Dads With Nerdy Ambitions
Dads With Nerdy Ambitions
Steven Pugh
Dads with Nerdy Ambitions (DNA) is the podcast that combines parenting and nerd culture in the 21st century. We take a look at all aspects of the nerd world, talk to gurus , break stereotypes, and answer your questions. We look at it through the lens of being a nerd parent, being a parent of a nerd, or just a nerd at heart. So come join us on our epic voyage where we know "It's not just a hobby... it's hereditary!"
Scott Edwards: Building Your Own Stage
In this episode, we talk with Scott Edwards about where he came from, how he got started, and why waiting for permission was never part of the plan. Scott walks us through his origins in comedy, the leap into business ownership, and what it really takes to build and sustain your own comedy club. We dig into stand-up as a craft, the realities of running venues, and how betting on yourself changes the way you approach success and failure. This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a conversation about creating opportunities instead of chasing them, learning the business side of creativity, and why longevity often comes from building your own lane.
Feb 5
47 min
Becoming Your Own Wonder Woman with Danielle Orsino
In this high-energy conversation on Dads with Nerdy Ambitions, we’re joined by Danielle Orsino, author, martial artist, lifelong nerd, and unapologetic superfan of Wonder Woman. We talk about her books, growing up nerdy in spaces full of gatekeeping, and how fandom, martial arts, and storytelling helped her discover confidence, strength, and identity. From embracing the weirdness of nerd culture to finding empowerment through heroes, discipline, and creativity, this episode is about turning passion into fuel.
Jan 15
59 min
Blue Sludge Blues: Horror, Heart, and the Creative Grind
In this episode of Dads with Nerdy Ambitions, we sit down with horror author Shannon Lawrence to talk about what it really takes to keep creating in a genre that thrives on discomfort. From her work in short fiction and novels to the long, unglamorous grind of writing, editing, and showing up anyway, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the creative process behind the scares. We talk about fear as a storytelling tool, why horror resonates so deeply, and how writers balance imagination with discipline. Shannon shares insights on persistence, creative burnout, and the reality of building a writing career without shortcuts or gimmicks
Jan 8
1 hr 5 min
From Bonham to Buddha  with Clementine Moss
This episode of Dads with Nerdy Ambitions features Clementine Moss, drummer of Zepparella and author of From Bonham to Buddha. We talk about her origin with rhythm, the discipline required to honor John Bonham’s legacy, and why drumming can become more than performance. From rock mythology and tribute band misconceptions to spirituality without fluff, ambition without burnout, and identity beyond the stage, this conversation digs into what happens when creativity grows up. Music nerds will feel at home. Anyone searching for meaning beyond the noise will too.
Jan 1
1 hr 5 min
Bob LeMent and the History of Podcasts
Steve sits down with OG Podcast Bob LeMent to talk about the near 3 decades of Podcasting and the changes along the way
Dec 18, 2025
59 min
Reuniting with Tabletop Journeys
We sit back down with our favorite friends over at the tabletop journeys podcast to talk about their new book.
Dec 14, 2025
1 hr 4 min
Bria Rose
Steve sits down with Dark Romance Author Bria Rose to talk about what it's like to take Fantasy Stories to another level
Dec 4, 2025
41 min
The DNA Crew vs. Cosmic Horror... A FULL Call of Cthulhu Game: A Lonely Thread
The Dads With Nerdy Ambitions crew has faced a lot of tabletop chaos… but nothing like this. In this feature-length actual play, Sam, Kevin, and Steve dive head-first into the sanity-shredding world of Call of Cthulhu: A Lonely Thread and just surviving the night is not guaranteed. They aren’t alone in the darkness. Joining the investigation are two incredible masters of horror storytelling: Mitchel Wallace: Freelance writer and architect of psychological nightmares Bridgett Jeffries: Renowned writer for Chaosium Inc., the publishers of Call of Cthulhu itself What starts as a simple mystery unravels into something far more sinister. Every clue leads deeper. Every success demands a sacrifice, and the further they pull on the thread… the more reality comes apart.
Nov 27, 2025
2 hr 28 min
We Have a Theme Song
The Guys catch up and nerd out
Nov 20, 2025
1 hr 16 min
Alan Katz and Tales From The Crypt
We sat down with the Legendary Alan Katz to talk about his like in Hollywood , Tales from the Crypt and many things in between. WARNING! This conversation includes adult situations, emotionally heavy subject matter, and moments that may be triggering or traumatic for some listeners and viewers. Topics we touch on may involve difficult personal experiences, distressing events, and mature themes that aren’t suitable for all audiences.
Nov 13, 2025
1 hr 25 min
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