Podcasts about Gaius

THE GRACCHI BROTHERS AND THE RISE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN ROME Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. The Gracchi brothers introduced political violence to Rome, with Tiberius using populism to revive his career and Gaius acting as a true believer in reform. Their assassinations by the Senate marked a departure from peaceful republican norms, as the elite used violence to protect entrenched economic inequality. NUMBER 12 SULLA COING 81? BCE

SHOW 12-18-25 THE SHOW BEGINS IN DOUBTS ABOUT THE POTUS AT YEAR'S END... 1951 BALD EAGLE ALASKA CRUNCH EU SUMMIT DISCUSSES USING FROZEN RUSSIAN ASSETS FOR UKRAINE Colleague Anatol Lieven. The European Union is internally divided over seizing frozen Russian assets to fund Ukraine's war effort and reconstruction, a move requiring rule changes that some members resist. While the US proposes using these funds for post-war rebuilding, current plans risk spending the capital on immediate warfare, potentially undermining international financial trust. NUMBER 1 NATO AND EU SEEK DEFENSE FUNDS AMID FEARS OF RUSSIAN AGGRESSION Colleague Anatol Lieven. European nations like Finland are demanding funds to counter perceived Russian threats, despite a lack of historical aggression toward them. Lieven argues that plans to spend billions on tanks are misguided, as the Ukraine war demonstrates that expensive armor is easily destroyed by cheaper drones and defensive lines. NUMBER 2 CALIFORNIA JOB LOSSES AND CHINA'S ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN AMID RETAIL SEASON Colleague Chris Riegel. California's new wage mandates have triggered significant job losses in the fast-food sector, forcing operators to move to lower-tax states. Internationally, while China boasts of leads in AI and EVs, these sectors rely on unsustainable subsidies, masking a deep consumer recession and deflation in the property market. NUMBER 3 SPAIN'S GOVERNMENT MAINTAINS TIES WITH VENEZUELA DESPITE OPPOSITION Colleague Mary Anastasia O'Grady. The Spanish government under Pedro Sanchez maintains ideological and economic alliances with the Maduro regime, prioritizing political agendas over democratic ideals. Opposition figure Cayetana Alvarez de Toledo accuses former Prime Minister Zapatero of acting as an international agent for Maduro, facilitating the dictatorship's survival despite mass migration. NUMBER 4 CHINA'S SURREPTITIOUS SUPPORT KEEPS THE MADURO REGIME AFLOAT Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. China sustains the Maduro regime through loans, surveillance technology, and military equipment while bypassing sanctions to import Venezuelan oil. The state oil company, PDVSA, collapsed due to the purging of technical experts and lack of investment, forcing Venezuela to rely on Iranian engineers to maintain minimal production. NUMBER 5 VENEZUELA'S TRAGIC DECLINE FROM PROSPERITY TO AUTHORITARIANISM Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. Historical imagery reveals Venezuela's transformation from a prosperous, modern nation in the 1950s to a ruined state today. Deep inequality and corruption in the pre-Chavez era alienated the poor, allowing Hugo Chavez to capitalize on their frustration and dismantle the free market system, leading to the current crisis. NUMBER 6 ELECTIONS IN CHILE, PERU, AND HONDURAS SIGNAL REGIONAL SHIFTS Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. In Chile, José Antonio Kast's rise reflects a rejection of progressive policies and crime, favoring order and investment. Meanwhile, Peru faces political fragmentation and violence, Honduras struggles with electoral disputes, and Costa Rica appears poised to elect a pro-US candidate who aims to limit Chinese influence. NUMBER 7 ARGENTINA'S CREDIT RATING RISES AS BRAZIL FACES POLITICAL POLARIZATION Colleague Professor Evan Ellis. S&P upgraded Argentina's credit rating following Javier Milei's austerity measures, which have stabilized the currency and reduced inflation despite social costs. In Brazil, the reduction of Jair Bolsonaro's prison sentence and his son Flavio's candidacy signal a continued, polarized struggle against Lula da Silva's agenda for the 2026 election. NUMBER 8 ROMAN KINGSHIP: FROM CITIZEN SELECTION TO THE IDEAL OF SERVICE Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. Early Roman kings were selected by citizens based on merit rather than heredity, but figures like Servius Tullius began bypassing this consent. Conversely, Cincinnatus exemplifies the Roman ideal of service; he accepted absolute dictatorial power to save the state during a crisis, then immediately resigned to return to his farm. NUMBER 9 APPIUS CLAUDIUS CAECUS: INFRASTRUCTURE AND POLITICAL GENIUS Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. Appius Claudius Caecus transformed the Roman censorship office into a power base by building the Appian Way and appointing wealthy Italians to the Senate. As a blind elder statesman, he shamed the Senate into rejecting peace with Pyrrhus, insisting Rome must fight to maintain its dominance and ancestral legacy. NUMBER 10 ROME VS. CARTHAGE: DESTINY, TRAGEDY, AND THE CONSENSUS FOR WAR Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. The conflict between Rome and Carthage is symbolized by the tragedy of Dido, representing the incompatibility of their powers. Despite Hannibal's devastating victories, the Roman Republic prevailed through a political system that prioritized consensus and collective sacrifice, allowing them to endure immense losses without surrendering. NUMBER 11 THE GRACCHI BROTHERS AND THE RISE OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN ROME Colleague Professor Edward J. Watts. The Gracchi brothers introduced political violence to Rome, with Tiberius using populism to revive his career and Gaius acting as a true believer in reform. Their assassinations by the Senate marked a departure from peaceful republican norms, as the elite used violence to protect entrenched economic inequality. NUMBER 12 DISCOVERY OF GIANT RADIO GALAXIES AND SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLES Colleague Dr. Sabayashi Pal. Astronomers have discovered 53 giant radio galaxies, some 75 times larger than the Milky Way, powered by active supermassive black holes emitting radio jets. These ancient objects offer insights into galactic evolution, contrasting sharply with the Milky Way's smaller, dormant black hole that allows life to exist safely. NUMBER 13 INVESTING IN HUMAN INTELLECT OVER ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE Colleague Dr. Sabayashi Pal. Given an unlimited budget, Dr. Pal would prioritize human resource development over new telescopes, proposing a space study institute in Africa to train experts. He argues that while AI is a useful tool, education is essential for humans to interpret data and appreciate the machinery rather than being replaced by it. NUMBER 14 EUROPE SCROUNGES FOR FUNDS AMID RUSSIAN ASSET DISPUTES Colleague Michael Bernstam. The UK threatens to seize proceeds from the sale of Chelsea FC for Ukraine aid, while the EU struggles to finance a $135 billion shortfall for Kyiv. European leaders propose leveraging frozen Russian assets for loans, but financial markets remain skeptical of the EU's ability to guarantee such debt. NUMBER 15 CONGRESSIONAL SPENDING AND THE REVERSE MIDAS TOUCH Colleagues Dave Hebert and Peter Earle. Hebert and Earle argue that Congressional spending exacerbates problems in education and healthcare by subsidizing demand while restricting supply through regulations. They contend politicians prefer "showy" supply-side interventions, like drug busts, over effective policies because the politics of appearing effective outweigh the economics of actual affordability. NUMBER 16

Gaming Hosts Ryan and Josh are back again with another fantastic gaming filled episode. In this episode, we take a look at our extensive backlog of games and make some interesting video game discoveries. We talk the games we're most excited to try, which ones are must plays, and realize we might just have some hidden gems waiting for us. It's video game chat with your friends, from the best gaming podcast around! Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠⁠ Join our Gaming Community: ⁠ https://discord.gg/FQyaKQwfyP Visit us on the web:⁠⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2nd and 3rd John are short personal letters written fairly close to each other, around 95-96 AD. The first of these letters being to a beloved friend termed "the elect (or chosen by God) lady". The aged Apostle had a deep love for this sister because of her hospitality and faithfulness. His salutations of, "Grace, mercy and peace" come from a mature faith and are the same as those of the Apostle Paul to Timothy and Titus; the so called "Pastoral letters". Verses 4-11 express John's great joy that this wonderful sister's children had chosen to walk in the Truth. John reiterates the new command, "to walk in love"; frequently spoken of in his gospel account and first letter. He also warns of the false teachers (antichrists) mentioned at length in his first letter. The woman and her faithful family - the ecclesia - must abide in the true teaching of the Father and His Beloved Son. Anyone walking contrary to that Truth, in behaviour or doctrine, was to beforbidden the fellowship of the saints. John's final greetings, of verses 12-13, express his hope of catching up with the elect lady face to face, rather than through a letter. 3rd John was written to a friend who had often been the old Apostle's host - Gaius - who was deeply "loved in the Lord". This brother was a Thessalonian, who had been converted to the Truth by the Apostle Paul. Verses 5-12 speak of the supporters of ecclesial work and others who were the opponents - the enemies of the Faith. Gaius and those like him had shown great hospitality to visitors, who have preached the Gospel. Support for such workers was commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ when he sent forth the 72 in Luke 10. Those of us who cannot personally go into the mission fields have a responsibility to support both in prayer and financially those who undertake the Great Commission i.e. the taking the Gospel to the world (Matthew 28). John says that those who do so have become fellow helpers of the Truth. The Apostle warns his readers of being a puffed up, self-important errorist, who not only dragged down the faithful, but would take an aggressive stand against all who, like the Apostle John, would take a stand for truth and moral uprightness. Don't be imitators of the evil, but only of the true (see Ephesians 5verses1-21). In his final greetings the Apostle speaks of his desire to spend time with the faithful ecclesia with Gaius in a face-to- face context, rather than via letter. Peace will be with the faithful.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Laura and Xhafer discuss which Cylon is most likely to own ferrets and sci-fi's most destructive throuple. Laura is mad at Starbuck, again. Xhafer figures out where the corners of BSG's paper supply went. This episode covers Battlestar Galactica Season 3, Episode 10: The Passage. Discord: https://discord.gg/MUHKDDk6TNMerch: https://www.etsy.com/shop/WhatHappenedHerePods

Tis' the season! Gaming hosts Josh and Ryan are back and we're celebrating the holiday season by giving gifts to some of the most iconic video game characters. The goal is to give the best gift for that character and we're competing to see who's got the chops to be the best. Join us for a hilarious and fun gaming filled episode from the best gaming podcast on the planet! Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠⁠ Join our Gaming Community: ⁠https://discord.gg/dXdp8MJR⁠ Follow us on Instagram:⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠⁠  Follow us on X:⁠⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ceremony: The Emperor as Collective Focal Point and Sacred Kingship — Gaius & Germanicus — In the "freezing darkness of Londinium," Gaius and Germanicus reflect philosophically on the spectacle of the new American"Emperor" (Donald Trump) attending the Army-Navy football game, with Gaius describing the theatrical pageantry of Trump's entrance flanked by enormous military officers and the overwhelming orchestrated cheers from assembled military cadets. Gaius argues that for a transcendent moment, the United States embodied the full confidence, unified purpose, and absolute power characteristic of the Roman Empire at its zenith. Germanicus analyzes this ceremonial moment through historical lens, positing that the Emperor functions as a "collective focal point" for national identity and institutional legitimacy, embodying "sacred kingship" roles that unify the entire nation in ways that republican governance structures fundamentally cannot achieve. Germanicus compares this modern ceremonial spectacle to Roman imperial tradition wherein the Emperor's physical presence at the Coliseum or the Hippodrome served vital ritualistic functions transcending mere entertainment, instead melding the Emperor, the Senate, and the populace into a singular apotheosis of unified national identity and sacred authority. Germanicus suggests that this ceremonial gathering simultaneously demonstrated American military strength while affirming the psychological necessity of embodied leadership and collective ritual in maintaining national cohesion and ideological purpose.

Migration: Assimilation Crisis and the Collapse of Western Civilization — Gaius & Germanicus — Gaius and Germanicus analyze the destabilizing strain generated by mass migration flows from the economically depressed Global South to the wealthy industrialized North, documenting escalating violence in Australia, social unrest throughout Europe, and institutional strain within the United States. Gaius highlights the new American "Emperor Trump's" political mandate to enforce border security and immigration restrictions, contrasting this with the "woke elite's" previous advocacy for polyglot multicultural societies without national identity boundaries or assimilationist expectations. Germanicus argues that successful historical migration requires genuine desire for cultural assimilation into host societies, citing the Roman-era Franks and Visigoths who adopted Roman culture, language, and institutional frameworks, thereby integrating into Roman civilization. Germanicus contrasts these assimilationist populations with groups like the Vandals and contemporary observant Sunni Muslim communities, who systematically resist cultural integration and instead establish cohesive, ethnically and religiously homogeneous societies paralleling their original homelands. Germanicus warns that Europe is reaching a "boiling point" due to systemic resistance to assimilation, surging crime rates, and political backlash against uncontrolled immigration, comparing this civilizational instability to the circumstances precipitating the destruction of the Western Roman Empire by non-assimilating tribal invasions that progressively fragmented Roman institutional coherence and territorial control. 1775 BOUDICA RALLIES

War-War: NATO Provocations and American Detachment from Europe — Gaius & Germanicus — Gaius reports on escalating aggressive rhetoric from NATO and fortification initiatives throughout the Baltic region, questioning whether these military deployments constitute "false flag" provocations deliberately designed to entrap the United Statesin direct warfare with Russia. Germanicus contends that European elites are systematically manufacturing an external Russian crisis to maintain institutional power and governmental legitimacy against ascending populist movements and deep-seated fear of abandonment by the new American "Emperor." Germanicus draws a historical parallel to the permanent schism of the Roman Empire in 395 AD, characterizing the United States as the prosperous, militarily secure Eastern Empire (Byzantine Constantinople) and contemporary Europe as the economically weak, militarily collapsing Western Empire facing irreversible institutional decay. Germanicus argues that just as Constantinople eventually ceased attempting to save the disintegrating Western Empire from Vandal invasions and territorial collapse, the United States is strategically detaching from European geopolitical failures, recognizing that continued military commitment represents strategic wastage of American resources without corresponding security benefit. Germanicus emphasizes that European strategic incompetence and political cowardice render European salvation impossible through Americanmilitary intervention, making strategic withdrawal the rational American policy response. 1944 GOLD BEACH H-HOUR

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are back for our biggest episode of the year: the Video Gamers Podcast GAME AWARDS! This is where we celebrate the highs, call out the surprises, and argue over the moments that defined gaming in 2025. From Best Indie to Biggest Disappointment, we break down the nominees, the winners, and the debates that got heated behind the scenes. Which video games truly earned their praise, and which ones rode hype a little too far? We look at the trends that shaped the year, the studios that overdelivered, and the releases that had everyone talking across the gaming community. Whether you agree with our picks or not, this awards show is all about passion for video games and what made this year unforgettable for fans everywhere.   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/dXdp8MJR Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming Hosts Ryan, Ace and Josh are back in court to argue another hot topic in gaming! Which are more important to the video game world - Indie games or AAA titles? On this episode of Game Court, Ace and Ryan go head to head to stand up for their cause and argue their cases to see which video game developers and games are most important. It's a fun, zany video game packed episode from your favorite gaming podcast! Thanks to our MYTHIC supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius and Phelps Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro and Patrick Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/videogamerspod Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/Dsx2rgEEbz Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/ Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1 Visit us on the web: https://videogamerspod.com/ Follow us on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/videogamerspodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh and Ace are kicking back this week as Ryan gets officially hijacked and thrown headfirst into the wacky, dimension-hopping madness of SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake! In this special Hijack a Host episode, we're breaking down whether this bizarre, bubbly platformer is secretly one of the most joyful surprises in video games or just another trip to Bikini Bottom chaos. From jellyfishing mayhem to wild alternate universes, we cover everything this game gets right, everything it absolutely does not, and why its Saturday-morning-cartoon energy might be exactly what the gaming world needs right now. If you love video games that go all-in on style, color, and pure nonsense, you're in the right place. Plus, we talk about where The Cosmic Shake fits into today's gaming landscape—and whether Ryan survived the glittery nightmare intact. Another can't-miss episode of the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John contrasts the humble hospitality of Gaius with the prideful, self-promoting leadership of Diotrephes. The church must guard against arrogance and abuse of authority, standing firm in truth while exemplifying the servant leadership of Christ.

The Three Archetypes of American Global Strategy — Gaius & Germanicus — Gaius and Germanicus analyze the prospective American National Security Strategy for 2025–2026, framing it as a deliberate return to the "Trump corollary" of the Monroe Doctrine emphasizing hemispheric supremacy and regional sphere-of-influence arrangements. Germanicus categorizes American foreign policy history into three religious-like ideological visions: Washington'sisolationist "beacon on the hill," the Monroe-Adams "realm of liberty" (defensive empire protecting American interests), and the Jacksonian "Prometheus unbound" (universalist ideological expansion spreading democratic values). Germanicus argues the incoming administration systematically rejects the "Wilson to Biden" lineage of global interventionism and messianic crusading in favor of Theodore Roosevelt-style "flexible realism" emphasizing power, national interest, and transactional diplomacy. Gaius details this shifted strategy as consolidating American dominance in the Western Hemisphere and Pacific region while according Russia respect and a recognized sphere of influence in Eurasia, explicitly rejecting Cold War confrontationalism. Gaius documents that Kremlin leadership has explicitly welcomed this "flexible realism," viewing it as a geopolitical departure from perpetual adversarial Cold War mindset. Germanicus contrasts this transactional approach with the "Manichaean" moral crusades characterizing recent American foreign policy, suggesting the American public now explicitly favors strategy avoiding military entanglement while prioritizing domestic prosperity and economic reconstruction, mirroring isolationist sentiments following World War I. 1911 USS MAINE IN HAVANA HARBOR

he Caudine Forks and the Dangers of Half-Measures — Gaius & Germanicus — Germanicus and Gaius center their discussion on the instructive Roman historical lesson of the Caudine Forks: a victor must either completely annihilate the enemy or embrace them as genuine allies; choosing the treacherous middle path of ritual humiliation and subordination ensures future vengeance and perpetual instability. Germanicus applies this ancient strategic principle to contemporary geopolitics, arguing that the United States consistently fails this historical test by demanding submission—symbolized by forcing nations beneath the ritualistic "yoke"—without achieving total conquest that transforms hostile nations into obedient subordinate "bricks" within a durable imperial structure. Gaius and Germanicus cite the Treaty of Versailles and the post-Cold War treatment of Russia as prime historical examples where deliberate humiliation without comprehensive conquest bred lasting resentment rather than durable peace, establishing the foundation for subsequent conflicts and nationalist backlash. Germanicus characterizes this approach as reflecting American "narcissism," the desire for dominance without willingness to wage total war, thereby explaining systemic American failures in Iraq, Afghanistan, and contemporary tensions with Iran. Germanicus and Gaius warn against applying this "halfway yoke" framework to emerging challenges with Venezuela or Russia, instead counseling that it is strategically safer to permit regimes to decay internally through entropy rather than provoke nationalist backlash through external military or political pressure. Gaius concludes by characterizing current European leaders as "aggressive dependents" psychologically clinging to the Ukraine conflict to artificially preserve their own fragile domestic political authority and suppress internal dissent regarding failing governance.

The Courtiers' Pivot and the Failing Imperial Narrative — Gaius & Germanicus — Gaius and Germanicus, in their metaphorical 91 AD Londinium dialogue, critique the Western foreign policy establishment, dismissively labeled "courtiers," regarding their systematic narrative repositioning on the Ukraine war as military circumstances deteriorate catastrophically. Germanicus argues that these elite advisors prioritize preservation of institutional status and access to executive power over accountability and honest assessment; as the military situation turns decisively against Ukraine, these courtiers seamlessly pivot from predicting Ukrainian victory to blaming European allies for failing to "step up" with additional military commitment. Germanicus draws historical parallels to the fall of the Soviet Union, noting that elites systematically rewrite their past positions retrospectively to claim they foresaw inevitable geopolitical collapses, a psychological mechanism enabling survival without disgrace or professional consequences. Gaius and Germanicuscontrast successful empires possessing unified narratives aligned with coherent strategy against the current Americanapproach, characterized as "predatory opportunism" driven by electoral manipulation requirements. Germanicuscontends that strategic failures in Ukraine—where population and material resources mathematically determine victory—expose the U.S. as a "weak and venal empire" relying upon a "pastiche" of propagandistic lies rather than the solid convergence of vision that characterized American dominance during World War II. 1918 UKRAINE

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan, and Ace are diving deep into the mysterious, mind-bending world of Absolum in this week's full-blown breakdown. Is this ambitious new experience the boundary-pushing masterpiece fans are calling it, or another case of gaming hype spiraling out of control? We're unpacking everything—its haunting atmosphere, its ambitious mechanics, and the wild narrative swings that have everyone in the video games community talking. From the game's surreal worldbuilding to its bold mechanical risks, we'll explore whether Absolum truly earns its reputation as one of the most fascinating video games of the year. If you love gaming deep dives that analyze every layer of a strange, standout title, this is the episode for you. Don't miss this mind-twisting journey into Absolum on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John prays for Gaius' physical health to match his spiritual vitality—reminding us that our physical well-being impacts our spiritual effectiveness. While praying for healing is valid, we must also prioritize spiritual fitness and discipline for the sake of gospel usefulness.

Gaming hosts Josh and Ryan are back with a highly requested Would You Rather bonus round! We're tackling the tough gaming questions, choices and hilarious situations only gamers could answer! From video games to real life decisions, this is one video game packed episode you don't want to miss! Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh and Ryan are back with another banger of a good time! On this gaming packed episode we're breaking down our Top 5 lists of games you wish you could experience again for the very first time. These are some must play video games that will absolutely leave a mark on you. It's another awesome video game filled episode from the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are back with a brand-new Indie TWIG, diving into the most exciting upcoming indie titles shaking up the gaming scene. This week we're breaking down fresh showcases and early impressions of Cursed Companions, The Time I Have Left, Altered Alma, and more—each bringing something bold, stylish, or downright weird to the world of video games. From surreal time-based adventures to neon-drenched sci-fi chaos, we're covering the standout concepts that prove indie studios continue to push gaming forward in ways the big publishers never could. We'll talk about what makes these games unique, why indie hype is stronger than ever, and which titles might quietly become the next cult classics in video games. It's another packed week of discoveries, surprises, and all the indie-flavored energy you love from This Week in Gaming on the Video Gamers Podcast! Cursed Companions - https://store.steampowered.com/app/3265230/Cursed_Companions BARKOUR- https://store.steampowered.com/app/1920290/Barkour/ Altered Alma- https://store.steampowered.com/app/2190700/Altered_Alma/ Spine- https://store.steampowered.com/app/1731290/SPINE__This_is_Gun_Fu/ Shade Protocol- https://store.steampowered.com/app/3581730/SHADE_Protocol/ The Time I Have Left- https://store.steampowered.com/app/1918830/The_Time_I_Have_Left/ War Rats - https://store.steampowered.com/app/3167260/WAR_RATS_The_Rat_em_Up/   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder, Bobby S. and Dettmarp   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comIII John John writes to his dear friend Gaius, praising him for his faithfulness and love in supporting fellow believers, even those who are strangers. Gaius walks in the truth, and John expresses great joy in hearing that his spiritual children are living faithfully. He encourages continued support for those doing God's work, as they rely on the hospitality of believers. John contrasts Gaius with Diotrephes, a man who rejects authority, spreads malicious words, and refuses to welcome other believers. He warns against following such bad examples and instead urges believers to imitate what is good. He also commends Demetrius for his strong reputation and faithful life. John hopes to visit soon and closes with greetings of peace and love from mutual friends in the faith.  We will greatly prosper in Christ as we walk in truth and express love through our actions. Like Gaius, we are called to support those who serve God, even if we do not know them personally. Our hospitality and encouragement can genuinely make a difference in the work of the gospel. Meanwhile, we must avoid following the example of pride or selfishness, as seen with Diotrephes. Our goal is to be recognized for our kindness, humility, and commitment to serving others. When we live with integrity and care for our fellow believers, we bring joy to those in leadership and honor God with our lives. Let us continue to walk in truth, serve faithfully, and love deeply every day.  Almighty God, thank You for the truth that shapes our lives and for people who encourage us to walk faithfully. Help us to be like Gaius, generous and welcoming to those who serve in Your name. Grant us discernment to recognize what is good and courage to turn away from pride and division. Fill our hearts with joy as we serve others and open our homes in love. May we be known for building up the body of Christ, not tearing it down. Let our words bring peace, our actions show grace, and our lives reflect the light of Christ.  Thought Questions: Why has hospitality become so rare, particularly toward unfamiliar people? How do you show kindness to brethren who pass through? Why did Diotrephes accuse John and refuse to accept Christians? How do you prevent a level of pride that does such evil to brethren? Demetrius received a good testimony from everyone. How do you think he built that reputation, and how are you doing the same?

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are diving into the biggest twists, shocks, and “no way that just happened” moments that have hit the gaming world—and even our own podcast. From unexpected breakout hits to wild industry shakeups, we're breaking down the surprises that had us rewinding trailers, double-checking headlines, and questioning everything we thought we knew about video games. Whether it was a sleeper indie that stole the spotlight, a major studio making the boldest move of the year, or a moment on the show none of us saw coming, we're covering it all. If you love video games that keep you guessing and a podcast crew that's always ready for a good plot twist, this is the episode for you. Don't miss this jam-packed, unpredictably fun celebration of the year's most shocking stories in gaming—only on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3/3. The Regicide Debate — Gaius and Germanicus examine the history and implications of killing monarchs and emperors, particularly regarding modern political leadership. Germanicus uses the execution of Charles I in 1649following the English Civil War as the seminal regicide precedent; Charles I was executed publicly after refusing to defend himself in court. Gaius explains that regicide recurs throughout imperial history because the sacred monarch's authority embodies the totality of society itself; metaphorically, the monarch's body represents the body of all citizens collectively. Germanicus distinguishes between legitimate regicide—eliminating a king who betrayed his societal mission (like Caligula)—and capricious execution like Charles I's, Louis XVI's, or Nicholas II's, which constitutes ritual delegitimation. Gaius notes that Charles I's execution ultimately delegitimized the regicides themselves, causing the nation to reject them and resulting in Cromwell's short-lived Protectorship. Germanicus warns that contemporary opposition entertaining regicidal ideas against "Emperor Trump" appears unaware they are entering this long historical tradition of regicide, which invariably triggers general conflict among factions, since millions of faithful supporters embrace the emperor. Gaius emphasizes that while individual men may be killed, opposition attempting to slay the high office itself confronts an institution that is undying, all-powerful, and ultimately indestructible, creating structural conditions for catastrophic escalation and societal fragmentation reminiscent of cracked mirrors that cannot be adequately mended without the binding emotional adhesive of fraternity and shared national purpose. 1649

2/3. The Civic Communion Debate — Gaius observes that despite ceremonial declarations of national strength, the United States remains profoundly fragmented domestically. Germanicus presents French philosophical recommendations for "Civic Communion," emphasizing shared, major institutions—Religion, Military, Education, Healthcare—where citizens belong to each other transcending immutable background characteristics. Germanicushighlights that the US prioritizes enshrining individual rights and liberty but neglects fraternity, the concept providing implicit kinship and reciprocal obligation among citizens. Gaius articulates French exceptionalism, which embraces those joining the French civilizational sphere; the French concept of laïcité requires that kinship to France supersede sectarian and identitarian attachments. Germanicus emphasizes that the US has failed to cultivate the idea of constituting a "people" and lacks emotional bonds necessary for sustained national unity. Gaius notes this fragmentation was temporarily healed during the World Wars but is now fully developed, resembling divisions of the 1840s-1850s. Germanicus describes contemporary American society as characterized by "bile and rancor," where citizens are rewarded for denouncing American institutions, rendering reestablishment of "imagined kinship" extraordinarily difficult and requiring fundamental reconceptualization of national identity and shared purpose. 1908 FRENCH GRAND PRIX

1/3. The Peace Debate — In a Londinium wine bar during a storm in 91 AD, Gaius and Germanicus philosophize about service and contemporary geopolitics, centering on the modern concept of "peace," particularly regarding Ukrainedespite ongoing conflicts in Venezuela and Hezbollah rearmament. Germanicus asserts that "peace" functions as a euphemism for defeat, deployed by the side facing inevitable submission to avoid public humiliation. Germanicus argues that Russia's protracted attrition strategy is culminating, evidenced by recent media reports of meteoric desertions and massive irrecoverable casualties exceeding 40,000 Ukrainian soldiers monthly, suggesting Ukraine approaches structural collapse. Gaius emphasizes that Europe lacks deployable military capacity and sustained fighting capability, necessitating a negotiated peace settlement to avoid the humiliation of military defeat. Germanicus notes that neoconservatives remain unusually silent, lacking control of the current administration, establishment Democraticinfluence, and weakened by collateral damage from Israel's Gaza campaign to their "endless war" doctrine. Gaiuscontends that the United States' only viable leverage for Russia involves promises of economic investment, reestablishing European energy linkages, and modernizing resource extraction through joint ventures. Germanicusidentifies three conditions for a viable treaty: Ukrainian neutrality, Russian reintegration, and attractive arrangements regarding Donbass, coupled with Ukraine affirming non-discrimination toward Russian-speaking populations. 1968

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are breaking down the biggest Game of the Year snubs and dubs in one of the most heated debates the gaming world sees every year. Which fan-favorites were unfairly left off the list, which surprise contenders actually earned their spot, and which so-called masterpieces weren't nearly as flawless as the hype suggested? We're taking a deep dive into how these decisions shape the future of video games, what the industry got right, and where the selection panel completely missed the mark. From overlooked indies to blockbuster giants, this episode covers it all—plus how this year's picks reflect major shifts happening across the gaming landscape. If you love video games and live for the annual award-season chaos, this is one can't-miss discussion from the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.” — 3 John 3 The truth was in Gaius, and Gaius walked in a the truth. If the first had not been the case, the second could never have occurred; and […]

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are diving into their thoughts on gaming's latest hype craze, Blue Prince. Is this truly one of the greatest video games of 2025, or is this a case of gaming hype gone too far? We break down exactly what this game is, why people are talking about it, whether it works and if it's ACTUALLY as good as people say. This is one video game packed episode you don't want to miss from the Video Gamers Podcast! Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S. Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/videogamerspod Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/Dsx2rgEEbz Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/ Follow us on X: https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1 Visit us on the web: https://videogamerspod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reach Out Personally To Those God Has In Your Life Now And In the Past 3 John 1:1-4 1The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth. 2Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it. 4I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan, and Ace are back with a jam-packed TWIG as they break down the biggest reveals from the latest Xbox Partner Preview showcase. From the eerie creature-collecting madness of ReAnimal to the cosmic, reality-shattering chaos of Tides of Annihilation, the crew digs into why these new titles are already turning heads in the gaming world. And yes—007 is making moves once again, and the guys have opinions on what this means for the future of video games on Xbox. We're talking surprises, standouts, and a few head-scratchers as the hosts dive into how these reveals fit into Xbox's growing lineup, whether these projects can deliver on their promises, and what fans should realistically expect. With so many video games dropping previews at once, this TWIG episode packs in all the gaming discussion you need to stay caught up, hyped up, and ready for what's next. Don't miss this loaded episode of the Video Gamers Podcast!     Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The letter known as 2 John is addressed to “the elect lady and her children” which is most likely a reference to the church body to whom he was writing. In it, John encourages the church to continue in love and to reject false teaching. You'll hear echoes of 1 John as tells the church that those remain in Christ's teaching have both the Father and the Son. In 3 John, the apostle commends his friend Gaius, who is likely a pastor, and writes to warn him about Diotrophes who loves attention, power, divisive speech, and who probably already had a twitter account. John encourages Gaius to refrain from imitating what is evil and imitate what is good. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

HEADLINE: GAIUS & GERMANICUS IN LONDINIUM 91 AD: The "When Russia Wins" War Game and NATO's Empty Shell. Gaius and Germanicus continue their discussion, reflecting on how Woodrow Wilson's 14 points led to catastrophe. They then play the "paranoid NATO dream" war game, "When Russia Wins." The scenario posits that in 2028, after the 28-point plan is implemented, Russian forces occupy Narva, Estonia, but remain static. NATO fails to invoke Article 5 due to a lack of consensus, especially after Washington washes its hands of the conflict, effectively ending the alliance. Germanicus argues NATO is an "empty shell," designed only for nuclear confrontation, not hybrid warfare or lesser contingencies. While Ukraine has made peace with not joining NATO, Russia accepts Ukraine pursuing EU membership for its necessary economic connection. Russia's goal in the Baltics is primarily the protection of ethnic Russians and access to the Baltic Sea. 1940

HEADLINE: GAIUS & GERMANICUS IN LONDINIUM 91 AD: Discussing the Pragmatic 28-Point Plan for Ukraine. Broadcasting live from Londinium, where the Thames is too rough for boatmen due to the grim weather, Gaius and Germanicus analyze the 28-point plan aimed at ending the Ukrainian disruption. This plan, a multiple of Wilson's 14 points, is driven by an emperor in Washington, and the Kremlin is currently prevailing. The core provision involves the ceding of territory, specifically Donbas, to Russia, followed by Russian-won elections. Unlike the disastrous Versailles Treaty that led to future conflict, the 28 points are deemed pragmatic, solving the issue of ardent Russian nationalists within Ukraine's borders. The plan also prevents Ukraine from joining NATO and offers Russia reintegration into the world order, potentially rejoining the G8. The speakers agree the solution is positive, allowing Ukraine to survive as a sovereign nation while losing only territories that did not want to be a part of it. 1037

HEADLINE: GAIUS & GERMANICUS IN LONDINIUM 91 AD: Reclaiming James I as the True Founding Father. Preparing to see a mock battle staged by centurions in Londinium, Gaius and Germanicus discuss the unappreciated legacy of James I (James VI of Scotland), asserting he is the true founding father of the United States. James I, an intellectual king who took the throne in 1603, faced challenges from the powerful Spanish Empire over territorial claims in the New World. When the Spanish ambassador complained about incursions near Chesapeake Bay, James I gave an "opaquely professional" response, disclaiming crown involvement and calling it "private business." This non-committal stance prevented war and allowed colonization to proceed. By 1618, he solidified this by granting a charter to the struggling Virginia colony. His light management established self-governance, setting the course for both modern Britain and the United States. 1901 OLD HOUSE Retry

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are back, but this week the community has spoken—and they've forced Ace to dive headfirst into the paranormal madness of Control for a special Hijack a Host episode! Is Remedy's reality-bending masterpiece the kind of gaming experience that convert skeptics, or will Ace's sanity unravel faster than the walls of the Oldest House? We're breaking down everything from telekinetic combat to those unsettling SCP-style mysteries that make this one of the most unforgettable video games of the last decade. If you love video games that twist your brain, bend the rules and push storytelling in gaming to wild new places, this episode is absolutely for you. Don't miss this mind-bending, community-powered showdown on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh and Ryan are back with a highly requested Would You Rather bonus round! We're tackling the tough gaming questions, choices and hilarious situations only gamers could answer! From video games to real life decisions, this is one video game packed episode you don't want to miss!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are diving deep into the mysterious, atmospheric world of Dispatch, the newest hit shaking up the gaming scene. Is this gripping narrative adventure the next evolution of immersive storytelling, or is it simply the latest spark in a year already overflowing with gaming buzz? We break down what makes Dispatch stand out, why players can't stop talking about it, and whether its tension-filled choices truly push video games forward in a meaningful way. From its haunting world-building to the surprising layers hidden beneath its simple premise, the guys unpack every detail. If you love video games that keep you guessing and challenge the norms, this episode is absolutely for you. Don't miss this must-hear deep dive into one of the year's most discussed titles on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are diving into the wild world of Game of the Year nominees, the Steam Machine hype cycle, and the biggest “maybe… maybe?” in all of gaming history — Half-Life 3. Are this year's contenders truly the best video games have to offer, or is the GOTY conversation more chaotic than ever? We break down what's rising, what's falling, and why Valve suddenly has everyone whispering again. From unexpected nominations to hardware surprises to the eternal hope of one legendary franchise, this episode has everything fans of video games love. Get ready for bold predictions, spicy debates, and some of the most entertaining gaming talk of the year on the Video Gamers Podcast!     Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Clueless at 30: A Modern Classic Revisited. Step into Beverly Hills 1995 and discover how Clueless turned into a timeless phenomenon. We set the table for a 30th-anniversary celebration, outline the themes that endure, and discuss why Clueless still sparkles today. We unpack the beloved relationships and standout moments—Cher and Josh, Dionne and friends, and the ensemble that sparks both romance and humor. A character-by-character look at how chemistry, banter, and misfires propel the story. With compelling writing and direction from Amy Heckerling and a standout cast that includes Alicia Silverstone, Paul Rudd, Brittany Murphy, Dan Hedaya, Donald Faison, Elisa Donovan, Jeremy Sisto, Breckin Meyer, Justin Walker, and more, special guest David Parke and Gaius of Back To The Blockbuster explore why Clueless remains a timeless classic and a coming-of-age teen comedy masterpiece.Where To Watch Clueless

Londinium 91 AD: Corruption and the Imperial Slip. Gaius and Germanicus shift attention to Washington, observing that wealth has grown more powerful than government in the U.S., similar to Rome's path into empire. Evidence includes Washington insiders like Rudy Giuliani and Hunter Biden allegedly operating on payrolls of corrupt foreign interests such as the Democratic Republic of Congo. Republicans typically avoid registering foreign work under the Foreign Agents Registration Act by using cutouts or undocumented money, while Democrats use think tanks during interregnums, making the process so transparent it suggests everybody's in on the game. Insiders are even willing to work for adversaries like sanctioned Russian arms makers or the Taliban under the justification of private diplomacy. Germanicusanalyzes this decline through three vantages: the Gilded Age, where corporations owned government but lacked today's foreign entanglement; foreign penetration, where adversaries and allies like Israel, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have enormous leverage; and irreconcilable ideological conflict, where corruption fuels severe ideological struggle tearing away the rule of law. They conclude that the transition into an emperor system is subtle and happens without notice, weakening the system when corruption damages trust. SULLA

Londinium 91 AD: The Aging Emperor's Urgency. Gaius and Germanicus discuss the physical and mental state of emperor Trump, noting his senior age and frantic, restless pace as potentially signs of an aging brain or alternatively adrenaline and confidence. Germanicus believes the emperor is acutely self-aware of his limited time, driven by tremendous brutal urgency to secure a lasting legacy including fiscal stability, border control, and eliminating principles like DEI. However, the stress of this frantic pace combined with age could cloud his judgment, making him more impulsive or desperate. The emperor's focus on revenge cycles, such as indicting former directors, is typical of historical emperors against their enemies. Germanicus worries this could lead to physical decline and reckless action. A critical marker of a republic's collapse into an emperor system is when the incoming president pursues and imprisons his predecessor, an easy push into civil war seen in places like Brazil. They conclude the transition is quietly happening, with the question of whether the U.S. will experience violence remaining unknown. 81 BCE SULLA Retry

Londinium 91 AD: The Debate Over Venezuela. Gaius and Germanicus of the Friends Mystery Debating Society discuss at a cold wine bar by the choppy Thames the potential decision by emperor Trump to invade Venezuela, noting the presence of a sizable, powerful military force gathered deliberately off its shores. Germanicus argues that American engagement in the Caribbean is a deep-rooted tradition dating back to the Monroe Doctrine, with the current military buildup serving as a symbolic initiative signaling to powers like China and Russia that the U.S. is reasserting influence in its accepted sphere. However, he cautions there are huge risks because the U.S. military's connection to strategic realities has declined massively, with capabilities depleted partly due to the war in Ukraine. U.S. history of warfare since Korea is marked by poor net assessment, where planners privilege desires over reality. Maduro has reportedly offered tribute of 300 million barrels of oil, suggesting the conflict is currently an aggressively conducted negotiation dependent heavily on Venezuelan armed forces loyalty. The emperor faces pressure to achieve a consolation prize if he chooses not to invade to avoid looking weak, leaving the outcome undecided. 80 BCE. SULLA

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan, and Ace are back, and this week they're drafting their all-time favorite video games box cover art! From iconic classics to the bold modern designs that defined entire eras, the guys break down what makes a cover unforgettable and how the art of gaming packaging has evolved over the decades. Is the best cover the one that defined your childhood, the one that reinvented the genre, or simply the one that looks coolest on a shelf? We're diving deep into the nostalgia, the surprising stories behind these covers, and how they shaped the way players first discovered video games in the pre-digital days. Whether you love bold character art, minimalist mystery, or chaotic energy, this is one gaming draft you won't want to miss. All that and more on this week's episode of the Video Gamers Podcast—your home for all things gaming!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan and Ace are diving deep into what makes us gamers in the first place — the wild, hilarious, and sometimes downright crazy things we do all in the name of gaming. From pulling all-nighters to complete side quests, to building spreadsheets for inventory management, to screaming in triumph after a pixel-perfect boss fight, we're covering it all. What is it about video games that brings out this next-level obsession? Why do we care so much? And what shared rituals unite gamers across the globe? Whether you've rage-quit a controller or celebrated a platinum trophy like a championship win, this gaming-packed episode is for you. Join us for a chaotic, heartfelt, and laugh-out-loud look into the world of video games and what truly makes us gamers on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming host Ace takes over for this week's Indie Edition of the Video Gamers Podcast, hosting a chaotic round of Two Truths and a Lie — video game style. Josh and Ryan are put to the test as Ace reads out three bizarre game summaries — two real, one totally fake — and the guys have to guess which one's the lie. From oddly wholesome farming simulators to unhinged horror dating sims, the world of video games has never sounded so weird. Expect plenty of laughs, deep dives into the stranger corners of video games, and maybe even a few shocking truths about the indie gaming scene itself. If you love discovering the wildest and most unexpected sides of gaming, this is one hilarious, video game–packed episode you don't want to miss from the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vgp Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gaming hosts Josh, Ryan, and Ace are back with another jam-packed episode of This Week in Gaming (TWIG) — and things are heating up! We're breaking down the shocking Expedition 33 snub that's got fans fired up, the frustrating news that GTA 6 has been delayed… AGAIN, and the chaos surrounding the latest Rust server reset that's dividing players. From industry shakeups to unexpected twists, this episode dives deep into the week's biggest gaming stories and what they mean for the future of video games. Whether you're here for the hot takes, insider breakdowns, or just want to keep up with all things gaming, this one's for you. It's all that and more on a video game-packed edition of TWIG — only on the Video Gamers Podcast!   Thanks to our MYTHIC Supporters: Redletter, Disratory, Ol' Jake, Gaius, Jigglepuf, Phelps and NorwegianGreaser   Thanks to our Legendary Supporters: HypnoticPyro, PeopleWonder and Bobby S.   Connect with the show: Support us on Patreon: ⁠patreon.com/videogamerspod⁠ Join our Gaming Community: https://discord.gg/vUzjAZBV Follow us on Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/videogamerspod/⁠  Follow us on X:⁠ https://twitter.com/VideoGamersPod⁠  Subscribe to us on YouTube:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@VideoGamersPod?sub_confirmation=1⁠    Visit us on the web:⁠https://videogamerspod.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Domestic Crisis: US Political Conflict Compared to Charles I and the Long Parliament. Gaius and Germanicus, speaking in Londinium, explore a significant domestic threat to the American Empire by drawing an analogy to 1641-1642 England, prior to the regicide of Charles I. They argue that the current US "emperor" is ignoring the repudiation registered by a recent vote, similar to Charles I ignoring the Long Parliament. Gaius fears that relentless impeachment awaits if Democrats dominate Congress. A scenario is hypothesized where a "blue governor" defies a presidential order (e.g., regarding ICE business), is detained, inciting Democratic rage and an overwhelming electoral victory. This state defiance is compared to historical examples like South Carolina against Andrew Jackson. Germanicus notes that escalating defiance by governors like Pritzker or Newsom is currently rhetorical, but an actual confrontation requiring federal force (Marshals, National Guard) would be necessary to truly break the Constitution. Such a confrontation could resemble an insurrection, potentially turning Americans against the president if handled poorly, or against the governor if he seems to be unraveling the Republic. Misperception is identified as a dangerous factor, referencing the panic in London when Charles I sought to arrest six traitors. Gaius insists that things get out of control without an "evil mastermind" and that any political trigger after the 2026 election could lead to impeachment. They agree that participants often fail to see the escalation toward crisis, much like in 1642 or 1914. Germanicus concludes that since Mr. Trump is unlikely to compromise, this lack of restraint could push things "over the edge." 1649

Russian Aggression, NATO Tensions, and the Specter of 1914. Gaius and Germanicus, hosting the Friends of History Debating Society in Londinium, discuss the future of the Roman Empire's inheritor, the United States, and its empire in the 21st century. The conversation, held by the turbulent Thames, focuses on the extreme challenges facing US institutions, both outside and inside its borders. The primary external challenge discussed is Russian aggression against Ukraine and the heightened tensions along the NATO frontier. Gaius is reliably told that any provocation, such as blockading the Russian shadow fleet or shooting down a Russian warplane, could lead to Mr. Putin's removal by his right-wing compatriots who believe he has supervised a bad war. Germanicus notes that while no one plans provocations, accidents happen, and hotheads exist in NATO alongside appeasers. Putin is seen as driven by his right-wing elements, demanding recognition and respect for Russia, with conditions comparing the situation to 1914, not 1939. Germanicus counters that Putin is a "Kaiser" (Caesar), comparable to the emperor in Washington, D.C., and must secure a "big victory." Putin's attack on the Ukrainian electrical grid is viewed as smart, bringing Ukraine to the brink without destroying the whole grid, thereby deterring Western media backlash and demonstrating Russia's capacity against NATO. Gaius observes that Washington (specifically the neocons) thinks it must win. The comparison to 1914 suggests that a quick collapse of the Ukrainian war effort could spark a dangerous "July crisis" if the West loses its head. Germanicus, however, sees domestic US political turmoil and European weakness making a major war "almost impossible," suggesting Democrats might prefer Russia to win to politically damage Mr. Trump. 1923 PETROGRAD

The Decline of Democracy: Autocracy and Oligarchy on the Rise. Gaius and Germanicus discuss Michael McFaul's hypothesis that democracy is in recession and autocracy is ascendant. Germanicus concurs, blaming "Blue" (Democrats) for pursuing steps that strip the nation of its Republican character, including efforts to control media and censor, which he terms "creeping authoritarianism." He cites examples like a two-tier justice system and the pursuit of "thought crimes" (e.g., silent praying outside an abortion clinic) in the US and UK. Germanicus believes the US is heading toward a "brutal oligarchy" controlled by a ruling class, rather than a classic autocracy. Gaius asks if autocratic models, such as Chinese capitalism, are appealing to allies. Germanicus confirms that certain nations (like the expanding BRICS) view China and Russia as providing a better model for societal progress, especially given the US's poor global reputation since 2001. Furthermore, neoliberalism benefits only the very wealthy, creating devastating wealth inequality akin to the ancien régime before the French Revolution. Projecting 100 years ahead, Germanicus believes the US will likely be an "oligarchic autocracy" and an empire competing as a trans-Pacific/transatlantic block against a Eurasian block. They agree that modern technology, capable of tracking thoughts and speech, is an "enormously powerful instrument" supporting this autocratic trend. Germanicus notes that moralizing about dictators and "saving democracy" will persist, but merely as a means to keep the population passive and quiet, labeling modern censorship as highly Orwellian. They conclude they are living through a transformation from kingship to democracy, now moving toward autocracy. 80 BCE. SULLA