The Ringer-Verse
The Ringer
The Ringer-Verse is your go-to nexus podcast feed for all things nerd culture and fandom, featuring:'The Midnight Boys': Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman react to the latest in fandom and share their instant reactions to the newest nerd culture releases, all while bringing the banter every week.'Mint Edition': Steve, Jomi, and Jessica Clemons gather every other week to share their unique takes on the movies and shows that are animating the fandom.'Button Mash': Ben Lindbergh and Jessica discuss the latest in the world of video games, from headline-making new releases, to industry trends, to game swaps and nostalgic re-plays.'Splash Page': Jessica breaks down the latest Easter eggs and theories from all of your favorite content. Not sure if that was a Mephisto reference in the latest 'Loki' episode? Wondering what exactly that post-credits scene means? Eager to know how a new trailer sets up your most anticipated release of the season? Jessica will answer all of those questions and more in her video podcasts.Follow the new House of R feed for deep dives from Mal and Jo!
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 34min
'Peacemaker' Season 2, Episode 1 Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
The gang dives into the Season 2 premiere of 'Peacemaker,' highlighting John Cena's impressive range as an actor. They explore the show's quirky plot twists, like integrating K-pop demon hunters. The conversation also delves into complex character relationships and moral implications within the superhero genre. Expect some laughs as they analyze chaotic scenes, including a humorous take on an orgy. Finally, they reflect on how this season fits into the broader DC universe, teasing potential character spin-offs.
10 snips
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 15min
K-Pop: Demon Hunters - Songs, Fandom, and Favorites | Mint Edition
Jessica Clemons, a passionate K-pop stan, joins the hosts to dive into the explosive success of 'K-Pop: Demon Hunters.' They discuss the film's vibrant visuals and how it captivates audiences of all ages. The conversation shifts to the catchy soundtrack, with Jess sharing her quirky rankings of favorite tracks. They also touch on the cultural trends influencing K-pop and explore the creative tensions between artistry and commercial demands. Fans will love the personal anecdotes and humorous insights sprinkled throughout!
30 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 50min
The All-Time Mario Games Draft | Button Mash
Chris Plante, co-founder of Polygon and host of Post Games; Maddy Myers, former deputy editor at Polygon; and Joshua Rivera, freelance writer with deep Mario insights, come together for a lively draft of the greatest Mario games. They reminisce about their gaming origins, discuss the character's timeless appeal, and share hilarious personal anecdotes. The trio debates game mechanics while highlighting quirky Mario titles. With playful banter and nostalgia, they navigate the rich legacy of Mario in a fun, competitive format.
11 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 50min
‘Alien: Earth’ First Reactions and an Alien Draft | The Midnight Boys
The hosts dive into the new FX series 'Alien: Earth' with enthusiastic reactions and playful banter about its unconventional elements. They then embark on an alien draft, selecting their favorite extraterrestrial characters across various categories, sparking lively debates. The discussion touches on the horrifying design of xenomorphs and the deeper themes of capitalism and humanity's future within the franchise. Add in nostalgic reflections on classic alien sitcoms, and you've got a blend of humor, critical analysis, and spirited camaraderie.
44 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 47min
The 25 Greatest Games of the Quarter Century | Button Mash
This lively discussion features Steve Ahlman, known as Steven Universe Allman, who links the cultural impact of games to personal favorites. Matt James, Ringer Deputy Art Director, makes a bold case that recent games surpass classics, while Daniel Chin champions Red Dead Redemption 2 as Rockstar's best. The group dives into the evolution of multiplayer gaming, the legacy of iconic titles like Halo and Bioshock, and celebrates modern titles like Hades. Their playful banter reveals deep insights into gaming's past and future.
9 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 2h 21min
Spider-Man 4, 'X-Men', and Did ‘Fantastic Four’ Flop? | The Midnight Boys
The hosts dive into the buzz surrounding 'Spider-Man 4', highlighting new character introductions and costume designs. They debate the disappointing box office results of 'Fantastic Four' and question casual viewers' interest in Marvel. A playful diss on James Gunn’s critiques of Marvel’s struggles adds spice to the discussion. Finally, they explore the exciting possibilities for a new X-Men film, weighing the importance of classic characters against new additions. It's a lively mix of humor and insight into the superhero genre.
Aug 1, 2025 • 57min
'Eyes of Wakanda,' Plus Marvel Animation: Look Back and Look Ahead | Mint Edition
Fresh insights from Comic-Con set the stage for a deep dive into 'Eyes of Wakanda.' The hosts tackle its themes of isolation and loyalty, showcasing innovative storytelling by Black creators. They humorously critique vibranium's legacy while exploring the moral dilemmas faced by characters. A witty comparison with 'Paddington 2' adds a whimsical touch, and discussions about the animation industry’s challenges highlight the balance between creativity and corporate pressures. Get ready for upcoming Marvel animated adventures!
9 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 38min
The Best of San Diego Comic-Con 2025 | The Midnight Boys
From the bustling floors of San Diego Comic-Con, the hosts dive into highlights like 'Project Hail Mary' and 'Alien: Earth'. Excitement surrounds the emotional depth in 'Predator: Badlands' and a nod to the visual evolution of 'Tron'. Engage with lively discussions about 'Peacemaker' and upcoming projects like 'Coyote vs. Acme'. The community spirit shines through at the meet and greet, showcasing the camaraderie among fans. Plus, there's a sprinkle of humor reflecting on cinematic cancellations and the vibrant culture of the convention.
40 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 53min
Marvel, DC, or 'Star Wars': Who’s Winning IP in 2025? LIVE at SDCC 2025 | The Ringer-Verse
Live from San Diego Comic-Con, a lively panel dives into the intense rivalry of intellectual properties in 2025. They discuss the bold launch of James Gunn's DC Universe and how it compares to Marvel's legacy. The excitement surrounding upcoming projects, like 'Wicked for Good' and 'Wonder Man,' is palpable. The hosts also reflect on beloved Star Wars characters Mando and Grogu, share nostalgic tales, and critique the future of franchises like 'Dune 3.' With humor and passion, they explore how childhood favorites shape today’s entertainment.
26 snips
Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 57min
‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
The hosts dive into the latest take on the Fantastic Four, exploring character dynamics and emotional depth amidst cosmic challenges. They analyze the complexities of Reed Richards and the evolution of Johnny Storm, discussing their respective arcs in the film. Villains like Galactus and Silver Surfer are critiqued, highlighting their significant roles. The conversation also ventures into box office projections and superhero rankings, blending humor with insightful commentary on representation and narrative implications in the Marvel universe.
