Wizard and the Bruiser

428
Leisure #137Video Games #26

The Nerds got their Revenge, now what? That’s what comedians Holden McNeely, Mike Lawrence, and Jake Young are trying to figure out in the weekly combination tribunal/confessional “Nerd of Mouth.” Recorded from the dankest basement in the “Last Podcast on the Left” studios, we’re getting to the bottom of whether there’s more to life than any% WR videogame speedruns, limited edition action figures, and anime shows about ludicrously strong children beating each other up. Theme song by Grant Gordon, logo by Andy Kluthe.Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of Nerd of Mouth ad-free.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.

Recent Episodes
  • The Scrappy Doo Effect
    Apr 21, 2025 – 01:26:35
  • How to Get Into Pro Wrestling
    Apr 14, 2025 – 01:19:42
  • The Enlightening History and Scary Future of the Nerd
    Apr 7, 2025 – 01:24:13
  • Are The Looney Tunes F*cked?
    Mar 31, 2025 – 01:11:31
  • Can Fandoms Ruin it for Everyone Else?
    Mar 24, 2025 – 01:29:15
  • Is it Too Late to Get Into Anime?
    Mar 17, 2025 – 01:22:02
  • Can A Boss Fight Ruin A Game?
    Mar 10, 2025 – 01:19:13
  • What Makes A Good Superhero Movie?
    Mar 3, 2025 – 01:24:17
  • Finale w/ Mike Lawrence
    Feb 24, 2025 – 01:27:48
  • Teen Titans w/ Mike Lawrence
    Feb 17, 2025 – 01:17:02
  • Warhammer 40K
    Feb 10, 2025 – 01:29:31
  • Coke vs Pepsi
    Feb 3, 2025 – 01:17:56
  • Captain America
    Jan 27, 2025 – 01:10:36
  • Valve Redux
    Jan 20, 2025 – 01:36:59
  • Total Recall
    Jan 13, 2025 – 01:13:03
  • Shadow the Hedgehog
    Jan 6, 2025 – 01:09:58
  • UNLOCKED: WizBru Hullabaloo XXXV
    Dec 30, 2024 – 00:54:35
  • Banned Toys
    Dec 23, 2024 – 01:16:42
  • Iron Man
    Dec 16, 2024 – 01:23:33
  • Bluey w/ MJ Knefel
    Dec 9, 2024 – 01:50:50
  • The Aquabats
    Dec 2, 2024 – 01:19:07
  • Speedrun Stories w/ Stew_
    Nov 25, 2024 – 00:58:30
  • Gladiator
    Nov 18, 2024 – 01:04:06
  • Sour Candy Fad
    Nov 11, 2024 – 00:57:42
  • Into the Riffiverse with The Mads (Frank Conniff and Trace Beaulieu)
    Nov 4, 2024 – 01:07:59
  • The Mist
    Oct 28, 2024 – 01:20:37
  • Vampirella
    Oct 21, 2024 – 01:06:02
  • House of the Dead
    Oct 14, 2024 – 01:12:11
  • Little Shop of Horrors
    Oct 7, 2024 – 01:07:02
  • Batman: The Animated Series
    Sep 30, 2024 – 01:17:18
  • Fate/Stay Franchise
    Sep 23, 2024 – 01:06:44
  • Beetlejuice
    Sep 16, 2024 – 01:13:15
  • The Crow
    Sep 9, 2024 – 01:12:12
  • The Crow Watchalong
    Sep 2, 2024 – 01:40:41
  • UNLOCKED: WizBru Hullabaloo XXIII
    Aug 26, 2024 – 01:06:20
  • Critical Role
    Aug 19, 2024 – 01:11:49
  • Rob Liefeld
    Aug 12, 2024 – 01:15:47
  • Video Game Journalism w/ Jason Schreier
    Aug 5, 2024 – 01:01:15
  • JNCOs and Vans
    Jul 29, 2024 – 01:11:30
  • Atari
    Jul 22, 2024 – 01:34:48
  • Yo-Yo’s
    Jul 15, 2024 – 01:07:37
  • DEVO
    Jul 8, 2024 – 01:22:30
  • SPY×FAMILY
    Jul 1, 2024 – 01:06:45
  • Elden Ring
    Jun 24, 2024 – 01:27:01
  • Inside Out
    Jun 17, 2024 – 01:13:57
  • Pizza Hut VS. Dominos
    Jun 10, 2024 – 01:15:34
  • Mad Max: Fury Road
    Jun 3, 2024 – 01:17:53
  • Mad Max
    May 27, 2024 – 01:30:20
  • Prince of Persia
    May 20, 2024 – 01:33:05
  • Clue
    May 14, 2024 – 01:11:58
Recent Reviews
  • Val Cisco
    Missing Wiz/Bru
    While the new format is enjoyinging due to the free flow conversation of it all, I 100% miss the original shows format. While understand change is inevitable, I appreciated the time and effort Holden and Jake put in for a very specific subject. Now it just feels like both of you are the side characters while this 3rd dudentakes up the bulk of the show. Not as invested as I was before but I still wish the show the best of luck, we’ll always have the old Wiz/Bru in achieves.
  • Lbchi112
    So much fun!
    I don’t even like most of the topics they cover, but they make them so compelling and so fun. Really, really great show—I love the new format so much (and while I understand getting rid of the segment, Jake’s story about summer camp is one of my all time laugh out loud moments for ANY podcast)!
  • mattastic
    Flight full pod
    Found the pod right before a 12 hour flight downloaded all the new episodes made the first 6ish hours fly.
  • Sherbethead
    New Coke’d
    Enjoyed the deep dives of WizBru, into nerdy interests and franchises I knew less about, and loved getting into The Gush on my favorites. I learned about the history of Judge Dredd, Blizzard, the pizza wars, the woods behind Miyamoto’s house and Warhammer 40k and loved every minute. The new format feels like they ran with the “studio notes” - the amount that changed with Nerd of Mouth made it a completely different show that isn’t for me, which is sad. When the world is getting more niche-y, losing Holden and Jake’s entertaining reports on stuff I knew nothing about is a bummer. Maybe WizBru Classic will triumphantly return as Nerd Of Mouths side stories, or vice versa, but until then, APRIL HIT IT!
  • Shadrak75
    YABBOS!!!
    Been a fan and patreon for years, the new format is still great, and Mike is a great addition!
  • idoreviewforyou
    Lost its touch
    I used to absolutely love Wizard and the Bruiser but the last 2 years or so have been pretty lackluster. Tie in the new name and additional member and throwing out what people loved about the show has just ruined it for me. Pity that a show can fall from grace so quickly. Sorry to see the good gone and the new stuff a shell of what the show was.
  • Suskuatch
    Love the new direction!
    I came for the wiz bru, I’m staying for the Jurassic Park: Stillborm jokes.
  • Simeontoast
    I hate to be a fan that ruins it
    Maybe I’m just lazy, but part of the reason I loved WizBru was the time and attention they put into properties that I loved or hadn’t had a chance to learn about yet. I actually found the show when I was looking for a lore podcast. Yes sometimes Holden and Jake could be a bit grating but now with the addition of Mike it has become the kind of conversation you roll your eyes at when overheard at your local comic shop. They talk over each other for the sake of a punch and it’s just not for me anymore. I hope they get into a flow, which I’m sure they will after a bit but right now I just can’t get pulled into any of the episodes. Sorry guys I’ll check back later.
  • Ricktor Johnson
    Kind of a bummer
    I’ve been listing to wiz bru from the very first episode. Kind of sad the format is changing completely and not really in love with the newly added host. Sticking around to see if my option can change, but it would be nice if we still got og wiz bru episodes here and there. Update: 3 weeks later and I just can’t get into it. If you like it I’m happy for you, but it’s just not the same show I’ve been listening to for years and that bites.
  • Armedon11
    Used to be really good…
    The new host does not fit and is not needed … the definition of the 3 rd wheel.
  • Kirk Lantz
    Gonna miss it.
    I listened to WizBru for YEARS and always loved it, even when they didn’t really know or care about a subject. I’ve listened to almost every episode more than once. It was something I looked forward to every week. I always hoped for those “don’t worry *fill in the blank* will definitely get its own episode” gaps to be filled. Now it’s gone. When Jake talked about how relived he was to close all of his browser tabs of research for the last time it really felt like he was saying “I don’t wanna do the work anymore but I still want the money.” I’m very sad to see WizBru go, and I hope I can find something to replace it. But I know I’ll never find a true replacement. The new show is just rubbing salt in the wound. Mike is not a good fit for the show and really makes me feel like they just wanted a 3rd to be more like LPOTL. But, LPOTL would not be the same if Marcus just stopped doing the research and they talked about what they remember from a crime they read about years ago. APRIL HIT IIIIIIIIT!
  • ssammsm
    It was great…
    I loved Wizard and the Bruiser. It was a fantastic podcast, and I learned a lot about a lot of different topics. Then it turned into Nerd of Mouth. Not a fan of the new guy. So this is where I end my listenership. Not that the creators care.
  • Shuttlzworth
    Disappointing Rebrand that lost it’s soul.
    Can’t stand the new host. Went from one of my favorite podcasts to unsubscribing. Hopefully they can find their ways and get back to what made them successful. April hit it!!!!
  • Phattyfingers
    This Podcast is Fantastic
    I’d buy that for a dollar!!!!!!!!
  • ojakajuice
    New Coke
    Probably the worst rebrand since New Coke
  • 0xbeepBoop
    No
    Just no to LPN in general.
  • Big Jeffrey6644
    Slowly Falling Off
    Earlier episodes felt like the hosts did actual research on each topic. Nowadays it feels like they’re just skimming the Wikipedia page.
  • Ben likes ghosts
    it’s good
    real good….
  • Aly7732
    A geektastic podcast
    Awesome, Holden just made me forever hate the DK Rap. Every time I hear it I will associate it with horrible accidents to children. Absolutely amazing podcast, wish I could give more than five stars.
  • BGuyle
    One of the best podcasts to burn through.
    Just a couple of glooby goobers, give it a listen. What else you gonna do? Huhh?
  • M_AmadorArt
    Positive Vibes
    These friends are so knowledgeable and caring in their approach to popcorn flicks/video games/movies/pop-culture in general. I recently joined their Patreon $15 tier and it’s SO worth it. I was able to sit in an hangout with fellow fans and the creators THEMSELVES!!! Such sweethearts.. I can’t praise them enough. I was the one awkward guy that had my camera during the Sunday study session and they were so cool about it. Much love ❤️💚
  • Dakota_N7
    Always a great listen
    Jake and Holden have gotten me through a lot of long work days and keep me laughing to myself long after episodes end. One of my favorite shows for sure!
  • q-man1
    Funny and entertaining
    Always worth a listen
  • 123498765jsjsbsjs
    Great
    Always enjoyable to listen to even if you don't know anything about the topic.
  • Tyler (21)
    Love it
    HOLDENATERS HOOOOO
  • HeyImMakel
    Love these guys
    Been listening to LPN for years, starting listening to WizBru recently and it has my yabbo’s jumping for joy. Great show to get some laughs about all types of interesting subjects. This show has granted me the ability to connect with people over a variety of different subjects, which has been a boon for customer small talk lol. 5/5
  • Mr.PianoPants
    Best Geeky Podcast Ever
    I came back after doing every episode. Fantastic, i hope they do Tomba
  • Verilian
    Glooby goobers!
    I hope I spelled that right, guys.
  • marxytheveg
    Fun show
    Listened for years now love how much you can learn
  • Honest_Don
    5 stars all day baby!!
    I absolutely love this show. I feel like there are plenty of nerd shows that cover the lore about these topics, but I always wonder how these pieces of media are actually created. The energy and chemistry on this show is unmatched and I’m always here for the goody bits! The two part series on the muppets has me in tears and learning about the dark past of the iron giant was simply fascinating. Just curious on how the show started… I’m guessing you guys met while exploring caves behind your house. Anywho, keep on wizin and never stop bruisin you guys!! Code name - yabbos and boner boy
  • davvidcsrlos
    Would give it 5 stars but
    I don’t know
  • John Gregorio
    FINALLY back on Apple Podcasts!!!
    It’s about time!!! I hated having to switch between here and Spotify to listen to Spotify exclusives. W+B were my most missed podcast here. So excited they’re back. These guys are the BEST when it comes to listening to retrospectives on classic movies, tv shows, games, and pretty much anything you can geek out on. Perfect for getting through the work day. Welcome back guys!!!!
  • Spam&Sweatpants
    Great for nerds
    Nerds look no further.
  • GoodvibesJ
    Enjoying the show but….
    I binged the entire show and am up to date with the weekly release. Ive really enjoyed the topics and the chemistry of the hosts. However I’ve definitely noticed there is less of Jake’s voice in the more recent episodes. Holden seems to be over bearing and it’s unfortunately becoming a turn off for me.
  • Skarend
    This is the one
    This podcast is so clever. Even the episodes on topics I know nothing about are engaging and interesting.
  • CyberneticGorilla
    Go ahead Bro, get silly with it
    One of the funniest shows I've ever listened to! The hosts are great and mix comedy with interesting information about the subject. I always learn something new and actually laugh out loud too. It has no business being this good. Tbh it makes me wanna act up 😩
  • Jambob18
    Not Much of a Nerd - Still Love the Show!
    Title says it all. Two funny dudes telling you about random stuff. What’s not to love?
  • stone.laura
    Fun, informative and empathetic.
    Even when they cover a topic I have no interest or familiarity with, I have a good time. They do a great job of recounting the creative journey of their subjects and their banter is always hilarious. They bring the full spectrum of emotions to their episodes and just balance research and personal perspective so well.
  • DankPeach
    Listen to this podcast nerds
    I downloaded the itunes store app just to review this podcast. 5/5
  • Devin4991
    Awesome stuff!!
    Great podcast
  • Bleedin’ Out Guy
    An Essential Part of My Week
    This show’s got it all: - enchanting theme music - all the info you need to jump into a new nerd IP - comments on social discourse - exciting character work - explanations of anime I’m too afraid to ask about - The Gundam Episode - Insight and theorizing on the value of content Check it out, Holdenators Ho.
  • addhiiytdcbjtsdhbv
    Pleasant surprise
    Make subjects I don’t care about fun too.
  • jsamp401
    Wikipedia Channeled Through Mediocre "Comedians"
    This podcast is basically Wikipedia and shallow anecdotes funneled through and produced by two guys who are unequally humorous (the Twins of comedy podcast duos) but both veer into cringe and shallowness far more than they don't. Speaking of cringeworthy moments, when they use terms like, "Clutch" and refer to things like a, "Flow state" just screams "Hello, fellow kids" coupled with a feigned expertise that ultimately insults the listener. I have infrequently been checking back in with this show since they began this venture, and the only thing that has changed is the audio quality and the editing kind of improved (some old episodes just cut out halfway through or are left unfinished). They still borrow the experiences of others for reference and frequently refer to Wikis and YouTube videos for their information. The recent Diablo episode really highlights a lot of what I'm complaining about. Neither of them seemed to know for certain in which game The Butcher appears, and the confessions of their personal experiences make it pretty clear that these are casual game players who only started getting more invested because of the easy-to-obtain carrot dangled by a career in content creation, where mediocrity is standard and grossly rewarded. Avoid this podcast. Go find one created by people who actually care about what they cover and have some actual authenticity. It will save you a great deal of time, and you will be rewarding more admirable efforts made in this space.
  • sunnnnnn
    Code
    Yabbos
  • aLLie O0p
    Glooby
    Goobers
  • Oooopsokay…
    Fun to listen to BUT…
    This podcast is fun to listen to. I only seek it out when there is a specific game I want to hear about. The thing is, both of these guys smack their lips more frequently than I’ve ever heard anyone smack their lips, podcasting or in real life. When all I have is audio, the wet noise is distracting and honestly pretty gross. I think it would make for better audio all around if I wasn’t hearing your mouth noises so often. Thanks and goodnight.
  • TheMichaelWitte
    The Best Podcast on the Internet
    Jake stepped out from behind a dumpster and stopped me before I made it to school, pantsed me, and “advised” me to give him my lunch money. Holden appeared behind him, laughing - he began chanting “keep on wizzin’, never stop bruisin’.” as I pulled my pants up and ran away sobbing and snotting. These dudes are scary. —— Total seriousness, thank you guys for changing my life for the better. I missed out on a lot of nerd culture as a kid living in a very disconnected teeny tiny farm town. Since starting the podcast (on total accident, I was looking for anything MattMcMuscles in the search and WizBru was the first result), I’ve revisited a lot of things I passed on as a youth and have fallen back in love with them. I never imagined that I would be throwing myself at image comics or Calvin and the Hobbes collections. I never thought I would spend the better part of four hours learning about Superman and craving more. I never pictured myself diving headfirst into fighting games and loving the thrill of losing every single match but improving each time. In a time of my life where I’m experiencing a very /stuck/ feeling, it’s been an immense joy to feel rushes of nostalgia, pining for media and experiences that brought me joy as a kid and young adult. There’s been many moments where I end up rushing home from work to turn on a movie or a game that I /needed/ to share with my wife and kids. I’ve been working through the pod chronologically (listening to new episodes as they come out), and according to my main podcast app I’ve given these dudes well over 6 days of my time [mainly at work, screw you bossman] - and I can’t get enough. Their patreon is absolutely worth the subscription (even though I’ve chosen to skip any news-like episode Pre-2023) and their interviews are top tier. It feels like sitting on the couch and listening to friends gush about their lives and interests. I hope for nothing but the best for the boys and their families and am thankful to have the ability to listen along.
  • benoftroy
    Nerds at their best
    These guys are great. Love the topics love the personality love the deep dives
  • Ajs333
    👍🏼
    Really love these guys!
  • RiffRaff13
    Great for PB-Toein’
    I like to put peanut butter between my toes while listening to this show! 10/10! Great content guys!
Disclaimer: The podcast and artwork on this page are property of the podcast owner, and not endorsed by UP.audio.