Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #501: An Elite Education

It’s birthday time again on the Five(ish) Fangirls Podcast, and that means one of us gets to pick a Doctor Who Big Finish audio to review! This time, it’s Brittany’s turn, and she’s chosen The Rani Elite (Big Finish #194). We dive into this thrilling Sixth Doctor story featuring the return of the cunning and calculating Rani, played by the legendary Siobhan Redmond. Join us as we discuss twisted science, Time Lord schemes, and a classic villain reborn in audio form.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam 

TIME STAMPS

00:00:20 Intro

00:01:54 News

00:22:29 Feedback

00:30:17 Big Finish #194: The Rani Elite

01:06:32 Closing Thoughts

01:09:50 Outro

NEWS

Sly Stone, musical visionary behind Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82

Brian Wilson, groundbreaking Beach Boys co-founder and songwriter, dies at 82

Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery teaser (December 12, 2025)

Wicked: For Good trailer

Spaceballs: The Sequel announcement

Jared on GeekGab

 

RESOURCES

https://www.bigfinish.com/releases/v/doctor-who-the-rani-elite-866 

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/The_Rani_Elite_(audio_story)

https://cultbox.co.uk/reviews/books-a-cds/doctor-who-audio-story-review-the-rani-elite-big-finish-194

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Recap/BigFinishDoctorWho194TheRaniElite

http://www.whotopia.co.uk/drwho.htm?http://www.whotopia.co.uk/drwho/bigfinish/bigfinish-194.htm

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #498: A Jolly Chronoliday

In this episode of The Five(ish) Fangirls Podcast, we continue our birthday tradition where the birthday girl picks a Doctor Who Big Finish audio for the group to review! This time it's Chrissy’s turn, and she’s chosen Omega (Big Finish #47). We dive into this twisted tale of Time Lord legend, alternate realities, and existential chaos. Join us as we unpack the plot, performances, and just how bonkers things get when Omega returns! Plus some fandom news and your feedback.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS

00:00:14 Intro

00:03:47 News

00:15:26 Feedback

00:26:34 Big Finish #47 Omega

01:04:31 Closing Thoughts

01:07:00 Outro 

NEWS

Salt Lake Fan X: Randy Quaid and Chevy Chase

Zootopia 2 teaser

Rachel and Holly on NSE

Gold Standard: Psycho (1960)

 

Shalayne's Post-Endgame Re-watch List

1. WandaVision

2. Deadpool & Wolverine

3. Shang-Chi

4. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

5. Spider-Man: Far From Home

6. Eternals

7. Spider-Man: No Way Home

8. Hawkeye (either before or after Multiverse of Madness)

9. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

10. Moon Knight

11. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

12. Echo

13. She-Hulk

14. Ms. Marvel

15. Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special

16. Thor: Love and Thunder

17. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania

18. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

19. Secret Invasion

20. The Marvels

21. Agatha: All Along

22. Daredevil: Born Again (Ep. 1-9)

23. Captain America: Brave New World

24. Thunderbolts

 

 

RESOURCES

https://www.tetrap.com/drwho/disccon/5/omega.html

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/Omega_(BFM_audio_story)

https://www.bigfinish.com/releases/v/doctor-who-omega-213

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

 

 

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #489: A Brave New World

It’s awards season and superhero season all in one episode! First, we break down this year’s Oscars ceremony—celebrating the winners, dissecting the surprises, and tallying up the results of our (friendly) podcast vs. podcast Oscars competition. Then, we shift gears to the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a discussion on Captain America: Brave New World, analyzing the latest chapter in Cap’s legacy and what it means for the future of the MCU. We also have some fandom news and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS

00:00:23 Intro

00:01:57 News

00:21:20 2025 Academy Awards and Pod v Pod contest

00:46:05 Feedback

00:51:11 Captain America: Brave New World

01:43:54 Closing Thoughts

01:46:07 Outro

NEWS

Michelle Trachtenberg passes away

Oscar winner Gene Hackman passes away

PopCon Announces Inaugural PopCon Creator Summit

Andor S2 announcement streaming April 22 on Disney+

Doctor Who S2 announcement streaming April 12 on Disney+

-Big Finish

Book Club updates

2025 Pod v Pod Oscars competition recap
 
Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #488 Oh, Biscuits!

Get ready for a deep dive into the worldwide phenomenon that is Bluey! We explore what makes this Australian animated series such a hit with kids and adults alike, from its heartwarming storytelling and relatable parenting moments to its charming humor and beautifully crafted animation. Plus, we discuss our favorite episodes, the show’s cultural impact, and why Bluey continues to capture hearts across generations. Also we have some fandom news and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:24 Intro
00:01:50 News
00:12:24 Feedback
00:17:38 Bluey
01:29:31 Closing Thoughts
01:31:42 Outro

NEWS

BAFTA winners

Salt Lake FanX guest announcements

Big Finish: The 9th Doctor and Rose return!

 

RESOURCES

The Magic of Bluey: A Conversation of Joe Brumm

The Wackadoo History of Bluey

How the Miscarriage in Bluey Changes EVERYTHING (Exploring Emotional Distress of Miscarriages)

Why Is Bluey So Popular? (Especially with Adults)

Behind the Scenes with Bluey!

Dog breeds portrayed on Bluey

 
Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #487: Apocalypse Now

It's time for our annual birthday tradition! When a Five(ish) Fangirl celebrates a birthday, she gets to pick a Doctor Who Big Finish audio for us to review—and this time, it's Rachel’s turn! Her pick? The Apocalypse Element, a high-stakes adventure featuring the Sixth Doctor, Evelyn Smythe, and the ever-menacing Daleks. We discuss its thrilling connections to The Time War, Gallifrey’s fate, and why this story stands out. Plus, some birthday fun, podcast updates, and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:20 Intro
00:05:55 News
00:14:07 Feedback
00:31:33 Big Finish #11 The Apocalypse Element
01:02:22 Closing Thoughts
01:08:57 Outro

NEWS

Jurassic World Rebirth trailer

Fantastic Four: First Steps trailer

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #479: Heart-Stopping Rock

 

Chrissy is back! In celebration we dive into Queen’s 1974 album *Sheer Heart Attack,* an electrifying mix of glam rock and hard-hitting guitar riffs that defined the band's signature style. We explore tracks like “Killer Queen” and “Stone Cold Crazy,” discuss the band’s evolving sound, and examine how *Sheer Heart Attack* set Queen on their path to becoming rock legends. Plus we have a little bit of fandom news and your feedback which sends us on several tangents!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:14 Intro
00:03:48 News
00:13:18 Feedback
00:38:48 Sheer Heart Attack
01:36:14 Closing Thoughts
01:39:32 Outro

NEWS

Marvel Studios Look Ahead

-What If…? S3: December 22
-Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man: January 29
-Daredevil Born Again: March 4
-Iron Heart, June 24
-Eyes of Wakanda, August 6
-Marvel Zombies, October 2025
-Wonder Man, December 2025

Marvel What If…? S3 trailer

Book Club updates

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.  

 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #476: Greetings, Starfighter!

In this episode, we dive into the 1984 cult classic *The Last Starfighter.* We explore the groundbreaking use of CGI in the film, the story of Alex Rogan, an ordinary teen recruited to become an intergalactic hero, and how this film still resonates with audiences today. We also discuss the movie's place in sci-fi history and the ongoing rumors of a sequel or reboot. Plus a little bit of fandom news, your feedback, and some important housekeeping!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:18 Intro
00:03:54 News
00:05:49 Feedback
00:13:24 The Last Starfighter
01:08:43 Closing Thoughts/Housekeeping
01:17:18 Outro

NEWS

Music By John Williams trailer Streaming November 1 on Disney+

Book club updates

 

RESOURCES

From Box Office Bomb to Cult Beloved: The Story of The Last Starfighter

The Last Starfighter 40th Anniversary Panel - Retro Con 2024

 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. 

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #472: Oh Brother, My Brother!

Join us as we dive into the Big Finish audio drama *The Rapture,* chosen by Holly to celebrate her birthday! In this thrilling story, the Doctor and Ace find themselves in the midst of a wild, mind-bending adventure set against the backdrop of a 1990s Ibiza rave scene. We discuss the unique blend of sci-fi, music, and mystery that makes this audio stand out, and why Holly selected it for her special birthday episode. Plus some sad 10 o'clock news, a Salt Lake Fan X update, and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:59 Intro
00:01:59 Feedback
00:19:02 Feedback
00:24:11 Big Finish #36: The Rapture
01:05:58 Closing Thoughts
01:08:44 Outro

NEWS

James Earl Jones dies at 93

Salt Lake Fan X updates: Freema Agyeman cancels; Kelsey Grammer; panel schedule is now live

Gold Standard Patreon September 2024: There Will Be Blood (2007)

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.  

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #471: Mystery Actor Archive Vol. 21

Join us this week as we return to drawing out some celebrity names from the virtual hat! Which Scottish-born star once did a BASE jump off of the world's tallest hospital for charity? And which award-winning actress has a sister who is a literal rock star? How well do you know the celebs we draw this time around? Plus a little bit of convention-related news, your feedback, and some new-month housekeeping!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS

00:00:25 Intro

00:05:05 News

00:24:57 Feedback

00:28:38 Names from a hat

01:35:12 Closing Thoughts

01:37:16 Outro

NEWS

GalaxyCon Columbus: Cristo Fernández, “Weird Al” Yankovic

Gold Standard: Beauty and the Beast

Book Club updates

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.  

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #467: Corgis, Teas, and TTRPGs

Join us this week as Rachel recaps her exciting adventures at this year's GenCon! From discovering the latest tabletop games to attending fan panels and exploring the bustling exhibit hall, Rachel shares her experiences from the world's largest gaming convention. Hear about the highlights, the cosplay, the new releases, and the fun encounters she had along the way. Plus a little bit of fandom news, your feedback, and some housekeeping!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

Time Stamps
00:00:18 Intro
00:02:36 News
00:08:39 Feedback
00:16:27 GenCon 2024
01:49:28 Closing Thoughts
01:52:00 Outro

NEWS
Gold Standard: Showgirls
Book club updates

RESOURCES

The OP Games

Asmodee Games

Dungeons & Dragons 

Ravensburger

Dryad Tea

The Crafty Nerd

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.  

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #458: Up On The Roof

Celebrate Chrissy's birthday in Whovian style with us as we embark on an audio adventure to the "Roof of the World." Dive into this Big Finish audio drama, Chrissy's birthday pick, as we unravel the thrilling journey of the Doctor, Peri, and Erimem. From Himalayan mysteries to timey-wimey twists, we dissect the elements that make this audio drama a standout addition to the Doctor Who universe. Plus a little bit of fandom news and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:15 Intro

00:02:50 News

00:06:00 Feedback

00:27:12 Big Finish #59 Roof Of The World

01:05:22 Outro

NEWS

Salt Lake Fan X: Jonathan Frakes, Nolan North, Robert Patrick

Gold Standard: The General (1926)

  

RESOURCES

Thebes Publishing: Erimem

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #452: Badass Bloodline

Embark on a Marvel adventure with us as we delve into the groundbreaking Disney+ series, "Echo." Join our nerdy discussion as we celebrate Maya Lopez's journey, highlighting her Indigenous roots. Marvel's collaboration with Choctaw representatives ensures an authentic and compassionate portrayal of their culture. From action-packed scenes to cultural representation, we dissect the elements that make "Echo" a significant addition to the Marvel universe. Plus some convention-related news, some housekeeping, and your feedback!

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:25 Intro
00:08:29 News
00:18:53 Feedback
00:21:20 Marvel's Echo
01:35:30 Closing Thoughts
01:39:23 Outro

NEWS

Indy PopCon updates

“The Long Black” now available in audiobook! If you already have the ebook, it’s only an extra $2 for the audio. 

Gold Standard: The Princess Bride

Book club updates

 

RESOURCES

Who Is The Star Of The 'Hawkeye' Spin-Off? Echo Explained

 
Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.   

Five(ish) Fangirls Episode #451: The Game Is On

Embark on a timey-wimey journey with us as we unravel the fascinating tale of the "lost" Doctor Who story, "The Nightmare Fair." This episode explores the intriguing journey from its unrealized television debut to its resurrection as a Big Finish audio adventure. Join us for a nerdy discussion on the story's evolution, the Doctor's encounters, and the magic of bringing the "lost" to life through audio. Plus a little bit of news and your feedback.

Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/FiveishFangirls #FiveishFam

TIME STAMPS
00:00:22 Intro
00:03:57 News
00:11:59 Feedback
00:15:57 The Nightmare Fair
01:00:37 Closing Thoughts
01:02:22 Outro

NEWS

SAG Winners

Gold Standard Patreon February 2024: Inception

 

RESOURCES

Dr Who's abandoned Blackpool adventure

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Nightmare_Fair
https://web.archive.org/web/20060504091247/http://homepage.ntlworld.com/thebatgranny/bak2.htm#nightmarefair

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/The_Nightmare_Fair_(audio_story)

https://thetimescales.com/Story/story.php?audioid=236

https://tardis.fandom.com/wiki/The_Nightmare_Fair_(unproduced_TV_story)

https://www.bigfinish.com/releases/v/doctor-who-the-nightmare-fair-421

http://www.drwhoguide.com/loststories01.htm 

Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.