Chicago Public radio’s “Nerdette” podcast has become my absolute new favorite. It’s smart, funny, and affirming of all things big nerd. Just like me!
The podcast’s conceit, according to their website:
Nerdette Podcast is hosted by Greta Johnsen and Tricia Bobeda. It’s a safe space for nerding out about all the things you’re watching, reading, listening to and encountering IRL.
The first episode of the new season featured Peter Sagal, host of “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me,” saying in his interview that he somewhat resented the fact that being a ‘nerd’ is now considered cool, and that in his day nerds were, most definitely, not cool. The hosts of the podcast ask listeners to send in their “nerd confessions” and I was inspired by Sagal’s comment to point out that some kinds of nerds will never be cool. Bee Gees nerds, for example. I sent in my nerd confession in comic form. (click comic to enlarge, or view original post.)
Much to my surprise and thrill, the hosts responded warmly via social media and in the following episode – with guest science-humor writer Mary Roach, author of one of my favorite books, Stiff. You can listen to the episode here. My shout out is at the end, and even includes a song dedication!