JustBeCos Cosplay Podcast

This episode is a little different — and that’s okay 💭 We’re sitting down for a relaxed chat to reflect on the year that was: the cosplay highs, the lows, the unexpected lessons, and the things that didn’t quite go to plan. No hot takes. No big debates. Just an honest conversation about where we’ve been, how this year actually felt, and what we’re thinking about heading into next year. If you’re...

The Game Expo - https://www.instagram.com/thegameexpo/ Owldamone - https://www.instagram.com/owldamone/ This week, Jeremy and Daniella sit down with Melbourne cosplayer and cosplay coordinator Owldamone to talk about the exciting growth of The Game Expo and what’s in store for next year’s event. From lessons learned in running a young convention to how they’re building an inclusive and competitive...

Conventions can be the best days of your life… and also the most exhausting! In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, Jeremy and Daniella dive into the highs, lows, and hilariously awkward moments of con culture. From surviving cosplay crunch to packing smart, managing lines, and keeping your energy up during a jam-packed weekend, we share our best tips for navigating conventions like a pro. Whet...

Cosplay is fun, creative, and rewarding—but sometimes burnout creeps in, and it’s easy to question the “why” behind it all. In this episode, we get real about our own struggles with balance, meaning, and motivation in the cosplay world. But it’s not all heavy—we’re also buzzing with excitement for PAX, where we’ll be creating brand-new content and sharing the energy of the community with you. Cons...

Cosplay isn’t just about costumes anymore—it’s about content. In this episode, Jeremy and Daniella dive into the wild world of cosplay content creation in 2025. From the burnout of keeping up with trends, to chasing clout, to dealing with imposter syndrome, they ask the big question: what does it really mean to be a cosplay creator today? Tune in for hot takes, relatable struggles, and a few laugh...

What would the ultimate cosplay, anime, and gaming convention look like? In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, Jeremy and Daniella put their imaginations to work and design their dream convention from the ground up. From the perfect venue layout to cosplay competition features, artist alley must-haves, late-night programming, and even some wild “if money was no object” ideas — we cover it all....

Pixel Expo - https://www.pixelexpo.org.au/ Tim - https://www.instagram.com/woken_cosplay Cat - https://www.instagram.com/_cat_aclysm_   Pixel Expo is back for 2025, and we’ve got the inside scoop straight from the top! This week, Jeremy and Dani sit down with Pixel Expo’s President and Cosplay Coordinator to talk about what’s new, what’s changed since last year, and how they’re championing the cos...

In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, we dive into the BEST and WORST parts of the cosplay community — as told by you! After posing the question to our audience, we got a dozen honest, funny, and downright relatable answers. From uplifting support to messy drama, we share our thoughts, spill some tea, and celebrate what makes this community both magical and maddening. Join the JustBeCos Patreo...

Welcome back to con season chaos! In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, we reflect on our jam-packed experiences at SMASH! Sydney and AVCon Adelaide—two of Australia’s biggest anime and cosplay conventions. From presenting panels and working behind the scenes to soaking up the con vibes, we break down the highs, the hiccups, and everything in between. Tune in for honest reviews, standout momen...

Jaclyn - https://www.instagram.com/jaclynmay Vye - https://www.instagram.com/vyecos We’re back from our short break—and we’re coming in hot with a massive exclusive! In this very special episode, we’re joined by not one but two incredible guests, including the Executive Director of SMASH!—Australia’s biggest anime and manga convention. Together, we dive into the exciting future of SMASH!, with exc...

Feeling overwhelmed by con prep? You’re not alone. In this episode, we get real about the emotional toll of cosplay in the lead-up to conventions—burnout, stress, FOMO, budgeting struggles, and the pressure to do everything. We unpack the hidden costs of the hustle and share practical strategies to help you manage time, money, expectations, and your own mental health. Whether you’re deep in the co...

Toxique - https://www.instagram.com/toxique0/ What’s it really like to be part of the US cosplay scene? In this episode, we’re joined by Toxique—a US-based cosplayer and con organizer deeply involved in smaller convention circles. Together, we explore the cultural differences between the American and Australian cosplay communities, what to expect at US cons, and how Aussie cosplayers can prepare i...

Dating in the cosplay world can be a wild ride—from long-term love to fleeting con crushes. In this episode, we unpack the realities of cosplay relationships, situationships, and hookups. Whether you're already partnered with a fellow cosplayer or curious about finding your player two, we explore the pros and cons of dating within the community, share tips on making those relationships actually wo...

In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, we’re diving into the often unspoken—but super important—topic of creepy behavior in the cosplay scene. From uncomfortable in-person encounters to inappropriate DMs, we break down what crosses the line and why. We also offer up some practical advice on how to navigate these situations with confidence—whether you're trying to avoid being unintentionally cre...

Feeling like an outsider in the cosplay scene? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the real struggles of trying to belong—whether it’s making con friends, finding your people online, or just enjoying cosplay without feeling awkward. We share practical social skills, online community tips, and our own stories of trial and error to help you build genuine connections and feel more at home...

In this special collab episode, we sit down with the President and Vice President of AVCon—South Australia’s iconic, community-powered anime and gaming festival! With over 23 years of history and 17,000+ attendees in 2024, AVCon 2025 is shaping up to be its biggest year yet. We talk all things AVCon: cosplay culture, running a volunteer-run event, what to expect this July, and why this festival is...

🎭 EP 57: Are We All Just Cosplaying for Attention? (And Is This A Bad Thing?) 🎭 Is it all just for the likes? 👀 This week on the JustBeCos Podcast, Jeremy and Daniella get real (and a little spicy) as they ask the question: Are we all just cosplaying for attention? From con-floor compliments to viral TikToks, the cosplay community thrives on being seen — but what happens when the recognition do...

🎭 Cosplay Social Etiquette: The Unspoken Rules of Being a Great Cosplay Community Member Think you know cosplay etiquette? In this episode of the JustBeCos Podcast, Jeremy and Daniella level up the conversation with a take on the unspoken rules of being an awesome community member at conventions, online, and beyond. From hallway behavior and cosplay consent to green flags, red flags, and our ulti...

Ep. 55 – Cosplay Green Flags & Red Flags 🚩💚 In this episode, we dive into the biggest green and red flags in the cosplay community—from con etiquette and craftsmanship to friendship, dating, and collab dynamics. Join us as we play a ranking game that gets spicy, silly, and surprisingly deep. Whether you’ve seen these flags flying or waved a few yourself, this one’s full of laughs and real ta...

The cosplay world is always evolving, and 2025 is no exception! In this episode of JustBeCos, we dive into the hottest trends shaping the community this year. From emerging cosplay themes and predicted breakout characters to the impact of social media and regional variations, we break down what’s taking over the scene. We also discuss how fashion and cultural movements are influencing designs, the...

Episode 53 – "Pursuing Professional Cosplay Opportunities" Turning cosplay into something more than a hobby? This episode breaks down networking in the cosplay space—how to connect with brands, conventions, and other creators to land professional opportunities. Whether you want sponsorships, guest spots, or collaboration gigs, we’ve got tips to help you make those connections count.   Support us o...

Episode 52 – "Would You Rather: Cosplay Edition" Would you rather only cosplay one character forever or never repeat a cosplay? Have all your wigs styled perfectly but never fit into your dream costume, or the other way around? In this lighthearted episode, we’re playing a cosplay-themed “Would You Rather” and debating the wildest choices every cosplayer could face!   Support us on Patreon! - patr...

Episode 51 – "The Dark Side of Cosplay" (Podcast Relaunch!) We're back! After a break, JustBeCos is relaunching with a deep dive into the drama, toxicity, and challenges that exist in the cosplay community. From online callouts to convention controversies, we’re talking about the side of cosplay that doesn’t always get discussed. How do we navigate the negativity while still loving the craft? Let’...

Illustris Models Shin: instagram.com/blupee.builds Laith: instagram.com/laithinthewind https://illustrismodels.com/ https://www.facebook.com/illustrismodels/ https://www.instagram.com/illustrismodels/ https://www.tiktok.com/illustrismodels https://www.twitter.com/illustrismodels https://discord.gg/vVzTuwXSNw   Welcome to the last episode of Season 2! Our final guest this season are the amazing Ill...

Elle - https://www.instagram.com/ellenorton Lucy - https://www.instagram.com/luvkii_cosplay   Australia is heading back to Japan to compete in WCS! In today's episode, we sit down to chat with Elle and Lucy - Australia's representatives for 2025! Here, we learn about their plans, the lessons they've learnt, and the advice they have for any budding cosplayers looking to become Australia's represent...