Celebrating Pride at Dragon Con Dragon Con has always been about finding your people, celebrating creativity and embracing what makes each of us unique. In this special Pride Month episode of The Dragon Con Report, we're joined by Joshua Duart, Chandra Free, Josh Coleman, and one of Dragon Con's beloved resident Klingers, Patric Good for a conversation about the LGBTQIA+ community at Dragon Con. We explore what makes Dragon Con feel like home for so many fans and why the convention has become a place where people can truly be themselves. Is Dragon Con a Safe Space? One of the biggest topics of the discussion is what it means to feel safe and welcomed at a convention the size of Dragon Con. Our guests share their own experiences, discussing how the community has supported them through the years and why they believe Dragon Con continues to foster an atmosphere of acceptance and belonging. While no community is perfect, the conversation highlights the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, respected and encouraged to celebrate who they are. Pride Events and Representation From organized events to informal gatherings throughout the weekend, Dragon Con offers countless opportunities for LGBTQIA+ fans to connect and celebrate together. We discuss some of the events attendees can look forward to, the growing visibility of LGBTQIA+ representation across the convention, and why representation matters both on and off the stage. Costumes, Creativity, and Self-Expression Cosplay has always been one of Dragon Con's defining features and for many fans it provides another avenue for self-expression. Our guests share thoughts on costumes, gender expression through cosplay, and the freedom Dragon Con provides for attendees to experiment, create and simply have fun without fear of judgment. Why Dragon Con Feels Like Home At its heart, this episode is about community. Joshua, Chandra, Josh, and Patric reflect on the experiences that keep bringing them back year after year. Their stories serve as a reminder that Dragon Con is at its best when everyone is welcomed, celebrated and encouraged to be themselves. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Queerios FB Group ​ Chandra Free ​ 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 #dragonconpodcast #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2026DragonConReport #DragonCon2026 #ESOPatreon #40yranniversary #pridemonth #dragonconpride #lgbtqia #lgbt #lgbtq #joshduart #chandrafree #joshcoleman #patricgood #KlingerSpecial Guests: Chandra Free, Josh Coleman, Josh Duart, and Patric Good.Support The Dragon Con Report

Behind the Scenes with the Dragon Con Puppetry Track This month, Jen, Mike & Channing sit down with Beau from the Dragon Con Puppetry Track, along with special guests Bob & Carl, The Sci Fi Janitors. From foam, felt, and fabrication to live performances and character work, the crew digs into what it really takes to bring puppets to life on stage and on screen. They also talk about the creativity, teamwork, technical challenges, and happy accidents that happen behind the curtain. Whether you love practical effects, convention performance, comedy, or just want to know how these characters go from piles of materials to believable personalities, this episode pulls back the curtain on the craft of puppetry at Dragon Con. Plus: stories from the track and why puppetry continues to connect with fans of all ages. ​ 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 ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Dragon Con Puppetry Track on FB ​ National Puppet Slam ​ Bob and Carl ​ The Puckin' Fuppet Show ​ Center For Puppetry Arts ​ DC Puppetry Tack Instagram ​ 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 #dragonconpodcast #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2026DragonConReport #DragonCon2026 #ESOPatreon #40yranniversary #puppetry #puppetrytrack #dragonconpuppetry #dragonconpuppets #puppets #bobandcarl #scifijanitors #BeauBrown #MattNitchie #NationalPuppetSlam #CenterforPuppetryArts #PuppetSlamSpecial Guests: Beau Brown and Bob and Carl.Support The Dragon Con Report

Urban Fantasy and Horror Tracks Take Over the Show The shadows are deep, the music is loud and the creatures of the night have claimed another episode of the Dragon Con Report. This time, we’re joined by the directors from the Urban Fantasy and Horror Tracks at Dragon Con, along with legendary Goth Party DJ - DJ Ichabod, for a conversation packed with storytelling, music, and late-night energy. From modern monsters and supernatural storytelling to dance floors filled with black velvet and industrial beats, this episode explores why these tracks continue to be fan favorites year after year. Exploring the Worlds of Urban Fantasy & Horror We dive into what defines urban fantasy and horror in today’s landscape and how both genres continue evolving with new creators, fresh perspectives, and changing audience tastes. Whether you love supernatural detectives, haunted cities, cosmic terror or creatures lurking in dark alleyways - there’s something here for every fan of the strange and unusual. Building Dragon Con Programming Creating programming for Dragon Con involves balancing longtime fan favorites with exciting new ideas and the Urban Fantasy and Horror Tracks are no exception. The track directors also share insight into what makes Dragon Con audiences unique and why these genres connect so strongly with convention fans. Inside the Legendary Dragon Con Goth Party No conversation about these tracks would be complete without discussing one of Dragon Con’s most iconic late-night events: the Goth Party. The result is part dance club, part vampire ballroom, part sleep-deprived fever dream fueled by excitement and excellent music. Music, Mood & Fandom Energy Horror and urban fantasy are about more than books and movies. Atmosphere matters. Music matters. Community matters. This episode explores how music helps shape fandom experiences and why events like the Goth Party become lasting memories for Dragon Con attendees year after year. Why These Tracks Continue to Thrive One of the biggest themes throughout the conversation is community. Fans return to these tracks because they offer welcoming spaces for creativity, self-expression and shared enthusiasm for all things eerie, magical, and delightfully strange. Whether through storytelling panels, late-night parties or hallway conversations with fellow attendees - these tracks help create the unforgettable energy that defines Dragon Con. For more Dragon Con coverage, interviews, and fandom discussions, keep following the Dragon Con Report throughout the season. ​ 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 ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Urban Fantasy on FB ​ Urban Fantasy YouTube ​ Horror Track Facebook ​ Horror Track Instagram ​ Out ov the Coffin ​ Fascination Street ​ 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 #dragonconpodcast #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2026DragonConReport #DragonCon2026 #40yranniversary #UrbanFantasy #Horror #GothParty #urbanfantasytrack #horrortrack #spooky #fantasy #magic #derektatum #carolmalcolm #djichabodSpecial Guests: Carol Malcolm, DJ Ichabod, and Derek Tatum.Support The Dragon Con Report

The Dragon Con Report is heading across the pond… without leaving Atlanta. This episode, we sit down with Caro and Rob from the Brit Track to explore one of Dragon Con’s most charming and cheeky programming tracks. From British pop culture and fandom deep cuts to tea-fueled panels and a healthy dose of wit, Brit Track brings a unique flavor to the con experience. We dig into what makes Brit Track a fan favorite, how the team curates its programming, and what attendees can expect this year. Whether you're a die-hard Anglophile or just Brit-curious, this conversation is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of reasons to add Brit Track to your Dragon Con schedule. Grab your cuppa and join us as we celebrate the fandoms, fandom culture, and community spirit that make Dragon Con feel like a global gathering. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer: Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer: Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ Brit Track on FB ​ Brit Track YouTube ​ Dragon Awards Nominations are open! ​ Dragon Con Burlesque Auditions are open! ​ Brit Track Instagram: @dcbrittrack Discord: Brittrack X: @brittrack 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 #dragonconpodcast #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2026DragonConReport #DragonCon2026 #40yranniversary #brittrack #britishmedia #DragonConBritTrack #CaroMcCullyTidwell #RobInTheHatBowenSpecial Guests: Caro McCully Tidwell and Ron "in the hat" Bowen.Support The Dragon Con Report

This episode, we chat with attendees who met their partners at con and are still rolling initiative together years later. Our guests this month are Josh Duart, Tyra Burton, Lauren & Nikki Evallen-Muller and Kristi & Justin Grub. Each of them (along with one of our hosts, Jen!) met their partners at Dragon Con. Were they looking for love at con? Meeting through happy accidents? We hear their meet-cutes and more on episode 2. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer: Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer: Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ Watch this episode on YouTube ​ The Roasted Crow ​ Alter Egos ​ Tyra Burton ​ Be Awesome Together 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 #dragonconpodcast #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #2026DragonConReport #DragonCon2026 #ESOPatreon #40yranniversary #loveatDragonCon #love #conlove #DragonConMarriage #DragonConWedding #JoshDuart #TyraBurton #LaurenEvallen-Muller #NikkiEvalen-Muller #KristiGrub #JustinGrub #Artemistyck #AlterEgos #AlterEgosDoc #TurboTimeCosplay #KittySoloCosplay #TheRoastedCrow #RoastedCrowCoffee #Kelldar #BeAwesomeTogether #GeekMeetsSocial #DCDigitalMedia #DCDigitalMediaTrack #DragonConDigitalMedia #DCDM #DragonConDigitalMediaTrack #DigitalMediaTrackSpecial Guests: Josh Duart, Kristi & Justin Grub, Lauren & Nikki Evallen-Muller , and Tyra Burton.Support The Dragon Con Report

Season 15 of The Dragon Con Report launches with a look back at where it all began. In honor of Dragon Con’s 40th anniversary, Mike, Jen, and Channing are joined by longtime Dragon Con attendee Darin M. Bush, along with a bonus appearance from Marilyn Teague, to discuss what Dragon Con was like at its very first show and how it has grown and evolved over the past four decades. From early days of a much smaller convention footprint to the massive, multi-hotel fan experience Dragon Con is known for today, this episode explores how fandom, community, and the con itself have changed while still holding on to the spirit that made Dragon Con special from the start. Along the way, the conversation is filled with personal memories, historical insight, and a whole lot of love for a fan-run convention that continues to define what Dragon Con is all about. Whether you’re a decades-long attendee or gearing up for your first Dragon Con, this Season 15 premiere is the perfect way to celebrate forty years of cosplay, creativity, and community. ​ 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 ​ 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 dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonConPrep #DragonCon2026 #2026DragonConReport #ESOPatreon #DarinMBush #MarilynTeague #thefirstdragoncon #40yranniversarySpecial Guests: Darin M. Bush and Marilyn Teague.Support The Dragon Con Report

In honor of the upcoming 40th anniversary, we're starting a new series delving into some of the histories of the various cults of our beloved Dragon Con. There are SO MANY different obsessions us con goers have become enamored with, we couldn't keep them contained to just one episode! This episode, we're joined by Mera, Joshua, Heather & Maggie to open up the discussion in this new series. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ 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 dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonConCults #CultsofDragonCon #MarriottCarpet #CarpetCult #LoyalOrderoftheRibbon #Trashy #CultofJon #FedExJon #DragonConPrep #DragonCon2026 #HeatherStephenson #MaggieWilson #MeraRose #JoshuaThomasSpecial Guests: Heather Stephenson, Joshua Thomas, Maggie Wilson, and Mera Rose.Support The Dragon Con Report

Dragon Con 2025 Debrief: Highlights, Hiccups, and Planning Ahead Looking Back at Dragon Con 2025 Join Mike, Jen, and Channing as we sit down to reflect on Dragon Con 2025, sharing both the highlights and the hiccups from this year’s convention. From unforgettable events and standout moments to those small challenges every con-goer faces, we give an honest look back at our experiences. Planning Ahead for Dragon Con 2026 But we’re not just looking back—we’re already planning ahead! We talk about prepping for Dragon Con 2026, what to expect when hotel booking season opens, and strategies to make sure you’re ready when reservations go live. Plus, we cover how attendees can rate their con experience through the official app and why your feedback matters for shaping future cons. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ 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 Pond5Support The Dragon Con Report

*SURPRISE! * We couldn’t resist squeezing in one more episode before Dragon Con officially begins! Tiki Time with Horror in Clay We're joined by Jonathan Chaffin from Horror in Clay & Inuhele, who is here to discuss the newly announced official Dragon Con tiki mug. For collectors and con-goers alike, this is sure to be one of the most talked-about souvenirs of the year. Jonathan will share the inspiration behind the design and what makes this mug such a special addition to Dragon Con tradition. A Visit from the Classics Track But that’s not all! Also joining us is none other than Joe Crowe from the American Sci-Fi Classics Track. Joe always brings his trademark energy, humor, and passion for all things retro sci-fi. He’ll be teasing even more of what fans can look forward to during Dragon Con, including panels, Manimal, and plenty of classic pop culture fun. Don’t Miss This Last Episode Before Con Whether you’re counting down the hours until you arrive at con or tuning in from home, this special episode will keep your excitement levels high. Expect insider details, laughs, and the kind of enthusiasm that makes the Dragon Con Report a fan favorite every season. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ American Sci Fi Classics Track ​ Horror in Clay ​ Inuhele ​ 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 dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonCon2025 #AmericanSciFiClassics #AmericanSciFiClassicsTrack #DragonConAmericanSciFiClassics #HorrorInClay #Tiki #TikiMug #DragonConTiki #Inuhele #InuheleAtlanta #DragonConPartiesSpecial Guests: Joe Crowe and Jonathan Chaffin.Support The Dragon Con Report

A Night of Music, Dance, and Fandom Fun In this episode of The Dragon Con Report, we dive into some of the most exciting after-dark experiences at the convention. From nostalgic throwback parties to imaginative fantasy-themed events, Dragon Con truly has something for every fan who loves music, dancing, and unforgettable vibes. Meet Our Guests Joining us this month are three fantastic voices from Dragon Con’s vibrant nightlife and programming scene: Kevin Cafferty, the creative force behind the 120 Minutes Party, brings the alternative, goth, and new wave sounds of the ’80s and ’90s back to life on the dance floor. Rebecca Perry, better known as DJ for the High Fantasy 90s Goblin Ball, talks about weaving together mystical beats, fantasy-inspired themes, and pure dance energy. Renee Cooper, representing the Animation, Anime, and Video Game Tracks, shares insight into the programming that keeps fans engaged from panels to parties. What to Expect in This Episode We explore how these events have grown over the years, what makes them unique, and how they each bring their own flavor to Dragon Con’s nightlife. Along the way, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories, tips for first-time party-goers, and why these celebrations are a highlight of the con. Whether you love hitting the dance floor, immersing yourself in fantasy atmospheres, or just want to learn more about the culture of Dragon Con parties, this episode is packed with fun and fandom spirit. The Dragon Con Report is a part of the ESO Podcast Network, Producer Jen “Lil’ Bit” Schleusner, Executive Producer Mike Faber ​ 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 ​ 120 Minutes Party ​ High Fantasy FB Group ​ Animation Track ​ Anime Track ​ Video Game Track ​ 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 dragonconreport #dcr #podcast #dragoncon #conventions #AtlantaGeekScene #dragonconAtlanta #ESONetwork #geekpodcast #Geektalk #ChanningSherman #JenLilBitSchleusner #MikeGordon #nerdpodcast #TheESONetwork #DragonCon2025 #120MinutesParty #HighFantasyTrack #AnimationTrack #AnimeTrack #VideoGameTrack #DragonCon120MinutesParty #DragonConHighFantasyTrack #DragonConAnimationTrack #DragonConAnimeTrack #DragonConVideoGameTrack #DragonConPartiesSpecial Guests: Kevin Cafferty, Rebecca Perry , and Renee Cooper .Support The Dragon Con Report