That Nerd Thing

00:57 Diving Deep into Bridgerton Season 3: Spoilers Ahead!

03:54 First Impressions: Bridgerton Season 3 Unpacked

14:18 Episode-by-Episode Breakdown Begins

01:09:45 The Carriage Scene

01:25:10 Predictions and Hopes for the Second Half of the Season

Follow #Millennial! 

Tiktok: @millennialpod 

Instagram: @millennialshow 

Listen to #Millennial Podcast: Millennialshow.com

Follow Pam!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pamelagocobachi/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@pamelagocobachi

Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamelagocobachi

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your Bridgerton-loving friends!

01:12 Introducing Chloe Laverson

03:17 From Harry Potter to Webkinz

05:50 The Impact of Stories on Well-being and Mental Health

06:47 Diving Deep into Favorite Fandoms: Harry Potter, Barbie, and More

09:31 Seasonal Fandom Favorites and the Magic of Reading

12:46 The Joy of Community in Fandoms

20:27 From Listener to Influencer

25:02 Meeting Fandom Influencers in Real Life

28:19 Embracing Your Inner Nerd

29:05 The Joy of Being Unapologetically Yourself

29:42 Haters Are Really Fans

33:23 Celebrity Encounters and Fandom Moments

42:02 What Being a Nerd Really Means

47:25 Geeky Recommendations and Closing Thoughts

Follow Chloe:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chloelaverson

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloelaverson

Podcasts Mentioned: 

https://thoseforkingfangirls.com/

https://mugglecast.com/

https://millennialshow.com/

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

In this episode, Morgan interviews Andrea Towers, an accomplished author, editor, and writer with extensive experience in the entertainment industry, having worked with TV Guide Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, Nerdist, and Marvel Entertainment. Andrea shares her journey through various fandoms, from her early obsession with The Phantom of the Opera and The X-Files to Rent and writing Geek Girls Don’t Cry and the Gamer Girls series. She offers insights into the intersection of her professional life and nerdy interests, highlighting how her genuine fan perspective enriches her work. Andrea's story is a testament to how fandoms can impact one's identity and lead to fulfilling careers and lifelong friendships.

00:25 Meet Andrea Towers: Entertainment Journalist

02:06 Andrea's Professional Journey: From Marvel to TV Guide

03:08 Nerdy Identity: From Broadway to X-Files

08:38 The Transformative Power of Fandoms in Andrea's Life

16:54 Embracing Nerdiness: Mugs, Memorabilia, and More

21:39 Andrea's Professional Journey: Writing, Fandom, and Finding Her Path

26:08 Cosplay: A Creative Outlet for Fandom Love

33:22 Living the Dream: Reflecting on a Life Shaped by Fandom

36:13 Fandom Today: A Mix of Exhaustion and Fulfillment

45:21 Geeky Recommendations and Embracing Your Nerdiness

Follow Andrea Towers:

Website: http://www.andrea-towers.com/

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/_atowers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_andreatowers/

Check out Andrea’s books:

http://www.andrea-towers.com/books

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod

⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

In this episode, Morgan interviews author Carly Anne West about her journey as a writer. Carly shares her nerdy passions, like Star Trek: The Next Generation, and dives deep into her love of office supplies. She talks about her passion for scary stories, the writing process, finding an agent, and the different paths to publishing. Carly also encourages everyone to embrace their nerdy identity and to be unapologetically yourself. Be sure to pre-order Carly’s upcoming book “The Ghosts of Nameless Island” today!

00:18 Welcome to That Nerd Thing: Introducing Carly Anne West

02:36 The Ghosts of Nameless Island

04:03 Star Trek: The Next Generation

06:27 The Joy of To-Do Lists

08:56 Office Supplies: A Writer's Underrated Passion

13:45 Carly's Writing Journey

16:10 Navigating the Publishing World

17:44 The Art of Catching an Agent's Eye

19:14 Navigating the Publishing World

20:48 The Rollercoaster of a Writing Career

23:01 Embracing the Full-Time Writing Life

23:53 Inside the World of Book Publishing

26:05 Finding Inspiration and Identifying as a YA Author

28:43 The Impact of Being an Author

31:03 Exploring the Publishing Landscape

32:34 Nerd Culture and Embracing Your Authentic Self

33:40 Geeky Recommendations and Encouraging Nerdiness

35:52 Concluding Thoughts and Where to Find Carly

Follow Carly Anne West:

Website: ​​https://carlyannewest.com/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carlyannewestwrites

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlyannewest

Check out Carly’s books: https://carlyannewest.com/books/

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

In this episode, Morgan interviews Allissa AKA shebereadinthembooks, a popular Black BookTok activist and a Literary Activist of the Year nominee for the 2024 AAMBC Literary Awards. Allissa discusses her advocacy for literary diversity, challenges faced by BIPOC authors, and the positive influence of social media in amplifying diverse voices and stories.

00:58 A Deep Dive into Booktok and Bookstagram with Allissa

03:40 Nerdy Identity: From SpongeBob to Sci-Fi

07:10 The Power of Representation in Black-Authored Sci-Fi and Fantasy Books

09:58 Underrated and Random Nerdy Loves: NPR to Pokémon

13:07 Navigating Fandom and Social Media: A Personal Journey

15:28 The Unique World of Black BookTalk

21:25 Navigating Fame and Impact in the BookTok Community

26:51 BookTok: A Space of Fun, Learning, and Occasional Challenges

28:28 Reflecting on Book Reviews and Uplifting Voices

29:07 Engaging with Students and Social Media Dynamics

30:49 The Impact of Reading and Teaching on Life

38:18 Embracing Nerdiness

43:16 Advice for Aspiring Content Creators

46:56 Closing Thoughts and Contact Info

Follow Allissa at shebereadinthembooks:

Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

In this episode, Morgan interviews Dean Ravenola, Narrative & Creative Director of Neopets. Also known as TNT Aesop, Dean’s writing has appeared in video games, short stories, books, graphic novels, animated shorts, and much more!

Dean shares his journey from being a book and video game enthusiast to shaping the stories of Neopets and being the “lore keeper.” He discusses the importance and focus on fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the Neopets universe. Dean delves into how fandoms like Hercules, Sly Cooper, and Star Wars have influenced his nerdy identity. Hear Morgan and Dean talk about nerdy interests like What We Do In The Shadows, The Way of the Househusband, Invincible, and various other TV Shows! Listen to the episode to hear Dean share more about his unconventional career trajectory and all of his creative endeavors. 

00:24 Meet Dean Ravenola: A Multifaceted Storyteller

02:08 Exploring Dean's First Fandom Loves

03:12 Dean's Fascination with World Building

04:53 Favorite Nerdy Things: Neopets and Beyond

06:24 The Impact of Neopets and Fandom Evolution

16:00 Dean's Journey from Reader to Narrative Director

20:53 Embracing the Nerd Awakening

23:53 Journey Through Game Writing: From Neopets to How to Train Your Dragon

25:50 The Challenges and Triumphs of Game Development

27:08 Navigating a Career in Creative Writing

38:17 Embracing Fandom: From Personal Joy to Professional Fulfillment

41:51 The Essence of Being a Nerd 

44:49 Geeky Recommendations

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-ravenola

Twitter - https://twitter.com/dean_ravenola

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dean_ravenola/

https://deanravenola.com/

Check out Dean’s short films!

YouTube - https://youtube.com/@Surrealms?feature=shared

Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@surrealmsshorts?_t=8lN1YRfkBwc&_r=1

Purchase Dean’s YA Fantasy Novel:

Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Aether-Warriors-Hidden-War-Book/dp/1478700602

Barnes and Noble - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/aether-warriors-dean-ravenola/1117308491

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

Journey into the world of fandoms, writing, and body positivity as Morgan interviews YA fantasy author Ria Parisi. The discussion covers Ria's inspirations, experiences in cosplay, writing journey, and advocacy for plus-sized inclusivity. They discuss Disney Parks, young adult (YA) literature, the transformative experience of cosplay, and the intricacies of writing. Ria also shares their initial fascination with Star Wars and her involvement in The Rebel Legion. Don’t forget to pre-order and check out Ria’s upcoming book, “Of Wolves and Stags” available March 2025!

00:50 Introducing Ria Parisi: A Journey into YA Fantasy

01:47 From Star Wars Fandom to Cosplay Passion

04:58 Exploring the World of Cosplay: Creativity and Community

06:18 Ria Parisi's Upcoming Projects: A Glimpse into Future Tales

07:48 A Deep Dive into Nerdy Loves: Disney Parks and Beyond

11:11 The Stormlight Archive Series and Mental Health Representation

15:30 Uncovering Hidden Gems: The Inhumans and Personal Nerdy Favorites

19:59 The Origin Story: From Roleplay to Published Author

26:02 Navigating the Publishing World: A Personal Journey

30:33 Promoting Body Positivity Through Writing and Cosplay

31:35 Facing Fandom's Dark Side: A Cosplay Experience

40:01 Embracing Nerd Culture and Its Impact

43:12 Geeky Recommendations: From Hazbin Hotel to Bridgerton

48:31 Looking Forward: Importance of Pre-Orders

Pre-order and add Of Wolves and Stags to your Goodreads list today! 
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/208390290-of-wolves-and-stags
https://www.wordsmakeart.com/products/of-wolves-and-stags

Ria’s Website: https://www.riaparisi.com/

Follow Ria on Social Media: 

https://www.instagram.com/riathewolfwrites/

https://www.tiktok.com/@riathewolfwrites

https://twitter.com/ria_thewolf

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

In this episode of That Nerd Thing, Morgan interviews horror author Eric Otero and they discuss his journey as a writer and his passion for horror. They explore the influence of his blue-collar job on his writing and his journey into becoming a horror author.  Eric even shares a SPOOKY experience from when he was a teenager! 

Eric also goes deep into sharing his fascination with the Japanese military science fiction media franchise, Gundam, and he even explains the history behind the franchise. He explains how you can join the fandom and ways to participate in the Gundam community. 

Eric explores his other nerdy interests like lepidopterology, nurturing butterflies, and the influences of Christian mysticism in his writing.  The episode also touches on the broader topic of starting to write later in life, facing insecurities as an author, and the power of niche communities online for embracing one's nerdiness.

00:18 Welcome and Introduction

00:48 Diving into Horror with Author Eric Otero

01:54  Exploring Eric's Creations: From Body Horror to Cosmic Mysteries

06:17 Unraveling the Depths of Nerdy Identity

06:20 Unpacking Gundam: A Deep Dive into Mecha and Its Impact

13:32 Embracing Nerdiness: Finding Community and Overcoming Isolation

16:00 Embracing the Indie Writing Journey

17:47 Eric's Unexpected Nerdy Passion: Lepidopterology

19:30 A Shift in Popularity: From Small Town to Comic Book Expert

21:05 Exploring Christian Mysticism and Personal Fears

22:51 A Childhood Fascinated by the Paranormal

23:21 A Mysterious Encounter in the Woods: A Personal Horror Story

26:37 From Isolation to Creative Writing

27:45 The Challenges and Triumphs of Writing

29:14 Embracing Vulnerability: Sharing Creative Work with the World

33:22 Navigating Fandoms: Gundam and Beyond

39:39 The Essence of Being a Nerd: Passion and Inclusivity

41:18 Geeky Recommendations: Embracing Horror and Sci-Fi

42:55 Connecting with the Author: Social Media and Final Thoughts

Follow Eric Otero at: 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHowlingBetweenWorlds

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/e.m._otero/

Check out Eric’s work and stories!

https://nightmaredownloads.com/products/between-the-panels-by-eric-otero

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

⁠⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

Surprise! In this special episode of That Nerd Thing, Morgan, the show's host, has an in-depth and candid conversation with her friend Tamara, delving into the podcast’s inception and growth.

Morgan, a therapist by profession and a podcast enthusiast, shares her journey towards embracing her nerdy interests openly and creating a podcast as a platform for others to celebrate their nerdy identities too. They touch upon various fandoms, including Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Back to the Future, The Office, Bridgerton, and many others, revealing how fandoms can spark joy, build connections, and even save lives.

Morgan shares her journey of starting the podcast, her experiences with guests, and how nerdiness has evolved over time. Additionally, the episode touches on rejection of traditional online business models in favor of passion-driven content. Tamara provides a unique outsider perspective, prompting Morgan to reflect on personal anecdotes, the growth of the podcast, and aspirations for future episodes. Together, they explore the essence of nerd culture, emphasizing the inclusivity, passion, and joy it brings to people's lives.

00:18 Welcome to a Special Episode: Unscripted Conversations with Tamara Howell

01:56 Defining Nerdiness and Its Evolution

04:11 From Passion to Profession: The Joy of Doing What You Love

09:17 The Journey to Starting a Podcast

11:24 Overcoming Fears and Embracing the Podcasting Process

22:53 The Unexpected Joys and Challenges of Podcasting

31:09 Behind the Scenes: Organizing and Pitching for the Podcast

33:44 Dreaming of Interviewing David Tennant

34:42 The Joy of Nerd Culture and Fandoms

36:25 Reflecting on Podcast Experiences and Listener Engagement

40:47 Exploring Personal Nerdy Passions

42:22 The Importance of Community in Fandoms

43:18 The Creative Process Behind 'That Nerd Thing' Podcast

48:55 The Making of 'That Nerd Thing' Podcast

51:49 Supporting and Sharing the Podcast

01:01:16 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!

In this episode, Morgan interviews award-winning and bestselling storyteller Matt Eicheldinger. Transitioning from a teaching profession to a full-time author, Matt opens up about embracing his creative side, the significant changes it brought into his life, and his aspirations to give back to the community through storytelling. Matt discusses his love for storytelling, gaming, and even whittling wood! Don’t forget to check out the first book in The Matt Sprouts Series…Matt Sprouts and The Curse of The Ten Broken Toes!

00:18 Introducing Matt Eicheldinger

01:30 The Matt Sprouts Series

02:30 Diving into Matt’s Nerdy Identity: From Ninja Turtles to Whittling Wood

05:48 Exploring the Depths of Creativity

10:25 Exploring the Depths of Nerdy Interests: Video Games, Comics, and More

12:53 The Underrated and Random Nerdy Sides of Matt

15:13 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Publishing and Going Viral

16:36 The Art of Storytelling: Connecting Through Creativity and Comedy

20:40 Navigating the World of Social Media

31:09 The Unpredictable Path of a Teacher Turned Author

34:08 The Power of Crowdfunding and Community Support

37:03 The Breakthrough: Securing an Agent and a Book Deal

39:12 Reflections on Teaching, Writing, and Personal Growth

43:38 The Creative Process and Embracing New Beginnings

46:46 Building a Community: The Importance of Support and Mentorship

53:13 Reflections on Storytelling and Personal Growth

57:23 The Surprising Journey of Becoming an Author

01:00:25 Embracing Nerdiness: Finding Community and Learning from Others

01:03:08 Final Thoughts and Geeky Recommendations

Order Matt Sprouts and The Curse of The Ten Broken Toes: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Books a Million / Bookshop / Target

Check out Matt’s Website: ⁠https://matteicheldinger.com/

Follow Matt on Social Media! 

Follow That Nerd Thing at:

⁠TikTok: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠Instagram: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

⁠YouTube: @thatnerdthingpod⁠

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to share this podcast with your nerdy friends!