Niche to Meet You

Coming August 16th: a 4-part miniseries about the Wild Turkey Conservation niche. It’s an important story about belonging, community, mending seemingly irreparable gaps and changing the world. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedback at Nichetomeetyou.show/wild-turkeySupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizza. SHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Show theme composed by Abigail FlowersMusic provided by Blue Dot SessionsShow artwork created by Rachel HardacreAudio mastered by Kevin Morris  

Stories of three wildly different niches (regional cooking, armored MMA combat, and Rubik's cubing) who all find their purpose in being on the road. Learn more about the show, read a transcript on Apple Podcasts, and give feedbackSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:We all have our "third spaces," those social surroundings that aren't our homes or workplaces. These are the places where we feel a sense of belonging, comfort, and community—like cafés, bookstores, or even the local bar where everybody knows your name. But what happens when all three of your spaces are transient? When your work and home are constantly shifting, where do you find your third spaces, and what kinds of hobbies thrive in such a lifestyle?In this episode, we explore the hobbies and niche subcultures that find their purpose in, or are affected by being on the road. From the stories of touring musicians Zach and Maggie White (who bring the flavors and experiences of their travels into their kitchen through regional cooking), to Spencer Waddell (a vagabond longswordsman and armored MMA combat fighter whose life revolves around historical reenactments and sword fighting), and from Shook (middle school speed cuber) to Jon Schneck (Relient K guitarist and creator of Cubiversity), we hear the unique dynamics of being on the road and being part of a niche subculture.  SHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Episode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

Join us at Waffle House to talk about making old things beautiful again.Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedbackSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:Join us in a Waffle House booth as we meet Rick Blankenship–a masterful vintage car radio restorer. As we savored the Southern charm of the setting, Rick shared about his work of restoring vintage radios to their original glory while integrating modern features like Bluetooth, offering a blend of nostalgia and convenience. Through our conversation, we learned about Rick's journey from being a drummer in a band to becoming an award-winning restorer, highlighting the artistry and dedication required in his craft. We explored the significance of classic car radios as symbols of self-expression and identity, as well as the challenges and joys of preserving automotive history. Visiting a local Swap Meet with Rick provided a firsthand look at his work and the deep connections people have with their cars, reinforcing the appeal of the craft. Visit Rick's website HERE, and check out his YouTube channel HERE.SHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus Fulbright, Ariana ScalfoEpisode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

A deeper look at lingering questions after the 4-part miniseries. This is a special bonus episode of Niche to Meet You following our mini-series about Warhammer 40,000. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles little-known hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are making meaning. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedbackSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:We welcome Ariana Scalfo, fitness professional and 40k player. Her voice is heard in the 4th episode of this series, and our full conversation was good enough to make into a lightly-edited bonus episode. The video version of this episode is on YouTube if you want to watch us talk. Ariana and her partner run a fitness company called Complete Human Performance, which essentially trains human Space Marines. They developed a program based on the Warhammer-verse incorporating lore and narrative into a fitness routine. We talk about that in this conversation, along with 40k affecting folks outside of gameplay, the meaning to be found in the silliness, and why women aren’t as prevalent in the hobby (though, it’s getting better!). LINKS:YouTube version: https://youtu.be/7anrtDHyhkUComplete Human Performance: https://www.completehumanperformance.com/Their program based on Space Marine training: https://www.completehumanperformance.com/offers/FEZgFFrY/checkoutSHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus Fulbright, Ariana ScalfoEpisode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

Why this weird, wonderful hobby is so important, and what's next.This is part 4 of 4 in the Niche to Meet You mini-series about Warhammer 40,000. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles little-known hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are finding belonging and meaning through mini-series and individual interviews. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedbackSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:In the final episode of our Warhammer 40,000 miniseries, we reflect on the game as a compelling case study for the vital role of hobbies and a sense of belonging in preventing loneliness. Despite the dark and violent nature of Warhammer, we explore the intriguing intersection between violence and the community it cultivates. The episode delves into the satirical and exaggerated aspects of the Warhammer universe, emphasizing the humor and absurdity that players find meaningful.Through final vignettes with all the Warhammer enthusiasts and creators from the series, including a couple new voices, we gain insights into how the game has become a source of connection, purpose, and stress relief, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion explores the theme of hopelessness within the game's lore, featuring perspectives from key figures such as Rick Priestley and Andy Chambers. The episode concludes by underscoring the significant impact of hobbies like Warhammer 40,000 in combatting loneliness, fostering community, and instilling a sense of purpose. We also look forward in anticipation to the upcoming Amazon film adaptation featuring Henry Cavill, acknowledging the potential it holds for the Warhammer community (have connections to Cavill? We want to talk to him! Go to www.nichetomeetyou.show/40k to connect us!) SHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus Fulbright, Ariana ScalfoEpisode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

Conversations with the creators of Warhammer 40k: Rick Priestley and Andy ChambersThis is part 3 of 4 in the Niche to Meet You mini-series about Warhammer 40,000. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are finding home through mini-series and individual interviews. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedback at Nichetomeetyou.show/40kSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:In this episode, we dive into a conversation with the creators of this tabletop war game, exploring its origins, influences, and the intricate balance between the macro and micro aspects of its universe.As we sit down with Rick Priestley, the creator of Warhammer 40,000 (and his dog Rosie), we unravel the game's genesis from a space trading RPG called Rogue Trader to the iconic tabletop war game it is today. We also meet Andy Chambers, who apprenticed under Rick and took over the game in the 1990’s. The episode delves into the blend of history, fantasy, and commercialism that shaped this intricate hobby.SHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus FulbrightShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersEpisode mastered by Kevin Morris

Meet the people who play Warhammer 40,000.This is part 2 of 4 in the Niche to Meet You mini-series about Warhammer 40,000. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are finding home through mini-series and individual interviews. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedback at Nichetomeetyou.show/40kSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:In this second episode of the 4 part mini-series, we sit down with Marcus and Josh, two enthusiasts deeply involved in the Warhammer 40,000 community, to explore the diverse entry points into the hobby. From painting and video games to engaging in intense tabletop battles, we learn about the multifaceted nature of the Warhammer 40,000 experience.Our conversation with Marcus and Josh delves into its evolution from a tabletop game to a vast media landscape encompassing novels, video games, and more. The episode unfolds as we meet Robert, our local 40k guide who navigates us through the intricate gameplay mechanics, the fusion of lore and mathematical strategy, and the deep commitment demanded by Warhammer 40,000 enthusiasts. Leslie plays a game herself and gets hands-on experience with the world of Warhammer 40,000.EPISODE/SHOW CREDITSSenior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus FulbrightEpisode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

Meet my new friend, Warhammer 40,000: the sci-fi tabletop war game.This is part 1 of 4 in the Niche to Meet You mini-series about Warhammer 40,000. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are finding home through mini-series and individual interviews. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedback at Nichetomeetyou.show/40kSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaEPISODE NOTES:In this first episode of Niche to Meet You’s debut mini-series, we introduce the immersive universe of Warhammer 40,000—a tabletop war game game turned multimedia empire. We even make the case that Warhammer 40,000 is the perfect hobby because it offers craftsmanship, skill development, social connections, and thought engagement.From its humble 1970s origins, this hobby has evolved into a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and dystopian elements. Through this 4-part series, we’ll unravel the threads of Warhammer 40,000, examining its roots with insights from Rick Priestley, the game's original creator, as well as Andy Chambers, his apprentice and successor. In the next episode, we'll delve into the lives of players and enthusiasts who breathe life into this thriving subculture, and discover how this pastime transforms into a powerful hobby with the 4 elements of what makes a hobby, well, a hobby.SHOW/EPISODE CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus FulbrightEpisode mastered by Kevin MorrisShow theme composed by Abigail FlowersShow artwork by Rachel Hardacre

Introducing Warhammer 40,000. We even make the case that Warhammer 40,000 is the perfect hobby, and we’ll support the claim by talking to the people who play it and even the people who made it. The Niche to Meet You podcast profiles hobbies and niche subcultures where misfits are finding home through mini-series and individual interviews. Learn more about the show, read a transcript, and give feedback at Nichetomeetyou.show/40kSupport the work by sharing it with a friend and buying us a pizzaSHOW CREDITS: Senior producer/host: Leslie Thompson (IG: @leslieeilerthompson, leslieethompson.com)Associate producer: Chris Thiessen Mini-series topic consultants: Robert Taylor, Marcus FulbrightShow theme composed by Abigail Flowers

The guys behind the white beard and red hat are just as real as the character they portray. Subscribe now and-more importantly-TELL A FRIEND ABOUT THE SHOW, right now.Learn more about this podcast at NicheToMeetYou.show.Niche to Meet You is created & produced by Leslie ThompsonPodcast Theme Music: Abigail FlowersMusic for this episode is also supplied by:John Bartmann, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”Andrea Yohe, “Jolly Old St. Nicholas”Kevin MacLeod, “Jingle Bells”John Sayles, “What Child is This?"Kevin MacLeod, “Oh, Christmas Tree”

I love hobbies. I think they’re fascinating and—I mean this without a hint of irony— lifesaving.This project celebrates little-known “leisure activities,” interests, conferences, gatherings, and meetups that you may or may not be familiar with (but, after you hear our guests’ stories, you will be).Full episodes arrive in January 2024. Subscribe and-more importantly-TELL TWO FRIENDS ABOUT THE SHOW, right now. If you really want to support the podcast, buy Leslie a pizza.Learn more about this podcast at NicheToMeetYou.show.Niche to Meet You is created & produced by Leslie ThompsonTheme Music by Abigail Flowers Music for this trailer is also supplied by Blue Dot Sessions:"Borough" and "Palms Down"