Episodes

6d ago

J.C.Staff is a studio with a broad catalogue of diverse works. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's origins making OVAs and how it often receives unwarranted criticism stemming from a lack of knowledge regarding anime production. Then, they pick their top five J.C.Staff anime, from beloved romance adaptations like 'Toradora!' and 'Nodame Cantabile' to a massively important series in the history of the medium in 'Revolutionary Girl Utena.'

Nov 19

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this fall! They discuss a not so great season of anime to wrap up the year including a 'Spy x Family' sequel, the wild ride that is 'Sanda,' and a collection of underwhelming series.

Oct 23

'My Dress-Up Darling' focuses on the art of cosplay to tell a heartfelt story about acceptance and passionately pursuing one's interests. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, discussing production notes behind the anime adaptation of Shinichi Fukuda's manga before breaking down how each season balances being a romantic comedy with the exploration of various otaku subcultures.

Oct 8

Madhouse has a long history marked by a remarkable collection of directors making some of the most beloved anime of all time. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's founding by Mushi Production staff members and follow its trajectory into the present day. Then, they pick their top five Madhouse anime, from deeply meaningful works like 'The Tatami Galaxy' and 'Wolf Children' to a joint favorite of the podcast in 'Frieren.'

Sep 24

'One Piece' is one of the largest franchises in anime and manga, following the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates as they search for the world's greatest treasure. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, continuing with the Sky Island saga by breaking down the Jaya and Skypiea arcs.

Sep 10

Ionatan and Ravi are back for another tournament arc, this time filling out an anime fight bracket! They discuss what components make up a standout anime fight before debating which of the top 32 anime fights deserves to come out on top.

Aug 13

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this summer! They discuss everything from sequels for 'Dandadan' and 'My Dress-Up Darling' to anime of the year contenders like 'The Summer Hikaru Died' and 'City the Animation.'

Jul 16

What makes a good anime adaptation of a light novel? Ionatan and Ravi discuss the history of this form of literature in Japan before giving their personal recommendations for the best light novel adaptations that the medium has to offer. They cover personal favorites such as 'Bakemonogatari' and 'KonoSuba' as well as more recent adaptations like 'Too Many Losing Heroines!' and 'The Apothecary Diaries' among various other picks.

Jul 2

Shinichiro Watanabe is considered an auteur of anime because of his evocative use of music, exploration of mature themes, and blending of multiple genres. Ionatan and Ravi discuss his career by picking their top five Shinichiro Watanabe anime, from classics such as 'Cowboy Bebop' and 'Samurai Champloo' to more recent productions like 'Kids on the Slope' and 'Space Dandy.'

Jun 11

'One Piece' is one of the largest franchises in anime and manga, following the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates as they search for the world's greatest treasure. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, continuing with the Alabasta saga by breaking down every arc from Reverse Mountain to Alabasta.

May 28

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this spring! They discuss an incredibly diverse season of anime including highly anticipated series like 'Lazarus' and 'Witch Watch,' pleasant surprises like 'Wind Breaker' and 'Kowloon Generic Romance,' and outstanding productions like 'Yaiba' and 'Mono.'

May 14

Ionatan and Ravi discuss highlights from their recent trips to Japan! They break down the cultural experiences, food, and adventures from a total of six incredible weeks visiting various places throughout the country.

Apr 16

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by PaperDawN, a cartoonist and graphic designer, to discuss his career as an artist. They break down the creative process for a variety of illustration work, the experience of attending conventions as an artist, and his webcomic. Then, they talk about his YouTube channel and its focus on video essays.

Apr 2

Ionatan and Ravi prepare for the upcoming months with a spring anime special! They begin by discussing their feelings about spring and giving some background on the seasonal customs in Japan. Then, they pick their favorite springtime anime series and movies to watch this time of the year including 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya' and 'I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.'

Mar 19

What anime is most deserving of a sequel that hasn't received one? Ionatan and Ravi discuss which aspects of a series dictate whether they'd like to see a continuation produced or not before giving their personal selections for highly desired sequels in the medium. They cover action-filled franchises like 'Jojo's Bizarre Adventure' and 'Magi' as well as other favorites like 'Chihayafuru' and 'Black Lagoon' among various other picks.

Mar 5

Science Saru are responsible for some of the most creative and visually appealing anime in the medium, often working with talented directors and a global staff to bring these works to life. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's founding by Masaaki Yuasa and Eunyoung Choi as well as the direction it has taken in the years since then. Then, they pick their top five Science Saru anime, from personally impactful works like 'The Night Is Short, Walk on Girl' and 'Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!' to more recent outings like 'Dandadan' and 'The Colors Within.'

Feb 19

'Death Parade' is an exploration of the moral ambiguity that comes with attempting to judge human life after death. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, discussing the short film that it's based on as well as how it attempts to balance an episodic format containing various independent narratives, lore and worldbuilding, and fulfilling character arcs for its protagonists.

Feb 5

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they’re watching this winter! They discuss sequels for 'Solo Leveling' and 'The Apothecary Diaries,' underwhelming adaptations and originals like 'Sakamoto Days' and 'Zenshu,' and a few hidden gems such as 'Flower and Asura.'

Jan 22

Ionatan and Ravi take a look back at anime in 2024! They give their final thoughts on each season from the previous year, compare between different annual anime awards, and pick their winners for each award category from best opening to anime of the year.

Jan 8

'One Piece' is one of the largest franchises in anime and manga, following the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates as they search for the world's greatest treasure. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, starting at the beginning with the East Blue saga. They outline their plans for covering Eiichiro Oda's story in its entirety, share their personal experiences with 'One Piece,' and break down every arc from Romance Dawn to Loguetown.

Dec 25, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi round out 2024 by answering listener questions from the mailbag. They discuss their least favorite anime, guests they would love to interview for an episode, their ideal anime productions, and much more! Then, they take a look back at the fourth year of the podcast.

Dec 11, 2024

Anime song is a genre of music originating from Japanese pop and released primarily for the anime market. Ionatan and Ravi break down the history of anime song, from early influences resulting in the theme for 'Astro Boy' to the massive global popularity of tracks such as 'Homura' and 'Idol' in recent years. Then, they discuss the production process for anime opening and ending sequences, including the logistics for music selection and the accompanying animation, and rank their top five openings and endings in the medium.

Nov 27, 2024

'Land of the Lustrous' is a masterpiece that tells a complex and multifaceted story about what it means to be human. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down Haruko Ichikawa's work by discussing both the anime adaptation by Orange and the entirety of the manga, themes of change and existentialism accompanied by Buddhist philosophy, and the journey of an incredibly compelling protagonist in Phos.

Nov 13, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this fall! They discuss the highs and lows of the season, from popular new series like 'Dandadan' and 'Blue Box' to the return of 'Re:Zero' and 'Ranma ½' to massive disappointments such as 'Uzumaki' and 'Blue Lock.'

Oct 30, 2024

A-1 Pictures has produced a wide variety of anime, from series designed for mass appeal to more experimental works where creators are allowed to push the boundaries of the stories they tell. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's connection to Aniplex as well as its reputation within the anime community. Then, they pick their top five A-1 Pictures anime, from personal favorites like 'Kaguya-sama' and 'Shinsekai Yori' to popular entries like 'Lycoris Recoil' and 'Your Lie in April.'

Oct 2, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Andrew Liptak, a historian and member of the 501st Legion, to discuss the history of cosplay. They break down 'Cosplay: A History,' his book detailing how cosplay became a mainstream force and what it says about the relationships fans have with the stories they love. Then, they talk about the intersection of cosplay and anime as well as his other work as a journalist and writer.

Sep 18, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the anime adaptations of two works by Taiyo Matsumoto: 'Tekkonkinkreet' and 'Ping Pong the Animation.' They discuss Matsumoto's career as a mangaka, including the broad range of topics he covers and how he crafts narratives that are simultaneously grounded in reality and remarkably imaginative. Then, they explore the themes and characters in two of his most well known stories through the lens of the movie directed by Michael Arias and the series directed by Masaaki Yuasa.

Sep 4, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi discuss Ionatan's weekend at Anime NYC 2024! They cover panels for 'Dandadan' with Kensuke Ushio and 'Haikyu!!' as well as a screening of 'Macross Plus' with Shoji Kawamori. Then, they have a broader conversation about what they look forward to most when attending anime conventions and plans for future live podcast appearances.

Aug 21, 2024

What makes an original work stand out as opposed to an adaptation? Ionatan and Ravi discuss their love of original projects where artists can creatively express themselves before giving their personal recommendations for the best original anime that the medium has to offer. They cover various original titles including popular entries such as 'Death Parade' and 'Lycoris Recoil' and idiosyncratic experiences from directors like Shingo Natsume and Kunihiko Ikuhara in 'Sonny Boy' and 'Mawaru Penguindrum.'

Jul 24, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this summer! They discuss a surprisingly deep season full of incredible productions, from the return of 'Oshi no Ko' and 'Monogatari' to romantic comedies like 'Alya Sometimes Hides Her Feelings in Russian' and 'Too Many Losing Heroines!' to adaptations that elevate their source material like 'Wistoria' and 'The Elusive Samurai.'

Jul 10, 2024

Science fiction makes use of futuristic concepts in order to deliver prescient stories about humanity and the trajectory of society. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the history and development of science fiction both globally and in Japan. Then, they dive into three series that highlight the diversity of the genre, including explorations of the intersection between personal identity and technology in 'Serial Experiments Lain,' memory alteration and inequality in 'Kaiba,' and the oppressive nature of capitalism in 'Cyberpunk: Edgerunners.'

Jun 26, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi are back for another tournament arc, this time filling out a couple ship bracket! They discuss what aspects of romantic relationships in anime resonate with them and why shipping can be a contentious topic among many fandoms before debating which of the top 32 couples deserves to come out on top.

Jun 12, 2024

Production I.G is a prolific studio known for its extensive catalog of works in the science fiction and sports genres. Ionatan and Ravi discuss how roots at Tatsunoko Production combined with the unprecedented success of 'Ghost in the Shell' enabled a unique company structure compared to the rest of the industry. Then, they pick their top five Production I.G anime, from movies like 'Patlabor' and 'The End of Evangelion' to series like 'Haikyu!!' and 'Psycho-Pass.'

May 29, 2024

'Vinland Saga' is a modern classic that uses the historical setting of the Viking Age to tell a thought-provoking epic. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down each season in the anime adaptation of Makoto Yukimura's manga by discussing the meticulous crafting of the world, the wide variety of compelling characters, and how the narrative supports its central themes of redemption and pacifism.

May 1, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this spring! They discuss how varied this anime season is, from studio changes for the 'KonoSuba' and 'Yuru Camp' sequels as well as the 'Spice and Wolf' remake to new series such as 'Kaiju No. 8' and 'Wind Breaker' to the return of Kyoto Animation's 'Hibike! Euphonium.'

Apr 17, 2024

Bones is synonymous with a high level of quality, whether that is showcased in action sequences in popular battle shounen or in bringing to life creative original works. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's founding by Sunrise staff members and how their early works like the 'Cowboy Bebop' movie and 'Fullmetal Alchemist' laid the foundation for future productions made with an international audience in mind. Then, they pick their top five Bones anime, from a modern classic in 'Mob Psycho 100' to the industry event that was 'Space Dandy' to the nostalgia of 'Soul Eater.'

Apr 3, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Zach Logan, host and founder of The One Piece Podcast, to discuss anime podcasting. They cover the early days of the podcast and how it's grown over the past 15 years to now have a wide variety of guests, related podcasts, and even a documentary filmed in Japan. Then, they talk about what makes 'One Piece' such a beloved franchise, personal favorites from the series including characters and arcs, and experiences with different versions of the story such as the manga, anime, and live action.

Mar 20, 2024

Mari Okada is one of the most prolific writers in the anime industry, known not only for screenplay and series composition roles but also for her work as a mangaka and director. Ionatan and Ravi discuss Mari Okada's personal story as told in her autobiography before giving some overarching thoughts on her extensive writing credits. Then, they explore how her two directed films, 'Maquia' and 'Maboroshi,' tackle themes such as parenthood, isolation, and the passage of time.

Mar 6, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Aurélie Petit, a doctoral candidate in film studies at Concordia University, to discuss the intersection between technology, gender, and sexuality as it relates to anime. They break down her research on the history of animated pornography, how online anime communities have developed exclusionary practices towards women, and the role that artificial intelligence plays in the anime industry. Then, they cover her catalog of animated films that portray sexuality and eroticism.

Feb 21, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this winter! They discuss the popularity of 'Solo Leveling,' the combination of classic fantasy and cooking in 'Dungeon Meshi,' the continuation of their shoujo adventures with 'A Sign of Affection,' and why 'Metallic Rouge' has been such a disappointment.

Feb 7, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi prepare for the season of love with a Valentine's Day anime special! They begin by discussing their dislike of the consumerism surrounding Valentine's Day and giving some background on how the holiday is celebrated in Japan. Then, they pick their favorite anime episodes to watch this time of the year from series such as 'Toradora!' and 'Hyouka.'

Jan 24, 2024

Ionatan and Ravi take a look back at anime in 2023! They give their final thoughts on each season from the previous year, engage in their annual rant about the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and pick their winners for each award category from best opening to anime of the year.

Jan 10, 2024

What makes for a particularly compelling anime movie? Ionatan and Ravi discuss how they approach critically watching films compared to television series before giving their personal recommendations for the best standalone movies that the medium has to offer. They cover a pair of Satoshi Kon works in 'Tokyo Godfathers' and 'Perfect Blue,' Mamoru Hosoda's heartfelt story of parenthood in 'Wolf Children,' and Masaaki Yuasa's take on a Tomihiko Morimi novel in 'The Night is Short, Walk on Girl' among various other picks.

Dec 27, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi round out 2023 by answering listener questions from the mailbag. They discuss the differences between original works and manga adaptations, the best and worst casts in anime, their favorite first episodes in the medium, and much more! Then, they take a look back at the third year of the podcast.

Dec 13, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi discuss highlights from Ionatan's recent trip to Japan! They first cover Ravi's weekend at Anime NYC 2023, including spending time with the podcast community and attending panels for series like 'Lycoris Recoil' and 'Great Pretender.' Then, they break down the cultural experiences, food, and encounters with anime content from three incredible weeks visiting various cities throughout Japan.

Nov 29, 2023

CloverWorks is a relatively new studio that has established itself quickly within the anime industry over the past few years. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's origins at A-1 Pictures and subsequent combination of co-productions, adaptations, and original works. Then, they pick their top five CloverWorks anime, from the massively successful 'Bocchi the Rock!' and 'Spy x Family' to high-quality productions like 'Horimiya' and 'My Dress-Up Darling' to ambitious disappointments like 'Wonder Egg Priority.'

Nov 16, 2023

'Attack on Titan' is one of the most important anime franchises of the modern age, telling a dark fantasy epic that is responsible for bringing anime into global mainstream culture. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down each season in the anime adaptation of Hajime Isayama's manga from the Fall of Shiganshina to the War for Paradis. They discuss the characters and lore of the world, numerous twists in the narrative, shift in production from Wit Studio to MAPPA, and recent conclusion that cemented the themes and legacy of the series.

Nov 1, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this fall! They discuss a pair of anime of the year contenders in 'Frieren' and 'The Apothecary Diaries,' whether 'Spy x Family' needs constant plot progression and character development, and the visually stunning but otherwise lackluster 'Undead Unluck.'

Oct 18, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi prepare for the spooky season with a Halloween anime special! They begin by discussing their own Halloween memories and giving some background on how the holiday is celebrated in Japan. Then, they pick their favorite anime to watch this time of the year, from 'Soul Eater' and 'Hellsing Ultimate' to 'Mononoke' and 'Devilman: Crybaby.'

Oct 4, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Roland Kelts, a writer and professor at Waseda University, to discuss the global influence of Japanese pop culture. They break down 'Japanamerica,' his book detailing the American experience with anime and other Japanese cultural exports. Then, they talk about his recent book 'The Art of Blade Runner: Black Lotus' as well as academic life in Tokyo more broadly.

Sep 20, 2023

'Akira' is one of the most important science fiction films of all time, with an unmatched cultural impact that changed the anime industry and paved the way for the growth of Japanese culture in the west. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the movie, breaking down its animation and production as well as its themes such as the cyclical nature of destruction and the struggle of surviving in a dystopian society. Then, they cover the movie's plot and describe their hopes for the adaptation of the franchise as a series.

Sep 6, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi are back for another tournament arc, this time filling out a seiyu bracket! They discuss what stands out to them from their favorite voice acting performances and the history of the industry in Japan before debating which of the top 32 anime voice actors deserves to come out on top.

Aug 23, 2023

'Haikyu!!' uses volleyball to expertly showcase what draws people to participate in sports and how athletic competition can lead to personal growth via hard work, being part of a team, and overcoming adversity. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down each season of the anime adaptation by discussing the training arcs and matches that defined Karasuno's trajectory from the Interhigh to Nationals. Then, they select their best 'Haikyu!!' universe lineups and outline their expectations for the upcoming pair of movies.

Aug 9, 2023

White Fox is known for the quality of its visual and light novel adaptations, often demonstrating an understanding of the source material and its appeal to fans. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's founding as well as its success with two massively popular franchises in 'Steins;Gate' and 'Re:Zero.' Then, they pick their top five White Fox anime, from existential science fiction like 'Girls' Last Tour' to underrated gems like 'Jormungand' and 'Katanagatari.'

Jul 26, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this summer! They discuss sequels for 'Jujutsu Kaisen' and 'Mushoku Tensei,' the return of 'Horimiya,' and pleasant surprises such as 'Zom 100' and 'Undead Girl Murder Farce.'

Jul 12, 2023

Soundtracks are one of the most important but often underappreciated parts of anime production, having the ability to underscore scenes and characters in an adaptation while evoking strong emotions in the audience. Ionatan and Ravi break down the technical process for score composition as well as the historical context for music in the anime industry. Then, they discuss the most prominent anime composers and what makes each of their musical styles unique, from industry legends like Joe Hisaishi and Yoko Kanno to relative newcomers like Hiroyuki Sawano and Kensuke Ushio.

Jun 28, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Shawn Gann, a voice director and actor at Crunchyroll, to discuss anime dubbing. They talk about Shawn's advocacy for diversity in the industry, the process for voice directing from getting assigned a series to working with actors in the studio, and particularly memorable experiences directing titles such as 'Fruits Basket' and 'Horimiya.'

Jun 14, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi prepare for the upcoming months with a summer anime special! They begin by discussing their own summer memories growing up and giving some background on the seasonal customs in Japan. Then, they pick their favorite summer anime episodes and movies to watch this time of the year that make use of tropes like beach and fireworks scenes including 'Fruits Basket,' 'A Silent Voice,' and 'Kaguya-sama.'

May 31, 2023

Mamoru Oshii is one of the most influential anime directors of all time whose dense and layered works constantly pose thought-provoking questions and touch on philosophical concepts such as dreams and reality, the illusion of peace, and identity. Ionatan and Ravi dive into Mamoru Oshii's filmography, ranging from his early career working on 'Urusei Yatsura' to his surrealistic artwork 'Angel's Egg' to his musings on politics and technology in 'Patlabor' and 'Ghost in the Shell.'

May 17, 2023

'Spice and Wolf' is a unique fantasy that blends adventure and romance with a focus on historically accurate economics in the medieval period. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down each season of the anime adaptation in terms of Lawrence and Holo's relationship development and the trading concepts that drive the plot of each arc before discussing their hopes for the upcoming anime project.

May 3, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this spring! They discuss their opinions on Makoto Shinkai's 'Suzume' at the top of the episode before diving into a stacked season that includes new standouts like 'Oshi no Ko,' 'Heavenly Delusion,' and 'Skip to Loafer' as well as the return of series like 'Demon Slayer' and 'KonoSuba.'

Apr 19, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Lynzee Loveridge, executive editor at Anime News Network, to discuss the role that news sources play in the anime industry. They talk about Lynzee's career trajectory in different departments at Anime News Network, how news sources serve the broader anime community, and her other work writing, covering conventions, and hosting the ANN After Show.

Apr 5, 2023

What does it mean for anime to be labeled as trash? Ionatan and Ravi discuss the term before giving their personal recommendations for anime that they concede are lacking from a critical perspective but like anyways, from the magical girl Fate spinoff 'Prisma Illya' to isekai like 'No Game No Life' to various ecchi like 'Food Wars!' and 'Prison School.'

Mar 22, 2023

Music anime deliver emotional stories about human relationships and character development tied together by vivid and memorable sound. Ionatan and Ravi describe their personal connection to instruments and music before looking at what common themes underlie anime about music and make it resonate with people so deeply. Then, they dive into three series that highlight the diversity of the genre, from complicated relationships, post-war Japan, and jazz in 'Kids on the Slope' to young love, trauma, and classical music in 'Your Lie in April' to team dynamics, personal growth, and concert band in 'Hibike! Euphonium.'

Mar 8, 2023

MAPPA has become one of the biggest powerhouses in the modern anime landscape, growing rapidly from a studio founded for creative freedom to a corporate site for large franchises. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's varied productions as well as its reputation for tight schedules, egregiously low pay for animators, and a culture of overwork that is, unfortunately, representative of the state of the anime industry today. Then, they pick their top five MAPPA anime, from battle shounen like 'Chainsaw Man' and 'Jujutsu Kaisen' to shoujo and josei adaptations like 'Banana Fish' and 'Kids on the Slope.'

Feb 22, 2023

'Hunter x Hunter' is a standout battle shounen that blends unique worldbuilding, endearing characters, and one of the best power systems in all of anime. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, discussing each arc in the 2011 anime adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi's manga from the Hunter Exam to the 13th Hunter Chairman Election. Along the way, they give an explainer on the basic concepts in Nen and highlight the plot points and themes that drive each section of the narrative.

Feb 8, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this winter! They discuss the return of 'Vinland Saga,' the production issues plaguing 'NieR:Automata,' and the revitalization of a classic in 'Trigun Stampede' before debating whether or not this is a slow start to the year for the anime industry.

Jan 25, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi take a look back at anime in 2022! They give their final thoughts on each season from the previous year, engage in their annual rant about the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and pick their winners for each award category from best opening to anime of the year.

Jan 11, 2023

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by CHEFPK to discuss the intersection of food and anime. They cover CHEFPK's journey from culinary school to cooking on YouTube as well as how traveling to and eating in Japan shaped his career. Then, they dive into CHEFPK's creative process, including the methodology for making recipes based on anime and other projects such as Food Fight Academy and the FoodTaku podcast.

Dec 28, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi round out 2022 by answering listener questions from the mailbag. They discuss animation industries outside of Japan, video game anime adaptations, their favorite characters in the medium, and much more! Finally, they take a look back at the second year of the podcast.

Dec 14, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi ring in the holiday season with a Christmas anime special! They begin by discussing their own Christmas memories and giving some background on how the holiday is celebrated in Japan. Then, they pick their favorite Christmas anime episodes and movies to watch this time of the year including Kyoto Animation's 'The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya' and Satoshi Kon's 'Tokyo Godfathers.'

Nov 30, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi share their convention stories from Anime NYC 2022! They discuss the exciting events they were able to attend this year, from Hajime Isayama's interview about 'Attack on Titan' to various Studio Trigger, Wit Studio, and Studio Orange panels to a special 'Kaguya-sama' preview screening. Then, they break down their first live podcast appearance including the application and preparation process, a recording of the panel itself, and interactions with fans and attendees.

Nov 16, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Colleen's Manga Recs to discuss shoujo and josei anime and manga. They cover the rapid rise of Colleen's YouTube channel, lessons that audience members can learn from shoujo, and misogyny in the anime and manga community. Then, they dive into why 'Chihayafuru' is such a special series and what other shoujo and josei people should watch and read.

Nov 2, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this fall! They begin by discussing 'Cyberpunk: Edgerunners' and 'Tatami Time Machine Blues,' two series that already finished airing. Then, they dive into an incredibly stacked season of anime, from the highly anticipated 'Chainsaw Man' and 'Mob Psycho 100' to the return of 'Bleach' to a surprise anime of the year candidate in 'Bocchi the Rock!'

Oct 19, 2022

Ecchi is a Japanese slang term for playfully sexual actions which has over time come to be used as shorthand for works with erotic content and fanservice. Ionatan and Ravi discuss their own experiences with ecchi before traversing its history from Japanese erotic art to modern anime. Then, they dive into why 'High School DxD,' 'Kiss x Sis,' and 'High School of the Dead' are considered classics in the ecchi genre.

Oct 5, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Daryl Harding, Senior Japan Correspondent at Crunchyroll News, to discuss covering the anime industry in Japan. They talk about Daryl's move from Australia to Japan, how running an anime news website called Fighting for Nippon as well as his YouTube channel influenced his career path, and how Daryl's reporting focuses on the intersection between anime, pop culture, and everyday life in Japan.

Sep 21, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi prepare for the 'Chainsaw Man' anime adaptation by discussing the mangaka behind the series: Tatsuki Fujimoto. They first recount their experiences reading manga and how it differs from watching anime before diving into Fujimoto's rise as one of the youngest stars in the manga industry. Then, they analyze how Fujimoto is able to craft complete narratives in 'Look Back' and 'Goodbye, Eri,' two brilliant one-shots that tackle themes such as the motivation for creating art, coping with trauma and loss, and the delineation between fantasy and reality.

Sep 7, 2022

Wit Studio's rise over the past decade has been meteoric, driven by large-scale adaptations like 'Attack on Titan' and 'Vinland Saga.' Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's consistently excellent productions on a technical level and how it has transitioned to choosing smart, often anime original, projects in recent years. Then, they pick their top five Wit Studio anime including 'Spy x Family' and 'Ousama Ranking.'

Aug 24, 2022

'Shinsekai Yori' tells a complex coming of age story set in a dystopian society with unique fantasy elements. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, breaking down how mystery, time skips, and unreliable narration are utilized in its worldbuilding and analyzing its core themes of systemic oppression and control. They discuss the entirety of the plot as well as the cast of morally gray characters and interpret the warnings of the show's conclusion.

Aug 10, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this summer! They discuss a variety of sequels including 'Made in Abyss,' 'Overlord,' and 'The Devil Is a Part-Timer!' before covering this season's standout original 'Lycoris Recoil.'

Jul 27, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into two influential works by ONE: 'One Punch Man' and 'Mob Psycho 100.' They break down ONE's career arc including the way he self-published his webcomics, discuss how both of his most widely known series tackle themes such as what it means to be a hero embedded in a social hierarchy, and explore the standout moments from each anime adaptation.

Jul 13, 2022

What does it mean for an anime to be underrated? Ionatan and Ravi discuss the term before giving their personal recommendations for shows that have not been featured much on the podcast but they hope more people give a chance to, from older classics like 'Serial Experiments Lain' to newer masterpieces like 'Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu.'

Jun 29, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by the co-founder of Azuki Evan Minto to discuss what it's like to build a digital manga service. They cover Evan's introduction to anime, how his degree in computer science led to a job at Crunchyroll, and the multitude of roles that Evan has worked in throughout his career including his podcast Ani-Gamers and writing for sites like Anime News Network.

Jun 15, 2022

The use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) in anime is often controversial due to the way it can be perceived to clash with traditional hand-drawn animation, but it can simultaneously aid animators in their work and open up new stylistic choices for creators. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the history of CGI in anime, from its introduction to the industry in 'Golgo 13' to its revolutionary usage in Mamoru Oshii's 'Ghost in the Shell.' Then, they break down the way in which CGI is being used in the modern era, including Ufotable's near perfect blending of 2D and 3D animation and Studio Orange's fully 3D series like 'Land of the Lustrous' and 'Beastars.'

Jun 1, 2022

Studio Trigger has made a name for itself with a distinct, over the top style that employs both action as well as comedy and often escalates plot to absurd scales. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the studio's roots at Gainax making 'Gurren Lagann' and how Studio Trigger is unique in both the anime it produces and its interaction with fans. Then, they pick their top five Studio Trigger anime including 'Kill la Kill' and 'Little Witch Academia.'

May 18, 2022

'March Comes in Like a Lion' is a masterpiece that beautifully delivers on character-driven stories via internal monologues, nuanced dialogue, and effective imagery centered around the world of shogi. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series, discussing the strengths of Chica Umino's writing and Akiyuki Shinbo's adaptation, the realistic depictions of depression and bullying, and how the message of the series is ultimately optimistic in terms of personal growth and relationships.

May 4, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this spring! They discuss the continued high quality adaptation of 'Kaguya-sama,' the blend of wholesome family moments and comedy in 'Spy x Family,' and the sleeper hit of the season 'Ya Boy Kongming!'

Apr 20, 2022

Romantic comedies have broad appeal, often mirroring emotions and circumstances that are present in our own relationships. Ionatan and Ravi take a look at what tropes and themes make a good rom-com as well as the history of the genre. Then, they dive into three of the modern iterations that showcase distinct aspects of romantic comedies in anime, from best friends falling in love in 'Toradora!' to the subtext within a love triangle in 'Oregairu' to the hilarious mind games and gags in 'Kaguya-sama.'

Apr 6, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are back for another tournament arc, this time filling out a husbando bracket! They discuss the meaning of the word and what traits they look for in an ideal husbando before debating which of the top 32 male characters deserves to come out on top.

Mar 23, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by anime YouTuber Tristan Gallant to discuss his channel Glass Reflection. They cover Tristan's early days making anime content, the components that make up a good review, and the landscape of anime YouTube more broadly before diving into his personal taste in anime.

Mar 9, 2022

Mamoru Hosoda is a director best known for his exploration of familial relationships embedded in large-scale narratives where disparate worlds collide. Ionatan and Ravi discuss his career by picking their top five Mamoru Hosoda movies, praising the writing and character development in 'Wolf Children' and ranting about the shortcomings of his latest film 'Belle.'

Feb 23, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by animator Vann Oba to discuss the animation process. They cover Vann's own journey to working on anime from overseas, what it's like to draw for popular titles such as 'Attack on Titan' and 'One Piece,' and the current state of the industry.

Feb 9, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this winter! They discuss the newest seasons of 'Attack on Titan' and 'Demon Slayer' as well as the community's latest best girl Marin from 'My Dress-Up Darling.'

Jan 26, 2022

Ionatan and Ravi take a look back at anime in 2021! They give their final thoughts on each season from the previous year, engage in their annual rant about the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, and pick their winners for each award category from best opening to anime of the year.

Jan 12, 2022

'Psycho-Pass' is firmly rooted in the Japanese cyberpunk genre, executing a narrative that forces the viewer to question the ethics of a seemingly utopian society. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series by discussing the original anime and its influences, breaking down the entirety of the plot, and exploring the philosophical themes that the show's setting posits. They conclude by giving their thoughts on additional entries in the 'Psycho-Pass' franchise.

Dec 29, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi round out 2021 by answering listener questions from the mailbag. They discuss live action anime adaptations, their favorite and least favorite anime tropes, who the best dad in anime is, and much more! Finally, they take a look back at the first year of the podcast.

Dec 15, 2021

Studio Ghibli has long been an integral part of so many people's childhoods while simultaneously tackling complex themes such as environmentalism and pacifism. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the history of Studio Ghibli, the influential creators like Hayao Miyazaki associated with the studio, and what their works mean to each of them. Then, they pick their top five Studio Ghibli movies including classics like 'Princess Mononoke' and 'Spirited Away.'

Dec 1, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi share their convention stories from Anime NYC 2021! They discuss their favorite moments from the weekend, such as engaging with the anime community and supporting incredibly talented artists. Then, they detail the events they attended, including 'Attack on Titan' and 'Demon Slayer' panels, and give their spoiler free thoughts on movie screenings for 'Pompo: The Cinéphile' and 'Belle.'

Nov 17, 2021

'Steins;Gate' is one of few truly exceptional time travel narratives, with a tightly written plot that masterfully explores the mental states of its characters. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the series by discussing the original visual novel, breaking down the entirety of the plot, and explaining why the time travel mechanics in the show are so well done. They also give their thoughts on the 'Steins;Gate 0' adaptation and the anime original epilogue movie.

Nov 3, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Lauren Orsini, a web developer and anime blogger, to discuss her career in journalism and coverage of otaku culture. They talk about Lauren's own interest in anime and 'Gundam' models before diving into what it takes to be an anime journalist writing for broad and niche audiences and how fan culture has changed over the years as anime has become more mainstream.

Oct 27, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this fall! They preview highly anticipated series like 'Mushoku Tensei' and 'Komi Can't Communicate,' finally get around to discussing 'Mugen Train,' and recommend a few gems like 'Takt Op. Destiny' and 'Ousama Ranking.'

Oct 13, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi kick off the podcast's first tournament arc by filling out a waifu bracket! They discuss the meaning and history of the word waifu before debating which of the top 32 female characters deserves the ultimate best girl crown.

Sep 22, 2021

Masaaki Yuasa is a director best known for his idiosyncratic art style and mind-bending anime. Ionatan and Ravi discuss his career by picking their top five Masaaki Yuasa anime including works like 'The Tatami Galaxy,' 'Ping Pong the Animation,' and 'Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!' and breaking down why he has developed such a cult following.

Sep 8, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Mercedez Clewis, a contributing writer and journalist for sites like Anime News Network, Japanese to English translation and localization editor, and staff editor at Anime Feminist, to discuss feminism and diversity in anime. They talk about Mercedez's time living in Fukushima and transition into anime journalism, and then break down how to think about anime through a feminist lens.

Sep 1, 2021

'Evangelion' shaped the anime industry in the years after its initial release by creating a story and lore in the mecha genre that have inspired decades of discussion and debate. Ionatan and Ravi get in the robot to discuss how the franchise is a deeply personal reflection of its creator, Hideaki Anno, and how it uses the psychological state of its characters to explore the human condition. They break down the original television series, 'The End of Evangelion' movie, and the Rebuild films now that they're complete with a worldwide release.

Aug 18, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Peter Tatara, Founder and Event Director of Anime NYC, to discuss New York City's largest anime convention! They dive into how Peter's anime origin story led to a career in organizing conventions before previewing this year's event and getting an inside look at the work that it takes to organize a convention on the scale of Anime NYC.

Aug 11, 2021

Satoshi Kon was one of the great visionaries of animation whose works constantly investigated the delineation between fantasy and reality and how perceptions are shaped by social stigmas. His immersive, surrealist stylization was captured by his mastery of editing space and time. Ionatan and Ravi take a look at Satoshi Kon's life and his films, ranging from the psychological horror of 'Perfect Blue' to the mind-bending exploration of the human psyche in 'Paprika.'

Aug 4, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching this summer! They kick things off with an 'Odd Taxi' apology session, discuss KyoAni's return to seasonal anime with 'Dragon Maid,' rant about 'Girlfriend, Girlfriend,' and break down the early promise of shows like 'Sonny Boy' and 'The Aquatope on White Sand.'

Jul 21, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into their trash taste in anime by reviewing and roasting each other's MyAnimeList accounts! They debate how deep 'Kill la Kill' is, argue about whether 'Howl's Moving Castle' is a good movie or not, and uncover some...interesting things about Ravi's anime preferences.

Jul 14, 2021

Kyoto Animation is one of the most beloved anime studios of all time, producing consistently emotional and touching stories. Ionatan and Ravi discuss Kyoto Animation's positive work environment and how their shows and movies have impacted them personally. Then, they pick their top five anime from the studio.

Jun 30, 2021

'Madoka Magica' subverted audience expectations by making use of darker elements and a complex narrative within the magical girl genre. Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into the 2011 classic, breaking down each episode of the series and its compelling twists. They discuss the show's production, characters, and themes, and spend time making sense of the 'Rebellion' sequel movie.

Jun 23, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Katrina Leonoudakis, a Japanese to English localization specialist working for SEGA, Sentai Filmworks, and Funimation, to discuss translation theory and its application to anime and manga. They also cover Katrina's experience living in the Japanese countryside and her personal taste in anime with shows like 'Interspecies Reviewers.'

Jun 9, 2021

The isekai genre currently dominates the anime community, with multiple shows coming out every season that include the motif of a character being transported to another world. Ionatan and Ravi take a look at how this came to be, pinning down isekai's roots in 90s fantasy anime. They discuss the appeal of the genre, what tropes comprise modern isekai, and how pivotal shows like 'Sword Art Online,' 'Re:Zero,' and 'KonoSuba' implement the isekai formula.

Jun 2, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi break down the 2017 standout 'Made in Abyss' by discussing how dark themes underlie the show's moe facade and the breathtaking fantasy world inside of the abyss. Then, they weigh in on the 'Dawn of the Deep Soul' sequel movie and discuss what they're looking forward to in the upcoming second season.

May 26, 2021

How does the spring season follow up one of the most hyped anime seasons in recent memory? Ionatan and Ravi give their thoughts on every show they're watching in a surprisingly exciting season of anime.

May 12, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Marisa Duran, the voice of Hori in 'Horimiya,' to discuss the show and voice acting in the anime industry. They also cover Marisa's career, including her other work in theater and film, as well as her personal connection to anime with shows like 'Fruits Basket' and 'Nichijou.'

May 5, 2021

Makoto Shinkai is one of the most commercially successful modern anime directors known for his visually stunning films. Ionatan and Ravi discuss the filmmaker's career by picking their top five Makoto Shinkai movies and breaking down how the combination of interpersonal relationships and supernatural elements makes his work resonate with such a broad audience.

Apr 28, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi break down Kyoto Animation's 'Violet Evergarden' by discussing the beauty of the show's character writing, its stellar animation, and their personal connections to the series. Then, they weigh in on the 'Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll' side film as well as the sequel movie.

Apr 14, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi are joined by Billy Tringali, editor-in-chief of the Journal of Anime and Manga Studies (JAMS), to discuss the intersection between anime, manga, and academia. They also cover Billy's personal connection to and taste in anime, anime convention culture and cosplaying, and LGBTQ+ representation in the medium.

Mar 31, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi dive deep into two classic Shinichiro Watanabe works: 1998's 'Cowboy Bebop' and 2004's 'Samurai Champloo.' They break down how both shows blend multiple genres and discuss the sound design, story structure, plot, and legacy of the western space opera and the Edo-era samurai epic.

Mar 17, 2021

How does one start watching anime themselves or convince others to give it a shot as an established fan? Ionatan and Ravi discuss what makes for a compelling gateway anime and give their personal recommendations for getting into the medium.

Mar 3, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi tackle their first seasonal anime preview by giving their initial impressions for every show they’re watching in one of the most stacked anime seasons ever.

Feb 24, 2021

The 'Big Three' set the standard for shounen anime as early as the mid 2000s, particularly for a western audience. Ionatan and Ravi explore how the battle shounen genre has developed into the modern era with current standouts like 'My Hero Academia,' 'Demon Slayer,' and 'Jujutsu Kaisen.'

Feb 17, 2021

Ionatan and Ravi take a look back at anime in 2020, breaking down the shows they watched each season. Plus, they rant about the Crunchyroll Anime Awards and hand out some awards of their own.

Feb 10, 2021

In the inaugural episode, Ionatan and Ravi talk about why they started an anime podcast, plans for the podcast going forward, and their anime origin stories. They wrap up the show by giving some initial reactions to what they're currently watching.