Nerd Best Friends

Grab your favorite snack and grab your nerd bestie, because we are breaking down the absolute madness that was the Season 5 Finale! In Episode 105, your favorite Nerd Best Friends are diving deep into a full, spoiler-filled Season 5 Recap.From the mind-bending plot twists in the premiere to that heartbreaking character exit in the final five minutes, we are leaving no stone unturned. Was this the best season finale of the entire series, or did the writers completely lose the plot? We debate the biggest fan theories, rank our favorite character arcs, and give our unfiltered reactions to the final scenes. Plus, we look ahead to what these massive cliffhangers mean for the future of the franchise!Whether you've been binge-watching along with us all season or you just finished the finale and need a safe space to process your feelings, this is the ultimate breakdown you've been waiting for.Your support keeps this podcast running! If you loved this season recap, help us grow the community by hitting that Follow or Subscribe button on your favorite app. Rate us 5 stars on Spotify and Apple Podcasts—it helps other nerds find us!CONNECT WITH US:Instagram & TikTok: @NerdBestFriendsPatreon (For Exclusive Bonus Episodes & Merch): Join the Nerd Herd today! Official Website: nerdbestfriends.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends return next week with the Season 5 finale! In the meantime, check out this NERDSTALGIC episode from September 2024. Recounting our first trip to HellmouthCon two years ago as we prepare to launch some BIG NEWS about HellmouthCon 2026. Go get your tickets now and join us at Sunnydale HS (Torrance HS) in June! And while the Slayin It! podcast no longer exists, enjoy the time we got to NERD OUT about Buffy with Frank Bonacci. --------Original Description:The Nerds are back for season 4, and their NERDY travels hit a new high this summer! Travel with them and hordes of Buffy the Vampire Slayer to the Hellmouth for HellmouthCon at Torrance High School (CA), the site where early seasons of the series was filmed. From cosplay to trivia contests to panels to special fan experiences, much fun was had. Analese yielded the scythe and Rob came ready to slay the trivia competition!Special guest on this episode is Frank Bonacci, Scooby and co-host of Slaying It! with Juliet Landau podcast.Also in this episode: breaking in the Paris Olympics, upgrading old gaming consoles, spreadsheets for D&D, horror genre, Creepshow comic book reboot, and lots of Buffy knowledge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grab your soldering irons, Nerds! This week, Analese and Rob are joined by the legendary Tony Ramirez to dive into the R&D departments of our favorite fictional universes. We're breaking down the iconic gear from movies, books, and comics that shaped our childhoods—from the "Star Trek" tech we use every day to the "Back to the Future" hoverboards we're still waiting for.The crew discusses the "We Made It" Hall of Fame, where we compare modern tablets to PADDs, and gets into a heated debate over why jetpacks aren't standard commute equipment yet. Tony helps us tackle the physics of the Batman utility belt before we reveal the one piece of fictional tech we'd each risk a temporal paradox to own.WANT MORE NERD BEST FRIENDS? If you can't get enough of the tech talk, head over to our Patreon for exclusive bonus segments and behind-the-scenes deep dives! You can also find us on social media (@nerdbestfriends) to share your own tech wishlist or catch us on YouTube for the full video experience.Stay Nerdy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's the nerdiest thing you did this week? Because Rob and Analese are diving straight into the ultimate ride-or-die rankings—our Top 5 Best Friend Duos in all of nerd culture.From iconic partnerships that saved the world to chaotic besties who probably caused the problem in the first place, this episode is packed with debates, hot takes, and at least one pick that might get us canceled by the fandom (you've been warned). We're talking legendary duos from movies, TV, comics, and beyond, mixing in a few deep cuts for the real ones, and breaking down what actually makes a “best friend” in the first place.So grab your co-op partner, your party member, your life-mate—however you define your BFF—and get ready to build your own Mount Rushmore of friendship. And fair warning… you're definitely going to be yelling at us for who we left off.Hit play now and see if your favorite duo made the list.Love the episode? Follow/subscribe, drop a 5-star rating, and share it with your best friend (or the one who thinks they're your best friend).Join the Nerd Herd on Patreon for early access, bonus content, and live studio chat invites!nerdbestfriends.com | @NerdBestFriends Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when one of the most beloved modern sci-fi novels blasts its way onto the big screen? You already know…we get nerdy about it.This week on Nerd Best Friends, Analese and Rob launch headfirst into the upcoming film adaptation of Project Hail Mary—and let's just say, the hype is very, very real. From big-screen expectations to casting buzz, emotional gut-punch moments, and the impossible task of translating Andy Weir's science-heavy storytelling into cinematic magic…we're breaking it all down.Will it stick the landing like The Martian?Will the science hit as hard on screen?And most importantly…are we ready for that friendship to absolutely wreck us emotionally?Expect laughs, theories, cautious optimism, and full-on nerd excitement as we explore what could be the next great sci-fi movie event.If you love space, science, unlikely heroes, and stories that sneak up and punch you right in the feels—this episode is your launch sequence.Hit play, hit subscribe, and join the Nerd Herd! Leave a 5-star review to help more nerds find the showWant early access, bonus content, and live episode chats? Join us on Patreon at nerdbestfriends.comBecause the only thing better than saving humanity…is getting nerdy about how it might happen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when our favorite animated, comic, and fictional worlds jump into real life? Sometimes it's epic… sometimes it's cursed… and sometimes it's so weird we can't look away...This week on the Nerd Best Friends Podcast, Rob and Analese dive headfirst into the wild world of live-action adaptations—the wins, the flops, and the “why did they do that?!” moments that live rent-free in our nerd brains.From beloved characters getting the Hollywood treatment to adaptations that completely miss the mark, we're breaking down:The live-action versions that actually nailed it The ones that made us yell at the screen And the adaptations we're still waiting (and hoping) to see done rightPlus, as always, we bring the laughs, the hot takes, and a few unexpected deep cuts from across the nerdsphere.Whether you're a die-hard fan of comic book movies, anime adaptations, or just love a good pop culture debate, this episode is for you.Hit play now and join the conversation!What's YOUR favorite (or least favorite) live-action adaptation?Don't forget to follow/subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share with your fellow nerds! Join the Nerd Herd for bonus content, early access, and live episode chats on Patreon. Visit us at www.nerdbestfriends.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We did it, nerd fam—100 episodes of the Nerd Best Friends Podcast! And you KNOW we're not celebrating quietly… this is a full-blown NERDSTRAVAGANZA.From the nerdiest debates to deep dives, wild tangents to iconic Top 5s, Nerd Best Friends has been the place for the conversations you're already having (or wish you could). And in this milestone episode, we're going ALL IN:A look back at some of our favorite moments, chaos, and inside jokes from the first 100 episodesWhat we've learned about being nerds, creators, and best friends along the wayA hype-filled preview of what's coming next for the showSpecial nerdsphere tributes to the legendary Chuck Norris and Nicholas Brendon—because no nerd universe is complete without honoring icons or iconic characters in our favorite showsWhether you've been with us since Episode 1 or just discovered your new favorite podcast, this episode is a celebration of YOU—the Nerd Herd that made it all possible.So grab your favorite fandom, turn the volume up, and let's celebrate 100 episodes of nerdy greatness… with so much more ahead.CALL TO ACTION:If you've laughed, learned, or nerded out with us even once—hit that follow/subscribe button, drop us a 5-star rating, and share this episode with your fellow nerds.Want even MORE Nerd Best Friends?Join the Nerd Herd on Patreon for early access, bonus content, and live studio vibes nerdbestfriends.com@NerdBestFriendsHere's to 100… and the next 100. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back, nerds—and buckle up, because this week we're diving headfirst into chaos, carnage, and one very opinionated cat. It's Nerd Book Club time, and we're breaking down Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman—the wildly addictive, darkly hilarious, “what did I just read and why can't I stop?” phenomenon that has taken over the nerd multiverse.Carl didn't ask for this. Earth didn't ask for this. But the dungeon doesn't care. And Donut? …Donut definitely has opinions about ALL of it.In this episode, your Nerd Best Friends crew dives into:Why this series hits that perfect sweet spot of absurd humor + brutal stakesThe unstoppable force that is Princess Donut (yes, we said it)The world-building that somehow keeps getting crazier—and betterOur favorite moments, characters, and “did that really just happen?!” scenesWhy fans of litRPG, sci-fi, fantasy, and chaos goblins will feel right at homeWhether you're already deep in the dungeon, audiobook-ing your way through madness, or just hearing “GODDAMMIT DONUT!” for the first time—this episode is your invitation to join the crawl.If you've read it, come geek out with us. If you haven't… consider this your warning AND your recommendation.As always—if you laugh, gasp, or immediately text a friend about this episode:Hit subscribe/followDrop us a 5-star ratingShare with your fellow dungeon crawlersAnd if you want early access, bonus content, and a seat in the live nerdy chaos—join the Nerd Herd on Patreon.What's the nerdiest thing you did this week? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think you've got what it takes to hang with the Nerd Best Friends in the ultimate battle of brains, bits, and bizarre pop culture facts? It's time to prove it.We're back with Nerd Trivia 3, where the questions are deep cuts, the answers are just on the tip of your tongue, and the competition is… let's call it “passionately unhinged.” From iconic fandoms to obscure nerd lore, we're throwing down trivia that will test your memory, your instincts, and your ability to shout answers at your speakers like that somehow helps.Play along in real time, keep score if you dare, and find out once and for all:Are you a casual nerd… or a certified Nerd Best Friend?Expect laughs, debates, questionable confidence, and at least one moment where someone says, “I KNEW THAT!”Press play, challenge your party, and let the nerd games begin.Join the Party:Got a perfect score? (We don't believe you, but we respect you.)Tell us how you did and send us your favorite trivia questions—we might feature them in a future episode!Level Up Your Nerdom:Subscribe, follow, and share with your trivia crew.Bonus content and exclusive nerdiness await on Patreon!Join the NERD HERD today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If the Nerd Best Friends had their own mountain… who would be carved into it forever?In this episode, the Nerd Best Friends take on the ultimate nerd debate: our personal Mount Rushmore of Nerds. We're talking about the creators, storytellers, and visionaries who shaped the fandoms we love—the people whose ideas launched universes, defined genres, and gave nerd culture some of its most iconic moments.From legendary filmmakers and comic book masterminds to authors and world-builders, we each choose the four nerd icons we believe deserve a permanent place on the mountain of nerd greatness. But as you might expect… the debates get passionate, the picks get personal, and the definition of what makes someone a “true nerd legend” gets tested.Along the way we talk about:The creators who built the fandoms we grew up inThe storytellers whose ideas changed pop culture foreverThe writers and artists who shaped entire nerd generationsAnd the tough choices when only four faces can make the mountainPlus, we want to hear from YOU, Nerd Herd — who would be on your Mount Rushmore of Nerds?So grab your chisel, carve your picks in stone, and join us for one of the nerdiest debates yet.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts. Bonus content for the Nerd Herd on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when your favorite nerds turn the nostalgia dial to 1996?In this episode, Analese and Rob continue their journey through the “30's series” — revisiting the pop culture that shaped us 30 years ago. And wow… 1996 was absolutely stacked with nerdy goodness. We're talking iconic movies, unforgettable TV, legendary music, and the moments that defined the mid-90s nerd landscape. From blockbuster films and cult classics to the shows we rushed home to watch after school, this episode is a time machine back to the era of dial-up internet, mall culture, and peak Gen-X/Millennial nerd energy.Expect plenty of nostalgia, laughs, and chaotic-good nerd energy as we revisit one of the most underrated pop culture years of the decade.If you grew up in the 90s, this episode will absolutely unlock some core memories. Analese voted for blue M&Ms and Rob swears tan and blue M&Ms were always there. Also in this episode: different styles of printed miniatures, does anyone still listen to the radio?, the horror movie SCREAM franchise, other nerd tangents. Bonus Nerdy GoodnessWant extra episodes, behind-the-scenes chaos, and exclusive nerd content? Join us on Patreon and become part of the Nerd Herd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are you doing… and more importantly, what are you nerding out about right now?In Episode 95, your Nerd Best Friends hit pause on the rankings and deep dives to check in on the nerdiest things currently taking over our free time. From new fandom obsessions and tabletop adventures to hobby rabbit holes we swore we wouldn't fall into (but absolutely did), this is your official Nerd Life Update.We're talking:Current game tables and character chaosWhat we're reading (and aggressively recommending)Shows we binged “just one episode” ofCreative projects, collections, and hyper-fixationsThe hobbies that are quietly stealing our sleepIt's cozy. It's chaotic-good. It's that classic “what are you doing these days?” conversation—but make it nerd.So tell us: what are you into right now? Hit us up on social @NerdBestFriends or email podcast@nerdbestfriends.com and let us know what hobby has you in a headlock.Subscribe, follow, and share with a fellow member of the Nerd Herd—because the best part of being a nerd is finding your people.Roll for initiative. Let's catch up. Bonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roll initiative, Nerd Herd… because this week we're throwing hands. From perfectly choreographed sword duels to bone-crunching fistfights, from gravity-defying kung fu to glow-stick-of-destiny showdowns, your Nerd Best Friends are counting down our Top 5 Pop Culture Fight Scenes of all time.What makes a fight scene legendary?Is it the emotional stakes?The choreography?The slow-mo spin kick?The one-liner right before the final blow?We're breaking down the battles that made us jump off the couch, rewind the VHS (yes, we're that nerdy), and immediately attempt a dramatic pose in the living room.Whether you love epic sword clashes, martial arts masterpieces, street-level brawls, or cinematic showdowns that changed pop culture forever — this episode is your arena.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.Join the Nerd Herd.Bonus nerdy chaos available on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Nerd Best Friends are cracking open the vault and looking ahead at all the gloriously nerdy chaos coming our way.In this episode, Analese and Rob pull back the curtain on what's next for the pod, what they're obsessing over, what might be making a comeback, and the nerdy rabbit holes they're about to dive headfirst into. From horror hype to tech toys, from nostalgic rewatches to brand-new obsessions, the Nerd Herd is getting a preview of the adventures ahead.Will there be sci-fi? Probably.Deep dives? Absolutely.Unhinged theories? You know it.If you've ever wondered what fuels the Nerd Best Friends content machine… this is your sneak peek.And trust us — you're going to want to be here for what's coming next.Listen wherever you get your podcasts.Follow/Subscribe so you don't miss what's coming.Want bonus nerdiness? Join the Patreon and level up your Nerd Herd membership.Strap in, friends. The next chapter of nerdy goodness starts now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nerd Travels is back, and this time we're unpacking suitcases, friendships, and ALL the nerd joy from Girls' Just Wanna Weekend 7!In Episode 92 of Nerd Best Friends, Analese and Rob hit the road for another installment of Nerd Travels, sharing highlights, heartfelt moments, and behind-the-scenes stories from Girls' Just Wanna Weekend 7—the music-filled, community-driven getaway that's equal parts vacation, fandom, and found family.From unforgettable performances and magical moments to the small experiences that make events like this so special, we talk about what makes GJWW more than just a trip—it's a vibe. We reflect on connection, nerd joy, and why traveling forcommunity hits differently than traveling to a destination.Whether you were there, wish you were there, or just love hearing about nerds living their best lives, this episode is for you. Listen now wherever you get your podcastsJoin the conversation and tell us: what's your ultimate nerd travel dream?Like what you hear? Subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow Nerd Best Friend—because nerd joy is better when it's shared.Bonus content for the Nerd Herd on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello nerds! This week we are taking a break from our typical episodes and promoting our amazing guest spot on The Geek Speak Show! Your nerd best friends joined the show for an Issues of the Day episode, and got to nerd out with some fellow geeks.Check out and go follow The Geek Speak Show we will be back next week with Nerd Travels: Girls Just Wanna Weekend 7. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hard-boiled noir. Superhero trauma. One of Marvel's most complex antiheroes.Your Nerd Best Friends are tackling Jessica Jones and asking the ultimate nerd question: Should you read the comics first… or watch the show first? Either way, this one has swears & butts!Noir vibes vs. prestige TVComic canon vs. on-screen storytellingTrauma, agency, and why Jessica Jones still mattersWhether you're brand new to Jessica Jones or revisiting her story with fresh eyes, this episode will help you decide where to start—and why there's no wrong answer… just different kinds of brilliant.Also in this episode: murder mystery puzzles, gamer profiles, Space Weirdos, Final Girl 3, Army Painter metallic speed paints, winter is hobby winter. Listen now wherever you get your podcastsFollow Nerd Best Friends and join the Nerd Herd on Pateron Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, your Nerd Best Friends take a VERY bold trip back to Oz… and wow, was it darker than we expected. For Analese and Rob, this was a first-time watch of Return to Oz, and let's just say—no one was prepared for wheelers, electroshock therapy vibes, or an alarming number of interchangeable heads. Meanwhile, Dr. Intern Joan revisits a childhood favorite and helps us unpack why this deeply unsettling sequel left such a lasting impression on a whole generation of nerds.Is it a misunderstood masterpiece? A nightmare masquerading as a kids' movie? Or the ultimate example of 80s films saying, “Sure, kids can handle this”? We break down the visuals, the themes, the lore, and the emotional damage—plus why this movie still lives rent-free in so many brains decades later.Strap in, grab your ruby slippers (or chicken), and join us for a delightfully dark Nerdstalgia dive.New episode out now—listen wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to follow, rate, and share with a fellow nerd who definitely remembers those Wheelers.Bonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new year is here—and your Nerd Best Friends are making plans… the nerdy way.In this episode, we're setting 26 nerdy goals for 2026—from books we want to read and games we want to play to projects we want to finish, hobbies we want to try, and fandoms we want to spend more time with. Some goals are ambitious, some are cozy, and some are just an excuse to lean harder into the things that bring us joy.This isn't about productivity or perfection—it's about intention, curiosity, and giving ourselves permission to be excited about what's next. Whether you're a list-maker, a goal-setter, or someone who just wants an excuse to buy more minis or crack open another comic, this episode is for you.So grab your planner, your paintbrush, or your controller—and let's talk about what we're nerding out about in 2026.Also in this episode: Nerd Mail, tangents, new apps for nerd organization, systems to optimize your nerd experience. Listen now wherever you get your podcastsRate, review, and share to help grow the Nerd HerdBonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great Scott! Your Nerd Best Friends are firing up the DeLorean and hitting 88 miles per hour as we travel back (and forward) through one of the most iconic nerd franchises of all time: Back to the Future.Analese, Rob, and Dr. Intern Joan dive into why this trilogy still holds up decades later—from perfect casting and quotable lines to time-travel rules that somehow actually make sense. We talk favorite moments, the genius of Doc Brown, Marty McFly's enduring cool factor, and how Back to the Future shaped pop culture, sci-fi storytelling, and the very idea of what “the future” was supposed to look like.Is Back to the Future a flawless trilogy? Why does it hit so hard for Gen X, Millennials, and new nerds discovering it today? And what lessons can we learn from a movie that insists your future isn't written yet?Grab your hoverboard, avoid paradoxes, and join us for a nerdy joyride through time.Also in this episode: After Prom, karaoke, hypnotists, tangents, Nerdstalgia, D&D 2024 leveling up, Bewitchin'Listen now wherever you get your podcastsLove the episode? Rate, review, and share to help grow the Nerd HerdFollow us @NerdBestFriends for more pop culture deep dives and nerdy nonsenseBonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First of all, I'M THE MARY. Second, it's more NERDSTALGIA coming your way in a throwback to December of 2022. Let's NERD OUT about the cult classic Romy and Michele's High School Reunion and special guest Stacy Burcham. Happy new year, NERDS! New episode next week, and bonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While your Nerd Best Friends take time off for the holidays, take time to NERD OUT with some NERDSTALGIA. In this case, we are Nerdwatching the Aughts! Episode 40, from October 2023, will take you back to the era of millennialism and what was hip to be square. Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and join the NERD HERD! Bonus content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's officially cozy-season, Nerd Herd! This week, your Nerd Best Friends are diving headfirst into their Top 5 Holiday Must-Watch lists — the movies, specials, and episodes that absolutely DEFINE the season. From nostalgic classics to chaotic comfort watches, we're breaking down the stories that make our nerd hearts glow like a retro string of Christmas lights. Analese decks the halls and Rob snacks through the fa-la-las.Whether you're a lover of cozy classics, campy holiday chaos, or deep-cut seasonal gems — you will find yourself right at home with this one.Listen now and tell us YOUR holiday must-watch list!Don't forget to rate the podcast, follow us on social media, and share the nerdy joy with a friend. Bonus content on Patreon!Happy holidays, Nerd Herd! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think you know your fandoms? Your Nerd Best Friends are BACK with an all-new episode, and this time…it's NERD TRIVIA night! In this chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly intense showdown, Analese, Rob, and Dr. Intern Joan put their nerd knowledge to the test across movies, TV, comics, gaming, nostalgia, and all the weird little corners of pop culture we've been storing in our brains for decades. Analese chose Bizness Ethics for Rob and Rob chose anything but Buffy for Analese.IN THIS EPISODE:Analese flexes obscure knowledge no human should haveRob takes some big swings (and even bigger misses)Dr. Intern Joan becomes the trivia chaos agent we didn't know we neededThe Herd gets a brand-new set of inside jokesIf you love pop culture, pointless knowledge, and friends talking nerdy, this is YOUR episode.Listen now and play along — tell us your score!Don't forget to rate, review, and share the podcast so we can keep growing the Nerd Herd! Bonus content and other giveaways on Patreon.Also in this episode: favorite games shows of all time, character-themed fast food gimmicks, jammy advent calendars, slowing inventory of weasel-hair brushes for painting, getting gifts from our family that are things the nerds talk about during the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Analese, Rob, and Dr. Intern Joan check in on their Nerd Goals for the year — the wins, the works-in-progress, and the “oh wow, we definitely forgot that was even on the list.” Analese doubled down on reading and Rob focused on becoming C3TO (or, a CTO, to be sure). In this episode, Analese, Rob, and Dr. Intern Joan:Review their 2025 Nerd Goals (with honesty and chaos)Celebrate the little victories and the big onesShare what they're excited to tackle nextAdmit which goals have been… temporarily benchedEncourage YOU to jump back into your own nerdy passionsWhether you're crushing your goals or riding the procrastination dragon, you're in good company.Also in this episode: becoming a WNBA Inaugural season ticket holder, Nerd Stores in California's state capital, and insane endings to football games.Join the Nerd Herd, hit play, and let's level up those nerd goals together!Don't forget to rate, review, and share the podcast — it helps our little nerdy universe grow! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the most wonderful nerdy time of the year! Analese and Rob are diving headfirst into the multiverse of gifting to bring you the Official Nerd Best Friends Gift Guide—packed with gadgets, page-turners, cozy fandom gear, and delightfully weird treasures for every nerd on your list (including you, let's be honest). Analese creates chaos with monkey hooks and Rob doubles down on best binging during the holiday season. And here's the real holiday magic:Dr. Intern Joan has crafted an exclusive DIGITAL GIFT GUIDE—a beautifully nerdy, curated masterpiece to level up your gifting game. Want it? Just become a Patron for $1 or $3 and it's all yours. Seriously. That's like… less than the cost of a single festive cookie.So throw on your comfiest fandom hoodie, grab your peppermint mocha, and hit play.Your nerdy holiday shopping starts NOW.Don't forget to subscribe, leave a five-star rating, and share with your fellow nerds—spread that holiday cheer like confetti!Also in this episode: Nerd Mail (redheads in comic books), the best fictional holiday setting, old people marching, creative book gifts, kinkos > Fedex (mostly because price). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Nerd Best Friends, Analese and Rob dive into the quotes, lines, and iconic one-liners that have lived rent-free in our nerd brains for decades. It's time for our Top 5 Pop Culture Catchphrases, and yes—choosing just five was absolutely impossible, but we did it anyway (because we're nerds, and we love a challenge). From TV to comics, movies to memes, we break down why these catchphrases stuck, how they became cultural landmarks, and the moments they made us laugh, gasp, or feel entirely too seen. Analese sifts through 90s sketch comedies and Rob goes with a galaxy far, far, away.As always, join the conversation, tell us YOUR favorite catchphrases, and help us grow the Nerd Herd by rating, reviewing, and sharing the podcast with your fellow nerds!Also in this episode: Nerd Mail, Monsters: The Ed Gein Story, beer face, SORA, shoutout to Gateway Games in Santa Rosa (CA), and what the heck is Microsoft doing with Xbox? Bonus and early access to content on Patreon! Join now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grab your capes, grab your tissues, and get ready to fly into another epic Nerd Book Club adventure! This week, Analese and Rob dive deep into Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, the beautifully bold and heart-wrenchingly heroic comic that has taken the nerd world by storm. We're talking space cowboys, moral quandaries, epic quests, and a Supergirl story that punches you right in the feels — in the best nerdy way possible. Plus, the Nerds ask the real questions, like: how often should heroes get therapy? Could we survive intergalactic travel without snacks? And what exactly counts as a space horse? Saddle up, nerd herd — we're going cosmic. Analese is tired of the same ol' tropes and Rob is loving the space western awesomeness. Also, Dr. Intern Joan is back! As always, we want to hear from YOU! Did you read along? What did you think of Supergirl's story? Who do you want to see in the next Nerd Book Club pick?Don't forget to leave a 5-star rating, share with your fellow nerds, and join us weekly for all the chaotic wholesome joy that is the Nerd Best Friends Podcast. Also in this episode: Nerd Mail, halloween episodes of Buffy, we have 99 problems and Hoopla might be one, naming your top 5 movies of all time, Almost Famous is 25 this year, winning free nerd stuff and 26 for 2026 projects, nerding out over this podcast.Thanks for being part of the Nerd Herd — the nerdiest, best friends on the internet! Subscribers don't forget to look for your EXCLUSIVE reading guide - or go to Patreon now and become a Nerd Herd member to gain exclusive access! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Nerd Best Friends are back with a chaotic cozy episode full of updates, randomness, and nerd joy. This week, Analese and Rob catch up on what they've been doing in their nerd lives lately — from tiny obsessions to big creative swings, questionable impulse purchases, hobby rabbit holes, and those moments where your brain says, “We can do that!” …and suddenly it's 1am and you're rearranging bookshelves or building a new game character for a campaign you're not even in yet.Analese gets ready for old person marching band and Rob confesses his latest nerd project involving Notebook LM during D&D, and both try to decide whether new hobbies are productive or just a socially acceptable form of procrastination… we support either way. Also in this episode: nerd mail, the first Stephen King you ever read (and at what young age), AI and table top gaming, principal's promises, and a gentle reminder that you're allowed to follow your curiosity and create just because it's fun.What are you doing? Tell us your latest nerdy activity in the comments or over on our socials!Listen wherever you enjoy your podcasts and join the Nerd Herd on Patreon for bonus goodies and early access! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends are getting spooky! Analese and Rob are diving headfirst into their favorite nerdy Halloween traditions — from Buffy's best Halloween episodes to tabletop chills and pop culture thrills. Analese confesses her worst costume ever, Rob shares his annual “Curse of Strahd” ritual, and together they countdown their top Halloween musts in true Nerd Best Friends fashion. It's all treats, no tricks — just the perfect mix of nostalgia, nerdiness, and spooky fun.Also in this episode: best/worst Halloween costume stories, 80s and 90s vintage 49ers clothing and planning for our very first NFL game, mini agnostic tabletop games, Reign in Hell by Snarling Badger Studios, Girls Just Wanna Weekend sticker preview. New episodes every week! Give the show a 5-star rating and join the Nerd Herd on Patreon for bonus content and early access. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends are sitting down with author Brick Marlin, creator of The Zephnarr Phase, for an in-depth (and delightfully weird) dive into the world of horror, sci-fi, and the writing life. Analese nerds out over Brick's surreal world-building and twisted storytelling, Rob gets into the creative process of crafting something truly original, and the whole crew talks about what makes horror so endlessly fascinating for nerds like us.If you love eerie worlds, indie authors, and creative minds that live just left of center—this one's for you.Also in this episode: past guest Alison is again winner of top prize at LA Comic Con's cosplay contest!, Orctober, Crocktober, mini painting, final girl era, dancing with the stars crocktoberfest. Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and join the Nerd Herd on Patreon for early access and behind-the-scenes nerdiness! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends put on the red suit and dive into the gritty streets of Hell's Kitchen to talk Daredevil! From Catholic guilt to courtroom drama to acrobatics that would make Batman jealous, the nerds get into what makes Matt Murdock one of the most human superheroes in comics. Rob waxes poetic about the perfect villain that is Kingpin and Analese admits a hilarious case of mistaken identity. It's sharp, funny, and full of blind justice.Also in this episode: reading listener recommendations (especially about Superman and the Engineer), Batman in the new Gunn DCU?, Halloween Hoopla (thank you, local public libraries!), Monsters: The Ed Gein Story, and nerd values. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends are hitting the road—destination: Portland, Oregon! Analese finds herself in a surprise birthday pinball tournament (because of course she does), Rob nerds out over the ultimate tabletop stops, and Dr. Intern Joan joins from the high seas to drop some hot tips for donuts, bookstores, and barcades. Together, they're ranking their Top 5 favorite nerdy things to do while traveling, with a special spotlight on all things Portland Weird.It's quirky, cozy, and full of the kind of delightful nerd tangents you've come to expect—travel tips, fandom finds, and a dash of chaos. Pack your dice bag, grab your coffee, and come nerd travel with us!Also in this episode: hidden gems at Mox Boarding House, fantasy football on cruise Wi-Fi, high fantasy versus low fantasy, Cairn 2nd edition, more about The Long Walk, scary audiobooks like Doctor Sleep. Subscriber bonuses on Patreon! Join the Nerd Herd today for early access, bonus clips, and recording invites! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends are diving into the brand-new film adaptation of Stephen King's The Long Walk. Analese gets real about how art doesn't always need a happy ending to be powerful, Rob nerds out about the book-to-screen details (and yes, the infamous F-word count), and Dr. Intern Joan goes deep on hidden easter eggs you may have missed. Together, we break down the characters, themes, and what this movie got right (and wrong) for longtime fans. It's dark, intense, and exactly the kind of nerdy deep-dive you didn't know you needed—listen in and join the walk with us.Also in this episode: alternate superhero comics, favorite book to screen adaptations, Advance Reader Copy type readers and the dystopian experience of keeping your ARC rating up, holiday season watch-a-thons, Buckingham Nicks album rerelease. Subscriber bonuses on Patreon! Join the Nerd Herd today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step back into the groovy world of the ‘70s! Your Nerd Best Friends dive into the books, comics, music, and pop culture that shaped the decade: sci-fi milestones, superhero shake-ups, dystopian vibes, and more. Nerdwatching the 70s, Part 2 is live now! Analese is all about dystopian journeys, and Rob is spinning on vinyl.Also in this episode: Rob's big nipper slip, more about The State, digging Dexter:Resurrection, all the amazing horror genre from the 1970s. Subscriber bonuses on Patreon! Join the Nerd Herd today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the shag-carpeted world of the ‘70s! Your Nerd Best Friends relive the movies and TV shows that defined a generation, from disco vibes to cult classics—stream Nerdwatching the 70s, Part 1 now! Analese is about the Greased Lightnin' and Rob is about the Fonz. Also in this episode: bags mart or bag smart, nerd travel updated necessities, small kindles, using makeup sponges for mini painting. Subscriber bonuses on Patreon! Join the Nerd Herd today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Barry & Levon, Doug, $240 Worth of Pudding… if those words make you laugh, you already know. This week, your Nerd Best Friends are rewinding to the ‘90s to celebrate MTV's The State—the cult sketch comedy show that shaped a generation of absurdist humor. We're diving into our favorite sketches, the cast's wild creativity, and how The State paved the way for Reno 911!, Wet Hot American Summer, and beyond. Whether you were quoting it back in the dorms or discovering it now, this episode is guaranteed to bring $241 worth of fun. Analese picked a side in the Taco Mail debate, and Rob joined a reggae band with Captain Monterey Jack.Also in this episode: what games are on your nerd best friends' tables, pre-painted terrain by Dungeons and Lasers, becoming a DM for D&D. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends are back, and it's season 5! In this one, the nerds get goofy about their top 5 fictional pets. Get settled in and bring extra Scooby Snacks! Analese dug Neftlix's Wednesday and Rob got his TMNT on in the theaters. Also in this episode: The origins of The Engineer, Superman theme songs, decades-old movies rereleased in the theaters, appointment watching, Best Friend Telepathy. Subscribe, Follow, Rate the podcast today! Bonus Content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the FINAL nerdstalgia episode of the summer, and it's right in the middle of hot, sticky, sweaty band camp all over the country! Nerd out about Marching Band and 3D printing with your nerd best friends and a former student who became part of the NBF family. The next episode you will hear from your nerd best friends is SEASON 5! Follow and subscribe now to be first in line kicking off new episodes every week. --------------------------The place where Analese and Rob met, where the Venn diagram of all our guests mostly collide, and the place where the special guest was introduced to the podcast hosts circa 2003. Adam Kuns joins the Nerds to talk about the nerdiest of nerdy nerdom, MARCHING BAND.Also in this episode: 3d printing, fantasy football, rooftop theatre, board game organizingBonus content is on Patreon.com/NerdBestFriends.Original Airdate: November 8, 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nerd Best Friends Podcast – Season 5 Premiere Kick off Season 5 with your Nerd Best Friends as we share exclusive spoilers, exciting updates, and insider details about what's ahead. From upcoming episodes to special guests and behind-the-scenes moments, this is your ultimate sneak peek into the season. Perfect for fans of geek culture, nerd news, pop culture deep dives, and all things fandom. Subscribe now and join the Nerd Herd for the latest in nerdy fun! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Go back in time with your Nerd Best Friends before the start of season 5 and recall the fun times had playing D&D while overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. It's a story for the ages!---------------------It's season 3! Analese and Rob bring the first installment of Nerd Travels, and talk about a special event playing Dungeons & Dragons in Las Vegas. After three years of online playing, Team No Consequences met in Sin City for an epic level 20 finale. This is their story!Bonus content is on Patreon.What's the nerdiest thing you did this week?Original Airdate: September 6, 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for tabletop madness with your Nerd Best Friends! It's finally here: our chaotic, hilarious adventure into Snarling Badger Studios' hit game The Great Goblin Argle-Bargle. We gathered friends, Patreon supporters, and way too many goblins for an unforgettable actual play session full of crits, chaos, and comedy.If you love Dungeons & Dragons, TTRPG gameplay, or nerdy mayhem in goblin form—this is your VIP access to the action. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to nerdy podcasts, join the fun, share the show, and let the dice roll!Analese's goblin pirates rocked the boat and Rob's three painted armies dominated the terrain.Also in this episode: 5-year spreadsheets, Labyrinth, nerding out with friends, date nights for nerds, the real nerdstalgia.Get bonus content and episodes when you subscribe on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your nerd best friends did not make it to SDCC this year, so instead it's a re-roll of the interview with Cosplay winner of Los Angeles Comic Con 2022. Check out this episode and get ready for The Great Goblin Argle-Bargle NEW episode next week!-----------------------Los Angeles Comic Con's 2022 Best in Show Costume Contest winner, Alison, joins the podcast today to talk about cosplay and costume making, and the path to her big win in December 2022. Rob is speechless at the artistry and Analese missed out on seeing it live!CALL TO ACTION: (1) create your 23 for 2023 and let us know by sharing on social media with #2023nerdgoals, (2) share your progress over the year when you complete a goal with the same hashtag, (3) gamify your goals for this year!OTHER NERDY TOPICS: Rotate your GM/DM, nerd algorithm, The Dark Crystal, Jim Henson, Labyrinth, Winchester Mystery House, SiliCon, Adam Savage, Rose Bowl Flea Market, Dungeon Mayhem. @NerdBestFriends is our social media, podcast@nerdbestfriends.com is our email - message us today! Follow and like our stuff, it'll be fun, we SWEAR!Original Airdate: January 25, 2023 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your Nerd Best Friends are joined by Dr. Intern Joan and America's Favorite Teen Nerd, Andrew for a nerd movie review of the newest Superman installment. It's summer, it's hot, there are hijinks!Analese wants to see more Lois Lane and Rob wants more easter eggs.Also in this episode: the hype, the movie theatre experience, Shakespeare adaptations, Fast & Furious for table top gaming, craft organization mobile carts, nerd corrections from our Summer Games trivia episode. Get bonus content and episodes when you subscribe on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taking a trip down memory lane as the highly anticipated new Superman film is released this week! See you at the movies, nerds! And then tune in next week for our NERD movie review of the next installment from the man of steel. Bonus stuff on Patreon! ------------It's a bird... it's a plane... it's a podcast! The nerds get cozy with the man of steel: the one and only alien from another planet who gets weird with stones and rocks. Rob digs the dad versions of superheroes and Analese still has a crush on Dean Cain. OTHER NERDY TOPICS: (more) Really Useful Boxes, Marvel SNAP, Final Girl by Van Ryder Games, mini painting, video games, solo play games, comic books, video games based off comic books and comic books based of video games. @NerdBestFriends is our social media, podcast@nerdbestfriends.com is our email - message us today!Follow and like our stuff, it'll be fun, we SWEAR!Original Airdate: November 9, 2022 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our first recording in front of a live studio audience! Thanks to our patrons for joining the SUMMER NERD GAMES! No Olympics only nerd-olympics by way of trivia! Who will win the company, Eric or Carl? Analese wows the crowd with amazing dismount landings and Rob owns the parallel nerd bars. Also in this episode: a tribute to Laverne & Shirley, Rob's adventures in Milwaukee, Ironheart, summer office purge & organize, Star Wars and Andor rants, fancy movie theaters. Get bonus content and episodes when you subscribe on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that we're back from HellmouthCon and have played some summer nerdy games, let's reroll and visit another Joss Whedon classic, Firefly. Hold on tight, this amazing replay is followed next week by the show recorded LIVE with a Buffy audience at the Hellmouth!---------------------------The browncoats are here, and we are talking about another classic from Joss Whedon - Firefly (including the accompanying film, Serenity). The nerds also welcome two Firefly experts - special guests Sean Lewis and Juliana Massie. Rob's love of westerns takes center stage and Analese is brand new to the entire world of gorram space westerns. *SPOILERS* for those that have not watched the show or film. OTHER NERDY TOPICS: Marvel SNAP, Final Girl by Van Ryder Games, Metro Comics big retirement party for Bob, Movies with Mikey, YouTube music playlists, Solasta, making spreadsheets for gaming, Games Workshop with NO LIMITS, contrast mini painting.@NerdBestFriends is our social media, podcast@nerdbestfriends.com is our email - message us today! Follow and like our stuff, it'll be fun, we SWEAR!Original Airdate: November 23, 2022 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

YOUR NERD BEST FRIENDS DID A LIVE SHOW! It was such a success running our Buffy + D&D live episode at HellmouthCon and we had an amazing audience! Unfortunately, Analese the rookie forgot to press the record button and so... here we are, face to face, a couple of big buffoons.. This episode is full of your nerd best friends talking about how cool it was and recapping their time at HellmouthCon ON THE Hellmouth in Torrance, Ca. Analese now has a picture in her high school principal's office with the three Sunnydale HS principals and Rob now can say he got to tell his amazing embarrassing story about blonde hair and James Marsters DIRECTLY to the guy IN PERSON.Also in this episode: The Great Goblin Angle Bargle, Never Flinch, panting goblin armies, practicing table top games on your own, and the frustration of GenXers at the end to The Neverending Story. Get bonus content and episodes when you subscribe on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Go down memory lane with your nerd best friends while the live HellmouthCon episode is being edited! Find our social media pages for awesome content from the Hellmouth.-------------------------------Original Airdate: December 1, 2021The Nerd Best Friends talk about all things BUFFY: favorite episodes and villains, plus general likes/dislikes about the groundbreaking show. This is the last episode before mid-season winter break, but stay subscribed to check out our soon-to-be-released One Shots! SPOILERS ALERT! Listen at your own risk - the nerds talk about the show in depth!*CW/TW* The hosts mention heavier themes of the show including death, suicide, assault, and the problematic emerging truth about the culture of Joss Whedon's sets and his behavior towards women. Other nerdy things: craft beer of the episode, marching band competitions, DnD, The Curse of Strahd, organizing nerd spaces at home. Join the conversation! Listen, Follow, Subscribe, Share, give us that 5-star rating!!Instagram: @Nerd Best FriendsFacebook: Nerd Best FriendsTwitter: @NerdBestFriendspodcast@nerdbestfriends.comFind our channel on YouTube and subscribe today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I can tell you my love for you will still be strong, after the nerds of summer have gone...Analese and Rob get NERDY with Dr. Intern Joan's very first time watching The Neverending Story. How is it a GenX person has actually never seen this classic? We don't know, but are SO GLAD to share this with DIJ. Analese questions Bastian's school principal and Rob questions if Neverending Story II is worth the minutes of your life. Also in this episode: reading Eisner nominees in Hoopla, Stephen King EVERYWHERE, more hit films from 1984, the trauma of 90 seconds in this film, The Great Goblin Angle Bargle, YOU on Netflix IS NOT LIKE DEXTER, DIJ's new nerd room. Get bonus content and episodes when you subscribe on Patreon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey nerds! Re-roll and get nerdstalgic with your nerd best friends! New Stephen King book out last week, so you know Analese is too busy reading to edit. Therefore, check out this rewind of the SK episode! ------Original Airdate: January 24, 2024. Analese, your podcast host and horror nerd, walks Rob through the multiverse and universe building by the master of horror - Stephen King. Since Analese is Constant Reader, it is safe to join the nerds on this journey.Also in this episode: Warhammer, Instagram analytics, mail subscription games, Final Girl, organization, 2024 nerd goals.Bonus content is on Patreon.com/NerdBestFriends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.