The Secret Origins of Mint Condition: Comics, Movies, TV, Sports, Gaming and more

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoThis October 15th will mark the 75th anniversary of one the mostinfluential TV shows in the history of the medium--"I Love Lucy".  Created and produced by its two stars--Lucille Ball and DesiArnaz--this all-time great sitcom became an overnight success, andwent on to change the landscape of the fledgling TV medium. But moreimportantly, it brought unbridled laughter to millions of Americanhomes in the decade of the 1950's.The misadventures of Lucy Ricardo,and her often time reluctant sidekick Ethel, made families from coast tocoast howl with laughter week after week. The "screwball redhead" hadone goal in mind--to get into show business! Her adoring, andincredibly "patient" husband--band leader Ricky Ricardo--would tryhis darndest to thwarth her hair brained efforts. It was more than abattle of the sexes, but instead a full-out comedic war of witts.   Join you hosts James, Chris and Joe as they raucously recall theirfavorite scenes and episodes from this classic show. Lucy gettingsnockered as she rehearses a TV commercial, Lucy and Ethel stuffingchocolate bon bons in their mouths, blouses and hats, Lucy gettinginto a free-for-all in a wine vat, and Lucy singlehandedly putting astop to the Pacific Railroad. But Lucy was done, she takes ofHollywood and Europe and becomes the screwball scourge of twocontinents!   And how was all this comedy gold brought to the small screen? Itwas accomplished via the inventive genius of Desi Arnaz; rightfullyknown as the man who "invented" television. Together with his businesssavvy wife, he took the nascent medium to the next level ensuring thatTV was not just another passing fad.How did he do it? How did Desi andLucy have both CBS and the show's sponsor Philip Morris eating out oftheir hands? How did they purchase an entire studio while filming "ILove Lucy"? Amidst all the zanny insanity on screen, behind thecameras deals were brokered that would cement Lucy and Desi as THEpower couple in Hollywood.   But all the accomplishments that brought Lucy and Desi wealth andfame pale in comparison to the laughter and joy their antics (alongwith Fred and Ethel) have bestowed upon audiences the world over for75 glorious years. I think it's safe to say--WE ALL LOVE LUCY!

Show notes provided Joe PelusoOh the weather outside is frightful--and the snow outside sure as heck ain't delightful! So if you're tired of shoveling the white stuff, or trying to warm yourself by a nice fire, join your fellow snowbound hosts Keith and Joe as they give their "warm" comments on all thingscurrent in the pop culture (or is that popsicle culture?) universe.   From movies to TV, and comics old and new, the guys sleigh their way through a storm of good stuff that will scatter those winter blues. What's your favorite all-time comic book run? What are you looking forward to on the big and small screens in the CBM world? And what were some of the high (and yeah) low points of the "big twos" publishing decisions and initiatives?  It's all here, and then some, hopefully for your enjoyment on afrosty day. A word to the wise if you are going to venture outside:Make sure you're wearing your "bat-thermal" skivvies. Mr. Freeze could be lurking behind that snowbank in the front yard!

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoIn the late Summer of 1996 DC Comics decided to dim the lights byblowing out the Sun! A cosmic force known as The Sun-Eater (first seenway back in Adventure Comics #352 from November 1966!) came calling to snuff out all life on Earth! Chronicled in a weekly event, the storywas entitled "The Final Night".And it sure as heck would've been, ifnot for the timely, last minute intervention of a once great seminalhero who had recently gone rogue.  Join hosts James, Chris, and Joe as they "shed light on" (Sorry,Chris, you know--low-hanging fruit.) on a new DC event that taxedEarth's greatest heroes in a race to save the world from becoming apopsicle.All kidding aside, this fast-paced saga had major stakes,major tragedies, and major repercussions for the DCU.   Seven days to restart the sun, or all life on Earth perishes.Superman, cut off from solar rays, is weakening by the day. KyleRayner, Earth's only Green Lantern, chucks a "Hail Mary" like BretFarve into space to convince the one and only capable "entity"Parallax (Hal Jordan ) to save the Earth. Lex Luthor is brought in towork with Brainiac 5. And Batman, as usual, multitasks.   It's a fun event told in four issues, one special issue, and oneaftermath remembrance issue, with limited tie-ins, that doesn't breakthe banks of loyal DC fans. Also there are some "heavy" discussions onthe meaning of heroes and villains, and loss and redemption, that wethink you will find quite interesting. It's been thirty years sincethis story dropped. No alternate dimensions, maddening multiverses, ortime travel trickery, just a solid story of survival on both the grandand human scale.

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoA standing tradition in the comic book industry is the retelling ofthe origins of its iconic heroes.Superman got a new origin, and a newstart, by John Byrne in 1986's "Man of Steel".The amazing Spider-Manhad his origin retold numerous times whenever an anniversary issue hitthe stands, and The Batman's origin had been expanded upon from itsinitial two page intro in the Golden Age to full length issues, andeventually to a three part  mini-series written by Len Wein at the endof the Bronze Age. But it wasn't until the end of 1986, with issue#404-407 (cover dated Feb.1987-May 1987) that all the desperate piecesof the Dark Knight's mysterious origins came into four-color realityin "Batman: Year One" by Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli.   Join hosts James, Chris, and Joe as they plumb the secrets of TheBatcave to uncover the elements of creation that gave birth to thisnew "post Crisis " origin of the Dark Knight Detective.   How much control did editor Denny O'Neil (a legendary Batmanscribe) have over the production of these issues? What was it like forJames, Chris, and grizzled old comic book vet Joe, reading thisseminal, game changing work for the first time? Who is this upstarthonest cop Jim Gordon just recently transferred from the Chicago PD?And how important was this story to the inception of the Modern Age ofcomics?   If you're walking down the streets of Gotham and the sky blackenssuddenly, take cover! The Batman's calling-card may be coming for you!

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoSixty years this coming September the crew of the starship USSEnterprise (NCC-1701) took us on a trek to the stars --"to go where no one has gone before!". Its maiden voyage bowed on the NBC Network on September 8th, 1966. And the genre of science fiction would never be the same. One second season episode (a rare sci-fi comedy/adventure) would introduce to the loyal fans a tiny, furry creature that would cause havoc and hilarity for the captain and crew. What followed in the ensuing years was a growing fanbase that helped launch conventions, comic books, merchandise, an animated sequel, motion pictures and a philosophy of a hopeful future that permeated the culture.And if that wasn't enough, thirty years from that historicbeginning the crew of Deep Space 9 (the second Star Trek spinoff) ventured back to that OG Enterprise for a grand time travel adventure that reaffirmed once again those tiny, furry tribbles always cause Trouble and Tribulations.   Join your hosts, Starfleet Captains, James, Josh, John, and ensign Joe (He got reduced in rank for rigging the Enterprise bowling alley to record only strikes.) as they perform a full diagnostic on Star Trek's "The Trouble With Tribbles" and Star Trek DS9's "Trials and Tribulations".What follows is an hour of thoughtful examinations of--Oh who are we kidding?! It's a total "geekfest"! But amidst the guffaws there are cogent observations and a "storage bin" of Trek history.    If you enjoy StarTrek occasionally going off script, then this isthe episode for you. The guys had a blast recording this episode, and we think you'll have one when you listen. Just remember to keep those phasers on stun. When things get silly the lamp usually gets broken.Or in this world, the turbo lift gets stuck SIXTY YEARS OF STAR TREK! Remember to live long and prosper.

In this episode the SOMC crew looks back on their favorite childhood cartoons.

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoLISTS! Everyone has a list: for Santa, for birthdays, foranniversaries, and various and sundry occasions. So in the grandtradition of "list making" James, Chris, Keith, and Joe bring youtheir lists for the best pop culture stuff of 2025. 2025? Where are(as they predicted in the 1960's) the flying cars, moving sidewalks,and video-phones? Oh wait, yeah. Okay, so putting aside that a quarterof the 21st century has come and gone, what came about in the popculture universe in the last year of that quarter that made the bestlists of the Mint Crew?   Fasten your seat belts, run a full diagnostic on those inertialdampeners, and just plain hold on tight as an eclectic list of genregoodies comes flying fast and furious.The guys manage to unfurl amomentous manifest of movies, music, comics, TV shows, book, and games that will put a serious hole in your bank account if you indulge inall their recommendations.   From Absolute Flash and Dexter Resurrection, to "The House WithGood Bones" and del Toro's Frankenstein there is something foreveryone to choose from in this episode. And yes,this was a very goodyear for devotees of pop culture. Let's hope 2026 gives us moreawesome offerings to entertain and enlighten. And of course, to allthe MINT faithful: A HAPPY & HEALTHY NEW YEAR!

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoWhat is so special about the number 300? Well, throughout the history of Major League Baseball only 163 players have 300 or more homers in their respective careers.One of the pinnacles of Bowling is throwing a perfect game for a score of 300.Zack Synder made an epic semi historical film called "300".And lest we forget, Eddie Brock, AKA Venom, made his first fullappearance in Amazing Spider-Man #300.   And now to add to the annals of podcasting history, The SecretOrigins of Mnintcondition has reached that magic number!  Join your hosts, James, Josh, Patrick, Chris, and Joe as theycelebrate this milestone with another deep dive into one of popculture's most enduring and endearing epic adventures--"BACK TO THE FUTURE"!  With a "little" help from one of the most iconic automobiles incinema history, Marty McFly and Doc Brown take a wild trip through time, careening back to 1955, to save hearth and home--and possibly all reality!  The Mint Crew relive their experiences of seeing thissci-fi-/comedy/adventure for the first time, and pay tribute andreverence to its themes, cast, creatives, and its special place incinematic history. The three stars of this film, Michael J. Fox,Christopher Llyod, and the DeLorean Time Machine initiate a fun-filled "flux capacitor" fueled discussion amongst the guys.The guys may not be able to "generate 1.21 gigawatts to create a temporal rift", but they sure know to generate a cool podcast!  And speaking of podcasts, I know I speak for the entire Mint Crew when I give my heartfelt thanks to James for creating this podcast and keeping it on track to reach this landmark #300th EPISODE! Thanks,JAMES!

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoAmong the many joys of the Christmas season is the "gift" of giving. Huge amounts of money and time are expended to find just the right gift to bestow upon a treasured loved one. From Macy's Basement to Amazon's Home Page, the search for the perfect gift is launched. It can be a magical experience. But what if we were to extend that enchanting sojourn to include hunting down that prized bequest to a member of the pop culture universe? Well, this season four of Santa's helpers--James, Chris, Jack, and Joe--take up the honored challenge ofhunting down that special gift for some of their favorite pop culture icons.But instead of getting Wolverine a set of stainless steel carving knives, or Bruce Wayne a bottle of Laurent-Perrier: La Cuvee Champagne? Why not instead a book? And no, not a book on expensive cutlery or rare wines, but a volume that entertains, enlightens, and amuses.   We think the boys will surprise you with their literary picks--and to whom they would bestow them upon.So from Lex Luthor, to Jack Hughes, and from Nightwing to Miles O'Brien, sit back with you favorite holiday hot toddy, stoke the fireplace, and trim the tree, for it is once again the peaceful season of giving. Let the soft falling snow and the dulcet sounds of caroling on your front porch open your hearts to the season that heralds PEACE.   To all our loyal and faithful fans, let the promise of this specialseason fill your hearts and homes with joy and happiness.   FELIX NATALIS CHRISTI!

Star Trek Edition: Star Trek 2009

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoChris and Joe are back at the sports desk for a World Series wrap up, and an in season NHL report. Was this current MLB Championship the best hardball clash since 1975? Are the Rangers getting with the new program and showing signs of playing winning hockey? Will a spate of injuries to the Devils D-men derail an impressive start? And is phenom Matthew Schaefer of the Islanders the next NHL superstar?   In other sports (Yes,Virginia, there are sports besides Baseballand Hockey), Giants head coach Brian Dabool is shown the door at MetLife Stadium, the Knicks have a new coach in Mike Brown, the MLB GM meetings convene with trade rumors running rampant (Skubal to the Mets?!), the CBA running out at season's end, and the impending start of the PBA season are all discussed in detail by the guys.   Lace up the cleats, put on the pads, tighten that helmet strap, and get the heck out of the way of those high and inside hard ones! The Mint Sports Desk will continue to keep you informed.

Show notes provided by Joe Peluso It's that time of the year when the Mint Crew counts their blessings and gives thanks. This year James, Chris and Joe want to thank their favorite pop culture creators who have bestowed on each of them the gifts of awe, influence, thoughtfulness, and fun. From the realms of movies and TV, to comics and novels, music and sports, the guys list the things that fired their imaginations, and lifted their souls. Who were the novelists that brought Chris back to reading fiction? Who was the Spider-Man artist that wowed James with his unique and wild designs and layouts? And what 1960's baseball player cemented Joe's lifelong love affair with the sport?    I don't want to give away too much, because this is one of our"list" episodes that we hope will surprise--and entertain you. There's a few twists and turns, some philosophical musings, a heaping amount of adulation, and a fair amount of history.   So sit back and enjoy the interpretive introspections of themulti-talented individuals who for decades have propelled all of us into the vast playground we lovingly call the "pop culture universe".   Finally on this special day, please remember how much we love and appreciate you--our faithful Mint Condition friends.   Thank you. Live long and prosper.

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoWE DID IT!! Your "crisis crew" of James, Keith, Richie, and Joe havesuccessfully navigated the madness of the multiverse and completedtheir review of "Crisis on Infinite Earths".The twelve chapter event,that changed fifty years of DC Comics history, was the challengingassignment that the guys undertook to put their insightful spin on amonumental classic story. Worlds lived and died, new characters wereintroduced, while some old ones went away for a long time. Chaoticbattles, base betrayals, power, pathos, and peril all came to the forein a saga that left the comic book reading world stunned andsurprised.   While changes were made it wasn't a total housing cleaning, butmore of a cosmic rearranging of the furniture.The Monitor, The AntiMonitor, the new Dr. Light, Alexander Luthor, Harbinger and othersburst on the scene. But the stakes were so high that Barry Allen, KaraZor-El, Wonder Woman, and many others did not make it out alive. Magicmet super science, and super-heroics aligned with vile villainy all inan attempt to save creation across the multiverse. When the dust hadsettled, new heroes rose up to take on the mantles of beloved iconswho had perished. A troubled teen became a man to carry on his uncle'slegacy, and thus Wally West became The Flash. A new Earth had emergedfrom the cosmological chaos, but still a world in need of heroes. Whatfollowed shortly in DC's publishing line were a spate of new seriesthat delineated the landscape of this "brave new world".    But was everything now set in stone, were the pieces in all theright places? Those questions and more were tackled by your hosts, asthey (like the survivors of this "crisis") struggled a bit with thenew status quo. But when talented creatives like George Perez and MarvWolman are involved in epic storytelling, does it really matter if allthe toys don't make it back into one box?   If you have never read C.O.I.E., we sincerely hope our audaciousanalysis will spur you on to pick it up, and join us in the pleasureof reading the greatest comic book event of all time!

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoThe crew is back on board the bridge of the starship Enterprise.Captain James, Commanders Josh and John, and Lt. Joe are ready to run a full diagnostic on season three of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.With practiced Star Fleet precision they dissect the season recounting the highs and lows that Captain Pike and his crew experienced in theirten episode trek.    Did season three live up to the quality of seasons one and two?    What were the Mint Crew's favorite episodes?    Were there any clankers? Dunsels?    Too much comedy, fantasy, and magic?    Are ten episodes per season enough ground to explore thecharacters and settings in Strange New Worlds?    Can logic be "gifted" through pharmacology, or is it a "learned" trait?    What is the true mission of StarFleet?    Where is Science Fiction going in a world where technology may be outdistancing humanity?    What classic Star Trek characters do the crew want to see come aboard in season four?     And most importantly--Where is Joe's "western" episode?    All this, and a lot more, were discussed with clarity, commitment, and some comedic cleverness as the crew went where no podcast has gone before (Well, since the last Trek podcast episode.). So, come and join the command crew in the swanky new bar on NCC-1701, but be careful what you order. Remember, Romulan Ale is still illegal. Unless of course you find your way to Scotty's cabin.

We are coming out of the Halloween season with a classic back of the store chat. Making their first appearance on a Back of the Store Edition is podcast regular Josh Bernhard. The conversation starts of talking about the Mandalorian and Grogu trailer but evolves into a deep dive discussion about the current state of Star Wars, the future of the franchise and then turns into a talk about Star Trek. Much like being in the real back of the store back in the days, you never knew where you would end up.

Halloween 2025 is here and once again the SOMC crew is joined by our King of Halloween Patrick. After spending many years sharing the love they have for the classic Universal Monsters, the crew takes a turn and talks about the monsters of the 80's. Patrick is our guide through the horror/ slasher movie icons, telling us what makes them great and what movies any horror fan should check out. There will be a few tricks but lots of treats but in the end remember to have a Happy Halloween.

Show notes provided by Chris LaBancaHumans are social creatures. We band together for support and protection, especially in times of danger. That tendency to rely on one another is arguably one of our greatest strengths as a species! Unless, of course, there's something out there counting on us doing just that. Something that can rub, and fray, and tear at those bonds of humanity until none of us can trust any single person. Somehow, impossibly, including ourselves.Join the Secret Origins crew as we huddle together for warmth and safety in an Antarctic outpost, and discuss John Carpenter's The Thing. But we (and the sled dogs) are not the only living creatures out here in this arctic wasteland. And we probably don't have long. Because, especially here, 'man is the warmest place to hide.'

Welcome once again to the bayou where James, Joe, Chris and Josh are continuing to follow the path of Swamp Thing. This time they are diving into Vol. 2 of Alan Moore's 'The Saga of the Swamp Thing'. Where they discuss Swamp Thing putting Alec Holland to rest, going to Hell to save Abigail's soul, what Abby learns in 'The House of Secrets' and more.

Show Notes provided by Chris LaBancaWelcome, sports fans! It's Joe and Chris behind the sports desk again. And now that we're hitting our stride, we're going to aim to bring you a regular sports episode every two weeks, starting today. We've got plenty to discuss between the MLB playoffs and NHL puck drop, so come hang out with us for a little while! As the divisional round of MLB playoffs is in full swing, it'll be no surprise that we start there. But it's not long before we start talking hockey - men's hockey, women's hockey, California hockey, and Florida hockey....we're all over the place today! But luckily, we've got a couple of time stamps to help guide your way if you want to hop, skip, and jump around at your own pace. Enjoy!00:00 Introduction02:00 Yankees talk - the series with Toronto, and what can the Yanks do to improve moving forward?11:30 Mets talk - coaches have been fired; who will replace them?23:30 General hockey talk32:00 PWHL40:00 San Jose Sharks deep dive1:13:40 Tampa Bay Lightning deep dive1:37:15 Wrap-up

Show notes provided by Joe PelusoWith back to back Stanley Cups under their belts, Chris and Joepreview the 2025/2026 Florida Panthers upcoming NHL season. Employing lethal legerdemain in the front office, the brain thrust of the Panthers brought back to the ice almost everyone to make a rush at a "three peat"  With his usual unerring stick to puck skills, Chris lays out the most important factors that could make a third straight Cup possible for the Florida fans.But will season ending surgery to centre Aleksander Barkov, and a lingering injury to forward MatthewTkachuk derail their best laid plans? Or can the Panthers "skate"through the early part of the season, licking their wounds, and then strike feline-like at the rest of the league? The hockey world will be watching. Because not since the halcyon days of the New York Islanders has any team won three straight Cups.   It should be an interesting and wild season.