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Torvus Podcast

Torvus Podcast

By Ari Kay

The Torvus Podcast revolves around 80s culture, movies, motivation, monsters, martial arts and mayhem. Everything geek related welcomed. Check out our Instagram account @torvus_podcast
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Torvus Podcast: S4E1: Stranger Things 4, Obi Wan Kenobi and D&D

Torvus PodcastJul 04, 2022

00:00
54:03
Torvus Podcast: S4E1: Stranger Things 4, Obi Wan Kenobi and D&D

Torvus Podcast: S4E1: Stranger Things 4, Obi Wan Kenobi and D&D

Ari and Jason are back for SEASON 4 EPISODE 1 of the Torvus Podcast. We have a casual conversation about the greatness of Stranger Things 4 and why it hit the mark. We also discuss the failings of Obi Wan Kenobi, how writing is so important to shows and recall some dungeons and dragons experiences. 

Jul 04, 202254:03
The Torvus Podcast S3E4: The Ninja Films of the 80s

The Torvus Podcast S3E4: The Ninja Films of the 80s

This was huge episode of for us! The Ninja movies of the 80s shaped who were are today. These movies got so many kids interested in martial arts. We tackle the main ninja actor Sho Kosugi and look at the films Enter the Ninja, Revenge of the Ninja, Ninja III: Domination and Pray for Death. We also briefly talk about American Ninja, ninja weapons and odd trivia from those movies. Join us for the NINJA EPISODE! www.torvuspodcast.com

May 24, 202101:09:16
Torvus Podcast S3E3: Which Films Should Never be Remade or Rebooted

Torvus Podcast S3E3: Which Films Should Never be Remade or Rebooted

The guys review several movies that have been remade or rebooted and explain why it worked (typically does not) or not. We discuss the new Godzilla Vs Kong 2021, Goonies, Batman, Conan, Dune, Big Trouble in Little China and more.  We also go off on why Hollywood insists on ruining old movies and why FANS who are in the movie business make films better.  Join Us!

Apr 25, 202101:09:53
Torvus Podcast S3E2: Why Godzilla is the King of Monsters.

Torvus Podcast S3E2: Why Godzilla is the King of Monsters.

Are you a Godzilla fan? You should be. He is the king of Monsters after all. Ari, Alex and Jason chat about the Iconic Godzilla and specially the 1962 Godzilla vs Kong and how it's held up over the years. We throw out some trivia and find out the secret on how monsters could stand in the middle of the ocean, the iconic sound of "gojira" and the guy in the suit!  Tune in!

Apr 07, 202101:02:14
Torvus Podcast: E3E1: Boba Fett vs The Mandalorian
Dec 12, 202001:27:04
Torvus Podcast S2E10:Torvus Podcast S2E10: Professional Wrestling and with Relentless Jon Atlas (Mike Mizerski)

Torvus Podcast S2E10:Torvus Podcast S2E10: Professional Wrestling and with Relentless Jon Atlas (Mike Mizerski)

This is a remarkable episode where I sit down with Mike Mizerski aka RELENTLESS JON ATLAS. We talk professional wrestling and his real life story to get to the top. He was shot in a drive by shooting and has battled Cancer 3 times and even did the WWE tryouts WHILE ON CHEMOTHERAPY.  I quiz Mike on wrestlers finishing moves and he gets all of them 100%! An uplifting and wonderful story from one of the nicest people on the planet.

Oct 23, 202001:45:04
Torvus Podcast S2E9: The Crow and what makes a GREAT revenge flick

Torvus Podcast S2E9: The Crow and what makes a GREAT revenge flick

The haunting that happened tonight.   

Topics: The Crow, revenge flicks, graphic novels, the worst zombies and a real life haunting.  While filming the latest episode of the  @torvus_podcast, Alex, Jason and I had quite the experience. The Episode is about the film the Crow (and coming back from the dead). The episode is also dedicated to Dane Botfield whose anniversary of his passing is approaching. While  filming, we had something quite remarkable happen in the studio. It was also caught on tape.  This is a fun one to listen to. A nice visit with Dane from Valhalla to Valhalla.  The Torvus Podcast on all Audio platforms and You Tube (Torvus Podcast).

Oct 18, 202001:08:55
The Torvus Podcast: S2E8: Conan the Barbarian

The Torvus Podcast: S2E8: Conan the Barbarian

Enter the world of Robert E Howard's Conan the Barbarian. We discuss the pulp fiction stories, comic and of course the Movie with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Learn about how they forged the swords for the movie, what was the riddle or steel and who was suppose to play Thulsa DOOM (it wasn't suppose to be James Earl Jones originally).

Oct 06, 202001:21:45
Torvus Podcast S2E7: The best and worst of Sword and Sorcery (dedicated to Dane Botfield)

Torvus Podcast S2E7: The best and worst of Sword and Sorcery (dedicated to Dane Botfield)

This special edition was recorded on August 7 2020 on what would have been our viking friend Dane Botfield's 40th birthday. So, we decided to do the cheesiest, geekiest thing we could think of: SWORD and SORCERY movies. Join us for an absolute nerd-fest as we discuss:

-the 10 levels of the heroes journey

-the best and worst of the Sword and Sorcery movies from the 80s including: Conan, Beastmaster, Sword and the Sorcerer, Ator, Hawk, Willow, Legend and more.

-Is KRULL the worst movie of the genre? Perhaps Ator?

Raise a glass to our friend Dane and enjoy this episode!

Aug 09, 202001:32:17
Torvus Podcast S2E6: The Mandela Effect: Alternate Realities or False Memories

Torvus Podcast S2E6: The Mandela Effect: Alternate Realities or False Memories

July 31 2020: Ari and Jason sat down for an epic geek chat about alternate realities and the phenomenon known as the Mandela Effect.  The Mandela Effect posits that there are several time lines we live on and major events like CERN (discovering the god particle) and other rips in time/space have caused us to get pushed from one reality to another. As such, we have memories of events and things that are not true according to the timeline we currently inhabit. Do you remember movie lines? Well, its quite possible JAWS, Silence of the Lambs and Forrest Gump may be different from what you recall. How about your favorite cereal box or logo for a car company? There are so many examples out there. 


PLUS: We name the shield in this episode. Ari's good friend Pauly made an authentic viking shield and it hangs in "Valhalla" (Ari's man cave). The shield needed a name and we gave it one tonight! 

Aug 02, 202057:46
Torvus Podcast S2E5: Is Dungeons and Dragons Thriving or Dying in 2020? Special Guest DM TWIGG

Torvus Podcast S2E5: Is Dungeons and Dragons Thriving or Dying in 2020? Special Guest DM TWIGG

The year is 2020 and our world is in chaos. Is there room for Dungeons and Dragons? Is it outdated and dying? Are people playing the game? Is technology making table top role playing obsolete? We sit down with special guest Mike TWIGG and really, really get into D&D. We chat about the best editions, the Satanic Scare of the late 70s, and how to run a successful campaign. Grab a tea, sit by the fire and have a listen.

Jun 20, 202001:08:20
Torvus Podcast S2E4: Dungeons & Dragons and our first CONTEST

Torvus Podcast S2E4: Dungeons & Dragons and our first CONTEST

The wait is over-we finally get down and talk about the king of all  geeky things-Dungeons and Dragons. The game that started it all. The  game that launched all other RPGs and influenced media, movies, fiction  and more. ARi, Jason and Alex discuss some of the history of D&D,  favorite monsters, trivia, and show some very rare prints from when it  all began.   Also, we launch our first contest. The HERO FORGE contest! Details at  the end of the podcast. Enter a chance to win your own custom made  miniature!

Jun 06, 202001:10:45
Tovus Podcast: S2E3: The Toys That Made Us Too

Tovus Podcast: S2E3: The Toys That Made Us Too

In episode 3 of season 2, Ari, Jason and Alex put their brains together and come up with the 15 most influential toys from their childhood. You'll be amazed what didn't make the list and what kind of "toy" was free and gave kids hours of fun. We also chat about the most important thing a toy needs to make it lasting. Join us for the Toys that made us too and walk down memory lane with two gen xers and a millennial.  The Torvus Podcast can be found on all podcasting platforms (anchor.fm/torvus, apple, spotify) and also check out our You Tube  Channel for the video version of this episode (search Torvus Podcast).

Apr 27, 202001:06:30
Torvus Podcast: S2E2: Women In Jiu Jitsu: Strength, Character and Levelling the Playing Field

Torvus Podcast: S2E2: Women In Jiu Jitsu: Strength, Character and Levelling the Playing Field

I sat down with 4 amazing women: Angel, Rena, Talia and Meagan, and  chatted about their views on Jiu Jitsu, the struggles they overcame,  perceptions and the community they are involved with.  Academies,  teachers and students often miss the mark on what is going on from a  female perspective. It was a candid and enlightening conversation.

-How they got started

-Obstacles on Training

-Men Vs Women Perspective 

-Emotion on the mats


Apr 24, 202001:02:52
Torvus Podcast: S2: E1: Big Trouble in Little China

Torvus Podcast: S2: E1: Big Trouble in Little China

Considered one of the best cult films of all time, Director John Carpenter spins a tale of adventure, fantasy and comedy in this 1986 classic. Tune in a find out why Ari has watched this film over 1000 times and learn trivia like: Who was going to play Jack Burton and Wang (the leading roles) but a change fated Kirk Russell And Denis Dunn to take the roles. This movie kicks off SEASON 2! Tune in...

Jan 13, 202001:03:57
Torvus Podcast: Episode 26: Season 1 Finale: Navigating Martial Art Plateaus

Torvus Podcast: Episode 26: Season 1 Finale: Navigating Martial Art Plateaus

In the season finale of the Torvus Podcast, the crew discusses several topics including how to get people back to the mats, learning styles and disabilities in the arts, backwards engineering moves and how to be a life long martial artist (the secret!). Thanks for a great season and joining us in 2019. We will see you in 2020!

Dec 18, 201901:20:30
Torvus Podcast: Episode 25: The Princess Bride and Dungeons and Dragons

Torvus Podcast: Episode 25: The Princess Bride and Dungeons and Dragons

One of the most beloved films of our time, the Princess Bride has it all-action, adventure, romance, comedy. This 1973 novel by William Goldman was turned into a movie in 1987 and directed by Rob Reiner. Ari, Alex and Jason discuss rare trivia as well as delve deep into the importance of a backstory. This also leads the boys down the path to Dungeons and Dragons and how the Princess Bride fits into the most popular Role Playing Game of all time.


Dec 12, 201901:02:47
Torvus Podcast: Ep 24: The Deadliest Weapons

Torvus Podcast: Ep 24: The Deadliest Weapons

Talk about a vast subject! The boys tackle the best and craziest weapons in film, games, myth and history. Everything from light sabers to plasma pulse rifles in the 40 watt range, Ari, Jason and Alex delve deep into why we are fascinated with weapons. 

Dec 01, 201901:21:29
Torvus Podcast: Episode 23: The Bounty Hunters

Torvus Podcast: Episode 23: The Bounty Hunters

Bounty Hunting is a complicated profession.-The Client, The Mandalorian

Enter the world of bounty hunting, a profession that has been around for hundreds of years and apparently, will live into the future. We talk about the most most famos bounty hunters from star wars to real life professional wrestlers who took up the job. 


Tune in!

Nov 22, 201958:55
Torvus Podcast: Ep 22: Professor Keith Owen Part 2

Torvus Podcast: Ep 22: Professor Keith Owen Part 2

Here is part two of the Professor Keith Owen interview. I  was able to sit down with 3rd degree black belt Professor Keith Owen on  the podcast this past weekend and discuss Jiu Jitsu. I have been  honored to have been able to learn from him for many years. Keith has a  passion and insight for jiu jitsu that is pretty cool. In part one of a  two part series, I decided to push topics that aren't mainstream in  typical jiu jitsu interviews. In this episode we chat about:

-How do we get someone to unquit jiu jitsu? What do we focus on while we roll? Should we worry about being tapped? What are purple and and brown belts looking for? Do you feel like a black belt (or the belt you are)? Who decides on you moving forward (belt wise) in Jiu Jitsu? Ducking people in your school.

Nov 19, 201949:46
Torvus Podcast: Ep 21: Professor Keith Owen Part 1

Torvus Podcast: Ep 21: Professor Keith Owen Part 1

I was able to sit down with 3rd degree black belt Professor Keith Owen on the podcast this past weekend and discuss Jiu Jitsu. I have been honored to have been able to learn from him for many years. Keith has a passion and insight for jiu jitsu that is pretty cool. In part one of a two part series, I decided to push topics that aren't mainstream in typical jiu jitsu interviews. In this episode we chat about:

-Did Keith like the Mandalorian, what's better for seminars theme or Q&A sessions, learning basics vs complex moves, listening to others about getting older in jiu jitsu, that person in your school who doesn't tap, black belts aren't invincible but are expect to be, different levels of moves and what is better offense or defense.

Check out part two to get the rest!

Nov 17, 201942:17
Torvus Podcast: Ep 020: Could you survive the Zombie Apocolypse?

Torvus Podcast: Ep 020: Could you survive the Zombie Apocolypse?

Have you thought about the zombie apocalypse? Do you have the skills to survive it? Do you have a plan? What kind of zombies are there? What gun and round would be the best to have? How long does it take a body to liquefy after death? Vehicles to use....Join us!

Oct 16, 201901:16:50
Torvus Podcast: Ep 019: Ghosts, Ghostbusters, Science and Hauntings

Torvus Podcast: Ep 019: Ghosts, Ghostbusters, Science and Hauntings

Episode 19 tackles anything surrounding ghosts and hauntings. We get into a debate over the veracity of ghosts and how pseudoscience is a mainstay in Ghost "hunting". We also list some of the most haunted places on earth and give you some triva about the 1984 film Ghostbusters!  

Oct 09, 201901:09:24
Torvus Podcast: Ep 018: The Thing: Why So Scary?

Torvus Podcast: Ep 018: The Thing: Why So Scary?

The 1982 Sci Fi Horror Classic The THING by John Carpenter. It is considered in the top 20 scariest movies of all time. Join us talking about why this film strikes a cord with viewers.

Oct 01, 201901:08:05
Torvus Podcast: Ep 017: The Best Action Heroes of the 80s to today

Torvus Podcast: Ep 017: The Best Action Heroes of the 80s to today

There are so many action heroes in movies its super difficult to pick the best....or is it? Get a Gen X vs Millennial perspective on action movies and find out who made our lists and why. 

Sep 23, 201901:38:17
Torvus Podcast Ep 16: The Top Spacecraft in Science Fiction

Torvus Podcast Ep 16: The Top Spacecraft in Science Fiction

Talk about a vast topic. Where do you even start with so many cool space vehicles out there. We look at the top 13 best space ships in science fiction and also have our honorable mentions in Dane's Dungeon. What are your favorites? Do you agree or disagree with our list? Tune it!

Sep 08, 201901:20:52
Torvus Podcast Ep 15: Ferris Bueller and High School Stories

Torvus Podcast Ep 15: Ferris Bueller and High School Stories

Walk down memory land with us as we tackle the our experiences of High School from a GENX and Millennial stand point. We talk a little bit about Ferris Bueller, the cars we had in high school, best skipping class stories, VHS, CDs and tape cassettes. We also talk about why society seems to think its ok to have geek hobbies as a kid and when you are retired but it is shunned when you are in your adult years. 


Join us on a fun journey for EP 15!

Aug 25, 201901:08:33
Torvus Podcast Ep 014: The 1994 Time Heist

Torvus Podcast Ep 014: The 1994 Time Heist

What would happen if you found a time machine and could transport yourself back 25 years to 1994? What would you do if you had 48 hours in that time line? The boys discuss this scenario and also break down how you'd have to prep for it, the caper itself and then what to do when we return.

Aug 11, 201901:03:01
Torvus Podcast Ep 013: Aliens, UFOs and Storming Area 51

Torvus Podcast Ep 013: Aliens, UFOs and Storming Area 51

This episode, the boys discuss their predictions on the Storming of Area 51 on Sept 20 2019, aliens, ufos and the theory that the Church has a press release ready to go when the Aliens land. What do you think? Tune in....is the truth out there?

Aug 03, 201901:03:40
Torvus Podcast Ep 012: Vampires!

Torvus Podcast Ep 012: Vampires!

Vampires have captured our imagination for centuries. The boys at the Torvus Podcast tackle a little bit of everything in this one. Movies, Role Playing Games, folklore and also talk about the biggest bullshit weaknesses that Vampires have. 

Jul 28, 201901:12:35
Torvus Podcast Ep 011: The Best Video Games of All Time.

Torvus Podcast Ep 011: The Best Video Games of All Time.

We know what you are thinking. How come pac man and donkey kong weren't on our list? The reason is that there were so many to pick from, we had to axe a few classics. Take a trip down memory lane with Ari, Jason and Alex as you get the Gen X and Millennial perspectives on video games. On'y cost you a quarter ;-)

Jul 21, 201901:35:32
Torvus Podcast Ep 010: The Mighty Thor

Torvus Podcast Ep 010: The Mighty Thor

Was Thor the mightiest Avenger? How strong was he? How did the vikings and Norse people view him? Why Ari has a problem with Storm Breaker. We delve into one of the most popular figures in literature. Let's see what the god of thunder, Thor Odinsson has to offer.

Jul 14, 201959:35
Torvus Podcast Ep 009: Best Monsters of All Time

Torvus Podcast Ep 009: Best Monsters of All Time

In episode 9, the boys tackle the top 30 monsters in fiction and history. Lots of surprises in this one from the classics to some of the most obscure monsters you've never heard of. 

Jul 07, 201901:25:55
Torvus Podcast Ep 008: John Carpenter's THEY LIVE

Torvus Podcast Ep 008: John Carpenter's THEY LIVE

This was a crazy episode as we watched and discussed 1988's THEY LIVE! We touch upon how timely this film is for 2019, the ultimate henchman who appears in it, the fight scene, and other movie props that show up in this film that were used in others! Conform. Sleep. OBEY. 

Jun 28, 201901:03:38
Torvus Podcast Ep 007: Above the Law, Steven Seagal and Aikido

Torvus Podcast Ep 007: Above the Law, Steven Seagal and Aikido

In Episode 7, Ari, Alex and Jason chat about Steven Seagal's first film Above the Law and how that changed action movies and introduced the world to aikido. The trio then get philosophical and discuss aikido and its place in martial arts. Also, a lot of cool trivia you may have not known about the movie and Seagal.

Jun 24, 201959:58
Torvus Podcast Ep 006: Bloodsport

Torvus Podcast Ep 006: Bloodsport

We tackle one of the most iconic action 80s movies of all time:  Bloodsport! Best and worst characters, the mythos of Frank Dux, who  really got knocked out during filming and more. You wont want to miss  this.

Jun 07, 201954:50
Torvus Podcast Ep 005: Kirk-Fu, Red Shirts, Geek Code and The Best Deaths in Star Trek

Torvus Podcast Ep 005: Kirk-Fu, Red Shirts, Geek Code and The Best Deaths in Star Trek

In Episode 005, Ari and his guest Jason, continue on chatting about Star  Trek including Capt Kirk's martial art, the Red Shirt curse, Geek code,  and the best deaths in all of Star Trek. Join us! Follow us on  Instagram at @torvus_podcast

Jun 01, 201954:17
Torvus Podcast Ep 004: Star Trek-Why it Speaks to Geeks.

Torvus Podcast Ep 004: Star Trek-Why it Speaks to Geeks.

Jason joins me on this week's pod cast to discuss one of the geekiest  shows of all time-Star Trek. We chat about our favorite Captains,  aliens, episodes and what weapon in the ST universe is the stupidest!

May 28, 201959:58
Torvus Podcast Ep 003: Cloaking, Teleporting and GI JOE

Torvus Podcast Ep 003: Cloaking, Teleporting and GI JOE

In episode 3, Ari and Alex tackle: The Philadelphia Experiment Teleportation and Cloaking technologies how stupid wonder woman's invisible jet was Gi Joe vs He Man and the toys that made us!

May 15, 201952:51
Torvus Podcast Ep 002: Jiu Jitsu, John Wick and the Matrix

Torvus Podcast Ep 002: Jiu Jitsu, John Wick and the Matrix

I am again joined by Alex Erwin and we discuss the following: -Jiu Jitsu and what prevents people from doing it -The Matrix and John Wick -Why cops should train Jiu Jitsu -Dane's Dungeon: Cool shit or Bullshit (action stars)

May 05, 201901:01:02
Torvus Podcast Ep 001: Everything Marvel MCU

Torvus Podcast Ep 001: Everything Marvel MCU

This episode I am joined by Alex Erwin, Marvel expert and fan, Episode 1  gets into the the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe and our picks on the  best movies, worst characters, the Hulk vs Thanos (what really  happened), why Hawkeye shouldn't be part of the Avengers, and why Drax  is a buffoon.

Apr 26, 201951:03
Torvus Podcast: Episode 000 (Prelude): How Torvus Started

Torvus Podcast: Episode 000 (Prelude): How Torvus Started

The prelude episode (000) for the Torvus Podcast. I talk about the  history of the podcast and how it came about. Dedicated to my very good  friend Dane Botfield who made this possible. With some brief reference  to some absolutely terrible but awesome 80s action movies. Published on Apr 24, 2019

Apr 25, 201914:07