Shows
FanthropologicalFanthropological Finale: In the EndWow. This it… the end of an era. How do you summarize four years of exploring the breadth of human fandom? This week, we talk about the journey from the beginning to the end of Fanthropological, what we learned, loved, and hated… and so much more!
## Where can I get updates?
If you want to follow us on social media, we’ve got you covered:
* Facebook: [facebook.com/thenickscast](https://facebook.com/thenickscast)
* Twitter: [@thenickscast](https://twitter.com/thenickscast)
And of course, we can be found where all fine podcasts are found (e.g. [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/2IVp8MB...
2020-10-1650 min
FanthropologicalFanthropological Finale: Fanthropological AUs (⅔)As we continue wrapping up Fanthropological, we talk about several alternate universes (AUs) of topics we could have covered.
Topics we would have liked to have covered
* Number 5
* Z’s Choice: Haruki Murakami, or
* T’s Choice: VTubers
* G’s Choice: Folk Music
* Number 4
* Z’s Choice: “Concept: Are there fandom archetypes?”
* T’s Choice: Dan Harmon’s Community
* G’s Choice: Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure
* Number 3
* Z’s Choice: Zappa
* T’s Choice: Western Comics
* G’s Choice: Drag
* Number 2
* Z’s Choice: Cyclists
* T’s Choice: Undertale
* G’s Choice: Breadtube
* Honorable Mention:
* Z’s Choice: “Is admiration for a politician, fandom?”
* T...
2020-10-0930 min
FanthropologicalFanthropological Finale: Cover to Coverage (⅓)If you’re joining us for the first time, sorry to say this is the beginning of the end of Fanthropological. Join us as we revisit our favourite episodes (and maybe check them out)!
Our favourite episodes:
* Number 5
* [Z’s Choice: Zelda](https://fanthropological.com/zelda)
* [T’s Choice: Nier](https://fanthropological.com/nier)
* [G’s Choice: Galaga](https://fanthropological.com/galaga)
* Number 4
* [Z’s Choice: RPI](https://fanthropological.com/rpi)
* [T’s Choice: Bob’s Burgers](https://fanthropological.com/bobsburgers)
* [G’s Choice: Pinball](https://fanthropological.com/pinball)
* Number 3
* [Z’s Choice: Breakfast Cereals](https://fanthropological.com/breakfast)
* [T’s Choice: Breakfast...
2020-10-0236 min
FanthropologicalAre sequels good for Fandom?Inspired by our upcoming charity marathon, the Race Against Time, we’re back to talking about sequels and how they change fandom. A fandom can live off of very little material (e.g. Reboot, Chrono Trigger) … but what happens when there is a sequel? Is that a good thing?
In particular, we talk about:
* How sequels allow for the creation of new communities
* How sequels ‘change your investment in fandom’
* How we’re huge hypocrites
And more! All in under thirty minutes.
Plus, we’re on a short hiatus for the Race Against Time, so we’ll be back in September!
...
2020-07-3123 min
FanthropologicalWhere does fandom end?What happens 30 years after a TV show finishes? Is the fandom … over? What is the relationship between a series ending and a fandom ending? And what happens if the creator turns out to be an _awful_ person. This week it’s all over as we talk about the role and effect of endings in fandom… and in life?
In particular, we talk about:
* How the peak of a fandom may have already passed by the time you get there
* How fandoms connect people through time, even when they do end
* How endings… really any discontinuity… is hard for humans.
* ...Honestly, a lot abou...
2020-07-1725 min
The Zeal ArchivesPalace of the Sun: The Power of Radiance [Book 2, Chapter 9]With world-ending calamity nearly at bay, a critical decision need be made, one that could alter the course of history. Lucca’s mastery of science means that the temporal distortion can be stopped, and save the world of Chrono Trigger, but G must decide whether it is more important to make his way home… or risk it all to save his friend.
T and G discuss:
* The surprisingly relevant (but entirely understated?!) origins of the sun stone; how you can find it in the story, what it means for the world of Chrono Trigger, and WHY NO ONE TALKS ABOUT IT...
2020-07-0931 min
FanthropologicalDoes fandom belong to the stans?It’s all coming together people: the role of the artist, problematic works / creators, media criticism, consumerism and capitalism… and at the heart of it? Stans. As far as fandom goes, is it the stans who rule the roost? And is that for the better… or for the worse?!
In particular, we talk about:
* Take inflation and how hyperbole often destroys opportunity for nuance
* The unfortunate zero-sum game that fandom can sometimes be, in particular when consumerism is involved
* The role that stans play in shaping fan culture, and the media we consume
And more! All in under thirty minutes.
## Episod...
2020-07-0319 min
The Zeal ArchivesR66Y: Postmodern Prometheus [Book 2, Chapter 8]With T faded away into the distortion, G is left with only his grief… and the explanation for the mysterious voices, Lucca! With their misdeeds spelled out before them, and the loss of friends Robo and T, can G soldier on to try to own up to the mistakes that have been made, save the world of Chrono Trigger, and find his way home?
T and G discuss:
* Robo’s role in the story of Chrono Trigger, the etymology of his name, and his ORIGIN STORY!
* The mechanics of Robo, and the game. Did you know that Robo can do any...
2020-06-2527 min
FanthropologicalShould fandoms be political? (Yes)Everything you consume is political; 100%! _It cannot be avoided_ and, really, that point shouldn’t be avoided _anyway_! Why then do people insist that the fandoms and media that they participate in be apolitical? This week, we’ve definitely got things to say!
In particular, we talk about:
* How media normalizes certain behaviours and ideas, and makes them the default experience
* How politics is often used as a shield to deflect from critical examination of media and fandom
* The privilege of being able to treat things as though they are _not_ political
And more! All in under thirty minutes.
## Episode Outl...
2020-06-1918 min
The Zeal ArchivesDeath Peak: At the End of the World [Book 2, Chapter 7]The world of Chrono Trigger is beginning to fall apart. Robo’s sacrifice brought our heroes one step closer to potential salvation, but hopes are dashed when the distortion begins to impact T as well. Will G and T be torn worlds apart, or... something worse? Is there any hope left in a ruined future? And what is that mysteriously ghostly voice?!
T and G discuss:
* What exactly Death Peak is: How you get there, why you might want to check it out, how FRUSTRATING it can be, and it’s role in the story of Chrono Trigger
* Their thoughts on t...
2020-06-1128 min
FanthropologicalCan we cut it out with the remakes?!Are you ready for the next… Labyrinth? _Stripes_?! Who is coming up with these remakes, and why can’t we get new material? This week, we’re talking all about the world of fandom, adaptations, reboots, and so on!
In particular, we talk about:
* How money is an important contributor in the sustainability and creation of remakes (and how franchises never die as a result)
* Where reboots and remakes are beneficial, especially when providing a modern take on dated material (and bringing up important issues in modern context)
* How some properties… just don’t age well.
And more! All in under thir...
2020-06-0623 min
The Zeal ArchivesDreamstone: Heirloom of Zeal [Book 2, Chapter 6]Finally, our heroes arrive at the Keeper’s Dome, but the distortion has worsened, and the party suffers a few more than mechanical failures… But with the sealed gate open, perhaps answers lie within? Or perhaps the trauma of being trapped in a world before later on has finally gotten to them...
T and G discuss:
* The role that dreamstone plays in the world of Chrono Trigger: is it _the_ source of magic? A source? A part of Lavos? Is it… the Frozen Flame?!
* How Dreamstone fits into the storytelling and lore of the Chrono universe, and a bit about how ma...
2020-05-2834 min
FanthropologicalDo fans need to meet face-to-face?With the world in the middle of a global pandemic, it’s time to try to answer the question, as fans, do we _need_ to meet face to face? While it goes without saying that we don’t _have_ to meet face to face… how does that change the wide world of fandom?
In particular, we talk about:
* The limitations of online communication, including the role that conventions and other events play in creating semi-private spaces?
* How different forms of communication use different bandwidth, or more specifically how fan events have different levels of expectation of interaction
* How the veil of ano...
2020-05-2222 min
The Zeal ArchivesIoka and Laruba: The Tribes of 65 Million B.C. [Book 2, Chapter 5]It’s a hop, skip, and a jump from the Proto Dome to the Keeper’s Dome… if you don’t mind the Sewers, that is. As they make their journey to hopefully discover Balthazar’s lab, the trio encounters a bit of dimensional interference, and the recurrence of a strange voice. Is all well in the world of Chrono Trigger, or is everything starting to unravel?
T and G discuss:
* The different tribes of 65 000 000 BC! At least two different mysterious groups of humans, and the dinomen… er, Reptites?
* Speaking of Tribes, do the Laruba end up becoming the enlightened ones?! Rulin...
2020-05-1427 min
FanthropologicalShould we cry over anime boys?Should we get emotionally attached to fictional characters? Of course we do, intentionally or not… but _should_ we? No guarantees that we get anywhere near addressing that, but we definitely dig into how and why people get attached to characters (for good reasons… and for reasons)!
In particular, we talk about:
* The (non-)distinction between fictional and real characters… and real people?
* How writing has gotten better, and how people can relate to even villains
* How people can exert agency over fictional character in fanworks and how that promotes attachment
And more! All in under thirty minutes.
## Episode Outline
**Topics:** We do...
2020-05-0819 min
The Zeal ArchivesThe Masamune: The Relic that Ended an Era [Book 2, Chapter 4]To say that their stay at the end of time, or even 2300 AD, has been strange would be a bit of an understatement… After finding a safe way to traverse the wastes of the future, G and T’s tempers begin to flare. But before things can get too heated, an enemy appears! Will they be able to leverage their knowledge of the world of Chrono Trigger and defeat it? And what is with that strange noise?!
T and G discuss:
* The history of that most famous sword! No, the other sword… NO the one in Chrono Trigger! Including how it mad...
2020-04-3025 min
FanthropologicalSPOILER ALERTSpoiler alert: You’ve been warned! We could spoil literally anything! That actor you like? They’re in this! That plot twist? Revealed! Deep lore?! … Probably?
In all seriousness, we’re talking about what exactly _are_ spoilers, and how they impact people’s experience with the media that they consume (and, in general, how people perceive media).
In particular, we talk about:
* The (non-)importance of _the twist_ in modern storytelling
* You can only experience something once… or can you?
* How can we “inoculate” ourselves against spoilers in this world of modern media consumption (i.e. binging, near-instant relay of information)?
An...
2020-04-2422 min
The Zeal ArchivesZombor: Dark Sorcery on Zenan Bridge [Book 2, Chapter 3]R66-Y, that is his name… but could he be malfunctioning? If nothing else, their new robot pal is acting very suspicious! T and G have a moral dilemma as to whether they should trust Robo, or journey the wastes of the future alone. Really, what choice do they have if they hope to escape the world of Chrono Trigger?
T and G discuss:
* The 25+ year old conspiracy that has been brewing in this Super Nintendo gem: how on earth did the Mystics / Fiends manage to secure Zenan Bridge in the first place? Was it… an inside job?!
* The nature of O...
2020-04-1626 min
FanthropologicalIs fandom a religion?The signs are all there, people! Have you heard the good word (of Firefly)? May the force be with you (and also with you)! Though there’re lots of superficial connections between fandom and religion, could there be a stronger link? Some sort of… divine connection?
In this episode, we’re all over the place, including:
* The appropriation of language from other sources (e.g. canonization)
* Fandom filing the role of community and providing hope and meaning
* Tons of superficial (?) connections between fandom and religion
And more! All in under thirty minutes.
## Episode Outline
**Topics: **What is a religion, what is rel...
2020-04-1024 min
The Zeal ArchivesThe Gurus of Antiquity: Life and Death [Book 2, Chapter 2]Could it be… Robo? T desperately scrambles to repair what may be their future hope as G delves into the Zeal Archives to leverage future knowledge of… well, the future! Could Belthasar still reside in the ruins, and the Epoch as well? Could the spatial anomaly be a way out of the world of Chrono Trigger?
T and G discuss:
* Melchior as a metaphor for world building! How NPCs can help to flesh out the world and add details to the story, even foreshadow, even when they don’t seem important.
* The creations of Melchior! He sure made a lot of stu...
2020-04-0229 min
FanthropologicalIs fandom a key part of our identity?Fandom has changed a lot, and over time has gone from something on the fringe of society to the forefront. Does that also mean that fandom has moved towards a key part, an integral piece of people’s personal identity?
In this episode, we dig a bit about representation and self-identification as well as:
* What does being a fan of something even mean?!
* The (non) importance of level of participation in (self) identification
* Conversations that are strangely lacking self-awareness about the parallels of fan self-identification as compared to other areas of self-identification, closeting… etc.
And more! All in under thirty minu...
2020-03-2721 min
The Zeal ArchivesHeckran Cave: Where the Beast Sleeps [Book 2, Chapter 1]Their fate is revealed: Gravely disappointed, T and G have _not_ made it home, but instead have opened a portal to the year 2300 AD. Will the Zeal Archives be enough, at this point, to get them closer to their final destination? Will they _ever_ escape the world of Chrono Trigger? And could this machination whirring to life in the dark spell fortune… or doom?!
T and G discuss:
* Heckran Cave! What is the point of it, and what should you know if you find yourself wandering through it? Perhaps there is some deeper lore involving Magus or even… Lavos?!
* The big...
2020-03-1928 min
FanthropologicalWho needs canon, anyway?It’s fair to say that fans can take things too far, right? To the point of taking certain facts of a series and canonizing (a _biblical_ term) them, deciding which elements are ‘right’ and ‘wrong’? Or even mixing up canon and tradition and requiring long-running media to follow old rules because that’s the way it’s always been!
In this episode, we dig a bit into what canon means, in fandom, and try to answer the question… as fans, who needs canon, anyway? Also covering topics as:
* Curative fandom, and the appeal of consistency and meaning
* How canon justifies fan in...
2020-03-1329 min
FanthropologicalWhat makes a good tabletop experience?Combined, we’ve been playing tabletop games (let’s admit it, mostly Dungeons and Dragons) for decades, but what is it about a game that takes it from a good one, to a great one? We try to answer the question “what makes a great tabletop experience?” (And the answer _isn’t_ everyone starting on time… though it should be!). We cover…
* The lack of importance of verisimilitude
* The importance of not know what to expect
* The importance of exploration
...And more!
## Episode Outline
**Topics:** Min-maxed characters don’t matter, verisimilitude doesn’t matter, the importance of not knowing what to expect, improv...
2020-02-2828 min
Who in ReviewWiR #20: Can You Hear Me?The crew reconvenes to talk about the excellent and creepy(?) "Can You Hear Me?"!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
2020-02-1600 min
Who in ReviewWiR #20: Can You Hear Me?The crew reconvenes to talk about the excellent and creepy(?) "Can You Hear Me?"!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/nicksczach))
You can also find Z's work at...
2020-02-161h 04
FanthropologicalAre you too old for this?Hopefully, the phrase “Aren’t you too old for this?” has come up less and less as time goes on… but it still comes up! We dig into what it even means to be too old for fandom!
* Why do people try to relive their childhood (and is it just nostalgia)?
* Is it even a bad thing to be a fan of things as an adult?
* Why is it a problem to have fun as an adult?
And a lot more! All in under 30 minutes!
## Where can I get updates?
If you want to follow us on social media, we’ve got you...
2020-02-1421 minWho in ReviewWiR #19: PraxeusThe whole TARDIS crew convenes to talk the globetrotting Praxeus!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/nicksczach))
You can also find Z's work at [A Blogger's Beowulf](https...
2020-02-081h 04
Who in ReviewWiR #19: PraxeusThe whole TARDIS crew convenes to talk the globetrotting Praxeus!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
2020-02-0800 min
FanthropologicalIs it ok to be a fan of bad things?New year, new format, new episode! This week, we ask the question “Is it ok to be a fan of bad things?”. Disregarding what _bad_ means, we dig into:
* Solidarity in fans of bad media
* Bad media as a metaphor for life
* Bad media as a references for good media
And a lot more! All in under 30 minutes!
## Where can I get updates?
If you want to follow us on social media, we’ve got you covered:
* Facebook: [facebook.com/fanthropological](https://facebook.com/fanthropological)
* Twitter: [@fanthropologic](https://twitter.com/fanthropologic)
And of course, we can be found where all fine p...
2020-02-0122 minWho in ReviewWiR #18: Fugitive of the JudoonG, Z & Soph ride the rollercoaster of events that lead to the end of this jampacked episode, with curious shades of RTD.
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com...
2020-01-2744 min
Who in ReviewWiR #18: Fugitive of the JudoonG, Z & Soph ride the rollercoaster of events that lead to the end of this jampacked episode, with curious shades of RTD.
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
2020-01-2700 minWho in ReviewWiR #17: Nikola Tesla's Night of TerrorG, Z & Soph are back to talk about what is quite possibly the best episode of the season thus far with the charming honourary companion, Nikola Tesla!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach...
2020-01-2442 min
Who in ReviewWiR #17: Nikola Tesla's Night of TerrorG, Z & Soph are back to talk about what is quite possibly the best episode of the season thus far with the charming honourary companion, Nikola Tesla!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
2020-01-2400 minWho in ReviewWiR #16: Orphan 55G, Z Chloe & Soph are back to chat about the newest base-under-siege episode, some surprisingly good Ryan dialogue and the benefits of Moffat vs RTD!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http...
2020-01-1454 min
Who in ReviewWiR #16: Orphan 55G, Z Chloe & Soph are back to chat about the newest base-under-siege episode, some surprisingly good Ryan dialogue and the benefits of Moffat vs RTD!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
2020-01-1400 minWho in ReviewWiR #15: Spyfall, Pt 2The full WiR crew is here to weigh in on the conclusion of Spyfall!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/nicksczach))
You can also find Z's work at...
2020-01-091h 09
Who in ReviewWiR #15: Spyfall, Pt 2The full WiR crew is here to weigh in on the conclusion of Spyfall!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
2020-01-0900 min
Who in ReviewWiR #14: Spyfall, Pt. 1Spoilers Ahead!
G, Z & Soph return for a lightning round review as they talk about the season premiere of series 12, Spyfall Pt. 1! They discuss all manner of villains, the keys to monster effectiveness & one of the biggest Doctor Who cliffhangers in recent memory!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com...
2020-01-0224 min
Who in ReviewWiR #14: Spyfall, Pt. 1Spoilers Ahead!
G, Z & Soph return for a lightning round review as they talk about the season premiere of series 12, Spyfall Pt. 1! They discuss all manner of villains, the keys to monster effectiveness & one of the biggest Doctor Who cliffhangers in recent memory!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old...
2020-01-0200 minWho in ReviewWiR #13: Series 12 PreviewNick G, Nick Z and Soph gather to talk about their hopes, dreams & suspicions for the fast approaching second series of Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor, which begins on January 1st!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter...
2019-12-3035 min
Who in ReviewWiR #13: Series 12 PreviewNick G, Nick Z and Soph gather to talk about their hopes, dreams & suspicions for the fast approaching second series of Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor, which begins on January 1st!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
...
2019-12-3000 min
The Zeal ArchivesA Premonition: In The Beginning... [Book 1, Appendix A]The fabric of time has been disrupted, and the fate of T and G is uncertain. Gaspar consults the many records of the Zeal Archives to determine how the journey began, both for our characters, and for the world of Chrono Trigger!
T and G discuss:
* The development of Chrono Trigger from it’s convoluted origins as a Final Fantasy game back in 1992 with the “dream team” Hironobu Sakaguchi (producer / creator of _Final Fantasy_), Akira Toriyama (character designer for _Dragon Quest_, creator of _Dragonball_), Yuji Horii (game designer and creator of _Dragon Quest_), as well as key team members Masato Kato...
2019-12-2948 min
FanthropologicalMarvel Cinematic Universe - The Endgame of Fandoms?How the heck do you summarize a fandom about eleven years of films… themselves spanning twenty-three movies so far?! We’ve reached the endgame of this infinity war of fandoms, folks… and it’s time to put everything in perfect balance.
## Episode Outline
**Topics:** Representation in media, fan entitlement, discrimination in fandom, death of the author, authorial intent, the role of fandom in creative works, cinema as a story vs cinema as an experience.
## Where can I get updates?
If you want to follow us on social media, we’ve got you covered:
* Facebook: [facebook.com/fanthropological](https://facebook.com/fanthropol...
2019-12-2350 min
FanthropologicalSteven Universe - They’re … Space Rocks!Here we are in the future... and talking about the lessons, culture, and fandom of Steven and the Crystal Gems! Why is it so popular, especially among other contemporary animations?
_“Steven Universe is an American animated television series created by Rebecca Sugar for Cartoon Network. It is Cartoon Network's first animated series to be created solely by a woman. It is the coming-of-age story of a young boy, Steven Universe (voiced by Zach Callison), who lives with the Crystal Gems—magical, humanoid aliens named Garnet (Estelle), Amethyst (Michaela Dietz), and Pearl (Deedee Magno Hall)—in the fictional town of Beach City...
2019-12-1656 min
FanthropologicalMinisode: Are You A Good Fan?This subject of this week's minisode turns inwards as the Nicks ask themselves if they consider themselves a good fan and break down what being a good fan even means
## What is the Race Against Time?
The Race Against Time is our annual charity livestreaming marathon where we get as many endings as possible in Chrono Trigger to raise money [for the Alzheimer Society of Canada](https://alzheimer.ca/)! This year’s event will be August 10 and 11th from noon until midnight each day. This year, we hope to outdo all of our previous records and raise $1500 CAD. For more de...
2019-06-1421 min
The Zeal ArchivesSpekkio: Master of War, Mirror of the Self [Book 1, Chapter 9]With a plan in motion, all that’s left are a few final preparations before the gate machine is activated and the journey will have reached its end. Before their hopeful return to their universe, T tries one last time to consult with a master of war (and magic), Spekkio.
T and G discuss:
* Crono, Marle, Lucca, and Robo’s first arrival at the end of time (after violating the Conservation of Time theorem), time’s point of least resistance, and meeting that Master of War, Spekkio!
* Trivia about Spekkio in the world of Chrono Trigger: Did you know you can en...
2019-06-0920 minThe Zeal ArchivesThe R-Series: Human Extermination Squad [Book 1, Chapter 8]After a near fatal encounter activating the gate mechanism (and almost summoning Lavos, potentially), the T and G are out of ideas, Trapped in another world with no way out, the Nicks have a heart to heart and look towards the future: literally. Perhaps the R-Series of robots is a good place to start?
T and G discuss:
* What the factory is like when you encounter the R-Series, and what we know of them as a set of robots.
* How to defeat six bosses with only two party members? Yikes. Chrono Trigger, this doesn’t seem fair.
* What it was li...
2019-06-0920 minThe Zeal ArchivesJohnny: The Man, The Machine [Book 1, Chapter 7]Another experiment put on hold, T’s frustration begins to show. With no foundation in any science, theoretical or otherwise, and no other options on the table, G suggests leveraging the temporal instability and the gate’s whipping in space-time to their advantage. With no other options, the two get to work, inspired by Chrono Trigger’s fast-movin’ fast talkin’ big bro, Johnny.
T and G discuss:
* When you encounter Johnny in the world of Chrono Trigger, and little bit about how things have changed in the year 2300 AD.
* How you can beat Johnny in his race, why he’s a jerk (we a...
2019-06-0819 minThe Zeal ArchivesDragon Tank: Care & (Dis)assembly [Book 1, Chapter 6]As the Nicks ascertain their mortality (alive), good luck finally goes their way after managing to stabilize a gate, albeit a small one. Of its own accord, their slapdash machine summons… the instruction manual for the Dragon Tank?
T and G discuss:
* What is going on in the world of Chrono Trigger when you face off against the Dragon tank?
* How to beat the Dragon tank (and other mechanics of it). Protip: Start with the head.
* Rampant speculation about the construction of the Dragon Tank, in particular, who might have built it (could all the inventors in Guardia please raise th...
2019-06-0820 min
Who in ReviewWiR #12: Series 11 AwardsThe Who in Review crew gathers together to hand out their awards to each episode from Jodie Whittaker's first series as the Doctor!
Who in Review Facebook Page
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
Social Media
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
You can also find Z's work at A Blogger's Beowulf, his translation & analysis of the classic Old English text!
Theme music:
"The World Enough & Time" by Fragile Air
What is Who in Review?
Who in Review is a...
2019-06-0800 minWho in ReviewWiR #12: Series 11 AwardsThe Who in Review crew gathers together to hand out their awards to each episode from Jodie Whittaker's first series as the Doctor!
[Who in Review Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/whoinreviewpod/)
Email: whoinreview@thenickscast.com
**Social Media**
G - @victorylime ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/victorylime) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/victorylime));
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/normalwolfcosplay));
Soph - @sofacushionart ([Instagram](http://www.instagram.com/sofacushionart));
Evan - @TheGoatVG ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/thegoatvg) & [Twitch](http://www.twitch.tv/thegoatvg))
Z - @nicksczach ([Twitter](http://www.twitter.com/nicksczach) & [Instagram](http://www.instagram...
2019-06-0856 minThe Zeal ArchivesThe Gate Key: A Preamble on Time-Space Gates [Book 1, Chapter 5]With no other leads, G rests on the hard floor at the end of time and has a familiar dream of the beginning of a different journey. That dream is cut short with an announcement: amidst Gaspar’s books lies a volume about the Gate Key, the Gates, and possibly a clue to get the two of them home!
T and G discuss:
* What exactly are the gates, and how do they work? Did you know that they are ‘locked’ to the same point in space at different times? We didn’t!
* Rampant speculation as to why the gates exist. They see...
2019-06-0826 minThe Zeal ArchivesYakra: 13 Generations of Vengeance [Book 1, Chapter 4]The discovery of a Guardian hairpin leads to new possibilities with the mostly inert (and seemingly multiplying) time gates. After some experiments, the trail goes cold again and the Nicks trace back to where the pin was found in the first place: a record of the villian from the middle ages, Yakra!
T and G discuss:
* The nature of Yakra. Is he (she? they? it?) a fiend? A shapeshifter like Flea and Spekkio? Or something more sinister… like some spawn of Lavos?!
* Tips to beat Yakra quickly (or at least to avoid taking damage). Did you know Yakra counterattacks if yo...
2019-06-0822 minFanthropologicalMinisode: Are Retrogamers missing out?Are retro gamers missing out on the newest, hippest games or are they right to dig deep into the style that they love? The Nicks dive into the breadth, depth and philosophy of getting into a niche!
## What is the Race Against Time?
The Race Against Time is our annual charity livestreaming marathon where we get as many endings as possible in Chrono Trigger to raise money [for the Alzheimer Society of Canada](https://alzheimer.ca/)! This year’s event will be August 10 and 11th from noon until midnight each day. This year, we hope to outdo all of our pr...
2019-06-0824 minThe Zeal ArchivesThe Lineage of Guardia: A Family Spanning the Ages [Book 1, Chapter 3]With renewed energy and a plan to open a gate home, the two are on a hunt for knowledge as they pore through volume after volume in search of any hint as to how. Gaspar’s organizational system is less than chronological, and the two end up learning of his plans for world domination… and of the lasting legacy of another royal family, the Guardias.
T and G discuss:
* The long (and storied) lineage of the Guardias, from 65 000 000 B.C. to 2300 A.D., including a brief tangent about the lore of Chrono Cross.
* The implications of time travel on familiar line...
2019-06-0828 minThe Zeal ArchivesThe Ashtear Line: Guardia’s Treasured Inventors [Book 1, Chapter 2]After being transported to Chrono Trigger’s “end of time”, the Nicks have a new challenge to overcome: the self-destruction of their experimental device! Perhaps Gaspar’s repository has some clues to aid them? Or perhaps someone in that family of geniuses, the Ashtears!
T and G discuss:
* The short (and questionable) lineage of the Ashtear family, including what is known of Banta (ancestor), Taban (father), Lara (mother) and, of course, a bit about Lucca (daughter / genius / protagonist with science on the brain)!
* The inventions and developments of the Ashtears, from the relatively mundane (Leene’s bell) to the anachronostically extraordin...
2019-06-0827 minThe Zeal ArchivesThe Millenial Fair: The Journey Begins [Book 1, Chapter 1]A mysterious experiment goes awry landing T and G in a bizarre repository of knowledge in an otherwise desolate void. The two find the space familiar, despite a strange geometry to it, and with a certain nostalgic allure. Fortunately, a particular tome is on hand to help describe how it all began… at the Millenial Fair!
T and G discuss:
* The fun and games that can be found at the fair, and why the fair is relevant in Guardia’s history.
* Tips to save time while visiting the Millenial Fair for the first time playing Chrono Trigger
* Rampant speculation about the...
2019-06-0823 min
FanthropologicalMinisode: What are cons missing?After nearly 20 years of con-going, and collectively well over 40 different conventions been attended, what kinds of things are missing from conventions (anime, sci-fi, comic, or otherwise), anyway?
## What is the Race Against Time?
The Race Against Time is our annual charity livestreaming marathon where we get as many endings as possible in Chrono Trigger to raise money [for the Alzheimer Society of Canada](https://alzheimer.ca/)! This year’s event will be August 10 and 11th from noon until midnight each day. This year, we hope to outdo all of our previous records and raise $1500 CAD. For more details on the ev...
2019-05-3121 min
Who in ReviewWiR #11: ResolutionG, Z and Soph ring in the New Year talking about the hour-long holiday special, Resolution! They get into the menace & effectiveness of the Daleks, the Doctor's shining moments and getting the balance of stakes just right!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
Send show feedback to who@thenickscast.com
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2019-01-0200 min
Who in ReviewWiR #10: The Battle of Ranskoor Av KolosG, Chloe, Z & Soph are back to discuss the Series 11 finale! We'll talk about the effectiveness of the main villain's return, what constitutes an arc and watching Chris Chibnall pull the strings!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
Send show feedback to who@thenickscast.com
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-12-1600 min
Who in ReviewWiR #9: It Takes You AwayG, Chloe, Z and Soph are back to discuss the weirdness & campiness of It Takes You Away! They'll talk about what did and didn't work in the Anti-Zone, whether Graham's moment was earned or not & the show's new willingness to get outside the box!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
Send show feedback to who@thenickscast.com
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-12-0500 min
Who in ReviewWiR #8: The WitchfindersThis week, the Who in Review Crew head to Lancashire for a supersized episode as G, Chloe, Z and Soph talk all about The Witchfinders! They'll chat about the historical King James & Alan Cumming's scenery-chewing, the Doctor reckoning with her womanhood, the Dutch angles on display & Graham's great big hat! Plus, G rants about problems with the Moffatt era, and the gang reveal their plans for the break between seasons!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
Send show feedback to...
2018-11-2800 min
Who in ReviewWiR #7: Kerblam!G, Chloe & Z (with a special appearance by Soph!) are back to talk about Space Amazon in Kerblam! They discuss the sociopolitical climate of Kandoka, the fun of everybody having something to do & the future of Twirly!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-11-1900 min
Who in ReviewWiR #6: Demons of the PunjabG, Chloe, Z, Soph & Carolynne talk about their teary moments watching Demons on the Punjab, as well as good character writing, how the Doctor's gender has been handled in the season thus far & how the show is writing Team Tardis as witnesses to history.
Send your feedback to who@thenickscast.com!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-11-1500 min
Who in ReviewWiR #5: The Tsuranga ConundrumG, Chloe, Z, Soph & Carolynne sit down to pick apart the base-under-siege story, The Tsuranga Conundrum! They talk about the mysteries of the 'avocado pear', whether the Ptang looks more like Stitch or a gremlin and the problems with its pregnancy storyline.
Send your feedback to who@thenickscast.com!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram & DeviantArt)
For more Nick goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-11-0500 min
Who in ReviewWiR #4: Arachnids in the UKThis week, G, Chloe, Z, Evan & Carolynne discuss what they thought of Series 11's return to Sheffield, Arachnids in the UK! They go over conspiracy theories, the effectiveness of THE AMERICAN villain & how the trio of companions are doing with their characterization so far!
BONUS! Stay tuned after the end theme for a meta-discussion about season formats in New Who and the place of the 'return to present day' episodes!
Send your feedback to who@thenickscast.com!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Evan - @TheGoatVG...
2018-10-2900 min
Who in ReviewWiR #3: RosaG, Chloe, Z & Carolynne sit this week to talk about one of the most serious episodes in the entire Doctor Who canon, Rosa. They chat about the mature handling of the episode's sensitive material, the fast and loose rules of history in Doctor Who & whether we'll ever see the return of Crisco!
Leave your feedback for us @ who@thenickscast.com!
Social Media Links:
* G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
* Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
* Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
For more Nickscast goodness, check out [Fanthropological](http://www.fanthropological.com)!
2018-10-221h 04
Who in ReviewWiR #3: RosaG, Chloe, Z & Carolynne sit this week to talk about one of the most serious episodes in the entire Doctor Who canon, Rosa. They chat about the mature handling of the episode's sensitive material, the fast and loose rules of history in Doctor Who & whether we'll ever see the return of Crisco!
Leave your feedback for us @ who@thenickscast.com!
Social Media Links:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
For more Nickscast goodness, check out Fanthropological!
2018-10-2200 min
Who in ReviewWiR #2: The Ghost MonumentWith a crowded TARDIS, G, Chloe, Evan, Soph, Carolynne & Z review ep 2 of series 11, The Ghost Monument! We talk about the new TARDIS design & compare and contrast it to previous interiors; the effectiveness of the Remnants as villains; the best & saltiest lines of the episode and where we want to see the new companions go on their journeys!
Social Media:
G - @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram);
Chloe - @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram);
Z - @nicksczach (Twitter & Instagram)
Soph - @sofacushionart (Instagram);
Evan - @TheGoatVG (Twitter & Twitch)
2018-10-1500 min
Who in ReviewWiR #1: The Woman Who Fell To EarthIn our second episode, G, Chloe, Evan & Carolynne gather 'round the microphone to talk about the first episode of the Thirteenth Doctor's run, *The Woman Who Fell To Earth*! They'll talk about the menace or lackthereof of Tim Shaw, the hardest-working Doctor in the universe, the effect of trailers on the enjoyment of the show & how the show did on achieving its 'new' feel.
Social Media Handles:
G: @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe: @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Evan: @TheGoatVG (Twitter), evanclubbe (Instagram), twitch.tv/thegoatvg
This show is part of the Nickscast Family! Head on over to fanthropological.com to find more from...
2018-10-081h 02
Who in ReviewWiR #1: The Woman Who Fell To EarthIn our second episode, G, Chloe, Evan & Carolynne gather 'round the microphone to talk about the first episode of the Thirteenth Doctor's run, The Woman Who Fell To Earth! They'll talk about the menace or lackthereof of Tim Shaw, the hardest-working Doctor in the universe, the effect of trailers on the enjoyment of the show & how the show did on achieving its 'new' feel.
Social Media Handles:
G: @victorylime (Twitter & Instagram)
Chloe: @normalwolfcosplay (Instagram)
Evan: @TheGoatVG (Twitter), evanclubbe (Instagram), twitch.tv/thegoatvg
This show is part of the Nickscast Family! Head on over to fanthropological.com to...
2018-10-0800 min
FanthropologicalMinisode: Subs or Dubs?Long ago in a distant land, we, the Nickscast, reminisced about the changing landscape of anime fandom from time immemorial to the present, and, in particular, the rivalry of subtitled and dubbed anime... and why it was never about either format.
We're back with new content and a new season starting next week!
All this in 20 minutes or less!
**Sources**
- Opening music, ["Diggin' til the Very End"](http://music.djcutman.com/album/volume-iv) by Dj CUTMAN used under [CC BY-NC-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/)
- Ending music, ["Bounty Hunter"](http://music.djcutman.com/album/volume-iv) by Dj CUTMAN...
2018-10-0516 min
Who in ReviewWiR #0: Who in PreviewIn our first episode, G, Chloe, Z & Soph talk about everything we know leading up to Series 11 and the debut of Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor! They discuss the huge sea change in almost every aspect of the show that has been promised by Chris Chibnall, how the form of the show echoes the oldest parts of the series while taking some new risks, the pressure that's been put on the series and on Jodie Whittaker to perform well & the framing and message of the trailers and sneak peeks we've seen thus far!
Social Media Handles:
G: @victorylime (Twitter...
2018-09-301h 18
Who in ReviewWiR #0: Who in PreviewIn our first episode, G, Chloe, Z & Soph talk about everything we know leading up to Series 11 and the debut of Jodie Whittaker as the 13th Doctor! They discuss the huge sea change in almost every aspect of the show that has been promised by Chris Chibnall, how the form of the show echoes the oldest parts of the series while taking some new risks, the pressure that's been put on the series and on Jodie Whittaker to perform well & the framing and message of the trailers and sneak peeks we've seen thus far!
Social Media Handles:
G...
2018-09-3000 minFanthropologicalReBoot - The Original Matrix[// Pregenerate link to episode ahead of time: - clicktotweet.com- sharelinkgenerator.com]: #
"I come from the Nickscast. Through conventions, people, and cities, to this place - Fanthropological. My format, Co-host: To state and investigate. To learn about my new found friends, their hopes and dreams, and to defend them from their enemies. ... They say _the chat_ lives outside the podcast and inputs text for pleasure. No one knows for sure, but I intend to find out!"
Uh... yeah. We're talking about fans of ReBoot (the animated series). Next week? Retrogaming!
## Episode outline
### Fandom Facts
**History and Origins:**
> ReBoot is a...
2018-04-131h 15Fanthropological#56 - Escape Room FansWhat if you only had 60 minutes to _escape from this podcast_? To unravel the puzzles of _Crimson Room_ or the (surprisingly) lucrative business of locking people in a room? Well, you'd probably fail (but so would we). Listen in as we talk about fans of an even more puzzling experience: Escape Rooms!
Next week, we wrap up the season with a Nickscast favourite (and a special guest) as we talk about fans... of the _Legend of Zelda_ series!
## Episode outline
### Fandom Facts
**Origins and history:**
Escape rooms, also known as _room escape_, _escape games_, _escape the room_, and so on...
2017-12-221h 15FanthropologicalInterview: Tabletop RPGs at the Watchtower RestaurantWe had the chance to sit down with Devin Hutchinson (General Manager) and Myles Hilliard (Head Chef) at the [Watchtower Restaurant](http://www.watchtowerrestaurant.com/), a local geeky restaurant, to talk about their experiences with Tabletop RPGs and the gaming community. What is it like as a fan of Tabletop RPGs?
If you want to learn more about the Watchtower Restaurant, check out...
- Their website: http://www.watchtowerrestaurant.com/
- Their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watchtowerkw/
- Their Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatchtowerRestaurant/
And if you want to know why we're talking about Tabletop RPGs, [check out...
2017-11-2734 minFanthropological#39 - Rock Progressivo Italiano FansWe arrive in Italy, and rather than diving into a fandom, we dive into a history lesson on Italy, Progressive Rock, and its liberating love child, Rock Progressivo Italiano (RPI)! What is it? How is it different than prog rock in general? Why is its own subgenre? Some of these, an more, on this week's episode!
Next week, we'll be travelling to Turkey to talk about fans of that delicious dark beverage, coffee!
## Episode outline
### Fandom Facts
**Origins:**
Progressive Rock (prog rock) is a subgenre of rock music developed in the UK and US throughout the mid to late 1960s...
2017-08-111h 13Fanthropological#38 - Arsène Lupin FansUpon arriving in France, we are swept away by a mysterious man who is out to steal our riches... and our hearts! This week, we're talking about one of the first, classic gentleman thieves: Arsene Lupin! Why was he less popular than Sherlock Holmes? Where is he now (figuratively)?
Next week, we'll be on our way to Italy to listen to an inspirational movement (at the time), both progressive _and_ traditional: Rock Progressivo Italiano (RPI)!
## Episode outline
### [Last Episode's](http://fanthropological.com/e/37-beatlemaniacs-ft-graeme-from-reality-bomb/) Famous Last Words
**G:** Arsene Lupin is an old-timey thing and isn't relevant anymore.
**Z: ** Why...
2017-08-041h 11Fanthropological#37 - Beatlemaniacs (ft. Graeme from Reality Bomb)We start season four with a bang, and a world tour, traveling across the globe and through time (not really) with special guest, Graeme of Reality Bomb! We're talking about fans of the fab four, _Beatlemaniacs_ (aka Beatles Fans). What was it about this iconic pop group that left such an impact on the musical world and its fans? We're giving you the fans-eye view!
Next week, we'll be taking the chunnel to France to talk about fans of a well-loved, but perhaps not as well-known, character: Arsene Lupin!
## Where can I learn more about Graeme?
You can check out...
2017-07-281h 03Fanthropological#35 - BrowncoatsRaze the land and boil the sea; you can't take this week's podcast from... us? What is it about this _Joss Whedon_ franchise that has survived cancellation and a lack of conclusion? Why is it that so many are such adamant fans of this short-lived series? This week, we're talking about fans of Firefly, the aptly-named _Browncoats_!
Next week, we'll be tackling our final topic of the season: Disney fans (and its a doozy)!
## Episode outline
### [Last Episode's](http://fanthropological.com/e/34-james-bond-fans/) Famous Last Words
**Tom:** Why do people care about this show? I guess Nathan Fillion is cool...
2017-06-301h 09Fanthropological#34 - James Bond FansWhat makes 007 oh-so-beloved by fans? On this week's episode, the Nickscast (and special guest friend, Tom) talk about why it is that folks are such a fan of the intruiging English spy, James Bond!
Next week, we'll be dipping our toes into the Whedonverse as we talk about fans of *Firefly*: Browncoats!
## Episode outline
### [Last Episode's](http://fanthropological.com/e/33-cinephiles-ft-efg-nick/) Famous Last Words
**G:** Are there people who are only interested in the books, and if so, why? What's the Tom Bombadil of James Bond films? How faithful are the movies to the books?
**Z:** The iconic scene of...
2017-06-241h 01Fanthropological#33 - Cinephiles (ft. EFG Nick)The Nickscast talks all things film, film fandom, cinema... you name it as they try to figure out the allure of the silver screen when they talk about Cinephiles! They are not alone in their efforts; this week, Epic Film Guys Nick joins the fray and drops some knowledge bombs about cinema!
Next week, we'll be talking about that double-oh-so-secret agent, James Bond, and his many adoring fans!
## Where can I learn more about EFG Nick?
Epic Film Guy Nick lives in upstate NY and graduated from Clarion University of PA in 2010 with a degree in English (writing). While in...
2017-06-171h 24Fanthropological#30 - CyberpunksThe Nickscast wanders down a gritty alleyway, away from the bright lights and ads to jack-in to their terminals to talk about fans of cyberpunk! Is cyberpunk still relevant to today? What happened to it all? What does it mean for a work to be cyberpunk (vs transhuman) and what does it mean to be a fan of something so broad as a genre? We find out!
Next week, we'll be having a special-guest friend (and fellow Nick) join us as we talk about fans of movies, cinephiles!
## Episode outline
### Fandom Facts
**Origins:**
Cyberpunk is a sub-genre of science fiction...
2017-05-261h 10Fanthropological#29 - Twin Peaks FansThis Nickscast are entering the spooky woods, going beneath the surface to see what's really going on in the weird world of Twin Peaks fandom! Why did it get a revival? Are there really a lot of Twin Peaks fans? We'll get the fans-eye view (and no backwards talking) on this week's episode!
Next week, we’ll be jacking-in to our new deck and diving into the world of fans of Cyberpunk!
## Episode outline
### Fandom Facts
> There's likely as much mystery surrounding the fandom as there is surrounding the show.
>
> — T
**Origins:**
Twin Peaks was a cult TV series that ran...
2017-05-201h 24Fanthropological#28 - TransfansThis Nickscast are covering an unfortunately named fandom: TransFans (Transformers fans). What is it about a franchise so tied to toys and the 80s that helps its fandom to grow and thrive today? What is its key demographic? Why did Orson Welles get involved in the Tranformers movie? And where is all the Transformers fanfic? This week, we're going to transform and roll out (to find out)!
Next week, we'll be working our way through the mysterious pines to a place thats all sunshine and roses on the outside, but suspicious and enigmatic on the inside; we'll be talking about...
2017-05-121h 07Fanthropological#27 - SherlockiansThe Nickscast discuss why a man who "died" over one hundred years ago is still popular today: We're talking about Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most famous work, Sherlock Holmes and, more appropriately, its fans, *Sherlockians*. How is it that one set of stories sparked so many different pastiches, re-interpretations and ever more stories? What did fandom look like in the 19th century? What does the fandom look like today? Find out on this week's episode of Fanthropological: the great game is afoot!
Next week, we’ll be talking about fans of Transformers (The *robots in disguise* variety). Stay tuned!
## Episode ou...
2017-05-051h 14Fanthropological#26 - SPNFamilyThe Nickscast discuss why a show targeted towards men became unexpectedly popular with women and has continued to grow in popularity: We're talking about the SPNFamily (Supernatural fans!). How is the show so popular after even after twelve seasons? How does it differ from its peers? What keeps its fans going? We're going to eat some pie and find out on this week's episode of Fanthropological!
Next week, we’ll be talking about fans of Sherlock Holmes (BBC Sherlock, Elementary, classic; we're talking it all). Stay tuned!
## Episode outline
### [Last episode's](http://fanthropological.com/e/26-whovians/) Famous Last Words
**Z:** Wh...
2017-04-2857 minFanthropological#25 - WhoviansThe Nickscast, along with special guest friend, Alex Kennard (of Reality Bomb fame), discuss the _why_ of Doctor Who fans (aka Whovians). What is it that has kept the show on the air for over fifty years, and why did it stop? What draws in new fans? We 're going to invert the polarity and go all wibbly wobbly timey wimey to find out!
Next week, we'll be talking about Supernatural fans (aka SPNFamily). Stay tuned!
Episode outline Fandom Facts
Origins:
British science-fiction television programme produced by the BBC since 1963
Fandom Origins:
Doctor Who fan club (Britain, 1960s), recognized by...
2017-04-211h 14Fanthropological#18 - Barbie FansWill we be astronauts, debutantes, farmers, or computer scientists today? Today, we'll be podcasters as we talk about Barbie fans!
Why do folks become Barbie fans? Why do they collect the dolls? Is it just about the dolls?
We're not going shopping on this week's episode!
...But in order to do that, we'll need our special guest, Chloe!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http...
2017-02-171h 16Fanthropological#17 - LARPersThis week, we're filling our backpacks with trail rations as we head out into the wilderness to talk about Live-Action Role-Playing (LARP)!
Why do folks become LARPers? Is it just Dungeons and Dragons? What's the appeal?
Hopefully we level up our knowledge skills and find out!
...But in order to do that, we'll need our special guest, Luke: Scholar, Poet, musician, and "LARP apologist"!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http...
2017-02-101h 13Fanthropological#16 - Fantasy Football FansThis week we're placing bets as we enter the season, of FANTASY FOOTBALL (or an episode, at least)!
Why do folks become fantasy football fans? Is a familiarity with (American) football required?
Hopefully our draft picks work out in this episode! Especially because we have guests Rebecca and Laura!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http://instagram.com/thenickscast) Facebook: [fb.com/thenickscast](http://fb...
2017-02-031h 11Fanthropological#15 - HomestucksFire up your Pesterchum (or Trollian) folks, this week we're talking about Homestuck fandom!
Who are Homestucks? What's the appeal? And why are they (literally) trolls?
There's no gigapause this week as we start our SBURB session!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http://instagram.com/thenickscast) Facebook: [fb.com/thenickscast](http://fb.com/thenickscast) Youtube: [youtube.com/thenickscast](http://youtube.com/thenickscast) Email us...
2017-01-271h 15Fanthropological#14 - SpeedrunnersPlaying games makes sense, but racing against the clock in games? This week, we're talking about Speedrunners!
What is a speedrun? What is sequence breaking? Is cheating in video games ok in a speedrun??
We're going to go fast in this week's episode!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http://instagram.com/thenickscast) Facebook: [fb.com/thenickscast](http://fb.com/thenickscast) Youtube: [youtube.com/thenickscast...
2017-01-201h 04Fanthropological#13 - Star Wars FansIt's a new season, and what better than to draw parallels to our first season by talking about Star Wars fans!
What do you call Star Wars fans? Is there really a big difference between them and Star Trek fans? How have they kept fans interested in the 40 years of Star Wars??
May the force be with you on this week's episode!
Everyone's a fan!
Want to see more awesome fandom content? [Become a Patron on Patreon!](http://patreon.com/thenickscast) Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com...
2017-01-131h 05Fanthropological#12 - Christmas FansAs we get closer to the new year, the Nickscast explores a seasonal fandom: Christmas fans?
Is there really a fandom for Christmas? If so, what is it? What is it about Christmas?
Be sure to deck the halls, and settle in (but not for a long winter's nap!) as we get to the 'Why' of Christmas fandom!
Everyone's a fan!
Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http://instagram.com/thenickscast) Facebook: [fb.com/thenickscast](http://fb.com/thenickscast) Youtube: [youtube.com/thenickscast](http...
2016-12-231h 03Fanthropological#10 - AnglophilesThis week, we take a small jump across the pond to talk about fans of those dashing Brits: Anglophiles!
Who are Anglophiles? Is it just Americans who are Anglophiles? What is the appeal?
Stay tuned for a smashing good time!
Everyone's a fan!
Find more like this: [fanthropological.com](http://fanthropological.com) Find us on social media Twitter: [@thenickscast](http://twitter.com/thenickscast) Instagram: [@thenickscast](http://instagram.com/thenickscast) Facebook: [fb.com/thenickscast](http://fb.com/thenickscast) Youtube: [youtube.com/thenickscast](http://youtube.com/thenickscast) Email us about fandoms you want to hear about: [nick@thenickscast.com](mailto:nick@thenickscast...
2016-12-101h 06Fanthropological#2 - DeadheadsAt the Nickscast Fanthropological Institute this week we move away from our wheelhouse and get into a crunchy groove as we dig into an interesting fandom of Americana: Deadheads.
In what ways are Deadheads like the modern day fans we've come to know? Which prominent figures also happen to be Deadheads? What's the enduring legacy that Deadheads have contributed to fandom-at-large?
We can't answer everything, but we'll try not to noodle around too much as we give a history of deadhead fandom, rap about how it has changed over time, its impact on the world, and, in general, keep on...
2016-10-141h 06FanthropologicalWelcome to FanthropologicalWelcome to The Nickscast's new show, Fanthropological!
In Fanthropological, The Nickscast crew of G, T, and Z pick a fandom and then talk about it. We'll be talking about Trekkies, Deadheads, Leafs fans, and many many more. Every episode we'll bring you facts and trivia about that episode's fandom, give you a brief history of the fandom, discuss issues in that fandom (and in fandom at large), and share what that fandom's community is saying.
New episodes release every Friday. Subscribe to us on [PodBean](http://fanthropological.com "Fanthropological on PodBean"), or add us to your pod catcher of choice...
2016-09-3003 min