#390: In this episode, the GT Radio team dives into how the language we use to talk about media can either build connection or shut it down. Using recent reactions to Deadpool & Wolverine, longtime fandom debates, and a painfully honest story about Ready Player One, the hosts explore how personal taste, rejection sensitivity, authenticity, and power dynamics intersect when we share opinions. The conversation looks at why “objective” criticism can feel dismissive, how negative reactions hit harder than positive ones, and why curiosity matters more than being right—especially in therapeutic, educational, and close personal relationships. Ultimately, the episode reframes media discussions as opportunities to understand people better, not score points or assert dominance.

Characters / Media Mentioned

• Deadpool & Wolverine
• Deadpool
• Wolverine
• Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
• Ready Player One (novel and film)
• The Office
• Hamilton
• Steven Universe
• Pearl (Steven Universe)
• Assassin’s Creed
• Avatar: The Last Airbender (live-action film)
• The Bear
• Captain Marvel
• Black Widow
• The Marvels
• The Eternals
• Batman (multiple film versions)
• A Star Is Born (all film adaptations)
• The Legend of Zelda
• Sonic the Hedgehog (films and animated series)
• Masters of the Universe (1987 film)
• Dragonball Evolution
• Percy Jackson & the Olympians (films)

Themes / Topics Discussed

• Language and Meaning
• Subjectivity vs. Objectivity
• Media Preferences
• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria
• Authenticity
• Power Dynamics
• Social Connection
• Media Criticism
• Online Discourse
• Negativity Bias
• Marketing and Engagement
• Curiosity vs. Judgment

Relatable Experiences Discussed

• Feeling Judged for Liking Something
• Being Shamed for Disliking Popular Media
• Holding Back Opinions to Avoid Conflict
• Strong Emotional Reactions to Criticism
• Navigating Fandom Spaces
• Feeling “Wrong” for Personal Taste
• Wanting to Be Understood
• Learning to Ask for Consent Before Sharing Opinions

Want to keep the conversation going? Share your experiences with being judged for your taste—or catching yourself yucking someone else’s yum—in the GT community.
Connect with the Geek Therapy Network:

• Website: https://geektherapy.org
• Community Forums: https://forum.geektherapy.org
• Social Media: @GeekTherapy

When was the last time someone reacted strongly to something you loved?
How do you usually respond when someone dislikes a piece of media that’s meaningful to you?
What language helps you feel understood rather than judged when talking about media you care about?