Saving Physical Media w/ Justin Sevakis

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This week we’re joined by Justin Sevakis, founder of Anime News Network and MediaOCD, to talk about the surprising resurgence of physical media. As companies move toward an all-digital future, are we putting decades of art, games, and films at risk? And if corporations won't preserve media...who will?

We explore Sony's decision to phase out physical games, why Blu-ray may be having its own "vinyl moment," and how private collectors have quietly become some of the most important archivists in entertainment history. We also dive into anime's journey from niche hobby to mainstream phenomenon, the rise and fall of Right Stuf, and why younger fans are embracing physical media from an era they never experienced.

Justin also shares stories from restoring obscure films, explains what it's really like running a boutique distribution company, and gives us a glimpse into the future of anime preservation.

Big thanks to our patrons, we’ll be back next week!

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CREDITS:

Hosts: Kevin Lieber and Matt Tabor

Executive Producer: Ben Webster

Editor: Spencer Vann

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Opening Animation: Kidmograph

City Animation: Eric Langlay

"The Create Unknown" is produced by Unknown Media.

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