Not too long ago, the only attention paid to geeks seemed to come from bullies lying in wait after school. Today, we're living in the age of the nerd-do-well, and it's the geeks (guys and girls) who are driving significant trends across all forms of entertainment, steering pop culture and being courted by corporate America. How did this happen, why is it important, and what does it mean for the future? And will it last? Join Bonfire Agency, the first marketing firm created to help brands establish and deepen connections with the superfan community in relevant, meaningful ways, as they lead an A-list of pop culture pundits to explore, discuss, and inevitably argue about our collective moment in the sun. Panelists include publisher Ted Adams (IDW Publishing), writer/producer/comic creator Grace Randolph (host of Beyond the Trailer), entertainment marketer Francis Mao (senior director creative services, Capcom), author Rob Salkowitz (Comic Con and the Business of Pop Culture), and Bonfire founding partner Ed Catto. Moderated by Steve Rotterdam, former senior vice president of sales and marketing at DC Comics and founding partner of Bonfire Agency. Please note: a donation to the Hero Initiative will be made for every conventioneer who attends and stays for the duration of the panel.