S1 E3: Discover NYC Comic Con | 2025

In this episode of Outsider In, Ricky shares his experiences at his first New York Comic Con (2025), exploring themes of identity, representation, and community. From his childhood as a self-proclaimed nerd to his recent adventures at Comic-Con, Ricky delves into the intersections of race, queerness, and fandom. He highlights encounters with fellow outliers, including a conversation with children's author Dina Tate about representation in literature and cosplay, and a panel discussion on the evolving landscape of Black nerd culture. The episode also features insights from the Young, Gifted, and Whack panel, moderated by Wayne Brady, a drag queen panel hosted by Peppermint, Lucas Museum of Narrative Art panel hosted by Martin Scorsese, and a talk about civil rights with Star Trek legend and activist George Tekai. Ricky reflects on the power of storytelling and the importance of finding a sense of belonging in epic spaces.Keywords:Comic-Con, representation, Black nerd culture, blerd, drag queens, storytelling, identity, community, fandom, queerness, diversity, Star Wars, Star Trek, Avatar the Last AirbenderTakeaways:Embrace your nerd within the nerdsRepresentation in media is crucial for marginalized communities.Comic-Con is a space for diverse communities to connect.Storytelling unites and empowers us.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Ricky's Nerdy Beginnings03:29 Comic-Con Adventures Costumes and EncountersRepresentation and Identity in Fandom13:31 Young, Gifted, and Whack: Panel on Black Nerd Culture22:03 Drag Queens and the Intersection of Politics29:57 House of Ultra-Violet Presents: Gerard H. Gaskin32:35 Lucas Museum of Narrative Art 34:46 Jedi Adventures39:56 It Rhymes w/ Tekai Graphic Novel Panel44:02 Reflections on Belonging and CommunitySound Bites:"Welcome to Outsider Inn, where outliers create the greater culture.""Comic-Con is the motherfucking place to be.""Representation matters in all forms of media.""Finding a sense of belonging among fellow outliers.""The power of storytelling unites us all."Call to Action:Tune in to this episode for an inspiring and insightful adventure at Comic-Con 2025!