The Anime Effect
The Anime Effect is a weekly podcast from Crunchyroll that explores the world of anime beyond just watching shows. It covers the latest anime headlines, examines favorite series, interviews guest stars, and discusses how anime influences pop culture. Aimed at anime fans who want to stay updated on industry news and trends, each episode offers a mix of commentary and insider perspectives.
Episodes
We Try Creating a NEW Hit Anime in 60 Seconds
Vote for us! https://got.cr/TAE-Shorty-26
This week, The Anime Effect moves into its new studio while the Fall anime season kicks our watchlists into high gear. PLUS, we break down an $8.4 million Pikachu sale, Dragon Ball Super: Beerus coming to Crunchyroll, and “Pitch, Please!,” a cursed game where anime prompts get way out of hand.
This week on The Anime Effect:
⭐ Toshio Furukawa on
Behind the Voices of You and I Are Polar Opposites with The Anime Effect | NEWS
You and I Are Polar Opposites: actors Sayumi Suzushiro and Shogo Sakata join The Anime Effect in this Anime Expo special to talk about awkward young love and why opposites really do attract.
PLUS, we pitch perfect dates and reveal the tiny moments that make the pair’s rom-com hit so hard.
Do you get why opposites attract now? Send us your anime questions, hot takes, and recommendations: https://
Obsession's Megan Lawless Is Ready for Her Anime Era | 130
LEGO Dragon Ball is officially happening! The Anime Effect breaks down Goku’s first brick kit featuring Shenron!
PLUS, actress Megan Lawless joins the show to talk about Obsession, Demon Slayer, and how anime is inspiring her new era. We also break down the latest anime news, including Naruto’s big anime teaser and Japan’s massive Pokémon x Starbucks collab.
This week on The Anime Effect:
Our Worst Anime Takes Aged TERRIBLY, We Admit It | 129
Crunchyroll’s Fall 2026 anime lineup is officially here! We’re breaking down the biggest new and returning anime of the season, including Black Clover Season 2, The Apothecary Diaries Season 3, Aoashi Season 2, Magic Knight Rayearth, Firefly Wedding, Overgeared, PSYREN, and more.Plus, Michael B. Jordan reveals his anime ambitions, and The Anime Effect launches its Anime Apology Tour by revisiting
Spider-Man's Jacob Batalon Has Better Anime Taste Than You | 128
Jacob Batalon joins The Anime Effect this week to talk Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Solo Leveling, Naruto, isekai dreams, and the pop culture that prepared him to play Ned Leeds in the MCU.Plus! We break down the wild idea that Pokémon cards will one day become currency, the new Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, and more!This week on The Anime Effect:⭐ Jacob Batalon joins the show⭐ We redeem
How Kenny Omega Became All Might IRL | 127
Kenny Omega joins The Anime Effect to talk anime, wrestling, and the Japanese pop culture that shaped his career. From Astro Boy to Hajime no Ippo and My Hero Academia, the AEW star isn't shy about his fandoms!PLUS, we celebrate Attack on Titan Day, break down The Apothecary Diaries live-action series, and size up Crocs' new Yu-Gi-Oh! collection!
This week on The Anime Effect:⭐ Kenny Omega joins
Meet the Anime & Comics Shaping Marvel’s Iman Vellani | 126
Iman Vellani joins The Anime Effect to talk Ms. Marvel, Attack on Titan, comics, and the anime fandoms that fuel her and her new Image Comics series, Chachu.
Plus, we break down anime’s big wrestling crossover with AEW, SpongeBob SquarePants x ONE PIECE Happy Meals, Burger King x Dragon Ball, Pokémon: Wild Card, and more.
This week on The Anime Effect: ⭐ Iman Vellani joins the show ⭐ AEW bring
The Real Anime Story Behind Scott Pilgrim w/ Bryan Lee O’Malley | 125
Scott Pilgrim creator Bryan Lee O’Malley joins The Anime Effect to unpack the anime and manga roots behind his hit series, his history with SCIENCE SARU, and his return to Scott Pilgrim with a brand-new comic.
Plus, we break down anime's growing footprint in theme parks, One Piece’s new movies, Charles Melton’s Naruto casting, and the anime we’re watching this week.
This week on The Anime Ef
Kingdom Hearts Anime Is Finally Happening, Don’t Panic | NEWS
Kingdom Hearts is finally getting an anime, and yes, we are so serious about it. The Anime Effect is breaking down the Kingdom Hearts anime for Disney+ and Disney Channel, why Sora’s story is such a massive deal to gamers, and why this show kept us waiting.Plus, we review Krispy Kreme’s Pokémon donuts, dive into The Apothecary Diaries Season 3, celebrate Witch Hat Atelier’s Astra TV Award win, and
How Anime Is Changing American Superheroes w/ Kyle Higgins | 124
Kyle Higgins joins The Anime Effect to explore how anime and tokusatsu are reshaping American superheroes. The writer of Radiant Black, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Ultraman, Nightwing, and Teen Titans breaks down what Hollywood can learn from transformation sequences, legacy heroes, and more.
Plus, we talk Attack on Titan’s impact on Expedition 33, Crunchyroll x Genshin Impact's huge collaborat
Hatsune Miku’s New Magic: The Gathering Deck Is Pure Anime Joy | 123
Hatsune Miku is officially entering Magic: The Gathering with a new Secret Lair Commander deck, and MTG designer Carmen Klomparens joins The Anime Effect to reveal how it came together.
Plus, we break down Spider-Man’s latest anime crossover, the first look at Gachiakuta Season 2, Neon Genesis Evangelion joining The Criterion Collection, and a new My Hero Academia special.
This week on The Ani
Spider-Man, Gundam & Akira Toriyama Make Anime History | NEWS
Spider-Man is swinging out with a new manga! The Anime Effect breaks down Marvel’s next big partnership, Akira Toriyama’s Eisner Award honor, SDCC 2026 highlights, Mobile Suit Gundam RG XARX-ZERO, and the secret sauce for the ULTIMATE anime remake.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and
We Ask Leon Kennedy What Resident Evil Fans Need to Know | 122
Nick Apostolides joins The Anime Effect this week to talk Ghost in the Shell, his first major anime role, and the legacy of Resident Evil’s Leon Kennedy. Plus, we dive into Akira, anime dubbing, Leon's best lines, and the internet’s obsession with “Daddy Leon.”
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec
Naruto Is Officially Casting Hollywood's Team 7 & We Have Thoughts | 121
Live-action anime is heating up Hollywood! The Anime Effect breaks down Naruto’s Team 7 casting search & My Hero Academia’s movie update! PLUS, big Anime Expo news continues with Solo Leveling’s movie debut, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2, Godzilla Minus Zero, and Studio Ghibli’s new anime drop.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime exper
AKIRA Returns, Star Wars Goes Anime, and Anime Expo Is Bigger Than Ever | 120
The Anime Effect is live from Anime Expo 2026! The hosts unite IRL to explore why anime conventions are bigger than ever, AKIRA’s theatrical return, Star Wars' new anime, The Apothecary Diaries movie, and the wildest Naruto release we've heard about in years!Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murr
What’s Your Anime IQ? Plus, Cyberpunk Edgerunners & One Piece | 119
This week, The Anime Effect prepares for Anime Expo 2026 this week with an unhinged episode that puts our hosts’ IQs to the test. From Cyberpunk’s TV return to the Joker’s anime spotlight, we’re going all in on the biggest headlines of the past week to make you a bigger & better anime fan.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts
Takanashi Kiara Talks Hololive Streams, Anime Faves, and Her Next Big Arc | 118
Hololive’s Takanashi Kiara joins The Anime Effect this week to talk gateway anime, VTuber stardom, KFP, and niche anime faves. PLUS, the hosts break down Pokémon’s adorable Aardman series, Crunchyroll’s Summer 2026 anime lineup, and Naruto’s new TCG.
Talk to us! https://got.cr/AnimeEffectQuestions
Crunchyroll Summer 2026 Seasonal Lineup
Naruto Trading Card Game Announced
Find Takanashi Kiara
Black Clover Bombshells, Marvel Manga Returns and Dr. STONE in Fortnite?! | 117
It's another big week for anime news, y'all! We're breaking down the headlines this week including news on Marvel’s Mangaverse returning, Dr. STONE coming to Fortnite and a Code Lyoko revival! PLUS, we hear about the anime moments living rent-free in your minds in Fan Service.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas
These Are the Anime Scenes We Will Never Forget (We Tried) | 116
Anime is bigger than EVER, so The Anime Effect is breaking down why 1 in 5 Americans now watch it. PLUS, the hosts unpack huge Anime Expo updates, recent gaming reveals like Persona 6, and revisit the anime scenes that live rent-free in their heads!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and
Pokémon Mania, Dorohedoro Lives & One Piece Conquers Hollywood | NEWS
This week, The Anime Effect takes Pokémon scalpers to COURT! We’re breaking down the biggest anime news from Pokémon’s major 30th anniversary releases, a special Delicious in Dungeon season 2 tease, and One Piece’s surprising effect on Hollywood. Plus, we discover whether Goku or Vegeta tastes better…?!
Director Takayuki Hirao's WASTED CHEF Anime Project Releases Teaser Trailer
Dorohedoro Season
Big Sean Talks Dragon Ball, His Best Bars, and the Anime That Made Him a Rapper | 114
Brace yourselves, The Anime Effect has a special double episode! This week, the hosts gather to talk ALL things Anime Awards as they unpack the celebration’s big winners and biggest surprises! THEN, we cut to the show’s hottest interview yet as Big Sean joins the chat to talk bars, beats, and the anime that made him a rapper.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll'
Could YOU Survive These Deadly Isekai Worlds? Plus Big Gundam News | 113
The Anime Effect is REAL as we break down Disney’s anime dreams, major Gundam updates, Hello Kitty’s Hollywood debut, and more. PLUS, we ask the age-old question: could you survive the deadliest worlds of isekai anime?
Crunchyroll NEWS:
https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/latest/2026/5/15/new-gundam-wing-video-original-series-remaster-gundam-50th-anniversary
https://www.crunchyroll.com/n
Goku Day Goes Wild & We Curse Naruto in Our Most Unhinged Game Ever | 112
We're BACK to cover this week's biggest anime headlines like Akira's creator opening a brand-new anime studio and Dragon Ball's big Goku Day plans. PLUS, we lose our absolute minds creating fake anime synopses for your favorite shows.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President.
Attack on Titan Returns, Black Clover Ends & Our Anime Remake Debate Starts | 111
We're coming at you with all the OG Anime Effect hosts, and they're breaking down this week's anime headlines. Attack on Titan: THE LAST ATTACK is getting a re-release, the Black Clover manga is coming to an end, and more. PLUS, we ask the burning question: What makes a good anime remake?!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts
We Take Evangelion to ANIME COURT to Kickstart Ani-May | 110
Y'all, the anime news this week is CRAZY! We're breaking down what you can see this ANI-MAY, the awesome titles announced at CCXP Mexico, and Kagurabachi is getting an anime! PLUS, Nick and Alex face off in ANIME COURT over Evangelion!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President
Gundam Goes Big & Our 2026 Anime Rankings Go Rogue | 109
The anime news never STOPS! We've got updates on the live-action Gundam movie, where you can catch My Hero Academia live, and so much more. PLUS, we're blind ranking 2026 anime titles!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable news and d
Popeyes Meets ONE PIECE & the Beach Episode Debate Nobody Saw Coming | 108
This week, we’ve got some wild anime news to talk about: The Weeknd is coming to the Anime Awards 2026, ONE PIECE is collaborating with Popeyes, and more! PLUS, Alex reveals his HOTTEST TAKE on anime yet.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of r
Can YOU Name These Shonen Anime? Plus, Anime Awards 2026 Is Loaded | 107
Listen up! We’re breaking down the hottest anime news, such as the top-tier list of presenters and performers slated for the Anime Awards 2026, a special My Hero Academia birthday event, and a new Kamen Rider project! PLUS, we try to name as many shonen anime as we can with only clues!
Anime Awards 2026: Voting Goes Live as RZA, Winston Duke and More Join the Live Show
Daemons of the Shadow Real
Anime Awards 2026 Nominees Make Us Spiral & AnimeJapan Delivers | 106
It's time to catch up on ALL the exciting updates from AnimeJapan 2026, like a new ONE PIECE Heroines trailer and so much more! Plus, we react to the impressive list of Anime Awards 2026 nominations and spiral only a little!
VOTE FOR US HERE!
ANIME JAPAN Roundup
Gachiakuta: The Game Releases Combat Preview Videos for Rudo, Enjin and More
Go For It, Nakamura-kun!! English Dub Reveals Same-Day
Our ULTIMATE Spring 2026 Anime Guide w/ Solo Leveling's Michelle Rojas | 105
Listen! We’re exploring all of the new and returning anime titles coming Spring 2026, we BLIND RANK anime plot twists, and we preview Union Arena's latest release with Solo Leveling star Michelle Rojas!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of rou
Samurai Champloo Goes Live-Action & We Expose Our Anime Watchlists | 104
You heard that right! A live-action Samurai Champloo adaptation is in the works, our fave anime artists are planning festival appearances and MORE! Plus, we're sharing our anime watchlists before hearing from you all in Fan Service.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. T
Pokémon’s Veronica Taylor On Becoming Ash Ketchum & Finding Your Voice | 103
The ICONIC Veronica Taylor, the OG voice of Ash Ketchum from Pokémon, joins us to share the impact anime has had on her life, her advice for aspiring voice actors, and stories not even diehard fans have heard before.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a li
Evangelion Gets a New Anime, SAO Returns & Crunchyroll Manga Levels Up | NEWS
The Anime Effect weathers a news hurricane as it sorts headlines like a new Crunchyroll Manga drop, the debut of a new Evangelion anime, Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- updates, a brand-new Sword Art Online game, and more!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. Th
WNBA Star Gabby Williams Takes Over the Show With Her Anime Dream Team | 102
Seattle Storm forward Gabby Williams takes a break from the WNBA court to gab about her gateway anime, what she’s watching now, and how she fell in love with anime. Plus, she builds her ultimate ANIME DREAM TEAM with our help.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The sho
Pokémon's New Starters Go Live PLUS Big One Piece Milestones & Chainsaw Man Merch | NEWS
The Anime Effect dives into the anime news this week, including the new Pokémon starters, a ONE PIECE milestone, and a quiet Reze Arc merch drop. PLUS, we dissect the new Gundam x Apex Legends collaboration, the new Rilakkuma anime, and the latest My Hero Anime concert tour.
Pokémon Celebrates 30th Anniversary With Generation 10 Reveal
ONE PIECE Manga Surpasses 600 Million Copies in Print
Chain
Hannah Bahng's Anime Hear-Me-Out-Cake Sounds Totally Delicious | 101
Hannah Bahng joins The Anime Effect to reveal her favorite anime, OTP ships, and explains why everyone should be way more cringe.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable news and discussion, featuring Crunchyroll hosts and special gues
A New Evangelion Anime Wasn't On Our Bingo Card for 2026, Okay?! | NEWS
We admit it, we did NOT have a new Evangelion anime on our 2026 Bingo Card! PLUS, the show breaks down the next projects from Ufotable, the latest Pokémon games, the newest member of the Sonic live-action cast, and the best new way to rep your favorite manga.
New Evangelion Anime Series in Production
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle II, Genshin Impact and More Teased in Ufotable Hi
The Anime Effect Hits Episode 100 With Memories, Tea & Hardcore Trivia | 100
The Anime Effect just hit 100 episodes, and there's nothing you can do about it! We're celebrating our favorite moments from the show with guests, spilling behind-the-scenes tea, and facing the most hardcore anime trivia imaginable.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. T
Chainsaw Man's BIG Streaming Update + What Makes a Modern Classic? | NEWS
The Anime Effect unpacks ALL the big news this week as Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc prepares to stream, the Texas Rangers team up with JUJUTSU KAISEN, and BLEACH drops a brand-new update on its next anime project...! Brace for impact.
Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc Streams on Crunchyroll Spring 2026
Texas Rangers MLB Team Brings JUJUTSU KAISEN Night Back with New Themed Jerseys
BLEAC
The Ultimate Anime Battle Royale BEGINS w/ Khleo Thomas & Lena Lemon | 99
Khleo Thomas & Lena Lemon join The Anime Effect for a very special edition of the show. It's battle royale time! Who will be crowned as the ultimate anime fan? You'll have to tune in to find out...!
Follow along with the emoji game:
🐉 ⚽️ 💤
👻 ➡️ 🥚
🍵 📔 🐱
1️⃣ 🤜 👨🏻🦲
⚓ 🌒 🐈⬛
⛓️ 🪚 🧍♂️
💅 🪡 🎎
🍓🍍🗑️
🦎 👹 🎱
🗡️ 🖼️ 🌐
👽 👻 👵🏻
🃏 👮 🌸
🤖 👼 🪑
🦸♂️ 📚 😭
👩🏻 ❤️ 👱🏻♂️
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the wee
ONE PIECE Dominates Our Weekly News With Help From... Digimon?! | NEWS
One Piece is taking over The Anime Effect with a slew of MAJOR updates, including a very special sneak peek. Plus! We go over the biggest winners of the 2026 Tokyo Anime Awards and revisit Digimon ahead of its long-awaited comeback!
ONE PIECE Night Returns to T-Mobile Park in March for Mariners Game
Boston Red Sox x ONE PIECE Theme Night Returns This May with Themed Bomber Jacket, Plush
ONE PI
BABYMETAL's Origin Story Would Make the Ultimate Anime (ft. BABYMETAL) | 98
BABYMETAL is in the studio! Seriously! The group reveals the anime trios they love most, their reactions to joining the One-Punch Man universe, why metal and anime pair so well, and more.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable news an
Gundam Steals Jujutsu Kaisen's Spotlight w/ Anime's Greatest Needle Drop | NEWS
We're breaking down the FIRST announcements of the 2026 Anime Awards, the upcoming JUJUTSU KAISEN global tour, the shocking finale of MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM HATHAWAY, and the next era of GHOST IN THE SHELL. You ready for it?
Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026 Sets May 23 for 10th Anniversary, Yoko Takahashi to Perform
JUJUTSU KAISEN in Concert Global Music Tour Kicks Off in June
MOBILE SUIT GUNDAM HATHA
Crystal Kay Reveals The Magical Girl Anime That First Made Her Feel Seen | 97
Pop star Crystal Kay stops by the studio on her first North American tour to unpack her favorite anime, why she wants to create more music for anime, and the magical girl icon who made her feel seen.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundt
Dragon Ball’s Huge 40th Anniversary News Hits Us Like a Spirit Bomb | NEWS
What's on the agenda today? Dragon Ball drops a HUGE update for its 40th anniversary, The Dangers in My Heart: The Movie is heading to US theaters, and The Apothecary Diaries x Steady Hands collection is looking peak. PLUS, we have big emotions about Yoshi!
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Season 2 Anime Travels on with Creditless Opening, Ending Videos
Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol Anime
Joining the TRIGUN STARGAZE Hype Train with Creator Yasuhiro Nightow | 96
Trigun & TRIGUN STARGAZE creator Yasuhiro Nightow tells us his favorite (and least favorite) Trigun characters, what he loves about the new anime adaptation, and so much more. Tune in only on The Anime Effect!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix
It's Official: Anime's Top 10 Crushes Are Finally Live & We're Blushing | NEWS
It's official! We're breaking down the top 10 anime crushes of 2025 and blushing for real. PLUS! We talk about KONOSUBA-God's blessing on this wonderful world! Season 4, the ultimate live-action One Piece collab with NERF, and even ranking the best OPs from My Hero Academia's catalog.
Top 10 Anime Crushes of 2025 According to Fans
KONOSUBA -God's blessing on this wonderful world! Season 4 Anime
Why Solo Leveling Will Inspire Radio's Next Pop Hit (ft. hemlocke springs) | 95
Will Solo Leveling inspire the next big pop hit? It seems hemlocke springs is convinced the anime can do it. The artist is taking a break from touring to chat with us about her new album & the top anime she'd recommend to Chappel Roan and Conan Gray!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and
We’re Dissecting the New ONE PIECE Season 2 Trailer So You Don't Have To | NEWS
We've got ZERO chill on this week's episode as we're dissecting the live-action ONE PIECE season 2 trailer, discussing what we know about Godzilla Minus Zero, revealing the anime nominated for 2026 Annie Awards, and more. PLUS, we go all-in on YOUR most anticipated anime of 2026.
JUJUTSU KAISEN Season 3 Episodes 1-2 Recap, “Execution / One More Time”
Live-Action ONE PIECE Season 2 Trailer Sets S
Amber Glenn’s Dream Anime Pitch Is Gold Medal Material | 94
We’re welcoming our first-ever figure skater to the show, Amber Glenn! She’s a world champion, a 2026 Olympic hopeful, and a MASSIVE anime fan. She’s sharing her favorite titles and pitching her own dream anime series, only on The Anime Effect.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah
What Are Your Top Anime Picks for 2026? The Lineup Is Out of Control | NEWS
The Anime Effect is locked in this week as we discuss ALL the exciting news out of Jump Festa 2026, the impressive winter anime lineup, Gachiakuta season 2, the new Kaguya-sama: Love Is War movie, and lots more.
Jump Festa 2026: All the Big News from the Event!
Crunchyroll Winter 2026 Anime Season Lineup Announced!
Sentenced to Be a Hero English Dub Reveals Same-Day Release, Cast & Crew
My He
What’s Next for Solo Leveling? The Anime’s Team Weighs In from CCXP Mexico '25 | NEWS
Solo Leveling's Animation Producer Atsushi Kaneko and Action Director Yoshihiro Kanno are answering OUR questions today on this special holiday re-release. The pair shares how they navigated the adaptation process, what the fans mean to them, and their hopes for Solo Leveling's future.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – N
How VTuber Matara Kan’s Anime Comeback Arc Changed Their Life | NEWS
Matara Kan, the world's most resilient VTuber, joins The Anime Effect this week in a special re-release. The star shares how they define anime fandom, their anime comeback era, and what it means to re-embrace the medium today, as it booms globally.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and L
How Gachiakuta Turned Trash Into Manga's Greatest Treasure (ft. Kei Urana & Hideyoshi Andou) | NEWS
Kei Urana and Hideyoshi Andou, mangaka and graffiti designer of Gachiakuta, star in this special re-release episode of The Anime Effect. The pair reveals their real-life inspirations, how they teamed up on Gachiakuta, and so much more.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President
Crowning the Best 2025 Anime & Unlocking Our Festive Final Form | NEWS
Welcome to The Anime Effect's special holiday episode! We're breaking down the most memorable anime of 2025 with peak superlatives! PLUS, all the hosts reveal their favorite anime of the year.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable ne
Your Fave Anime Actors Go Camping IRL & They're Spilling ALL the Tea (ft. Daiki Hamano & Mizuki Niizaki) | 93
The stars behind Solo Camping for Two, Daiki Hamano and Mizuki Niizaki, join The Anime Effect to talk about their IRL camping adventures and the meals that prepared them for this hit series.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable new
Your Favorite ’00s Shonen Manga Is FINALLY Getting an Anime | NEWS
The Anime Effect is going in on the news this week as your favorite '00s shonen series is FINALLY getting an anime. Plus, we discuss the Kaguya-sama: Love Is War special, the new Sentenced to Be a Hero anime, and our 2025 anime stats.
Crunchyroll Arc Returns for 2025: Discover Your Anime Year in Review
New Kaguya-sama: Love Is War Anime Special Reveals December 31 Broadcast in New Trailer
PSYRE
Gachiakuta Singer Mori Calliope Gives Rudo the TRUE VTuber Experience | 92
Mori Calliope, your favorite deadbeat VTuber & the beloved singer behind Gachiakuta, is BACK on The Anime Effect! She's revealing her love for Rudo, Amo, and the trash-ridden world of Gachiakuta!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtabl
Demon Slayer Makes Anime History & Solo Leveling Scores a Massive Collab | NEWS
It's official! Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle is going to the Golden Globes! This week, we're discussing the historic nomination, the new Code Geass anime, the latest TRIGUN STARGAZE updates, and Solo Leveling's epic NBA collaboration nobody should miss!
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Earns Golden Globe Nomination
Code Geass: Hoshi Oi no Aspal Anime Announced
TRIGUN STARGAZE Anim
SPYAIR & yama Open the Anime Music Vault and Somehow Summon Hamtaro | 91
SPYAIR and yama talk with The Anime Effect about their most iconic anime songs before somehow summoning Hamtaro...! Don’t miss this double interview & our exclusive Cyberpunk: Edgerunners Complete Blu-ray box set unboxing.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is
Godzilla's New Anime Is About to STOMP Into Attack on Titan Territory | NEWS
The Anime Effect is back and in rare form as our hosts discuss the new Godzilla anime, the latest updates on Fire Force season 3, but that's not all! Attack on Titan is making a comeback with its best collaboration yet, and we've got A LOT to say about it.
Orange, Igloo Studio Produce New Godzilla Anime Series
Reincarnated in a Mafia Dating Sim Anime Adaptation Announced
Fire Force Season 3 Ani
Critical Role's Matthew Mercer Rolls a Nat 20 on the Perfect DnD Anime | NEWS
Critical Role's Matthew Mercer isn't just a DM; he's a veteran anime voice actor as well. In this special rerelease, the star joins The Anime Effect to revisit his greatest anime roles and sort a few of these characters into their rightful DnD classes.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, a
Dragon Ball Drops Big News & We Build the Ultimate Anime Travel Guide | NEWS
The Anime Effect kicks off this week with the first-ever Dragon Ball character poll, the return of BOCCHI THE ROCK!, the upcoming Super Space Sheriff Gavan Infinity Tokusatsu series, and a new ONE PIECE collab. PLUS, we build your ultimate anime travel guide!
Dragon Ball Launches First Global Character Popularity Poll
BOCCHI THE ROCK! Stage Play Returns with 4th Show in February 2026
Super Spa
Building the ULTIMATE Solo Leveling PC w/ Starforge's Ariel Luna | 90
Starforge's PC master, Ariel Luna, builds the ultimate Solo Leveling PC in our studio this week, and he’s telling us everything about the process. If you want your rig to be stronger than Sung Jinwoo, this episode was made for you!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. Th
Jujutsu Kaisen Is BREAKING Records Ahead Of 2026’s Biggest Anime Comeback | NEWS
The Anime Effect is unpacking all the Crunchyroll premieres slated for Anime Frontier 2025, the imminent release of [Oshi no Ko] season 3, the latest Death Stranding news, and JUJUTSU KAISEN's dominance in the Japanese box office. PLUS, here's what we hope to see in the live-action Legend of Zelda movie.
Crunchyroll Heads to Anime Frontier 2025 with Special Premieres
[Oshi no Ko] Season 3 Anime
The Truth Behind JUJUTSU KAISEN's Best Ending Will Shock You (ft. Leo from ALI) | 89
There's more to JUJUTSU KAISEN's best ending than you know! Imamura Leo of the band ALI shares how the group made music for hits like BEASTARS and Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE before spilling all the tea about "LOST IN PARADISE".
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show
Baldur’s Gate 3 Goes FULL Anime as Astarion & Lae’zel Roll for Initiative (ft. Neil Newbon & Devora Wilde) | NEWS
We sit down with Baldur's Gate 3 stars Neil Newbon and Devora Wilde in this special rerelease episode to discuss the response to their characters, the depth of the RPG storytelling, and how anime could fit into the game's inclusive world.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah Presid
Naofumi’s Voice Actor Has The Perfect Shield Hero Spin-Off Quest (ft. Kaito Ishikawa) | 88
Voice Actor Kaito Ishikawa, the voice of Naofumi Iwatani in The Rising of the Shield Hero, is sharing his favorite anime moment, his hopes for the show's future, and which character he would most want to go on an adventure with.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The s
Who Is Anime’s Smartest Mastermind? Plus, Dragon Ball Wants ALL Your Money | NEWS
The Anime Effect is reporting LIVE from L.A. to discuss Dragon Ball's first official store, Bungo Stray Dogs' season 2 return, a major OVERLORD anniversary, and more! PLUS, LeAlec & Alex discuss the anime characters they believe are the smartest masterminds of all time!
Anime Industry Reaches Record Highs in 2024 as International Revenue Far Outpaces Japan
Dragon Ball Opens First Ever Store in
The ULTIMATE Yu Yu Hakusho Takeover Gets Crashed by Our Fall 2025 Anime Picks (ft. Justin Cook) } 87
Yu Yu Hakusho’s Justin Cook joins us for the ULTIMATE nostalgia road trip as we talk about his work on the iconic anime. Plus, The Anime Effect hosts share which Fall 2025 shows they’re the most excited about.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix
Anime Hits The Skies With Crunchyroll x Delta While Hello Kitty & Junji Ito Sit First Class | NEWS
It’s a creepy week at Crunchyroll HQ! The Anime Effect is breaking down The Apothecary Diaries’ major announcement of not just a third season, but an original movie straight from the author! PLUS, we. brace for a Hello Kitty x Junji Ito collab as well as Crunchyroll's new deals with HoyoVerse and Delta Airlines (anime at 30,000 feet?!). Buckle up!
The Apothecary Diaries Anime Announces Season 3 R
Olympic Champion Noah Lyles Will Never Leave His Fave Anime in the Dust | 86
Olympian & World champion Noah Lyles joins The Anime Effect in New York City to share why he loves repping anime on the field, his future cosplay plans, and to show off his sick clothing collab with Crunchyroll and Adidas. PLUS, the track star plays a round of “Anime This Or That" with our hosts!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime
Goku's Voice Actor Makes History & Chainsaw Man DEVOURS the Box Office | NEWS
The Anime Effect gathers this week to celebrate Goku voice actor Masako Nozawa for becoming the first voice actor to earn the prestigious Person of Cultural Merit Recognition in Japan. PLUS, we go over all the news surrounding The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, REALLY Love You, Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc, as well as Yuki Chiba and Big Sean’s collab track "Ski Ga Ski."
Your Favorite Childhood Actor Has a God-Tier Anime Collection (ft. Khleo Thomas) | 85
Khleo Thomas, the actor behind Zero in Holes, is showing off his god-tier anime & video game collection (get ready to be jealous), revisiting his favorite anime moments of all time, and so much more.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundt
Anime Conquers NYCC As ONE PIECE’s Next Era Finally Sets Sail | NEWS
The Anime Effect is discussing ALL the news out of New York Comic Con, like That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime moving to theaters, Witch Hat Atelier winning a Harvey Award, and the latest update on TRIGUN STARGAZE. PLUS, we discuss the new Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc trailer & the next era of the ONE PIECE English dub!
Crunchyroll to Bring That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime the
Frieren’s Composer Knows Exactly How to Make Anime Fans Cry (ft. Evan Call) | 84
Evan Call, the composer behind iconic anime including Violet Evergarden, APPARE-RANMAN!, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, is on The Anime Effect, sharing how he creates his award-winning music. And yes, we ask him the secret to making anime fans cry.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray,
A Huge Wave of New Anime Announcements Just Dropped | NEWS
The Anime Effect is discussing ALL the new anime reveals this week, like Apprentice Nail Artist in a Foreign Land, MARRIAGETOXIN, and Kindergarten Wars. We also uncover the latest headlines about Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid, as well as Hell’s Paradise, before making you cry in FAN SERVICE!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime expert
K-Pop Icon KANGDANIEL Turns His Cat Into the Ultimate Anime Hero | 83
K-Pop star KANGDANIEL is teaming up with The Anime Effect to turn his cats into the ultimate anime heroes, revealing why he loves performing in the U.S., and choosing the anime world he would most want to visit.
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively m
Frieren Season 2 Updates, Minecraft x Dragon Ball & the Anime That Makes Us Cry | NEWS
The Anime Effect is unpacking Crunchyroll Manga as our hosts share what’s going on their reading lists. We then tackle the headlines, including Minecraft x Dragon Ball Z tees up, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End season 2 sparks debate, and more. PLUS, we ask the age-old question: What anime is guaranteed to make you cry?
Crunchyroll Manga Sets October 9 Launch with Multiple Major Publishing Partner
K-Pop & Magical Girls Are the Secret Behind Pabllo Vittar’s Success | 82
Global pop star & Brazilian drag artist Pabllo Vittar is joining The Anime Effect to dish all about their new song “MEXE” featuring K-Pop group NMIXX! They also reveal how magical girls inspire their music and fashion, then tease their next big music drop. Tune in!
Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeA
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