Nerd History Documentaries

Love Thy Nerd

Radio Matt takes a deep dive into the nostalgic touchstones of nerd culture.

  1. 24 JAN

    Episode 40 | The Nerd History of the Royal Rumble

    What began as a televised experiment in 1988 is now WWE’s most beloved annual tradition. Join Radio Matt for a deep dive into the history, evolution, and legacy of the Royal Rumble—from Pat Patterson’s visionary format to the modern-day mythos of countdown chaos. Whether it’s surprise returns, underdog victories, or strategic eliminations, discover why this match remains the heartbeat of wrestling’s calendar year.

    20 min

  2. 27/11/2025

    Episode 39 | The Nerd History of Back to the Future Part II

    Radio Matt returns with a documentary-style deep dive into Back to the Future Part II — the ambitious sequel that redefined time-travel storytelling. In this episode, we explore the chaotic production that spanned two movies, the groundbreaking effects work, the surprisingly reflective vision of 2015, the dark detour into dystopian 1985, and how the film’s timeline mechanics influenced decades of sci-fi. This is Nerd History at its best: thoughtful, fun, and packed with the wild behind-the-scenes stories that shaped one of the most iconic sequels ever made. Website: https://lovethynerd.com/podcastnetwork/nerd-history-pod/

    21 min

  3. 11/09/2025

    Episode 38 | The Nerd History of Community

    From a humble study group to a fan-driven prophecy fulfilled—this is the Nerd History of Community. First, we take you through a documentary-style journey into how Community became one of the most creative sitcoms ever, surviving cancellations, behind-the-scenes chaos, and fan campaigns to deliver “six seasons and (soon) a movie.” Then, Radio Matt & Deidra dive deeper in the Nerd History Podcast, sharing personal favorites, debates over the “gas leak year,” and why the show’s memes still echo across the internet today. 🎓 Highlights include: Dan Harmon’s storytelling genius and the show’s unpredictable evolutionThe cast chemistry that made Troy & Abed (and everyone else) iconicThe highs and lows of Season 4 and why fans never gave upHow Community shaped internet fandom through memes and quotabilityThe long, winding road toward the long-promised movieArticle: 7 Reasons Community’s Shirley Bennett was the Best Christian Character on TV 🔗 Discover more Nerd History at: https://lovethynerd.com/podcastnetwork/nerd-history-pod/

    54 min

  4. 27/08/2025 · BONUS

    Mini-Doc | Not Just Cartoons... NICKTOONS!

    The birth of the Nicktoons changed everything. On August 11th, 1991, Nickelodeon rolled out its first slate of original animated shows—Doug, Rugrats, and The Ren & Stimpy Show—and kids’ TV would never be the same. In this Nerd History mini-documentary, we explore how Nickelodeon went from airing toy-driven cartoons to championing creator-led storytelling. You’ll hear how a nervous sketchpad kid, a world seen through babies’ eyes, and a psychotic chihuahua reshaped animation, sparked controversies, and influenced everything from SpongeBob to meme culture. ✨ Highlights include: The bold executives who dared to greenlight weird, heartfelt cartoonsDoug’s diary-like storytelling, Rugrats’ toddler philosophy, and Ren & Stimpy’s surreal madnessHow these shows faced backlash, evolved into pop culture icons, and inspired generations of animators

    16 min

  5. 13/08/2025

    Episode 37 | The Nerd History of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers

    🎙️ IT’S MORPHIN TIME… for the ultimate Power Rangers deep dive! 🎙️In this Nerd History audio experience, we’re combining our full Mighty Morphin Power Rangers mini-documentary AND our nostalgic discussion podcast into one epic trip through 30+ years of Ranger history. From the Japanese roots of Super Sentai to the American teen heroes of Angel Grove, we explore: – How Mighty Morphin Power Rangers became a surprise '90s phenomenon – The rise of Tommy Oliver and the legendary legacy of Jason David Frank – Behind-the-scenes of Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie and its place in canon – The ongoing impact of Ranger merch, toys, video games, and comic books – The emotional return in Once & Always – A breakdown of the franchise’s current status, future hopes, and why the camp still matters Hosted by Radio Matt and Deidra from Love Thy Nerd, this is the most morphinomenal audio retrospective out there.

    55 min

  6. 24/07/2025

    Episode 36 | The Nerd History of Green Lantern Hal Jordan

    In this episode of the Nerd History Podcast, we're shining a light on Sector 2814’s most legendary protector—Hal Jordan, the Green Lantern. First, enjoy our full mini-documentary detailing Hal’s journey from fearless test pilot to cosmic enforcer, tragic villain, and ultimately redeemed hero. We trace his origins in the Silver Age, his infamous turn as Parallax, and the mythos-expanding era led by writer Geoff Johns, including the Emotional Spectrum and Blackest Night. Then stick around as Radio Matt and Deidra dive even deeper in an exclusive follow-up discussion. Together, they explore what sets Hal apart from other Lanterns, debate the impact of the Emerald Twilight arc, nerd out over their favorite Lantern Corps, and reflect on how Hal’s story mirrors powerful spiritual truths about fear, failure, and redemption. This episode is for fans new and old—those who wear the ring proudly and those curious about what makes Green Lantern shine so brightly in nerd culture. Topics include: Hal Jordan vs. the other Earth LanternsWas Parallax a betrayal or brilliance?How Geoff Johns rebuilt the Lantern mythosThe best (and weirdest) Lantern CorpsWhy the 2011 Green Lantern movie missed the markHal Jordan’s spiritual parallels and enduring legacyIn brightest day, in blackest night… we tell the stories that shaped your nerdy life. Listen, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

    49 min

  7. 10/07/2025

    Episode 35 | The Nerd History of Back to the Future

    Great Scott! Back to the Future isn’t just a movie—it’s a generational landmark in nerd culture. In this episode of the Nerd History Podcast, we’re taking you on a full journey through time with an immersive look at the film’s creation, legacy, and the deeper questions it raises. We’ll explore the true story behind the film’s development, the iconic casting switch from Eric Stoltz to Michael J. Fox, and the behind-the-scenes chaos that helped shape one of the greatest sci-fi comedies of all time. From the DeLorean’s mechanical failures to Alan Silvestri’s soaring score, nothing is off-limits. Then we’ll dive into thoughtful and fun discussion—tackling the unanswered questions of Doc and Marty’s friendship, the philosophical themes of fate and free will, the staying power of nostalgia, and whether a fourth film should ever exist. We’ll even touch on the expanded universe from comics and video games and end with a question worth pondering: Would you be friends with your parents in high school? Set your flux capacitor to fluxing and join us as we go back… way back. 🕰️ Hosted by Radio Matt & Deidra 📡 Powered by Love Thy Nerd 💬 Share your thoughts on social: #NerdHistory #BackToTheFuture Follow, rate, and review the show to keep the nerdy nostalgia flowing every week.

    39 min

  8. 27/06/2025

    Episode 34 | The Nerd History of Napoleon Dynamite

    Take a deep dive into the unlikely phenomenon of Napoleon Dynamite—from its humble beginnings in rural Idaho to its explosive rise as a pop culture icon. Featuring cast insights, behind-the-scenes stories, viral memes, and the legacy of one of the most quotable indie comedies of all time. Gosh! 0:00 Documentary9:58 Discussion

    40 min
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About

Radio Matt takes a deep dive into the nostalgic touchstones of nerd culture.

Information

  • Creator
    Love Thy Nerd
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Love Thy Nerd
  • Show Website
    Nerd History Documentaries