AnimeCon HQ

Discussion Notes

• Building trust and recognition among the volunteer team 
• The community's role in making conventions special 
• Navigating the emotional and physical demands of autograph sessions 
• The scale of convention chaos: handling crowds, lost kids, and delays 
• Meeting voice actors behind the scenes versus on stage 
• Excitement for Manchester’s upcoming anime event 
• The most beloved series and characters among fans and volunteers 
• The setup and teardown process: what goes into creating the convention experience 
• Connecting with friends and making memories beyond the event floor 
• Why volunteers are the unsung heroes of conventions
• Personal struggles with travel to conventions and the importance of community
• The highs and lows of convention travel and setting up
• Building trust and recognition among the volunteer team
• The community's role in making conventions special
• Navigating the emotional and physical demands of autograph sessions
• The scale of convention chaos: handling crowds, lost kids, and delays
• Meeting voice actors behind the scenes versus on stage
• Excitement for Manchester’s upcoming anime event
• The most beloved series and characters among fans and volunteers
• The setup and teardown process: what goes into creating the convention experience
• Connecting with friends and making memories beyond the event floor
• Why volunteers are the unsung heroes of conventions

Additional Info:

• Volunteer registration details available via AnimeCon Volunteer Page
• Ticket info: Tickets Page

Join us in this engaging episode as Sami from Manga Market UK shares insights into his journey as an anime artist and vendor, the realities of convention life, and his honest thoughts on AI-generated art. Whether you're into anime, art, or the behind-the-scenes of conventions, there's plenty to learn and reflect on.

00:00 - Introduction and Sami’s background in anime art
02:18 - Sami’s creative process and tools used (Procreate, Illustrator)
03:52 - How fan demand influences Sami’s artwork themes
04:00 - The time investment in creating quality art (~8 hours)
05:28 - Sami’s artistic inspiration and development over the years
07:26 - Sami discusses his experience with anime fandom
08:49 - The impact and ethics of AI-generated art
12:19 - Sami’s thoughts on AI art and artist competition
15:08 - Details about AnimeCon Manchester 2024 — tickets, guests, and activities
16:48 - The challenges and rewards of being a vendor at conventions
21:43 - Sami’s opinions on event experience and community engagement
23:33 - Key issues in convention organization and attendee experience
26:00 - What Sami enjoys most about conventions and fan interactions
28:36 - Cosplay commitment and memorable cosplay moments
33:10 - Upcoming highlights for anime fans: new seasons, movies, and releases
35:25 - Sami’s first anime experiences growing up
38:39 - Recommendations for long-running anime like One Piece and Attack on Titan
44:41 - Favorite anime scenes and character moments
50:37 - Sami’s top anime favorites and emotional attachment aspects
55:39 - The influence of anime on social and political awareness
58:20 - Final reminders for AnimeCon Manchester tickets and guests lineup

Sami's website 

• Website - https://www.mangamarket.co.uk/

Resources & Links:

• AnimeCon Official Website

Get an insider look at AnimeCon Manchester 2026 with hosts Nas Karto is joined by special guest Loz as they discuss the upcoming convention, exclusive guest lineups, exciting panels, and what fans can look forward to this year. Whether you're a seasoned attendee or first-timer, this episode covers everything from voice actors to cosplay trends.

Discussion Points

• 00:00 - Welcome back to the AnimeCon podcast and con season overview
•  02:16 - Manchester con details and ticket sales update
•  03:16 - Venue, after-party plans, and event schedule
•  04:38 - Recap of last year’s Birmingham highlights and fan experience insights
•  05:53 - Voice actor panels, meet-and-greets, and tips for fans
•  07:05 - Celebrating guest performances like Shao, Dear Alice, and industry icons
•  08:10 - Top recommended highlights such as Animate and Maid Cafe
•  09:40 - Upcoming guests announcement preview (Emily Neves, David Matranga, Sandy Fox, Lex Lang, Zeno Robinson, Mei Hong)
•  12:00 - Insight into voice actor panels and fan interactions
•  16:42 - 2023 Birmingham highlight moments and expectations for Manchester
•  17:47 - Deep dive into popular activities like RPD (Random Play Dance) and cosplay trends
•  22:23 - Excitement around new industry announcements and game releases
•  28:03 - Ticket availability, volunteer info, and safety upgrades for Manchester 2026
•  34:12 - Personal favorite anime series and current watches
•  46:30 - Opinions on recent episodes of My Hero Academia and other anime hot takes
•  50:07 - Anticipation for Dragon Ball updates and future projects
•  55:54 - Excitement for upcoming anime seasons and movie releases
•  60:37 - Wrap-up thoughts, thank-yous, and final reminders for tickets and plans

Resources & Links:

• AnimeCon Official Website

Additional Info:

• Volunteer registration details available via AnimeCon Volunteer Page
• Ticket info and early bird deals: Tickets Page

In this episode, host Nas is joined by Giles and Jay who run and host the Convention Creatives Podcast. 

They discuss the intricacies of managing multiple creative endeavours, the significance of conventions in the art community, and the challenges faced by artists and creators. They share personal experiences and insights on the importance of community, the emotional rollercoaster of creative work, and the excitement and stress of preparing for conventions. 

Discussion Notes  

• The Juggling Act of Creativity
• Introduction to the Guests
• The Importance of Conventions
• Pros and Cons of Conventions
• Community and Connection at Conventions
• Challenges and Triumphs in Creative Ventures
• The Build-Up to Conventions
• The Freedom of Being an Artist
• Advice for Aspiring Artists
• Sources of Inspiration
• Anime Journeys and Recommendations
• The Love-Hate Relationship with One Piece
• Anime Culture and Conventions
• Anticipation for Upcoming Anime Releases
• Critique of Fire Force
• Exploring My Hero Vigilantes and Solo Leveling
• The Future of Anime and Upcoming Conventions

The Convention Creatives Socials 

• Website - https://theconcreatives.com/
• You Tube - Concreatives

AnimeCon website - https://animeconuk.com/ 

Summary

 In this episode of the AnimeCon HQ podcast, host Nas Karto and guest Miles Anthony discuss the upcoming AnimeCon, the evolution of conventions, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for attendees. They explore the current state of pop culture conventions, the challenges faced by new creatives, and introduce Miles' new comic series, Animaregis, which aims to redefine the shonen genre by focusing on individuality and self-reliance.

Discussion Notes

• 00:00 AnimeCon Preparations and Excitement
• 03:06 The Evolution of Conventions
• 05:49 The Importance of Experience at Conventions
• 08:51 The Role of Conventions in Pop Culture
• 12:02 The State of New Creatives in Conventions
• 14:51 Introducing Anima Regis: A New Genre
• 18:00 The Power of Individuality in Storytelling
• 31:42 The Spark of Creativity
• 32:59 Engagement at AnimeCon
• 34:31 Supporting Emerging Creators
• 36:03 Taking Chances on Yourself
• 38:05 AnimeCon Highlights
• 39:59 Anime and Manga Favorites

Miles Shonen Animaregis - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/anthostudios/animaregis 

Summary

 In this episode of the AnimeCon HQ podcast, host Nas Karto and guest RealBigMiko discuss their experiences and thoughts on anime conventions. They explore the overwhelming yet exciting nature of conventions, the vibrant cosplay scene, and the unique opportunities for networking and fan interactions. RealBigMiko shares his first impressions of attending a convention, the joy of connecting with fans, and the intimate atmosphere at AnimeCon. They also touch on the importance of affordability and accessibility in convention experiences, as well as suggestions for improvement. 

Discussion Notes

• Introduction to AnimeCon and Guest Introduction
• First Impressions of Conventions
• The Cosplay Experience
• Networking Opportunities at Conventions
• Interactions with Voice Actors
• The Intimacy of AnimeCon
• Memorable Moments from Conventions
• Community and Support at Conventions
• Future of AnimeCon and Ticket Information
• Suggestions for Improving Conventions
• The Cost of Conventions
• Interactive Panels and Engagement
• The Persona of Performance
• Dream Experiences at Conventions
• Anime Adaptations and Expectations
• Exploring Anime: Sword Art Online and Haikyuu
• Diving into Sports Anime: Aoshi and Blue Lock
• AnimeCon 2025: What to Expect
• Cosplay Dreams: Unlimited Time and Resources
• Anticipating AnimeCon: Cultural Differences and Highlights
• Closing Thoughts and Future Conversations

Guest Socials 

• Instagram & Tiktok - @RealBigMiko

AnimeCon

• AnimeCon website - https://animeconuk.com/ 

Summary

In this episode, the Karto interviews Highlander who is part of the Anime Freshmen. They share personal shared experiences and insights on the importance of community, the emotional rollercoaster of creative work, and the excitement and stress of preparing for conventions. 

Discussion Notes

• The Juggling Act of Creativity
• Introduction to the Guests
• The Importance of Conventions
• Pros and Cons of Conventions
• Community and Connection at Conventions
• Challenges and Triumphs in Creative Ventures
• The Build-Up to Conventions
• The Freedom of Being an Artist
• Advice for Aspiring Artists
• Sources of Inspiration
• Anime Journeys and Recommendations
• The Love-Hate Relationship with One Piece
• Anime Culture and Conventions
• Anticipation for Upcoming Anime Releases
• Critique of Fire Force
• Exploring My Hero Vigilantes and Solo Leveling
• The Future of Anime and Upcoming Conventions

Animefreshmen website - https://animefreshmen.com/

AnimeCon website - https://animeconuk.com/ 

Suuuper Anime Podcast. They dive into the world of anime conventions, discussing their personal experiences, the significance of cosplay, and the vibrant community that surrounds these events. The conversation also touches on the upcoming AnimeCon 2025, highlighting what attendees can expect. They explore the importance of community in conventions and how podcasting serves as a valuable tool for connecting with fans and sharing insights. 

Discussion Notes 

• Conventions: Experiences and Insights
• Cosplay Culture and Community
• AnimeCon 2023: What to Expect
• The Importance of Community in Conventions
• Podcasting and Conventions: A Symbiotic Relationship
• Transitioning to Anime Discussions
• Anticipating Upcoming Anime Releases
• Cosplay Culture and Conventions
• Memorable Convention Experiences
• Looking Forward to AnimeCon 2025

Suuuper Anime Socials

• Website - www.suuuperanimepodcast.com
• You Tube - Suuuper Anime 
• Instagram - Suuuper Anime Podcast 

AnimeCon Website: 

• https://animeconuk.com/ 

Summary

In this episode of the AnimeCon HQ podcast, Co-Founder of AnimeCon Clive shares insights into the journey of creating AnimeCon, discussing the challenges and successes faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of community, the growth of the anime market, and the unique experiences offered at conventions. Clive also highlights the significance of merchandise and the creative process behind the event, while looking forward to the future of AnimeCon and the excitement it brings to fans. 

Discussion Notes

• The Journey to AnimeCon: From Idea to Reality
• Understanding the Anime Community and Market
• The Growth of AnimeCon: Challenges and Successes
• Creating a Unique Convention Experience
• Merchandise and Community Engagement
• Looking Ahead: Future of AnimeCon
• The Hard Work Behind the Scenes
• Artistry and Authenticity in Conventions
• Vendor Application Process and AI Concerns
• Safety and Security Measures at AnimeCon
• The Importance of Volunteers and Community Engagement
• Guest Selection and Future Aspirations
• Planning for Future Conventions
• Rituals and Enjoying the Convention Experience
• Creating a Fun and Memorable Atmosphere

AnimeCon Website: https://animeconuk.com 

In this episode of the AnimeCon HQ podcast, host Karto is joined AnimeCon head of Cosplay BexiBeans who oversees the Cosplay Hospital which will be a feature of AnimeCon . 

 They discuss the role of cosplay in the convention scene, and share insights on trends, favourites, and the importance of comfort and practicality in cosplay. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of boundaries and respect within the cosplay community, outlining essential dos and don'ts for attendees. Finally, they explore the evolution of cosplay and the opportunities it presents for community building and networking.

Discussion Points

•  Introduction and Reflections on Past Conventions
•  The Role of Cosplay in Conventions
•  Trends and Favorites in Cosplay
•  Navigating Cosplay Comfort and Practicality
•  Understanding Boundaries and Respect in Cosplay
•  Dos and Don'ts of Cosplay Etiquette
•  The Evolution of Cosplay and Community Building
•  The Joy of Cosplay and Community
•  AnimeCon What to Expect
•  The Cosplay Catwalk Experience
•  Cosplay Plans and Inspirations
•  Unlimited Cosplay Dreams
•  Dedication in Cosplay Crafting
•  Behind the Scenes of Convention Planning
•  Current Anime Interests and Recommendations
•  Anime and Background TV Shows
•  Sailor Moon Concert Experience
•  Conventions and Guest Appearances
•  Voice Acting and Cosplay Inspirations
•  Cosplay Hospital and Team Dynamics
•  Preparing for AnimeCon 

Anime Website: https://animeconuk.com/