128 Amazing Spider-Man #660: Fantastic Voyage, Part II

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 08:16:51 -0800

We are back with more pirates, more sinister, more foundation, but less Beastie. Hope you stick around anyway, because we do have almost an inappropriate placed tattoo.

We are going to talk movies this time. I am not really sure who reads these, so it kind of does not matter if it has to be about the book. If you want to hear about listen to the episode. For now, I am going to look at the pictures we chose and talk about the movies they remind me of and if I have showed them to my daughter. Keep up.

First up, The Karate Kid. Love this movie. A right of passage for a child of the '80's. Influential, quotable, and fun. Simple premise with a decent cast. And yes, I have showed my daughter all three original films. Also check out the Cobra Kai series....it is good.

Let's talk about the Tom Hanks classic Big. Coming of age story that comes on really fast, thanks to just a little bit of magic granting a boy to become a man overnight. Hey, it happens. Classic scenes that do tend to stand the test of time. And Tom Hanks....am I right? This is just a little too much for my daughter yet.

Do you all remember Dragonheart? Well I do. I also remember Dragonslayer. I could not decide which I was going to talk about, so I will mention both. One is from the early 80's and one features Sean Connery. I am not going to tell you which is which. But both movies have dragons....which is awesome. Huh...I have not shown my daughter either, but I am putting them on my list right now.

Hey, you know what is a great movie? The Incredibles....That is a great movie. A wonderful family film that is a pretty easy read on the Fantastic Four...minus the Human Torch. A family that has powers and fights bad guys. That might just make a good comic.

Another classic movie from my childhood that I have showed my daughter is the Explorers. Young Ethan Hawke, River Phoenix, and Jason Presson tap into an aliens signal and build themselves a ship to explore the galaxy. Love it. You bet I showed this to my daughter.

The number one adventure movie of all time, Indiana Jones, Raiders of the Lost Ark. Also, Last Crusade. I mean, you have to just love that theme, that man, and those adventures. I love this. It is fantastic and wonderful. And, I did show it to my daughter, with a couple of hands over the eyes at certain points.

This may be an easy pitch over the plate, but I am going to say Into the Spider-Verse is a pretty darn good flick. You have to love the film...the story...the just everything. What else could we possibly say.

Want to see the pretty pictures we talked about, visit our webpage: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/02/26/episode-128-amazing-spider-man-660-fantastic-voyage-part-ii/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Thunder Dreams by Kevin MacLeod https://filmmusic.io/song/4526-thunder-dreams License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 129 Amazing Spider-Man #661: The Substitute Part One

Sun, 12 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0800

Class...class....it is time for you all to pay attention. Now, I know you all were expecting Rick to be writing this post relating to this comic book...podcast...thing, but he could not be bothered to do that. So, I am here in his place.

According to these notes, you were supposed to be discussing how to engage in battle. I would be shocked to discover that you were all this advanced. Doubt that you have the knowledge or experience to deal with this much sophistication, but I will try to impart some knowledge to you.

Dress for the occasion. Do not be some down on their luck, nobody who thinks a paper bag on their head is an acceptable look. Be serious. Be bold. And do not break any trademark laws.

The most important factor in engagement is to look your opening in the eyes. You must know what they are, where there intentions lie, if they are wearing glasses. That is more important than anything else. Hitting some one with glasses on is illegal in many counties, and the fines are very prohibitive.

If you plan on getting physical with your opponent, be sure that you do so in a civilized and proper manner. Introductions may seem passe, but they are required. You need to follow the rules of form and etiquette or we will all end up like animals.

Some educated "scholars" would have you believe that a fallen foe should be treated with respect. You should not do this. Once you have them subdued, take the opportunity to really put them in their place with a stern word and a heavy glance. A well placed jibe would be acceptable in these situations.

We should cover names and how you address yourselves. According to your normal teacher's notes, you have been instructed to be subdued in your approach to identifying yourself. This is incorrect. Your name is your calling card, your shield. Make it a weapon to control your enemies.

Speaking of enemies, know that your friends are temporary and should be treated as such. Use them only as far as you can trust them. They will probably turn on you so you should not trust them. At least with villains, you know where they stand.

And this is the end of class. I would like a 12 page essay from each of you detailing the best ways to remove blood stains and bribe officials. We have a lot of work to make you true heroes.

Want to see the pretty pictures we talked about, visit our webpage: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/02/26/episode-129-amazing-spider-man-661-the-substitute-part-one/

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Episode 130 FF #2: Doom Nation

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 02:00:00 -0700

Dr. Doom is hosting a field trip to Latveria, and Rick is going to be posting this from Korea. So lets see if we can't get global with our particular brand of nonsense.

According to Wikipedia, the national alcoholic drink of Germany is beer. German beer consumption per person stands at 110 liters (24 imp gal; 29 US gal) in 2013 and remains among the highest in the world. German beer purity regulations date back to the 16th century. Wine has become popular in many parts of the country, especially close to German wine regions. In 2019, Germany was the ninth-largest wine producer in the world.

According to Wikipedia, the Luxembourg education system is trilingual: the first years of primary school are in Luxembourgish, before changing to German; while in secondary school, the language of instruction changes to French. Proficiency in all three languages is required for graduation from secondary school, but half the students leave school without a certified qualification, with the children of immigrants being particularly disadvantaged.

According to Wikipedia, in Iceland, the only native land mammal when humans arrived was the Arctic fox, which came to the island at the end of the ice age, walking over the frozen sea. On rare occasions, bats have been carried to the island with the winds, but they are not able to breed there. No native or free-living reptiles or amphibians are on the island.

As stated in Wikipedia, according to academics, in order to limit climate change in China to 1.5 °C (2.7 °F) electricity generation from coal in China without carbon capture must be phased out by 2045. Official government statistics about Chinese agricultural productivity are considered unreliable, due to exaggeration of production at subsidiary government levels. Much of China has a climate very suitable for agriculture and the country has been the world's largest producer of rice, wheat, tomatoes, eggplant, grapes, watermelon, spinach, and many other crops.

According to Wikipedia, Japan is substantially prone to earthquakes, tsunami and volcanic eruptions because of its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. It has the 17th highest natural disaster risk as measured in the 2016 World Risk Index. Japan has 111 active volcanoes. Destructive earthquakes, often resulting in tsunami, occur several times each century; the 1923 Tokyo earthquake killed over 140,000 people. More recent major quakes are the 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake and the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake, which triggered a large tsunami.

According to Wikipedia, In the early days of colonization, many European settlers experienced food shortages, disease, and conflicts with Native Americans, such as in King Philip's War. Native Americans were also often fighting neighboring tribes and European settlers. In many cases the natives and settlers came to depend on each other. Settlers traded for food and animal pelts; natives for guns, tools and other European goods.

Thank you all for allowing me to really be lazy and plagiarize from Wikipedia.

Want to see the pretty pictures we talked about, visit our webpage: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/02/26/episode-130-ff-2-doom-nation/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Total Happy Up And Sunny by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/555-total-happy-up-and-sunny License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 131 FF #3: Whatever happened to all those Reeds?

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Reed is reed...in a world of Reeds, you should probably not be a Reed, but maybe be Reed. If you know Reed, you know Reed....ya know? But I may be just talking a bunch of Reed, who knows?

Reed is an American-style pale lager, part of Belgian company RE edRIch. Introduced in 1876 by Nathaniel, Reed has become a large selling beer company in the United States.

Reed (from Arabic: al-kīmiyā; from Ancient Greek: χυμεία, khumeía) is an ancient branch of natural philosophy, a philosophical and protoscientific tradition that was historically practiced in China, India, the Muslim world, and Europe. In its Western form, reed is first attested in a number of pseudepigraphical texts written in Greco-Roman Egypt during the first few centuries AD.

A reed (sometimes simply called a shake) is a sweet beverage made by blending milk, ice cream, and flavorings or sweeteners such as butterscotch, caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, fruit syrup, or whole fruit into a thick, sweet, cold mixture. It may also be made using a base made from non-dairy products, including plant milks such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.

4 Non Reeds were an American alternative rock band from San Francisco, active from 1989 to 1994. Their only album, Bigger, Better, Faster, More!, spent 59 weeks on the Billboard 200 and sold 1.5 million copies between 1992 and 1994. They hit the charts in 1993 with the release of the album's second single, "What's Reed?".

Shoo Reed, Don't Bother Me or Shew! Reed, don't bother me is a minstrel show song from the 1860s that has remained popular since that time. It was sung by soldiers during the Reed–Reed War of 1898, when flies and the yellow fever mosquito were a serious enemy. Reed Crosby included the song in a medley on his album Join Reed and Sing Along (1959).

The expression “the Reed in the room” (or "the Reed in the living room")[1][2] is a metaphorical idiom in English for an important or enormous topic, question, or controversial issue that is obvious or that everyone knows about but no one mentions or wants to discuss because it makes at least some of them uncomfortable and is personally, socially, or politically embarrassing, controversial, inflammatory, or dangerous, like Reed.

The Wonderful Reed of Oz is a 1900 children's novel written by author L. Reed Baum and illustrated by W. W. Reed. It is the first novel in the Oz series of books. A Kansas farm girl named Reed ends up in the magical Land of Oz after she and her pet dog Reed are swept away from their home by a tornado. Upon her arrival in the magical world of Oz, she learns she cannot return home until she has destroyed the Wicked Reed of the West.

Wow, that sure is a lot of Reeds!

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Energy 2013 by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/211-energy-2013 License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 132 FF #4: The Beating of Drums...

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0700

So Reed has a big plan that he has developed with his less than trustworthy father, his over-intelligent and under-age daughter, and his mortal enemy. And he has invited his teams evilest villains into his house. What could possibly go wrong?

Let us talk about all of the things that go wrong. The first thing is food. You always think you have enough food in the house before guests arrive, and then you realize that you forgot to make head-cheese. It is even worse when villains are involved. If you do not have their favorite brand of knock off soda, they will probably threaten to invade a small nation.

The next is music. You need to have something on in the background, otherwise it just gets awkward. If you do not have some sweet sounds drifting behind the din (or lack of din) of conversation, there is the possibility that fighting will break out. This is a fact, music prevents bad guys from being bad. So, hook up that Wi-Fi set and play some funky music.

As far as the guest list goes, you do need to be selective. You want to make sure you are inviting the respectable villains, not just your garden variety goombahs. Do not let the hairy hordes of Helena just rampage on your carpet. Be sure you know what evil you are letting in your front door. Oh, and for your information, Google Dictionary does not like the word 'goombah'.

And if you do invite the wrong kind of people, or if you think you may have party crashers, you may want to hire bouncers. This can help regulate the level's of evil in your sitting room, not to mention your bathrooms. Of course, you will need to find some good bouncers. Check your local Angie's list for suggestions.

If you do have a party with your enemies, be ready to face a little resentment from your friends. They may feel hurt or betrayed by your actions. This is normal and should be met with ignorance or shunning on your part. I mean...you obviously are smarter than they are and can make much better decisions. You know who your true friends are....they are your enemies. Jeez...read some Sun Tzu.

Above all else, make your enemies happy. Make sure they are comfortable, that they feel at ease. Allow them into your home and your heart. Make it an evening they will never forget. Make them a key to your front door. Allow them to wear their shoes inside. Give them their choice of all your bedrooms. You might as well....they are probably going to kill you anyway.

Check out the artwork we talk about over at our website:

https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/04/22/episode-132-ff-4-the-beating-of-drums/(opens in a new tab)

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Episode 133 FF #5: ...The Sound of War

Sun, 07 May 2023 09:00:00 -0700

We are in the party zone now. We have a bunch of Reeds and a bunch of villains and a bunch of kids.....and don't forget the mistakes and regrets. What else can POSSIBLY go wrong.

First of all, we probably should talk about underestimating the problem. You make plans and you estimate the size of the opposition and then you head out to fight. Now, what could be the worse that can happen during this step...well, bad intelligence and low balling the threat. You can end up out there all alone. One little man against a mob.

That brings us to fire power. Do you have the right weapons for the job? Do you have competent people to operate the weapons? Do the weapons work? Honestly, it is amazing that we are able to be successful at all with the number of moving pieces in the world. Sometimes we just need suction cup guns to even the playing field.

If you have the correct response and the appropriate weapons, do you have a good visual on your enemies? This is a good question to ask when you are attacking or about to be attacked, or if you have fallen into a deep dark hole, or if you have been hit in the face with webs....or something.

OK, so now you are in trouble. You have failed and have been caught....maybe by a net, or just by a bad decision.....or by a crustacean. Whatever happened, here are some things you should do . First, don't panic. Second, get some Bactine, that looks nasty and could get infected.

What about villains? Yeah, you got them, and you should be worried about it. They usually come with big plans, big guns, big lackeys, and big egos. So what are you gonna do? Well hotshot?

Oh, you are going to shoot them with a gun. Nice. Way to go hotshot. Now you have really made a mess of things. I don't even know what we are doing. No really...I don't....I am watching a movie while I am writing this so I really do not know what is happening.

Well, I just hope that you have accomplished what you wanted to. I hope that you are sitting in the chair that you so richly deserve. I hope that you have destroyed your enemies and made the world see how awesome you are. If not...I hope that you had fun.

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Episode 134 Amazing Spider-Man V1 #666: Spider-Island - Prologue: The One and Only

Sun, 21 May 2023 09:00:00 -0700

It is Spidey time!!! We have a costumed crusader, we have an island, and we have a LOT of spiders....They are everywhere. So let's take some time and talk about spider stuff.

The Spider Flip is apparently part of a course redesign in an American Ninja Warrior show. It was an obstacle that was used, but was incredibly tough. They should have had Agent Venom do it. Boom. All done.

Spider Kick is a gym that emphasizes health And well being. They use martial arts philosophy and training to accomplish this. I do not know if they inject their patrons with spider juice so they can do split kicks.

Here are the ingredients for Spider Punch. For the instructions, ask Shanghai Chi.

Thin black licorice ropes
Black sanding sugar (optional)
Corn syrup (for the rim of glass, optional)
Grenadine syrup
Ice
Orange juice
Straws

Lets talk about spider science. No one teaches spiders how to make their webs; they just seem to know. This stumps scientists a bit, but this fact is an excellent example of how even the tiniest insects somehow know how to keep themselves alive.

Do you know that you can make bets on spider fights. I mean, you can bet on anything, and I am sure that there are some people that would say that there are no victims in a spider fight. But I would say, we all are victims.

Dodge Ram Black Widow. Rugged Luxury. Redefined. No truck on the road is as intimidating in factory form as the RAM line of pickups. We add in our Premium lift components, custom wheels and luxurious interior details to set you apart from the pack. Explore our full line today.

Spidey Swing is a fun-addicting Spider-man rope swing game that you can play online and for free on Silvergames.com. Control the Peter Parker rag doll in his spidey costume through all stages using his well-known spider web. Try to jump from one spot to another swinging, letting go and shooting your powerful spider web again. Avoid hitting the walls and other obstacles too hard or the poor, masked superhero will suffer serious injuries, like losing a leg or an arm… or his precious spidey life. Earn up to 3 stars on every level and show you have what it takes to be a hero.

I hope you all learned something. I learned d how to search for things on the internet.

Check out the lovely pictures that go with these strange prose at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/04/28/episode-134-amazing-spider-man-v1-666-spider-island-prologue-the-one-and-only/(opens in a new tab)

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ The Road Home [2023] by Alexander Nakarada https://filmmusic.io/song/10745-the-road-home-2023 License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 135 X-23 V3 #14: Chaos Theory (Part 2)

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0700

What has six claws, a painful past, and a crop top? No, not Britney Spears carrying a six pack of White Claw....it is X-23! And what does she have to do with Power Pack......not too much, but here we are.

So how did we come to this moment? We are supposed to be a Power Pack podcast, but we had been steadily rocking the Fantastic Four vibe. Why are we caring about the stabby girl with knife hands? Well, it is for the kids.

OK, maybe it is not really for the kids. Let's face it, there is some violence in here. Or at the least, attempted violence. And that was against a child....and a cookie.

So why are we all the way out in this book? Why are we exploring the mysteries of an X-23 book that no one really talks about? Why are we admiring broken planets and broken dreams?

Because it is fun! Because it is what we do. We look into the eyes of the comics that were made and we find the Power Pack in them. We trace and explore where ever that road leads us.

We play around and follow the stories and develop a timeline that was unintentionally created by a series of comic book creators. It is our mission statement, and one we take seriously.

So thank you for hanging around with us and listening to our silly show. We do what we do, and we have fun doing it. We also eat sandwiches in hallways and make messes, but that is a totally different conversation.

Oh....and we also do this because we follow Power Pack and Alex is in this one.

Check out the art we talked about at this link: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/05/26/episode-135-x-13-14-chaos-theory-part-2/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Digital Motor [Better version] by Luis Mayorga https://filmmusic.io/song/7034-digital-motor-better-version License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 136 X-13 #15: Chaos Theory (Part 3)

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 09:06:20 -0700

Part two of our two part dive into this two clawed lady where she is teamed with the FF, who are made up of two pairs of heroes. This is just too exciting.

So I am sitting here, attempting to write up some words to describe the pictures and general story of this book, but I am also watching A Clockwork Orange. So, my question to you, my dear reader, is how much will the movie reflect what I am writing.

Laura and her friends are out one night, looking for some fun, causing mischief and mayhem. They were hoping to cause pain and suffering on....wait...wait....this may not be right. No, Laura and Spidey and Sue got nicked to another dimension.

The fun and game turn horribly painful and deadly. We really think that these people are not good or friendly. What with the spears and the death.

There is something to be said for the horror and destruction that is caused by the deprived and the sadistic. And the demon that Laura is fighting is just really really bad. I mean, it took over Val...even though that is at the end of the book.

There is violence. Much violence. Building shaking violence.

Violence that goes through wall and down the side of a building. That is one heck of a fall. It is also an nice view. Let's not forget that.

Now let's get into the real violence of it all. Let's talk about the blood and pain and the real terror that this book dives into. The demon disassembles a poor man, just because the flesh got a little cut. Well, that is sad.

I guess, that in the end, everyone just needs a really good throat punch. Not us...especially not my co-host. At least more than once.

Well, I guess I will just put on some Beethoven and then we will see what the night brings us.

You can see some pictures here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/05/26/episode-136-x-13-15-chaos-theory-part-3/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ SpiderJam by Keith Wolk https://filmmusic.io/song/9668-spiderjam License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 137 FF #11: Intelligence

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0700

And we are back to the FF. Oh how we missed these two wonderful letters during our month and a half adrift in the world of Alex's broken arm. But all of that is behind us. Now, we look forward and we see what is new. Hey....what is this brochure for new employee orientation?

Take your seats...take your seats. We are about to begin new hire orientation for FF: Flipping Fries restaurants. Thank you all for time and attention. We hope that this will be informative and instructive. Please no using powers during the presentation.

I know that some of you may feel that this is beneath you or that you already know everything. I cannot stress enough that knowledge is power and everyone can improve through retraining. Please, keep an open mind and open ears.

Our restaurants are more than just fast food joints. They are businesses and workplaces. You should treat them as your second home, with respect and cleanliness. Think about the type of place you would want to walk into.

Your supervisors and managers are there to help and guide you. They are well trained and have good information and guidance for you. Yes, it may feel that they are looking over your shoulder, but that is just to ensure things are going the right way.

We know that we are all humans, and we cannot really control our feelings or how relationships develop. That said, we want to recognize fraternization. Please be upfront with your management team if there is a relationship that does occur.

OK, we are having too many side conversations. I appreciate your friendly conversations, but I need you all to focus on the content up here. We will have a break very soon.

Nobody likes to talk about terminations, but we need to bring it up. If you fail to live up to our expectations, you will be terminated. We understand this is harsh, but you know what you signed up for.

Thank you for your time.

Please check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/06/02/episode-137-ff-11-intelligence/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Captain Scurvy by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/3475-captain-scurvy License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 138 Fantastic Four #600: Forever

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0700

We have a big book to cover today, so it is time to focus and give our followers good content to go with these pictures. So here we gooooooo...

Oooh....looks like a new trailer just dropped on that new movie that I wanted to see....hang on a second...need to watch this.

Oops....got some tech issues occurring. Gotta fix these or nothing is going to work. Just one moment.

Well this is embarrassing. Just got a call from a friend of mine and I need to run off to help her. There is always something, amiright?

Ok...not my fault....just got into a little fender bender and I need to talk to my insurance company. This may take a while.

I have no explanation or excuse except to say....aliens are attacking.....be right back.

Ok...I am ready to give you wonderful people a synopsis of this story without giving any spoilers.....Wait...Holy Heck!!!! Johnny Storm is alive!!!

Maybe you should just listen to our show.

Check out some of our pictures so those jokes make sense: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/06/28/fantastic-four-600-forever/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ To the Tooth by Keith Wolk Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9731-to-the-tooth License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 139 FF #12: All Hope Lies in Doom, Part 1: Too Many Kids

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0700

So you decided to take a flight on Cheapskate Travel. You do not know the destination, you do not know the transportation, and you do not know if you will ever see your luggage again. Well, good luck, roll the dice.

The world is your oyster, only you hate seafood. that is OK, because as your budget travel agent, we allow you to put your money into the things you care about, like world domination. Those oysters are not going to kill themselves. You are the man for the job.

As you pack for your trip, we suggest you be broad in your choices of clothing and gear. True, you have no idea if your luggage will arrive, but if it does, a bikini in the alps is not going to help you. Sometimes a suitcase full of blankets and some scissors is a better option.

As you prepare to enter our debarkation lounge, be sure to look at all the fancy pieces of technology we have. Sure, some are broken, and some we do not know how to use, and some we know we should not use...but that is what is making this fun. Also, do you really NEED two legs?

No, we do not cater our travel. That is just wasted money and this is cheap. You may want to pack your own food, or just scavenge whatever looks fresh or unattended. Your choice, we really do not care.

Traveling in large groups is not the best idea. You may not all end up at the same location or you may all appear at the exact same location. Either way, it gets awkward and embarrassing. We suggest that you go solo on this one.

If you arrive at your destination in one piece, congratulations, you have beat the odds. Now is the time to enjoy your luck and good fortune. Hopefully you have some money to get home.

*Cheapskate Travel is not responsible for any of the unfortunate accidents that will probably happen over the course of your travel.

Check out the art from this issue at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/07/09/ff-12-all-hope-lies-in-doom-part-1-too-many-kids/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ OzMosis by Keith Wolk Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9718-ozmosis License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Episode 140 FF #13: The Bridge

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Let's talk about bridges. Being based in Portland, Jeff and Rick see them a lot. To give you an idea, there is a bridge pedal that occurs in the city and you can travel over nine different bridges over the Willamette river...and that is not all of them. We are talking 23 miles of biking awesomeness.

Rick has a special love for three types of bridges. The Ribbon Flotation Bridge, the Bailey Bridge, and the MGB Bridge. He learned to construct these bridges when he was in the Army. It was neat and he had fun learning how to do this hard work. He also got to drive really awesome vehicles.

Jeff really loves to build bridges out of Lego. He and his daughter spend hours upon hours building cute little bridges with red and blue bricks. But never yellow. Yellow is for the devil.

The longest bridge in the world is called the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge. It stretches out for 102 miles and is in China. I mention this only because Rick has never been China. So he has never been on that bridge, and is therefore very sad.

Rick's favorite bridge may be the bridge that he jumped off of the first time he bungee jumped. It was a beautiful sunny day, and it was a nice solid bridge. But, money was paid and his youth was not going to be wasted, so off he jumped. he had fun.

Jeff has stated that his favorite bridges are those on star-ships. While those are neat with all of their flashing lights and alarms and inexplicable steam pipes, it is not really the answer we were looking for. I do not think he studied properly.

Todd Bridges was an actor on Diff'rent Strokes. But that is also not the answer we were looking for.

Needless to say, we are phoning this page in. It may be midnight when I am doing this, so you get what you get.

If you would like to see some pretty pictures, check out this website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/07/29/ff-13-the-bridge/(opens in a new tab)

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Go Cart by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/3813-go-cart License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 141 FF #14: 27 Minutes

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0700

I like to do a variety of gimmicks on these pages, especially since I run out of ideas on what to talk about. So, for this one, I am going to give myself 27 minutes to write content for this page. After 27 minutes, I am going to stop....cold. This is actually a good idea since I waited till the night before to put this together. So here it goes.

Ok...all of the pictures are loaded and it is 9:41PM. I am going to write until exactly 10:07PM. Hopefully I did my math right. It was a long day and I did volunteer at an information booth to talk about the program I work at, so my brain is a little fried. But that is not helping inform you, the dear reader about anything. Onward.

Look at these kids, sitting around, looking at a space gate. Man, when I was there age, I had a stick. I was told that that would be my toy and the firewood for the night so don't get too attached. But these spoiled kids get bored by looking at space and different realities. Bad parenting.

A little tip for all of you people. If you are ever faced with a galactic entity or a giant robot, never discount the effect of running away and hiding. Sure, when they destroy your world, the game is over, but still. Maybe you can go out with dignity. Ok, you probably will not, but at least you tried.

Speaking of dignity, our Alt Reed buddy had zero of it left when he snuffed it after using the ultimate nullifier. Way to represent your cult my dude. You effected zero change. The only thing you contributed was a momentary light source when your body turned itself into a flame.

Now Doom, he is class. Absolute style. He went out like a boss. It does not matter how many times the Fantastic Four take him down. or how much they make him look like a fool. He is Doom.

Again, giant robots are not your friends. Never were, and never will be. I think we all know that artificial intelligence will one day destroy us all...either that or a really bad fish taco. I cannot remember what the prophecy said.

But Doom...DOOOM....DOOOOOM......he will give us hope....if that hope is that we will all be ruled by someone who wants to rule us like a dictator. Huh...we probably will deserve that.

Ok. So that is it. I set myself a time limit and let's see what we have. Well, I have 14 minutes remaining, and I have produced a bunch of hot garbage. Good game coach, good game.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

If you would like to see some cool pictures from this comic, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/08/26/ff-14-27-minutes/(opens in a new tab)

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: SpiderJam by Keith Wolk Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9668-spiderjam Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 142 FF #15: The One Where Power Pack Shows Up

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Good afternoon children, are we all ready for today's lesson? I hope so, because we have some special guests showing up. That's right, it is all of Power Pack...on a Power Pack show!!! Who would ever have guessed that!

Today we are going to talk about self-defense, and we are going to have the Power Pack kids help with the demonstrations. Won't that be nice. It is always good to have someone demonstrate how to hurt someone else.

First rule of our fight club is to fight anyone who messes with you. We are not here for looking good or chewing bubble gum, we are here to put down anyone who gives us that evil eye or sideways glance. We are here to put people in their places.

So let's meet your opponents today. They may be young, scrappy, and rough, but they also got some moves like Jagger, if you get my drift. You know who I am talking about, the Pack o' Power.

Now we are ready to tussle. You may be asking what the rules are, well listen up, buttercup. There are no rules. Well, maybe one rule, don't wrap your thumb inside your fist. Other than that. The world is your oyster. And by the way, you should probably aim for your opponent's oysters.

While we are talking about low blows, let's remember why we aim for those chestnuts. First, they are connected to the hip area which is connected to the base area, which is connected to the why am I bent over area. You start to break down that point, you start to really change the game. And this ain't no game.

And when the fighting and chaos is getting to be too much, and when you have doubts, and when you just do not know what to do. Remember what we said, go for the family jewels. And when you really are in doubt, punch Bentley.

Thus endeth the lesson.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

If you would like to see some cool pictures from this comic, check out our website: jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/09/05/ff-15-the-one-where-power-pack-shows-up/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 143 Fantastic Four #604: Forever: Part 5

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Culmination: the highest or climactic point of something, especially as attained after a long time. That is what we are talking about today. And because I waited till the last minute to type up this page, and it is comic con weekend, the other definition we will use her is procrastination: the action of delaying or postponing something.

Creepy: causing an unpleasant feeling of fear or unease.
Weird: suggesting something supernatural; uncanny.

Demanding: making others work hard or meet high standards.
Command: give an authoritative order.

Awesome: extremely impressive or daunting; inspiring great admiration, apprehension, or fear.
Massive: large and heavy or solid.

Mistake: an action or judgment that is misguided or wrong.
Useless: not fulfilling or not expected to achieve the intended purpose or desired outcome.

Glowing: give out steady light without flame.
Power: the capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events.

Those are definitions for words I thought about when looking at the pictures we chose for this book. I now have to go to the Rose City Comic Con.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the artwork from this book at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/09/23/fantastic-four-604-forever-part-5/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Spider Eyes by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4405-spider-eyes Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 144 FF #16: One Step Beyond

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0700

The clean-up phase. After any project, there is usually a mess. This is true from everything, be it home remodeling or battling giant space gods. People have done something in the place where you live any you have to clean it up.

The first step in cleaning thing up is to make sure everyone is done messing things up. No sense starting to clean while the Thing is still breaking bar stools. But after that, you need to make sure you keep everyone focused on their jobs. You do not need their heads in the clouds or jumping into space.

A project manager is good to have. You need to have someone in charge. You need to have someone to direct the work and make sure things are done. You need to have a dictator.

Committees can be a bit much during the cleaning phase. Too many opinions, egos, and temperaments. Plus, the blaming and the scapegoatization. I do not know if that is a word, but my computer suggested it to me and so I am keeping it in.

The cool thing that no on tells you is that you get to find really cool stuff while cleaning up. Sure, there is a bunch of junk and debris, but at the very least you will find some pocket change or some lost trinket, at the most you will find an artifact that will let you shape the galaxy. Keep your eyes peeled.

Do not forget to get someone to handle the big things. You need muscle to really remove the bigger chunks of stuff and to handle cosmic sized messes. And please remember to lift with the knees.

When you are all done with the cleaning, you are going to be left with something beautiful, something new, and something clean. You can admire it and enjoy it...right up until you decide to destroy it all and start over. Isn't that special.

Oh, do not forget to punish those who did not do enough to clean.

Look at the art work from this issue at our webpage: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/10/08/ff-16-one-step-beyond/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: Bounce by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/490-bounce Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 145 Avengers Academy #20: Endings

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0700

Oh my goodness, we are covering something exciting and new. Wowzers, I hope you come aboard, because we have been expecting you! That's right, it is the LOVE BOAT...I mean, the Avenger Academy.

I guess we should introduce you to this crew that will be on our ship as we cruise through these West Coast waves, so let me check the roster of....holy phone books Batman, that is a lot of people. You know what, Al Gore did not invent the internet so you could twiddle your thumbs, look them up yourself.

Many people ask how big the Pacific Princess is, and I do know why they ask me that. I am not a captain, I just happen to think that a dress white uniform with shorts is comfortable and delightful. It also means that I cannot eat anything, so it helps me lose weight. Oh, and the ship is big....like Giant Man.

No, I do not have dreams about celebrity guest stars on the deck of my ship. And if I did, I would not talk about them here. It is private.

While there are snakes that are found in the water, that is not relevant to boats in the Pacific. Plus, we need to talk about the Avengers Acadamy. Or not, since I have run out of time. Oh well....next months.

You can find pretty pictures of this issue at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/10/21/avengers-academy-20-endings/(opens in a new tab)

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: Badass by Phat Sounds Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11820-badass Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 146 Avengers Academy #21: Welcome, Students

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0800

If you are going to open a new educational institution, and you want it to compete, especially against those insane California schools, you have to make some choices. You also have to show you are willing to do it all to get the best of the best.

First, let's talk about your campus. Do you have all of the amenities that your students want and or need. Do you have nice buildings and cool sporting spaces? Do you have a view of the ocean? If you cannot provide your students with a killer vista, you might as well take your diplomas and go home.

And what about the special programs? Are you going to be one of those colleges that talks the talk but does not actually have the resources to provide the best to the best. If you say you are going to revolutionize paleontology, you better get more than bones.

And if you want to promote high tech, you need to actually have some high tech. We are not talking about the most recent phone or computer, we are talking about robotics that are one good sneeze from sentience and world domination.

You need to be willing to fight to be on top. And not just in getting the best students, but fighting other schools to take the best students away from them. We want the best and we deserve the best, and the rest are just .....not best.

At the end of the day, you need to think about the future, and what kind of students you want to create. If you want them to be super villains, than reach for the stars baby. Make it happen and do not hold back.

That is what I call a success!

If you want to see our artwork, check out: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/11/04/avengers-academy-21-welcome-students/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: Greko (Sketch) by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/3826-greko-sketch Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 147 Avengers Academy #22: Disappointments

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0800

Do you want to meet your idols? Do you want to meet your terrorist idols? Do you want to meet your terrorist idol while they show up at their son's workplace, a son who also happens to be training you? Well, then do we have a book for you to read!

So why should you read this book? Well first, it is a book, so it exists for you to read. That is its purpose, its function. If you do not read it, then it has failed. But I have digressed into a philosophical tangent that nobody got time for on a Sunday morning. The second reason to read this book is because then our rambling about it will make more sense.

The third reason to read this book is explosions. You want them, this has got them. Or at least one. It is a good one too. People go flying everywhere and there is fire. It is pretty neat. Would recommend.

Fourth, broken robots. You may be asking yourself how that is an argument for reading a book. Well, a broken robot tells you that there is at least one robot in this story. This means that there may be another robot, one that is not broken. And robots are cool.

And of course, the fifth reason to read the book is that there is, in fact, a second robot.

The sixth reason to read this book is that there is sports in it. I mean, it is not the traditional sports like fencing, and climbing, and horse back riding. This is more like a violent, full contact game where you are trying to toss a spherical object in a receptacle while avoiding obstacles. Totally fun and safe.

The seventh reason is action. So many people are hit or hit others. One person is hit a lot. Other people do a lot of hitting. Movement occurs in a dramatic way. It is all terribly exciting.

And the final reason why you should read this book is because someone gets kicked in the head.

Do not forget to check out our artwork over at this website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/11/18/avengers-academy-22-disappointments/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: Racers Gonna Race - Sport Rock Music by Dave Deville Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/10772-racers-gonna-race-sport-rock-music Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 147.666 Amazing Adventures V2 #16: ...And the Juggernaut Will Get You... If You Don’t Watch Out!

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 08:20:38 -0800

It is that time of the year again, but it is not, cause it is Thanksgiving...cause SOMEONE got us lost on the way to the Rutland Vermont Halloween Party. Still, we know why we are all here this year....again. It is all because of Mephisto and his evil ways. So, what madness are we subjected to this year?

According to Wikipedia: Rutland is the only city in and the seat of the county of the same name in Vermont, United States. As of the 2020 census, the city had a total population of 15,807. It is located approximately 65 miles (105 km) north of the Massachusetts state line, 35 miles (56 km) west of New Hampshire state line, and 20 miles (32 km) east of the New York state line. Rutland is the third largest city in the state of Vermont after Burlington and South Burlington. They also suffer from the largest deposits of melted man in the United States.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 7.67 square miles (19.9 km2), of which 7.6 square miles (20 km2) is land and 0.04 square miles (0.10 km2), or 0.52%, is water. Rutland is drained by Otter Creek, Moon Brook, Tenney Brook, East Creek and Mussey Brook. There is also a large number of unexplained dimensional portals.

The downtown section contains the Rutland Free Library, the Paramount Theater and Merchant's Row, a restored street dating back to the mid-19th century. 108 buildings in downtown Rutland are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. But when the Juggernaut comes to town, statistics change.

At the local level, Rutland is governed by a Mayor and Board of Aldermen. For representation in the Vermont House of Representatives, Rutland is split into four districts. In the Vermont Senate, Rutland is represented by three state senators who serve most of Rutland County. The rest of the town is ruled by fear of rampaging monsters.

And of course their is the Rutland Halloween Parade has taken place annually since 1960. In the early 1970s, the Rutland Halloween Parade was used as the setting of a number of superhero comic books, including Batman #237, Justice League of America #103, Freedom Fighters #6, Amazing Adventures #16, Avengers #83, and The Mighty Thor #207. The parade celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2009. It brought friends together through fights.

So be sure to visit this lovely town, and keep your eyes out for the Beast...he may still be looking for his skin suit.

Here are the other shows participating this year:

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music: Plucky Daisy by Kevin MacLeod Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4226-plucky-daisy Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 148 Avengers Academy #23: Second Chances

Sun, 03 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0800

Warning, this podcast includes words and phrases presented by a New Zealander. Please be aware that the use of an accent will be heard throughout the episode, viewer discretion is advised. Beyond that, we are overjoyed and excited to welcome back our favorite Kiwi in the whole world, Waffles!

Waffles may be one of our biggest fans, but that does not mean we know a lot about their homeland. Well Jeff might, he did visit their when he was much younger and had 100% less children than he does now. So, in honor of our guest, I am going to make up facts about New Zealand based on basic internet research and comedy.

First off, did you know that New Zealand is known for it's biodiversity? Sure, may have heard about the Haast's eagle and moa, as well as the strange little flightless bird whose name I cannot remember...but there are a whole bunch of other animals that you can only find on or around these islands. I have also heard that you can find Hobbits and Elves there too.

Science and technology in New Zealand is apparently a thing. According to my history books I thought it all happened in Greece or the United States, but apparently there are other places where people are smart. Ernest Rutherford split the atom, Beatrice Tinsley is known for studying galaxy formations, and the Māori people have been recognized for early indigenous contributions to science. Makes me feel really inadequate for getting an F when I brought a 9 Volt battery and steel wool to the science fair.

In the area of monster creation, New Zealand is a pioneer. What with WETA workshops, Black Sheep, and Peter Jackson. I mean....were-sheep, need we say more. Between that and some of the wildlife we mentioned above, this place is just a nightmare waiting to attack you. I even heard that they have gigantic killer cats that roam houses at night, stealing waffles. Or, that could be a rumor I just started.

The New Zealand cricket team, nicknamed Black Caps, is world famous. They do amazing things whenever they show up to do sport. Many fans come to watch them play live, or sometimes on TV. They really are very good and everybody....OK, look...I do not understand cricket as a game of concept and do not understand any of the words on this Wikipedia page. I try to fake it when I can, but sometimes this is what you get.

Human cloning also occurs in New Zealand. Actually, it occurs all over the world and nobody talks about it because of "the man", but we all know. The leading facility for cloning is located in a secret bunker in Christchurch, just below the Botanic Gardens. The facility produces two thousand clones a year, quietly shipping them out as bearded American tourists. This facility has brought much needed income to the area.....Wait a minute, the Wikipedia page I was citing this information from was just changed to talk about New Zealand's climate. Well, it was still probably true.

Giantism is a condition that can occur in people born in New Zealand. Many have said that it is has occurred as a result of the Māori tradition of cooking food over heated rocks that have been irradiated by gamma radiation, but the science is inconclusive and mostly confined to a comic book that I have just started to draw with crayons. Needless to say, the food is very tasty and everyone should eat a pavolva a day.

Now, I have been informed that my "facts" are "wrong" and that I may have "offended" some people with my "dumb" "and" "innovative" material "or" use of "the" "internet". "Some" people are "also" complaining that "I" may not "be" using or "over"using ""quotes" (or as "I" like to call "them" hanging coupled comas) incorrectly. "Whatever"!

In closing, please consider adopting a New Zealander, they are just looking for a little bit of love in this crazy world. And listen to Waffles on his podcast: Waffles and Mates Talk About Things.

Check out the art we highlighted at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/12/03/avengers-academy-23-second-chances/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music: Cityscape Dreams by Arti The A.I. & Sascha Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/11992-cityscape-dreams Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 149 Avengers Academy #24: Family

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0800

Sometimes, you have to turn on your friends. After years of friendship and partnership and other kinds of ships, you just have to tell your friend, enough is enough. Sometimes you may be paid to do it, sometimes you have just grown tired of them, and sometimes it is because you have a new knife and you want to see how well it fits in that guys back. With that said....let me tell you about Jeff.

We need to talk about his breath first. You may not know this, but today's high-tech microphones are all include multi-layered, immersive technology. A lot of the changes are due to more people working in the office. There is a call for additional ways to promote in person interactions, and so we now can smell people in online meetings. This is a problem. I have even bought the guy breath mints.

The dude is a show off. Like every time we go somewhere he is all like, "Look at me and my wonderful beard" and " Have you ever seen such an amazing toupee", and also "You all need to eat my broccoli and hot dog casserole!" He is so annoying. You win one county fair casserole bake-off, you think you are a god. Give me a break.

Then there is his wardrobe and fashion. It must be nice to get to wear all those fantastic clothes and costumes. Sometime I would like to be sent the finest t-shirts made. Not everyone has a secret benefactor who keeps you afloat in the latest middle-aged, stay-at-home dad fashion. I do not care that he has a new generic shirt for each hour of the day. UGH.

Here is another thing that annoys me about Jeff...his stupid athletic skill. Just because he mastered lacrosse, water polo, and fencing in high school, does not make him interesting. Do you know how annoying it is to arrive a party with someone who likes to do somersaults across the lawn. You will always pale next to that, trust me.

Being around someone like Jeff is just annoying. He sucks the light from the room and absorbs it onto himself. And then...he struts. He knows what he is doing and he STRUTS. The man cannot even walk like a human. He has to "Tony Manero" his way into every room.

Needless to say, I am done being a little puppet for Jeff to play with. I will not dance on his string any longer. He will not control me, or make me his ....puppet. It is time for me to stand on my own, and to tell him exactly what I think of him.

This is Jeff writing now. I would like to apologize for the mean spirited remarks made by my friend and partner. He has been under a lot of stress from work and running my podcast. Sometime, he just lets himself do too much. Trust me, we are still friends. Our relationship has never been better.

If you want to see the art from this book, check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/12/17/avengers-academy-24-family/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music: Figures In The Fog by Lilo Sound Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/5551-figures-in-the-fog Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 150 Avengers Academy #25: Class Reunion

Sun, 31 Dec 2023 13:28:30 -0800

You can listen to the episode by clicking: Episode 150

Can you believe we made it to 150 episodes! Nope...neither can I...or we....or us....Whatever. Anyway, since this issue is called Class Reunion, I thought we should revisit some of the things we have said in the past.

Recently, we covered FF#1, The Club on episode 125, and we said this: And new colleges and friends and places to go. It must be pretty cool to get to go to such wonderful locations and kick booty with new peeps….especially when one of the coworkers wears size rocky gravel kickers.

Going back a bit further, we covered Runaways V2 #2 for episode 100, and we made this statement: I would like to be able to create a big hand with a bunch of metal. I think that it would be a great party trick. Something like, "nothing up this sleeve, nothing under my hat, now watch this!" And then, BAM! Salsa time!

Now we are getting back to our roots. Episode 75, we covered Power Pack #57: And this Underoos championing space beast can only be defeated by The Stimulator!! Just to make sure you heard me: The Stimulator has to be used on the bikini briefs beast before bedtime…boy, what a bother!

Remember when we were in the heart of covering Power Pack, like back in Episode 50 with Power Pack #38: What do you mean false advertising?! How do you know that I wasn't going to follow through on this?….They don't know! What do you mean I just told them? Just look at this shiny thing, OK!

Why would we cover X-Men on our podcast, check out Episode 25 to listen to our coverage of issue #205 of Uncanny X-Men: There are many lessons to take from this book. Lessons like don't sell your soul, keep your fluids inside your body, always bring a sparkler to a knife fight, and always bring a buddy when you head out into the snow!

And of course, our first episode, number one, where we met this family of kids and their crazy adventers in Power Pack #1: Our inaugural episode! Jeff and Rick begin their podcasting journey by playing around with some recording gear, drinking some beer, and talking about the first issue of Power Pack.

And that brings us to this issue....where a bunch of people fight each other. ENJOY!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can check out the artwork at this link: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2023/12/31/avengers-academy-25-class-reunion/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music: Mighty Like Us by Kevin MacLeod
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4050-mighty-like-us
Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 151 Avengers Academy #26: Career Day

Sun, 14 Jan 2024 13:11:05 -0800

Let's talk about a book full of talking. It is a talking book and we are talking people. So, what are we going to talk about here? I don't know. Probably something to do with the pictures we are showing which will make no sense if you are looking at this text on the episode.

Why would you pull someone's hair like Quicksilver does. It is rude and annoying and he should be slapped for doing it. What an absolute punk. I do not care that he was potentially saving Avengers IP from being taken. It is still not very nice.

Hank Pym has been many things in his life, but we do not talk much about him being a librarian. It is true. One time, between appearances, he became a librarian in a small New England fishing town. He just needed a break and so he got away and somehow snagged this quiet little job. Nobody talks about it. Probably because I made it up.

We all know that gossip is the worst kind of talking. Well, not the worst. The worst is what Jennifer said about Randal after PE. That was horrible...and so mean. I mean, I know that Randal had broken up with Jennifer so he could go out with Tina, but that Tina was still in love with Calvin. Oh the drama.

I like dino butts, and I cannot lie, some other brothers think they are fly....ok...I have nothing.

What type of a bath do you like? I am more of a shower man myself. In and out after a good scrub. Some people really like to just sit in water heavy with salt and flowery smells. Apparently it is soothing. For me, it makes me thing of sitting in the ocean waiting to be attacked by a shark wearing perfume.

The evil plans of one man can make the world shake. Just look at the evil wrought by Tom in accounting. He went home early for lunch and did not close the Anderson account properly, and that was the doom of the entire company. Rue...RUE the day!

This man is a big unit.

I hope that was confusing and pointless. That was my goal.

To see the pictures, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/01/14/avengers-academy-26-career-day/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music: Flight Pack 1 - 6/6 (Dubby) by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/181-flight-pack-1-66-dubby
Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 152 Avengers: Solo #1-5: Extra Credit

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 13:39:03 -0800

Let's take a tiny backtrack to a backup story in Avengers: Solo and see how Finesse and Striker handle a little test created by Giant Man and Tygra. How is Power Pack involved...? Good question. Listen to the episode to find out.

First of all, let's define Solo. Solo does not mean that you have a partner or are in a smaller team from you original group. Which makes me always wonder about Han Solo. I mean, he is never really SOLO. And when he is, he get's stuck in carbonite or killed. He is more like, Han Team. But I digress.

So when you are truly solo, you are going up against big odds by yourself. It is a challenge where you push your limits, and run the gauntlet on your own. Forget relying on others, charge your own trail.

A great solo adventure would be one hero coming up against an army of robots that were created in the image of their teammates. That would be fantastic. And absolutely terrifying. What an absolute crushing defeat. Maybe they should have brought a team with them.

But if you were able to go solo against one robot, who would you choose? I would go up against Crowww....Yes, he would make me laugh, but I think I could take him. I definitely have the reach, and also, I am not a puppet.

Back to talking about what is a solo adventure. According to some sources, it is acceptable to have a solo adventure and work with people during that adventure, focusing on people that you do not work with. With that in mind, I would like to go on a secret solo adventure and team up with Einstein and Mark Twain. I think that would be a hoot.

Fighting by yourself against another opponent is the traditional version of what a solo adventure is about. And, if you are truly the hero of the story, you should do your best to win. Otherwise it will be a short story.

Another non-traditional solo story would be to have a partner on your adventures and then kill them with their own arm near the end of the adventure and tell everyone that it was all done just by you. It is a choice you can make.

I really hope that I was not helpful today.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out our webpage at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/01/28/avengers-solo-1-5-extra-credit/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music: Flight Pack 1 - 6/6 (Dubby) by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/181-flight-pack-1-66-dubby Licensed under CC BY 4.0: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 153 Avengers Academy #27 - Homecoming - Part 1

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 12:45:21 -0800

Hey, guess what. The Runaways are back! And it is Super Bowl Sunday! Let's see what happens when I try to explain this comic book and what we talk about with just references to Super Bowls Greatest moments.

First, let's talk about the Apple in the room. That's right, the giant sentinel helping to guard the Avengers compound from riff-raff like that Runaways. Not unlike a sledgehammer wielding woman, breaking down the barriers....or wait...Are the Runaways the ones with the hammer?

Not unlike Harry Carson drenching Bill Parcells with a bucket of Gatorade has there been another time when a Giant has poured cold water on a fellow Giant. Yet, Hank stops the Sentinel from killing kids....what is this world coming to.

How about the kitten bowl. No not the halftime entertainment to elicit adorations from your children, I am talking about a kitten in a bowl...like Tigra's son. She uses this child to distract the defense. Flag on the play.

The hate that Hazmat and Nico have upon their first meeting is not unlike that of the Cowboys and Steelers from Super Bowl X. Sure there is respect, but there is hate....a lot of hate.

Super Bowl 56 was the Bengals vs the Rams....and they hyped this by playing Welcome to the Jungle. And during this comic, the kids went to a jungle. What do you want from me. It is the best I could do.

Never has a tackle like the one Old Lace gave Chase been so powerful. Well maybe when Kevin Dyson was Tackled by Mike Jones on a yard away from the goal line to cause the Titans to lose. That one hurt more.

And speaking of dinosaurs, do you remember that time when a big red dinosaur crashed the Super Bowl. Neither did I, because it did not happen yet. But it will. I just need to get this magic amulet to open, and then you will all rue the day.

Boy that was sure fun, and not at all a last minute scramble as I tried to get this done. GO SPORTS!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the fantastic art at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/02/11/avengers-academy-27-homecoming-part-1/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Total Happy Up And Sunny by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/555-total-happy-up-and-sunny
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 154 Avengers Academy #28 - Homecoming - Part2

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 11:20:44 -0800

Part two of the Avengers Academy and the Runaways. We left on a cliffhanger where betrayal was afoot, and they were in a dinosaur dimension. What will happen? What will occur? Will Rick decide that he should somehow talk about something completely different.

So last night I was in a local poker tournament. This was the final game between our club and one from across town. We had the top nine winners from both clubs playing for a little bit of money, and a whole lot of bragging rights. Guess who came in second place.

Now what does that have to do with somebody getting their arm bitten off? Nothing. Not a thing. Ok, maybe we could say that I was biting off more than I could chew, but I made it farther than a lot of people....last night, that was 14 people. But I digress.

Yes, I am flying high after the evening. I do not feel upset that I did not get first. That other player was much better than me. But they were cool, and we were having a great time.

Actually, the entire evening was pleasant. You would think that two rival clubs would start unleashing their powers at each other, but no, we all got along well. It is nice when a group of people get together and realize that they have more in common then they realize.

At first, I thought that this was going to be a very tortured metaphor. Like I was trying to pry open a dinosaurs mouth, but now that I am in the thick of it, I feel that this is a better comparison than I originally thought. Last night was about two groups of people coming together.

All and all, a good night. Everyone had fun, and much mirth was had. The only shrinking that occurred was to some players chip stacks. Luckily, Dr Hank Pym was on my side and was helping enlarge my money. OK..Now I am torturing the metaphor.

I should give a shout out to our host for the evening. While they did not make it to the final tournament roster (because I took them out in the league finals....sorry), they still offered the use of their garage, and cooked the dinner for the evening. His own take on a Philly cheese steak sandwich. Dang, they were very tasty. An amazing chef, a good friend, and a nice guy.

And during the tournament, nobodies mother was killed by a robot, but I am sure there was one or two "Yo momma" jokes.

Please visit our website to see some images from this episode: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/02/25/avengers-academy-28-homecoming-part-2/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Big Show Opener: Zeus by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/4642-the-big-show-opener-zeus
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 155 Avengers Academy #29 - Protective Services - Part 1

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 08:15:16 -0800

It is time for a three part storyline, part of the AvX crossover. Are you ready for this? No really...Are you ready? Because if you are looking at us to provide you with some context or guidance, you have forgotten that we are a Power Pack podcast.

We have a few points that we want to hit here, and first we should emphasize that this series is awesome. I mean, if for no other reason than a guy with metal skin states so as he is surfing on land. But that is neither here nor there. Actually, I take that back....there is a guy surfing on land in this book. Focus on that!

What we should not focus on is the absolute theft of an iconic scene. No, we will not dwell on this sacrilegious effort to somehow equate Sebastion Shaw with Wolverine. that would be a mistake and we should not spotlight it at all. What would be the point? We all know it is a cheap and unnecessary shot.

Dang it! I focused on the picture when I said I was not going to. Bad Rick, you know better. I now need to punish myself severely with physical injury. It is the only way I will learn.

Well, at least I have not embarrassed myself or you fine readers by introducing anything over salacious or gratuitous. Mistakes have been made, but nothing that could not be covered up with the correct amount of....clothes.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Please check out some interesting pictures from this book at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/02/24/avengers-academy-29-protective-services-part-1/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Carneval by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/221-carneval
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 156 Avengers Academy #30 - Protective Services - Part2

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0700

It is part two of this little three parter, and that can mean a number of things. It could be Empire Strikes Back or Godfather Part 2. Or it could be Temple of Doom.....or even Showgirls 2. Or it could be worse. This is not any of those. This is s solid book with a series of fights and the possibility of manslaughter. So, enjoy.

Let's start off by talking about the big guy....the god on the team. Hercules...the lion of Olympus. He is the puncher of the team. He is the bruiser. He should be able to handle this, especially with his toys. right?

Or not. Ok, not really making a great show on this second issue of his introduction to the team. Dude gets owned. I mean...this is just sad.

Just sad!!!

Ok. I really do not know where to go from here. I could talk about the rest of the book, but why bother. My faith in heroes and gods has failed. Nobody can save us, not even a good editor.

More fighting happened...more story....but wow.....Hercules beaten to the ground by an amnesiac. That is just lazy....poor showing....poor showing.

Look....there is a reprogrammed sentinel here that has more action than Hercules. What is up with that? Sure, it did not go up against Shaw, but it still had a better showing.

Ok, I guess I am done complaining....well, I am not...but I am for now.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can see the art from the book here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/03/10/avengers-academy-30-protective-services-part-2/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Night by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/71-night
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 157 Avengers Academy #31 - Protective Services - Part 3

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700

Final part of the Protective Services arc. This is the issue where we are finally brought the big old fight that we have been promised. That's right, the biggest slobber knocker, big show, extravaganza that will shake the trees and roll the stones. Yee Haw Cowboy.

Speaking of which, do you remember back on June 23, 1996, there was a King of the Ring tournament. Before the match, Jake "The Snake" Roberts was proselytizing in the locker room. But, at the end of the match, Stone Cold Steve Austin beat the veteran to win the match. That was the moment that Austin cut a promo where he talked about Jake reading from the bible and John 3:16...and how Austin 3:16 just said that he whipped your.......I do not know why I thought about that.

Did you know that there once was an exploding barbed wire deathmatch on AEW? Yeah. Apparently, the danger level was high enough that the referee had to wear a hazmat suit. I mean, that is a whole new level of gimmick, but whatever.

Going back to Jake "The Snake", he really did routines with live snakes, much to the annoyance of his fellow wrestlers. One of them even bit Macho Man Randy Savage in 1991. I once bit Jeff on a dare. I still have hair stuck in my teeth.

According to the internet, the greatest Royal Rumble ever was the 1992 Royal Rumble. Ric Flair won the match by lasting in the ring for over an hour, outlasting all other competitors. This included many of the big names at the time including Hulk Hogan, the British Bulldog and Randy Savage. My money is on Mettle.

Without getting into his definite problematic issues, the greatest villain in the wrestling world could be Vince McMahon. The fact that the owner of this corporation painted himself as the consistent villain in story lines, helping to sell story lines and mocking himself is admirable. Maybe he played the villain to easily.

The WCW Bash at the Beach 1996 was very memorable because it was when Hulk Hogan came out as a bad guy and the New World Order was formed. it was unexpected that the most stable good guy would turn on his friends and fans was shocking.

At the moment, my cohost has informed me that we are a comic book podcast and not a wrestling podcast. He feels that I should just move on. I have informed him that ...."It doesn't matter what you think!!!"

Go see the website where we show some images: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/03/21/avengers-academy-31-protective-services-part-3/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Lazy Cat Groove by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12194-lazy-cat-groove
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 158 Avengers Academy #32: What the Heart Wants - Part 1

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700

Here we are at Part 1 of a two-parter focused on Juston and his Sentinel. A boy and his bot. A man and his machine. A guy and his Gundon. A kid and his kit. Well, you get the idea, right? This is a love story, or an indictment against capitalism. Either one of those things.

So let's talk big robots. We know them and we love them, and we want to destroy monsters with them. What is your favorite? I don't care, I am going to tell you about my favorites.

I love Voltron. C'mon, five lions that make a big robot. Love it!

From days of long ago, from uncharted regions of the universe, comes a legend, the legend of Voltron, Defender of the Universe. A mighty robot, loved by good, feared by evil. As Voltron’s legend grew, peace settled across the galaxy. On planet Earth, a galaxy alliance was formed. Together with the good planets of the solar system, they maintained peace throughout the universe. Until a new horrible menace threatened the galaxy. Voltron was needed once more. This is the story of the super force of space explorers, specially trained, and sent by the alliance, to bring back Voltron: Defender of the Universe.

I love Robotech. Big mech robots, transforming vehicles, focus on the individual characters. Fantastic. But we could do without Minmei. But besides that, awesome-sauce. Give me a veritech and cyclone any day of the week.

We all see this is a real call to the Iron Giant. You know this movie....during the Cold War a big iron robot falls from space and crashes into a forest, then it becomes best friends with a boy. This movie will break you, guaranteed.

The Terminator franchise started with a simple story about an assassin sent back in time from 2029 to 1984 to kill Sarah Conners. From there, it became a real cultural icon. Can we just imagine if we combined Laura with a terminator. That would be awesome.

Then of course there is the Transformers. They are more than meets the eye. They are the team of robots that we ran home to watch when we were kids. They are the toys that we begged our parents for. They are the statutes that we now spend big bucks for. They are cool.

Check out the artwork of this comic at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/03/29/avengers-academy-32-what-the-heart-wants-part-1/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Neon Fury by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12190-neon-fury
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 159 Avengers Academy #33: What the Heart Wants - Part 2

Sun, 05 May 2024 09:00:00 -0700

What shall we talk about this week? Probably not really about this comic book. How about we talk about a specific organ that is explicitly talked about in this issue? Yes, I am talking about hair.....wait....no....that is not right......I am talking about the heart. But what heart are we talking about?

First of all, I will go ahead and give all credit to Wikipedia for what you are about to read. I am not that original. And I really do not want to be that creative. I think this is just more fun.

Heart is an American rock band formed in 1973 in Seattle, Washington. The band evolved from previous projects led by founding members Roger Fisher (guitar) and Steve Fossen (bass guitar), including The Army (1967–1969), Hocus Pocus (1969–1970), and White Heart (1970–1973).

Heart is a framework developed by Google to help the products and development teams to make decisions that serve business and user-centered. Heart is a framework for mobile design and metrics. It is an acronym that stands for happiness, engagement, adoption, retention and task success. Included by Gartner as a design approach that accommodates mobile interface issues such as partial user attention and interruption.

Heart is a 1987 American sports drama film directed by James Lemmo (in his directorial debut), from a screenplay by Lemmo and Randy Jurgensen, who also produced the film. It stars Brad Davis, Jesse Doran, Steve Buscemi, Frank Adu, Sam Gray, Billy Costello, and Frances Fisher. A punch-drunk boxer is set up as an easy win for an up-and-coming young boxer in this melodrama. The highlight of the film is the performance of Steve Buscemi as the oily, mob-connected fight promoter Nicky. Eddie (Brad Davis) is the addle-brained boxer Nicky hangs out to dry for quick money.

Heart of Midlothian Football Club, commonly known as Hearts, is a professional football club in Edinburgh, Scotland. The team competes in the Scottish Premiership, the top division of Scottish football. Hearts, the oldest and most successful football club in the Scottish capital, was formed in 1874, its name influenced by Walter Scott's novel The Heart of Midlothian. The club crest is based on the Heart of Midlothian mosaic on the city's Royal Mile; the team's colors are maroon and white.

The Heart Nebula (also known as the Running dog nebula, IC 1805, Sharpless 2-190) is an emission nebula, 7500 light years away from Earth and located in the Perseus Arm of the Galaxy in the constellation Cassiopeia. It was discovered by William Herschel on 3 November 1787. It displays glowing ionized hydrogen gas and darker dust lanes.

"Heart" is a song by English synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys from their second studio album, Actually (1987). It was released as the album's fourth and final single on 21 March 1988 by Parlophone. The song topped the UK Singles Chart for three weeks in April 1988, becoming the duo's fourth and final chart-topper to date in the United Kingdom. Its music video was directed by Jack Bond and filmed in Yugoslavia. The group had initially written the song for Madonna, though they never asked her to record it, instead keeping it for themselves.

Heart Peaks, originally known as the Heart Mountains, is a mountain massif in the Northern Interior of British Columbia, Canada. It is 90 km (56 mi) northwest of the small community of Telegraph Creek and just southwest of Callison Ranch. With a maximum elevation of 2,012 m (6,601 ft), it rises above the surrounding landscape on the Nahlin Plateau, which is part of the western Stikine Plateau. Heart Peaks has been an area of prospecting since the 1980s with the discovery of precious metals.

The Heart is a 2014 realistic and medical fiction novel by the French author Maylis de Kerangal. It chronicles the events immediately following the death of 19-year-old Simon Limbres in a car accident. In particular, The Heart focuses on the transplantation of Simon's heart and how it affects those involved in the process, including Simon's parents, the physicians, the nurses, the organ transplant coordinators, the recipient, and the recipient's family, over the course of twenty-four hours.

Check out the pictures from this issue: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/04/18/avengers-academy-33-what-the-heart-wants-part-2/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Clap Along With Me by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12234-clap-along-with-me
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 160 Avengers Academy #34: Final Exam - Part 1

Sun, 19 May 2024 10:22:11 -0700

OK boys and girls, it is time to get ready for those final exams. In the case of the Avengers Academy, those tests are practical's. Before we sharpen those number 2 pencils, let's take a short pause and talk about some beaches. Why....well, if you read the book or listened to this podcast, you would have an idea of what we are talking about.

Besides the comic book, I recently had the opportunity to travel through some states that I have skipped over for years. While I did get to enjoy the bitter cold shoreline of the St. Croix River in Hudson Wisconsin, I eventually made it down to the white sands and backing sun of Pensacola beach. And let me tell you, that place was full of people that were not wearing hazmat suits.

Most of the people on the beach were wearing bikinis. Not me. I was in shorts and t-shirt. And that shirt stayed on thank you very much. But my shoes and socks came off. I just did not want to put the socks back on. They magically disappeared.

Now Oregon beaches are not like that. They are rocky affairs that mostly have a grey sky over them. I mean, they are charming as a trailer full of poodles, but they are an acquired taste. You go for the scenery, not the sun.

When it comes down to it, all beaches are great, except when you have to deal with people. People are the absolute worst. You come for a nice day on a sunny beach and there are all these people with the same idea as you. What a bunch of jerks.

And they can be rude. If all the golden age comics are correct, the beaches are full of muscle bound jerks who just want to kick sand in your face. Or get their dog to do it.

By the way, apparently most beaches have some ordinances about throwing knives or shuriken on the beach. Rule....the heck man.

But, they cannot take away kissing on the beach. No they cannot.

At the end of the day, you just need to get your kite or a book to read and enjoy the sand and the surf. Oh...and hello to Clinton. Thanks for chatting with me while I got this page together. Now get back to work.

You should check out the pictures at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/05/05/avengers-academy-34-final-exam-part-1/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Epic Odyssey (feat. Udio) by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12300-epic-odyssey-feat-udio
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 161 Avengers Academy #35: Final Exam - Part 2

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 09:40:27 -0700

Ok, so things are not looking good for the home team. Powers stripped away, bad guy gloating, racist bad guys with questionable fashion sense...what are we to do? I have an idea, let's talk about something fun like the Portland Rose Festival!

Looking at the pictures we chose for this book, you may think that I am crazy. Or you may have met me and know that I am. But that is beside the point. I can do anything I put my mind to, including but not limited to kneeing a giant in the head with my knee.

I always forget Rose Festival until it kicks in my door like an aggressive repo man just before summer. It is an annual civic festival held during the month of June in Portland, Oregon. It is organized by the volunteer non-profit Portland Rose Festival Foundation with the purpose of promoting the Portland region. It includes three separate parades, along with a number of other activities, including plant-based crimes.

You may be tempted after seeing the beautiful floats covered in flowers and seeds to take a trip up to the Portland International Test Rose Gardens. I highly recommend that you do, as it is a very lovely area and one of my favorite spots in the city. What you should not do is take any cutting implement up to take the roses. It is frowned upon.

One of the highlights of the Rose Festival is the choosing of the Royal Court. Each local high school has a contest to determine their princess for the Rose Court, and then a queen is chosen from those young women. It is a pretty neat tradition...but I just remember who was chosen from my school my senior year, and it was a horrible choice.....but I digress.

Waterfront Park becomes a giant fun center with carnival games, rides, and stages. It is loud, full of an interesting cross section of the city, and full of the smells of food that will clog your arteries. I do not make it down there enough, but when I do go, I still find it very fun. The prices are insane, but that is what you get.

My favorite part of the entire festival is the fireworks. This is usually what kicks everything off. They are held in the Willamette River, which runs through the center of the city. Crowds gather on both sides of the river to watch the show in the air above them. And they rarely, if ever, cause people to become radioactive.

Well, I hope you learned something about our wonderful city and it's namesake festival. Come to town to check it out sometime.

You can see the art we discussed at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/06/01/avengers-academy-35-final-exam-part-2/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rise Of Legends by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12192-rise-of-legends
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 162 Avengers Academy #36: Final Exam - Part 3

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0700

Sometimes you look at a story, and you think of things that pair perfectly with it. We do it all the time with beer, but what else can we pair with a story. How about music? Movies and TV shows have soundtracks, why not comic books? What about this comic book? I have an idea, let me know what you think.

People
People who need people
Are the luckiest people in the world

We're children, needing other children
And yet letting a grown-up pride
Hide all the need inside
Acting more like children than children

Lovers, are very special people
They're the luckiest people in the world
With one person
One very special person

A feeling deep in your soul
Says you were half now you're whole
No more hunger and thirst

But first be a person who needs people
People who need people
Are the luckiest people in the world

With one person, one very special person
A feeling deep in your soul
Says you were half, now you're whole

No more hunger and thirst
But first be a person who needs people
People who need people
Are the luckiest people in the world

I hope you enjoyed my interpretation of the classics. Join me again in another couple of weeks when we do this all over again.

This makes a lot more sense if you look at the webpage (OK, it does not make any sense, still): https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/06/09/avengers-academy-36-final-exam-part-3/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Music (CC BY 4.0): Cinematic Emotions 1 - Creepy by Sascha Ende

Episode 163 Avengers Academy #37: Final Exam - Part 4

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 09:42:20 -0700

OK, we have finished up this arc of the Avengers Academy. A good capper for this series and the main story lines that have been running for the past 20 issues. Now it is on to the final two issues.

The theme for this week is horror movies. I am going to see if I can think of a horror movie that each picture reminds me of.

Ok. I am going with Night of the Demons. Something about the magic being wielded and a weird scene....I remember watching it in high school with a mess a friends during a Halloween party. And this one scene has stuck with me for years.

Ok, maybe not horror as we know it today, but the first Terminator movie has some downright creepy scenes that stay with you. The Terminator in the hotel room dealing with is dying skin. Yucky.

For some reason I am thinking about Scream and the first scene. Drew Barrymore wishes that she could have teleported out of that house. That would have saved the coroner a mess of work.

Have you seen Godzilla Minus One? If you have not, you should. I guess it is more of a monster movie, or action even, but it is one heck of a show. It really puts you in the mindset of Japan after the war, and the terror of the unknown.

What to say about The Ring or Ringu. It is a frightening horror movie that scared the pants off of us back in the late 90's. And the sight of the kid crawling through the TV just might be the creepiest thing ever.

The most infamous stomach horror scene of all time is, of course, from Alien. I mean, what can you say. The situation has ended, the victim looks fine, let's have some laughs...OH MY GOD WHAT IS COMING OUT OF HIS STOMACH! Yeah, good times.

In my opinion, one of the classic horror movies is Halloween. There is just a lot of perfect fear in that film, and there is a simplicity to it as well. The monster that just kills and has not feeling, and the ominous score. Chefs kiss.

And check out the bloody images on our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/06/09/avengers-academy-37-final-exam-part-4

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 164 Avengers Academy #38: Crosstown Rivals

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0700

As the Avengers Academy winds down, the writers decided to do something fun and interesting. A good old fashion, fun chill book. Not and AvX, more of a chillax book. Using sport to do some fun goofiness.

Now, this could be a book about rivals beating each other up or continuing a tale of violence and revenge, but it is not. It is just some kids playing a game. But what about those real historical rivalries? What about the people that really hated each other?

The English and the French hated each other on an epic scale. From 1100 to 1800 they were almost constantly at war with each other. I know that there was real reasons for the animosity, but I truly believe that it came down to cooking styles. I have heard that chefs hold grudges.

If you are into hard rock, you might know this one. Kerry King vs. Robb Flynn. Machine Head got a career boost in the mid-'90s when they landed the opening slot on a few of Slayer's tours. But by 2001, Slayer frontman Kerry King had soured on Machine Head, calling them "sell-outs" who were "responsible for rap-metal.

Being a Pink Floyd Fan, I am well aware of this one. Artistic differences drove a wedge between Roger Waters and David Gilmour during the recording of their classic album “The Wall" in 1979. Waters, who viewed himself as the creative force behind the band's success, became increasingly disdainful of his fellow band members, whom he deemed musically inferior.

There may be no American feud more famous than that of the Hatfields and McCoys. The feud is said to have begun during the Civil War. The Hatfields from West Virginia sided with the Confederacy while Kentucky’s McCoy family remained pro-Union. Though a Hatfield may have killed a McCoy during the war, the feud really heated up in 1878. when an argument over the ownership of a pig ended with yet another death.

Power is a fiery fuse when it comes to inciting a feud, especially the fascinating historical feud between the Medici and Pazzi families. In 15th-century Florence, no family was as powerful as the Medici family. While the Pazzis probably weren’t the only other family to feel threatened by Medici power, they were the only ones to do anything about it.

You think the Game of Thrones was something, what about the Yorks versus the Lancasters. Today, a monarch’s line of inheritance is understood and accepted enough that a feud would be extremely unlikely. However, that wasn’t the case in 15th century England. When King Henry VI, a Lancastrian, proved to be an unstable monarch, his York cousins launched a plot to overtake the throne.

Feuds will occur, and we will see them in books. Just not in this one.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out some of our pictures at this website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/06/14/avengers-academy-38-crosstown-rivals/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Journey Of The Brave by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/12233-journey-of-the-brave
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 165 Avengers Academy #39: Commencement

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0700

Insert the commencement music and put on the silly hats, and do not forget that you will be paying for this school forever. Welcome to the final issue of Avengers Academy.

There are many things we can discuss with the ending of this series. There are many silly tangents I could probably go on. The problem is that I cannot find a really appropriate or seamless segway. And so, I guess, I will need to talk about this book and what it means to me.....which is boring.

Let's just get the whole teenage hormone love thing out of the way. This was a series that dealt with teenagers, so you knew there was going to be romance and broken hearts. The interesting thing is that it was done pretty well. It was nice to see these relationships treated with some respect.

What about the fighting and action in these books. Come on, this is Marvel Comics, of course the action is going to be good. Yes, this book did bring in one of the many Wolverines that roam the Marvel Universe, but it is the best Wolverine, so there is that. But I digress, this was a very action-packed series that still managed to keep the story moving forward.

I was a little disappointed that we did not see more cool gadgets. Hank Pym is a main player in this book, but the tech was small....get it...and that was sad. But I guess that means that we just focused on the people not the things. So, I am ok with that.

The art work of this series was solid. There was nothing extraordinary or groundbreaking, but there was nothing that was awful, and that is just fine. Comic books can be artistic masterpieces, but they can also be enjoyable mediums to convey stories. This book had a good story tied with clean art, and we cannot ask for more than that.

Going back to the teenage story of it all, I think we can say that focusing on the issues of kids during a rough time of their lives allows the creators to touch on some good topics. Bullying is definitely an area that was addressed, and dealt with well. I mean, who does not want to see bullies get owned.

This is a thoughtful series that really develops its cast of characters well. There was a good storyline to follow and you ended up really carrying about the cast. I think that the introduction of new members helped keep things fresh, especially Julie because it put it on our radar.

I am sad that we need to leave this series. It was fun and interesting, and I wanted to read each issue. I know why we have to leave the series, but I am sad that most of these characters have disappeared into the lost pages of the Official Handbook.

To see the pretty pictures, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/07/02/avengers-academy-39-commencement/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Epic Intro 2018 by Sascha EndeFree download: https://filmmusic.io/song/3002-epic-intro-2018License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 166 FF #18: What Do You Call the Opposite of a Field Trip?

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 06:52:13 -0700

********************We accidently uploaded the wrong file. If you heard this episode muddled, please redownload the episode and it should be fixed. We apologize for the mess up. *******************************

And we are back with Hickman and the FF baby!!! No more of those smelly Avengers and their academy of kids dealing with teenage angst. We are back with the real meat of smart children walking around universe shaking events. No time for teen drama, just time for lunch.

You read that correctly, lunch! Capital L to the U, followed by NCH. It is the meal that defines the middle of the day. It is the target we aim towards when we start our workday. It is the reason that sandwiches were invented. Bring on the mid-day meal!

Lunch is vitally important for no other reason than to keep away the dreaded hangry person. You know what I am talking about. That one person who becomes a rage monster when their blood sugar becomes a bit too low. Yeah. We know who they are. They may not say anything, but we know.

Now, where shall we eat? This is the question that haunts many a couples as they start to realize that hunger is amongst them. What should they do, where should they go? Will they search through the boulevard of broken dreams and attempt to find the ever-elusive perfect meal?

Where for art Thou, Burge-o?

But then you find that perfect place. That Mecca with the menu that serves the needs you have. You see that fortress of food, that cathedral of carbs. Oh, what a grand sight, it will provide the sustenance you need.

But then you realize that there is a wait, that they take reservations. So the wait begins...and no one likes to wait.

The wait is over, we have made to the table, and we have placed our order. The food is coming! The hunger will be abated! But, wait...did that waiter just spit into the food!!!!

AND THIS EXPERIENCE COST US HOW MUCH!!!!

Ok, well....I still hope you all enjoyed the show and our humor.

Check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/07/11/ff-18-what-do-you-call-the-opposite-of-a-field-trip/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rise Of Legends by Sascha Ende
https://filmmusic.io/song/12192-rise-of-legends
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Episode 167 Fantastic Four #607: Inert

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 13:18:00 -0700

Heavy sits the panther mask that sits upon the brow of a soverein.....Thankfully that is all Shuri's problem since T'Challa has given up the crown and role of protector of Wakanda. That is a lot for us to talk about, but instead, we are going to talk about something else.

We are going to talk about ThunderCats, the original cartoon from the '80s. Why would we do that, well it was because both Jeff and I just felt that someone wanted us to talk about it. I mean, you just need to look at some of these pictures. We just have to present what we have been given.

Starting in 1985 as a cartoon, this reenactment of this historical (or futuristic?) documentary is a profound look at the adventures of a scrappy group of refugees from the planet Thundera. These humanoid cats face countless struggles as they try to establish themselves on a new planet after their own was destroyed by environmental failures and an over-planting of catnip.

Me.....yow!

Look, there are a lot of questions that we have asked and never got clear answers. Like, how does this group think they are going to repopulate their race with six different species of cats. The only pair of the group that are from the same branch are brother and sister so....ew. And poor Cheetara seems to be sweet on Tygra who is really just a bore.

Let's leave the relationships and procreation aside and focus on their sweet crib. The Transformers crash on Earth and spend decades hiding out in their wrecked spaceship. The ThunderCats spend a hot minute scoping out the land, finding the best section of real estate they can, and knock out a state-of-the-art fortress in a couple of weeks.

For every great protagonist, you need a really good villain to annoy your plans on an easy recolonization story. And we all know the natural enemy of all cats....mummies. Mumm-Ra is an interesting character. He wants power and is evil, I guess, but he also does seem to be the only main character of the series who is from the planet these cats are squatting on. So, does that make him the actual hero?

That is a Rabit Hole

Maybe I should move on from this observation before we dig a hole we cannot get out of.

Back to the villains, one last little thing. You have to love the idea that this small band of heroes were chased across the stars by four to five full tribes that have something like infinite members. Sure, there is a leader of each of the tribe, but it seems like they have a small host to use as cannon fodder when needed by the plot.

Whatever, we loved our silly cartoons.

You can see the art we were talking about here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/08/20/fantastic-four-607-inert/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 168 Fantastic Four #608: City of the Dead

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0700

Ok...here is my challenge. I need to write up some summary on this book without alluding to Cheech and Chong, Kevin Smith, 420, Jamaican candles, Afroman, Mary Jane, or anything in that oeuvre. Instead, I need to focus on the content, and humanities battle against gods. I am soooo going to fail.

Ok, we can do this. Focus on the content. I mean, it is not like there is nothing to talk about. Reed and T'challa go to the City of the Dead for goodness sake. How cool is that?

And....AND...Three super powered ladies bring the PAIN to an Egyptian god. That is epic, legendary, and fantastic. Plus, countless heavy metal songs have been written about less.

Dead skeletons attacking heroes, evil seeking power held by the good guys, cats and dogs fighting....I mean, this book has it all. Totally filled with wholesome destruction

Did I mention giant cats eating people? That is a completely normal, everyday experience that is in no way tied to anything that could be considered.....well....

OKAY...OKAY...this is nothing but a big drug trip. Are you happy now!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

If you want to see the pretty pictures at our website, click here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/09/05/fantastic-four-608-city-of-the-dead/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

They have taken Kursk by Sascha Ende

Episode 169 FF #19: Safari

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 09:25:00 -0700

Are you all ready for a fantastic romp through the jungle with a bunch a kids.....cause that is this comic. Hand on heart, no lies spoken or seen. This is just a simple straight forward story with a new character. So grab your juice box and put on your khakis.

A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh
A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh

In the jungle, the mighty jungle
The lion sleeps tonight
In the jungle, the quiet jungle
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!

Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)

Near the village, the peaceful village
The lion sleeps tonight
Near the village, the quiet village
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!

Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Rrrrrr, lalalaba, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)

Hush, my darling, don't fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight
Hush, my darling, don't fear, my darling
The lion sleeps tonight, ho, ho!

Whoa, whoa, whoa; whoa, whoa, whoa; whoa, whoa, aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
Weeheeheehee, dee heeheeheehee, weeoh aweem away
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)
(A-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh, a-weema-weh)

You can see the awesome art at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/08/20/ff-19-safari/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Whispering Shadows by Kevin MacLeod

Episode 170 FF #20: Deus Ex Inhuman

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700

It is time for us to talk about the Inhumans...again. They are like a pennies that keeps on showing up. They just appear in my pants pocket right when I am about to wash my jorts. Then they fall out of my pocket. Then the dryer makes a bunch of noise. Stupid Inhumans.

Anyway, it is time to tell you a little tale about a man and his fam in space. Join us, won't you.

A man in black sat in a throne, but he did not talk about a ring of fire or that his name was Sue. No, he sat there and brooded and thought.

The man had an awesome palace that he sat in. He took it from one end of the universe to the other. Mostly looking for people to fight, but also for love.

Speaking of lovers, the man had many wives, amongst many races. This meant that he had an awesome group of fighters that served him with a might love. I think that I have said love one too many times.

These mighty warriors now how to make an entrance. In fact, they went to school for it.

These mighty warriors told the man that they would serve him for ever and ever, and they would buy him ice cream and....

Ok. I really do not know what I am talking about, but you should read this book.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the pictures from the book at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/10/04/ff-20-deus-ex-inhuman/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 /

Love (instrumental) by Sascha Ende

Episode 171 FF #21: Ronance

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 11:06:23 -0700

Are you all ready for some bad Ronance....or Romance...or Space Opera? Well, it is what it is and this is it. We have Ronan and Crystal and two space races that really...really....really do not want them to be together. What shall they do? Why not call up Sue and Reed, cause they are the poster children of good ideas.

I could get all clever and fun, but I am not going to because I have other things to do tomorrow. So instead, I am phoning in and audible from Lady Gaga, and we are going to see what happens.

Rah, rah-ah-ah-ah
Roma, roma-ma
Gaga, ooh-la-la
Want your bad romance

I want your ugly, I want your disease
I want your everything as long as it's free
I want your love
Love, love, love, I want your love (hey)

I want your drama, the touch of your hand (hey)
I want your leather-studded kiss in the sand
I want your love
Love, love, love, I want your love (love, love, love)
(I want your love)

You know that I want you
And you know that I need you
I want it bad, your bad romance

I want your horror, I want your design
'Cause you're a criminal as long as you're mine
I want your love
Love, love, love, I want your love

I want your psycho, your vertigo shtick (hey)
Want you in my rear window, baby, you're sick
I want your love
Love, love, love, I want your love (love, love, love)
(I want your love)

I think that all makes sense. I don't know.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the images at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/10/04/ff-21-ronance/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Epic Intro 2015 (Original Very Short)

Episode 172 FF #22: You Are Whatever You Want to Be

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 09:00:00 -0800

We are sliding into an ending of this series, so it is time to tie up a storyline or two. In this issue, we get a nice little tale featuring Bntley. No, I did not make a mistake there. Sometimes the best little stories focus on the most evil individuals. That is why the story of my life will be awesome.

Looking at the pictures we have chosen here, I was thinking about really focusing on the story in the book, but then I had an idea, and I wanted to see if it would float. Tell me if you can see what I see.

This of course leads to a massive panic when a shark attack does occur on the crowded beach. Everybody freaks out and a giant food fight occurs. I blame John Belushi.

First up, we have a crazy man who wants to close down a beach because he is a little afraid of the water and there was just this little old shark attack. How crazy is that....and this guy?

So our heroes need to go out and find this horrible monster with sharp teeth. In order to do so, they need to board onto an appropriate vessel to carry them out onto their dangerous mission.

Farewell and adieu to you fair Spanish ladies
Farewell and adieu to you ladies of Spain
Cause we've received orders for to sail for old England,
But we hope in a short time to see you again.

This of course leads to the climax of the film. Our hero must take down the monster, but they only have a rifle. Oh no...whatever will they do?

Insert a big explosion that rocks your socks off and blows your mouth apart.

Now we come to the end our story. Our heroes are looking off into the distance, forming a new and awkward relationship

The end!

I hope you all enjoyed this reenactment. If you did not, I really do not care. Have a good day!

If you want this to make any sense, check out the pictures at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/10/18/ff-22-you-are-whatever-you-want-to-be/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cybertrooper [the better version]

Episode 173 FF #23: Run

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 09:41:37 -0800

And we did it. We made it to the last issue of FF. What a fun little series. Hickman put together some compelling stories and weaved them through this and Fantastic Four.

We should take a moment to think about what we learned from our review of this series, FF, over this past year or so. Time has been spent on this book, and beer has been drunk. That all being said, what has been read and what has been discussed.

We started with everyone thinking that the Human Torch was dead, and the hiring of one Mr. Peter Parker aka Spider-Man. This changed the team dynamics and beat of the team. We started with the team at a low point, but we end with a stronger and more knowledgeable family.

There was also the introduction of the Future Foundation. This is the team that has our boy Alex having something mover tangible than what happened to him in the New Warriors, but not by much. At least he was treated like he had intelligence and not just a paper weight.

But the Future Foundation was a great idea. A group of smart kids solving the world's problems. They were a weird group of punks who brought something different to the conversation. THe ensemble could have been used more effectively at certain points, but it was not bad.

We discovered that AIM (Advanced Idea Mechanics) having the bright idea to free The Wizard from prison and making him their leader proves that their ideas really aren't too advanced as they gave him back at the end of the series and asked for a do over.

We learned that having Spider-man on your team is a great idea, while having Dr. Doom is an occasionally good idea if you can stand the Doomness of him. Also, inviting The Wizard, Diablo, The Mad Thinker and The High Evolutionary to stand with you for some out of the box thinking is a great way to to get betrayed and stabbed in the back when the chips are down by people that you just fed lunch to.

A surprising number of issues deal with Black Bolt and The Inhumans interacting with the Supreme Intelligence and the Kree...we both found these issues, storylines and interactions to be boring, unwelcome and a distraction from important things, like what the Future Foundation kids are up to in their own title. Unfortunately, what they are often up to is standing off to a side, quietly observing the actions of other characters while storylines unfurl around them and their contributions amount to them being able to say that they were there too.

Speaking of surprises, a surprising number of beings were turned into pets. Dr. Doom to a multiversal Reed Richards, a couple of multiversal Reed Richards' to a Supreme Intelligence, Johnny Storm to Annihilus, Annihilus to a resurrected Johnny Storm, and Galactus to a Franklin Richards.

All in all it was a fun series and a worthwhile read, but it really shined when it dealt with the title holders of this series, the kids. Their developments, their growths, their failings and their foibles, their interactions and all the things that make them the foundation of the future.

Check out the artwork at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/10/29/ff-23-run/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rise Of The Kingdoms [the better version]

Episode 174 FF v2 #1: Parts of a Whole

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0800

First issue of the new volume! Are you excited? Are you entertained?
The answer is a surprising yes. I mean, Matt Fraction! C'mon now, this shall be interesting if not funny. Plus, more content!!!! Yeah, baby!

New beginning, means new storyline and new characters? But, I just got to really know the Fantastic Four. It only took me 50 years to get to really know them...do I really need to learn about new people?

I guess we need to talk about where the Terrific Three plus One are going and why they will not be here. But I think you should listen to our show or read the comic to figure out those reasons. That is my opinion, and I am making this web page, so that is what we will do.

What about these new people....who are they, why are they here, what does mac and cheese taste like on the moon? Some of these questions can be answered now, some will never be known, unless we go back to the moon. I guess we can say that one guy is Ant Man. He changes sizes and steal things.

We do have She Hulk back, so that is a big plus. It is great to have a little bit of green on the team. It would be better if they had green money, or gold, or a platinum credit card. Without that, a lawyer who can work some pro bono and punch villains is always a plus.

Royalty time. We have Medusa from the Inhumans who is taking a bit of a sabbatical from being a queen to becoming one of four. She does bring a bit of class and conditioner into the team. She also brings along her own hair nets, so that is good.

Val and Franklin are going with the Fantastic Four so I guess we don't need to talk about them. We should talk about Darla, but she really is showcased next issue, so we can ignore her for now. See, this is fun, right?

I guess that leaves the rest of the Future Foundation. The kids are all still here, including our favorite boy, Alex Power...and our second favorite boys Leech and Artie. We like seeing them. They are nice.

So, there we go. We have a new series, more issues, more storylines....and more fun! Let's suit up and riot!

Check out the art we have been talking about here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/11/27/ff-v2-1-parts-of-a-whole/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Beast

Episode 175 FF v2 #2: The Big Goodbye

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0800

The plan was for the Fantastic Four to go on a short little trip. That was all. Just a short trip and then boom....back to the old nine to five grind. But we ran into a little problem, didn't we.

Let us tell you a little story. Once upon a time, a princess woke up and wanted someone to answer her ringing bell and make her breakfast. She rang and rang and rang, but no one showed up. It made her sad, and a little bit angry.

And where were those people who should have shown up and serve her breakfast? They were goofing around and climbing on each other because they thought it was cute. Now, is that a good reason to ignore a princess? No, no it is not.

What about the dragon? There is always a dragon in fairy stories. What was that dragon doing instead of helping are annoying the princess? He was just witting around playing with a big mechanical machine. That seems like a totally pointless waste of time.

And then, just when the ringing of the bell began to annoy the women ringing the bell, something happened. A big old monster showed up to have a conversation about something or another. It really did not matter, because nobody could speak monster.

Being bored and feeling ignored, the princess decided to jump out of a window to deal with the monster. She forgot to put pants on. which most people would find to be a problem, but the princess just thought it was a Wednesday.

Now that she has landed on the ground, she decided to deal with the monster. This was easy too easy. It was like the monster slipped on a banana peel. It was like no effort, or less than sub effort.

And the poor monster, he was not even supposed to be there that day.

The end!

Check out the pictures to go along with this story here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/12/15/ff-v2-2-the-big-goodbye/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cinema Blockbuster Trailer 41

Episode 176 FF v2 #3: Old John Storm

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 09:00:00 -0800

So, the Fantastic Four is dead....again. But this time there is an older guy who says he is John Storm that has popped back to help guide this new Fantastic Four to avenge his family. Good times, huh. What could possibly happen next?

Today, we are going to talk about towels. They are amazing inventions that may not get the exposure they deserve. We take them for granted. Towels are the cornerstone for our society, and we should celebrate them more.

Let's take a look at what we know about the majestic cloth. We know that it can dry and clean you. We know it can be used as a weapon when rolled up and whipped. And we know that it can be used to sail a boat. These are lessons given to us by Douglas Adam, and they are good things.

We also know that this collection of fibers can be used for many defensive and offensive purposes. The whip has already been described, but the shield is also available. The axe modification should only be attempted by trained professionals but can be wielded with surprising efficiency. We can only assume that the Fantastic Four would have fared better with a towel.

Then there is the fact that towels can be costumes. This is controversial because they can make people, dancers especially, look insane. This critique is usually reserved for when you make animal shapes out of towels and wear them, but you get the idea.

What about for drying yourself off after a shower? We do not recommend using towels if you are over the age of 60. It is better to drip dry in a terry cloth towel and spread your legs in order to cause horror and disgust to all around you. This also keeps the towel in reserve as a weapon when your friends and family turn on you.

Wearing a towel as a dressing gown is exclusively reserved for people of high physical beauty. This is also a rule that has been pushed forward by immature individuals who want to see the towel slip or fall off, so we cannot put too much stock in what they say.

In closing, celebrate your towel and make it the center piece of any celebration. Hoorah!

To see our towel related pictures, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2024/12/29/ff-v2-3-old-john-storm/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Most Shocking Halloween Trailer 18

Episode 177 Interview with Matt Fraction

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0800

The best part about living in Portland Oregon is being surrounded by amazing and awesome comic creators. The town is sick with them, and they are wonderful people. It is even better when you are reviewing a book written by a fellow Portlander.

Matt Fraction is an award winning, media content creator. Having worked in all of the big companies, Matt has written some fantastic books that have put him on the map. The 2012 Hawkeye series, Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen, Sex Criminals, Casanova, and of course Fantastic Four and FF.

On top of all of that, Matt has also started to work in television. Starting as a creative consultant for the Hawkeye TV series and then as an executive producer for Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. A good guy who is creative, intelligent, and interesting.

If you have not delved into the work that this creator has developed, I highly encourage you to take a chance and pick up his work. And, if you see him at a comic con, say hi. If you see him in the supermarket, leave the guy alone. He just wants some bagels.

Check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/01/06/interview-with-matt-fraction/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 178 Avenging Spider-Man #17: Untitled

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0800

Spider-man is going through some things as at the moment. He is not himself.....literally. Thanks to comic book science, Doctor Otto Octavius has taken up residence in the ole' web heads.....head. Let the comedy ensue.

Let's try and make up a story to go with these wacky pictures. Ok, let's see....Spidey has just been invited over to the worst sleepover ever. Who is to blame, the children who want a web-gun fight? Spidey for showing up? The adults for wanting to go out for drinks and assumed that they had a willing free babysitter?

The good news is that one of the games for the sleepover is Pin-the-Bentley-on-the-Donkey. This is everyone's favorite game, not only for the pun value, but also because it really annoys the clone child.

We all have that one friend whose parents are just a little too wealthy compared to all of the other friend's parents. Those wealthy parents also have bought a toy or thing that is so insane, for years you try to explain that what you saw was not a fever dream. The fact that this sleepover has a giant robotic minotaur thing is like that.

You also have that one sleepover story where one friend breaks the really weird or cool toy. As long as you were not the owner, or the one who broke the toy, it is a funny story. Tragic, YES. But still pretty funny.

Sometimes, it is better to just let a rowdy sleepover destroy one or two rooms. If you are the babysitter and were tricked into being in charge of this circus, your responsibility ends at the health and safety of the children...not property damage or international insurrections. But I am not a lawyer.

And that is also why I do not want to weigh in on stealing from the owner's home. I mean, if you did not want me to be evil, you should not have put me in a situation that made me evil. I am pretty sure that will hold up in a court of law.

Check out the artwork at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/01/07/avenging-spider-man-17-untitled/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cybertrooper [the better version]

Episode 179 Astonishing X-Men V3 #59: Untitled

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0800

We have been invaded!!!! Hide your maple syrup and your top shelf hockey players! The boys from Why Not?! Read Alpha Flight with Chris and Tom, have invaded our studios and are imposing their Alpha Flightian ways upon us. Protect the children from their wicked ways.

Chris and Tom followed us back to the Pacific Northwest after we invaded their show. We tried to scare them away with our "no foul language" or "dirty jokes" and "PG attitude", but they showed up anyway with a bucket full of censor tape and beep sound clips. This is what we get for using cheap Canadian locks on our club house door.

Now you may be asking if drinking was involved in the making of this episode. If you are asking that question, you have not been paying attention to our show. Of course drinking was involved. Do you think we would get tangled up with people who talk about Alpha Flight without alcohol?

Focusing back on the positive, we were able to eventually find common ground to agree on. We focused on our inner well-being and looked beyond the us versus them issues and remembered the important things in life....like there was no Sasquatch in this issue. And that is something we can all be happy about.

Sometimes the best laid plans end up being a nightmare. Sometimes they end up being a disaster. Sometimes they end up being like our talk with Chris and Tom. I am not sure what I mean by that, but neither does anyone else.

At the end of the night, two bearded boys flew off to their secret layer to discuss future comic books. The other two bearded dudes did something similar. I am not sure what differences were resolved, but a promise to fight another day was made.

Oh...and lawyers will be involved in the future.

In all seriousness, check out Why Not?! Read Alpha Flight with Chris and Tom. They are two amazing fellows who have a lot of fun talking about everyone's favorite Marvel Canadian team.

And check out the art from this issue at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/02/02/astonishing-x-men-v3-59/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Neon Fury

Episode 180 FF #4: Escalation

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0800

Put on your romance shoes and buckle up your dancing suspenders, 'cause it is February and that rhymes with love and that stands for this issue. Booyah baby, hit that tambourine!

Is there any other way to start of this discussion besides talking about She-Hulk in that dress....ME to the OW! Wear that dress, girl! 'Nuff Said!

And when we talk about the most romantic place on the planet, what about Latvaria. Nothing says hot, steamy nights more than a brutal dictatorship. Snuggle close to your loved one, cause there is no other way to stay warm.

Everybody loves a romantic restaurant. And an entertaining and talented singing waitstaff can be a bonus. Bummer that this place is more of a mind-controlled, clumsy place, but you get what you pay for.

You could just do a picnic, which is amazingly romantic. Wonderful location, perfect time, privacy. You just need to pack the perfect meal. Preferably one not assembled by an evil genius, but you be you boo.

Dancing. The hallmark of a sophisticated and educated individua. The movement and swaying in tune with music is sure to increase the attraction and love between two partners. And if you cannot dance, fake it or go over the top. If they are embarrassed by your shenanigans, you were too good for them.

It is possible to fail at sealing the deal with your date. If this occurs, try your best not to land in court or the front page of a newspaper. This is embarrassing, and also pretty funny to your friends. Trust me, they are laughing at you.

Getting a pet can be seen as a romantic gesture. Getting a giant monster can be seen as threatening and could lead to a lawsuit (see above).

Getting a stupid monster for a pet is just embarrassing.

Check out some artwork at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/02/02/ff-4-escalation/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Wings of Destiny by Sache Ende

Episode 181 FF #5: Spooky Kids or, Merrily into the Eight Arms of Durga the Invincible We All Go

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0800

Things are not looking good for the Ant-astic Four. John Storm is not well in the burning melon. Alex has run away from home. Medusa has brought her son in and is acting odd...which is saying something. I home things don't heat up in this issue.

Frist of all, we should give some love to all of the media out there doing the wonderful work that that they do. They are out there every day, taking photos, embarrassing celebrities, taking down anyone with shaky self-esteem.

You know who does not take hits to his ego well? Our boy Scott. When he gets even the smallest hit to his ego, or self-esteem, he reacts like someone just kicked his dog...or killed his daughter.

And speaking of being on tilt, or not in control of their emotions, we should talk about Mr. John Storm. Here is a guy that is so confused and emotionally unbalanced, that he sets a guy's beard on fire. I mean, who does that.

Then he sets fire to the whole town. What a jerk!

But, this Kaiju...this dude knows where his Wheaties are at, if you know what I mean. It lives its life and then helps out the fish kids. It just keeps swimming, ya know what I mean!

But then Willie Lumpkin has to come in and make everything all awkward. Why you gotta teach a class on birds and bees. Why you have to make it weird. Why did you have to break us?

I no longer know what I am talking about. I am just too disgusted.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/02/23/ff-5-spooky-kids-or-merrily-into-the-eight-arms-of-durga-the-invincible-we-all-go/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Surprise Attack by by Sascha Ende

Episode 182 FF #6: Save the Tiger

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700

I want you all to get off your seats, pull out your lighters or your cell phones, and get ready to listen to some boys bring you the music in an absolutely unplugged manner. And by unplugged, I mean I do not know what I am writing right now.

Breakfast; is it the food of champions or is it the lazy man's late-night snack. Who knows? I do know that chaos will reign supreme in my house when I bring home hot dogs from Costco at 10 AM. So be like me and drive your family crazy!

What about sleazy people in sleazy cafes? Are they stereotypes, or are they just dives? Are you going to need a tetanus shot if you make the mistake of sitting down? Will you sneeze after leaving and find an entire dish cloth has fallen out of your nose? Probably.

And then we have the Inhumans being all high and mighty in their castle in the sky. Who do they think they are? Some type of mafic space race that sucks gas. Well...yes, because they are.

I just have nothing to say here.

And then we have the Baxter Building all cut up. Who would want to live in that place? No walls, so drafty, no privacy....all of your stuff being shown to the world. Noone in their right mind would want to live in this glass house.

So there. I am not sure what else I can tell you about this issue. We came, we saw and we read.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out our lovely website with some of the art at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/02/23/ff-6-save-the-tiger/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Lullaby of Light (feat. Cory Friesenhan)

Episode 183 FF #7: That Was the Worst Field Trip Ever

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!! Those are the words that come to mind about this issue. What else can we say. Oh, I know, we can say that we have the awesome Brett Young from the Fantastic Pour podcast. He joined us to talk about how the Wizard brought this on, and now has to rue the consequences. You bet he is going to find out after he messed around. Comeuppance...bring them.

If you are asking yourself, how did we come to this horrific location with these terrible choices....than you are not paying attention. The Wizard. He did it. It is all his fault. What is your problem. Do you have something in your eye?

Or maybe you have been drinking. And if you have been drinking, what was it? And in what type of receptacle? Remember, if you are drinking out of some crazy horn or round bottomed crystal, that is chaos drinking.

Back to the fight. The Wizard deserves everything that he gets. Especially being beaten by a sea monkey on a string. I mean, how can he even show his face at the Bar With No Name after this?

And what about Dragon Man? What about Mr. Pacifism? Why would you flame someone in the backside if you are into peace? Nobody wants a heat enema!!!

That just leaves us with Blaastar knocking the blocks off of Darla. I really have nothing else to say about this. Not without getting dirty.

And that was this issue. It was a thing we read and discussed.

Please check out Brett's podcast, Fantastic Pour podcast.

If you want to check out the artwork, go here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/03/19/ff-7-that-was-the-worst-field-trip-ever/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Armageddon 2012

Episode 184 FF #8: You Can't Go Home Again

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Ding ding ding!!!! Ladies and gentlemen and children of all ages!!! Welcome to tonight's fights. We have a heck of a show for you with people punching people and hilarious hijinks. Hold onto your beer, cause it is going to get foamy.

The 1985 film Gymkata set out to answer the question: is gymnastics a kick-ass martial arts style? The film then quickly answered that question with a resounding "no."

Though Austin Powers eventually won the fight in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Mini Me definitely messed him up. The round two battle of Austin Powers in Goldmember, however, was all Austin.

The fight scene from They Live is both epic and completely ludicrous. . Both men landed devastating blows, but no matter what, they kept getting up. Every time the fight seemed settled, it started back up again for another brutal round. No person could possibly take the beating Frank and Nada gave each other.

The 2004 adaptation of The Punisher is a very dark tale of a man getting revenge for the murder of his family. The battle between Frank Castle and The Russian packs the punches and the laughs. Frank's gun is no good because the Russian bends the barrel, and even a grenade proves useless. The comedy comes from the question of what it takes to defeat the Russian. As it turns out, a pot of boiling water does the trick.

The Clone Wars is often regarded as one of the weakest films in the Star Wars franchise, and part of that could be the completely ridiculous Anikan Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi lightsaber duel against Count Dooku. Obi-Wan is easily incapacitated and Anakin gets his hand cut off during some of the lamest choreography in the franchise. As if the fight wasn't silly enough, Yoda comes in to save the day, and none of his flips or moves is enough to defeat Dooku.

Picking the funniest fight scene from Kung Fu Hustle is like choosing the most unsettling scene from Human Centipede; there are so many to select from. The Landlady and her husband, the Landlord, are Kung Fu masters, but they are no match for the legendary assassin, the Beast. Each ridiculous attack launched by the couple is thwarted by the Beast in an even more hysterical fashion. The fight plays out like a Three Stooges slapstick comedy with over-the-top martial arts violence.

In the movie Airplane!, Captain Oveur inappropriately asks Joey if he likes movies about Gladiators, and the fight scene from Spartacus is almost certainly why. The 1960 Stanley Kubrick classic features plenty of oily combat that was more like dancing than fighting, but the Spartacus/Draba match-up was the least convincing. What was supposed to be a fight to the death looked more like two sweaty guys trying really hard not to hurt each other. All of this lazy choreography was sluggishly executed by grown men in diapers, making it one of the most unintentionally funny fight scenes in cinematic history.

Of course, I am just cribbing from CBR (https://www.cbr.com/funny-movie-fight-scenes-ranked/). But that is because I am lazy.

Check out our art work at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/04/11/ff-8-you-cant-go-home-again/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 /

When Robots Awake [cinematic dubstep intro]

Episode 185 FF #9: Last Splash

Sun, 04 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

The plan was for the Fantastic Four to go on a short little trip. That was all. Just a short trip and then boom....back to the old nine to five grind. But we ran into a little problem, didn't we.

Well, hi there! Welcome to our wonderful treaty on pools, tubs, water holes, and puddles. Hopefully you will learn something. If you do not, please do not sue us.

The "Great Bath" at the site of Mohenjo-Daro in modern-day Pakistan was most likely the first swimming pool, dug during the 3rd millennium BC. This pool is 12 by 7 metres (39 by 23 feet), is lined with bricks, and was covered with a tar-based sealant.

Swimming pools became popular in Britain in the mid-19th century. As early as 1837, six indoor pools with diving boards existed in London, England. The Maidstone Swimming Club in Maidstone, Kent is believed to be the oldest surviving swimming club in Britain. It was formed in 1844, in response to concerns over drownings in the River Medway, especially since would-be rescuers would often drown because they themselves could not swim to safety.

he modern Olympic Games started in 1896 and included swimming races, after which the popularity of swimming pools began to spread. In the US, the Racquet Club of Philadelphia clubhouse (1907) boasts one of the world's first modern above-ground swimming pools. The first swimming pool to go to sea on an ocean liner was installed on the White Star Line's Adriatic in 1906.

he Amateur Swimming Association was founded in 1869 in England, and the Oxford Swimming Club in 1909. The presence of indoor baths in the cobbled area of Merton Street might have persuaded the less hardy of the aquatic brigade to join. So, bathers gradually became swimmers, and bathing pools became swimming pools.

According to the Guinness World Records, the largest swimming pool in the world is San Alfonso del Mar Seawater pool in Algarrobo, Chile. It is 1,013 m (3,323 ft) long and has an area of 8 ha (20 acres). At its deepest, it is 3.5 m (11 ft) deep. It was completed in December 2006.

In 2021, Deep Dive Dubai, located in Dubai, UAE, was certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool reaching 60 metres (200 ft). The Y-40 swimming pool at the Hotel Terme Millepini in Padua, Italy, previously held the record, 42.15 m (138.3 ft), from 2014 until 2021.

The Fleishhacker Pool in San Francisco was the largest heated outdoor swimming pool in the United States. Opened on 23 April 1925, it measured 1,000 by 150 ft (300 by 50 m) and was so large that the lifeguards required kayaks for patrol. It was closed in 1971 due to low patronage.

To check out some wet art, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/04/14/ff-9-last-splash/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Shake Your Leg by Sascha Ende

Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 001 by Sascha Ende

Episode 186 Infinity: The Hunt #1: The Hunt

Sun, 18 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700

It is time for the inter-school event of the century, it is time for the Contest of Champions!!! Are you excited? Are you ready for some fun? Are you ready for a massive invasion from space? Are you? ARE YOU!!!!!

Location, location, location! Waterside property with plenty of rooms, living spaces, and hidden missel silos. If you are going to have a school, you need to make it look good. And you need money. And style.

OK, look. Just because you have money, you should not always spend it. I mean....OMG! Am I right. Why would you build an EGG for your school. No style. No beauty.

That is the most disturbing thing I have seen in this comic. Period. I mean, even the moloids, who have no sense for beauty or aesthetics are horrified.

AND WHY IS BENTLEY SITTING ON A TOILET!

I think that we have gotten off topic, or if we had a topic, it has since run away in a panic. But we should focus on the children. They are our future. And we are sending them out to fight to the death.

And speaking of death, what's the deal with all of the blood in the water.

The bloody future....that is all.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ratten am Kanal by Sascha Ende

Episode 187 Infinity: The Hunt #2: Schools Out…Forever!

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

We are in the thick of it now. Aliens attacking the planet, student heroes pretending to be all that and a bag of chips, dogs and cats living together....end of the world type stuff. So, the question is, in the middle of this chaos....who acts, and who folds?

Let's start with a normal day for most of us. We just had pleasant evening with a charming individual, sorting socks or organizing star charts...whatever. And now, in the early morning we are leaving their room and walking back to ours. Completely innocent.

Normal activities only lead towards normal events. When we are doing nothing out of the ordinary like walking back to our room or taking a giant elevator underground, we do not expect anything to occur that will cause panic or adventure. You might not, but I do, cause I live a fascinating life.

And that is usually when death, destruction, mayhem, and property damage occur. Stupid sky villains!

So there you are, face to face with something that wants to rip you apart and play with your squishy bits. It does not matter if you are still using them, that thing wants to eat them.

"But my brain pan!" you squeak....it does not matter, they do not care about your feelings or your headache or your lack of adequate health care. They just care about pain....and Twinkies. Aliens love Twinkies.

At least there are some heroes left on Earth that do not mind getting their claws dirty or their fists bruised. In fact, some are a little too eager. But still, claws in the skull are not fun.

You should never punch down, unless you are a giant in a fight. Then you can punch down as much as you like.

But, at the end of the day, never forget that you really are nothing more than a potential red smear on a wall.....What, too soon?

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the art for this episode at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/05/15/infinity-the-hunt-2-schools-outforever/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mini Fairytales Theme

Episode 188 Infinity: The Hunt #3: Pass…Fail

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

The Hunt shall continue until morale improves. Or until we finish this mini-series, whichever comes first. My money is on the mini-series. I mean, we are almost there. I can hear the leviathan singing.

In the days before the internet and Pong, man only had rocks to play with. And the man with the biggest rock, usually won. But what about the country with the biggest rock?

Speaking of big, the big man does not always win. Sometimes he gets the stuffing beat out of him. Sometimes he gets his wallet stolen. Sometimes it is his shoe. Sometimes it is all three.

You should always take big chances. For example, if you find yourself being thrown from a flying craft, above a giant ocean, take a chance on this big opportunity. You are already up in the air. You are either going to survive the landing or not, have some fun. Do a flip or two. Try flying. Take up religion. You have nothing to lose.

Oh. You should also take this chance to explore the bounds of physics. Why not....might as well.

Big battles are awesome . They are more awesome when you have a chance of winning. They are even better when you are not over a big body of water.

And then there is a big shark. You really never want to meet one of those.

I hope you enjoyed this big talk about this big issue.

Check out the pictures from the episode: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/06/06/infinity-the-hunt-3-passfail/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cybertrooper [the better version]

Episode 189 Infinity: The Hunt #4: Conclusion: Final Exam

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Giant leviathan, check! Plethora of teenage heroes, check! The end of a four-issue run! CHECK CHECK..... Ok...let's talk about what we have seen and read, and prep ourselves for the next saga.

In order to talk about this issue, we need to learn how to speak whale. Some think that the key to learning a new language is to listen to tapes while you sleep. We strongly discourage this idea with learning whale. Mostly because it is loud droning that will totally screw up your rem cycle.

Early phrases you should learn are, "where is the good kelp?", "please do not sit on my boat.", and finally, "why are you flying in the sky?". You will be amazed how useful and frequent these phrases are used.

Whales tend to travel in groups or pods of family members. They tend to work together for the benefit of the group. Usually, these pods do not consist of humans. And they rarely consist of superpowered teenagers.

One thing we know for sure, whales do not wear shoes.

Whales are also not especially adept at digging. This is because they have no hands or drills.

Whales have been known to use shotguns. This mostly occurs in deep ocean waters, but it has been seen in some of the rougher neighborhoods of New York.

What scientists have been in total agreement about, is that whales fight. They do not just fight, they throw down and lay it all out on the field. They throw punches, they bite, they do suplexes. Seeing a whale battle royale is a site.

And then whales can also get their tails kicked when they go up against a better foe. What? Too soon??

That is our thesis on whales. Probably not accurate, but brief.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the pictures we talked about here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/06/29/infinity-the-hunt-4-conclusion-final-exam/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 /

Cybertrooper [the better version]

Episode 190 Inhumanity: The Awakening #1: Untitled

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Infinity: The Hunt has ended, and now we are left with the cleanup...and this miniseries. The reaction to Thanos's invasion, by the Inhumans, was to unleash clouds of Terrigen Mist. The reaction by Marvels comics to that event, was to bring us...this mess. So, grab your cell phones, and start posting, because apparently that is the future.

You may be looking at this book, and after the prior series, you are hoping for a nice, simple story. Maybe something about the friends, we made along the way, or an exploration into teams working with one another. Dating possibly. Maybe some shared cookouts.

That would be nice. Just people hanging out, chatting about stuff. Maybe a fun little nautical pirate story. Who knows? The world is the writer's oyster.

NO! You do not get nice things. You must get out all of your social media handles and blog post about everything because that is the world we live in!!!

And be sure to post about your most disgusting thing so the whole world knows about it. Get in that bathroom! Snap a picture of your garbage! Embarrass your family! DO IT!!!

Also, make sure you get a bunch of super-heroes to come and help you out. Make sure that they are running away from emergency and disaster response scenarios to help you and your little problem. It is ok, you have superpowers and that makes you better than other people.

Now, wait a minute. Talking about feelings and working through problems is a good thing, and we should be recognizing when talking and listening to people helps resolve problems. We should be emotionally available for people.

Except for rage filled, pre-teen, younger brothers. They are the worst.

But you should read the book. Or....whatever.

You can check out the pictures we posted here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/07/13/inhumanity-the-awakening-1-untitled/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Game Music Series 007 [splatoon style 4]

Episode 191 Inhumanity: The Awakening #2: Untitled

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Oh boy, we are still here. And this time we are focusing on the brother. Ok, not a problem. I have a beer and a good friend to help me get through this. Not a problem. Here we go....deep breaths. We got this.

You know what else would help get through this book? A hot dog. A really good German style link. The Costco dogs are good in a pinch, but I am talking about one of those handcrafted deli types. The ones that say your name when you throw them on the grill.

Enough delaying. Let's get into this jumble of a mess of an ending of a story. Grab your shot gun, mobile phone, and teenage angst and dive into this wasteland.

If we need to play this game, let's not call this a game of death. This is more like a game of telephone. And the telephone is just two cans with a string, and there are multiple strings coming off that string. But I may not know what I am talking about.

I should talk about Finesse and Taskmaster. It is the highlight of this comic. Especially when Taskmaster uses his sword to frame a page of comics. That is pretty awesome. Seriously smoking style bro.

After that, there is just a stinky mess in this book. Not unlike a teenager's bathroom. A smelly, nasty teenager who is swimming in their smell. That is a smelly smell.

And then, of course, there is teenage rage!

So, this was a series that just did not impress us. There was potential, but it just did not work at all. At least, that is our opinion.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the pictures we have highlighted here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/07/08/inhumanity-the-awakening-2-untitled/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Nowhere (instrumental) by, Sascha Ende

Episode 192 FF V2 #10: Paint it Black

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0700

What is that sound you hear as you read this? Are you feeling that smell in the air? There is a bright light and a crashing wave, and that can only mean that The Fire and Water Podcast Network has opened their portal into our studio! And walking out of that portal, is Ryan Daly, the host of Cheers Cast, Batman Knightcast, Fire and Water Records, and many other shows. What fresh hell will he bring to us?

I guess we should describe the attitude that Ryan Daly entered with. I am not going to say it was manly or regal, but there are few other words I can use without opening a thesaurus. He did demand a glass of Perrie and proceded to dump it onto Jeff's head. We do not know why.

This entrance did leave us with fear and a sense of unease. Jeff, now cold and wet and with a fear of the French, ran off to hide in the bathroom. He would not come out until the "popping and sidelong glances" stopped. He has been having a rough week, so we let him cool down.

Returning back to the podcasting studio, I noticed that Ryan had taken off his shirt and was wearing a complex headphone array that covered his eyes. He assured me that he would still be able to read the computer screen and that this just made him feel more comfortable. It made me feel like I needed an adult in the room.

With Jeff still in the bathroom, and me in the corner, quacking with fear, Ryan became impatient and angry. We always lay out a spread of pancakes for our guests, but the visitor from the Fire and Water network was having none of our "carby bribes", and proceeded to knock it all on the ground.

Now the cat was out of the bag. Literally. He had brought a bag filled with angry cats. We never discovered where he got them or how he transported them legally across state lines, but here we were. I also noticed that Ryan was dosing them with a catnip/cocaine/Red Bull concoction that could not be legal or healthy.

In the end, we had no choice but to shoot tranquilizers on all the cats and Ryan. We later found out that he had grabbed a random drink from the fridge at his network and did not realize it was one of Shaggs 'special' energy drinks. There was a bad reaction to some other medication that Ryan was taking, and it set him off. Prior to hitting our studio, Ryan had knocked over two new start-ups, stole Darrin's Trekker artwork, snagged all of the pants at the Long Box Crusade headquarters, and finally cut up all of the covers at the Outcaster's bunker. Apologies were made.

I could be lying about this, but why would I do something like that.

To see the pictures that go with the story: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/07/25/ff-v2-10-paint-it-black/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rust Rebellion by Sache Ende

Episode 193 FF V2 #11: The Possible Boy

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Into every run of the Fantastic Four, there must come an Impossible Man issue. This is that issue. So, pull on your purple trunks, affix your green-painted green cone-head, and be prepared to be silly. Or just try to sneak your mad uncle into the bathroom.

Before we head into any adventure, we need to prepare. And the first thing we need to do is to pack the car and get it ready for the trip. nothing I like better than a well packed vehicle, fully prepped and ready to travel. And you better not have forgotten my Slim Jims and sweet tea.

I guess that you also need a plan for your adventure. Sure, some people are great at that random impromptu dungeon crawling, but others need a plan, a roadmap. With that in mind, I refer you to my blackboard on how to conquer.

You also need a group or posse or gullible friends to join you on your outing. Whether they are local truant school kids, a group of disaffected adults, or the local PTA that you kidnapped, you should make sure to give them all name tags. Really, are you going to learn the names of these walking cadavers.

Now that you are set for your little foray into the unknown, you should get your game face on. Some people think you should pack equipment they need. They are fools. What you need to practice is the face you will be showing to the wordl when you do something awesome.

You only have one time to make a good first impression.

This does include clothing. You want something that makes you look awesome, and not like a psycho killer. Now, if you look like an awesome psycho killer, go with it. Keep the fans guessing.

When you do make your discovery, you need to remain calm. Don't get all excited and become that guy who dances in the endzone. Be subtle, professional, and suave. Make the others be excited for you. Don't blow up the room with your antics.

And remember to eat. If you do not take care of yourself, who will?

You can check out the pictures we talked about at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/08/24/ff-v2-11-the-possible-boy/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Cartoon Elements 11 by Sascha Ende

Episode 194 Avengers Arena #13: "The Devil's Greatest Trick"

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0700

What is that sound in the distance....? Is that a horn, calling young warriors forth to compete for the glory and honor of their schools or themselves? Or, is that the siren song of a trickster that is planning to kidnap some brats and force them to fight to the death? Well, Arcade is blowing the trumpet, so you decide.

Thanks to Julie Power for cameoing in this one book so we could talk about this interesting and cool series. A fun idea that takes off from some of the prior books we have read. But what exactly is in these pages? Stuff...and lies.

Ok, there is also chaos. Tons of insane chaos with kids doing stupid and crazy stuff, or just lying....or they are disappearing. We are not sure what is inside the pages, but it is cool. because cool stuff happens when you read comic books.

For example, a plethora of heroes flying down to beat down Arcade....that is cool. To be fair, a gaggle of geese waddling over to poop on Arcade's lawn would be cool, and I despise Canadian Geese. I guess that anything that causes discomfort to this freak is pretty cool.

While Molly could be seen as not fitting into most recognized social settings, the fact that she strolls to her own accordion means that she defines her own cool. That she is passionate about her friends and family, that she makes the effort to upturn the cumquat cart, makes her awesomely cool.

While Ferris Buellers Day Off is massively cool, and going to museums is extremely cool, and combining the two in order to pay homage is super-duper cool, that does not make jerk superheroes that cool. But, The Art Institute of Chicago is very cool.

It is not cool to grope any breasts.

And finally, it is very cool to worry about the kids that you promised to teach and protect. While we like to give Hank Pym a lot of gruff, he does care, and he makes a big attempt to find out what is happening. And that is very cool.

To check out the pictures we chose, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/08/22/avengers-arena-13-the-devils-greatest-trick/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Battlefield 6 Streaming Music Vol. 20 [Helicopters & Jets]

Episode 195 FF V2 #12: "Mind Mischief"

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Are you angry and frustrated with your coworkers or school-mates? Do you have woo that you want to pitch but are getting frustrated by your potential partner? Do you have difficulty remembering what we are talking about sometimes? Well, the name of our beer is Wit's End....sooooooo.....

I guess it is time to really focus and start to really pull apart this book and figure out what is going on. Frist off, we should all get our comic books and prepare to play our game.

Speaking of playing, how would you like to have a playroom like the Future Foundation kids? Is that cool out or what. Why could we not have such a cool room to grow up in? Why do we not have that kind of awesome life. I needed this as a child and I need it now. Build me an adult playground!

And while we are at it, I need some aweome, yummy, sugary cereal that is secretly healthy, and yet full of sugar. Can we make that happen? I do not want it to taste fake or gross, I want it to taste like neon unnatural fruit not found in any forest, and I want it to kick the synapses in my brain pan into overdrive. But I do not want diabetes.

More coffee, better coffee, faster coffee. Make it be awesome, plentiful and make it come out of taps like bourbon. Wait, you do not have bourbon taps? You should. It makes all the difference in the world. And if someone questions your life choices, deny them bourbon from your bourbon tap.

Ok...I need a moment. The coffee and cereal need to have a meeting with me.

Another thing I need, many TV's all showing animie. I want my brain to explode from the concentrate assault cute anime characters making cute motions on the screen. I need those big eyes and cute features to just make my morning great.

And finally, I need to have my good guys and bad guys dressed in appropriate clothing. And I need this to happen know. I need all of the bad guys in the world to start wearing the appropriate colors so we can know them on site. Make it happen world.

Well, now that we got the serious stuff out of the way, we can go back to being silly in a couple of weeks.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

If you want to see the pictures, check out this site: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/08/25/ff-v2-12-mind-mischief/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mainstream Music 2025 Vol. 8

Episode 196 FF V2 #13: "Moloid See, Moloid Do"

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0700

If you want to sell a comic book, put monkeys or apes on the cover. This comic does not do that. If you want to wind down a book quickly, put the Red Ghost and his apes in the book. They are here. Still, it is an enjoyable read.

Let's start off with the Watcher in space. It seems like he found himself a friend. Aw, that is so sweet. The ultimate bachelor pad, a great view, solitude, and a soulmate. What could possibly go wrong.

Oh great. Like ants at a picnic, the Ant-astic Four and Company are enough to ruin anyone's day. Who invited these jerks? Why did they have to crash the Uatu's party? Why don't they bother the High Evolutionary or something?

The only good news is that they brought along a few smart people. That being said, they still showed up, and that is not really a fun experience if you want some alone time. Also, having an impromptu lesson by a dead Greek is not romantic.

And...I cannot stress this enough...everyone showed up smelling like the Impossible Man's butt. Even at a microscopic level, you are going to get some heavy funk on you by riding around in his shorts. And I mean a HEAVY FUNK.

Speaking of smelly things, I think we all know why Scott put Alex in a bottle. That teenage boy had not been taking his showers. He may have done some evil things, but the real problem was that body odor. C'mon man, shower.

We promised you monkeys and apes...well, here they are. Are you happy now...ARE YOU?Ok. Now it is time for you to go home. Good bye. Get out.

If you want to see the art, go here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/09/24/ff-v2-13-moloid-see-moloid-do/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Fußball Party Schlager by Sascha Ende

Episode 197 FF V2 #14: "Bath House of the August Moon"

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0700

Now that our team has successfully moved onto the Blue Area of the Moon, and their landlord Uatu, the Watcher, is examining the worst AirBNB contract of all time, what else should the Ant-tastic Four and the Future Foundation do. Sure, there is the upcoming mega-fight, and of course they need plan and build and program, but there is always time to relax.

Let's start with Scott. Mr. Lang knows how to lean back and take a load off. He also knows how to make a mess. He really knows how to take a space and make it his own. In fact, I cannot get the jerk out of my house.

Some people like to relax by reading. That is cool, and I respect that. Some people like to read old book. Awesome. I just do not get how some people can relax reading scrolls. That is not my bag, baby. I just cannot roll with that.

Another way to relax is swimming with sharks. Again, that is some peoples pool, but it ain't mine.

Of course, speaking of pools, relaxing in hot pools, spas, warm springs, etc. This is an excellent way to relax. It is much easier to do this if you do not have dragons crashing through walls or boys drilling holes to peep on them.

Long walks and alone time is great. It would be even better if no one was around. But people are always around. I hate it when people are around.

And there are those weirdo's that relax with other people. That is weird, and I do not understand it. But I like parties. So, there is that.

I guess hanging out with a romantic partner in robes is a nice way to relax. I just would find it easier if I was not always thinking about murder. Now I am not relaxed anymore.

If you want to look at some pictures, check out this site: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/09/26/ff-v2-14-bath-house-of-the-august-moon/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Battlefield 6 Streaming Music Vol. 6 Sascha Ende

Episode 198 FF V2 #15: "Operation: Latveria"

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0800

It is time to make a plan/And maybe take a van,
The team has built a lot/Even a giant robot,
Now they are rehearsing the play/Hoping to win the day,
We hope the rhyming helps/Otherwise they are all dead.....whelps.

So my rhyming skills need some work. I tried ok. And so is the team. They have got a plan, they have rehearsed their roles and now they are going to execute. But first, they need to booze up and riot.

Or something like that. This does bring up a question, how hyper do kids really get when given copious amounts of sugar and caffeine? My guess is they act exactly the same as if you gave robots the same thing....if robots could digest caffeine and sugar.

I think that whatever happens, the use of graffiti as a weapon would increase. I know that whenever I get into the chocolate bars, I want to start defacing public property. I think that it is just something in my genes.

With the rage fuel brewing in my tummy, it is time to unleash the havok and let loose my barking dogs!!! Paint the walls fuchsia and with raised voices, yell. Make with the loud noises and tip stuff over.

Let us not forget the reason that we are doing all of this. It's to take down that master of disaster, that phenom of fear, that prognosticator of penalties....Dr Dooooooooom!!!! (and the crowd goes wild with boos!!!!!

Oh NO!!!! Doom has taken a jolt of science to the chest!!! What is gonna happen next??

Spoiler, everyone takes a nap. Tune in next time!!!!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

To see the pretty pictures, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/10/07/ff-v2-15-operation-latveria/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rise Of Legends by Sascha Ende

Episode 199 FF V2 #16: "For All We Have And Are"

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0800

It is time for the final fight. It is the one you have been waiting for. The biggest fight of the century. That is right, Ant Man versus Doctor Doom.....wait....that can't be right. Really, these two?

There have been many great one on one fights that have occurred over time. Superman vs Spider-Man, Hulk vs Thing, Impossible Man vs Warlock....but we should figure out what makes a fight epic.

I guess one of the ways to know if it is a great fight, is to see who shows up to watch the fight. If the best you can pull are a couple of kids on bikes, it is probably going to be a stinker. If you pull a couple of celestial heavyweights, you may be swinging for the fences.

It helps the fight if you have props. I am not talking about tables or chairs, although wrestling does prove that it does help. No, I am talking about proven scientific electrical devices designed to suck the energy out of their bodies. SCIENCE!

No matter what happens, you should always have an ambulance on hand in case of an emergency. You never know what could happen. Someone could get hit in the head with a radioactive pebble, or maybe they take a cosmic ray to the eyeball. Anything could happen.

Or, you could have your arms crushed while wearing armored gauntlets. You just do not know. Safety first kids.

Again, choose your opponent well. Know their strengths and weaknesses. Have they been resurrected recently? What is their strength versus durability? Do they have arms and legs or are they a meeple? Know this before you throw a punch.

And then, when the fight starts, don't forget to punch.

Look at the pretty artwork here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/11/16/ff-v2-16-for-all-we-have-and-are/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Clap Along With Me

Episode 200 Fantastic Four V4 #16 & FF V2 #16: "4"

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0800

The dust has settled, both books have wrapped up their stories, and the time has come for the closing credits. So, we have a weird end of story crossover between the two books. Still, the hot dogs are being slung and the stories are getting told. So, let's get into it, shall we?

Nothing beats that feeling you get when you hang out with friends, eating some grilled food, and chatting about how awesome your life is and the amazing adventures you have had. I do not know that feeling, but I have heard it is fantastic.

And by good food, I am talking about great hot dogs. We can have giant discourses on what is the best and what to put on the dog, but at the end of the day, it is personal preference. Find what you like and take a bite.

And do not forget the beer. We, at Jeff and Rick Present, support the sharing of beer with friends. It is kinda our thing. Get it....thing...the Thing. Beer.... Look, this is not rocket science folks.

If you are not going to laugh at my jokes, then I am going to get mad. And when I get mad, I tend to pull the ears of dogs that can teleport people.

Anyway, you should have music at a party. It helps with the digestion of hot dogs and beer. This is a proven scientific fact. Also, fire guitars are an awesome gift for any pyromaniacs you may know.

I guess that we can have a little romance in this story. I still am not totally sold on these two. And it does seem like this is one of the last times we see Darla, but it is cute. Enjoy your time in the sun.....on the moon.

And so, that is a wrap on this series. Overall, it was a pretty good story. It would have been nice if we could have gotten a little more of Fraction on the title, and it felt cramped near the end, but it was still a good story.

And now, we move onto the Young Avengers. Hooray!

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the artwork for this episode: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/11/25/fantastic-four-v4-16-ff-v2-16-4/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Loop Paket 0007 Sascha Ende

Episode 201 Young Avengers #11: "Stage Nervous Breakdown"

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0800

A new book for our podcast, and we are coming in at the end of the story. This is the second volume of the Young Avengers, and it is a hoot. A fun and intelligent romp with a fascinating group of characters. And then, some members of Power Pack show up. Ok. let's try and untangle this

So, what is going on here? A bad decision was made thanks to some nefarious maneuvers by kid Loki. That resulted in an entity name Mother to swoop in and start to make the lives of the Young Avengers miserable. Now lovers are questioning relationships, adults are being jerks, and the kids are not all right.

Let us focus in on the bone head that is Noh-Varr. Dude is seeing Kate Bishop. He should be honored that she is giving him the time of day and not using his stupid head for target practice. This guy has the nerve to have a wondering eye.

We are just going to pretend that it is Noh-Varr's face that America Chavez is punching.....ahhhhhh

And then there is Loki, the cause of this and many other messes. What is his story? Why is he a kid? Why is he being all nice and stuff? why does he have to be like that? Does he just need a hug? Why is he always blowing up?

This time, he just blew himself up into a more mature looking adult Of course we know that he only looks the part, and that he does not act mature. That would be too much to ask for.

After all of the changing and posturing, it always ends up that Loki will just be Loki. The more things change, the more they stay the same. I could write more of these altruisms, but I think I am done for now.

What wonders await us next month? Stay tuned dear listeners.....

If you want to see the art from the book, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/11/25/young-avengers-11-stage-nervous-breakdown/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Podcast Music Vol. 17 [Minimal Tech Background] Sascha Ende

Episode 202 Young Avengers #12: "Young Avengers" - Part One"

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0800

Now we are in the thick of it all. New betrayals, broken love, angst, agony, achny....It is all here and it is all teen drama all the time. But will they succeed, will they untangle the knots Loki has tied, ill their playlists be appreciated? Who knows.

Fashion is really important, especially when you are going to try to kill someone. Trust me about this. I have had to do this ritual multiple times....at least in my head.

When you prep for murder, you must make sure to brag and show off as well. Some people would have you believe that you should go for quiet and stealthy when you are about to bring the murder. Those people are wrong. Dial up the color and speakers and make a show.

You should also bring friends when you go a killing. First off, they will help you bury the bodies. Always a plus. Additionally, they bring other skills to the table, and usually there is someone that has a deck of cards. A good way to kill time while waiting to....kill.

Now, there is a limit to the number of people that you should bring with you on this excursion. Four to five is a good number. Multiple dozens are too much. First of all, a tour bus is very obvious when you are driving around. Trust me.

It is up to you and your mob about how loud you want to be when you go taking on the innocent. Yelling and throwing flashy lights around is a choice, and could be good camo when you are at an EDM concert.

Let's face it, you are not going to go murdering. You are probably going to go fighting. In that case, have fun, but make sure you are stylin.

You can check out the artwork at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/12/10/young-avengers-12-young-avengers-part-one/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 203 Young Avengers #13: "Young Avengers - Part Two"

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0800

It's the final BATTLE. Dee dee dee deeeeee.......Ok. you get the joke. We are in the thick of it as the Young Avengers take on Mother and her cohort of evil Ex's. We have drama, we have chaos, we have god powers. We do not have cake, and that makes me sad. But we do have an emotional speech by Alex Power so.....thumbs up!

Before we begin, you should have a seat and get comfortable. I would suggest a comfortable chair, like a lazy boy or a bean bag chair. Maybe your favorite seat in your car or bus as you are listening to the podcast. Maybe a pole, if that is your thing. Do not sit on someone's boyfriend....unless that is their thing.

Now that you are comfortable, I need you to look into my eyes. Are you looking, good. You will listen to me, you will obey me, you will follow my orders. You must tell all your friends about this podcast. You will promote our podcast. Obey me.

Do not worry about feeling alone. There are many, many people under my control. So many people. some are green, some have wings. some are giant heads with metal spider legs. I control them all.

My control is so complete that I control all pages and all images. BWHAHAHAHAHA!!! I control all....look at me!!!

Wait. Why is everyone fighting. I just said that I was in charge. Why is everyone so mad and angry. It is like you all are annoyed that I took over your minds. Jeez.

Fine. Let's change the tone and try a little bit of love and peace. Let's go and look at the young couple and their cute teenage romance. Ahhh....romance.

Ok. Enough of that junk. I just want violence. So, let's go and head for the uprights.

oooooh.....That hurts.

If you want to look at some images from the comic, check out: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2025/12/26/young-avengers-13-young-avengers-part-two/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Prosecution, action, trumpets by Sascha Ende

Episode 204 Young Avengers #14: "Resolution - Part One"

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0800

Time to put on that party dress, and the comfortable yet stylish loafers. Make the hair look nice and slather on the anti-perspirant. We are going dancing and partying and we are going to ring in the new year with some style. It is the final two issues of this series. Feels like we just arrived.

There ain't no party, like a Young Avengers Party, cause a Young Avengers Party don't stop.....

Of course, you need to dress up for a party. When I dress up, I wear clothes. This seems to make most people happy. Plus, while I am very warm most of the time, I find that being naked outdoors makes me cold.

You can dress as a super hero. You should always dress for the party you want to be at, not the party that you are at. This is why Jeff usually dresses like a princess.

Now you are dressed, and so you go to the party, and you get a drink. And then someone makes you drop your drink. That's it....party over...fight start. But that is just me.

Of course, before you fight, you should take off any clothing that will interfere with your fight. If you are wearing a mask for a masquerade, you probably need to remove it. Unless you look fly. Then keep it on.

Finally, no party is complete without a kiss. At least that is what I have been told. I have never been invited to those parties. I just go to fight parties. I am not allowed to go to parties anymore.

Next issue, we will get the conclusion for the series. Are....you....READY!!!!!

Do you want to see some images, check out our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/01/13/young-avengers-14-resolution-part-one/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Bingo Bongo by Sascha Ende

Episode 205 Young Avengers #15: "Resolution - Part Two"

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0800

All parties must come to an end, and this one has....but not our podcast. Oh no, we are still rocking and/or rolling for at least a couple more years. We have not even reached our Rubicon, our milestone of comics with Power Pack that have come out since we started recording. We have to make it that far.

Now, back to this two-parter. Where were we? Something about dancing and letting the beat drop or something. Maybe about dancing queens or the availability to purchase clove flavored gum. Maybe dance clubs of the 90's. Man, I don't know. I am making this up as I go.

Actually, I want to talk about costs and benefits. How much do you think it costs to really make a scene at a dance club? And by scene, I mean a visually arresting specimen of a person crashing onto the dance floor. Are you a three-bucks at a thrift store or are you more of a take-out a loan against your future perfection type of a buyer?

After you put on your threads, snap a picture of yo'self. Spread that love. Be the impact in the world that you know you are. Don't forget to add glitter.

And then, at the end of the night, take pride in the statement you have made. Walk out with your crew, head held high, dance into the street and continue to make a scene. Also, if you have had a few, make sure you have a designated driver.

And then, later in the night, when no one is watching, make sure you take the moment to walk into the dark and be creepy and mysterious. You know why you need to do that. You know why you need to sneak into the night. Make sure you pay your tax.

Now that we are done with that book, what is next, where will we go from here, tune in to find out.

Check out the art from this book at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/01/14/young-avengers-15-resolution-part-two/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 /

Bingo Bongo by Sascha Ende

Episode 206 Avengers Undercover #10: "Going Native - Part Five"

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0800

So, what ever happened to all of those kids from those other Not Avengers, Not Fantastic Four schools? Did you ever wonder about them. Sure, we all remember that some of them showed up on that Murder World Island, some of them died, but what about the rest? Did they make it off, did they have any side effects...are the kids alright?

No...no the kids are not all right. They have some serious PTSD and relationship issues. They do not care about leadership and grown-ups. They do not like rules, or tea-time. They drive without licenses, and they only use Axe body spray. They are rebels.

Apparently, teenagers only like donuts and they do not like baths. They prefer to grow a certain, pungent scent, something that has a physical presence. These kids want to use their funk to fight wars. I have to respect them for that.

I guess we are going to have to force these kids to clean themselves. Maybe if we sent some supervillains in to catch them and pull them towards the running water. Maybe that will work.

Maybe it won't. Kids are really willey and do not like being told what to do. Also, if they have superpowers, then we have got a problem.

The only way to get kids to actually wash themselves is to throw a party for them at a stupid lake. But, you must have a boat and a giant lizard slash reptile. Hey, I do not make the rules.

The kids are washed and having fun, and we have learned nothing. I cannot remember what I started to write about or how I got here. Does it matter? No, probably not. Should you go swimming? Sure.

And don't forget to smile.

Ok, let's move onto a new series, maybe like Fantastic Four?

If you want to see the art, check out the webpage: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/02/05/avengers-undercover-10-going-native-part-five/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Hot Pursuit" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 207 Fantastic Four V5 #3: "Fall of the Fantastic Four - Part 3"

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0800

We have a new Fantastic Four series that we are covering! Hooray. Gotta love Alex Power being part of the Future Foundation. This means that we get to look at this good series. At least I hope it is good. It has a good start. It looks good. It smells good. MMMM love the smell of paper.

Since the overarching theme of this series seems to be about deconstructing, or tearing apart, let's chat about destruction and wrecking. We can focus on the Wrecking crew if we like.

The Wrecking Crew is the name given to a loose group of musicians who were in LA during the 60's and 70's. They played in a lot of studio recording sessions and were instrumental in a lot of great music. Sometimes, they would grab construction tools and rob banks...allegedly.

These guys were a hot commodity, trained in jazz, classical music, and underwater mammal research. This allowed them to be versatile and useful in a variety of situations. Many people would think that a degree in marine biology would not lead to rock and roll, but they have never listened to the B-52's.

Recently, a movie was released staring David Bautista and Jason Momoa called The Wrecking Crew. I have not seen it, but I believe that it is a screwball comedy about two construction workers who find a kitten at one of their work sites, and the antics that occur as they introduce it to their shared apartment.

Of course, the new kitten runs into all kinds of mischief with the dog that the two guys already have. Oh, the comedy and hijinks that ensue are priceless. The dog chasing the kitten, the guys chasing the dog....the comedy just writes itself!

I have also learned that there are mobsters who are sometimes called a wrecking crew. I am assuming it is because they like going out to play music or watch specific movies together. I am sure it is not for anything shady. That would be wrong.

That is all I know about wrecking crews. I mean, I guess there could be people that say bad things about the Mission Impossible movies, but they would just be wrecking Cruise. Maybe I should stop while I am ahead.

You can find our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/02/10/fantastic-four-v5-3-fall-of-the-fantastic-four-part-3/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Space Fighter Loop" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 208 Fantastic Four V5 #5: "Fall of the Fantastic Four - Part 5"

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Oreder in the court, order in the court, there will be ORDER IN THIS COURT!!!! Do I have your attention now? I believe I do. It is time that we get down to the brass tacks and rusty nails. We need to know what these crazy kids did, why they did it, where they did it, and how they did it. Or something like that. It does not matter, there will be order!

Let's start with the lawyer. Of course, it will be their friend and fellow fighter. She is the best of the best. She is the jolly green giant of law. She is the emerald fighter of justice. She is the pugilist of papers. And she is very cool.

Some people would rather have Daredevil, or the blind Matt Murdock as he is sometimes called, as their lawyer. He is good and all, but I think that he is more of a red herring. Or he is a red devil. Or a crime fighter. Or something. I don't know, but it looks like he is an accomplice in all of this.

We have the defendants, but why are they up here, why are they on trial. It may have something to do with the friends they keep. I mean, first off all, they like to hang around with Inhumans. Not even humans....IN-humans. What are these humans IN. Are they IN TROUBLE. I am guessing so. And this is the royal court.

And they also let their daughter hang out with a guy who dresses in a green cape. Who does that? Who makes that fashion choice? Who wakes up in the morning and says, I want to dress like Robin Hood? A guy who gets shot by a guy with laser eyes, that's who.

And the rest of the kids? What about them? They are the products of their parent figures. They are probably as unlawful as the rest. And they probably will want the same lawyers as the rest of them.

Let's just object to this entire line of words. Let's put our fist through the table and find out who to really blame. Is it the heroes or the villains? Is it the table? Is it JUSTICE?

Nope, we are going to blame the lawyers. Why not? That makes about as much sense as anything else in this crazy mixed-up world. It is all She Hulks fault.

Does any of that make sense? I hope so. Cause I have nothing else to say.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Morgana Rides " Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 209 Fantastic Four V5 #6: "Original Sin: The Fateful Four Part 1"

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Angry friends make broken hearts. And broken hearts usually result in death. Nobody is going to die...yet...but I think the poetry of the moment may move us as we travel through these broken dreams and broken promises. So, let's break this open, shall we?

Broken bones, or bone fractures, are a very common injury and can affect anyone at any age. Anyone can break a bone. But only Reed can stretch a broken bone. That is a horrible mental image, but that is what I am here for. To bring you horrible mental images to keep you up all night.

A broken heart is a metaphor. It represents the feeling one has when great loss or deep longing creates intense emotional stress or pain. In brief, it sucks. All in all, I would not choose this service. But it happens. And how we deal with a broken heart says a lot about a person. I punch things. Don't judge.

I love using broken rock in my landscaping projects. I just like the look aesthetic of pebbles, gravel, and stone around the yard. There is a satisfying feeling when you step on the rocky path and feel the crunch. It is clean, and pretty. And the more rock you lay down, the less mowing you need to do.

A broken, or perforated eardrum, is a hole or tear in the thin tissue between the ear canal and the middle ear. This is caused by children yelling loudly in your ear. There is no other way that this happens. That is it. It must stop.

"Broken Ground" is the name of a 2018 crime thriller written by Val McDermid. Apparently, it is the fifth in her Karen Pirie series. I know nothing about any of that. But I am sure that it does not feature a scene with Fantastic Four or the Avengers. But I could be wrong.

I looked up what a broken MacGuffin was and tripped over a dismantled MacGuffin. That is where you break up the thing that runs the plot and make it a fetch quest. Interesting, but not relevant. But that is par for the course.

Broken skin, including cuts, scratches, or chronic fissures, occurs when the epidermis is damaged, leaving it vulnerable to infection and moisture loss. Or it is when you get an ouchie. Sometimes a band aid works. Other times you need to cauterize the wound. Either way, you are probably gonna be crying. Suck it up!!!

And there we go. I hope that this did not break you too much with our wacky random thoughts and off topic musings. If we did, let us know. Or don't. You just have to be you buddy.

To see the pictures we talked about, see our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/03/18/fantastic-four-v5-6-original-sin-the-fateful-four-part-1/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Boogie Party" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 210 Fantastic Four V5 #8: "Original Sin: The Faithful Four Part 3"

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0700

The Thing in prison!!!?? What dastardly devilry is this? Why would this happen? What is going to become of our ever-loving blue-eyed thing? Will he have to wear black and white stripes? is he going to shank someone? What will happen?

Ok, we are not getting to the deep in prison stuff yet...but that is what is on the cover. I guess we do not need to wade into this yet.

See what I did there...with the picture of Reed and his short pants. Well, it amuses me. It may not amuse you. In fact, it may anger you. I may make you so angry that you want to punch my head off.

See, I did it again. I just cannot help making a dad joke now and then. Sometimes they come so naturally. Sometimes they do not. And sometimes they walk over and arrest me with a big, giant gun because the joke was so bad.

Just like that. But I am not a big rock monster. I am not even a rock man. I am a rock dude. OK, I am not a rock dude. I am just a man, not a monster, so do not put me in the monster jail.

See, I am a funny, funny man. Hey, what are you doing? Why are you coming over here? Don't push me to the ground! Don't take away my right to be not funny!

Man, this is not funny. This is just like getting gassed by my own gas producing arrow. Why would you do that to me?

Now I am going to cry.

Sometimes I am just out of ideas, and you get these weird ramblings.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Rocket Power" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 211 Fantastic Four V5 #9: "East of Eden: Part One"

Sun, 03 May 2026 09:00:00 -0700

We are getting into the real meat of this Fantastic Four run. The team is torn apart, unhappy, and Reed may or may not be turning into a meth cooker. What is happening to our favorite family? And can Alex Power and Power Pack save them? Probably not the direction that the writers would take, but you never know.

So, what is this issue about? It is about a family that is putting up a fight against a variety of forces. It is them against the world. A towering inferno of force against a wonderful family. Or something.

OK, let's turn this thing upside down and talk about the rock in the room. The uncomfortable truth is that this is really bad. Everybody is not in a good way. One in prison, one with no powers, one with no children, and one doing science. Just bad, bad, bad.

Sometimes we just need to watch what is going to happen. You need to guard against the inevitable onslaught of time. You need to protect against the truth. You need to secure the facts. Do you know what I am saying?

You should fight and seize the day. You should gather your friends and become a mob for justice. That's right. Gather your powers and unleash them against the forces of the world. I dare you.

And then, when the world starts to beat you down, take heed of this advice. Cover up and protect your privates. It is the best thing to do in these situations.

And then, at the end of the day, you can celebrate with your friends. You can be pleased to know that you are alive and not beaten to a pulp. Or, if you are beaten up, you can shake it off and be happy with the fact that your nose is not bleeding anymore.

Bravo, you have made it to the end of this rant. Here is to the next one.

If you want to see some pictures, go to: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/04/17/fantastic-four-v5-9-east-of-eden-part-one/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Mischief Maker" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 212 Nightcrawler V4 #7: "Death of Wolverine"

Sun, 17 May 2026 09:00:00 -0700

This is a fixed version that should not cut off.

Oh no, it looks like Jeff and Rick have been locked in a closet and now have to talk about a selection of scenes from other comic books. They must have run out of money for their show, or lost a bet. One of the two. It does not matter. They are middle aged and can use the time to sleep or talk or do whatever it is that you do during a clip show.

To start off, I love Kurt Wagner. Nightcrawler is easily one of my favorite Marvel Comic characters. His design is fantastic. The color scheme of his OG costume, the tail, his overall look. Chief's kiss. And his characterization is wonderful. A German Errol Flynn, with charm, wit and pathos.

Being a fan of the Chris Claremont run of the X-Men, and beginning my collection just before the Fall of the Mutants, I was there for the creation of Excalibur, and seeing Kurt as a leader, and the soul of a team. Reading back through his development was a treat. I alway loved any spotlight he received.

I hunted down his original mini-series, and I looked for other appearances with him. I always appreciated the deep friendship they had, even though they were opposites. I like to read their history as Kurt being a center for Logan.

Of course, reading back into the history of the X-Men, you get the Mutant Massacre and one of the first times your see some serious consequences placed on the team. Kurt and Kitty's injuries pull them out of the X-Men and into Excalibur. This is a center piece story for all hardcore X-Men fans.

I guess I can wax Nightcrawlers car all day long. He is a great character, a great design, a great history, and just overall great. I like that he is usually not overused either. Some of his stories have been really bad, but I blame the writer, not the character for those errors.

Oh, Wolverine died and Kurt is sad.

OK, let's see what new madness next issue brings us.

Check out our clip show at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/05/11/nightcrawler-v4-7-death-of-wolverine/

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Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Road to Hell" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 213 Axis: Hobgoblin #1: "Got A Problem? Call Hobgoblin!"

Sun, 31 May 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages!!! Gather around, gather around. Hear me as I speak of the new fad, the new thing, the new image. Do you have the drive to excel? Are you looking for the motivation to be more than you are? Have you been told that you are nothing but a loser wall flower? It does not matter if you have considered or answered those questions, just listen to us as we talk about this book.

Raise the flag and gather around. Listen to us talk about this criminal slash entrepreneur slash oil salesmen. He has ideas, he has catchphrases, he has an idea for a new kind of pyramid scheme. He has pants.

He also has the pulse of the gullible masses. As we all know now, there is nothing more impressive or magical than a charlatan with a microphone. If you have that charm factor, and you can speak with authority, you can hold up the phone book and entrance millions. And if you can target that in on people with money...look out.

Some people sit around and wait for their opportunity to show up. Maybe they are lazy, or maybe that is their strength. Oooh. I want that super-power. Sitting. The ability to sit and stair. For hours. Yes.....gooood.

Speaking of grabbing easy money. How about stealing other peoples ideas? I mean, they have already used them, why not clean them off and do your own twist on them. Slap your name and a price tag on it, and you have yourself an opportunity.

Now that you have your thing, go out there and bake the bread, make the money, get your cheddar, spike your football....etc, etc, etc.

Thank you for coming to our TedTalk. We hope you enjoyed the experience.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Sauropod Spotting " Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 214 Fantastic Four (2014) V5 #13: "East of Eden: Part Five"

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Are you blue? Do you know someone who is blue? Does blue describe the color of your world? If you answer yes to any of these questions, you probably should seek some professional help. But, you also should listen to this podcast, because we are cool.

In reading this issue, I think we all came to the conclusion that stretching is the term we should use. Stretching the truth, stretching taffy, stretching reality, stretching the metaphor. You get what I am saying, right?

If you have any idea what we are talking about, then you are ahead of us. Remember, we are not that smart, or bright, or sober. Some people question what we are doing and why. I am questioning what I am writing.

In this book, there is chaos and fighting. There is confusion. There is also plot and development. And that is something that I could be talking about. What I can say is that Alex Power is fighting in one shattered panel, and that is why we are here.

Is this upsetting you? Is this making you sad? Don't be sad. Don't get upset about us being obscure. Don't get down and depressed and sit in the dark. Don't be like Sharon

You should be happy like Ben and Sue. You should be free, not being taken over by your evil psychotic alter ego. You should be sitting in the light. You should be smiley and shiny.

Also, you should change your clothes if you are smelly and dirty.

Are you confused? So are we.

So there we are. We have written something, and it has been read. Thanks for your support.

If you want to see some pictures, check this out: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/06/08/fantastic-four-2014-v5-13-east-of-eden-part-five/

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 215 Fantastic Four (2014) V5 #14: "Back in Blue"

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Vroom Vroom. Rev up your engines and be ready to be a creep. That's right, we need to dive into the fact and truth of the Quiet Man. And we get to see Reed being suave. It can happen. Trust us. We are professionals.

Let us check in on this loser dude who is the antagonist of the story. The Quiet Man. He is so creepy and disturbed. And yet....he also has no redeeming qualities. So, yeah. I am not sure what else to say about him.

Instead, I want to talk about flying cars. Flying cars are cool. And flying cars made from cool cars are uber cool. If you have a sweet ride, and then you amp it up by giving it altitude, well, welcome to the jungle.

Back to creepy face boy, he is someone that would not desire a cool look to a flying car. No, this guy wants a flying car that would fly into the Baxter Building or that would explode in such a way to implicate the Fantastic Four. You know....that guy.

A flying car would be wasted on this egomaniac. The Quiet Man thinks only in terms of revenge, not in enjoyment. What a tool.

Man, I hate people that don't appreciate flying cars. If I ever met someone who could fly and they told me that they did not need a flying car, I would probably hit them with a hammer.

Or throw a shield at their stupid face.

I would just fight everyone that did not like or appreciate a good flying car. I mean, really. Put up your dukes and defend. I have to show you my true love for a true awesome flying car. You will respect.

Man, I want a flying car.

Maybe I need to take a vacation.

Check out our webpage at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/06/09/fantastic-four-2014-v5-14-back-in-blue/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

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Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Hard Boiled" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 216 Fantastic Four (2014) V5 #643: "Back in Blue: Part 3"

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Some would say that this comic represents the real life, not just fantasy. We are going to open your eyes to see that Franklin is just powerful boy, whose entire family loves. The wind is blowing and it is bothering everyone.

Are you confused? Did you just kill a man? Did pull the trigger and now he is dead? These are all fine questions, and the answers are easy come, and easy go.

What does Namor think? Just that it is too late, his time has come. Shivers rune down his spine, body's aching all the time. He wants to say goodbye everybody, he's got to go. He has to leave them all behind and face the truth.

Rick Sheridan really does not care any way the wind blows.

The Thing is very straight forward. He just sees a little silhouetto of a man. Ben wants to do the Fandango. He wants thunderbolt and lightning. The Thing wants to be very, very frightening.

And dear Dragonman and Alex. Beelzebub has made you a devil for this fight. You can't stone or spin in their eyes. You definitely can't love and leave them to die. Oh, baby, don't do this to me.

I just gotta get out, just gotta get right outta here.

If you want to see our website, go here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/06/11/fantastic-four-2014-v5-643-back-in-blue-part-3/

I may be reading a bit too much into the cover on this one. But, you were entertained, right?

Bravo, you have made it to the end of this rant. Here is to the next one.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"New Hero in Town" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 217 Fantastic Four (2014) V5 #644: "Back in Blue: Part 4"

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0700

We are in the thick of it. The penultimate issue of this run. Fights occurring, punches throwing, dreams invading, words writing, etcetera ectering. This is a book with both pictures and words. There is plot, there is development. There is a podcaster who is struggling to write on a Monday morning.

There is a problem. And when there is a problem, you need a team to deal with it. Assembling your team is important and vital. You should be careful in choosing, or else you will get stuck with a throwaway 90's character. And nobody wants that to happen.

When putting your team together, first impressions are everything. You should think about how you present and introduce yourself. Hugging your interviewer during the meeting process is not a good start.

Fighting with your team is good. Fighting against your team is bad. Know the difference.

You should know how to pose for team photos. Some say teamwork, some say power compatibility, I say it is all about how you all strut. You need balance or an understanding of lead and support. You need to show power, to be power.

After your team has successfully mastered posing in front of a camera, and testing your super-powers at least once, you should be ready to face an evil super villain. Go big or go home. Either way, you will probably go home in a box, but you will look good doing it.

Alternatively, you can just do it all yourself and smack fools.

Gather your team, and listen to our podcast.

Bravo, you have made it to the end of this rant. Here is to the next one.

Check out some of the pictures we talk about on our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/06/29/fantastic-four-2014-v5-644-back-in-blue-part-4/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Raving Energy" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 218 Fantastic Four (2014) V5 #645: "Fantastic Four"

Sun, 09 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0700

We have reached the end of Fantastic Four...Again. It is not your imagination, this is not a drill, this is not a test. At the end of every run, it seems to be a big conclusion story, and this run by James Robinson does not seem to be any different. So, this is a big old book, and we are two big old men. Here...we...go......

When my co-host got around to finally reading this book, he was shocked. He was not expecting so many pages. He also was not expecting me to change all of the light bulbs in his house to blue colored ones and to turn his computer screen to red. He never expected me to break into his house and replace all of his furniture with cardboard.

I also programmed his phone to identify me as "Daddy" and him as an "Evil Jerk". Mostly because later I wanted to surprise him and say, "Who's your daddy know?". Later I realized that this was creepy. Still, pretty good joke.

Later, I sent a team of super-villains to attack him while he was doing yard work. My original plan was to send them while he was sleeping, but then I saw that the cost for them to attack at night was much higher. I took the matinee discount.

The best thing that I did was to hire a team of drone operators that had modified their drones to shoot fire. Some people might call it unethical or dangerous, but I just call it the next step in the evolution for our destruction...and pretty cool. This firebug team did multiple flybys of his home in the middle of the night, causing a bit of panic. It was awesome.

After the family was outside, I had the drones make a rude gesture in the sky. I mean, why not, amiright? If you are going all out, you might as well be juvenile about it.

Needless to say, Jeff punched me. Man, he cannot take a joke.

The moral of this story is to invest in plastics.

Check out the art we were talking about here: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/07/28/fantastic-four-2014-v5-645-fantastic-four/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Episode 219 Free Comic Book Day 2015 (Secret Wars) #0: "Secret Wars"

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Secret Wars Three, baby!!!!! That is right. We are (sorta) starting our coverage of the amazing event here. Then we are putting the rest behind a paywall. Why, because that is how we roll. For now, let us take a look at this Free Comic Book Day book.

Like any good war, secret or otherwise, there is a lot of pushing and posturing and "boy you are lucky they are holding me back" moments. And this is the same. But it really is between realities more than people. And concepts. And cookies

Why did this war happen? Well, there are many reasons. But I like to think that the whole reason the mess started was because Namor stole Dr. Dooms radio. I know I am probably wrong, but it sounds like a reasonable reason for a war.

But think about the kids!!!! OK, fine, let's think about the kids. First of all, they are too smart for their own good. They probably are the real cause of the war. Why do they need to scheme so much? Why aren't bikes good enough for them? Geez.

In the end, it does not matter who started what. A war was started, and it was not really all that secret. And it happened for a third time. And this probably won't be the last time. OK, let's just blame the kids.

Shameless plug to join our Patreon and listen to our entire Secret Wars coverage, and a lot of other great content.

Check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/07/28/free-comic-book-day-2015-secret-wars-1-secret-wars-0/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Smash (Sketch)" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 220 Civil War II: Choosing Sides #4: "Power Pack"

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 09:00:00 -0700

Wait...What is this? Is that most of Power Pack in a comic book? Why, yes it is! Our little Power Pack podcast is going to actually cover a comic with all of Power Pack in it. And look at this alternate cover of this book. That is pure awesomeness. But you already knew that, cause that is why you are here.

Now that the gushing is out of the way, let's be honest. There really is not much here. This is just a short story in a book with three stories. It is a little slice of life, check in, chatty little comic.

So what should we talk about? I guess we can talk about how nasty fruit is. I mean, ugh....healthy and stuff. Who needs that? Who wants that? Do I look like a rabbit? Are my ears long and my nose twitchy? No!!! I want meat!

I will accept some cheese and crackers too. I will tell you what I would do if I was given a platter of fruit. Why, I would develop magic space powers and disintegrate that plate. That's right. And then I would blast the trees making that nasty poison.

There, my mini rant is done. I hope you have all learned something today. Invest in plastics....or...something.

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

Check out the artwork at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/08/07/civil-war-ii-choosing-sides-4-power-pack/

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Final Battle of the Dark Wizards" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 221 Darkhawk Vol 2 #51: "The Return"

Sun, 20 Sep 2026 09:00:00 -0700

It is time to get our Darkhawk on! We have a legacy issue, honoring one of those great, underutilized treats from the 1990's. And, thanks to a couple of poignant flashbacks that feature his time with the Loners, we can talk about it. So, sit back, grab that can of Jolt Cola, and make sure you have your flannel on, cause we have to get hawkin....

Wait, did I just type, "hawkin"? That is not a thing. Chris Powell never said that about himself. that is a stupid catch phrase. Why would anyone allow me to write something like that? Why would they allow me to type with no shirt on?

Wait a minute, I think the problem is that I am hungry. I need to get some donuts and coffee, stat! I wonder if I can order out for that? I think the number for Uber is 911.

While I am waiting for those, I guess I can talk about crystals. This may be a short conversation, because I actually do not know much about crystals. I know someone named Crystal. She is pretty cool, but I do not think that she has magic powers. But I have never asked her.

Now, I have never seen her change into a powerful alien. To be fair, I have never seen a powerful alien. I have also never tried plugging a crystal into a light socket. I have out a key in a light socket. I do not recommend that.

What was I talking about? Oh yes, rain during a drive to work. I hate that. It makes the displeasure of heading to work more displeasureable. Apparently, that is not a word. Oh dear. I do not know what to do now. I hope they do not send the Word Police after me.

They sent the Word Police after me. This was to be expected. I have been pushing the line with my grammar, word choices, and spelling for a while. I am hoping it is just a warning.

Yaknow what? I am still waiting for my donuts.

Check out the art at our website: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/08/27/darkhawk-vol-2-51-the-return/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Happy Boy End Theme" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Episode 222 Power Pack Vol 1 #63: "Rarely Pure and Never Simple"

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 09:00:00 -0700

We have done it. After over 8 years, we have finally covered the entirety of the Power Pack series. Issues 1 to 63. Look at us, we are big boys now. Admit it, you did not think we would do it. You did not think we would get here. You thought that we would flake out or get so far offline that we would not get here...but here we are.

Now that we are here, we should talk about this issue. And maybe we will. We don't know. Much like our protagonist, we may act like a disaffected teenage girl. You can't tell us what to do. First off, all, this is all written in the past, probably early in the morning before the author has metabolized his coffee. Deal with it.

Good new, we can tell you that we see all of the Pack. All of the kids show up, and three-fourths of them are mostly themselves. Sure, it is a flashback to simpler times when bedrooms were shared, but it is a new story, a continuation of a plot, and fun little romp.

So, let's talk about the possession in the room. I do not think a Jesuit priest or some Georgetown steps are going to help our boy Alex here. In fact, nine out of ten doctors all ran screaming from exam rooms when confronted with similar patients. The tenth was eaten.

I will tell you one person who does not want to deal with possession problems; the possessed Alex. And can you blame him. New body, crushed soul, so many people to abuse or kill. Why would he want to give that up. Mayhem and chaos, baby!!!

Some people like chaos, confusion and conflagration. They like the pretty lights and the shiny toys. They like to roast in the fire of their madness and bake in the sunshine of terror. That is the way they roll.

Speaking of which, destruction and devastation are great D words. The descriptions of the demolishment of the downtown scene is delicious. I have lost the thread.

I guess I want to say that Alex is on his own journey of self-discovery. It is good to express your devilish persona whenever you can. Bazinga my friend, bazinga.

And now we shall continue to provide you all with more Power Pack content.

Check out our website at: https://jeffandrickpresent.wordpress.com/2026/09/08/power-pack-vol-1-63-rarely-pure-and-never-simple/

We also have some merchandise over at Redbubble. We have a couple of nifty shirts for sale. https://www.redbubble.com/people/jeffrickpresent/?asc=u

You can also subscribe and listen to us on YouTube!

Our show supports the Hero Initiative, Helping Comic Creators in Need. http://www.heroinitiative.org/

Eighties Action by Kevin MacLeod
Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3703-eighties-action
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

"Cloud Dancer " Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/