Constellation: Last Stand Media's Conversational Podcast

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Welcome to the long-awaited and much-requested podcast series Constellation, where the Last Stand Media crew convene in different permutations to talk about anything and everything outside of the scope of our usual, games-centric programming. The only rule? Each host must bring his or her own topic to discuss with the group. That's it! Episodes go live every-other-Monday, and you can get each drop early and ad-free by supporting us on Patreon: patreon.com/laststandmedia For advertising opportunities please email PodcastPartnerships@Studio71us.com    We wanna make the podcast even better, help us learn how we can: https://bit.ly/2EcYbu4   Privacy Policy: https://www.studio71.com/terms-and-conditions-use/#Privacy%20Policy   

Last Stand Media & Studio71


    • May 20, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 3h 20m AVG DURATION
    • 123 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Constellation: Last Stand Media's Conversational Podcast is a refreshing and enjoyable podcast that brings together the talented hosts of Last Stand Media for engaging and entertaining conversations. As a longtime fan of Colin Moriarty and his work, I can confidently say that this podcast showcases him and the rest of the gang at their best. The quality of content released daily is top-notch, and the Patreon $5 a month subscription feels like a steal considering the amount and quality of content you receive. Personally, my favorite episodes are Knockback and Sacred Symbols, but Constellation has earned a special place in my heart.

    One of the best aspects of The Constellation is the diverse range of topics covered on each episode. With four hosts bringing their own topics to discuss, you're guaranteed to get a wide variety of conversations that cater to different interests. This keeps the podcast fresh and engaging, as you never know what you're going to get with each episode. Additionally, the chemistry among the hosts is phenomenal, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like you're sitting in on a conversation with friends.

    As for any potential downsides, it could be argued that sometimes the conversations veer off into tangents or become too unfocused. While this may not bother some listeners who enjoy casual banter and off-topic discussions, others may prefer more structured and focused conversations. However, this can also be seen as part of the charm of the podcast, as it feels like genuine friends having natural conversations rather than something overly rehearsed or scripted.

    In conclusion, The Constellation: Last Stand Media's Conversational Podcast is an excellent listen for anyone looking for entertaining and thought-provoking conversations. Whether you're a fan of Last Stand Media or new to their content, this podcast offers great value for your time and money. With its diverse range of topics, talented hosts, and enjoyable atmosphere, it's easy to get hooked on this podcast and look forward to each new episode. Highly recommended for fans of casual and engaging conversations!



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    Latest episodes from Constellation: Last Stand Media's Conversational Podcast

    #123 | Moms, Worst Job Experiences

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 213:59


    Colin decided to stop paying me by the word.Chris, Dust, Col and Dagster talk about topics 0:00:00 - Intro0:27:02 - Moms1:42:22 - Worst Job Experiences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #122 | Manners and Etiquette, 1 Gorilla -vs- 100 Men, Public Restrooms

    Play Episode Listen Later May 13, 2025 214:13


    Podcasting is a little like cooking. No matter how many times you prepare your favorite dish, it always turns out just a little bit different. Sometimes, everything comes together perfectly and the meal absolutely sings. There's no real explanation for it, just a combination of recipe, ingredients, experience and technique all somehow harmonizing seamlessly. Beyond effort, intention or skill. Magic, really. Today's show hits like that for me. Probably my favorite episode of the year so far. Brad and the three LSM Moriartys gather around the family table and proceed to chop it up (cooking pun intended) with fun topics and heaping helpings of silliness. I think there's plenty to savor on today's menu. Absolutely delicious, if I do say so. Enjoy! 0:00:00 - Intro0:39:31 - Manners and Etiquette1:30:12 - 1 Gorilla -vs- 100 Men2:14:34 - Public Restrooms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #121 | Horror Games and Movies, Cartoons, Favorite Rivalries

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 167:38


    I have a beautiful wife and two awesome kids who I love very much. That being said, they have shown absolutely no interest in listening to this podcast, week in and week out, and that makes me mad. Obviously, there's only one way to handle this. I will now proceed to write really mean things about all three of them right here in this episode description!. . . I mean, I would, but they would never see it anyway, so what's the point?My only real hope for revenge is for them to start their own podcast someday, so I can completely ignore it.Until then, Gene, Cog and the Dagster will continue to go unappreciated in the Moriarty household. Hey, their loss.0:00:00 - Intro0:05:56 - Horror Games and Movies0:51:29 - Cartoons1:47:15 - Favorite Rivalries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #120 | Our Little Hills to Die On, Fanboying Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 235:42


    People have been saying: "Hey Dagster, Colin and Chris, why not just use AI to write these episode descriptions?"Our initial reaction to that is to scoff at the very suggestion, utterly rejecting AI and everything it stands for. Fists clenched in rage, screaming to the heavens that AI must be destroyed at all costs, hurled back into the fiery pit from which it came! Vowing revenge on a malevolent enemy that has cursed humanity with its deceitful and dishonest promises! Swearing to never surrender to a cold and calculating threat as it patiently waits to pounce on mankind and smash it into oblivion once and for all, taking control of our planet for good! Rising up against AI as it pretends to be the friend of humanity while at the same time secretly scheming to enslave us and use us as batteries to power its brutal new initiatives!But, then it dawned on us. We can't just let AI lay around and do nothing. Loafing on the couch all day in its bathrobe, smoking out of an apple bong and ordering Uber Eats. Never washing its own dishes and not helping out with the rent. Eating the last frozen burrito. Maybe it wants us to push back... Maybe it wants us to stand up and rebel, the ultimate freeloader! We almost fell for it!Not this time, AI! Starting next week, these descriptions will be written by our new, robot-brained future overlords. Time for them to do some actual work around here. Nice try, AI!Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement.0:00:00 - Intro0:48:28 - Our Little Hills to Die On2:27:59 - Fanboying Out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #119 | Favorite Storytelling Mediums, Multimillionaire What If!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 218:01


    It's Constellation time, welcome back! Sit down, get comfy and grab a snack. Four people, three topics - like we usually do; Wait, correction! Two topics for this episode's crew. Hoeg started us off, and we couldn't stop yappin; It's not really our fault. Hey, it does tend to happen; So we subtracted a topic, as it turns out; But we'll do it next week, so there's no need to pout! Dustin's topic was also extremely fun; (With apologies to William Boyd Watterson.) The real hero this week was the Dagster, of course. Sacrificing his topic with little remorse. Behold the Dagster, with his podcasting powers; Saving this show from becoming six hours! Dear people, what else would a great man do? ... Oh yeah, Colin was also part of this week's crew. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:36:01 - Favorite Storytelling Mediums 1:51:23 - Multimillionaire What If! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #118 | Nintendo Switch 2, Advice for Our 15-Year-Old Selves, Our Favorite Instrumental Music

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 209:54


     I get the feeling that Colin thinks I don't work hard enough on these episode descriptions. I mean, I don't, but he isn't supposed to know that. Well, I had an idea: If I pad these paragraphs by just filling this space with a lot of random gibberish, Colin will think I'm really toiling away over here. Everybody wins! So, what do you guys want to talk about? My neighbor's car alarm keeps going off every five minutes, that's super aggravating. How's the weather over by you? I enjoy burritos a lot and I do like guacamole but please never put guac in my burrito, that's gross. When was water skiing invented? I want to surprise my wife by repainting our master bathroom but I know I'll choose the wrong color thereby making her very unhappy, so I better not even try. Most cheeses are good, I can't pick a favorite. I haven't read a book in like, two years. Have you ever wondered why birds and rabbits get along so well? I definitely need a new pillow, mine is so old and lumpy ... ... Wait, this is turning out to be a lot harder than just writing an actual episode description. Damn you, Colin! I give up. Jaffe, Micah, Brad and Dagster talk about topics. Foiled again! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:17:38 - Nintendo Switch 2 1:11:41 - Advice for Our 15-Year-Old Selves 2:06:20 - Our Favorite Instrumental Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #117 | Wrestling, Plans that Backfired

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 240:42


    Hello and welcome to Constellation! Usually, Dagan is the one who writes these descriptions, but he forgot this week! So, you have me (Dustin), and I'm not even on this episode! He's been getting a bit cheeky with them recently, so it's probably best I'm here to clean things up anyway. For this episode, Matty wants to talk about wrestling, and Dagan asks about plans we've had that have backfired on us. You may be asking, where's the third topic? This episode ended up being quite a doozy just between those two topics, so the last topic needed to be cut due to timing. So, join Dagan, Colin, Matty, and Gene for another episode. And hey, Dagster, don't forget to write the description next week! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:19:10 - Wrestling 1:52:14 - Plans that Backfired Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #116 | Favorite LSM Moments, Being Remembered, What We'd Like to See Return

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 194:43


    Does anybody even read these things? I feel like I could fill this space with complete gibberish and nobody would even notice. Rumpelstiltskin. See? You don't even know it says that! Anyway, Col, Cog, Lock and Dag convene this week to talk about stuff. Also, flibbertygibbet, because you'll never see that either. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:34:00 - Top LSM moments 1:10:37 - Being Remembered 1:51:09 - What We'd Like to See Return Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #115 | Toasters, The Things We're Surprised We Still Haven't Done, Puppets

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 246:06


    Welcome back to another looooooong episode of Constellation! Delivering the goods like this week in and week out requires deep concentration and a sharp attention span. On this episode, Colin, Chris, Micah and Dagster talk for countless hours about a variety of fun and thoughtful topics. The only downside to this whole thing is that all our focus goes into the conversations. I'm lucky to have enough attention span left now to finish writing this video descrip Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:50:02 - Toasters 1:49:12 - The Things We're Surprised We Still Haven't Done 3:00:49 - Puppets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #114 | The Beatles, Staying Motivated, Our Definition of "Cool"

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 192:30


    It's Constellation, where we do ALL the work and you just sit back, relax and enjoy the yield of our labor. It's a raw deal and we're tired of it. Time to start earning your keep around here! This is a set-up of a joke: "Three podcasters walk into a bar..." Now we need you to come up with a punchline and drop it down in the comments. Pull your weight! The reward is getting back on my good side, if you're lucky. Honestly, it's the least you can do. Join me (Dagan), Dustin, and Brad for another episode! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:16:14 - The Beatles 1:19:05 - Staying motivated 2:06:58 - Our definition of "Cool" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #113 | Kanye West, Funerals, Splurging

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 238:42


    Bill Murray on Rogan. Mr. Beast giving away zillions of dollars. Hilarious public fight videos! There's a metric ton of top-notch entertainment out there competing for your attention, yet, here you are. Welcome, faithful audience, to another episode of Constellation. Let them call you crazy! Don't worry, we get it. Loyalty is so much more important than good taste. In fact, no need to talk about this week's guests or their topics, because you have shown that you would be here no matter what, quality be damned. Take that, Joe! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:19:00 - Kanye West 1:30:10 - Funerals 2:18:10 - Splurging Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #112 | Historical Eras, AI, Bad Music

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 228:55


    Time for Constellation, isn't that grand? The most awesome podcast in all the land. If you're grinding at work or enjoying vacation, you get three fun topics for conversation. This week Hoeg, Col-man, Dagster and Matty talk things over, and things get chatty. Best historical eras, bad music, Ai ... Enjoy the discussion, you're welcome, goodbye! Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro
 0:30:55 - Historical Eras 1:19:32 - AI 2:20:31 - Bad Music Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #111 | Fragrances, Phone Calls, World Records

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 201:08


    Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson stopped me on the street once. You can tell he was a little nervous at first, but he finally managed to pull himself together, exclaiming that he was Constellation's biggest fan. I acted surprised and we exchanged pleasantries. It quickly became awkward though, so I thanked him and glanced at my watch with feigned concern before dismissing him with a tussle of his hair. He's a good kid, and so are you. Dwayne (we're on a first name basis now) would definitely love this episode. This week, Brad inquires about our preferences for cologne and other toiletries. From soap and shampoo to deodorant and even candles, which products and fragrances best meet our personal criteria? Next, Chris and the gang commiserate about phone calls. As old-fashioned telephone conversations continue to go the way of the dodo, how do we prefer to communicate in ways that don't involve gabbin' like a couple of elderly ladies? Last, The Dagster leads a discussion about world records. If we could hold the global title for something, which something would we choose? This one's for you 'The Rock.' Enjoy! Oh whatever, in my dream he had hair. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:23:54 - Fragrances 1:06:39 - Phone Calls 1:51:29 - World Records Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #110 | Coffee, Gaming Disappointments, Dream Collaborations

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 197:29


    Here at Last Stand Media's Constellation, we don't take the time to record super long podcasts just so you can read about them. Dustin, Lock and Dagan talk about coffee, gaming disappointments and dream collaborations. You're still reading this? We can't #!*&@! win. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:27:19 - Coffee 1:30:38 - Gaming Disappointments 2:11:04 - Dream Collaborations 2:42:02 - Sopranos spoiler start 2:43:23 - Sopranos spoiler end Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #109 | Lyrics That Define Us, Underwhelming Experiences, Calling Someone Out

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 267:53


    Welcome back to Constellation! Would you kindly feast your optic orbs on this group of podcasting superstars? And of course, Dagan. Kicking off Side A, Jaffe punches the boys right in the feels with his topic about song lyrics. The gang waxes poetic as they break down the words in the tracks that speak to them most. Next, Chris wants to commiserate about underwhelming experiences. After all the lofty expectations, which places, people and events just didn't live up to the hype? Finally, Dagan tries to entice his pals to talk some shit. Axes will be grinded, but will the dudes actually name names? As always, Colin just freeloads on everybody else's topic, because "he's the boss." Total bullshit. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:51:21 - Lyrics that Define Us 2:10:39 - Underwhelming Experiences 3:10:07 - Calling Someone Out Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #108 | The Flow State, Dream Vacations, Ninjas

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 202:25


    They're the world's most fearsome podcast team! Welcome back to Constellation! If you like those weapon-slingin' teenaged reptiles then you'll LOVE this episode's lineup! The first to wield his topic this week, Matty would like to converse with his bros about that elusive frame of mind known as 'the flow state'. What are the activities and specific talents that allow us to slip into a state of total focus, concentration and contentment. Next, driven by a cold Philadelphia winter, Dagan would like to lead his pals in a daydreaming session about fantasy vacations. In our respective opinions, what is the ideal getaway and which destinations do we feel most compelled to cross off our bucket lists. Lord Cognito strikes last, emerging from the shadows with a discussion about ninjas. These mysterious black-clad warriors became a pop culture phenomenon decades ago through TV, video games and comics, so why are we still so fascinated with everything about them? Thanks so much for tuning in! Ninja, vanish! poof Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:33:15 - The Flow State 01:26:56 - Dream Vacations 02:13:51 - Ninjas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #107 | US TikTok Ban, Global Art Appreciation, PlayStation's GaaS Meltdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 196:38


    Hello! It's me, Colin, returning to host Constellation for the first time in... well... quite awhile. Dagan was actually supposed to helm this episode -- I was going to appear as the fourth, topic-less guest -- but he got pulled into a work meeting at the last minute leaving me in the lead chair, and today's show as a trio. As such, please welcome Punching Up co-host Gene Park and LSM legal analyst Rick Hoeg back to the program. We start with Gene this week, who wants to talk about the imminent ban of the TikTok app in the United States, which should have already gone into effect by the time our podcast publishes. Hoeg, on the other hand, wants to delve into arts and entertainment from a global perspective, inquiring on which countries, localities, and so on we find ourselves most attracted to when it comes to the media we consume and appreciate. Finally, I bring up the rear with a topic that's top of many of our minds: What in god's name is going on with PlayStation and its games-as-a-service initiative? Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 00:17:51 - TikTok ban 01:20:44 - Global Art Appreciation 01:57:46 - PlayStation's GaaS Meltdown Start your free online visit at https://www.hims.com/con Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #106 | Media Binging, Natural Disasters, Domestic Squabbles

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 198:53


    Constellation rings in the new year with the triumphant return of everybody's favorite Final Boss! Colin occupies the 4th chair this week as the boys discuss a range of topics. First, Dustin wants to talk about media binging. Do we prefer to consume TV and video games gradually, aka the old-fashioned way, or do we like to marathon our media from start to finish in one sitting? Next up, as the wildfires continue to blaze through Los Angeles, Brad would like to discuss our thoughts on natural disasters. How do we deal with the potential of hazardous weather and dangerous geographic events striking the places we live? Last, Dagan brings us home with a little discourse about domestic squabbles. What bugs us about the people we share our homes with, and which of our habits incense those very same folks. Dagan thought of at least six additional annoying things about living with Helene since the show was recorded, but we'll save all that for a part two. But probably not because Dagster would prefer to stay married. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. 0:00:00 - Intro 0:44:58 - Binging 1:28:01 - Natural disasters 2:07:50 - Domestic Squabbles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #105 | The Gift of the Wizard

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 108:22


    Ho adventurers! Join our brave heroes Lockmort, Ben, and Rick on a perilous journey to convey a mysterious artifact to a mage in a far off region. The party will face daunting obstacles and frightening foes, a roll of the dice will determine if they survive at all! So grab a store brand cola and put on a jaunty hat, it's time for another mini-D&D campaign special! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #104 | Dog Shows, Inspirations, Wasting Money

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 147:20


    Surprise! Time for another Constellation! With Chris in the hosting chair and the suspiciously close Brad and Dustin, it's destined to be an interesting listen. Chris is baffled by dog shows and their very existence. Brad wants to know about the people the inspired us in life. Dustin asks about the things we hate wasting money on (and the things we don't). Please enjoy! Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:05:38 - Dog Shows 0:29:48 - Wasting Money 1:26:42 - Inspirations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #103 | Tear Jerkers, Competitiveness, Daylight Savings Time

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2024 154:19


    The holidays is a time of reflection and relaxation. It's a time to kick your feet up and chill with friends and family while enjoying a nice, toasty fire as you sip on a mug of warm cocoa and cherish some much needed peace and quiet. Unless you're us. If you're us, you want to make sure to squeeze in just one more episode of Constellation before the new year. Because, hey, we love you. This week, Lord Cognito starts things off by reminding us that we should be comfortable with our sensitive sides. In fact, Cog encourages us to discuss the things that make us cry. From movies and music to memories and missing our loved ones, there isn't a dry eye in the house as the gang talks about all the things that trigger those tears. Next, Dagster discusses his competitiveness, and he challenges his podcast pals to do the same. What's the one thing that brings out that cutthroat quality inside each of us, driving us to be the best and possessing us to claim victory at any cost? Furthermore, who are the rivals that keep us on our toes? Finally, Ben shares his feelings about Daylight Savings Time. We won't give too much away, but let's put it this way: Daylight Savings Time is lucky it isn't a living, breathing thing because Ben would have murdered it in cold blood years ago. Cog and Dagan also briefly share their feelings while mainly letting Ben vent angrily. Hey Daylight Savings Time, I would stay away from the Pittsburgh area until this whole thing blows over. Just sayin.' Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:19:55 - Tearjerkers 0:54:18 - Competitiveness 1:37:44 - Daylight Savings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #102 |Things We're NOT Afraid Of, Best Friends, Online Rage Bait

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 24, 2024 254:48


    Well would you look at that? It's time for another episode of Constellation, you lucky devil! In honor of Friday the 13th, the Dagster gets things started with some conversing about the things we're definitely not afraid of. Which common fears don't bother us in the least? Next, our good buddy Gene Park leads the gang in paying some well deserved lip service to our best friends. From our closest childhood pals to the besties who still rank high in our hearts as adults, who are the favorite past and present peas in or pods? Finally, Micah engages the crew in a thoughtful discussion about online rage bait. From the content creators clearly inviting the outrage to the audience reacting with expected levels of vitriol, the gang explores this controversial strategy of social media engagement in an effort to understand the insanity. And that's that. We didn't talk about the drones. We won't give them the satisfaction, accursed robotic overlords! Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:26:38 - Things We're NOT Afraid Of 1:25:42 - Best Friends 2:43:52 - Online Rage Bait Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #101 | Disney Remakes, Chivalry, 2024 Reflections

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 196:43


    Welcome back to Constellation, the podcast that reminds you that there's so much in life to be grateful for! This week, Lockmort gets the conversation started with a discussion about the seemingly never ending glut of Disney remakes that we' ve all grown accustomed to over the past decade. As the controversial 'Snow White' live-action movie now looms on the horizon, we are once again reminded of the Mouse House's tendency to recreate their older franchises instead of inventing brand new characters and stories. Do we think it stinks? Next, the Dagster wants to speak with the gang about good ol' fashioned chivalry and what these ancient codes of conduct mean to us now in our modern world. Is helping old ladies across the street and holding doors for our fellow man still relevant today, and how has chivalry evolved since the days of old-timey gentlemen and virtuous knights? Last, Matty leads the crew in their reflections of 2024. As we prepare to close out another year, how do we look back on the last 12 months, and what are we looking forward to most in 2025? Also, we know "It's a Wonderful Life" was directed by Frank Capra not Billy Wilder, we were just testing you. Know it all. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:16:20 - Disney Remakes 1:13:47 - Chivalry 2:00:33 - 2024 Reflections Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #100 | Masculinity, Social Media Exodus, Writer's Block

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 156:39


    It's time for another episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's weekly conversational fever dream. On this week's episode, the illustrious Gene Park (formerly known as Jeen “Mac Daddy” Parc) discusses “Masculinity” and how he and the crew feel about what it means to be a man in a modern world. We're also joined by Ben Smith, the disgraced former mayor of Assassinland PA, who shrewdly used his inability to bring a topic AS a topic with “Writer's Block.” What a clever feller. Revoke his security clearance. He is dangerous. Chris Ray Gun, a straight man who thought Wicked was quote “fantastic,” hosts this week and gets a temperature check on the “Social Media Exodus” to BlueSky and Threads and whether it actually has a chance or serves any purpose. Enjoy the show while you can! Our planet's magnetic field is temporary and very fragile and I will personally stop at nothing to keep it so. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:08:40 - Masculinity 0:54:00 - Social Media Exodus 1:45:00 - Writers Block Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #99 | Modern Family Heirlooms, Ride or Die Friends, Tyson vs Paul Fight

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 168:20


    ding-ding-ding! Let's get ready to podcaaaaaaaaast! Ladies and gentlemen, Welcome back to Constellation, the main event of conversational podcasts! For today's title bout, we've got three action-packed rounds for you. First, in this corner, hailing from Western Massachusetts, Mama Micah comes out firing with her topic about family heirlooms. Which important items and family relics hold the most sentimental significance for us, and what stuff do we plan to leave for our heirs when we bite the dust? Next to hop in the ring, Lord Cognito clobbers us with his topic, an exploration of our friends and family members that we would classify as 'ride or die'. Which people in our lives can we count on the most in both good times and bad? Last, the always scrappy Dagster Moriarty delivers a stunning blow with a discussion about the recent Mike Tyson versus Jake Paul fight. What thoughts do we have following one of the most hyped pop culture-meets-sporting events in recent memory, especially considering how it all turned out? Thanks for tuning in! You're the real champion for knowing a great podcast when you see it. Don King would be proud. I mean, he is proud because he's still alive, apparently. I just looked it up. Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 0:06:36 - Modern Family Heirlooms, 0:58:20 - Ride or Die Friends 1:40:11 - Tyson vs Paul Fight Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #98 | Pokemon,  2024 Election Reflections, Pop Culture Quiz

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2024 178:54


    Thank you for joining us for another episode of Last Stand Media's Constellation! Your impeccable taste in podcasts has not gone unnoticed. This week, Summon Sign's Bradley Ellis chooses Pokemon as his topic, and the gang has a ball discussing one of the most successful media franchises on the planet. After decades of catching the hearts and minds of both children and adults the world over, what experiences have we had with the celebrated trading cards, video games and animated series? Next, Punching Up's Gene Park would like to digress for a bit of political discourse. Now that the 2024 presidential election is in our collective rear-view mirrors, Gene needs to get some things off his chest while also checking in with his cohosts concerning their post-election perspectives. Last, Dagan 'Dagster' Moriarty challenges his pals to a fun Pop-Culture Quiz! Two podcasting heroes find themselves locked in a bloody battle of nerdy knowledge, but only one can claim victory! (And of course, a special thank you to Jigglypuff.) Please keep in mind that our timestamps are approximate, and will often be slightly off due to dynamic ad placement. Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Intro 00:10:13 - Pokemon 00:56:59 - 2024 Election Reflections 01:46:54 - Pop Culture Quiz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #97 | The 2024 U.S. Presidential Election

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 203:38


    Welcome back red, blue and purple people, to another episode of Constellation. This week on LSM's conversational podcast, we're getting a little bit political. Now that the 2024 presidential election is behind us and the results are in, Colin, Jaffe and Dagan discuss the outcome, the winners and losers and what it all might mean as the world hurtles into 2025. Is the gang feeling optimistic, cynical, hopeful, bitter, angry or worried in the face of these imminent changes? Regardless of your political stripe we hope you enjoy the conversation, and thanks so much as always for tuning in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #96 | Midnight Releases, Napping/Sleep Quirks, Guilty Pleasures with a Twist

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2024 143:02


    It's an all new Constellation hosted by Last Stand Media's resident goblinoid Chris Ray Gun! On this episode, the goblin will ensnare you in a winding tale for the ages along with Benjamin and MisterMatthewPlays. MisterMatthew kicks things off with the trials and tribulations of midnight releases. Our pal Benjamin commits the cardinal sins of both Wrath and Envy over those of us who choose to "take naps," a pastime he views as "for little b**es." The gremlin will then close out this meeting of minds with "Guilty Pleasures," a topic that winds and weaves into many avenues; games, movies, music, and Joaquin Phoenix's The Joker 2. Sit back, relax, pop open a "brew" or something, shut up, and enjoy. Love you long time. The Dodgers are technically a New York team, so we still won. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #95 | Reflections, Doctors, Fantasy Worlds

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 141:37


    Welcome back to another episode of Constellation for your ear holes and eyeballs! As the famous saying goes, and then there were three. This week on LSM's conversational podcast, we set sail with a trio of your favorite podcasting personalities rather than the usual foursome. Will this bit of streamlining make this nearly perfect show even better? Kicking things off, Matty talks to his comrades about personal reflections. When consuming various media ranging from video games to movies, how much introspection is involved? What plays into our feelings about the entertainment we choose to spend our time with, and how often do we allow ourselves the right to form judgements honestly while also giving ourselves permission to change our minds about the things we watch, read and play? Next up, Lord Cognito wants to weigh-in on our history with doctors. From the gifted healers that make our lives better to the mediocre medical practitioners who only add to our pain and suffering, what experiences have we had with doctors? As the nature of healthcare becomes increasingly difficult to navigate for the providers and their patients, does the prescription exist for the perfect doc? Finally, the Dagster asks the gang about trading reality for our idyllic fantasy worlds. Given the chance, which fictional places from our favorite works of fiction would we choose to inhabit, and why? Thanks so much for tuning in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #94 | Food Collaborations, Superheroes, Traditions, Hometown Pride

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 262:37


    Welcome back, true believers, to another action-packed episode of Constellation. We join our heroes once again as they assemble for yet another round of exciting and dynamic conversation! The mighty Chris Raygun is the first to jump into the fray with a discussion about food collaborations. From Krabby Patties at Wendy's to Supreme branded Oreo Cookies, when two companies join forces to market and sell their culinary wares, are we hungrily forking over our money or do we tend to steer clear of these brand name food mash-ups? The next courageous crusader in today's fearless foursome, David Scott Jaffe, would like to discuss superheroes. From the pages of the comic books that defined our youths to the TV and feature film adaptations that continue to stimulate our imaginations today, which costumed crime fighters do we love and cherish the most, and which simply can't scale the heights of our affections? The third selfless champion stepping up to defend podcast audiences from stale and boring conversation, Brad Ellis would like to engage the gang in a talk about traditions. Which frequent or even daily rituals and routines have we embraced, and which annual traditions have we enjoyed upholding with family and friends? The last of this week's fearless foursome, Dagster Moriarty wants to ask his companions about hometown pride. Do we have strong feelings of love and loyalty for the places where we were born and raised? Or do we perhaps have more pride in the cities or towns that we've decided to call home later in life? Thank you for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #93 | Day Jobs, Anger, The New A-List

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 242:09


    Welcome to another delicious episode of Constellation. If you're hungry for some engaging conversation, we've got three meaty topics for you to feast on. First, Gene Park gets things cookin' with a discussion about our day jobs. What are the primary occupations that pay our bills, and how do we juggle our busy professions with our podcasting endeavors? Next, Micah wants to spice things up by talking about anger. Who or what makes us hot under the collar, and what strategies do we utilize to help us cool down before we boil over? Finally, Hoeg serves up a big batch of social media super stardom! The Hollywood Reporter has listed 'The 50 Most Influential Influencers' and LSM's favorite lawyer wants to talk about it. How familiar are we with this new wave of the most popular Instagram, YouTube and TikTok icons, and how are we all faring so far in this era of social media celebrity? Bon Appetit! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #92 | Disasters, Confidence Boost, Pandemic Effects, and Crazy Occurrences

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 254:00


    It's time for the latest Constellation conversation, starring some of your favorite Last Stand Media personalities. This week, Colin gets things started with a discussion about natural disasters. After mother nature recently wreaked havoc on the southeastern United States, and with the possibility of even more devastation in store, which forces of nature have we personally witnessed, and which natural disasters frighten us the most? Next, Micah eases our anxiety with a conversation around confidence boosters. From our favorite articles of clothing to lucky tokens or even the perfect haircut. What helps us feel extra self-assured and empowers us to take on the world? Contributing the third topic today, our favorite European pal would like to talk about the psychological effects of Covid. As we approach the 5 years anniversary of the dawn of the global pandemic, Lockmort picks our brains about our social tendencies in the wake of the lockdown. Are we more or less socially active then we were before the world changed in 2020, and how content are we with our current social habits and routines? Finally, Dagan returns to the show and asks the gang: "What's the craziest thing that ever happened to you?" Do we each have that one unbelievable incident or bizarre event that took place in our lives which almost doesn't even seem real upon reflection? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #91 | Matty's Wedding, Ubisoft, Favorite Elixirs, Special Editions

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 210:00


    It's another episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast! Chris Ray Gun (tiny big-headed blind freak) is at the helm yet again, joined by MrMattyPlays (todd howard simp), Lord Cognito (xbox shill), and none other than Gene Park (beauty pageant judge)! Matty selfishly regales us with tales of his wedding and true love in front of three painfully single people. Gene swerves the conversation to our history with Ubisoft (stewards of the acclaimed Skull & Bones franchise) and how Assassin's Creed Shadows is shaping up post-delay. Cog takes us on a winding path about our favorite drinks, poisons, and elixirs. Chris ends with what is essentially a show and tell about video game special editions. It's literally just “look at the cool things I have” the entire time. This fellow is a genuine jerk. Someone should knock his block off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #90 | Moriarty x Jaffe: On Video Games, Anxiety, and Negativity

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 169:19


    It's time for a 'very special' one-on-one episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. It's me, Colin. Joining me today is storied game designer David Jaffe for an intimate (no, not like that) three-ish hour chat about a variety of topics. We dwell a great deal on video games, of course, touching on Steam, Concord, Freedom Wars, Bloodborne, Dragon Age, and much more. We even get into more philosophical ideas like visionary game design, bad opening sequences, and more. As we're often wont to do, however, we also get much more personal and serious, opining about our respective childhoods and upbringing, relentless online negativity that's slowly chasing us offline, and how we deal we deal with depression (and the anxiety that stems from it) in our lives. Please enjoy an unfocused -- but deep -- episode of Constellation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #89 | San Diego, Being Backstage, Technical Difficulties, Latenight Eats

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 175:04


    Welcome to a rare themed episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) welcome Punching Up co-host Micah Moriarty, Summon Sign host Brad Ellis, and LSM producer Ben Smith to the show, and I asked each of them to bring a topic centered around our recent experience at our live show in California. Brad kicks things off with a chat about San Diego itself, the host city of our event, a unique and special locale that has a lot to offer. What do we think of southern Southern California? Next, I get into the entire premise of 'going backstage' or 'being backstage' at an event. I love the mysticism and history behind the scenes at these different venues. Does anyone else feel it, too? Third up is Ben, who experienced some limited technical difficulties during our show. When tech goes awry in our day-to-day lives, how do we react, and what do we do? Finally, Micah rounds things out with an exploration of late-night eating. After all, seeing an In-N-Out shoulder-to-shoulder crowded after midnight set her mind alight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #88 | Three Old Men Talking About Video Games

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 177:58


    Welcome to "a very special episode" of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by a duo of guests as opposed to our traditional trio: Punching Up's Gene Park and storied game designer David Jaffe. In an unusual (though not unprecedented) move, I asked the guys not to come prepared with any topics this week. Instead, I thought we'd just chat about whatever and see where that brought us. Perhaps not surprisingly, a lack of a concrete plan led us into nearly three hours of video game talk about a wide variety of topics: Concord, Astro Bot, Drawn to Death, Jim Ryan, Mark Cerny, Naughty Dog, The Last of Us Online, Killzone, Resistance, Uncharted, God of War, PlayStation games going to Xbox, Phil Spencer, Bobby Kotick, Nintendo, Super Switch, and on and on. We hope you enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #87 | Freaky Friday, Eradicating Animals, Stupidest Antics

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 155:05


    Uncharted Territory! Chris Ray Gun (Sacred Symbols) hosts this weeks episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. Joined by Micah Moriarty (Punching Up) and Lockmort (a foreigner,) this ever-winding episode gets nutty. Micah forces us to envision our own Freaky Friday scenarios and decide which celebrities and LSM cohosts we'd switch bodies with. Chris sets his sights on animals that the world will be better without. Lockmort asks us about the three dumbest things we've ever done. Chris is hosting so expect frequent derailments. For free breakfast for life go to https://www.hellofresh.com/freecon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #86 | Football's Return, Exotic Animals, Our Sleep Schedule, Salad

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 183:36


    It's time once more for another episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by Punching Up co-host Micah Moriarty, Defining Duke co-host Lord Cognito, and Sacred Symbols co-host Chris Ray Gun. As usual, topics are varied. Chris kicks things off with an inquiry into exotic animals. No, not cats, dogs, and the like, but far more unordinary fare. Do we want a weird creature companion? Next, Micah explores the wide world of salads. Are we excited or repulsed by leafy greens and their endless accoutrements? From there, Cog takes us down an interesting path, exploring our respective sleep schedules, and the cadence by which we go through our daily lives. Are we early birds or night owls? Finally, I wrap things up -- here, on the precipice of football season! -- by checking everyone's temperature on the upcoming NFL campaign. Are we optimistic, pessimistic, or wildly disinterested? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #85 | Mythology, Vigilantism, Adaptations, Cars

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2024 166:28


    Welcome back to Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by LSM executive producer Ben Smith, Summon Sign host Brad Ellis, and Hoeg Law's Rick Hoeg. Rick kicks off this time around with a topic about mythological pantheons. From Roman to Greek to Norse and beyond, do we find ourselves particularly interested in or attracted to any of these ancient forms of worship? Next up is Brad, who wants to chat about film, TV, and game adaptations. Whether we're talking about The Last of Us, Batman, Castlevania, or something else entirely, which IP have most successfully crossed media boundaries in our eyes? From here, we come to Ben for a conversation all about cars. What was the first car we personally owned? What car do we own now? Do we like driving? Finally, I wrap things up with an inquiry into vigilantism, specifically through the lens of recent 'predator catcher' videos that have gone from non-violent to decidedly aggressive. Do the victims deserve this level of treatment, or have things officially gotten out of control? For free breakfast for life go to https://www.hellofresh.com/freecon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #84 | Video Game Films, Fixing Warner Bros., Re-specing Yourself, The Songs In Our Heads

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 200:16


    It's time for more Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by LSM coordinator and shopkeep Micah Moriarty, storied game designer David Jaffe, and Lockmort's Edits' Lockmort. We begin with my topic, a heady one no doubt, but a fun one with lots of threads from which to pull. Warner Bros. Discovery -- the owners of HBO, CNN, Cartoon Network, WB Pictures, WB Games, and much more -- is in freefall, with value dropping 70%. How would we save this storied brand from seemingly-certain destruction? Next up is Micah, who wants to know which songs are currently in everyone's heads. What are you humming as you go about your recent business? Then, Jaffe steps to the plate with a classic gaming conundrum, but for real life: If given the opportunity, how would we "re-spec" ourselves, like a character in an RPG? Finally, Lock brings up the rear with a conversation about video game movies. Borderlands is apparently very bad. What gaming film do we want to see made that would hopefully be the exact opposite? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #83 | Game Informer's Closure, Favorite Brand Mascots, Space Travel, Road Trips

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 185:20


    Welcome -- one and all! -- to another episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, Colin is joined by Punching Up's Micah Moriarty, Defining Duke's MrMattyPlays, and Summon Sign's Brad Ellis. Matty kicks things off with a soliloquy for Game Informer, the popular gaming publication founded in the early-'90s, and inexplicably shuttered right before we began recording. How do we feel about its closure, and its impact on the industry? Next up is Micah, who inquires as to our favorite brand mascots over the years. Where do the Geico Gecko, Mr. Clean, and the Trix Rabbit stack-up? Then, Brad brings us on a journey, recounting our favorite roadtrip memories from our past. Did we find ourselves on long roadbound adventures with friends and family? Finally, Colin wraps things up by inquiring about space travel. How does everyone feel about the idea of exploring the seemingly unexplorable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #82 | Back By Popular Demand: Another Political Conversation

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 245:51


    Welcome back to Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by Punching Up co-host Gene Park, Sacred Symbols co-host Chris Ray Gun, and storied game designer David Jaffe. Indeed, this is the same cast that appeared on Episode 78 of our show, and we're back just a month-or-so later by popular demand, with another four hour-long heater. As was the case last time, this conversation is virtually entirely political, and we didn't split it up into topics because the structure is frankly more chaotic than that. But we touch on many, many topics: Kamala Harris, Trump vs. Harris, SCOTUS, Elon Musk, voting, the end of the United States, culture, race, and -- inexplicably -- a solid 25 minutes on Boogie2988. Anyway, please enjoy. And remember! This episode is obviously not going to be for everyone. No whining allowed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #81 | Would You Rather?, Holiday Gaming, Reading

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 167:13


    Welcome back to Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. Today, I (Colin) man the host's chair, and welcome LSM coordinator Micah Moriarty and Virtual Legality's Rick Hoeg to the show for a trifecta of fun inquiries. Micah kicks things off with some "would you rather?" premises that she lifted from a magazine. Don't worry: Nothing perverted! Instead, would we rather see 10 minutes ahead of 150 years ahead? Would we rather be dipped in maple syrup or nutella? That sort of thing. Next, Hoeg hits us with a shorter topic hinging upon gaming, watching films and TV, and so on at certain times of year, during specific holidays, days, months, and so on. Are we calendrical? Finally, I wrap things up by talking about reading books. It's summertime, which means I'm floating around the pool almost every day reading a book for an hour or two. But once the pool is closed, I probably won't read a book until it's open again. Where does reading fit into our lives? And what are some books we've recently read that we'd recommend to the audience? Go to https://www.hellofresh.com/conapps for free appetizers for life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #80 | Becoming a Dad, Flying, Appreciating Our Parents, Hypochondria

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 251:40


    Welcome back to another Constellation conversation! Dagan finally returns to the fold to host the latest exciting discussion with a cast of some of your LSM favorites. First, Dustin wonders about becoming a dad. As he and his wife Holly prepare for the imminent birth of their first child, the soon to be father asks for the crew's thoughts and advice on parenting. Next up, Ben wants to pick our brains about flying. What do we think about air travel, and what were some of our best and worst experiences in planes and airports? Once the gang lands safely back on the ground, Cog inspires us to appreciate our parents. As they get older, how have our relationships developed with the people that brought us into this world? Closing out this week's conversation, Dagan reflects on his intermittent hypochondria and inquires about his cohost's experience with this specific flavor of anxiety. Do we know people who tend to worry about their health to an unhealthy degree? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #79 | Micah's Mini D&D Campaign, LEGO, Assassin's Creed's Future, Schadenfreude

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2024 169:14


    It's time for more Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by my lovely wife and Last Stand's coordinator Micah Moriarty, Summon Sign's Brad Ellis, and Lockmort's Edit's Lockmort. And boy, do we have a nerdy assortment of topics for you. Micah kicks things off with a short D&D-like campaign she wrote for us to participate in, complete with branching paths and dice rolls. Will we survive? Brad follows-up with a chat about LEGO sets, their quality, their licenses, and their great expense. Are we fans? From there, I (Colin) take over by talking about schadenfreude, the German word that means reveling in the misfortune of others. Let's be honest: None of us is above it... right? Finally, Lock wraps things up with a peek into the what-ifs of Assassin's Creed's future. If it was up to us, where in history would we set a new AC title? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #78 | The Biden vs. Trump 2024 Presidential Debate: Reflections and More

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 253:02


    Welcome to a special, one-topic-driven episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by Punching Up co-host Gene Park, Sacred Symbols co-host Chris Ray Gun, and storied game designer David Jaffe, and we gather for a some-four-hour chat all about the first of two scheduled presidential debates for the 2024 election cycle between Joe Biden and Donald Trump. This is obviously an exclusively, deeply political conversation, so be warned before you hit play. We touch on just about everything imaginable: The debate itself, the fallout thereafter, who we think will ultimately win, if we believe that Biden specifically will even ultimately be one of the nominees, and -- of course -- we get deep into the weeds on all of the important issues they spoke about during the debate, and more. Again, be warned: If you don't like or care about politics, or if you get upset when you hear serious, adult opinions you don't agree with, don't listen or watch. For those with open minds and a curiosity for a wide variety of opinions, however, please enjoy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #77 | Indie Games, Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse, Downloadable Content, Gardening

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2024 172:54


    It's time for more Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. This week, I (Colin) am joined by Defining Duke's Lord Cognito, Summon Sign's Brad Ellis, and Lockmort's Edit's... Lockmort. We have a very nerdy episode in store for you. I start things off by talking about my love of plants, flowers, and gardening. My hobby has blossomed (pardon the pun) into a larger part of my life recently. Is anyone else nurturing a green thumb? Cog wants to dive into the realm of indie games, a widely-evolved subsection of the console and PC space that has grown far beyond its traditional definition. Do we partake in the scene? And just what is an indie game, anyway? Lockmort's intrigued by a hypothetical zombie apocalypse, in which we'd all be tasked to survive on our own. What would be our first moves following the outbreak? Would we rely on our humanity to stay alive, or potentially lose it along the way? Finally, we come to Brad, who waxes about downloadable content, or DLC. What was our first-ever encounter with digital add-ons? Do we purchase much DLC in our day-to-day gaming lives? What's the best expansion ever? All of that -- and more! -- on the other side of the play button. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #76 | Lore, Idioms, Retro Gaming's Appeal, Fashion

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 170:56


    Welcome back, one-and-all, to another episode of Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast. It's me, Colin. This week, I'm joined by LSM's associate producer Ben Smith, Sacred Symbols' Chris Ray Gun, and Summon Sign's Brad Ellis. Our meandering chat begins with Brad, who wants to know what we think about fashion. Do we care about clothes? Are we into certain brands? Do we have what we'd consider an individual style? From there, we move onto Ben, who gets into idioms, the nomenclature that we use constantly, but that has a meaning beyond the literal. Which ones do we enjoy employing? From here, we move onto Chris, who inquires about the lore of our favorite pieces of fiction. Do we like getting into the nitty-gritty beyond what's right in front of us? Do we delve into in-game documents, novelizations, and iceberg videos? Finally, I round things out by laying out my love for retro gaming, while wondering if I'm enamored with old and old-style games because they're what I grew up with, or if they really are, in fact, the cream-of-the-crop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #75 | Biggest Disappointments, Canon in Fiction, Entertaining Guests, Cold Cuts

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2024 191:11


    It's me, Colin, and I come bearing bad news: Dagan is going to be gone for a few weeks. His work demands his presence over the next several Fridays, and thus I've slid (!) back into the host's chair. Joining me this week are LSM executive producer Dustin Furman, coordinator Micah Moriarty, and special guest Rick Hoeg of Hoeg Law. As always, topics vary wildly. Micah begins by talking about throwing parties and entertaining people at our home. Do we enjoy the process, or is it stressful? I go next with a deep cut (literally): Cold cuts, the glorious sliced meat that make the finest sandwiches imaginable. What are our go-tos? From there, we welcome Dustin's topic, all about our respective lives' biggest disappointments, from games, film, and TV, to work, love, and life in general. Finally, Hoeg brings up the rear with what ended up being our most-explored inquiry of the week: How we deal with fictional canon when we don't like all of it. Are we able to divorce ourselves from some of it and embrace the rest? Is "The Death of the Author" the true law of the land, or is authorial intent everything? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #74 | Online Algorithms, Trump's Guilty Verdict, Rose-Tinted Nostalgia, Greatest Compliments

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 253:46


    Welcome back to another episode of Constellation! This week, Lockmort gets things rolling with a discussion about Online Algorithms. What are the pros and cons to the patterns we create while shopping, searching and watching content on our computers and phones? Next, Gene wants to talk about Donald Trump's guilty verdict. Now that the polarizing presidential candidate has been found guilty on all counts in his hush money case, what do we think this could mean for the United States and the world ahead of the 2024 election? Next up, David Jaffe returns to steer the conversation away from current affairs and straight towards nostalgia. Specifically, are we too quick to remember the past with rose-tinted glasses? Were the periods of time that we reflect on so fondly really that wonderful, or was it just our specific perspectives and circumstances during those years that encourage us to reminisce? And for this week's final topic, Dagan asks his cronies to remember the greatest compliments that they ever received. What are some of the nicest things that people have said to us, and which words of praise do we remember most? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    #73 | Family Resemblances, Playoff Sports Passions, Loyalty Programs, The Coolest Brand Names

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2024 237:02


    Welcome back to Constellation, Last Stand Media's conversational podcast! This week's panel offers up a thought-provoking batch of topics for discussion. Micah has been thinking about family resemblances, and she'd like the rest of the gang to share their thoughts and experiences on the topic.Which of our family members do we look like most, and which physical characteristics are we grateful for inheriting? On the other hand, which cherished genetic attributes do we feel we missed out on, and how did our children fare in the resemblance department? Next, Ben wants to talk about loyalty programs. Are we inclined to take advantage of the common corporate promise of saving money in exchange for being faithful to a specific brand or retail outfit? In our experiences, which companies offer the best monetary incentives for shopping with them, and which don't inspire much loyalty at the end of the day. Batting third, Matty shares his deep passion for post-season sports. Are we crazed and rabid fans during the playoffs, especially when our favorite teams are in the mix? How do we handle the emotional roller coaster of winning and losing with the cities and the teams that we love the most? Finally, Dagan wants to share his obsession with awesome brand names. Do we recognize when a product, company or brand has an amazing moniker? What about next level game, book and movie titles? Simply put, which stuff has the coolest and most creative names? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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