The Anime Freshmen Podcast

Episode #143: Freshie Awards 2026 - Part 1 

Freshmen's Log

When? 

2026

Nani? 

Freshie Awards

Why? 

Keeping it Fresh

It's that time of year again when we host the annual AF Freshie Awards and turn our expert caps backwards a la Ash Ketchum when he's about to once again choose the worst suited Pokémon for a crucial all-out battle.

In line with this year's Crunchyroll Anime Awards, we'll let you know who will, might, won't, and maybe even can't win their respective categories, making sure that, with man like @jaysamzlive from @shownentell in the cut (appreciate you bro), the takes are spicy, the verdicts are potentially crazy, and the vybz Gachiakuta.

I vote Deku for Crybaby of the Decade

Every effort is made to keep spoilers to a minimum. (The only exception being older titles) 🎙Could you help us keep the mics plugged in? - We want to keep bringing you the freshest anime content - to help us do this a 5⭐rating will be refreshing!

With LUPIN THE IIIRD: The Movie – The Immortal Bloodline arriving in cinemas tomorrow (21st of Feb) courtesy of Anime Limited, one of anime’s most iconic thieves returns in a way that feels bigger, darker, and more cinematic than ever. We had the pleasure of seeing the film early and will be sharing our (spoiler-free) impressions.

Hosted by Parker Zensai of the Anime Freshmen, we welcome Brendan from Sakura Society, an anime appreciation podcast based in Melbourne, Australia. 

We discuss the vibrant world of anime podcasting, the overwhelming amount of anime content available today, and our personal journeys into the anime fandom. Sharing recommendations, favourite series, and insights into the evolution of anime culture, particularly in Australia. This discussion also touches on the intersection of anime and video games, current trends, and the importance of storytelling in these mediums.  

We're back with the Fresh Bites Review with Parker Zensai and Arfath! In this episode we tucked into Japanese cuisine from wagyu to sushi for anime Demon Slayer.

We thought we'd reload our Blue Lock Party 2  to mark the second season of the anime! Hit play now and experience the highlights on Youtube!

We have a collection of AMVs on our Youtube channel - this spotlight sees our favourite anime dance scenes, to the backdrop of Dance Monkey & Fuego.