Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Thursday, October 12th at 7pm. Nerd Nite is free and all are welcome.
Before the presentations we will be hosting trivia and giving away a special prize. Make sure to arrive on time!
PRESENTATION #1:
“The Cost of War: The Death of Fandoms & Writer’s Rooms” J.D. Casto
A critical analysis of the streaming model of TV/Movies where I will examine how Streamers have slowly killed Fandoms and traditional Writer’s Rooms and how this has all come to a head during the current WGA and SAG strikes.
J.D. Casto is an Orlando-based photographer that specializes in capturing Queer Joy. First published at only 13, J.D.’s photography has been seen worldwide. With an award-winning film and photography career that spans nearly two decades, there’s not much that J.D. hasn’t done. As a multi-passionate creative, J.D. has most recently worked in the video game industry, helping produce the NBA, WWE, and PGA video games at 2K Go. In his off time, J.D. writes for the Watermark Magazine, photographs concerts for Orlando Weekly, and mentors the next generation of Central Florida writers, filmmakers, and photographers.
PRESENTATION #2:
“An Insiders Guide to Responsible Giving” by Julie Holt
Giving season is just around the corner and soon every nonprofit will be asking for some sort of donation. You want to give but the question you are now presented with is how to make sure your hard earned dollars does the most good. Good thing for you is that transparency is a main pillar of any good nonprofit management. Hear an insider’s guide how you can evaluate your favorite nonprofits just like a professional to make sure your dollar does the most amount of good!
Julie Holt is certified to change the world! Her two passions in life are social good and storytelling with data. She has a BS in Nonprofit Management from the University of South Carolina Upstate and an MBA from Crummer School of Business. She is a Certified Nonprofit Professional having served on multiple boards nationally and in the Central Florida area. Currently she is the Vice President of Florida Destination Imagination, a STEAM challenge based learning competition. Her day job includes playing data at Disney Publishing. When she’s not out and about volunteering, you can find her either at any of the theme parks or at the library!
PRESENTATION #3:
Skateboarding and the Silent Spaces of Capitalism” by Zach Moldof
Skateboarding is readily accepted as a sport, and its inclusion in the Olympics has amplified narratives that explain skateboarding as a sport. Skateboarding is also commonly regarded as an evolution of surfing, with distinct origins in California. But what if I told you that skateboarding’s history in Florida suggests a wholly other way of thinking and talking about skateboarding–one that draws parallels to dance and other art forms that took hold in hip hop culture? In my talk for Nerd Nite I’ll explain how skateboarding as we know it today starts in Florida, and I’ll provide examples that illustrate why the tools for discussing art–especially breakdancing and graffiti–yield more complete descriptions of skateboarding than the tools for discussing sport.
Zach Moldof is the executive director of Skate Bud 501c3: a nonprofit that increases skateboard accessibility for all people while prioritizing disenfranchised communities. He earned a BA in Liberal Studies at UCF, and an MA in Performance Studies at NYU. He is the author of the world’s first cannabis column for a national news outlet, the author of two books about skateboarding, a web developer, and a lifetime skater. Zach works with Florida DoS Division of Arts and Culture as an expert on skate culture and architecture, and he works with municipalities to design skateparks and repeal skateboard prohibition. He is married to Tiffany Moldof and they are always doing their best to be intentional parents for their 4 year old son Luchien.
Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Thursday, September 14th, 7pm for the premiere event of season 11.
Nerd Nite is free and all are welcome.
PRESENTATION 1: “Why You Should Care About the Calories in Your Poop: Food, Gut Microbes, and Bioenergetics” by Karen Corbin
Dr. Karen Corbin is the Founder and Chief Geek of Geeks That Speak® and a clinical-translational scientist at the AdventHealth Translational Research Institute.
As a scientific storyteller, Dr. Corbin uses her skills to fill a fundamental gap for translating ideas into solutions: the inability of some scientists and other “geeks” to deliver information in a way that is impactful, relevant and inspires action. To achieve this, she created Geeks That Speak® with a mission to inspire and empower scientists to become powerful storytellers.
In her role as a scientist, her expertise is in human nutrition and metabolism. Her scientific career is devoted to understanding the mechanisms that drive metabolic diseases like fatty liver disease and obesity. One particular area of focus is understanding how to optimize the human gut microbiome to prevent and treat disease.
PRESENTATION 2: “More than a Feeling: The Neuroscience of Hanger” by Matt Luby
Matt Luby is a board member for the hackerspace FamiLAB in Longwood. His passions include neuroscience, distance running, and political activism.
PRESENTATION 3: “Putting Myself in Jeopardy!” By Ed Petersen
Ed Petersen is a lifelong Orlando resident and trivia enthusiast. He attributes his love for knowledge to his family, who early on reinforced the importance of learning via repeated trips to libraries, science centers, theaters, and museums here and around the world. In this, his fifth Nerd Nite talk, come learn how Ed achieved his long-running dream of getting on Jeopardy!
Nerd Nite Orlando will be joining Science Night Live on Saturday, August 26th to host a special edition of Science Trivia.
Science Night Live at Orlando Science Center is your chance to spark your curiosity through fun exhibits and programs…with some adult beverages, of course! Bring your friends, or make it a date night, and join us for a unique and ever-changing experience that proves there’s no age limit on curiosity! Must be 21 years or older to attend.
*Members must reserve their tickets online in advance.
Admission to Science Night Live includes access to the entire venue; including guest speakers, programs, workshops, and all the exhibits.
DaJen Eats, Hard Rock Cafe, and Phat Ash Bakes will have light bites and adult beverages available for purchase. Sip beer, wine or cocktails and enjoy small-plate edibles while you listen to music and get your geek on. We recommend purchasing with cash to reduce wait time and lines.
Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on 7pm, Thurs, May 11th for the finale of our 10th season.
Sponsored by Sampaguita Ice Cream
Hosted by Ricardo Williams
Guest speakers: Hugo Castellanos, Jim Hobart, & Jonathan Pamplin
PRESENTATION #1:
“ADHD AMA: My Journey as a Newly Diagnosed Adult” by Jonathan Pamplin
After a lifetime of struggles with time management and focus, I was recently diagnosed with ADHD – at the age of 32! This left me with a ton of questions: What really is ADHD? Does it look different in children than adults? How do ADHD medications work? In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, join me on my in-progress journey to understand what makes the ADHD brain tick.
Jonathan Pamplin has variously worked as an assembly worker, writing consultant, freelance editor, roadside sign spinner, blueprint evaluator, substitute teacher, paranormal tour guide, and a special ed teacher’s aide. Unsurprisingly, he has ADHD.
PRESENTATION #2:
“Lights, Camera, Family: A Guide to Crafting Your Own Family Documentary, and Why It’s Essential” by Jim Hobart
This talk will focus on the technical considerations and sentimental value of creating a personal documentary of your loved ones, crafting your own treasured and irreplaceable keepsake that can be cherished for generations. Jim Hobart, the founder of Legacy Life Project, will share his passion for this meaningful undertaking and guide you through the professional process he uses to develop high-quality biographies. You’ll also learn about the importance of selecting the right interviewer to capture your loved ones’ unique stories and experiences, so you can get started on your own video documentary today.
Jim Hobart is a creative Orlando business owner with a passion for videography, stories, and a deep love for dogs. Jim came to realize the profound value of his own recordings of his loved ones after losing his father, and decided to focus his talent and experience on creating high-quality biographical documentaries through the Legacy Life Project. These video heirlooms capture the unique narratives and legacies of the everyday people who mean the world to us, preserving family histories for generations to come.
PRESENTATION #3:
“Stamped and Approved: The history of passports and visas” by Hugo Castellanos
Hugo is a Venezuelan-American engineer, podcaster and professional speaker that combines his engineering background and storytelling skills to educate, entertain and ultimately inform audiences in a wide variety of career development topics.
Hugo’s career trajectory includes cofounding an EdTech Startup, and serving as a Competitive Intelligence Manager for companies like Intel and LinkedIn.
Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Thursday, April 13th to celebrate Yuri’s Night 2023.
UCF Space Scientists Drs. Josh Colwell, Addie Dove, Jim Cooney, and Audrey Martin (the Astroquarks!) will record and live-stream the fun astronomy podcast “Walkabout the Galaxy” at Nerd Nite. Their main topic will be “Back to the Moon with Robots and More”, taking a look at the set of robotic missions underway and in development to help us solve the Moon’s remaining mysteries and get ready for the return of humans to the lunar surface. The astroquarks will also cover the latest news in space science and exploration and take questions from the audience.
NERD NITE DAY 2023 Join Nerd Nite Orlando on March 14th, 7pm at Mead Botanical Garden** to celebrate 10 years of “the most fun public speaking event in town” with presentations, trivia, the dry t-shirt contest, and a special recap of the last decade of nerdy fellowship.
Doors at 6:30pm Event start at 7pm
Event is FREE to attend
Hosted by Ricardo Williams
Guest speakers: Derek Demeter, Max Jackson, & Josh Manning
Food + Beverage: Romay Ethiopian Kitchen The Tap Room at Dubsdread
Contributing Sponsors Sampaguita Ice Cream Winter Park Pie Company
**The event will take place inside at the Azalea Lodge (formerly known as The Clubhouse)
Sponsorships available, contact
PRESENTATION #1: “Finding F*cking Fossils in Florida” by Derek Demeter
Description: While Derek has given many space talks over the years at Nerd Nite, he is also an avid SCUBA diver and enjoys battling alligators and sharks in Florida’s waterways in search for prehistoric fossil remains. Derek will take us on a 45 million year old adventure through time and space, showcasing some of his many fossils finds. After the program, you’ll have a chance to come up and check out the fossils yourself.
Bio: Derek began working at the Emil Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College of Florida in 2003. In 2007, Mr. Demeter became the Planetarium Director and immediately began the process of writing and producing shows for the Planetarium. Since then, his passion for teaching people about the wonders of the universe has earned him many accolades and worldwide recognition. Derek recently served as president of the Southeastern Planetarium Association and currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the International Planetarium Society. Outside of his role as planetarium director, Derek loves to share his passion for geology and paleontology. Derek has been featured in the news about several discoveries he and his friends have found in the rivers of Florida.
PRESENTATION #2: “Being a Nerd in the Age of AI” by Max Jackson
Max is a data scientist by day and an actor and improvisor by night – his lifelong passion of making people laugh and clap when he talks has taken him every stage he could stand on, from TED talka to improv comedy shows and from New York to Miami to Seattle and back. He is a proud founding member of two improv troupes, Uncle Richard’s Niblings and Malice Improv.
Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Thursday, February 9th
Guest speakers: Ian Cole, Eliza Juliano, & Shaun Marshall
PRESENTATION #1: “Making Friends In Orlando” by Ian Cole
Ian’s nerdy friends make fighting robots, costumes for wheelchairs, giant cosplays, tiny electric race cars, and much more. Hear their stories and learn how you can choose your own adventure to make new friends in Orlando while making the world a little better along the way!
Ian Cole is an avid learner who has spent his career working at the intersection of technology, marketing and leadership in both for-profit and non-profit organizations. In his role as the Chief Innovation Officer for Give Kids The World (GKTW) in Central Florida, Ian is responsible for the creation and execution of initiatives designed to deliver unforgettable experiences for critically-ill children and their families. This includes major capital and construction projects around the 89-acre campus and technology functions including end-user computing, software applications, security, and entertainment / show technology. As part of his community service, Ian has also founded and led several non-profits related to STEM / STEAM education including The Maker Effect Foundation (Orlando, FL), where he currently serves on the board and as part of the production team for Maker Faire Orlando and the leadership committee of MakerFX Makerspace (Orlando, FL). He was recognized for his role in Maker community leadership by the White House in 2016. Ian received his Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Florida State University, and his Master of Business Administration from Crummer School of Business at Rollins College.
PRESENTATION #2: “The Secret Lives of Cities: How Theory, Culture, and Accident Shape the Places Where We Live, Work, and Play” by Eliza Harris Juliano
Eliza Harris Juliano is an urban planner and advocate for better cities. She serves on the board of Bike/Walk Central Florida, is a former board member with the Congress for New Urbanism, and provides professional planning services at Kimley-Horn. You can find her on twitter at @myurbangen.
PRESENTATION #3: “Buhurt: Don’t Get Hurt, Medieval Armored Combat as a Sport” by Shaun Marshall
Nerd Nite returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Jan. 12th @ 7pm.
Nerd Nite Orlando returns to the legendary Stardust Video & Coffee on Thursday, Jan 12th
Guest speakers: Waldo Grunenwald, Max Jackson
TALK #1: “What a Shell Dotfile Can Do For You!” by Waldo
In the DevOps world, much is made of automation and reducing friction. Despite this, few engineers take the fullest advantage of the closest point of friction: the humble terminal. For decades, terminals have been among the most powerful tools in most engineers’ arsenals, and are well-automated. It’s certainly not hard to improve your daily life, but few people know about or explore the world of dotfiles.
In this talk, we’ll show some ways that you can improve your daily life by reducing friction, saving time, being lazier, catching mistakes, and amusing yourself.
Waldo is a Tech Evangelist for Datadog, which means that he gets to travel and meet people, and advocate on their behalf. He is a recovering SRE and Operations Engineer, has been active in the DevOps community for quite some time, and is keen on helping organizations stop hurting themselves. Despite being a raging introvert, he enjoys public speaking. In his spare time, he enjoys collecting hobbies that he doesn’t have the time to engage in. He hates writing about himself in the third person, and aspires to one day be a better bio writer.
TALK #2: “On Not Being a Thing: The Existentialism of Jean-Paul Sartre” by Max Jackson
Max is a data scientist by day and an actor and improvisor by night – his lifelong passion of making people laugh and clap when he talks has taken him every stage he could stand on, from TED talka to improv comedy shows and from New York to Miami to Seattle and back. He is a proud founding member of two improv troupes, Uncle Richard’s Niblings and Malice Improv.
It’s been a spectacular year. Nerd Nite returned, Artemis 1 finally launched, and (fingers crossed) we might even get some of our student loans forgiven. There’s a lot to be thankful for so let’s celebrate!
We’ve got drinks, we’ve got food, we’ve got games, and we’ve got music. All we need is to bring together remarkable people like you.
Join us for A Very Nerdy Christmas party on December 16th.
