The Sunnydale Diaries - A Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcast
Join hosts Sean and Melanie on their weekly journey into the captivating and supernatural world of the cult classic TV show, ”Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” In ”The Sunnydale Diaries”, these two friends come together from opposite ends of the Buffyverse, resulting in an entertaining and thought-provoking podcast that delves into the show’s themes, characters, and episodes. On one side of the debate, you have Sean, the seasoned viewer and die-hard Buffy aficionado. His love for the show runs so deep that he’s proudly inked an iconic episode quote on his arm, a testament to the enduring influence of this 90’s gem. Sean’s passion for Buffy is infectious, and his encyclopedic knowledge of the series adds depth to each episode as he navigates the highs, lows, and iconic moments that have kept fans enchanted for decades. On the other side of the spectrum, we have Melanie, the uninitiated skeptic who’s never seen an episode of ”Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” With a steadfast belief that it’s a cheesy 90’s relic that can’t possibly withstand the test of time, she brings a fresh, modern perspective to the conversation. Melanie’s skepticism is often met with disbelief and amusement by Sean, as she questions whether Buffy can truly deliver on the hype that has surrounded it for so many years. Together, Sean and Melanie dissect the general themes and overarching plotlines of the show, exploring its cultural significance, strong character development, and feminist undertones. They dive into the individual episodes, examining the monsters of the week, character dynamics, and how well the show has aged (or hasn’t) in the 21st century. But ”The Sunnydale Diaries” isn’t just a serious analysis of the show. Sean and Melanie’s chemistry and friendship shine through in their humorous, tangential chit-chat. Their witty banter and playful disagreements make each episode of the podcast feel like a lively conversation between two friends catching up over coffee (or, perhaps, a stake and garlic-infused latte). Whether you’re a lifelong Buffy fan, a curious newbie, or simply looking for an engaging and hilarious discussion about a beloved TV classic, ”The Sunnydale Diaries” has something for everyone. Join Sean and Melanie on this supernatural journey as they slay their way through the Buffyverse, one episode at a time.
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Episodes
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Melanie and Sean discuss their careers - what they wanted to be as kids, what jobs they've had, and where they are at now. The jobs they ended up with were very different than what they thought they'd be as kids!
Analyzing the intricacies of the Buffy episode "What's my Line Part 1", Melanie poses the question of what career Buffy could have along with being the slayer and does a great impression of Drusilla's whimper. Sean compares the Order of Taraka to The Three from Season 1 and also provides an impression, his being a line from Kendra.
Don't forget about our diorama contest! Visit https://thesunnydalediaries.com/diorama-contest for more info.
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Sean and Melanie open up this episode by announcing the Sunnydale Shoebox Spectacular - Season 1 and 2 Diorama Derby! Break out the shoeboxes and craft supplies and recreate your favorite season 1 or season 2 scene from Buffy as a diorama. There will a Buffy themed FANTASTIC prize from Etsy as the winner. Snap a photo of your diorama and send it to thesunnydalediaries@gmail.com to enter. Entries are due by 11:59 PM ET on 5/31/2024.
After a brief interlude to discuss TikTok addiction and Smartfood caramel cheddar popcorn, they reflect on the events of the Buffy Episode "The Dark Age". Melanie fondly remembers step-aerobics in the 90s and Sean points out the numerous inaccuracies during the blood delivery scene in the hospital parking lot. Sean shares the unusual question he'd ask Anthony Stewart Head if he ever gets to meet him and Melanie brings us back to the 70s with an Electra Woman and Dyna Girl reference.
Looking forward to those diorama pics - be creative and have fun! The STAKES are high!
Monday Mar 18, 2024
Monday Mar 18, 2024
We're headed to the club! Sean and Melanie discuss their clubbing experiences, including goth clubs, 80s-themed clubs, and a club with a rotating dance floor.
Sinking their teeth into the vampire fan club from the Buffy episode "Lie to Me", Sean provides a rundown of Jason Behr's many WB/CW appearances. Melanie questions the usefulness of a bomb shelter that can only be opened from the outside, and they both express their gratitude that they no longer have to carry a pager or be on-call for work.
Some pics of us at the club over the years are posted on our Facebook and Instagram - drop us a comment!
Monday Mar 11, 2024
Monday Mar 11, 2024
Keep an eye out for the Great Pumpkin, because it's Halloween! Melanie and Sean share their own memorable costumes, favorite candy (any chance to discuss snacks), haunted houses, and Halloween parties.
Cackling over the events of the Buffy episode, "Halloween", Sean comments on Angel's colorful outfit (it's so wrong!) and ponders if, for once, Principal Snyder actually acted like a good principal when he organized the kids' trick-or-treating event. Melanie points out the plethora of back rooms and caverns in Sunnydale homes and businesses (Florida doesn't have basements so we're a little jealous.)
Keep an eye out for some pics of us in costume on Instagram and Facebook!
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Sean and Melanie start this one off by describing their first experiences with alcohol and their favorite inebriated interactions. From Melanie having a sloe gin fizz in international waters to Sean's epic holiday party with Maple Crown Royal, there have been many drinks consumed.
Along with their funny drinking stories, they do discuss some of the more serious topics of the Buffy episode "Reptile Boy". But, they balance the seriousness with humor - Melanie does a great impression of Cordelia's fake laughter and Sean makes a connection between Buffy, Days of our Lives. and Supernatural.
Check out our recent Facebook post to see Melanie wearing the hat she mentioned in this episode!
If you're like Sean and not aware of the "Shoes" video by Liam Kyle Sullivan that Melanie mentioned, or you just want to watch it again, here's a link: https://youtu.be/c0DVrRw9aGk
Ask Alexa to play "Alcohol" by The Barenaked Ladies and enjoy this episode!
Monday Feb 26, 2024
Monday Feb 26, 2024
Inspired by Xander and Ampata munching on Twinkies, Sean and Melanie delve into the savory and sweet world of snack foods - what snacks they liked when they were kids (some which don't taste as good as they used to) and what snacks they love today (Sean had Melanie very interested in buttered pop tarts).
After completing the snack food conversation (which could have lasted all episode), they chew over the events of the Buffy episode "Inca Mummy Girl". Sean points out that yet another student was left behind during a field trip and shares his appreciation of the shirt Oz wears in his first scene. Melanie points out a connection between this episode and the Twilight movies and expresses her opinion on Oz's facial hair.
We are continuing to work on the details of the Buffy diorama contest - more info coming soon!
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
In this episode, Sean and Melanie delve deep into the third episode of Buffy season two, "School Hard". They unravel Buffy's complex relationship with her mother, Joyce, and discuss how our parents were involved in our own education. Did our elementary schools really have us knocking on neighbors' doors to sell wrapping paper and collect donations for read-a-thons?
Principal Snyder's unconventional approach to school administration is discussed, pondering how he got his job given his questionable motives and decisions. As Spike and Drusilla make their menacing entrance, Sean and Melanie analyze their characters and interactions with the already established cast. From fashion choices to linguistic mishaps, there's a little something for everyone in this episode of The Sunnydale Diaries!
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Monday Feb 12, 2024
Melanie and Sean take on science fairs in this episode - hear about the projects they created and experiments they took part in (and some of the disasters that ensued.)
Diving into the events of the Buffy episode "Some Assembly Required", Melanie provides instruction on the proper way to eat a powdered donut. Sean expresses his dissatisfaction with Angel wearing beige, and they both question why so many bad events at Sunnydale High happen in the Science Lab.
We will be releasing details about the Buffy Diorama contest soon - keep an eye on our social media (@thesunnydalediaries) and website (thesunnydalediaries.com) for more info.
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Sean and Melanie kick off season 2 discussing summer break activities - their favorite family vacations, summer college classes, and just driving around. Hear all about the summer of Melanie's deepest tan and the gross act Sean performed on his 21st birthday!
Unpacking the events of the Buffy episode "When She Was Bad", Melanie questions where all the vampires went during summer vacation, and she and Sean express concern that the Master's bones are still pretty intact at the end of the episode. And what is around Buffy's shoulders in the final scene???
Thank you to Elysium Music for creating our intro and outro music! Check out more on his Youtube channel.
Monday Jan 29, 2024
Monday Jan 29, 2024
We couldn't dive into season 2 without first looking back on season 1! In this bonus recap episode, we discuss the highs and lows of the season, key points of each Buffy episode, and included a compilation of outtakes and other funny moments. Get ready to laugh and enjoy this recap. See you in season 2!