What if you could unlock the secrets behind crafting a page-turning fantasy novel? Our latest episode of the Don't Make It Weird podcast is a celebration like no other, featuring the brilliant author Dinasaurus and the highly-anticipated release of her second book in the Discerners Trilogy, "Something Special." From humorous apologies to our non-human listeners to teasing Dina about needing to text her husband mid-show, we keep the laughs coming while exploring the creative process behind her stunning book cover and toasting with Mountain Dew hard seltzers.

Buckle up for a night of unpredictable fun as we pivot into an action-packed game night, complete with Disney trivia, technical glitches, and even a surprise book giveaway! Dina and Daniel’s competitive spirit shines in our “Discern the Emoji” segment, where their hilarious attempts to act out emojis will have you in stitches. Plus, heartfelt voicemails from fans and a surprise raffle keep the energy high and the atmosphere electric throughout the night.

As the evening settles into deeper conversations, we journey through themes of friendship, love, and emotional growth within the Discerners Trilogy. Dina opens up about character development, grief, and acceptance, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process. We even speculate on endgame theories and reveal some exciting Easter eggs hidden in the series. Wrapping up with an interactive Q&A and heartfelt thank-yous, this episode is a whirlwind of laughter, camaraderie, and the magic of storytelling. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration!

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

What if Mary Poppins and Pennywise from "It" were the same species? Join us on this unforgettable live episode of the Don't Make it Weird podcast as we speculate wildly and hilariously about this and more at Shock-O-Con in Maryland. Daniel, Dina, and our Producer Sean meet face-to-face for the first time, sharing their journey from online acquaintances to close-knit friends and co-hosts. Feel the camaraderie and enjoy spontaneous audience interactions as we kick off with laughter and excitement.

Brace yourselves for some quirky and stomach-turning moments as we dive into an unusual soda taste-testing adventure. From pickle to bacon-flavored sodas, our reactions are unfiltered and utterly hilarious. We also play a cheeky game of "Smash or Slash: Horror Edition," debating whether we'd hypothetically 'smash' or 'slash' iconic horror characters. The fun doesn't stop there as we explore our "Secret Kinks and Wedding Drama" segment, revealing some truly unexpected attractions and quirks.

Finally, get ready to laugh out loud at Daniel's hilarious childhood anecdote about a vocabulary mishap involving the word "ejaculate," and cringe along with us as we critique some of the worst erotic literature in our "Cringey Copulation" segment. This episode is packed with humor, candid confessions, and unforgettable interactions, making it an absolute must-listen. Come along for the ride and experience the magic of our first-ever live recording!

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

In this episode of Don't Make It Weird, things go off the rails as Dina breaks her mic, and Sean faces some serious Shock-O-Con anxiety! Join hosts Daniel, Dina, and Producer Sean as they navigate technical difficulties, play a hilariously awkward game of Poetry for Neanderthals (NSFW edition), and debate the merits of romance versus fantasy writing. Along the way, Daniel trains his hugs, Dina reveals her preference for spy novels, and the team can’t seem to get a clean take no matter how hard they try.

Plus, don’t miss Dina’s Mind Map detour and the infamous blue balls moment that leaves Daniel completely lost. This is one episode you won’t want to miss—especially if you’re in the mood for some chaotic fun and lots of laughs!

A special thanks to our lovely and amazing Patreon supporters! It truly means the world to us!:

Shannon Bright
Matthew S.
Rance Denton
Stephen Howard
Levi Burzlaff-Luett
and Thomas Staples

If you'd like to join our Patreon and get access to exclusive content for just $1 a month, head over to patreon.com/dmiw !

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Can a grilled cheese sandwich really be the key to an unforgettable podcast episode? Join us as we explore everything from the irresistible charm of this comfort food to Dina's fabulous double buns. In this episode, we reminisce about 90s and early 2000s makeup trends, engage in playful banter about selling the show, and give a heartfelt shoutout to last week's guest, Matthew. Dina passionately defends the nude lip look while Daniel humorously admits his indifference. It's a nostalgic and lighthearted start that sets the tone for an episode filled with laughs and intriguing discussions.

What's better after a laugh than a debate that really makes you think? We dive into the great hygiene debate: should men dab or wipe after peeing? With our surprise segment guest, Stevie Wildcard from the "We Have Issues" podcast, we tackle this cheeky question with humor and insight. Stevie, the self-proclaimed "sommelier of urine," presents a case for the classic shake, while Dina offers some unique hygiene suggestions that spark passionate arguments.

Get ready for a rollercoaster of fun as we dive into a "Finish the Movie Quote" game, where Dina's unrivaled movie knowledge shines. We also tackle the topic of purple prose in writing, discussing how to balance poetic language with effective storytelling. And hold on tight for Dina's thrilling storytime moment about cult memories, complete with exploding cars and her childhood friend named "Samson". From nostalgic movie quotes to suspenseful storytelling, this episode is packed with humor, camaraderie, and engaging discussions that you won't want to miss.

Follow Stevie Wildcard on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/StevieWildcard

Check out We Have Issues on YouTube!: https://youtube.com/wehaveissuespodcast

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Ever wondered what happens when a mischievous gnome, Taylor Swift conspiracy theories, and a fictional supervillain collide in a podcast episode? This week on Don't Make It Weird, Daniel, Dinasaurus, and Sean serve up a cocktail of hilarity and unexpected twists with our special guest, the talented author Matthew Siadak.

Hold onto your cosmic bedazzled underwear as we create our own supervillain, speculate Taylor Swift's superhero debut in Deadpool & Wolverine, and recount a chaotic escape from the law that feels straight out of a movie. The fun doesn't stop there; we debate the hottest anti-hero character crushes and dive deep into the emotional complexity of superhero stories, exploring themes of addiction and inner turmoil with surprising depth. Matthew's anthology and its interconnected characters promise even more excitement, with teasers for upcoming sequels.

But wait, there's more! We ponder life's absurdities, from the taste of teeth to the superiority of different types of stove burners, and navigate through whimsical questions with our signature comedic style. Find out if Matthew earns the prestigious DMIW-exclusive "No Bell Prize". Listen in for playful banter, heartfelt moments, and imaginative storytelling that make this episode a must-listen. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to join our wild ride, and remember, don't make it weird!

You can buy THE DARK SIDE OF SUPER by Matthew Siadak HERE: https://backwardsknight.bigcartel.com/

Follow Matthew on Twitter/X: https://x.com/chewchewpsyduck
Follow Matthew on Instagram/Threads: https://instagram.com/backwardsknight

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Join us for an entertaining episode of "Don't Make it Weird," where we're thrilled to host Abby Simpson, a passionate Canadian writer and historical fiction enthusiast. We kick-start with a playful chat about oven settings and Canadian city hierarchies, sprinkled with Abby's witty Canada facts. Trust us, you'll be laughing as we take some good-natured jabs at cities like Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Winnipeg.

Ever questioned the ancestry of American presidents or the authenticity of regional stereotypes? We've got you covered. This episode features a rollercoaster discussion on a conspiracy theory about American presidents' lineage and reveals Abby's quirky experiences as a die-hard Hanson fan. Her adventurous tale of a Hanson concert road trip to Detroit is filled with unexpected twists, including border crossing mishaps that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Lastly, we pivot to a more scholarly vibe as Abby dives into the intricate craft of writing historical fiction. Get insights into her novel "The Dragon and the Butterfly," and the meticulous research required to bring historical figures like Matilda of Flanders to life. As we debate the best form of potato and explore the international expansion of Tim Hortons, Abby’s humor and storytelling prowess shine through. Don’t miss this engaging blend of laughter, knowledge, and fascinating discussions, and be sure to check out Abby's book for more captivating historical narratives.

You can buy THE DRAGON AND THE BUTTERFLY by Abby Simpson here!: https://a.co/d/9mVn7gE
Abby on X: https://x.com/abbythetweet

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Content Warning: The upcoming discussion delves into topics related to religious beliefs, strict traditional gender roles, sexual abuse, and practices that some may find restrictive or controversial. This episode in particular goes heavy on the topic of sexual abuse. Please practice good self-care, and proceed with caution if you're sensitive to such subjects or consider skipping this discussion entirely if it might be distressing to you.

In this week's episode, you'll hear about Dina's fierce encounter with a rattlesnake, showcasing her protective motherly instincts. But things get heavy as we continue to dissect the deeply unsettling documentary "Shiny Happy People," exploring the grim realities of cult life, from rigid gender roles to harrowing accounts of sexual abuse. We urge you to practice self-care as we navigate these intense topics, blending serious discourse with moments of levity.

Ever wondered about the bizarre world of conspiracy theories and the strange behaviors among the ultra-wealthy? We dive into wild theories linking Epstein’s island to the Nickelodeon logo, prompting both absurd humor and reflective moments. Dina shares her eye-opening experience with the Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) church, shedding light on systemic corruption and abuse within these religious communities. Our discussion spans from the exploitation in religious cults to the significant yet disturbing political connections of the Duggar family, highlighting the misuse of power and authority.

Finally, we tackle the importance of sexual education and the potentially damaging effects of purity culture. By examining the complex dynamics of authority and obedience in religious contexts, we underscore the imperative of comprehensive education and personal empowerment. Despite the gravity of these discussions, we lighten the atmosphere with playful banter. Join us for an episode filled with engaging conversations, thought-provoking insights, and a touch of humor as we confront challenging yet crucial topics.

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Ever wondered if Batman's a giver or a taker in the bedroom? We're not holding back in this hilariously unfiltered episode of the Don't Make It Weird Podcast! We kick things off with some lively banter, including updates on Dina's toddler, Zebra, and his new molars. Producer Sean chimes in with his signature wit, and Dina shares her recent success in book marketing by offering her book for free. The episode is rounded out with a beloved game segment, another hysterical Dina story, and an eagerly anticipated reading of "Space Raptor Butt Invasion" in our Cringey Copulation segment.

As if that wasn't enough, we dive headfirst into some humorous superhero speculation, debating the intimate lives of Batman, Superman, Wolverine, and Tony Stark. Get ready for a teaser about a juicy Kardashian-Jenner conspiracy theory that we can't wait to unravel. We also explore generational differences in interpreting punctuation and showcase our Accountabili-Buddy segment, where Dina updates us on her memoir progress. Big news: we'll be at Shock-O-Con in Havre de Grace, Maryland! Join us from August 23rd to 25th for signings, photos, and drinks.

The chaos continues with a word association game that spirals into nostalgic references and hilarious misunderstandings. We share an indie author's unexpected success story through a Kindle giveaway, offering key insights for aspiring writers. And don't miss our recount of a wild altercation at an Italian appliance center—a hammer fight you'll have to hear to believe. This episode is a rollercoaster of humor, storytelling, and valuable tips for writers and listeners alike. Don't miss it!

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

Ever wondered about the bizarre connection between nipples and teeth? Or how neglecting your virtual Neopets might just make you a quadrillionaire? Get ready for a rollercoaster of fun as Season 3 of the Don't Make it Weird Podcast kicks off with Daniel and Dina's wild banter. Dina's amusing fact-sharing and her carefree bottle-of-margarita antics set the stage for a series of hilarious and heartfelt revelations, including a milestone in her personal life.

Dina takes us on an emotional yet humorous journey as she talks about pausing her Discerners Trilogy to pen a memoir about her cult experiences. Meanwhile, Daniel vents his frustrations over the editorial challenges of his Cryptic Protection Agency series, while Sean brims with excitement over redesigning the podcast's logo. The episode is chock-full of unexpected turns, from Dina's online escapades to her plot to become a Neopets tycoon. And don't miss our lively Truth or Drink game, where wedding mishaps, personal confessions, and even interspecies relationship musings come to light.

Switching gears, we dive into the intriguing world of genre jumping in writing, celebrating the successes and pitfalls of authors who venture beyond their comfort zones. With examples ranging from Joe Abercrombie's genre-blending masterpieces to J.K. Rowling's less-than-stellar genre shifts, we explore the necessity of respecting the beats and nuances of new genres. Personal anecdotes about arranged marriage expectations and humorous interspecies relationship scenarios keep the laughs coming, while providing food for thought on the complexities of writing and relationships. Don't miss this laughter-filled, thought-provoking episode that promises to entertain and surprise in equal measure!

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.

The episode takes a conspiratorial twist when we dig into the mysterious disappearance of Kate Middleton. Amid community efforts to recover a missing piece for Dina and her Kickstarter success story, we dive into gripping conspiracy theories about the British royal family. From speculating on Queen Elizabeth's secret demise to debating the relevance and attractiveness of royal figures, our irreverent banter keeps things lively and engaging. Don't miss our humorous take on pre-recorded New Year's Eve ball drops and secret royal scandals.

Switching gears, we dive into personal stories and creative ambitions. Dina shares a wild tale about her time in a cult and her secret Disney Channel shows indulgence, sparking debates on potential actresses for her biopic. We also touch on memoir writing, the quirks of our most popular episodes, and reminisce about a Mike Jones musical. With playful interactions, a surprise Linda Belcher voicemail, and lighthearted games, this episode promises non-stop laughter and unpredictable fun. Tune in for a rollercoaster of emotions and endless entertainment!

Support the show

Daniel's website: https://dumps4danq.com
Dina's website: https://dinasaurusd.com

You can find the video presentation of this show on our YouTube channel, and the audio only version on any of your favorite podcast apps!

Give us a call on the Don't Make It Weird Hotline and leave us a voicemail message! We just might use your message on a future episode of the show! 347-69-WEIRD

Don't Make It Weird Podcast on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dmiwpodcast
Daniel on Twitter: http://twitter.com/danqwritesthing
Dina on Twitter: http://twitter.com/dinasaurusd
Producer Sean on Twitter: http://twitter.com/shaceholdu

Music Credit:
Swing Rabbit ! Swing ! by Amarià https://soundcloud.com/amariamusique
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: https://bit.ly/al-swing-rabbit-swing
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/lt7fn1NVxQM

Credits song written and performed by Anthony LaFauci of We Have Issues Podcast.