We've Got TVP Fan Mail, Pt. 2

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving - and I hope you're not all too stuffed, because here's that second helping of TVP fan mail as promised.  :)

[First round of this month's TVP fan mail can be found here.]

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Q: Would you really not shop at a store just because they're not gay friendly? Like do you boycott Bed, Bath, and Beyond because they were mentioned in that article from the rubdown? - Dennis

A: You mean this article mentioned in this rubdown post? I have no desire to shop from - or consort with - anyone, any place, or anything that discriminates against the LGBTIQA community. So no, I don't shop at BBB. (You shouldn't either, but hey it's your judgment call to make.)

Q: whats your favorite beer? you don't normally drink beer or recommend it during your drink break - kamillian89

A: I'm partial to Trillium, Jack's Abby, and Magic Hat.

Q: Will you do another episode on birth control and sexual health? That was such a great episode and maybe you could get kit to guest appear on it too and I think itd be cool to hear what ashley has to say on such topics since she wasnt with vodka press back then - Pamela P. 

A: We certainly can - and will! - but probably not until season three. This year, and season 2 of The Vodka Press, are quickly drawing to a close, and I don't think we'll have time to fit that episode in. Whenever we do get to that episode, I will try my best to get Kit on - but I can't make any promises, she is a very busy girl. And I agree, it'll be very cool to have that discussion with Ashley.

Q: Can you give us a teaser for this year's End of Year Extravaganza? Please! ;-x - Abram 

A: I'll give a teeny, tiny tease, comparable to a fast flash of ankle... This year's End of Year episode will be BIGGER than last year's. I don't want to spoil it for you fans, but I can tell you that this year's episode won't feature a blooper reel.

Q: I really love The Vodka Press and I wish you released longer or more episodes. I just can't get enough of you ladies. - anonymous

A: We want you folks to enjoy our show and walk away after each episode feeling like you learned something, and had fun while doing so. Some of our episodes are longer than others because that's what those discussions call for, just as some are shorter for that very reason. We always leave the door open, so to speak, to do a redux / revisit on any of our past episodes because we know we could go on, and on, and on, if we let ourselves on these topics.

Now, as to releasing more episodes/content, Karly, Ashley, and I would love to do that. *SPOILER* We were thinking that'd be a fun perk/reward for anyone who donates to TVP's (future) Patreon - what do you think, TVP fans?

Q: What was the hadrest episode to record Zoe? - Tyler

A: Hardest in terms of technical issues: the episode with the lovely ladies of The Vagina Chronicles. Hardest in terms of the topic(s): tomorrow's episode on *SPOILER* the Ferguson Grand Jury decision and the 12 yr. old shot in Cleveland.

Q: why don't you always do a wicked find and top five for every episode? - Hannah S.

A: It all depends on the episode's length after preliminary editing. For example: if an episode is 60+ minutes long, I will accommodate for and prepare more than 2 breaks. I also like to go with what's relevant - so if we're doing a 'dating episode', I may count down dating tips or recommend a dating website, etc.

Q: Who handles the vodka press twitter on what days? Cuz it's not just you anymore right, Zo? - anonymous

A: Correct. I manage TVP's Twitter on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Karly does Fridays and Sundays; Ashley handles it on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Q: Is Tech & Geek Tuesday coming back ever??? And what happened to the other themed posting days? - Greg C.

A: Yes. *SPOILER* I have one for this Tuesday coming. As for the other themed posting days... we had to switch back to "Ashley posts on X day, Karly posts on Y, etc." because that works better for my cohorts. Having the freedom to write about what you want on your own posting day is kinda liberating - sometimes vexing, but we make it work. :)

Q: zoe why does your voice sometimes sound different in episodes? - anonymous

A: When I edit our recordings, I have to first change my voice's pitch because it is deep and therefore sometimes inaudible, *and* then I have to filter out a ton of background noise because (sadly) we don't have a soundproof recording studio for TVP. That's why occasionally I might sound like I have a stuffy nose and/or lisp, and other times I might sound like Peter Brady at puberty.

Q: so are you girls not doing a kickstarter? i remember you teased a little about maybe doing one a while ago. - amber

A: We did talk a little about the possibility of launching a Kickstarter campaign, but after doing more research we decided that Patreon may be a better fit for TVP's wants/needs when it comes to funding. We're still working out the details, so it may be a while before our Patreon goes live. But when it does, we will blast it all over social media, the blog(s), our show, etc.

Speaking of Patreon, folks who support TVP will get rewards for doing so (similar to Kickstarter). We've got ideas for our future Patreon campaign, but we'd love to hear what you all would want out of it. What changes, upgrades, etc. would you like to see/hear made at TVP? What perk(s) would you like to receive each month/time you support TVP via Patreon? Let me know in the comments down below or tweet them to me @zoegrimmtvp.

Tweets by @ZoeGrimmTVP

We've Got TVP Fan Mail, Pt. 1

Thank you to all the fans who wrote in questions/comments for the month of November! We actually received too many to fit in one post, so I'm going to spread my reponse(s) out over two posts. Below is part one; part two will be released on Thursday. :)

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Q: Zoe, if you could make one change to TVP, what would it be? - Danielle S.

A: I think TVP is pretty awesome as is. I respect both my cohorts and really love working with them; I feel like, as a team, we put out great material. But if I had to change one thing...I'd want to produce and release more audio (and possibly video) for our fans. *SPOILER* And that will become a reality in the (hopefully not too distant) future. Karly, Ashley, and I are working hard to improve and expand TVP. 

Q: When will you be having guests on again? - Connor

A: *SPOILER* We have one in the works for sometime in December. I'd also like to have some past guests come back on, like Michele Rivera (amazing LGBT YA romance author / my fave Twitter buddy) and Tim of the Rec Room Show (my fave podcast peep). 

Oh, and speaking of the Rec Room Show... I'll be making another appearance on Tim's show on December 9th, folks. So make sure to tune in; you can listen to Rec Room via All Radio X. 

Q: Have any of your opinions changed on topics from past episodes? - Marianne M.

A: Absolutely; I do post-show research on most (if not all) of the topics we discuss, and I often find my views change, whether they simply become more solid or shift completely. That's the beauty of TVP's cultural conversations - they don't end for us simply because the episode has. 

Q: blond, brunette, or redhead? - joel

Gage Skidmore [CC SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

A: Are you asking what color my hair is? Or what color hair I prefer on a romantic and/or sexual partner? I'm currently a redhead, and I prefer (really good-looking) redheads or brunettes. ...Which is ironic given that my beloved Mr. Grimm is a blonde. 

Q: So Zoe are you still with your boyfriend? You referred to yourself as 'single' on the recroom show when you were on. - Isaac K.

A: I'm glad to hear you tuned in for that. :) That being said: I will always refer to myself as 'single' as I am unmarried and never, ever, EVER getting married. And don't worry fans that Mr. Grimm is off sobbing somewhere because I publicly denounce marriage - he is fully aware of my position and respects it. 

Q: zoe why do you hate cats??? - anonymous

A: I do not hate cats; I simply dislike my cat because she's a feral c*nt. However, I will never give her up because I happen to love her (despite her heinous, bitchy, high maintenance attitude). 

Q: How can we get you to answer our questions on the show? - anonymous

A: Well, you really can't get me to do anything I don't want to do; I'm a Scorpio. ;) Seriously though, I pick out the questions from our fan mail. Your question does have a more likely chance of being answered on the air if A) it's addressed/applicable to all three of us and/or B) you indicate that you'd like the question to be asked on the show. (i.e. "Hey Zoe, I have a question for the podcast...")

Q: What do you think of the show Constantine? Aren't you a Hellblazer fan Zoe? - Tom

image via amazon.com

A: I am indeed a Hellblazer fan; I also love Justice League Dark. To answer the first part of your question: I've watched the show, and I'm neutral when it comes to how I feel about it. The cast itself is fine (Matt Ryan, in particular, is fiiiiine), but the poor dialogue and poorer plot development (in each episode) turn me off. I find myself wanting more from the show, and it's just not happening - according to entertainment news, it's never happening. What do you think of the show, Tom?

Q: Can you do more movie reviews on the show? - Alexis

A: Yes. *SPOILER* We're doing one for episode #59. 

Q: zoe will you do another book review blog post? its veen a while since you did one - Hayden L.

A: I shall. If you or any other TVP fan has a particular book you'd like me to review, let me know in the comments down below or tweet to me @zoegrimmtvp. 

Tweets by @ZoeGrimmTVP

Q: thoughts on 5 nights at freddy's 2? you played it yet z? - anonymous

A: I'm more weirded out by the mini "games" than the actual gameplay itself. As long as you keep that music box going, it's fairly easy to beat nights 1 through 6; the mask and additional power/light cancel out the lack of doors and air duct attacks. Some of the custom nights are actually fun to play, but I have yet to beat the "Golden Freddy" setting (because it's INSANE). 

Q: will you do a redux for the mommy episode because i liked it a lot - helene

A: I liked that one, too - so yes. :)

Q: Are teasers coming back? Please?!!!!? :'-( - Kevin 

A: They are - starting with this week! There were some technical issues re: the site I post TVP's audio to, but those have been resolved so we're good to go.

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Feel free to leave us more love, questions, comments, or hate - but hopefully not too much hate - in the comments section below. Reminder: part 2 of this month's TVP fan mail will be released on Thursday. 

Ask And Ye Shall Receive TVP Fanmail

It's that time of the month - time to answer TVP fanmail.

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Q: What happened to the rubdown?! - Jason

A: The Rubdown is getting an upgrade and will be back next Monday, I promise. Until then, follow me and TVP on Twitter - we tweet and retweet trend-worthy (and rubdown-worthy) pieces.

Q: Will you girls be doing a group post again anytime soon? - Ellen M.

A: We will do one for Christmas time (like last year).

Q: random but could you do a thanksgiving or black friday themed epi? - pauline

By Ben Franske [CC SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

A: That's a fun idea - what do you think, Karly and Ashley? I'm game if you ladies are.

Q: How often is too often to have sex in a relationship? - IsaaK

A: Now *this* is a random question. :) Here's the Grimm rule: it's only too much if you and/or your partner think it's too much. There's no magic number for how many times you should or shouldn't be having sex while in a relationship - or while single for that matter. If you're happy having sex once a month, that's cool. If you're happy having sex twice a week, that's cool, too. If you're happy having sex five times a day, wow I'm slightly aroused and I kinda want to be your new best friend. Etc.

Q: now that the nightwing series on youtube is pretty much over, zoe what did you think of it? did you like the rest of the episodes? i thought the acting got worse as the episodes went, the first one was the best in my opinion - Adam

A: I admire their ambitions and appreciate what they accomplished. Could you have done all that? I know I couldn't, even if I had their funding, a director lined up, the ability to film at multiple locations, etc. So I try to keep that in mind when I look at the project as a whole. ...That being said, the dialogue at times left something to be desired - but sometimes the comics are like that, so it wasn't a mood killer for me. I am very curious to see what other project(s) that team will take on in the future.

Q: Who does what at TVP? Aside from all hosting the show what are your roles? - Vicky D.

A: Pfft, I won't give away insider info. ;-P We're actually in the process of reevaluating - and possibly reconfiguring - who does what behind-the-scenes at TVP. We want TVP to be an exciting experience for a) you fans and b) also Karly, Ashley, and I. I will say that Karly and Ashley will be appearing on Twitter and the blog more, much to my delight - all work and no play makes Zoe snarky.

Q: Isn't it sexist to use pickup lines? Like isnt the flritni antifeminist? - anonymous

A: No.

Q: whats a good scary movie to watch?? - Nicole A

A: If you aren't squeamish, American Mary is a fave of both Karly and I - we even reviewed it for last year's Halloween special. For pansies folks who don't like gore, Bram Stoker's Dracula is a sexy, thrilling film (once you get over Keanu Reeves).

Q: Zoeeeeeeeee! We need more blog posts from you, we love you! - FrenchYe92

A: They're coming, I promise.

Q: Can you girls do more audio stuff? Like I enjoy the weekly episodes and teasers but I want more cultural convo and interviews. - Anonymous

A: I would love to but, honestly, it would be difficult to do given the respective schedules of everyone at TVP. That's not to say that it won't happen someday (maybe even in the not-too distant future)... a girl can dream, right?

Q: think others haev asked before but would you guys considre doing a youtube show? - stacy

A: See above answer.

Q: Since you mentioned drinking a lot of wine lately, Zoe what's your favorite kind?" - Erica S

A: I've got a soft spot - both in my heart and liver - for Chianti.

By giulio nepi [CC 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: The female heroes and villains episode wasn't what I was originally expecting, but I actually really liked the directions you went with it. I think the best part of the ep was when Zoe and Karly sorta "had it out." - Geena

A: Karly never did get to 'boop' my nose, nor will she ever. [*cue maniacal laugh*] What I love about TVP is that we find ways to have fun during every episode, even when we're disagreeing or discussing something heavy. I'm glad you enjoyed the episode, Geena. Just curious, what topics do you wish we covered? If you have recommendations, we could always do a redux.

Q: it's weird that Karly doesn't call herself a feminist considering TVP is such a feminist blog and podcast, and Zoe and Ashley outright call themselves feminists. - anonymous

A: It's actually not weird at all. Karly can label (or not label) herself however she wishes; that's the beauty of feminism.

Q: whats up for the next episode of the vodka press? - leslie o

A: You'll have to tune in to this week's teaser to find out.

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Got a question for/about TVP? Leave a comment down below or tweet it to me @zoegrimmtvp.

Thank You Mistress, May I Have Some More...TVP Fanmail

It's that time of the month - time to answer TVP fanmail.

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Q: I liked the kinks episode but i gotta say, i was expecting to be more offensive than that. Actually, im kinda disappointed that it wasnt. And you didnt discuss spanking!!! Can you girls do a redux? - HennaJenna

By tetradtx [CC SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

A: You want a redux? You got it. If we don't get to it by the end of this season, we'll start the new year off with a naughty, nasty bang.

Q: What does tvp hq look like? Is it like a real place? - wendy

A: We sadly don't have an official headquarters (yet); someday, hopefully. Whenever we refer to TVP HQ, we're usually talking about our homes.

Q: Will you please do another sex episode, with a guy on? - adam

A: We'll definitely be discussing sex again on TVP. If we can't find a guy guest to join in during the episode, I'll try to line one up for a bonus interview / chaser.

Q: Zoe what are your favorite comics? - Derek

A: I've enjoyed a lot of series over the years. I'm currently fangirling over Sex Criminals and Rat Queens. Fables, The Invisibles, Swamp Thing, the Robin series, and (Gaiman's) Sandman are among my top favorites of all-time.

Q: Haha i cant believe you answered my question on the show, thanx guys. And yeah im always late and getting yelled at. Ill try to do better i promise! Sorry this isnt really a question but i thought youd want a followup. - Trevor

By paul_posadas via Flickr (CC 2.0)

A: I'm just glad you're not sitting in some restaurant waiting on us. ;) Seriously though, thank you for writing in that question for our dating episode and following up. Good luck to you, Trevor.

Q: I love the redesign for the show site and blog! - Jennifer

A: Thank you, Jennifer. My goal was to make the sites easier for you fans to navigate around; sounds like mission accomplished. [*pats self on back*]

Q: Since ashley has an #askashley column going on, zoe can we write in for you to do an #askzoe one? Maybe for sex or politics questions? Or somethign else you like? - Stephanie

A: I already do answer fan questions, on all sorts of fun topics. :) If/when anyone has a question that requires an in-depth response, I'll do a separate post for it.

Q: Who writes the rubdown each week? I love it! Its gotten so much better as its gone. - Greg

A: [*raises hand*] Aww thanks, Greg.

Q: Zoe will you start doing book reviews again? - anonymous

A: Yes.

Q: Is the vodka press a gay show? - humdick1990

A: Gay as in "lighthearted and carefree"? Indeed it is. Or maybe you meant gay as in "lgbt-friendly"? Same answer.

Q: Do you girls still alternate twitter days? I feel like its almost always you on there, Zoe. - Mike M

By mdgovpics via Flickr (CC 2.0)

A: ...Is that a good or bad thing? :-P Keeping an active Twitter presence does require time and effort, and some TVP folks couldn't manage it. I tweet from there at least twice a day, and Ashley hops on when she's able (to). I'd like to put even more time into it but with all my other TVP duties, I'm stretched too thin - so we're actually seeking an intern to manage TVP's Twitter 2 days/week. If anyone is interested or knows anyone who'd be interested, let me know!

Q: Zoe how can we get in touch with you to make suggestions for tvp? Directly for like ones we dont want publicly posted or said on the air? - anonymous

A: Email them to me zoegrimmtvp@gmail.com.

Q: What's the next episode of the vodka press gonna be about? - anonymous

A: You'll have to tune in to Wednesday's teaser to find out.

Male, I mean Mail, Call - TVP Fanmail Time

It's the last Monday of the month - my NEW post day/time for answering TVP fan questions. Just one of the many changes going on here at TVP.

So without further ado...

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Q: excited about the changes but please please please don't change too much! - lacey90

A: Change is good; don't fret, my dear lacey90 - we're making these changes at TVP so we can produce a better show and blog for all of you, our fans. And as we implement them, definitely let us know what you think.

Q: I'm surprised TVP hasn't done an episode on coffee yet, maybe in the future? - Kevin

A: Hmm, we could devote an entire episode to coffee - or discuss caffeine addiction in a 3rd round of vices. Which do you prefer? We're game for either (or both, because hey we're cool like that).

Q: zoe i liked your post on app recommendations, can you do another one specifically for writing and/or productivity apps? - nate a

A: Aside from Google Drive, I do use a number of productivity, writing, and work-related apps. So I'm more than happy to give you guys the skinny on the best ones.

Q: If I wanted tvp to review my book, how should I go about contacting you? - anonymous

A: Well, you're off to a great start. :) Send any pertinent info about your book to thevodkapress@gmail.com - and please put "Book Review Request" in the subject of your email. One of us will get back to you promptly.

Q: yay for karly popping her strip club cherry! if you girls ever do go to a male strip club together, can you please do a group blog post on it? and if you can, post pics? ;) - shannon d

A: Karly and Ashley, TVP field trip? Start setting aside those ones, ladies.

Q: can you do another music episode? if not this season, then maybe next? - anonymous

A: We will definitely revisit music in the future, just not sure when. TBD

Q: Since you're a gamer, Zoe what games are you playing as of late? - Madison

A: I've been on an Arkham kick this weekend, no doubt because I spent a good part of last week geeking out on various online forums about the future Arkham Knight game. The fun thing about replaying old(er) games is that, like with rereading books, I always pick up something new each time - makes me appreciate them that much more.

Q: did kit bangles leave tvp? she didn't say goodbye :( - heather p

A: This is honestly a tough question to answer. Kit has decided to bow out from the TVP blog and podcast. For how long? As long as she needs, whether that be a couple of months or indefinitely. If/when she decides to return, she'll always be welcomed.

Q: Uh oh, Kit isn't mentioned on TVP's feed anymore. Does that mean she's not part of the team anymore? - Nicole

A: [*points to answer above*]

By Cliff [CC-BY-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: Can you do an episode on weddings? Or discuss them during like a relationship or special occasion themed episode? I'd especially love to hear what Karly has to say as someone who's (maybe?) catered a wedding. - juliet

A: Funny you should ask about that, Juliet. [*SPOILER*] We do plan to do an episode about weddings and marriage in the future. 

Q: Zoe, will we still be getting teasers from you while you girls are on vacation? - Alison B

A: Yes, you will.

Q: what fan picked eps will you be playing during the vacation? - helene

A: You'll have to tune in each week to Wednesday's teaser to find out. (I'm such a tease, I know.)

Who Got Fan Mail? Oooh, oooh! We Do!

It's the last Wednesday of the month - that means it's time for me to answer another round of TVP fan questions.

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Q: Can you do another work episode? - Stacy

A: Absolutely! If you or any other fans want us to cover any particular work-related topics this time around, please share them in the comments below.

Q: I love both the women in the kitchen episodes. What about a foodie episode? You guys can talk about food critics, those dinner clubs that seem to be popping up everywhere, and stuff like that. - Aaron S.

A: Like work and sex, food is another topic we never grow tired of talking about. So yes, a foodie episode can and will happen in the TVP future.

By PopCultureGeek.com [CC 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: Zoe are you going to comic con? :) - CAB

A: I did attend SDCC with Mr. Grimm - had a blast!

Q: I've got a suggestion for the blog and possibly the podcast, too. Is there a television or webshow any of you watch regularly? Or would you girls want to? I just think it'd be so cool to hear or read reviews from you girls as a group every week. Doesn't have to be anything crazy or long either, just a consistent weekly thing. - Donna A.

A: Um... I'll converse with my other better half Karly and see what she thinks. This is actually a great suggestion, but realistically we may not be able to produce something like this on a weekly basis.

Q: Did Kit Bangles leave TVP??? She's been MIA on the blog and now she's not in an episode - anonymous

A: Bangles is on a sabbatical - but fear not, she's very much an integral part of the TVP team and she may still make appearances on the show now and then. If you need your weekly Bangles fix, tweet to her @kitbangles.

Q: I love karly but I seriously think you should do the episode all about Kevin spacey. It'd be hilarious. - Mike M.

A: Oh we will. (*cue maniacal laugh*)

image via www.petsmart.com 

Q: This has nothing to do with the podcast but I'm kinda embarrassed to ask you on twitter. Zoe what brand of dog food do you feed puppy Grimm? - anonymous

A: No question is too silly or random for moi - not even this one. Puppy Grimm eats Blue Buffalo Wilderness.

Q: Bring back the Flirtinis! I'm just gonna always comment on that til it happens :) - Tyler

A: *SPOILER* You won't have to wait much longer - this week's episode features a Flirtini break.

Q: I think you should do a show on dating, like who should pay for dinner, sexting, playing the field, and so on - Amanda M.

A: I'm down to do a dating episode.

Q: Please do another geek episode soon! - james

A: We will!

Q: The mommy episode was really good, I like that you had Ashley on for it - camrron

A: Not to toot our horn, but *toot toot*. We had a lot of fun working on the motherhood/parenting episode, and I'm glad fans appreciated it. We're looking forward to having Ashley on future episodes of the podcast.

Q: OMG i think i’ve seen you zoe! this is gonna sound so random but do you like going to the thinking cup? i’ve seen this girl there at least once a week who sounds EXACTLY like you. last time i saw her was last tuesday, she had on camo pants and a red doctor who tshirt. was that you? - Dianne

A: You mean this red Doctor Who tshirt? ;)

Next time you spot me there, feel free to mosey on over and say "hi" - I love meeting TVP fans.

Q: whats up for the next episode of the vodka press? - anonymous

A: Tune in to this week's teaser to find out.

Ask Me, Ask Me, Ask Me Fan Questions

It's the last Wednesday of the month - that means it's time for me to answer another round of TVP fanmail.

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Q: I wasn't sure where to submit this, got a few comments. I've loved the rubdown since the first post, I always find something fun to talk about off it. So please keep it up! And you guys nailed the women in the kitchen pt 2 episode, that's officially my favorite episode of yours to date. - Carolyn J

A: Why thank you, Carolyn. That's exactly what we hope to accomplish with The Weekly Rubdown - we want it to be another space where readers can catch up on trending topics. I have to agree, Back to the Kitchen turned out great and it's become one of my favorites.


Q: Will you do another episode on vices? I can't get enoug of those - Will

A: Vices are definitely some of my favorite topics to explore on the show. I think there are still plenty of vices out there to cover, so another episode will certainly happen - might not be until next season though.


Q: What about a show on commercials, could you do one on those?? - kcd

A: Commercials, eh? Hmm...that could be fun. I'll confer with Bangles and Kingsley.


Q: Zoe will you marry me? - Tom

A: No, but don't take it personally - I'm not the marrying kind.


Q: hey zoe what's. Your sign? - anonymous

A:

Q: Could you do a whole episode about flirting? Perfect excuse for Zoe Grimm to...wait for it...bring back the flirtinis! Sorry couldn't resist teasing ;-) but seriously flirting would be a good topic for you girls - Tyler

A: Not Kit Bangles's Tyler strikes again! ;) I think we could work some flirtations and flirtinis into a future episode.


Q: okay after listening to the tmi episode I now kinda want zoe to write a post on the bible, karly to do one on kevin spacey, and kit to do one on hgtv - jo00x87

A: NOOOOOOOOO... All right, maybe - I'm game if they are.


Q: I think someone else may have suggested this topic before but you should do a show on fears. - Adrianne

A: *SPOILER* We do plan to do an episode on 'fears' this season, just not sure when it'll be recorded and released.


Q: Can you do a video or audio accompaniment to the rubdown? That'd be a cool little show actually - LL

A: Hmm, that is a cool show idea. Bangles and Kingsley, thoughts?


Q: Know you're all busy ladies but would you consider doing a second show? What about a 10 minute news brief and roundup, kinda like the weekly rubdown on the blog? Or what about a 15 minute interview each week, either related to the regular EP or not? Just can't get enough of you ladies - anonymous

A: We are busy ladies (even outside The Vodka Press), but I think we could work something out. That's a big part of why we're hard at work putting together a funding campaign, so we can expand on the show, accommodate more interviews, etc. (FYI: When the campaign's up, we'll let everyone know.)


Q: I hope this doesn't come off as insensitive, but Zoe could you do a post about grieving and/or funerals? My grandpa's probably not gonna be with us much longer and I'm trying to prepare myself for when he goes but man is it hard. Any advice? - anonymous

A: I've been working on a post about grief, which *SPOILER* I'm releasing on Sunday. Hopefully it'll help - and if you want to talk further, you can always email me (zoegrimmtvp at gmail dot com).

By spcbrass via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Q: can the future vodka epi involve you girls drinking vodka? your drunken drinking game epi was too funny, we need another drunk one - cassie m

A: *SPOILER* There absolutely will be vodka drinking involved in the vodka EP - in moderation.


Q: What's up for the next episode of the vodka press? - Denise

A: Tune in to this week's teaser to find out.

Strippers, Booze, Teasers, and More TVP Fanmail

It's the last Wednesday of the month - that means it's time for me to answer another round of TVP fanmail.

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Q: #netneutrality is a big topic on twitter, and I think it'd be a cool one for you to get into on the show. Maybe for an episode on free media or freedom of speech? - Candace M.

A: It is indeed a hot topic, one I've been following closely. There are many great articles floating around covering #netneutrality (like this one and this one), so it'd be easy enough to plan discussions on it. Thank you for the recommendation, Candace!

Q: I think I used to date one of you - anonymous

A: Haha, was it me?

Q: Thank you for the college episoed! From all us college TVP fans :) - Kelly C.

A: Aww, thank you. Glad you enjoyed it.

Q: megan hussey brought up male strippers during her interview on the erotica episode. you should do an episode on male strippers and have some on the show! for us ladies! - anonymous

A: A whole episode on male strippers might be hard (heh) but I think we could do a segment on them during a future episode and squeeze in an interview. Kit, Karly, and I shall have to brainstorm (and make it rain men at TVP HQ).

By Decatur Wine & Spirits [CC SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: You normally recommend drinks with Vodka. Can you recommend some with SoCo, Gin, or Rum? - Alexis

A: Absolutely.
 
Q: Zoe your adult fairy tales post got me thinking. What do you think of popular fairy tales and how they depict women? - Abby

A: Oh you'll find out during an episode of The Vodka Press podcast. *SPOILER* We're actually planning a future episode on female heroes &  villains depicted in literature, film, and other media. Not sure yet when we'll release the episode, but it will be happening this season.

Q: i liked the frozen drink you did for the podcasting episode, can you do more? - Kevin

A: Absolutely. *SPOILER* I have frozen drinks planned for EP#33.

Q: I know you’re all busy and all and said you didn’t want to be bogged down with social media, but would you girls consider being on pinterest? I bet you’d have the coolest board, and it’d be another way we could connect with you :-) - Samantha O.

A: I like Pinterest, and I've been toying around with the idea of getting us (active) on there. (We have a Pinterest account, we just don't utilize it.) Now that I know people would want to connect with us there, I will get on bringing The Vodka Press board(s) to life. If you have any suggestions for boards, let me know.

Q: Forget if someone else already asked this but can you do another tv episode? - jim

A: Yes.

Q: is another geek epi coming up soon? please - bellzi1992

A: Yes!

Q: please please please! do another music episode! - Jenna

A: YES! (*throws back head in orgasmic bliss*)

By ButterflySha (on flickr) [CC 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: Zoe you mentioned before that you’re pierced but don’t have tattoos. Can I ask why? Aren’t body piercings harder to care for? And don’t they hurt more??? - anonymous

A: I'm not opposed to tattoos on others or even getting one myself, I just haven't been inspired to get one (yet). Piercing's another story - I love being pierced. Depending on where/what you get pierced, some piercings can certainly require a lot of aftercare. And yes, some spots on the body hurt more than others but the pain and discomfort are temporary; afterwards they can be downright sexy. Piercings are just a little something extra to play with (on your lover)...

Q: I can't believe the vodka press hasn't done an episode on vodka yet. - Rebecca

A: I know, right?! *SPOILER* We do have a vodka episode in the works.

Q: question for all of you, whats the worst film youve seen lately? - jeff b.

A: Crazy, Stupid, Love. It's as stupid as the title suggests.

Q: Are any of you related? Zoe and Karly sound like they are. - anonymous

A: Nope. (How do Karly and I sound like we're related? Similar accents, maybe?)

Q: whats your fave hangover cure remedy? - Pamela G.

A: Kit and Karly give some good ones in their respective blog posts.

Q: What’s on the next episode? - Doug

A: Check out this week's teaser.

Drink Recipes for Episode #28: Fan-tasm and Q&A

You may need a drink - or twelve - after listening to this week's episode of The Vodka Press podcast*.

And if you're going to drink, you might as well indulge in one (or both) of the cocktails I recommended during the episode: Fan-tasm and Q&A.

I couldn't find a crowd of Turkish fans, sorry Karly

Fan-tasm

• 2 Part Absolut Kurant
• 1 Part POM Cherry
• 1 Part Simply Grapefruit Juice

Q&A

• 1 part Stoli® Hot Vodka
• 1 part DeKuyper® Peachtree® Schnapps Liqueur
• Top w/ R.W. Knudsen Family Blood Orange Spritzer, Zero Calorie
• Garnish with orange peel

*Note: I 'fess up that I did no editing or polishing to our Q&A recording so I apologize for the audio quality being a little wonky. Major downsides to having the flu: my hearing's out of whack and I have a constant migraine, so I had trouble distinguishing volume and even listening to playbacks of the episode. Hopefully you all still enjoyed it. Cheers!

Keep Calm, Answer Fan Questions

We received so many fan questions/comments for The Vodka Press podcast over the month of April. Too many, in fact, to cover in one blog post. So I'm answering a selection of them below, and (*SPOILER*) the rest we're tackling on this week's episode of The Vodka Press podcast.

****

Q: Did you plan on another vices episode being released for the weekend of 4/20? Or did that happen by chance? - Connor

A: It was indeed deliberate, Connor. We couldn't resist discussing 420 for 4/20.

Q: Can you do an episode on beer? - anonymous

A: Heck yeah... sounds like my kind of episode. I think it'd require a lot of "research" (code word for Karly, Kit, and I trying all the updated boilermakers recently discussed on bostonmagazine.com).

Q: Bubblegum vodka sounds vile. I've never tried it. Zoe you use flavored vodkas in cocktails, so what's your favorite flavor of vodka? - amyJess87

A: I'm partial to anything spicy and/or citrus. My top 3 faves: Grey Goose ®Le Citron, Stoli® Hot, and Belvedere's Pink Grapefruit.

Q: will you do another movie review soon? i really like those - kevin

A: Yes.

Q: can you do a show on celebrities and fame? everyone's obsessed with celebrities and being famous, it might be fun for you all to get into on the show - Beveee041989

A: We touched briefly on fame during last season's movie-themed episode. It could be fun to delve further into fame and how the media influences us during an episode. Kit and Karly, what do you think?

Q: zoe do you speak other languages aside from english? i detect a faint accent sometimes - jakobi

A: I speak 8 languages total; English was my 2nd.

Q: have you considered doing audio books zoe? you said you like them in an interview and you really do have a great voice, i could listen to you forever ;) - Tyler

A: I'm assuming this is not-Kit-Bangles's-Tyler. I am considering doing an audio book in the future - especially now that I know at least one person would download it.

Q: what's the worse pickup line someone ever used on you? - alumshalum

A: It's a toss-up between "You have a body that was made to be raped" and "Damn girl, you make me wanna rape that tight little ass" ...Never use pickup lines involving rape, or you will be punched. Repeatedly.

Q: can we suggest drinks or top five or something for a wicked find, for like a future show? - anonymous

A: Absolutely! Tweet them to us, either @thevodkapress or to our individual accounts (@zoegrimmtvp, @kitbangles, and @karlykingsley).

Q: Zoe better make room on your rocking chair recliner for one more! Loved the Lean In/Lean Back episode. Your parting thoughts were awesome, they resonated with me. - Penny K.

A: Why thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed the episode.

Q: Will you do another relationships episode? Or how about one just on dating, for us single fans? You could talk about deal breakers, first impressions, and stuf like that. - Kimberly

A: We'll certainly be discussing relationships again on The Vodka Press, and dating/attraction would be interesting to get into - we'll keep those suggestions in mind.

Q: Who's your dream guest, or guests? Who would you love to someday have on The Vodka Press? - Pat S.

A: I've got a looooooong list of dream guests. To name a few, in no particular order: erotica author/editor Alison Tyler, Ira Glass of This American Life, sexpert Dr. Emily Morse, one or both of the cheeky hosts of The Dinner Party Download, Erin Gibson of Throwing Shade Podcast, the beautiful and talented Soska sisters, and more.

Q: what are longterms goals for the show and blog? and how can we help? - leslie

A: I think we're still trying to flesh out our long term goals, but I will say that 3 things we'd very much like to accomplish in the next 6 months: get recording equipment (mainly mics) so we can improve the audio quality, move our blog/site to a different server so it's more reliable for readers and easier for us to update/maintain, and move our show's audio to somewhere like Libsyn or soundcloud to improve streaming and download speeds for listeners. Overall, we want to produce a better show and blog/site for all of you. We're planning to do a Kickstarter, to (hopefully) help us accomplish that. More to come on that soon...

Fan Mail and Fangasms

It's the last Wednesday of the month - which means it's time for me to answer this month's round of questions/comments for The Vodka Press podcast.

***

Q: Zoe what podcasts do you listen to? - Juliet V.

A: I listen to a lot of podcasts - and I mean A LOT. My favorites change depending on my mood, but I recommend you check out StarTalk Radio, The Dinner Party Download, Vagina Chronicles, Guys We Fucked: The Anti Slut-Shaming Podcast, and Dr. Radio Show. Love those shows!

by Kris Krug (kk) on Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Q: I prefer your sexy and funny episodes, but the Abuse and Domestic Violence episode was a good one. - Jess

A: I admit, I prefer the lighthearted episodes, too. But these are conversations everyone needs to be having, and I hope everyone learned something from it. (I know I did.)

Q: Zoe you seemed upset during the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence talk. Was it because of the topics? Or was it because of Kit and Karly? I kinda thought they came off as assholes during it. - april14

A: I'll tackle this in reverse order. I don't think Kit and Karly said or did anything more/less appropriate than I did during the conversation. This was a hard episode for all of us, but I think we pulled it off. (Hopefully listeners feel the same way.)

Q: Would you consider hiring on a guy host? - anonymous

A: Absolutely - we'd just have to change our info to "women and man run podcast and blog."

Q: Have you considered doing a kickstarter for your show? - Amanda S.

A: Yes, we have - and we're working on it. We'll let folks know when we've got a campaign up and where they can find it.

Q: You haven't done a Flirtini in a while!!! Please tell me you're not dropping it! Everybody loves the Zoe Grimm breaks!!! - Tyler

A: Not-Kit-Bangles's-Tyler, I presume? The Flirtini has not been dropped; it just hasn't fit in time/break-wise for the last few EPs. *SPOILER* I'll be doing one for this Friday's EP.

Q: Please do a videocast for the teasers Zoe. - anonymous

A: Other fans have commented and asked about this, too. So...this will happen, I just have to coordinate when. Stay tuned.

Q: The Google epi was so good! Do you have any other tech or geeky epi's coming up? - Mike M.

A: There'll be more tech and geekiness to come on The Vodka Press podcast, I promise. One thing I'd love to do - record a segment at a con; might not happen for PAX, but I may attempt it for Comic Con.

Q: You guys should do an episode on fears! - Adrian C.

A: I'm game. Bangles and Kingsley, what do you think?

Q: Someone else may have asked and if so then my bad but could you do boozy candy or sweets recipes for an episode. - Megan

A: *SPOILER* I'm whipping some up for EP #24.

Q: What about a TMI episode? - anonymous

A: There's plenty of TMI in every episode of The Vodka Press, least about us. It might be fun to do an episode on the sense of entitlement and the pressure (or need?) to overshare in our culture.

Q: Dreams do come true, Zoe it was so cool to finally meet you! Do you hang at Bukowski often? - KenIn1082

By Bruno Girin [CC BY-SA-2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

A: That's what happens when you hang around bars in and around Boston - eventually you run into Zoe Grimm. Kenneth, if I recall correctly you promised me a 'thriller' dance; I'll be collecting on that next time we run into each other...which may or may not be at Bukowski. I try to spread myself out among several spots in and outside of Boston. I've run into fans while at the MFA, Estelle's, the mall, Newbury Comics, and even the dogpark.

Q: What's the next episode of The Vodka Press going to be about? - anonymous

A: Listen to this week's teaser to find out.

Comments, Questions, And Spoilers, Oh My!

It's that time again - time for me to tackle this month's round of fan questions and comments about The Vodka Press podcast and blog.

***

Q: You've referred to matt as Mr. Grimm a few times on twitter. PLEASE TELL ME YOU'RE NOT MARRIED!?! - Bill 

A: No, I'm not married. I have no plans or desire to marry (anyone), have no fear.

By wunderle on Flickr (CC BY 2.0)

Q: Zoe what's one of your favorite drinks? - Karen

A: I love Scotch, neat. (Is that you, super fan Karen?)

Q: When will you post pics of you guys? - Christina K.

A: We're working on it, hopefully soon!

Q: We need another geek episode! And Zoe can you cosplay for it and post a pic or something? :) - D.D.

A: Yes, we do. And I think posting pics would be fun. I was talking about this with Karly and Kit on Sunday, and we discussed the possibility of us all dressing up (in some fashion) then posting a pic or pics. Sound good?

Q: My favorite EP so far has been "It's my body..." I like that Zoe you brought up male objectification and double standards. - tim4play

A: Why thank you, tim4play. That's been my favorite episode of this season, too.

Q: Zoe will you be on my podcast? - anonymous

A: And what show would that be? If you want, shoot me an email and we can talk.

Q: Loved the men of TVP post, please have them do another - anonymous

A: I bet the guys will be happy to hear/read that. I think another TVP men post could be arranged.

Q: Zoe you said in a post that you're gonna do short stories. Will they be erotic or regular fiction? - Nikki

A: I've written 8 as of today, 4 of which are erotic. I have 2 stories out to my beta readers: the lovely, talented Kit and Karly. I shall pass along the others to the ladies, too - as soon as I'm done rewriting and torturing myself over them a bit more.

Q: TVP Power Hour needs to happen. - Chris C. 

By quinndombrowski on Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

A: It shall, and soon(ish)! *SPOILER* We're thinking of doing one for EP#22. One thing we'd like to maybe try out is the TVP drinking game during that episode. So if anyone has thoughts on that, let us know.

Q: Will you do a real drinking episode this season? Where you're all drinking? - anonymous

A: See my answer to the previous question. (Yes.)

Q: Can you do a videocast sometime? Or a youtube show? I have this image of Zoe and Kit sitting across a table and doing shots and a battle of the minds. And in my mind you look like a sexy vampire Zoe and Kit looks like an 80s pop star. Totally off or on target? - Jenn 

A: I talked about this with my cohorts/co-hosts, and we're all game to do a videocast sometime. Kit and I doing shots? Oh my, that could get interesting. In terms of how we look... I think all 3 of us are still fleshing out how our TVP alter egos "look." I will say Bangles lacks the big 80's hair, but she more than makes up for it with her ginormous bangle earrings. As for me, I am sexy but I don't know about the vampire bit. Maybe?

Q: Really liking the bonus content. Keep it coming! Great talk on reality TV for EP 16. And really cool interviews. - Adam Z.

A: Awesome, we're glad you like it. There is certainly more in store.

Q: I love the show but I feel like lately it's been girl centric. A gender neutral topic or hey even one for the guys would be cool - Connor

A: We want anyone, regardless of gender, to enjoy and be able to take away something from each episode. I do think a "men's" episode would be fun to do; I'll have to brainstorm some topics. If any of you have ideas for a men's EP, you can: comment below, tweet them to us @thevodkapress, or send them to us via the contact form on our site.

Q: Please do a tech epi - anonymous

A:  We shall. *SPOILER* EP#21 will focus on tech-related topics.

Q: Why haven't you done an LGBT epi yet? And Zoe I'd love to hear your coming out story, when'd you first know you were bi??? - Katy M. 

A: An LGBT episode is definitely in the TVP future. As for my coming out story, I've toyed with the idea of writing a post on it. Now that I know at least one person's interested, I think I will. (Guess what next Wednesday's post will be? *wink wink*)

Q: What's the next episode gonna be about? - Andrew

A: You'll have to tune into this week's teaser to find out.

Q: Are you looking for more writers? If so, how could someone go about pitching to you Zoe? - anonymous 

A: Excellent question. I'm currently crafting an info page for folks interested in writing for and/or otherwise working with The Vodka Press; when that's available, I'll blast about it on twitter (from both my account @zoegrimmtvp and the TVP account @thevodkapress). Until then, if you want to write for TVP, you can email me a writing sample (a link if it's published online or as a .pdf) and a blurb about yourself, your writing experience, what you'd like to write about for TVP, etc.

You Got Comments. I Got Answers, Angelina Jolie, Cake, and More

As I mentioned during Episode #10: End of Year Xtravaganza, our sister site/show RSS feed goes batshit crazy if I try to publish comments. So today, I'm answering and responding to the latest stream of fan comments for the TVP podcast.

***

Q: I love your show! - Cheyenne V. 

A: Why thank you, Cheyenne. We appreciate you listening in and leaving us a comment. 

By Stefan Servos [CC SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Q: Zoe your voice is deep - anonymous

A: Indeed it is. And I'm in good company - Angelina Jolie also has a deep voice, and girlfriend's got it going on.

Q: Where do you get your theme and break music? - Tim

A: I mix it in GarageBand - it's comprised of cc0 loops, royalty free effects, and my own synth. I originally planned to use 100% custom Zoe Grimm music, but eh - I'm only an adequate musician; the music genius in the family went to Big Brother Grimm.

Q: I hope I don't come across as a jerk for saying this, but you come across as really straight Zoe. - Mike M. 

A: Do I? I think I come across as really bisexual, which is apt given that I am really bisexual.

Q: Would you ladies consider recording at a brewery? - anonymous

A: Why, do you own one? The answer is yes regardless.

Q: I love the cocktail recommendations. Will you be making more of your own again? - Ashley S. 

A: I will. In fact, *SPOILER* I'll be mixing up one for this week's episode.

Q: How long have you guys known each other? - Em

A: What month is it? Um… 8 or 9 months, long enough to conceive and bear TVP.

Q: What's up with the ryan gosling reference in last week's episode? - anonymous 

A: Hey girl (or boy), you should listen to EP 05: Sex (The Other Kind of Getting Physical). Mr. Gosling comes up towards the end of the episode.

Q: Aside from the show's blogspot, are there any other places I can leave a question or comment? - Kate L. 

A: We accept voicemails via the speakpipe app on our site, emails via our Contact page, messenger pigeons, smoke signals, singing telegrams, and tweets. Our general TVP twitter is @thevodkapress. If you want to ask a question or reach out to one of us specifically, we also have individual twitter accounts: @zoegrimmtvp, @kitbangles, and @karlykingsley. Follow one or follow all - actually, you should follow us all. We share conversation-worthy links, reveal spoilers on upcoming EPs, and pass around #foodporn.

Like this.

Q: What are some of your favorite television shows? - Rachel E. 

A: *cough* SPOILER *cough* You'll find out on Feb. 7th.

***

Check back next month for more The Vodka Press podcast comments/answers. (And possibly more cake pics, too. )