Nerd Pride Radio

has been released, where me and Max discuss Dom Toretto– the character you’ve been waiting for! They have a good discussion about an alternate universe where Brian and Dom are the main love story, and conclude with a punishment that leaves Kyle in a… sticky situation.

I think Max has improved a lot. He still gets flustered as he's trying to figure out what I'm hinting at with my questions, but he's much more conversational. I was happy with his performance.

If you don't already, have Gabe or Ava prep him for a few minutes before the show, just talking to him about his character for the week. It doesn't have to be anything specific, just talking about what they remember about the character and what they'd want to say if it were their episode. That way, it'll be fresh in Max's mind, and he might be more relaxed on mic. He seems worried that he's going to give the wrong answer, whereas Gabe and Ava are both old enough and confident enough that they're willing to run with a line of bullshit and make it entertaining. If it's not what you were looking for, then they'll adapt and adjust. Max doesn't have that skill or confidence yet.

For what it's worth, I used to be really worried when Noah got on the mic, because he'd often completely miss where I was going and do something unrelated that was potentially factually wrong or just tedious or whatever, and so I worried about having to corral him. But with experience, he's gotten to where I can let him go a little more, and I don't sweat having him on. It helps that Noah gets most of my jokes now.

And I'm getting tired of you shutting me out. I had good questions, dammit. Although, maybe they're better suited to Gabe next week.

Good episode though. I can't believe Max laughed.

I've had Gabe sit down with him and listen to other episodes. But the problem is that if I do what you're suggesting right before the show, his nerves will get to him. I think he just needs to relax and be more comfortable-- as we all have-- but it just will take longer with him.

Or you could just replace him. I'm available.