Critical Role is branching out beyond TTRPGs and the world of Exandria. At the end of March, their new podcast, “Weird Kids,” launched. “Weird Kids” stars Taliesin Jaffe and Ashley Johnson as they discuss their upbringing as child actors and their “weird” passions. The first episode served as an introduction, with the next delving into their nostalgic love of toys. The most recent episode was an exploration of death and how our society handles it.
Temple of Geek was able to speak with Jaffe via email interview about the development of the podcast, how it is impacting him personally, and what is coming up in future episodes. He explained what initially inspired the podcast and the development process that happened before they launched.
How “Weird Kids” Began
Taliesin Jaffe:
“It began with Marisha Ray and Ashley Johnson having a conversation about how Ashley and I have a never-ending collection of bizarre stories. Also, both of us being child actors gives us a comparative experience that is very hard to find in the real world. Ashley and I have no problem talking to each other for hours on end, so we picked some wallpaper, raided our houses for personal memorabilia, and bought a stained-glass pizza chandelier on eBay.”
“Weird Kids” is a surprisingly introspective podcast for the hosts. In the first episode they reflect on pieces of their past while introducing themselves and the series. As they share stories and inevitably surprise each other, this has led Jaffe to unexpected realizations about himself.
Taliesin Jaffe:
“It’s still early days, but I do feel strange little epiphanies creeping in. For example, I’ve been digging into my relationship with toys. Examining how they make me feel and why I’m still compelled to collect them.”
“Weird Kids” Has Expanded Taliesin Jaffe & Ashley Johnson’s Friendship
“Critical Role” was built on the foundation of a strong friendship between the founders. Their iconic game began as a home game that they had been playing privately for years. As they took this experience public and grew exponentially over the last decade, their bond has stayed true. When asked if “Weird Kids” deepened his friendship with Johnson, Jaffe shared.
Taliesin Jaffe:
“Inevitably. That is to say, conversation and shared experience are the only ways I know of to build a connection with another person. Every episode I learn something new. It’s delightful.”
As the show continues, the topics of conversation grow more intriguing. Jaffe revealed that fans have a lot to look forward to in future episodes, including discussion centered around “Death. String. Space dogs. Chat rooms. Mental health. That sort of stuff.” While the podcast is specific to Jaffe and Johnson right now, that could change. Many of the Critical Role founders have “weird” interests, hobbies, and passions. Jaffe revealed which cast member he would want to bring in as a guest if they were to shift gears to include other “weirdos” and what they would discuss.
Taliesin Jaffe Reveals Which Critical Role Cast Member He’d Like As A Guest
Taliesin Jaffe:
“I live for show and tell. I’m always excited by something new. As an example, Marisha recently discovered that none of us had ever seen a show called “Wishbone” and then proceeded to hold court explaining that it’s a dog with an English lit degree who wears cute costumes. I have to watch it; I’m sure it will make sense.”
One of the most iconic aspects of “Weird Kids” is the set itself. Full of oddities, knickknacks, tchotchkes, and pieces of their past. The set even includes a lamp inspired by the iconic old-school Pizza Hut stained-glass chandelier. Jaffe shared which memento on set is his favorite and the nostalgia that is tied to it.
Taliesin Jaffe:
“I have an old-style View-Master 3D with a big pile of reels. When I have downtime, I’ll just pick up a random one and flip through it.”
“Weird Kids” is still in its early days with only three episodes out now. The podcast continues to develop and evolve as Jaffe and Johnson become more comfortable and open. The topics seem like they will become more obscure, which can lead to even more engaging conversation and stories. The duo are capturing audiences with their warm chemistry and discussions.
“Weird Kids” is a Beacon exclusive podcast with new episodes every Tuesday at 5am PT. The first three episodes are available on Beacon now.
