Podcast Interview:
Fandom Culture and Mental Health

Click “play” above to listen to this podcast episode where Anesu Ngwenya interviews me about the emotional and psychological power of fandoms - why people become superfans, how stories help us process real-life emotions, and the benefits (and boundaries) of passionate engagement. We dive into the differences between healthy and unhealthy fandom behaviors, the impact of parasocial relationships, and how online communities became lifelines during the pandemic. Whether you're a casual fan or deeply immersed in fandom life, this conversation offers insight into how fandoms can support well-being, creativity, and connection.