The House of El: A Superman, Smallville & DCU Podcast

In this bonus podcast Derek, Graham, and our special guest this week—writer William Goodman—break down why this show is working so well, what episode 3 unlocks about Hal and John’s relationship, and how the series is using flashbacks and misdirection to recontextualize everything you thought you knew. Goodman also shares insight from his GQ interview with Tom King, including how the DCU was shaped behind the scenes, why Lanterns stayed so true to its original pitch, and why Aaron Pierre is the kind of magnetic presence Hollywood should build around. We also dig into the larger stakes around the DCU slate, the status of season 2, and why it matters that a show like this is landing with people who don’t normally watch superhero TV. When a series this specific starts breaking containment, it usually means the audience has found something worth obsessing over. Perfect for anyone who wants deeper context before the next episode drops, or for listeners who love DC lore, TV breakdowns, and the kind of behind-the-scenes insight that makes rewatching even better. Watch on YouTube William Goodman's Tom King Interview for GQ

Journalist Mike Sowell shares his lifelong story of being a lifelong Green Lantern fan with The House of El's Derek, and how a viral video changed his life this week. Watch on YouTube

In the latest Lanterns coverage from The House of El, Derek and Graham dive into hour three's "OutKast," exploring its storytelling, character development, and cultural significance as they analyze the episode's themes, performances, and what makes it a standout in modern television with a deep dive into the human and superhero elements that make the series so compelling week-to-week. Watch on YouTube Links Mentioned: # Lanterns Premiere: Writer Tom King on Being ‘The Nerd in the Room’ (and That Ending) Threads post about Ep3 Writers Room

In this bonus episode of "Lanterns" coverage this week, Derek interviews Elias Noel Almeda, the creator of The Ring Foundry. Elias shares how discovering "Green Lantern: Rebirth" later in life inspired major pivots in his personal and creative journey. The conversation explores the strong performances of Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre in the first two episodes of the DCU HBO Max series, touching on the show's grounded tone, mythic storytelling, and realistic obstacles. Elias also discusses his meticulous process as a prop maker, detailing how he designs solid, ergonomic metal rings rather than mass-produced alternatives. Additionally, he teases an upcoming fan-made short film that pays tribute to Green Lantern Kyle Rayner with a 1990's aesthetic. Listeners can find his work on Instagram @theringfoundry and through theringfoundry.com, or follow his personal updates @theeliasnoel. Watch on YouTube

Derek and Graham dive into the electrifying second episode of Lanterns, "Trust Fall." From jaw-dropping action sequences to easter eggs that delight hardcore fans, this episode had it all. In this discussion we delve into the latest developments in the series, exploring character theories, visual design, and upcoming plot twists. Join us as we analyze the episode's key moments and speculate on future storylines. Watch on YouTube

Graham and Derek walk through the final moments of the "Lanterns" premiere again, while offering speculation and insight into what could be discerned from trailers for the next seven weeks as the mystery box begins to open and unfold on the new Green Lantern series from DC Studios. Watch on YouTube

Derek and Graham breakdown the twists and turns of the series premiere of DC Studios' and HBO's LANTERNS - examining the history of the Green Lanterns on Earth, the mystery surrounding Rushville, Nebraska, and the chemistry of stars Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre. Watch on YouTube

Smallville's Pete "The Boss" Ross - King Sam Jones III stops by The House of El to share his side of the last 25 years, his breakout role as Superman's pal and how the series shaped his life today as he prepares for Cruiseville 2026.

Luke and Derek catch up and dive into the positives of "Supergirl," discuss the new delay for "The Batman Part II" and completely geek out over this summer's "Masters of the Universe" reboot. Special Guest: Luke Bugg.

Derek discusses his two viewings of Supergirl, how the film is performing and gives his non-spoiler review in the first of three episodes for the film. Plus, singer/songwriter Kelty Greye, whose cover song "The Middle" is featured in the film, stops by the show.

Sam Witwer - known for his iconic "monster" roles like Smallville's Davis Bloome/Doomsday and Star Wars' Darth Maul - reflects on his time in Smallville, what he regrets about the way things were left for Davis and how Doomsday is the perfect opponent for Superman.

Smallville's Whitney Fordman - Eric Johnson - stops by The House of El to look back on his freshmen season of the series, how playing the foil to Superman shaped his acting career and what he really took away from the set.

Join Derek from The House of El for another Smallville 25 interview, this time with Supergirl actress Laura Vandervoort as she shares her journey from auditioning for Smallville to becoming an iconic part of the series. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, her growth as an actress and director and the lasting legacy of the show that continues to inspire fans worldwide.

The first in The House of El's SV25 series celebrating 25 years of Smallville, Erica Durance shares her journey from community theatre to becoming the iconic, intrepid Lois Lane on the series. She discusses her audition process, memorable moments on set, the show's lasting legacy and the deep connections formed with cast and fans over 25 years.

Luke Bugg stops by The House of El to discuss our new Patreon exclusive book club that starts April 1, the first Lanterns trailer, excitement for Supergirl in less than 100 days and more! Special Guest: Luke Bugg.

Derek and Luke discuss who they would pick to round out a Superman cast in this Patreon preview, showcasing the type of member exclusives you get when joining The House of El's Patreon. Special Guest: Luke Bugg.

Derek calls in the troops for the ulimate live Superman podcast as Steve, Frank, Robin, Jason and even Tim join in to discuss their favorite childhood Superman memories, toys and more on your source for all things Superman, DCU and Smallville podcast. Special Guest: Steve Glosson.

Derek and Professor Michael Bailey of The Bailey Planet delve into the iconic storyline of The Death of Superman, exploring its profound impact on comic book history and fandom. They discuss personal memories, the unboxing of the new Absolute Edition, and the various adaptations of the story across different media. The conversation also touches on the market dynamics surrounding comic books, the legacy of The Death of Superman, and the anticipation for the upcoming Batman: Knightfall animated trilogy. All that and more on your source for Superman podcast! Special Guest: Michael Bailey.

Justin from Epic Film Guys and The Burton Batcave enters The House of El for some World's Finest talk as he and Derek discuss various amounts of Batman news from The Brave and The Bold to The Batman Part II.

Panic in the Sky! Luke and Derek finally get on mic together for the first time in 2026 to talk all things DCU - the announcement of Brainiac in the Superman/Lex Luthor sequel "Man of Tomorrow," the rumors of Maxima returning to live action in the film, Supergirl, Lanterns and more as these Superman ambassadors do what they love doing the most: talking DC Comics! Special Guest: Luke Bugg.