We’re diving into the exhilarating world of roller derby with the Cleveland Guardians and it’s a blast! This episode is all about the passion and community that surrounds this electrifying sport. We chat with some of the Guardians, who share their stories, rules of the game, and the camaraderie that makes roller derby so special. So, whether you’re a seasoned derby fan or just roller-curious (yes, I made that up), you’re gonna want to stick around for this wild ride on eight wheels.

Takeaways:

• The Cleveland Guardians Roller Derby team has transformed from a theatrical spectacle to a legitimate sport, showcasing the dedication and passion of its players.
• Roller derby is a highly strategic game where players must master both offensive and defensive skills to outmaneuver opponents and score points effectively.
• Each roller derby game consists of two 30-minute periods filled with fast-paced action, where teams compete in a series of short bursts called jams, lasting up to two minutes.
• The Guardians emphasize inclusivity, allowing skaters of all genders to participate equally in their leagues, which enhances community and camaraderie within the sport.
• The upcoming Cleveland Guardians Roller Derby match on June 14 promises to be an exciting doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Zombies, showcasing the competitive spirit of local teams.
• Fans can support the Guardians by attending games, following their social media channels, and purchasing merchandise, which helps fund the team's operations and travel.

Takeaways:

• The Cleveland Asian Festival is a vibrant celebration that promotes Asian culture and community, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually and featuring diverse food, performances, and activities.
• Johnny K. Wu, a prominent figure in Cleveland's cultural scene, co-founded the festival in 2010, aiming to unite various Asian communities and enhance cultural visibility.
• This year marks the festival's 16th anniversary, highlighting its growth from a one-day event to a major two-day festival filled with engaging activities, entertainment, and delicious food.
• The festival showcases a range of performances, including a fashion show celebrating Asian culture and a cosplay event, inviting attendees to express their love for Asian pop culture.
• Community involvement and volunteerism are key aspects of the festival’s success, with local artists and community members contributing to its planning and execution.
• The conversation touches on the importance of cultural appreciation versus appropriation, emphasizing the significance of understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds.

Links referenced in this episode:

• clevelandasianfestival.org

Today, we’re diving into a fun and energetic chat with Jason Griffith, the legendary voice behind Sonic the Hedgehog! We caught up with him at the Cleveland Gaming Classic last September, and let me tell you, hearing his stories about voice acting and the impact Sonic has had on fans is just a blast. From his early days in Cleveland to his journey into the world of voiceovers, Jason shares some hilarious behind-the-scenes moments and how he found his signature Sonic voice—spoiler alert: it involves some creative practice with a cassette recorder! Plus, we talk about the exciting evolution of gaming and voice acting, and how the community has shaped his career. So grab your favorite snack and get ready for an entertaining ride through the world of gaming and nostalgia!

Takeaways:

• We've all got our inner geek, and this podcast reminds us that it's totally okay to embrace it and celebrate our passions!
• Jason Griffith, the voice of Sonic, shares his journey, revealing how he went from a kid with a dream to voicing one of the most iconic characters in gaming history.
• Voice acting isn't just about the voice; it's about feeling the character and bringing them to life through emotion and movement, as Jason explains.
• The world of voice acting has evolved dramatically, especially with the shift to home studios, as Jason notes, making it more accessible but also more competitive.

Links referenced in this episode:

• gamecleveland.com
• worldgonegeek.com

We're all living in a world gone Geek, and today we're diving into something super special that really embodies our fandom for good: Extra Life! This episode is dedicated to the amazing charity event where gamers unite to play for 24 hours straight, raising funds for Children's Miracle Network hospitals. Join Jeff (aka Grounded Geek) andYuta as they share their personal experiences and the impact Extra Life has had on their lives and the lives of others. We've got some fantastic guests lined up who'll share their own journeys with Extra Life, including the incredible ways this initiative has helped kids in need. So grab your favorite snack, kick back, and let’s get ready to geek hard or go home—because every dollar raised makes a real difference!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive deep into the heartwarming mission of Extra Life, a charity that transforms our gaming passion into funds for children's hospitals.
• The hosts, Jeff and Yuta, share their personal journey with Extra Life, highlighting their 14-year commitment to gaming for a cause that genuinely impacts families.
• Listeners are encouraged to participate in Extra Life by playing games for 24 hours, raising funds for local Children's Miracle Network hospitals in their communities.
• The podcast emphasizes the camaraderie among podcasters during the 'Podcast On' initiative, showcasing how the community unites to support various charities simultaneously.
• Extra Life isn't just about gaming; it's about creating hope and bringing communities together to make a real difference in the lives of children facing medical challenges.
• With fun anecdotes and engaging discussions, the episode highlights how gaming can foster connections and encourage positivity in fandoms while doing good.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.extra-life.org
• twitch.tv/thegoreydetails
• www.worldgonegeek.com
• 
  

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Extra Life
• Children's Miracle Network
• University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital
• Promptly Written

We’re all living in a world gone geek, and this episode is no exception! Buckle up, because we’re diving into an awesome conversation with the super talented Stephanie Williams, writer for DC and Marvel. She’s here to share her journey through the comic book universe, from her indie roots to breathing new life into iconic characters like Nubia and Wonder Woman. It’s time to geek hard or go home, folks! Plus, we’ll chat about the importance of diversity in comics, the challenges of imposter syndrome, and the exciting future stories Stephanie has in the pipeline. So grab your headphones, and let's goooooooo!

Links referenced in this episode:

World Gone Geek website

Stephanie Williams website

All Stephanie's links

Donate to see Jeff shave his head for pediatric cancer research:

https://www.stbaldricks.org/participants/4d

The Fandom Premise is an engaging journey into the rich histories of the fandoms we cherish, hosted by Jeff, aka groundedGeek. Each episode promises to explore the fascinating stories behind your favorite franchises, characters, and cultural phenomena, reminding us of the human experiences that shape the geek world. From the unexpected origins of Superman to the birth of Dungeons and Dragons, listeners will reminisce and celebrate the creativity and passion that fuel these beloved interests. This podcast is not just a history lesson; it's a heartfelt reminder of why we fell in love with our fandoms in the first place. Join the community where every fandom has a place and where curiosity and passion are encouraged to thrive.

Takeaways:

• This podcast invites all fans of pop culture to explore their favorite fandom origins.
• Expect deep dives into the stories that shaped beloved franchises and characters.
• Every episode promises to celebrate creativity, passion, and the power of imagination.
• Listeners will experience nostalgia and joy while learning about geek culture's human stories.
• The show welcomes everyone, no matter their fandom, encouraging curiosity and passion.
• New episodes will be released bi-weekly, fostering ongoing conversations about fandoms.

Join us as we dive into the exhilarating world of Jugger, a sport inspired by the cult classic film "The Blood of Heroes." Our guest, John Fawkes, shares his journey from being a fan of Rutger Hauer to becoming an active participant in this unique and adrenaline-fueled activity. Discover how Jugger combines athleticism with theatrical flair, creating an engaging experience for both players and spectators alike. We also explore the vibrant community surrounding Jugger, including events like Wasteland Weekend, where fans embrace their post-apocalyptic personas. This episode is brought to you by Paramount Pictures, featuring their new comedy "Casino in Ischia" starring Dominic Purcell.

Takeaways:

• The sport of jugger, inspired by the 1989 film 'The Blood of Heroes', combines athleticism and theatricality.
• John Fawkes discovered the film and sport jugger during the COVID pandemic and later became an enthusiastic player.
• Wasteland Weekend is a unique festival where jugger matches take place amidst a post-apocalyptic theme.
• Jugger involves players taking on roles and wearing creative costumes, enhancing the overall experience.
• Safety is a priority in jugger, with strict rules to prevent injuries during matches.
• The community around jugger is welcoming, encouraging newcomers to join and participate actively.

Links referenced in this episode:

• youtu.be/_xrL2zurMow

John Fawkes:

• https://www.instagram.com/officialjohnfawkes/
• https://www.johnfawkesphotography.com/

Wasteland Weekend

• https://www.wastelandweekend.com/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Paramount Pictures
• Republic Pictures

World Gone Geek Podcast S5 Premiere: Nostalgia, Hot Dogs, and Wrestling Showdowns

In the premiere episode of Season 5 of the World Gone Geek podcast, host Jeff (groundedGeek) reunites with co-hosts Allea and Yuta after a lengthy hiatus. They discuss their return, reflecting on previous seasons and the personal challenges that led to their break. The team enthusiastically reviews 'Back to the Future: The Musical' and covers the unconventional competitions surrounding Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Jeff also shares insightful interviews with OCW wrestlers, focusing on the intense rivalry and upcoming street fight between No Shame Jimmy Shane and The Show Robbie Starr at Paulino Mania in Canal Fulton... but not before OCW Summerfest at Mogadore Festival July 13th.

00:00 Welcome to World Gone Geek

00:20 Meet the Hosts

01:24 Podcast Hiatus and Return

02:46 Celebrating Fandoms

03:40 Back to the Future: The Musical

04:18 4th of July Celebrations

25:03 Inside Out 2 Review

30:19 Hot Dog Eating Contest Drama

41:41 Wrestling Adventures

43:56 Upcoming OCW Events

46:03 Interview with Jimmy Shane

46:25 Jimmy Shane's Wrestling Journey

50:40 The Rivalry with Robbie Starr

01:02:09 Interview with Robbie Starr

01:04:31 Robbie Starr's Wrestling Journey

01:11:32 The Betrayal and Upcoming Street Fight

01:23:44 Conclusion and Merch Promotion