We're back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we're talking about Sonic the Hedgehog Vol. 1! Our host this week is Adam Samtur!

Find Adam at: tabletop-now.com

Support us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia

Edited by Case Aiken

Scored by Bret Eagleston

Additional Music: "The Medieval Banquet" by Shane Ivers – https://www.silvermansound.com

Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4

FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia

This section outlines the key discussions and events from the meeting focusing on the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise and its evolution.

• Sonic's Cultural Impact (00:00)

  • Sonic the Hedgehog was launched on June 23, 1991, and became an instant cultural icon, comparable to Mario.
  • The character represented 90s culture with themes of speed and coolness, appealing to a generation of gamers and fans.
  • Sonic's popularity led to a surge in merchandise and a broader fanbase beyond just gaming.
  • Notable events include the 1992 Thanksgiving Parade incident, where Sonic's balloon caused injuries, yet his popularity continued to rise.

• Archie Comics Licensing (01:22)

  • In fall 1992, Archie Comics secured a licensing deal with Sega to create the Sonic comic series, following the UK's initial comic.
  • The first American Sonic comic was released on November 22, 1992, coinciding with the speaker's birthday.
  • Initial comic issues had various production errors, including miscolorations and incorrect character names, due to limited information from Sega.
  • The transition to more mature themes in the comics mirrored the audience's growth, with new writers enhancing story arcs and artwork quality.

• Personal Journey with Sonic (04:05)

  • The speaker began collecting Sonic comics after receiving their first issue as a birthday gift, leading to a complete collection by 2016.
  • By that time, the Archie Sonic series became the longest-running comic based on a video game, with 290 main series issues.
  • The series was canceled in December 2016 due to legal issues and mismanagement, ending a 25-year run.

• Transition to IDW Publishing (08:15)

  • Following the cancellation, Sonic switched to IDW Publishing in April 2018, with Ian Flynn continuing as the main writer.
  • The new series has successfully created unique characters and storylines, maintaining a strong presence in the market with 125 issues published.
  • Despite past controversies, the franchise continues to thrive, showcasing adaptability to changing audience and market demands.

We're back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we're talking about Zenith, Book One: Tygers! Our host this week is Jay McKiernan!

Support us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia

Edited by Case Aiken

Scored by Bret Eagleston

Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4

FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia

This section provides a structured outline of the key topics discussed during the meeting.

• Introduction to Zenith (00:00)

  • Overview of Zenith as a unique superhero character created by Grant Morrison.
  • Discussion of the character's background and his role as a pop star rather than a typical superhero.
  • Establishment of the 80s superhero context and Morrison's impact.

• Character Analysis (01:19)

  • Exploration of Zenith's personality traits: apathetic, self-serving, and cowardly.
  • Introduction of supporting characters from the 60s supergroup Cloud 9, such as Voltage and Red Dragon.
  • Mention of the antagonist, the Many Angled Ones, and their threat to Earth.

• Story Structure and Phases (02:37)

  • Breakdown of the story into three phases, starting with Phase One.
  • Overview of the multiverse concept introduced by Morrison and its significance in superhero narratives.
  • Recognition of the Eagle Award for the story as a validation of its quality.

• Artistic Contributions (05:16)

  • Praise for Steve Yeowell's artwork, highlighting its expressive and detailed nature.
  • Discussion of Yeowell's limited exposure in North America compared to his work in 2000 AD.
  • Identification of future reading interests based on the podcast discussion.

We're back with another episode of Trade School! This time, we're talking about Wayward! Our host this week is Keith Lehtinen!

Support us on Patreon! https://patreon.com/CertainPOVMedia

Edited by Case Aiken

Scored by Bret Eagleston

Certain Point Of View is a podcast network brining you all sorts of nerdy goodness! From Star Wars role playing, to Disney day dreaming, to video game love, we've got the show for you! Learn more on our website: https://www.certainpov.com

Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/wcHHer4

FOLLOW US: ▶ Instagram: @certainpovmedia

• Introduction to Certain Point of View's Trade School & Episode Overview (00:00 - 01:13)
• Keith Letzinen introduces the podcast concept where hosts discuss beloved comic book trade paperbacks.
• This talk about Wayward will be unscripted and personal.
• Introduction to Wayward and Creators (01:13 - 01:50)
• Keith introduces the comic Wayward from Image Comics.
• He shares his background as a Marvel and Vertigo reader and how this book stood out to him.
• Personal Context and Interview Experience with Jim Zub (01:50 - 02:38)
• Keith describes interviewing Jim Zub years ago.
• He was captivated by Wayward despite it not being the interview focus.
• Japanese Cultural Elements and Essay by Zach Davison (02:38 - 04:06)
• Keith praises an essay by Zach Davison included in the trade paperback.
• It aligns with Zach's expertise and passion for Japanese culture.
• Plot and Character Overview of Wayward (04:06 - 05:37)
• The story centers on Rory, a half-Irish, half-Japanese girl moving to Japan.
• Keith expresses a deep affection for Rory as a character.
• Artistic Authenticity and Personal Japan Experience (05:37 - 07:09)
• Keith appreciates how artist Stephen Cummings captured authentic Japanese scenery.
• He shares his personal trip to Japan and how this resonance deepened his connection to the comic.
• Character Introductions and Relationships (07:09 - 08:43)
• Keith highlights key characters Rory interacts with: Ayane the cat girl, Shirai the dreamy but goofy boy, Nikaido the sweet and soft boy.
• He admires character dynamics and the culturally-infused monster designs.
• Challenges in Recommending the Book & Praise for Its Impact (08:43 - 10:16)
• Keith admits he's hesitant to recommend Wayward due to his intense personal connection.
• He describes purchasing many variants and holding hope for a TV adaptation and board game.
• Encouragement to Read & Community Engagement (10:16 - 10:42)
• Keith strongly recommends Wayward (30 issues) to fans of anime and school stories.
• He invites listeners to connect with him via social media and the Certain POV Discord.
• Upcoming Shows and Call for Show Naming Suggestions (10:42 - 11:41)
• Keith and Josue discuss reviewing many new comics from various publishers.
• They express the need for a catchy, punny name for their comic review show.