Welcome to the permanent home for Flag Points:
Code name for America's daring, highly-trained special podcast force!
Flag Points operatives were active from 2011–2015, conducting groundbreaking interviews with several G.I.Joe Legends, reminiscing about growing up with Joe in the 80s, scouring eBay for crazy sales, and sharing G.I.Joe news with like-minded fans around the world. The Flag Points force included Dave (their fearless leader), Rob (of Joe A Day fame & the team’s knock-off aficionado), Don (the heavy equipment specialist), and Page (the eBay recon man).
Flag Points was the first podcast to invite 3DJoes on, and we've had a great relationship ever since. Their 65 episodes of awesome content went dormant for several years shortly after their last episode was uploaded. This signaled the end of a fun & rewarding podcast era for the team. One day at HasCon, an idea was born: let's distribute the podcast on a fun, USB cassette!
Flag Points was the first podcast to invite 3DJoes on, and we've had a great relationship ever since. Their 65 episodes of awesome content went dormant for several years shortly after their last episode was uploaded. This signaled the end of a fun & rewarding podcast era for the team. One day at HasCon, an idea was born: let's distribute the podcast on a fun, USB cassette!
The project required time & effort that was not... abundantly available, so the project was scrapped. The next idea to allow FP to live on resulted in this page, a permanent home for Flag Points on 3DJoes! (That tape may still need to happen. We’ll see!)
Episode #1September 26th, 2011
Renamed and ready to go, Flag Points #1 focuses on Old-School Joe shopping memories (1984/85), SDCC, a Joe Quiz and what caught our attention on the web this week. We promise to drink some coffee before the next episode! Have fun and subscribe! NOTE: A previous version of Episode 1 contained some erroneous info. We've been informed that the Canadian JoeCon organizers are not associated with the vac metal S.N.A.K.E. Armors! Sorry guys!! This new version has that info edited out. |
Micro-Episode #1: Sideshow Falcon ReviewJune 27th, 2012
Jose Gonzalez and Dave talk about the upcoming and very impressive Sideshow Collectibles SDCC Falcon 1/6 scale figure. This will be available from Sideshow starting on July 5th and will be "in stock" that day. Check our site for links and purchase yours. We truly both stand behind this fig and you'll hear why. See some awesome shots on Jose's site here: http://moderngijoe.wordpress.com/ Jose takes some incredible pics, huh? A very special thanks to Sideshow for early access to this fig. Thanks to Jose for the info! Yo Sideshow! Note from Jose... the body is actually a Prometheus 1.2 not 2.1... |
Episode #2August 7th, 2011
What makes episode 2 different from all the other Flag Points podcasts we've recorded? All 1 of them? Not too much :-D. One big change is the announcement of a BBTS sponsorship of sorts! Joel at BBTS was kind enough to hook us up with some figures due to arrive in Aug./Sept. and we're giving one away on episode 2! Just listen for Don's quiz, then contact us first with the right answer. We also discuss more Joe memories, local updates, customs and news that caught our attention on the web. We may even be a little more awake than we were on episode 1. It's that Yo Joe Cola. Note: I only mentioned the great Marvel artists at Albany Comic Con. There are tons of others from major book companies as well as independents. Didn't mean to omit you! Also - the site I mention is actually PLEASANT FAMILY SHOPPING. Special thanks to Python_Puckman for our new (evolving) logo! |
Micro-Episode #2: Joe Con
July 9th, 2012
Just a quick Con update thanks to FP friend, Ken Rothermel! Rob and Dave grill Ken and you get to listen in! Don't forget to vote for your favorite Hasbro Concept Shelf figs here: http://generalsjoes.com/tell-hasbro-what-you-want-2012-gijoecon-concept-case-survey/ and soon -- the official one on Hasbro's site! They want to know what we think! Thanks a ton, Ken! Hope to talk to you again. LMK when you get your Sideshow Major Bludd. I know you will! |
Episode #3August 13th, 2011
In episode 3, Dave takes a road trip to his hometown and chats it up with his BFF since he was 5 years old. Bill and Dave riff on toys and G.I. Joe in particular. Thanks to Bill for this incredibly fun "rap session!" Bill is an interesting guy and an amazing friend. Thanks again dude!! We will return to the normal format very soon. Don and Dave will be back in the secret Flag Points studio location where we will get back to giving stuff away, etc. But for now, we hope you enjoy this conversation between life-long friends and Joe collectors. We had a blast! Let's do it again soon. |
Micro-Episode #3: Sideshow Ninja Viper Review
July 12th, 2012
First things first. A huge Yo Joe! and thanks to Sideshow Collectibles for providing Flag Points with an awesome 1/6th scale figure to review. We appreciate it more than you know. This is exactly what you'd expect -- Dave doing his very best as a new Sideshow Joe collector to give the 2011 SDCC Exclusive Cobra Ninja Viper its due. Remember way back in '92 when you ordered your Storm Shadow repaint? Well, you can forget most of that -- minus the file card. This being our first official review, we need to figure the pic thing out better than this! For now, try these links... By the way... there's a difference between billowing and bellowing. Didn't mean to say the pants were yelling! |
Episode #4August 21st, 2011
Back to the original format, Flag Points #4 comes with all these accessories: A New Quiz - Prizes Awarded!, Tiny details we've noticed through the years, Tom Selleck references, laughter and much, much more. For some reason, this one went really late even though we only recorded 1/2 hour. As a result, you get to witness us derailing a few times. Now that's some exclusive, behind-the-scenes fun... Check it out and subscribe! |
Micro-Episode #4: Sideshow Black Dragon Ninja ReviewDecember 3rd, 2012
Sideshow Collectibles does GI Joe right. There is no doubt about it. Here is another review for all our SSC Joe fans to get you through to the next release -- Snake Eyes and Timber which is just a few days (1 week?) away. This figure is one well-thought-out collectible. From color selection to cut and sew, you can tell this ninja was treated right from concept to execution. It is a true pleasure to review quality items like this. Here's hoping for many more SSC Joes!! Top on my list: Snow Serpent, Snow Job (tis the season?) and of course, a Chameleon for my Zartan!! Thanks again, SSC! Keep up the stellar work on our favorite characters from the Joe line! |
Episode #5September 3rd, 2011
In episode 5, we kidnap Don's brother Tim, blindfold him, and transport him to the top secret location that is the world-famous Flag Points recording studio. People... Tim is the only other human being who has ever been to our impressive state-of-the-art studio. Even though he's Don's brother, he still doesn't know the location. It had to be that way. Tim and Don talk about their childhood plans to acquire every G.I. Joe Toy ever made, Don pops another quiz on you and we talk about the TRU C-130 in stores now as well as the new Collector's Club free fig. We also pull some vintage Joe prices out of the 1984 Montgomery Ward wishbook! They will make you weep. For reals. This is our longest episode ever. Enjoy... |
Micro-Episode #5: Retaliation Talk w/ WOJMMarch 23rd, 2013
On Micro 5, Dave chats with 1/2 of the WOJM crew -- this time, Chuck and Mike -- about GI Joe Retaliation. We're all very excited to see it next week and we hope you are too! Dave's calling Regal Cinema today to get his ticket for Tuesday (available here with a free Regal Crown Club Card) and the WOJM boys are already ticket holders. After the movie, we'll talk to Kirk Bozigian and others to get reaction, but we're ready to roll. We think some stuff is going to blow up. What do you think? Thanks Mike and Chuck! It was a lot of fun and we hope to talk again. Yo Joe |
Episode #6September 13th, 2011
Joined this time by What's on Joe Mind's host Gary, Don and Dave record their longest episode to date! The regular topics are covered, but this time with one of WOJM's hosts who can finally sit back, relax and enjoy "guestdom" for a change. We knew we would have a lot to talk about, and you'll hear that we did! It took a couple of tries for him to get through (Flag Points audio security is bullet proof, of course.) But we're glad he did and that we could talk about our favorite subject with such a nice and knowledgable guy! A sincere thanks to Gary for coming on the show. We had a blast! |
Micro-Episode #6: Joelanta ‘13 w/G.I. TomMarch 23rd, 2013
On Micro 6, G.I. Tom joins us for the second year in a row to update us on his latest visit to Joelanta! Listen in on this fun convo with just Tom and Dave as we discuss 12", 3 3/4" and even Kreo G.I. Joes -- all of who were present and ready for action at this great, annual Joe event! Thanks for taking the time to chat, Tom. Oh yeah... and listen for a quiz question from Tom and win some cool Joe stuff! Thanks for that too, Tom. A few audio issues on this one. Guessing it's Dave's fault. Enjoy! |
Episode #7September 22nd, 2011
The USS Flagg was an incredible toy, wasn't it? Don and Dave talk about one of their favorite toys of all time - the 1985 G.I. Joe USS Flagg aircraft carrier in Flag Points Episode 7. Fully aware that we could not cover every detail, we did our best to share what we know and to pay tribute to the ridiculously-large boy's toy playset from the only decade that would tolerate and support such a thing -- the glorious 1980's. Have fun, email us with corrections :-D, but most of all, enjoy our ranting. |
Micro-Episode #7: Wordburglar - Welcome to Cobra IslandApril 2nd, 2013
Skilled rapper, Joe fan and bud to the FP crew, SJ Wordburglar is about to drop a full-length, exclusively G.I. Joe-themed album on the world (Mu-a-ha-ha-HA!!) on May 30. We are big fans of his work and we're particularly excited for this release! You can get 3/12 tracks for free (or for a donation) at http://propsdept.bandcamp.com/album/welcome-to-cobra-island-free-download right now! If you check out this episode, you'll hear a yet-to-be-released sample from the album's intro track which we think is amazing! SJ knows his Joe like very few others and he has the skills to broadcast his knowledge in a way that needs to be experienced to be believed! Only Wordburg can do what you're about to hear. We wish SJ the very best and we are thrilled every time we get to "rap." Now somebody make a custom RAP VIPER!! |
Episode #8October 4th, 2011
On episode 8, Rob from joeaday.wordpress.com joins Don and Dave to talk about his site, Joe memories and the usual Flag Points banter. Rob posts 1 Joe toy review/impression every single day! He does it all with humor, knowledge and positivity -- even while covering the Indian Windmill figure! Look at all his postings if you don't know what we're talking about. Rob - Thanks a million. What a nice guy! We must do this again... |
Micro-Episode #8: Sideshow Crimson Guard ReviewApril 19th, 2013
Sideshow has impressed us yet again with their interpretation of the Cobra Elite Trooper! On Micro 8, Dave reviews the Sideshow Collectibles 1/6th scale Real American Hero Crimson Guard. This classic character from Hasbro's 1985 wave is incredibly detailed and very faithful to the original release. It's one of our fav SSC Joe releases to date, which was a little surprising, actually. These figs are so impressive in hand! If you don't have this fig and have been on the fence, we recommend picking him up now while he's still in stock! (Links on the left of our site.) Can't wait for Cobra Commander, Major Bludd and many others announced and teased to. We also have some requests of our own! ("Moore" Joes, please.) Thanks, Sideshow! Keep 'em coming! |
Episode #9October 20th, 2011
Pamphlets, Brochures, Catalogs, Inserts... What do you call them? We have no idea what to call them, but we loved them when we were kids and so did you. For 1 1/2 hrs., Dave, Don and Rob from joeaday.wordpress.com talk about the full-color literature that came packed in G.I. Joe vehicles in the 80's as well as vintage wishbooks and Hasbro product catalogs for the toy industry. We also tease to some pretty exciting upcoming shows and throw the rest of our format completely out the window! Listen to this episode while riding around town on your 4-wheeler... wearing tabi shoes... firing your crossbow... and blow gun. What?! Just check it out. Mike Thompson's blog is here, btw. |
Micro-Episode #9: Brian Cummings/Dr. MindbenderApril 24th, 2013
This is our first conversation with an orthodontist! (That we know of...) On Micro/Macro 9, Dave chats with highly-entertaining and incredibly nice guy, Brian Cummings who voiced the ORIGINAL Dr. Mindbender on the Sunbow series and for the '87 movie. We talk about Brian's upcoming trip to Rapid City, SD for his very own clinic (and Midwest Joe convention) planned for May 18th! What an awesome opportunity to meet up with fellow Joe fans, get some great toys and meet the man himself! For more info, visit: http://barkingfridge.blogspot.com. Thanks a ton, Brian, for this incredible conversation and the silly bits I appreciate more than you know! This was so much fun, we must do it again, no? Listeners: Isn't it odd that Cobra never did PSA's for their own ranks? Hmmm... |
Episode #10, part 1October 28th, 2011
Art, Coffee and G.I. Joe collide in this two parter as Don and Dave interview animation and comic book storytelling professor (where was he when we were in college?!) Tim Finn. Tim is writing an incredible and definitive 3 3/4" G.I. Joe "art of" and "history of" coffee table book called, "A Real American Book." Check out Tim's blog for the book here: http://arealamericanbook.wordpress.com/. You will be blown away. His teaser photos and his collection of original art are exactly what these podcasters have been dying to see for years! If the blog is exciting to fans, imagine what the book is going to be like! Thanks, Tim, for an awesome interview. We truly hope to talk again. Want to support the book? Like the project on FB here. Part two next week. |
Micro-Episode #10: GeeWunner Brick CustomsJuly 20th, 2013
If you checked out FP 38, you heard a little about what Austin (GeeWunner) was doing to get Joe Kreons proper, accurate rides and accessories. You also heard Andrew (Twitziller) drop some serious brick knowledge. Since then the two have joined forces to release an army of RAH-accurate vehicles and accessories with Austin artfully creating each one on the west coast and Andrew beautifully photographing and marketing them far away, mid-U.S. of A. As this is being written, a small battalion consisting of the Water Moc, Ferret, C.L.A.W., Night Landing, Polar Battle Bear, Sky Hawk, AWE and Weapon Transport are housed in at FP HQ. There are many more to come! Listen and get the latest intel. We think this project is about to take off! Do you think we'll see a black HISS soon? |
Episode #10, part 2November 7th, 2011
Art, Coffee and G.I. Joe collide in this two parter as Don and Dave interview animation and comic book storytelling professor (where was he when we were in college?!) Tim Finn. Tim is writing an incredible and definitive 3 3/4" G.I. Joe "art of" and "history of" coffee table book called, "A Real American Book." Check out Tim's blog for the book here: http://arealamericanbook.wordpress.com/. You will be blown away. His teaser photos and his collection of original art are exactly what these podcasters have been dying to see for years! If the blog is exciting to fans, imagine what the book is going to be like! Thanks, Tim, for an awesome interview. We truly hope to talk again. Want to support the book? Like the project on FB here. |
Episode #11November 16th, 2011
There is a man who owns every packaged G.I. Joe Figure and Vehicle/Playset 1982-Present. Let that sink in. There very well may only be one man who has everything 82-Now, actually, and we at Flag Points got to talk to him! Dan from Dan's Joes spoke to Dave and guest host Rob from Joe A Day about how he attained it all throughout the years. He shared his Joe memories and even dropped a quiz question on us. You have to check this one out. Don will be back next time, so fear not! Oh, and if you dare, take a look at Dan's collection here. Get a box of Kleenex first. You'll need it. |
Micro-Episode #11: BIG 3D News!August 9th, 2013
If you haven't heard, we won't spoil it for you in the description... Just listen! Yo Joe!! |
Episode #12December 4th, 2011
On episode 12, Dave, Don and Jason from theterrordrome.com talk like they've know each other for years! G.I. Joe collecting can do that for perfect strangers! We take this opportunity to interview Jason about his awesome site, his personal collection and his thoughts on collecting, the G.I. Joe brand and other things we have in common like our radical skateboarding and BMX/freestyle pasts. Don't worry - this episode is still 99.9% G.I. Joe! Jason sweetens the pot for our latest quiz question making this one our best giveaways yet! Want to be a guest host on FP's? Want multiple free figs too? Don't miss this episode, then! Thanks, Jason! We had an awesome time. |
Micro-Episode #12: Wordburglar’s Welcome to Cobra Island!August 20th, 2013
Aug. 24 is approaching and with it... Wordburglar's latest 100% GI Joe-themed album - Welcome to Cobra Island! SJ is an extremely-talented rapper who surrounds himself with many of the most gifted producers, beat makers and fellow MC's just North of the secret FP recording studio and bunker complex. Listen as we talk about each track and hear 4 exclusive samples of some of our favorite tracks right now! Joe fans - We are fortunate to have SJ on our side. Let's support this! Download the free tracks on Sat., (Thanks, SJ!) but buy the CD too! You can do that right about... here! http://wordburglar.bandcamp.com |
Episode #13December 12th, 2011
This one was a party! Don and Dave are privileged to be joined again by guest co-host Rob from Joe A Day and special guest and author of the R.A.H.C. Guide, James M. Kavanaugh, Jr. Because we recorded this last week, we did not talk about the Retaliation trailer (which is awesome!) but we did cover some news, Christmas Joe memories of yore and generally had a great time hanging out and talking about our favorite hobby. Listen in and enjoy the conversation! Learn about James' new 25th and 3oth Anniversary Joe book in the works as well as Rob's new, independently-owned and operated daily Joe fig review site! There's something in it for you if you make it to the end - or skip to it! Let's just say that James is the man. Thanks, guys! We must talk again... |
Micro-Episode #13: Brickmaster Geewunner, Twitziller & ToyFairMarch 13th, 2014
This show was so much fun we recorded it twice! We recorded a few days BEFORE ToyFair, you see. Then we heard about all the amazing G.I. Joe Kreo sets and Kreons coming out, so we scrapped it all and re-recorded. Aren't our guests sports? On Micro/Macro 13, Austin (Code name: Geewunner) and Andrew (CN: Twitziller) join Dave for some great bricky convo. Austin reveals some of his exciting future set plans while Andrew talks about the amazing photography & CG images he's contributed to the project that started 1 year ago! Listen as we cover the creative process, talk about what we're excited to see Hasbro releasing and hear what we THOUGHT would come out before we knew. Yep, we saved a little of that first record for your amusement. Some of us were dead on. Others... no. Contest alert: win a ruthless Major Bludd Kreon thanks to Dan Uthman! Yo Joe! Thanks for the chat guys! And did I say "Episode 44?" Would have been 45. Oops. |
Episode #14December 24th, 2011
Congrats, Twitziller, for winning one of our contests and getting on the show as our special guest! On episode 14, Don and Dave sit down and chat with a loyal listener and generally witty and funny guy, Twitziller. We all share our opinions on the Retaliation movie trailer, Twitziller drops some Joe memories on us and we talk about the future of G.I. Joe playsets (homebrew, cardboard ones, that is!) Listen while you sip your egg nog, wrap presents and finish some last minute online toy store shopping... for yourself. Seriously, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thanks for the overwhelming support as we launched this year! You all have been great! Thanks to Jason from The Terror Drome for the other 1/2 of Twitziller's prize package! |
Micro-Episode #14: Super Medium-Sized Announcement |
Episode #15: Herb TrimpeJanuary 10th, 2012
Wow. 2012 is starting off with a bang! On episode 15, we're joined by none other than legendary Marvel comic book artist and writer, Herb Trimpe. Herb, of course, was the artist who drew many 80's Marvel G.I. Joe covers and interiors, including the BLOCKBUSTER FIRST ISSUE!! He's drawn so much more -- The Hulk, Shogun Warriors, Transformers, Star Wars, Captain America, Fantastic Four, Spider Man, Godzilla... and much, more. But like we say in the intro, we are most impressed by Herb's outstanding character. He loves his fans and it shows. Enjoy, everyone. This is truly a treasure. Thank you, Herb, for being on Flag Points and for serving our country in the USAF!! We all owe you a debt of gratitude. BTW - Rob from Joe A Day sits in for Don on this, but all three of us will pick up on #16. Welcome to the force, Rob! |
Cassette Tape Theater #1 - Double Vision!October 31st, 2013
Been meaning to do this for a long time. Why not, right? Not sure how many we'll air, but have fun with this eerie, hilarious Joe tale! Yo Joe! |
Episode #16January 22nd, 2012
We consider this an episode for the die hard. There may be some die hards who this won't be die hard enough for, but it's safe to say this one picks up from our last catalog discussion (#9) and gets into some nitty and some gritty. The witty and knowledgeable Andrew (Twitziller) joins for the second time (see Ep. 14) for lively vintage brochure and toy discussion. Rob (http://www.joeaday.com/) enjoys his first episode as a paid host and Don returns, proving that he will not let anyone take his place in the Top Secret Flag Points Recording Studio. Will anyone ever see what our bunker looks like? We shall see. The Flag Points Community Players take a crack at entertaining you all as well. Sunbow fans, stay tooned. A very special guest has voiced interest in being on very, very soon. Yo Joe!! |
Cassette Tape Theater #2 - Urban Threat!November 15th, 2013
Enjoy "The Captive City," loyal FP listeners! The music is fantastic, no? |
Episode #17: Neil RossFebruary 4th, 2012
This is a Flag Points for the ages as our host Rob said! If you don't know, Neil Ross is the actor who voiced Shipwreck, Dusty, Buzzer, Monkeywrench, Heavy Metal as well as the somewhat pushy but famous 20 Questions TV Program host Hector Ramirez (which we failed to mention on the show.) He's also voiced many Transformers, Voltron, Centurions, Inhumanoids, Spiderman, Jem and Rambo characters throughout the years and many, many more! Check IMDB. It's astonishing. What does he have in common with our other big-name guest to date? He's an incredibly nice guy who obviously cares about his fans. Thanks, Neil, for lending us your valuable time. We consider it a privilege to spend time talking with you and wish you the very best. You brought life to many of our favorite characters and we thank you on behalf of all of us who appreciated then, as well as now, your work. Thanks for bringing a couple of Joes and an unruly Cobra to the session as well! Our listeners will be introduced to them in the future. Yo Joe! |
Cassette Tape Theater #3 - Before Star BrigadeFebruary 7th, 2014
...there was... OPERATION shun-shun-shun OUTER outer-outer-outer SPACE ace-ace-ace!! |
Episode #18: Flint DilleFebruary 15th, 2012
Flint Dille was the Associate Producer, Story Editor and Writer for Sunbow's G.I. Joe cartoon while most of us were still trying to make our Falcon and Viper gliders fly. He worked on many other beloved properties as well (of course) like Transformers, Visionaries, Inhumanoids as well as Mr. T prior to joining the Sunbow staff. But G.I. Joe seems to hold a special place in his heart as you'll hear in this fantastic interview. Flint -- a huge thank you from all the Joe fans is due to you for ducking out of that meeting to spend some time with Flag Points! Seriously, thanks for your time and obvious affinity for all things Joe. Now join us, people, in encouraging Flint and the others in putting together a dvd on the golden years of Sunbow! No pressure :-D |
Cassette Tape Theater #4 - Triple Win!August 8th, 2014
On this Jumbo edition of CTT, we're giving you 3 stories: The Deadly Satellite, Special Mission Brazil & Listen-N-Fun Tripwire's heroic tale, Cobra's Revenge... in mono... sorry bout that. Yo Joe! |
Episode #19March 2nd, 2012
We would call this another episode for the dedicated -- and for anyone who wants some big, free prizes courtesy of www.bigbadtoystore.com and James Kavanaugh, Jr., author of the R.A.H.C. guide (http://rahcguide.com/) We also consider it an awesome conversation with Joe friends. On this episode, Tom (gitom49 on Twitter) Don, Rob and Dave snap back into Flag Points formation and cover a little news, customs, our new segment "Scaled Up" and an extended Joe Memories session featuring the vivid recollections of Tom - a man who bought his first straight-arm Joe in 1982 at the age of 19. Yeah, we needed to hear all about that! And since a certain band has been on Dave's brain a lot lately, we close the show with one of the best guitar solos ever recorded. Have fun and good luck with those prizes, troops! By the way, we forgot to say WHO it is who voices Flint, somehow. It's Bill Ratner who will be on the show! We'll make sure not to address him as "The Voice of Flint" when we speak to him!! |
Episode #20: Kirk BozigianMarch 18th, 2012
Last things first... Make sure to listen to the end for bonus material! In this episode, Rob and Dave interview Hasbro's R.A.H. G.I. Joe product manager and V.P. of Boy's Toys marketing, Kirk Bozigian. Talk about someone with firsthand knowledge of the 80's Joe heyday! Kirk took this interview to the highest level, sharing tons of insight and information about our beloved toy line. Topics covered include: the launch of little Joes, marketing strategies that worked like a charm, the yards of toy aisle space Joe secured in the 80's, the well-thought-out philosophy behind changes that surrounded Joes in the 90's, new movie talk, Joe's design lineage and a few very cool stories for those of you who hang on to the very end of the show. Thank you, Kirk, for the great interview. We are glad we've gotten to know you and we will talk again! Yo Joe!! |
Episode #21March 31st, 2012
Joelanta! Didn't know we had reporters on our staff, huh? Neither did we... Tom (see Epi. 19) came back to give us a firsthand account of one of the best Joe-specific toy shows/events which began as a 12" show and has been invaded by tons of our favorite 3 3/4" soldiers! Don, Tom and Dave talk about new and exciting stuff on the web, Don hits us with a Mauler-themed "Scaled Up," and of course, Tom tells us all about all the Joe goodness we missed at Joelanta. Enjoy, check out these links and join us for our Arise, Serpentor, Arise! Twitter Toon In on 4/1 (8:30 p est) -- No fooling! See Tom's blog with TONS of incredible Joelanta pics. See real-life Mauler pics and info. See you on 22 with Mr. Ratner... We hope! |
Episode #22April 20th, 2012
1991-1994 were some very interesting years for G.I. Joe. At least that's what Rob, Dave and Twitziller (Andrew) think! Without Don, this conversation was just not quite as rich and meaningful as it might have been. Yet, we think episode 22 is still very... rich and meaningful! And he will return! In it, we lovingly remember, critique and razz 90's era RAH figs and vehicles while testing out our comedic chops as we record. Andrew can inspire that in a person. Next up - a conversation with some very important people assigned to the Joe property from Sideshow Collectibles. Can't wait! Thanks, guys, for the fantastic conversation! I will never look at the T-Rex from the dino hunters playset the same again. "FOR ME?!! You shouldn't have..." |
Episode #23April 26th, 2012
Sideshow Collectibles has been slamming out amazing Joe release after amazing Joe release. That's a fact! On this episode of Flag Points, Rob and Dave are joined by Sideshow Collectibles G.I. Joe 1/6 scale Production Coordinator Matt Bischof as well as friend, Sideshow super fan and newly-dubbed Flag Points Sideshow (and SDCC) correspondent Jose (www.nowbacktogijoe.wordpress.com.) Matt was incredibly gracious and knowledgeable and we can't tell him how great it was to have him on the show. We hope he returns -- especially since Dave's lack of proper equipment during the interview made Matt and everyone else sound like Zartan as portrayed in the Sunbow series! (That's kinda cool, right?) That's the first noticeable echo in 22 episodes, folks and it will be the last! The content makes up for the audio issues, we think. Enjoy this insightful and very fun talk amongst Joe fans -- one who is a bona fide high-end Joe toy creator! Will we ever see small Joe vehicles from sideshow? Which Joe and Cobra characters do Sideshow employees discuss as potential future releases? What about SDCC releases? Check it out and... YO SIDESHOW! |
Episode #24May 12th, 2012
Rhymes and beats, old friends, new international ones and of course... plenty of G.I. Joe talk can be found on Flag Points Episode #24! On this episode, Don returns! Dave's life-long bud, Bill from #3 comes back as well and we're joined by Canadian rapper, G.I. Joe fan/collector and comic book aficionado Wordburglar (A.K.A. SJ.) Mr. Burg (www.wordburglar.com) lets us sample 4 tracks from his latest album, 3rdBurglar, which will be available on iTunes May 15. He shares some of the craziest Joe memories you've ever heard and generally fits very well into our usual Joe banter. We are very glad to have met him and we hope to talk again soon! Burg reviews the new Footloose club fig while Bill covers his first Sideshow 1/6 scale fig -- Rock-N-Roll. Rob sat this one out, but he'll be back! Enjoy, everyone! We did! |
Episode #25May 30th, 2012
Landmark episode? No, not really. In 25, Don, Rob and Dave return to our roots with a VERY short show. Take #25 with you on a run and when we're finished, you'll have exercised very moderately. We did have fun, though. No pushed-back movie talk since we recorded this a few days before the news dropped. We also planned to insert the Bill Ratner interview into this one, but that will follow very shortly. Enjoy a regular conversation with some Joe nuts who are probably a lot like you. You're normal, just like us. Listen and feel like one of the gang. Yo Joe, Joe Bro. |
Episode #26: Bill RatnerJune 3rd, 2012
Well, Flag Points struck it rich once more on 26, where Don and Dave had the opportunity of a lifetime to spend more than an hour chatting it up with the incredibly talented, kind and insightful voice of Flint on the Sunbow series -- Bill Ratner. Bill, Don and Dave covered everything from recording sessions with Wally Burr and the gang to the origin of children's playthings! Bill's award-winning storytelling abilities were evident as he entertained us, made us think and talked about his childhood and other Hollywood anecdotes along the way (make sure you keep listening after the outro... especially if you're a TRON fan.) Thanks a million, Bill, for this awesome conversation! We were very glad to meet you and we hope to talk again soon! Yo Joe!! |
Episode #27June 20th, 2012
What was THAT?! Hear the musical gem U.K. recording artist and Joe fan Hadleigh Ford recorded exclusively for Flag Points! Hadleigh's skills are most impressive as is his ability to defy significant time zone discrepancies to spend an hour with some yahoos from the U.S. of A. chatting about international Joe memories, music and current G.I. Joe topics we all love to talk about the world over. I'll say on behalf of Rob and Don, thanks, Had. It was a blast to talk to our new U.K. friend and correspondent! Check out Hadleigh's new album called Solow on iTunes! WordBurg... You gonna collaborate with Had? That would be stellar. Sound the battle cry... Yo Joe! |
Episode #28: What's on Your Flag Points Mind?June 27th, 2012
What's on Your Flag Points Mind? That's what you should ask yourself when you listen to this latest episode of our show... Regular FP hosts are invaded... uh, joined by Gary and Mike from Joe Podcast What's on Joe Mind to talk Con, Collections, Memories and the strange tale of how Mike came to be on the show -- not totally sure if that story is valid. It was late and Mike was just saying stuff at that point. Remember this, folks... Gary from WOJM played a big part in getting FP up and running. Much respect to these guys and Justin and Chuck for their support this past year. We are sorry we won't make it to New Orleans, but it was a blast to have a CONversation with these dudes... (Like that, Twitziller?) Enjoy this one at Con or on your way there! If you're listening to this on your headphones and you think someone else is at Con, look them in the eyes, trace a rectangle in the air with both index fingers (flag) then point in the air (you know) then watch for the reaction. It will be fun, trust us. SDCC Sideshow Falcon review micro episode to post in time for Con as well... we hope. Yo Joe!! |
Episode #29July 7th, 2012
Knock-offs, Wannabes and Bootlegs. That's what CC Ryder, Airman John and Whispering Willie decided to talk about on Flag Points 29. Realizing that the world of KO's is huge, we thought we'd just talk about 80's Joe wannabes and save the 90's+ talk for another episode. We know we didn't even cover everything 80's this time around, but we plan to talk more about this strange offshoot of Joe on further episodes. There's tons to cover. From Bronze Bombers to American Defense and everything in between, we tried to give all the misfits of the military toy aisles their due. And as you'll hear, we has a great time doing it! (Don's still recovering.) Have fun and you may now start your expensive KO collection! YoKnock-Offs! Next episode: #30 with the return of Kirk Bozigian!! |
Episode #30: Kirk Bozigian Returns!July 29th, 2012
Kirk Bozigian loves G.I. Joe. Every idea he has to help Joe thrive comes from a genuine love for the property. How did Joe become the immense success it was in the 80's? A large part of the credit goes to the very hard work and creative marketing ideas Kirk and the team implemented while at Hasbro. This all began in 1979! On FP 30, Kirk shares his ideas to bring Joe back to the aisles in full force! Does it involve breaking some eggs? Yes. We don't pretend that everything discussed here is the answer. But many great points are made and a love for the property is shared. Also discussed -- 90's live-action commercials, micro figs and more! If you want to hear more after this, make sure you check out episode 20 for Kirk's first appearance on the show. Thanks a million, Kirk! We always have an absolute blast when you're on! Talk to you after Retaliation! Yo Joe! |
Episode #31: Sideshow Interview w/ Matt BischofJuly 30th, 2012
Knowing that there would be some major Sideshow Collectibles 1/6 Joe reveals at SDCC this year, we booked our post-con talk with 1/6 production coordinator, Matt Bischof early -- right around the time of our last show with Jose and Matt on episode 23, actually... Sideshow Super-Collector Jose Gonzales helps Dave out on this one as we ask about Major Bludd (did Matt say further articuation?), Baroness, Snake Eyes and Timber, Crimson Guard, Falcon as well as the upcoming Destro. Dave can't refrain from asking about the possibility of Zartan getting a proper-sized ride. Hey, the Snowtrooper's getting his own e web cannon! Thanks, Matt and Jose for a great conversation. Joe SSC fans -- let them know you support this line! The ideas the team have are amazing. I truly hope to see them all become reality! Additional lnks to upcoming products will be posted here when they become available. Check out Micro #3 for our review of the Cobra Ninja Viper. Yo Sideshow! |
Episode #32: 1 Yr. Anniversary Show!August 16th, 2012
It's a mad, mad, mad, mad Flag Points! Hard to believe we've been at this for one year, but here we are -- this time joined by a brigade of friends we've made just since episode 1! Listen as many call in to chat and wish us well. A very special thanks to all our fans and guests who have helped us in every imaginable way. We simply couldn't have done this without help. And thanks for the birthday gift, Hadleigh! Listen to the first minute of the show and hear what we're talking about! Thanks to those who called in and left a message on the FP secret bunker hotline! We had a blast recording this one and we hope you enjoy it. Here's to great season 2 vol. 1 in September! Yo Joe!! |
Episode #33: GIJoegraphySeptember 28th, 2012
Season 2 has begun! On this one, Dan Uthman of www.gijoegraphy.com joins us to unveil his massive G.I. Joe map that pinpoints the birthplaces of every single G.I. Joe from 1982 - 1994! Are there other points of interest? You bet! Could there be a few Springfields on there? Yup. This project could develop into something very interesting... Who knows what will come of Dan's 200+ hours of work. It certainly brought smiles to our faces. Also enjoy Dan's riveting Joe/toy memories, Don's "Scaled Up," as well as Rob's new segment, "Knock It Off!" Go ahead Rob... Knock it off. Yo Joe! and stay tuned for more episodes! Thanks, Dan! We will talk again! |
Episode #34: 3DJoesOctober 31st, 2012
Our first 3D podcast! No glasses needed! On 34, Rob, Don and Dave are joined by new friend and fellow Joe aficionado, Carson, of the simple but incredible new site - www.3djoes.com. If you haven't been there, stop reading and check it out! One look explains the whole concept. And what a great concept it is. Carson not only runs his site, but he has one of the most impressive carded and AFA'd 80's Joe collection this side of Leo DiCap's battalion. (Leo - We have an opening for Dec. if you don't have anything booked. We'll call your agent.) We also cover some news, fitness-related Joe memories are shared and Rob hits us with another Knock it Off... Mais, Oui! So this Halloween, get yourself a bowl of candy and fire up the iPod. It's time the podcast world got multi-dimensional. Thanks for the awesome conversation, Carson! Hope to do it again! |
Episode #35: D&J Toys
November 28th, 2012
FP 35 will make you soar, loop and glide high in the sky! Well, it will be fun for you if you like Joe gliders, anyway. On this episode, Rob and Dave talk to Joe (from www.djtoys.muchtobuy.com) who is very busy making high-quality, properly-proportioned gliders for your favorite 3 3/4" Joes. They don't fly, but they are amazing for display. Listen as Joe describes his current projects as well as his very exciting, very fragile possible future plans. We hope they take flight. Check out Joe's amazing Missile Command HQ repro while you're visiting his site. Amazing work! Thanks, Joe. Also - Rob talks about his trip to his local Lanard HQ (a very dangerous place for our favorite KO fan to set foot.) A huge thank you to SJ Wordburglar and Timbuktu for our new intro! We hope you love it like we do! Yo Joe!! |
Episode #36: Wally BurrJanuary 24th, 2013
We've talked about it on past Flag Points episodes, but all of us here think the Sunbow toon had some incredibly revolutionary, mature and realistic voice work! On past shows, we've spoken with several of the very talented actors who voiced some of our favorite Joe characters. On FP 36, our good friend and fellow Joe fan, Ethan helped us out a great deal by recording a fantastic interview with the person who directed the acting that made the 80's G.I. Joe cartoon come alive with action, have integrity and endure all these years later. Thanks, Ethan, for sharing your conversation with the truly legendary voice director, Wally Burr. Thank you, Wally, for your hard work back in the day that helped create so many awesome childhood memories for all of us. And thanks for your willingness to chat with us fans! We hope to talk again very soon! "Hyo Joe!" |
Episode #37: Mary Mac (Lady Jaye)February 23rd, 2013
Mary McDonald-Lewis is one busy lady. But we're glad she took some time to stop by the top-secret Flag Points recording studio to hang out with a few appreciative Joe fans! She'll have a chance to see many of you at Joe Con 2013, but here's a little preview for those who will meet her in person in April. As you'll hear, she is a very busy actor and so much more! Thanks, Mary Mac for being so gracious and generous with your time! And thanks for all you brought to the Sunbow toon. We know tons of Joe fans feel exactly the same way! Also on this show - our thoughts about Toy Fair reveals, a promo for a diabolical plan Dr. Mindbender is hatching and general good times spend with like-minded toy nuts. Have fun! This was way too much fun! |
Episode #38: Brick/Kreo TalkMarch 31st, 2013
We at Flag Points have been surprised by our very positive reaction to Hasbro's Joe Kreo. We find ourselves anticipating the next wave of figs as well as sets containing some of our favorite heroes and villains. On FP 38, we recruited two building toy experts to talk all about bricks. FP friend and brick scholar Andrew (Twitziller) and GI Joe/TF+++ brick artist Austin (www.geewunner.com) were happy to oblige & cover building toys in great detail. Huge thanks to www.brickarms.com for their prize pack which will be given away on this show as will one of Austin's awesome Joe creations -- a faithful, custom brick-built Cobra C.L.A.W. ready for your CC Kreon! Make sure you listen to the whole show! (Think stickers for Austin's quiz question & check ebay for his incredible brick-built Polar Battle Bear, Ferret and many more to come!) Yo Joe and enjoy! Hope you catch a Kreon paratrooper at con! |
Episode #39: Kirk Bozigian - JoeCon/RetaliationApril 16th, 2013
We always love it when Kirk joins us on FP and this time was no exception! On this show, Dave, Don, Rob and Kirk chat about Retaliation, Joe Con 2013 and GI Joe as a brand/property and beloved entity. Because we all love Joe, we can never help but talk about what we think the brand needs to survive and thrive when Kirk's around. This is one of our favorite topics to discuss when we have one of the key men on who made you want those articulated figs and detailed vehicles so bad you begged anyone with a wallet or pocketbook to buy you Flash or the Water Moccasin. This was recorded one day after Joe Con. One note -- we know it's "Adventure Team," in the US and not "Action Team." Slips can happen! Thanks again, Kirk! Here's to GI Joe becoming a phenom again like it was in the 80's! |
Episode #40: 1/18th ToysMay 31st, 2013
Every guest we have on FP makes us realize how many different approaches there can be to just one hobby. On our 40th regular show, we chat with Marc (yt74 on Twitter) who has just about every single 1/18th, accurate-to-real-life military toy produced! Rob and Dave could hang for a little while, but soon Don and Marc riffed back and forth about their passion - real-life military equipment and the toys that emulate the genuine articles. 40 is like one, enormous "Scaled Up!" Listen for Don's quiz question which yields a very cool, signed prize from Mr. Kirk Bozigian! Thanks, Kirk! And thanks to Marc for the chat and for his service to our country in the Army & Army National Guard! We hope to chat again! Some of Marc's customs may be found on hisstank - id: yt74 |
Episode #41: Vintage 12" Joe!June 28th, 2013
It took us too long to record a show focused on vintage 12" G.I. Joe, but it's here! Great friend and dedicated 12" Joe collector, Matt McKeeby allowed Dave and Don to infiltrate Adventure Team HQ -- located on the top-secret, third floor of his compound to record FP #41 right in the middle of a complete, beautiful run of Hasbro Joes 1964-1976. It was a real treat for us to all be live, on location and we think you'll be able to hear the fun! We were sorry Rob couldn't make it. He needs to see the collection in person! See Matt's collection here: http://www.shout.net/~scg/collections/pages/mattmckeeby.html and on YouTube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUDR2x9u2gI&feature=youtu.be. Thanks Matt! What an incredible collection. Now, can someone just send him a race car box, please? |
Episode #42: Season 3, Episode 1September 26th, 2013
We're back! Season 3 of Flag Points begins with episode 42 -- a show that includes several new features we hope you'll like. Friend, dedicated collector & Flag Points loyal listener, Page joins the crew to share his extensive GI Joe eBay research from the month of August in our first new segment -- Page's eBay Pages. Dave, Don & Rob open up the lines of communication to our listeners the new segment "Chatter." Thanks for the participation, everyone! Rob gets a little freedom to go "Off the Base" & mention related toy lines on his regular KO segment. Don't worry, we won't go too far off base. Matter of fact, Rob talks about The Magnificent Team on this one -- a team who are trying really hard to hang with the Joes. (Maybe a little too hard.) Don covers some serious ground on Scaled Up! Listen and see if you agree. Hope you like the new features! Season 3 has been green lighted. |
Episode #43October 30th, 2013
Just in time to listen to while you try to shove snack-size candy bars through your plastic mask... it's... Flag Points 43! Listen in horror as Don reveals that he won't be quite as close to the FPHQ as he has been for seasons 1 & 2. Get downright scared by Joe eBay prices covered in our Page's eBay pages segment. Cower in terror from the ENORMOUS Joe toy Don covers in Scaled Up! (See what I'm doing here?) Get costume tips from our favorite Dino too! Make sure you stay through the credits. Yo Joe! |
Episode #44: Christmas Ain't Over YetJanuary 4th, 2014
Wait, what? Christmas is over?? Well, not at the FP bunker. The tree's still up, truth be told. This episode is so obviously late, you'll be saying to yourself several times during the show, "This episode was recorded ages ago!!" And you'll be right. On FP 44, Rob, Page and Dave explore (again) the wonderful world of olde retail wishbooks! We also ask a few questions that could win you some belated and Joe-related presents! Sadly, we do reveal that we'll be winding down the program in the next few months due only to the extreme demands of everyday life. Gotta prioritize for now, but we'll never say it's over forever! 45 is still coming and a few micros are planned. We'll fire up the tape player for some Cassette Tape Theaters as well. For now, crack open a JCP, Ward's or Sears catalog and follow along with us. Yo Joe! Also - Les Kausek - Didn't mean to goof so bad on your excellent question! Serious answer: Adventure theme. Mission: Defend freedom against Cobra. Maybe small environment-based teams throughout the world? Classic meets AT. |
Episode #45: Finale, part 1August 20th, 2014
Here's 2 hrs. of GI Joe Jibber Jabber for ya! This was a party and a half. Thanks to all our friends who contributed to convo. We had a blast. Yes, sadly, this is PART of the last episode. We want to go out with a bang though, so expect another bonus-sized show sometime before the end of the year... ha ha. We'll call that part two because we like long goodbyes, it seems. Yo Joe! |
Episode #45 Part 2: The Final Transmission!March 11th, 2015
What an incredible tour of duty it has been! Tune your field phone to frequency 019.84 to receive the final transmission from the Flag Points bunker and hunker down for 4 hours of R&R! On this grand finale ep, we took our time chatting with two rounds of wonderful guests, we recorded our longest Scaled Up yet, we scrutinized the vintage GI Joe market with our price analyst, Page, we took some hilarious hotline calls, we answered twitter questions, Don posed his last quiz question to our listeners (I'll continue to get many via text) and we even included a nice surprise for you somewhere within this mammoth show. HUGE thanks to our families, loyal listeners, contributors, Joe creators from the toy line, cartoon and comic as well as our fantastic sponsors. Flag Points could not have existed without you! God bless you guys... Keep playing with them GI Joes and stay in radio (twitter?) comm. at all times. Your mission now is to enjoy Joe, keep him alive and maybe contribute a little something to the fandom if you're not already! We decided ahead of time that this would be fun and it was! Keep it positive & the greatest toy line in history will remain just as fun for you now as it was when we were kids. Heartfelt thanks and appreciation for you all... YO JOE!!! |
BONUS MATERIAL!
Lady Jaye bumper with Mary McDonald-Lewis
Flint PSA with Bill Ratner |
Buzzer bumper with Neil Ross |
Dusty bumper with Neil Ross |
Shipwreck bumper with Neil Ross |
