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Bram Stoker Award Winner Nzondi | Horror, Humanity & Building the DeathCon Universe
Description
What makes horror endure? Is it the monsters...or the people facing them?
Tonight Joe welcomes Bram Stoker Award-winning author Nzondi (Ace Antonio Hall) for a fascinating conversation that goes far beyond zombies and the supernatural. Together they explore why horror remains one of the most powerful forms of storytelling, how fear exposes our humanity, and why memorable characters matter more than monsters.
Nzondi shares his journey from educator to award-winning author, discusses winning the Bram Stoker Award, and offers an inside look at his growing DeathCon Universe, including his latest novel DeathCon: A Zombie Story. Along the way, the conversation branches into comic books, Godzilla, Brooklyn roots, teaching, relationships, creativity, and the challenges of building a lasting multimedia franchise.
Whether you're a horror fan, aspiring writer, or simply enjoy thoughtful long-form conversations, this episode offers an engaging look at storytelling, imagination, and what it means to create something that lasts.
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Special thanks to:
Executive Producer Wayne Rankin
Executive Producer Rosanna Rankin
Executive Producer Carolina Jimenez
Executive Producer Angela Wetuski
Executive Producer John Seeley
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(00:00:42) Show opening and the big question about horror
(00:04:39) Introducing Nzondi and Deathcon
(00:07:08) From educator to full time writer
(00:10:47) The origin of the name Nzondi
(00:14:29) Childhood comics, Godzilla, and imagination
(00:20:46) Why horror connects with human nature
(00:30:22) Generations, respect, and the influence of media
(00:39:42) What makes horror stories compelling
(00:45:09) Deathcon, transformation, and a live reading
(00:59:43) Cosmology, consciousness, and final reflections
(01:05:13) Where to find Nzondi and closing thoughts