Best Astravoid Podcasts (2025)

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Lie, Cheat, Steal, Manipulate 12:22

Play Pause

9d ago12:22

12:22

In this raw and uncompromising episode, Scotty B addresses the darker behaviors that sometimes lurk beneath the surface of cosplay and creative circles—lying, cheating, stealing, and manipulation. From clout-chasing to backstabbing collaborations, he unpacks how these patterns emerge when ego and insecurity take the wheel. Scotty explores the psych…

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Growth at a Cosplayer's Expense 10:03

11d ago10:03

10:03

In this revealing episode, Scotty B examines the darker side of “growth” in the cosplay world—the kind that comes at the creator’s expense. From emotional burnout to exploitative collaborations, he explores how individuals, events, and even communities often benefit from a cosplayer’s time, image, and energy without giving much in return. Scotty re…

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No One’s Actually Saying Anything... 9:16

15d ago9:16

9:16

In this sharp and unfiltered episode, Scotty B calls out the noise. He explores how much of today’s cosplay and creative content is polished, predictable, and empty—people talking around ideas instead of saying anything real. Scotty dives into why so many creators hide behind trends, safe opinions, or algorithm-friendly posts, and how fear of backl…

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Is Burnout the Only Way? 9:41

17d ago9:41

9:41

In this introspective and hard-hitting episode, Scotty B questions a toxic belief buried deep in creative culture—the idea that burnout is proof of commitment. He explores how exhaustion has become a badge of honor for cosplayers and creators, and why many equate constant output with worth. Scotty unpacks the cycles of overwork, comparison, and gui…

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How Much Working with Brands Can Suck? 11:22

19d ago11:22

11:22

In this brutally honest episode, Scotty B pulls back the curtain on the business side of cosplay—the brand deals, sponsorships, and “partnership opportunities” that aren’t always what they seem. He exposes how creators are often undervalued, overworked, and treated like disposable marketing tools in exchange for exposure or free merch. Scotty share…

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Attention Seekers 12:45

21d ago12:45

12:45

In this candid and challenging episode, Scotty B tackles one of the most polarizing topics in cosplay and online culture—attention-seeking. He explores why so many creators crave visibility, how social media rewards extreme behavior, and what happens when the pursuit of attention replaces the pursuit of meaning. Scotty unpacks the psychology behind…

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Because You Like Cosplay – Not Because Everyone Approves 10:41

23d ago10:41

10:41

In this empowering episode, Scotty B brings cosplay back to its roots—doing it because you love it, not because it earns applause. He breaks down how external approval, online metrics, and comparison culture have quietly shifted cosplay from passion to performance. Through honest reflection, Scotty challenges the need for validation and explores wh…

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Cosplay Removes Self-Identity 10:50

25d ago10:50

10:50

In this thought-provoking episode, Scotty B examines a side of cosplay few dare to talk about—the loss of self beneath the costume. When embodying characters becomes second nature, where does the real person go? He explores how constant transformation, performance, and validation from others can blur identity lines, leaving creators unsure of who t…

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If I Had More Followers, You’d Listen and Why That’s Terrifying 13:24

27d ago13:24

13:24

By ScottyB

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Cosplay Disappointment 11:40

28d ago11:40

11:40

In this raw and reflective episode, Scotty B takes an honest look at disappointment—how it shapes us, tests us, and sometimes breaks us. From failed collaborations to unmet expectations within the cosplay and creative worlds, he explores what really happens when the vision in your head doesn’t match the reality you get. Scotty unpacks the quiet gri…

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Too Faithful to Fandoms 10:01

1M ago10:01

10:01

Hosted by: Scotty B In this introspective episode, Scotty B asks a daring question many cosplayers avoid: Have we become too faithful to the fandoms we love? When devotion to source material turns into creative constraint, it can stop cosplayers from innovating, evolving, or even enjoying the process. Scotty explores how rigid fan expectations, can…

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Cosplayer Mental Health – Is it Helping or Hurting? 9:52

1M ago9:52

9:52

Hosted by: Scotty B In one of the most important conversations of the season, Scotty B dives headfirst into the complex relationship between cosplay and mental health. While cosplay can be a powerful outlet for expression, confidence, and connection—it can also trigger anxiety, burnout, body image issues, and intense pressure to perform. This episo…

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The Bar is Too High 9:15

1M ago9:15

9:15

Hosted by: Scotty B In this vulnerable and insightful episode, Scotty B addresses the unspoken truth many cosplayers feel but rarely say out loud: the bar is too high. With social media full of flawless photos, expensive builds, and seemingly effortless success, it’s easy to feel like nothing you do is ever enough. Scotty unpacks how this overwhelm…

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It’s Fun, but Remember all this Online Stuff is Work! 10:34

1M ago10:34

10:34

Hosted by: Scotty B In this real-talk episode, Scotty B reminds cosplayers and creators alike that while posting, sharing, and building an online presence may look like fun and games—it’s still work. And like any job, it comes with invisible labor, emotional energy, and the risk of burnout. Whether it’s the hours spent editing videos, curating cont…

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Convention Creepers 9:37

2M ago9:37

9:37

Hosted by: Scotty B In this important and unflinching episode, Scotty B tackles one of the most uncomfortable yet crucial topics in the cosplay world: creeper behavior at conventions. From unwanted photos and boundary-crossing compliments to full-on harassment, this episode calls it out clearly—this is not OK. Scotty shares honest reflections, comm…

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Cosplayers - Don’t Be That Guy (or Girl) 8:28

2M ago8:28

8:28

Hosted by: Scotty B In this direct and eye-opening episode, Scotty B outlines the behaviors that can quietly erode community, respect, and fun within the cosplay world. From attention-seeking antics and con creep energy to social media showboating and ego-fueled one-upmanship, this is your definitive “what not to do” guide. “Don’t be that guy” or “…

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The WORST Behavior (in the Cosplay Community) 10:23

2M ago10:23

10:23

Hosted by: Scotty B In this unfiltered and necessary episode, Scotty B takes aim at the darker side of cosplay culture—the toxic behaviors that often go unchecked beneath the surface of creativity and fandom. From ego-driven gatekeeping and public callouts to clout-chasing and fake kindness, this episode isn’t about canceling anyone—it’s about call…

1
Remember When it Was OK to Have Friends? 9:35

2M ago9:35

9:35

Hosted by: Scotty B In this heartfelt episode, Scotty B explores how the cosplay and creator spaces—once centered around shared fandom and friendship—have shifted into platforms for performance, comparison, and quiet isolation. He asks a question that cuts deeper than it seems: Remember when it was OK to just have friends? No follower counts. No br…

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You Are NOT Missing Out 8:08

2M ago8:08

8:08

Hosted by: Scotty B In a world of endless scrolls, con recaps, and follower milestones, it’s easy to feel like you’re being left behind. But in this grounded and empowering episode, Scotty B flips the FOMO script and reminds cosplayers: you are not missing out. This episode explores how social media creates the illusion of constant action, success,…

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If it All Stopped Tomorrow 6:38

2M ago6:38

6:38

Hosted by: Scotty B What would be left if the followers vanished, the algorithms broke, and the conventions went dark? In this reflective and emotionally grounded episode, Scotty B invites listeners to confront a powerful question: If it all stopped tomorrow—would your cosplay journey still matter to you? Stripping away platforms, praise, and perfo…

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Body Mind Cosplay 22:45

2M ago22:45

22:45

This week on the show, we welcome Body Mind Cosplay, a creator whose builds showcase both discipline and playfulness. Since arriving on the cosplay scene in 2021, she’s brought Borderlands props, Spartan collaborations, and intricate designs to life — always with a strong fitness and maker mindset at the core. We explore her cosplay journey, her ex…

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Is it about Cosplay or the Fame Wave? 6:25

2M ago6:25

6:25

Hosted by: Scotty B In this sharply observant episode, Scotty B takes aim at the growing tension between creativity and clout in the cosplay world. What started as a personal, fandom-driven art form has increasingly become entangled with influencer culture, branding, and the chase for internet fame. Scotty asks the critical question: Are you in it …

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What Are We Complaining About? 8:50

2M ago8:50

8:50

Hosted by: Scotty B In this candid and self-reflective episode, Scotty B unpacks the ever-present wave of complaints that echo across the cosplay and creator communities. From algorithm changes and follower counts to con drama and content fatigue, it seems like there's always something to vent about—but what’s actually at the root of all this noise…

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Are You Here to Learn or Just Likes and Follows? 9:50

2M ago9:50

9:50

Hosted by: Scotty B In this eye-opening episode, Scotty B draws a hard line between two mindsets dominating the cosplay space: those who show up to learn, grow, and create—and those chasing the endless loop of likes, follows, and surface-level validation. Cosplay is more than content. It’s a craft, a journey, and a deeply personal process. But soci…

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Stiff Competition – Should There Be? 13:19

3M ago13:19

13:19

Hosted by: Scotty B In this episode, Scotty B takes a sharp look at the role of competition in the cosplay world—on the con floor, in online spaces, and within ourselves. While cosplay is often marketed as inclusive and welcoming, the pressure to be the best, go viral, or win awards can quietly turn creativity into combat. Scotty asks the uncomfort…

1
There are No Gods in Cosplay 9:35

3M ago9:35

9:35

Hosted by: Scotty B In this bold and unapologetic episode, Scotty B dismantles the hierarchy that social media and convention culture often try to impose on the cosplay community. Despite the appearance of “cosplay celebrities” and influencer followings, the truth is simple: there are no gods in cosplay. No matter how polished the costumes or high …

1
Cosplay is NOT the Full Time Answer 9:25

3M ago9:25

9:25

Hosted by: Scotty B In this honest and thought-provoking episode, Scotty B breaks the illusion that cosplay must become a full-time career to be meaningful. With the rise of influencer culture and social media metrics as markers of success, many creators find themselves lost in the chase for relevance, reach, and recognition—often at the cost of th…

1
Who are You Listening To? 12:20

3M ago12:20

12:20

Hosted by: Scotty B In this episode, Scotty B dives deep into the noise surrounding cosplay culture—asking the essential question: “Who are you listening to, and why?” With candor and a bit of fire, he challenges the narratives cosplayers absorb from social media, influencer culture, and internalized pressure. This is a call for self-inquiry: Are y…

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Season 6 - Cult of Personality - Finally! 10:11

3M ago10:11

10:11

Hosted by: Scotty B In this season premiere, Scotty B returns to the Heroes of Cosplay Sanctuary after a long hiatus with a renewed vision and a deeply personal mission. Titled “Cult of Personality,” the episode sets the tone for Season 6: an introspective journey into the personal and cultural dynamics of cosplay. The episode explores how cosplay …

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Girls Just Wanna Have Fund$ – Savanna Smith on Cash, Confidence & Modern Love (w/ Hailey Alamo & Adrianna Stewart) 1:16:00

3M ago1:16:00

1:16:00

Need a money mantra for 2025? Pop-model Savanna Smith turns a rough modeling gig into a bankroll anthem with her new single “Girls Just Wanna Have Fund$.” Host David Shaft welcomes Savanna and day-one besties Hailey Alamo (future therapist) & Adrianna Stewart (fashion entrepreneur) for a candid, rapid-fire chat about: going from “model-apartment bl…

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Hocus Pocus Star Vinessa Shaw on Magic, Buddhism & Vegan Week 8:44

4M ago8:44

8:44

Real magic exists! Hocus Pocus star Vinessa Shaw shares Buddhist mindfulness, Disney set secrets & a 7-day vegan challenge that’ll change your life. Stanley Kubrick’s pep talk, four-hug mornings, and more—this interview is pure enchantment. Highlights: Opening: “Do you believe in magic?” Chanting at 12: Buddhism as a stress-buster Landing Hocus Poc…

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Cosplay Tips with AstraVoid – DIY Mastery to GalaxyCon Judge 32:15

4M ago32:15

32:15

Cosplay tips, DIY costume ideas, and GalaxyCon judge secrets—AstraVoid reveals the self-taught path that took her from biology classes to the spotlight at GalaxyCon’s Nightmare Weekend Chicago. After mastering sewing, foam-smithing, wigs, LEDs (and winning major awards) Astra landed a guest contract at 21 and now mentors the next wave of creators. …

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Patrice Banks | Girls Auto Clinic — Driving Change, One SheCANic at a Time 20:10

4M ago20:10

20:10

Recorded on the show floor at AutoTech 2025, engineer-turned-entrepreneur Patrice Banks shares how a single bad repair experience inspired her to build Girls Auto Clinic—an all-women garage (with a built-in nail salon!) and a fast-growing media brand that demystifies car care for everyone who’s ever felt talked down to at the shop. Patrice’s story …

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Inside Winnebago Connect: How Robo, KORE & Ericsson Are Revolutionizing RV Life | AutoTech 2025 35:43

5M ago35:43

35:43

What if your RV could think for itself, protect your pets, and keep you connected — even off the grid? In this exclusive Conversations That Count episode, recorded live at AutoTech 2025, I sit down with two of the visionaries behind Winnebago Connect™ — a groundbreaking smart RV platform changing the way we travel: 🚀 Marc Fecker, Co-Founder & CEO o…

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Original Halloween's Sandy Johnson (Judith Myers) | Mentorship, Indie Horror & Resilience 13:19

5M ago13:19

13:19

“Original Halloween scream-queen Sandy Johnson—aka Judith Myers—isn’t just a horror legend. She’s a working indie actor, lifelong mentor, and unapologetic Texas gunslinger with a heart for rescue animals. In this candid sit-down she reveals the career comeback that’s keeping her busier than ever—and the life lessons that make every line worth the w…

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From Politics to Cosplay: Ashton Blaise on Finding Freedom in What You Loved at 13 15:03

5M ago15:03

15:03

What if the version of you that felt the most free was still inside you—waiting to be seen again? In this raw and inspiring episode of Conversations That Count, host David Shaft sits down with Ashton Blaise, a cosplayer, pinup model, and former political media figure who walked away from public influence to rediscover joy in the things she once lov…

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The Power of Discipline | Special Guest : A Mom That Lifts 41:05

5M ago41:05

41:05

This week, we’re joined by an incredibly inspiring force in the cosplay and fitness world — the fierce, disciplined, and humble leader of the Adelphi Phalanx: A Mom That Lifts. 🔥 From her early days as a band kid to becoming a Spartan leader and competition-winning fitness athlete, she shares her journey of strength, resilience, and building commun…

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"They Thought I Was Crazy" — Ashlynne Dae on Choosing Cosplay Over Convention 9:35

5M ago9:35

9:35

From Fashion School to Full-Time Cosplay: Ashlynne Dae on Choosing Passion Over Stability (Recorded at Nightmare Weekend Chicago) In this episode of Conversations That Count, host David Shaft interviews cosplay icon Ashlynne Dae, live from Nightmare Weekend Chicago by GalaxyCon. Ashlynne shares how she went from graduating at the top of her fashion…

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Play Well With Others 1:14:49

6M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

In this episode we talk with Corey and Katie about everything from stable business partnerships to holding ourselves accountable. These are both legends in the cosmetology industry. To learn more about Corey and Katie, please visit: www.instagram.com/hairdustry msha.ke/hairdustryhost www.gofundme.com/f/empowering-change-in-cambodia-help-me-make-it-…

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Network With Your Mentors! 45:38

6M ago45:38

45:38

In this episode we talk about the value of networking and how to do it while properly building long term connections. Cathey does a great job outlining the way to grow your network while sustaining it. THIS IS ALSO THE RETURN OF CATHEY who is a STAPLE in our show! To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes…

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Don't Sit On The Fence 35:00

7M ago35:00

35:00

In this episode we talk about finding our passion and not just a hobby. Oftentimes we never fully commit to anything because we are so afraid of failing that we never truly go all in. Candy has a superpower where when she does something she always commits to it fully. To learn more about Candy, please visit: @thebalaylama https://sunlightspro.com h…

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Getting 10X Results 32:12

7M ago32:12

32:12

In this episode we talk about how important it is to understand where our time is going and how with a little bit of help we can make a lot of progress. Nicole does a great job helping her clients feel heard while still helping them understand where they can improve. We also talk about the 4 pillars of life; Health, Wealth, Relationship and Fulfill…

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What It Means To Share Your Legacy 1:10:52

7M ago1:10:52

1:10:52

In this episode we discuss what it means to share your legacy in everything that you do. We also talk about how sometimes the biggest challenge is overcoming the fear of challenge. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: https://missionmatters.com/author/david-shaft…

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Why You're Still Single (And How To Fix It) 45:40

7M ago45:40

45:40

In this episode we go over some of the best kept secrets by dating coaches around the world. The tips that we go over translate well into every industry. Jordan is a dating coach who helps men take meaningful control over their dating lives. He teaches men to become attractive, meet high quality women, and run healthy relationships. To learn more, …

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Opportunity Is Everywhere; Stay Abundant 12:02

8M ago12:02

12:02

This episode is all about remembering that there are endless opportunities out there and the importance of reminding ourselves of it. This is the last week we will not have a guest on the show for quite a while so take it in while you can. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Mission Matters: http…

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Special Guest Victoria Recchione 33:53

8M ago33:53

33:53

In this episode, we dive into the world of cosplay, fitness, and perseverance with seasoned cosplayer and fitness enthusiast Victoria Ricchione! From her steampunk-inspired beginnings at Dragon Con 2012 to her elite training with the Adelphi, Victoria’s journey is a testament to dedication, creativity, and resilience. 🔹 Cosplay as an Art Form: How …

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Don't Be Weird; Talk To Yourself 11:02

8M ago11:02

11:02

In this episode we talk about the importance of the things we say to ourselves. We discuss how important talking to ourselves positively is. It is crucial that we are always speaking about life and love to ourselves no matter what. Always ask yourself, would I talk to the person I love the most like this? To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.…

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Balance Within Featuring Anthony Cosjitsu 1:01:17

8M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Welcome to Season 6 of the Healing from Cosplay podcast! 🎭✨ We're back after a long pause season premiere, host ScottyB welcomes back Anthony Cosjitsu to discuss his incredible year filled with personal milestones and cosplay adventures. 🔹 Big Life Updates: Anthony shares the heartwarming story of his engagement to @Liza_Bean, their romantic propos…

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Defining Success Is The Key 13:47

8M ago13:47

13:47

In this episode we define success based on our Season 2 episodes so far. This episode is a success recap of previous episodes and how we need to plan our life around who we want to be. The takeaways are to start a vision board and then describe a perfect day in what you would consider your perfect life. To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.co…

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Defining Success; It's All Perspective 49:32

9M ago49:32

49:32

In this episode we talk about manifesting and growth. We go over challenging our belief systems as well as defining what is truly important to us in terms of success. Check out the Conversaytions Podcast as well! creators.spotify.com/pod/show/leon-jones19 To learn more, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaft Listen to more episodes on Missi…