Best Astravoid Podcasts (2025)

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It’s Fun, but Remember all this Online Stuff is Work! 10:34

Play Pause

3h ago10:34

10:34

Hosted by: Scotty B In this real-talk episode, Scotty B reminds cosplayers and creators alike that while posting, sharing, and building an online presence may look like fun and games—it’s still work. And like any job, it comes with invisible labor, emotional energy, and the risk of burnout. Whether it’s the hours spent editing videos, curating cont…

1
Convention Creepers 9:37

14m ago9:37

9:37

Hosted by: Scotty B In this important and unflinching episode, Scotty B tackles one of the most uncomfortable yet crucial topics in the cosplay world: creeper behavior at conventions. From unwanted photos and boundary-crossing compliments to full-on harassment, this episode calls it out clearly—this is not OK. Scotty shares honest reflections, comm…

1
Cosplayers - Don’t Be That Guy (or Girl) 8:28

19m ago8:28

8:28

Hosted by: Scotty B In this direct and eye-opening episode, Scotty B outlines the behaviors that can quietly erode community, respect, and fun within the cosplay world. From attention-seeking antics and con creep energy to social media showboating and ego-fueled one-upmanship, this is your definitive “what not to do” guide. “Don’t be that guy” or “…

1
The WORST Behavior (in the Cosplay Community) 10:23

2h ago10:23

10:23

Hosted by: Scotty B In this unfiltered and necessary episode, Scotty B takes aim at the darker side of cosplay culture—the toxic behaviors that often go unchecked beneath the surface of creativity and fandom. From ego-driven gatekeeping and public callouts to clout-chasing and fake kindness, this episode isn’t about canceling anyone—it’s about call…

1
Remember When it Was OK to Have Friends? 9:35

2d ago9:35

9:35

Hosted by: Scotty B In this heartfelt episode, Scotty B explores how the cosplay and creator spaces—once centered around shared fandom and friendship—have shifted into platforms for performance, comparison, and quiet isolation. He asks a question that cuts deeper than it seems: Remember when it was OK to just have friends? No follower counts. No br…

1
You Are NOT Missing Out 8:08

6d ago8:08

8:08

Hosted by: Scotty B In a world of endless scrolls, con recaps, and follower milestones, it’s easy to feel like you’re being left behind. But in this grounded and empowering episode, Scotty B flips the FOMO script and reminds cosplayers: you are not missing out. This episode explores how social media creates the illusion of constant action, success,…

1
If it All Stopped Tomorrow 6:38

13d ago6:38

6:38

Hosted by: Scotty B What would be left if the followers vanished, the algorithms broke, and the conventions went dark? In this reflective and emotionally grounded episode, Scotty B invites listeners to confront a powerful question: If it all stopped tomorrow—would your cosplay journey still matter to you? Stripping away platforms, praise, and perfo…

1
Body Mind Cosplay 22:45

10d ago22:45

22:45

This week on the show, we welcome Body Mind Cosplay, a creator whose builds showcase both discipline and playfulness. Since arriving on the cosplay scene in 2021, she’s brought Borderlands props, Spartan collaborations, and intricate designs to life — always with a strong fitness and maker mindset at the core. We explore her cosplay journey, her ex…

1
Is it about Cosplay or the Fame Wave? 6:25

13d ago6:25

6:25

Hosted by: Scotty B In this sharply observant episode, Scotty B takes aim at the growing tension between creativity and clout in the cosplay world. What started as a personal, fandom-driven art form has increasingly become entangled with influencer culture, branding, and the chase for internet fame. Scotty asks the critical question: Are you in it …

1
What Are We Complaining About? 8:50

16d ago8:50

8:50

Hosted by: Scotty B In this candid and self-reflective episode, Scotty B unpacks the ever-present wave of complaints that echo across the cosplay and creator communities. From algorithm changes and follower counts to con drama and content fatigue, it seems like there's always something to vent about—but what’s actually at the root of all this noise…

1
Are You Here to Learn or Just Likes and Follows? 9:50

1M ago9:50

9:50

Hosted by: Scotty B In this eye-opening episode, Scotty B draws a hard line between two mindsets dominating the cosplay space: those who show up to learn, grow, and create—and those chasing the endless loop of likes, follows, and surface-level validation. Cosplay is more than content. It’s a craft, a journey, and a deeply personal process. But soci…

1
Stiff Competition – Should There Be? 13:19

23d ago13:19

13:19

Hosted by: Scotty B In this episode, Scotty B takes a sharp look at the role of competition in the cosplay world—on the con floor, in online spaces, and within ourselves. While cosplay is often marketed as inclusive and welcoming, the pressure to be the best, go viral, or win awards can quietly turn creativity into combat. Scotty asks the uncomfort…

1
There are No Gods in Cosplay 9:35

1M ago9:35

9:35

Hosted by: Scotty B In this bold and unapologetic episode, Scotty B dismantles the hierarchy that social media and convention culture often try to impose on the cosplay community. Despite the appearance of “cosplay celebrities” and influencer followings, the truth is simple: there are no gods in cosplay. No matter how polished the costumes or high …

1
Cosplay is NOT the Full Time Answer 9:25

1M ago9:25

9:25

Hosted by: Scotty B In this honest and thought-provoking episode, Scotty B breaks the illusion that cosplay must become a full-time career to be meaningful. With the rise of influencer culture and social media metrics as markers of success, many creators find themselves lost in the chase for relevance, reach, and recognition—often at the cost of th…

1
Who are You Listening To? 12:20

1M ago12:20

12:20

Hosted by: Scotty B In this episode, Scotty B dives deep into the noise surrounding cosplay culture—asking the essential question: “Who are you listening to, and why?” With candor and a bit of fire, he challenges the narratives cosplayers absorb from social media, influencer culture, and internalized pressure. This is a call for self-inquiry: Are y…

1
Season 6 - Cult of Personality - Finally! 10:11

2M ago10:11

10:11

Hosted by: Scotty B In this season premiere, Scotty B returns to the Heroes of Cosplay Sanctuary after a long hiatus with a renewed vision and a deeply personal mission. Titled “Cult of Personality,” the episode sets the tone for Season 6: an introspective journey into the personal and cultural dynamics of cosplay. The episode explores how cosplay …

1
Girls Just Wanna Have Fund$ – Savanna Smith on Cash, Confidence & Modern Love (w/ Hailey Alamo & Adrianna Stewart) 1:16:00

2M ago1:16:00

1:16:00

Need a money mantra for 2025? Pop-model Savanna Smith turns a rough modeling gig into a bankroll anthem with her new single “Girls Just Wanna Have Fund$.” Host David Shaft welcomes Savanna and day-one besties Hailey Alamo (future therapist) & Adrianna Stewart (fashion entrepreneur) for a candid, rapid-fire chat about: going from “model-apartment bl…

1
Hocus Pocus Star Vinessa Shaw on Magic, Buddhism & Vegan Week 8:44

2M ago8:44

8:44

Real magic exists! Hocus Pocus star Vinessa Shaw shares Buddhist mindfulness, Disney set secrets & a 7-day vegan challenge that’ll change your life. Stanley Kubrick’s pep talk, four-hug mornings, and more—this interview is pure enchantment. Highlights: Opening: “Do you believe in magic?” Chanting at 12: Buddhism as a stress-buster Landing Hocus Poc…

1
Cosplay Tips with AstraVoid – DIY Mastery to GalaxyCon Judge 32:15

2M ago32:15

32:15

Cosplay tips, DIY costume ideas, and GalaxyCon judge secrets—AstraVoid reveals the self-taught path that took her from biology classes to the spotlight at GalaxyCon’s Nightmare Weekend Chicago. After mastering sewing, foam-smithing, wigs, LEDs (and winning major awards) Astra landed a guest contract at 21 and now mentors the next wave of creators. …

1
Patrice Banks | Girls Auto Clinic — Driving Change, One SheCANic at a Time 20:10

3M ago20:10

20:10

Recorded on the show floor at AutoTech 2025, engineer-turned-entrepreneur Patrice Banks shares how a single bad repair experience inspired her to build Girls Auto Clinic—an all-women garage (with a built-in nail salon!) and a fast-growing media brand that demystifies car care for everyone who’s ever felt talked down to at the shop. Patrice’s story …

1
Inside Winnebago Connect: How Robo, KORE & Ericsson Are Revolutionizing RV Life | AutoTech 2025 35:43

3M ago35:43

35:43

What if your RV could think for itself, protect your pets, and keep you connected — even off the grid? In this exclusive Conversations That Count episode, recorded live at AutoTech 2025, I sit down with two of the visionaries behind Winnebago Connect™ — a groundbreaking smart RV platform changing the way we travel: 🚀 Marc Fecker, Co-Founder & CEO o…

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Original Halloween's Sandy Johnson (Judith Myers) | Mentorship, Indie Horror & Resilience 13:19

4M ago13:19

13:19

“Original Halloween scream-queen Sandy Johnson—aka Judith Myers—isn’t just a horror legend. She’s a working indie actor, lifelong mentor, and unapologetic Texas gunslinger with a heart for rescue animals. In this candid sit-down she reveals the career comeback that’s keeping her busier than ever—and the life lessons that make every line worth the w…

1
From Politics to Cosplay: Ashton Blaise on Finding Freedom in What You Loved at 13 15:03

4M ago15:03

15:03

What if the version of you that felt the most free was still inside you—waiting to be seen again? In this raw and inspiring episode of Conversations That Count, host David Shaft sits down with Ashton Blaise, a cosplayer, pinup model, and former political media figure who walked away from public influence to rediscover joy in the things she once lov…

1
The Power of Discipline | Special Guest : A Mom That Lifts 41:05

4M ago41:05

41:05

This week, we’re joined by an incredibly inspiring force in the cosplay and fitness world — the fierce, disciplined, and humble leader of the Adelphi Phalanx: A Mom That Lifts. 🔥 From her early days as a band kid to becoming a Spartan leader and competition-winning fitness athlete, she shares her journey of strength, resilience, and building commun…

1
"They Thought I Was Crazy" — Ashlynne Dae on Choosing Cosplay Over Convention 9:35

4M ago9:35

9:35

From Fashion School to Full-Time Cosplay: Ashlynne Dae on Choosing Passion Over Stability (Recorded at Nightmare Weekend Chicago) In this episode of Conversations That Count, host David Shaft interviews cosplay icon Ashlynne Dae, live from Nightmare Weekend Chicago by GalaxyCon. Ashlynne shares how she went from graduating at the top of her fashion…

1
Play Well With Others 1:14:49

4M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

In this episode we talk with Corey and Katie about everything from stable business partnerships to holding ourselves accountable. These are both legends in the cosmetology industry. To learn more about Corey and Katie, please visit: www.instagram.com/hairdustry msha.ke/hairdustryhost www.gofundme.com/f/empowering-change-in-cambodia-help-me-make-it-…

1
Network With Your Mentors! 45:38

5M ago45:38

45:38

In this episode we talk about the value of networking and how to do it while properly building long term connections. Cathey does a great job outlining the way to grow your network while sustaining it. THIS IS ALSO THE RETURN OF CATHEY who is a STAPLE in our show! To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes…

1
Don't Sit On The Fence 35:00

5M ago35:00

35:00

In this episode we talk about finding our passion and not just a hobby. Oftentimes we never fully commit to anything because we are so afraid of failing that we never truly go all in. Candy has a superpower where when she does something she always commits to it fully. To learn more about Candy, please visit: @thebalaylama https://sunlightspro.com h…

1
Getting 10X Results 32:12

5M ago32:12

32:12

In this episode we talk about how important it is to understand where our time is going and how with a little bit of help we can make a lot of progress. Nicole does a great job helping her clients feel heard while still helping them understand where they can improve. We also talk about the 4 pillars of life; Health, Wealth, Relationship and Fulfill…

1
What It Means To Share Your Legacy 1:10:52

5M ago1:10:52

1:10:52

In this episode we discuss what it means to share your legacy in everything that you do. We also talk about how sometimes the biggest challenge is overcoming the fear of challenge. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft…

1
Why You're Still Single (And How To Fix It) 45:40

6M ago45:40

45:40

In this episode we go over some of the best kept secrets by dating coaches around the world. The tips that we go over translate well into every industry. Jordan is a dating coach who helps men take meaningful control over their dating lives. He teaches men to become attractive, meet high quality women, and run healthy relationships. To learn more, …

1
Opportunity Is Everywhere; Stay Abundant 12:02

6M ago12:02

12:02

This episode is all about remembering that there are endless opportunities out there and the importance of reminding ourselves of it. This is the last week we will not have a guest on the show for quite a while so take it in while you can. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: http…

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Special Guest Victoria Recchione 33:53

6M ago33:53

33:53

In this episode, we dive into the world of cosplay, fitness, and perseverance with seasoned cosplayer and fitness enthusiast Victoria Ricchione! From her steampunk-inspired beginnings at Dragon Con 2012 to her elite training with the Adelphi, Victoria’s journey is a testament to dedication, creativity, and resilience. 🔹 Cosplay as an Art Form: How …

1
Don't Be Weird; Talk To Yourself 11:02

7M ago11:02

11:02

In this episode we talk about the importance of the things we say to ourselves. We discuss how important talking to ourselves positively is. It is crucial that we are always speaking about life and love to ourselves no matter what. Always ask yourself, would I talk to the person I love the most like this? To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.…

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Balance Within Featuring Anthony Cosjitsu 1:01:17

7M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Welcome to Season 6 of the Healing from Cosplay podcast! 🎭✨ We're back after a long pause season premiere, host ScottyB welcomes back Anthony Cosjitsu to discuss his incredible year filled with personal milestones and cosplay adventures. 🔹 Big Life Updates: Anthony shares the heartwarming story of his engagement to @Liza_Bean, their romantic propos…

1
Defining Success Is The Key 13:47

7M ago13:47

13:47

In this episode we define success based on our Season 2 episodes so far. This episode is a success recap of previous episodes and how we need to plan our life around who we want to be. The takeaways are to start a vision board and then describe a perfect day in what you would consider your perfect life. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.co…

1
Defining Success; It's All Perspective 49:32

7M ago49:32

49:32

In this episode we talk about manifesting and growth. We go over challenging our belief systems as well as defining what is truly important to us in terms of success. Check out the Conversaytions Podcast as well! creators.spotify.com/pod/show/leon-jones19 To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Missi…

1
Modded; Make Life The Way You Want It 19:09

7M ago19:09

19:09

In this episode we talk about how passions really do pay off. Stefano and his 2 partners are pursuing a passion that makes them truly happy while bringing car lovers from all around the world. We highlight the love of cars in Detroit outside of the major companies and instead what our cars mean to the people of our city. Stefano Troiani, owner of M…

1
Sideways; Build It To Drive It 22:22

8M ago22:22

22:22

In this episode we dive into the Detroit car scene and so much that it has to offer to everyone. Dustin talks about how his goal is to provide a space where the Detroit car community can come together in a safe and inclusive space. The plan is to open in May 2025 to kick off the summer! Dustin is opening a premier event space for racing cars in Det…

1
The Detroit Auto Show Recap 16:02

8M ago16:02

16:02

In this episode we recap all of our takeaways from the Detroit Auto Show and how we found our interviewees. Savanna joins as a guest co-host sharing what her thoughts and takeaways were from the episode. To learn more about Savanna, please visit: Spotify Apple Music Instagram To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft/ Listen to …

1
WE ARE BACK 12:59

8M ago12:59

12:59

Hey friends, it’s David Shaft! After some soul-searching and travels, I’m back with a fresh perspective. This year, we’re going deeper—beyond careers and business—to uncover what truly drives people: their passions, struggles, and authentic selves. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft/ Listen to more episodes on Mission Mat…

1
Stay The Course 10:09

1y ago10:09

10:09

This is a quick episode where I just want to remind everyone how important it is that progress is often just staying the course. We don't need to always have some kind of crazy life event happening, if the course we are on is the one that leads to success then we need to stay on that path. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-sha…

1
A Why That's Contagious 50:59

1+ y ago50:59

50:59

This episode is action packed as we go over being innovative and efficient. Judah Bergman, Co-Founder & President of Joobaby does a great job of discussing the early days and getting Joolbaby's first product off of the ground by finding an empty space in the market. We then go through the episode learning more about how he had a vision, built the v…

1
Back To Purpose 7:54

1+ y ago7:54

7:54

This is a shorter episode where I just want to remind everyone how important purpose is in everything we do. As the Cambridge dictionary defines it "an intention or aim; a reason for doing something or for allowing something to happen." It is so important that everything going on in our lives aligns with our purpose and who we want to be. To learn …

1
Just Have A Conversation 7:06

1+ y ago7:06

7:06

This episode we meet a gentleman on the course of Fox Hills. We talk about the area and I think it is a great example of how there is an opportunity to have awesome conversations all around us. Life is all about connecting with new and interesting people everyday. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft/ Listen to more episode…

1
Share The Love And Accept it Back 35:04

1+ y ago35:04

35:04

In this episode we talk about how important it is to find a great mentor and to connect with those around us. It takes a village to build something great and achieve a dream. Cathy shares her 30 years of experience and how it began with others being kind enough to give to her as well as give her the flexibility to grow. Cathy Pedulla has more than …

1
It's Never Too Late To Start Anew 31:05

1+ y ago31:05

31:05

Robin talks product strategy as well as looking for the right time to pivot a product into a new look. He lets us into his thought process as he guides Nicki Clarke into a day and age with modern products and modern solutions for salon artists everywhere. The path of taking a classic brand and bringing it into the new age where it not only looks be…

1
It All Started With A Blowdryer 34:40

1+ y ago34:40

34:40

In this episode we start by discussing a new product from Nicky Clarke that Drew loves to use for all of his clients. We met right in the event of getting a great interview on the spot at the American Beauty Show! We talk about the Airstyle Pro which is one of the newest products Nicki Clarke has made. We also talk about Drew's unique path into bec…

1
Expand Your Mind 28:11

1+ y ago28:11

28:11

In this episode we introduce this month's segment of the American Beauty Show (ABS) in Chicago giving a perspective of someone who was covering the event as press and working the event. Talking about the amazing people we met, the show's impact and how people can best take advantage of opportunities like this. Below you will find links to the ABS a…

1
Take The Leap 34:48

1+ y ago34:48

34:48

In this episode we talk about the value of having loved ones to push you to take a chance on ourselves. This works best when we have a skillset to lean on and we just have to find the value in ourselves that we give to the rest of the world already. Mezar shows that before he was an "Auto-preneur" he was already building successful businesses. Meza…