Matthew Fox has been passionate about deep conversations about genre media since childhood, when watching the original Star Trek series with their mother often led to discussions about the ethical questions it raised.
Beyond podcasting, Matthew helps run a small nonprofit dedicated to breaking down barriers to computer science education for youth and also provides consulting services for nonprofits and small businesses.
Over time, their podcasting interests have expanded, launching a Star Wars-focused podcast in 2019 and frequently appearing as a guest or co-host on PandaVision and other shows. While ethical questions are not always the primary focus of their work, Matthew has a knack for finding them in nearly everything they watch.
They are the host and founder of both Star Wars Generations and Superhero Ethics on TruStory FM.
Podcasts can be meticulously crafted or serendipitously spontaneous, and this episode emerged from the latter—a conversation that evolved naturally from a stinger into a full-blown discussion. We found ourselves deep in dialogue about navigating discussions around contentious issues that often attract negativity and vitriol.
In our latest episode, Paul and I engage in a spontaneous and wildly entertaining debate about the top three duels and acting performances in Star Wars.
Space: The Final Frontier. This concept has been integral to America’s self-identity, symbolizing exploration and adventure—and the myriad issues arising from the perception of “undiscovered country” as land untouched by white man. Professor Matthew Wilhelm Kapell joins Paul and me to discuss the significance of the frontier and how Star Trek has interacted with this theme throughout its many iterations.
Join me as I welcome Sarah Hayashi and Paul Hoppe to explore the critical Star Wars Rebels episode “Twin Suns.” We’ll discuss the show’s engaging droid-centric ‘filler’
Comic book aficionado Jessica Plummer joins us to delve into the ethical quandaries presented in the first two episodes of She-Hulk. We’ll discuss whether Abomination’s legal arguments hold water and explore the significance of Jennifer Walters’ unique approach to being a Hulk, contrasting sharply with Bruce Banner’s experience. Our conversation extends to the roots of She-Hulk in the comic book industry and how her inception influences the narratives we see today.
In this episode, we delve into the philosophical ponderings of Uncle Ben and how they might apply to She-Hulk, who seems reluctant to embrace heroism. Would she validate or challenge Uncle Ben’s iconic belief in the correlation between great power and great responsibility? We revisit an engaging conversation from the MCUCast hosted by Matthew Carroll, reflecting on this enduring question.
Join me as I chat with LEGO Master Will Freeland about LEGO Star Wars: Summer Vacation! Discover Will’s LEGO adventures on Twitch.
In this episode, Paul and I explore the intricate world of canon and continuity within storytelling. We discuss the distinctions between the two, ponder who ultimately decides what constitutes canon, and consider the significance of headcanon in how audiences engage with their favorite narratives. Join us as we delve into the complexities of these concepts that are fundamental to the structure and integrity of any long-standing series.
Sarah and Matthew continue their in-depth discussion of Star Wars Rebels, covering Season 3, Episodes 17 and 18. Tune in as they dissect the pivotal moments
In this episode, we’re joined by PopCultureRabbi to delve into the theological themes presented in Thor: Love & Thunder. We’ll examine the character Gorr, whose grief and anger toward the gods for his suffering make him a complex and compelling antagonist. Is it possible to consider a deity as benevolent when pain and loss are part of their creation? This question brings us to the concept of theodicy, the vindication of divine goodness in the face of the existence of evil.