Geek Freaks Interviews

In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down once again with comic writer Scott Wilke to talk about his latest installment in the Periwinkle Saga—Frost. Scott reveals the dark holiday-themed universe he's building with gritty one-shots like Cupid and Frost, blending inspiration from John Wick, Pulp Fiction, and classic holiday lore. He also shares what’s coming next in the saga (O’Hare), explores the storytelling challenges of single-issue comics, and teases other upcoming Bad Bug projects including Junk World, Murder Mary, and Xeno Geist. This one’s a must-listen for indie comic fans and anyone who loves morally complex heroes.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Introduction and Scott’s return
00:29 The origin and tone of Frost
01:34 John Wick vibes and Arturo Meza’s vital role
02:16 Expansion plans for the Periwinkle universe
03:35 The mob power vacuum behind the Periwinkle stories
04:07 Why holiday mythology makes a great sandbox
05:13 Morally gray characters and relatability
06:52 The human side of Jack Frost and father-son dynamics
08:09 How Scott collaborates with artist Arturo
09:43 Trusting the artist to elevate the vision
12:09 Writing method and storyboarding for comics
13:35 Film influences in structure and tone
15:28 Why Periwinkle is still a must-read
16:07 Preview of upcoming titles: Junk World, Murder Mary, Xeno Geist
20:07 New artistic collaborations and creative challenges
22:04 Where to follow Scott online
23:10 Kickstarter's evolving role in indie comics
25:10 Passion over profit and creative freedom
25:47 If Scott could write for the Big Two: Superman or Punisher?
27:34 Final thoughts and where to start in the Periwinkle Saga

Key Takeaways:

• Frost is a gritty, John Wick-style one-shot starring Jack Frost as a hitman in a mythological mob war.

• The Periwinkle Saga is building toward crossover stories, but each one-shot can be enjoyed on its own.

• Artist Arturo Meza plays a huge role in maintaining the cohesive tone and world-building.

• Scott uses film structure and storyboard planning to craft compact, character-driven narratives.

• New titles like Junk World and Murder Mary reflect Scott’s range—from space smuggling to fourth-wall-breaking mayhem.

• Kickstarter provides unmatched creative freedom and direct reader engagement for indie creators.

• Despite writing morally gray stories, Scott's dream characters to write include Superman and Punisher.

Quotes:
🗯️ "Frost is my love letter to John Wick... He’s not just a killer—he’s trying to break free of his father’s shadow."
🗯️ "Each one-shot tells its own story, but for those following closely, the saga is building toward something much bigger."
🗯️ "Arturo learned English through Tarantino movies—so our comics were always going to be wild."
🗯️ "Kickstarter is where indie comics thrive. It’s not about profit—it’s about passion and storytelling."

Call to Action:
Love comics with a gritty twist and deep mythology? Subscribe to Geek Freaks and don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Share this episode with fellow comic lovers using #GeekFreaksPodcast and let us know which Periwinkle character you want to see return!

Links and Resources:
🔗 GeekFreaksPodcast.com — Source of all our news and updates
📖 Follow Scott on Instagram: @scottwilke24
🎯 Back his comics on Kickstarter and find his work via Bad Bug Media

Follow Us:
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Listener Questions:
Have a question for Scott or want us to explore a specific indie comic on the next episode? DM us or email through GeekFreaksPodcast.com!

Apple Podcast Tags:
Scott Wilke, Periwinkle Saga, Frost Comic, Indie Comics, Bad Bug Media, Kickstarter Comics, Comic Book Writer, Comic Book Interview, John Wick Inspired Comics, Holiday Comic Universe, Geek Culture

In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank is joined by Mark Domeier, a passionate middle school English teacher from Minnesota who uses comic books and pop culture to bring reading and writing to life for his students. With a collection of over 14,000 comics, Mark shares how he leverages his love for superheroes and stories like Star Wars, The Outsiders, and even The Mandalorian to make literature relevant and fun. We explore how comic books support reading comprehension, creativity, and engagement, and how fandom can help students find their voice in writing. Whether you're an educator, comic lover, or lifelong geek, this episode is full of inspiration.

Timestamps and Topics:

00:00 – Intro and welcome
00:22 – Mark’s comic collection and using comics in education
01:08 – Visual storytelling and reading comprehension
02:53 – Mark’s first comic subscription and lifelong love of Spider-Man
04:22 – From Marvel to DC: Expanding fandom
05:59 – What inspired Mark to become a teacher
07:07 – Encouraging reading through comics and creative assignments
08:01 – Teaching with Star Wars in the classroom
09:57 – Using essays to analyze Star Wars and develop critical thinking
11:29 – Comics in lessons: Drawing stories, analyzing narratives
13:17 – Creative final projects: Comic books, screenplays, and songs
16:08 – Fighting for creativity in the age of AI
18:23 – Middle school creativity vs. deeper literary structures
21:08 – MCU, Mandalorian, and how current media inspires students
23:37 – From the classroom to pop culture essays and fandom discussion
25:01 – Connecting WWII and Star Wars in teaching Anne Frank
26:32 – Fandoms showing students what makes a good person
29:07 – Using sports fandom in class to build engagement
30:55 – Funko Pops, Stephen King, and knowing your students
33:02 – Meeting students where they are and guiding them forward
35:40 – Advice for teachers using fandom in education
38:29 – Closing thoughts and gratitude

Key Takeaways:

• Comics can help students visualize and understand stories, boosting comprehension and engagement.

• Students are more likely to connect with material when they see their interests and strengths reflected in it.

• Pop culture like Star Wars and the MCU can be tools for teaching analysis, persuasive writing, and historical parallels.

• Offering students options in how they express learning—whether through art, comics, or music—promotes creativity.

• Teachers must adapt to their students’ learning styles and passions, especially in a world increasingly impacted by AI.

• Fandom isn’t just entertainment—it’s a pathway to deeper learning and connection.

Memorable Quotes:

• “If you read 20 or 25 comic books, that’s the same as reading a novel.”

• “Every student should read The Outsiders. I’ve taught it almost every year of my career.”

• “I’m just going to go out kicking and screaming, fighting to make kids be creative.”

• “I remember being a kid and wishing that I could be bitten by a radioactive spider.”

Call to Action:
If you loved this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews on your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review, share the episode with your fellow educators and comic fans, and tag us with your thoughts using #GeekFreaksPod!

Links and Resources:
🌐 GeekFreaksPodcast.com — Source for all our news and episodes

Follow Us:
📱 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast
📸 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast
🐦 Twitter: @geekfreakspod
💬 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast
🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast

Listener Questions:
Have a question for Mark or thoughts on using comics in the classroom? Send them our way and we might include them in a future episode!

Apple Podcast Tags:
comics, education, Star Wars, Marvel, teaching strategies, pop culture in school, middle school reading, student creativity, graphic novels in education, Geek Freaks Interviews

In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with acclaimed author Barry Lyga to explore his multifaceted writing career spanning comics, YA thrillers, and prose adaptations of iconic superhero stories. Barry opens up about his journey from comics to novels, his work on the I Hunt Killers trilogy, how he crafted Thanos' backstory for Marvel Studios, and what it was like building an alternate DC Universe through The Flash book series. From creating Free Comic Book Day to writing some of the darkest scenes of his career, Barry brings insight, humor, and a deep love for the medium.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Intro and Barry Lyga’s career overview
00:32 From comics to novels: The origin of Fanboy and Goth Girl
02:07 Common theme: Writing from the outsider’s perspective
03:37 Writing Wolverine: Worst Day Ever and the young outsider angle
04:24 How comics shaped his prose style and genre-blending
06:27 Switching genres with I Hunt Killers
08:11 Making dark characters likable
09:15 Challenges writing from a new POV and writing Superman
11:15 Behind the scenes of The Flash tie-in novels
14:17 Using obscure DC characters like Ambush Bug
18:14 Capturing Barry Allen’s voice and injecting science
20:52 Writing Thanos: Titan Consumed for the MCU
23:00 The challenge of creating Thanos without key Marvel characters
27:17 Matching the tone of Infinity War without seeing it
28:43 Thanos’ logic and why doubling resources wouldn't work
29:32 The origin of Free Comic Book Day
33:11 Modern comic book accessibility and barriers
35:53 The limits of digital comics today
38:16 The release of Before the Hunt and going indie
40:31 Final thoughts and where to find Barry’s books

Key Takeaways:

• Barry Lyga’s stories consistently center around outsiders, a reflection of his own childhood.

• His novel Wolverine: Worst Day Ever explores being an outsider among outsiders.

• Writing Thanos: Titan Consumed required building a full backstory that matched the MCU without relying on comic continuity.

• The Flash book series was set in an alternate timeline to allow more creative freedom while respecting CW’s canon.

• Free Comic Book Day began as a brainstorm to unite the comic book industry and increase visibility for local shops.

• Barry's newest release, Before the Hunt, is a self-published anthology of prequel stories to I Hunt Killers.

Memorable Quotes:

• “I think outsiders typically have a really interesting perspective on what’s going on.”

• “Creation is harder than destruction—that’s why Thanos didn’t double resources.”

• “You don’t have to be one kind of writer. It’s all about the story.”

• “I almost jumped out of my seat when I saw Infinity War. I thought, that’s my Thanos.”

• “Stop recommending Watchmen to new readers.”

Call to Action:
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share the podcast using #GeekFreaksPod. Help us grow the show and bring on more amazing guests like Barry Lyga!

Links and Resources:

• 🔗 GeekFreaksPodcast.com – Your source for all the news we discuss

• 📖 BarryLyga.com – See Barry’s full body of work

• 📘 Before the Hunt – Order Barry’s latest release now

Follow Us:

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Listener Questions:
Got a question for our next guest or a topic you want covered? Message us on any platform or email [email protected].

Apple Podcast Tags:
Barry Lyga, I Hunt Killers, Thanos Titan Consumed, Wolverine Worst Day Ever, The Flash CW, comic book adaptations, superhero novels, writing tips, Marvel books, DC Universe books, Free Comic Book Day

In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with Richard Sparks, writer of the epic fantasy series New Rock New Roll, New Rock New Realm, and the upcoming New Rock New Rules. Richard, a seasoned screenwriter turned novelist, shares how his background in gaming and storytelling led him to build a world where RPG avatars become real. From crafting immersive friendships to battling ogres with orcs, Richard discusses the challenges of writing layered adventures and how great story structure is the foundation of it all. We also explore his creative process, his Tolkien influence, and the exciting potential for a film or series adaptation.

Timestamps and Topics:

00:00 Introduction to Richard Sparks and the New Rock series
00:18 How gaming inspired the novels
00:56 Writing the first book in two months
01:40 The main characters and their transformation into avatars
02:45 Orcs, magic, and humorous worldbuilding
03:28 Expanding the world beyond the original story
04:06 Upcoming third book and Halloween launch
05:11 How the characters evolve beyond their real-life players
06:00 Building fantasy stories using game mechanics and puzzles
07:12 Mysteries and reader immersion
08:19 Puzzles, prophecies, and foreshadowing in book three
09:48 Reader and character discovery unfolding together
10:33 Early love for Tolkien and fantasy inspiration
12:01 Tolkien’s writing habits and influence on Sparks
13:28 The film rights and hopes for adaptation
15:26 Lessons from decades of screenwriting
17:20 From showing to telling—shifting from script to novel
19:32 Layering clues for long-term story payoffs
21:04 Letting characters dictate their journey
22:24 Scaling stories from epic to personal
24:00 Narrative structure and balancing multiple storylines
26:16 Lessons from directing and acting workshops
30:00 Overcoming rejection and growing as a storyteller
33:00 Adventures in publishing, writing, and surviving the industry
36:15 Pranks, ogres, and organic character moments
39:00 Planning ahead while leaving room for surprises
40:30 The illusionist's trick—crafting a worthy ending
41:02 Final thoughts and where to get the books

Key Takeaways:

• New Rock New Roll began as a fantasy inspired by online gaming but evolved into a layered, character-driven series with real emotional depth.

• Richard emphasizes the importance of story structure, learned from his decades as a screenwriter and director.

• Humor, mystery, and friendship are core pillars of the New Rock world.

• Writing ahead, knowing your ending, and embracing rewrites are essential to strong fantasy storytelling.

• Film and TV adaptations are in early development, with industry interest in building a new fantasy franchise from Sparks’ world.

• Tolkien’s influence runs deep, and Sparks shares personal connections and insights into the master’s creative legacy.

Quotes:

“You’ve got to learn how to get out of your own way as a writer.”
“The readers deserve to be put on an armchair ride and given a good adventure.”
“All the best stories are the same but different.”
“The times when you’re not writing are the ones that hurt.”
“You’re the illusionist. The whole time, you’ve got them looking one way while you’re building something else.”

Links and Resources:
📘 Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest episodes, articles, and news
📚 Check out Richard Sparks’ books at RichardSparks.com
🎉 Learn more about the upcoming launch at the World Fantasy Convention

Follow Us:
Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast
Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast
Threads: @geekfreakspodcast
Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast
Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspod

Apple Podcast Tags:
fantasy fiction, RPG novels, geek culture, author interview, Tolkien inspiration, writing advice, book series, screenwriting, story structure, podcast interview, fantasy author, creative writing, Geek Freaks

In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with powerhouse Canadian producer Caitlin Delaney. With over 90 films under her belt, Caitlin opens up about her start in Hallmark-style holiday films and her evolution into producing larger thrillers and studio features. She also shares how she’s paying it forward with her new mentorship platform, Up Light Academy, where she’s shaping the next generation of film professionals. This is a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers, indie creators, and anyone curious about how the industry really works behind the scenes.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 – Intro and Caitlin’s current work in film production
00:58 – What a service producer does and Caitlin’s early days in Christmas films
02:00 – Launching Up Light Academy: training the next generation of filmmakers
03:30 – Caitlin’s own path from theater kid to producer
04:50 – Challenges breaking into acting and shifting to behind the camera
06:05 – Choosing projects, genre shifts, and following market trends
07:45 – The pressure of being a production hub and managing multiple teams
09:00 – Caitlin’s passion project on human trafficking
10:08 – The importance of industry relationships and collaboration
11:45 – Streaming’s influence on low-budget, high-return holiday content
13:50 – Why story still matters most, not budget
15:44 – The rise of character-driven drama in streaming
17:10 – Pitching lessons: it’s about worldbuilding and story, not logistics
18:11 – Caitlin’s admiration for actor Walton Goggins
20:00 – Why mentorship matters more than ever
21:20 – Surprising lessons about the business of film
23:00 – Teaching respect between producers and creatives
24:30 – How Caitlin teaches communication with large crews
25:10 – Closing and where to find Caitlin online

Key Takeaways:

• Caitlin’s career began in holiday films but now spans thrillers, studio features, and independent theatrical releases.

• As a service producer, she manages every physical part of a production—from talent deals to post-production.

• Her Up Light Academy offers free foundational video lessons and live weekly mentorship from industry professionals.

• Mentorship shortens the learning curve and provides real-world insight that no classroom can replicate.

• In modern filmmaking, every creator needs to understand producing and marketing.

• The industry is trending toward character-driven stories, with less emphasis on big-budget spectacle.

• Success in film still hinges on having a good story and being able to clearly articulate it.

• Caitlin highlights the value of collaboration, and the evolving role of streamers in creating community-driven content.

Quotes:
🎙️ “We just take years of onsite experience, crunch it down into 30 videos, and away you go.”
🎙️ “You’re not going to make a movie without money. And you’re not going to spend the money without filmmakers.”
🎙️ “Mentorship can shave off years of learning. But I’m still being mentored myself—I just spent four hours learning TikTok.”
🎙️ “Story is what people care about. Not budget. Not logistics. If you don’t have a good story, you’ve lost them.”

Call to Action:
Love what you heard? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review Geek Freaks Interviews wherever you get your podcasts. Share this episode with your fellow film enthusiasts and use #GeekFreaksPod to join the conversation online.

Links and Resources:
🔗 Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com — your source for all things geek and film industry news.
🔗 Learn more about Caitlin Delaney’s Up Light Academy.

Follow Us:
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📱 Twitter: @geekfreakspod
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💬 Patreon: Support us

Listener Questions:
Have a question for Caitlin or want to learn more about breaking into the film industry? Message us on social or email us via the website and we’ll feature your question in a future episode.

In this compelling episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with writer Aubrey Sitterson to discuss Free Planet, a new sci-fi epic from Image Comics. Aubrey dives deep into the book’s core themes of freedom, discipline, and revolution, sharing the research and inspiration behind his sprawling geopolitical space opera. From unreliable narrators and anthropological influences to the vital contributions of collaborators like artist Jed Dougherty, letterer Taylor Esposito, and colorist Vittorio Astone, this conversation unpacks how Free Planet became one of the most ambitious and layered comics of the year.

Timestamps and Topics:

• 00:00 – Introduction and welcome to Aubrey Sitterson

• 00:19 – What is Free Planet? A saga meets East of West

• 01:03 – The surprising popularity of Talon

• 02:08 – The origins of Free Planet and its political lens

• 04:30 – Revolutionary history and real-world inspirations

• 06:02 – Exploring what freedom really means

• 07:53 – Visual storytelling: spreads, charts, and page design

• 09:46 – Conflict, compromise, and food shortages

• 11:09 – The comic as literature and object

• 12:30 – Sci-fi inspirations: Ursula K. Le Guin, Dune, and more

• 14:17 – Research over aesthetics: grounding the story in truth

• 16:29 – The balance between interpersonal drama and grand politics

• 18:06 – How character dynamics reflect ideological tension

• 20:14 – Page-by-page scripting and Jed’s visual genius

• 22:34 – Weapon design, faction identity, and world-building layers

• 24:49 – Collaborative storytelling and artistic contributions

• 25:54 – Lettering innovations and layered voice design

• 28:01 – Dr. August Ferrucci and the historical narration

• 30:00 – On bias, narration, and the illusion of neutrality

• 31:01 – Bonus material and hand-painted covers

• 34:11 – Liefeld-inspired layouts and homage as design

• 36:15 – The difference between mimicry and foundational homage

• 39:07 – Talon and Basil’s contrasting voices in lettering

• 42:00 – Robert Kirkman’s blurb and industry recognition

• 43:01 – Print versus digital: Why Free Planet demands paper

Key Takeaways:

• Free Planet explores the complexities of freedom, revolution, and post-war society through a sci-fi lens.

• Aubrey Sitterson researched real-world revolutions, anthropology, and political theory to shape the book’s nuanced world.

• The comic is intentionally designed as a print-first experience, leveraging double-page spreads, infographics, and layered visual storytelling.

• Artist Jed Dougherty's page compositions elevate the script, and his designs actively shape the story's evolution.

• The lettering by Taylor Esposito adds character distinction and thematic nuance, including subtle cues like font shifts and balloon changes.

• Dr. August Ferrucci’s backmatter essays expand the story’s lore, offering unreliable but informative narration akin to historical texts.

• Free Planet is “actively hostile” to digital—intended for readers who want to sit, think, and truly absorb a comic.

Quotes:

• “It’s not just about what freedom is—but what we’re willing to sacrifice for it.” – Aubrey Sitterson

• “There’s not another comic on the rack like this.” – Frank

• “Talon was so popular early on that I rewrote the outline to give him more of the spotlight.” – Aubrey

• “We wanted Free Planet to be both art and literature.” – Aubrey

• “The narration is factual—but even neutrality is a choice.” – Aubrey

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and share it with fellow comic fans using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Help us spotlight indie creators pushing the boundaries of storytelling.

Links and Resources:

• Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all news and updates featured in this episode

• Learn more about Free Planet from Image Comics and grab it at your local comic shop on May 7

In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with acclaimed horror comic writer Rich Davis to explore his newest dark fantasy project Angel Hunter. From its origins as a joke to a full-fledged manga-inspired saga, Rich opens up about the creative process, his love for horror, and the deep personal influences behind his storytelling. The conversation covers everything from kaiju and fallen angels to the future of comic publishing—and even includes a heartfelt tangent about rescued dogs. Whether you're a comic fan, aspiring writer, or lover of apocalyptic fantasy, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and humor.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Welcome and intro with Rich Davis
00:22 What is Angel Hunter?
01:01 The surprising origins of the idea
02:19 Convincing his collaborator Les to embrace manga style
03:10 Dobby the rescue dog story
04:24 From stage to screen to comics: Rich’s path through storytelling
05:44 How Cult of Dracula was born
07:29 Rich’s lifelong love of horror
08:33 Nightmares as creative fuel
09:48 Religious roots and mythological influences behind Angel Hunter
11:10 How Rich respects religion in fantasy writing
12:18 “Write what you know” and grounding fantasy in real emotion
14:12 Spotlight on character Shiri Mojo
16:00 The emotional weight behind character development
17:54 Why Angel Hunter will be a multi-volume epic
19:00 Why Rich is avoiding floppies and embracing the trade format
21:00 Pricing, format decisions, and Kickstarter plans
23:45 Industry trends: Trades vs floppies in comic book retail
25:00 The creative brotherhood between Rich and Les
25:43 Final thoughts and how to support Angel Hunter via Kickstarter

Key Takeaways:

• Angel Hunter blends manga-style art with Western storytelling, built on a foundation of religious mythology and kaiju battles.

• Rich’s storytelling is deeply influenced by personal experiences, including vivid childhood nightmares and a strong religious upbringing.

• He writes from a place of emotional truth, grounding fantasy in human emotion like fear, love, and loss.

• Floppies are no longer sustainable in indie comics—Angel Hunter will launch as full-volume trades to better serve readers.

• Rich and artist Les form a creative duo with a shared vision and dedication that drives their projects.

• Kickstarter is the primary launchpad for Angel Hunter, with volume one targeting an affordable price point despite high production quality.

Memorable Quotes:

“Everything that I write comes from a nightmare… Once you name the monster, the monster’s not scary anymore.” – Rich Davis

“I treat the Bible, the Talmud, and the Quran like mythology—because I’m not preaching, I’m storytelling.” – Rich Davis

“Floppies are dead. But give someone a $9.99 Image trade, and they’ll grab three.” – Rich Davis

“Shiri Mojo… she's an amazing character—and also, yes, she's a hot blonde anime chick. We’re not going to pretend that’s not a draw.” – Rich Davis

“Write what you know. I used to hate that phrase. Now I understand it’s how you put heart into your fantasy.” – Rich Davis

Call to Action:
Love discovering new worlds? Support Angel Hunter on Kickstarter and be part of a bold new vision in comics. Be sure to follow, rate, and review Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts. Share your thoughts on today’s episode with #GeekFreaksPodcast.

Links and Resources:
🌐 GeekFreaksPodcast.com – Your source for all news covered in our episodes
📢 Angel Hunter Kickstarter – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/angelhunter/angel-hunter

Follow Us:
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📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast
🐦 Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspod
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💖 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcast

Apple Podcast Tags:
comics, indie comics, horror comics, Rich Davis, Angel Hunter, dark fantasy, manga, kaiju, comic book interview, writing process, Kickstarter comics, Cult of Dracula, Nephilim, apocrypha, comic book podcast, storytelling, graphic novels

Frank Lourence welcomes Phil and James from Distance Nerding to celebrate their podcast joining the Geek Freaks Network! In this fun, fast-paced chat, they share how they launched during the pandemic, why they love recording live, their mission to create an inclusive nerd community, and what’s next for their YouTube and convention adventures. From Star Wars fandom to wild convention stories, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and big plans!

00:00 – Meet Phil and James of Distance Nerding
02:06 – Why they record live and embrace the chaos
05:48 – The four pillars of Distance Nerding
09:13 – Making every guest relatable
12:08 – Creating a safe space for fans
16:26 – Hosting cons and building community
22:48 – YouTube goals and future plans
28:42 – Upcoming interviews and con season preview
31:49 – Where to find Distance Nerding online

• Distance Nerding thrives on live shows and fan interaction.

• They’re all about positivity, humor, energy, and celebrating fandoms.

• Their interviews focus on making every guest relatable, from indie creators to celebrities.

• The team hosts and entertains at multiple comic cons across the West Coast.

• Big things are coming: more cons, YouTube growth, and deep-dive interviews!

"We want to recreate the term nerdy. Not just an adjective, but a verb!" — Phil

"The chaos is what draws people in—but it’s the outline that makes it work." — James

"We're fans first, and it shows in every conversation." — Phil

Enjoy the episode?

• Subscribe to Geek Freaks and Distance Nerding!

• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

• Share with friends using #DistanceNerdingOnGFN!

• Visit: GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest!

• Main site: GeekFreaksPodcast.com

• Follow Distance Nerding across socials: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch, TikTok, Threads, YouTube, Discord, and more!

Got geeky questions or topics you want us to cover? Hit us up anytime through our socials or at [email protected]!

Distance Nerding, geek culture, live podcast, comic cons, fan community, podcast interviews, pop culture, safe space for fans, nerdy podcast, Geek Freaks Network, Star Wars, YouTube growth, fandom positivity

In this episode, Frank is joined by Annalese and Rob, the dynamic duo behind the Nerd Best Friends podcast. They share the origins of their long-time friendship and how their passion for all things nerdy led to their podcast. From Dungeons & Dragons to fandom communities, they discuss how geek culture has evolved, the impact of the internet, and how podcasting has created a virtual space for nerds to connect. Plus, they dive into their production process, audience engagement, and some fun, rapid-fire questions about their favorite fictional universes and superpowers. Tune in for a lively and insightful conversation about celebrating geekdom in all its forms!

Check out Nerd Best Friends: https://linktr.ee/NerdBestFriendsPodcast

Timestamps and Topics:

• 00:00 - 00:07 | Intro and welcome to Annalese and Rob from Nerd Best Friends

• 00:07 - 01:16 | How Nerd Best Friends was born: A 30-year friendship turned podcast

• 01:16 - 02:09 | Creating a space for nerdy conversations: A virtual comic book cafe

• 02:09 - 02:33 | Rob’s early podcasting experience and the transition to a new show

• 02:33 - 03:17 | The evolution of geek culture and fandom acceptance

• 03:17 - 05:41 | The impact of the internet on geek culture and fan communities

• 05:41 - 07:02 | Producing a quality podcast: Editing, music, and professional standards

• 07:02 - 09:04 | Why high production value matters for their podcast

• 09:04 - 12:00 | The internet: A double-edged sword for community building

• 12:00 - 14:30 | How D&D and online gaming help people stay connected

• 14:30 - 16:15 | Conventions and blending real-world and online communities

• 16:15 - 19:13 | How they structure their episodes and choose topics

• 19:13 - 21:26 | Engaging with their audience: Nerd Mail and community interaction

• 21:26 - 24:10 | Fun rapid-fire questions: Fictional universes, superpowers, and geeky dreams

• 24:10 - 26:30 | Final thoughts and where to find Nerd Best Friends

Key Takeaways:

• The Nerd Best Friends podcast was born from a decades-long friendship and shared geeky interests.

• The internet has helped nerd culture thrive, allowing communities to form around every fandom imaginable.

• Producing a quality podcast requires careful editing, sound design, and professional standards.

• The stigma around being a geek has faded, making way for more open and enthusiastic fan interactions.

• Podcasting and online gaming help maintain friendships and foster a sense of belonging in fandoms.

• D&D and other tabletop RPGs have evolved into multi-generational experiences that bring people together.

Memorable Quotes:

• "You can be nerdy about anything and everything, and that’s what makes it so special." – Annalese

• "We all dreamed of owning a comic book cafe, so we made it virtual with this podcast." – Rob

• "The internet can be a powerful tool for connection, just as much as it can be isolating." – Frank

• "I used to think about fictional universes I’d want to live in—until I realized how dangerous they all are!" – Rob

• "If I could have any power, I’d freeze time to actually catch up on work and take naps." – Annalese

Call to Action:Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe to Geek Freaks Podcast and Nerd Best Friends! Leave us a review and share your favorite moments using #GeekFreaksPodcast on social media.

Links and Resources:

• Geek Freaks Podcast – Your source for all things geek!

• [Nerd Best Friends Podcast]https://linktr.ee/NerdBestFriendsPodcast

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• Twitter: @geekfreakspod

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Listener Questions:Got a question or a topic you’d love us to cover? Send us your thoughts on social media or email us at (INSERT EMAIL). We love hearing from you!

Apple Podcast Tags:Nerd Culture, Geek Podcasts, Dungeons & Dragons, Fandom, Pop Culture, Podcasting, Video Games, Movies, Comic Books, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Tabletop RPG, Internet Culture, Nostalgia

Dive into the vibrant world of anime as host Frank sits down with Anime Plus co-hosts Aray and Aunn to explore everything from classic series to groundbreaking live-action adaptations. In this episode, the conversation spans personal journeys, industry insights, and how anime has evolved from a niche passion into a mainstream phenomenon.

In this engaging episode, Frank welcomes Aray and Aunn—the dynamic duo behind the Anime Plus podcast. Together, they share how their shared love for series like One Piece and Demon Slayer sparked a community that now includes both casual watchers and die-hard fans. They dive into:

• The origin story of Anime Plus and its roots in personal experiences and shared interests.
• The contrasting perspectives of deep-dive, fact-based analysis versus a more casual, experiential approach.
• The evolution of anime culture, including the impact of live-action adaptations and streaming services on the industry.
• Insights into community-building and what the future holds for the anime landscape.

• 00:00 – 00:00:23: Intro & Announcement
  Frank introduces the new Anime Plus podcast joining the GeekFreaks network.

• 00:00:23 – 00:01:03: Meet the Hosts
  Aray and Aunn introduce themselves and outline their focus on anime, manga, and industry news.

• 00:01:03 – 00:02:03: Podcast Segments & Perspectives
  Discussion on their dual approach: one host brings in-depth anime facts while the other offers a more casual viewer’s perspective.

• 00:02:03 – 00:04:00: Origin Story & Community Bonding
  How a shared love for One Piece and early school experiences led to the creation of Anime Plus.

• 00:04:00 – 00:06:00: Anime Fandom: Casual vs. Hardcore
  Exploring the spectrum of anime enthusiasts—from casual mainstream viewers to dedicated, all-season followers.

• 00:06:00 – 00:08:16: Evolving Anime Preferences
  Shifts in viewing habits and the exploration of new genres beyond traditional fighting and adventure anime.

• 00:08:16 – 00:10:02: Behind the Mic: Podcasting Insights
  The challenges and learnings of starting an anime podcast, especially in the post-COVID era.

• 00:10:02 – 00:14:00: Debates on Animation Style & Live Action
  A lively discussion on whether Western adaptations like Avatar: The Last Airbender and live-action remakes fit the anime mold.

• 00:14:00 – 00:20:00: Live-Action Adaptations & Industry Trends
  A critical look at live-action adaptations—highlighting Netflix’s One Piece series—and what these trends mean for anime’s future.

• 00:20:00 – 00:27:00: The Future of Anime & Streaming Wars
  How streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll are reshaping the industry and expanding its global reach.

• 00:27:00 – 00:36:50: Community, Culture & Future Plans
  Discussion on community-building, upcoming projects, and the overall evolution of anime from underground to mainstream.

• Diverse Perspectives: Anime appeals to both casual viewers and dedicated fans, each engaging with the medium in unique ways.
• Live Action vs. Animation: Live-action adaptations, such as Netflix’s One Piece, serve as gateways to the anime world, despite the inevitable differences from the original animated format.
• Cultural Evolution: Anime has grown from a niche interest into a celebrated mainstream phenomenon embraced by celebrities, athletes, and diverse global communities.

“When you go to a new school and discover someone who’s a die-hard One Piece fan, that bond locks you in—anime isn’t just a show, it’s a way of life.”
– Aunn

“Anime is becoming fully accepted. It’s not just for the geeks anymore—it’s the new cool thing to do.”
– Aunn

Love what you heard? Subscribe now, leave a 5-star review, and share this episode on social media using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Your support helps us continue to bring you the latest news and in-depth discussions from the world of anime!

Join Anime Plus: https://linktr.ee/animepluspodcast