Writing & Literature
12:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Hope vs. Despair: How Sci-Fi Imagines the Future
From Star Trek's utopian ideals to Cyberpunk's corporate dystopias, sf has always wrestled with our best and worst possible futures. Join us as we break down how these visions of tomorrow shape our present.
Moderator: David Rike
Panelists: Allison Stein, Charles Dane Clark, David Rike, Ted Pennella
12:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Intergalactic Villainy: Why We Love Space Antagonists
Darth Vader, Frieza, Thanos -- what makes a great space villain? Dive into the psychology, design, and storytelling behind some of pop culture's most compelling intergalactic baddies, from anime to sci-fi and beyond.
Moderator: Stephen Patrick
Panelists: Kenneth Walker, Lin Christie, Paul Carlson, Stephen Patrick, Thomas Gondolfi, aka Teddy Bear Man
1:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
I've Had It! Stuff We Never Want to See Again
Panelists have had it with these pop-culture tropes and concepts that writers and filmmakers use over and over again. What are we just tired of seeing and what do we want to see more of?
Moderator: Trey Nester
Panelists: C.C. Caldwell, d0gm3at_cos, The Alice of Hearts, Trey Nester
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E - (Vendor Hall)
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Pitch Your Sci-Fi Spin-Off
Think you've got the next great Star Trek spin-off or an amazing side story for Star Wars? Pitch your idea to a panel of "studio executives" (panelists) and the audience. The wilder, the better!
Moderator: Aaron Bossig
Panelists: Aaron Bossig, Jacob Blackmon, Kenneth Walker, The Singing Costumer, Vickey Malone Kennedy
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Mythic Beginnings: The Influence of Folklore on Speculative Fiction
How do myths, legends, and folklore inspire modern sci-fi and fantasy? Panelists discuss the timeless stories that shaped the genre.
Moderator: Pigeon
Panelists: J.H. Fleming, Jeff Provine, Madilynn Dale, Mark Alfred, Pigeon
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E - (Vendor Hall)
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E - (Vendor Hall)
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma G
I Ship It: Love Is Blind, But We're Not
You've heard of classic ships, but what about the weirdest pairings? In this hilarious panel, panelists are given random, and often bizarre, character combos and must convince the audience why these odd couples are a match made in fandom heaven. Will a gritty anti-hero and a bubbly sidekick make a perfect pair? Can a villain and a hero truly find common ground? Join us for a fun, wacky, and totally out-there look at what makes a great ship -- no matter how unlikely the pairing!
Moderator: ChiiVanna
Panelists: ChiiVanna, Lilith Keller, Madilynn Dale, TKM Cosplay, Vanessa Green
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E - (Vendor Hall)
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
2:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Making Magic: Crafting Unique Worlds with Charlie N. Holmberg
Step into the imaginative worlds of Charlie N. Holmberg, author of The Paper Magician and Spellbreaker, as she explores the art of building distinctive magic systems. From whimsical enchantments to intricate alchemy, Holmberg shares how her magical rules shape the tone, structure, and depth of her fantasy settings. Learn how the mechanics of magic fuel character development, drive plot, and bring immersive worlds to life.
Moderator: Jacklyn Hennion
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg, Jacklyn Hennion
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma HIJ - (Main Stage) - presented by Fowler Automotive
From Star Wars to Galactic Worlds: Crafting Epic Universes with Michael Stackpole
Step into the expansive universe of Michael Stackpole, celebrated author of Star Wars, Battletech, and X-Wing series, as he explores the art of building immersive, epic worlds. With decades of experience in science fiction and fantasy, Stackpole has penned stories that span galaxies, dive deep into complex characters, and engage with high-stakes adventures. In this panel, he’ll share his secrets for creating intricate plots, developing iconic characters, and balancing the demands of working within established franchises while still injecting personal creativity. Whether you're a fan of his work or aspiring to write your own intergalactic saga, this session offers invaluable insights into the craft of worldbuilding and storytelling at a cosmic scale.
Moderator: Gamemaster Bill
Panelists: Gamemaster Bill, Michael A. Stackpole
3:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma G
Memory Banks Full: The Wildest Sketch Challenge
Think you can draw your favorite characters from memory? Local artists are up for the challenge as they quickly sketch audience-suggested characters -- without any reference materials! Expect hilarious twists and unexpected results as the moderator throws in their own wacky flare to the suggestions. Join us for some creative chaos and see how well your favorite characters can be reimagined (or completely made up) on the spot! It's an interactive, fun-filled sketch session you won't want to miss.
Moderator: Liz Campbell
Panelists: Alexandra Brodt Illustration, Liz Campbell, Mai Van, Mike Kennedy, Paige Grigg
3:00 PM | Location: Sooner B
Madlibs and Moonpies
Get ready for laughter that’s out of this world! In this interactive space-themed Mad Libs session, kids will work together to fill in the blanks and create hilarious, cosmic stories. It’s a mission to the giggle galaxy you don’t want to miss!
Moderator: Addie
Panelists: Addie
3:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E - (Vendor Hall)
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
4:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
How to Write Non-Human Protagonists
What challenges arise when writing characters who are not human? Panelists explore how to write compelling protagonists who are aliens, robots, or other non-human entities.
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: A. Lee Martinez, David Carrico, Max Griffin, Phillip Drayer Duncan, Rhonda Eudaly
4:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Intro to The Chickasaw Nation Mysteries with Kris Lackey
Discover the richly atmospheric world of The Chickasaw Nation Mysteries in this special session with author Kris Lackey. Set in southeastern Oklahoma, this gripping crime series blends sharp procedural storytelling with deep cultural and regional insights. Kris will read from one of his novels and take questions about his characters, inspirations, and the real-world landscapes that shape his stories. A must-attend for mystery lovers and fans of regional fiction.
Moderator: Gamemaster Bill
Panelists: Gamemaster Bill, Kris Lackey
6:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Aliens & the Occult in Dan Da Dan: A Dive into Yokai and Japanese Mythology
Dan Da Dan blends sci-fi and the supernatural, pulling from Japan's rich folklore of yokai and occult traditions. In this panel, we'll explore the eerie and fascinating creatures that populate the series, tracing their origins in Japanese culture and mythology. From alien encounters to supernatural powers, we'll uncover how these elements are woven into the story and discuss their deeper cultural significance. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Dan Da Dan, join us for a captivating journey through the world of yokai and the occult!
Moderator: Cap’n Ed
Panelists: Cap’n Ed, ChiiVanna, Levi Hornsby, Sally Hamilton
7:00 PM | Location: Boomer A 18+
Bad Boys & Bad Girls: The Allure of the Antihero (18+)
Antiheroes: We love them, we hate them, but we can't stop thinking about them. In this saucy panel, we'll discuss the bad boys and bad girls of sci-fi, fantasy, and comics that we can't help but be attracted to. From their brooding stares to their smoldering charisma, we'll break down what makes them so irresistible, and why we want to fall for them, even when they're bad for us.
Moderator: Stephen Patrick
Panelists: Ela Evella, La Blanke, Michael A. Stackpole, Mike Kennedy, Stephen Patrick
7:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Interior Courtyard - Atrium
Literary Beers
Join panelists in the hotel lounge for lively conversation. BYO beverages, please.
Moderator: No Moderator
8:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
Oklahoma's Eerie Secrets: Urban Legends & Ghost Stories
Oklahoma has a rich history of strange happenings, from haunted sites to paranormal encounters. In this panel, we'll recount the eerie tales that define the state's urban legends, and invite you to share your own unsettling stories.
Moderator: Jeff Provine
Panelists: Britt Alfred, Charles Dane Clark, Jeff Provine, Joshua Trope, Tommy B. Smith
9:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Restaurant/Lounge Area North Park Grille
Soonercon @midnight: The Worst Book EVER!
Join us with your beverage(s) of choice in hand as intrepid writers lay on their best purple prose to create titles and openings for THE Worst Book Ever, hosted by Larry "Dr. Trek" Nemecek! And it all depends on YOU, by audience vote!
Moderator: Larry Nemecek
Panelists: Larry Nemecek
9:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Bedlam 1 Boardroom 18+
Mythical Spice-ability (A Writer's Guide) (18+)
Explore myth and folklore respectfully by using direct cultural sources to create humanizing narratives and avoid harmful stereotypes when writing your story. Ponder on the spice potential and other creative and fantasy themes when exploring this subject and their characters.
Click here to reserve your spot.
Limit: 14
Moderator: Tiffany Swift
Panelists: Tiffany Swift
10:00 PM | Location: Boomer A 18+
LGBTQ+ in Anime: From Subtext to Spotlight (18+)
Anime has a rich (and sometimes messy) history of LGBTQ+ representation. Join us for an uncensored look at the best and worst examples of queer themes in anime, from progressive portrayals to questionable subtext, in this 18+ panel.
Moderator: Birdie
Panelists: Birdie, Red Bard, Ted Pennella, Veronica Brodsky
11:00 PM | Location: Boomer A 18+
Erotic Fanfic Live Reading (18+)
Do you have a spicy fanfic you've been working on? Or maybe just one that's been written by someone else that's wildly inappropriate? Join us for a live reading of the best -- and most hilarious -- erotic fanfiction out there. From steamy Star Trek pairings to intergalactic love affairs, this panel is sure to be full of laughter, blushing, and maybe even some moaning (in the best way, of course).
Moderator: Black Nerd Rises
Panelists: Black Nerd Rises, Clayton Bell, Matthew Cavanaugh, starseeker.cos, The Alice of Hearts
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma G
World Cultures in Speculative Fiction
How do creators draw from real-world cultures to create rich, diverse worlds in speculative fiction? Panelists discuss the importance of research, respect, and authenticity.
Moderator: David Rike
Panelists: Candace Kade, David Rike, Quin, Shai Fenwick
10:00 AM | Location: Sooner A
Green Flags & Red Flags in Sci-Fi
Not all sci-fi is created equal! In this panel, our experts take turns sharing the red flags that immediately turn them off in novels, TV shows, and movies -- plot holes, lazy world-building, or clichés we've all seen too many times. But it's not all doom and gloom! We'll also highlight the green flags that make sci-fi truly shine: unique concepts, strong character development, and mind-bending ideas that keep us coming back for more. Join us for a lively discussion on what makes -- or breaks -- a great sci-fi story!
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: C.C. Caldwell, Charles Dane Clark, Elaina Hamilton, Phillip Drayer Duncan
10:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
The History of Fan Media: From Zines to Streaming
Fan-created media has a rich history, stretching back to the early 1900s, when fans first started producing zines and fan fiction. This panel explores how fan media has evolved over the decades -- from grassroots fanzines to the rise of fan films, webcomics, and today's streaming platforms. We'll discuss the impact fan creators have had on mainstream media, how digital platforms have changed the game, and how fandoms continue to shape pop culture. Join us for a deep dive into the origins and growth of fan media, and discover how these passionate creators continue to influence the media we consume today!
Moderator: Aaron Bossig
Panelists: Aaron Bossig, Dr Paisley, Mike Kennedy, Tim Frayser
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
11:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
Building Better Worlds: The Role of History in Fantasy & Fiction
Great fiction is built on great research. Panelists share techniques for using history to shape fantasy settings, inspire characters, and craft realistic conflicts that resonate with readers.
Moderator: Stephen Patrick
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg, David Rike, Kris Lackey, Major Bill Leaf, Stephen Patrick
12:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Aliens Among Us: How Sci-Fi Reflects Our Relationship with "The Other"
Aliens in science fiction often symbolize the unknown or "the other." This panel delves into how depictions of extraterrestrial life mirror real-world attitudes toward cultural differences, migration, and coexistence. What do our aliens say about us, and how can they challenge our perspectives?
Moderator: Cap’n Ed
Panelists: A. Lee Martinez, Cap’n Ed, David Carrico, Gypsy Jess, Tim Frayser
12:00 PM | Location: University B
21 Days To A Novel
New York Times Bestselling author Michael A. Stackpole presents his three week program for preparing yourself to write a novel. This set of 21 exercises is broken down to give you everything from character creation to world building, practical plotting devices, dialogue development and character voice creation tools. This program is a practical, kick-in-the-pants place to start your career.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
She's Got It Where It Counts: The Best Rides in Sci-fi
From sleek starfighters to junky clunkers held together by hope and duct tape, sci-fi has given us some legendary rides. Do you prefer the elegance of a starship, the raw power of a battle cruiser, or the charm of a barely functioning hunk of junk? Come defend your favorite intergalactic (or interdimensional) vehicle and debate which sci-fi ride truly reigns supreme!
Moderator: Stephen Patrick
Panelists: Allison Stein, Evan T. Wardwell, Kenneth Walker, Major Bill Leaf, Stephen Patrick
2:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Humanity, F*ck Yeah!
In the vastness of the cosmos, humans might seem small, but we've got something no alien race can match: pure, unrelenting grit. This panel dives into the Humanity, F*ck Yeah!* (HFY) genre, where we're the underdogs who rise to the occasion, outsmarting or outlasting advanced civilizations. From clever survival tactics to showing our superiority in unexpected ways, discover why HFY stories celebrate humanity's surprising strength in the face of cosmic challenges.
Moderator: Cap’n Ed
Panelists: A.C. Smart, Cap’n Ed, David Rike, Gypsy Jess, Rhonda Eudaly
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
2:00 PM | Location: University B
Writing Crime and Culture with Kris Lackey
Author Kris Lackey joins us for an in-depth conversation about writing crime fiction rooted in place, history, and cultural nuance. Set in the borderlands of Oklahoma and tribal nations, Lackey’s books explore the complexities of justice, identity, and power through gripping, character-driven narratives. Learn how he blends suspense with social insight, crafts compelling investigators, and builds a sense of place that’s as vivid as the crimes themselves. Whether you're a mystery reader or a writer yourself, this panel offers insight into the craft of crime fiction that resonates.
Moderator: Gamemaster Bill
Panelists: Gamemaster Bill, Kris Lackey
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
3:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Alien Minds: Neurodivergence Across the Galaxy
What if neurodivergence wasn't just a part of human experience but an essential aspect of other worlds and futuristic societies? In this panel, we'll explore how sci-fi characters who are coded as neurodivergent -- like Spock's Vulcan logic or The Doctor's quirky intelligence -- challenge our ideas of normalcy. We'll dive into the importance of neurodivergent representation in the genre and how these characters shape our understanding of difference, both in fiction and in reality. Join us as we explore how sci-fi is a space where minds of all kinds can thrive.
Moderator: Magician Michael Corley
Panelists: Levi Hornsby, Magician Michael Corley, Selina Rosen, Tall Chick Cosplay
3:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
The Star Trek Expanded Universe: From Novels to Comics to Video Games
Star Trek has far outgrown its TV and film origins, with an expansive universe of novels, comics, and video games filling in the gaps and introducing new characters, missions, and universes. In this panel, we'll explore the Star Trek Expanded Universe, how it has enhanced the lore, and why it remains a vital part of Star Trek fandom.
Moderator: Aaron Bossig
Panelists: Aaron Bossig, Evan T. Wardwell, Joshua Caudill, Karen Thrower, Kenneth Walker
3:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
4:00 PM | Location: University B
Writing Romantasy with Charlie N. Holmberg
Romance and magic collide in the captivating worlds of Charlie N. Holmberg. Join the bestselling author of The Paper Magician and Star Mother series for an enchanting discussion on writing romantasy. Where character chemistry is just as important as worldbuilding, discover how she balances emotional stakes with fantasy elements, crafts unforgettable protagonists, and keeps readers swooning and turning the page. Whether you're a fan of the genre or an aspiring author, this is your chance to dive into the heart of romantic fantasy with one of its leading voices.
Moderator: Jacklyn Hennion
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg, Jacklyn Hennion
4:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Historical Accuracy in Anime: What's Real and What's Not?
Anime often draws inspiration from real history, but how much of it is actually accurate? This panel breaks down how anime portrays historical events, cultures, and figures, separating fact from fiction.
Moderator: Rachel Karch (R Karch Photography)
Panelists: Cowboy Villain Cosplay, Rachel Karch (R Karch Photography), Red Bard
5:00 PM | Location: Boomer B
Self-Publishing 101: Methods, Platforms, and How to Get Started
Ready to take your writing or artwork into your own hands? This panel will cover the best methods and platforms for self-publishing, whether you're working on a novel, comic, or even a graphic novel. We'll explore popular platforms like Amazon Kindle, IngramSpark, and Webtoon, along with tips on formatting, marketing, and building your audience. If you've ever wondered how to self-publish your work successfully and professionally, this is your guide to navigating the world of indie publishing!
Moderator: Vickey Malone Kennedy
Panelists: Dennis McDonald, Jacklyn Hennion, Thomas Gondolfi, aka Teddy Bear Man, Vickey Malone Kennedy
5:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
AI Art or Human Heart? Spotting the Difference
As AI-generated art becomes more common, discerning between human-made and machine-created pieces can be tricky. In this panel, experts will share tips and tricks for identifying AI-generated art, from subtle details in texture and style to the nuances of creative choices. We'll also discuss where to find and support authentic, human-made art, and how to make sure your purchases go to the artists who deserve it. Join us for a deep dive into the world of digital art and learn how to recognize the difference while still enjoying the creativity that both humans and machines bring to the table.
Moderator: Trey Nester
Panelists: Jerry Bennett, Kayla Argo, Max Griffin, Tim Chessmore, Trey Nester
5:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Crimson Meeting Room
The Golden Age of Sci-Fi: What Makes Classic Stories Endure?
What elements from the "Golden Age" of science fiction continue to captivate audiences today? Panelists explore timeless classics and why these stories still resonate with modern readers and viewers.
Moderator: Mark Alfred
Panelists: Laura J. Underwood, Mark Alfred, Paul Carlson, Raymond Markley
6:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
6:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Dystopian Reality: When Fiction Becomes Fact
What happens when speculative fiction predicts real-world events? Discuss the eerie accuracy of works like 1984 and The Handmaid's Tale.
Moderator: Stephen Patrick
Panelists: Allison Stein, C.C. Caldwell, Raymond Markley, Selina Rosen, Stephen Patrick
6:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
8:00 PM | Location: Embassy Hotel: Interior Courtyard - Atrium
Literary Beers
Join panelists in the hotel lounge for lively conversation. BYO beverages, please.
Moderator: No Moderator
9:00 PM | Location: Boomer B 18+
Monsters, Myths, and Smut: A Fanfic Reading (18+)
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of risque readings! Our panelists will dive into the wild world of monster-f*cker fanfic, delivering dramatic (and possibly over-the-top) readings from the steamy, strange, and scandalous stories fans create across fandoms. From tentacles to eldritch horrors, this is where trashy, smutty, and absurd stories come to life in all their glory. Grab your popcorn and your sense of humor -- things are about to get spicy! (18+ only, prepare for explicit content!)
Moderator: The Alice of Hearts
Panelists: Birdie, Red Bard, Steven E. Wedel, The Alice of Hearts
10:00 PM | Location: Boomer B 18+
We Listen, We Don't Judge: After Dark (18+)
Some fanfics aren't meant for daylight! Bring your best blush-worthy, steamy, or hilariously over-the-top stories for a live reading in a judgment-free zone. Whether it's hot or hilariously bad, let's celebrate the art of NSFW fanfiction!
Moderator: Levi Hornsby
Panelists: ChiiVanna, Levi Hornsby, What’s Up Fandom Podcast
10:00 AM | Location: Sooner A
Galaxies & Kingdoms: Mastering the Art of Worldbuilding
What makes worlds like Middle-Earth and the Star Wars galaxy feel alive? Great worldbuilding! This session will teach you how to craft immersive settings, from sprawling fantasy kingdoms to futuristic sci-fi civilizations, and make them feel as real as our own.
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: Candace Kade, Jerry Bennett, Phillip Drayer Duncan, Pigeon, Thomas Gondolfi, aka Teddy Bear Man
10:00 AM | Location: University B
Iconic Looks: Unforgettable Cinema Fashion
From Princess Leia's gold bikini to Sean Connery's unforgettable red ensemble in Zardoz, some movie outfits are burned into pop-culture history. This panel celebrates the iconic, outrageous, and often jaw-dropping looks that define cinema. We'll explore fashion statements that have become synonymous with the characters who wear them, and delve into why these looks stay with us long after the credits roll. Join us to discuss and maybe even debate the most memorable fashion moments in film history!
Moderator: Lilith Keller
Panelists: Aaron Bossig, Brooke Welsh, Carousel Cosplay/Padme Peaches, Lilith Keller
10:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
Kris Lackey Reading
Join Kris Lackey as he reads selections from his published books.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
10:00 AM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
11:00 AM | Location: Boomer A
Hills You Will Die On: Unpopular Pop Culture Opinions
Everyone's got that one pop-culture opinion they'll defend to the death. Whether it's "Han shot first," or "The prequels are better than you think," join our panelists as they share their most controversial takes -- and the hills they'll die on. It's a lively, no-holds-barred discussion where fandoms clash, and no opinion is too bold.
Moderator: ChiiVanna
Panelists: Birdie, ChiiVanna, Dr Paisley, Mark Alfred, Trina Jacobs
11:00 AM | Location: Boomer B
No One Can Hear You Scream: Monsters, Horror, and the Void
From lurking monsters to the terror of the unknown, this panel dives deep into what makes horror so chilling -- especially the vast, empty void. Join us as we discuss iconic horror films, the monsters that haunt our nightmares, and the psychological terror of isolation. Whether it's the creeping dread of space, the things that go bump in the night, or the horror of the unknown, we'll explore the genres and elements that give us the chills and why they continue to captivate us. Get ready for a fright-filled conversation!
Moderator: Ela Evella
Panelists: Dennis McDonald, Ela Evella, Karen Thrower, Tommy B. Smith
12:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Humanity Among the Stars: The Ethical Implications of Colonizing Other Planets
As humanity looks to the stars, the possibility of colonizing other planets becomes ever more plausible. But what ethical questions arise when we consider colonizing worlds beyond Earth? From terraforming to the displacement of potential alien life, this panel will explore the moral quandaries surrounding space colonization, examining how these issues are handled in speculative fiction and how they may play out in the real world.
Moderator: Dara Fogel, PhD
Panelists: Aaron Bossig, Charles Dane Clark, Dara Fogel, PhD, Robb Wetmore
1:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Outdated Archetypes: Are We Just Done?
Is there a character type you just can't stand anymore? One that feels overdone or out of touch with today's stories? Whether it's the brooding Antihero, the bubbly Cheerleader, the noble Chosen One, or the wise Old Mentor, some archetypes just don't hit like they used to. Or do they? Join the debate as we discuss which tropes deserve retirement and which still have life left in them!
Moderator: Phillip Drayer Duncan
Panelists: A. Lee Martinez, Lin Christie, Phillip Drayer Duncan, Raymond Markley, Steven E. Wedel
1:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
From Tin Men to Terminators: Robots in Pop Culture
From loyal companions to existential threats, robots have fascinated us for decades. Explore their evolution in movies, TV, anime, and beyond, and how they reflect our hopes -- and fears -- for the future.
Moderator: David Rike
Panelists: David Rike, Magician Michael Corley, Mark Alfred, Peri Charlifu
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
1:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest, get an autograph, and more.
Note: guests may charge for their autographs or photos.
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
2:00 PM | Location: Sooner A
Building the Temple: Believable Religion in Speculative Fiction
How do authors create meaningful and nuanced religious systems for their worlds? Panelists discuss the dos and don'ts of cultural worldbuilding.
Moderator: Pigeon
Panelists: A.C. Smart, David Carrico, J.H. Fleming, Julia S. Mandala, Pigeon
2:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
Michael A. Stackpole Reading
Hear selections from Michael A. Stackpole's works read by the man himself!
Moderator: Michael A. Stackpole
Panelists: Michael A. Stackpole
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet UNTIL 3:45 - LAST CHANCE!
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest.
Moderator: Charlie N. Holmberg
Panelists: Charlie N. Holmberg
2:00 PM | Location: Oklahoma E
Meet & Greet UNTIL 3:45 - LAST CHANCE!
Stop by their table in Exhibitor Hall, to meet this guest.
Moderator: Kris Lackey
Panelists: Kris Lackey
3:00 PM | Location: Boomer A
The Big Fat Geek Quiz: Test Your Fandom Knowledge
Think you know everything about nerd culture? Prove it! Inspired by *The Big Fat Quiz of Everything*, this game show pits teams against each other in a battle of wits, covering anime, comics, video games, tabletop gaming, sci-fi, fantasy, and more! Can you guess the movie from a bad review? Identify a voice actor's cameo? Only the ultimate nerd will claim victory!
Moderator: Black Nerd Rises
Panelists: Black Nerd Rises