There’s something uniquely energizing about Distance Nerding. Maybe it’s the live broadcast energy, the caffeine-fueled humor, or the unmistakable chemistry between its hosts, Phil and James. But above all, it’s the welcoming sense of community that makes this podcast stand out in a crowded pop culture landscape.
Recently joining the Geek Freaks Network, Distance Nerding is a joyful celebration of fandom in all its forms. It’s not just a show about nerd culture — it’s a show for nerds, by nerds, with a mission to create a safe, positive space for fans to share their passions.
Origins: From Behind-the-Scenes to Center Stage
Phil and James didn’t just stumble into podcasting; they grew into it. Before Distance Nerding, they were part of Hardly Heroes, a show that had its own loyal following. Whether they were behind the scenes or occasionally on the mic, they were immersed in a community of like-minded geeks who celebrated all things nerdy.
When Hardly Heroes came to an end, Phil and James couldn’t shake the urge to keep the conversation going. The daily texts about pop culture, the endless exchanges of geeky takes — it all needed an outlet. And so, Distance Nerding was born during the pandemic, a fitting time for a show with such an aptly clever name.
“Our kids were doing distance learning, so why not distance nerding?” they joked. The name stuck, and so did their infectious enthusiasm.
Going Live: Controlled Chaos with a Side of Jazz
Unlike many podcasts that opt for heavily edited and pre-recorded formats, Distance Nerding thrives on the unpredictability of live recording. What started as an experiment quickly became their trademark style.
Editing 16-hour marathons turned into breezy 10-minute touch-ups. Mistakes? They’re part of the charm. Phil and James embrace the hiccups, describing their show as a mix of Saturday Night Live spontaneity and jazz improvisation. It’s free-flowing, but always anchored in their mission to serve the nerd community.
Their secret? What they call the four pillars of Distance Nerding:
- Be Nerdy
- Be Positive
- Be Funny
- Be Energetic
Every episode, every panel, every interview lives by this creed.
Celebrating Passion: Everyone Has a Geek Story
At the heart of Distance Nerding is a desire to make fandom approachable and inclusive. Whether they’re interviewing indie comic creators, Hollywood actors, or voiceover legends, Phil and James have a signature question: What made you a nerd?
This simple but profound prompt, first explored in their “Growing Up Geeky” segment, levels the playing field. It reminds guests and listeners alike that no matter where you come from or how famous you are, we all have that spark — that first fandom that ignited our passion.
From Transformers and G.I. Joe to the iconic 1989 Batman film, Phil and James share their origin stories and invite others to do the same. It’s not just about the big names — it’s about the shared experience of loving something deeply.
As Phil puts it, “Nerding isn’t just an adjective. It’s a verb. It’s about being passionate.”
Anti-Gatekeeping and Pro-Community
If there’s one thing Distance Nerding actively pushes back against, it’s the toxicity that can sometimes plague fandom spaces. They make it clear: this is a judgment-free zone.
They embrace the idea that not everything in geek culture is for everyone — and that’s okay. Star Wars, Marvel, DC, anime — every corner of fandom has something to love (or critique). But critique comes with respect at Distance Nerding. They’ve made it a point to foster conversations, not arguments.
As James said during the interview, “You might not like every Star Wars story, but someone out there does. Let’s celebrate that.”
Comic-Cons, Community, and Conduits
Beyond the studio (or living room), Phil and James have become mainstays at comic conventions across the West Coast. Hosting panels, running main stages, and conducting live interviews, they bring the same vibrant energy from their podcast to the convention floor.
Their experience as fans first and creators second shines through. Whether they’re chatting with cosplayers, handing out prizes, or moderating Q&As with stars like Sean Astin and Bonnie Wright, they make every attendee feel like part of the show.
And they’re just getting started. From Gem State Comic Con in Boise to ambitions of hitting more red carpets and premieres, Distance Nerding is expanding their reach while keeping the community at the heart of it all.
What’s Next: Building the Future, Brick by Brick (Literally)
Their YouTube channel is a growing hub for all things Distance Nerding. Alongside their regular shows, they’re doubling down on The Build — a unique format where Phil assembles LEGO sets live while conducting in-depth, long-form interviews.
It’s relaxed, it’s real, and it lets conversations breathe in ways short convention panels can’t. They also tease future ambitions of bigger cons, more immersive community experiences, and continuing to be that bridge between creators and fans.
In their own words: “We want you to be part of the show as much as we are.”
The Final Word: Keep Nerding Together
There’s no doubt Distance Nerding is more than just a podcast. It’s a movement. It’s a home for anyone who has ever felt the spark of excitement over a new trailer, a favorite comic book, or a long-anticipated movie.
Phil and James embody what it means to be fans — curious, excited, and always ready to embrace the next adventure. And with their infectious energy and community-first mindset, they’re inviting everyone to join them.
So whether you’re a lifelong nerd or just discovering your fandoms, Distance Nerding has a seat for you at their table. And as they always say: keep nerding together.
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