Wolfram & Cast - podcast cover

Wolfram & Cast

Steven Youngkin www.buzzsprout.com

This is not your grandsire’s podcast! In Wolfram and Cast, long time Angel fan Steven Youngkin host an Angel Podcast geared toward Buffy and Angel fans who have seen the entirety of both shows and want a more in depth discussion than a simple recap and review. Each episode of Wolfram and Cast will focus on one episode of Angel, but we will touch on greater themes and character arcs from the entire series, so a spoiler warning is in effect.

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Episodes

S2E7 ("Darla") -- Epic Crossovers and Dark Legacies: Unpacking Darla's Story

Send us a text What if the very essence of a character's identity could be transformed and redefined through a single episode? Join us as we unravel the fascinating web of "Angel" Season 2, Episode 7, titled "Darla," where we explore a pivotal crossover event with "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." Together with Lisa M Lilly, host of "Buffy and the Art of the Story," we spotlight Tim Minear's masterful writing and directing. This episode pairs seamlessly with Buffy's "Fool for Love," weaving a rich nar...

Jul 14, 20242 hr 19 minSeason 2Ep. 7

S2E6 ("Guise Will Be Guise") -- From Imposter to Hero: Wesley’s Journey in Angel's Shoes

Send us a text Ever wondered how a seemingly simple comedic episode can enrich character development in a supernatural drama? Tune into this week's episode of Wolfram Incast, where I, Steven Youngkin, break down "Guys Will Be Guys" from Angel's second season. Directed by Krishna Rao and penned by Jane Espenson, this episode expertly weaves humor and action, with Wesley hilariously stepping into Angel's shoes to protect a businessman's daughter, while Angel himself seeks life advice from an unexp...

Jun 15, 20241 hr 23 minSeason 2Ep. 6

S2E5 ("Dear Boy") -- The Haunting Waltz of Vampiric Love and Betrayal

Send us a text Are the ties that bind us a force of good, or do they sometimes unearth the darkness within? This intricate question is at the heart of our foray into the haunting dance between Angel and Darla in "Angel" Season 2's "Dear Boy." As we dissect the episode's central focus on these star-crossed lovers, we uncover the layers of manipulation and the challenging question of whether Angel's past as Angelus cements him as one of the most malevolent vampires to walk the night. Julie Benz's ...

May 06, 20241 hr 43 minSeason 2Ep. 5

S2E3 ("First Impressions") -- Who DOESN'T Love Denzel?!?!?!

Send us a text Ever find yourself pondering the emotional intricacies of vampires or the moral ambiguities of demon hunters? Let's navigate these shadows together with my latest discussions on "Angel." Imagine witnessing Darla's unsettling resurrection and Gunn's leap from street fighter to legal eagle, all while handling the laughter that ensues from Angel's quirky misadventures with cars – neon pink helmet included. Join me, Steven Youngkin, as we tackle the tough themes, from the nuanced port...

Apr 08, 20241 hr 12 minSeason 2Ep. 4

S2E2 ("Are You Now or Have You Ever Been") -- The Hyperion Chronicles: A Voyage into Angel's Dark Redemption Path

Send us a text Ever found yourself captivated by the haunting allure of the supernatural, or pondered the weight of redemption and regret? This week on Wolfram and Cast, we navigate the eerie corridors of ngel's" past in the Hyperion Hotel, taking a magnifying glass to the depths of Angel's soul. Unearthing the layers of his backstory, we piece together how a demon of fear and a 1950s setting forge a crucible for our brooding hero's evolution, with David Boreanaz's performance carving a nuanced ...

Mar 17, 20241 hr 38 minSeason 2Ep. 2

S2E1 ("Judgment") -- Unveiling the Soul's Melody: A Tribute to "Angel," Lorne's Legacy, and the Art of Redemption Storytelling

Send us a text Ever found yourself wondering what tune would best reveal the secrets of your soul in a mystical karaoke bar? Let's unravel the symphony of themes, characters, and storytelling that orchestrate the second season premiere of "Angel." This episode is a tribute to both the show's shift towards a more serialized tale and the late Andy Hallett's unforgettable portrayal of Lorne, inviting you to consider the song that would unveil your aura at Caritas. We reflect on an episode that has ...

Feb 25, 20241 hr 27 minSeason 2Ep. 1

From Dark Alleys to Emotional Depth, The Journey of Angel's First Chapter

Send us a text Have you ever wondered how a show like "Angel" matures from its monster-of-the-week roots into a richly woven masterpiece of serialized drama? Join me, Steven Youngkin, as we navigate the fascinating seas of change that define "Angel's" first season. From its darker, detective noir beginnings, we trace the series as it carves its own path, spotlighting the extraordinary growth of characters Wesley and Cordelia, and examining the complex landscape of heroes and villains within the ...

Feb 04, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 23

S1E22 -- Unraveling "To Shanshu in LA": Angel's Season Finale, Prophecy, and the Shifting Tides of Destiny

Send us a text Discover the secrets and prophecies hidden within the "Angel" season finale as we unpack "To Shanshu in LA" on Wolfram & Cast with me, your host Steven Youngkin. This episode promises an engaging journey through the twists and character arcs that have left fans riveted for over two decades. We'll explore the transformation of Cordelia, the deepening rivalry between Lindsay and our hero, and the role David Greenwalt's creativity has played, not only in the Buffyverse but in his...

Jan 14, 20241 hr 24 minSeason 1Ep. 22

S1E21 ("Blind Date") -- Navigating Destiny, Morality, and Redemption in Angel's Universe

Send us a text Embark on an intellectual journey with me, Steven Youngkin, as we peel back the layers of moral complexity in the "Angel" series episode "Blind Date." This week's Wolfram and Cast episode isn't just your typical TV series analysis. Instead, we'll be navigating the treacherous waters of destiny, free will, and the all-too-human struggle between redemption and power. As we dissect the intricate relationship between Angel and Lindsay MacDonald, we'll also lay bare the sinister intric...

Dec 24, 20231 hr 53 minSeason 1Ep. 21

Crossover Episode -- Buffy & the Art of the Story

Send us a text Get ready to sharpen your stakes and smudge your eyeliner as we take a deep dive into the shadowy world of Angel. Joined by author and attorney Lisa M Lilly, we're breaking down some of the standout episodes from the first season. Lisa not only brings a unique perspective to the table, she also offers some teasing glimpses into her podcast "Buffy and the Art of the Story," and her books on writing. First up on our hit list is "Five by Five", a rich tapestry of flashbacks and compl...

Dec 10, 20231 hr

S1E20 ("Warzone") -- Vampires in the Hood

Send us a text Ready to journey into the bustling city of Los Angeles, as we uncover the intricate layers of complex characters and riveting narratives? Wolfman & Cast is back, this time, to dissect and discuss the fascinating world of Angel, honing in on episode 20, "Warzone". Join us as we navigate through the captivating introduction of Charles Gunn and the remarkable portrayal by J August Richards, which breathes life and depth into this seemingly cliched character. Eager to unlock the s...

Dec 03, 20231 hr 13 minSeason 1Ep. 20

S1EP19 ("Sanctuary") -- Unveiling Angel: An Exploration of Buffy's Final Appearance and Faith's Redemption

Send us a text Craving an in-depth exploration of the Angel series? We promise to delve into the character arcs, dramatic shifts, and emotional depth in the 19th episode, Sanctuary, directed by Michael Lange and written by Tim Minear and Joss Whedon. This podcast episode is a comprehensive dissection of the final appearance of Buffy in the series and the closure of the 4-part Faith storyline. We'll also touch on the emotionally poignant final scene between Buffy and Angel. In our deep dive, we s...

Nov 12, 20231 hr 40 minSeason 1Ep. 19

S1E18 ("Five By Five") -- Engaging the Eerie: A Deep Dive into Angel's Redemption and The Compelling Return of Faith

Send us a text Prepare to be captivated as we embark on a thrilling analysis into the eerie world of Angel, the renowned spin-off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This week, we're dissecting the fascinating 18th episode of Angel's first season, examining the return of fan favorites Faith and Darla, and the artful use of flashbacks that unravel Angel's evolution from vampire to vampire with a soul. We're unearthing the hidden symbolism, character dynamics, and intriguing powerplay that lends this ser...

Oct 22, 20231 hr 35 minSeason 1Ep. 18

S1E17 ("Eternity") -- Unraveling A Dark Journey into Fame, Fear, and Angel's Unexpected Complexities

Send us a text Hold on to your stakes as we delve into the eerie world of the Buffy spinoff show, Angel, in an episode that shifted the series' tone by focusing on the core characters. We're unpacking the head-spinning episode 'Eternity', where we witness a fading television actress's desperate bid to retain her youthful appearance by flirting with the undead. An episode shrouded in mystery, with no actual villain or demon, except for a fleeting glimpse of Angel himself. Intrigued? Our journey t...

Oct 01, 20231 hr 22 minSeason 1Ep. 17

S1EP16 ("The Ring") -- Gladiatorial Grip: An In-depth Look into Angel's Moral Dilemmas and Unexpected Heroism

Send us a text Can you imagine being captured and thrown into an underground gladiatorial arena, where survival means battling fearsome demons? This is where we find our eponymous hero in The Ring, a thrilling episode of the Buffy Spinoff Show Angel. We promise to take you behind the scenes of this adrenaline-fueled episode, providing intriguing insights into the clever twists and turns that make this show a fan favorite. Our in-depth commentary and analysis will give you a deeper understanding ...

Sep 10, 20231 hr 26 minSeason 1Ep. 16

S1E15 ("The Prodigal") -- Understanding Angelus: A Deep Dive into Character Evolution

Send us a text Curious about how insecurity can morph a man into a monster? This episode takes us deep into the character arcs of Liam and Kate from the beloved Buffy spin-off series, Angel. We trace the trajectory of Liam's evolution into Angelus, as we dissect how his wickedness is rooted in deep-seated insecurity. We also witness Kate's transformation, igniting discussions about her potential Mulder and Scully style romance with Angel. The episode also gives you a chance to relive some of you...

Aug 20, 20231 hr 38 minSeason 1Ep. 15

S1E14 ("I've Got You Under My Skin") -- Daddy Issues, Demonic Possession, and '90s Nostalgia -- Something for Everyone!

Send us a text Ever wondered about the complexities of father-son dynamics as portrayed in popular culture? The Angel episode "I've Got You Under My Skin" not only offers a gripping tale of demonic possession but also explores this theme, and we're here to dissect it for you. From Seth's emotional sacrifices to Ryan's eerie soullessness, we traverse the intricate narrative, examining the missed opportunities to contrast Seth's aloofness with Angel's. This episode also presents a deep dive into W...

Jul 30, 20231 hr 19 minSeason 1Ep. 14

S1E13 ("She") -- Every Party Needs a Black Hole of Boring Despair!

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “She,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discusses how which dance moves were cooler, Wesley's or Angel's, when women should stop wearing boob-window tops and how sexy heavy breathing can be. In case it has been a while since you modeled your face tattoos and boob window shirts, here’s a quick episode recap: Angel and team assist a woman from another dimension who is trying to free her women an oppressive male-based society. ...

Jul 09, 20232 hr 2 minSeason 1Ep. 13

S1E12 ("Expecting") -- The First Rule of Fight Club is to Ask About His Hobbies

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Expecting,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss how to politely threaten the life of your opponent, which episode Power Rangers the costume department stole their monster costume from and why Cordelia should just give up dating altogether. In case it has been a while since the last time you went on date with a man who loves to scream about his testicles, here’s a quick episode recap: Cordelia goes on a date and winds u...

Jun 18, 20232 hr 25 minSeason 1Ep. 12

S1E11 ("Somnambulist") -- Jeremy Renner - Hawkpire

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Somnambulist,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss the comedic nature of smashing watermelons, debate the whether or not a cross carved into skin would burn a vampire, and ponder Kate’s motivations for sparing Angel’s life. In case it has been a while since the last time you met up with your old sire and kidnapped a detective, here’s a quick episode recap: Angel’s implied metaphor for being a recovering alcoholic rears...

May 28, 20232 hr 31 minSeason 1Ep. 11

S1E10 ("Parting Gifts") -- Wesley Wyndham Price .... Rogue Demon Hunter

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Parting Gifts,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss how the series dealt with the loss of Doyle, the beginning of the beautiful friendship formed between Cordy and Angel in his absence, and how well Wesley was integrated into the team. In case it has been a minute since the last time you went rogue demon hunting in L.A., here’s a quick episode recap: As the team grieves the loss of their friend, Cordelia must also come...

May 07, 20232 hr 34 minSeason 1Ep. 10

S1E9 ("Hero") - A Face We Learned to Love

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Hero” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok debate if the WWII references in this episode are heavy handed or extremely heavy handed, whether or not head canons are fun thought experiments or long winded rabbit holes, and how necessary it is to re-poof one’s hair when being chased by a group of Nazi demons. In case it has been a while since you poured into Angel Investigations after hearing about their low rats, here is a quick ...

Mar 26, 20232 hr 59 minSeason 1Ep. 9

S1E8 -- Cookie Dough Fudge Mint Chip is Not a Real Flavor

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “I Will Remember You” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss which flavor of ice cream would be their go-to treat after 250 years on a liquid diet, why Buffy chooses to change into a white sweater to fight an oozing demon in a sewer, and which controversial Martin Scorsese film inspired the plot of this episode. In case it has been a while since you heard your true love’s heartbeat, here is a quick episode recap: In this b...

Feb 19, 20232 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 8

S1E7 -- When Harry Met Doyle

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Bachelor Party,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok ponder deep and pressing questions like “What happens when a vampire dyes his hair?” “Why does Harry call Doyle by his middle name?” and “What is the most appropriate utensil for eating sacrificial brains?” In case it’s been a while since you filed a quickie divorce in L.A., here’s an episode recap: Just as Cordelia starts to realize there is more to Doyle than meets the eye...

Jan 22, 20232 hr 37 minSeason 1Ep. 7

S1E6 - Bewitched, Fathered and Unfiltered

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Sense & Sensitivity,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss whether they are rainbows or painbows, the proper way to fish for a compliment, and which pop culture reference lead to real world fatalities. In case it has been a minute since the last time you processed your inner child with the L.A.P.D., here’s a quick episode recap: Kate enlists Angel’s help to find a notorious mobster. When she lands in mandatory sensi...

Jan 01, 20232 hr 15 minSeason 1Ep. 6

S1E5: Real World: Ghost Edition

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Rm w/a Vu,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss if bleached hair burns more quickly than poofy hair, how much ghostly shenanigans they would be willing to withstand for a really nice apartment, and why Cordelia Chase is no sniveling whiny little Cry Buffy. In case it has been a minute since the last time you went apartment hunting in L.A., here’s a quick episode recap: Cordelia has to “bug out” of her crappy digs and s...

Dec 04, 20222 hr 50 minSeason 1Ep. 5

S1E4: He’s Creepy and He’s Kooky, Hands Crawling on Sleeping Beauty

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “I Fall to Pieces,” hosts Steven Youngkin and Cari Labok discuss the Whedon hat trick, whether or not you can brood in beige, Angel’s brown thumb, and the morality of paying for slaying. In case it’s been some time since you popped out your floating eyeball to watch this episode, here’s a quick recap: Angel and Cordelia debate about turning Doyle’s visions into paying clients, and a creepy stalker named Dr. Meltzer sets his dise...

Nov 13, 20222 hr 20 minSeason 1Ep. 4

S1E3: Angel, Tell Me What You Want. What You Really Really Want

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “In the Dark,” hosts Steven and Cari discuss the true depth of Cordelia and Oz’s friendship, which popular 90’s trend sprang from the Buffyverse, and whether or not malicious torture is the best way to get know a man. In case it’s been a minute since you looked up your old pals in L.A. and monologued about them from a rooftop, here’s a quick recap of the episode: In the show’s first official crossover, our favorite two black nai...

Oct 02, 20222 hr 41 minSeason 1Ep. 3

S1E2: The One with Totally Subtle Metaphors for Loneliness and Connection

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “Lonely Heart,” hosts Steven and Cari discuss Angel's phonebook etiquette, the Hollywood Homely male equivalent of glasses and a ponytail, whether or not Steven has ever used the word "whack" and why a grappling hook is a versatile, must-have tool to have on hand in all situations. In case it’s been a while since you hit up the L.A. club scene with Angel and the gang, here's a quick episode recap: Doyle gets a nice and vague vis...

Sep 09, 20222 hr 21 minSeason 1Ep. 2

S1E1: City Of .... Blonde Dames in Alleyways

Send us a text In this spoiler friendly review of the Angel episode “City Of,” hosts Steven and Cari ponder very important questions like “Why does Doyle call bottles of beer Billy Dees?” “Who inspired Angel’s Hawaiian shirt look?” “How did a 272 year old vampire get so good at computers?” and “Which vampire’s biting the dust moment slayed our hearts the most?” In case it’s been a while since you visited the City of Angel, here's a quick episode recap: Still recovering from his relapse drink of ...

Aug 21, 20222 hr 18 minSeason 1Ep. 1
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