I’ve been following the podcast for a couple years now, dipping in and out as I attempt to read the X-Men (et. Al) from the very beginning. I burn out and take a break every so often, but I always come back to the podcast.
Not only do they provide helpful reminders of old plot threads getting referenced, as well as insightful commentary, the chemistry between the hosts and natural levity keeps what can be dark material appropriately light for a comic book.
I doubt I’ll ever catch up to the current episodes of the podcast, but I don’t have to. There’s very little about the older episodes that don’t hold up. For me it sets the bar for read-along companion podcasts.