There are vast amounts of anime out there, but how do you find out about any of it to know what you might enjoy? Come learn about the places you can watch and the tools you might use to narrow your search. Participants: Donald Poleke, Mara DeMers, Viga, Amanda Lynn Bliss
This is a big, busy convention and we can offer suggestions on how to enjoy it without wiping out. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Allen Tipper, Kelly Reich, Nick Glover, Ben Ellis
Dive into the art of character creation with our expert panelists! Discover how to craft unforgettable RPG characters that stand out. Learn how to develop backstories, define distinctive traits, and find balance between strengths and flaws. Participants: Scott Kevin Jamison, Jaymie Delia Wagner, John Gary Leppik, Jamie Riedesel (mod), Andrea Stephanie Herman
We all know that courtroom dramas aren't entirely true to life, but some offenders are particularly bad. What does Hollywood get wrong about law, court, forensic science, and the justice system? Where should you NEVER take your legal advice? Participants: Erica Fair, Nathan Michael Anderson, Samuel T. Weston (mod), Jules Porter
What's the right age to introduce your kid to more mature media, such as Watchmen? How do kids decide what they're ready for? Participants: Katarina R Larsen, Atlas (mod), Annie Fleschner, Mackenzie Fleschner
E-mails, social media posts, photos, documents, playlists, passwords, subscriptions, etc. What happens to all that when you die? What steps can you take now to minimize the impact to your loved ones? How do you save your intellectual property? Participants: Bob Alberti (mod), Sarah Barsness, Elizabeth Ess
Adaptation from one medium to another can be tricky. What are some examples that failed and why? Participants: Randee Dawn (mod), Kendrick Edmund Cronin, T. Aaron Cisco
Content creation seems to be for the young, but in reality, creators are likely to be older than you think! Many do the Twitch thing, hold down a day job, raise families, and try to have a life. Let's discuss being older and online creating content. Participants: Tanya DePass, Chris Kluwe, Brian Forrest (mod)
Which TV adaptations of popular science fiction/fantasy books have worked and which have been less successful? What do our panelists think makes a good adaptation? What books do our panelists dearly want to see on screen? Participants: Lee Harris, Annie Fleschner, T. Aaron Cisco (mod), John Shea, Jonathan Matthew Surdo
Prof has worked in the games industry for 17 years and released some big titles, but has also made a multitude of small, weird, experimental games. Join us as we go through Prof's game jam archive and talk about game design learnings from each. Participants: Prof Brown
Everything Brady Bunch! This sitcom ran from 1969-1974 and in syndication for decades while also generating a myriad of spinoffs. We'll discuss the best and worst episodes, characters, spinoffs, and reunions. Maybe even indulge some fanfic ideas. Participants: Melissa J Arbuckle (mod), Wes Huntington
A panel about panels. How do they work? How would you make them better? Participants: Heather Bufkin, Erik Nyberg (mod), Viga, Shaun L Larsen, Ashley M Mages
Is early science fiction such as Frankenstein, Journey to the Center of the Earth, and The Time Machine still worth reading or has modern science and technology rendered them uninteresting and irrelevant? Participants: Scott Kevin Jamison, Barbara Gregorich, Renate Fiora (mod), David Lenander
Learn how to get started, find the right printer for your needs, and find and/or create useful designs. Participants: Neal Sorensen (mod), Andrea Stephanie Herman, Todd Murray, Nick Glover, Jeff Winsor
Otherwise successful people tell tales about their worst efforts and what was learned and/or earned from them. Participants: Chris Kluwe, Kelly Murphy, T. Aaron Cisco (mod), Stephanie Mariy Dreis
Back for its third year, Geeks & Cats is a panel where geeks discuss cats. Love cats? Come to this panel. Have cat-related questions? Come to this panel. Don't have anything else going on? Come to this panel! Participants: Kelly Jo Fredrickson (mod), Donna Louise Cook, Mary Rohe, Ren Nonnweiler, Sarah Pierce
Discuss how technology is transforming the tabletop gaming experience. From digital tools that enhance gameplay to the rise of virtual platforms, this panel will explore the benefits and challenges of integrating technology into traditional gaming. Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Grace Holdinghaus, Eric Zawadzki, Philip F Henry (mod)
Gaming is most often seen as a leisure hobby but can be used for teaching as well. Many subjects can benefit from using games as a tool and some games are well suited to illustrate certain ideas. Come discuss your go-to games and how they can be used. Participants: Melanie Reap, Kenneth Joel Justiniano, Amanda Larsen (mod), Zaydden Johnson, Jules Porter
Let's talk about random things we've had to explain to our non-geeky friends, family, and co-workers. Participants: KitKat (mod), Heather Bufkin, Daren Johnson, AJ Pete, Ben Ellis
What will make you decide not to consume a particular book/movie/TV series? What tropes, characters, or events will make you decide something is not for you? Participants: Kelly Jo Fredrickson, Scott Kevin Jamison, Kate Dane (mod), Sarah Pierce
Two publishing pros introduce and discuss the style guide: your go-to lorebook for documenting important writing decisions, from the spelling of a superhero name to the fictional astronomy of a fantasy novel, and a must-have tool for any writer or editor. Participants: Madeleine Vasaly (mod), J.M. Lee
The family dynamics of the Addams Family are often lauded as goal-worthy, especially Gomez/Morticia. Come discuss what you find appealing across the various incarnations of the characters. Participants: Tony Artym, Jaymie Delia Wagner, Nathan Michael Anderson, Sarah Moretsky, Kendrick Edmund Cronin (mod)
Looking to explore new worlds beyond D&D and Pathfinder? Join our panel as we delve into a variety RPG games that offer unique mechanics, settings, and storytelling opportunities. Come discover games that can bring fresh experiences to your tabletop! Participants: Kurt Fleschner, John Gary Leppik, Kayla McGrady (mod), Chris J Mortika, Edward Eastman
Romance/fantasy books are all over bestseller lists and social media. What makes a good romantasy? What about other related subgenres like paranormal romance, gothic romance, and sci-fi romance? Let's pick some tropes and name names. Participants: Randee Dawn, Samuel T. Weston, Kate Dane (mod), Paige Elisabeth Erickson, Atlas
Have you ever wanted to learn how ConSuite keeps filling up the bags of chips or how badging can be a great way to make new friends? Come find out from the CONvergence Volunteers Department how you can become volunteer powered. Participants: Ben Ellis, Heather L Heim, Samantha Bitner (mod), Rachel Lubich
A remake of a 1922 German silent film shouldn’t have been the smash hit of 2024-2025. Yet somehow a wheezing, mustachioed, combover vampire was exactly what people needed. Let’s talk about how to interpret the film and the varied reactions to it. Participants: skazka 9000, Nathan Michael Anderson, Kirsten Hazel Roepke-Larsen (mod), Brian Forrest, Bricklyn Holtgrave
The Sand Hurts My Feelings is a Star Wars Podcast from a Swiftie point of view. We'll discuss how Taylor Swift songs represent our favorite queen/senator in Star Wars, Padme Amidala. Come discover connections between the Queen of Naboo the Queen of Pop! Participants: Sarah Strain (mod), Alex Holmes
This panel aims to spread awareness and understanding about OCD. Society often has an inaccurate view of OCD and how it affects those suffering from it. Hear from those diagnosed and living with OCD, talk about representation in the media, and more. Participants: Jennifer Rogachevsky, Ren Nonnweiler, Hedy Rand-McKay, Alli M May (mod), Dani Mayville
We often go back to older works of fiction, mythology, and folklore to inspire current work. Why do these stories still appeal to us and teach us things? Participants: John Shea, Randee Dawn (mod), Kenneth Joel Justiniano, Lisa Hario, Crystal Lynn Kelleher
The early days of the tabletop RPGs...some of us were there! What were the experiences of those early gamers by comparison to the current state of the industry? Participants: Bob Alberti, Edward Eastman, Eric Zawadzki (mod), Don Kaiser
As we see more canonical polyamorous representation in media, it seems like some media properties hint at throuples & polycules that are almost, but not quite, canon. Are these legitimate explorations of non-monogamy or are we being polyamory baited? Participants: Katherine Jo Pysick, Patti Anne DeMay (mod), Lathan Murrell, John Heimbuch
Nudity, sexual innuendo, and sexual fantasies are the hallmarks of Star Trek: Enterprise. Something NSFW happens in 46% of all 98 episodes! 20 years after the finale, let's watch a few clips to see if Enterprise has aged well. **mature content** Participants: Frost Simula (mod)
We've seen panels where a hot dog's pedigree as a sandwich is up for debate, but what other topics in SFF/H are worth batting around? Panelists bring their controversial takes and present them for debate, with a moderator declaring resolutions at the end. Participants: Randee Dawn, Elizabeth Ess (mod), Shaun L Larsen, Nikki Armstrong
Thursday July 3, 2025 11:30pm - Friday July 4, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2 Greenway FGH
How do you maintain a good relationship with someone with different views? What are your boundaries or hard lines? Participants: Kelly Jo Fredrickson, Charlene Holm (mod), Lisa Marie Deguiseppi, Kerry Peterson, Atlas
Come celebrate one of the first great midnight movies on its 50th anniversary! What was your first RHPS experience? What did it awaken in you? **mature content** Participants: KitKat, Nathan Michael Anderson, Sean Eber, Cetius d'Raven (mod), Katherine Jo Pysick
Thursday July 3, 2025 11:30pm - Friday July 4, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 1 Lakeshore A
What does it mean to be an artist with the rise of AI? How do you protect your work? How do you market your skills against a machine? Participants: Geoffrey D Williams, Charles Urbach, Amber Raden (mod)
Get your questions answered about participating in the Masquerade by the Masquerade director and staff. Participants: Donald Kaiser (mod), Patrick Cool, Ben Livingston
Popularity of the "cozy" board game has risen over the last couple of years. What constitutes a cozy board game? Why are they so popular? What are some go-to titles? Participants: Brandy McQueen, Erik Nyberg, Renate Fiora (mod), Philip F Henry
Learn about how the archetypal heroine's journey differs from the hero's journey and how to spot it in the wild in your favorite books, TV shows, and movies. Participants: Jody Wurl (mod), Sherry Merriam, Stephanie Olson, Randee Dawn, Dana Baird
Let's talk about being fat at CVG! What are the intersectionalities that come with being a fat nerd/geek, and how does the media we love represent and demonize us? What does CONvergence do well to support us, and what can it do better? Participants: Mordecai Mika, Renate Fiora, Nikki Armstrong (mod), AJ Pete, Jessi Fox
What's the appeal of TV and films that never end? How much is our need to ease into a familiar place without a season of worldbuilding and how much of it is about a shared social experience? What are other reasons we like long-lived shows and franchises? Participants: Nathan Michael Anderson, Wes Huntington, Randee Dawn, Assad Khaishgi (mod), Janelle Kloth
This is a big, busy convention and we can offer suggestions on how to enjoy it without wiping out. Participants: Hawthorne Fasching, Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Brian Etchieson, Samantha Bitner, Rachel Poleke
How can you use your volunteer experience on your resume or college application? What skills are transferable? Participants: Cat Beltran, Heather L Heim, Cetius d'Raven, Katarina R Larsen (mod), Ashley M Mages
Step by step walk-through of a typical art assignment for tabletop game companies like Wizards of the Coast, Fantasy Flight Games, Wizkids, and other major game publishers. A basic introduction for students, aspiring pro artists, and curious gamers. Participants: Charles Urbach (mod), Lauren Addy, Christine Mitzuk
Historybounding, historically-inspired fantasy settings, "[character design] but make it [time period]", sheer flights of fancy--let's talk about the joys of purposefully playing around with historical authenticity in the service of art and storytelling. Participants: skazka 9000, Alex V Bender (mod), Elizabeth Merritt, Dana Baird, Kendrick Edmund Cronin
A lot of people think streaming is easy, just turn on the console, PC, camera, and go! We'll have some real talk on what actually goes into streaming and the harsh reality that you need to be in it for the love of it, and if you earn some money...bonus! Participants: Tanya DePass, Chris Kluwe
Award-winning author, TV producer, and musician T. Aaron Cisco shares excerpts from their latest novel, as well as wild tales from a lifetime of being an awkward, ugly, lonely nerd who made it their mission to bring much-needed squee into the world... Participants: T. Aaron Cisco
How can you incorporate geeky things into your professional life? How can you decide whether it's safe to share your authentic self with your coworkers? Participants: Kiki Joy Latham, Natalya Rose, KitKat, Alex V Bender (mod), Renate Fiora
What makes readers love a character? Let's discuss some of our favorite stories and why the characters live on in our minds. Are series characters more likely to stand out? Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Barbara Gregorich, Randee Dawn (mod), C.S.E. Cooney, Prof Brown
The works of Jane Austen have been translated into multiple other contexts--Regency romance, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, Clueless, and others. How is this still relevant today? Participants: Stephanie Cranford, Kirsten Hazel Roepke-Larsen, Sarah Barsness, Elizabeth Merritt (mod), Tina Connolly
The world of role-playing can sometimes be overwhelming for newcomers. How can we teach the genre in a way that’s fun instead of confusing? How can a Storyteller adjust the rules to the players' comprehension level? Participants: Molly Elizabeth Cornelius, Kenneth Joel Justiniano (mod), John Gary Leppik, Chris J Mortika, Amanda Larsen
Practice makes perfect, but why is perfection the goal? Art is about self-expression and you don't need perfection to be able to speak your truth. Learn how to appreciate where you are in your artistic journey with those who've already walked that road. Participants: Sonni de Soto, Erin Wilaby, Sarah Pierce, Viga (mod), Kerry Peterson
Are you an Avatar fan? No, not the blue people one--Avatar: the last Airbender. Cartoons, comics, books, and the live action...but not *that live action! Get together will other fans and discuss what you like about the series and hope to see! Participants: Samuel T. Weston, Lisa Marie Deguiseppi, Cetius d'Raven (mod), Michael S Shappe, Chantalle Uzan
A discussion on how to create inclusive and welcoming gaming environments. Learn about the importance of diversity in games, strategies for fostering inclusivity at your gaming table, and how to address and prevent toxicity in gaming communities. Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Grace Holdinghaus, Kerry Peterson, Katarina R Larsen (mod), Tanya DePass
Why do books get banned? Why should you read the stuff people are trying to ban? Participants: Renee Petersen, Elizabeth Ess, Danith McPherson, nick A jaworski, Crystal Lynn Kelleher (mod)
By now, you've probably seen folks in black shirts and berets wandering around the con. Ever wondered who they are, what they do, and what organization they belong to? We'll share what the TRMN is all about and explain how you can participate. Participants: Commander Cate Hesser, Lt. Commander Chuck Kelly (mod), General John Neitz, Sir John Fairbairn
If you want to get away with evil deeds, you have to seem virtuous to outsiders. We discuss our favorite fictional villains who spun their public image to hide their intent, the tactics they used, and how we can learn from them to avoid real propaganda. Participants: Lathan Murrell, T. Aaron Cisco (mod), Lauren Crabtree
What chapter books are popular among young readers? Let's hear from the real experts--the kids themselves. Participants: Dani Mayville, Mackenzie Fleschner, Becca Justiniano (mod), Rose Grumdahl, Gwen McCabe
There is a current trend of giving antagonists backstories to make them sympathetic. Is this something we need? Does it add or subtract from their character? Participants: Barbara Gregorich, Lisa Hario (mod), Kate Dane, Jamie Riedesel, Becca Justiniano
Kids and teens discuss how to save the planet. Participants: Dani Mayville, Mackenzie Fleschner, Rose Grumdahl, Gwen McCabe, Kenneth Joel Justiniano (mod)
From the original manga to the new Cosmos movies, it's the series that keeps on giving! Which generation of fan are you? Let's take a quick trip through the legendary series that introduced so many of us to anime. Participants: Heather Bufkin
People obsessed with sports are just as nerdy as people into video games or RPGs. Research shows that being a fan fills an innate human need to belong. Why isn't that brand of fandom given the same treatment in society? Participants: Chris Kluwe, Erik Nyberg (mod), Stephanie Cranford, Kendrick Edmund Cronin, Janelle Kloth
What do you consider when selecting fabrics for a costume? How has this changed as you've advanced as a costumer? What tips do you have for beginners (e.g. notoriously difficult materials, things that look good on a budget, etc.)? Participants: Sara Spookystitch, Lance (Ru) Moody, Elizabeth Merritt (mod), Dana Baird, Jen Schultz
Music and theater for the spec fiction geeks! How does one write and collaborate on such a thing? Find out from writers and musicians who have done just that. Participants: C.S.E. Cooney, Mary Crowell, Tina Connolly, Jeremy Cooney, Carlos Hernandez
Get an update on the latest with the organization that runs CONvergence with members of the Convergence Events Board of Directors. Participants: Tim Wick, Charmaine Parnell, Courtney Azar, CJ Mantel, Eric Knight, William Verburg-Cunningham, Rachel Poleke, Allen Tipper, David Bianchi
Join panelists for a discussion about geek-themed cookbooks and getting nerdy in the kitchen. Topics covered may include: what makes a good geek cookbook, where to get your hands on them, and how to use geeky interests to make cooking more fun! Participants: KitKat (mod), Scott Grandt, KN Hamann, Renee Petersen, Dani Mayville
Feeling the Force is a Star Wars podcast that examines the core emotions in the Skywalker saga. In this panel, we present a summary of fear in Star Wars. Is fear the path to the Dark Side as Yoda says? Join us and find out! Participants: Sarah Strain, Alex Holmes
How do we create art that is authentic while navigating the economic pressure of paying our bills? What are the downsides of monetizing our passions? Is there inherent privilege in participating in artistic hobbies without monetary compensation? Participants: Ren Nonnweiler, Sonni de Soto, Christopher J. Daniels, Elizabeth Merritt, Amber Raden (mod)
Come discuss some of your favorite musicals and stage productions! How has Broadway changed since Hamilton, and what new shows are taking center stage? What local theaters and productions deserve recognition? Participants: Lance (Ru) Moody, Dawn Krosnowski (mod), Melissa J Arbuckle, Paige Elisabeth Erickson, Crystal Lynn Kelleher
Piercing discussion on the the myths and misconceptions behind swords and fencing. Panelists will discuss good and bad examples of historical fencing in media, and what really happens when you can't roll to hit in real life. Participants: Erica Fair, Kurt Fleschner (mod), Jamie Riedesel, Kendrick Edmund Cronin, Paul Bates
Dream of weaving tales and guiding adventurers through perilous quests? Join our panel of seasoned game masters as they share invaluable tips and tricks for running engaging and memorable campaigns. This panel is your gateway to the art of game mastering. Participants: Bob Alberti (mod), Alex V Bender, Kenneth Joel Justiniano, Eric Zawadzki, Margaret Eastman
Ever have dreams of designing your own board game? That's awesome. So did we. But it's harder than it looks. Come learn from our mistakes and let us help you take your game from a mere idea to a finished product. Participants: Kenneth Joel Justiniano (mod), Nate Metcalf, Brandy McQueen, Philip F Henry, Martin Grider
Explore the psychological aspects of gaming, including why we play, how its impacts our emotions and behavior, and its potential benefits and downsides. Delve into topics such as game addiction, games as therapy, and the social dynamics of multiplayer. Participants: John Shea, Prof Brown, Allyson Claire Cygan, nick A jaworski (mod)
A lot of costumers have had the experience of something not working out as planned. Costumers discuss the things that just did not go as planned and what they learned from it. Participants: Molly Elizabeth Cornelius, Sonni de Soto, Elizabeth Merritt, Dana Baird (mod), Kendrick Edmund Cronin
Comics are a unique medium that allow for techniques that don't work elsewhere. What are they? How do comics use them effectively? What types of story work better in comics than anywhere else? Participants: Madeleine Vasaly, Mark Lundberg (mod), Lathan Murrell, Amber Raden, Jules Porter
Laughter meets real life in this unforgettable blend of stand-up comedy and storytelling. Join Miss Shannan Paul and her special guests as they turn life's chaos into comedy gold--sharing hilarious, heartfelt, and geek-approved tales that celebrate resilience, fandom, and the joy of embracing the unexpected. Participants: Shannan Paul
Do you still feel safe to be "out and proud"? This panel is an opportunity for us to come together to discuss that very issue and find comfort in one another's identities. Participants: Erin Wilaby, Eiryn Katherine, Sean Eber, Kiki Joy Latham (mod), Mordecai Mika
Behind the scenes at a haunted house. What's it really like to work as a zombie at a haunted attraction? Share stories, makeup and costuming tips, and our favorite scary phrases. Participants: Carla Hennes (mod), Cherelle-Renee Childs, Todd Murray, Beva Steinberg, Catherine Hansen
Join us for a lively discussion on the highs and lows of video game movies. We'll cover what makes a successful adaptation, analyze some of the best and worst examples, and speculate on upcoming releases. Participants: Henry Avalon Kaldhusdal, Wes Huntington, Jackson Vanguard
Discussing the ins and outs of writing fanfiction. **mature content** Participants: Erica Fair, Allison Dean (mod), Jaymie Delia Wagner, Dirk Thomas Ykema, Tanya DePass
There are those who love to sing karaoke, and those who love to watch karaoke! We have a fun party for you, come to sing, watch OR Sing-A-Long! Come wrap up an amazing evening at CONvergence with some karaoke and friends. Participants: Elizabeth Hufnagle Puffer
Alan Moore is known for such graphic novel classics as Watchmen, V For Vendetta, and From Hell, but recently he's focused more on prose works such as Jerusalem and The Great When. Let's gather and listen to the Voice of the Fire! Participants: Tim Uren, Patrick G Harrigan (mod), Matthew Kessen
The documentary "Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched" hit streaming and ignited renewed interest in folk horror. These stories focus on how outsiders collide with folk religion, paganism, and the dark side of nature. Let's talk about some of our favorites. Participants: skazka 9000, Ann Laabs, Bryon D Stump, Andrea Stephanie Herman, Lathan Murrell (mod)
Some movies and TV series are not cult classics or so bad they're good. Instead, they're a little cheesy and a lot of fun. Streaming services are responsible for creating or resurrecting properties that qualify. Let's talk about our favorites. Participants: Ren Nonnweiler, Nathan Michael Anderson, Randee Dawn, Katherine Jo Pysick, Kay Ericson (mod)
Friday July 4, 2025 11:30pm - Saturday July 5, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 1 Lakeshore A
Ryan Coogler and company gave us a vampire movie that incorporates lore and ties it in with American experiences of "the other", assimilation, and resistance. Let's talk about this ish! Participants: Gregory Parks (mod), T. Aaron Cisco, Lathan Murrell, Damarra Atkins
Friday July 4, 2025 11:30pm - Saturday July 5, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2 Greenway FGH
Video games have had adult content since forever, but with online game stores opting to carry more Adults-Only games, we are in a renaissance of adult content. Join the discussion about the whats, wheres, & WHY?! **mature content** Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Roger Morse (mod), TheRealGChu
Ever wondered if you may have ADHD or be autistic? Come hear from panelists about their experiences getting diagnosed as an adult. Learn how to advocate for yourself, what the process may look like, and what benefits a formal diagnosis may hold. Participants: Alyssa Pon-Franklin, Damian Boldizs (mod), Renate Fiora, Alli M May, Annie Fleschner
Join Talking Cardboard as they dive into the world of board game design and publishing. Get insights from industry experts as we explore their journeys, challenges, and the creative process behind bringing your favorite games to life. Participants: Nick Dotzenrod (mod), Cory Peickert, Jeremy Geenen, Adam Rehberg, Justin Kemppainen, Liz Davidson
Hop about the nostalgia train and come gush about your favorite cartoons from the 20th century! What do we prefer about them over modern animated shows? Participants: Kiki Joy Latham, Bryon D Stump, Erik Nyberg, Elizabeth Merritt, Shannan Paul (mod)
Deciding whether you can make a business from your art is a difficult process. How do you figure out what will pay your bills? How do you balance time for art with a need for a regular job? Participants: Charles Urbach, Amber Raden (mod), John Heimbuch, Janelle Kloth
Come join GoH Prof Brown, Duck Washington, and other avid birders for a walk down Loring Green and into Loring Park to look at birds! Bring Your Own Binoculars and get ready to geek out on birds. **canceled if raining** Participants: Prof Brown, Duck Washington
This is a big, busy convention and we can offer suggestions on how to enjoy it without wiping out. Participants: Rhea Wessendorf (mod), Maya Sutton, Rachel Poleke, Heather L Heim, Brian Etchieson
It's objectively terrible, but it's fun! What shows do you know are awful but watch anyway? Participants: Kiki Joy Latham, Ren Nonnweiler, Randee Dawn, Laura Okagaki (mod), AJ Pete
Want to introduce kids or non-gaming friends to the world of tabletop games? Join our panelists as they share tips and strategies for making gaming accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels. Participants: Grace Holdinghaus, Erik Nyberg, Kierin McKay, Mackenzie Fleschner, Raina Kelly (mod)
Anger is a natural human emotion, though one that requires more control in expressing positively than many. How does one keep from being toxic while still allowing a healthy expression of their anger? In what ways is anger a good? Participants: Charlene Holm (mod), Jamie Riedesel, Kelly Murphy, Elizabeth Ess, Tanya DePass
What do video games have to say about religious trauma? How can tabletop Game Masters navigate this issue with sensitivity in their campaigns? Is gaming a good tool for recovering from religious trauma? Participants: Abigail Sloane Silver (mod), Kenneth Joel Justiniano, Damian Boldizs, Amanda Larsen, Jules Porter
Ever wanted to learn Klingon? Our panelists will teach you a few basic phrases and discuss the history of the language. Participants: Dawn Krosnowski (mod), Laura Thurston, Lana Rosario
How do science fiction and fantasy inform our understanding of how to be in the resistance? Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Renate Fiora, Kerry Peterson, Katarina R Larsen (mod), Lathan Murrell
What do kids like to cook? What are the epic fails? When should kids start cooking? Participants: Dani Mayville, Mackenzie Fleschner, Becca Justiniano (mod), Rose Grumdahl
Geeks and nerds are far more common in the memberships of sports industries than you've heard. Hear some first hand reports from the trenches. Participants: Chris Kluwe, Peter Maxwell Avirom, Ryan Kaiser
Hobby wargaming has existed since the 19th century, but recently many of their design ideas have been repurposed to model non-military subjects in games such as John Company, Root, Cross-Bronx Expressway, and others. How, why, and by whom? Participants: Patrick G Harrigan (mod), Tim Uren
Welcome to the 144th Assassin’s Guild Boffing Tournament! We are back post-COVID! Compete against your fellow congoers by hitting each other with foam padded weapons! Trophies will be awarded to the top combatants! Participants: David Bianchi
The 501st Legion+Rebel Legion+Mando Mercs are international non-profit charity groups who make and wear screen accurate Star Wars costumes to bring joy and raise money for those in need. Want to learn more? Have a question? You've come to the right place. Participants: Kayla Beckemeyer, Jill McTavish
After 10 years, Bioware finally gave us a sequel to Dragon Age: Inquisition. How well did they do? What lingering questions do you still have? Participants: Brittany Ann Kerschner (mod), Caitlin Jean Sauve, Janna Seliger, Theo Quinlivan, Tanya DePass
With the broadening of gender expression and the wider acceptance of exploration on that spectrum comes the need for resources and community, especially for younger people. What's out there? How do you find it? Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Sarah Pierce, Mackenzie Fleschner (mod), Annie Fleschner, Kay Ericson
The world of self-publishing can be misleading. This will be a discussion about the realities versus the expectations of that process, all the pitfalls to avoid, and all the benefits to be gained. Participants: Stephanie Olson, Barbara Gregorich, Madeleine Vasaly, Prof Brown (mod), Becca Justiniano
Creators (esp. film) have a checkered past in portraying marginalized groups accurately, never mind respectfully. But is it better than no representation at all? How can we improve this situation? Participants: Dirk Thomas Ykema, Assad Khaishgi, Laura Okagaki, Shannan Paul (mod), Jules Porter
Some sci-fi readers revel in reading series and don't really care for stand-alones. Others are the opposite. What attracts readers to series and what to stand-alones? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each? Participants: Barbara Gregorich, Randee Dawn (mod), Kate Dane, Dani Mayville, Milli Gilbert
Several series are running concurrently. Engage in a discussion about Lower Decks, Prodigy, Strange New Worlds, Section 31, and Starfleet Academy. Participants: Brittany Ann Kerschner, Jim McMahon, Wes Huntington, Kirsten Hazel Roepke-Larsen (mod), Justin Edward Grays
Safe binding requires a good fit. Stop by for a quick measurement in a private pop up pod and leave with your 2023 gc2b brand size. Sorry, no actual binders to try on. Will have a waitlist app to streamline the wait! Hosted by Sartorial PT and Wellness. Participants: Ashley Haapapuro
OGL? ORC? IP? IC? Whether you're a game dev, streamer, contractor, or dreamer, this session will equip you with the knowledge to protect your creative work, navigate contracts with confidence, and avoid legal pitfalls in the gaming industry. Participants: Lindsay Lundeen
Join us to discuss the highlights of horror media that has come out since CVG2024. Participants: Charlene Holm, Stephanie Olson, Randee Dawn, Ann Laabs, Molly Glover (mod)
Our panel of youth and teen experts will help bring you up to speed with the latest slang so that you might have a chance of understanding it. Participants: Katarina R Larsen, Mackenzie Fleschner, John Kline, Kit Holmboe, Becca Justiniano (mod)
Parasocial relationships (one-way relationships where fans feel they "know" a content creator, media personality or influencer) have always existed. With social media, they take unfortunate, sometimes perilous twists. Let's discuss navigating them. Participants: Tanya DePass, Kendrick Edmund Cronin (mod), Tanya PlusOne, Chris Kluwe
The panel where we talk about anything and everything *except* the CONvergence Masquerade. If you are interested in everything *except* the masquerade, this is the panel for you! Participants: Nick Glover, Melissa Kaercher, Molly Glover, Jeremy Stomberg
Netflix has a bunch of Korean dramadeys that are totally addicting! Let's chat about shows we love, what we enjoy about Korean TV, and the various themes/tropes seen. Be ready to jot down some titles to check out later! Participants: Susie Kline (mod), Dawn Krosnowski, Noel Thingvall, KayCee Bucher
Statement of multiple fans of Rusty Quill's horror podcast concerning their enjoyment of said podcast and their post-conclusion head canons. Recorded live during Convergence 2025, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Statement begins.... Participants: Allison Dean, Lisa Marie Deguiseppi, Cetius d'Raven (mod)
Oh heavens, our lovelies, this blows! Let's have a discussion about hormones, oral and otherwise, diet and best practices to get us through these very difficult times. Participants: Renate Fiora, Jai Negri, Kendrick Edmund Cronin, Shannan Paul (mod), Annie Fleschner
Tasks, meetings, and mental loads will expand to fill available space and time. Let's talk about this thing called "adulting" how can we keep ourselves from stressing about it. Participants: Charlene Holm (mod), Heather L Heim, Melissa J Arbuckle, Kelly Murphy, Ben Ellis
Ebony and Ivory, Black and Asian, etc.--why are we so afraid of this? What can we do to combat that fear and embrace the statement "love is love". Join us as we discuss this topic and more. Participants: Kiki Joy Latham (mod), Cyn Sanchez, Justin Edward Grays, Lathan Murrell
And again, the English language is treated with great violence in a space safe from flying fruit. Participants: Edward Eastman (mod), Margaret Eastman, Brian LaBounty, Bob Alberti
Why do you feel different drinking tea versus coffee? Let's talk about caffeine in all its different forms. Participants: KitKat (mod), Robert Gounley, Laura Okagaki, Shaun L Larsen, Katarina R Larsen
Saturday July 5, 2025 11:30pm - Sunday July 6, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2 Greenway I
Many have observed striking parallels between recent U.S. history and that of Germany in the late 20s/early 30s. What can we do to ensure history doesn't repeat itself? Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Abigail Sloane Silver, Boris Leonidovich Smelov, Kendrick Edmund Cronin (mod), Jules Porter
Saturday July 5, 2025 11:30pm - Sunday July 6, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2 Greenway FGH
How does someone explore kink and the kink community safely? What is it like in the kink community? And why are so many geeks so kinky as well? Let's talk about kink and the community surrounding it! **mature content** Participants: Heather L Heim, James, Kelly Murphy, Lathan Murrell, Lisa Marie Deguiseppi (mod)
Saturday July 5, 2025 11:30pm - Sunday July 6, 2025 12:30am CDT Hyatt 2 Greenway BCDE
Explore the history and evolution of tabletop games, from ancient classics to modern masterpieces. Our panelists will discuss how game design, themes, and mechanics have changed over the years and what the future might hold for the industry. Participants: Chris J Mortika, Renate Fiora (mod), Eric Zawadzki, Brandy McQueen, Martin Grider
Let’s discuss the value in engaging in creative projects without the end goal of turning them into a money-making enterprise, whether it be a full-time career or a side-hustle. Participants: Prof Brown, Tanya Brody, Jerry Belich, Kendrick Edmund Cronin (mod), Amber Raden
While school can teach a wide variety of subjects and skills, it can't cover everything needed for general adulting. How can we use geekdom to either teach those skills or offer support in finding a teacher or mentor? Participants: Katarina R Larsen, Dani Mayville, Raederle Sterling (mod), Janelle Kloth, Ashley M Mages
Struggle with going back to regular life after a convention? You're not alone. Our panelists will discuss their coping mechanisms and why it might be good that conventions are usually just vacations. Participants: Heather L Heim, Kelly Murphy, Renate Fiora, Kendrick Edmund Cronin, T. Aaron Cisco (mod)
Pro-censorship rhetoric is on the rise both in politics and in fandom. We'll discuss why it's become so prevalent, what forms censorship can take, and how to combat it in the fight to keep fandom a space where expression, not repression, is celebrated. Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Assad Khaishgi (mod), Kerry Peterson, Lauren Crabtree, Jules Porter
You can be on panels. It's easy and we want you to join us. Find out all you need to know about being a panelist. Participants: Becca Justiniano, Jesse Boom, Pete Lane, Elizabeth Hufnagle Puffer
The creative process can be hard enough, but many of us have disability challenges, both physical and mental, than can make it seem daunting. What strategies can one employ to ease those concerns? Are there mediums that work well for certain concerns? Participants: Ren Nonnweiler, Erin Wilaby, Eiryn Katherine, Katherine Jo Pysick, Neal Sorensen (mod)
Each year North Country Gaylaxians chooses one book a month to read. Our charter is to read books either by LGBT+ authors or books with positive LGBT+ content. This panel will discuss the books we have read since CONvergence 2024. Participants: Don Kaiser, Claudia Slovacek, David Lenander
As a GM, what are some options if you love an RPG setting but not the system it was written in? If you convert into another system, how do you maintain balance? Participants: Bob Alberti, Alex V Bender (mod), John Gary Leppik, Chris J Mortika
When we started, we were headed somewhere else, but we got here. Come hear stories of unexpected triumphs and cautionary tales! Participants: Chris Kluwe, Tanya DePass
Reimagining classic stories/novels in different settings. What draws us back to these stories? Participants: Randee Dawn, Craig Smith, Noel Thingvall (mod), David Lenander, John Heimbuch
This panel will introduce the audience to two local conventions: Gaylaxicon 2025, a LGBT+ and allies literary speculative fiction (SF, Fantasy, Horror) and gaming convention in October, and CONsole Room 2026, the Minnesota Dr. Who Convention in January. Participants: Don Kaiser (mod), Natasha Jo Krentz, Ben Ellis
We've all had a friend expose us to strange music, some of which we've loved and some that left us confused. What happens when a lover of random items, thrift finds, and all things obscure exposes comedians to weird music they've never heard before? Participants: Melissa Sue Kaercher, Jason Kruger (mod), Duck Washington, Tim Wick, Maren Aalgaard, Shannan Paul
Writers of mystery novels must come up with a mystery to be solved. What "givens" must writers of science fiction come up with? How does this help or hinder writing the story? Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Wes Huntington, Kate Dane, Danith McPherson (mod), T. Aaron Cisco
Some games that come in small boxes are a lot of fun to play over and over again. What are some of your favorites? Participants: Ren Nonnweiler, Elizabeth Merritt (mod), Renate Fiora, nick A jaworski, Don Kaiser
Find out who we lost this year in genre film and get some recommendations from the panel on what work to seek out. Participants: Melissa Sue Kaercher, Garrick A Dietze (mod), Megan M Slawson, Kelvin Hatle, Andrea Ropella
Is a sausage on a bun a sandwich? What about a stroopwafel? Come debate the merits of the sandwich alignment chart. Participants: Randee Dawn, Tony Harmelink, Nikki Armstrong (mod)
When you're deciding to read a book, you might look at the cover, the title, the author, and the back cover blurb. You might also glance at the first page. We'll discuss what openings are most likely to draw an audience in and why. Participants: Jaymie Delia Wagner, Joseph Lee, Lisa Hario, Danith McPherson (mod), Justin Octavian Rose
