Episode 57 - The Ol' Sniff n' Squirt.

     
      Well, this will be the last episode of Turtle Soup released in 2013. Realizing this, I went back to see where we were in the journey at this one long year ago. The last episode of 2012 was a two-fer releasing Episodes 6 and 7, as well as premiering the Joe Martin designed Turtle Soup soup can logo. That seems like ages ago, doesn't it?

      In the last year we have released exactly 50 episodes of the show, tearing through 3 seasons of the 1987 Animated Series, dozens of action figures, scores of comics, and 4 years of time in the history of the TMNT. At this rate of covering 4 years in past time for every year we continue the journey, we should catch up in.... something like 7 years. Things aren't constant, however. the gap between the tapering off the TMNT popularity in the mid to late 90's and the start of the 2000's renaissance should speed things up considerably. Either way. We'll be at this a while.

      I guess that brings me to my main point here: thank you. Thanks for listening, emailing, facebooking, tweeting, suggesting the show to your friends, keeping the faith, dealing with our language, dealing with our stupidity, dealing with Danny, and everything else. When we decided to take this thing on more than a year ago, we were hoping we would meet awesome people along the way, and we certainly have. We always are striving the to make the show funnier, more relaxing, more detailed, more ridiculous, and, of course, more deserving of your excellent listenership.

      On this episode of Turtle Soup, we make a triumphant (and weary) return to cartoons by covering  Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Episodes 1 and 2. Also discussed is the strange tale of the TMNT Vacation in Europe, saucy details of the Crimmus past, and a Dems Da' Rules on impersonating the dead.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 57 - The Ol' Sniff n' Squirt.

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Episodes 3 and 4.

Episode 56 - I Hate Music!

    

      On this iconic episode of Turtle Soup, we cover everything Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Coming Out of Their Shells Tour, including the Coming Out of their Shells show, Soundtrack, and Making of Documentary. You'll probably hate music, too. Also discussed is Eric's recent Pokemon addiction, Christmas tree dumpster diving, and motivating children to use the potty... Turtles Style!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 56 - I Hate Music! 

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series, Season 4, Episodes 1 and 2?!

Episode 55 - 21st Century Wizard Warrior

   
     The subject matter for this episode is something near and dear to my heart. My memories of Fall of the Foot Clan lie deeply rooted in my nostalgia. As I played the game for the show, all of the memories came roaring back. Being in the Appalachian Mountains, fighting car sickness, having to jump from vehicle to vehicle and bring down the maniacal Baxter Stockman. Lazy afternoons spent not doing chores, getting super hyped for the bonus game where you pit your turtle against Krang to see who is left with that lone throwing star. That's the amazing thing about going back in your adulthood and re-living the things that fascinated you as a child. The schema is already in your head. You just have to take a second to open the door and all of those excellent memories come flowing through. Well enough about me. Prepare yourself to warp back to a day when gas was well under a dollar and Nickelodeon truly was all you needed...      

      Joined by our venerable video game expert Dr. Joe Martin, we delve into the portable gaming phenomenon with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Fall of the Foot Clan for Nintendo's revolutionary GAMEBOY! We also get the (perhaps) final votes for TMNT movie pitch contest, drop some knowledge about quality soap, and find out what's in the ball pit!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 55 - 21st Century Wizard Warrior

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Coming Out of Their Shells EXTRAVAGANZA! 

Episode 54 - FOR CHICO MENDEZ!!!

      Instead of a lengthy post this week, I think I'm just gonna share this:

http://www.realmofdarkness.net/pc/sb/music/dlr/2  

      That's right. That's David Lee Roth's iconic vocal from Van Halen's 'Running With the Devil' broken out into handy, bite sized chunks that can be triggered at will. It's might not be what society wants, but it's most certainly what society needs. Enjoy!     

      On this episode of Turtle Soup, we take another step on the path to full TMNT enlightenment by reviewing Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 33, the Playmates Figures (1990) Wacky Weapons and Vehicles, Pizza Power Vehicles, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #14. Also, the votes begin to roll in for our perfect TMNT film contest, we talk about a possible Vanilla Ice / TMNT reunion, hear shocking tales of Eric's 24-hour Black Friday sojourn, and break out Dem's Da Rules: Thrifting Figures.


DOWNLOAD: Episode 54 - FOR CHICO MENDEZ!!!

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Fall of the Foot Clan (GAMEBOY, 1990) featuring Dr. Joe Martin!

Episode 53 - Bode-cious Babes, Sun!

     Hello, again. As this episode launches, you will be hearing Eric's perfect Turtle film pitch, which is the second part of our two part contest. Having heard a pitch from each of your intrepid hosts, now it's up to you guys to listen to each pitch and vote for your favorite. What's in it for us, you might ask? Bragging rights are the sole prize for the victor here, but that alone is a pretty heavy win. Eric and I are always looking for the edge in the ongoing journey to make fun of each other, so this may just be a valuable weapon in a future debate. If you would like to review both pitches, you can find mine at 1:21:00 into Episode 52 and Eric's at 1:07:30 of Episode 53. You can place your vote at turtlesoupshow@gmail.com or on the Facebook group. Thanks! Now let's get to that TURTLE ACTION!

     On this episode of Turtle Soup, we review Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol. 1, Book 32 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures, Vol. 1, #12 and #13. Also included this week is some Old Drink about the fate of TMNT: Out of the Shadows for PS3, a hands on review of Playmates new Bee Bop and Rocksteady Classic figures, Eric's perfect Turtles movie pitch, and some tactical deal grabbing methods in Dem Da Rules: Black Friday.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 53 - Bode-cious Babes, Sun!

Next Week: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol. 1, Book 33, the 1990 Playmates Figures (Wacky Weapons and Vehicles, Pizza Power Vehicles), and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures, Vol. 1, #14.

Episode 52 - Squigglin' Wigglin'

      Hello. For the general well being of my sanity (and the general well being of you, our valued listener), I feel I must share with you one of the scariest, most terrifyingly uncanny things I have witnessed during my run on Turtle Soup. While reviewing the Playmates "Wacky Action Figures" from 1990 on Episode 52, it was my task to handle the review of one "Creepy Crawlin' Splinter". Immediately upon pulling up the image of our teen's furry father I was profoundly shocked by what I witnessed:

      For those familiar with horrible 80's action movies, the terror may already being sinking into your brain and heart as it did mine that fateful Friday evening. I had watched Commando just earlier that day, as it is one of my favorite of the genre. This made the feeling of nauseous shock even worse, for it felt that I had just left the world of John Matrix and his evil counterpart Bennet. Yet, when I saw this dreadful figure all my withering mind could see was:

       

      It was Bennet. In rat form. Staring at me through time; invading the sanctity of my journey. Try as I might, my brain could not turn from the sickening thought. Bennet?

      Did they actually design, sculpt, and release a figure of Master Splinter modeled after you, Bennet?! 

      I mean, Commando came out in 1985. It's been 5 years, Bennet. Is THAT the breadth of your cultural impact? 5 years later and they make this?!

      Commando was no slouch at the box office, Bennet, I understand that. $57 million gross on an R-rated action flick. Easily five times your budget. Made a lot of dudes happy. But Creepy Crawlin' Splinter?! Why?!

      All due respect, sir, but you're a pretty rough dude in Commando. You collude with terrorists and kidnap your ex-war buddie's little girl. She's in your care for an hour and she already has a bloody lip and sits weeping softly in the corner while you sharpen your knife. What did you do to her, man? LIKE, WHY THE HELL IS SHE CRYING THAT MUCH, BENNET?!

      My eyes, heavy with dread, slowly make their way to Creepy Crawlin' Splinter's accessories. Tail Mace... okay. Sewer Searchlight and Radar... useful, I guess. Rat Lantern... I could see Splinter actually using that. Ninja Knife... NINJA KNIFE?! Since when the hell has Splinter EVER used a knife. EVER?! Oh, that's right. NOT UNTIL HE WAS MODELED AFTER YOU, BENNET! AND WE KNOW HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT KNIVES, DUDE! HELL, YOU ALL BUT CREAMED YOUR RIDICULOUS, DIRTY, BLACK CARGO PANTS WHEN JOHN OFFERED UP A LITTLE KNIFE ACTION!

      I MEAN, DID THE CONVERSATION SOUND LIKE "MORNIN', RALPH. EVER SEEN COMMANDO? NICE! I LOVE COMMANDO AS WELL! ANYWAYS, BACK TO WORK DESIGNING CONCEPTS FOR CREEPY CRAWLIN' SPLINTER... WAIT, I GOT A FUCKING AWESOME IDEA! LET'S MAKE HIM LOOK LIKE FUCKING BENNET! YEAH, THE GUY WHO HAS A HARD-ON FOR KNIVES AND BEATING / MOLESTING LITTLE GIRLS! IMMA BUY EVERYONE LUNCH!"

      Whew... man. I can still feel the greasy dread on my mind. Anyways, thanks for allowing me to let off some steam about this whole thing, guys.

     

      On this heaping sized episode of Turtle Soup, we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 31, the 1990 Playmates Figures (Basic Assortment and Wacky Action Figures), and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #11. Also, we reveal BIG NEWS FOR THE SHOW, Ryan reviews 4 movies in 4ish minutes, we tackle

the first in a two-part TMNT casting call contest, and stir up some drama with a rival podcast!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 52 - Squigglin' Wigglin'

Next Week:  Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 32 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #12 and #13!

Episode 51 - Spin That Wheel!

      On this episode, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture  Mirage Comic Adaptation (B&W and Color) as well as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack from SBK Records. Other topics discussed include our first impressions of the Nickelodeon interpretation of Casey Jones from the new animated series, a super eerie and sad discovery Ryan made, and premier two new revolving segments on the show: Sleeping on the TV and Dems Da Rules.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 51 - Spin That Wheel 

Next Week: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 30, Playmates Figures 1990 (Basic Assortment and Wacky Action Figures), and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #10!

Episode 50 - Something... From the Past...

     
      On this amazing EPISODE 50 OF TURTLE SOUP, we celebrate with some in-studio guests and cover a huge moment in the franchise,Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture!Given the calamity involved, off shell topics include Ghostbusters, Future Internet Files, and beyond. Thanks so much for listening, guys! Here's to 50 more!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 50 - Something... From the Past...

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Mirage Comic Adaptation and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

Episode 49 - "I Long to Suck the Sweet Flesh!"

      On this week's episode, we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 30 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #10. Also discussed: some neat news from New York ComicCon, how sad it is that Eric doesn't know what Corned Beef Hash is, details of Eric and Ryan's really sweet sleep over, and yet another late night scare in the Guy household!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 49 - "I Long to Suck the Sweet Flesh!"

Next Week: EPISODE 50! We cover Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Original Motion Picture with in-studio guests!

Episode 48 - Paper Plate Pandemonium!

      In this installment of the journey, we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 29 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #9. As is the norm, we go off shell and also investigate the nature of Ryan's criticism of film (especially concerning the Marvel film franchise), news out of PowerCon concerning some Turtle figures, and tackle some particularly interesting emails.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 48 - Paper Plate Pandemonium

Next Week: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 30 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #10.

Episode 47 - Black Curtain Embrace

This week, we make a long awaited return to comics with Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 28 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #8. Also thrown in the mix is griping about the extended delay of Out of the Shadows for PS3, the reveal of why exactly we intentionally mispronounce things, GTA V, and an unexpected, totally unwanted guest visits the show... again.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 47 - Black Curtain Embrace

Next Week: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, Book 29 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #9.

Episode 46 - THE BOUNTY BOYS ARE HERE!!!

On this episode, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Arcade Game (NES) from 1989. As usual, we also browse the subjects of how Michael Rooker stole our friends Ghostbusters Powerpack, check back in with the IDW TMNT ongoing, and an encounter with a lonely nerd in Plant City.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 46 - THE BOUNTY BOYS ARE HERE!!!

Next Week: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. I, Book 28 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #8!

Episode 45 - Faster, Babe! Feel the BURN!!!

      Hot damn! On this episode of Turtle Soup, we FINALLY conclude our coverage of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3,by reviewing episodes 45 - 47! We also touch on our obsession with the Japanese Zyuranger theme song, talk about the optimal 5th turtle, review our trip to TampaCon (and it's first time at the Tampa Bay Convention Center), and how Ryan created the funniest joke ever. Seriously. It's brilliant!


DOWNLOAD: Episode 45 - Faster, Babe! Feel the BURN!!!


Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Arcade Game (NES)

Episode 44 - Drunk Greg Goes to Town!

On this episode, we throw down yet another installment of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 41 - 44. Also, Preston does a terrible Ryan impression, we discuss Batfleck (unfortunately), a drunk Mr. Greg and Ryan get into an epic debate about the value of the Captain America movie and Zach Snyder (to the soundtrack of a sighing Eric), and Auggy's first trip to Toys r Us.


DOWNLOAD: Episode 44 - Drunk Greg Goes to Town!


Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 45-48.

Episode 43 - Retro Racist Mutagen Ray...

      On this episode of Turtle Soup, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 37 - 40. We also manage to discuss Ryan and Joe's new card game Shootinanny, experiencing a living room Séance, and Eric's fear of being "left behind".

DOWNLOAD: Episode 43 - Retro Racist Mutagen Ray...

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 41 - 44!

Episode 42 - The Highly Desired Technology Showcase!

      On this episode of Turtle Soup, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 33 - 36! Other topics featured: Outdated TMNT: Out of the Shadows extended gameplay video analysis, why the PlayStation is better than X-Box, how different Big Lots is nowadays, and Ryan's journey to find the perfect Yo-Yo.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 42 - The Highly Desired Technology Showcase!

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 37 - 40.

Episode 41 - The Retarded Jimmy Buffet of the New Millennium.

      On this helping of Turtle Soup, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 29 -32! We also wander around the topics of yet another harrowing chapter of Eric's figure collecting tales, Ryan getting sniped for alternate covers at the comic shop, Nick Mom, and pointing out even more implied racism in the TMNT Animated Series.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 41 - The Retarded Jimmy Buffet of the New Millennium.

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 33 - 36!

Episodes 40 - Old Drink, No Tip...

      On this installment, we cover the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 25-28. As per the regular, we also stray and find ourselves talking about the truth behind the Jackson 5 Motown sessions, Kevin Eastman's engagement, and the story of the Old Drink (beware!) Be sure to check out our Facebook Group (search Turtle Soup) and follow us on Twitter @turtlesoupshow!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 40 - Old Drink, No Tip...

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 29-32.

Episode 39 - The Naval Jackpot.

      On this episode we review the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 21-24. In other randomness, we cover how horribly f**ked up Detroit is, some SDCC coverage concerning news for the IDW TMNT comic, and the state of the figure industry. Be sure to check out our Facebook Group (search Turtle Soup) and follow us on Twitter @turtlesoupshow!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 39 - The Naval Jackpot.

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 25-28.

Episode 38 - Kung Pow Lobotomy!

      On this episode, we examine the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 17-20. We also stray from the lair a bit and discuss Eric's Necca knock off Turtle figures (and the mysterious Chinese currency that they came with) and Ryan's nervous anticipation about the premier of PAWNED. Be sure to check out our Facebook Group (search Turtle Soup) and follow us on Twitter @turtlesoupshow!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 38 - Kung Pow Lobotomy!

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 21-24

Episode 37 - The Slack of The Beyond.

      On this episode, we throw down yet another installment of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 13-16. As usual, we also manage to discuss more exciting things about the Out of the Shadows game, the casting of Shredder is the new Michael Bay TMNT film, the surprising quality of the Chinese Necca Turtle figures and Eric's attempt at buying some, the heartbreaking loss of James Gandolfini, Richard Matheson, and Bobby Bland in the same week, and Eric's disastrous trip to OcalaCon.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 37 - The Slack of The Beyond.

Next Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 17-20.

Episode 36 - If You Don't Go, You're Gonna Blow...

      On this episode, we throw down yet another installment of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 9 - 12. Also discussed is the old school days of VHS, Some friendly X-Box One trash talking, and the skinny on the wrap of Ryan's Directoral debut, PAWNED!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 36 - If You Don't Go, You're Gonna Blow...

Nexk Week: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987), Season 3, episodes 13-16.

Episode 35 - Hook a Ninja Up!

     
      In this episode we cover more ridiculousness with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 5-8. We also talk all about our slow-earned respect for Roseanne Barr, whether or not expanded universe media counts as cannon, some crazy happenings on the set of Ryan's movie, and LOTTERY PEOPLE! GAAHHHH! 

DOWNLOAD: Episode 35 - Hook a Ninja Up!

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3, episodes 9-12.

Episode 34 - Two Big Ol' Katas!

   
      Hey, guys! We're still catching up with releasing these bad boys, but I'm REALLY excited to drop this one tonight since we are beginning the TMNT Animated Series, Season 3. Being 47 episodes in length and aired over two months in late 1989, this run will take us about 12 episodes to cover. And we're doing it straight through. These episodes were a ton of fun to cover and it feels really good to dig into some classic Turtles animated craziness! Thanks for your continued listening and don't forget to visit www.superexcitemag.com for some good reading!

      On this 34th episode, we begin our marathon journey through the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987), Season 3! We review episodes 1-4 in detail as well as discuss Ryan's continued challenges directing an action film, converting and mastering rare cassette tapes, Eric's increased social anxiety, and the toy hunt.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 34 - Two Big Ol' Katas!

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) Episodes 5-8.

Episode 33 - Accidentally Racy as Fugggg...

So, it's been a while, huh? I can, without a doubt, claim the full brunt of whatever blame there is to be had as to why there has not been a new episode of the podcast posted since MAY 31ST. Yes, more than a month. The good news: with the exception of one week, we were still recording episodes. This means we aren't so much behind in episodes as we are delayed in releasing those episodes. Know what this means? DOUBLE SHIPPING! Yep. Two a week until we're caught up. 

Why were these episodes so delayed? Good question, and it's one that you'll see I address on the show in future episodes. I was directing a film for the 2013 Action Film Challenge. It's a contest where you write, cast, shoot, and totally finish an action film in 30 days. One Month. And there's your correlation, Turtle fans. I was completely out of commission during the production of the movie, which is called PAWNED, by the way. I think it turned out pretty good. When we are allowed, I'll drop a link here so you all can see what one month of no Turtle Soup looks like visually. 

In closing, I want to thank you all for your incredible patience during this time. We're putting this thing back on the rails and blasting off on the road of the Journey once again!

In this 33rd installment, we review Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, #27, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol. 1, #7, as well 2 Mirage Minicomics (Casey Jones, Private Eye and TMNT Adventures Mini). As usual, we also cover some TMNT movie casting news, seeing movies by yourself, Turtle Soup on Twitter, and the questionable archiving of casual games.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 33 - Accidentally Racy as Fugggg....

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 3, Episodes 1 - 4.    

Episode 32 - The Inside Story...

Hey, guys! I wanted to take a moment and introduce you to our new sponsor - SUPER EXCITE: A Freakin' Awesome Comic Book Magazine! Headed up by our good friend Joe Martin, SUPER EXCITE's goal is to fill the role of a magazine covering comic news in a post-Wizard world. Essentially, it's a fan based, bi-monthly online magazine dedicated to review of all things comics and toys. Both Eric and I are featured in this first issue contributing trade reviews, columns, and toy reviews. Inside you'll also find a helpful feature on surviving your first Con experience, a review of Bendis' All New X-Men, interviews with indie artists, and much more. You can go to www.superexcitemag.com to download the premier issue and find out how to contribute if you're interested. Get EXCITE!

In this, our 32nd episode, we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #26 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol.1, #6 as well as reviewing the TMNT National Quiz Joke Books that were included with the second wave Playmates figures. In true fashion, we also discuss trends in TV and film, a rare high school graduation in Plant City, the return of more cat stories from Eric's job,and how horrible NCIS is.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 32 - The Inside Story...

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #27 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol.1, #7.

Episode 31 - Ol' Colonel Booder and the Cryin' Indian Boys

      Man, things are zipping along! We record again tonight. That's about it. Booyakasha!   

   
     On this episode, we review Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, #25 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Adventures #5. We also reveal the winner of our TMNT Adventures Caption Contest, cover the release date for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, hear more cat stories (yep), debate Quantum Leap vs. Doctor Who, and laugh about wheelchairs doing donuts.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 31 - Ol' Colonel Booder and the Cryin' Indian Boys.

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #26, Mirage Mini-Comics, and TMNT Adventures #6.

Episode 30 - Life's a BEACH!

A little better this week. Tuesday instead of Friday. It ain't Monday... but what is? Monday, I guess. Yep.

So, Daft Punk's much awaited new album has leaked a week before it's official release. It can be found on Soundcloud in one huge file or several other sites individually wrapped. It is seriously worth your time. It may take a couple of listens to catch you, but when it does... it's fantastic. So go ahead and check it out, but not before you use those ears to listen to this heaping spoonful of Turtle Soup! We get first dibs on those eardrums. Just the way it is.

For our 30th (yes, 30th!) episode we review Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #24, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, #7, and take a plunge into the sewer with our middle segment - Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk where we step through 1989's Vehicles and Crazy Artillery toys (2nd wave). In addition, we also touch on new TMNT movie news, the dangers of attempting to hire a hit-man (or a kick-man, for that matter), the exact definition of a Walkabout Poop, Free Comic Book Day coverage, and cat stories (not ours). Don't forget that the deadline for the Adventures Caption Contest is this Friday the 17th!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 30 - Life's a BEACH!

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #25 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures Vol.1, #5 and the WINNER of the Caption Contest!

Episode 29 - New York's Premier Kick-Man

I know it's not Monday. I'm pretty sure it's Friday. So when you hear me utter the words "WE'RE LIVE! SO WE RECORD ON FRIDAY AND RELEASE ON THAT MONDAY! BOOOOOM!", remember that that will almost always happen, just not this week due to some film production stuffs going down, sucking my time up like Eugene Victor Tooms on a liver every 30 years... moving on...

For our 29th episode, We play and review the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles NES Game. Also discussed: Ryan's real life possible home invasion story, a fan's excellent Mirage / Homage art piece, how the show is FINALLY LIVE, Beyond the Black Rainbow, rain and moving mattresses, "multi-media" performers, and driving etiquette.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 29 - New York's Premier Kick-Man

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol.1 #24, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol.1 #7, and Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk: Vehicles and Wacky Artillery (2nd Wave).

Episode 28 - Givin' Me the Misery...

Ladies and Gentlemen, children of all ages (well, maybe not all ages...) this is a momentous occasion. After months of steadily working forward, I am proud to announce that we are, indeed, LIVE! Yes, it's true! We will record our new episodes on Friday and release them Monday. No more dated news talk, sports stories, or jokes. Actually, the jokes are always dated. But they usually feature alliteration. And that, fair listeners, is what makes the world go 'round!

What's on the docket for Episode 28, you may ask? Well, we continue on the journey by reviewing Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, # 22 and 23, and also cover the Playmates 2nd Wave Wacky Action Figures in Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk. As per usual, our talkative nature also compels us to mention the coolness of customized figures, the new Daft Punk single, the upcoming Free Comic Book Day, and Eric's haul from Record Store Day. And don't forget: we have a contest underway! Go to the Facebook page, caption the page from TMNT Adventures, and compete to win a copy of TMNT Mirage #8!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 28 - Givin' Me the Misery...

NEXT WEEK: The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles NES Game!

Episode 27 - Fun with Tongue Guns.

Traffic sucks. Nobody likes it. Why, then, do some of us react so caustically toward other drivers who are stuck in the same thing? We're all stuck here. Yet, somehow, all it takes is one jerk and the whole thing gets up in a tizzy. The one thing I can't stand above all is someone riding my ass. Especially when I typically drive about 5 mph above the speed limit. Where do you have to be that you can afford to be riding so close to me when I'm ALREADY SPEEDING IN THE FIRST PLACE?!?!?!

I have a solution for that, though. I will start by saying that I don't do anything if I have my wife or kids in the car. I just keep driving. Messing with an asshole is never worth the safety of your family. If you're alone, however, and you're tired of getting rode up on as well, give this a shot.

When I see someone is so close to my ass that I can't see their headlights above my tailgate in my rear view mirror, I just let my foot off of the gas. Simple as that. As I start slowly decelerating, I like to watch their reaction. A lot of times they have to slam on the breaks because they're so close that even a gentle drop in speed will send them dangerously close to rear ending you in the first place. I drop it all the way down to about 15 mph and hold it there.

From here I make a call: If they drop way back and keep their distance I speed back up.At that point it's all good. They've  learned their lesson and no longer deserve my ire.

If they speed back up and resume their earlier tight spacing, I lock em up. All the way up. This usually sends the message. I've gotten to this step a handful of times and it's pretty harrowing. I've never been rear ended, but I always think it's gonna happen. If they were to actually hit me, that's fine. It'll be at about a 5 mph differential and would be pretty harmless. 

But let me tell you, if it were to happen, I would put on my flashers, pull out my phone and call the cops. I want insurance information and a police report. It would take forever. It would totally ruin that jerk's day as well. And justly, in my opinion. Jerks that act like that in traffic fully deserve it. And besides, it makes for a good story... Now, let's talk Turtles!

For our 27th episode we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, # 20 and 21, as well as cover some of the 2nd wave of Playmates figures in Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk. On top of that, we talk about the untimely passing of Chi Cheng, get hyped for Record Store Day, and a germophobe's nightmare scenario at a local gas station. Don't forget about our caption contest that's still running over at our Facebook page! 

DOWNLOAD: Episode 27 - Fun with Tongue Guns.

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, #22 and 23. Also, more Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk!

Episode 26: Jessica Hahn and the Slash For Cash... Dojo.

Writing these blogs can be awesome when you really have something to say. However, they can be mystifying if your mind is running up blanks. Politics? Nothing of note. Funny stories? They're in the podcast. Show news? Wait... I got it! OUR NEW CONTEST! 

Now, you may ask yourself, who won the last one? Remember, the turtle naming one? Well, honestly, we don't know. All of the suggestions were awesome, but we got so wrapped up in trying to get the show current and dealing with the incredible delay of releasing episodes well after we recorded them, that we kind of lost track. Not to mention I haven't seen the turtles in my pool for a while now. Hope they're okay.

The new contest, however, is legit. What are the stakes? Well, you could win a copy of Mirage Vol.1, #8, my friends. All one must do is visit the the Facebook page and caption a funny frame we pulled from one of the 4 TMNT Adventures we covered in this episode. Check out the page and submit your wit! 

On this 26th episode of the podcast we cover  Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol.1, #19 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures (Ongoing) #1-4. Also, we discuss the new wave of TMNT figures coming soon, some practical joking that went down concerning a false pregnancy scare, the Tampa Con overcrowding disaster and the resulting exploits of Merle Haggler himself!



DOWNLOAD: Episode 26 - Jessica Hahn and the Slash for Cash.... Dojo.

NEXT WEEK:  Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol.1, #20 and 21. Also, Totally Tubular Turtle Toy Talk!

Episode 25 - IF. GET. SERIOUS!

      

      This whole thing lined up way too serendipitous, if you think about it. We hit our 25th episode and through absolutely no arrangement on our part, we wind up covering one of the most iconic moments for the TMNT and, indeed, the history of video games. So we made a little party out of it and invited some friends to sit in with us and have a good time. And it all went so well. These things don't seem to happen often in life; moments when fate kind of smiles on you and takes a break from setting its myriad hurdles in your path.

      

     

Forgive me for the little Danny Tanner moment we're about to have here and listen: THANK YOU. Each and every one of you who have listened, reached out to us, joked around with us, and generally helped to make this show so much fun to do. There are a million and one podcasts you could be listening to when you decide to listen to ours and that time you invest isn't taken for granted. We have been hatching some ideas for what we want to do for #50 and many of them include you guys, so be ready! Wanna crack open this episode yet? Let's do this!
  

      In celebration of our landmark 25th episode, we play through and review the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade Game. For our opener we are joined in studio by a few friends of the show live in the studio. Later, we finally welcome resident video game expert and good friend of the show Mr. Joe Martin to join us as we commence a thorough look at the game, level by level. Throughout the excite-fest we muse on the TampaCon overcrowding disaster, news concerning the new TMNT series, the return of Merle Haggler, and a Lightning game that nearly came to fisticuffs. Saucy! 

DOWNLOAD: Episode 25 - IF. GET. SERIOUS!

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Vol.1, #19 and TMNT Adventures (Ongoing) #1-4.

Episode 24 - Accidentally Asian as Fuggg...

      Anyone else excited about baseball? I know I'm a nerd and all (I guess...) but I'm unapologetic about my love of sports. I love em. I get as nerdy about my teams as I do about certain comic creators or my favorite engineers. For being a group of people who are generally made fun of and mocked for their interests, you'd be surprised how much animosity you can get from so called nerds when you bring sports up at all. I guess it's kind of like breaking into German at the neighborhood barbecue in 1944; I'm using the language of their oppressors. Not everyone has the same interests, and that's what makes this life diverse, right? It's just funny to me how quickly we forget about that principle, myself included. Go Rays!

   On this episode we cover Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol. 1, #17 and 18. And as always, we slide over and converse about ghost stories (again), butchering whole chickens, our trip to MegaCon 2013, and the ethics behind vinyl scalping and speculation.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 24 - Accidentally Asian as Fuggg...

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Arcade Game!!!

Episode 23 - "Wait'll You See My Tech..."

      Moving scary fast at this point, guys.

 

      

      On this, our 23rd episode, we complete our coverage of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 2 by reviewing Episodes 9 - 13. We also manage to touch on a fan's encounter with April O'Neil, our hype for the upcoming Orlando MegaCon, and the new Dark Tower novel by Stephen King. 

DOWNLOAD: Episode 23 - "Wait'll You See My Tech..."

NEXT WEEK: Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, Issues #17, 18.

Episode 22 - "Wow, You're a Regular Abe Lincoln..."

   
      I think summer has arrived. At least here in Florida. When you've lived here your whole life, you grow to have a strange love / hate relationship with the heat. When seemingly everyone else in every part of America is enjoying "Fall", you sit in the broiling heat until at least January. From about January to March the weather is typically nice, getting downright damp and freezing some nights.

      It is during this time, while seemingly every part of America is complaining about snow and blizzards that you seem to think you've come out ahead. It's February and the high is 65 degrees, without a cloud in the sky and a slight cool breeze. Eventually, however, the heat comes back. It always does. But, there's still something about the first summery day, which here in the Sunshine State isn't so much dictated by a decisive date as by the first day you do something summery.

      In my case, it was mowing the yard, breaking a sweat, and then hopping in the pool. After I had dried off, pork shoulder had just come off the grill. It was in this moment, eating barbecue and drinking sweet tea, that I realized summer had come into full effect. I know that soon I'll curse the heat and jump from one air conditioned bubble of temperate sanity to the next, with both eyes fixed firmly on the promise of January's cool air, but for now I think I'll try to make the best of it. I SPIT HOT FIRE!!!  

      For our 22nd episode, we continue our wall-to-wall coverage of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 2 by reviewing Episodes 5 - 8. Other topics touched on include Ryan's interactions with the Urban Coyote, fan emails both celebrating the Turtles live experience and bringing to light some unintentional hilarity concerning a certain word used on the show, whether Fluke Man from The X-Files is scarier than Slenderman, and some analysis of the first trailer for Activision and Redfly's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 22 - "Wow, You're a Regular Abe Lincoln..."

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 2, Episodes 9 - 13.

Episode 21- Art, Art of Art, Aartvark.

   
      Hello, all. I hope everyone's Easter (regardless of denomination) was excellent. Things over here at the Turtle Soup camp are great. We're getting closer and closer to being caught up and getting these episodes out of the can. We're talking about Valentine's Day and it's April. Not bad. Not bad at all...  

      On this, our "heaping spoon full" 21st episode, we review the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 2, Episodes 1-4. Other interesting topics we discuss include Eric's lavish Valentines Day spending, polarized opinions on mayonnaise, our continued hype up for MegaCon, and the insanity that is Raph "ON THE ZIIIIPLIIINE!". Be sure to check out our Facebook group and iTunes, peeps!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 21 - Art, Art of Art, Aartvark.

NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Season 2, Episodes 5-8.

Episode 20 - Havin' Some Sport With the Fat One!

       Howdy! I hope this fine Thursday finds you all well. I, for one, am enduring a rough cold. The kind that makes your nose feel like broken glass. The kind that fills your chest with thick, yellow slime. While I know that these symptoms are our body's way of defeating evil viruses, I have no patience for it. However, when you start to feel better it does feel somewhat worth it. Everything has a glow about it, like you can do anything. Unfortunately I'm at least three days from this great feeling. So, yeah. Pretty tired. What gets me out of bed and pumped up, even through my sick malaise, is this excellent episode, where we meet Leatherhead for the first time. BOOM! (Maybe I am feeling better...).

       For this episode, we review Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #6 and Usagi Yojimbo Vol.1, #10 -  "Leonardo in: The Crossing". Other somewhat random topics we cover include Ryan's slow conversion into a 50's housewife, A fan dream where Eric dies and Ryan can't deal with it (sanely, at least), a deep conversation on how it feels when a friend from the past turns out to be gay, Facebook etiquette, the greatness that is The Ultimate Warrior, and toy talk.

      Hope you find this episode to your liking! Check us out on iTunes (review and subscribe!), send us an old fashioned email at turtlesoupshow@gmail.com , and join our awesome Facebook group.

DOWNLOAD: Episode 20 - Havin' Some Sport With the Fat One!


NEXT WEEK: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Animated Series (1987) - Episodes 1 - 4.

Episode 19 - Not Even Time Machines Are a Match For a Nice, Big Stick

      I ain't no bitch! Seriously, who would put that sticker on their car? The mind boggles at the possibilities. Anyways, a lot of exciting stuff going on over here at the Turtle Soup camp. The Facebook group continues to grow, we're receiving some very kind and thoughtful emails from you guys, and our plan to release two episodes a week to help move the show closer to "current" is working out perfectly. It's an awesome time.

      For this episode, we review Eastman and Laird's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #16, cover the news from the Hong Kong Toy Fair, and wrap up by covering the Archie Comics TMNT Adventures Mini-Series #1-#3. Other random topics covered are I Ain't No Bitch (.com), personal opinions on ear bud wear, Eric's experience at the Orlando Comic Expo, possible solutions to the North Korea issue involving cheeseburgers, and castles. Seriously.


      You can check us out on iTunes, email us at turtlesoupshow@gmail.com , and join the ol' Facebook group! Enjoy!

DOWNLOAD: Episode 19 - Not Even Time Machines Are a Match For a Nice, Big Stick

NEXT WEEK: -  Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol.1, #6 and Usagi Yojimbo - “Leonardo in: The Crossing".