Artwork for podcast Digging for Kryptonite: A Superman Fan Journey
Hammer Time — STEEL (John Henry Irons) Across Time & Media
Episode 23924th February 2026 • Digging for Kryptonite: A Superman Fan Journey • Flat Squirrel Productions
00:00:00 01:49:21

Share Episode

Shownotes

Host Anthony Desiato and guest Lance Laster (Always Hold On To Arrow) dig into the character of John Henry Irons, aka STEEL, across time & media — including his "Reign of the Supermen" debut, 1994-1998 solo series, underrated film starring Shaq, recent supporting role on TV's SUPERMAN & LOIS, and more.

Why has this character resonated for over 30 years? Which era of Steel served him best? What layers does the John Henry folklore add, and is there a place for "John Henry Jr." in current continuity? And for all of the times Steel has been adapted in other media, which absences are most conspicuous?

It's HAMMER TIME!

Support the show and receive exclusive podcast content at Patreon.com/AnthonyDesiato, including the spinoff podcasts BEYOND METROPOLIS and DIGGING FOR JUSTICE!

Visit BCW Supplies and use promo code FSP to save 10% on your next order of comics supplies.

Get your DFK merch at the podcast's TeePublic storefront!

FACEBOOK GROUP: Digging for Kryptonite: A Superman Fan Group

FACEBOOK PAGE: @diggingforkryptonitepod

INSTAGRAM: @diggingforkryptonitepod

TWITTER: @diggingforkrpod

BLUESKY: @diggingforkrpod.bsky.social

EMAIL: flatsquirrelproductions@gmail.com

WEBSITE: FlatSquirrelProductions.com

Digging for Kryptonite is a Flat Squirrel Production. Theme music by Dan Pritchard. Key art by Isaiah Simmons.

Mentioned in this episode:

Aw Yeah Comics

This Podcast Will Never Die

Single Bound Podcast

Always Hold On To Smallville

Hang On To Your Shorts Film Festival

Fat Moose Comics

Chapters

Video

More from YouTube