The Dragon Con Report

The Glamour of Geek: May Hemmer Returns! In this episode, we welcome back the sensational May Hemmer to chat all things sparkly, sultry and spectacular as she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Glamour Geek Revue, Dragon Con’s premier burlesque extravaganza! May reviews past performances as well as shares what fans can expect from this year's show — from geeky glamour and cosplay creativity to the performers who bring beloved characters to life in bold, breathtaking routines. We dive into how the show has evolved over the years, what makes it a standout event at the con and how it balances fun, fandom, and fierce performances. Plus, May offers tips for first-time attendees, advice on how to support the performers, and a few surprises about what’s in store for 2025. Whether you're a longtime fan or curious newcomer, this episode is your exclusive pass to one of Dragon Con’s most dazzling after-dark events! The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. ​ We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. ​ Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store ​ Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Tales on Amazon ​ Glamour Geek Revue on Facebook ​ Glamour Geek Revue on Instagram ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 Watch this episode on YouTube dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonCon2025 #DragonConBurlesque #DragonConPerformances #GlamourGeek #GlamourGeekRevue #MayHemmer #Burlesque #2025DragonConReportSpecial Guest: May Hemmer.Support The Dragon Con Report

We’re back with Episode 2 of Season 14 of the Dragon Con Report, and this time, we’re diving deep into the incredible gaming scene at Dragon Con! Whether you're a hardcore video gamer, a tabletop RPG enthusiast, a board game strategist, or a Werewolf master, Dragon Con has an endless array of options to explore. Gaming at Dragon Con – More Than Just a Hobby Dragon Con isn’t just about panels, cosplay, and fandoms—it’s also a gamer’s paradise. Over at AmericasMart, you’ll find dedicated gaming spaces, tournaments, and opportunities to connect with fellow players who share your passion. Whether you want to try the latest indie video games, engage in epic tabletop battles, or immerse yourself in role-playing adventures, there’s something for every gamer at the con. Special Guest: Casey Sears To help us navigate the vast world of gaming at Dragon Con, we’re excited to welcome Casey Sears as our special guest! Casey is deeply embedded in the gaming community, bringing a multifaceted perspective to the conversation. 🎮 Video Games – Casey is a longtime player of Elite Dangerous, where he pilots an Anaconda ship and has amassed over a billion credits in the game. If you're into space simulation and strategic gameplay, you won't want to miss his insights! 🎲 Tabletop RPGs – Currently, Casey is running a Legend of the Five Rings tabletop RPG campaign, showcasing his love for deep storytelling, rich character development, and strategic play. 🏡 Gaming & Real Estate – Beyond gaming, Casey is the owner of Gamers Need Homes, Too, a real estate business focused on helping gamers find homes suited to their unique needs. Whether it’s dedicated gaming rooms, fiber internet access, or space for the ultimate setup, Casey understands what gamers need in a home. Casey’s Connection to Dragon Con Casey isn’t just a gaming expert—he’s been involved with Dragon Con for years, both professionally and personally. He has helped promote the event, connect with the gaming community, and provide valuable resources to attendees. His experience makes him the perfect guest to guide us through the must-visit gaming spots and events at the con! Tune In to Episode 2! Join us as we explore where to go, what to do, and how to get the most out of gaming at Dragon Con. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned con-goer, this episode will help you level up your experience. 🎧 Listen now on and let us know your favorite gaming experiences at Dragon Con in the comments! And next month, we'll be chatting about Families at con with folks at the Kids Track! The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. ​ We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. ​ Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store ​ Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Tales on Amazon ​ Gamers Need Homes, Too ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 Watch this episode on YouTube dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonCon2025 #CaseySears #DragonConGaming #Gaming #CaseySearsSpecial Guest: Casey Sears.Support The Dragon Con Report

Wrapping Up Season 13: An Episode You Won’t Want to Miss As we close the curtain on Season 13 and prepare for an exciting 2025, it’s time to share our final episode of the year. And trust us—this one could be the most helpful episode yet! For many of us, Dragon Con is a highlight of the year. The energy, creativity, and camaraderie make it an unforgettable experience. However, when the weekend ends, it’s common to feel the weight of what’s often called Post-Con Blues or Post-Con Depression. That sense of loneliness, emptiness, or even longing for the next con can be tough to shake. So, how do we manage these feelings and thrive during the wait for the next Dragon Con? ** What Is Post-Con Depression?** First, let’s unpack the phenomenon. During Dragon Con, you’re immersed in a world of excitement, creativity, and connection. Once it’s over, returning to daily life can feel anticlimactic. This emotional shift, often described as a “con hangover,” is natural but challenging. Recognizing these feelings is the first step toward overcoming them. Fortunately, there are ways to navigate the post-con letdown and maintain that con magic throughout the year. Expert Guests to the Rescue In this special episode, we’re bringing in two extraordinary guests to guide us through this journey: Tyra Burton: A professor, podcaster, and social media expert, Tyra will share her wisdom on staying connected with the fandom community and keeping the spirit of Dragon Con alive year-round. Amy Mikulski: As a licensed mental health and social work professional, Amy offers invaluable advice on managing emotions, practicing self-care, and building resilience between cons. Their unique perspectives will help us find practical solutions for the post-con blues and inspire us to embrace the time between conventions. How to Navigate the Post-Con Blues Now that we know what we’re up against, let’s explore some strategies for overcoming these feelings: Stay Connected: Keep in touch with the friends you made at Dragon Con through social media or meetups. Regular engagement can help bridge the gap until the next event. Focus on Self-Care: Make time for rest, relaxation, and hobbies that bring you joy. A healthy mind and body can ease the transition back to everyday life. Plan for Next Year: Use the energy from Dragon Con to start preparing for next year. Whether it’s designing a new cosplay or setting goals for panels to attend, having something to look forward to can be uplifting. Why You Should Tune In This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a toolkit for handling the emotional rollercoaster of post-con life. With Tyra and Amy’s expertise, you’ll gain insights into how to: Reframe the post-con experience positively. Build a support network within the fandom community. Embrace healthy coping mechanisms for emotional well-being. By taking these steps, we can keep the Dragon Con spirit alive and look forward to the next adventure without losing our spark. Join Us for the Finale of Season 13 Don’t let post-con blues get the better of you! Tune in to this heartfelt discussion with Tyra Burton and Amy Mikulski, and discover ways to carry the magic of Dragon Con throughout the year. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. A 'Mental Health First Aid Kit' is a collection of activities, practices, skills, and items that help bring comfort, regulation, and support when we need it most. They can be very helpful when we're feeling down and can help us increase and vary the ways we care for ourselves. Create a list of 3-4 items per category on the list below to create your own Mental Health First Aid Kit (examples for each category included below, these are just examples- you can personalize the list to include own!) THINGS THAT HELP ME FEEL SAFE a blanket deep breaths time alone in my room THINGS THAT HELP ME CARE FOR MYSELF washing my face a yummy snack (like bananas and peanut butter or cheese and crackers) a walk in the woods THINGS THAT ALLOW ME TO BE CREATIVE drawing working on my DnD character dancing around the house THINGS THAT ALLOW WELCOME DISTRACTIONS Youtube talk or text with a friend watching an episode or two of your favorite show THINGS THAT BRING FEELINGS OF HOPE working on my cosplay for next Dragon Con laughing remembering "There's some good in the world, Mr. Frodo, and it's worth fighting for."- Samwise Gamgee ​ We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. Links: ​ Mental health resources: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us ​ https://growtherapy.com/wp/home-grw/ ​ https://www.therapyden.com/ ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store ​ Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Tales on Amazon ​ [Tyra Burton](tyraburton.com) ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 Watch this episode on YouTube dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #dragoncon2024 #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2024DragonConReport #DragonCon2025 #postcondepression #postconblues #coping #TyraBurton #AmyMikulski #mentalhealth #MentalHealthMatters #DragonConBlues #ConLifeBalance #FandomWellness #DragonConLove #ConMentalHealth #DragonConRecovery #PostConFeels #DragonConSupport #GeekMindset #CosplayAndCare #FanSelfCare #ConAfterCare #StayNerdyStayHealthy #ConMentalHealthTalk #FandomAndFeelingsSpecial Guests: Amy Mikulski and Tyra Burton.Support The Dragon Con Report

We are finally (mostly) recovered from this year's con, and now it's time for a recap! No two Dragon Con's are the same, so what new adventures did the crew have this year? We'll discuss the great and not-so great experiences, panels, parties and more on this episode. Join in on the discussion and let us know your thoughts on this year's Dragon Con too! The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. ​ We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. ​ Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Tales on Amazon ​ Episode Video on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #dragoncon2024 #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2024DragonConReport #recap #wrapup #review #conrecap #dragonconrecapSupport The Dragon Con Report

Surprise! A special edition to this year's DCR A project near and dear to our hearts here, The Dragon Tales Anthology: Stories, essays, memories, etc. all celebrating the con we love. This book is not officially associated with Dragon Con. This is purely an independent production. Published by New Legend Books edited by Michael Gordon. A benefit project with proceeds going to two great charities in honor of two great gentle souls: American Heart Association - Thom Trainor Lost N Found Youth - Darren Nowell The theme of the anthology is "Dragon Tales." Stories, essays, memories, etc. all celebrating the con we love. This book is not officially associated with Dragon Con. This is purely an independent production. Published by New Legend Books edited by Michael Gordon. Joining us this episode are Dragon Tales contributors: Darin M. Bush, Jerry Chandler, Kevin Eldridge, Bernadette Johnson, Rob Levy, Bobby Nash, James Palmer and Beth Van Dusen. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. ​ We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. ​ Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Con ​ American Heart Association ​ Lost-n-Found Youth ​ Dragon Tales on Amazon ​ Episode Video on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 DragonCon #DragonCon2024 #DragonConAtlanta #DragonConReport #AtlantaGeekScene #ChanningSherman #MikeGordon #JenLilBitSchleusner #ESO #ESONetwork #GeekPodcast #GeekTalk #NerdPodcast #Podcast #TheEsoNetwork #Conventions #darrenmbush #jerrychandler #kevineldridge #bernadettejohnson #roblevy #bobbynash #jamespalmer #bethvandusen #nerdpodcast #podcast #thesonetwork #book #books #authors #author #dragontalesSpecial Guests: Bernadette Johnson, Beth Van Dusen, Bobby Nash, Darin M. Bush, James Palmer, Jerry Chandler, Kevin Eldridge, and Rob Levy.Support The Dragon Con Report

This month we delve into the long running Dragon Con Wrestling! Our guests from DCW: Mama Kim, Scott Cramton & AJ Schnuphase give insights into the humble beginnings of the event, the evolution of the show and more What does it take to plan a successful match? How early do fans need to lineup? What's on deck for this year? We find out out the answers to those questions and more this episode. DCW has been a staple of Dragon Con for over two decades now and the fan appreciation as well as crowd size grows every year. Utilizing local talent and becoming a stepping stone on the path to wrestling success has helped create one of the most popular, must-see Thursday night events at con. Will the Mongoose throw a wrench in this year's planned festivities? Tune in now to find out! The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store ​ Dragon Con Wrestling ​ The Murder Mystery Company ​ Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Con ​ Promos: ​ The Watch-a-Thon of Rassilon Earth Station DCU ​ If you would like to leave feedback or a comment on the show feel free to email us @ [feedback@dragonconreport.com](feedback@dragonconreport.com) ​ Support The Dragon Con Report Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 AtlantaGeekScene #ChanningSherman #Conventions #DragonCon #DragonCon2024 #dragonconatlanta #DragonConReport ESONetwork #geekpodcast #GeekTalk #JenLil’BitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #Podcast #TheESONetwork #Conventions #DCW #DragonConWrestling #Wrestling #MurderMysteryCompany #MamaKim #ScottCramton #AJSchnuphase #TheMongooseSpecial Guests: AJ Schnuphase, Mama Kim, and Scott Cramton.Support The Dragon Con Report

This month on the Dragon Con Report, we find out what volunteering is like at con from veteran and recent volunteers. Our guests this month are Julia McClure, Moises Vermenton and Andrés Thomas. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber. We want to hear from you! Feedback is always welcome. Please write to us at feedback@dragonconreport.com and subscribe and rate the show wherever fine podcasts are found, such as Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, and our new YouTube Channel. Links: ​ Dragon Con Report Website ​ Dragon Con Report YouTube Channel ​ ESO Network ​ ESO Network Patreon ​ ESO Network TeePublic Store ​ Dominycanknyght Cosplay ​ A.E. Thomas ​ Dragon Con Parties, Meetups, and More ​ Black Geeks of Dragon Con ​ Dragon Con ​ Promos: ​ Soul Forge Modern Musicology ​ If you would like to leave feedback or a comment on the show feel free to email us @ [feedback@dragonconreport.com](feedback@dragonconreport.com) ​ Support The Dragon Con Report Dragon Con Report Intro and Outro attributes: Stock Media provided by Blackmid / Pond5 Adventure Of The Pirates - Fantasy, Epic Orchestral Music by Pond5 Stock Media provided by MellauSFX / Pond5 Dragon Fire Roar Sound Effects by Pond5 AtlantaGeekScene #ChanningSherman #Conventions #DragonCon #DragonCon2024 #dragonconatlanta #DragonConReport ESONetwork #geekpodcast #GeekTalk #JenLil’BitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #Podcast #TheESONetwork ConVolunteers #DragonConVolunteers #VolunteersSpecial Guests: Andrés Thomas, Julia McClure, and Moises Vermenton.Support The Dragon Con Report