The Nerd Skool Podcast, part of the Queen City Podcast Network, began when nerd-curious Joe Hunsaker of “History for Jerks” realized that he knew more experienced nerds in his life beyond simply his former entertainment writer brother Andy. After witnessing many spirited debates between his co-workers – the Sith-identifying Arthur “ArtStar” Lovely and the “Secret Nerd” Tiffany Bryant-Jackson - he decided he wanted to learn how to become a nerd himself. The three convened the Nerd Skool to educate Joe on nerd culture and nerd media, as well as the benefits of “actually paying attention to movies.” They are soon to begin a course on Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Nerdy 30: Artstar & Joe try to keep Nerd Skool going
Joe and Artstar show up to keep Nerd Skool alive, and discuss that every thing we talk about is nerdy, so instead of waiting until we're all available and ready to discuss big nerd events, we are going to try to get together and discuss all things nerdy in our lives. We talk books and movies, and life..
20 May 2026
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Analysis
The group discussed the movie Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, focusing on its handling of grief and the character development of Shuri. They analyzed how the film addressed the loss of Chadwick Boseman and explored Shuri's emotional journey, including her encounter with the ancestral plane where she saw Killmonger. The discussion also covered the film's cinematography, underwater scenes, and the character of Namor, including his comic book history and representation in the film.
Namor and Atlantean Characters Discussion
Andy discussed the character Namor from Marvel comics, explaining his solo nature and conflicts with other heroes like the Hulk and Doctor Strange. He detailed Namor's history with the Phoenix Force, which led to him flooding Wakanda and creating animosity with T'Challa. Andy also covered other Atlantean characters including Namora and Atuma, noting that Marvel made Namor's home city Tl'Chok rather than Atlantis to avoid competing with DC's Aquaman. The discussion concluded with a brief mention of Riri Williams as a new character in the film.
Ironheart Character Development Discussion
The group discussed the character Riri Williams/Ironheart from Marvel comics and the related TV series. They compared the character development between the comic origins in 2016 and the TV adaptation, noting how the contemporary setting and diverse writing room made the character more relatable and less problematic than older comic book characters. The discussion also touched on how the Chicago setting in the series helped connect viewers to the story, and they reflected on the character's growth from the TV series to the movie adaptation.
Marvel Character Names and Costumes
The group discussed character names and costumes in Marvel comics, particularly focusing on Namor and his attire. They noted that while Namor's costume evolved over time to include pants and a vest, it made more sense for him to be semi-naked given his aquatic setting. Tiffany expressed frustration with illogical character names and costumes in comics, suggesting she would like a job at Marvel to review character designs and names. The discussion concluded with Andy providing background on Namor's character development and complex nature as both a ruler and hero.
Angela Bassett's X-Men Casting Discussion
The group discussed Angela Bassett's performance in the Black Panther film and her potential casting as Storm in the X-Men franchise. They compared Bassett's portrayal to Halle Berry's earlier performance and discussed how Bassett would have been a better fit for the role due to her character's African heritage and background. The conversation also touched on Bassett's other notable roles, including Tina Turner in What's Love Got to Do with It and her performance in Waiting to Exhale.Thriller Drama Casting DiscussionThe group discussed potential casting ideas for a thriller drama featuring Viola Davis and Angela Bassett. Tiffany expressed strong enthusiasm for seeing these actors together in a suspenseful role, recommending that whoever writes the script needs to handle it well to justify casting such powerful performers. The conversation also touched on Viola Davis's acclaimed autobiography and Angela Bassett's recent role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, with the group agreeing that Bassett's performance helped reintroduce audiences to her talent.
13 Mar 2026
Nerdy 30: Werewolf By Night Part Two
Artstar and Joe continue the Werewolf discussion.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
10 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
7 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 57 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
84
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
77
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