Cosplay Bytes

I got the opportunity to not only play Good Story Guild's first ever game—Cat Secretary—but also a chance to interview the devs describing what they wanted to bring to the table with this game. Did you know they also do podcasts? Learn about what they took from that outlet and apply it to their game!

Thank you for joining me for today's episode. While convention season is still very much underway, I wanted to take some time and talk about my trip to Japan that just happened a few weeks ago. It was quite the experience and something I'll never forget. Hope you enjoy, and thank you to those that watched live on Twitch!

I can't recall if I've ever done an episode regarding MAGFest, so I'm extremely excited to not only have that for you today but with a twist! I'm joined by Lance/Toaster as he details what it's like staffing the event as part of the A/V crew. Particularly going into detail about the arcade section of the con. Learn what goes into a job like this with controlling a myriad of lights as well as his thoughts on how the convention scene has changed from when he first started going to now. This was a really insightful conversation and I hope you all enjoy :)

I wanted to make this impromptu episode to sort of vent about the frustrations I've been having with my show since the last episode. Difficulties in booking guests and immense feelings of being unwanted in the cosplay space. I also talk about the possibility of having this new season of the show be its last depending on the content output I'm able to manage. I apologize if this does seem like I'm whining a lot but I've just had these feelings for awhile and wanted a space to let them run free.

When I mention how we cover all the extra nerdy bits & bytes in every intro to a show, I mean it :). In this new episode, SpeakingLion joins me for an amazingly fun chat regarding her time at PAX West, from the panels she went to alongside the games played as well. We talk about what we really love about the PAX line of conventions and how it all comes down to the friendships made and that everyone truly feels among their own kind. Lion also goes into detail about some other conventions coming up like LA Comic Con before we go on multiple tangents about Superman, comic books, a random jump scare, my gaming hot takes and inability to watch good movies! Get ready for one fun listen

Just a heads up! There were some audio issues at the start BUT I think I managed to fix them & boost our voices up at the moment i noticed through the remainder of the episode. Should be ok :) I was very nervous going into this episode since it's been close to 4 months since my last episode but my guest Tiffany Lockheart was really incredible and eased my worries. In this episode, you can listen to me and Tiffany get to know each other from her early gaming start to her love of Resident Evil 2, start into streaming alongside her surprising length of time spent playing Final Fantasy XIV! Learn about her awards show that she puts on, the interactions she's had with multiple voice actors, alongside fighting games, the last Nintendo Direct, what she loves about conventions, comics and so much more! This was really such a fun chat and I absolutely want to have her on again for future episodes :D. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/support

Here's a solo episode with me detailing all I saw and did at PAX East 2024! From trying out new games, to hanging out with content creators and even looking fly at the after party :). Don't worry, hopefully more episodes will come regarding the convention! Enjoy my ramblings and word stumbling

I got to chat with Chamomiletay as she described her time cosplaying and attending Katsucon 2024. Learn about the cosplays she wore including Riju from Tears of the Kingdom and Yor from Spy x Family alongside her partner. She also goes into detail regarding her cosplay start, what her favorite nerd media outlets are plus her future convention plans for the year. We also dive into what she hopes to improve cosplay wise this year, dream characters to cosplay plus turning the tables and me being asked questions as well :). Lots of chill & fun vibes with this conversation so I hope you all enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/support

Have a nice and chill time listening to me and Saturnxne finally getting a chance to talk to each other after being internet friends for a little while

I can't believe we reached the 100th Episode! As always, I'm happy to share it with the S-Tier team that is Mink the Satyr & Dannylions! We spend the time catching up on what we've been up to since the last episode we did together. This includes conventions, cosplays done, photoshoots and our plans into 2024! I legit did have notes written out but wild turns and tangents were taken, which I was hoping for

There is just so much about this episode that surprised me about SpeakingLion in addition to our chat about her time at TwitchCon last month. You get her cosplay origin story, tidbits about her life being a union member of SAG-AFTRA, game adaptations at the start of the episode, streaming life, and just so much more. Learn about her obsession with any sort of gaming lore (hell yes fellow Kingdom Hearts gremlin!) and how it connects to her podcast DLC Required! I'll just let you guys listen to this 2 hour chat we had. It was really something :) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/support

I am insanely excited I got to virtually meet Jocelyn Jenkins for this new episode! She's a cosplayer and streamer who recently attended TwitchCon alongside her partner as a vendor in Artist Alley. We talk about the unexpected challenges she had with the cosplays she planned to wear, her cosplay backstory, hopes in putting herself out on the internet more and how she felt inspired after this con. Jocelyn goes into her origin story of getting into cosplay and how she enjoys sewing more-so (at this moment) than armor making. Her Digimon obsession growing up alongside a myriad of other topics are mentioned as well. I really loved hearing her talk a bunch and it leads to some interesting revelations about herself she didn't even realize XD --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/support

We're almost there! I got to reunite with the wonderful Phalafel Cosplays in this episode. Mostly talking about both her time at Otakon this past July alongside my time at FanExpo Boston earlier this month. We talk about her cosplays she wore including Tears of the Kingdom's Ganondorf which was certainly a comfortable cosplay to wear aside from the dreaded sandals and concrete floors. We also touch on how different versions of imposter syndrome affect us, content creation plans, Zelda spoilers, and other games we've been playing. Hope you all enjoy this episode :D --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/support

I want to start by apologizing for the audio issues on my end. I got confused thinking my mic was getting picked up. I didn't fix it until way later. Thankfully my guests Mink the Satyr and Dannylion did a WHOLE LOT of talking as they discussed their time at CT Con last weekend. In addition, we touch upon the ongoing WGA/SAG-AFTRA strikes. There's really not much else to say so I'll let Mink and Dany do all the talking. The good news, is that i figured it out and now know what to do for future episodes. I was just concerned about potential echo in my voice/doubling up :O. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message

I am incredibly excited to have the wonderfully talented EmrisCoscept back on the show to talk about her latest adventures in both creating art in addition to their time at SakuraCon a few weeks back. From hearing of the area's expansion to the amount of money Emris spent in Artist Alley, she talks about being able to meet so many new people due to the shared common love of things like One Piece. Not only that but you'll hear of many tangents and rants about both of our shared loves like Final Fantasy with XVI's imminent release, how I'll eventually go back into XIV, Emris' passion for loving Star Wars & One Piece, and Nightwing cause if you saw the last time Emris was on, then you'll absolutely know

I'm hoping that this pep talk with Anya Braddock in this episode helps out anyone within the cosplay/content creation space. It was really great chatting with her as we dive into her cosplay origin story alongside the plethora of conventions she's been to from 2022 into 2023. Whether it's through vending with her own work, to teaming up with brands like Sleepi, Anya goes into detail about some of these more recent conventions in addition to laying out her plans for the remainder of the year. We talk about the giant friend group trip she did a few months back where photoshoots were aplenty. However as I was researching topics, one thing that stood out for me was her networking skills so that ends up becoming a focal point for the episode. Anya shares her methodology in how she views and handles networking with people, parts of the con where it's done and her overall desire to create safe yet awesome content with other people. She also gives insight into handling dead air during Twitch streams as well as imposter syndrome. A lot of these are hitting me hard personally as I'm trying to navigate these bad brain days I have wondering about my own content or even comparing myself to other creators in this space. I'm hoping to take these lessons to heart for the rest of the year and I hope it helps you out too in some way :) Follow Anya's work here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/anyabraddock⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message

I got to have an amazing chat with Spectra in regards to not only his time at PAX East & Anime Boston this past weekend, but also his cosplay journey overall. Starting around the same time as I am, Spectra goes into detail about his first convention alongside his friend group and the Deadpool outfit he eventually wore as his first cosplay not long after. He then goes into detail about the armor work that he's done in addition to the many panels over the years at conventions like PAX, Anime Boston and many more. The episode starts out with a heartfelt/lengthy chat about content creation efforts and I gotta say, his words were extremely inspiring and I'm even more excited to where things take him later this year. Detailing hopeful visits to Dragon*Con, HolMat and even FanExpo Boston are just some of the conventions he's hoping to visit this year. He also goes into his Twitch streaming efforts and desire to do things that make him happy/feel fulfilled as he puts it! Spectra also talks about how the cosplay/content creation seen has changed with its treatment of POC individuals. Such a fun time and I hope you all have a blast tuning in! If you want to view more of Spectra's work, click here: https://linktr.ee/Spectra_v3 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message

I'm very excited to have Mink the Satyr on this episode for an in-depth look at our time during PAX East 2023 this past weekend! Not only did Mink do several panels, but I also talk about the many games I played . Mink also shouts out games she played on certain days in addition to detailing each of the panels she attended. Later on, we also get into a conversation about the declining presence of cosplay and what it could possibly mean in terms of the hobby's presence at PAX East or other similarly hyper focused conventions about a singular topic. Other topics include the food I ate at a variety of restaurants, THE LONG WALK TO MY HOTEL and hopes/goals for next year! Follow Mink at her various sites through the link below! https://linktr.ee/minkthesatyr --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cosplaybytes/message

For this episode, I am joined by the insanely talented k8Sarkissian as we go through so many topics. From her cosplay origin story to various moments in wishing she didn't miss out on certain shows like Sailor Moon and even the original Pokemon anime. We soon dive into her time going to both Katsucon and WaifuExpo (which was a newly created 18+ convention done by Bishoujo Mom!) which involves conflicting thoughts on the former and a whole lot of hentai with the latter. Kate goes into detail about her cosplays made for each event along with what her favorite part of the cosplay process is. She also reflects on how the pandemic changed the hobby and that we both find it interesting in how the cosplay landscape has changed. Sort of like the "old guard" passing the torch to the new generation of cosplayers that are getting their start today. Kate also talks about her time being a lewd content creator and how amazed she saw that cosplay bridged herself and many others into sex work. This was an insanely fun episode to record so I hope you enjoy

2023 has arrived and I wanted to share my goals for this year as far as the show goes in addition to my content creating efforts! This also marks a debut in dual streaming live on Twitch to give me even more ways to create for that platform. While short, I wanted to kick off this "Road to 100 Episodes" initiative since I'm confident this is the year I'll reach it. Wanting to collaborate with some insanely talented/well known creators is one of many goals I hope to reach. I truly do love podcasting and do air out some worries I have with the ever so present scheduling difficulties that come with this hobby. I also lay out my streaming plans as far as new games I'll be playing over the next 6 months or so :O. PLUS, get hyped for PAX East since I officially am set to attend with the hotel being booked and everything else that comes with it. As always, thank you guys so much for listening. I really want to make 2023 special for CosplayBytes

Starner Cosplay was an absolute sweetheart in joining me again for the final episode of 2022! Most of our discussion was around her time at Holiday Matsuri which took place a few weeks ago (from the publish date!) and how much it's changed from previous years. Including discussion on just how much of a "hallway con" it is to some of its many 18+ events like the Hottest Man in Anime competition as well as the Men's Maid Cafe 0-0. Starner wore Supergirl for this year and noted how surprised she was at the cosplays reception XD. She also talks about other insane events from the con as well as us both looking back on this past year for us content creation-wise. Starner may have given me an idea on how to take this show to a new level so stay tuned! I hope you all had a fantastic holiday season and thank you from the bottom of my heart for continuing to support this show and what I do :) You can find all of Starner's work with the link below! https://linktr.ee/Starnercosplay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

It's been a long time since I last had the wonderful Karnagecos on my show. Back then, it was more so like an in-depth interview and details on how cosplay is in Australia. This time, they helped out by adding in a discussion about Crunchyroll Expo and the insane execution of the event down in AU. It soon was coming back to me all the stories I heard of online with the Expo hall being capped, amount of tickets being over sold, and long lines to get in. The main focus of PAX Australia came into play and it turned into both Karnage telling her experience there, companies that attended and comparing both that con with PAX East! Did you know that some of AU's internet companies had a presence there? :O Plus, TikTok was sponsoring the cosplay lounge. For both conventions, Karnage also talks about the cosplays they wore and some of the meetups. Characters like Bakugo and Jessie from Pokemon were a big hit for them! Get settled in with some coffee and snacks cause this was a long and insanely enjoyable chat :) Apologies in advance for Kai's birds chirping like crazy throughout this episode XD Check out all of Karnage's links here: https://linktr.ee/karnagecos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Longtime viewers will know that whenever Mink the Satyr and Legend of Larcy are on the same episode, chaos ensues. That is still the case, and cosplayer/streamer GrinningHazard joins in having to witness what I have to deal with XD. For this double dose episode, Grinning and Mink detail their entire trip to TwitchCon in Amsterdam. I was not expecting however the drastic mood that they felt due to Twitch's treatment between Partners and those who weren't. It was extremely disappointing to hear, though that didn't stop them from meeting so many new friends in addition to obtaining "mentors" in a way to help furthering streaming as a career. Not only that, but Grinning and Mink were invited by the folks over at Guerrilla Games due to their impeccable cosplays from Horizon Zero Dawn/Forbidden West. Later on, Larcy details the unexpected responsibilities she was given when signing up to be a cosplay judge at PortCon. Another unexpected development I came to learn 0-0. Plus, we chat a bit about Larry's recent foray into cosplay photography throughout the New England area! Keep up with my guests using the links below! https://linktr.ee/minkthesatyr https://linktr.ee/leagueoflarcy https://twitter.com/grinninghazard --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Within the first 5 minutes, I knew Starner was going to be such a delight to talk to and you get to see just how/why with this episode! You DEFINITELY see the age difference between us as Starner goes in detail about her origins into this hobby. Being in the 5th grade and learning about cons whereas I was in college at around this time frame 0-0. With anecdotes like running around the playground Naruto style (which honestly who hasn't!) to her affiliation with more anime themed cosplays but of COURSE I had to poke her brain regarding her favor towards DC Comics and the many many iterations of Harley Quinn that Starner has done over the course of her cosplay career. She's definitely juggling many aspects of content creation in addition to a day job so you get to learn all about that too. Plus, stick around the end for a heartfelt tale with Starner disability struggles

What was going to be a crowded show ended up being a really lovely conversation with Midge Scully and HyperChai! Particularly, this is the second part of my PAX East 2022 coverage (apologies for the wait!). I got to spend time with the two of them at the con and we talked about all the things we each did during that weekend. From all the game previews I had to the ones that Midge and HyperChai tried out. They also talked about their shopping spree (as one does of course!), attending the Undertale concert Thursday night along with cosplays! Also included were chats about FF14, Stray and realizing we're all going to be at the upcoming Final Fantasy 35th concert in November XD. The couple also got to attend ConnectiCon and despite the multiple changes that con has gone through over the years, they had a great time. Mentioning the con's signature Deathmatch event where cosplays are pit against each other and won through audience cheers. Spoiler: The L Block from Tetris emerged victorious! Keep up with Midge and HypeChai with the links below! https://www.instagram.com/midgescully/ https://linktr.ee/hyperchai Follow me on Twitter & Instagram @Blulightningcos! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Today I'm excited to have the opportunity to have Maru on again as we dived into her time going to both Fanime and Anime Expo which took place in May and July respectively. Throughout our chat, we dive more into Maru's gaming obsessions which extend through her outfits she wore such as the Dancer class from FF14, Jessie in booty shorts from FF7 Remake, Mature Tifa and so many others. From practically selling me on trying Elden Ring at some point to even having heartfelt chats about being a full time content creator. I mull over my thoughts about changing my own stream schedule again and seeing if I really enjoy it enough to pursue it harder as well. We even go into what makes Maru decide on future projects at this point and how she wants to challenge herself with each new build

I had the unique and exciting opportunity to interview Andrew Liptak about his new book, Cosplay: A History. We hit the ground running with Andrew giving us his full blown origin story and how Star Wars pretty much kick-started his love of pop culture and all things nerdy. From learning Star Wars themed music pieces in high school band, to even joining the 501st Legion. That latter part is the overall theme in this book as it takes a look at the history of cosplay from the very first cosplayer ever recorded back in the 1930s to people attending the World Fair and so much more. In this chat, Andrew frames his time around the 501st as the blueprint for charting cosplay's growth into the mainstream status it's at currently. From things like cosplayers going from hobbyists to pros, making their mark in the movie industry, to individuals like Yaya Han bringing foam and her own fabric line to retailers like Jo-Ann's. There's a lot more to be heard in this conversation I have so be sure to listen to the whole thing! Cosplay: A History is available now at your local bookstore and Amazon! Be sure to keep in touch with Andrew's adventures via the link below! https://linktr.ee/AndrewLiptak Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

For today's episode, Kayjora Cosplay joins me once again as we talk about her time at MegaCon in Florida a few weeks ago! Through working with Misty Mountain Gaming, Kayjora was able to work at their booth to help sell merch from both the company in addition to her own cosplay prints. Throughout our chat, we talk about Kay's cosplays that she wore. Each of which are standout in terms of its craftsmanship from Rani's massive hat from Elden Ring, to the sexier side of the Witch King from LotR. We go into more details regarding to MMG's line of products, Kayjora's personal favorites alongside participating in tabletop games like Dungeons and Dragons. Many other cosplayers/influencers are a part of Misty Mountain's Influencer group so there were some familiar names there when it came to looking at who populated that group. Kay chats about her high points at the con PLUS a look at her upcoming cosplays and how she views each new project. Enjoy!

My PAX East coverage continues with a chat alongside Mink the Satyr! It really was a treat getting to spend each day with her as she was rocking Pokemon cosplays for each day. We took a look at how the overall convention was coming back after the pandemic shut everything down. It was sort of surreal as this was my last convention in 2020 so to see my friends after 2 years, it hit me hard emotionally. You'll hear about some of my experiences with my Media appointments I had with game previews being saved to a future episode. Mink also had her hands full with multiple panels so you'll get to see how those went as well. This was the first big convention for the both of us with Mink of course having done low-key conventions throughout the last 2 years, so we reflect on how it's been for the both of us. All the loot/swag I bought, my favorite moments and so much more is discussed here! Hope you guys enjoy :) Check out Mink's work through the link below! https://linktr.ee/minkthesatyr Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

My Interview with Midge Scully & Hyperchai at PAX East 2022! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

My Interview with Legend of Larcy & Mink the Satyr at PAX East 2022! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

In this episode, I got to sit down with one of my favorite creators/body-painters Intraventus for a chat about Creative Burnout. Specifically when it came to Intra's struggles throughout 2021 as a body painter. I always marveled at her ability to do so many of her body paint streams for 4+ hours in the evening but as evident by the title, this soon took a toll on her. We talk about the strategies she used to recover from doing her variety streams in addition to touching on her current obsession with Elden Ring. Intra and I also take a frustrating look at TikTok's treatment to sex workers and cosplayers. How difficult it can be for individuals like Intraventus that sadly view the platform as a giant boon of new OnlyFans subscribers alongside Twitch subs too. It's unsure if TikTok will ever change or get better with its treatment. Until then, I truly hope you guys enjoy this chill chat. I got worried very early on that I didn't prepare well enough so I hope that this talk offers some interesting insight :) You can find all of Intraventus' work/links down below

I am overly excited to be joined by best girl/cosplay waifu Jaycee Cosplay as we talk about her time at Katsucon back in February. It was interesting to hear how the con has changed as we sort of enter a return to normalcy in the events circuit. Jaycee talks about the cosplays she brought along for the trip, adventures in rooming with some close friends of hers along with many hilarious moments about her being "an old lady" and wanting to be in bed at a reasonable time. So while there wasn't any after-party info/insight, Jess DID talk about her time in the dealers room and artist alley. From plushie/figure hunting to probably spending a crazy amount on art prints. I also got to have a chat with her regarding anxiety and how while this was such a fun time for Jess, she's most likely heading back into her cosplay/convention retirement hole (as she put it). Designing cosplays and shooting them outside of convention means however is still on her plate. PLUS WE TALK ABOUT COOKIES

I was lucky enough to get Mink and Larcy again for another duo episode. The last time all three of us were together, madness ensued as we talked about RI Comic Con one year. This time around I wanted to get some insight into what Larcy and Mink were up to during the back end of 2021. I haven't talked with Larcy in a long time so it felt really nice to reconnect with her and talk about cosplays like her 2B and Kirin armor from Monster Hunter. Her and Mink were reminiscing on the multiple times they've spent traveling to conventions together alongside the pretty stacked con lineup they both have already! I also asked what they think the convention scene will be like this year as the pandemic more or less transitions into an endemic. As long as hopefully people continue to socially distance/wear masks where appropriate, I think this could be a year where cons and cosplay could safely transition back to the before times as Mink often puts it. PLUS, we dive into their duo Twitch streams, a whole lot of Disney talk and other wild stories :). Enjoy! I've really been loving this direction of having 1hr+ episodes for this season! Support Larcy and Mink by heading to their Linktrees below! https://linktr.ee/leagueoflarcy https://linktr.ee/minkthesatyr Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

This lengthy episode was another wonderful talk and Emris Coscept is just a delightful individual. After finding out she's as big of a Nightwing fan as I am (subsequently gushing over the character for 30 min) we go into many of her cosplays that I personally enjoyed from her Trevor Belmont, to Bombshell Killer Frost. Plus, Emris also talks about her recent photoshoot done as a gorgeous take on Amaterasu. Which also leads into a discussion about collaborations between cosplayer and photographer. Including the various circumstances on who controls the creative direction of photoshoots. She also gets personal with an instance of clout-chasing cosplays and reaffirming why she chooses certain cosplays/creative endeavors. OF COURSE we also talk about FF14 and thankfully no spoilers are given regarding Endwalker (I'm still in Stormblood!). I feel incredibly fortunate that so far this season has been filled with long and insightful conversations with some really amazing creators. I hope you all enjoy this installment :). You can view all of Emris' work through her Instagram below: https://www.instagram.com/emris_coscept/ Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

This has been honestly one of my more anticipated episodes simply due to the history I've had with Casey. Otherwise known as VanityFOX, she's a cosplayer and VTuber on Twitch that I've known from pretty much my own start in cosplay. Throughout our talk, we reminisce about the cons we've been to together, all the cosplays she's worn at ColossalCon, theorize about FF7 Remake and just really hype each other up. There were moments where I thought I was going to start crying because of how proud Vanity said she was of my own work. Highlighting the unfortunate interview we did together back at PAX many years ago plagued by audio problems. What you'll also find in this episode are tidbits about Casey's past work, her favorite parts, what aspects of cosplay she loves in addition to a ton of wonderful advice regarding streaming on Twitch. I mention it multiple times in the episode itself but I'll say it here too, VanityFOX is like family to me so getting to catch up and talk with her for as long as we did felt so special to me. I really hope you guys enjoy this wholesome talk

I got to talk with another new and wonderful creator for this episode. Kayjora Cosplay has been creating some stellar cosplays since her start into the hobby only a few years back. From her Boka Tan to an amazing Black Cat 2099, we discuss her origins in discovering the hobby. The bulk of this episode really hammers in the point of how cosplay has done so much good to the both of us. We also totally fangirl over Jessica Nigri as one does (along with hearing some stuff from Kayjora that really brought me back to when I started cosplay). How we're in a continuous golden age of cosplay information wise and you'll get to hear about past cons she's been to. This includes HolMat and Tampa Bay Comic Con! I really enjoyed talking with Kayjora and I hope you all enjoy this too! Check out all of Kayjora's links below: https://kayjora.vip Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Happy New Year! For this start of Season 5, I'm pleased to have a beefy chat with cosplayer and illustrator ACDramon. In this installment, I got to chat with Avery about a myriad of things as you learn more about his work. In addition to his origins as a cosplayer, you'll also learn how he got his start in illustrating PLUS his jump into voice acting. I also ask him about his foam work in cosplay with talk about a few of his outfits like Groudon and V from Cyberpunk 2077! We both take a trip down memory lane with some of our favorite standout memories since being in the cosplay community, life as a new Playstation 5 owner, personal favorite cons and a TON more. Seriously this is a conversation you do not want to miss :) Check out all of Avery's links below: https://linktr.ee/acdramon Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

For this potential Season 4 Finale of CosplayBytes, I am joined by the wonderful SkylineStars in a hefty interview covering a multitude of topics. From Sky's cosplay and nerdy origin stories to a conversation about bought vs. handmade cosplays. In addition, I ask Sky about some of her cosplays from Kayna to Lenore and a few more as well. We also return to the controversy revolving around OnlyFans' debacle earlier this year, plus my own frustrations with League's continued popularity despite the damning report on their work culture a few years ago. You'll get to learn about her favorite ways to cosplay as Sky starts to enter the sewing territory and how she deconstructs cosplays in her mind as she sees them out in the wild. Very similar to how my own cosplay posts on my blog were done! This was such a fun chat and I hope you all enjoy

I am incredibly happy to have Luck of the Lion Cosplay return for another episode! She's certainly been busy as of late heading to conventions locally to her area in Texas. Our main topic of discussion is around Leon's experience at both Ecchi Expo and ColossalCon. Starting with the former, Leon details the con's efforts in its first year. Noting the combined vendor hall and Artist Alley in addition to some panels and sadly missing out on the Burlesque Show. For that convention, Leon mentions how she got to see/meet both Krissy Victory and Bishoujo Mom who were also in attendance. Switching over to ColossalCon, she talks about how she and Skyline.Stars (soon to be on an episode

Have a nice solo outing as I talk about my experience watching the DC FanDome event this past weekend. The multi hour stream turned out to be a slew of announcement for many DC related properties outside of its comic section. Mostly looks at current and upcoming TV shows, video games and the giant slate of movies over the next three years. I talk about the movies that I'm looking forward to seeing in addition to various panels they held about specific media. This was a relaxing day for me to watch that's for sure :) Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

In another addition of What's New With, I'm joined by the ever so wonderful Phalafel Cosplay. Since our last recording in 2019, stuff has changed a lot for her in terms of her creativity with both cosplays as well as her venture into makeup looks with her Animal Crossing series. So much so that it has led her to opportunities with ColourPop! She references her current cosplay of Noelle from Genshin Impact and how that process has been. Twitch streaming has also been an amazing time for her with the community Phalafel has fostered through playing a variety of games plus crafting and just chatting. With her upcoming 12 hour stream celebrating one year, Phalafel has been able to keep her creativity flowing through the aforementioned outlets PLUS making videos on TikTok. We also talk about Sora making it into Smash Bros, how conventions are opening back up plus favorite methods of cosplay! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos Follow Phalafel Cosplay on Twitch! www.twitch.tv/phalafelcosplays --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

For the pivotal 69th (nice!) episode, Mink the Satyr joins me in a completely different way. Emulating/acting through her V-Tuber persona, Mink takes the floor in describing the process of illustrating and rigging an original character model to entertain. Mostly in the streaming capacity, she stresses how cost effective the whole venture can be. All on the idea of how all out do you yourself want to go with your character model. We talk about the origins around v-tubing with groups/companies like Hololive and Mink building up a new PC to help in assisting with this new avenue. Afterwards, we do a deep dive on the latest Nintendo Direct and its wild showcase from Kirby's new game, Smash Bros' final fighter debuting in October and the hilarious (upsetting?) cast reveal of the Mario Bros movie by Illumination! Also included is our thoughts of upcoming conventions and how they're faring with the pandemic. Cons resulting in COVID cases surging after the fact and how some haven't been taking necessary precautions. This is a long one so I hope you all enjoy :) Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos Follow Mink the Satyr on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/MinktheSatyr/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Hello all! I'm back from the small hiatus I took from the show. I apologize for the wait as I've suffered through a bout of burn out which I do talk about in this episode. Conventions have been opening back up in a moderate rate with several cons happening the weekend this was recorded. I briefly talk about how these cons have handled masks and social distancing. Also, this serves as an update on myself with my content creation efforts. This includes my Twitch Streams as well as my newest laptop acquisition. Much like previous installments of this series, the episode length is short so forgive me for that. Hope this solo outing is enjoyable though

I got to chat with the incredible Alice Pika about a multitude of topics in this latest episode! From her early days of gaming and watching anime, to the content creating that she's been up to today. We reflect on what it's been like being somewhat involved with Etika's community, alongside her convention and cosplay history. Alice mentions several past cons such as Anime Expo, PAX East and NYCC! We also talk about a variety of games from Persona, Zelda, and Smash Bros. Alice opens up about her mental health and how it affects her cosplay and streaming efforts. What she's looking to do as she hopes to become more involved with streaming and possibly even holding panels at conventions. There's also talk about the workplace toxicity that has been made light at Activision/Blizzard while discussing similar situations previously brought up. Follow Alice Pika on the following sites! https://twitter.com/TheAlicePika https://www.twitch.tv/alice_pika If you'd like to support the show, become a supporter on Anchor! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

Here's my full look/coverage of my time attending PAX East Online 2021! Keeping the same structure as last year, PAX Online mostly had a Discord up and running in addition to multiple panels streaming across 3 PAX centered channels on Twitch. I myself watched two that aired late at night PLUS interviewing a variety of devs and corresponding with other game makers and merchandise creators. Panel wise I viewed one all about the Best Bars in Gaming, plus what makes a bar fantastic. The other one was all about a look on Kingdom Hearts 3, strengths, flaws and so much more. Below I have links to the games I interacted with throughout the event in addition to a special sale going on with Volante Design! Volante Design - Use Code 21PAX3 for a free gift with orders of $150 or more! Reina + Jericho Fire Tonight Aeon Drive The Company Man If you'd like to support the show, become a supporter on Anchor! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

I'm happy to announce the start of my PAX East Online coverage! I had the wonderful opportunity to interview Dr. Anthony Bean and discuss his offerings over at Geek Therapeutics! A site that allows people to come and make their lives better through therapy alongside the connections we can make utilizing pop culture. Here, Anthony gives a full rundown on what it's like being a consultant for the company, the many certifications they offer, plus a slew of other outlets. This includes podcasting, a line of psychology books as well as teases into future Kickstarter offerings. You'll also get a look inside Anthony's favorite game series AND a look into my own personal struggles with therapy, why Nightwing means so much to me as a character and how I relate to him! This was an insightful conversation and I hope it helps you all in some way, shape, or form. If you want to learn more about Geek Therapeutics, visit their website down below! https://www.geektherapeutics.com If you'd like to support the show, become a supporter on Anchor! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

For this super long episode, I got the chance to talk with and meet Luck of the Lion Cosplay! From her immediate love of the Zelda franchise to the pin-up side of things, Leon has been killing it with doing full cosplay work as well as the boudoir side of the hobby. We talk about her beginnings with falling in love with cosplay, why Zelda means so much alongside some humorous convention stories. We also go into detail about proper convention etiquette and how a fan should approach cosplayers in person. There's just so much in this episode and I really hope you all enjoy it as much as me and Leon had :) If you wanna fangirl over Leon's work, check her Instagram out for all her other links and fabulous photos :D https://www.instagram.com/luckofthelion/ If you'd like to support the show, become a supporter on Anchor! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

For today's episode, I got to chat with the amazingly talented Jessilyn Cupcake and I have a sneaking suspicion that she's obsessed with Borderlands. Throughout our chat, you'll learn of Jess' start in cosplay and traveling to cons, as well as an in-depth look as to why she loves the looter-shooter franchise so much. Did you know she came into the series late? This love for Borderlands has gotten Jess some incredible opportunities which she dives into as well. Convention stories as well as our thoughts on the upcoming Borderlands movie and video game movies as a whole lately! This was such a fun conversation :D Be sure to follow Jessilyn at these social links! https://twitter.com/JessilynCupcake https://www.instagram.com/jessilyncupcake/ If you'd like to support the show, become a supporter on Anchor! Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support

I got the wonderful chance to talk with the sensational Intraventus again! Things have definitely changed for her in a wonderful way since then thanks largely to body painting! Since tackling that hobby on Twitch she's found a brand new passion alongside getting major confidence boosts in her own looks and work. The detailing and effort that goes into these works of arts is insane and I couldn't be more happier for the success she's had. We go into her early starts with Twitch and the community she's built, most difficult part to paint on herself as well as her long term aspirations for creating her own line of makeup and body paint! Listen as I just give this girl all the praise that she rightfully deserves CAUSE GOSH SHE'S SO SWEET

Note that whenever Zach Fischer comes on my show, we bounce all over the place. Even to topics that don't necessarily pertain to the basis of cosplay. I got to catch up with Zach and get a look on how the past year has been for him as an artist/content creator. Other area of interests include his feelings on burnout during the start of the pandemic, his changes to his Twitch content in addition to a multitude of other things. Contract work with Blizzard, the various changes that the gaming industry needs to address at the corporate level when it comes to crunch, creators on OnlyFans/Patreon, why no one likes Warlords of Draenor and HOW IN THE WORLD DOES THIS MAN NOT HAVE A SWITCH?! Jokes aside, Zach brings such a unique intellect to the show and I'm glad he has just as much fun as I do. We even go into detail about his first ever time judging a cosplay contest online alongside what conventions will be like now as we come out of the COVID Era. You also get a small look into my personal life so sorry not sorry? XD Be sure to follow Zach on Twitter and check out his work too! https://twitter.com/ZachFischer https://www.artstation.com/zachfischer If you'd like to support the show, check out my Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/LightningPalace Follow me on Twitch! twitch.tv/blulightningcos --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cosplaybytes/support