The Sunnydale Diaries - A Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcast
Watching Buffy with fresh eyes...and 25 years of baggage.
The Sunnydale Diaries is a rewatch podcast with a twist: one host has loved Buffy the Vampire Slayer since the 90s, and the other is watching it for the very first time.
Each week, Sean (the lifelong fan) and Melanie (the first-time viewer) revisit an episode and start by connecting its theme, or even a single scene, to their own lives, whether that’s family, relationships, eggs (yes, eggs), or the weird emotional baggage we all carry.
From there, they break down what holds up, what doesn’t, and why this show still resonates decades later. Part recap, part personal reflection, and part “wait, did that really happen?”, The Sunnydale Diaries is for longtime fans, curious newcomers, and anyone who likes their pop culture discussions grounded in real life.
Listen on:
Episodes
Monday May 05, 2025
Monday May 05, 2025
Welcome to a special Thanksgiving episode of The Sunnydale Diaries! Sean and Melanie dive into Buffy Season 4, Episode 8, "Pangs." From cringy cowboy hats to swirling green mist, there's no shortage of chaos and laughs. Join them as they discuss Buffy hosting Thanksgiving, Angel’s stealthy return, and a surprisingly epic bear fight. They also reminisce about their own memorable (and sometimes disastrous) Thanksgivings. Got opinions on canned vs. homemade cranberry sauce? Leave us a review and let us know! Email us at thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com, and don't forget to follow us everywhere @thesunnydalediaries.
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
In this episode of the Sunnydale Diaries, Sean and Melanie dive into Season 4, Episode 7 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, "The Initiative." They discuss how the peculiar Buffy catches Riley's attention and the hilariously awkward moments that follow. Willow faces heartbreak while Spike finds himself in a mysterious lab. Melanie makes some wild predictions, and the duo discusses grilled cheese sandwiches and their favorite types of cheese. Don't miss the epic battle between Harmony and Xander and be sure to leave a rating or review and join us on our social media channels!
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Melanie and Sean dive into Season 4, Episode 6 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, "Wild at Heart"! In this episode, they tackle betrayal, heartbreak, and some serious wolf drama. Listen in as Sean shares his cheating accusation story, while Melanie recounts her own cheating regrets and heartbreaks. You'll hear all about Oz, Verruca, Willow's devastating find, and some serious emotional drama. Plus, find out some juicy behind-the-scenes connections among several members of the cast of this episode, and Melanie's theory of the masked mysterious military men roaming Sunnydale. Don't forget to email thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com with your heartbreak stories! 🧛♀️🐺😢
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
In this bonus episode, Sean is joined by members of the Florida Bjorkestra as we dive deep into their upcoming performance at Buffyfest. This live concert event features music from the iconic Once More, With Feeling episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog. Learn about the origins of this unique event, the meticulous preparation involved, and the deep love for Buffy and musical theater that drives these passionate performers. Whether you're a die-hard Buffy fan or new to the series, you won't want to miss this insightful and entertaining discussion. Get your tickets for Buffyfest at the Palladium in St. Petersburg and be part of a magical night celebrating Buffy with live music and a vibrant community!
Monday Mar 24, 2025
Monday Mar 24, 2025
Sean and Melanie are joined by Tony from the "All Bronze No Brains" podcast to discuss the Buffy episode "Beer Bad". Tony shares his Buffy story starting with the 1992 film, while Sean and Melanie dive into their own early drinking experiences. They dissect the episode's themes, including Buffy's struggles with Parker, the impact of beer, and the amusing transformation of frat guys into cavemen. Plus, a fun discussion on embarrassing drunk texts. Got a funny drinking story? Send it to thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com!
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
In this episode of The Sunnydale Diaries, Sean and Melanie dive into Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 4, Episode 4 - "Fear, Itself." The duo start by sharing their personal experiences with haunted houses before jumping into the episode's plot. Highlights include Giles' bowl of candy, Buffy's melancholy post-Parker, and Xander's visible invisibility. They also reflect on their favorite scary movies and the enduring impact of 90s horror. Don't miss their laughter over the pint-sized demon Gaknar and a memorable final twist. If you love Buffy, scary films, and Halloween, this episode is a treat!
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Melanie and Sean dive into "The Harsh Light of Day'" from Season 4 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Both hosts discuss their own poor decisions made in college as they navigate through Buffy's current love interest Parker (gross), the return of Spike, and some memorable stunt double moments. Don't forget to leave your comments and reviews. Enjoy the ride!
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Melanie and Sean have a quick update for you regarding The Sunnydale Diaries - thanks as always for listening and please reach out to thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com with any comments or questions.
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Melanie and Sean open this episode discussing the rumored Buffy reboot! Could it actually be happening? What would work and what shouldn't be included? Who should come back and who will be left out?
Diving into the Buffy episode "Living Conditions", dorm room drama reaches epic proportions as Buffy suspects her roommate, Kathy, is a demon. Is she right or just annoyed? They discuss Buffy's odd behavior, Kathy's quirks, and the ultimate roommate showdown. Could you handle a roommate who labels everything and flosses in bed? Tune in for awkward roommate stories and some serious Buffy nostalgia. Got a crazy roommate story or thought? Drop us a line at thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com!
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Get ready to matriculate at UC Sunnydale as Sean and Melanie, along with special guest Maria (aka Trixie Stix), dive into Season 4's premiere of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, "'The Freshmen"' Listen in as they reminisce about their college days, debate dorm room quirks, and dissect Buffy’s crazy first week at UC Sunnydale. From surprise encounters with Pedro Pascal to mysterious vampire gangs and Giles' scandalous new lifestyle, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and slay-worthy insights. Tune in and tell us what you think about Melanie's prediction for 'Living Conditions.' Email us at thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com!