The Ringer-Verse
The Ringer
The Ringer-Verse is your go-to nexus podcast feed for all things nerd culture and fandom, featuring:'The Midnight Boys': Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman react to the latest in fandom and share their instant reactions to the newest nerd culture releases, all while bringing the banter every week.'Mint Edition': Steve, Jomi, and Jessica Clemons gather every other week to share their unique takes on the movies and shows that are animating the fandom.'Button Mash': Ben Lindbergh and Jessica discuss the latest in the world of video games, from headline-making new releases, to industry trends, to game swaps and nostalgic re-plays.'Splash Page': Jessica breaks down the latest Easter eggs and theories from all of your favorite content. Not sure if that was a Mephisto reference in the latest 'Loki' episode? Wondering what exactly that post-credits scene means? Eager to know how a new trailer sets up your most anticipated release of the season? Jessica will answer all of those questions and more in her video podcasts.Follow the new House of R feed for deep dives from Mal and Jo!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 10, 2026 • 1h 14min
’The Boys’ Season 5 Premiere Reactions | The Midnight Boys
They break down the Season 5 premiere’s biggest moments, from shocking character exits to Homelander’s dangerous instability. The panel debates tone, satire versus grounded character work, and whether supporting arcs feel rushed. They also react to The Punisher: One Last Kill trailer and argue for one-off superhero projects as creative breathing room.
8 snips
Apr 4, 2026 • 1h 54min
’The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
Rob Mahoney, writer and commentator at The Ringer, drops in with quick takes on movies, animation, and nerd culture. They react to The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’s spectacle versus storytelling, debate Bowser, Star Fox and casting choices, and riff on nostalgia, merchandise and pacing. The conversation closes with trailer takes on Supergirl and a long Star Wars lore debate.
Apr 1, 2026 • 1h 23min
Is ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ More Than a Moneymaker? | Button Mash
Charles Pulliam-Moore, film and TV writer at The Verge, breaks down The Super Mario Galaxy movie and Nintendo’s cautious film strategy. They compare the sequel to the first film, debate adapting minimal-story games for cinema, and catalog cameos, pacing, and visual craft. Conversation also touches on Nintendo’s long-game approach, crossover prospects, and how these films tie into hardware and game plans.
Apr 1, 2026 • 1h 27min
Ringer-Verse Recommends: March 2026 (Featuring ‘Paradise')
Van Lathan, commentator and Ringer co-host known for sharp cultural criticism, joins to rave about the TV series Paradise. He and Ben unpack what hooked them, Sterling K. Brown’s emotional anchor, and how season two expands beyond the bunker. They debate Annie’s role, the show’s tonal shifts toward sci-fi, and whether the finale’s mechanics hold up. Plus lightning-round recommendations from the crew.
8 snips
Mar 25, 2026 • 1h 25min
'Daredevil: Born Again' Season 2 Premiere Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
They unpack the Season 2 premiere’s pacing and narrative choices in short, frank takes. They debate Fisk’s mayoral turn and whether it weakens his menace. They compare this Disney+ Daredevil to the Netflix version and argue about tone and stakes. They weigh costume and action design, Bullseye’s late-game impact, and which side characters should be trimmed for focus.
22 snips
Mar 20, 2026 • 1h 34min
‘Project Hail Mary’ Instant Reactions | The Midnight Boys
They dig into the film’s plot setup, science-driven problem solving, and the one-way mission premise. Conversation centers on Ryan Gosling’s performance and the emotional bond with an alien character. They debate adaptation choices, directorial tone, and the film’s pacing and IMAX impact. A lively detour covers space food and playful speculation about astrophage and geopolitics.
Mar 19, 2026 • 1h 37min
‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ and ‘Dune: Part Three’ Trailer Reactions! | The Midnight Boys
They react to the new Spider-Man trailer, debating cameos, Peter’s emotional state, and hints about mutations and organic webbing. They unpack the Dune: Part Three trailer, casting surprises, and Villeneuve’s tonal shift. They also argue about adaptation choices, Paul’s arc, awards potential, and which trailer will matter most in 2026.
Mar 18, 2026 • 1h 31min
‘Crimson Desert’ Is Like Everything Else and Nothing Else | Button Mash
Steve Ahlman, senior audio producer known for candid, critical takes on design and onboarding. Matt James, deputy art lead with deep hands-on playtesting insight. They debate Crimson Desert’s mystery, ambition, and visuals. They call out onboarding and UI friction. They compare influences, performance and platform concerns, and trade tips for easing the early hours.
Mar 14, 2026 • 1h 34min
The 2026 Versies Awards | House of Midnight
A playful awards rundown celebrating standout visuals, unforgettable one-liners, and the most talked-about characters of 2025. They award shocking ties, sweep victories in directing and showrunning, and spotlight breakout new characters and music. Expect lively debate, fan picks, and reactions to the year’s biggest movie and TV moments.
Mar 12, 2026 • 1h 40min
‘Sinners’ Recast and ‘Lanterns’ Trailer Reactions | The Midnight Boys
They react to the new HBO Green Lanterns trailer and debate its noir tone versus comic spectacle. They analyze casting and performances, and compare the trailer’s vibe to prestige TV like Watchmen. Then they run a white recast exercise for Sinners, picking directors, locations, budgets, and star-driven casting choices. The conversation also touches on cultural appropriation and industry realism.
