Real Men Hug

Ep. 6 || Do You Even Nerd, Bro?: Gatekeeping and Geek Culture


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In this episode of the Real Men Hug podcast, hosts Ben and Jim immerse themselves in the realm of nerdy hobbies, sharing how these pursuits have enriched their lives. They fondly recall their adventures, from Ben's geocaching exploits to Jim's spirited escapades at Renaissance fairs, where he often donned the guise of the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts. Alongside their nostalgic reminiscences, they discuss the enduring appeal of classic PC games like Duke Nukem and King's Quest, reflecting on the joy of immersing oneself in these timeless experiences.

As they navigate the world of geekdom, Ben and Jim confront the stigma surrounding their hobbies, particularly in contrast to more mainstream interests like football. They challenge the notion that spending time pursuing geeky passions is any less valid or worthwhile, urging listeners to embrace their own unique interests without fear of judgment. 

Through their candid conversation, they also touch on the evolution of nerd culture and the gradual acceptance of intelligence and creativity in society. From childhood experiences with DOS-based computers to college antics with the Nintendo Wii, they celebrate the joy of being unapologetically nerdy in a world that sometimes fails to understand the appeal.

Tune in to Real Men Hug on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more engaging discussions about embracing your inner geek and hugging like nobody's watching!

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Real Men HugBy Ben Kraker / Jim Van Stensel