The Nerds Awaken Mon, 11 May 2026 07:24:22 -0400 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779044 en-us © 2026 The Nerds Awaken yes c70e15a7-d4a5-56ba-954f-358f2903667c The Nerds Awaken episodic false Come on now, we all NERD hard over something pop culture. Perhaps it's that show that will never disappear from your "Keep Watching" queue, or that book you stan so much, you can recall the exact page of any given moment. Maybe you nerd out for that actor you have more pictures of in your phone than you have of your actual loved ones. The Nerds Awaken celebrates all things pop culture - from fledging interests to hardcore obsessions - with unabashed joy, laughter, and a passion that our family members would call, "grounds for an intervention." 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) The Nerds Awaken https://storage.buzzsprout.com/1znu9215yh7kx31lyg2ftujb0kcb?.jpg The Nerds Awaken https://www.buzzsprout.com/1779044 Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 4 Part 2 Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 4 Part 2 Dearest Gentle Listeners, we can't believe Bridgerton is already over for the next two years. But it's not really over until we break it down, so let's get into it.

Joined by frequent-friend-of-the-pod Andee, we discussed all the things from Season 4 Part 2. Was Benophie our favorite Bridgerton couple? How did we handle Francesca's heartbreaking scenes? Who do we think the next Lady Whistledown is? Tune in to find out!

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought about Bridgerton Season 4 Part 2!

]]> Dearest Gentle Listeners, we can't believe Bridgerton is already over for the next two years. But it's not really over until we break it down, so let's get into it.

Joined by frequent-friend-of-the-pod Andee, we discussed all the things from Season 4 Part 2. Was Benophie our favorite Bridgerton couple? How did we handle Francesca's heartbreaking scenes? Who do we think the next Lady Whistledown is? Tune in to find out!

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought about Bridgerton Season 4 Part 2!

]]> Buzzsprout-18799955 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0800 4685 5 2 full true Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 4 Part 1 Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 4 Part 1 Dearest Gentle Reader...The Bridgerton family and their steamy hijinks are once again gracing our Netflix accounts, and you KNOW we had to talk about it.

We teamed up with Big Gold Belt Media to break down the first four episodes that make up Part 1 of Season 4. In this episode we give our thoughts on the main couple Benedict and Sophie, the numerous side plots, and what we hope to see in Part 2. Spoilers abound so make sure you've watched the episodes beforehand!

Find us on social media and let us know what you think of this season! You can also watch a video version of this episode on YouTube.

]]> Dearest Gentle Reader...The Bridgerton family and their steamy hijinks are once again gracing our Netflix accounts, and you KNOW we had to talk about it.

We teamed up with Big Gold Belt Media to break down the first four episodes that make up Part 1 of Season 4. In this episode we give our thoughts on the main couple Benedict and Sophie, the numerous side plots, and what we hope to see in Part 2. Spoilers abound so make sure you've watched the episodes beforehand!

Find us on social media and let us know what you think of this season! You can also watch a video version of this episode on YouTube.

]]> Buzzsprout-18593003 Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0800 4198 5 1 full true Sisters in Swift: A Look at Taylor Swift's End of an Era and the Final Show Sisters in Swift: A Look at Taylor Swift's End of an Era and the Final Show In a world where music transcends boundaries and connects people, few artists have achieved the level of impact that Taylor Swift has. From her early beginnings as a country singer to becoming a global pop sensation, her career is a testament to talent, resilience, and connection. Julie is joined by her best friend and fellow Swifitie, Shannon, to celebrate Taylor's newest documentary, End of an Area, the Final Show, and the community that has formed around her music. 

Are you a Swiftie? Which Taylor era is your favorite? Find us on social media and tell us!

]]> In a world where music transcends boundaries and connects people, few artists have achieved the level of impact that Taylor Swift has. From her early beginnings as a country singer to becoming a global pop sensation, her career is a testament to talent, resilience, and connection. Julie is joined by her best friend and fellow Swifitie, Shannon, to celebrate Taylor's newest documentary, End of an Area, the Final Show, and the community that has formed around her music. 

Are you a Swiftie? Which Taylor era is your favorite? Find us on social media and tell us!

]]> Buzzsprout-18377498 Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0800 5440 4 5 full true The Hunt for Ben Solo: Adam Driver's TROS Fix-it The Hunt for Ben Solo: Adam Driver's TROS Fix-it It's been a hell of a week for Ben Solo fans. 

In a recent AP interview, our fav Adam Driver dropped an atomic bomb on the Star Wars fandom: he had been secretly working on a Ben Solo movie for two years. Titled The Hunt for Ben Solo, it took place after The Rise of Skywalker and would have explored the mystery of what might have happened to Ben after he disappeared into the Force. The worst part? Disney execs Bob Iger and Alan Bergman had said no. 

In this episode we take break down the drama, including our theories for why Adam released this information now, plus the amazing efforts that Star Wars fans are going to try and get this movie made. 

Do you think a Ben Solo movie was a good idea? Are you also sticking pins in a Bob Iger voodoo doll? Find us on social media and let us know!

]]> It's been a hell of a week for Ben Solo fans. 

In a recent AP interview, our fav Adam Driver dropped an atomic bomb on the Star Wars fandom: he had been secretly working on a Ben Solo movie for two years. Titled The Hunt for Ben Solo, it took place after The Rise of Skywalker and would have explored the mystery of what might have happened to Ben after he disappeared into the Force. The worst part? Disney execs Bob Iger and Alan Bergman had said no. 

In this episode we take break down the drama, including our theories for why Adam released this information now, plus the amazing efforts that Star Wars fans are going to try and get this movie made. 

Do you think a Ben Solo movie was a good idea? Are you also sticking pins in a Bob Iger voodoo doll? Find us on social media and let us know!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-18078858 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0700 2967 4 4 full false Avengers: Doomsday Casting Mayhem Avengers: Doomsday Casting Mayhem Marvel dropped-albeit very, very slowly-a massive announcement about the cast of Avengers: Doomsday this week, and we had to immediately talk through our feelings about it!

Julie and friend-of-the-pod Andee talked all about the electrifying cast list and everyone it included (and everyone it mysteriously didn’t). They also talked theories, recent projects and the future of Marvel.

What did you think of the casting announcement? Are you excited for the re-vamped future of Marvel? Find us on social media and tell us!

]]> Marvel dropped-albeit very, very slowly-a massive announcement about the cast of Avengers: Doomsday this week, and we had to immediately talk through our feelings about it!

Julie and friend-of-the-pod Andee talked all about the electrifying cast list and everyone it included (and everyone it mysteriously didn’t). They also talked theories, recent projects and the future of Marvel.

What did you think of the casting announcement? Are you excited for the re-vamped future of Marvel? Find us on social media and tell us!

]]> Buzzsprout-16874009 Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700 3022 4 3 full true A Pop Culture Roundup: Our Oscars Hot Take, TV Binges, and Books We're Definitely Finishing in 2025 A Pop Culture Roundup: Our Oscars Hot Take, TV Binges, and Books We're Definitely Finishing in 2025 Every once in a while at The Nerds Awaken we sit down with no plan, no outline, no agenda; we just hit record and let the pop culture gossip flow. And that's what this episode is, our stream-of-consciousness thoughts on all the recent pop culture and entertainment happenings, plus all the books/movies/tv shows we're loving lately and the ones we're looking forward to.

Hear our various hot takes on the Oscars, the upcoming 20th anniversaries of Revenge of the Sith* and Pride and Prejudice, Janna's C-Drama addiction, Julie's obsession with Paradise on Hulu, and why Mate by Ali Hazelwood is our most anticipated book of 2025.

*in the recording we mistakenly call it the 25th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith- we're old and it was past our bedtime, okay?!

Find us on social media!

]]> Every once in a while at The Nerds Awaken we sit down with no plan, no outline, no agenda; we just hit record and let the pop culture gossip flow. And that's what this episode is, our stream-of-consciousness thoughts on all the recent pop culture and entertainment happenings, plus all the books/movies/tv shows we're loving lately and the ones we're looking forward to.

Hear our various hot takes on the Oscars, the upcoming 20th anniversaries of Revenge of the Sith* and Pride and Prejudice, Janna's C-Drama addiction, Julie's obsession with Paradise on Hulu, and why Mate by Ali Hazelwood is our most anticipated book of 2025.

*in the recording we mistakenly call it the 25th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith- we're old and it was past our bedtime, okay?!

Find us on social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-16783510 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700 5137 4 2 full true Nothin' But Star Wars: The Plead for Skeleton Crew 2, New Shows in 2025, and Rey's Uncertain Future Nothin' But Star Wars: The Plead for Skeleton Crew 2, New Shows in 2025, and Rey's Uncertain Future The Nerds are back for the first time in 2025 with an episode that is all things Star Wars!

We chat about our love for Skeleton Crew and our need for a second season, plus the upcoming seasons of Andor and Ahsoka. We also talked about the upheaval surrounding the Rey movie and why we think this movie is never, ever getting made.

Find us on social media and chat about Star Wars with us!

]]> The Nerds are back for the first time in 2025 with an episode that is all things Star Wars!

We chat about our love for Skeleton Crew and our need for a second season, plus the upcoming seasons of Andor and Ahsoka. We also talked about the upheaval surrounding the Rey movie and why we think this movie is never, ever getting made.

Find us on social media and chat about Star Wars with us!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-16652913 Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0800 3612 4 1 full false Nerds’ Year in Review: Our Favorites of 2024 Nerds’ Year in Review: Our Favorites of 2024 2024 is coming to a close, so we decided to sneak in one more episode to talk about all of our favorites of 2024, from books and movies to IRL moments that had us obsessed. Plus a look forward to what we’re excited for in 2025.

Find us on social media and let us know your favorite pop culture things from 2024! 


]]> 2024 is coming to a close, so we decided to sneak in one more episode to talk about all of our favorites of 2024, from books and movies to IRL moments that had us obsessed. Plus a look forward to what we’re excited for in 2025.

Find us on social media and let us know your favorite pop culture things from 2024! 


]]> Buzzsprout-16360592 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800 4697 3 23 full true More Interviews with the Cast of Outlander Season 7 Part 2 More Interviews with the Cast of Outlander Season 7 Part 2 We return with our final batch of interviews with some of the cast of Outlander Season 7B! With Big Gold Belt Media, Janna was thrilled to speak with Graham McTavish (Dougal MacKenzie) and Lotte Verbeek (Geillis Duncan) about their surprising return to Outlander after several years away (and after the pretty famous deaths of their both their characters).

We also got to ask the delightful Charles Vandervaart all about Lord Ellesmere (and Jamie's secret son) William Ransom, including how he's doing after that shocking reveal in Episode 11.

Find the video interviews on YouTube:

-Graham McTavish and Lotte Verbeek

-Charles Vandervaart

Follow Big Gold Belt Media:

https://www.youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
biggoldbelt.com

]]> We return with our final batch of interviews with some of the cast of Outlander Season 7B! With Big Gold Belt Media, Janna was thrilled to speak with Graham McTavish (Dougal MacKenzie) and Lotte Verbeek (Geillis Duncan) about their surprising return to Outlander after several years away (and after the pretty famous deaths of their both their characters).

We also got to ask the delightful Charles Vandervaart all about Lord Ellesmere (and Jamie's secret son) William Ransom, including how he's doing after that shocking reveal in Episode 11.

Find the video interviews on YouTube:

-Graham McTavish and Lotte Verbeek

-Charles Vandervaart

Follow Big Gold Belt Media:

https://www.youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
biggoldbelt.com

]]> Buzzsprout-16280236 Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800 1759 3 22 full false Chatting With the Cast of Outlander Season 7 Part 2 Chatting With the Cast of Outlander Season 7 Part 2 We recently had the absolute pleasure of interviewing some of the cast of the Starz hit tv series Outlander through our friends Big Gold Belt Media. Janna sat down with cast members from Season 7 to talk about Part 2 of the season, which premiered Nov 22 on Starz.

We chatted with John Bell (Young Ian), Rik Rankin (Roger MacKenzie), Diarmaid Murtagh (Buck MacKenzie), Steven Cree (Ian Murray Sr), Kristin Atherton (Jenny Murray), as well as executive producers and showrunners Maril Davis and Matthew B Roberts.

Outlander Season 7 Part 2 is airing Fridays on Starz!

Find the video interviews from here:

Steven Cree and Kristin Atherton: https://youtu.be/kH-FvneJUYg?si=a7u6KEimu9dW-09B

John Bell: https://youtu.be/Kvd_vIcTQm4?si=irt8VF_r9L1KpYoa

Rik Ranking and Diarmaid Murtagh: https://youtu.be/Li27DGVIUbE?si=jPj7Ts-IPjRvwk-C

Maril Davis and Matthew B Roberts: https://youtu.be/ecvdJOdT8t4?si=O4XukrtrfDMfNr7n

Follow Big Gold Belt Media:

https://www.youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
biggoldbelt.com

]]> We recently had the absolute pleasure of interviewing some of the cast of the Starz hit tv series Outlander through our friends Big Gold Belt Media. Janna sat down with cast members from Season 7 to talk about Part 2 of the season, which premiered Nov 22 on Starz.

We chatted with John Bell (Young Ian), Rik Rankin (Roger MacKenzie), Diarmaid Murtagh (Buck MacKenzie), Steven Cree (Ian Murray Sr), Kristin Atherton (Jenny Murray), as well as executive producers and showrunners Maril Davis and Matthew B Roberts.

Outlander Season 7 Part 2 is airing Fridays on Starz!

Find the video interviews from here:

Steven Cree and Kristin Atherton: https://youtu.be/kH-FvneJUYg?si=a7u6KEimu9dW-09B

John Bell: https://youtu.be/Kvd_vIcTQm4?si=irt8VF_r9L1KpYoa

Rik Ranking and Diarmaid Murtagh: https://youtu.be/Li27DGVIUbE?si=jPj7Ts-IPjRvwk-C

Maril Davis and Matthew B Roberts: https://youtu.be/ecvdJOdT8t4?si=O4XukrtrfDMfNr7n

Follow Big Gold Belt Media:

https://www.youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
biggoldbelt.com

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-16203455 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0800 2700 3 21 full false The Rings of Power: Season 2 Finale The Rings of Power: Season 2 Finale Season 2 of The Rings of Power on Amazon Prime came to a thrilling (ish?) conclusion in episode 8 and we talked through all of our many feelings.

We chatted Julie's love for the epic Balrog fight in Khazad-dum, Andee's excitement at Berek's cameo, and the death that absolutely destroyed Janna emotionally. Plus, we repeatedly expressed our frustration at the pitfalls of 8 episode seasons. Stop it, studios! 

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought of The Rings of Power season finale!

]]> Season 2 of The Rings of Power on Amazon Prime came to a thrilling (ish?) conclusion in episode 8 and we talked through all of our many feelings.

We chatted Julie's love for the epic Balrog fight in Khazad-dum, Andee's excitement at Berek's cameo, and the death that absolutely destroyed Janna emotionally. Plus, we repeatedly expressed our frustration at the pitfalls of 8 episode seasons. Stop it, studios! 

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought of The Rings of Power season finale!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15920570 Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700 5323 3 20 full false The Rings of Power Season 2: Episodes 6 & 7 The Rings of Power Season 2: Episodes 6 & 7 It’s hard to believe that The Rings of Power is almost over!

Each week The Rings of Power is raising the stakes, and episodes 6 and 7 were no exception. From Celembrimbor’s slow descent into madness under Sauron’s abuse, to Galadriel and Adar’s continued but mysterious chemistry, and the incredible massive battle of Eregion, there was so much to talk about. We covered all the major storylines, compared what we loved with what might have been a miss, and made mostly sad predictions about the season finale. Don't worry, we all agreed Berek the horse was going to be fine!

Find us social media and let us know what you thought!

]]> It’s hard to believe that The Rings of Power is almost over!

Each week The Rings of Power is raising the stakes, and episodes 6 and 7 were no exception. From Celembrimbor’s slow descent into madness under Sauron’s abuse, to Galadriel and Adar’s continued but mysterious chemistry, and the incredible massive battle of Eregion, there was so much to talk about. We covered all the major storylines, compared what we loved with what might have been a miss, and made mostly sad predictions about the season finale. Don't worry, we all agreed Berek the horse was going to be fine!

Find us social media and let us know what you thought!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15860743 Wed, 02 Oct 2024 20:00:00 -0700 4725 full false In Conversation with Ashley Hawthorne In Conversation with Ashley Hawthorne We welcomed back author Ashley Hawthorne to the Nerds Awaken studio to talk all about her latest release Death Sentence, available now from Creative James Media!

We chatted sophmore novel struggles, her first foray into murder mysteries, and the idea for a lighthouse horror romance she just can't get out of her head.

Learn more about Ashley at her website.

Find The Nerds Awaken on social media.

]]> We welcomed back author Ashley Hawthorne to the Nerds Awaken studio to talk all about her latest release Death Sentence, available now from Creative James Media!

We chatted sophmore novel struggles, her first foray into murder mysteries, and the idea for a lighthouse horror romance she just can't get out of her head.

Learn more about Ashley at her website.

Find The Nerds Awaken on social media.

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15835295 Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0700 2621 3 18 full false The Rings of Power Season 2: Episodes 4 & 5 The Rings of Power Season 2: Episodes 4 & 5 We are back with more deeply insightful, highly educated and meta commentary on the Amazon Prime fantasy series The Rings of Power. Just kidding...you know we would never. As per usual there is language, lots of commentary on how hot people are, and hoping characters get kicked in the balls (looking at you, Kemen, and maybe Elrond).

We broke down episodes 4 & 5, which we unanimously loved. We chat our most/least favorite story arcs, our biggest theories, Julie shows off some newfound LOTR knowledge, Andee just needs to make sure Berek is okay, and how Janna's all-consuming new obsession with shipping Adar and Galadriel is ruining her life.

Find us on social media and let us know what you think of The Rings of Power!

]]> We are back with more deeply insightful, highly educated and meta commentary on the Amazon Prime fantasy series The Rings of Power. Just kidding...you know we would never. As per usual there is language, lots of commentary on how hot people are, and hoping characters get kicked in the balls (looking at you, Kemen, and maybe Elrond).

We broke down episodes 4 & 5, which we unanimously loved. We chat our most/least favorite story arcs, our biggest theories, Julie shows off some newfound LOTR knowledge, Andee just needs to make sure Berek is okay, and how Janna's all-consuming new obsession with shipping Adar and Galadriel is ruining her life.

Find us on social media and let us know what you think of The Rings of Power!

]]> Buzzsprout-15776117 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0700 4207 3 17 full true In Conversation with Jennifer L. Armentrout In Conversation with Jennifer L. Armentrout We had the great privilege of sitting down with Jennifer L. Armentrout, New York Times #1 bestselling author of over 70 books including the wildly popular Blood and Ash series. Her latest release Born of Blood and Ash, book 4 in the Flesh and Fire series is available now!

We asked Jennifer about her long and prolific writing career, from her writing habits and favorite tropes to her upcoming publishing schedule and the earth-friendly way she celebrates completing each book. Plus she gives us some zombie movie recs!

Learn more about Jennifer L. Armentrout at her website.




]]> We had the great privilege of sitting down with Jennifer L. Armentrout, New York Times #1 bestselling author of over 70 books including the wildly popular Blood and Ash series. Her latest release Born of Blood and Ash, book 4 in the Flesh and Fire series is available now!

We asked Jennifer about her long and prolific writing career, from her writing habits and favorite tropes to her upcoming publishing schedule and the earth-friendly way she celebrates completing each book. Plus she gives us some zombie movie recs!

Learn more about Jennifer L. Armentrout at her website.




]]> Buzzsprout-15742048 Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0700 2481 3 16 full true Review: The Rings of Power Season 2 Premiere Review: The Rings of Power Season 2 Premiere After two long years The Rings of Power series is back on Amazon Prime with a three episode premiere. Joined by friend of the pod Andee, we broke down our reactions to the premiere (with lots of spoilers), from Hot Sauron's origins as black goo to Elrond being a dramatic biatch over some little ol' rings. We also play "Would You Rather: Sauron variant addition" and the results may surprise you.

Find us on social media and tell us what you thought!


]]> After two long years The Rings of Power series is back on Amazon Prime with a three episode premiere. Joined by friend of the pod Andee, we broke down our reactions to the premiere (with lots of spoilers), from Hot Sauron's origins as black goo to Elrond being a dramatic biatch over some little ol' rings. We also play "Would You Rather: Sauron variant addition" and the results may surprise you.

Find us on social media and tell us what you thought!


]]> Buzzsprout-15701883 Sat, 07 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0700 2883 3 15 full true Review: Netflix Korean Drama The Frog Review: Netflix Korean Drama The Frog In this episode, Janna sat down with Nagier from Big Gold Belt Media to discuss the new Netflix Korean thriller The Frog, which premieres August 23rd.

Listen to our discussion of all eight episodes of the sinister and bloody thriller, with spoilers being discussed in the later half of the episode. We had high praise for just about everything in this drama, from the cast performances and music to the twists and turns that kept us on our toes.

You can also watch the video review over at Big Gold Belt Media's YouTube channel.

The Frog series description:
One tranquil summer, a mysterious woman checks into a vacation rental — triggering events that disrupt the lives of the owner and those around him.

Big Gold Belt Media
biggoldbelt.com
youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt

]]> In this episode, Janna sat down with Nagier from Big Gold Belt Media to discuss the new Netflix Korean thriller The Frog, which premieres August 23rd.

Listen to our discussion of all eight episodes of the sinister and bloody thriller, with spoilers being discussed in the later half of the episode. We had high praise for just about everything in this drama, from the cast performances and music to the twists and turns that kept us on our toes.

You can also watch the video review over at Big Gold Belt Media's YouTube channel.

The Frog series description:
One tranquil summer, a mysterious woman checks into a vacation rental — triggering events that disrupt the lives of the owner and those around him.

Big Gold Belt Media
biggoldbelt.com
youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt

]]> Buzzsprout-15624727 Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0700 2203 3 14 full false SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Saturday & Sunday SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Saturday & Sunday It's our final real quick recap for San Diego Comic Con! We give a rundown of everything we each did on Saturday-from Julie spending the entire day in Hall H and seeing the big celebrities, to Janna hitting some smaller panels with authors and fulfilling a dream of seeing another member of the LOTR Fellowship (listen to find out who!).

We also cover Sunday, which was a lowkey day and the ONLY time we attended a panel together. That panel just so happened to feature some of our favorite authors like Ali Hazelwood, Julie Soto, Susan Lee, and Nikki Payne as well as new-to-us authors like Tracey Livesay, and Yulin Kuang.

Follow us on social media for all of our SDCC coverage!

]]> It's our final real quick recap for San Diego Comic Con! We give a rundown of everything we each did on Saturday-from Julie spending the entire day in Hall H and seeing the big celebrities, to Janna hitting some smaller panels with authors and fulfilling a dream of seeing another member of the LOTR Fellowship (listen to find out who!).

We also cover Sunday, which was a lowkey day and the ONLY time we attended a panel together. That panel just so happened to feature some of our favorite authors like Ali Hazelwood, Julie Soto, Susan Lee, and Nikki Payne as well as new-to-us authors like Tracey Livesay, and Yulin Kuang.

Follow us on social media for all of our SDCC coverage!

]]> Buzzsprout-15517605 Thu, 01 Aug 2024 19:00:00 -0700 1341 3 13 full false SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Friday SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Friday We're back with another real quick recap of our time at San Diego Comic Con! In this episode we're covering everything we did on Friday, from seeing Hot Sauron (aka Charlie Vickers) at the Rings of Power panel in Hall H to the cool swag we got from the FX activation.

Find more of our SDCC coverage on our social media!

]]> We're back with another real quick recap of our time at San Diego Comic Con! In this episode we're covering everything we did on Friday, from seeing Hot Sauron (aka Charlie Vickers) at the Rings of Power panel in Hall H to the cool swag we got from the FX activation.

Find more of our SDCC coverage on our social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15483525 Fri, 26 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0700 880 3 12 full false SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Preview Night + Thursday SDCC '24 Real Quick Recap: Preview Night + Thursday San Diego Comic Con is officially underway and we’re bringing you a real quick recap of preview night and Thursday’s schedule. We visited activations from Paramount and Peacock, attended TV panels, and got to see Deadpool 3 in person with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman (and a lot of other surprise guests!)

Look for our recap of Friday at SDCC soon! Follow us here for all of our SDCC coverage! 

]]> San Diego Comic Con is officially underway and we’re bringing you a real quick recap of preview night and Thursday’s schedule. We visited activations from Paramount and Peacock, attended TV panels, and got to see Deadpool 3 in person with Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman (and a lot of other surprise guests!)

Look for our recap of Friday at SDCC soon! Follow us here for all of our SDCC coverage! 

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15481401 Fri, 26 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0700 850 3 11 full false The Acolyte: Season Finale The Acolyte: Season Finale We gathered with friend of the pod Andee to breakdown season one of the Acolyte and that stunning season finale.

We had high hopes for The Acolyte after breaking down the series premiere, and even with a few hiccups in the middle, we were not disappointed and have fingers and toes crossed for a season two announcement. We discussed our favorite moments, the shocking twists, our exciting for a possible dark side romance, and a lot of appreciation for Manny Jacinto's acting (and biceps).

Follow us on social media for all our Acolyte/Star Wars takes and Manny Jacinto thirst trap reels.


]]> We gathered with friend of the pod Andee to breakdown season one of the Acolyte and that stunning season finale.

We had high hopes for The Acolyte after breaking down the series premiere, and even with a few hiccups in the middle, we were not disappointed and have fingers and toes crossed for a season two announcement. We discussed our favorite moments, the shocking twists, our exciting for a possible dark side romance, and a lot of appreciation for Manny Jacinto's acting (and biceps).

Follow us on social media for all our Acolyte/Star Wars takes and Manny Jacinto thirst trap reels.


]]> Buzzsprout-15442532 Fri, 19 Jul 2024 15:00:00 -0700 4170 Star Wars, Lucasfilm, Acolyte, Disney+, streaming show, tv 3 10 full true The Nerds Awaken Invade SDCC '24: Before the Con The Nerds Awaken Invade SDCC '24: Before the Con It’s the most wonderful time of the year (or of July)-San Diego Comic Con time!

The Nerds Awaken will be back at SDCC 2024, but first we chatted about the schedule, surprises, and everything we’re looking forward to see from panels and activations to favorite authors and friends.

Follow The Nerds Awaken on social media for all our SDCC coverage!

]]> It’s the most wonderful time of the year (or of July)-San Diego Comic Con time!

The Nerds Awaken will be back at SDCC 2024, but first we chatted about the schedule, surprises, and everything we’re looking forward to see from panels and activations to favorite authors and friends.

Follow The Nerds Awaken on social media for all our SDCC coverage!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15435457 Thu, 18 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0700 2688 SDCC, Comic Con, San Diego Comic Con 3 9 full true Isabel and the Rogue with Liana de La Rosa Isabel and the Rogue with Liana de La Rosa We were delighted to welcome author Liana de La Rosa back to the podcast, whose latest novel Isabel and the Rogue is available now from Berkley Romance!

We ADORED Isabel and the Rogue, book 2 in the Luna Sisters series, and loved talking to Liana all about her characters and the historical setting of the series. Liana really is putting the history back in historical romance, and we couldn't get enough. We also picked her brain on the fate of historical romance, and what's next in the Luna Sisters series.

Connect with Liana on social media and by Isabel and the Rogue wherever books are sold!

]]> We were delighted to welcome author Liana de La Rosa back to the podcast, whose latest novel Isabel and the Rogue is available now from Berkley Romance!

We ADORED Isabel and the Rogue, book 2 in the Luna Sisters series, and loved talking to Liana all about her characters and the historical setting of the series. Liana really is putting the history back in historical romance, and we couldn't get enough. We also picked her brain on the fate of historical romance, and what's next in the Luna Sisters series.

Connect with Liana on social media and by Isabel and the Rogue wherever books are sold!

]]> Buzzsprout-15389650 Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0700 3120 3 8 full false Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 3 Part 2 Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 3 Part 2 We are back breaking down Part 2 of Bridgerton Season 3 (Eps 305-308) with Big Gold Belt Media!

There was so much going on in Part 2 (too much, even), but we think we managed to cover all the different arcs and characters in the last four episodes. We had fun talking about the things that worked for us, but were also honest about the areas that we were disappointed in.

You can find the video version of this recap on Big Gold Belt Media's Youtube.

If you want to chat all things Bridgerton with us then find us as @thenerdsawaken on social media!


Big Gold Belt Media
Website: biggoldbelt.com
Youtube: youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt

]]> We are back breaking down Part 2 of Bridgerton Season 3 (Eps 305-308) with Big Gold Belt Media!

There was so much going on in Part 2 (too much, even), but we think we managed to cover all the different arcs and characters in the last four episodes. We had fun talking about the things that worked for us, but were also honest about the areas that we were disappointed in.

You can find the video version of this recap on Big Gold Belt Media's Youtube.

If you want to chat all things Bridgerton with us then find us as @thenerdsawaken on social media!


Big Gold Belt Media
Website: biggoldbelt.com
Youtube: youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt

]]> Buzzsprout-15266274 Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0700 4932 3 7 full true The Acolyte: Series Premiere The Acolyte: Series Premiere We had so much fun breaking down the first two episodes of the new Star Wars series The Acolyte, which premiered June 4th on Disney+.

While we were cautiously optimistic about the idea of show after it was announced in 2020, we did not anticipate how much we would love the first two episodes. From the mystery-thriller plot to the vibrant new characters (hellooooo Master Sol), we were immediately sucked in to this fresh story set in the High Republic era. We chatted theories, our new favorite ships (we can't help ourselves, romance is life), and how much we appreciated the complete absence of anyone with the last name of Skywalker.

This is a spoiler-filled episode so make sure to watch the first two episodes before tuning in!

Find us on social media or at thenerdsawaken.com

]]> We had so much fun breaking down the first two episodes of the new Star Wars series The Acolyte, which premiered June 4th on Disney+.

While we were cautiously optimistic about the idea of show after it was announced in 2020, we did not anticipate how much we would love the first two episodes. From the mystery-thriller plot to the vibrant new characters (hellooooo Master Sol), we were immediately sucked in to this fresh story set in the High Republic era. We chatted theories, our new favorite ships (we can't help ourselves, romance is life), and how much we appreciated the complete absence of anyone with the last name of Skywalker.

This is a spoiler-filled episode so make sure to watch the first two episodes before tuning in!

Find us on social media or at thenerdsawaken.com

]]> Buzzsprout-15222560 Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0700 2731 3 6 full false Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 3 Part 1 Breaking Down Bridgerton: Season 3 Part 1 Polin Season is upon us, and it is glorious.

We collaborated with Big Gold Belt Media to review Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1, which premiered May 16th on Netflix. You can also find the video recording of this episode on Big Gold Belt Media's Youtube channel.

In this episode we had a very spoiler-filled discussion of the first four episodes of Bridgerton Season 3. We adored every part of Colin and Penelope's story, as well as the other character's arcs that were woven in.

Look for our breakdown of Part 2 coming June 13th!

Find us on social media and say hi!

Find Big Gold Belt Media here:

Official Website
biggoldbelt.com
Youtube
youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
X
twitter.com/Biggoldbelt
SoundCloud
soundcloud.com/bgbgroup
Instagram
instagram.com/biggoldbelt
Facebook
facebook.com/BigGoldBelt
TikTok
tiktok.com/@biggoldbelt
Tumblr
biggoldbelt.tumblr.com


]]> Polin Season is upon us, and it is glorious.

We collaborated with Big Gold Belt Media to review Bridgerton Season 3 Part 1, which premiered May 16th on Netflix. You can also find the video recording of this episode on Big Gold Belt Media's Youtube channel.

In this episode we had a very spoiler-filled discussion of the first four episodes of Bridgerton Season 3. We adored every part of Colin and Penelope's story, as well as the other character's arcs that were woven in.

Look for our breakdown of Part 2 coming June 13th!

Find us on social media and say hi!

Find Big Gold Belt Media here:

Official Website
biggoldbelt.com
Youtube
youtube.com/@BigGoldBelt
X
twitter.com/Biggoldbelt
SoundCloud
soundcloud.com/bgbgroup
Instagram
instagram.com/biggoldbelt
Facebook
facebook.com/BigGoldBelt
TikTok
tiktok.com/@biggoldbelt
Tumblr
biggoldbelt.tumblr.com


]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-15077989 Thu, 16 May 2024 00:00:00 -0700 3384 Bridgerton, BridgertonNetflix, Netflix, POLIN, Colin Bridgerton, Penelope Featherington, Julia Quinn, Romancing Mister Bridgerton 3 5 full true Read Before You Watch: Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn Read Before You Watch: Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn We're excited to announce the launch of a new series, Read Before You Watch! With book-to-screen adaptations becoming increasingly common, we thought it would be fun to have a series devoted to reading and reviewing books before watching the adaptations.

With Season 3 of Bridgerton premiering on Netflix on May 16th, we thought we would get things started with the book behind the couple of the season, Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn.  One of us had read it, one of us hadn't, and we had a great (very spoilery!) time reviewing the book and the parts we hope make it into the show (and vice versa).

Also look for our breakdown of Bridgerton Season 3 Parts 1 & 2!

Find us on social media

]]> We're excited to announce the launch of a new series, Read Before You Watch! With book-to-screen adaptations becoming increasingly common, we thought it would be fun to have a series devoted to reading and reviewing books before watching the adaptations.

With Season 3 of Bridgerton premiering on Netflix on May 16th, we thought we would get things started with the book behind the couple of the season, Romancing Mister Bridgerton by Julia Quinn.  One of us had read it, one of us hadn't, and we had a great (very spoilery!) time reviewing the book and the parts we hope make it into the show (and vice versa).

Also look for our breakdown of Bridgerton Season 3 Parts 1 & 2!

Find us on social media

]]> Buzzsprout-15062050 Mon, 13 May 2024 17:00:00 -0700 4314 3 4 full true A Conversation with Elise Nelson A Conversation with Elise Nelson We had a very special guest back in The Nerds Awaken studio! Elise Nelson was the first author we ever interviewed way (all the way back in 2021!) and we are thrilled to be having her back to talk about her new novel The Light in Hades, book 1 in the Olympus Retold series.

The Light in Hades is a powerful Hades and Persephone retelling, and we loved Elise's fresh take which delved in mental health, healing from trauma, and the power of love to make us stronger, without all the kidnapping and Stockholm Syndrome.

In this episode we heard from Elise about the inspirations for her story, why the forbidden love trope is so thrilling, and what's coming up next in the Olympus Retold series.

Find us on Instagram at @thenerdsawaken to enter to win a signed copy of The Light in Hades or a book-themed candle from Nightshade Co! Giveaway ends May 13th, 2024.

Find Elise on Instagram at @elisenelsonauthor and buy The Light in Hades today!

]]> We had a very special guest back in The Nerds Awaken studio! Elise Nelson was the first author we ever interviewed way (all the way back in 2021!) and we are thrilled to be having her back to talk about her new novel The Light in Hades, book 1 in the Olympus Retold series.

The Light in Hades is a powerful Hades and Persephone retelling, and we loved Elise's fresh take which delved in mental health, healing from trauma, and the power of love to make us stronger, without all the kidnapping and Stockholm Syndrome.

In this episode we heard from Elise about the inspirations for her story, why the forbidden love trope is so thrilling, and what's coming up next in the Olympus Retold series.

Find us on Instagram at @thenerdsawaken to enter to win a signed copy of The Light in Hades or a book-themed candle from Nightshade Co! Giveaway ends May 13th, 2024.

Find Elise on Instagram at @elisenelsonauthor and buy The Light in Hades today!

]]> Buzzsprout-15014953 Mon, 06 May 2024 06:00:00 -0700 2097 3 3 full false All in Knots Over Ali Hazelwood's Bride All in Knots Over Ali Hazelwood's Bride We are Ali Hazelwood stans until we die, but when we say that her newest novel Bride is far and away the best thing she's ever written, it's a BIG DEAL.

We can not shut up about good this book was, with its weres and vampires and marriages of convenience. And yes, even with its knots, which aren't our favorite but were as tastefully incorporated as we could have hoped for. We dive deep into our favorite moments, what makes this book special, and the stories we're dying for Ali to write next!

This is a full-spoiler discussion, so we highly recommend reading the book before listening!

Find us on social media and buy Bride wherever books are sold!

]]> We are Ali Hazelwood stans until we die, but when we say that her newest novel Bride is far and away the best thing she's ever written, it's a BIG DEAL.

We can not shut up about good this book was, with its weres and vampires and marriages of convenience. And yes, even with its knots, which aren't our favorite but were as tastefully incorporated as we could have hoped for. We dive deep into our favorite moments, what makes this book special, and the stories we're dying for Ali to write next!

This is a full-spoiler discussion, so we highly recommend reading the book before listening!

Find us on social media and buy Bride wherever books are sold!

]]> Buzzsprout-14708616 Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0700 4088 3 2 full true The State of Adam Driver The State of Adam Driver Would you believe that it's been over two years since we devoted an entire episode to talking about Adam Driver? An egregiously long amount of time, we know. So we are back with all things Adam, covering his films from the last year, media appearances and press tours, tantalizing rumored  projects, and the dream roles we would love to see Adam play.

If you too are #blessed with an unhealthy Adam Driver obsession and need a safe place to shout about it, find us on social media!

]]> Would you believe that it's been over two years since we devoted an entire episode to talking about Adam Driver? An egregiously long amount of time, we know. So we are back with all things Adam, covering his films from the last year, media appearances and press tours, tantalizing rumored  projects, and the dream roles we would love to see Adam play.

If you too are #blessed with an unhealthy Adam Driver obsession and need a safe place to shout about it, find us on social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-14574907 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0800 5102 3 1 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Katrina Kwan Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Katrina Kwan We were so lucky to welcome Katrina Kwan, author of Knives, Seasoning, & a Dash of Love  and an all around gem of a human being, as our very last Writing Reylo author.

We had an awesome time chatting with Katrina about her fanfic origins, her career as a ghost writer, and all about her debut novel. We loved this sweet and spicy romance, which is set in the fast-paced, cut throat world of haute cuisine.

Find Katrina on Instagram, her website, and buy Knives, Seasoning, & a Dash of Love  or request at your local library!

www.katrinakwan.com

]]> We were so lucky to welcome Katrina Kwan, author of Knives, Seasoning, & a Dash of Love  and an all around gem of a human being, as our very last Writing Reylo author.

We had an awesome time chatting with Katrina about her fanfic origins, her career as a ghost writer, and all about her debut novel. We loved this sweet and spicy romance, which is set in the fast-paced, cut throat world of haute cuisine.

Find Katrina on Instagram, her website, and buy Knives, Seasoning, & a Dash of Love  or request at your local library!

www.katrinakwan.com

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-14171917 Mon, 18 Dec 2023 22:00:00 -0800 3605 2 20 full true Author Spotlight with Kirsten S. Blacketer Author Spotlight with Kirsten S. Blacketer We were so thrilled to welcome Kirsten S. Blacketer as the first guest in our new Author Spotlight series. A self-published author with an impressive backlist, Kirsten was a wealth of information on self-publishing, genre tropes, and improving your writing craft.

We loved talking with her about the importance of romance novels with happily ever afters, learning how she gets inspiration for her books (and sexy male leads), and hearing how her first novel was written in an Italian villa (not as romantic as it sounds).

Connect with Kirsten on X/Twitter and start diving into her books today!

Website: https://kirstensblacketer.com/

Notes: this episode was recorded earlier this summer

]]> We were so thrilled to welcome Kirsten S. Blacketer as the first guest in our new Author Spotlight series. A self-published author with an impressive backlist, Kirsten was a wealth of information on self-publishing, genre tropes, and improving your writing craft.

We loved talking with her about the importance of romance novels with happily ever afters, learning how she gets inspiration for her books (and sexy male leads), and hearing how her first novel was written in an Italian villa (not as romantic as it sounds).

Connect with Kirsten on X/Twitter and start diving into her books today!

Website: https://kirstensblacketer.com/

Notes: this episode was recorded earlier this summer

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-14046243 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0800 3733 2 19 full true The one where we just gossip about pop culture The one where we just gossip about pop culture If there's one thing our friendship is built on (that isn't Adam Driver), it's spending hours on the phone talking/gossiping/venting about pop culture and entertainment. So this time we thought, why not let people listen in? So congratulations! You all get to be flies on the wall while we discuss everything that's been on our radar lately-the books we're reading, the TV shows and K-dramas we're watching, the current state of Marvel, and how Julie is thriving on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's very public relationship. And yes...we also talk about all the recent Adam Driver sightings too. How could we not?

*We recorded this two days before the SAG strike ended and some of the conversations reflect that. 

]]> If there's one thing our friendship is built on (that isn't Adam Driver), it's spending hours on the phone talking/gossiping/venting about pop culture and entertainment. So this time we thought, why not let people listen in? So congratulations! You all get to be flies on the wall while we discuss everything that's been on our radar lately-the books we're reading, the TV shows and K-dramas we're watching, the current state of Marvel, and how Julie is thriving on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's very public relationship. And yes...we also talk about all the recent Adam Driver sightings too. How could we not?

*We recorded this two days before the SAG strike ended and some of the conversations reflect that. 

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-13957554 Sun, 12 Nov 2023 15:00:00 -0800 4476 Adam Driver, Pop Culture, Taylor Swift, Marvel, Rowoon, Park Seo Joon, Books 2 18 full true A Conversation with Katie Shepard A Conversation with Katie Shepard We were so happy to welcome Katie Shepard back to talk about her new book Sweeten the Deal, out October 17th from Berkley!

We loved Katie's debut novel Bear with Me Now and went into Sweeten the Deal with high expectations that were absolutely met. With a gender-swapped sugar baby plot and vibrant, likeable characters, the story completely sucked us in with its themes and romantic tension.  We had a great conversation with Katie about how she crafted these characters and where the inspiration for the story came from.

Visit Katie's website and buy Sweeten the Deal today!

]]> We were so happy to welcome Katie Shepard back to talk about her new book Sweeten the Deal, out October 17th from Berkley!

We loved Katie's debut novel Bear with Me Now and went into Sweeten the Deal with high expectations that were absolutely met. With a gender-swapped sugar baby plot and vibrant, likeable characters, the story completely sucked us in with its themes and romantic tension.  We had a great conversation with Katie about how she crafted these characters and where the inspiration for the story came from.

Visit Katie's website and buy Sweeten the Deal today!

]]> Buzzsprout-13781897 Mon, 16 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4358 2 17 full false Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Thea Guanzon Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Thea Guanzon Somebody pinch us, we must be dreaming...because our literary hero Thea Guanzon is in The Nerds Awaken studio!

We were so privileged to talk with Thea about her gorgeous debut fantasy novel The Hurricane Wars, out October 3 from Harper Voyager. We heard about her writing and research process (mostly just vibes), her fanfic origins (plus the first time she was caught reading smut) and how her Filipino culture inspired much of the world-building and plot of her novel. We're obsessed with this book and can't wait to watch it take the literary world by storm (pun intended).

Visit Thea's website at theaguanzon.com and buy The Hurricane Wars today!

Website mentioned by Thea: www.writerbeware.blog

]]> Somebody pinch us, we must be dreaming...because our literary hero Thea Guanzon is in The Nerds Awaken studio!

We were so privileged to talk with Thea about her gorgeous debut fantasy novel The Hurricane Wars, out October 3 from Harper Voyager. We heard about her writing and research process (mostly just vibes), her fanfic origins (plus the first time she was caught reading smut) and how her Filipino culture inspired much of the world-building and plot of her novel. We're obsessed with this book and can't wait to watch it take the literary world by storm (pun intended).

Visit Thea's website at theaguanzon.com and buy The Hurricane Wars today!

Website mentioned by Thea: www.writerbeware.blog

]]> Buzzsprout-13697447 Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4583 2 16 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Jenna Levine Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Jenna Levine We were DELIGHTED, overjoyed, ecstatic, and all other possible synonyms for "extremely excited" to welcome one of our all-time favorite fanfic writers, Jenna Levine (aka Jeeno) to The Nerds Awaken to talk about her greatly anticipated debut novel My Roommate is a Vampire!

We learned all about Jenna's fanfic origins, the inspiration for her book, and why a 300 year old vampire and a 30-something starving artist make such a cute couple . We also asked the important questions like "do the vampires in your book sparkle" and "why is Only One Bed the superior trope"?  

Find Jenna Levine on Instagram and Twitter and buy My Roommate is a Vampire today!

]]> We were DELIGHTED, overjoyed, ecstatic, and all other possible synonyms for "extremely excited" to welcome one of our all-time favorite fanfic writers, Jenna Levine (aka Jeeno) to The Nerds Awaken to talk about her greatly anticipated debut novel My Roommate is a Vampire!

We learned all about Jenna's fanfic origins, the inspiration for her book, and why a 300 year old vampire and a 30-something starving artist make such a cute couple . We also asked the important questions like "do the vampires in your book sparkle" and "why is Only One Bed the superior trope"?  

Find Jenna Levine on Instagram and Twitter and buy My Roommate is a Vampire today!

]]> Buzzsprout-13488289 Tue, 29 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0700 3514 2 15 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Ashley Hawthorne Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Ashley Hawthorne We were so excited to sit down with Ashley Hawthorne, whose debut novel Deliver Me arrives July 18th from Creative James Media!

We chatted with Ashley about how The Rise of Skywalker inspired her to become a writer, learned the inspiration for her novel and the tough themes of trauma that the story explores (and found out which character was inspired by Rian Johnson!). Ashley also had great advice for other writers on how to improve their writing, as well as tips to navigate the often stressful world of publishing.

Find Ashley Hawthorne on social media and buy Deliver Me here!

]]> We were so excited to sit down with Ashley Hawthorne, whose debut novel Deliver Me arrives July 18th from Creative James Media!

We chatted with Ashley about how The Rise of Skywalker inspired her to become a writer, learned the inspiration for her novel and the tough themes of trauma that the story explores (and found out which character was inspired by Rian Johnson!). Ashley also had great advice for other writers on how to improve their writing, as well as tips to navigate the often stressful world of publishing.

Find Ashley Hawthorne on social media and buy Deliver Me here!

]]> Buzzsprout-13234747 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700 3205 2 14 full false Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Julie Soto Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Julie Soto We were thrilled to welcome back Julie Soto, whose debut novel Forget Me Not arrives July 11th from Forever Publishing!

Whether you know her as Julie or as her fanfic alter ego Lovesbitca8, anyone who has read her works knows her incredible talent for storytelling. We were so excited to chat with her about how Forget Me Not  was born,  hear about exciting TV adaptation news, and see what advice she had for other writers hoping to make the jump to traditional publishing.

Listen to our first interview with Julie Soto here, and find her on social media!

]]> We were thrilled to welcome back Julie Soto, whose debut novel Forget Me Not arrives July 11th from Forever Publishing!

Whether you know her as Julie or as her fanfic alter ego Lovesbitca8, anyone who has read her works knows her incredible talent for storytelling. We were so excited to chat with her about how Forget Me Not  was born,  hear about exciting TV adaptation news, and see what advice she had for other writers hoping to make the jump to traditional publishing.

Listen to our first interview with Julie Soto here, and find her on social media!

]]> Buzzsprout-13191593 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4055 2 13 full true Revisiting Outlander Revisiting Outlander Have you ever had to break up with a TV show or book series? We have, and that show/book series was Outlander.

But thanks to our friend Nagier at Big Gold Belt Media, we had the opportunity to interview some of the cast and producers behind the Starz hit show, and we asked ourselves the question: could the new season of Outlander convince us to come back?

We explored that and more, remembering our heady early days in the Outlander fandom, the impact it had on our lives, and why we initially walked away. The episode also includes clips from our interviews with cast members David Berry (Lord John Grey), Charles Vandervaart (William Ransom) and executive producer Maril Davis.

The seventh season of Outlander is airing now on Starz!

David Berry, John Bell, and Charles Vandervaart full interview

Joey Phillips (Denzell Hunter) and Izzy Meikle-Smith (Rachel Hunter) full interview

Maril Davis full interview 

]]> Have you ever had to break up with a TV show or book series? We have, and that show/book series was Outlander.

But thanks to our friend Nagier at Big Gold Belt Media, we had the opportunity to interview some of the cast and producers behind the Starz hit show, and we asked ourselves the question: could the new season of Outlander convince us to come back?

We explored that and more, remembering our heady early days in the Outlander fandom, the impact it had on our lives, and why we initially walked away. The episode also includes clips from our interviews with cast members David Berry (Lord John Grey), Charles Vandervaart (William Ransom) and executive producer Maril Davis.

The seventh season of Outlander is airing now on Starz!

David Berry, John Bell, and Charles Vandervaart full interview

Joey Phillips (Denzell Hunter) and Izzy Meikle-Smith (Rachel Hunter) full interview

Maril Davis full interview 

]]> Buzzsprout-13161739 Wed, 05 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4055 2 11 full true Books We Love: Love, Theoretically By Ali Hazelwood Books We Love: Love, Theoretically By Ali Hazelwood Us? Not talk about an Ali Hazelwood book? NEVER GONNA HAPPEN.

We LOVED Ali’s latest enemies-to-lovers novel Love, Theoretically, which pits an experimental physicist against a theoretical physicist and trust us when we say that that combo is WAY hotter than you’d think. Elsie and Jack miiiight just be our new favorite STEMinist couple (no offense, Adam and Olive).

Listen to find out why we think this is Ali’s best book yet, all the ways in which we identified with Elsie, and what the best Twilight movie is (it’s relevant, we swear).

Love, Theoretically is on shelves now!


]]> Us? Not talk about an Ali Hazelwood book? NEVER GONNA HAPPEN.

We LOVED Ali’s latest enemies-to-lovers novel Love, Theoretically, which pits an experimental physicist against a theoretical physicist and trust us when we say that that combo is WAY hotter than you’d think. Elsie and Jack miiiight just be our new favorite STEMinist couple (no offense, Adam and Olive).

Listen to find out why we think this is Ali’s best book yet, all the ways in which we identified with Elsie, and what the best Twilight movie is (it’s relevant, we swear).

Love, Theoretically is on shelves now!


]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-13136019 Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700 2761 2 10 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Tristen Crone Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Tristen Crone It was our pleasure and delight to chat with author and fellow Reylo Tristen Crone, whose debut novel Playing for Keeps arrives from Lake Country Press June 27th!

We learned how The Rise of Skywalker got her into fan fiction, how her and her husband’s love of board games helped inspire the plot for her novel, and what other stories she has in the works (spoiler: they sound amazing!).

Connect with Tristen on her website and buy Playing for Keeps today!

]]> It was our pleasure and delight to chat with author and fellow Reylo Tristen Crone, whose debut novel Playing for Keeps arrives from Lake Country Press June 27th!

We learned how The Rise of Skywalker got her into fan fiction, how her and her husband’s love of board games helped inspire the plot for her novel, and what other stories she has in the works (spoiler: they sound amazing!).

Connect with Tristen on her website and buy Playing for Keeps today!

]]> Buzzsprout-13106487 Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0700 3632 2 9 full true Breaking Down Bridgerton: Queen Charlotte Breaking Down Bridgerton: Queen Charlotte Breaking down Bridgerton is back with a deep, very spoiler-y dive into the recent Netflix series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

We discuss the things we loved (the list was very, very long), and the few aspects that didn’t quite work for us, as well as how the show compared to previous Bridgerton seasons.

Find us on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, or FaceBook and let us know what you thought about Queen Charlotte!


]]> Breaking down Bridgerton is back with a deep, very spoiler-y dive into the recent Netflix series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.

We discuss the things we loved (the list was very, very long), and the few aspects that didn’t quite work for us, as well as how the show compared to previous Bridgerton seasons.

Find us on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, or FaceBook and let us know what you thought about Queen Charlotte!


]]> Buzzsprout-12863911 Wed, 17 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4115 2 8 full false Diving Deep Into The Mandalorian Season 3 Diving Deep Into The Mandalorian Season 3 It took a few years, but Din Djarin and his little green sidekick were finally back on our screens!

In this episode we discuss our thoughts on the entire season, from Grogu’s adorable toddler moments to the deeper look at  Mandalorian culture and that stunning finale. All that plus our hopes and theories for the future (*cough* Bo-Katan spin-off *cough*).

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought about The Mandalorian Season 3! 

]]> It took a few years, but Din Djarin and his little green sidekick were finally back on our screens!

In this episode we discuss our thoughts on the entire season, from Grogu’s adorable toddler moments to the deeper look at  Mandalorian culture and that stunning finale. All that plus our hopes and theories for the future (*cough* Bo-Katan spin-off *cough*).

Find us on social media and let us know what you thought about The Mandalorian Season 3! 

]]> Buzzsprout-12764883 Tue, 02 May 2023 00:00:00 -0700 4317 2 7 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Katie Shepard Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Katie Shepard The year of Reylos in publishing continues! We had the honor of sitting down with Katie Shepard, whose upcoming debut novel Bear With Me Now is out April 25th.

We loved this book, from its bear attack meet-cute at a Goop-esque wilderness retreat, to the tender romance that develops while the main couple each face their own mental health issues. We talked with Katie about her inspiration for the book, and how she went from a fan fiction author to getting a traditional publishing deal.

Be sure to visit Katie’s website and order Bear with Me Now!

]]> The year of Reylos in publishing continues! We had the honor of sitting down with Katie Shepard, whose upcoming debut novel Bear With Me Now is out April 25th.

We loved this book, from its bear attack meet-cute at a Goop-esque wilderness retreat, to the tender romance that develops while the main couple each face their own mental health issues. We talked with Katie about her inspiration for the book, and how she went from a fan fiction author to getting a traditional publishing deal.

Be sure to visit Katie’s website and order Bear with Me Now!

]]> Buzzsprout-12708400 Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700 3675 2 6 full true Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Liana De la Rosa Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Liana De la Rosa It was our absolute pleasure to talk with historical romance and Reylo fanfic writer Liana De la Rosa, the author of the upcoming Latinx novel Ana Maria and the Fox, the first book of The Luna Sisters trilogy and a story that we absolutely fell in love with.

We grilled Liana on very important topics like the first fanfiction she ever read, her least favorite historical fiction trope, and why enemies-to-lovers is so addicting. She also shared all about her unique personal journey in publishing, and the inspirations and process of creating The Luna Sisters trilogy. All that plus our spoiler-free discussion of the characters, themes, and historical events of Ana Maria and the Fox. 

Buy Ana Maria and the Fox and connect with Liana on Twitter, Instagram or her website!

]]> It was our absolute pleasure to talk with historical romance and Reylo fanfic writer Liana De la Rosa, the author of the upcoming Latinx novel Ana Maria and the Fox, the first book of The Luna Sisters trilogy and a story that we absolutely fell in love with.

We grilled Liana on very important topics like the first fanfiction she ever read, her least favorite historical fiction trope, and why enemies-to-lovers is so addicting. She also shared all about her unique personal journey in publishing, and the inspirations and process of creating The Luna Sisters trilogy. All that plus our spoiler-free discussion of the characters, themes, and historical events of Ana Maria and the Fox. 

Buy Ana Maria and the Fox and connect with Liana on Twitter, Instagram or her website!

]]> Buzzsprout-12575018 Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0700 5199 2 5 full true Sorry Not Sorry: We loved Adam Driver’s 65 Sorry Not Sorry: We loved Adam Driver’s 65 Ignore the Rotten Tomatoes score, because we both agreed that Adam Driver’s new film 65 was the most fun we’ve had in a movie theater in a long time.

There was little we didn’t love; the jump scares, the locations, Adam Driver fighting dinosaurs, Adam Driver climbing trees, Adam Driver going full Protective Girl Dad…and so on and so forth.

Did you also love 65? Come find us on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok and let us know!

]]> Ignore the Rotten Tomatoes score, because we both agreed that Adam Driver’s new film 65 was the most fun we’ve had in a movie theater in a long time.

There was little we didn’t love; the jump scares, the locations, Adam Driver fighting dinosaurs, Adam Driver climbing trees, Adam Driver going full Protective Girl Dad…and so on and so forth.

Did you also love 65? Come find us on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok and let us know!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-12452184 Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0700 2716 2 4 full false Watch This: Love between Fairy and Devil Watch This: Love between Fairy and Devil We are obsessed with 2022 Chinese fantasy drama Love Between Fairy and Devil and we need you to be obsessed too! Because the more the merrier, right?

In this episode, Janna and special guest Andee give you all of our spoiler-free reasons to start binging this epically romantic drama, from the talented cast and cool Chinese mythology, to the jaw-dropping visuals and sweeping musical soundtrack. We also not-so-briefly-describe how we swooned, we squealed, and we watched the feminism leave our bodies anytime the male lead came onscreen. 

Find Janna and Andee on social media to chat all things Love Between Fairy and Devil or start watching on Netflix!

]]> We are obsessed with 2022 Chinese fantasy drama Love Between Fairy and Devil and we need you to be obsessed too! Because the more the merrier, right?

In this episode, Janna and special guest Andee give you all of our spoiler-free reasons to start binging this epically romantic drama, from the talented cast and cool Chinese mythology, to the jaw-dropping visuals and sweeping musical soundtrack. We also not-so-briefly-describe how we swooned, we squealed, and we watched the feminism leave our bodies anytime the male lead came onscreen. 

Find Janna and Andee on social media to chat all things Love Between Fairy and Devil or start watching on Netflix!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-12423516 Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0700 2770 2 3 full false Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Sarah Hawley Writing Reylo: A Conversation with Sarah Hawley Writing Reylo is back! Our first guest of 2023 is author (and fanfic legend) Sarah Hawley. She down with us to discuss her debut novel A Witch’s Guide to Fake Dating a Demon, and share her personal journey in getting published with all of its highs and lows.

Find Sarah at her website, on social media and order her book here!

]]> Writing Reylo is back! Our first guest of 2023 is author (and fanfic legend) Sarah Hawley. She down with us to discuss her debut novel A Witch’s Guide to Fake Dating a Demon, and share her personal journey in getting published with all of its highs and lows.

Find Sarah at her website, on social media and order her book here!

]]> Buzzsprout-12381313 Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0800 3434 2 2 full true Books We Love: Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood Books We Love: Loathe to Love You by Ali Hazelwood It’s a new year and we’re back discussing one of our favorite authors Ali Hazelwood and her newly released anthology Loathe to Love You.   Consisting of three novellas, these quick and engaging stories follow three best friends as they navigate the world of STEM and the intricacies of falling in love.

Buy Loathe to Love You here!

]]> It’s a new year and we’re back discussing one of our favorite authors Ali Hazelwood and her newly released anthology Loathe to Love You.   Consisting of three novellas, these quick and engaging stories follow three best friends as they navigate the world of STEM and the intricacies of falling in love.

Buy Loathe to Love You here!

]]> Buzzsprout-12050568 Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0800 2348 2 1 full true A Look Back at the Year in Marvel A Look Back at the Year in Marvel It’s the most Marvel-ous time of the year! Joined by film critics and fellow nerds Zach Pope and Leo Rydel, we look back at the year in Marvel and all the series, movies and special features that aired in 2022. We chat about our favorite projects, the misses, and look forward to our most anticipated projects of 2023.

Be sure to find Zach and Leo on YouTube and social media!

]]> It’s the most Marvel-ous time of the year! Joined by film critics and fellow nerds Zach Pope and Leo Rydel, we look back at the year in Marvel and all the series, movies and special features that aired in 2022. We chat about our favorite projects, the misses, and look forward to our most anticipated projects of 2023.

Be sure to find Zach and Leo on YouTube and social media!

]]> Buzzsprout-11935438 Tue, 27 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0800 5109 1 22 full true Andor: A Look at Season One Andor: A Look at Season One A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…Cassian Andor lives! Before he was a Rebel hero helping steal the Death Star plans, he was just a lowly thief trying to avoid attention…but rather unsuccessfully, as Season 1 of Andor proves.

In this episode we chat about our thoughts about the first season, from the slow sluggish start to the momentous and shocking finale, and all our questions, theories and favorite moments in between.

Let us know what you thought about Andor Season 1 on our social media!

]]> A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…Cassian Andor lives! Before he was a Rebel hero helping steal the Death Star plans, he was just a lowly thief trying to avoid attention…but rather unsuccessfully, as Season 1 of Andor proves.

In this episode we chat about our thoughts about the first season, from the slow sluggish start to the momentous and shocking finale, and all our questions, theories and favorite moments in between.

Let us know what you thought about Andor Season 1 on our social media!

]]> Buzzsprout-11907941 Wed, 21 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0800 4250 1 21 full true The Rings of Power: Final Reaction The Rings of Power: Final Reaction Season 1 of The Rings of Power has come to an end and we are back to share our final thoughts on episodes 7 & 8. Join us as we talk about our evolving feelings towards the Harfoots, the surprising bombshell about Galadriel's relationship status, and THAT Sauron reveal. We chat about the things in the show we loved, and the things that didn't quite work for us, and why we're still chomping at the bit for Season 2.

Tell us what you thought about The Rings of Power finale on social media!

]]> Season 1 of The Rings of Power has come to an end and we are back to share our final thoughts on episodes 7 & 8. Join us as we talk about our evolving feelings towards the Harfoots, the surprising bombshell about Galadriel's relationship status, and THAT Sauron reveal. We chat about the things in the show we loved, and the things that didn't quite work for us, and why we're still chomping at the bit for Season 2.

Tell us what you thought about The Rings of Power finale on social media!

]]> Buzzsprout-11511965 Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0700 5041 1 20 full true Rings of Power: Episodes 5 & 6 Rings of Power: Episodes 5 & 6 This season is officially in full swing and we had so much to talk about for Episodes 5 & 6-the Numenorean drama, the appearance of the creepy and mysterious mystics, THE BIRTH OF MOUNT DOOM. And of course, we continued merrily shipping Halbrand and Galadriel. But despite truly liking the show, we also had some choice thoughts about certain plotlines and certain characters and certain people groups (looking at you, Harfoots). Despite all that, we are still anxiously counting down the days until the season finale and all that it will reveal!

Let us know what you thought of The Rings of Power Episodes 5 & 6 on social media!

]]> This season is officially in full swing and we had so much to talk about for Episodes 5 & 6-the Numenorean drama, the appearance of the creepy and mysterious mystics, THE BIRTH OF MOUNT DOOM. And of course, we continued merrily shipping Halbrand and Galadriel. But despite truly liking the show, we also had some choice thoughts about certain plotlines and certain characters and certain people groups (looking at you, Harfoots). Despite all that, we are still anxiously counting down the days until the season finale and all that it will reveal!

Let us know what you thought of The Rings of Power Episodes 5 & 6 on social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-11470844 Mon, 10 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0700 4223 1 19 full true The Rings of Power: Episodes 3 & 4 The Rings of Power: Episodes 3 & 4 Four episodes in and despite a few flaws, the Rings of Power has successfully sunk its hooks into us. Joined by special guests Andee and Kirsten, we had an outrageously good time breaking down episodes 3 and 4 of the Amazon Prime mega-series. Listen in to hear our reactions to Numenor, how we REALLY feel about the Harfoots, our updated theories on who several mysterious characters might be, and why dwarves are the superior life form of Middle Earth.

Let us know what you think of the Rings of Power on social media!

]]> Four episodes in and despite a few flaws, the Rings of Power has successfully sunk its hooks into us. Joined by special guests Andee and Kirsten, we had an outrageously good time breaking down episodes 3 and 4 of the Amazon Prime mega-series. Listen in to hear our reactions to Numenor, how we REALLY feel about the Harfoots, our updated theories on who several mysterious characters might be, and why dwarves are the superior life form of Middle Earth.

Let us know what you think of the Rings of Power on social media!

]]> Buzzsprout-11370680 Thu, 22 Sep 2022 22:00:00 -0700 6444 1 18 full true Return to Westeros with House of the Dragon Return to Westeros with House of the Dragon We are back in Westeros, where the dragons are plentiful but the male heirs are not. We were so excited to be back amongst the scheming, smirking, and debauchery of King's Landing again. In this episode we talked about the first three episodes of House of the Dragon, from the rampant misogyny and perpetually dark lighting,  to wondering why the suggested answer to every problem always seems to be  "marry a close relative".  House Targaryen is messy as hell and we are living for it.

Let us know what you thought on social media!

]]> We are back in Westeros, where the dragons are plentiful but the male heirs are not. We were so excited to be back amongst the scheming, smirking, and debauchery of King's Landing again. In this episode we talked about the first three episodes of House of the Dragon, from the rampant misogyny and perpetually dark lighting,  to wondering why the suggested answer to every problem always seems to be  "marry a close relative".  House Targaryen is messy as hell and we are living for it.

Let us know what you thought on social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-11308750 Tue, 13 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0700 4479 1 17 full true The Rings of Power: First Reactions The Rings of Power: First Reactions It's been five years since Amazon first announced that they had purchased the television rights to The Lord of the Rings series, but on September 3rd we finally got to journey back to Middle Earth. And what a journey it was! We broke down the series premiere of the epic billion-dollar series, from our thoughts on the intense prologue to our theories on the identity of Meteor Man. And it wouldn't be us if we didn't spend at least a few minutes chatting about what characters we need to see kiss, right?!

Let us know what you thought about the series premiere on social media!

]]> It's been five years since Amazon first announced that they had purchased the television rights to The Lord of the Rings series, but on September 3rd we finally got to journey back to Middle Earth. And what a journey it was! We broke down the series premiere of the epic billion-dollar series, from our thoughts on the intense prologue to our theories on the identity of Meteor Man. And it wouldn't be us if we didn't spend at least a few minutes chatting about what characters we need to see kiss, right?!

Let us know what you thought about the series premiere on social media!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-11281386 Wed, 07 Sep 2022 20:00:00 -0700 4623 1 16 full true A Conversation with Ali Hazelwood and Julie Soto A Conversation with Ali Hazelwood and Julie Soto This week we are THRILLED to be joined by Ali Hazelwood, NYT bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis, and playwright, author, and fanfic legend Julie Soto, whose debut novel Forget Me Not arrives in July 2023.  Nothing could have been more fun than spending an hour with these two lovelies and personal heroes, chatting about fanfic, getting published, and their upcoming book releases (which you definitely need to preorder NOW). Come for the delightful conversation, stay for the inevitable NSFW detours.

Preorder Ali Hazelwood's Love on the Brain  and visit her website.

Preorder Julie Soto's Forget Me Not and visit her website.

]]> This week we are THRILLED to be joined by Ali Hazelwood, NYT bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis, and playwright, author, and fanfic legend Julie Soto, whose debut novel Forget Me Not arrives in July 2023.  Nothing could have been more fun than spending an hour with these two lovelies and personal heroes, chatting about fanfic, getting published, and their upcoming book releases (which you definitely need to preorder NOW). Come for the delightful conversation, stay for the inevitable NSFW detours.

Preorder Ali Hazelwood's Love on the Brain  and visit her website.

Preorder Julie Soto's Forget Me Not and visit her website.

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-11145850 Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:00:00 -0700 4712 1 15 full true The Nerds Awaken Invade Comic Con: Part 2 The Nerds Awaken Invade Comic Con: Part 2 We came, we saw, we conquered...San Diego Comic Con 2022! After a whirlwind 5 days full of panels, new friends, and SO! MUCH! WALKING!  we are back and ready to debrief. What was our favorite celebrity sighting? Did Saturday Hall H live up to the hype? Would we do it again? We answer all that and more!

See all of our SDCC footage on Tiktok, Twitter, and Instagram! 

]]> We came, we saw, we conquered...San Diego Comic Con 2022! After a whirlwind 5 days full of panels, new friends, and SO! MUCH! WALKING!  we are back and ready to debrief. What was our favorite celebrity sighting? Did Saturday Hall H live up to the hype? Would we do it again? We answer all that and more!

See all of our SDCC footage on Tiktok, Twitter, and Instagram! 

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-11058815 Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0700 4278 1 14 full true The Nerds Awaken Invade Comic Con: Part 1 The Nerds Awaken Invade Comic Con: Part 1 San Diego Comic Con kicks off Thursday, July 21st, and The Nerds Awaken is going to be there!  In this episode, we chat about all things Comic Con: the panels we're most excited for, our speculations for what surprises the big studios might have in store, and Julie (the pro) gets Janna (the newb) hyped for the whole Comic Con experience.

Be sure to follow our SDCC adventures on Twitter, Tiktok and Instagram!

]]> San Diego Comic Con kicks off Thursday, July 21st, and The Nerds Awaken is going to be there!  In this episode, we chat about all things Comic Con: the panels we're most excited for, our speculations for what surprises the big studios might have in store, and Julie (the pro) gets Janna (the newb) hyped for the whole Comic Con experience.

Be sure to follow our SDCC adventures on Twitter, Tiktok and Instagram!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-10984282 Tue, 19 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0700 3168 1 13 full true Obi-Wan Kenobi: Final Reactions Obi-Wan Kenobi: Final Reactions Obi-Wan Kenobi has come to a close, and what a ride it was! We have been so impressed with this show, and our gratitude goes out to the writing team and Director Deborah Chow, who captured the hopeful spirit and emotional intelligence that we needed in Star Wars.  In this episode we break down Parts V and VI, from the epic lightsaber battles to the heart wrenching emotional moments. We were sad to see it end, but are excited to see what other stories Star Wars has in the future.

Let us know what you thought on Twitter, Tiktok, or Instagram!

]]> Obi-Wan Kenobi has come to a close, and what a ride it was! We have been so impressed with this show, and our gratitude goes out to the writing team and Director Deborah Chow, who captured the hopeful spirit and emotional intelligence that we needed in Star Wars.  In this episode we break down Parts V and VI, from the epic lightsaber battles to the heart wrenching emotional moments. We were sad to see it end, but are excited to see what other stories Star Wars has in the future.

Let us know what you thought on Twitter, Tiktok, or Instagram!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-10848604 Fri, 24 Jun 2022 06:00:00 -0700 4269 1 12 full true Obi-Wan Kenobi: Parts III & IV Obi-Wan Kenobi: Parts III & IV We're back in a galaxy far, far away, breaking down Parts lll and lV of the new Disney+ series Obi-Wan Kenobi! We continue to be impressed by the show's heart, emotional intelligence, and appropriate amount of thrilling lightsaber moves.  We chat about Obi-Wan and Leia's adorable relationship, Reva's character development, and THAT character showing up earlier than we expected.  Plus, our theories and and hopes for the rest of the series! *cough* Anakin flashbacks *cough*

Let us know what you thought on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram!

]]> We're back in a galaxy far, far away, breaking down Parts lll and lV of the new Disney+ series Obi-Wan Kenobi! We continue to be impressed by the show's heart, emotional intelligence, and appropriate amount of thrilling lightsaber moves.  We chat about Obi-Wan and Leia's adorable relationship, Reva's character development, and THAT character showing up earlier than we expected.  Plus, our theories and and hopes for the rest of the series! *cough* Anakin flashbacks *cough*

Let us know what you thought on Twitter, TikTok, or Instagram!

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-10786255 Mon, 13 Jun 2022 12:00:00 -0700 4230 1 11 full true Obi-Wan Kenobi: First Reactions Obi-Wan Kenobi: First Reactions After 18 years, Ewan Macgregor is back on our televisions as Obi-Wan Kenobi! In this episode we process our initial thoughts and reactions to the first two episodes of the new Disney+ series. From Reva's obsession with Obi-Wan to the many surprise appearances (including our joy at *that* character playing such a big part), we nerd out and discuss our theories, favorite moments, and what (or who) we hope to see in the rest of the series. 

]]> After 18 years, Ewan Macgregor is back on our televisions as Obi-Wan Kenobi! In this episode we process our initial thoughts and reactions to the first two episodes of the new Disney+ series. From Reva's obsession with Obi-Wan to the many surprise appearances (including our joy at *that* character playing such a big part), we nerd out and discuss our theories, favorite moments, and what (or who) we hope to see in the rest of the series. 

]]> Buzzsprout-10711667 Tue, 31 May 2022 08:00:00 -0700 4441 1 10 full false Breaking Down Bridgerton Season 2: Part 2 Breaking Down Bridgerton Season 2: Part 2 Dearest Gentle Listeners,

We bring to you Part 2 of our Breaking Down Bridgerton series where we dive a little further into some of our concerns and  story choices from Bridgerton Season 2 that didn't really work for us. Rest assure, there was still so much that we still LOVED and ADORED. While we may not agree on everything, we can all agree that Bridgerton gave us so much to talk about! Join the conversation! Find us on Instagram or Twitter and let us know how you felt.

Missed Part 1? You can find it here! 

]]> Dearest Gentle Listeners,

We bring to you Part 2 of our Breaking Down Bridgerton series where we dive a little further into some of our concerns and  story choices from Bridgerton Season 2 that didn't really work for us. Rest assure, there was still so much that we still LOVED and ADORED. While we may not agree on everything, we can all agree that Bridgerton gave us so much to talk about! Join the conversation! Find us on Instagram or Twitter and let us know how you felt.

Missed Part 1? You can find it here! 

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-10438063 Thu, 14 Apr 2022 06:00:00 -0700 3150 1 9 full false Breaking Down Bridgerton Season 2: Part 1 Breaking Down Bridgerton Season 2: Part 1 Dearest Listeners,

We didn't intend to talk about Bridgerton, but as turned it out, we had a LOT to say about Season 2.  Brought to you in two parts, we talk about all the things we loved, how we felt the show adapted the source material, and the few elements of the show that just didn't work for us (looking at you, Love Triangle).  Whether you loved or hated the season, we'd love to hear your thoughts too! Find us on Instagram or Twitter and let us know how you felt.

]]> Dearest Listeners,

We didn't intend to talk about Bridgerton, but as turned it out, we had a LOT to say about Season 2.  Brought to you in two parts, we talk about all the things we loved, how we felt the show adapted the source material, and the few elements of the show that just didn't work for us (looking at you, Love Triangle).  Whether you loved or hated the season, we'd love to hear your thoughts too! Find us on Instagram or Twitter and let us know how you felt.

]]> Buzzsprout-10373000 Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0700 3412 1 8 full false The Battinson Rises: Our Look at The Batman The Battinson Rises: Our Look at The Batman You better hold on tight, spider monkey. We're breaking down all our thoughts and feelings about Robert Pattinson as The Batman. Join us and our friend, Andee, as we discuss all things the caped crusader - from Rob's turn as the Dark Knight to Zoe Kravitz's nearly purrfect (see what we did there) Catwoman to even what we needed to see and what we wished was left on the editing room floor.

]]> You better hold on tight, spider monkey. We're breaking down all our thoughts and feelings about Robert Pattinson as The Batman. Join us and our friend, Andee, as we discuss all things the caped crusader - from Rob's turn as the Dark Knight to Zoe Kravitz's nearly purrfect (see what we did there) Catwoman to even what we needed to see and what we wished was left on the editing room floor.

]]> Buzzsprout-10351978 Thu, 31 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0700 2990 1 7 full true Writing Reylo Part 2: A Conversation with Kirsten Bohling Writing Reylo Part 2: A Conversation with Kirsten Bohling We're continuing our celebration of Reylo authors taking their talents to the mainstream publishing world with part two of our new series, Writing Reylo. This time, we're joined by author and Reylo fanfic writer, Kirsten Bohling, whose debut novel, We'd Know By Then hits bookstores on April 5th. We discuss all about Kristen's journey from fanfic to published author, her experiences in the Reylo fandom, and why We'd Know By Then made us feel all the feels and then some we didn't even know we had.

Preorder Kristen Bohling's We'd Know By Then on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or order from your local independent bookstore! Follow Kirsten on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok (like the cool kids do). 


]]> We're continuing our celebration of Reylo authors taking their talents to the mainstream publishing world with part two of our new series, Writing Reylo. This time, we're joined by author and Reylo fanfic writer, Kirsten Bohling, whose debut novel, We'd Know By Then hits bookstores on April 5th. We discuss all about Kristen's journey from fanfic to published author, her experiences in the Reylo fandom, and why We'd Know By Then made us feel all the feels and then some we didn't even know we had.

Preorder Kristen Bohling's We'd Know By Then on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or order from your local independent bookstore! Follow Kirsten on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok (like the cool kids do). 


]]> Buzzsprout-10243061 Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0700 4278 1 6 full true Writing Reylo Part 1: Interview with author Elise Nelson Writing Reylo Part 1: Interview with author Elise Nelson We've made no secret about our deep and abiding love for Reylo fanfiction. So it only makes sense that we'd devote a whole-ass series to all the amazing fanfic authors who are getting book deals and taking their talents to a wider audience. We'll shine the spotlight on these authors and the different journeys they experienced to getting published, squeal about their books (we were even lucky enough to interview a few!) and hopefully encourage other fanfic writers who want to take the plunge into the publishing world as well.

In Part 1 we are thrilled to have Reylo author Elise Nelson on with us, whose vampire romance novel Smoke and Mirrors is available now! You can find Elise on Facebook, Instagram,  AO3 and at her website.

]]> We've made no secret about our deep and abiding love for Reylo fanfiction. So it only makes sense that we'd devote a whole-ass series to all the amazing fanfic authors who are getting book deals and taking their talents to a wider audience. We'll shine the spotlight on these authors and the different journeys they experienced to getting published, squeal about their books (we were even lucky enough to interview a few!) and hopefully encourage other fanfic writers who want to take the plunge into the publishing world as well.

In Part 1 we are thrilled to have Reylo author Elise Nelson on with us, whose vampire romance novel Smoke and Mirrors is available now! You can find Elise on Facebook, Instagram,  AO3 and at her website.

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-10154272 Mon, 28 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0800 3782 1 5 full true The Autumn of Adam Driver: A Retrospective The Autumn of Adam Driver: A Retrospective If there's one thing you need to know about The Nerds Awaken, it's that we love Adam Driver. Sure, we have other interests and will talk about other things, but he is the glue that brought us together.  In this episode, we look back at the phenomenal year that Adam has had, from the Burberry campaign to the House of Gucci red carpet.  Prepare for our uncensored thoughts on centaurs and Adam Driver's future.

Link to video mentioned in episode

]]> If there's one thing you need to know about The Nerds Awaken, it's that we love Adam Driver. Sure, we have other interests and will talk about other things, but he is the glue that brought us together.  In this episode, we look back at the phenomenal year that Adam has had, from the Burberry campaign to the House of Gucci red carpet.  Prepare for our uncensored thoughts on centaurs and Adam Driver's future.

Link to video mentioned in episode

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-9749807 Sun, 19 Dec 2021 21:00:00 -0800 3923 1 4 full true We Finally Watched Ted Lasso We Finally Watched Ted Lasso We said it would take a few years, but apparently you're never too old to change. That's right, we finally watched Ted Lasso! And did we like it? No. WE LOVED IT.  From 'Biscuits with the Boss' to the Roy/Jamie Bro Hug of the century, Ted Lasso and the AFC Richmond crew (minus Nate) won us over with their heart, humanity, and prolific use of profanity.  Tune in to hear us  discuss all the things we loved, dig deep into themes and character arcs, and give our theories for Season 3. FUTBOL IS LIFE!

]]> We said it would take a few years, but apparently you're never too old to change. That's right, we finally watched Ted Lasso! And did we like it? No. WE LOVED IT.  From 'Biscuits with the Boss' to the Roy/Jamie Bro Hug of the century, Ted Lasso and the AFC Richmond crew (minus Nate) won us over with their heart, humanity, and prolific use of profanity.  Tune in to hear us  discuss all the things we loved, dig deep into themes and character arcs, and give our theories for Season 3. FUTBOL IS LIFE!

]]> Buzzsprout-9588960 Sun, 21 Nov 2021 21:00:00 -0800 3152 1 3 full true Falling in Love with The Love Hypothesis Falling in Love with The Love Hypothesis In this episode we rave about our favorite book of 2021, The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood. A smart, sweet contemporary romcom with surprising origins, The Love Hypothesis has all our favorite tropes: fake dating, slow burn, only one bed (with an ironic twist!) and a prickly hero with a cinnamon roll center. Featuring a brilliant Ph.D. candidate as the heroine and set in the high stakes world of academia, it's no wonder we fell in love with this delightful novel. Tune in and hear us give you all the compelling (and smutty) reasons why you NEED to read it.

Link to Ali Hazelwood's website (and the exclusive bonus scene we mention!)

]]> In this episode we rave about our favorite book of 2021, The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood. A smart, sweet contemporary romcom with surprising origins, The Love Hypothesis has all our favorite tropes: fake dating, slow burn, only one bed (with an ironic twist!) and a prickly hero with a cinnamon roll center. Featuring a brilliant Ph.D. candidate as the heroine and set in the high stakes world of academia, it's no wonder we fell in love with this delightful novel. Tune in and hear us give you all the compelling (and smutty) reasons why you NEED to read it.

Link to Ali Hazelwood's website (and the exclusive bonus scene we mention!)

]]> The Nerds Awaken Buzzsprout-9392984 Mon, 18 Oct 2021 20:00:00 -0700 2300 1 2 full true A Farewell to Brooklyn Nine-Nine A Farewell to Brooklyn Nine-Nine The lights are out in the 99th Precinct! Okay, not really-you can't actually turn out the lights at a working police precinct (thanks,  Lt. Jeffords)! But our favorite show Brooklyn Nine-Nine has come to a close and we have lots of thoughts.  Join us as we break down the final season and look back on all the hijinks and heists that came before. We'll discuss how the writers addressed current real world issues, share our favorite moments, and work through the five stages of grief as we try and say goodbye. Nine-nine!

]]> The lights are out in the 99th Precinct! Okay, not really-you can't actually turn out the lights at a working police precinct (thanks,  Lt. Jeffords)! But our favorite show Brooklyn Nine-Nine has come to a close and we have lots of thoughts.  Join us as we break down the final season and look back on all the hijinks and heists that came before. We'll discuss how the writers addressed current real world issues, share our favorite moments, and work through the five stages of grief as we try and say goodbye. Nine-nine!

]]> Buzzsprout-9303393 Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:00:00 -0700 2881 1 1 full false Meet the Nerds Meet the Nerds Come on now,  we all NERD hard over something pop culture. Perhaps it's that show that will never disappear from your "Keep Watching" queue, or that book you stan so much, you can recall the exact page of any given moment. Maybe you nerd out for that actor you have more pictures of in your phone than you have of your actual loved ones. Who are we to judge? Friends and proud nerds, Janna and Julie believe everyone needs the safe space to get in touch with their inner nerd and what better way to do it than by starting a podcast? The Nerds Awaken celebrates all things pop culture - from fledging interests to hardcore obsessions -  with unabashed joy, laughter, and a passion that our family members would call, "grounds for an intervention." New episodes start this fall. Subscribe now and let your inner nerd awaken! 

]]> Come on now,  we all NERD hard over something pop culture. Perhaps it's that show that will never disappear from your "Keep Watching" queue, or that book you stan so much, you can recall the exact page of any given moment. Maybe you nerd out for that actor you have more pictures of in your phone than you have of your actual loved ones. Who are we to judge? Friends and proud nerds, Janna and Julie believe everyone needs the safe space to get in touch with their inner nerd and what better way to do it than by starting a podcast? The Nerds Awaken celebrates all things pop culture - from fledging interests to hardcore obsessions -  with unabashed joy, laughter, and a passion that our family members would call, "grounds for an intervention." New episodes start this fall. Subscribe now and let your inner nerd awaken! 

]]> Julie Buzzsprout-9221297 Sun, 19 Sep 2021 21:00:00 -0700 429 1 1 trailer false