Around the Galaxy

Pete Fletzer
  • 4.0 (101)
  • FILM INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Around the Galaxy with hosts Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke share in-depth interviews with the people behind the fandom. The stream also features Podcast of the Whills, the podcast that treats Star Wars like a sacred text and audio from the weekly topic-driven talk show, ATGLive, running every Thursday night LIVE on our YouTube and Facebook pages.

  1. Howard Berger & Marshall Julius: Making Monsters and Movie MagicThis week on Around the Galaxy: The Star Wars Fan Talk Show, Pete Fletzer an

    OCT 13

    Howard Berger & Marshall Julius: Making Monsters and Movie MagicThis week on Around the Galaxy: The Star Wars Fan Talk Show, Pete Fletzer an

    This week on Around the Galaxy: The Star Wars Fan Talk Show, Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke go behind the masks with two legends of practical effects and pop culture — Howard Berger and Marshall Julius, the creative duo behind the brand-new book Making Monsters (get it on sale here: https://amzn.to/3KFr47X ).  Howard Berger is an Academy Award–winning special make-up effects artist and co-founder of KNB EFX Group, with over 200 film credits to his name. From The Chronicles of Narnia to The Walking Dead, Army of Darkness, and Kill Bill, Howard has helped shape some of the most unforgettable creatures and characters in movie history. Marshall Julius is an entertainment journalist, broadcaster, and self-proclaimed veteran nerd whose wit and energy have made him a fan-favorite across the film and fandom community. Together, the two dive deep into the art, craft, and heart behind monster-making — and why these cinematic creations continue to captivate audiences decades later. The conversation spans four time zones — with Marshall joining from the U.K., Howard calling in from a film set in New Mexico, and Pete and Nick running on early-morning coffee. The result? A lively, insightful, and often hilarious discussion about creativity, fandom, and the beauty of bringing imagination to life. 📚 Speaking of books — Pete’s own upcoming release, Who Owns the Myth?, explores why Star Wars means so much to so many of us. It’s part mythic study, part memoir, and part pop culture reflection — and it’s available for preorder now at WhoOwnsTheMyth.com. 🔗 Visit TheSSWNetwork.com for links to our socials, merch store, and ways to support the show — including joining our community as a patron through Join SSWN. 🎧 Sit back, hit play, and enjoy this conversation with Howard Berger and Marshall Julius — two masters of monsters, myth, and movie magic. Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 2m
  2. Inside Scum & Villainy: JC Reifenberg on Fandom, Star Wars, and Building a Geek Mecca

    AUG 26

    Inside Scum & Villainy: JC Reifenberg on Fandom, Star Wars, and Building a Geek Mecca

    This week on Around the Galaxy, Pete and Nick welcome filmmaker and pop-culture storyteller J.C. Reifenberg, the creative mind behind Hollywood’s legendary Scum & Villainy Cantina. What began as a Star Wars–themed pop-up bar has become a full-time geek paradise in the heart of Los Angeles, and JC takes us inside the fandom magic that keeps it thriving. We dive into: ✨ JC’s personal Star Wars fandom and what it was like living through the long gap between the Original Trilogy and the Prequels. 🍻 The origins of Scum & Villainy Cantina, how a pop-up became a permanent destination, and the unforgettable cosplay events and fan gatherings it has hosted. 🌍 The bar’s role as a global fan hub, keeping the spirit of Star Wars alive—even through challenges like the pandemic. Plus, in this week’s Star Wars news roundup: 💥 Gina Carano settles her lawsuit with Lucasfilm and Disney. 🌌 Rumors swirl of Obi-Wan Kenobi’s return in Ahsoka. 🎬 The truth about Finn’s arc in the sequel trilogy. 🛡️ New updates about Din Djarin’s future in The Mandalorian. Whether you’re planning your first visit to the Scum & Villainy Cantina, reliving your Star Wars fandom journey, or staying current on the latest Disney and Lucasfilm news, this episode brings together behind-the-scenes stories, fan culture insights, and all the galaxy-shaking headlines. 📍 Visit Scum & Villainy Cantina → https://scumandvillainycantina.com 🎧 Don’t miss a single ATGLive replay—subscribe now and join the Star Wars conversation! #StarWars #Podcast #ScumAndVillainy #Kenobi #TheMandalorian #Finn #Ahsoka #GinaCarano Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 9m
  3. Chad the Bird Strikes Back: Josh Zagoren on Comedy, Chaos & Star Wars

    AUG 12

    Chad the Bird Strikes Back: Josh Zagoren on Comedy, Chaos & Star Wars

    This week on ATGLive, the Star Wars talk show where fandom, fun, and a little chaos collide, Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke welcome actor, comedian, and voice talent Josh Zagoren—the mind and mouth behind the irreverent, sharp-tongued puppet Chad the Bird. You’ve seen Chad lighting up Instagram Reels with his rapid-fire rants on everything from snack foods to sci-fi, but it was his hilariously spot-on takedown of Star Wars droids that made us realize—this Bird is one of us. Josh takes us inside Chad’s world, from his early days in Chicago’s Paper Machete Live Magazine to his viral, stream-of-consciousness videos that have built a loyal flock of fans. We’ll talk about crafting Chad’s voice, how improv fuels his comedy, and why absurdity can be the most honest form of truth-telling. Then—because this is ATGLive—Chad himself will join the stream for our Around the Galaxy News Game, delivering feathery hot takes on this week’s biggest Star Wars headlines. Expect banter, laughs, and just enough chaos to keep Pete and Nick on their toes. Whether you’re here for a behind-the-scenes look at comedy puppetry, sharp Star Wars commentary, or to watch two hosts try (and fail) to keep a puppet in line, this episode is your front-row seat to one of the weirdest, most wonderful corners of fandom. Follow & Connect with ATGLive: 🌐 Website: TheSSWNetwork.com 📸 Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork 🐦 Twitter/X: @TheSSWNetwork | @ATGcast 🎥 YouTube: /@TheSSWNetwork 📞 Voicemail: 504-321-1501 🎉 Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 2m
  4. George Lucas Returns, Ahsoka Rumors, & Regal Robot Reveals! | ATGLive

    AUG 5

    George Lucas Returns, Ahsoka Rumors, & Regal Robot Reveals! | ATGLive

    ATGLive is your weekly Star Wars talk show where fandom, fun, and collecting collide! Hosted by Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke, alongside the always insightful Kelsey Puckett and Chris Ryons, each episode takes you on a hyperspace journey through the biggest Star Wars news, hottest fan debates, and the most exciting collectibles in the galaxy. This week, we’re joined by special guest Max Frey from Regal Robot—the legendary studio behind screen-accurate Star Wars prop replicas and fan-favorite collectibles. Max gives us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Regal Robot’s latest officially licensed Star Wars and Indiana Jones creations, many revealed for the first time at San Diego Comic-Con 2025. We’ll cover: The making of Archive Collection prop-mask replicasNew Regal Icons bronze busts of Princess Leia & Grand Moff TarkinHow Ben Burtt became part of the Walrus Man Signature EditionThe long-awaited Space Slug prop replicasQuirky fan collectibles like Gamorrean towel rings & Indy-inspired desk accessoriesMax also shares how his own Star Wars fandom inspires his work, what sets Regal Robot apart in the collectibles world, and what’s next for the studio. Then, in our Around the Galaxy news segment—now turned game show—Kelsey takes on her Inquisitor role, awarding points for the crew’s best takes on the week’s top Star Wars headlines: George Lucas surprises fans at SDCC, teasing items for the Lucas Museum of Narrative ArtHayden Christensen rumored for a bigger role in Ahsoka Season 2Ubisoft blames the Star Wars brand for Outlaws’ sluggish pre-release hypeNew production shake-ups for the Rey Skywalker movieWhether you’re here for collectibles deep dives, spicy Star Wars news commentary, or just the fun banter between fans, this episode is a must-listen for any galaxy far, far away enthusiast. Follow & Connect: 🌐 Website: TheSSWNetwork.com 📸 Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork 🐦 Twitter/X: @TheSSWNetwork | @ATGcast 🎥 YouTube: /@TheSSWNetwork 📞 Voicemail: 504-321-1501 🎉 Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 11m
  5. Star Wars x ESPN: Ryan McGee on Fandom, Sports & The Galaxy Far, Far Away

    JUL 1

    Star Wars x ESPN: Ryan McGee on Fandom, Sports & The Galaxy Far, Far Away

    This week on Around the Galaxy, the Star Wars fan talk show, we take a deep-dive conversation with ESPN’s Ryan McGee, co-host of Never Tell Me the Odds, the official ESPN Star Wars podcast. Ryan McGee may be a household name in sports journalism, but behind the scenes, he’s also a massive Star Wars fan — and in this exclusive interview, we bridge the gap between sports and a galaxy far, far away. Who is Ryan McGee? You’ve seen him on SportsCenter, SEC Nation, College Football Live, and SEC Now. You’ve heard him on Marty & McGee, presented by Old Trapper, airing on SEC Network and ESPN Radio. You’ve read his work on ESPN.com, and maybe even picked up one of his best-selling books like Welcome to the Circus of Baseball, Sidelines and Bloodlines, or his collaboration with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Racing to the Finish: My Story. With five Sports Emmys and multiple Writer of the Year awards from the National Motorsports Press Association, McGee has cemented himself as one of the most respected voices in sports media. But beyond the gridiron and racetrack, his passion for Star Wars runs deep. Ryan McGee’s Star Wars Story In this interview, Ryan shares his Star Wars origin story — from his earliest memories of the original trilogy to his thoughts on the prequels, sequels, and Disney+ era of storytelling. Hear how Star Wars has shaped his life and career, and why the saga still resonates with fans worldwide. Never Tell Me the Odds — Star Wars Meets ESPN McGee, along with Clinton Yates and Arda Öcal, brings Star Wars to ESPN listeners with Never Tell Me the Odds, blending sports fandom and Star Wars lore. Whether it’s finding the Rebel spirit in underdog sports stories or comparing galactic legends to real-world athletes, McGee explains why these two worlds are more connected than you might think. Rapid-Fire Fandom: The 10 Questions No Around the Galaxy interview is complete without our signature 10 Questions segment. McGee answers rapid-fire Star Wars questions that reveal his favorite duels, ships, characters, and more — with a few unexpected answers along the way. Connect with Us: 🌐 Website: TheSSWNetwork.com 📱 TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork 📸 Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork 📘 Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork 🐦 Twitter/X: @TheSSWNetwork | @ATGcast 🎙️ Support the show: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork 📞 Voicemail: 504-321-1501 ✨ Join this channel for exclusive perks and bonus content: @TheSSWNetwork Whether you love Star Wars, sports, or just great conversation, this replay is packed with laughs, fandom, and behind-the-scenes insights you won’t want to miss. (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 1m
  6. Star Wars Band THE THREEPIOS Take Over ATGLive! | PLUS! Andor #1, Han Solo’s Return & Big Lucasfilm News!

    JUN 24

    Star Wars Band THE THREEPIOS Take Over ATGLive! | PLUS! Andor #1, Han Solo’s Return & Big Lucasfilm News!

    🎸 The Threepios Join ATGLive! PLUS: Star Wars News, Andor's Ratings, Han Solo's Return & Lucasfilm's New Direction! 🎸 It’s a special episode of ATGLive, the Star Wars talk show where the fandom meets fun! This week, hosts Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke are joined by the galactic rockstars themselves — The Threepios, a Star Wars-themed band blending parody, pop, rock, and pure love for the galaxy far, far away. Stick around as they share their Star Wars origin stories, how they turn galactic tales into catchy tunes, and what they think music could sound like in the Star Wars universe! https://thethreepios.bandcamp.com/ ✨ Meet The Threepios: Patrick, Savannah, and Ed are “human cyborg musicians” keeping the spirit of Star Wars alive through hilarious, heartfelt, and catchy songs. From clever character parodies to deep-cut fan tributes, their music celebrates everything from Sith drama to cantina chaos. Get ready to hear how Star Wars inspired them to turn fandom into full-on musical fun! 🎶 Featured Song: "She’s in Love with the Darkside" — a tribute to forbidden love, Star Wars style!  🚀 In this episode of ATGLive: ✅ The Threepios' Star Wars and music origin stories ✅ Behind-the-scenes of their fan-favorite parodies ✅ Why Star Wars and music are the perfect match ✅ Speculating on Jedi rock operas and Sith rap battles ✅ Their most rewarding fan reactions 🌌 Around The Galaxy — Star Wars News Game: 🟢 Andor tops Nielsen’s streaming charts — will Disney rethink their "no legacy characters" TV strategy? 🟢 Fans finally saw the unaltered original Star Wars movie — did it prove George Lucas was right to make changes? 🟢 A new Han Solo comic series explores the missing years between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens — will fans care? 🟢 Kathleen Kennedy says Lucasfilm is moving away from trilogies — is this the future Star Wars needs? 💥 Join Pete, Nick, Kelsey, and Chris as they break it all down, debate the big topics, and share laughs along the way. Subscribe, Like, and hit the notification bell so you never miss a trip Around The Galaxy! 🎤✨ #StarWars #TheThreepios #Andor #HanSolo #Lucasfilm #ATGLive #StarWarsNews #StarWarsFandom #AroundTheGalaxy Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together. (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 13m
  7. This Week in Star Wars: Tim Barnes, Casting News & Disney+ Buzz

    JUN 17

    This Week in Star Wars: Tim Barnes, Casting News & Disney+ Buzz

    🎙️ ATGLive | June 12, 2025 — Featuring Tim Barnes (YubNub Podcast, Comedy Central, VICE Media) On this episode of ATGLive, we’re joined by the incredibly talented Tim Barnes — writer, director, and co-host of the hit YubNub Podcast. With credits spanning Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, VICE, and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Tim shares his behind-the-scenes insights on storytelling, fandom, and the Star Wars universe. We dive into:The making of You Are The Genre and YubNub PodcastTim’s work across TV, film, and podcastingHow comedy, culture, and sci-fi collide in modern mediaThe evolving legacy of Star Wars from a creator’s perspectivePLUS: Our weekly Around the Galaxy segment covers the latest Star Wars news — from casting scoops and Disney+ updates to Lucasfilm rumors and upcoming projects you won’t want to miss. 🪐 Whether you're a lifelong fan or a galaxy-brained media nerd, this episode delivers smart conversation, real laughs, and fresh takes on the franchise we love. 📡 Subscribe, rate, and follow ATGLive — your home for weekly Star Wars news, interviews, and fandom talk. Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together. (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios  #StarWars #ATGLive #TimBarnes #YubNubPodcast #YouAreTheGenre #StarWarsPodcast #LucasfilmNews #DisneyPlus #SciFiPodcast #ComedyCentral #VICEMedia #JordanKlepper #ZeroIssue #StarWarsCommunity Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 7m
  8. John Rocha Unfiltered: Rian Johnson, R-Rated Star Wars & Battlefront’s Revival

    JUN 10

    John Rocha Unfiltered: Rian Johnson, R-Rated Star Wars & Battlefront’s Revival

    🎙️ This week on Around the Galaxy, we’re joined by film critic, host, and The Outlaw Nation creator John Rocha! Known from hit shows like The Cine-Files, The Hot Mic, and The Geek Buddies, Rocha brings his signature energy and deep industry knowledge to our Star Wars roundtable. We’re diving into: Will Rian Johnson finally return to the galaxy far, far away?Did Ryan Reynolds really pitch an R-rated Star Wars movie?Why is Star Wars Battlefront II surging in popularity again?Whether you're a hardcore Star Wars fan or just here for the hot takes, this episode is packed with insider insights, bold opinions, and a dash of friendly competition. 🛰️ Don’t forget to subscribe, smash that notification bell, and drop your thoughts in the comments — who won this week’s round? #StarWars #JohnRocha #RianJohnson #RyanReynolds #Battlefront2 #TheOutlawNation #TheGeekBuddies #TheHotMic #TheCineFiles #FilmCritic #StarWarsPodcast Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together. (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios Connect with us: Website: TheSSWNetwork.com TikTok: @TheSSWNetwork Instagram: @TheSSWNetwork Facebook: Facebook.com/TheSSWNetwork Twitter: @TheSSWNetwork @ATGcast Support us on Patreon: Patreon.com/TheSSWNetwork Voicemail: 504-321-1501 Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @thesswnetwork  Don't miss out on the excitement! Join us as we explore the galaxy together.  (c) 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios

    1h 3m
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Trailer

4
out of 5
101 Ratings

About

Around the Galaxy with hosts Pete Fletzer and Nick Mielke share in-depth interviews with the people behind the fandom. The stream also features Podcast of the Whills, the podcast that treats Star Wars like a sacred text and audio from the weekly topic-driven talk show, ATGLive, running every Thursday night LIVE on our YouTube and Facebook pages.

Information

  • Creator
    Pete Fletzer
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    398
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pete in the Seat Studios
  • Show Website
    Around the Galaxy

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