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On this episode of The Knowledge Bar, we dive into something that everybody relates to on some level: Fandom. The rise of social media, pop sensations like Taylor Swift, and mega franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe have taken fandom from online chat rooms to mainstream. Join us for a conversation about the origins of fandom, how we interact with it, and where it's going.

We’ll also spend time on today’s episode comforting Chris as the Lions lose more players to injury, get Patrick’s reaction to the NYT’s Year in Photos, and celebrate the death of cord drawers.

What are you drinking Recommendations:

• Alex: Old Cockney Gin - Two James Distilling - Detroit, MI
• Chris: G4 Madeira Blanco - Destileria El Pandillo - Los Altos de Jalisco
• Patrick: Macallan 12 - The Macallan - Easter Elchies, Scotland
• Ethan: Quite Brite, Belgian (Beer) - Bells Brewing - Kalamazoo, MI

Just One More Recommendations:

• Alex: Ted Lasso (TV Series) - Apple TV
• Chris: The Mosquito Bowl: A Game of Life and Death in WWII, Buzz Bissinger (book)
• Patrick: Devil’s Bargain: Steve Bannon, Donald Trump, and the Storming of the Presidency, Joshua Green (book)
• Ethan: The Last Bronycon: A Fandom autopsy - Youtube

00:00
The Rise of Fandom Culture

32:22
Exploring the Dynamics of Fandom

33:49
The Impact of Social Media on Fandom

42:04
Personal Experiences with Fandom

47:18
Navigating Fandom Conversations

49:30
The Psychological Benefits of Fandom

51:52
The Downsides of Fandom: Knowledge Toxicity and Exclusivity

55:39
Parasocial Relationships and Their Impact

56:58
Fandoms as Social Connections

01:02:42
The Future of Fandom: Growth and Concerns

01:07:26
Toxicity in Fandoms: A Double-Edged Sword

01:12:51
The Impact of Corporate Interests on Fandoms

01:19:49
Final Thoughts on Fandoms and Community

Produced and Edited by Ethan Harig

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Enjoy your friends and always drink responsibly! Cheers!