Our blog doesn’t jump into the culture side of Philadelphia too often, but when one of the biggest conventions makes its way through the greatest city in the world, it warrants a side step to talk about it. FAN EXPO Philadelphia is the ultimate go-to event for sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming events in Center City Philadelphia that attracts hundreds of thousands of people to the Philadelphia Convention Center.
And Get ‘Em Next Year is putting their stamp on Fan Expo with their own takes. I can’t confirm or deny, but we may be the first to bring the sports genre of fandom to the con! We talk about it, along with the NBA Draft Lottery, both the Phillies and the Union doing alright, and much more on this week’s podcast!
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When we’re not walking around the show floor, you’ll probably be able to find us at the Tellest table in Artist Alley in Aisle 1200, table 1205 specifically! But, if you know me, you know that I will not only be covering the event as a member of the press, but will be hosting or cohosting a couple of panels.
Fan Expo Philadelphia – This is Heavy: 40 Years of Back to the Future
May 17th at 12 PM in Theater 4 (Room 125)
Not GENY related, but I’m hosting it! I’ll be joined by the crew over at I Like to Movie Movie to discuss one of the greatest movies of all time, Back to the Future, and celebrate that this year marks 40 years of Marty and Doc’s time-traveling adventures.
Official Synopsis: This is Heavy: 40 Years of Back to the Future fires up the flux capacitor and hits 88 miles per hour as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Back to the Future! Join us for an electrifying journey through the making of this cinematic classic, its impact on pop culture, and the enduring love for Marty McFly, Doc Brown, and the DeLorean. Whether you’re a fan of the original movie, the entire trilogy, or just love shouting Great Scott! at every opportunity, this panel has something for everyone. Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic of Back to the Future – no time machine required!
Go Birds: How a Fandom Unites a City… and Beyond!
May 17th at 5 PM in Creator HQ (Room 119AB)
I’ve partnered with GENY to bring this panel to life at Fan Expo Philadelphia 2025 and am over the moon about the panelists we’ve got for this one. JJ joins me, but then we’ve also got Craig Liggeons (Comic Book Gurus) and the Devan Kaney (WIP, Eagles Sideline, Fox29)!
Official Synopsis: Go Birds: How a Fandom Unites a City… and Beyond celebrates the universal power of fandom, exploring how the Philadelphia Eagles have become more than a football team-they’re a symbol of unity, resilience, and passion. Hosted by Kevin M. Gallagher, Jr. and JJ from the We’ll Get ‘Em Next Year Podcast, this panel dives into the traditions and spirit of Eagles fans while bridging connections to fandoms of all kinds. From superheroes to sci-fi, gaming to fantasy, discover how the Go Birds mentality transcends sports, offering lessons in loyalty and community that resonate across every fan-driven space. Whether you’re an Eagles diehard, a cosplay enthusiast, or just curious about the magic of fandom, this panel is your huddle to join the conversation and share the love for what brings us together.
Get ‘Em Next Year: Heartbreak in Fandom
May 18th at 1:15 PM in Workshops (Room 123)
We take the show LIVE for the very first time! JJ is cooking this one up, but know that this is an opportunity not to be missed. I can’t believe we’re allowing Charley Lancaster to have a microphone LIVE without the ability to edit him.
Official Synopsis: Get ‘Em Next Year: Heartbreak in Fandom dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster of being a fan, exploring the bittersweet moments when our favorite teams, shows, or franchises let us down. Hosted by Kevin M. Gallagher, Jr. and JJ from the Get ‘Em Next Year Podcast, this live podcast-style panel unpacks the shared agony and resilience of fandom heartbreak, whether it’s a devastating loss in the playoffs, a controversial plot twist, or the end of a beloved series. Join us as we celebrate the passion that keeps us coming back for more, no matter how many times we’re let down. Because in the end, we all believe: we’ll get ’em next year.
Come find us and say hi, watch the panels, and ask us questions!
Are you coming to Fan Expo Philadelphia? Let us know what you are most looking forward to! Join the conversation over on the Get ‘Em Next Year Discord!