Star Wars Escape Pod

Bogans Advocate #8 | The Last Jedi | Defending the Sequel Trilogy’s Boldest Risks?

Prepare for a chat about the most polarizing chapter of the sequel trilogy with the Star Wars Escape Pod’s "Bogan’s Advocate" session for The Last Jedi. In this episode, the crew tackles the subversion of expectations head-on, from the startling introduction of a disillusioned Luke Skywalker to the "no-twist" revelation of Rey’s parentage. While the crew marvels at the film's top-tier cinematography and striking use of red in the Snoke's throne room duel, they don't hold back on the pacing issues of some Canto Bight events or the introduction of new Force powers. It’s a balanced, high-energy discussion that explores whether Rian Johnson’s creative risks paid off or pushed the franchise too far off the predictable path. Don't forget about the ending of our podcast  as we close out with the wacky wildest chapter of Anakins lost diary we've ever seen!
 
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
Matt the artist at sketch to paint
https://sketchtopaint.com
 https://www.instagram.com/sketch_to_paint/
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Bogans Advocate #7 | The Force Awakens | Masterpiece or Nostalgia Trip?

Step into the Star Wars Escape Pod for a spirited, "Bogan’s Advocate" debate where fans take on the ultimate challenge: defending the parts of the Skywalker Saga they actually dislike. In this episode, the crew dives into The Force Awakens, grappling with whether it’s a brilliant, beautiful continuation of the franchise or a nostalgic "reboot" that plays it too safe. From praising Adam Driver’s intense performance as Ben Solo to critiquing the lightning-fast character shifts of Finn, no stone in the Jakku desert is left unturned... If there was any stones to begin with. It’s a hilarious and insightful mix of high-praise cinematography talk and honest fan frustration, perfect for anyone who has ever felt "empty inside" after a premiere—or just really loves a good Millennium Falcon skid. Don't forget to wait to the end for our next chapter of Anakins lost diary!
 
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
Matt the artist at sketch to paint
https://sketchtopaint.com
 https://www.instagram.com/sketch_to_paint/
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

The Acolyte Revisited | Was It Actually Genius?

In this episode of the Star Wars Escape Pod, Josh is joined by co-host Blake and friends Dan and Matt to revisit and re-evaluate the Disney+ series, The Acolyte. A year after the show's initial release, the crew provides fresh perspectives by reviewing the season through both release and chronological viewing orders. Dive deep into the series' technical execution, critiquing the "clunky" editing and forgettable musical score while praising the standout choreography of episode five. The team also explores the show’s controversial lore implications, including the appearance of Darth Plagueis, the origins of the Knights of Ren, and Vernestra Rwoh’s cover-up of the Jedi murders. Whether you're a fan of the High Republic era or a skeptic of the series' creative choices, tune in for a comprehensive breakdown of what worked, what failed, the missed opportunities of The Acolyte, and most importantly... was there underlying actually genius?
 
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
Matt the artist sketch to paint
https://sketchtopaint.com
 
https://www.instagram.com/sketch_to_paint/
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Bogans Advocate #6 | Return of the Jedi

In this episode of the Star Wars Escape Pod podcast, Josh and the crew dive into the "Bogan's Advocate" segment to take an honest, critical look at Return of the Jedi. A massive 85-foot Lego Venator project intrugues us this week, and a breakdown of the Mandalorian and Grogu Super Bowl teaser! The heart of our episode this week features a deep dive into fan-favorite controversies, including the "Yub Nub" versus "Celebration Finale" ending , Boba Fett’s unceremonious exit , and whether the deleted scene of Luke building his green lightsaber should have made the final cut. Whether you're a die-hard defender of Ewoks or a critic of the Special Editions, this episode covers the best and worst of the galaxy far, far away.
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5

Bogans Advocate #5 | The Empire Strikes Back | The Mandalorian & Grogu Trailer 2!

Welcome back! The "Mandalorian and Grogu" trailer has finally hit YouTube, and the crew is here to analyze every frame like a pack of hungry Jawas. After a year of waiting, the Razorcrest is back (with some snazzy new yellow accents!), and the hype is reaching lightspeed.
A Cinematic Cameo?: Is that legendary director Martin Scorsese we hear as an alien? We debate the surprising (and hilarious) possibility of this Hollywood titan joining the Star Wars universe.
Bogan's Advocate: The Empire Strikes Back: It’s time to tap into the Dark Side. We take on the impossible task of finding "nitpicks" in what many consider the greatest Star Wars film ever made.
The Wampa Debate: Why the original horror-inspired cut might be superior to the Special Edition.
That Infamous Kiss: Our crew weighs in on the Luke and Leia moment that aged... interestingly.
The Masterpiece: We celebrate the stop-motion magic of Phil Tippett and the timeless score that defines the saga.
 
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5Found on any platform in the galaxy!

Bogans Advocate #4 | A New Hope | Galactic Racer Gameplay Trailer | The Lost Diary of Darth Vader Continued!

Time to abandon ship! Welcome to the Star Wars Escape Pod, the podcast that crashes head-first into the galaxy’s biggest news and takes. Today we’re checking out the latest Galactic Racer gameplay trailer and more! Join hosts Josh, Blake, Kirk, Dan, and Darian for our signature 'Bogan’s Advocate' segment. It’s the show where we dare to criticize the masterpieces we love, even if it makes us feel like total liars. From debating the return of the legendary Ben Quadinaros to acting out chaotic, impromptu scripts from the 'old diary of Darth Vader,' we tackle the franchise with zero filter and maximum hype.We’re covering everything from the frustration of decade-long game delays to the pure joy of seeing a pit droid’s head kicked off. Grab a drink, get into the pod, and let’s make another happy landing
 
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5Found on any platform in the galaxy!

Bogans Advocate #3 | Revenge of the Sith | Force Collector Mini-Review

Welcome back to the Star Wars Escape Pod! In this installment of our "Bogan’s Advocate" series, we dive deep into the final chapter of the prequel trilogy: Revenge of the Sith. The rules of the game remain the same—we challenge our own perspectives by finding things to love in movies we might dislike, or offering "friendly criticism" of the films we absolutely adore.
Before we get into the main event, Blake shares a mini-review of his recent journey through Force Collector, a junior novel set shortly before The Force Awakens. We discuss the "campy" nature of junior fiction and debate the convenience of a main character whose psychometric abilities lead him to artifacts from the most pivotal moments in George Lucas’s films.
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5Found on any platform in the galaxy!
 

Steve Ellerhoff (Phd) Returns! (Special Guest) | A Deep Dive into Star Wars Mythology | #SWPD2026

Get ready to jump into the escape pod for a stellar celebration! In this high-energy episode of the Star Wars Escape Pod, hosts Josh, Blake, and Bryce ring in Star Wars Podcast Day 2026. Joining the crew is the brilliant Dr. Steve Ellerhoff, author of Jung and Star Wars: A Contemporary Mythology, who brings a wonderful perspective as we look at the mythology from a Jung lens. From the nostalgic "artifact" of old Star Wars Insider advertisements and the rising cost of lightsaber collectibles to a mind-bending analysis of Darth Vader as a "shadow figure" and his "golden" connection to C-3PO, this episode blends fan-fueled fun with profound insights. Whether you're here for the "another happy landing" vibes or a Master’s class in Jungian archetypes, this is an episode you won't want to abandon ship on!Stick around until the very end for a hilarious, non-scripted surprise that captures the true spirit of the Star Wars Escape Pod crew!Don't forget to check out those links at the bottom here!https://www.sgellerhoff.com/
SIGN UP FOR JUNG ARCHADEMY!Use Promo Code: JEDI2026https://www.jungarchademy.com/star-wars-2026Purchase Your Copy of Jung and Star Wars...!https://www.routledge.com/Jung-and-Star-Wars-A-Contemporary-Mythology/Ellerhoff/p/book/9781041033523Star Wars Podcast Dayhttps://x.com/StarWarsPodDay-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Check out the Star Wars Archives link in our description for a database of all 400+ episodes!
Orbitkey Disney CollectionAdd a sprinkle of Disney magic to your everyday carry.The Disney x Orbitkey Collection features fun, functional accessories inspired by Disney characters, designed to make staying organised feel like magic.https://www.orbitkey.com/pages/disney?srsltid=AfmBOorl0UJrj6Skr7fWecL5ZzpxJ6tt757WShCMY3XcCGsLaXPwzBUw
Kirk is on YouTube: @kirkmihelakos
https://www.youtube.com/designedbykirk
Darian is on YouTube: @TheManDarian
https://www.youtube.com/@TheManDarian
————————————————————————Star Wars Escape Pod
🖥️ Website: https://starwarspodcast.ca🐦 X: https://twitter.com/SWEscapePodcast🦋 B.Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/swescapepodcast.bsky.social📲 Swell: https://www.swellcast.com/swescapepodcast📧 Email us or voice messages to: swescapepodcast@gmail.com🗃️ Podcast Archives: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vRiF_icUbgNiufSItYBMLCdXc2dPtlQPHrNeDcEHmHS6z0yFduND-BLC_3czuY-YY6kpNtRM1uMppts/pubhtml
Folding At Home Team: ID: 1066882
Have you checked out our flashcast called Star Wars Launch Pad?https://www.youtube.com/@SWLaunchPad
https://open.spotify.com/show/1v0naAAJZMW0nig3OkFToJ?si=8014aef1647f4da5