Anyone who has followed my blog is familiar with “this one podcast” I listen tom called “Geek Friday,” then it switched to “IRL Talk.” This podcast was truly one of the most formative influences in my childhood. It really helped me embrace my geekiness, back before ‘geek chic’ was cool. As a plus, the two hosts (Faith and Jason) were phenomenal in communicating with me, even though I was MUCH younger than their target audience, not nearly as educated, etc. They would always email me back, and would frequently include my feedback in the show. These two made me feel like I was a part of something.

That’s why the news from the beginning of the month truly broke my heart. Jason had passed away. In the moment I found out, my first instinct was ‘it must’ve be a joke! Afterall, it’s April Fools day, and this is JASON we’re talking about!’ But, unfortunately it was reality. I was, and am, heartbroken, and overcome with tears. Even now, weeks after, I’m so sad, and no one seems to understand why. Afterall, I’d never met the guy. But, regardless, he was such an incredible influence for me, and such a positive light in the world, and I am truly devastated.

I hope that his family knows how many people were positively influenced by Jason, and how many people will fondly remember him. I can only imagine how heartbreaking it was for is family and friends, and those actually close to him, as it truly was so heartbreaking to me. I just wanted to write a little memorial post, in hopes that those who were close to him would know just what an impact he had on his internet followers.

That’s all I’ve got,

Maddie