Mic'd Up with Macsrebo Ep. 16 | The Community Behind Star Wars | Spencer from the Virtual Cantina Network

Welcome back to Mic'd Up with Macsrebo!In Episode 16, Macsrebo sits down with Spencer, founder of the Virtual Cantina Network (VCN), to explore how a shared love of Star Wars grew into one of the largest Star Wars fan communities in the world.From his unforgettable first experience watching The Empire Strikes Back to creating Boonta Eve events and growing the VCN to more than 103,000 members worldwide, Spencer shares how Star Wars helped him find his community—and why he's dedicated to helping others find theirs.We also talk about:⭐ Spencer's Star Wars origin story⭐ How the Virtual Cantina Network began⭐ The growth of Boonta Eve events⭐ Rebel Scum Con & Star Wars Celebration 2027⭐ Building positive fandom and lifelong friendships⭐ Why the Star Wars community feels like familyWhether you're a lifelong fan or just beginning your Star Wars journey, this conversation celebrates the power of community, kindness, and the friendships that connect fans across the galaxy.Follow the Virtual Cantina Network:🌐 https://virtualcantinanetwork.com👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and share it with another Star Wars fan!Chapters / Timestamps00:00 Intro & Welcome Spencer00:50 Meeting at Boston Fan Expo & Friendship Through Conventions02:20 Spencer's Star Wars Origin Story05:40 Watching Star Wars Celebration & Japan Memories06:45 How the Virtual Cantina Network Was Created10:45 Growing VCN to 103,000+ Members11:05 How Star Wars Changed Macsrebo's Life14:10 Finding Your Tribe Through Fandom18:00 First Star Wars Celebration Advice19:55 What Makes Boonta Eve Special?22:45 Rhode Island Comic Con & Rebel Scum Con26:30 Why Rebel Scum Con Is the Perfect Celebration Warm-Up31:30 ConnectiCon, Community & New Opportunities36:55 Why Spencer Loves Bringing Fans Together41:20 Upcoming Boonta Eve Events & Future Plans47:00 Balancing Real Life & Star Wars Life52:35 Where to Follow the Virtual Cantina Network54:50 Final Thoughts & FarewellMay the Force be with you.