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Tales from the Fandom

David Ginsburg

Tales from the Fandom is a podcast that explores fandoms with a different guest each week. Each guest brings their own insight into fandom. We discuss topics such as television shows, movies, books, cosplaying and more.

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20 episodes
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Avg 1 hr 10 min
English

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#473
Monday · 57 min
Episode 473: Carolina Cardona aka TheTropicalEccentric Returns and talks about her work as an author
A little over 2 years have passed, and author Carolina Cardona returns to the podcast. It doesn't feel that long, as its been a pleasure seeing what Carolina had been doing since we last talked. We get to catch up and talk about what the past 2 years have looked like for Carolina. From her novel, Andujar: The Robot Gentleman of San Juan being translated into Spanish, as well as being taught as part of the curriculum in a course at the University of Puerto Rico. Imagine my surprise when the person who loves robots drops a bombshell that she was working on a novel set in the 14th century involving plague doctors and a 9 year old nun. Carolina and I talk about "The Plague Doctor & The Littlest Sister", which was released online and available for free via HoneyFeed (link below!). We talk about the novel that she calls a cozy fantasy during the time of the Black Death, and what you can find with 3 plague doctors, the 9 year old nun, a disgraced Templar Knight, and the mysteries happening around them. We then wrap up by talking about what she's working on for the future, what you can expect, and so much more! You can read The Plague Doctor & The Littlest Sister here: https://www.honeyfeed.fm/novels/33517 You can find Andújar: The Robot Gentleman of San Juan at Amazon, Kindle Unlimited, Barnes and Noble, and Ingram Spark. https://amzn.to/4aTlhUq You can find Carolina at: https://www.carolinacardona.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thetropicaleccentric/ https://www.threads.net/@thetropicaleccentric You can listen to Carolina's first episode here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-364-carolina-cardona-aka-thetropicaleccentric-talks-anime-japan-and-her-work-as-an-author
#472
September 21 · 1 hr 5 min
Episode 472: Pluribus Season 1 Discussion with Phil Rood
Artist and Podcaster Phil Rood returns for his 3rd episode as we talk about Vince Gilligan's latest TV series, Pluribus. The show that we had no idea what it really was about until we watched the show. Spoilers abound, so if you haven't watched the series, you may want to skip this episode. Both Phil and I enjoy Gilligan's previous shows, Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. We also championed the wonderful Rhea Seehorn from Better Call Saul and were psyched to see her cast in this latest series. Phil and I talk about the whole series, from the story, to the respective main and supporting characters (and cast). Phil gets deep with the show and hits some discussion topics that I didn't even think about. It'll make you think and go "hmmmmm" We also discuss what we'd like to see (or not see) in the second season, which most likely won't release until late 2027 or 2028. Listen and let us know your thoughts on the series! You can listen to Phil's previous episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-325-better-call-saul-breaking-bad-with-phil-rood https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-214-phil-rood-talks-breaking-bad-better-call-saul-game-of-thrones-and-usagi-yojimbo You can find Phil at: https://www.instagram.com/philrood75/ https://philroodart.com/ https://www.webtoons.com/en/canvas/road-runners/list?title_no=1113928&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAaduU4yN_dfAlAphqvA9XH6K4LOS0oX8fksMaCB9IZPuamQcLp0mxhAUq698Qw_aem_0GSlvoO8SbZAr-gXxnlXdA You can find The Picture Show with Austin and Phil Rood at: https://anchor.fm/phillip-rood
#471
September 14 · 1 hr 39 min
Episode 471: Jo aka MsArtsyAce talks FIFA World Cup & Football, House of the Dragon, and Cosplay
After stumbling across Jo aka MsArtsyAce on Threads back in December of 2025 and falling in love with her cosplay work, she joins me as a guest. This episode was recorded during the FIFA World Cup, and there are references to the game happening at the time (Mexico vs Ecuador) throughout the episode. With that in mind, we kicked things off by talking about the FIFA World Cup, and Football in general. We both talked about tuning in to the various matches throughout the month at the time, and what draws us in. Jo and I talk about what teams we were rooting for, some of the history of the world cup and changes to the game this year. Jo also talks about the disparities between teams from different nations, and we have a conversation about racism and affluence in the FIFA World Cup, and in the sport in general. Jo also talks about her attention to the sport after the world cup is over, which leagues she may or may not watch, and more. We then go from Mexico to Westeros, as we talk about House of the Dragon. Jo talks about how she got into the series, her experience with watching Game of Thrones, and characters that she loves from the series. We also talk about some of the casting of the series (Hello Steve Toussaint, aka Lord Corlys Velaryon, and Clinton Liberty aka Addam of Hull), stories we'd love to see explored in Game of Thrones series (I seriously learned about things I didn't know thanks to Jo, and did lots of Wiki-diving after the episode). Recorded during the early part of this season, we do speculate about what was to come. Tell us how we did! Jo and I then wrap up by talking about Cosplay. We talk about how she got into cosplay, the characters she's cosplayed, competing and winning a Judges Award at C2E2, and what she's working on in the future. You can find Jo at: https://www.instagram.com/msartsyace/ https://linktr.ee/msartsyace https://www.threads.com/@msartsyace
#470
September 7 · 1 hr 22 min
Episode 470: Ten Year Anniversary Special with Joshua aka HylianDescent of Hyrule Gaming Group
Joshua aka HylianDescent of Hyrule Gaming Group returns for his 6th episode as guest host for our 10 Year Anniversary Special. I join him as the guest, as we get into the 10 years of Tales from the Fandom. We talk about the eras of the podcast, from its early episodes to its COVID years, along with some memorable guests. We both talk about how much work content creation is, and the behind the scenes of the podcast (and my continued dislike of editing). One of the big things is a discussion about my personal cornerstones/pillars of fandom that I'll always come back to - even if I'm not in them as much as other creators (hello Lord of the Rings creators, you all rock!) We also talk about some fandoms that surprised me, and he asks me a hard hitting question to round things out. On the tail end, I resume host mode and ask Hylian about two of his most recently played games (at the time of recording), Solarpunk, and Pokemon Pokopia. I also find out some future games that he's interested in playing off stream. You can find Joshua at: https://www.twitch.tv/hyliandescent https://www.instagram.com/hyliandescent/ https://www.instagram.com/hyrulegg/ https://t.co/4kqVCNPl1r?amp=1 You can listen to his first five episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-388-joshua-aka-hyliandescent-of-hyrule-gaming-group-returns-as-we-talk-video-games-his-twitch-growth-and-balancing-hylian-and-joshua https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-337-joshua-aka-hyliandescent-of-hyrule-gaming-group-returns-as-we-talk-twitch-video-games-and-self-care https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-268-joshua-aka-hylian-descent-of-hyrule-gaming-group-returns-to-talk-twitch-community-evolution-and-animal-crossing https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-197-joshua-aka-hylian-descent-of-hyrule-gaming-group-returns-to-talk-twitch-animal-crossing-and-community-building https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-156-joshua-aka-hylian-descent-of-hyrule-gaming-group
#469
July 27 · 1 hr
Episode 469: Reina Valentine returns and talks Fandom and Cosplay
Reina Valentine returns to the podcast for her 6th episode as we get to catch up and talk fandom. In the title, you'd normally see the fandoms we'd be talking about. Funny (or unfunny) thing is, Reina has said that she's not currently a part of any fandom - and that is what we are discussing on the episode. We talk about how Reina pulling back from fandoms happened, with shows like Game of Thrones, The Acolyte, and Shadow and Bone, and the reasoning for each is different - but heavy is the heart that throws down for fandoms like Reina did. So she made that decision to step back from that fandom spaces. You'll get to hear about the what's and the why's, and how things are going now. Reina also updates us about her cosplay, now that she's regained control of her Instagram. We talk about several cosplays that have yet to be shot and posted, like one of Rose's Titanic outfits, and the work that went into creating it. We discuss some of the other cosplays she's done, along with some potential future cosplays. You can find Reina at: https://www.instagram.com/reinavalentinecosplay/ You can listen to Reina's previous episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-166-reina-valentine-cosplay https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/fandom-friday-live-show-with-reina-valentine-cosplay-talking-game-of-thrones-on-getvokl-july-17-2020 https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/fandom-friday-live-show-with-reina-valentine-cosplay-talking-dc-fandome-and-dragoncon-on-getvokl-august-28-2020 https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/shadow-and-bone-season-1-review-part-1-with-reina-valentine https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/shadow-and-bone-season-1-review-part-2-with-reina-valentine
#468
July 20 · 55 min
Episode 468: Selena aka itsselenachea returns and talks Spider-Man, Bridgerton, Cosplay, and more!
Selena aka itsselenachea on socials returns to the podcast after 4 years as we get to catch up and talk about old and new fandoms! We start things off by talking about the Spider-Man fandom. This episode releases one week before Spider-Man: Brand New Day, and we discuss potential things that may or may not happen in the movie. We also talk about Tom Holland and how many movies he may still do as the beloved Peter Parker. We also talk about the animated side of things with talk about Spider-Man: Beyond the Spiderverse, releasing (potentially) in June 2027. Selena and I also discuss Cindy Moon, aka Silk, and how we hope that we see her in future media. From there, we promenade, stick out our pinky fingers, and talk about Bridgerton. Selena talks about when she got into Bridgerton and what attracted her to the Netflix series. We spend some time talking about the latest season, featuring Sophie and Benedict, and how much representation means in media. We then talk all about Selena! From her name change on social media over the past 4 years, what she's been doing in front of and behind the camera, social media, and Cospaly. It's wonderful to hear what Selena has done and is doing, and I'm glad she said yes to coming back. You can find Selena at: https://www.instagram.com/itsselenachea/ https://linktr.ee/itsselenachea https://www.tiktok.com/@itsselenachea https://www.threads.com/@itsselenachea You can listen to Selena's original episode here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-261-cindy-aka-cindymooooooon-talks-marvel-the-mcu-spider-man-the-spider-verse-over-the-garden-wall-and-cosplay
#467
July 13 · 1 hr 11 min
Episode 467: Becca Bix of WomenPlayDND talks Romantasy Books, and Dungeons & Dragons
I had stumbled across Becca's Threads account, WomenPlayDND, awhile back. I loved what she was doing with getting new players into Dungeons and Dragons and breaking people out of the rule book and getting them to the table. It was a pleasure having her join me on the podcast to talk about this, and more! We start things off by talking about the Romantasy book genre. We talk about some of her early reads, and what draws her to the Romantasy genre. Becca also talks about how characters are portrayed, storylines, and more. I recommended previous guest, Gabriella Buba's "Saints of Storm and Sorrow", and we even had a non-Romantasy book mentioned that I grew up with (Redwall, by Brian Jacques) Then we get into, you guessed it, Dungeons and Dragons. Becca talks about her early experiences getting into D&D, along with what kept her from the table and enjoying the game. She talks about how she found inspiration online, to then finding groups that worked for her and her play style, along with characters that she plays. We also talk about some of the past issues with D&D, the barriers and gatekeeping of getting into the game, and how she's worked on a system to teach others D&D and helping to make it more accessible, founding Women Play DND. You can find Becca at: https://www.womenplaydnd.co/ https://www.instagram.com/womenplaydnd/ https://www.threads.com/@womenplaydnd
#466
July 6 · 38 min
Episode 466: Dr. Anna Eskamani talks Star Wars and Politics
Dr. Anna Eskamani, Florida native, and current Florida House of Representatives member for District 42 (in Orange County, as of release in July of 2026 - her term expires in November 2026), and currently running for Mayor of Orlando (election in 2027) joins me to talk about one of her favorite fandoms. We split the episode in two. We focus first on Star Wars. Dr. Eskamani talks about how she got interested in the franchise. From the movies to TV shows, books, video games, and more. We talk about how she watched her older brother play Star Wars video games, and how she's love to revisit the Knights of the Old Republic games if she had time. We talk about the themes of Andor, meeting Diego Luna at MegaCon in Orlando, and reflect on the messages that Star Wars has. Plus we even talk about her current (and future) Star Wars tattoo's! The theme of Star Wars leads us into talking about politics, and Dr. Eskamani's time in Florida politics. We talk about how she first got into advocacy and activism. From her work with Planned Parenthood after graduating from the University of Central Florida, to then being elected to the Florida House of Representatives and her work in that chamber. We talk about supporting local businesses, and why she's decided to run for Mayor of Orlando after working 8 years in the House (with term limits). Throughout this episode, you'll find themes of family, passion, and of hope. You can find Dr. Eskamani at: https://www.instagram.com/annafororlando/ https://www.instagram.com/annaforflorida/ https://www.annafororlando.com/ https://bit.ly/m/annaforflorida
#465
June 29 · 1 hr 10 min
Episode 465: Hazel the Writer returns and talks Live Action Roleplaying, Game of Thrones, and Cosplay
Hazel aka HazeltheWriter on social media returns to the podcast after 5 years as we get to catch up and talk about some new fandoms! After recording 5 years ago, Hazel moved to England for some time, and has now moved back stateside. While over in England, she got interested in Live Action Roleplaying. If you're thinking of boffer style games, then you're about to learn what kind of games Hazel found herself in. First swept up into Lord of the Rings / Hobbit style games, Hazel branched off into Game of Thrones themed games. We talked about her weekend adventures, overnighting at these events, and how with the Game of Thrones stories, they were set with alternate histories so events could be changed. While getting into these Game of Thrones LARP's, it was only fitting for Hazel to get into the series to learn more about these characters. We talked about her experience with Game of Thrones all these years later, favorite house, favorite characters, and a lot more. Then we wrapped up by revisiting Cosplay. Hazel talks about her time cosplaying in England, doing some larger group projects, and what she's working on now and what you can expect to see from her in the future. You can find Hazel at: https://www.instagram.com/hazelthewriter/ https://hazelthewriter.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HazelTheWriterFB You can listen to Hazel's original episode here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-218-hazel-the-writer-talks-marvel-cinematic-universe-avatar-the-last-airbender-pixars-cars-and-cosplay
#464
June 22 · 1 hr 23 min
Episode 464: Kate aka TheCloudyKate talks One Piece, Tabletop Roleplaying Games, Books & Fantasy Balls, and Cosplay
After quite some time, I'm pleased to have Kate aka TheCloudyKate join me as we get to talk about some of their favorite fandoms! We start things off by tackling One Piece. Kate talks to me about how and when they got into the series, and whether they're into the anime, the manga, or the live action. We talk about their watch parties with friends, their thoughts on the live action series and where it may or may not go, their favorite characters, and what the One Piece could end up being (though Kate threatens to quit if it becomes reality) Then we jump over to Tabletop Roleplaying Games. From their first games rolling dice, to the games they've played - from Dungeons and Dragons, to Call of Cthulhu, Vampire: The Masquerade, and more. Kate talks about home games, being a part of actual plays, and what draws them to these games. Plus, Kate reveals the type of character they love to play when given the chance. It's on to books, as Kate and I talk about the books they love, what they've read recently, and what they're drawn to. We also talk about the rise of fantasy balls / book events, being a part of them as a guest and as a character hired by these balls. Lastly, we wrap up our conversation talking about Cosplay. Kate talks about how they got started in the hobby, the characters they choose to cosplay, some of their favorites, and what they're working on for the future. You can find Kate at: https://www.instagram.com/thecloudykate/ https://linktr.ee/thecloudykate https://www.threads.com/@thecloudykate https://www.tiktok.com/@thecloudykate
#463
June 15 · 1 hr 17 min
Episode 463: Sadie Waycaster returns and talks old and new fandoms, and Cosplay
The first official returning guest of the 10th year of this podcast, Sadie Waycaster aka SadiebyDesign returns almost 9 years later as we get to catch up and talk about some past fandoms, new fandoms, and Cosplay! Sadie was one of my first guests back in 2016 and was a huge supporter of the podcast in its infancy. Ever since then, it has been a pleasure to know Sadie and follow her life and work and have someone I can call a friend. I knew I wanted her to return and she said yes, so here we are. We get to catch up first since it has been awhile since we talked, and then we cover a number of new fandoms that Sadie's into. These fandoms include (but are not limited to) Infinity Nikki, Witch Hat Atelier, Chinese dramas, Brandon Sanderson, The Knight and The Moth, Tusk Love, Dungeon Crawler Carl, and Project Hail Mary. Sadie also talks about the past several years with her cosplay work, her departure from Instagram and re-emergence on TikTok, and her plans to return to her website and blog/vlog. You can find Sadie at: https://www.facebook.com/sadiebydesign https://www.tiktok.com/@sadiebydesign https://www.sadiebydesign.com/ You can listen to Sadie's previous episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-12-sadie-geerligs https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/beauty-and-the-beast-review-with-sadie-geerligs https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/2017-retrospective-with-sadie-geerligs-of-sadie-by-design
#462
June 8 · 1 hr 33 min
Episode 462: ElectroCosplay talks Elder Scrolls, A Song of Ice and Fire / Game of Thrones, Dungeons and Dragons, and Cosplay
ElectroCosplay joins from New York to talk about some of her favorite fantastical fandoms, plus we're talking about Cosplay too! We start things off by talking about one of the biggest fantasy video games series, Elder Scrolls. Electro and I talk about how she got into the Elder Scrolls series, and we bounce around between talking about Skyrim, Elder Scrolls Online, and how she incorporates Elder Scrolls themes and idea into her real life decorating for her home. Plus, there is a request for Elder Scrolls 6 (take note Bethesda!) From there, Electro and I talk about George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, and its television counterparts, Game of Thrones. We talk about how she first got into ASOIAF, her thoughts on the books and a particular thought about just where the final books may be. We also talk about The Game of Thrones series, plus House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. All through that, we talk about the characters, the stories, and what story she'd love to see done. We then get to Dungeons and Dragons. Electro talks about how she got interested in the game thanks to Baldur's Gate (and fan fiction!). We talk about the kinds of characters she enjoys playing, some of her favorite spells, and what keeps her coming back to slinging dice and creating stories with others. Then we wrap up with Cosplay. She talks about how she got started with zero skills and how she built her skills and repertoire from the ground up. We talk about a number of her cosplay looks, including her Royal Cookie dress and all that went into designing and creating it. Plus we hear some behind the scenes stories about debuting her work at conventions and all that goes into navigating with a huge gown. You can find Electro at: https://www.instagram.com/electrocosplay/ https://linktr.ee/electrocosplay https://www.electrocosplay.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@electro_cosplay
#461
June 6 · 1 hr 6 min
Episode 461: Ali aka The Ali Way talks about his growth and evolution as a person & creator, and his brand
June 6th reflects the anniversary of Tales from the Fandom. This episode also serves as the 10 year anniversary, as well as the birthday of our returning guest, Ali aka The.Ali.Way Recorded back in February, Ali returns after nearly 3 years since his first episode. Our conversation focuses all about Ali and his journey as a creator. In our first episode, Ali seemed to be right at the start of reaching that brass ring in the content creator space. We now reflect on the years since that release. From attending movie premieres, working/partnering with brands to create content and reviews for them, and more. Ali talks about his experiences with them, as well as growing as a person and brand, and evolving. From bounding and dancing, to opportunities with modeling and working and walking in Toronto Fashion week. Throughout this conversation, we talk about how Ali is bridging the gap of who he was 3 years ago to who he is now. We talk about how he focuses on making sure that each post he makes fit not just his brand, but also for his community. He talks about creating with intention, being his authentic self, and pushing himself to new opportunities and growth. Ali is one of those people I just love to see in my feed. To see his continued success and I am just so happy that we were able to get back together to celebrate him! You can find Ali at: https://www.instagram.com/the.ali.way/ https://www.threads.com/@the.ali.way https://www.thealiway.me/ You can listen to Ali's original episode at: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/ep-331-ali-aka-the-ali-way-talks-disney-pixar-the-marvel-cinematic-universe-dance-and-bounding
#460
June 1 · 1 hr 22 min
Episode 460: Sara Moni Cosplay returns and talks X-Men, Monster High Dolls, Cosplay, and more!
Returning for a 3rd episode and to help us get closer to our 10th anniversary, Arizona cosplayer and creator Sara Moni Cosplay joins me. We originally recorded an episode in 2016 during my first year, and then she returned in 2020. Now here we are, reflecting on the past, present, and futures of our fandoms and passions. We kick things off with a through line through our previous conversations, as we once again return to the X-Men. We talk about the past several years of X-Men media, from movies like New Mutants, to X-Men 97, and the inclusion of X-Men characters in the MCU. Sara and I discuss what could be coming in the MCU with Doomsday, and what she'd like to see from the future of the X-Men and other mutants in the MCU. Sara and I also dip our toes into the comics by talking about the Krakoa run. From there, we talk about something new. Monster High doll collecting. We talk about how Sara's gotten into this new space of fandom and how her collection has grown and the process of adding to the collection. Plus, we talk about the characters lend themselves well to be cosplayed. We wrap up with a great overview of what Sara is doing now. We talk about her recent addition of streaming on Twitch to all the content she creates. Sara talks about what you can expect to find on her Twitch streams (which are really neat to sit and listen/watch). We also talk about her social media, her continued time in Cosplay over the past 10 years since I've been following her, and we reflect on the closure of JoAnn and how it has affected the cosplay community since. You can find SaraMoniCosplay at: https://www.instagram.com/saramonicosplay/ https://www.twitch.tv/saramonicosplay https://www.youtube.com/@saramonicosplay https://www.facebook.com/SaraMonicosplay https://saramoni.carrd.co/ You can listen to her previous episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-179-sara-moni-returns https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-28-sara-moni
#459
May 25 · 1 hr 50 min
Episode 459: Jessica of Rebellion of Hope Podcast talks Avatar: The Last Airbender, Star Wars, Podcasting, and more
TW: Mental Health discussions On the same day we celebrate the 49th anniversary of Star Wars, Jessica of Rebellion of Hope Podcast joins me to celebrate and talk about the famed fandom, plus a whole lot more! I've been following Jessica for quite some time from the lead up to launch of her Star Wars podcast, Rebellion of Hope. We finally were able to get together and I could host her on my podcast. We kick things off by decidely NOT talking about Star Wars, as we talk about Avatar: The Last Airbender. We mainly stay in the animated series realm, as we talk about how Jessica got into Avatar, favorite characters, what kind of bender she'd be, and the connection between this show and Star Wars media for her. Then, we travel to a fandom from a galaxy far, far away. We spend a lot of time talking about Star Wars. From how Jessica got into Star Wars, how it got her through tough times in life, and getting into the fandom more and more. We talk about a lot of the media, from Clone Wars, to the Mandalorian, The Acolyte, and more. We discuss the EU/Legends, and Disney's decision to move into their own choices with the Star Wars universe. We also talk about her Star Wars podcast, Rebellion of Hope, and what she has done/is doing as a positive voice in the Star Wars fandom. We also talk about Star Wars conventions, panels, and so much more. We also talk about Jessica's desire to strike out on her own and starting her own business, Asteria Outpost. You'll hear the background behind that, what Jessica does to source the items she sells for her brand, and being an entrepreneur in these times. You can find Jessica and Rebellion of Hope Podcast at: https://linktr.ee/rebellionofhope https://www.instagram.com/therebellionofhope/ https://www.threads.com/@therebellionofhope https://www.youtube.com/@therebellionofhope You can find Asteria Outpost at: https://asteriaoutpost.com/ https://www.instagram.com/asteriaoutpost/ https://www.threads.com/@asteriaoutpost
#458
May 18 · 1 hr 10 min
Episode 458: DaVaun Sanders talks his work as an Author, and Editor of FIYAH
Coming highly recommended, I'm joined by multi-hyphenate DaVaun Sanders as we explore the depths of his work as an author, along with taking a peek behind the scenes, as we delve into his work as an Editor. DaVaun and I start off by talking about how he got started in wordsmithing. From his early work in poetry to his first book idea which came to him, we explore that early time. Then, we talk about his middle grade series, Keynan Masters. I read the first book, so we tend to focus primarily on that one. DaVaun talks about how he got the idea for Keynan Masters, the magic system in the book series, and much more. Then we talk about two big names, Minecraft and Marvel. DaVaun talks about how he ended up writing for both properties, who his favorite characters were to write for the Marvel "What If... The Multiverse Was Doomed", and more. Then we take a look behind the words with DaVaun's work as an editor of FIYAH, a quarterly speculative fiction magazine that features stories by and about Black people of the African Diaspora. From starting out as a slush reader to his current role as Executive Editor, DaVaun talks about what goes on behind the scenes. We talk about how different ideas come to fruition, the submission process, and reflects on the history of the magazine. You can find DaVaun at: https://davaunsanders.com/ https://www.instagram.com/davaunsanders/ https://www.threads.com/@davaunsanders https://linktr.ee/davaunsanders You can buy DaVaun's work here: Keynan Masters and the Peerless Magic Crew - https://amzn.to/4uXTax2 The Seedbearing Prince: Part 1 - https://amzn.to/4uiG7q0 Minecraft: The Tournament - https://amzn.to/4tERBCO Marvel: What If...The Multiverse Was Doomed? - https://amzn.to/4ugheuO You can find FIYAH at: https://fiyahlitmag.com/ https://www.threads.com/@fiyahlitmag https://campsite.bio/fiyahlitmag Forged in FIYAH: Celebrating Ten Years of Black Speculative Fiction - https://amzn.to/4wzYJTH
#457
May 11 · 57 min
Episode 457: Carleigh aka Uneekchic returns and talks Dungeons and Dragons, Renfaires, and Cosplay
After nearly 9 years, Carleigh aka Uneekchic on Instagram returns to the podcast! I've had the pleasure of following Carleigh and her journey through life since we recorded in late 2016. Now located on the East Coast, Carleigh and I get to catch up and talk about what's been going on ever since. We get to talk about two of her fandoms that she's been into during this time. Starting things off, Carleigh talks about getting into Dungeons and Dragons. She talks about how she first got into it after her move, and who introduced her to the game. We talk characters, her play style, and what she enjoys about the game. From there, we talk about her love of Renfaires. From how she dresses up, to what she enjoys doing at the faires, and which faires she's been frequenting. There's also a scandalous revelation that Carleigh makes when asked about a particular Renfaire staple. We wrap up by revisiting Cosplay. We talk about Carleigh's experience with Cosplay back on the West Coast, and how her Cosplay life has changed since moving to the East Coast. You can find Carleigh at: https://www.facebook.com/Carleigh-Skrammy-Uneekchic-670538599693887 http://www.instagram.com/uneekchic You can listen to Carleigh's original episode at: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-40-carleigh-aka-uneekchic
#456
May 4 · 57 min
Episode 456: Emily aka Imagination.Em returns and talks Star Wars and Cosplay
Kicking off May of 2026 with a perfectly timed episode releasing on May 4th, Emily aka Imagination.Em on Instagram returns to talk Star Wars and Cosplay. May the 4th Be With You! It's been nearly 4 years since Emily was on with her original episode, but we get to catch up and blend two topics together. Star Wars and Cosplay. The first half of the episode definitely leans more Star Wars, as we talk about the shows that have released since 2022. We discuss Skeleton Crew, The Acolyte, and Andor. Emily talks about the experience of attending the Andor Season 2 premiere, and we discuss Andor as it ties into current political situations today. We talk about the upcoming Mandalorian and Grogu movie, and Emily makes her best pitch for what she'd do if Dave Filoni asked her to create a Star Wars property. Then, we're on to Cosplay, as you may know Emily for her viral Moana Fett cosplay from 4 years ago. We talk about how it's been as a Cosplayer, from upgrading her Moana Fett look, to doing Mo Dameron, Mara Jade, joining the Droidsmiths Union, and making a Grogulorian cosplay, to name a few. We talk about her relationship with other cosplayers in the fandom, as well as creators that she works with. Emily also reflects back on her time as a Cosplayer, and we talk about what she could be working on for the future. You can find Emily at: https://www.instagram.com/imagination.em/ You can listen to Emily's original episode here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-289-emily-aka-imaginationem-talks-marvel-comics-disney-star-wars-and-cosplay
#455
April 27 · 1 hr 17 min
Episode 455: Kris Lozano returns and talks Taylor Swift and Book Recommendations
Returning for a 6th episode and to help me get one week closer to the podcast's 10th anniversary is Kris Lozano aka Cafe.Contessa on Instagram. We get to catch up and talk about how long we've known each other before diving into a repeat topic, Taylor Swift. Kris had joined me previously to talk about The Eras Tour once the movie had come out, and before we even had an inkling that a new album was on its way (TTPD). This time, Kris talks about the wrap up of the tour, the final concert that was recorded, plus the behind the scenes documentary. Plus, we revisit a few conversations about costumes and songs from that previous episode (linked below), as well as discuss a bit about the latest album. Then, Kris and I talk about one of her biggest passions, reading. We talk about what books are on her shelf, what books she'd recommend, and what she's looking forward to. We talk about Ana Huang's "King" series (King of Gluttony releasing 4/28), "Not In My Book" by Katie Holt, and the "Never After" series by Emily McIntire. We then wrap up with a little talk about Cosplay. Kris talks about where she is with Cosplay and whether she plans to continue with that part of her life, or hang it up in the closet. You can find Kris at: https://www.instagram.com/cafe.contessa/ You can listen to her previous episodes here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-369-taylor-swift-and-the-eras-tour https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-322-kris-lozano-returns-and-talks-dystopian-movies https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/final-fantasy-35th-anniversary-special https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/avatar-the-last-airbender-15th-anniversary-special https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-174-kris-lozano
#454
April 20 · 35 min
Episode 454: Jazmin aka ThatOneNerdyFanGirll returns and talks One Piece, Star Wars, and Cosplay
Jazmin aka ThatOneNerdyFanGirll returns after 2 years as we get closer to celebrating the 10th anniversary of the podcast. I always get excited when people say yes and come for the 1st episode. It's always super special when people come back for return episodes. Jazmin and I get to catch up to what's been going on, and talk about one of her latest fandoms, One Piece. She talks about how she got influenced into watching the anime, where she is currently, and we talk about the live action series as well (this was recorded prior to the 2nd season releasing). We talk about favorite characters, and who she's looking forward to seeing. Then we revisit Star Wars. We talk about what we enjoyed the past two years, the state of Star Wars, and the future series that are on the horizon, as well as the future in the movie space. (This episode was recorded prior to the Maul release) Jazmin and I then talk about her Cosplay work. We talk about some of the characters she's cosplayed recently, and cosplay projects she's working on for the future. Plus a no sew ballgown, and how she goes about thrifting for her cosplay work. You can listen to Jazmin's 1st episode here: https://talesfromthefandom.libsyn.com/episode-358-jazmin-aka-thatonenerdyfangirll-talks-star-wars-the-lord-of-the-rings-and-cosplay You can find Jazmin at: https://www.instagram.com/thatonenerdyfangirll/ https://www.threads.net/@thatonenerdyfangirll https://beacons.ai/thatonenerdyfangirl

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