“Righteous” Anger (Essential Issues Podcast #026)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

The “Righteous” Anger Of Batman & Wonder Woman makes them BOTH look like villains… but are the WRITERS aware of this? PLUS, Aquaman discovers even MORE cool stuff he can do with his new power over water! And MUCH MORE!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra March 2025, DCUI Standard August 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 While the pages of Batman are dealing with "righteous" anger and flawed characters, the Green Lantern Corps is potentially re-discovering honesty as a value, and Aquaman is discovering even MORE of what he can do with his new ability to control water! Batman 157, JSA 4, Green Lantern Corps 1, Aquaman 2

00:27:37 More "righteous" anger comes into play at DC this week, but is Wonder Woman actually modelling & encouraging anger that is not only UN-righteous, but actually cruel and hateful? Zatanna 1, Nightwing 123, Batman and Robin: Year One 5, The Question: All Along The Watchtower 4, Wonder Woman 18

00:52:54 Is Black Canary on an awesome hero's journey, or is she turning out to be a "Girl Boss"? And DC is losing focus on some of their main characters and may be losing ME as a result! Green Lantern 20, The Flash 18, Batman: The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween 5, Superman 23, Green Arrow 21, Detective Comics 1094, Black Canary: Best Of The Best 4

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2025, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Emotions & Forgiveness! (Essential Issues Podcast #025)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month Aquaman is FINALLY awesome, emotions take characters down dark paths, and Batman literally doesn’t know what the word “forgiveness” means?

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra February 2025, DCUI Standard July 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 I have waited DECADES for DC to do what they have FINALLY done for Aquaman. Now PLEASE let this change stay forever! Batman And Robin 17, Batman: Dark Patterns 2, Aquaman 1

00:13:55 In THREE different DC stories this week characters head down dark paths because their emotions get the better of them! Will they realize how to overcome this age-old struggle? Will WE? The solution isn't always easy to execute on, but it's a lot more simple than you might think! Titans 19, Action Comics 1082, Green Lantern: Fractured Spectrum 1

00:43:56 You might already suspect that Batman is not very good at forgiving, but this month it seems he may not even understand what the word actually means! (That or his writer perhaps doesn't.) Green Arrow 20, Black Canary: Best Of The Best 3, Detective Comics 1093

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2025, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Messy Relationships! (Essential Issues Podcast #024)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month relationships are messy, beautiful and everything in between. But which of these are supposed to be examples to inspire, and which are intended as cautionary tales? Some great character stuff happening in the midst of the usual comic book craziness!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra January 2025, DCUI Standard June 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 The moral fall of Jim Gordon, and more! Reactions to Two-Face 1, Batgirl 2, Batman 155

00:11:54 A GREAT new Batman villain, some complex/strange moralizing and love is defined in a surprisingly BIBLICAL way! Reactions to Superwoman Special 1, Batman: Dark Patterns 1, Black Lightning 2, Green Lantern 18

00:34:16 Pretty much every comic I read this week fell flat for me. In fact, I honestly did not want to share my thoughts about them at all. Give me a few minutes and I'll explain why... Reactions to The New Gods 1, The Question: All Along The Watchtower 2, Wonder Woman 16 (Should The U.S.A. Have A Queen?)

00:46:07 Martian Manhunter is keeping a dangerous secret and Black Canary has a devastatingly difficult choice to make! Reactions to Metamorpho: The Element Man 1, The Flash 16, Action Comics 1081, Justice League Unlimited 2, Black Canary: Best Of The Best 2

01:10:22 In the midst of the usual comic book craziness, a bunch of messy relationships shared the spotlight this week! With examples to learn from and others to avoid! Reactions to Justice League: The Atom Project 1, JSA 3, Batman 156, Batgirl 3

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2025, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Heaven Without God? (Essential Issues Podcast #023)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month I'm reminded why I LOVE beig a DC fan! Some great character interactions, philosophical stories, family drama, a MASSIVE new Justice League that still cares about character, and the start of the ultimate martial arts fight in DC History!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra December 2024, DCUI Standard May 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 In catching up with TWO weeks of releases from DC Comics I'm reminded of the kinds of things I love most about being a DC fan! Reactions to Batman 154, Batgirl 1 (Mother-Daughter Stuff & Our Sinful Tendencies), JSA 1 (Marriage Conflict), Batman & Robin 15 (Father-Son Dynamic), Green Lantern 17, Black Lightning 1 (Marital Reconciliation?), Action Comics 1075!

00:47:24 The DCU MMA fight of the century, why heaven sucks if you leave out God, and more! Reactions to The Question: All Along The Watchtower 1, Wonder Woman 15, Justice League Unlimited 1, Superman 20, Green Arrow 18, Black Canary: Best Of The Best 1!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2025, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

How DC Is "All In"! - (Essential Issues Podcast #022)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

DC's "All-In" initiative is looking to help new readers jump onboard, and has so far involved a mixed bag of intriguing, frustrating and mystifying. But when Dick Grayson loses, readers might win! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra November 2024, DCUI Standard April 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Dick Grayson is harshly denied justice he has longed for his whole life... and that might be a good thing for us as readers! Reactions to Batman and Robin 14, Wonder Woman 14, Titans 16, Catwoman 69, Nightwing 118!

00:18:56 Although I'm not excited by the "All-In" brand DC comics this week, Batman is wrestling with the value of human life in a VERY interesting way! Reactions to Absolute Wonder Woman 1, Green Arrow 17, Nightwing 119, Superman 19, The Flash 14, Detective Comics 1090 (Batman's Mortality & Valuing Lives Of Evil People)!

00:48:08 DC fell flat for me this week. Despite a nice spotlight given to The Penguin, a strange artistic choice and a baffling philosophical choice left me hoping next week will be more my cup of tea. Here's why... Reactions to The Penguin Special 1, Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween 2, Poison Ivy Swamp Thing: Feral Trees 1!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Absolute Letdown (Essential Issues Podcast #021)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

Hal Jordan & Carol Ferris could be the next "Superman & Lois" and the Absolute Power event ends in a BIG letdown... but also lays a foundation for what could be REALLY cool! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra October 2024, DCUI Standard March 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Hal Jordan And Carol Ferris are shaping up to be a Clark & Lois level couple in the DC Universe, The Penguin solidifies his new status quo, Alan Scott finishes his philosophical chat with Jadestone and MORE! Reactions to Absolute Power 3, The Penguin 12, Justice Society Of America 11, Green Lantern 15

00:26:00 DC seems to have missed a BIG opportunity with Jon Kent, and Superman & Zatanna have seemingly different views about what defines people and gives them worth! Which of them is right? I share my thoughts... Reactions to Batman/Superman: World's Finest 31, Wonder Woman 13, Absolute Power: Super Son 1, Superman 18

00:42:21 It's been a long time since I've felt as let down by a comic as I did with Absolute Power 4. So much that was set up was resolved in a way that felt cheap and unsatisfying to me. But the new status quo might still yield some good stories. We'll see... (Action Comics 1069, Absolute Power: Origins 3, Absolute Power 4: Power-stealing reversal, The Lack Of Nuance & Moral Complexity, Green Arrow's Cheap "Turncoat" Explanation, Dreamer's Cheap, Nonsensical Resurrection, Amanda Waller's Cheap & Uncharacteristic Blunder, How Absolute Power Could Have Been The Next "Identity Crisis", How Waller Becomes Ruined As A Villain (& Dreamer Dehumanizes Her), A Silver Lining: Justice League Unlimited)

01:17:40 DC's "All In" initiative is looking to create new epic stories that can serve as an easy jump-on point for new readers. But its also bringing some changes! Some that hold real promise, and others I'm not so excited about. (DC All In Special 1, Batman 153, Justice Society Of America 12, Shazam! 16)

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Comics MUST Reject Atheism! (Essential Issues Podcast #020)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

Jon Kent could be rebooted, DC missed some GREAT opportunities, Zero Hour is back, and Alan Scott effectively shows why comics can't work if atheism is true! That and MUCH MORE! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra September 2024, DCUI Standard February 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Is Jon Kent finally getting the reboot/restoration I've wanted? It at least seems possible after what happens to him this week! Reactions to Plastic Man No More 1, Batman 151, Absolute Power 2 and Jon Kent's Potential Big Change!

00:13:07 Trouble in paradise as Lois & Clark are dealing with a work-related relational rift between them, and Alan Scott inadvertently makes a case for why comics can't function if atheism is true! Reactions to Absolute Power Task Force VII 4, Action Comics 1068 & Lois & Clark Marital Troubles and Green Lantern 14 & Free Will!

00:29:51 The DC books I read this week almost all had one thing in common: They zigged when I REALLY think they should have zagged! So much potential that went unrealized! Reactions to Superman 17, Wonder Woman 12, Batman/Superman: World's Finest 30, Green Lantern: War Journal 12, Nightwing 117, Batman: The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween 0

00:47:43 DC digs into their past and makes it matter TODAY in this week's selection of comics! Did you think "Zero Hour" ended back in the 90's! Turns out, 30 years later, it's still happening and about to possibly have a BIG effect on today's DC Universe! PLUS! The origin the "brain bombs" of the Suicide Squad! Reactions to Batman The Long Halloween: The Last Halloween 1, The Flash 12, Zero Hour 30th Anniversary Special 1 and Absolute Power: Origins 2!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Absolute Power Begins! (Essential Issues Podcast #019)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

The Absolute Power crossover event is here and making massive craters across the DCU! It's also giving readers some worthwhile things to think about long the way! That and MUCH MORE! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra August 2024, DCUI Standard January 2025,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Absolute Power 1 completely rocks the foundations of the DCU with Amanda Waller's seemingly unstoppable plan. And along the way there are some pretty worthwhile things for us to think about here in the real world! Reactions to Shazam 13, Justice Society Of America 10, Batman 150, Absolute Power 1

00:25:11 An emotion I've REALLY want to see added to the emotional spectrum mythos of Green Lantern arrives, and Hal & Carol still seem on the road to lasting, maturing love! We'll see! Reactions to Absolute Power: Task Force VII 1, Death In The Family: Robin Lives 1, Action Comics 1067 & Green Lantern 13.

00:42:25 The latest issue of Nightwing features such a great surprise that was totally unexpected and yet so delightful I can't believe it hasn't been done already! Reactions to Wonder Woman 11, Superman 16 and Nightwing 116!

01:05:54 Amanda Waller's definitive origins story is presented and it turns out... she's kinda like US! Reactions to Absolute Power: Task Force VIII 2, Green Arrow 14 and Absolute Power: Origins 1!

01:20:53 Intentionally or not, a DC story this week defined defined free will in... an interesting way. And one we should think carefully about as we consider our conversations about the nature of A.I., personhood and humanity's future! Reactions to Absolute Power: Task Force VII 3!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Sapphire's Love & Absolute Power! (Essential Issues Podcast #018)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

A Batman saga ends and an earth-shattering crossover begins! And will REAL love finally be the center of Hal Jordan's relationship with Carol Ferris? That and MUCH MORE! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra July 2024, DCUI Standard December 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Some big changes happening in both the tone and lore of Shazam! And Batman wraps up a BIG and complicated arc in a way I have mixed feelings about.

Reactions to Shazam 12 & Batman 148.

00:25:00 Will Carol Ferris & Hal Jordan become the "Lois & Clark" of Green Lantern? I hope so, and right now there is good reason to as Carol begins to discover true "Agape" love! Reactions to Suicide Squad: Dream Team 4 and Green Lantern 12!

00:37:48 As the Absolute Power crossover begins, one hero makes a VERY surprising move that makes me reflect on our divisions in this election year. Meanwhile, Amanda Waller is convincing me she is a MAJOR threat to the entire DCU! Reactions to Zatanna: Bring Down The House 1, Wonder Woman 10, Action Comics 1066, Batman 149, The Penguin 11, Absolute Power: Ground Zero 1, Green Arrow 13 & The Flash 10

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Gay Love & Trans Hate! (Essential Issues Podcast #017)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month, Alan Scott's Gay Retcon story wraps up on a note worth thinking about, and a DC Transgender character gets pretty hateful! But elsewhere in DC, marriage and family are valued, healthy relationships are explored, and some classic Flash villains are preparing for a comeback! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra June 2024, DCUI Standard November 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Not a single comic this week was written in a way I enjoy, but at least ONE of them seemingly tried to explore a worthwhile topic. Did they succeed? Not in my book. Reactions to DC Pride 2024, Nightwing Annual 2024, Superman: House Of Brainiac Special 1, & The Flash Annual 2024.

00:15:31 It's coming to a boil in GreenLantern 11, but there's still time in the story to suggest marriage should have value! And Suicide Squad Dream Team 3 unleashes the power, and HATRED, of Transgender DC Character "Dreamer"! What can WE learn from that hatred?

00:37:54 Wonder Woman touches on healthy and unhealthy "need" in relationships, and Alan Scott wraps up its gay retcon of his origin story in a way worth noticing even if you strongly disagree... maybe especially if you do! Reactions to Nightwing 114, Superman 14, Titans 11 and Wonder Woman 9 and Alan Scott Green Lantern 6!

00:59:21 Penguin's family is trying to kill each other, Green Arrow's family is reunited, and the biggest villains of The Flash mythos might be getting a reboot! Reactions to The Penguin 10, The Flash 9 & Green Arrow 12!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Wonder Woman's "Bible Torture"! (Essential Issues Podcast #016)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month, Birds Of Prey mystifyingly objectifies women, Green Lantern shockingly referances a weird forgotten part of DC history, Batman has an important word for CHRISTIANS, and the Flash gets me to drop his book... by standing still! PLUS SO MUCH MORE!! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra May 2024, DCUI Standard October 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 While Birds Of Prey & Shazam give no indication I'll enjoy them soon, Shazam has potential to explore some worthwhile, heavy themes... if allowed to. And Batman remains poised to comment on a MAJOR life after death issue! Reactions to Shazam! 10, Birds of Prey 8 and Batman 146!

00:14:29 So many characters that I don't care about even one! Except Amanda Waller, whose moral complexity is potentially worthwhile for us to try and sort through! Reactions to Action Comics 1064, Green Lantern 10 & Suicide Squad: Dream Team 2!

00:24:37 Wonder Woman is almost literally beaten down with the BIBLE in Wonder Woman 8, as The Sovereign leverages some easily misunderstood scripture to serve his twisted purposes! PLUS, Lobo has some surprisingly wise words about Anger! Reactions to Titans 10, Jay Garrick: The Flash 6, Superman 13 & Wonder Woman 8!

00:59:31 While The Flash & Power Girl have crawled back from the brink to regain my potential interest, they are far from in the clear, and both Green Arrow and Penguin may be taking some steps that turn me off as well! Will any of these books be on my list next month? Reactions to The Flash 8, Power Girl 8, Green Arrow 11 and The Penguin 9!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Batman's Word For Christians! (Essential Issues Podcast #015)

(TIME STAMPS BELOW!)

This month, Birds Of Prey mystifyingly objectifies women, Green Lantern shockingly references a weird forgotten part of DC history, Batman has an important word for CHRISTIANS, and the Flash gets me to drop his book... by standing still! PLUS SO MUCH MORE!! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra April 2024, DCUI Standard September 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Shazam! 9 & calling Captain Marvel "The Captain", Birds Of Prey 7 & "Primitive Coloring", Objectifying Women & Calling It "Empowerment", Batman 145, Unappealing Complexity & A.I. Personhood, Weekly Ring Selection & Wrap-Up

00:14:32 Suicide Squad: Dream Team 1, Sinister Sons 2, Action Comics 1036, Wesley Dodds: The Sandman 6, Green Lantern 9: Disobedience A GOOD Thing? & The CRAZY Deep-Cut Story Reference

00:33:34 Justice Society Of America 9, Green Lantern: War Journal 7, Batman Superman: World's Finest 25, Wonder Woman 7, Titans 9, Superman 12, Nightwing 112: Nightwing As Batman's "Son", Batman's Word For Christians & A Father-Son Moment That Made Me Better!, Weekly Ring Selection

01:00:05 The Flash 7, Green Arrow 10, The Penguin 8, Ring Selection & Getting Angry Over Comics

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Major Character Changes! (Essential Issues Podcast #014)

This month was a reminder that a number of DC's characters are going through significant changes, some even more than others! If you're not a fan of retconning... brace yourself! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra March 2024, DCUI Standard August 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Red Hood: The Hill 0, Kneel Before Zod 2 and Batman 142 (The Joker: Year One, Part 1)!

00:22:29 Action Comics 1062, Batman 143, Green Lantern 8, Sinister Sons 1 and Wesley Dodds: The Sandman 5.

00:41:36 Batman 144, Batman/Superman: World's Finest 24, Nightwing 111, Wonder Woman 6, Jay Garrick: The Flash 5, Green Arrow 9, The Penguin 7 and Alan Scott: The Green Lantern 5!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

Reinventing Golden Age Heroes (Essential Issues Podcast #013)

This month, Empathy may be The Sandman's secret weapon, while Jay Garrick & Alan Scott reveal NEW old enemies!

(SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra February 2024, DCUI Standard July 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 DC’s How to Lose a Guy Gardner in 10 Days 1, Action Comics 1061, Green Lantern 7, Outsiders 3, & Wesley Dodds: The Sandman 4!

00:19:14 Wonder Woman 5, Jay Garrick: The Flash 4, Green Lantern: War Journal 5 & Batman/Superman: World's Finest 23!

00:40:26 Green Arrow 8, Power Girl 5, The Penguin 6 & The Flash 5!

01:02:28 Batman: Off-World 3 and Alan Scot: The Green Lantern 4!

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Alan Scott Nerfs The Spectre (Essential Issues Podcast #012)

The culmination of Magog's origin arrives in Batman/Superman: World's Finest 22, Batman learns alien martial arts in Batman: Off-World 2 and Wonder Woman comforts (& "preaches" to?) a dying child in issue 4! In Alan Scott: Green Lantern 3 The Spectre is seemingly leveraged to suggest God approves of gay relationships. What can we learn from reading this? ALSO, Cyborg 6 fails to prove the personhood of the AI "copy" of Victor's dead father. Then, reactions to The Flash 4, Justice Society Of America 8 & The Penguin 5! FINALLY, family issues are the theme! Batman's fight against Zur-En-Arrh (now inhabiting the body of Failsafe!) intensifies and General Zod has no patience for fathering when there's a universe to conquer! Reactions to Batman 141 &

Kneel Before Zod 1!(SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra January 2024, DCUI Standard June 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Batman: Off World 2, Wonder Woman 4

00:26:56 Alan Scott: Green Lantern 3, Cyborg 6, The Flash 4, Justice Society Of America 8, The Penguin 5

01:02:17 Batman 141, Kneel Before Zod 1

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2024, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Wonder Woman On "Manhood" (Essential Issues Podcast #011)

Wonder Woman might be saying interesting things about "manhood", Jay Garrick: The Flash values the traditional family, Geoff Johns unearths bonkers DC history in Justice Society and Supergirl gets weirdly competitive! (SEE TIME STAMPS!)

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra December 2023, DCUI Standard May 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Batman/Catwoman: Gotham War: Scorched Earth 1, Batman 139 & Supergirl Special 1

00:16:56 Outsiders 1, Speed Force, Batman- Santa Clause: Silent Knight 2, Wesley Dodds: Sandman 2, Green Lantern 5 & The Vigil 6

00:30:41 WonderWoman 3, Jay Garrick: TheFlash 2, Justice Society of America 7

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2023, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Green Lantern's "Gay Retcon" (Essential Issues Podcast #010)

Barry Allen & Hal Jordan Grow Up, Alan Scott changes in... OTHER ways. PLUS, Batman explores complex moral issues in Gotham & Superman becomes a victim of "Cancel Culture"!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra November 2023, DCUI Standard April 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Are Barry Allen & Hal Jordan finally growing up? Batman has some COMPLEX moral issues going on! Reactions to Batman 138, Wesley Dodds: The Sandman 1, Batman and Robin 2, World's Finest: Teen Titans 4 and Green Lantern 4!

00:14:29 The latest issue of Superman has a moment ripe for reflecting on cancel culture, Jay Garrick adjust to having a daughter and Wonder Woman faces off against the U.S. military... and Steve Trevor! Reactions to Superman 7, Wonder Woman 2 and Jay Garrick: The Flash 1.

00:30:01 Alan Scott: Green Lantern 1. Created via retcon, the gay status of Golden Age Green Lantern Alan Scott is not just incorporated into the story of his new series, but stands at the very center of it. I attempt to offer a biblical Christian response.

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2023, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Post-Death "Uploading" CAN'T Work! (Essential Issues Podcast #009)

Superman's moral compass needs fixing, Gotham's heroes are at war with each other and why surviving death by "uploading" will NEVER work! PLUS, Dawn Of DC kicks into full gear as multiple characters are being rebuilt from the ground up!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra October 2023, DCUI Standard March 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Geoff Johns may be back in his stride and Gotham's heroes are at each other's throats! Reactions to Birds Of Prey 1, Blue Beetle 1, Justice Society Of America 6, Batman 137, City Boy 4 & Shazam 3!

00:33:19 Is DC about to make the same mistake with Damian Wayne they made with Jon Kent?!? I hope not but signs don't look good... Reactions to Batman And Robin 1, World's Finest: Teen Titans 3 and Green Lantern 3!

00:44:38 Superman may need a more sophisticated moral compass! And why "uploading" our consciousness will NEVER help people survive death! Plus TONS more! Batman/Superman: World's Finest, Batman: Gargoly Of Gotham Book 1, Catwoman 57 (Gotham War, Part 3), Cyborg 3 (Why Transcendence/Eternal Life Through "Uploading" Consciousness Won't Work), Green Lantern: War Journal 1, Nightwing 106, Superman 6, The Vigil 5, Titans 3, Wonder Woman 1 [Legacy 801]

01:25:48 Dawn Of DC is ramping up their re-invention or re-establishment of characters, creating some wonderful and moving character-driven moments along the way! Penguin 2, Batman/Catwoman: Gotham War: Red Hood, The Flash 1, Green Arrow 4, Power Girl 1, Action Comics 1057

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2023, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

Missing Truth & Gotham War (Essential Issues Podcast #008)

Aqualad takes centerstage in a key moment with powerful words of wisdom... that are lacking something vital: Truth! And DC is playing with a LOT of interesting ideas, including: Hell, Anger (toward God?), compassion for criminals, re-distribution of wealth and more! See Time Stamps For More!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra September 2023, DCUI Standard February 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:09 Superman Annual 2023 and World's Finest: Teen Titans 2!

00:10:33 Batman/Superman World's Finest 18, The Vigil 4

00:20:21 Knight Terrors: Nights End 1, Batman/Catwoman: The Gotham War: Battle Lines 1, and Action Comics Presents: Doomsday Special (2023) 1

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2023, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich

The End Of Jon Kent (Essential Issues Podcast #007)

Adventures Of Superman: Jon Kent comes to an end! And Steelworks & City Boy seem to have very DIFFERENT opinions about the moral state of humanity! See Time Stamps For More!

RELEASE PERIODS COVERED: DCUI Ultra August 2023, DCUI Standard January 2024,

TIME STAMPS

00:01:13 Adventures Of Superman: Jon Kent 5, Steelworks 2,

00:10:43 Knight Terrors 1, World's Finest: Teen Titans 1,

00:24:12 Hawkgirl 1, Tales Of The Titans 1, The Vigil 3, & Batman/Superman: World's Finest 17

00:42:24 The Last Days Of Lex Luthor 1,

00:52:21 Adventures Of Superman: Jon Kent 6, Justice Society 5, Steelworks 3, City Boy 3

GET THIS PODCAST 3 DAYS EARLY and enjoy exclusive rewards at https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Subscribe in a reader

Open In i-tunes- itms://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

i-tunes Page Link- https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/essential-issues-a-dc-comics-podcast/id1697221899?mt=2

Get fun, exclusive rewards for your support! Visit: https://www.patreon.com/spiritbladeproductions

Or

Become a Patron!

The Christian Geek Central Statement Of Faith can be found at: http://christiangeekcentral.blogspot.com/p/about.html Essential Issues: A DC Comics Podcast is written, recorded and produced by Paeter Frandsen. Christian Geek Central Logo created by Matthew Silber. Copyright 2023, Spirit Blade Productions. Music by Jon Adamich