About the episode: In this debut episode of Anime Surface Talk, hosts Helen Wilson and Joshua Wu dive into the fascinating spending habits of anime convention-goers. Did you know that fans spend an average of $592 annually on physical art, with many willing to shell out even more on digital art? We explore what drives this level of spending, from the desire to showcase fandom loyalty to the unique experience conventions provide. Learn about the difference between "fanship" and "fandom," the psychology behind anime merchandise, and how this community engagement challenges the typical otaku stereotypes. Join us as we break down why anime fans are so invested in their collections, and how conventions foster lasting friendships and memorable experiences. Whether you're a collector or just curious about anime culture, this episode offers fresh insights into the world of anime fandom. About the Podcast Creator: Anime Surface Talk is brought to you by the team behind AnimeDeskMat, your destination for high-quality anime-themed desk mats and big mouse pads. Whether you’re looking to showcase your favorite characters or enhance your desk setup, check out our exclusive designs at AnimeDeskMat to express your anime passion! Resource link: Our Anime Desk Mat Shop: https://www.animedeskmat.com/ Our X (Twitter): https://x.com/animedeskmat Powered by Firstory Hosting…