Zombie Book Club

Send us a Text Message.Embarking on the path to American citizenship is like navigating a thorny maze, complete with pitfalls and the occasional glimmer of hope. Leah's trek through this labyrinth has been a tale of persistence, dotted with absurdities only Dan's wit could dress up in comedic garb. We peel back the layers of paperwork and process, revealing personal stories from Leah's Canadian upbringing to the poignant struggles of maintaining one's identity amidst a bureaucratic whirlwind. All the while, we serve up a side of banter to keep our spirits aloft in the face of work-life imbalances and the peculiar absence of a vacation mindset in the "land of the free."As we meander through the minefield of immigration challenges, we dip our toes into the murky waters of the potential dystopian future of America. Will AI enforcers roam the streets, and will climate change ravage our cherished coffee beans? We consider the political undercurrents of today's America, weighing in on the significance of activism and the power of community in shaping a brighter future. From tales of protest to the nuances of tribal sovereignty, we uncover the multifaceted reality of American life, inviting listeners to join our candid conversation. Join us for an episode that will make you laugh, ponder, and perhaps even find solace in the shared journey of navigating life's unpredictable waypoints.Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to another gripping episode of the Zombie Book Club! This week, hosts Dan and Leah dive deep into the complex world of "The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live," a thrilling post-apocalyptic drama that continues the saga of beloved characters while introducing us to new, challenging environments. As totalitarian regimes merge with the undead threat, the series not only provides edge-of-your-seat horror but also profound existential questions that tug at the very fabric of human morality. Whether it's debating the effectiveness of revolutions from within or pondering the deep-seated societal divides labeled as 'As versus Bs,' our hosts unravel the narrative's layers, discussing the dire consequences of techno-centrism, totalitarian dictatorships, and the power of love in a society overrun by the undead. This episode, they ponder over why herds of zombies migrate south and what it truly means to save one's family versus saving the world.On the flip side, today’s discussion isn't all praises. Dan and Leah express their frustrations over the pacing of the series, where rich stories seem rushed, leaving a treasure trove of untold character depth. They tackle the portrayal of various social issues within the series through the lens of multiple media representation tests, such as the Bechdel and DuVernay tests, discussing how well the series fares in portraying diverse and complex characters. Despite some shortcomings in emotional connectivity, particularly in the series finale, our hosts appreciate the standout episode written by Danai Gurira, which featured a poignant love story that beautifully captured Rick's internal struggles. Tune in for an intense blend of criticism and admiration as they dissect the cinematic excellence and the sometimes frustrating narrative choices of "The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live."Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to the "Zombie Book Club," the podcast where Dan and Leah meet in their zombie bunker to discuss zombies, spreadsheets, and survival stories. In this episode, Dan shares his progress on writing about resilient people surviving a zombie outbreak. Meanwhile, Leah talks about her book club spreadsheets, detailing representation and demographics in the books we have read here on Zombie Book Club, including a breakdown by race and gender. Leah also explores other aspects of her life, like her passion for drawing chickens and her growing concerns over social issues such as U.S.-backed genocides in Palestine and the Congo.The episode's topic is survival, featuring Chris's harrowing story of growing up in Valparaiso, Indiana, and experiencing severe blizzards. The account describes how these blizzards led to dangerous conditions, with authorities enforcing safety by ramming vehicles off the road during a state of emergency. Chris’s story unfolds with gripping detail, describing the extreme weather's impact on daily life and the perils faced by those seeking shelter. Leah contributes her personal survival stories, recounting instances of near-drowning, fleeing from abuse, and escaping dangerous situations, illustrating the various ways people can survive against the odds. The podcast provides a unique blend of dark humor, real-life challenges, and the unpredictability of survival.OllieEatsBrains original spreadsheet with movies, books and games:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ETOZrqeeJSIzyL5dBo3hne8i7q60D8PB6TjDFfrvGvk/edit#gid=0Spreadsheet of Books:https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1uICiOEVObx_b9iBjDe-aEoSKsIu7rujiRKhXVrVAaZQ/edit#gid=0Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Welcome to this thrilling episode of the Zombie Book Club, where today, we're not just surviving a zombie apocalypse from the comfort of our couches but also dissecting the South Korean sensation, #Alive. Directed by Cho Il-hyung and starring Yoo Ah-in and Park Shin-hye, this film takes us on a nerve-wracking ride with Oh Joon-woo, a gamer trapped in his apartment during a terrifying outbreak. With no one but his digital connections to keep him company, Joon-woo must navigate the dangers of isolation, fast-moving zombies, and the existential dread of a world turned upside down.Join your hosts, Dan and Leah, as they explore the various elements that make #Alive a must-watch for zombie enthusiasts. From the acrobatic undead and gripping survival strategies to the poignant themes of connection and resilience, we cover it all. We'll also dive into the movie's adherence to various media representation tests like the Bechdel, DuVernay, Vito Russo, and Fries tests, discussing where it excels and where it could improve.Today's episode is packed with analysis, humor, and some existential questioning—perfect for breakfast discussions or late-night musings. And remember, while subscribing might seem dumb when you're barricading against zombies, in our world, it's what keeps the conversations alive! So, tune in, and let's find out if Dan and Leah would trap people to feed each other in a true zombie love scenario.Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Ever found yourself in a battle for your literal survival? That's what we're unpacking in our 40th milestone episode of the Zombie Book Club. Strap on your snowshoes for a wild ride from harrowing tales of a snowpocalypse, to the everyday resilience needed to juggle a physically demanding job and a passion for podcasting. There's a raw authenticity as we peel back the layers of navigating work with disabilities, a journey riddled with PTSD and physical injuries. The conversation takes a turn from personal revelations to broader societal reflections, examining the precarious balance many face with health and financial stability. Diving into the challenges of maintaining creativity and consistency, we share the behind-the-scenes struggles of keeping a podcast like ours afloat during the tough paving season. Dan shares his story of survival, a tale of ice, snow, subzero temperatures, 60mph wind, and the lives of animals that depend on him. We also share a survival story from a longtime listener that showcases the harsh realities of simply being alive.  We're not just recounting our battles with the cold, but also inviting you into the fold, SEND US YOUR SURVIVAL STORIES and maybe we will feature it in a future episode!Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Unearth the sociopolitical depths of "Night of the Living Dead" in our latest podcast episode. Leah and Dan invite you to a riveting discussion on the iconic 1968 film and its 1990 remake, where we sift through the black and white terror and the vivid hues of zombie evolution. We're not just talking about undead brain-eaters; we delve into the human condition, peppering our analysis with humor and personal anecdotes to keep the macabre mood at bay.We dissect the cultural impact of George Romero's indie masterpiece, its unintended public domain status, and how this twist of fate propelled a genre to its iconic stature. From the portrayal of race and gender to the zombies' shift from space radiation victims to flesh-hungry ghouls, we dissect the films' commentary on society. And let's not forget about the soundtrack—how does the sweeping orchestral richness of the original stack up against the synthwave style of the remake?As we wrap our brains around the implications of these films, we don't shy away from a good debate on the best zombie survival strategies or the eerie allure of a farmhouse besieged by the undead. We ponder over the curious choices made by characters and the eerie, lasting resonance these cinematic tales have with our real-world fears. So grab your barricading tools and tune in for a conversation as lively as the zombies we admire.Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Ever found yourself laughing in the face of adversity, or perhaps disguising discomfort with a tough exterior? Our most recent heart-to-heart unravels the complex web of toxic masculinity, diving into how these cultural norms, from emotional suppression to enforced stoicism, wreak havoc on mental health just as fiercely as a zombie apocalypse would on humanity. We share candidly about our personal mental health journeys, including the ongoing battle with PTSD and how these experiences mirror the relentless stress of surviving among the undead.Join Leah and Dan as we scrutinize the masculinity displayed in zombie tales like "The Walking Dead" and "The Last of Us." We examine the stoic survivors and power-hungry antagonists shaping these narratives, questioning the real-life implications of such portrayals on gender roles and relationships. From discussing the evolution of the rugged Daryl Dixon to critiquing the manipulative Negan, we peel back the layers of these characters, offering a critical eye on how media can influence societal perceptions of masculinity.Then we predict the fates of "tech bros", "finance bros" and "gym bros" in a world overrun by the living dead, and reflect on the role of men in feminism. As we wrap up this introspective journey, we navigate emotional intimacy, tackle the issue of mansplaining, and consider how men can support one another in breaking free from the chains of harmful stereotypes. This episode is an invitation to contemplate, laugh, and maybe even change the way we approach the societal structures that influence us all.Daniella Youngs website:https://www.uncultureyourself.com/Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Hold on to your baguettes, because we're dissecting "Daryl Dixon", where we follow Daryl from The Walking Dead as he stumbles into zombified France in his own spin off. We're peeling back the layers of character development and questioning whether the series is losing its human touch amidst the gore, and pondering if the latest spin-off is more famine than feast in the substance department.We dish out our dreams for the future of the franchise while keeping our critique glasses firmly in place. Can the series redeem itself and give us the depth we crave? Join us on this roller coaster of emotions and opinions, as we bring you survival tips, existential musings, and a fair share of laughter along the way.Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Ever faced down the wild, colorful haired monster that is an internet troll? Prepare yourself for a direct confrontation with the Troll epidemic! Hoist the mainsail as we navigate the treacherous seas of gender misconceptions, drop anchor to challenge stereotypes and unravel media misrepresentation, discussing the myths surrounding gender-affirming care and the origin of the Bechdel test. We ready our grappling hooks to scale the fortified ramparts of the systemic barricades women face in industries where they're outnumbered, sharing gritty tales from the trucking sector to the battle-field, and delve into the intersection of gender roles, racism, and political ideologies.We wrap up with the mastery of troll detection, laying out a troll's tactical playbook, uncovering their sneaky strategies and the psychology behind their moves.  And because we love to leave you clucking, we share our 'Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Clucks' challenge highlights, teasing a themed surprise that's sure to ruffle some feathers. Tune in and join the hilarity—zombie chickens and all!Follow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comFollow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

Send us a Text Message.Join us as we delve into "Planet Dead," a thrilling exploration of a post-apocalyptic world that masterfully blends dark comedy with the stark realities of survival, featuring formidable Black heroines and unforgettable clown cannibals. Sylvester gives us insight into the inspirations behind this gripping tale, including the societal reflections that underscore the narrative, and shares his perspective on the future of humanity amidst our own self-made barriers. With a keen eye for character development and a sharp wit, Sylvester discusses the importance of humor in horror, the power of centering stories around Black female protagonists, and the importance of writing across different genders and ethnicities.Beyond the pages of "Planet Dead," Sylvester opens up about his personal life, touching on the joys and challenges of fatherhood in today's world, his deepest fears and sources of inspiration, and his deliberate choice to pursue an indie author path. For those eager to dive deeper into Sylvester Barzey's horror universe and discover more about his impactful work and where to find it, join us for this unforgettable episode that celebrates the art of storytelling, the importance of diverse voices in literature, and the enduring allure of the zombie genre.Sylvester Barzeys Websitehttps://www.sylvesterbarzey.comFollow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comFollow our linktree for social media links, and links to all the places you can find our podcast!https://linktr.ee/zombiebookclubZombie Book Club Voicemail(614) 699-0006‬Zombie Book Club EmailZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.comOur Secret Website That Isn't Finishedhttps://zombiebookclub.ioOur Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts)https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com