In Episode 118 of CEREBRO, Connor and Marvel/DC writer Josh Trujillo (What If? Gambit, Blue Beetle, Wiccan and Hulkling) play a game of thrones with the liberal Lilandra Neramani, Majestrix Shi'ar! Created by Chris Claremont and Dave Cockrum as the primary love interest for Charles Xavier, alien princess (and sometime empress) Lilandra became a major player in intergalactic politics and a frequent friend â but sometimes foe â of the X-Men. Her assassination in the 2009 cosmic event War of Kings was a devastating blow to social progress in the Shi'ar Imperium, but in recent years her daughter by Charles, Xandra, has taken the throne and worked to finally realize the reforms her mother championed.The CEREBRO character file on Lilandra begins at 51:27.(Content Advisory: Lilandra is the ruler of an imperial state built on conquest and slavery. She tries to improve things from within, but there's a lot of rough stuff in here. This episode also discusses current events in America and â without going into detail â the sexual misconduct allegations against Neil Gaiman.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025
In Episode 117 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Jordan Blok go under the knife with Yuriko Oyama, the diabolical Lady Deathstrike! Created by Denny O'Neill and William Johnson as a brief love interest for Daredevil, the character was heavily reimagined by later writers as the ultimate woman of war, a key nemesis of the X-Man Wolverine and leader of the vicious cyborgs called the Reavers. A fan favorite character despite her evil history, in recent years Deathstrike has been portrayed as more of an antihero than a pure villain.This is Part Two of Two. Go back to Part One if you haven't heard it yet! Patreon subscribers now have exclusive access to the combined 9-hour Extended Mrs. Claws Mix.Jordan's curated Lady Deathstrike playlist, FINGERCRIMES, is available now on Spotify as a complement to this episode.(Content Advisory: Yuriko's story includes suicide, racism, child abuse, threatened sexual violence, torture, and genocide.) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024
In Episode 117 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Jordan Blok go under the knife with Yuriko Oyama, the diabolical Lady Deathstrike! Created by Denny O'Neil and William Johnson as a brief love interest for Daredevil, the character was heavily reimagined by other writers (particularly Chris Claremont) as the ultimate woman of war, a key nemesis of the X-Man Wolverine and leader of the vicious cyborgs called the Reavers. A fan favorite character despite her evil history, in recent years Deathstrike has been portrayed as more of an antihero than a pure villain.The CEREBRO character file on Lady Deathstrike begins at 1:10:00.This is Part One of Two. The second half is coming soon! When it drops, Patreon subscribers will also get exclusive access to the combined Extended Mrs. Claws Mix.Jordan's curated Lady Deathstrike playlist, FINGERCRIMES, is available now on Spotify as a complement to this episode.(Content Advisory: Yuriko's story includes suicide, racism, child abuse, sexual violence, torture, and genocide.) Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 25 December 2024
Hey there, Zalagang!Some scheduling issues have delayed the next episode of CEREBRO, but it should be in your ears for the holidays. Since it's been a minute â and a mysterious shadow early in the current run of Jed McKay's X-Men certainly looked like this beautiful weirdo â I've decided to release a CEREBRO Appendix episode publicly.This episode was originally released as a Patreon exclusive on August 9th, 2023. It's a fun sample of the joy awaiting you for just $5 dollars a month in the House of Z â especially as Holly will soon be my co-host for Krakoa Revisited, a Patreon series analyzing the five-year Krakoan arcs of every character already covered on CEREBRO.Thanks for your patience! More soon.In the latest installment of the CEREBRO Appendix, Dr. Holly Raymond of Temple University returns to the pod to talk about Astra, an extremely strange character. Created by Alan Davis, Fabian Nicieza, and Leinil Francis Yu, Astra is a retconned-in founding member of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants. She loves cloning Magneto, for reasons.(Content Advisory: Astra's story includes torture, brainwashing, and Oedipal vibes.)The CEREBRO Appendix is a bonus episode series spotlighting characters who do not have a full Zaladane of 12 appearances, or who never get the personal focus that would merit a full episode of CEREBRO. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024
In Episode 116 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest comedian Jay Jurden refuse to blend in with Victor Borkowski, the aggravating Anole! Created by Nunzio DeFillipis, Christina Weir, and Keron Grant, Victor is one of the more enduring characters from the Academy X generation. Devised for an 'issue story' about gay teen suicide that was ultimately nixed by Marvel editorial, in the decades since â like many in his age cohort â he has struggled to find a consistent role in the franchise. Things are looking up for the character, however, with his new gig as a regular cast member in NYX, written by Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly as part of the From the Ashes linewide relaunch.The CEREBRO character file on Anole begins at 46:33.(Content Advisory: Victor's story includes homophobia. This episode also discusses a storyline about suicide that was planned but never published.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 8 November 2024
Hey there, Zalagang!Today I'm joined by beloved friend of the pod Spencer Ackerman for a very special bonus episode: a discussion of his new ongoing title Iron Man!The first arc of this new run picks up from Gerry Duggan's finale, following Tony Stark as he struggles to recover from a catastrophic injury â while also fending off a hostile takeover by the nefarious board of directors Feilong appointed in his absence. It features stunning art by Julius Ohta and a cavalcade of glamorous supervillainesses. I loved it.This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Iron Man #1, so please read the issue before listening.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 30 October 2024
Hey there, Zalagang!Today I'm joined by Marvel writer Murewa Ayodele (I Am Iron Man) to discuss his new title Storm, which debuts today as part of the From the Ashes relaunch!This new solo series follows Ororo Munroe as she attempts to establish herself as a local superheroine in Atlanta, Georgia, while juggling her obligations to both mutantkind and the Avengers. At the same time, she must assert herself responsibly as a global political figure after her time as Regent of Arakko.This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for Storm #1, so please read the issue before listening.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 2 October 2024
In Episode 115 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning fan favorite guest Sara Century double their fun(?) with Jeanne-Marie Beaubier, the audacious Aurora! Created by John Byrne and Chris Claremont, but primarily developed by Byrne, Aurora is the twin sister of her Alpha Flight teammate Northstar, from whom she was separated at birth. Unfortunately, her abusive upbringing in a cruel orphanage left her with a very soap opera-style split personality â and the endless struggle to integrate cold, prudish Jeanne-Marie and arrogant, irrepressible Aurora into a stable whole has dominated the character's stories over her long, often frustrating publication history.The CEREBRO character file on Aurora begins at 1:00:47.(Content Advisory: Jeanne-Marie's story includes child abuse including child sex abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence, attempted suicide, torture, and extreme ableism. This episode features frank discussion of exploitation cinema, including the rape-revenge horror/action subgenre. Aurora has a very distressing history. Please take care.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 1 October 2024
In Episode 114 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning fan favorite guest Spencer Ackerman live the life aquatic with Namor McKenzie, the studly Sub-Mariner! Created by Bill Everett in 1939, Namor is among Marvel's earliest characters, one of only a handful to be carried over from predecessor imprint Timely Comics. Arguably the first antihero in the superhero genre, the Sub-Mariner was reimagined in the Silver Age as a sometime foe of the Fantastic Four, a romantic complication for leading lady Sue Storm. In the 21st century, after many years of stories technically designating him as a mutant, Namor finally spent a stretch of time in the X-Men franchise in work by Matt Fraction and Kieron Gillen.The result here is a strange, undersea adventure for which Connor is not entirely prepared.First, though, a little chat about Spencer's new gig as the incoming writer of Iron Man!The CEREBRO character file on the Sub-Mariner begins at 1:15:06.(Content Advisory: Namor's story includes racism, colonialism, genocide, and sexual violence.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2024
Surprise!After some technical difficulties last year, last weekend for the third annual CEREBRO live show at FlameCon we did manage to pull the audio from the sound board. There are a few little hiccups, but overall I am really happy with the sound quality.Here is a quick six-minute teaser of the full live episode, which has a runtime of 1:16:26 and is now available on the CEREBRO Patreon at the House of Zaladane tier ($5/month).This year I was joined by friend of the pod Anthony Oliviera to talk about his new Marvel digital comic Avengers Academy, featuring the mutant character Escapade... and then generally tangent into other things, exactly as one might expect from me and Anthony Oliviera sitting on a stage together. At the halfway mark we pivot to a very fun Q&A segment.This performance was recorded on August 17th, 2024 at the Sheraton Times Square in Manhattan.Thanks to Tony for being my guest, to FlameCon for being my absolute favorite regional convention, and to everyone who attended the show. I wish the audience was more audible on the track! You were amazing. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 20 August 2024
Hey there, Zalagang!Today I'm joined by Marvel writers Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing to discuss their new title NYX, which debuts today as part of the From the Ashes relaunch! This new volume of NYX follows a cast of young mutants, including Kamala Khan, Sophie of the Stepford Cuckoos, David Alleyne, Victor Borkowski, and Laura Kinney, as they come to terms with the traumatic loss of Krakoa and try to find a new way forward in New York City. It's a lot of fun despite the heavy themes, and I really dug this first issue.This episode contains FULL SPOILERS for NYX #1, so please read the issue before listening.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 24 July 2024
In Episode 113 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Kieron Gillen meet their maker with the mutant messiah, Hope Summers! Created as an infant by Mike Carey and Chris Bachalo, then developed extensively by writer Duane Swierczynski, baby Hope was the first mutant somehow born after the Decimation eradicated the future potential of the x-gene, and her prophesied birth made her a target from her first breaths. Quickly orphaned in a massacre and spirited away to the future by her adoptive father Cable, Hope had a number of false starts on her long messianic journey, but finally achieved her cosmic purpose on Krakoa.This is also the afterparty for Kieron's remarkable second tenure on X-Men, and a salute to the First Krakoan Age.Kieron's new creator-owned book The Power Fantasy is coming soon from Image Comics, and the final order cutoff date for issue #1 is today, July 15th! Call your local comic shop and ask for it by name.The CEREBRO character file on Hope begins at 43:19.(Content Advisory: Hope's story includes genocide, suicide, and the mass murder of infants. You know. Messiah stuff.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2024
In Episode 112 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Alex Segura get down to business with Gloria Dolores Muñoz, the ravishing Risque! Created by Jeph Loeb and Luciano Lima in X-Force, Gloria is a half-Cuban half-Seminole mutant mercenary and thief from Miami, Florida, with the power to condense and implode inorganic matter. When she's assigned to target James "Jimmy" Proudstar, the X-Force member Warpath, Gloria finds herself falling in love with him despite her best efforts. After an unceremonious off-panel death in Grant Morrison's New X-Men a few years later, Risque returned in 2021 as part of Al Ewing and Valerio Schiti's S.W.O.R.D., where she played a major role in Krakoan galactic diplomacy.The CEREBRO character file on Risque begins at 49:54.(Content Advisory: Gloria's story includes racism and torture.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2024
In Episode 111 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Karen Charm (a.k.a Karen Czap) jump through the timestream with Eva Bell, the tragic Tempus! Created by Brian Michael Bendis, Stuart Immonen, and Chris Bachalo, Eva is one of the signature characters of the Bendis era of X-Men. After some time away from the spotlight, the character found new purpose on Krakoa as part of The Five, the mutant circuit responsible for enabling resurrection.The CEREBRO character file on Tempus begins at 48:31.(Content Advisory: Eva's story includes the loss of a child.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2024
In Episode 110 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Patrick Sullivan get the scoop with the tenacious Trish Tilby! Created by Louise Simonson and Butch Guice, hard-nosed news anchor Trish debuted in the 80s run of X-Factor as Hank McCoy's love interest. While that relationship didn't survive the turn of the millennium, Trish and her broadcasts have remained a fixture of the broader Marvel universe.In an unplanned and unexpected coup for this episode's timing, she recently had a memorable turn in the animated series X-Men '97.The CEREBRO character file on Trish Tilby begins at 1:55:16.(Content Advisory: Trish and her stories serve to represent the news media's treatment of marginalized people, which is discussed generally in this episode.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2024
In Episode 109 of CEREBRO, Connor and Marvel editor Annalise Bissa hunt the most dangerous game with the arrogant Arcade! Created by Chris Claremont and John Byrne, spoiled brat Arcade never really grew up, instead becoming a whimsical assassin and creating Murderworld, a grisly amusement park of death.The CEREBRO character file on Arcade begins at 58:02, after some hopefully soothing conversation about the new From the Ashes X-Men relaunch taking place this summer.This episode is dedicated to the memory of Steven Attewell, featured in Episode 97 on Sebastian Shaw, who recently died of cancer. Steven was an essential part of the CEREBRO community and wrote in wonderful questions for nearly every single episode, including this one.(Content Advisory: Arcade's story includes child abuse, domestic violence, and torture.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 13 April 2024
In the GALAXY-SIZE Episode 108 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Jordan Blok arm up for bird season with the marvelous Mam'selle Hepzibah! Created by Dave Cockrum and Chris Claremont, Hepzibah is the femme fatale of the Starjammers, the Shi'ar galaxy's most notorious space pirates and freedom fighters. An escaped slave who dedicated her life to rebellion against her former oppressors in the Imperium, Hepzibah is also the paramour of Corsair, Christopher Summers â long-lost father to Cyclops, Havok, and another guy it later turns out.Also, she's a skunk person. She's Cyclops's sexy skunk alien stepmother. This is Connor and Jordan's nine hour skunkstravaganza.This is Part Two! Start with Part One, or check out Patreon for the complete Extended Skunkery Mix.(Content Advisory: Hepzibah's story includes racism, slavery, genocide, sexual violence, torture, and a lot of other very heavy stuff.) Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2024
In the GALAXY-SIZE Episode 108 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Jordan Blok arm up for bird season with the marvelous Mam'selle Hepzibah! Created by Dave Cockrum and Chris Claremont, Hepzibah is the femme fatale of the Starjammers, the Shi'ar galaxy's most notorious space pirates and freedom fighters. An escaped slave who dedicated her life to rebellion against her former oppressors in the Imperium, Hepzibah is also the paramour of Corsair, Christopher Summers â long-lost father to Cyclops, Havok, and another guy it later turns out.Also, she's a skunk person. She's Cyclops's sexy skunk alien stepmother. This is Connor and Jordan's nine hour skunkstravaganza.The CEREBRO character file on Hepzibah begins at 1:36:46.This is Part One of Two. You can check out Patreon for the complete Extended Skunkery Mix.(Content Advisory: Hepzibah's story includes racism, slavery, genocide, sexual violence, torture, and a lot of other very heavy stuff.) Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2024
In Episode 107 of CEREBRO, Connor and Kat Driscoll offer up their tithes to the capricious Candra! Created by Howard Mackie and Lee Weeks, Candra of the Floating Spires is one of the Externals, part of a secret coterie of immortal mutants who have shaped world politics for hundreds of years. As the Benefactress of the Thieves' and Assassins' Guilds of New Orleans, Candra has been a notable foe to Gambit and Storm in particular.She's fun! She lives in a jewel.The CEREBRO character file on Candra begins at 1:52:05.(Content Advisory: Candra's story includes child abuse, and features the general bad vibes one might expect of a centuries-old French imperialist.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2024
Happy New Year, Zalagang!Today, for a special interview, Director Rand Hoppe and President Tom Kraft of the Jack Kirby Museum & Research Center join the show to talk about their new crowdfunding project at Zoop: a hardcover collection of Jack Kirby and Wally Wood's full-color Sunday strips for Sky Masters of the Space Force (with writer Dave Wood).A syndicated newspaper strip that launched in 1958, shortly after Sputnik 1 launched the space race in earnest, Sky Masters imagines the near future of the American space program.Regular CEREBRO programming will resume soon. In the meanwhile, you can support the podcast on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 8 January 2024
In Episode 106 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Alex Abad-Santos just want to be popular with Laurie Collins, the wilting Wallflower! Created by Nunzio DeFilippis, Christina Weir, and Keron Grant as one of the new students in the 2003 relaunch of New Mutants, which evolved into New X-Men: Academy X, Laurie is a shy and reserved teenage girl terrified of social contact because her mutant pheromones make her feel like a predator. An interesting arc takes shape as she develops more control over her powers, but sadly she's swiftly killed off when the writing team changes in 2005.But now, thanks to Krakoa, she's back!The CEREBRO character file on Wallflower begins at 49:15.(Content Advisory: Laurie's story hinges on the premise of sexual violence through mind control. This episode also discusses at length the student-teacher romance plot at the core of New Mutants vol. 2.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2023
In Episode 105 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Anthony Oliveira become huge and unstoppable with Cain Marko, the jealous Juggernaut! Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Cain is the elder stepbrother of Charles Xavier, empowered by an ancient occult artifact and bent on destruction. One of the most famous X-Men villains, over time Cain became a fairly reliable ally, particularly under the character's signature writer Fabian Nicieza. He won the fan vote for this year's X-Men roster before the tragedy at the Hellfire Gala that launched Fall of X.Cain is often teamed up with Black Tom Cassidy, whom many readers â and some writers, including Nicieza â have interpreted as his romantic partner, but to date this remains subtextual. This episode is very long, very silly, a little spicy, and features a weirdly lengthy tangent about Broadway legend Julie Taymor.The CEREBRO character file on Juggernaut begins at 3:22:45. (ÂŻ\_(ă)_/ÂŻ)(Content Advisory: Cain's story includes child abuse, including potential implications of sexual abuse.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 26 November 2023
In Episode 104 of CEREBRO, Connor and Oh Gosh, Oh Golly, Oh Wow! co-host Dr. Anna Peppard (Supersex: Sexuality, Fantasy, and the Superhero) walk the Winding Way with Amanda Sefton, the devil-may-care Daytripper! Created by Chris Claremont and Dave Cockrum in 1976 as a love interest for Nightcrawler, flight attendant Amanda was later revealed in a retcon to be a disguised figure from Kurt's past: his first love Jimaine, daughter and disciple of his foster mother, the powerful Romani sorceress Margali Szardos.Despite a lot of interest from Claremont, some time as a member of Excalibur in the 90s, and a moment in the spotlight as the second Magik following the death of Illyana Rasputina, winsome witch Amanda has never managed to stick around as a consistent starring player.Here is the longest conversation anyone has probably ever had about this character, in which Anna and Connor argue she should be a big deal.The CEREBRO character file on Daytripper begins at 2:48:53. (I know. I know.)(Content Advisory: Amanda's story includes racism and antiziganism, abusive parenting, torture, and a complex romantic relationship between foster siblings â which we get some people are just gonna find too weird!)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2023
Hey there, Zalagang!Today, for a special interview, Vice President and Creative Executive at Marvel Ryan Penagos joins the show to talk about the new fitness app Marvel Move, a collaboration between Marvel and Zombies, Run! developers Six To Start. Ryan was a major creative coordinator for this immersive game, which features an X-Men scenario, "Age of Orchis", written by friend of the pod Tini Howard.Regular episodes of CEREBRO will return soon! I'm in the middle of editing Amanda Sefton feat. Anna Peppard. It's a lengthy edit, because we went for... a while... but so far I'm very happy with it. Stay tuned!In the meanwhile: you can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2023
Hey there, Zalagang!You've likely noticed, but a combo of scheduling issues and personal life stuff has led to a brief production delay.The next regular episode of CEREBRO will be Amanda Sefton feat. Dr. Anna Peppard! It should be in your ears about two weeks from now. Trish Tilby feat. Patrick Sullivan will follow later in the month.In the meantime, there will be new bonus content releasing on Patreon â and I'm publicly releasing this past April's CEREBRO Appendix bonus episode on Gosamyr feat. Jordan Blok! It's a fun sample of the joy awaiting you for just $5 dollars a month in the House of Z.Thanks for your patience! More soon.An odd and brief addition to the classic New Mutants, the glamorous Gosamyr spins a wanton web of chaos. She's a very sexy baby, and this is a very silly episode.(Content Advisory: Gosamyr's story includes slavery, xenophobia, sexual violence, and allegorical reference to child sex abuse.)The CEREBRO Appendix is a bonus episode series spotlighting characters who do not have a full Zaladane of 12 appearances, or who never get the personal focus that would merit a full episode of CEREBRO. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 7 September 2023
Hey there, Zalagang!Today, returning guest Steve Foxe and I dig into his new title Dark X-Men, which debuted last week as part of the Fall of X event!This episode contains SPOILERS for Dark X-Men #1, so please read the issue before listening.This summer con season has been crazy, and I knew I wanted to have some bonus content to hold you all over between regular installments of the pod. I hope you enjoyed the episode with Gerry, and will enjoy this one with Steve â I'd love to incorporate more interviews like this into the world of CEREBRO as the show goes on.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 24 August 2023
Hi everyone! This morning, in a publicly-released CEREBRO Secret File, X-Men and Invincible Iron Man writer Gerry Duggan joins Connor for a postmortem on the cataclysmic events of this year's Hellfire Gala.This episode contains SPOILERS for the giant-size one-shot released today, as well as for the epilogue in Invincible Iron Man #8, so please read both issues before listening.(Content Advisory: A lot of upsetting stuff happens in this comic.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 26 July 2023
In Episode 103 of CEREBRO, Connor and Graymalkin Lane host Chad Anderson get lost in the woods with Calvin Rankin, the mercurial Mimic! Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby as an antagonist, arrogant power copier Cal briefly joined the X-Men in the 60s under writer Roy Thomas, but ultimately couldn't mesh with his classmates. Over the decades he's struggled to find a consistent role in the franchise, but his popularity was boosted a great deal by writer Judd Winick when the alternate Mimic of Earth-12 starred in the popular 2001 ongoing Exiles. In the years since, a few attempts have been made to bring Earth-616's Mimic to similar prominence, but none of them have really stuck. The CEREBRO character file on Mimic begins at 1:17:42.(Content Advisory: Cal's story includes suicidal ideation, ableism, and substance abuse.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 17 July 2023
In Episode 102 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Jordan Blok pay homage to Nekra, Priestess of Hate! Created by Steve Gerber and Ross Andru as a nemesis for jungle heroine Shanna the She-Devil, mutant radical Nekra Sinclair instead became a recurring threat to the broader Marvel Universe. After moving to the X-Men franchise during Matt Fraction's 21st century tenure, she has found new prominence (and new dignity) in the Krakoa Era as one of the protagonists of Victor LaValle and Leonard Kirk's Sabretooth and its sequel Sabretooth and the Exiles.The CEREBRO character file on Nekra begins at 1:53:10.(Content Advisory: This episode discusses some very racist stories. Nekra's story also includes sexual violence, brainwashing, and slavery.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2023
In Episode 101 of CEREBRO, the SEASON 4 PREMIERE, Connor and Head of X emeritus Jonathan Hickman extend a cautious hand to En Sabah Nur, the atrocious Apocalypse! Created by Louise Simonson, Walt Simonson, and Butch Guice as the central antagonist of 1986's X-Factor, the ancient immortal Apocalypse spent millennia worshiped by many names, secretly cultivating the mutant race.After decades of publication in which the heroes fought his seemingly inevitable ascent to power â particularly when he took on the role of franchise big bad in the 90s â the Krakoan Age changed everything, with the character revolutionized by Hickman and his collaborator Tini Howard.The CEREBRO character file on Apocalypse begins at 54:56.(Content Advisory: Apocalypse's story includes slavery, genocide, suicide, torture, brainwashing, and involuntary body modification.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2023
In the DOMINION-SIZE Episode 100 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Sara Century paint the town red with Madelyne Pryor, the glorious Goblin Queen! Created by Chris Claremont and Paul Smith, Maddie was introduced in 1983 as a new love interest for Scott Summers following the death of Jean Grey in 1980's The Dark Phoenix Saga. Intended by Claremont to facilitate Scott's happy ending and retirement from the X-Men, Maddie went in a dramatically different direction after editorial demanded Scott and Jean be reunited in 1986's X-Factor.Despite the titles (which are a nod to Inferno), this is Part 5 of 5. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2023
In the DOMINION-SIZE Episode 100 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Sara Century paint the town red with Madelyne Pryor, the glorious Goblin Queen! Created by Chris Claremont and Paul Smith, Maddie was introduced in 1983 as a new love interest for Scott Summers following the death of Jean Grey in 1980's The Dark Phoenix Saga. Intended by Claremont to facilitate Scott's happy ending and retirement from the X-Men, Maddie went in a dramatically different direction after editorial demanded Scott and Jean be reunited in 1986's X-Factor.Despite the titles (which are a nod to Inferno), this is Part 4 of 5. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2023
In the DOMINION-SIZE Episode 100 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Sara Century paint the town red with Madelyne Pryor, the glorious Goblin Queen! Created by Chris Claremont and Paul Smith, Maddie was introduced in 1983 as a new love interest for Scott Summers following the death of Jean Grey in 1980's The Dark Phoenix Saga. Intended by Claremont to facilitate Scott's happy ending and retirement from the X-Men, Maddie went in a dramatically different direction after editorial demanded Scott and Jean be reunited in 1986's X-Factor.Despite the titles (which are a nod to Inferno), this is Part 3 of 5. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2023
In the DOMINION-SIZE Episode 100 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Sara Century paint the town red with Madelyne Pryor, the glorious Goblin Queen! Created by Chris Claremont and Paul Smith, Maddie was introduced in 1983 as a new love interest for Scott Summers following the death of Jean Grey in 1980's The Dark Phoenix Saga. Intended by Claremont to facilitate Scott's happy ending and retirement from the X-Men, Maddie went in a dramatically different direction after editorial demanded Scott and Jean be reunited in 1986's X-Factor.Despite the titles (which are a nod to Inferno), this is Part 2 of 5. Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2023
In the DOMINION-SIZE Episode 100 of CEREBRO, Connor and fan favorite guest Sara Century paint the town red with Madelyne Pryor, the glorious Goblin Queen! Created by Chris Claremont and Paul Smith, Maddie was introduced in 1983 as a new love interest for Scott Summers following the death of Jean Grey in 1980's The Dark Phoenix Saga. Intended by Claremont to facilitate Scott's happy ending and retirement from the X-Men, Maddie went in a dramatically different direction after editorial demanded Scott and Jean be reunited in 1986's X-Factor.A talented and iron-willed pilot bearing an eerie resemblance to the late Jean, Maddie proves herself as a dynamic individual in her own right and becomes Cyclops's first wife, the mother of his son Nathan Christopher â only to be abandoned once Jean returns. Attacked by the Marauders, who steal her baby and leave her for dead, she becomes a loyal ally to Storm's team of X-Men, even sacrificing her life alongside them in Fall of the Mutants to become the Outback Era team's tech-savvy Girl Friday. Sadly, still wounded by Scott's betrayal, she proves susceptible to demonic influence and becomes the twisted Goblin Queen, avatar of Limbo, whose quest to reclaim her child sends all New York spiraling into a fiery Inferno.After her triumphant return in the Krakoan era in Hellions by Zeb Wells and Stephen Segovia, Maddie is set to star in Dark X-Men by Steve Foxe and Jonas Scharf, part of the upcoming event Fall of X.The CEREBRO character file on Madelyne Pryor begins at 2:28:58.(Content Advisory: Maddie's story includes torture, attempted infanticide, self-harm, suicide, and weird vibes with an alternate universe nephew. This episode discusses storylines featuring racism, slavery, and sexual violence.) Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2023
In Episode 99 of CEREBRO, Connor and living legend Chuck Austen (She-Ra, Steven Universe, The Draco) practice their bedside manner with the audacious Annie Ghazikhanian! The signature point-of-view character of the Austen run on Uncanny X-Men, Nurse Annie is prejudiced against mutants due to past trauma, but becomes the school nurse at Xavier's to help her mutant son Carter... and to follow her patient, Alex Summers, with whom she's unexpectedly fallen in love.The CEREBRO character file on Nurse Annie begins at 50:03.(Content Advisory: Annie's story includes domestic violence and an inadvisable nurse-patient romance. This episode also candidly discusses the Armenian genocide and the immediate aftermath of 9/11.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2023
Hi everyone!Some scheduling issues with the recording of Episode 99 will be delaying it a little while longer, so I wanted to provide a little extra content this week while I get that sorted.First published on June 16th, 2022, this is the first episode of the CEREBRO Claremont Marathon, a readalong series I do on the Patreon. I read each issue aloud with my best funny voices and provide commentary when I think something is of interest.This episode is a prelude: 1975's Giant-Size X-Men #1, which technically isn't a Claremont story, but features some of his plot input and begins the sixteen-year run! This issue was written by Len Wein, drawn by Dave Cockrum, colored by Glynis Wein (née Oliver), and lettered by John Costanza.If you like what you hear, please check out the rest of this series at for $5/month at patreon.com/cerebrocast! We're into the initial Phoenix Saga now.I do feel the need to preemptively apologize to German listeners; I have been practicing my Nightcrawler voice a lot since this first recording and I am told it is much improved!! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2023
To celebrate the launch of Betsy Braddock: Captain Britain #1 today, Tini Howard stops by CEREBRO for a page-by-page breakdown of this entire 30-page oversized issue! This is the dazzling debut of a new series AIPT says is "set to be the best part of your pull list every single month."Please make sure you pick up Betsy Braddock: Captain Britain #1 this week, and preorder #2 at your local comic shop! New books get extended based on early enthusiasm; the power is yours.This episode has SPOILERS for the whole issue, so you probably want to read it first.NOTE: Tini and I talk about attending a signing today at Arsenal Comics & Games in Ventura, California. Sadly this week's Marvel shipment to the shop got delayed, so the signing will be next Wednesday, March 1st. Come join us next week if you're in the area! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 22 February 2023
In Episode 98 of CEREBRO, Connor and Dr. Holly Raymond (Professor of English at Temple University) have their strings pulled by Jamie Braddock, the mercurial Monarch! Created by Chris Claremont and Herb Trimpe, Jamie is the famous racecar driver brother of aristocratic superhero twins Brian and Betsy. Originally a helpful supporting character in Captain Britain, Jamie shifted over time into an insane, reality-warping supervillain in Excalibur. After several failed attempts at rehabilitation over the years, the character became more prominent than ever before in the Krakoa era as the first mutant King of Avalon.The CEREBRO character file on Monarch begins at 1:47:44.(Content Advisory: Jamie's story includes human trafficking, sexual violence, slavery, classism, racism, ableism, torture, brainwashing, and involuntary body modification.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2023
In Episode 97 of CEREBRO, Connor and Dr. Steven Attewell, (Adjunct Professor of Public Policy at CUNY, writer of Race for the Iron Throne) get down to business with the unscrupulous Sebastian Shaw! Created by Chris Claremont and John Byrne, billionaire industrialist Shaw is best known as the Black King of the Hellfire Club, a political player who for many years concealed his own mutant status while manipulating the mutant struggle for profit. He now serves as part of the Quiet Council on Krakoa, working in tandem with the heroes he fought for so many years.The CEREBRO character file on the Black King begins at 1:37:33.(Content Advisory: Sebastian's story includes domestic violence, sexual violence, extreme misogyny, classism, and brainwashing.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2023
In Episode 96 of CEREBRO, Connor and DC/Marvel writer Josh Trujillo (Blue Beetle: Graduation Day, Wiccan and Hulkling) get creative with the formidable Forge! Created by Chris Claremont and John Romita, Jr., Cheyenne shaman Forge rejected his people to use his mutant power of invention in the service of the American government. After devising a power nullifier, Forge became one of Storm's most prominent love interests â and, at times, her enemy. He's currently a regular cast member in Gerry Duggan's X-Men.The CEREBRO character file on Forge begins at 1:42:17.(Content Advisory: Forge's story includes racism and severe mental illness.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2023
In Episode 95 of CEREBRO, Connor and Marvel writer/artist Jason Loo ring in the New Year with the jocular Jubilation Lee! Created by Chris Claremont and Marc Silvestri, teenage orphan Jubilee used her firework powers to become Wolverine's sidekick, a member of the X-Men, and then the anchor of the book Generation X. Wildly popular with younger readers in the 90s, the character has struggled to maintain her place in the franchise since her heyday, but her iconic status has prevented her from disappearing.The CEREBRO character file on Jubilee begins at 1:23:30.(Content Advisory: Jubilee's story includes racism, torture, and brainwashing.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2023
In Episode 94 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Nola Pfau test their luck with the lovable Longshot! Created by Ann Nocenti and Art Adams, Longshot is an amnesiac rebel slave from the Mojoverse, an alternate dimension derived from twisted interpretations of American film and television. After his solo miniseries concluded, he was brought to Uncanny X-Men, where he became Dazzler's love interest and a key player in the Outback Era.The CEREBRO character file on Longshot begins at 1:01:03.(Content Advisory: Longshot's story includes slavery, brainwashing, and torture.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 1 January 2023
In Episode 93 of CEREBRO, Connor and TTRPG writer/MENA scholar Khaldoun Khelil ascend to the astral plane with Amahl Farouk, the Shadow King! Introduced as the ultimate evil telepath, the Shadow King was steadily developed into the grand antagonist of the franchise until Chris Claremont's abrupt departure in 1991. After a few decades of haphazard publication, the character recently found unexpected new life in Vita Ayala and Rod Reis's run on New Mutants.The CEREBRO character file on the Shadow King begins at 37:38.(Content Advisory: Amahl's story includes racism, brainwashing, slavery, attempted suicide, and lots of other unpleasant things!)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2022
In Episode 92 of CEREBRO, Connor, journalist Eoin Higgins, and Connor's laryngitis toast to Thomas Cassidy, the bombastic Black Tom! The black sheep of Clan Cassidy and devoted partner of the Juggernaut, Tom has been a constant thorn in the side of his cousin Banshee. After decades as an antagonist, he has found new heroic purpose on Krakoa in Ben Percy's X-Force.The CEREBRO character file on Black Tom begins at 1:09:09.(Content Advisory: Tom's story includes implied homophobia, ableism, and ethnic prejudice. This episode discusses the Irish Troubles.)Thanks to Backblaze for sponsoring the pod this month.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2022
In Episode 91 of CEREBRO, Connor and aerospace engineer Kaetun Khlynne spotlight two related characters: Eden Fesi, the magnificent Manifold, and his mysterious mentor â the cleverman known only as Gateway!Aboriginal teleporter Gateway was an essential part of the 80s Outback Era during Chris Claremont's X-Men run, but his opaque nature meant he was always relegated to the role of supporting character. Jonathan Hickman and Stefano Caselli's creation Manifold carries on Gateway's legacy while being a more active and narratively central character, currently appearing in Caselli and Al Ewing's X-Men Red.The CEREBRO character file on Manifold & Gateway begins at 1:27:12.(Content Advisory: Eden and Gateway's stories include racism, colonialism, slavery, brainwashing, and genocide. This episode candidly discusses, from a survivor's perspective, the real world genocides in Australia and Rwanda.)You can aid in the ongoing struggle of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islanders by donating to ANTaR or one of the other charities described here. Kaetun also personally recommends this homeland preservation effort throughout Africa.You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 19 November 2022
In Episode 90 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Jordan Blok mourn for Melody Jacobs, the theatrical Threnody! Created by Fabian Nicieza and Richard Bennett, tragic Thren's mutation attunes her to death around the world, driving her dangerously insane. After a memorable arc in early 90s X-Men, she became Nate Grey's love interest in the ongoing series X-Man â until her cruel power dragged her into the darkness.The CEREBRO character file on Threnody begins at 1:56:35.(Content Advisory: Thren's story includes racism, ableism, body horror, traumatic pregnancy, and the murder of an infant.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2022
In Episode 89 of CEREBRO, Connor and Marvel writer Leah Williams (X-Factor, X-Men: The Trial of Magneto, X-Terminators) toast to Tabitha Smith, the bodacious Boom-Boom! Created by Jim Shooter and Al Milgrom, explosive street kid Tabby quickly became a mainstay of the X-Men franchise, most notably with a long run on X-Force in the 90s.The CEREBRO character file on Boom-Boom begins at 1:32:45.(Content Advisory: Tabitha's story includes child abuse, domestic violence, survival sex work, suicidal ideation, threats of sexual violence, and substance abuse.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2022
In Episode 88 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Spencer Ackerman (Reign of Terror, Waller vs. Wildstorm) combine their powers to roast Andrea and Andreas von Strucker, the foul Fenris! Created by Chris Claremont and John Romita, Jr., the remarkably evil Fenris twins are Nazi siblings who fuck each other. This one's dark!The CEREBRO character file on Fenris begins at 1:13:38.(Content Advisory: Andrea and Andreas are despicable, incestuous, violent racists. Do you have something you need to be warned about? It is probably discussed in this episode. Please be warned. Love you!)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon!Grateful to SkillShare for sponsoring the podcast this month. Visit skillshare.com/CEREBRO today to get your first month FREE! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 12 October 2022
In Episode 87 of CEREBRO, Connor and returning guest Luke Ruddick approach lightspeed with Pietro Maximoff, the questionable Quicksilver! Created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, Pietro and his twin sister Wanda were founding members of the Brotherhood of Evil Mutants but went on to become Avengers, rarely appearing in X-Men titles despite the discovery they were Magneto's long-lost biological children. In the 90s Pietro returned to the world of the X-Men as a member of the government X-Factor team, and continued to appear on-and-off in X-Factor titles until a 2015 retcon establishing Pietro and Wanda weren't Magneto's children after all. The CEREBRO character file on Quicksilver begins at 47:36.(Content Advisory: Pietro's story includes racism and antiziganism, the Holocaust/Porajmos, eugenics, brainwashing, child abuse, and substance abuse.)You can support CEREBRO on Patreon!Grateful to SkillShare for sponsoring the podcast this month. Visit skillshare.com/CEREBRO today to get your first month FREE! Our Sponsors: * Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/CEREBRO Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2022
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