Incorporate your love of sci-fi, fantasy, superheroes, and games to begin your fitness adventure. Despite age-old nerd stereotypes, fitness belongs to all of us, including those of us in the geek community. Andrew Deutsch (Nerdstrong Gym founder), David Nett (Nerdstrong Gym partner), Christy Black (Nerdstrong Gym partner), Andrew Seely (Nerdstrong Gym partner), and Blair Herter (Nerdstrong Gym partner, Attack of the Show) discuss body image and confidence in a geek world, their fitness journeys, and the simple ways you can mix your fandom, passions, and gamification into a new, leveled-up life.
UPDATED: Mon, Jul 11, 04:49PM Catherine M. Fisher (award-winning costumer), Bob Mogg (Steampunk expert extraordinaire), and Birda Hussey Nichols (historic costumer of all trades) discuss the basics in costuming and go over tips, tricks, and techniques to help a beginner costumer get started in the world of cosplaying. Panelists will show you how you can get in on the all the cosplaying fun even if you've never sewn before in your life. Moderated by Melissa Gene Meyer (department assistant for the Masquerade with Comic-Con International), panelists will show you that you don't need to be an expert to make a great costume!
Pasquale Piro (Raising Fankids, 8th grade teacher) moderates a panel discussing techniques and experiences that help kids grow up nerdy without the negative connotation. The panel includes Alissa Piro (middle school teacher, mom), Frankie Desmond (Jack of All Trades costumes, dad), Mike Conrad (father of two), and Maia Nilsson (high school student).
UPDATED: Thu, Jul 07, 02:48PM Whether you want to show off your love for Steven Universe through your nail polish or use eye shadow to express your obsession with Fallout, there are more options to fulfill your geeky cosmetics needs now than ever before. This panel will provide an inside look at the state of geek cosmetics. Moderated by Lisa Granshaw, panelists Sami "Dena" Rees (AFK Cosmetics), Anya Kaiser (Lucky 13 Lacquer), and Caitlin Johnstone (Shiro Cosmetics) will discuss how these products are made, how geek cosmetics have evolved over the years, what the future may hold for the industry, and more. Time will be left for Q&A.
Mike Schiffbauer of Dragonfyre Designs, along with Sean Shaw of Shawshank Props, and Malaki Keller of Quantum Creation FX share the exciting secrets of creating your own amazing cosplay props and costumes from foam and other similar media. Make sure you get a front row seat to an hour filled with tips, tricks and a generous Q&A session that will attempt to answer the costume and prop questions you want to have answered. Be sure to stay to the end for the giveaway featuring two amazing ready-to-wear costume helmets!
Anastasia Washington (Anastationtv, Legion of Leia), CuriousJoi (CuriousJoi, Icon), Brittany Heyden (TenaciousBee Designs), Jasmine Rubero (TheBeheaded), Marlon (Nerd Coolture), Jennifer Kretchmer (producer, actress), Michelle I am Chubby Bunny Bradley (Geek and Sundry, Otaku Movie Anatomy), and Katie Elhoffer (Elhoffer Design) discuss traveling in Nerd style! Moderated by Emily Kelley (GameScribes).
Do you dream about quitting your day job to pursue your passion of being an artist, writer, or professional in the industry? Are you already in the business and need help with figuring out how to budget between paid contracts, deal with taxes, get credit, or determine the best way to raise and save cash for future projects? Join Karen Martin (Force4Creatives, Art FORM), Sean Nisil (Sigdestad Financial), and Eric O'Connor (Land Home Financial Services) for a panel on superhero financial planning and best practices for artists, writers, industry professionals, and all others interested. The discussion will follow with a Q&A of industry guests including Chris Neuhahn (Dreamworks Animation, McSteed TV), Alonso Nunez (Little Fish Comic Book Studio), and Erin Pennell (Rare Hare Studio, Art FORM), who will talk about financial challenges and successes in their fields.
The world is entering a new renaissance in geekery. Now, more than ever, media personalities and journalists of color have a poignant and influential voice that resonates throughout nerd culture. From the Gamergate scandal to the advent of BlerdNation, both high and low points are heavily highlighted. This panel will talk to journalists and media personalities about meeting challenges head on, and how they are working to make change. They will get really real about the climate of nerddom today. Panelists includeValerie Complex (freelance writer), Jamie Broadnax (Black Girl Nerds), Rob Salkowitz (Forbes), Jen Yamato (Daily Beast), Cory Vincent (Nerdreactor), and Twitch stream gamer Amethyst Leon.
Admins of Streetpass San Diego Adolfo Coronel, Michelle Hernandez, Ben Avecilla, Chris McAtamney, and Jahaziel Aguilera, along with moderator Ian Luckey (Kirby's Dream Band, Patient Corgi), discuss the problems and solutions to keeping gaming communities relevant, focusing on changing with and adapting to the time. Expect talks on the past, present, and even future of gaming communities. There will also be a Q&A for anyone interested in starting their own community or facing issues with expanding or maintaining their local community.
Crossing over into every genre, Steampunk has transformed some of our favorite Marvel characters into some of the steamiest superheroes and villains in the galaxy. Celebrating the incredible artists who create such wonderful fan art and the cosplayers who make the costumes a reality, come enjoy a walk on the wild side with everyone from Ant-Man and Deadpool to Spider-man and Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters as they are re-imagined in Steampunk style! Panelists include C. J. DeAngeles, Diana Given, Christine Quimbo, and a surprise artist guest. Moderated by Gaslight Gathering Steampunk Convention's director of programming, Anastasia Hunter.
An introduction to the creation of fan-made villain costumes from all seven Star Wars movies and beyond. Legion members from the Imperial Sands and Southern California Garrisons will provide an overview of the creative process that bring Stormtroopers, Tusken Raiders, Boba Fett, or Kylo Ren from the silver screen in to reality. Dean Amstutz (ISG membership liaison) will discuss the membership journey, from initial interest through final approval. Lesley Farquhar (ISG commanding officer) will present information on the history, organization. and mission of the 501st Legion as "Bad Guys Doing Good"! Kevin Weir (Imperial Surplus Armor, KW Designs owner) will relate his process for working with hard armor parts. Jazlynne Wilson (ISG member) will speak about soft fabric construction. Dawn Bright (Flagship Eclipse Detachment executive officer) will discuss the process and requirements for bringing a new canon costume into the Legion. Todd Mullin (ISG executive officer) moderates.
Perfect your cosplay by having great makeup to go with it. This panel covers beauty makeup, appliance application, special fx makeup, sculpting, molding, casting, and wig styling. Dawn Banks (Makeup By Siryn, Batgirl Spoiled lead makeup designer), Ashley Troub (The Nerdist, winning look SDCC Her Universe fashion show), Kelton Ching (SDCC 2014 Apocalypse makeup demo, Blizzcon 2015 4th place winner), Keaghlan Ashley(Face Off, makeup design on Severus Snape and the Marauders), and Chrissy Lynn (Super Power Beat Down's Darth Maul, League of Steam's White Wolf) will answer your questions about makeup to match your costuming and cosplay, including tips and tools of the trade. Moderated by cosplayer Mac Beauvais (Monstrous Makeup Manuals 1 & 2 model, actress in The Gloaming).
Catherine M. Fisher (award-winning costumer), Mike Schiffbauer (master prop maker and costumer), Bob Mogg (Steampunk expert extraordinaire), and Ryan Wells (internationally known costuming genius) pick up where Cosplaying 101 left off. They will discuss advanced costuming techniques such as sculpting, mold making, resin casting, FX makeup and more. Moderated by Melissa Gene Meyer (department assistant for the Masquerade with Comic-Con International).
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 11:27AM Do you dream of converting your nerd passion into a full-time career but feel overwhelmed with the next steps? Whether writing your first book, becoming a YouTube personality or creating an innovative product, the road to success can be filled with many obstacles and pitfalls. Join geek pros as they help you get started, discover some shortcuts, and inspire you to make an impact in pop culture. Panelists include Tony B. Kim (founder of Hero Within and Crazy4ComicCon.com), Jamie Broadnax (BlackNerdGirls.com) and Chris Gore (PodCRASH, Film Threat).
Sheyne Fleischer (assistant editor, Project Runway, The Bachelor), Alicia Minette (prop master/fabricator, Hellevator, Paradise Run), Sabrina Wichner (miniature VFX artist,Interstellar, Pee-Wee's Big Holiday), Claire Hummel (production design, BioShock Infinite, Fable Legends), and Rachel Noel (narrative designer, Armored Warfare) explore the nontraditional roles of women in the entertainment industry. They will discuss their careers and experiences working in their various fields, focusing on success stories and how to follow your dreams in the industry while exploring gender roles in the creative professions. Moderated by Glenn Freund (League of S.T.E.A.M.).
Kim Henderson McAndrew and Scout McAndrew (9 O'Clock Bedtime Cosplay/raisingaheronotavillain.com), Shawn Richter (Gavin's Dad) and Gavin Richter (Kid Coulson), and Sage la and Michael Pomichter (CosPlay Michael/The Hangin' With Show) discuss cosplaying with your kid, tips on how to get started, sources for assembling a cosplay, and social media tips. Moderated by Anastasia Washington (Anastationtv/Legion of Leia).
Ladies unite to create more female-driven content! Accomplished female creators discuss how to cultivate your ideas and bring them to life, conquer hurdles, and create the best project you can! Leave with inspiration, confidence, a solid plan of action, and tons of new ideas. All genders and ages welcome! Panelists include Heidi Cox (Stalking LeVar), Jenny Lorenzo (Buzzfeed, Geekgasm), Paula Rhodes (New Adventures of Peter & Wendy), Helenna Santos (Ms In The Biz, At Your Own Risk), Stephanie Thorpe (The Ladies & The Gents, Elf Quest), Kristen Nedopak (The Geekie Awards), and Camille Falciola (Remain Calm). Moderated by Stephanie Pressman (Fashionably Nerdy, Stalking LeVar).
Cosplay By McCall's, the leading brand of sewing patterns created for and in collaboration with cosplayers and cosmakers, and The Overstreet Guide to Cosplay engage in a thought-provoking, insider's look at this flourishing and increasingly influential expression of fandom. Moderator Ed Catto (Bonfire Agency) is joined by Kathy Wiktor (Cosplay by McCall's), Carrie Wood (Overstreet Guide), Gillian Conahan (Cosplay by McCall's Blog), Mark Huesman (Overstreet Guide), Kelly Cerone (Anachronism in Action), and Eddie Newsome (Overstreet Guide) to talk about the creators, genres, and trends driving growth of cosplay in terms of participation, relevance, and creativity.
A panel of costume designers, the producers of the film Cosplay Dreams 3D, professional cosplayers, and Hollywood creatives will reveal to cosplayers what skills are in demand in today's film and TV industry. Learn how professional cosplayers are using their skills to forge a variety of career opportunities in the entertainment industry, and leverage your cosplay skills to meet industry contacts. You'll gain the knowledge that could elevate your hobby into a career!
Simpsons collectors of the world, unite! Take a break from the busy convention floor and get a chance to meet and mingle with fellow collectors of Simpsons merchandise from all over the country. This gathering, hosted by the staff of the Simpsons Collectors website, is a great chance to network with other collectors and share your experiences in the hobby with others. Meet the Simpsons collectors you see on the message board and put faces to names.
Local gaming and community leaders discuss the gaming scene in and around San Diego. Find out how you can join in on the fun events, including tournaments and social LAN play, as well as how you can start your own communities in your own area.
Want to build your own Halo costume armor and props but don't know where to start or what to do? The 405th Infantry Division is here to help! Panelists will discuss the how-tos and pros and cons of the many methods used to create props and armor from the Halo universe, followed by a Q&A to help you get started on your armor building journey. Panelists include Benedict Choy (foam, laser-cutting, software), Cary Gunnar Lee and John Paul Pollio (pepakura and painting), and Alec Richter (vacuform and 3D printing). Moderated by Tyler Perfect (405th Pacific SoCal Battalion CO).
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 12:39PM Do you ever wonder how the latest Star Wars fashion collection was made or why companies are hosting fashion shows featuring your favorite fandoms? This panel will offer an inside look at the business of geek fashion, examining the major changes that took place in the industry over the last year and what they means for the future. Moderated by Lisa Granshaw, panelists Ed Labay (Hot Topic), Ashley Eckstein (Her Universe), Jon Schindehette (ThinkGeek Denver), and Sara Scargall (WeLoveFine), and Tony Kim (Hero Within) will discuss the process behind creating pop culture apparel and accessories, how geek fashion is expanding into new areas, how the industry has evolved over the years, and recent geek fashion trends. There will be time left for attendees to voice their opinions and ask their questions about geek fashion.
Mark Chu-Lin (Avengers Initiative club president), William Moore (sports medicine physician), Shawn Sullivan (high school animation teacher), Kristin Erickson (marriage and family therapist intern), and Charity Vasquez (U.C. Irvine Health Child Life manager) discuss how cosplayers give back to their communities through their art. Hear what they have experienced, learn how to become a member of such respective groups, and find out how to get involved in events like fundraisers, hospital visits, and volunteering. Simply by using skills one already has and sharing them with others, volunteers can help others have a better day.
Rehan Jalali (bestselling author and nutritionist to the stars), Latreal Mitchell (top celebrity fitness expert and TV personality), and Grant Roberts (leading celebrity fitness and nutrition expert), a.k.a. the Bod Squad, discuss tips to getting that chiseled superhero physique!
One of the most memorable kids' comics ever created (yet with wide "all ages" appeal), Little Lulu has maintained a worldwide fan following and has inspired a growing interest in the more obscure works of Lulu's long-anonymous writer, the great John Stanley. Come and learn more, and join in for a scripted reading of a Golden Age Little Lulu story. All are welcome!
Jeff Barkley (SkinTricks Makeup FX artist) discusses and applies a prosthetic makeup to demonstrate how much more effective a three-dimensional makeup can be compared to two-dimensional, painted makeup. He will be joined by professional cosplayers Trey Barkley (Sparrow's Flight Cosplay) and Desiree Preston (Enasni Volz) to answer any questions about wearing prosthetics while in costume.
Ivy Doomkitty (SyFy's Heroes of Cosplay, professional cosplayer), Zach Fischer (illustrator), Deela Designs (cosplayer, fashion designer), and Kelton FX (cosplayer, MUA) discuss the nuances of custom cosplay design from concept to crafting and offer tips and tricks to help create mind-blowing unique designs that are sure to set you apart from the crowd.
UPDATED: Tue, Jul 19, 02:40PM This panel will explore the diverse world of comics, geekdom and fanboy culture. Panelists include Murs (rapper/actor), Jamie Broadnax (Black Girl Nerds), Miguel Gomez (The Strain), Henry Simmons (Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Eric Pumphrey (Reckless Tortuga) and Chuck Creekmur (All Hip Hop). Moderated by Ryan Ford (EVP, Cashmere Agency).
How do you create and sustain a business that caters to the geek lifestyle without exploiting the very people to whom you provide services? Entrepreneurs whose businesses cater to a predominantly nerdy or geeky clientele will discuss how these businesses started, how they sustain their service to their clients and compete with big conglomerates looking to capitalize on the geek marketplace, and how they sell goods and market services to a community seeking authenticity, without falling into the trap of pandering or gimmicks. Panelists include Matthew Arevalo (Loot Crate), Janelle Badali (Badali Jewelry), and David Nett (Nerdstrong Gym). Moderated by Brian Ward (The Arkham Sessions, Shout! Factory).
Dr. Billy San Juan (Star Wars Psychology, Star Trek Psychology) hosts a discussion on the past, present, and future of geek culture. Experts include Brian Kibler (professional gamer and content creator), Travis Langley (Batman and Psychology, Doctor Who Psychology), Janina Scarlet (Superhero Therapy,Star Wars Psychology), Jenna Busch (Legion of Leia, Most Craved), Alan Kistler (Doctor Who: A History, The Walking Dead Psychology), and Cary Kazmaier (manager, Artifex, U.S. Navy ret.).
UPDATED: Wed, Jul 13, 04:14PM LARP, or live-action role playing has been depicted (semi-accurately) in movies likeKnights of Badassdom and Role-Models; TV shows like ABC's The Quest and CW's Supernatural; comic books like LARP! (Dark Horse), and novels like It's All Fun and Games, debuting this weekend from Nerdist in partnership with Inkshares. But what is LARP, really, and how can you join the fun? Panelists will explain the current state of LARP and where it is going, from using apps to record health and power levels like a real-life video game to larping in the classrooms as pedagogy. They'll help you begin or improve your game with tons of info and some unbelievable giveaways. Featuring Dave Barrett (author, It's All Fun & Games), Kristin Brumley (creator, Basic Adventuring 101 webseries, Cake Golem Productions larp marketing), Ford Ivey (creator, NERO Larp and Legacy game system), Mark Mensch (creator, Adventures Unlimited, author, Alliance LARP Tales of Fortannis anthologies), Cheyenne Rain (creator of LARP House webseries), Alec Patton (Chula Vista high school teacher) and moderator Aaron Vanek (editor-in-chief, Larp World Magazine, co-creator of the LARP Census).
Andrew Ho (guest relations, BronyCAN), Carlos Marquez (representative, Bronies Tijuana), Joseph Noblit (vendor manager, Pacific PonyCon), Louis Rosales (administrative head, Horse News), Sonya Hipper (founder, BABSCon), and Steve Stern (blog author, Equestria Daily) talk about the fandom of the My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic, especially on the West Coast. Moderated by James Udan (vice president, Order of the Friendship).
Chef Duff Goldman (Food Network's Ace of Cakes, Cake Masters) is the leading man in establishing nerd-themed desserts long before it became popular. Now, the world accepts superhero cakes as the norm. Join Chef Duff and moderator Jessica Tseang (Fangirl Foods, Girl on Geek) on answering: Where does Chef Duff see the future of fandom and foodies? Will the fad ever die out? Or will this be a genre that sticks around for quite some time?
The members of Haran'galaar (San Diego chapter) and Manda'galaar (Los Angeles chapter) discuss the process of building Mandalorian armor, the application process, what happens after you're approved, and why exactly they troop.
UPDATED: Fri, Jul 15, 09:13AM Not sure what a Tiefling is? Don't know the difference between a Warlock and a Wizard? Been itching to slay some ogres? While the world of Dungeons & Dragons may seem overwhelming, we promise it's really not! Join both new and veteran D&D players on the panel as we take you through all the basics you need to get started and show you how to find others to adventure with in person or online! A super-friendly, non-intimidating intro to D&D for anyone who's thought about playing or is just getting started. Moderated by Jeff Burns (Super Geeked Up, D&D Monday Night Mayhem) and featuring Erika Ishii (Geek & Sundry Twitch host), Eric C. Campbell (Signal Boost, The Flog), Ivan Van Norman (Saving Throw, TableTop), Shannon Arrant (Criddia, D&D Monday Night Mayhem), and Jennifer Kretchmer (Dollhouse, Veronica Mars). Plus a quick live D&D session right on the spot! So assemble your party and join us for your first adventure!
Calling all big damn heroes! Come join fellow Firefly fans as the California Browncoats share news of the 'verse, artist Zac Pensol (project director, ToyVault) gives an insider's view into designing Firefly board games, and whatever fruity oaty goodness can be squeezed in. The red button's been pressed, calling you to find us!
Why do people identify with Batman but not Iron Man? Or Kylo Ren but not Han Solo? Or Avengers but not Justice League? These decisions inform everything from movies, spinoff ideas, fan loyalty, sales, and toy production. Results from a multiyear research study examining over 650 pop culture characters conducted by Keith W. Beard, Psy.D. (professor, department of psychology, Marshall University), April Fugett, Ph.D. (professor, department of psychology, Marshall University), Britani Black, Elijah Wise, Josh Carter, and Jacob Mills (doctoral students, Marshall University) demonstrate how personality and psychological factors inform character preference and brand allegiance, particularly in a market where new releases may influence character recognition and popularity. These results and additional information will be discussed.
Lenny Schas (CEO PinPics), Christian Hoff (actor), Holland Hayes (actor), Chris Henning (artist), Terri Trainor (lead programmer), and Sandi Bois (avatar characters) explore the current and exciting future of the next-generation online world of pin trading and collecting.
