The Nerd Nexus

Send us Fan MailIn this sibling showdown, James is joined by his “younger, cooler, and allegedly more handsome” brother, Brandon Bullough. They dive deep into Brandon’s hidden (but undeniable) nerdiness—from his Halo Mega Construx obsession and miniature painting hobby to his disc golf deep dive. Whether you’re curious about the decline of Mega Bloks, intimidated by the world of mini painting, or looking for a new hobby that gets you outside and collecting plastic discs, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and nerdy goodness. Plus, James shares the tragic tale of finishing second-to-last in a 5K fun run—medal and all.💬 Topics Covered:Halo Mega Construx and their slow disappearanceStarting a miniature painting hobby (plus tips & gear)Disc golf 101: Discs, throws, and how to get startedSibling banter, Pokémon confessions, and nerd pride🖌️ Follow Brandon’s custom paintwork on Instagram: @halo_megaconstrux_customsContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this jam-packed episode of The Nerd Nexus, host James Bullough is joined by brother-in-law and certified Star Wars mega-nerd Thomas Walton for a wildly entertaining ride through fandom, footwear, and one unforgettable Facebook Marketplace deal gone wrong.From growing up on the original Star Wars trilogy to obsessing over Clone Wars lore, Thomas shares how the galaxy far, far away shaped his nerdom. He gives hot takes on the Disney sequels, sings the praises of Rogue One and Andor, and explains why certain scenes (lookin’ at you, Kit Fisto) still haunt hardcore fans.But it doesn’t stop there—Thomas also opens up about his years as a sneakerhead: chasing drops, reselling rare Yeezys and Jordans, and how that hustle once led to him being literally pistol-whipped for a pair of shoes. (Yes, really. He even wore the Jordans to court.)We also talk:Call of Duty obsession and multiplayer strategyWhy Clone Wars and Rebels fill crucial Star Wars lore gapsMandalorian and Andor vs. the sequel trilogyCollecting and reselling shoesCar show wins and dream buildsWhat it's like nerding out across Star Wars, sneakers, anime, and moreIf you’re a fan of Star Wars, gaming, collecting, or just love a good story, this episode is for you. It's where fandoms collide—hard.🔹 Follow Thomas: @_TMWYT on Instagram🔹 Listen, share, and geek out with us at TheNerdNexusPodcast.comContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailFrom Captain Planet to Hereditary, High School Musical to Spider-Punk Stitch, storyboard artist and cartoonist Jonathan Hallett has seen—and drawn—it all. In this episode, James sits down with the creative powerhouse behind StitchToons.com, FastStoryboards.com, and Cartoonist.MyPortfolio.com to talk about breaking into animation, drawing over 900 Stitch mashups, and what it’s like to work with names like Ari Aster, Kevin Costner, and Disney.We dive into Jonathan’s start in the industry thanks to a fateful neighbor, the evolution of StitchToons from a Comic Con flop to a full-blown phenomenon, and how he balances family life with exhibiting at 40+ conventions a year.Also discussed: GI Joe, manga, the challenge of comic book collecting, and how Jonathan accidentally launched a children’s book empire one Lilo missionary sketch at a time.Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a die-hard Cowboys fan and a lifelong Niners sympathizer sit down to talk sports? A surprisingly heartfelt and hilarious conversation that blurs the lines between traditional nerd culture and sports fandom. In this episode, James is joined by his friend Josh Erickson—a self-proclaimed sports nerd—to explore how sports can be just as nerdy, community-building, and passionate as D&D, video games, or cosplay. From min-maxing fantasy football teams to analyzing why blue and orange might be the most cursed color combo in sports, this episode is packed with stories, hot takes, and real emotion. Whether you're a stats junkie, jersey collector, or just here for the brisket vs. buzzer beater debate—this one’s for you. Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this mind-bending episode of The Nerd Nexus, James welcomes magician, AV tech wizard, and negotiation nerd Ben Brown! 🎙️✨ From conjuring Coke bottles and setting wallets ablaze to tactfully talking your way to a better salary, Ben shares stories and strategies that blend the mystique of stage magic with the science of persuasion. They dive into hilarious past performances, negotiation tactics inspired by Chris Voss's Never Split the Difference, and real-life stories of magic gigs, awkward first asks, and street performance hustle. Whether you're a future illusionist or just want to sharpen your communication skills, this episode is pure gold. Be sure to check out Ben at hirebenbrown.com!Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail With no guest this week, James takes you on a solo journey through his latest geeky adventures. From roguelike potato mayhem and Old West outlaws to 3D printer disasters and obscure Pokémon knockoffs, this episode is packed with updates, opinions, and surprises. Plus, hear about a front-row seat at a Utah Hockey Club game, and a return to the runner's grind with some smartwatch motivation. It’s a chill catch-up with your favorite nerdy host—no party required. Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Nerd Nexus, we’re joined by Chellie Bowerman—partner in crime to past guest Marshall Bowerman! A lifelong Star Trek fan and a passionate creator, Chellie has crafted her very own Pokémon region, and she’s here to share all the details. From the inspirations behind her designs to the creative process that brought her vision to life, we dive deep into her world of worldbuilding. Plus, we swap stories about comic conventions, including the time we met Brent Spiner! Don’t miss this fantastic episode! Check out the Lachian Region and Chellie's notes: Chellie references a fun youtube channel that can be found here.Also, don't forget to check out Marshall's Matters!Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, James sits down with Shane Adams to discuss two of his greatest passions: barbecuing and 3D printing. Shane shares his love for cooking, particularly his experiences with smoking meats on his Traeger grill, and how barbecuing has become a personal expression of creativity.The conversation then shifts to Shane's world of 3D printing, where he dives into his expertise with three different 3D printers and the exciting business ventures he's exploring in the industry. Shane offers valuable advice for 3D printing newcomers, shares insights into the capabilities of 3D printers, and discusses how this technology can bring fandoms to life by creating custom pieces like cosplay gear. They also talk about the "dream 3D print" and the endless creative possibilities the hobby offers.Check out Shane and his wife Liz's work! 🔗 Facebook 🛍️ PhatBoi3D on Etsy 🛍️ CarpooziCrafts on EtsyContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailJoin me, James Bullough, as I chat with the incredible Amy Hallett—Disney superfan, true crime enthusiast, and collector of all things nerdy! We dive into her deep love for Disneyland (where she’s a two-time honorary citizen!), the thrill of solving murder mysteries, and the never-ending cycle of picking up new hobbies. Plus, Amy gives expert tips on planning the perfect Disney trip—just in time for my first-ever visit! Whether you're a Disney devotee, a crime junkie, or just love geeking out over collectibles, this episode is packed with fun stories and insights.Tune in for a magical, mysterious, and nerdy conversation! 🎙✨🔍Check out Amy's Husband Jonathan's work at his website stitchtoons.comContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail After a brief hiatus, The Nerd Nexus is back with a special guest—Tyler Esmay, a self-proclaimed "collector of hobbies." In this episode, we explore the ever-expanding world of Star Wars, from the impact of the Expanded Universe to ranking the trilogies and debating what went wrong with Episodes 7, 8, and 9. Tyler and James also discuss their early nerd obsessions, from Goosebumps and Animorphs to trading card games and comics. Plus, Tyler shares his approach to picking up new hobbies and advice for diving into a new fandom. Tune in for passionate takes, nostalgic book talk, and a celebration of all things nerdy! Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Nerd Nexus, we dive into the world of plot holes, tabletop RPGs, and podcasting with special guest Richard Allred, co-host of Plot Spackle. We explore the art of dissecting movies, discuss what truly qualifies as a plot hole, and even attempt to patch up some classic film inconsistencies. Richard also shares his deep passion for tabletop role-playing games. Whether you're a movie buff, an RPG enthusiast, or just love geeking out over great storytelling, this episode has something for you!Find Plot Spackle at www.plotspackle.com or anywhere you listen to podcasts!TTRPGs that Richard shared in this episode:Ryuutama -https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/151366/ryuutama-natural-fantasy-roleplayMistborn Adventure Game -https://coppermind.net/wiki/Mistborn_Adventure_GameSummon Skate -https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/333101/summon-skateNight's Black Agents -https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/106783/night-s-black-agentsStar Wars: Edge of the Empire -https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/products/star-wars-edge-of-the-empire/Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWelcome back, fellow nerds! In this solo episode of The Nerd Nexus, I’m diving into all things nerdy, from books and trading cards to video games and even a new hobby I’m hoping to get into—3D printing!📚 Author Spotlight: Pierce Brown & Red Rising—why this series is a must-read for sci-fi fans!📖 Recent Reads & TBR: My thoughts on Sun Eater (spoiler: Book 1 was rough), Dungeon Crawler Carl Book 7, and the wild premise of All the Dust That Falls.🎴 Pokémon Card Grading: My frustrating first experience grading through GameStop—was it worth it? Plus, upcoming promos, scalper struggles, and my latest collection wins!📺 Pop Culture & Gaming: Invincible Season 2 is here, and I’ve been deep in Dying Light, Sea of Thieves, and my usual favorites (Deep Rock Galactic, Marvel Rivals, Helldivers 2).🖨️ 3D Printing – My Next Obsession? Thinking about taking the plunge—what should I print first?Let’s nerd out together! Drop a comment on Facebook or Instagram and let me know what you’re collecting, playing, or reading!🔗 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/19wfCwKDLQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr🔗 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thenerdnexuspodcast?igsh=dmkxcHN3YWJ0b2Ux&utm_source=qrContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailJoin James and special guest Marshall Bowerman on this episode of The Nerd Nexus, where they dive deep into the fascinating world of time travel in pop culture. From Doctor Who and Back to the Future to Tenet and The Flash, explore the diverse ways storytellers handle the complexities of time. Marshall shares his unique insights as a LEGO enthusiast, a participant in two Guinness World Records, and the creator behind the Marshall's Matters brand. Whether you’re a fan of D&D, Magic: The Gathering, or just love hearing about nerdy adventures, this episode has something for everyone. Discover how the nerd community continues to expand and celebrate its diverse passions. Don't miss out on this journey through time, creativity, and geek culture! Check out Marshalls Matters!Website: https://marshallsmatters.com/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@themarshallsmattersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marshalls.mattersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18UBRgzQTJ/Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Join James and his guest, Taylor Jackson, as they dive into the worlds of superheroes, modern board games, and fantasy literature on this episode of The Nerd Nexus. Taylor, a school psychologist and lifelong fan of the Dark Knight, shares his insights on Batman’s enduring appeal, cheesy nostalgia from classic adaptations, and the art of storytelling in Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere. They also discuss the evolution of board games, highlighting gems like Kinfire Chronicles and Deep Rock Galactic. To cap it off, the duo tackles a fun and nerdy challenge involving AI and hypothetical battles. A must-listen for fans of comic books, board games, and epic storytelling! Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailJoin host James Bullough as he sits down with the talented voice actor and storytelling enthusiast, Dale Spaulding, for an engaging discussion on the intersection of voice acting, tabletop role-playing games, and creative storytelling. Dale shares his journey into voice acting, the unique art of creating character voices, and his memorable experiences in Dungeons & Dragons campaigns.From monologues that captivated millions to tips on building your own distinct character voices, this episode is packed with fun, inspiration, and laughter. Whether you're a gamer, a budding voice actor, or a fan of imaginative worlds, this conversation will spark your creativity.Stay tuned for a live voice-acting demo where Dale transforms a simple monologue into three unforgettable characters, showcasing his incredible range and skill. Plus, hear about his exciting projects, including a TTRPG system and short stories in the works.Explore Dale’s work and resources at writeondale.com for fiction and blogs from him or at Ko-Fi.com/aeternal to support him each month! Don’t forget to visit thenerdnexuspodcast.com for more content and exclusive videos!Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Nerd Nexus, host James Bullough kicks off a brand-new segment, Fantasy Author Spotlight, by diving into the world of Taran Matharu, the British author behind the Summoner series, the Contender trilogy, and his latest work, The Dragon Rider. James explores Matharu's unique journey to success, starting on the writing platform Wattpad, where his first novel, Summoner: The Novice, garnered millions of reads before being published. The episode delves into Matharu's world-building, themes of classism and discrimination, and his ability to craft relatable characters and immersive stories. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in fantasy literature and the power of storytelling. Tune in as James reflects on the Summoner series and other works, offering recommendations and insights into why Matharu stands out as an author. Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Nerd Nexus, James invites his wife, Claire, to share the mic as they explore the dynamic of a nerdy marriage. From Claire’s childhood love of The Magic Tree House and Star Wars to James’ obsession with Dungeons & Dragons and Pokémon cards, they dive into how their hobbies have shaped their relationship.Hear about basement pod-races, journaling TikTok trends, Brandon Sanderson fandoms, and how they’ve learned to embrace and support each other’s passions. It’s a heartfelt, funny, and relatable conversation about balancing hobbies, finding common ground, and celebrating what makes us all nerds at heart.Stay nerdy and join the conversation on The Nerd Nexus! 🎙️Contact the nerd nexus at [email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn the very first episode of The Nerd Nexus, James dives into his personal journey of embracing nerd culture. From LAN parties in his basement and discovering Deltora Quest at a school book fair to creating his first Dungeons & Dragons character and rediscovering trading cards, James shares how these hobbies shaped his identity and fostered a love for storytelling and connection.He explores how nerd culture builds community, encourages creativity, and brings people together through shared passions. Whether you’re into video games, trading cards, fantasy books, or tabletop games, this episode is a celebration of all things nerdy.Join James as he sets the stage for what’s to come on The Nerd Nexus—a hub for nerds of all kinds to share, connect, and geek out. Stay nerdy and tune inContact the nerd nexus at [email protected]