The Losers' Club: A Stephen King Podcast

Here's a clip from our latest Patreon-exclusive installment of The Soul's Midnight, a Patreon exclusive series that allows the Losers to put down Stephen King for a moment and talk about some real-life spooky tales. Since we’ve just read Full Dark, No Stars --a collection of novellas all about murder – we figured we’d combine the two and talk about some crazed killers who have influenced, or may have been influenced by one of our all time favorite things: horror movies.Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes even more episodes of The Stephen King Archives, our Dark Tower Detour series, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like Randall and Mel's Halloween Hell, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs, including a 24-7 Discord community featuring Constant Listeners just like you!Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What a long dark night it’s been on this trip through Stephen King’s 2011 collection Full Dark, No Stars. After traveling back to 1922 and taking a detour through Big Driver, Losers Justin Gerber, Rachel Reeves, and Jenn Adams make a pit stop in Derry for a nasty little tale of schadenfreude and revenge, “Fair Extension.” Then it’s full speed ahead through the collection’s final novella A Good Marriage. Inspired by the horrific crimes of BTK, King’s story follows a happily married woman who finds a life-altering secret buried in her garage. Topics range from the ethics of True Crime storytelling, the fine line between art and exploitation, and the lies we tell ourselves to get through the day. Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Apt Pupil, the 1998 Stephen King adaptation that stars the late Brad Renfro and Sir Ian McKellen. Admittedly, it's a very controversial film to discuss, but to their credit, our friends Joe Lipsett and Trace Thurman of the Horror Queers braved the unnerving themes and backstories within the production. They also invited our co-host Jenn Adams along to help 'em out. So, we thought: Why not shed a light on the film -- consider it a Long Watch -- and give our network pals the spotlight, too. Win-win. If you dig this episode, do not hesitate to subscribe to the Horror Queers wherever you get podcasts. They're brilliant.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We all know Stephen King loves to write horror fiction, but he also loves to read it. And when the Master of Horror is looking for his next literary fright he turns to our special guest for this episode: Sadie “Mother Horror” Hartmann! Losers Jenn Adams and Dan Caffrey join the Bookstagram star and fellow Constant Reader to discuss her incredible new book 101 Horror Books to Read Before You’re Murdered. Together, they chat about all things horror fiction including their favorite subgenres, creepy kids, the importance of modern horror, and what makes a book Stephen King(ish). And, of course, Sadie recommends a few novels perfect for spooky season! We guarantee you’ll come away from this episode with a much longer To Read list! Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Happy Friday the 13th, Constant Listeners! We have a special treat for you: Another series from the LC family. It's called The Lady Killers: a Feminine Rage Podcast, and it's hosted by fellow Losers Jenn Adams and Sammie Kuykendall, in addition to Halloweenies editor Mae Shults and Rue Morgue editor Rocco Thompson. So what's the gist? Each episode will feature Jenn, Sammie, Mae, and Rocco discussing a female-identifying killer in the horror genre—and sometimes the wider world of cinema—from Julia and Jennifer to Carrie and Christine. They’ll tell the story from her point of view, decide if it’s “Good For Her” Horror, and answer the most important question of all: would we die for her? New episodes every Thursday; subscribe now. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Because it's spooky season, the Losers are dusting off an old Crate episode on 1999's The Blair Witch Project, a film that even Stephen King asked to turn off for being "too freaky." Where do you stand? Where do the Losers stand? Hopefully, not in the corner.Note: This was recorded in January 2021 and is being unlocked today for the main feed. For more exclusive episodes like this that we haven't unlocked,please join us at www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You can even get our latest book episode on Holly. Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers continue their coverage of Pet Sematary: Bloodlines by speaking with writer-director Lindsey Anderson Beer.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers return to Ludlow, Maine to review Pet Sematary: Bloodlines. Stay tuned for their interview with writer-director Lindsey Anderson Beer.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Our Full Dark, No Stars coverage continues! In the second of three episodes dedicated to the 2010 collection, Losers Justin Gerber, Randall Colburn, and Jenn Adams discuss one of Stephen King's most uncomfortable stories to read due to the subject material. The less written here, the better. What's next? Well, next week we're reviewing Pet Sematary: Bloodlines. We'll conclude our Full Dark coverage on October 20th with a double hitter centered on Fair Extension and A Good Marriage.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from Jenn’s King Character Corner, our Patreon exclusive series that finds Jenn Adams embarking on a deep dive on some of your favorite characters, be it the villains, the heroes, the couples, the clowns, and everyone in between. Who’s on deck this time around? Holly Gibney! Hot off her latest appearance in King’s Dominion – her sixth by our account – Holly.Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, Dark Tower Detour, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs, including a 24-7 Discord community featuring Constant Listeners just like you!Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With summer behind us, it's time to embrace the Fall season ahead of us. Be sure to keep an eye on your watch as the sun hits that horizon much, much earlier this time of the year. Before you know it? Full Dark, No Stars. Alas, the Losers have reached the next novellas collection in their journey through Stephen King's catalogue. The first of the four finds them dialing the clock back to 1922 and returning to Hemingford Home, Nebraska where there's been a grisly murder. That's an understatement. Stay tuned next week for Big Driver.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our latest Patreon-exclusive book episode that sees your Losers leave the path of the beam and jump ahead to Stephen King's newest novel Holly. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes even more episodes of The Stephen King Archives, our Dark Tower Detour series, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs, including a 24-7 Discord community featuring Constant Listeners just like you!Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In honor of the 40th anniversary of Lewis Teague’s Cujo, the Losers count down and match up to identify -- and crown -- the best critter in all of King’s Dominion! Instead of listing and ranking, we’re gonna let the critters themselves take control and duke it out with each other until only one remains. But never fear. No animals will be hurt in the recording of this episode. We’re using a March-Madness style Bracket to narrow down the competitors to a grand champion.Note: This was recorded last month and is being unlocked for the main feed. For more exclusive episodes like this that we haven't unlocked -- not to mention, over hundreds of hours of content --please join us at www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You can even get our latest book episode on Holly. Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You are cordially invited to another unforgettable night of The Kingies! With the '00s now behind them, the Losers must choose the best and worst of Stephen King's output throughout his most arduous decade. So, come join us for the only Stephen King awards show that matters. Want to attend The People's Kingies? Become a member of The Barrens, where you can join your fellow Constant Listeners on September 21st over Zoom for your night.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers make one more stop through Chester's Mill. This time they're talking about CBS' Under the Dome, the television adaptation of Stephen King's 2009 novel that lasted three seasons and spanned 39 episodes. Together, they discuss the production history, the cast, whether Dean Norris outpaces everyone, the translation from page to screen, the elasticity of the premise, and all the wild, wild arcs that await viewers in Season 3. It's a roarin' fun time. Loud and alive.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our latest installment of the Stephen King Archives, our Patreon exclusive imprint in which your Losers search the vault of Stephen King material – dusting off unpublished short stories, long-forgotten interviews, coffee-stained manuscripts, and alternate versions of your favorite tales. This episode sees them exploring King’s aborted novel, The Cannibals, which would lay the foundation for Under the Dome. Consider this the final piece of the Dome puzzle.Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes even more episodes of The Stephen King Archives, our Dark Tower Detour series, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs, including a 24-7 Discord community featuring Constant Listeners just like you!Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This month marks the 30th anniversary of Fraser C. Heston's 1993 adaptation of Needful Things. To celebrate, the Losers are getting together to revisit the Castle Rock classic and also have unlocked their interview with the filmmaker. It's a good one.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Filmmaker Daphné Baiwir joins the Losers to discuss her new Stephen King documentary, King On Screen. Before they chat, though, the Losers put on their shades, rev up their ol' Plymouth Fury, and make a pitstop in Hollywood King. It's there they discuss all the new King books announced, Paramount's forthcoming Pet Sematary: Bloodlines, and more.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our our latest Patreon exclusive episode that sees the Losers using a March-Madness style Bracket to figure out who’s the best critter in King’s Dominion. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the third and final episode devoted to Stephen King's 2009 novel Under the Dome, the Losers tuck in their bibs for the sloppiest plate of poundcake they've had in ages. Bellies full, they also discuss their favorite passages, least favorite jokes, and what may or may not be a cameo from our good friend RF. Speaking of cameos, what's Jack Reacher doing here? Man, this book is weird. Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers' mingle with the heroes and villains of Chester's Mill in the second of our three Under the Dome episodes. Is Barbie boring? Is Big Jim Rennie TOO evil? And what's going on with Junior? Randall, Ashley, and the Dans also sift through the book's hundreds-deep ensemble in search of their favorite supporting characters, from the drug-addled Chef to the tragic Dinsmore clan. Along the way, they discuss evolutions in King's leading men, the fun parts of meth, and the shared delusions that connect the book's most disparate characters. Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your favorite little worker ants are wiggling in the lens of your magnifying glass in the first our three (!) episodes about Stephen King's 1,100-page Under the Dome. In this episode, the Losers unpack the 2009 book's decades-long history, King's quotes about its creation, and the political and social climate that influenced its themes. Dick Cheney, evangelicalism, and Wolf Blitzer (?) color a conversation that sets the story against King's other small town epics and his career-long exploration of individualism vs. collectivism. Stay tuned for Pt. 2 next Friday!Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers head to the Derry Public Library, where they meet Sonya Durney, President of the Maine Library Association. Together, they discuss Stephen and Tabitha King’s keynote speech at the Maine Library Association Fundraiser from this past May, particularly how it relates to the role of libraries in today’s communities, the trials and tribulations these institutions face, and more. The Losers were given exclusive use of the keynote recording, but to hear the full thing head here: https://mainelibraries.org/kings-interviewFollow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sorry Henry Rollins, we're havin' a TV party tonight, and we've got one name on the mind: Stephen King. Sit back and relax, Constant Listeners, as the Losers see what they can learn from TV’s treatment of King — the jokes, the references, and the shows that, if not for him, might not exist. Cheers to Perfect Strangers, Lost to Supernatural, Family Guy to Rick and Morty, Randall, Jenn, and Caffrey unpack it all. No remote necessary. Note: This episode was recorded in May 2023 and is being unlocked from the Derry Private Library.Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our our latest Patreon exclusive episode that sees the Losers veering off the beam and discussing Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark as part of our new Oops! All Tangents series. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are 13 stories in Stephen King's Just After Sunset. In the second of two episodes dedicated to the 2008 collection, Losers Jenn Adams, Michael Roffman, Ashley Casseday, and Mel Kassel rank all 13 tales. Last week, they shared their bottom eight, this week sees them name the top seven. What's their No. 1 pick? Will it be "Willa"? "A Very Right Place"? "N,"? You'll have to listen and find out!Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There are 13 stories in Stephen King's Just After Sunset. In the first of two episodes dedicated to the 2008 collection, Losers Jenn Adams, Michael Roffman, Ashley Casseday, and Mel Kassel rank all 13 tales, starting at the bottom. These aren't necessarily their least favorite. They're just ranked as such. Stay tuned next week for the concluding coverage with the top seven.Follow on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers untie another big ol' Bag of Bones and answer your questions. Questions like "If you were to teach a college level course on Stephen King what required reading would you put on the syllabus?”; “Which musician is the most like King? Be it output or career similarities"; “What King books do you think Tabby had the most influence / oversight on?”; and more. They also discuss favorite graphic novels, the best sketches of this season's I Think You Should Leave, and horror movie trailers that oversold the movie. Want to ask them a question on the next Bag of Bones episode? Become an Overlook patron at www.patreon.com/thebarrens.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Joining The Losers’ Club this week is Chris Adams, author of Out for Blood: A Cultural History of Carrie the Musical, which is out July 27th via Bloomsbury Publishing. Per its synopsis, Out for Blood patches together “memories, archive material and contemporary reports to dive into the origins and development of this infamous show and examines how a promising entertainment product can swiftly gain a notorious reputation, what makes or breaks a Broadway show, and how even the most unlikely of musicals can find its place in the hearts of fans around the world.” Adams chats with the Losers about the musical’s development, the urban legends clouding its history, and what separates its original and modern versions. He also discusses what spurred his love for the musical and the 10-part podcast (also called Out for Blood) that paved the way for the book itself.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our our latest Patreon exclusive episode that sees the Losers listing the 10 best endings in all of Stephen King’s works – but specifically his novels.Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers review Rob Savage's The Boogeyman. Together, they discuss the creature design, the connection to It, the nastiness of the original story, the mental health metaphor, the in-world rules/lore, the goofy cameo joke, and our own Boogeymen when we were kids.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers are joined by filmmaker, screenwriter, editor, and producer Rob Savage, whose latest film The Boogeyman is haunting theaters everywhere. Together, they discuss growing up with Stephen King in the UK, the transition from found footage to traditional narrative, shooting in the dark, the monster vs. the metaphor, and working with a major studio. He also discusses his affinity for Stanley Kubrick's The Shining, shares an anecdote involving King, and singles out the next story he'd love to adapt (spoiler: The Langoliers).Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

An ambitious ER physician meets her scariest patient yet in a new original audio drama from The Losers’ Club inspired by The Boogeyman and created in partnership with 20th Century StudiosWritten by Dan Caffrey. Featuring performances by Ashley Casseday, Lauren Ogle, and Guenievere Govea. Editing, sound design, and original music by Mae Shults. Produced by Michael Roffman, Randall Colburn, and Dan Caffrey.From the mind of Stephen King, The Boogeyman is now playing only in theaters. Get tickets now: www.fandango.com/TheBoogeyman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from our our latest Patreon exclusive episode that sees the Losers studying Stephen King’s influence over television throughout the years. Together, they see what they can learn from TV’s treatment of King’s work — from the jokes, to the references, to the shows that, if not for him, might not exist. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers grab their swim trunks and take a plunge into Stephen King's 2008 seaside supernatural thriller Duma Key. Join Losers Dan Caffrey, Jenn Adams, Dan Pfleegor, and Rachel Reeves as they count their steps in the sand and share a pitcher of iced green tea. They’ll hang out under the beach umbrella and discuss how to draw a picture, meditations on healing, aquatic horror, and the end of King’s post-accident phase of writing. How many times can one character get away with saying the word “Muchacho?” They’ll draw the answer into being with a deep dive into King’s Floridian novel. His first.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The heat is on across King's Dominion. To cool off, The Losers' Club put on their shades, rev up their ol' Plymouth Fury, and feel the breeze in Hollywood King. Along the way, they sort through plenty of Needful Tweets. Topics include Stephen King on Scorsese, most memorable one-shots in the King film canon, headlines surrounding The Monkey and The Life of Chuck, more Welcome to Derry updates, Needful Things on 4K, and much much more.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Of all the advice Stephen King offers in his memoir On Writing, “write what you know” may be the best. It’s certainly advice he follows as his vast catalog is nearly bursting with writer protagonists and the occasional villainous scribe. With King’s last literary outing with his own protagonist, Richard Bachman, behind us, we’re rounding up all of King’s fictional writers to duke it out in a March Madness style tournament until only one remains. Join Jenn Adams as she cues up the arena rock and tips off a series of head-to-head battles in which an expert panel including Michael Roffman, Dan Caffrey, and Julia Marchese slowly narrow down the field to an epic final showdown. Nail-biters and buzzer-beaters abound in our quest to identify King’s ultimate writer.Note: This was recorded last month and is being unlocked in lieu of scheduling issues. For more exclusive episodes like this that we haven't unlocked -- not to mention, over hundreds of hours of content --please join us at www.patreon.com/thebarrens. Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Losers' Club co-host Randall Colburn speaks to writer Meg Elison about her Fantasy Magazine article, All the King's Women: The Fats. It's a breezy and lighthearted chat that should prove enlightening to Constant Readers everywhere. It should be noted that this was originally recorded in January 2022 and is being unlocked from The Barrens. For more exclusive interviews like this that we haven't unlocked -- not to mention, over hundreds of hours of content --please join us at www.patreon.com/thebarrens. Otherwise, enjoy this conversation. Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | StoreHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With Blaze back on the shelf, the Losers have finished their Richard Bachman run -- at least until now. To cap it all off, they do what any self-respecting Constant Reader would do: gather around, argue, and rank all seven of his novels: from 1977's Rage to 2007's Blaze.Want to know more about Bachman? Seek out our exhaustive primer episode on ‘ol Dicky that offers an A-to-Z account of Stephen King's fictional (and deceased) author. You can get it now in the Barrens -- patreon.com/thebarrens -- where you’ll also find hundreds of hours of bonus content.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forgive the creaking hinges and fluttering moths, Constant Listeners. The Losers just cracked open Stephen King’s fabled TRUNK, the one where he keeps all the inked-up pages he’s not yet ready to unleash upon the world. It’s here where the final (?) Richard Bachman's Blaze moldered for decades. Join Losers Randall Colburn, Jenn Adams, Dan Caffrey, and Dan Pfleegor as they chat about this curio in the King oeuvre. Together, they debate the peculiarities of its history, its place in the King crime canon, and what it tells us about King as a young, struggling artist. Fear not, there are several references to season 2 of Burning Love.Want to know more about Bachman? Well, we’ve got an exhaustive primer episode on ‘ol Dicky that offers an A-to-Z account of the fictional (and deceased) author. Next week, we’ll be releasing a ranking of all seven of Bachman’s books that culminates with the question of what the hell a Bachman book even is. You can only get it in the Barrens -- patreon.com/thebarrens -- where you’ll also find hundreds upon hundreds of hours of bonus content.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This month marks the 30th anniversary of George A. Romero's The Dark Half. To celebrate, the Losers are unlocking their Ka-mmentary track for the Stephen King staple that features Dan Caffrey, Dan Pfleegor, and Justin Gerber returning to Castle Rock to talk all things Romero and all things Rooker. For more Ka-mmentaries like this -- we have one for almost every King movie to date -- please join us in The Barrens: www.patreon.com/thebarrens. Otherwise, enjoy the show! Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon | Store Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spring is here, but the Summer heat is on across King's Dominion. So, once again, The Losers' Club is putting on their shades, revving up their Plymouth Fury, and feeling the breeze in Hollywood King. Along the way, they sort through plenty of Needful Tweets. Topics include Welcome to Derry, Stephen King 4K releases, Mike Flanagan's latest ideas for The Dark Tower, favorite soul songs, The Last of Us, Yellowjackets, and The Wire.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a preview of our latest installment of the CrichtonCast, our Michael Crichton spinoff podcast exclusive to The Barrens. Last year, the series debuted by discussing The Andromeda Strain. This installment sees Randall and Justin engaging in a sweeping conversation about 1987's Sphere, a sci-fi page-turner that not only came out the same year as Stephen King's The Tommyknockers, but shares a shockingly similar premise. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock over a hundred hours of exclusive, bonus content that includes other hilarious Ka-mmentary tracks, our King archival series, our Dark Tower Detour series, Jenn's King Character Corner, our spooky Soul's Midnights, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes from yesteryear, and more.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers reach Boo'ya Moon, where they discover Stephen King's 2006 novel, Lisey's Story. Join Losers Jenn Adams, Michael Roffman, Ana Marie Cox, and special guest Johann Trotter as they meditate on how King's personal story of love and trauma brings us closer than ever to the Master of Horror. Note: This episode was originally recorded and released in June 2021 ahead of the Apple TV+ series. It's being re-run as part of our Stephen King chronological journey.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers gather at Boston International Airport to close out their coverage on Stephen King's Cell. Now that they've explored the 2006 novel (see our book episode from back in March), they leap ahead a decade to dial into Tod Williams’ 2016 adaptation. Together, they discuss the film's super long production history (and time in development hell), the reunion of 1408 stars John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson, the chopped up script, and, much, much more.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's St. Patrick's Day! To celebrate, the Losers untie another big ol' Bag of Bones and answer your questions. Questions like "Who's the luckiest (and unluckiest) character in King's Dominion?", "Who wins in a fight? Church or Cuj?", "What's the best St. Patrick's Day read?", "Which King book was the biggest let down?", "What's your favorite King sentence?", and, naturally, "Who in King's Dominion is in your pub crawl?" They also are tasked to cast a Stephen King sitcom. Good lord do they ever. Want to ask them a question on the next Bag of Bones episode? Become an Overlook patron at www.patreon.com/thebarrens.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Will you accept this rose, Constant Listeners? Hope so. The Bachelor himself Zach Shallcross joins the Losers to discuss his journey through Stephen King's catalogue. Together, they discuss how he stumbled into King's Dominion, the books he's read so far, the books he can't wait to read, and how Billy Summers has kept him company on his quest for love. Elsewhere, we also discuss his affinity for the horror genre and whether or not he wants to share a scream or two with his future partner. The Bachelor airs every Monday on ABC at 8 p.m. EST.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There's a new crop in the cornfields -- it's Kurt Wimmer's Children of the Corn. The Losers head to Nebraska to cover the new re-imagining of the Stephen King short story and get high on the corn oil along the way. Together, they discuss how this franchise has amassed 11 features, why the Corn endures, where they could possibly even take this IP down the road, what an Adapted By credit means (as it relates to Sphere), and the durability of red wigs. This is one wild and crazy episode and chock full of spoilers. So, check it out in theaters this weekend or when it hits Shudder on March 21st.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here's a clip from Jenn’s King Character Corner, our new Patreon exclusive series that sees Jenn Adams embarking on a deep dive into our favorite Stephen King characters both on the page and on the screen. This kickoff episode sees her lighting fires with the Firestarter herself, Charlie McGee. Want to hear the full track? Become a member of The Barrens (Patreon) by visiting www.patreon.com/thebarrens. You'll unlock hundreds hours of exclusive content that includes The Stephen King Archives, the Dark Tower Detour, dozens of Ka-mmentary tracks for your favorite King flicks, all of our Lobstrosities episodes clawing through those silly King sequels, in addition to spinoffs like The Soul's Midnight, Talkin' Hawkins, and CrichtonCast. Not to mention, dozens upon dozens of locked episodes and one-offs.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Losers run out of Boston Common as The Pulse consumes the world around them. Luckily, they find a peaceful retreat at Gaiten Academy, where they catch their breath to discuss Stephen King's Cell. Together, they meditate on the reverberations of 9/11 throughout the post-apocalyptic novel, the parallels to H.G. Wells and Richard Matheson, the hilarious digital marketing campaign around its release, and why this often feels like King's version of a Greatest Hits album.Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | PatreonHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.