CONversation with Coffee

About CONversation with Coffee

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at Comic Con? Grab your favorite mug and pull up a seat — this is the podcast for con-goers, cosplayers, and curious first-timers alike. Each episode, we break down the latest conventions we've hit, spill the behind-the-scenes stories you won't find anywhere else, and swap the tips and tricks we wish someone had told us before our first con. Panel lines, artist alley finds, cosplay chaos, hidden gems, survival hacks — we cover it all, one cup at a time. New to Comic Con and not sure where to start? You're in the right place. Been going for years? Come trade notes with us anyway. Either way, pour yourself a coffee and let's talk cons.

Publisher

CWC

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Jul 2026

Latest episode

29 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Oct 2026

   S1 Episode 19: How to Tell If an Autograph Is Real (JSA Expert Explains)

   Autograph authentication explained: how to tell if a celebrity autograph is real, with James Spence III, Senior Vice President of JSA (James Spence Authentication). Kent and Liz talk with one of the biggest names in autograph authentication about how it works and why forgeries are everywhere. James shares how his family’s company grew from sports memorabilia into comics and entertainment, what experts look for in a signature (baselines, spacing, pen lifts), and the JSA exemplar database. He also tells the story of a collector whose entire signed-guitar collection failed authentication, plus the most emotional item his team has seen: Janis Joplin’s handwritten love letters. Along the way, the three trade coffee and tea snobbery, including James’s chemistry-lab morning brew and the most exotic coffee he’s ever tried. Whether you collect autographs, got a few signed photos at cons, or just inherited a box of memorabilia, this episode will help you protect what you own. In this episode: How JSA started in 2005 and how it became part of CCG What authenticators check: fluidity, baselines, spacing and letter size Why a “squiggle” or pen check can’t be authenticated The JSA exemplar database and why exact signing dates matter The most forged autographs (Michael Jackson, Stan Lee and more) Why you should authenticate a collection before leaving it to family A signed-guitar collection that failed, and the “expensive means real” trap Does death raise an autograph’s value? (Kobe Bryant example) The Janis Joplin love letters and George Washington documents James’s advice for first-time collectors: set a budget and a focus A tip for getting an Ian McKellen autograph: write a handwritten letter New episodes every Thursday at 10 AM Central. Subscribe for more con stories, tips and behind-the-scenes insight.

2. 

   22 Oct 2026

   Episode 18: Dragon Con Secrets You Can’t Skip (Carpet Cult & Badge Beards)

   Dragon Con tips and recap: what first-timers need to know about the ultimate cosplay convention, from badge pickup chaos to the legendary Marriott carpet cult. Kent and Liz break down Dragon Con’s 40th year, including why it takes over five Atlanta hotels, how badge beards and the ribbon drop work, and why it belongs on every con-goer’s bucket list. Kent shares his firsthand tour of the madness: the Thursday badge system crash, the countdown party at the Marriott, shrines honoring Dolly Parton and Tim Curry, a Spartan army of cosplayers, and a week working with The Boys star Jack Quaid. Liz brings her own Dragon Con memories and plenty of movie homework (300, Hellboy and Mad Max are now on her list). Whether you’re planning your first Dragon Con or just want to know what all the fuss is about, this episode covers what to expect and how to plan. In this episode: Why Dragon Con takes over five Atlanta hotels instead of a convention center The Thursday badge pickup crash and why “Wednesday is the new Thursday” Badge beards, ribbon swaps and the record ribbon drop from the 11th floor The Marriott carpet “cult” and why fans dumpster-dove for the old carpet Cosplay highlights: the Spartan parade, a Robin Hood fox, a finger and more The masquerade ball recap and the judging debate Shrines honoring Dolly Parton and Tim Curry Cash-only tables, what a “quote” add-on is, and why you never film without consent How to plan your Dragon Con: the app, a panel spreadsheet and priorities New episodes every Thursday at 10 AM Central. Subscribe for more con stories, tips and behind-the-scenes insight.

3. 

   15 Oct 2026

   Episode 17: The Free Comic Con App You Can't Skip (ConVibe)

   ConVibe app explained: the free comic con app that helps you find conventions, track celebrity appearances, and log your autographs and photo ops. Kent and Liz sit down with ConVibe creator Niko Paleologus to talk about why he built it, how it works, and what's coming next. Niko shares the frustrating Billy Zane search that sparked the idea, how he and a small team built a database of 1,500+ conventions, and why he thinks everyone should meet their heroes. He walks through the app's best features, from favoriting celebrities and movies to earning "trophies" for every autograph and selfie, plus upcoming pages for cosplayers and vendors. Kent and Liz also trade tea vs. coffee jabs, and Niko reveals the wild caffeine-syrup drink he survived college on. Whether you're a first-timer trying to find a con near you or a veteran tired of scrolling through your camera roll for that one photo, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why Niko created ConVibe (it started with a Billy Zane autograph hunt) How to search conventions by city, celebrity, or favorite movie and show Gamified "trophies" for your autographs, selfies, and photos How the app handles cancellations and fast data corrections Upcoming features: cosplayer pages and vendor pages Why you should meet your heroes, and how to thank them Launching on iOS and Android: how the process works Niko's fandoms: '80s comedies, Project Hail Mary, and Psych New episodes weekly. Subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

4. 

   8 Oct 2026

   Episode 16: The Truth About Convention Autographs: What You Need to Know

   Bucket list autographs and bittersweet news: Liz recaps her weekend working Fan Expo Chicago as a handler for Japanese voice actor Kentaro Ito, plus crossing two major names off her bucket list — Kurt Russell's convention debut and a surprisingly humble Mr. T. Kent and Liz also pause to reflect on the recent losses of Dolly Parton and Hayden Panettiere, celebrating the impact both had on Nashville and beyond. Plus, a practical reminder about convention websites: why some autographs are pre-sale only, why others are cash-at-the-table, and why checking guest lists before you go can save you from a last-minute surprise cancellation. 🎙️ In this episode: Liz recaps handling for Japanese voice actor Kentaro Ito at Fan Expo Chicago Kurt Russell's convention debut — and the Tombstone autograph Liz finally got A surprisingly humble, heartfelt meeting with Mr. T The viral Mel Gibson photo-op reaction, revisited Remembering Dolly Parton and Hayden Panettiere Kent's anime con recap in Orlando & the unstoppable Digital Circus lines Why some autographs are pre-sale only and others are cash-at-the-table Always check the con website for last-minute guest cancellations ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

5. 

   1 Oct 2026

   Episode 15: Is It OK to Talk to Celebrities Without Buying an Autograph? (Con Etiquette)

   Meet Josh, the "Where's Waldo" of the con circuit: Kent and Liz welcome their newest guest, a longtime attendee and friend of Liz's since MegaCon 2024, to dig into the gaming and cosplay side of conventions they haven't fully explored yet. Josh breaks down how D&D "one-shots" make tabletop gaming approachable for newcomers, why cosplay (even something as simple as a Where's Waldo costume) is one of the best ways to make friends at a con, and the biggest thing he wishes he'd known as a first-timer: there's a whole convention experience beyond the vendor hall. Plus, Kent and Liz dive into the internet drama around celebrity photo-op etiquette (Mel Gibson's "unhappy" photos, Nicolas Cage memes) and why energy, music, and a little grace go a long way at these events. 🎙️ In this episode: Meet Josh: longtime con-goer, gamer, and "Where's Waldo" cosplayer How D&D "one-shots" make tabletop gaming beginner-friendly at cons Why cosplay is one of the easiest ways to make friends at a convention The viral Mel Gibson & Nicolas Cage photo-op drama, explained Why music and energy matter so much in celebrity photo booths Josh's biggest tip: there's a whole con experience beyond the vendor hall Gen Con's record-breaking 74,000 attendees in 2026 Universal Studios' after-hours MegaCon event & why it's a hidden gem Is it okay to approach a celebrity table just to say hello? Kent and Liz weigh in ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

6. 

   24 Sept 2026

   Episode 14: Inside SDCC: Wristband Scandals, K-Pop Demon Hunters & Johnny Depp

   The Bohemoth: Kent's full-blown San Diego Comic-Con recap. From working with the K-pop Demon Hunters' Saja Boys to bumping into Keanu Reeves, Johnny Depp's surprise Ebenezer Scrooge appearance, and the counterfeit-wristband chaos at Hall H — this episode covers every corner of the biggest convention in the industry. Kent and Liz break down what it's really like navigating a five-day, 130,000+ person show, the smartest way to attend without going broke (hint: volunteer), and why "fear of missing out" is just part of the SDCC experience. Whether you're planning your first trip to San Diego Comic-Con or just want the inside scoop on this year's chaos, drama, and celebrity sightings, this is the deep dive you've been waiting for. 🎙️ In this episode: Kent's full SDCC recap: working with K-pop Demon Hunters' Saja Boys The Hall H counterfeit wristband scandal, explained Johnny Depp's surprise "Ebenezer Scrooge" appearance & fan interactions Celebrity sightings: Keanu Reeves, Pedro Pascal, John Cena & more Why volunteering is the smartest way to attend SDCC on a budget Doomsday panel exclusive swag & the Ryan Reynolds "Deadpool in denim" stunt 39 unofficial pop-up events happening outside the convention itself San Diego Comic-Con's future: confirmed through 2030 Upcoming shows: Creepy Con (Knoxville) & Rebel Scum (Dallas) ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

7. 

   17 Sept 2026

   Episode 13: Supergirl Review, Cash Is King & Our Wild Summer of Comic Cons

   Coffee, tea, and a whole lot of catching up: Kent and Liz talk World Cup fever, Waffle House loyalty, and Kent's honest review of Supergirl before diving into their jam-packed summer convention schedules. Kent previews his four-city run through New Orleans, Connecticut, and San Diego Comic-Con, while Liz gears up for STL Horror Con and helps organize a brand-new convention, Con Quest, in Waterloo, Iowa. Plus, a reminder of why "cash is king" still holds true even at the most well-attended shows. Whether you're looking for con-going inspiration or just want to hang out with Kent and Liz for an episode, this one's got the usual mix of laughs, nostalgia, and practical advice. 🎙️ In this episode: World Cup talk & family watch parties across three continents Kent's honest review of James Gunn's Supergirl Liz's recommendation: Silo on Apple TV+ Throwback story: hot dogs with the Ninja Turtles cast in New Orleans Walter Jones (the Black Power Ranger) is a world champion salsa dancer Michael Rooker's sweetest fan interactions Kent's summer con schedule: New Orleans, Connecticut & San Diego Comic-Con Liz previews STL Horror Con & helping organize Con Quest in Waterloo, Iowa Cash is king (again): why card readers fail even at big shows ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

8. 

   10 Sept 2026

   Episode 12: Behind The Scenes: What It's Really Like To Wear A C-3PO Costume with Chris Bartlett

   Meet the droid you can't avoid: Kent and Liz sit down with Chris Bartlett, the professional actor and costumer who has played over 20 droid characters across the Star Wars universe — including C-3PO himself — for more than two decades. Chris shares his incredible origin story, from a cardboard robot costume his dad built him as a kid, to a self-taught stormtrooper build, to the phone call from Lucasfilm that changed everything. He breaks down exactly how he brings each droid to life with a unique personality, the surprising acting principle behind why "stillness" makes a character powerful, and what it's really like being bolted into a costume on a Star Wars set. Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars fan, an aspiring costumer, or just love a great "how did you get here" story, this episode is packed with heart, craft, and genuine joy. 🎙️ In this episode: Chris Bartlett's journey from a cardboard robot costume to official Lucasfilm droid performer How building a stormtrooper costume in 2000 led to a 20+ character Star Wars career The moment Lucasfilm called about his self-built C-3PO costume His first-ever meeting with original C-3PO actor Anthony Daniels How Chris gives each droid a unique personality (Zero the "praying mantis" bounty hunter) What it's really like wearing a bolted-together costume on set Advice for first-time con attendees: come in costume, ask questions, take your time Chris's original Funko Pop sketch art & his Roosevelt's droid-print shirt collab A teased announcement: his biggest on-camera role yet, coming October 2026 ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

9. 

   3 Sept 2026

   Episode 11: How Big Bang Theory (and TV) Made Comic Con Mainstream

   Comic Con on screen: Kent and Liz explore how conventions have been portrayed across decades of TV and movies — from The Big Bang Theory's iconic Comic Con episodes to Futurama, Psych, Community, and even The Simpsons. They trace how pop culture representation has helped grow the convention world into what it is today, then dig into the surprising history of San Diego Comic-Con itself, which started in 1970 with just 300 attendees and guests like Ray Bradbury and Jack Kirby. Plus, practical advice for first-timers on budgeting for autographs, why coming prepared with a real question for a celebrity matters, and Kent's fun story about accidentally discovering a "Comic Con" reference hidden inside a theme park ride. 🎙️ In this episode: How The Big Bang Theory helped popularize Comic Con culture Comic Con references in Futurama, Psych, Community & The Simpsons Liz's real-life "blueberries from North Carolina" Psych fan moment The surprising history of San Diego Comic-Con (started in 1970 with 300 fans!) How SDCC's name changed four times before becoming what we know today Budgeting reality check: today's average autograph price ($40–$100+) Why coming prepared with a real question changes your celebrity interaction A hidden "Comic Con" easter egg at Universal Studios' Minions ride ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

10. 

    27 Aug 2026

    Episode 10: Why Some Comic Cons Are Dying (And a Wild Theory About Ai Saving Them)

    Comic Con trends explained: Kent and Liz dive into why some conventions are struggling with attendance while others sell out completely, and float a surprising theory about why AI might actually make Comic Cons more popular, not less. Plus, they share creative interactive con experiences they've witnessed — from voice acting critique panels to celebrity baseball games and go-kart races — and debate why nostalgia actors might be a smarter autograph investment than today's biggest stars. Kent also recaps Otaku Fest in West Palm Beach with Resident Evil voice actress Eva Ladere, and the two reflect on the growing trend of major A-list stars (Kurt Russell, Nicolas Cage) finally hitting the convention circuit for the first time. 🎙️ In this episode: Why some comic cons are struggling with attendance (and others aren't) A surprising theory: could AI actually grow the convention industry? Interactive con experiences: voice acting panels, celebrity baseball & go-karts Why Michael Rooker's panels are always standing-room only Nostalgia actors vs. today's stars: which autograph is the smarter investment? Kurt Russell & Nicolas Cage's surprising first-ever con appearances Cash is king (again): why bad Wi-Fi and empty ATMs ruin con weekends Kent's weekend with Resident Evil's Eva Ladere at Otaku Fest ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

11. 

    20 Aug 2026

    Episode 9: Comic Con for a Cause: Why Charity Conventions Are Changing the Game

    Comic Con for a cause: Kent and Liz recap two very different weekends — Kent's trip to Metropolis, Illinois for the 48th annual Superman Celebration with Man of Tomorrow's Neva Howell, and Liz's deeply moving experience volunteering at 605 Pop Culture Con in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a charity convention benefiting Voices Against Cancer. They share heartwarming stories of celebrities forming real bonds with pediatric cancer families, plus a fun debate about which A-list actors (Tom Cruise? Kurt Russell? Gerard Butler?) might someday make a surprise convention appearance. Whether you're curious about charity-driven conventions or want to hear the latest buzz on unexpected celebrity con debuts, this episode has heart, humor, and plenty of con culture. 🎙️ In this episode: Kent's weekend at Superman Celebration in Metropolis, Illinois (48 years running!) Man of Tomorrow's Neva Howell drops a surprise casting announcement Liz's experience at 605 Pop Culture Con, benefiting Voices Against Cancer How "honor families" get VIP treatment with their favorite celebrities Game of Thrones' Clegane brothers & other unforgettable charity con guests Why some legendary actors (Kurt Russell, Nicolas Cage) are just now doing their first cons The real cost of meeting A-list, low-appearance celebrities Dream list: which major stars should (but probably won't) do a con ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

12. 

    13 Aug 2026

    Episode 8: Is Working Comic-Con Worth It? A Crew Member's Honest Review

    Meet Leah, aka a "Krubie" (crew + newbie): Kent and Liz welcome their second guest to talk about her very first time working a convention as crew at Fan Expo Denver. Leah shares the entire process from finding the crew application to surviving her first four-day show working celebrity autographs alongside Star Wars voice acting legends Vanessa Marshall and David W. Collins. Plus, she opens up about her Twitch content creation journey, her love of Lord of the Rings, and unforgettable fan-perspective stories meeting Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, and John Stamos. Whether you've ever wondered what it's actually like to work your first convention or you're looking for genuine advice from someone who's been on both sides of the table, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and hard-earned tips. 🎙️ In this episode: Meet Leah: first-time convention crew at Fan Expo Denver How to actually apply to work a convention (it's easier than you think) What it's like working celebrity autographs as frontline crew Vanessa Marshall's incredible interaction with a fan family Leah's essential con packing list: water, stools, snacks & stretching Why "cash is king" is the #1 rule at every convention Fan etiquette: always ask before hugging, and how to compose yourself Leah's most memorable celebrity meetings: Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, John Stamos Her Twitch journey and building a positive online community ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

13. 

    6 Aug 2026

    Episode 7: The Real Cost of Comic Con Photo Ops (And How to Save Money)

    Comic Con Budgeting 101: Kent and Liz recap their weekend together at Fan Expo Denver, working with voice acting legend Michael Bell and My Name is Earl's Ethan Suplee, plus dive deep into the real cost of photo ops — especially when big cast reunions like X-Files and Lord of the Rings come to town. They break down exactly how professional photo ops work, why splitting the cost with friends can save serious money, and how to know before you get to the table whether a celebrity does selfies or not. Whether you're planning your first con budget or want to know why some A-listers won't take selfies at their table, this episode has the practical breakdown you need. 🎙️ In this episode: Kent & Liz recap Fan Expo Denver (formerly Denver Comic Con) Working with voice acting legend Michael Bell (Transformers, G.I. Joe, Smurfs) Ethan Suplee's incredible 300-lb weight loss journey & meal prep packs Reno 911's Thomas Lennon & Cedric Yarbrough: con energy stories How professional photo ops actually work (and why they're so fast) Splitting group photo op costs to save serious money Why some celebrities (like Cheech & Chong) never do table selfies Cast reunions: X-Files & Lord of the Rings at Fan Expo Denver Budgeting tips: cash vs. card, envelopes, and pre-planning your con day ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

14. 

    30 Jul 2026

    Episode 6: 12 Years Volunteering Comic Con: The Stories They Don't Share with Guest: Tammy Hassan

    Comic Con Volunteering 101: Kent and Liz welcome their first-ever guest, Tammy, a longtime Denver Comic Con and Fan Expo Denver volunteer leader, to break down what it's really like working conventions from the ground up. Tammy shares how a single visit to see Warehouse 13's cast turned into over a decade of volunteering, working her way from ticketing to managing entire front-of-house teams, and even moving to Denver because of the con community she found. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about volunteering at a convention — what jobs are available, how background checks work, what "paying your dues" really looks like, and the wild, unexpected moments that make it worth it (stolen banners, napkin notes from Harry Potter cast members, and a signed Jason Momoa vodka bottle that will never be opened). 🎙️ In this episode: Meet Tammy: 12+ years volunteering at Denver-area conventions How to start volunteering at any comic con (and how background checks work) The many volunteer roles: line control, guest services, ADA access & more Why "handler" and celebrity liaison roles are the most coveted (and hardest to get) Building a "con family": the real reason volunteers keep coming back Wild stories: stealing Dog the Bounty Hunter's banner, napkin notes from Tonks Con survival tips: deodorant, sock changes, and always take your break Fan Expo Denver preview & how con names keep changing over the years ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

15. 

    8 Jul 2026

    Episode 5: Comic Con Etiquette: Photos, Crew Respect & Why Celebrities Hate Airports

    Con etiquette takes center stage this episode as Kent and Liz break down how to treat crew members, when it's okay to take photos, and why respecting a celebrity's off-duty time matters. Liz recaps her weekend in Cape Girardeau helping Death Note's Brian Drummond, plus a preview of CapeCon's stacked November lineup featuring Ahsoka Tano herself, Ashley Eckstein, alongside several other Clone Wars cast members — with a surprise bonus guest at his own autograph table. Whether you're wondering why photo signs exist at celebrity tables or how to be a good con-goer without crossing a line, this episode is packed with real talk from two people who've spent decades on both sides of the table. 🎙️ In this episode: Liz's weekend with Death Note's Brian Drummond in Cape Girardeau CapeCon November lineup: Clone Wars cast including Ashley Eckstein Why crew members deserve patience (and maybe a small treat) Con ribbon culture: cheap, fun conversation starters Photo etiquette: why signs say "no photos" and how to ask permission Why chasing celebrities off-duty (airports, hotels, restaurants) is a hard no Nerd vs. geek callback and celebrity multi-hyphenate stories (Dee Bradley Baker's 1,000+ roles) Tip of the day: shop late on Sunday for vendor deals Upcoming cons: South Texas Comic Con & a small St. Louis-area show ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes insight.

16. 

    7 Jul 2026

    Episode 4: Comic Con Packing List: 15+ Essentials You Can't Skip

    This episode, Kent and Liz unpack (literally) everything you should bring in your Comic Con bag. From snacks and portable chargers to Liz's surprisingly extensive "goodie bag" of con survival gear — collapsible stools, autograph protectors, neck fans, and more — this is the ultimate packing guide for your next con. Plus, they swap stories from recent stops: Kent's mall-signing weekend with Terrifier horror queens Casey Hartnett and Sarah Voight, and Liz's upcoming trip to an anime con featuring the English dub cast of Death Note. Whether you're heading to your first con or your fiftieth, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you stay comfortable, prepared, and ready for anything — long lines included. 🎙️ In this episode: The ultimate Comic Con packing list: snacks, chargers, neck fans & more Why autograph protector folders are a $5 must-have Collapsible stools & shoulder slings for long celebrity lines Terrifier's horror queens: behind-the-scenes stories from a mall signing event How to prep for panels, artist commissions, and celebrity schedules Anime vs. non-anime debate: Avatar: The Last Airbender edition Why preparation is the #1 tip for surviving big cons (SDCC, DragonCon, NYCC) Budget tips: cash vs. card, tailgating, and avoiding food court price gouging ☕ New episodes weekly — subscribe for more con survival tips and behind-the-scenes stories. ⏱️ Timeline / Chapters 0:00 Intro – Kent & Liz check in with coffee and tea 2:14 Kent's Bucee's coffee run & road trip snacks 7:10 Kent's weekend with Terrifier's Casey Hartnett & Sarah Voight 9:36 Horror movie talk: slasher vs. suspense 12:18 Liz's upcoming anime con: Death Note voice cast 13:04 The anime vs. non-anime debate (Avatar: The Last Airbender) 15:28 Michael Jackson biopic talk 18:14 Main topic: what to bring to a Comic Con 19:23 Water, snacks & avoiding food court price gouging 22:10 Tailgating tip: bring a cooler & take breaks 23:53 Portable chargers & neck fans 26:11 Lanyards & pin collections 27:21 First aid: band-aids, sanitizer & avoiding con crud 28:27 Glasses/lens cleaner for better selfies 29:28 Autograph protector folders — Liz's #1 essential 30:41 Collapsible stools & shoulder slings for long lines 32:41 Extra socks for tired feet 32:56 Bringing items to get autographed (sketches, art) 34:52 Pop protectors & plastic sleeves 37:50 Sketchbooks & artist commissions 38:40 Checking celebrity schedules & panel times 40:40 How to figure out when a celebrity is at their table 44:24 Meeting Kent & Liz at a con 45:33 Tip of the day: preparation, budgeting & cash safety 46:20 Outro

17. 

    7 Jul 2026

    Episode 3: We Stole Frodo (Sort Of)

    Kent and Liz dive deep into the world of cosplay and con collecting this episode, sharing personal stories from decades of Comic Con history. Kent recounts bringing one of the very first Iron Man cosplays to San Diego Comic-Con, while Liz shares her hilarious "stealing Frodo" moment with Elijah Wood at Planet Comic Con. They break down DragonCon's legendary cosplay culture, VIP pass value, cash vs. card at celebrity tables, and the unwritten social etiquette of meeting your favorite stars — including why repeat visits to the same celebrity table might not be as welcome as you think. Plus: lanyard collections, terrifying photo ops with horror icons, and the honest truth about handler life as "the most expensive hobby in history." 🎙️ In this episode: Kent's original Iron Man cosplay at San Diego Comic-Con DragonCon: the ultimate cosplay convention (with a 60/40 dress-up ratio!) Liz's "stealing Frodo" photo op with Elijah Wood Cash vs. card at celebrity autograph tables (and why cash saves you money) VIP passes: are they worth it? Con etiquette: how many times is too many at a celebrity's table? Terrifier's David Howard Thornton's makeup & photo op "holding cue" Swag talk: lanyards, trading cards, and collectible chaos Handler life: why it's "the most expensive hobby in history"

18. 

    7 Jul 2026

    Episode 2: I Sang Happy Birthday to William Shatner... Here's What Else Happened at Comic Con

    Kent and Liz discuss their recent experiences at Comic Cons, including meeting celebrities, getting autographs, taking selfies, and purchasing merchandise. They also share tips for attending cons and managing emotional experiences when meeting heroes. Takeaways Comic Con experiences Meeting celebrities Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cons with Coffee 06:02 Drinks and Swag at Cons 11:00 Autographs and Selfies at Cons 19:08 Photo Ops and Merchandise 24:54 Emotional Experiences at Cons 31:02 Tips for Attending Cons

19. 

    7 Jul 2026

    Ep 1 : Why We Started This Podcast: Comic Con History, Nerd vs. Geek & Is 'Comic Con' Trademarked?

    Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at Comic Con? Grab your favorite mug and pull up a seat — this is the podcast for con-goers, cosplayers, and curious first-timers alike. Each episode, we break down the latest conventions we've hit, spill the behind-the-scenes stories you won't find anywhere else, and swap the tips and tricks we wish someone had told us before our first con. Panel lines, artist alley finds, cosplay chaos, hidden gems, survival hacks — we cover it all, one cup at a time. New to Comic Con and not sure where to start? You're in the right place. Been going for years? Come trade notes with us anyway. Either way, pour yourself a coffee and let's talk cons.

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