So You Want to Be a Geek

What does it really take to run a legal cannabis dispensary in New Jersey?In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek, I sit down with a former student of mine to talk about their family-owned cannabis business, Bud City in Newton, NJ. We dive deep into the cannabis industry—covering laws, regulations, challenges, misconceptions, and what it’s actually like running a dispensary in one of the most highly regulated markets in the country.This episode isn’t just about cannabis—it’s about entrepreneurship, family business dynamics, navigating new industries, and building something meaningful from the ground up.Along the way, I also document my drive from Long Island to Newton, NJ, using b-roll footage to reflect on podcasting, content creation, and what it means to reconnect with former students as professionals.**This episode is intended for entertainment and conversational purposes only. So You Want To Be A Geek does not provide professional, legal, medical, or business advice. All discussions are based on personal experiences and opinions and are meant to explore fandom, creativity, and geek culture.**🎧 Topics we cover include:• The history of legal cannabis in New Jersey• Cannabis laws, regulations, and compliance• Running a family-owned dispensary• Benefits and challenges of the cannabis industry• Breaking stigma around cannabis• Entrepreneurship and career paths• Podcasting and storytelling on the road📍 Bud City – Newton, NJ🎙 So You Want To Be A Geek👉 Subscribe for conversations about creativity, careers, passion projects, and unconventional paths.#SoYouWantToBeAGeek#CannabisIndustry#NewJerseyCannabis#LegalCannabis#DispensaryLife#FamilyBusiness#Entrepreneurship#PodcastLife#CreativeCareers#FormerStudent#WeedBusiness#NJWeed#SmallBusiness#ContentCreation#RoadTripPodcast#SYWTBAG #SoYouWantToBeAGeek#Podcast#NewEpiosdeTikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbaghttps://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCUq40V5XzKruaVRLYG_TXEA/collaboration/UC5TaNcX92FPxaSw1bgBB7RQ

In this episode, host Michael Cannetti talks with Jason and AnnMarie, founders of The Tabletop Society, a Dungeons & Dragons organization dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces for players of all backgrounds—especially neurodivergent individuals.Jason, an experienced Dungeon Master from Long Island, and Annmarie, a lifelong storyteller, explain how their love of tabletop gaming grew into a nationwide community. Tabletop Society runs campaigns through Discord, connecting players from across the country in collaborative storytelling experiences that build confidence, social skills, and lasting friendships.Together we discuss:Why Dungeons & Dragons is uniquely powerful for neurodivergent playersJason’s approach to DMing and creating supportive tablesHow online campaigns build real-world connectionHow their children got involved in the hobbyThe mission and future of Tabletop SocietyIf you love tabletop RPGs, community building, or stories about how geek culture enriches lives, this episode is a critical hit.In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek, we sit down with Jason and AnnMarie, the founders of The Tabletop Society, a Dungeons & Dragons community dedicated to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering gaming experiences—especially for neurodivergent individuals.Jason, a seasoned Dungeon Master, and Annmarie, a passionate organizer and storyteller, share how their Long Island–based group grew from a local table into a nationwide D&D community operating through Discord. Their campaigns bring together players from all over the country, offering creativity, structure, teamwork, and social connection through the magic of D&D.We dive into:How Dungeons & Dragons supports neurodivergent playersWhy collaborative storytelling is such a powerful toolHow Tabletop Society uses Discord to run campaigns across the U.S.Jason’s journey as a Dungeon Master and how he brings new players—including kids—into the world of tabletop RPGsHow families are using D&D to bond (yes, their kids play too!)The mission behind Tabletop Society and where the community is headedWhether you’re a veteran adventurer, completely new to D&D, or interested in how tabletop games can enrich lives, this is an episode you'll want to roll initiative for.DMs Building Community!D&D Changing Lives!👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more geek culture deep dives!👉 Share this episode with your party!#DungeonsAndDragons #DnDCommunity #Neurodiversity #TabletopRPG #SoYouWantToBeAGeek #TabletopSociety #DungeonMaster #DnD5e #DiscordCommunity #LongIslandCreators #TTRPG #InclusiveGaming #GeekCulture #RoleplayingGames #ActualPlay #strangerthings https://thetabletopsociety.com/Dive into the geeky world of Geekiness with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag

In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek, we dive deep into the world of GODZILLA and the legendary Kaiju genre — from the original 1954 Gojira to modern masterpieces like Shin Godzilla and Godzilla Minus One.We break down:Why Godzilla became a global iconThe origins of kaiju mythologyHow monster cinema evolved over 70 yearsPractical effects vs CGIWhy fandom around kaiju is stronger than everThe impact of Toho Studios, Legendary Pictures, and the MonsterVerseWhat makes giant monsters so compelling to creators and fansWhether you're a lifelong Godzilla fan, a newcomer to kaiju culture, or a creator who loves special effects, film history, or Japanese cinema — this episode is PACKED with geeky goodness.Hosted by Michael CannettiSo You Want To Be A Geek — where passion meets fandom.What You’ll Learn:The philosophy behind Godzilla as an anti-war metaphorThe evolution of suitmation and special effectsHow kaiju shaped anime, comics, and gamingGodzilla vs Kong and the modern MonsterVerseWhy fans connect emotionally with giant monsters#Godzilla #Kaiju #MonsterVerse #Gojira #ShinGodzilla #GodzillaMinusOne #Toho #GiantMonsters #MonsterMovies #SYWTBAG #SoYouWantToBeAGeek #FilmHistory #geekculture #JapaneseCinema #SciFiMovies #CreatureFeatures #PopCulturePodcast #SYWTBAG #soyouwanttobeageek #podcast Dive into the geeky world of Podcasting with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag

On this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek, Michael goes on a road trip to New Jersey and picks up his friend, writer, producer, director, Brian Gonsar as they journey in search of the best "Fancy Doughnuts" around.  They are getting geeky about doughnuts, comics, and Dracula.  That's right, Brian loves doughnuts so much he wrote a graphic novel all about them.  It's called Dracula's Brunch Club and the boys discuss Brian's journey into graphic novels while also dining on some of the best doughnuts around.  Brian takes Michael to Glaze Donuts in Caldwell NJ to sample some of their specialty treats.You can find Brian's book at:  https://a.co/d/3Unb5igFollow us on socials:Dive into the geeky world of  with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag#applepodcasts #podcast #comics #donuts #donut #doughnut #dracula #spookyseason #draculasbrunchclub #spotify #dadsgettingdoughnuts #comediansincarsgettingcoffee #contentcreator #podcasting

Do you like beer?  Do you like homemade beer?  Then you'll love the Brewers East End Revival BEER COMPETITION!  So You Want To Be Geek was invited to attend their Beer Tasting competition at the 1940s Brewing Company Brewery in Holbrook NY for some beer talk and some beer tasting!  Join us as we chat with some amazing home brewers and sample some of the most unique beers I've ever had!  Special thanks to our intern Kailey O'Neill for editing this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek! And thanks to The 1940s Brewing Company for hosting the event.Check out the Brewers East End Revival on Facebook at:  https://www.facebook.com/beerhbcLike and Subscribe and follow us on all your favorite social media platforms.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag#SYWTBAG #SoYouWantToBeAGeek #beermaking  #Geek #beer  #brewery  #homebrew  #interview #podcast #longisland #brewerseastendrevival #brewers #microbrewery #contentcreator #onlocation #tasting #tastingroom 

Check out these amazing interviews Michael had with Carla Cohen and Lucio Parrillo at the Hot Flips Live Show in Babylon NY on 10/5/2025 one week before #nycc #newyorkcomiccon in a rare one on one conversation you're never going to get at the big conventions.  Special thanks to Charles from Hot Flips for giving So You Want To Be A Geek this once in a lifetime opportunity.  Thank you to #CarnivoreComics for bringing #lucioparrilo and #carlacohen to #Hotflips.  I am still on such a high after interviewing two of my ideals in the comic book industry.  Thank you to SpineWorks NYC for chatting and I look forward to scheduling an interview and talk all things CGC!#marvel #contentcreator #dccomics #vampirella #harleyquinn #batman #supergirl #powergirl #blackcat #spiderman #podcast #spawn #tmnt #transformers #caseyjones #art #fineart #leonardodavinci #picasso #painters #michaelangelo #renaissance #renaissancepainters #sywtbag #soyouwanttobeageek #geek #gradedcomicsTikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag

So You Want To Be A Geek was invited to do a Live Stream at the Hot Flips Comic Expo on August 3rd and Michael went around the event center and interviewed some great people and got to check out some really cool merch!  If you like #comics #tradingcards #collectibles #memorabilia #geekygoodness and so much more check out this latest episode of #soyouwanttobeageek #sywtbag #podcast #superheroes #superhero #fandom #popculture #nostalgia #xmen97 #xmen #applepodcasts  #marvel #contentcreator #podcasting Dive into the geeky world of Podcasting with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag

So You Want To Be A Geek is back with a brand new season of geekiness!  We start off at the   @SuperJerseyExpo where Michael and Pete explore all the vendors, get some signings in, sit in on an X-Men 97 Panel with  @ScreenCrush legend and host Ryan Ary!  We even got to catch with Ryan and some other really cool vendors.  #xmen97 #xmen #screencrush #applepodcasts #podcast #comics #marvel #contentcreator #podcasting Dive into the geeky world of Podcasting with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAGhttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=michael-cannettihttps://www.riverside.fm/?via=sywtbag

Want to start a podcast and grow your brand? 🎙️ We dive into podcasting essentials with LI Creator Studios! Subscribe for expert tips & insights! 🔥 #Podcasting #ContentCreation #SYWTBAGPodcast Like a Pro!This keeps it punchy, engaging, and encourages subscriptions. Let me know if you’d like any refinements! 🚀 #PodcastTips #GrowYourBrand #GeekCulture #LIcreatorStudios #SoYouWantToBeAGeek #Marketing #Entrepreneurship #PodcastSetup #YouTubeGrowth #SpotifyPodcasts #ApplePodcasts #youtube #podcast #newepisode #geek #geeky #contentcreator #socials #realestate #studio Dive into the geeky world of Podcasting with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAG

In this episode we are diving into Crypto Currency, Bitcoin, NFTs, blockchain technology, the history, bitcoin mining, and how crypto currency is reshaping the world.  We chat with Matt Lappas the Owner and Founder of Syntiro Mining all about crypto currency, the tech behind it, and how to research what is best for you. Syntiro Mining www.SyntiroMining.comThe views, ideas, and statements discussed on this episode of So You Want To Be a Geek are only meant for conversation purposes.  This episode is not intended to provide investment or legal advice.  If you are interested in investing in Crypto Currency always do your own research.Dive into the geeky world of Crypto Currency with us on this Part 2 episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAG

In this episode we are diving into Crypto Currency, Bitcoin, NFTs, blockchain technology, the history, bitcoin mining, and how crypto currency is reshaping the world.  We chat with Matt Lappas the Owner and Founder of Syntiro Mining all about crypto currency, the tech behind it, and how to research what is best for you. Syntiro Mining www.SyntiroMining.comThe views, ideas, and statements discussed on this episode of So You Want To Be a Geek are only meant for conversation purposes.  This episode is not intended to provide investment or legal advice.  If you are interested in investing in Crypto Currency always do your own research.Dive into the geeky world of Crypto Currency with us on this Part 1 episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAG

In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we are interviewing an expert and avid collector of vintage video games, game consoles, CRT TVs, and and awesome nostalgia.  Domenick Delledera takes us through his journey into finding, collecting, and the passion of playing vintage games and using vintage consoles.  We discuss, Nintendo, Game Boy, SNES, Genesis, Dreamcast, Atari, Game Cube, N64, Playstation, Playstation 2, Xbox, Playstation 3, Xbox 360, and so much more.  We even explore rare and limited release games, as well as high value games like Pokemon.  We go down memory lane with games like Dr. Mario, Streets of Rage, Zelda, NBA Jam, and much, much, more.  Dive into the geeky world of Vintage gaming with us on this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek.TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@sywtbag?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sywtbag/?locale=us&hl=am-etApple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-geek/id1758179991Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/5uEnbJaVsaoeezUwj7oEoB?si=fc2b17d719fb4eb2TeePublic:  http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAG

In this episode we have our part two getting geeky about dance.  We speak with Rosa and Kayla from the Royal Dance Studio about their journey and the industry as well as helping kids find that spark and love for dance.  We dive deep into their unique studio and their nearly 20 year journey in dance.  We explore the differences between competitive dance and recreational.  We look how dance helps in many other aspects of life and personal growth.

In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we explore the world CGC Grading, Variant Comics, Comic Con, Conventions, Signings, Publishing, and what it means to make it in the comic book industry with the owner of Carnivore Comics Sean McLoughlin.  He tells us stories of his nearly two decades working with Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Neal Adams, Carla Cohen, John Romita Sr, Chris Claremont, and many more.  Come explore these amazing stories and learn a lot about the comic book industry from a true expert.  We learn about to comic grading process and how the industry evolved with the value of foil covers, exclusives, WhatNot and the Art of being a good person in the industry.

In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we are getting geeky about DANCE!  We speak with Nicole Bruhnke, Owner and lead choreographer at Long Island Dance Force in Copiague Long Island all about Competitive Dance and the evolution of dance.  In addition we dive deep into how dance allows her students the ability to express themselves and develop valuable life skills.

In this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we dive deep into the world of Vinyl Records.  We learn about the fandom, the history, and how to build your collection.  Our first guest is Steve from Looney Tunes Records in West Babylon NY who talks about music, the record store, the best ways to listen and more.  Our second guest, Jason talks about his near 40 year love affair with music and vinyl records, while building an amazing setup and amassing a great collection.  

On this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we are getting geeky about Magic The Gathering.  We are at Gotham City Collectibles in West Babylon NY talking all things Magic, Pokemon, trading cards, Tournaments, Smash Brothers, and so much more.  It is a really fun episode.  Check out our Socials @SYWTBAG on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for more highlights and content.  You can also get some merchandise on our TeePublic Store, http://tee.pub/lic/SYWTBAG.  Going forward we are moving to a two episode a month format, so don't forget to Like and Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

In Episode 4 of So You Want To Be A Geek, we dive into the fascinating world of 3D printing, creativity, and DIY culture with special guests Peter Labrozzi and Peter St. Amor. Together, we explore how 3D printing has empowered geeks and creators to bring their ideas to life, from custom cosplay and collectibles inspired by iconic characters like Spider-Man and Iron Man to innovative entrepreneurial ventures. We’ll cover the latest in 3D printing technology—highlighting tools like Bambu Labs and Makerbot—and discuss the materials, colorful designs, and creative freedom that make 3D printing such a dynamic hobby and business. Wrapping up with some practical advice for newcomers and seasoned makers alike, this episode is packed with insights into building a creative brand and thriving in the maker community.  https://theretronetwork.com/ 

In this episode we explorer the world of fitness through Crossfit.  We interview CrossFit Rapture Gym owner and head coach Shane Arikian on his journey from soccer to Crossfit and beyond.  We look at why people love CrossFit so much and how even if you are a newbie and curious you can get into CrossFit too.  No matter your skill level, there is a way for you to love Crossfit too. https://geekstermedia.com/ for our Promotion with HalloweenCostumes.com

On this episode of So You Want To Be A Geek we are talking about all things yoga, hot yoga, positivity, puppies, train, self discovery, and the journey to find your purpose.  My guest Ina Visich and Halee Ruggiero owners of INHALES Wellness blend, infrared yoga, pilates, plants, art, positive vibes, matcha, and wine together to build a unique experience.  If you are interested in trying yoga or a seasoned yoga, this episode is for you.  And if you're just someone who loves geeking then this is the episode for you.