Best Nerd Novice Podcasts (2025)

1
"True Biz" by Sara Nović, on Deaf culture and community 31:10

1+ y ago31:10

31:10

TRUE BIZ (adj./exclamation; American Sign Language): really, seriously, definitely, real-talk In this episode of The Acknowledgments, I'm joined by Sara Nović, the author of "True Biz." Her novel introduces us to the students at the River Valley School for the Deaf. In this fictional story, the reader has the opportunity to explore the experiences,…

1
"With Regrets" by Lee Kelly with a chat about mixing genres 34:37

1+ y ago34:37

34:37

In this episode of The Acknowledgments, author Lee Kelly talks about her genre-blend book, "With Regrets." The book was compared to a mix between “Big Little Lies” and “Bird Box,” witha story that revolves around four couples and their struggles when faced with an apocalyptic event. Lee shares how her own experiences as a parent influenced the book…

1
"First Course" by Jenn Bouchard, with a chat about rom-coms 29:30

1+ y ago29:30

29:30

In this episode of The Acknowledgments, Nutan chats with author Jenn Bouchard. They delve into her book "First Course" and her journey into the literary world. The novel, which revolves around the life of Janie Whitman, a young journalist in Chicago, has received several accolades, including being a finalist in the Women's Fiction category of the 2…

1
"Governing Bodies" by Sangamithra Iyer, with a chat about connection 44:28

1+ y ago44:28

44:28

In this episode, we chat with Sangamithra Iyer about topics spanning from her unique education, connection to her family, and passion about the natural world around her. Although Sangu’s book, “Governing Bodies,” won’t grace our shelves for some time, she gives a preview by reading a beautifully written section of the book. Throughout the conversat…

1
"A House Full of Windsor" by Kristin Contino, with a talk about the royal family 19:30

1+ y ago19:30

19:30

In this episode of the Acknowledgements podcast, author Kristin Contino chats about her royal-themed book, “A House Full of Windsor.” Kristin shares her personal interest in the royal family and how it led to her book's concept which follows mother-daughter duo Debbie and Sarah. Debbie, who's a compulsive hoarder of Royal Family memorabilia ends up…

1
"Loot" by Tania James, with a chat about the power of play 26:14

2y ago26:14

26:14

In this episode of the Acknowledgements podcast, host Nutan Rubinson sits down and chats with author Tania James to dig into her uniquely-themed book "Loot," a historical fiction, a heist novel, a romance, and a story about colonialism and artistic growth. The story is set in 18th century South India and follows a young wood carver named Abbas who …

1
"The Bangalore Detectives Club" by Harini Nagendra, with a discussion about writing both fiction and non-fiction 23:24

2y ago23:24

23:24

In this episode of The Acknowledgments, author Harini Nagendra discusses her captivating book, "Bangalore Detectives Club." Set in 1920s Bangalore, India, the story follows the determined 19-year-old protagonist, Kaveri, as she forms a detective club after stumbling upon a murder. Harini shares her inspirations for the book, drawing from the strong…

1
"Puppy Chow is Better than Prozac" by Bruce Goldstein, with a conversation about mental health 27:29

2y ago27:29

27:29

Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to suicide and mental health. If you or someone you know needs support, please refer to the 988 Suicide and Crisis hotline. Welcome to another episode of The Acknowledgments, featuring special guest Bruce Goldstein, author of "Puppy Chow is Better than Prozac". Bruce takes us on a journey through hi…

1
"The Perfect Neighborhood" by Liz Alterman, with a chat about mom guilt 28:49

2y ago28:49

28:49

Welcome to another episode of The Acknowledgments! In this episode, we have a conversation with Liz Alterman, author of the thriller, The Perfect Neighborhood. Liz takes us on a journey through her fictional upscale community, challenging the perception of a perfect neighborhood, and exploring the pressures faced by mothers. We delve into the motiv…

1
"A Game of Fox & Squirrels" by Jenn Reese, with an exploration into fantasy 22:43

2y ago22:43

22:43

Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to abuse. If you or someone you know needs support, please refer to organizations such as www.childhelp.org and www.childwelfare.gov. Nutan chats withJenn Reese about her middle-grade book, "A Game of Fox and Squirrels." The story follows Samantha and her sister Caitlin, who find themselves in Orego…

1
"The Summer My Grandmother's Yard Tried to Kill Me" by Harry Harvey, with a talk about imagination 22:13

2y ago22:13

22:13

In this episode of the Acknowledgements podcast, host Nutan Rubinson sits down with author Harry Harvey to discuss his book "The Summer My Grandmother's Yard Tried to Kill Me." The book follows the adventures of Peter Mulligan, a young boy with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as he spends his summer with his grandmother on Johnson Island. Harry dra…

1
"Make Me Disappear" by Jessica Payne, with a chat about found family 28:17

2y ago28:17

28:17

In this episode, author Jessica discusses her debut novel "Make Me Disappear," a gripping domestic suspense thriller. The story follows Noel, a nurse in Seattle, who plans her own kidnapping to escape her controlling boyfriend, Daniel. However, the situation takes a dark turn when her fake kidnapping becomes real, and she realizes she is still trap…

1
"The Shore" by Katie Runde, with a dialogue about dads 36:25

2y ago36:25

36:25

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with author Katie Runde, a writer, and mom, from Iowa, whose book, The Shore, is a poignant and hopeful tale of a family facing the challenges of a family member living with a glioblastoma brain tumor. Katie shares with us the inspiration for her book, which was inspired by her own family’s experience…

1
"Finding Tessa" by Jaime Lynn Hendricks, with a conversation about resilience 26:48

2y ago26:48

26:48

In this episode, we dive into the world of thriller novels with renowned author Jaime Lynn Hendricks. Her book, Finding Tessa, follows the story of a wife who goes missing, and her husband's journey to uncover the truth behind her disappearance. Jaime talks about her writing journey and the arduous process of writing a book. Her writing community p…

1
"Revival Season" by Monica West, with a conversation about gratitude 36:53

2y ago36:53

36:53

For Monica West, it took time to write a book that would impact and resonate with her audience. Her latest book, Revival Season, was nine years in the making. Monica shares that writing was her place of peace, her escape, and her refuge. Monica also reveals the fascinating thing that inspires her writing; she sees an image and builds the story arou…

1
"Your Robot Dog Will Die" by Arin Greenwood, with a chat about helping animals 26:47

2y ago26:47

26:47

Authors have many different sources of inspiration in writing books. For Arin Greenwood, it is her family and her love for animals. Arin is an animal writer, editor, novelist, and communications consultant who keeps many pets. Arin’s book, Your Robot Dog Will Die, is set in a near-future world where real dogs are non-existent. Her goal? To make thi…

1
"By Way of Sorrow" by Robyn Gigl with a Conversation about Family 40:06

2y ago40:06

40:06

Writing from a unique perspective, transgender attorney, activist, and author, Robyn Gigl, shares the influences in her writings. Critics say that her legal thrillers, By Way of Sorrow and Survivor’s Guilt, are emotionally resonant and quietly groundbreaking. In this episode, Robyn talks about her transitioning later in life, how it sparked her to …

1
"The Part About the Dragon Was (Mostly) True" by Sean Gibson with a chat about dad jokes 34:25

2y ago34:25

34:25

Guest author Sean Gibson speaks about his funny, light, and unconventional comedic fantasy book, The Part About the Dragon was (Mostly) True. Majoring in English and concentrating on Victorian literature was not one of Sean’s plans, but it definitely led him to writing. Sean shares that his children were very young when he wrote the book so he was …

1
Trailer Episode - The Acknowledgments Podcast 2:32

2y ago2:32

2:32

Welcome to The Acknowledgments, a podcast where we chat with authors and take a peek beyond “The End”. I’m your host, Nutan Rubinson, and every other week, I’ll be chatting with a new author about their book, their acknowledgments, and everything in between. Our community is filled with book lovers, from avid readers to aspiring writers, who enjoy …

1
#57 “1st Annual Nerd Novice Holiday Spectacular!” 1:08:52

10+ y ago1:08:52

1:08:52

Join Megan and Jim in our special Christmas episode of Nerd Novice! We'll be talking about our favorite Christmas specials and movies, and we want you to be a part of the fun! Bring a beverage, wear a Christmas sweater, and chat with your favorite Nerd Novice hosts! Be sure to check out all of our awesome guests! Dave Clark: @atomicgeekdom Matt Spa…

1
#56 “Blumbybum Lazypants” 51:11

10+ y ago51:11

51:11

Jim and Megan wrap up their Sherlock discussion, talk about upcoming nerdy movies, and nerd out over the Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer. Next time on Nerd Novice: The Nerd Novice Holiday Spectacular! We will be recording a live Google Hangout On Air this December 23, at 7:00 pm EST, to discuss our favorite Christmas specials and movies! JOIN …

1
#55 “Jamesafin and Sherlock” 1:02:13

10+ y ago1:02:13

1:02:13

The long-awaited Sherlock episode is here! Seriously, you guys have been all up in our grills to talk about BBC's Sherlock. So keep your pants on, people. We got this. Next time on Nerd Novice: Sherlock, Season 2By Nerd Novice

1
#54 “Chumming it Up with J.C.” 47:09

10+ y ago47:09

47:09

Jim and Megan wrap up their X-Files chapter with a discussion filled with plenty of Buffy references and singing. Also, Jim talks about how he likes to keep his “edge”. Next time on Nerd Novice: BBC Sherlock S1E1: “A Study in Pink”By Nerd Novice

1
#53 “Full Frontal Alien” 59:02

10+ y ago59:02

59:02

SURPRISE! Nerd Novice is now Nerd Novice 2.0, complete with a video version of our podcast on our new YouTube channel! In this episode Jim and Megan discuss The X-Files movie (1998), Scully's face, and what sorts of new and interesting shows are on the TVs these days. Also some highly humorous things that you don't want to miss, including what we w…

1
#52 “I Want to Believe, Precious” 53:53

10+ y ago53:53

53:53

Jim and Megan talk about X-Files and even get into a little alien conspiracy chat. Also, Megan wants to name her future son or maybe just her future male dog “Fox”, so no one steal it. Okay? Next week on Nerd Novice: “The X-Files” (1998) movieBy Nerd Novice

1
#51 “The X-Files is a Show” 49:56

10+ y ago49:56

49:56

Jim and Megan launch their discussion of “The X-Files” as part of the Nerd Novice detectives theme. The truth is out there, and it may be lurking in Scully's giant shoulder pads. Next time on Nerd Novice: Season 1, Episode 17 “E.B.E.”; Season 2, Episode 1 “Little Green Men”By Nerd Novice

1
#50 “Sheriff Doofus” 1:08:03

11y ago1:08:03

1:08:03

Jim really dislikes Sheriff Amos. Megan really dislikes Grady Fletcher. Who is the biggest doofus in Cabot Cove? We explore this and our last few “Murder, She Wrote” philosophies in the 50th episode of Nerd Novice. Next time on Nerd Novice: “The X-Files” Season 1, Episodes 1 and 2By Nerd Novice

1
#49 “Murdererer” 1:02:02

11y ago1:02:02

1:02:02

Favorite things about Jessica Fletcher: No amount of debauchery phases her; she can weasel her way backstage of any soap opera production with no question; that whole matching tracksuit thing. Next time on Nerd Novice: “Murder, She Wrote” Season 3: Episodes 4, 13, and 19By Nerd Novice

1
#48 “Augustus Christmas” 47:20

11y ago47:20

47:20

Megan really needs Jim to tell her that she will, indeed, grow up to be Jessica Fletcher. Being as snappy and classy as the “Murder, She Wrote” detective would really just be a dream. Next time on Nerd Novice: “Murder, She Wrote” - Season 2; Episodes 3, 11, and 21By Nerd Novice

1
#47 “There Can Be Only One... Good Season” 1:07:45

11y ago1:07:45

1:07:45

Jim and Megan spend a little bit of time in this episode wrapping up Highlander, the TV series. They spend a lot of time, though, talking about another topic: Misogyny and gender inequality, especially as it relates to the “nerd culture”. Here's the article we were referring to: http://thebea.st/1gxJzX0 Next time on Nerd Novice: Kicking off our “De…

1
#46 “It's Still A Trap!” 39:22

11y ago39:22

39:22

We are taking a break from Highlander to talk recent Star Wars news. Jim has a theory about the plot of Episode VII and Megan is hoping for a LOTR-SW-HP crossover with Gollum and Hagrid making appearances. Shiner Comics is mentioned: shinercomics.tumblr.com. Thank you, John G.!!!! Next time on Nerd Novice: Highlander season 4…

1
#45 “Mornings Be Suck” 50:13

11y ago50:13

50:13

What's this episode about? The third season of Highlander the series, but also Highlander the movie, Highlander that other movie, Highlander the one movie no one talks about... Megan's new segment “Who Wants to Date a Superhero?”… You know, things. Next time on Nerd Novice: Highlander (the Series), season 4…

1
#44 “Everybody's Mom Should Rock Out to Queen” 48:41

11y ago48:41

48:41

Spoilers abound, as always. Jim and Megan continue their Highlander series discussion by covering the beginning of season 2. Do they compare it to Buffy? Well, duh. Next time on Nerd Novice: Highlander season 3By Nerd Novice

1
#043 “Leprechauns and Fairies and Sh*t” 36:26

11y ago36:26

36:26

At some point in their lives, everyone needs to have a French girlfriend and an immortal boyfriend. Discuss. Next week on Nerd Novice: Season 2 of Highlander: The SeriesBy Nerd Novice

1
#42 “Immortal Sexy Times” 50:34

11y ago50:34

50:34

Megan and Jim launch their Immortals theme with a discussion on Highlander, and how awesome it would be to eat those Whopper Robin's Eggs eternally and never get diabetes. Next week on Nerd Novice: "Highlander" Season 1, Episode 1By Nerd Novice

1
#41 “Potter Talk” 27:55

11+ y ago27:55

27:55

J.K. Rowling better not become another George Lucas, that's all we have to say. Well, it's not all, but it's the main point you should get from this podcast about the final installment of Harry Potter. Next week on Nerd Novice: “Highlander” the movieBy Nerd Novice

1
#40 “Lordy, Lordy, Nerd Novice is 40” 38:07

11+ y ago38:07

38:07

It's all downhill from here. Your podcast co-hosts discuss Harry Potter movies 5 and 6, The Order of the Phoenix & The Half-Blood Prince. Did you know Wizard Angst is surprisingly similar to Muggle Angst? Next week on Nerd Novice: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Parts 1 & 2)By Nerd Novice

1
#39 “Suffixifying” 43:42

11+ y ago43:42

43:42

Jim and Megan are back from their unintended hiatus with another episode about Harry Potter movies, this time specifically movies 3 and 4. What's different about these movies from 1 and 2? It can be summarized in two words: Hermione's Hair. Next week on Nerd Novice: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix / Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince …

1
#38 “EXPECTO SPLINTORUM!” 59:07

11+ y ago59:07

59:07

Today your podcasting nerds Jim and Megan discuss how everyone wishes they could live at Hogwarts. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets are both covered. We pretty much decided that if there was no magical aspect to the HP series, the Chamber of Secrets would just be an ordinary plumbing access panel be…

1
#37 “Geocities” 49:06

11+ y ago49:06

49:06

After an update and a chat about Agents of M.E.H., Jim and Megan launch into a super nerdy-filled discussion about web development and hosting services. Also making websites in Notepad circa 1998. Is that nerdy enough for you? Next week on Nerd Novice: Harry Potter! We'll focus on the first two movies.…

1
#36 “Sean Connery vs. The Ewoks” 56:44

11+ y ago56:44

56:44

Megan hasn't seen Temple of Doom in forever, which Jim thinks is a testimony to its level of (non)popularity. Megan thinks it's probably because of the monkey brains. Your hosts also discuss the third Indiana Jones movie, The Last Crusade... and the other "last crusade" that is Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Next time on Nerd Novice: after a hiatus …

1
#35 “Cool Whip, or Cool Whip” 48:33

11+ y ago48:33

48:33

Raise your hand if you didn't want to become an archaeologist after seeing Raiders of the Lost Ark. Jim and Megan discuss the fine movie (and other movies) about our favorite Professor Jones. Next week on Nerd Novice: the rest of the Indiana Jones movies (that matter)By Nerd Novice

1
#34 “Fiesty Zapping Zigzag Thing” 47:10

11+ y ago47:10

47:10

This last episode of Josstoberfest features a discussion of the latest episodes of Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. There are things that need discussing, don't you think? Put on your TV eyeballs and listen in on our little chat.By Nerd Novice

1
#33 “The Circle of Death” 45:18

11+ y ago45:18

45:18

Josstoberfest continues with a lively chat about the beautiful, stands-on-its-own-two-feet film ‘Serenity’. Here's the real question: River Tam vs. Buffy Summers. Who wins? Next week on Nerd Novice: ‘Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’By Nerd Novice

1
#32 “The Bowels of Joss...toberfest” 55:35

11+ y ago55:35

55:35

Megan and Jim continue their discussion of Whedon's beloved-yet-short-lived space western, Firefly. Tweet us your Firefly opinions with #nerdfly to jump on the train of thought before Josstoberfest quickly ends! Next week on Nerd Novice: ‘Serenity’ (the movie)By Nerd Novice

1
#31 “#nerdfly” 1:02:29

11+ y ago1:02:29

1:02:29

You asked, we listened. As part of Josstoberfest, we're spending the next few weeks discussing ‘Firefly’ and ‘Serenity’. This episode is a bit about the characters and general thoughts on the series. Is Mal basically Han Solo? Yes. That is not a bad thing. Any thoughts from our Nerd fans? Tweet them to us with #nerdfly and we'll talk about them nex…

1
#30 “Josstoberfest” 1:15:43

11+ y ago1:15:43

1:15:43

Jim and Megan discuss the brand new Marvel/Whedon television show, ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ Make your predictions about who gets impaled suddenly now, folks. Speaking of impaling... Next Week on Nerd Novice: Whedon's ‘Firefly’, episodes 1-7By Nerd Novice

1
#29 “The Wrathiest” 1:09:46

11+ y ago1:09:46

1:09:46

If 1960s Khan is supposed to be 1990s Khan then why does he look nothing like 2013 Khan looking like 1990s Khan? Megan and Jim discuss this along with other important Star Trek related business. Next week on Nerd Novice: ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’By Nerd Novice

1
#28 “HERH!” 57:04

11+ y ago57:04

57:04

The truth of the matter is, there is quite a bit of spontaneous out-of-tune singing in this episode. You name it, Jim and Megan sing about it. We also talk about Timothy Zahn's “The Last Command” for like a sec, but ya know... books... UGH. Next week on Nerd Novice (Whoops, we forgot to talk about that): “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan”…