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Comic-Con International => SDCC Guests, Autographs, and Off-Site Events => Topic started by: Angie on March 23, 2017, 04:54:30 PM

Title: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on March 23, 2017, 04:54:30 PM
5/12: Zac Levi announced Nerd HQ will not be back this year.

My summary of Nerd HQ 2016:
http://www.thenerdygirls.com/blog/2016/08/01/nerd-hq-2016-all-you-need-to-know/ (http://www.thenerdygirls.com/blog/2016/08/01/nerd-hq-2016-all-you-need-to-know/)

NerdHQ 2016 announcement/ticket timeline:

5/13/16 - approx. 9pm ET - tweeted Nerd HQ will be back at Children’s Museum

6/16/16 - tweeted the app is being updated and will available “a few weeks before the event”

6/21/16 - began posting throwback Nerd HQ vids on twitter and instagram with #JulyisComing

6/27/16 - tweeted at fan that official announcement will be “soon”

7/1/16 - 8pm ET - posted an IG pic saying “I want my Nerd HQ”

7/5/16 - 12:30p ET - tweeted conversation schedule will be out “soon”

7/5/16 - 8pm ET - asked if we were ready for HQ and who we want to see there

7/12/16 - press release comes out / app is not updated with 2016 info at first / posted throwback pics from past HQ’s on social media all day

7/13/16 - tweeted panels will be on sale “later this week”

7/14/16  - approx. 2p ET / panels put on Brown Paper Tickets with sales starting Friday 7/15 at 6a PT



More specifics about times/dates panels went on sale is in my blog write-up.

Who is excited for HQ this year???



Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angology on March 23, 2017, 05:59:06 PM
**raises hand**
I am! Thanks for the great summary. So glad that we don't need a "Do you think Nerd HQ will happen this year" thread like we did last year!

The Supernatural panel was one of the best things ever!!!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: SteveD on March 23, 2017, 07:53:29 PM
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The Supernatural panel was one of the best things ever!!!
I agree, but which one?  The official one, or the Jarad and Friends one?

I was able to catch both, plus their panel in Hall H!

I was in Supernatural Heaven, so to speak.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angology on March 23, 2017, 07:58:28 PM
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I agree, but which one?  The official one, or the Jarad and Friends one?

I was able to catch both, plus their panel in Hall H!

I was in Supernatural Heaven, so to speak.
I only made the official Supernatural one-don't rub it in  :'( :P

I didn't get to go to the Hall H one-Conan Pops were too much of a draw (and I got one, luckily-I would have been sad-no Supernatural, and no Pop!)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on March 23, 2017, 08:07:41 PM
Looking forward to Nerd HQ! It is a nice complement to the big panels at SDCC.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on March 23, 2017, 08:10:10 PM
NerdHQ was great last year. They realized how to use the Children's Museum more efficiently  and free up more space for people to move around and also the risers in the Conversations room were just what was needed, along with the better A/C. I was really impressed with how they turned it around, after HATING it in that space the year prior. I will be back......and will really really hope they have all that delicious free cereal again!!!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: frgx on March 23, 2017, 08:45:03 PM
Yay! Nerd HQ finally has its own thread.  8)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Batgirl on March 24, 2017, 11:34:53 AM
I've never been, but I've heard great things about Nerd HQ. Fingers crossed I can make it this year!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on March 24, 2017, 11:54:09 AM
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Yay! Nerd HQ finally has its own thread.  8)

I was surprised it didn't have one already...so I made one!

I am hopeful we get the app and more info sooner than last year...but by looking at all the past timelines I'm not so sure that'll happen.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dolphina on March 24, 2017, 11:57:48 AM
I didn't get to go last year so I was happy to read they made changes over the year before that.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on March 24, 2017, 06:00:12 PM
If there's a Legion panel I will fight tooth and nail for a ticket.  That show owns my soul.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Shauni48 on March 24, 2017, 06:36:01 PM
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If there's a Legion panel I will fight tooth and nail for a ticket.  That show owns my soul.

I still haven't seen it yet, but I know I needs to!!!!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Legend_of_Melda on March 27, 2017, 08:35:28 AM
So excited for NerdHQ! Thanks for the timeline. Getting these tickets are always so stressful but well worth it! I was able to get tickets to the Jared panel where we were surprised with Misha, Jensen, and Mark.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Blubutterfly505 on March 27, 2017, 10:03:46 AM
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So excited for NerdHQ! Thanks for the timeline. Getting these tickets are always so stressful but well worth it! I was able to get tickets to the Jared panel where we were surprised with Misha, Jensen, and Mark.

I am so jelly

I had all my kids on computers trying to get in on those tickets...we all failed  :P
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Legend_of_Melda on March 27, 2017, 10:12:03 AM
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I am so jelly

I had all my kids on computers trying to get in on those tickets...we all failed  :P

Oh no, that was 2015 for me. I know that feeling and its painful! My friend actually got the ticket for me because i again has bad luck. Good luck i hope we can both make it in this year!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: omraged9 on March 27, 2017, 02:56:07 PM
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NerdHQ was great last year. They realized how to use the Children's Museum more efficiently  and free up more space for people to move around and also the risers in the Conversations room were just what was needed, along with the better A/C. I was really impressed with how they turned it around, after HATING it in that space the year prior. I will be back......and will really really hope they have all that delicious free cereal again!!!

Agreed. Really glad they added the risers for the back rows now. I always enjoy NerdHQ every year and it tends to be my favorite part of Comic Con. Btw if you like the free cereal, they were dumping tons of boxes of free cereal at the curb on Sunday. They couldn't give enough away last year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: TheNeck on March 27, 2017, 03:02:41 PM
since 2014 me and my wife have attended at least 1 conversations and they are always AWESOME. last year we did the colony one, and we had a great time.

we look forward to going again this year for sure.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on March 27, 2017, 05:58:00 PM
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Agreed. Really glad they added the risers for the back rows now. I always enjoy NerdHQ every year and it tends to be my favorite part of Comic Con. Btw if you like the free cereal, they were dumping tons of boxes of free cereal at the curb on Sunday. They couldn't give enough away last year.

Haha, yeah when we went the guy was begging people to take several boxes and that was on Saturday. Kellogg's might have overestimated the run on cereal. I don't think a whole ton of people got to that corner and knew about it honestly. It was so empty and chill over there.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: mark on March 27, 2017, 06:53:50 PM
I actually missed the little cafe they usually have. My son was happy about all the Krave, in fact I think Nerd HQ has become his favorite hangout with all of the game demos. Agree completely about the additional AC and the risers, big improvement. Only problem was the one demo (Battlefield 1?) right next to the cereal bar where they packed all of those PCs into one spot, instant sauna.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on March 28, 2017, 09:11:45 AM
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I actually missed the little cafe they usually have. My son was happy about all the Krave, in fact I think Nerd HQ has become his favorite hangout with all of the game demos. Agree completely about the additional AC and the risers, big improvement. Only problem was the one demo (Battlefield 1?) right next to the cereal bar where they packed all of those PCs into one spot, instant sauna.

They had some food trucks outside so I didn't miss the cafe too much. Although I don't think you could take that food inside; I remember scarfing it down and then the security made me throw the plate away before I went in.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Kmids on April 09, 2017, 04:49:30 PM
First time for me, I hope it's fun.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Callie524 on April 09, 2017, 07:08:06 PM
I tried 2015 and 2016. By the time I hit submit they are gone. It takes like seconds. I'm really hoping I am more lucky this year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 10, 2017, 08:18:17 AM
I get a little less enthused every year.  Last year, I made attempts to buy tickets to two panels and scored neither one.  It's such a scramble to get tickets to the panels, that it's hard to get excited beforehand until you see what you can actually get tickets to.

The content in the space itself seemed to be mostly video games and I don't do video games.  So, I didn't stick around too long.  There was no point.

The dance party was fun, though.  That's the only thing I spent a decent amount of time at.

Maybe they'll have some new panels that get me excited to try for tickets this year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on April 10, 2017, 10:00:08 AM
I agree that there wasn't a lot to do last year outside of panels and video games. There was a small amount of SWAG and a 'green screen' photo op in the back corner. The wristband registration was really annoying on Thursday, but maybe it got better other days?

There are years where I go a lot to Nerd HQ and years where I skip it completely. It all depends on whether or not I get into panels.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 12, 2017, 07:20:31 AM
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I agree that there wasn't a lot to do last year outside of panels and video games. There was a small amount of SWAG and a 'green screen' photo op in the back corner. The wristband registration was really annoying on Thursday, but maybe it got better other days?

There are years where I go a lot to Nerd HQ and years where I skip it completely. It all depends on whether or not I get into panels.

The wristband thing is annoying, period.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: SDCCgal2015 on April 12, 2017, 01:11:36 PM
I'd love to go to one of these this year finally! Fingers crossed!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: rushfanyyz on April 12, 2017, 01:22:34 PM
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The wristband thing is annoying, period.

I agree. I didn't end up going last year, but the year before that (so 2015) they were cool with me putting in on my badge lanyard instead of my wrist which was MUCH better.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: jclemy on April 12, 2017, 04:27:18 PM
It was fun last year but I went with my daughter and we just wandered.

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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on April 12, 2017, 04:28:56 PM
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I agree. I didn't end up going last year, but the year before that (so 2015) they were cool with me putting in on my badge lanyard instead of my wrist which was MUCH better.

That's a great idea! I'll see if they let me do that this year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: susanml10881 on April 16, 2017, 07:41:52 PM
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I agree. I didn't end up going last year, but the year before that (so 2015) they were cool with me putting in on my badge lanyard instead of my wrist which was MUCH better.

 Yeah, I think they do that for sponsorship money mostly. You can register online before to save a few minutes.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 17, 2017, 08:27:11 AM
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I agree. I didn't end up going last year, but the year before that (so 2015) they were cool with me putting in on my badge lanyard instead of my wrist which was MUCH better.

I found out the hard way that it's impossible to loosen the wristband after you've tightened it.  So, I cut it off and attached it to my lanyard.  But, that's not what's annoying.  Requiring everyone to tap in and tap out is the annoying part.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Foxygrandpa83 on April 23, 2017, 01:47:30 PM
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I get a little less enthused every year.  Last year, I made attempts to buy tickets to two panels and scored neither one.  It's such a scramble to get tickets to the panels, that it's hard to get excited beforehand until you see what you can actually get tickets to.

The content in the space itself seemed to be mostly video games and I don't do video games.  So, I didn't stick around too long.  There was no point.

The dance party was fun, though.  That's the only thing I spent a decent amount of time at.

Maybe they'll have some new panels that get me excited to try for tickets this year.


Agree! There isn't as much to do there anymore.  Unless you are one of the lucky few to get a Conversations ticket, there's nothing really to do other than fight for a couch to people watch. The last couple of years, we walked through, glanced at everything, and left. We were bored. I feel like there is so much potential for Nerd HQ... :(
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dolphina on April 23, 2017, 02:31:28 PM
I didn't get to go at all last year but I hope to check it out at least for an hour sometime this year. I know my first year it was awesome to kick back on one of the couches, charge my phone, and like was mentioned people watch.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: kohyuta on April 23, 2017, 05:04:49 PM
There seemed to be more to do when it was at Petco Park, most likely because there was more space. The past couple of years at the children's museum certainly made it less of a place to hang out (because there just wasn't as much space), but it was still a neat place to visit. I especially enjoyed the Coke machine they had because you could personalize a can. I FINALLY found a souvenir with my name on it :) They also have some great photo ops that are open to everyone wiling to wait in line. You just have to watch their Twitter feed and/or their app.

I'm hoping to score some conversation tickets again, as they're so much more intimate and interactive than any panels at SDCC. But even if I don't, I'll stop by and visit because I support the cause.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Kmd2103 on April 23, 2017, 08:07:57 PM
I enjoyed the Krave cereal bar they had last year! A simple yet favorite snack of mine and it was much needed after a long day walking around the Con and all of downtown.

I really appreciated the changes they made to the conversations from the previous year; I was only able to score tickets to one (I tried many!) and they added stadium seating and AC! As with anything, I expect Nerd HQ is going through growing pains at the new(ish) venue, and I expect they will continue to make improvements each year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on April 24, 2017, 01:17:05 PM
Gonna have to agree that it was much better at Petco park.  More space. More things to do. Natural stadium seating as it's a, well.. stadium.  Better cell coverage too.  Children's museum is so tiny in comparison. I wonder why they changed? Too expensive at Petco Park?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on April 24, 2017, 03:32:35 PM
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Gonna have to agree that it was much better at Petco park.  More space. More things to do. Natural stadium seating as it's a, well.. stadium.  Better cell coverage too.  Children's museum is so tiny in comparison. I wonder why they changed? Too expensive at Petco Park?

Yes, I believe it was a cost issue. And Nerdist outbid them for the space. ;)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on April 24, 2017, 08:20:08 PM
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Yes, I believe it was a cost issue. And Nerdist outbid them for the space. ;)

I believe I also heard that Petco raised their prices for renting of the space, and Zac Levi took quite a monetary hit on HQ in 2014 (or whatever the year before the crowd funding was).

I do miss Petco, but I understand why they moved. The fact that they fixed the issue with the seating and the AC is good enough for me.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on April 24, 2017, 08:53:17 PM
I liked the locations these past few years and I feel they took advantage their space effectively.

AC and the raised seating worked very well in 2016. The heat has been a bigger factor these past 2 years IMO.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: stl_ben on April 25, 2017, 09:41:43 AM
Zachery Levi was at C2E2 over the weekend and one of the things he mentioned in his panel was the hope to one day have Nerd HQ travel to other cons like C2E2 and NYCC.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on April 25, 2017, 10:12:24 AM
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Zachery Levi was at C2E2 over the weekend and one of the things he mentioned in his panel was the hope to one day have Nerd HQ travel to other cons like C2E2 and NYCC.
He did have a booth at NYCC a few years back. IMO it was a popular booth and the effectively used the space to sell merchandise , photo ops, and signings. They had a number of celebs stop by throughout the con to support the cause.

Whoopi Goldberg stopped by with a TV crew from the View to film a segment.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: mark on April 25, 2017, 10:15:09 AM
My son spends so much time at NerdHQ doing the video game demos, we're actually using proximity to the Children's Museum as a factor in the hotel lottery.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 25, 2017, 12:13:44 PM
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Gonna have to agree that it was much better at Petco park.  More space. More things to do. Natural stadium seating as it's a, well.. stadium.  Better cell coverage too.  Children's museum is so tiny in comparison. I wonder why they changed? Too expensive at Petco Park?

I actually liked it best the 2nd year when it was at a bar.  It was near my hotel and I would just pop in and sit at the bar for a drink and/or something to eat.  It was easy to just strike up a conversation with the people next to you.  Very social.  Every so often the Nerd HQ folks could come out and have a raffle or announce a photo op.  It was more of a hang out. Now, it feels more corporate.

I like the dance party a little bit, but it is a madhouse.  I've heard there is pushing and shoving near the front whenever Zac appears.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on April 25, 2017, 02:22:20 PM
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I actually liked it best the 2nd year when it was at a bar.  It was near my hotel and I would just pop in and sit at the bar for a drink and/or something to eat.  It was easy to just strike up a conversation with the people next to you.  Very social.  Every so often the Nerd HQ folks could come out and have a raffle or announce a photo op.  It was more of a hang out. Now, it feels more corporate.

I like the dance party a little bit, but it is a madhouse.  I've heard there is pushing and shoving near the front whenever Zac appears.

I missed the second year, but I went the first year, which was also at a bar. I also loved it there, but since it was the first year it wasn't nearly as crowded.  I can see why they had to ditch the bar space due to crowds, but damn I wish we could have that back. It's far to popular now though.

I'm sorta proud that I went to the first ever Nerd HQ.  I'm gonna cling to those bragging points lmao.   :D
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 25, 2017, 02:47:47 PM
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I missed the second year, but I went the first year, which was also at a bar. I also loved it there, but since it was the first year it wasn't nearly as crowded.  I can see why they had to ditch the bar space due to crowds, but damn I wish we could have that back. It's far to popular now though.

I'm sorta proud that I went to the first ever Nerd HQ.  I'm gonna cling to those bragging points lmao.   :D

Were you at the Chuck Meet-Up that was the year BEFORE the first Nerd HQ?  That was great, too.

I went the first year, too.  I know it's too popular to go back to that set-up, but I can still reminisce.  Some of the best things are when you are an early adoptor before the crowds discover it and change it into something else.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: susanml10881 on April 25, 2017, 06:11:45 PM
I always figured it was the money. The venue became more popular and Nerdist has more money.

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I believe I also heard that Petco raised their prices for renting of the space, and Zac Levi took quite a monetary hit on HQ in 2014 (or whatever the year before the crowd funding was).

I do miss Petco, but I understand why they moved. The fact that they fixed the issue with the seating and the AC is good enough for me.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on April 25, 2017, 11:10:10 PM
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Were you at the Chuck Meet-Up that was the year BEFORE the first Nerd HQ?  That was great, too.

I went the first year, too.  I know it's too popular to go back to that set-up, but I can still reminisce.  Some of the best things are when you are an early adoptor before the crowds discover it and change it into something else.

No. My first sdcc year was also the first nerd HQ year. So I've never been to an sdcc without nerd HQ as a vital part of it.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on April 26, 2017, 07:03:02 AM
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No. My first sdcc year was also the first nerd HQ year. So I've never been to an sdcc without nerd HQ as a vital part of it.


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Ah, I remembered the name wrong.  It was called the Chuck Tweet-Up and had been organized on Twitter.  They rented out a bar and it was just about 50 fans.  The entire cast of Chuck showed up.  It was very social.  We had name tags and someone recognized my handle and complimented me on posts I made that they had read.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on April 26, 2017, 10:33:47 AM
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I actually liked it best the 2nd year when it was at a bar.  It was near my hotel and I would just pop in and sit at the bar for a drink and/or something to eat.  It was easy to just strike up a conversation with the people next to you.  Very social.  Every so often the Nerd HQ folks could come out and have a raffle or announce a photo op.  It was more of a hang out. Now, it feels more corporate.

I like the dance party a little bit, but it is a madhouse.  I've heard there is pushing and shoving near the front whenever Zac appears.

Yes I wrote about the pushing and shoving in my write-up. Its so ridiculous.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: SteveD on May 11, 2017, 05:50:08 PM
Looks like a NerdHQ update tomorrow at 1PM PDT.

https://twitter.com/ZacharyLevi/status/862816190879588352 (https://twitter.com/ZacharyLevi/status/862816190879588352)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 11, 2017, 07:28:50 PM
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Ah, I remembered the name wrong.  It was called the Chuck Tweet-Up and had been organized on Twitter.  They rented out a bar and it was just about 50 fans.  The entire cast of Chuck showed up.  It was very social.  We had name tags and someone recognized my handle and complimented me on posts I made that they had read.

Just saw this. The Chuck Tweet-up? Not ChuckFest 3 right? Cause I was there for that event and the entire cast was there for that too.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 03:48:36 AM
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Just saw this. The Chuck Tweet-up? Not ChuckFest 3 right? Cause I was there for that event and the entire cast was there for that too.

I was at ChuckFest 3, too.  That was in Santa Monica.  No, there was something organized by the same people during the 2010 SDCC.  They put out the word on Twitter and if you gave them your name, you were put on the list at the door of the club.  They didn't even advertise that the cast was going to be there.  That was smart.  It was just advertised as a meet-up of Chuck fans.  Then, the cast surprised us.

Here are some pictures

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZkdwIdhZZA/UPTSUGmSUaI/AAAAAAAAAnk/ciEJF7iGYT8/s1600/ZacBaileyLionKingChuckTweetUp2010.jpg)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 12, 2017, 11:19:37 AM
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I was at ChuckFest 3, too.  That was in Santa Monica.  No, there was something organized by the same people during the 2010 SDCC.  They put out the word on Twitter and if you gave them your name, you were put on the list at the door of the club.  They didn't even advertise that the cast was going to be there.  That was smart.  It was just advertised as a meet-up of Chuck fans.  Then, the cast surprised us.

Here are some pictures


If you stayed for the end of trivia at ChuckFest 3, I was the one who finished in second. Grr. Still not happy about that one. That final question stumped all of us so hard.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: frgx on May 12, 2017, 01:00:54 PM
No Nerd HQ this year.  :(
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: superkatchick on May 12, 2017, 01:02:14 PM
So so sad, https://youtu.be/exwl76eVr3g   :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on May 12, 2017, 01:06:18 PM
wow.... that was... unexpected.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Miclpea on May 12, 2017, 01:11:33 PM
My mind is totally blown!!!


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: SteveD on May 12, 2017, 01:16:55 PM
Wow, did not see that coming.  This I will truly miss. :(

Guess it was good thing to announce before the hotel cancellation deadline.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: debster on May 12, 2017, 01:24:37 PM
That's too bad, I always enjoyed going there for the panels (when I got tickets).
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: accelerate on May 12, 2017, 01:27:12 PM
My sister will be especially bummed. If there was one thing she looked forward to every year, it's the Sunday Supernatural panel (both at Hall H and at NerdHQ).

I wonder if it was a matter of money. I remember them having issues three years ago raising money and had that public funding campaign.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Miclpea on May 12, 2017, 01:31:46 PM
They could have charged for the Thursday and Saturday night parties.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mario Wario on May 12, 2017, 01:34:16 PM
Bummer  :(
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: spritegirl24_7 on May 12, 2017, 01:34:47 PM
Wow, just saw the news. Definitely was not expecting that. So sad that they won't be back this year. Curious to know what things Zac was talking about that they are still going to try to do since they won't be doing the entire event. 
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 01:40:29 PM
WOW.  What?  I can't watch the video so I don't know his reasoning, but I'm assuming cost?

This will be my first year without Nerd HQ.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mario Wario on May 12, 2017, 01:42:42 PM
Forgot to add in my last post, but I'm guessing Xbox will have to do its own thing again. Last year, they were with Nerd HQ. I did enjoy the gaming stuff there, and of course, the panels. Again, a real bummer.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 12, 2017, 01:47:46 PM
I loved NerdHQ but I hope this is a wake-up call to some. I remember the year they crowdfunded it. My lady friend and I both put money in. But I remember people saying "we're helping him pay for a party for his friends." And yet still went and had a fun time. Now they've learned there won't even be a NerdHQ this year because of people like them. I'm sure if everyone helped, money wouldn't be an issue. It's worth $5 from everybody. Heck I'd chip in more.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 01:58:33 PM
Yeah I don't want to guilt trip people who genuinely couldn't donate.  And I don't want to stifle genuine criticism about how events are run. Neither of these things are good. But it does bring home the point that it's an expensive event and he needs either corporate sponsorship or a better crowdfunding strategy going forward.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 12, 2017, 02:06:06 PM
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Yeah I don't want to guilt trip people who genuinely couldn't donate.  And I don't want to stifle genuine criticism about how events are run. Neither of these things are good. But it does bring home the point that it's an expensive event and he needs either corporate sponsorship or a better crowdfunding strategy going forward.

I would never guilt-trip anyone. But if you're headed down to SDCC and NerdHQ, I think you can spare the $5. Movies here are $20 a ticket. But to me it wasn't genuine criticism. You can't criticize then go enjoy it. That's hypocritical.

As for a better crowdfunding strategy, I don't know what else they could have done. I think those who believe it helps Zac to pay for a private party will always believe that, no matter what.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: pacino408 on May 12, 2017, 02:07:15 PM
I really enjoyed Nerd Hq, it will be my first comic con without it. Hope to see it return next year or maybe even pop up at another con.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: frgx on May 12, 2017, 02:07:39 PM
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Wow, just saw the news. Definitely was not expecting that. So sad that they won't be back this year. Curious to know what things Zac was talking about that they are still going to try to do since they won't be doing the entire event.
Maybe they'll have a series of "Mystery Panels" during the day at the Balboa Theatre or the House of Blues. You buy your ticket now, but you don't know who the guests will be. Similar to the Nerdist podcast.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Michaelnaut on May 12, 2017, 02:08:14 PM
Noooooooooooooo!!

I loved going to this...this was really a cool "break" from con stuff...I have fond memories of this, list Shatner's talk of him being part of a custom motorcycle build where the bike was never finished and they were looking to ride it cross-country...great panel!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: justboogie on May 12, 2017, 02:08:53 PM
Well, this should give attendees more time for other off-sites. Hopefully Nerdist comes back with Conival or something similar.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 02:09:32 PM
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I would never guilt-trip anyone. But if you're headed down to SDCC and NerdHQ, I think you can spare the $5. Movies here are $20 a ticket. But to me it wasn't genuine criticism. You can't criticize then go enjoy it. That's hypocritical.

As for a better crowdfunding strategy, I don't know what else they could have done. I think those who believe it helps Zac to pay for a private party will always believe that, no matter what.

Well I criticized the crowdfunding. Am I not allowed to enjoy Nerd HQ because I had a criticism of it? If criticizing something means I can't enjoy it, I would have to stop enjoying about 90% of the media I consume. 

My criticism was mostly about their crowdfunding strategy.  They didn't make use of stretch goals, transparent budgets, or perks.  With at least one or two of these things, if not all three (ESPECIALLY perks), it would have been more successful.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: NCDS on May 12, 2017, 02:09:55 PM
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: semigeekgirl on May 12, 2017, 02:17:45 PM
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Well I criticized the crowdfunding. Am I not allowed to enjoy Nerd HQ because I had a criticism of it? If criticizing something means I can't enjoy it, I would have to stop enjoying about 90% of the media I consume. 

My criticism was mostly about their crowdfunding strategy.  They didn't make use of stretch goals, transparent budgets, or perks.  With at least one or two of these things, if not all three (ESPECIALLY perks), it would have been more successful.

I agree with this. I know that they didn't want to do perks because they wanted to maximize the funding going to the event itself, but unfortunately that's not really how the crowdfunding model works. It was too much to ask to fund the event with an unorthodox funding source (crowdfunding) AND then use that source in an unorthodox way (no perks). I'm not saying their intentions were wrong, but I think it was naive to try to rewrite all the rules at once, as it were.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 12, 2017, 02:18:23 PM
I just published an article on the blog. In there I encouraged donating to the cause as a sign of support.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 02:19:30 PM
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I loved NerdHQ but I hope this is a wake-up call to some. I remember the year they crowdfunded it. My lady friend and I both put money in. But I remember people saying "we're helping him pay for a party for his friends." And yet still went and had a fun time. Now they've learned there won't even be a NerdHQ this year because of people like them. I'm sure if everyone helped, money wouldn't be an issue. It's worth $5 from everybody. Heck I'd chip in more.

I think it's unfair to assume this decision was made because of their inability to meet their goal crowdfunding a few years ago.  It could be made for entirely different reasons.

Also, I think they could have made their crowdfunding goal had they done it the way everyone else does it--with perks for different donation levels.  They thought they could do it a different way and, IMO, that hurt them more than the "party for his friends" issue did.

Funding it through marketing sponsorships, as they've done in all but one year, is a valid way to do it, but, I've noticed over the years that they haven't often gotten the same sponsors two years in a row.  I've always wondered about why.

The reason Nerd HQ never wanted to announce too early is that they had to figure out if the sponsors would come aboard.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 12, 2017, 02:25:35 PM
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I think it's unfair to assume this decision was made because of their inability to meet their goal crowdfunding a few years ago.  It could be made for entirely different reasons.

Also, I think they could have made their crowdfunding goal had they done it the way everyone else does it--with perks for different donation levels.  They thought they could do it a different way and, IMO, that hurt them more than the "party for his friends" issue did.

Funding it through marketing sponsorships, as they've done in all but one year, is a valid way to do it, but, I've noticed over the years that they haven't often gotten the same sponsors two years in a row.  I've always wondered about why.

The reason Nerd HQ never wanted to announce too early is that they had to figure out if the sponsors would come aboard.
Zachary went on record numerous times that year to explain that the sponsors and financial investors did not pay them back until AFTER the con - sometimes months afterward. He has to lay out the money for the space, equipment, and suppliers and that is not ideal financially by any stretch unless you know you have will cover your out-of-pocket expense.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 12, 2017, 02:30:35 PM
In reflecting on this - I now have a huge void in my schedule. I plan my con around NerdHQ.

Sad news but I have to come to terms that plans and unforeseen changes happen.

Hoping the event returns next year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Vapors on May 12, 2017, 02:33:47 PM
Too bad.  I never went to any panels but had friends who volunteered there.  Guess they have a lot more free time now.  I always respected them for donating to Operation Smile.  Seemed like a good cause to support through this event.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on May 12, 2017, 02:37:14 PM
Well, this is sad.....it had become such a huge part of what SDCC was the past few years. If I'm being honest though, it takes away a big stress point for me. I no longer have to worry about getting Conversations tickets and what time they are and how I can make it over there and still see a panel in the Convention Center, ect. I never went to the parties or played the games so I don't know what I'm missing as far as those go. It looks like they are still gonna have a presence, just not a 4 day rental of a huge space for people to come and go.

This bizarre thing was that they DID announce Nerd HQ would be back this year. Something major must have fallen through.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 12, 2017, 02:39:22 PM
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Also, I think they could have made their crowdfunding goal had they done it the way everyone else does it--with perks for different donation levels.  They thought they could do it a different way and, IMO, that hurt them more than the "party for his friends" issue did.

What you said and two others said are what I have issues with. Why does Zac have to do what others are doing?  Crowdfunding is a fairly new thing. Why does he have to have perks?  To me I put the money in because to me NerdHQ IS the perk. I couldn't care less about posters and other things.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on May 12, 2017, 02:42:58 PM
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What you said and two others said are what I have issues with. Why does Zac have to do what others are doing?  Crowdfunding is a fairly new thing. Why does he have to have perks?  To me I put the money in because to me NerdHQ IS the perk. I couldn't care less about posters and other things.

You couldn't, but I guess other people could. Thank you gifts for donations go way back before crowdfunding on the internet. People in general need incentives to part with their pennies. Which is a lesson they learned.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 02:49:37 PM
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Zachary went on record numerous times that year to explain that the sponsors and financial investors did not pay them back until AFTER the con - sometimes months afterward. He has to lay out the money for the space, equipment, and suppliers and that is not ideal financially by any stretch unless you know you have will cover your out-of-pocket expense.

Yes.  But, they were able to get sponsors to fill the space in both years at the Children's Museum.  Last year's was almost entirely sponsored by that video game company.  There's something he said about "turning over every rock" in that video tells me the problem likely was getting the sponsors this year.  But, I admit that is speculation based on how he said it and what they've said in the past about the sponsors.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: accelerate on May 12, 2017, 02:51:57 PM
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Well, this should give attendees more time for other off-sites. Hopefully Nerdist comes back with Conival or something similar.

I have a slightly different take on this. With no NerdHQ, it makes other places more crowded. NerdHQ was able to absorb a percentage of the overall con attendees, and now they/we need to spread out to other events.

Me, I always enjoyed Nerd HQ not for the games or panels, but just as a place to hang out away from the convention center. If there was nowhere to go after hours, Nerd HQ was always a good default location. That's what I'll miss the most.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 02:56:13 PM
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What you said and two others said are what I have issues with. Why does Zac have to do what others are doing?  Crowdfunding is a fairly new thing. Why does he have to have perks?  To me I put the money in because to me NerdHQ IS the perk. I couldn't care less about posters and other things.

The "why" is simple.  It's what works.  They experimented with a different model, but it didn't work.  I'm sure someone could right a Masters Thesis for MBA school on why it's necessary to give perks.  I won't attempt to explain it.  It's just the way it is.  Plus, a lot of this was debated endlessly back then.

Even so, they collected over $300K.  That's nothing to sneeze about.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 02:57:30 PM
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What you said and two others said are what I have issues with. Why does Zac have to do what others are doing?  Crowdfunding is a fairly new thing. Why does he have to have perks?  To me I put the money in because to me NerdHQ IS the perk. I couldn't care less about posters and other things.

Because perks (and transparency and the utilization of stretch goals) work.  They have proven time and time again that they lead to a more successful campaign. I donated like $10 (I can't remember but this is my usual default donation to most things) but if they had a perk for like a $20 or $30 donation I'd have given more.  I gave $40 to a start up convention I won't even be attending because I got a cute little binder and a social media shout out. The binder probably cost $5 to make, but it made me more inclined to support the cause even though I didn't benefit from it at all.

It just works.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 03:01:54 PM
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I have a slightly different take on this. With no NerdHQ, it makes other places more crowded. NerdHQ was able to absorb a percentage of the overall con attendees, and now they/we need to spread out to other events.

Me, I always enjoyed Nerd HQ not for the games or panels, but just as a place to hang out away from the convention center. If there was nowhere to go after hours, Nerd HQ was always a good default location. That's what I'll miss the most.


But, how many people were in the building at any one time?  A couple of hundred?  If those people spread out evenly to the rest of Downtown, it shouldn't be a problem.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: DaveG on May 12, 2017, 03:02:51 PM
I'm really sorry to see this happen, but as several others stated, the vast majority of complaints around his crowdfunding was the strategy and lack of perks.  I know Zac wasn't comfortable with the idea of perks and I completely respect him sticking to his principles.  But this is the consequence.  With adequate perks Nerd HQ could have been sustained for years to come.  Maybe there are some that don't like it or think it isn't fair.  So here we are, not only are the anti-perk people without NerdHQ, but so is everyone else.  And in the end the real loser is Operation Smile.  I hope people do consider donating to show their support.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 03:06:30 PM
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I'm really sorry to see this happen, but as several others stated, the vast majority of complaints around his crowdfunding was the strategy and lack of perks.  I know Zac wasn't comfortable with the idea of perks and I completely respect him sticking to his principles.  But this is the consequence.  With adequate perks Nerd HQ could have been sustained for years to come.  Maybe there are some that don't like it or think it isn't fair.  So here we are, not only are the anti-perk people without NerdHQ, but so is everyone else.  And in the end the real loser is Operation Smile.  I hope people do consider donating to show their support.

There's a baking company that's partnered with Nerd HQ and a dollar from every sale goes towards Operation Smile.  Not as much money will be generated this way by a long shot, but at least something is happening.  Still sucks though.   :'(
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on May 12, 2017, 03:07:06 PM
And for those complaining it basically pays for him to party with his friends, I do have to say, the two times I went to NerdHQ last year and saw him there he was CLEARLY SUPER DRUNK.....which kinda sucks and doesn't look too great.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 03:07:37 PM
I saw this on Twitter from a person that I know goes to San Diego just for Nerd HQ.  She knows others, as well.  Many of them and the Nerd HQ volunteers take hotel rooms from the OnPeak sale:

Quote
ATTN: THOSE OF YOU WHO MAY NOT WANT TO COME OUT TO SAN DIEGO NOW - YOU HAVE UNTIL MONDAY TO CANCEL YOUR HOTEL W/FULL REFUND.

So, maybe some hotel rooms will get returned.  Even if it's only a few, it could help some people.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: thawk on May 12, 2017, 03:20:16 PM
This is a bummer - I loved the small size of the panels.  It does make me really curious as to the "why" - feels like for an event with this much history and draw built up over the last several years, aquiring sponsors cannot be the full reason.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: lawboysam on May 12, 2017, 03:30:05 PM
Re: Crowdfunding. Maybe if they'd offered perks back in 2014, it would have worked better - but it was fundamentally against their mission statement, basically. Zac said repeatedly that what he wanted was for no one to feel like because they couldn't afford a $50 or a $1000 perk level that they were missing out on the experience. And maybe that wasn't a smart "business move", but I respect them for that. As a fan, I appreciate that as well.

It didn't work out this year. I'm bummed, we're all bummed - but I fully believe that they explored every option available. And I can promise you that they intend to work very hard to bring it back in 2018.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 12, 2017, 03:49:40 PM
I feel like we're rahashing all the same arguments from two years ago and we don't even know if this was a contributing factor or not.  But yeah, stick to your guns if you want to, but if the goal is to raise money for an event I feel like some business decisions may need to come into play.  I can understand not wanting to treat people with money to a better experience entirely. It's why I hate conventions run by Creation so much. The rich get a drastically better experience (to the point that a general admissions ticket is basically useless) and yeah I'm hella bitter.  So yeah I totally get it.  So on that front, I agree. Just when it comes to crowd funding and small perks, I don't agree.  But hey, not my event.  I'll run my projects with perks because that's how it works for the things I do.

But we could be off on why it's not coming back and we're going to go in circles arguing about perks so I'm just going to leave those final thoughts here and move on.  I love you all and I don't want to cause tension. <3 <3 <3
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: catvonawesome on May 12, 2017, 03:50:54 PM
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Re: Crowdfunding. Maybe if they'd offered perks back in 2014, it would have worked better - but it was fundamentally against their mission statement, basically. Zac said repeatedly that what he wanted was for no one to feel like because they couldn't afford a $50 or a $1000 perk level that they were missing out on the experience. And maybe that wasn't a smart "business move", but I respect them for that. As a fan, I appreciate that as well.

It didn't work out this year. I'm bummed, we're all bummed - but I fully believe that they explored every option available. And I can promise you that they intend to work very hard to bring it back in 2018.

Yeah, I agree. Maybe not the best business move, but that wouldn't have been in the spirit of what Nerd HQ is/was.

I hope they come back better than ever in 2018.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 03:57:12 PM
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Re: Crowdfunding. Maybe if they'd offered perks back in 2014, it would have worked better - but it was fundamentally against their mission statement, basically. Zac said repeatedly that what he wanted was for no one to feel like because they couldn't afford a $50 or a $1000 perk level that they were missing out on the experience. And maybe that wasn't a smart "business move", but I respect them for that. As a fan, I appreciate that as well.

It didn't work out this year. I'm bummed, we're all bummed - but I fully believe that they explored every option available. And I can promise you that they intend to work very hard to bring it back in 2018.

The bottom line is that IF the problem this year was lack of sponsors, they were never going to try crowdfunding this year.  Water under the bridge.

I remember an interview with Zac that year by SDCC Blog.  They asked him, "What did you learn about crowdfunding?"  His answer:  "That I hate crowdfunding."  Not going to happen the way they did.  Not going to happen any other way.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: lawboysam on May 12, 2017, 03:59:35 PM
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The bottom line is that IF the problem this year was lack of sponsors, they were never going to try crowdfunding this year.  Water under the bridge.

I remember an interview with Zac that year by SDCC Blog.  They asked him, "What did you learn about crowdfunding?"  His answer:  "That I hate crowdfunding."  Not going to happen the way they did.  Not going to happen any other way.

Psst, I AM the SDCC Blog. =) I did that interview lol.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: lawboysam on May 12, 2017, 04:02:50 PM
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I hope they come back better than ever in 2018.

That's absolutely their plan!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on May 12, 2017, 04:04:45 PM
Sad, but not totally surprising.

My gut tells me it was the venue because that has been the issue almost every year.

I know this was a hard decision for them and I am happy they told us early enough that people can make other plans.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Miclpea on May 12, 2017, 04:24:28 PM
Wait until next week?


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 12, 2017, 05:00:54 PM
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Psst, I AM the SDCC Blog. =) I did that interview lol.

I hope I remembered it correctly.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: marcia29 on May 12, 2017, 06:15:03 PM
Zack looked so sad in his announcement video. His eyes spoke to me of his difficulty bringing this news to fans. I was hoping to attend for the first time this year.  Now I look forward to supporting efforts during the con and after...any way I can.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: NoNoNuni on May 12, 2017, 07:06:12 PM
Aw, that was tough to watch. You can tell he put everything he had into trying to bring it back.  My gut tells me they lost the space to someone with deeper pockets.

I do love the idea of pop-up panels spread out over the area! I hope something fun will still come out of all this.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Mel on May 12, 2017, 07:15:40 PM
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Aw, that was tough to watch. You can tell he put everything he had into trying to bring it back.  My gut tells me they lost the space to someone with deeper pockets.

I do love the idea of pop-up panels spread out over the area! I hope something fun will still come out of all this.

Well, what's strange is that this thread was started after they posted on their FB specifically saying NerdHQ was going to be back at the Children's Museum. So there must have been some sort of an agreement in place.....you'd think so at least.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Miclpea on May 12, 2017, 07:19:51 PM
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Well, what's strange is that this thread was started after they posted on their FB specifically saying NerdHQ was going to be back at the Children's Museum. So there must have been some sort of an agreement in place.....you'd think so at least.
I agree.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: susanml10881 on May 12, 2017, 10:00:45 PM
I saw this earlier .. Yeah, I was expecting them to be back. Disappointing. He did look sad in the video. Adjusting sdcc plans .. usually attend at least one panel. I was thinking of Operation Smile. Maybe donate some money in lieu. Wonder if someone else will be in the museum space now?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 12, 2017, 10:40:25 PM
Yeah very sad about this. I feel really bad for Zac. You can tell his heart was breaking when he made the announcement  :(

I'm curious about his alternative plans though. What I liked best about NerdHQ were the Conversations panels. I wonder if it may be possible to still hold some panels at Children's Museum (by renting out just the downstairs part where they can pay for the rent by charging an extra fee for tickets this year).  Or if it's a locations issue, maybe they can find another place to hold the panels, like at one of the meeting rooms in a downtown hotel. That way, he can still make most of us fans happy while still able to raise money for Operation Smile.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 05:31:44 AM
They've always been upfront that the primary reason for Nerd HQ was to promote their brand.  It had a charity element, but, under that, it is a business that's trying to sell merchandise.  Ironically, the part of it that was everyone's favorite--the panels--cost them money without directly earnng them any money.  The idea was to get people in and hope they'd stick around and buy something.  Even that didn't pay for everything, which is where the sponsors came in.

It may seem simple to just invite people to a panel and they show up, but someone actually had a job(got paid) for contacting the talent, arranging it, dealing with the talent's "people".  Some of those people were there because they were Zac's friends.  Others shared publicists with Zac.  But, the rest required dealing other people's publicists.  Some were there to promote movies and TV shows and I'm sure the fact it was broadcast live to the world in a professional way helped sell the idea of participating.  It certainly wasn't just for the 200 people who got to attend or the charity.

I can see, maybe, Zac himself or his close friends having a "pop up" panel someplace, but the most likely thing to pop up is some way to sell their merchandise and promote their brand.  They've been to a few other conventions.  At NYCC, they had a booth and a few signings and photo ops to draw people to it, but no panels.  That's what they've done when they've gone smaller.

EDITED TO ADD:
I just remembered something.  They recently announced working with Stephen Amell's winery to develop two Nerd HQ wines.  They had promised to serve and sell it at Nerd HQ.  As far as I know, they still have some wine to sell, unless it's all going to be sold on line now.  I wouldn't be surprised if what they come up with involves that wine.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: vegasndn on May 13, 2017, 06:24:05 AM
I liked hanging out at NerdHQ I just walked around checking the floor and having a brew while wife and kid attending Supernatural panel which they really enjoyed. I do hope NerdHQ returns next year its kinda fun fighting for panels tickets online


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: marcia29 on May 13, 2017, 06:33:40 AM
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Aw, that was tough to watch. You can tell he put everything he had into trying to bring it back.  My gut tells me they lost the space to someone with deeper pockets.

I do love the idea of pop-up panels spread out over the area! I hope something fun will still come out of all this.

Yes, I was thinking about the space, too. Will be interesting to see what may take over that space.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ 2017
Post by: Angie on May 13, 2017, 06:41:47 AM
According to my notes, on 4/4 the nerd machine posted a NerdHQ pic on instagram with the caption "Its coming", which is now deleted.

The wine thing was announced 4/15. Their faq stated it would be sold at NerdHQ at SDCC 2017. According to their twitter, they were still promoting it on 4/29.

So, NerdHQ was planning to be on up until very, very recently. Something major must have fell through.   :(

EDIT: The New Children's Museum event calendar still has NerdHQ on it. Yeah this is very fresh.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Miclpea on May 13, 2017, 07:01:50 AM
Please wait for more news next week.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 09:09:26 AM
I found this Facebook comment from Zachary Levi's father Darrell Pugh to be interesting:

Quote
CHANGE: In life "change" is inevitable. Everything and everybody changes, even the entire cosmos is constantly changing, and we ALL change also. We ofttimes tend to resist it because we get comfortable in our little ruts, but, for better or sometimes for worse, it will happen. [Remember, a "rut" is just a coffin with the ends knocked out.] The old boxing expression that we gotta learn to "roll with the punches" is also true of accepting changes in our lives. NERDHQ has been a SUPER blessing to SO many folks these last 6 years, for everyone including the "army" of awesome volunteers, who were the "grease on the wheels" of it, to make it all work. NERDHQ must change if it is to continue to be that blessing but it will, of necessity, have to be in a different form than what it's been in the past. If you know Zachary's (and David's) heart you know, too, that this decision was one of the most difficult he (they) has ever had to make, primarily because of the number of dear folks that it would affect - namely y'all. God bless Zachary (and David) with much wisdom as to where to take NERHQ in the future.  :-)

The "have to be in a different form than what it's been in the past" part caught my attention the most.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 12:09:37 PM
My best guess is they didn't get enough sponsorships. If they had a contract with New Children's though, they will have to honor that. Something very strange is surrounding this......it just doesn't add up.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 13, 2017, 12:23:02 PM
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My best guess is they didn't get enough sponsorships. If they had a contract with New Children's though, they will have to honor that. Something very strange is surrounding this......it just doesn't add up.
IMO - I wouldn't rack my brain hard over this. Changes happen that may not be in their control and it may not be known the exact cause. Personally, it creates a void in my plans but I have an opportunity to check out some other things and also see the contingency events they will have in its place.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 13, 2017, 12:33:17 PM
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So, NerdHQ was planning to be on up until very, very recently. Something major must have fell through.   :(

EDIT: The New Children's Museum event calendar still has NerdHQ on it. Yeah this is very fresh.
we don't know if something 'fell through' as a matter of fact Z's Dad seemed play heavy on the 'change' theme-
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: F8thful03 on May 13, 2017, 12:34:14 PM
Oh no!  I was planning on sending my hubby and son to this since we only have thurs and sun tickets.  I'll have to figure something else out now...bummer.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 12:37:01 PM
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IMO - I wouldn't rack my brain hard over this. Changes happen that may not be in their control and it may not be known the exact cause. Personally, it creates a void in my plans but I have an opportunity to check out some other things and also see the contingency events they will have in its place.

Hey, I love a mystery and understanding how things work. I blame Encyclopedia Brown and Mr. Rogers.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on May 13, 2017, 12:59:33 PM
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we don't know if something 'fell through' as a matter of fact Z's Dad seemed play heavy on the 'change' theme-

True. I guess we will see how it all shakes out when they let us know their new plans!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Michaelnaut on May 13, 2017, 01:03:48 PM
This might have something to do with it?
http://sdccblog.com/2017/05/zachary-levi-announced-as-host-for-syfy-presents-live-from-comic-con/ (http://sdccblog.com/2017/05/zachary-levi-announced-as-host-for-syfy-presents-live-from-comic-con/)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 01:08:19 PM
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This might have something to do with it?
http://sdccblog.com/2017/05/zachary-levi-announced-as-host-for-syfy-presents-live-from-comic-con/ (http://sdccblog.com/2017/05/zachary-levi-announced-as-host-for-syfy-presents-live-from-comic-con/)

Oh my. Do I smell a sell-out? LOL Now they just need to announce that Syfy Live is happening at New Children's Museum ;)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: FBS on May 13, 2017, 01:12:29 PM
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Oh my. Do I smell a sell-out? LOL Now they just need to announce that Syfy Live is happening at New Children's Museum ;)
Well it is free 😉

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 01:17:47 PM
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Well it is free 😉

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Hey I don't care, I just don't get the "sad announcement" if he's basically just taking what he does and doing it for Syfy now as a paid gig? I guess it's this mythology some people have created that NerdHQ was somehow a monolith of charity and non-profit goodness. I never lived under that illusion and thought it was cool that they gave money to charity, but I didn't need that aspect of it at all. I'd have gone to those panels and wanted tickets to them and paid for them whether it was going to charity or straight to his pockets.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dolphina on May 13, 2017, 01:26:45 PM
I can't wait to see how this plays out. I just want the panels. I loved the small intimate  venue, well with ac, 2 years ago it was a bit uncomfortable.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 13, 2017, 01:29:28 PM
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Oh my. Do I smell a sell-out? LOL Now they just need to announce that Syfy Live is happening at New Children's Museum ;)

Gaaaah.  I don't want to think ill of Zach but lol yeah that's some weird timing.  If SyFy takes over at the Children's Museum, though, at least we'd get something similar in that space.  I didn't get to see anything from SyFy Live last year so I don't know HOW similar it is, but from the sound of it there were similarities.  But I don't know why they'd say they weren't showing up if they were just merging with SyFy Live.  Unless SyFy Live refused to merge and is taking over entirely and now I'm just rambling and overthinking this I'm going to stop....

Anyway, let's hope for something good at the Children's Museum weeee
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Michaelnaut on May 13, 2017, 01:34:10 PM
I think he can be sad as he says...he tried something, wanted to do it his way, and right/wrong, it wasn't sustainable.  Does it stink?  Maybe...this announcement almost sounds like "NerdHQ brought to you by SyFy"...but who knows...he could be taking a good portion of what monies are being made back to Operation Smiles...this could've been the best way for him to bring something to the fans, as well as be cost effective, and provide something for the charity.  Point being, the guy tried something, and that something worked for a few years, and landscapes change, and maybe this way works better, this year.

I'm just looking forward to see how this pans out, and how the fans can take advantage.

On a different note, how cool is it to talk about a con, that's outside the con, at this level?  *This* is why I love SDCC...the sum of the parts are greater than the whole.

Wow...I just got really deep...back to my regularly scheduled comic book reading :)

EDIT: Cause I can't spell...ugh
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 13, 2017, 01:41:43 PM
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On a different note, how cool is it to talk about a con, that's outside the con, at this level?  *This* is why I love SDCC...the sum of the parts are greater than the whole.


This is why I love this forum. A few years ago a friend of mine attended SDCC for the first time (and never again since) and she referred to us as a "fandom."  We sort of are.  The SDCC fandom.

Anyway we are totes off topic but I just had to respond to that lol
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 01:44:47 PM
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Gaaaah.  I don't want to think ill of Zach but lol yeah that's some weird timing. 
Anyway, let's hope for something good at the Children's Museum weeee

I don't think ill of him at all, and that's not what I meant to imply at all in my thoughts, people are so strangely defensive and protective of Zac (not saying you are!) that anything someone says gets turned.....I just wish he'd have said he was doing this instead of NerdHQ this year. I'd love it if this is what takes over the Children's Museum. NerdHQ got down how to use that venue last year and by all reports, Syfy didn't have a CLUE how to run their event at their venue last year......so this year Nerd Machine is producing the Syfy show and it seems like a win-win to me.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on May 13, 2017, 01:47:14 PM
It does seem like strange timing, to say the least...
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: FBS on May 13, 2017, 01:57:53 PM
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It does seem like strange timing, to say the least...
It really hasnt been handled well.

A few days grace period after Zac's announcement would have made it feel less coincidental.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 02:12:40 PM
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I just wish he'd have said he was doing this instead of NerdHQ this year. I'd love it if this is what takes over the Children's Museum. NerdHQ got down how to use that venue last year and by all reports, Syfy didn't have a CLUE how to run their event at their venue last year......so this year Nerd Machine is producing the Syfy show and it seems like a win-win to me.

It's not an event or a venue.  It was a TV show broadcast from a roof at MMM.  I went last year and even got a tour of the backstage area.  They basically took over a floor of the hotel and turned it into a "pop up" TV studio.  The only way to attend is to be in the live audience.  I wouldn't say they didn't have a clue how to run it.  It was a live TV production and that comes with production and logistical challenges.  The main hitch was that it was unusually hot in San Diego last year and that made it pretty uncomfortable for the audience.  But, the producers and staff knew what they were doing.  I was there when the Walking Dead people were the guests.

I don't think they would move it to the museum.  Visually, the overhead shots from MMM's roof were fine and it is literally next to the convention center. 

Being the host requires more than just being there for the live part that starts at 5PM PT (it airs 8PM on the East Coast).  They also did filmed segments that were done earlier in the day.  This is a full-time gig that would mean little or no time at Nerd HQ for him if they were still holding it.  And no partying at the level he's been known to do at Nerd HQ when you have to work the next day.

This is his profession.  This is how he earns a living.  If he didn't take gigs like this, there would never have been a Nerd HQ.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 02:19:07 PM
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It really hasnt been handled well.

A few days grace period after Zac's announcement would have made it feel less coincidental.

Syfy's timing is because the NBC Universal upfront presentation is on Monday.  They and all the NBCU networks are making programming announcements over the last few days and through the weekend.  That wasn't movable.

I don't know if Nerd HQ could have announced sooner.  We don't know when the contract was signed.  They initially said their announcement would be a day sooner.

We still don't really know if this is the reason they canceled Nerd HQ.  The cancellation of Nerd HQ could have made him available for the Syfy gig.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 03:02:09 PM
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It's not an event or a venue.  It was a TV show broadcast from a roof at MMM.  I went last year and even got a tour of the backstage area.  They basically took over a floor of the hotel and turned it into a "pop up" TV studio.  The only way to attend is to be in the live audience.  I wouldn't say they didn't have a clue how to run it.  It was a live TV production and that comes with production and logistical challenges.  The main hitch was that it was unusually hot in San Diego last year and that made it pretty uncomfortable for the audience.  But, the producers and staff knew what they were doing.  I was there when the Walking Dead people were the guests.

I don't think they would move it to the museum.  Visually, the overhead shots from MMM's roof were fine and it is literally next to the convention center. 

Being the host requires more than just being there for the live part that starts at 5PM PT (it airs 8PM on the East Coast).  They also did filmed segments that were done earlier in the day.  This is a full-time gig that would mean little or no time at Nerd HQ for him if they were still holding it.  And no partying at the level he's been known to do at Nerd HQ when you have to work the next day.

This is his profession.  This is how he earns a living.  If he didn't take gigs like this, there would never have been a Nerd HQ.

OK, but the press release says Nerd Machine will be producing the Syfy show now. Minus the games and stores, NerdHQ was all day panels. Maybe the Syfy event is going to borrow from the Nerd HQ formula and do panels for pre-record and air during the live broadcast. I work in TV production, specifically live TV production, much of it is pre-produced to keep things from going too sideways on the air. Must be a reason why Syfy wants Nerd Machine to produce their show this year. It leads me to believe they are changing up how they did it. Because it did to me, sound like it was poorly planned and put together last year. The first time for any live show is rough, the first many times it's rough.

It won't be like NerdHQ of course, which was off the wall, uncensored and well Zac was drunk most of the time, but it looks like maybe they are both going to bleed into each other for hopefully something better.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: semigeekgirl on May 13, 2017, 03:19:27 PM
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It won't be like NerdHQ of course, which was off the wall, uncensored and well Zac was drunk most of the time, but it looks like maybe they are both going to bleed into each other for hopefully something better.

That would be great. It seemed like Nerd HQ tried really hard to be a great fan experience, often at the expense of production value, where SyFy live was basically the exact opposite. They could definitely learn from each other.

However, it should be noted that while Zach and his producing partner are producing it, Nerd HQ is not - this is being produced by Zach's production company Middle Man Productions. I'm not saying this means there will be no Nerd HQ influence at all, but it's definitely not a Nerd HQ event.

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/zachary-levi-tapped-host-syfys-live-comic-con-1003579
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: mdla on May 13, 2017, 03:32:39 PM
I didn't go, but the interesting thing is that from reading the press release last year, they definitely did not just limit the panels to SyFy shows only.  Maybe they're hoping to use him as a resource to get more robust panels?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 13, 2017, 03:47:10 PM
I like the idea of Nerd HQ and SyFy Live sort of balancing each other out. This could be very very interesting.  Or they cancel each other out entirely and it's the Worst lmao
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 04:31:40 PM
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OK, but the press release says Nerd Machine will be producing the Syfy show now. Minus the games and stores, NerdHQ was all day panels. Maybe the Syfy event is going to borrow from the Nerd HQ formula and do panels for pre-record and air during the live broadcast. I work in TV production, specifically live TV production, much of it is pre-produced to keep things from going too sideways on the air. Must be a reason why Syfy wants Nerd Machine to produce their show this year. It leads me to believe they are changing up how they did it. Because it did to me, sound like it was poorly planned and put together last year. The first time for any live show is rough, the first many times it's rough.

Thanks for your perspective on live production.  I studied it in college, but never pursued it as a career.  I don't think Zac's company is technically producing the show.  If you read the Hollywood Reporter story, it sounds like they are coming on board more as partners with the current production company.  Here's what it said:

"Levi replaces Will Arnett as host. He will also exec produce along with his producing partner David Coleman through his Middle Man Productions Banner. Live From Comic-Con hails from Wilshire Studios." 

My first thought is Zac added in his company's involvement as part of the negotiation.

As you know "executive producer" in TV, can mean anything from being active in the production to just a glory title.  The ultimate product is just an hourlong telecast, which includes commercials.  They aren't going to have time to fit in Nerd HQ-like panels.  They did pre-recorded interviews that were slipped in as if they were live.  Only the people actually there didn't know it they were live because they had the audience react as if it were.

Quote
It won't be like NerdHQ of course, which was off the wall, uncensored and well Zac was drunk most of the time, but it looks like maybe they are both going to bleed into each other for hopefully something better.

Did you see any of it last year?  I'm skeptical it will change that much.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 13, 2017, 04:37:37 PM
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Did you see any of it last year?  I'm skeptical it will change that much.

No, I sure didn't. I was too busy. Did you see any of it? I'm curious to see what the end product came out looking like. It was only a single hour? Maybe someone threw it up on YouTube, I will go look. Seems you can find anything there!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 13, 2017, 04:47:28 PM
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No, I sure didn't. I was too busy. Did you see any of it? I'm curious to see what the end product came out looking like. It was only a single hour? Maybe someone threw it up on YouTube, I will go look. Seems you can find anything there!

I didn't see it on air.  I was there in person.  I might have see a clip of the part where Zac was a guest.

I think there was definite room for improvement

I found another article about this on Yahoo News that says it will air at 11PM ET.  That would be a change.  Last year, it aired at 8PM ET, which meant they went live in San Diego at 5PM.  Because it was done outside, it led to the audience discomfort because of the heat.  Now, it would be going live at 8PM, in the dark because sunset if before 8PM at that time of year.  If they still do it outside, it definitely will change the look and feel of the show. 
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 13, 2017, 04:54:28 PM
Eh I'm gonna let Zac explain his side first before I rush to judgment. He's raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Operation Smile over the years. I know that NerdHQ is really to promote his brand but he never had to focus so much and put so much of the money towards the charity so I think he deserves a benefit of a doubt. My impression is probably that this year his sponsors weren't enough or weren't going to come through and he was tired of taking a loss or putting too much of his money to host NerdHQ in hopes of getting his money back from sponsors. Don't get me wrong, I agree with those who feel he could have done a better job crowdfunding or finding a way to sustain NerdHQ better but I'm not going to call him a sellout yet or anything like that. I feel he deserves a lot of goodwill from us attendees after all he's done over the years.

Btw I've attended many many panels over the years at NerdHQ and I've never seen Zac drunk. He's always been very good with the fans and was an excellent host at the panels. If he was drunk at his big parties, then good for him. Why shouldn't he enjoy himself at his own party? I've never seen him late at the panels he's hosted if he did get drunk the night before.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Jonathan on May 14, 2017, 12:41:15 AM
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Eh I'm gonna let Zac explain his side first before I rush to judgment. He's raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Operation Smile over the years. I know that NerdHQ is really to promote his brand but he never had to focus so much and put so much of the money towards the charity so I think he deserves a benefit of a doubt. My impression is probably that this year his sponsors weren't enough or weren't going to come through and he was tired of taking a loss or putting too much of his money to host NerdHQ in hopes of getting his money back from sponsors. Don't get me wrong, I agree with those who feel he could have done a better job crowdfunding or finding a way to sustain NerdHQ better but I'm not going to call him a sellout yet or anything like that. I feel he deserves a lot of goodwill from us attendees after all he's done over the years.

Btw I've attended many many panels over the years at NerdHQ and I've never seen Zac drunk. He's always been very good with the fans and was an excellent host at the panels. If he was drunk at his big parties, then good for him. Why shouldn't he enjoy himself at his own party? I've never seen him late at the panels he's hosted if he did get drunk the night before.

I really don't think I could have said it better myself. I will always support Zac. But I personally have a history with him dating to much earlier than NerdHQ. So I'm a tad biased when it comes to him and anything he has his hands in.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 14, 2017, 03:34:01 PM
I read the press release and Zac's tweets. I guess we'll have to wait to see what he says about the future of NerdHQ later.

As for the SyFy hosting gig at SDCC, I don't really understand TV hosting jobs. Will he really earn a lot more by doing this gig rather than running NerdHQ? I know some people here thinks that Zac dropped NerdHQ to take this hosting job. I know taking this job will guarantee he won't lost any money unlike NerdHQ but I thought with NerdHQ if the sponsors came through, he could make decent money running NerdHQ (and raise money for charity too).

Also, could we see him do some advertising for Operation Smile during the live show? Perhaps he's realizing there are safer ways to earn money himself and raise money for his favorite charity at the same time.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 14, 2017, 04:28:52 PM
Did he actually make any money from Nerd HQ? I always assumed the sponsorship was to support the event and any other money raised (through panels, for example) was for charity.  I could be horribly wrong.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on May 14, 2017, 06:52:36 PM
There was one after the fact perk from the crowd-funding. I got to attend the Nerd HQ meetup in Austin, TX (Can't think of the right word for it). I got to meet him, take a picture with him, and he signed my Chuck graphic novel. He was so nice to me. He actually asked if we had met before when I walked up. I said no, but that I had been to every Nerd HQ. He gave me an actual shout out for that. He was so nice. I was already a huge Chuck fan, and became a bigger Zac Levi fan that day. I know it was probably too little, too late, and only a perk for those in my area.

I am with [member=2135]omraged9[/member], I will give him the benefit of the doubt. I hope he doesn't let me down. I may have to take off my blinders (yes, I realize I probably have them on to some extent)

He did actually do a SyFy show-Geeks Who Drink. DH and I enjoyed it, but it was a little cheesy. And NBC and Syfy are both part of Universal, so he is, in a way, part of their stable of stars (I know that doesn't really exist like in the old days).
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 14, 2017, 07:22:26 PM
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Did he actually make any money from Nerd HQ? I always assumed the sponsorship was to support the event and any other money raised (through panels, for example) was for charity.  I could be horribly wrong.

The sponsors, like XBox, paid to be there.  But, they also earned revenue from merchandise sales, such as t-shirts.  Whether they got a piece of the food and drink sales, I don't know.  The only revenue that went to Operation Smile was the panels, photo ops, and signings.  Everything else went to paying costs, and, hopefully, profit.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 14, 2017, 09:35:45 PM
AFAIK, NerdHQ was always a way to promote his brand, Nerd Machine. I never saw NerdHQ as 100% altruistic. However over the years, after attending NerdHQ every year since its second inception, I noticed two things about him. One, his devotion to Operation Smile is above and beyond most celebs' involvment with charities. If you were a Chuck fan and paid attention to Zac off-set stuff, you knew Operation Smile was his go-to charity. When you look at NerdHQ, I don't see how you can't notice the huge dedication he's put towards the charity. I mean, NerdHQ has been packed with back-to-back panels each year (while hosting most of the panels himself if he's able to) and he's constantly auctioning off autographed stuff and doing selfies with fans to throw more money towards the charity. I mean that's probably at least 100K that's raised for the charity every year and that's probably way more money than he earns from selling Nerd Machine merchandise at NerdHQ. I mean if he was really more concerned about making money for himself than the charity, why bother with so many panels and trying to host so many panels himself? I mean if you look at Geek and Sundry and the Nerdist Industries, those are far more profitable ways to promote your brand and make money. I don't see either of those companies spending that much energy raising money for charities. Not that they need to of course but that's what stands out to me about Zac's effort over the others.

Second thing I noticed about him is the way he treats fans. I don't mean just his fans but all the NerdHQ attendees. I've never seen him be anything but cool and patient and respectful with fans/attendees. One thing I always appreciated about the panels is that when they first started, they were priced at $20 and it's never changed. Considering how much demand the panels get, there is no reason that they didn't raise the ticket prices except that he doesn't want to gouge the fans/attendees. I mean if he wanted to make more money for himself, he could have raised the prices to $30, give $20 from each ticket to Operation Smile and keep the $10 for himself. Most of us probably wouldn't blame him for doing that. But he hasn't. He could have also charged attendees money to go to NerdHQ or go to the parties but he's never done that. So I don't really see any history of greed here.

Angology: I don't see defending Zac right now as having blinders :)  I think there's a lot we don't know right now and he's built goodwill over the years so that's why I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. I almost feel it's a bit ironic that I'm defending Zac seeing that while I was a Chuck fan, I was never a big fan of Zac's. I didn't think he was the best on the show and I was never a fan of his Nerd Machine company. But after meeting him at a signing after the Chuck reunion panel in the 2nd NerdHQ, I became a fan and I definitely started appreciating him more after seeing every year afterwards at NerdHQ.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 15, 2017, 04:21:12 AM
Making money is not a crime.

The panels collected a lot of money for a charity they care deeply about, but they also served a purpose of drawing people to the location where they could take in the sponsor installations and buy a t-shirt.  Nerd HQ wouldn't have lasted at all if it didn't at least cover its costs and those costs are substantial. 

I guarantee you that when they pitched sponsors, they gave those sponsors an estimated head count on how many people would show up.  Yes, the panels collected a ton of money for the charity, but they were also a big draw for visiting the place not only once, but multiple times.

There is nothing wrong with any of that. 
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DaveG on May 15, 2017, 05:09:25 AM
The way I see this (just my opinion) it was likely a very difficult decision for Zac.  The SyFy opportunity may not just be about the SDCC hosting gig, but may involve opportunities to partner down the line with SyFy on more projects.  If his production company is involved, it may not just be about him, but making sure everyone involved with his company has those potential opportunities.  Considering the timing I suspect he was trying to work out a plan to take the SyFy thing and still hold NerdHQ.  In the end, he probably had to admit that pulling off both (at a quality level) just wasn't going to happen; and thus the announcement.  I don't think there's anything underhanded here, I just think it's a matter of trying to make the best decisions for all involved and unfortunately there was no way to satisfy everyone.  It happens and if this is how it plays out I give him a lot of credit giving it his best shot up until the end.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on May 15, 2017, 06:13:09 AM
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Angology: I don't see defending Zac right now as having blinders :)  I think there's a lot we don't know right now and he's built goodwill over the years so that's why I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. I almost feel it's a bit ironic that I'm defending Zac seeing that while I was a Chuck fan, I was never a big fan of Zac's. I didn't think he was the best on the show and I was never a fan of his Nerd Machine company. But after meeting him at a signing after the Chuck reunion panel in the 2nd NerdHQ, I became a fan and I definitely started appreciating him more after seeing every year afterwards at NerdHQ.
Thanks for that-I just know that sometimes when you are as big a fan as I am, objectivity can go out the window. Even DH was defending him. Mostly based on how nice he was to me when we went to the Nerd HQ event. We do actually watch most everything he does (even the new Tangled series, which is very good). I bought the single he did with Katherine McPhee (I love hearing him sing). Only thing I haven't done is see him on Broadway (I wish!). I even watched his Hallmark Channel movie (I know). So, I am always afraid that I will be seen as having blinders on.
I guess we just need to see what happens in the coming weeks. I may try for the SyFy channel tickets (I missed out last year, and never got an email saying tickets were available, as some did).
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 15, 2017, 09:32:11 AM
Syfy also enlisted Zac to present their portion of the NBC Universal Upfront today at Radio City Music Hall in NYC.

He never even got to do that when he started in Chuck

He did a pretty good job, too
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 15, 2017, 10:07:31 AM
I'm happy he's getting a career boost. I can't fault him for that.  Sad about Nerd HQ but happy for him.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 15, 2017, 03:37:13 PM
Ok I guess it is possible that if SyFy were offering more job opportunities for future hosting jobs and co-production ownership, and they told Zac that he had to host this Comic Con gig or no deal at all, yeah I can see why Zac was put into a dilemma and had to give up NerdHQ. I guess I'm not sure how this is a big career booster for him because AFAIK, acting is his real career and his Nerd Machine brand/company is still a side project for him. But yeah if he can't host NerdHQ himself, it's better for him to cancel than run a subpar NerdHQ while he's working another gig.

Angology: I haven't watched everything Zac has done but I did love his guest-starring on Telenovela with Eva Longoria. I highly recommend that show if you haven't watched it yet. Yeah I may try for SyFy tix too. At least we know he's not afraid to interact with fans (unlike Will Arnett heh) and I'm sure this year will be a lot better than last year's. I just hope they don't make attendees wait forever again and lock us in if we may need to leave a bit earlier.

Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on May 15, 2017, 04:07:27 PM
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Angology: I haven't watched everything Zac has done but I did love his guest-starring on Telenovela with Eva Longoria. I highly recommend that show if you haven't watched it yet. Yeah I may try for SyFy tix too. At least we know he's not afraid to interact with fans (unlike Will Arnett heh) and I'm sure this year will be a lot better than last year's. I just hope they don't make attendees wait forever again and lock us in if we may need to leave a bit earlier.
I saw it and loved it! Eva and Zac worked well together.

Someone mentioned earlier about going for tickets for one of the later days-so that they could iron out any kinks (or be able to blow it off if things were still not fixed). I can't do Friday since I have Fundays, but maybe Saturday (did they even do it Saturday).

I do wonder what will go on at the Children's museum. Hopefully something fun!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on May 15, 2017, 04:08:34 PM
There was a year where Zac was busy doing other SDCC stuff and Alan Tudyk and Fillion hosted a lot of panels. So I'm not sure it was because he had to decide between them.

Then again its a huge undertaking to do both and do them well. I am anxious to see how things play out. Maybe there is still hope for a dance party?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 15, 2017, 04:26:31 PM
I remember one year Zac had to save his voice for his NY musical so he didn't host as many panels and that's when Nathan and Alan co-hosted like half the panels that year. I think 2 years ago he had the Heroes reboot panel on Sunday so Alan/Nathan probably co-hosted again. Theoretically he could ask his buddies to co-host again but it may not feel right to him to miss most of the panels. I feel at this point, we should probably wait to see what Zac says. We really don't have much information right now.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 15, 2017, 04:27:50 PM
i think it's going to be interesting to see what happens to the childrens museum space. I'm wondering if syfy wanted zack and took over nerdhq's rental agreement. if so... what are they planing on putting there?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 15, 2017, 05:07:34 PM
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i think it's going to be interesting to see what happens to the childrens museum space. I'm wondering if syfy wanted zack and took over nerdhq's rental agreement. if so... what are they planing on putting there?
I do not recall anyone using the space in prior years. It all depends on whether anyone wants to hold an offsite which requires that much square footage.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 15, 2017, 05:20:45 PM
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I do not recall anyone using the space in prior years. It all depends on whether anyone wants to hold an offsite which requires that much square footage.

Nickelodeon used that space for at least the 2 previous years before NerdHQ moved in there, so 2013-2014 Nickelodeon, 2015-2016 NerdHQ.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on May 15, 2017, 05:41:06 PM
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Nickelodeon used that space for at least the 2 previous years before NerdHQ moved in there, so 2013-2014 Nickelodeon, 2015-2016 NerdHQ.
Wasn't it Cartoon Network that was there? Although, I think that was 2012 and 2013. Not sure what was there in 2014. Maybe it was Nickelodeon.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: nootheroptions on May 15, 2017, 06:07:01 PM
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i think it's going to be interesting to see what happens to the childrens museum space. I'm wondering if syfy wanted zack and took over nerdhq's rental agreement. if so... what are they planing on putting there?

I'm okay if SyFy took that space over they said they had BIG plans. It would make sense with their huge rebranding push.  If they held some panels over there I'd be excited.  Maybe Xbox could take the whole place over like they did with the ballroom two years ago that was super cool too.  Missed em last year. They had great giveaways.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 15, 2017, 06:18:45 PM
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I'm okay if SyFy took that space over they said they had BIG plans. It would make sense with their huge rebranding push.  If they held some panels over there I'd be excited.  Maybe Xbox could take the whole place over like they did with the ballroom two years ago that was super cool too.  Missed em last year. They had great giveaways.


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That would make sense. This could address the seating and shading.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 15, 2017, 06:29:33 PM
I am 99% sure that Syfy is not taking over the museum.  The reference to more shade is probably referring to the fact that it's going live at 8pm Pt instead of 5pm.  It will be after sunset.

I think there is a lot of wishful thinking that this is Going to be like NerdHQ.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 15, 2017, 06:34:08 PM
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I think there is a lot of wishful thinking that this is Going to be like NerdHQ.

Likely yes, but lol what else we gonna do.  We only have 65 days! It's crunch time!   :P
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 15, 2017, 06:45:48 PM
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Wasn't it Cartoon Network that was there? Although, I think that was 2012 and 2013. Not sure what was there in 2014. Maybe it was Nickelodeon.

Dang you are right, I'm old now and I confuse Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network! Yeah, it was CN b/c it was the headquarters for the Adventure Time scavenger hunt one year and something else having to do with Adventure Time another year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 15, 2017, 06:47:34 PM
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I am 99% sure that Syfy is not taking over the museum.  The reference to more shade is probably referring to the fact that it's going live at 8pm Pt instead of 5pm.  It will be after sunset.

I think there is a lot of wishful thinking that this is Going to be like NerdHQ.

Hey if there's one thing we love here, it's wild and unfounded speculation! Kind of our thing!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on May 15, 2017, 06:50:59 PM
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Dang you are right, I'm old now and I confuse Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network! Yeah, it was CN b/c it was the headquarters for the Adventure Time scavenger hunt one year and something else having to do with Adventure Time another year.
I have pictures I took of some of the murals as backgrounds for my phone, so it's hard for me to forget. I wonder what was there in 2014? I am drawing a blank. Maybe it was CN then too.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Vapors on May 15, 2017, 07:26:59 PM
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Dang you are right, I'm old now and I confuse Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network! Yeah, it was CN b/c it was the headquarters for the Adventure Time scavenger hunt one year and something else having to do with Adventure Time another year.

You're thinking Regular Show. That was the year after the Adventure Time's Keyper Seeker Challenge. The next year was the Regular Show Regular Arcade. Then I think they stopped after that year.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: nootheroptions on May 16, 2017, 06:18:45 AM
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I am 99% sure that Syfy is not taking over the museum.  The reference to more shade is probably referring to the fact that it's going live at 8pm Pt instead of 5pm.  It will be after sunset.

I think there is a lot of wishful thinking that this is Going to be like NerdHQ.


No one really knows I merely know SyFy said they were gonna have a big presence this year and they are undergoing a big rebrand. They even said they'll have a LARGE activation offsite, so take what you will there.


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 16, 2017, 07:15:36 AM
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I am 99% sure that Syfy is not taking over the museum. 
what leads you to that conclusion? I'm not being snarky just curious.

I tend to agreed that syfy may not like that space due to the building configuration. But i can not believe there isn't a deal in place to use that space.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Dubb on May 16, 2017, 08:26:22 AM
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I think 2 years ago he had the Heroes reboot panel on Sunday so Alan/Nathan probably co-hosted again.

While on our way to the Supernatural panel that year, Zac was running in the opposite direction towards the convention center. Apparently he was on his way to his Heroes panel, and he was late. Aisha Tyler began the Supernatural panel, but Zac returned before the end of it to finish it off.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on May 16, 2017, 08:53:11 AM
The calendar on the New Children's Musuem site still says closed for special event, for more go to nerdhq.com.

-Shruggie-
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 16, 2017, 09:13:17 AM
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what leads you to that conclusion? I'm not being snarky just curious.

I tend to agreed that syfy may not like that space due to the building configuration. But i can not believe there isn't a deal in place to use that space.

This is my speculation:  Syfy already sponsors prime space much closer to the convention center--the restaurant at the Hard Rock that they have been re-branding to fit one of their shows ever since they first did it for Eureka as the Cafe Diem. 

It's the perfect location and I don't see them giving it up.

I just don't see them adding another location that really isn't conveniently located for visibility.  Maybe 99% certainty is too high, but I'm not seeing it.

I don't see the Live TV Telecast doing it from there either.  The rooftop of the MMM has the Convention Center as the backdrop.  Even though the show is being done at night this year, it still will make a good visual backdrop.

However, SOMEBODY should rent the space out for a party.  It's good for that.

May I ask you, when you envision them taking on the Museum space, what do you envision them doing there?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 16, 2017, 09:37:49 AM
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However, SOMEBODY should rent the space out for a party.  It's good for that.

May I ask you, when you envision them taking on the Museum space, what do you envision them doing there?
oh, as i said earlier, i don't think it's set up correctly for the syfy channel- as you articulated so well.  But i also think there is a plan in place for that space, the deposit on that space must be huge
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Vapors on May 16, 2017, 10:23:38 AM
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oh, as i said earlier, i don't think it's set up correctly for the syfy channel- as you articulated so well.  But i also think there is a plan in place for that space, the deposit on that space must be huge

If Nerd HQ put the deposit down, I don't think Syfy would care, its not their money.  It may go down as a sunk cost.  Without Zac's heavier involvement, Nerd HQ may not be able to put together the event like in year's past.  If they can't concentrate on putting a quality event, they may just have to swallow the cost of the deposit and try next year.

I'm still hopeful they do something, even if it is a stripped down version of what they've done in year's past.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 16, 2017, 10:31:03 AM
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If Nerd HQ put the deposit down, I don't think Syfy would care, its not their money.  It may go down as a sunk cost.  Without Zac's heavier involvement, Nerd HQ may not be able to put together the event like in year's past.  If they can't concentrate on putting a quality event, they may just have to swallow the cost of the deposit and try next year.

I'm still hopeful they do something, even if it is a stripped down version of what they've done in year's past.

At the very least, they would want to sell their merchandise somewhere.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 16, 2017, 10:55:45 AM
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If Nerd HQ put the deposit down, I don't think Syfy would care, its not their money.
yes of course but- if zack wanted something in his contract then syfy would have to care, if they wanted zack.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 16, 2017, 11:12:12 AM
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yes of course but- if zack wanted something in his contract then syfy would have to care, if they wanted zack.

This tidbit may change people's thoughts on whether they lost a deposit.  In 2015, the first year Nerd HQ moved into the museum, Zac and Dave were spotted checking out the location on April 27th.  That was the first hint that MIGHT be the new location.

It's conceivable that the deposit for this year wasn't due yet and they canceled before it was due.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: alyssa on May 16, 2017, 11:39:24 AM
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This tidbit may change people's thoughts on whether they lost a deposit.  In 2015, the first year Nerd HQ moved into the museum, Zac and Dave were spotted checking out the location on April 27th.  That was the first hint that MIGHT be the new location.

It's conceivable that the deposit for this year wasn't due yet and they canceled before it was due.
that is a possibility - it's just odd that the venue has those dates crossed off, without a deposit tho
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: semigeekgirl on May 16, 2017, 11:46:36 AM
Generally a deposit would be due at the time of booking. It's possible, given NerdHQ's unconventional funding arrangements and prior history with the museum, that they made a "handshake" deal with the deposit to be paid later. But in that case I would assume that nothing is currently booked there at all, and their web manager has simply not gotten around to updating the calendar yet.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 16, 2017, 12:20:36 PM
All I know, is if I was the Children's Museum and they left me hanging this late in the game, I'd be upset. Curious to see what happens there, but really wouldn't be surprised to see Syfy move over. You can make anything work anywhere. It's the magic of TV. You'd be real surprised how tiny some sets are in person.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2017, 12:58:13 PM
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However, SOMEBODY should rent the space out for a party.  It's good for that.

FoCC party?  Co-sponsored by the Geekiary.

(My website is legit thinking of doing a party next year, but that venue is probably way WAY beyond budget lol)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Vapors on May 16, 2017, 02:23:11 PM
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FoCC party?  Co-sponsored by the Geekiary.

(My website is legit thinking of doing a party next year, but that venue is probably way WAY beyond budget lol)

You'll never know if you don't ask.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Michaelnaut on May 16, 2017, 04:06:24 PM
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FoCC party?  Co-sponsored by the Geekiary.

(My website is legit thinking of doing a party next year, but that venue is probably way WAY beyond budget lol)
Wait isn't the FoCC party the "massive" Tuesday meetup? :)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 16, 2017, 04:41:13 PM
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All I know, is if I was the Children's Museum and they left me hanging this late in the game, I'd be upset. Curious to see what happens there, but really wouldn't be surprised to see Syfy move over. You can make anything work anywhere. It's the magic of TV. You'd be real surprised how tiny some sets are in person.

But, why?

They had a perfectly good space at MMM. They rented out a whole floor and had a "backstage" for a TV studio.

Why move into a smaller facility?

I see no valid reason for them not to do it again there.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DRWHO42 on May 16, 2017, 06:24:50 PM
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FoCC party?  Co-sponsored by the Geekiary.

(My website is legit thinking of doing a party next year, but that venue is probably way WAY beyond budget lol)
Like the party idea. One of my goals is to host a great party at SDCC one of these years - aside from attending the EW party.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Mel on May 16, 2017, 07:01:14 PM
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But, why?

They had a perfectly good space at MMM. They rented out a whole floor and had a "backstage" for a TV studio.

Why move into a smaller facility?

I see no valid reason for them not to do it again there.

I don't know, a million reasons. Maybe they want to be indoors and not bet on the weather again? Maybe they worked out a deal where they took over Zac's lease on Museum to get him to host their show? Maybe they didn't like that venue as much as you did? I'm not a mind reader but I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility. Did you super love that venue? I sense for some reason the thought of them moving it really bothers you. All I ever heard was that people were miserable at that venue and that they had a very hard time getting folks to show after the first day.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 16, 2017, 08:51:13 PM
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Like the party idea. One of my goals is to host a great party at SDCC one of these years - aside from attending the EW party.

We should talk about this outside the thread for sure.  Because we're planning something. I just don't want to blab too much about it and then it falls through.  Also it's off topic here lmao. But yessss.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on May 17, 2017, 03:46:54 AM
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I don't know, a million reasons. Maybe they want to be indoors and not bet on the weather again? Maybe they worked out a deal where they took over Zac's lease on Museum to get him to host their show? Maybe they didn't like that venue as much as you did? I'm not a mind reader but I don't think it's out of the realm of possibility. Did you super love that venue? I sense for some reason the thought of them moving it really bothers you. All I ever heard was that people were miserable at that venue and that they had a very hard time getting folks to show after the first day.

The venue had problems for the audience.  Namely, the problem was the sun.  They've solved that problem by making it three hours later after sunset.

I'm judging it as a base of operations from which to telecast a live TV show. 

Full disclosure:  I got a tour of the backstage part and saw how they turned a floor of a hotel into an extended TV studio with offices, make-up rooms, dressing rooms, secondary studios for their online after-show and all you need.  Nerd HQ wasn't even ideal for Zac's video operation.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: marcia29 on May 17, 2017, 04:58:36 AM
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The venue had problems for the audience.  Namely, the problem was the sun.  They've solved that problem by making it three hours later after sunset.

I'm judging it as a base of operations from which to telecast a live TV show. 

Full disclosure:  I got a tour of the backstage part and saw how they turned a floor of a hotel into an extended TV studio with offices, make-up rooms, secondary studios for their online after-show and all you need.  Nerd HQ wasn't even ideal for Zac's video operation.

Thank you for your insight!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dolphina on May 17, 2017, 08:03:08 PM
Well I know I want to see what happens with the Children's Museum. I also know the Baker Babes aren't going to be at their location (wasn't it the library/) this year. I wonder if someone will do something there Friday night, but I will be at the Hyatt with Funko Fundays.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angel_ on May 18, 2017, 08:08:49 PM
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Well I know I want to see what happens with the Children's Museum. I also know the Baker Babes aren't going to be at their location (wasn't it the library/) this year. I wonder if someone will do something there Friday night, but I will be at the Hyatt with Funko Fundays.

Game of Bloggers is also moving from their party place too.  It'll be a new and different year for a lot of off site events it seems.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: omraged9 on May 20, 2017, 08:17:26 PM
I was reading the SDCC Unofficial Blog and on the news page where it discusses Zac's SyFy host announcement, one of the commentators posted that Zac told fans at the C2E2 convention a month ago that "he was all in on returning to the Children’s Museum if they could just get sponsorship." So it sounds like it might have ended up being a sponsorship issue after all. If the sponsorship issue was up in the air when they booked the Children's Museum, I'm sure Zac would have let the venue know. With NerdHQ's cancellation, I'm sure the Children's Museum can just open its doors like it's normal business hours during the con.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: susanml10881 on May 20, 2017, 09:48:35 PM
They've always pretty much had sponsorship issues down to the wire in the past though outside of gaming companies? I don't think that's a new issue. I don't think you can book and cancel a venue like that on the basis of possible funding. He probably had to pay a deposit or cancellation fee regardless if they were holding the venue for him. They have to make other plans now and it could be too late to rebook the space during SDCC. And the museum website shows the museum is closed for a special event, https://thinkplaycreate.org/event/museum-closed-8/ with a link to nerdhq
 
Our Museum will be closed from 7/17-7/28 for a special event. Learn more on www.nerdhq.com.


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I was reading the SDCC Unofficial Blog and on the news page where it discusses Zac's SyFy host announcement, one of the commentators posted that Zac told fans at the C2E2 convention a month ago that "he was all in on returning to the Children’s Museum if they could just get sponsorship." So it sounds like it might have ended up being a sponsorship issue after all. If the sponsorship issue was up in the air when they booked the Children's Museum, I'm sure Zac would have let the venue know. With NerdHQ's cancellation, I'm sure the Children's Museum can just open its doors like it's normal business hours during the con.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on July 05, 2017, 07:17:24 AM
So, Zachary Levi managed to get Syfy to revive at least the party part of NerdHQ:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/weddings-drumlines-a-bsg-reunion-syfy-going-all-at-comic-con-1018666

Quote
In a big to make Comic-Con's traditionally exclusive star-studded end-of-day parties more inclusive, Syfy is additionally teaming with Levi to host two free-to-the-public events. On Friday and Saturday night, Syfy will take over the Children's Museum with free (first-come-first-served) parties featuring live performances. The Spazmatics will perform Thursday. Levi will also skip his annual "NerdHQ" events and instead further team with Syfy for his annual Nerd Party on Friday, though that remains invitation only.

The days in the article are probably wrong.  The fan parties would be Thursday and Saturday, but the Friday night party is invitation only.

Syfy has always had its own "invitation-only" party on Friday at the Solamar.  I wonder if the Friday party is now a combo of their party and Zac's, which had a different invitation list.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angology on July 05, 2017, 09:23:54 AM
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So, Zachary Levi managed to get Syfy to revive at least the party part of NerdHQ:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/live-feed/weddings-drumlines-a-bsg-reunion-syfy-going-all-at-comic-con-1018666

The days in the article are probably wrong.  The fan parties would be Thursday and Saturday, but the Friday night party is invitation only.

Syfy has always had its own "invitation-only" party on Friday at the Solamar.  I wonder if the Friday party is now a combo of their party and Zac's, which had a different invitation list.
Thanks for the post!
It would be so great to do a vow renewal with Orlando Jones officiating at Comic-Con. What a neat idea! Orlando's Periscopes are always fun to watch.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on July 05, 2017, 05:39:13 PM
I just want to see the 80s band! I wish they would say when they go on.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: jclemy on July 07, 2017, 09:25:40 PM
That vow renewal with Anansi would be epic.

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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: chocolateshake on July 08, 2017, 01:29:16 PM
NerdHQ sent out an email about the SyFy parties at the children's museum.  Not much to say, just first come first served Thursday and Saturday night.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Miclpea on July 20, 2017, 08:12:43 PM
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NerdHQ sent out an email about the SyFy parties at the children's museum.  Not much to say, just first come first served Thursday and Saturday night.
Anyone going to the party?


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: accelerate on July 20, 2017, 10:33:57 PM
I waited in line about 40 min to get into the party. You had to RSVP, but they said just RSVP while you're in line. If you been to past NerdHQ parties, you know what to expect. This one is a little bigger since all three floors are used.


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Title: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: accelerate on July 20, 2017, 10:37:47 PM
One more thing. Bracelet to get in includes 3 drink coupons.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170721/8e48b42890fa056d7c706750fe3c012d.jpg)


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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: chocolateshake on July 20, 2017, 11:06:27 PM
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I waited in line about 40 min to get into the party. You had to RSVP, but they said just RSVP while you're in line. If you been to past NerdHQ parties, you know what to expect. This one is a little bigger since all three floors are used.


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Do you have the link to RSVP?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: accelerate on July 20, 2017, 11:08:11 PM
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Do you have the link to RSVP?

http://syfy.com/fanparty




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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: chocolateshake on July 20, 2017, 11:54:49 PM
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http://syfy.com/fanparty




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Thanks!
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on July 23, 2017, 07:04:31 PM
I got to go to both the dance parties, but didn't attend the impromptu charity auction they did for Operation Smile in the Manchester.

I really loved the band on Thursday night. The band on Saturday was a 90's band and I don't think think that music is as fun.

I think it was brilliant of Syfy to take over these popular parties and even throw in free beer and nibbles. There was more room because of the lack of daytime exhibit stuff. Zachary Levi was there both nights, but there was no Nerdmachine branding. Even he wore Syfy logos.

Zac would ask the crowd who had attended NerdHQ in the past and the front contingent of the dance floor would yell "yes". They also had gone to the Syfy Live TV taping.  The Thursday party is easier to get in. I wondered if many in the Saturday party weren't SDCC. It was a different feel to the crowd.

BTW-I'm getting a vibe that Nerd HQ is over for good, especially if Zac hosts the TV show again.  They've got a TV network to foot the bill for the parties, including the private one.  I didn't get invited to that, obviously, but I walked past it mid party and it was buzzing.

Did anyone go to the auction?  Was it well attended?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Car_Low on August 04, 2017, 11:53:12 AM
They're auctioning some extra signed stuff on their eBay page now.

http://stores.ebay.com/auctioncause/nerd-hq
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: AzT on September 04, 2017, 08:42:34 PM
http://comicbook.com/marvel/2017/09/04/zachary-levi-to-make-nerd-hq-a-non-profit-organization/

Quote
After pulling Nerd HQ out of Comic Con International in San Diego earlier this summer, Chuck and Thor: Ragnarok star Zachary Levi told fans at FanExpo this past weekend that he will reinvent the property as a nonprofit organization. After being asked by fans whether he would consider launching a Nerd HQ event in Toronto, Levi launched into a story about Nerd HQ's trouble finding backing. He explained that historically, he had fronted all of the costs associated with Nerd HQ events, reimbursing himself when sponsorship money came in. After two major sponsors pulled out, and Levi lost a lot of his personal money, he decided to attempt crowdfunding to pay for Nerd HQ events, but that too was unsuccessful.

“We did an IndieGoGo campaign and I hoped that if we went out to the fans…surely all the people of the world who are getting all this stuff for free will put in $5, and they didn’t,” Levi admitted. “So I’m going to take Nerd HQ, I’m going to streamline it, I’m going to take all of the for-profit of it away. The whole company will be a wash for me, and I’m happy to do that because I’m going to turn it into a full nonprofit foundation and that means, if you guys actually want Nerd HQ to happen anymore, on the website, I’ll put a little donate deal and you guys can all put money into it. So if it doesn’t happen, it’s because not enough people wanted it, and if people do want it, it will be fully tax-deductible. And if people want it so much that we can pay for San Diego and beyond that…I’ll bring it anywhere I can, because I believe in it. I believe in the idea that you guys deserve to have intimate, real interactions with people you support in their careers.”

For the first time since it was founded, Nerd Herd backed out of appearing at San Diego Comic Con this year, with Levi issuing a heartfelt statement, saying that they had "turned up every stone" in an attempt to make it work logistically. Nerd HQ typically hosts parties and events in and around Comic Con, as well as filming interviews and panels at their own booth which can then be broadcast to fans who can't afford passes to the annual pop culture bash. Conducting the events at their own booth rather than in panel rooms also gets around rules imposed by Comic Con that restrict how and when panel video can be used. During his appearance at FanExpo, Levi thanked fans and fellow creatives who "got it," but said that there was often a disconnect between sponsors eager to do business with him at one of the Nerd HQ party dance floors and those who would pony up the money when the time came. Nerd HQ has also engaged in other charity events, bringing pop culture personalities and fans together to help groups like Operation Smile.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: TardisMom on September 04, 2017, 09:12:57 PM
It'll be interesting to see what happens next summer.  I agree with him, if people really want Nerd HQ they'll make a donation.  If not, they won't.  Time will tell.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on September 05, 2017, 03:41:42 AM
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It'll be interesting to see what happens next summer.  I agree with him, if people really want Nerd HQ they'll make a donation.  If not, they won't.  Time will tell.

I read that article several times and it still doesn't make much sense.  Does he mean "non-profit" in the way SDCC itself is non-profit? 

I have about a dozen questions like that.  If that crowdfunding campaign didn't turn up enough donations, why would this do any better?
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: FBS on September 05, 2017, 05:29:31 AM
So it's almost a "if you want it then you pay for it" deal?

Personally I think Nerd HQ has had its day. It was amazing while it lasted but others have taken that idea and jacked it up to 11 to make a better show.

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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Transmute Jun on September 05, 2017, 05:45:56 AM
I'd like to see it come back... but honestly, I had a great time this year without it.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on September 05, 2017, 07:06:10 AM
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So it's almost a "if you want it then you pay for it" deal?

Personally I think Nerd HQ has had its day. It was amazing while it lasted but others have taken that idea and jacked it up to 11 to make a better show.

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I hadn't seen that there was a video of the panel where Zac explained it.  I thought the writer of the article may have left out something.  I just watched Zac talk about it himself and it still doesn't make much sense.

That Indiegogo raised $336,784 from 16,378 backers (Avg = $20.56 per backer).  If that's not enough to put on a Nerd HQ without sponsors, how is making it non-profit and having attendees "donate" going to change anything?

(Unless extreme downsizing is involved)
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: FBS on September 05, 2017, 08:01:33 AM
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I hadn't seen that there was a video of the panel where Zac explained it.  I thought the writer of the article may have left out something.  I just watched Zac talk about it himself and it still doesn't make much sense.

That Indiegogo raised $336,784 from 16,378 backers (Avg = $20.56 per backer).  If that's not enough to put on a Nerd HQ without sponsors, how is making it non-profit and having attendees "donate" going to change anything?

(Unless extreme downsizing is involved)
I think the simple answer is: It won't change anything.
In fact, it will probably have less donations than before.

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Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: TardisMom on September 05, 2017, 12:48:29 PM
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That Indiegogo raised $336,784 from 16,378 backers (Avg = $20.56 per backer).  If that's not enough to put on a Nerd HQ without sponsors, how is making it non-profit and having attendees "donate" going to change anything?

I just looked at the Indiegogo.  The goal was $1,000,000 so it made just 34% of the goal.  At $20/donation he'd need 50,000 people to donate.  I don't have any idea how many people attend Nerd HQ each year, but I seriously doubt it is 50,000.  Can't imagine they'll be back if this is what is required.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on September 05, 2017, 01:05:24 PM
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I just looked at the Indiegogo.  The goal was $1,000,000 so it made just 34% of the goal.  At $20/donation he'd need 50,000 people to donate.  I don't have any idea how many people attend Nerd HQ each year, but I seriously doubt it is 50,000.  Can't imagine they'll be back if this is what is required.

They seriously miscalculated.  They thought people who watch online would donate too.  But, there were many missteps besides that.  The way to have a successful crowdfunding isn't to have a lot of people give a little bit of money.  It's to have a higher donation per person.  Wil Wheaton's campaign for Table Top happened shortly after the Nerd HQ campaign.  $1,414,159 was raised from 22,211 backers.  Donation per backer was $63.67.  The key difference was that Wheaton's campaign gave perks for donating more.  Nerd HQ thought they didn't need perks.

I still don't understand how making Nerd HQ non-profit and funded by donations makes it more viable than the sponsorship model, unless they are going to greatly downsize what it is or "rightsize" it to the donation amount.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: semigeekgirl on September 05, 2017, 01:20:24 PM
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I still don't understand how making Nerd HQ non-profit and funded by donations makes it more viable than the sponsorship model, unless they are going to greatly downsize what it is or "rightsize" it to the donation amount.

Perhaps he means mostly corporate donors? With a sponsorship, corporations expect a certain level of media and engagement for their participation. With a donation, all they expect is goodwill and a tax deduction. That might be more attractive for some corporations.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: Angie on September 05, 2017, 08:00:59 PM
He told a similar story at his 2nd dragoncon panel. I did not record it but the gist of what I remember him saying is that NerdHq is done. He mentioned the non profit thing but did not get into specifics.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: DaveG on September 05, 2017, 08:58:49 PM
Just catching up on today's posts and generally beliieve that NerdHQ's time if past.  The quotes I read here from Zach are pretty much an extension of the same thoughts expressed during the IndieGoGo campaign.  Zach has a particular vision for how NerdHQ should be run and how it should be funded.  He felt that offering perks for the crowd funding campaign would somehow compromise the principles of his vision.  Not enough of his supporters agreed or at least didn't agree to the extent he did.  And thus we no longer have NerdHQ.  But as has been already expressed, while it is missed, it doesn't seem to have diminished the fun of SDCC.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: dkd on September 06, 2017, 03:40:22 AM
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Just catching up on today's posts and generally beliieve that NerdHQ's time if past.  The quotes I read here from Zach are pretty much an extension of the same thoughts expressed during the IndieGoGo campaign.  Zach has a particular vision for how NerdHQ should be run and how it should be funded.  He felt that offering perks for the crowd funding campaign would somehow compromise the principles of his vision.  Not enough of his supporters agreed or at least didn't agree to the extent he did.  And thus we no longer have NerdHQ.  But as has been already expressed, while it is missed, it doesn't seem to have diminished the fun of SDCC.

Agreed.

The irony of it is that I think most people would list the panels as their most popular aspect of Nerd HQ.  The panels were pretty much the same when Nerd HQ was held that first year in a bar.  It was the rest of it--the space they had for their corporate sponsors--that grew in size and seemed to drive the increased expense.  That growth in size of the "other stuff"  also seemed part of their vision.

To be honest, I thought that Syfy taking over the dance parties last year was great.  They did a great job.
Title: Re: Nerd HQ Not Happening in 2017
Post by: force951 on September 06, 2017, 07:27:08 PM
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Agreed.

The irony of it is that I think most people would list the panels as their most popular aspect of Nerd HQ.  The panels were pretty much the same when Nerd HQ was held that first year in a bar.  It was the rest of it--the space they had for their corporate sponsors--that grew in size and seemed to drive the increased expense.  That growth in size of the "other stuff"  also seemed part of their vision.

To be honest, I thought that Syfy taking over the dance parties last year was great.  They did a great job.

I only went to Nerd HQ for the panels, didn't care for the rest of it. So when it came to donations, i have to pay for the panels and don't enjoy the rest. So if you want a good size donation you need to give me a reason. Just to help you exist isn't worth more then $5-10 to me.