Friends From Work: An Unofficial Marvel Podcast - Now Playing: Spider-Man

In this episode, we explore the remarkable success of Spider-Man Brand New Day, its impact on the box office, and what it signifies for the future of superhero movies, Avengers: Doomsday, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe overall.

Also, we sat down with legendary comics creator Chip Zdarsky for a conversation you don't want to miss.

Chip has written and created some of the most acclaimed comics of the last decade, including his work on Daredevil, Batman, Spider-Man: Life Story, Sex Criminals, and more. We talk about his career, the...

Dan Gvozden is a Spider-Man expert, author, movie critic, writer for the Hollywood Reporter, host of Amazing Spider-Talk podcast and ultimately a good friend of the show. We are honored to have him join us to discuss what makes Spider-Man tick. Find out what Dan thought worked well in Spider-Man: Brand New Day as well as what didn't click for him. We talk about the role of violence in the Tom Holland films and what it really means to be both Peter Parker and Spider-Man.

Be sure to check out our review of Spider-Man...

Welcome to our complete 90 minute breakdown of every single thing we could think of regarding Spider-Man: Brand New Day the morning after seeing it for the first time. What a special movie this was. And what a special discussion this podcast episode became.

Please excuse Kyle's overexcitement as he really enjoyed the film.

While you're here, be sure to subscribe to this channel and check out FFW+ on Patreon, Spotify and Apple.

Head over to www.theffwpodcast.com for more Friends From Work news and links.

Panel Bound...

Not only is "The Odyssey" going to become one of the biggest box office successes of the year, and not only is it going to be one of the most award winning films of the year, it's also one of the most culturally important and timely movies in quite some time. 

Kyle is LIVE from San Diego Comic Con to fill us in on all developments from Marvel Studios' famous "Hall H" panel. Let's dive into some of these massive changes for the MCU and how it's going to affect things going forward.

Sometimes "Let's Freaking Go" just doesn't quite do it justice. This is the moment we have been waiting for since 2019. With San Diego Comic Con coming this weekend and Spider-Man: Brand New Day the week after that, we are eating GOOD as Marvel fans. Subscribe to this channel to stay up to date with all things MCU.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

If you want a seven minute version of this episode, please see our "Screen Recap" here: https://youtu.be/x0zsg5f16sI?si=OaQuPcgd6SauJ6d6

Otherwise, enjoy this nearly 90 minute breakdown of EVERYWHERE that Spider-Man has been within the MCU. What makes him tick? What is he afraid of? Why does he moral compass never waiver?

Let's discuss all of this and more.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and...

In what was one of our favorite mega episodes in a long time, we talk about the shocking ending to episode 4 of X-Men '97, chat with the Executive Producers of the show, dive into some SDCC news, and wrap it up by answering all of YOUR questions about Spider-Man: Brand New Day. We're eatin good y'all.

0:00 - Introduction

2:00 - X-Men '97 Ep. 1-4 Reaction

27:16 - X-Men '97 Executive Producers

42:16 - Panel Bound Comics and FFW/SDCC Updates

51:10 - Spider-Man: Brand New Day Mailbag

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We kick off our Spider-Man: Brand New Day coverage by taking a look back at how we reacted to our first theater experience for No Way Home (which currently sits inside our MCU top 10).

Our journey has led us all the way to Spider-Man: No Way Home, and we have finally made it! After seeing the film a bit early, we sat down and recorded almost two hours of our initial reactions. And man, what a blast it was. Do not listen to this episode until you have seen the movie. But once you...

"Sons of Gunn" is a friends from work podcast covering all things in the DC universe. Head over to their page and subscribe to stay up to date with all the latest DC universe discussion.

Matt and Jaylen review the 2nd movie in the new DCU and we actually had a blast! Come join us as we discuss the next step in dc studios.

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An absolutely massive and jam packed episode for y'all today. See time stamps below for all the goodness that we get into.

0:45 - Robby's trip to Ireland

4:12 - TSA mishap

11:00 - FFW updates

13:30 - Movie theaters are back

24:20 - Supergirl preview

44:15 - Panel Bound Comics

46:45 - Brand New Day trailer

01:19:15 - Actors stick up for MCU

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and...

We set out to make an episode highlighting our favorite moments on our multiverse saga rewatch, but shortly after we started we realized that we had been put on the clock (life and work stuff). The rapid fire pace of sharing these moments ended up making for a really fun episode. So enjoy this journey back through the last few years of the MCU.

What are your favorite "Multiverse Moments?" Any that we missed? Sound off in the comments below!

We've got a jam packed episode for y'all today before Robby heads on vacation to Europe. We start with an update on a few of the things we've been watching and enjoying and finish with a spoiler-free hype session for the second season of X-Men '97. You won't want to miss it.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

It's been nearly seven years since there was a new Star Wars film in theaters and Mandalorian and Grogu puts an end to that cinematic drought. 

For the first 19 minutes of today's episode, Kyle discusses the issues he sees in the Star Wars universe and community. After that, Kyle shares his initial reactions to "Mandalorian and Grogu" and everything that works with the film and the stuff that didn't. The back half of the episode is full of spoilers for the movie so be sure to stop at that 19 minute mark if you haven't s...

0:00 - Kyle's trip to California

3:15 - Catching up with Star Wars

11:30 - Reflecting on Daredevil

20:30 - The Newton Brothers

43:52 - Where does Daredevil go from here?

01:07:54 - Upcoming for FFW

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

Frank Castle is back in a big way and he's leaving a lot of dead bodies in his wake. Find out why we feel like The Punisher Special Presentation didn't quite fulfill it's potential.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

Matthew. Wilson. Karen. Bullseye. Jessica.

Revolts. Crimes. Trials. Revolutions.

Daredevil. Kingpin.

This episode really had it all. Let us know your thoughts!! Thanks for supporting us along this journey.

We've got another episode that is equal parts downer and amazing. The team behind Daredevil: Born Again continues to step up their game in a big way. Be sure to sound off in the comments with your thoughts. What worked and what didn't work? How do you think they will wrap it all up next week?

Daredevil is consoling Wilson Fisk?!? Buck likes being choked out? Is Heather turning into a serial killer? Is that the last of Jessica? What madness is this? Come hang out with us as we sort through a crazy jam packed episode of Daredevil: Born Again.

Plus stick around to the end for a little Avengers: Doomsday hype.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

Even though episode 5 is one of the highest rated episodes of Marvel television, we break down why it didn't quite live up to the hype. 

Let's get into the latest episode of Daredevil: Born Again, exploring its character moments, storytelling choices, and how it fits into the broader Marvel universe. In today's podcast epsiode, we discuss the emotional depth of Vincent D’Onofrio’s performance as Kingpin, the narrative risks of flashbacks, and the balancing act of fan service versus storytelling integrity.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to ht...

Join us as we analyze the latest episode (episode 4) of Daredevil Born Again, season 2, exploring character developments, plot twists, and the show's connection to the broader Marvel universe. We dive deep into Vanessa's fate, Fisk's transformation, and the show's cinematic quality (plus a ton more).

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

Kirk Cousins is a Las Vegas Raider and so today we celebrate! Enjoy this Special Presentation of "Friends From Football."

Kyle and Robby dive back into Hell’s Kitchen as Daredevil: Born Again continues! In this episode, we break down episodes 2 and 3, unpacking the escalating tension, shocking twists, and the new threats New York City faces. From daring vigilante moves to unexpected alliances, we discuss the all moments that had us on the edge of our seats.

Tune in for our reactions, theories, and everything you need to catch up before the episode 4 drops next week.

What did we miss? What do you think of season 2 thus far? Drop yo...

The drought is over and we’re back in Hell’s Kitchen.

In this episode of Friends From Work, we break down Episode 1 of Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 — and there is a LOT to unpack.

We talk:

Whether you’re a longtime Daredevil fan or just jumping in, this is your go-to recap and discussion.

Drop your thoughts in the comments — what did YOU think of Episode 1?

...

Holy crap. We've waited so long and it's finally here. This was our true first reaction to the trailer. Neither of us had seen it before this watch. Let's watch it and then break it all down.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

In what will be our last episode before Daredevil: Born Again (season 2) premieres on March 24th, we take your questions on the vigilante from Hell's Kitchen and other various MCU topics. Next week the real roller coaster begins. Stay locked in.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

Daredevil: Born Again's second season premieres on March 24th and there is no better way to prepare for that season than to trace the steps of where Daredevil and Kingpin have been. With over 4 full seasons of content in addition to isolated appearances, this Saga So Far is particularly epic in its length and depth. So come in here and get your mind right as we talk all things Daredevil. And be sure to comment below with your most anticipated question for season 2 of Born Again.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider...

In what will be our last normal episode before we get going on Daredevil: Born Again (season 2) coverage, we discuss a WIDE variety of topics spanning all the way from Kyle's recent trip to Disney World to what threads we hope that Marvel Studios follow up on. Thanks to our listeners asking some really interesting questions, we had a ton of fun recording this random "catch up" episode.

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money...

What started as a fun bonus FFW+ episode idea from Robby soon blossomed into a full blown MCU discussion. These are the kinds of bonus discussions that bring us so much life. Enjoy. 

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.comand be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

What goes on in the head of an NFL quarterback trying to call a play?

Are double stuffed Oreos underrated or overrated?

Should Grand Cayman one of the top vacation destinations in the world?

Boy, do we have a treat for you. In today's episode, we take a short detour from our Marvel / film coverage to bring you over 45 minutes with two of the coolest sports personalities in the country. Kirk Cousins, current quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons and Grant Paulsen of DC radio fame, both join Kyle to talk...

This is an example of a kind of episode that we do on Friends From Work+. Please consider signing up today and receive a ton more episodes like this one!

Krysten Ritter’s return to the MCU is right around the corner. Are we ready? In this episode of “Kyle, Listen,” Neil introduces Kyle to Marvel’s hardest drinker and least willing hero, Jessica Jones.

"Sons of Gunn" podcast is now a part of the Friends From Work podcast network. Go check them out and support! You can subscribe to Sons of Gunn wherever you get your podcasts.

Matt File and Jaylen Blue discuss their two favorite episodes from the DCU's first series in James Gunn's new universe. "Cheers to the Tin Man" and "Chasing Squirrels" help solidify standout characters and key story beats, delivering a strong mix of humor and action. Join us as we explore the beginning of this new cinematic universe.

2026 is shaping up to be a HUGE year for Marvel Studios. Wonder Man was already a hit both critically and amongst fans and casual viewers alike. But Marvel still plans to release a Spider-Man and Avengers movie, as well as two mainstay shows with Daredevil and VisionQuest. Plus, two beloved animated shows return with second seasons. Oh, and a Punisher special.

With all of that goodness on the horizon, it's time for us to predict what we think they may do with a few of these characters.

What are...

What a finish! What a show! Find out why we think Wonder Man deserves to be listed amongst the elite television shows that Marvel has made. 

Panel Bound Comics is the official comics provider of Friends From Work. 

Head to https://www.panelboundcomics.com and be sure to use promo code: FRIENDSFROMWORK to save money on excellent comics.

We've got a banger for y'all today! Come to listen to us break down Wonder Man episodes 1-4 and stay to hear us debate if Spider-Man's webs should be natural and if Sinners should have been nominated for 16 Oscars.

Check out PanelBoundComics.com use promo code FRIENDSFROMWORK

Who was the best addition to the MCU in 2025? Who made the best surprise appearance? What was the best MCU film in 2025? Find out who the Friendlee Awards winners are as chosen by our FFW+ special committee.

Check out PanelBoundComics: https://www.panelboundcomics.com/ Promo Code FRIENDSFROMWORK

Here is a quick Marvelette of my (Kyle) thoughts on the brand new Avengers: Doomsday teaser. I want to hear from you all! Who do you think is missing? What is going on with Talokan?

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One of our favorite annual traditions returns, the Friendlee Awards, with the winners being chosen by our valuable FFW+ committee. If you are a FFW+ subscriber be sure to get your vote in ASAP. For everyone else, enjoy this look back at what made 2025 one of the better MCU slates we've had in a while.

Check out PanelBoundComics.com use promo code FRIENDSFROMWORK

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The third teaser for Avengers: Doomsday is out and we dive in. Our minds and bodies are ready. Let's discuss.

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It's Black Monday for the 2025 NFL season and coaches are already starting to get fired. On today's episode, I discuss what a strange year it has been for the Falcons, Vikings, and NFL as a whole. With today's firings for Atlanta, what are the best options for Kirk Cousins to be a starter in 2026?

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00:30 - Black Monday

02:11 - Wild NFL season

11:21 - Weird year for Minnesota

13:20 - Evaluating QBs<...