Long Game: a Heated Rivalry Podcast

Declan and Silvan unpack Part 6 of the Heated Rivalry novel. Here, Shane finally says the words he's spent years avoiding, and everything between him and Ilya begins to change. We examine one of the novel's biggest emotional turning points as Shane comes out to Ilya, leading to a conversation that's surprisingly understated and deeply significant. We explore why Rachel Reid's character writing feels so authentic, how the TV adaptation chooses what to keep (and what to reinvent), and why this moment marks a new stage in Shane and Ilya's relationship.

We also dive into Ilya's devastating family story, discussing the quiet reveal of his mother's death, his father's Alzheimer's, and how grief, trauma and emotional masking shape the person he becomes. Along the way we compare the novel with the TV series, debate Jacob Tierney's adaptation choices, and explain why Connor Storrie's unforgettable Russian monologue may be one of the show's finest moments.

Request our meet up details on 19th July in Belfast here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgNJIFlK10E3J7vjhrvgP6t6UFhcBfS0lqNVHyaTRFWL57XA/viewform?usp=publish-editor

The next episode of the Long Game podcast will be released on Sunday 5th July 2026.

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/JadlJGRj9JQ

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chapter 17
01:40 Shane's Coming Out Moment
09:24 Character Dynamics and Adaptation
14:25 Exploring Emotional Responses
24:18 The Impact of Grief and Loss
39:18 Navigating Grief and Emotional Defense Mechanisms
41:19 Shifting Tones: From Heavy to Light
42:10 Exploring Intimacy and Vulnerability
44:28 Understanding Complex Relationships
47:11 Proactive Communication in Relationships
49:35 The Complexity of Family Dynamics
51:15 The Absence of Monologues: A Narrative Choice
54:17 The Emotional Weight of Unexpressed Feelings
58:51 Cultural Identity and Language Barriers
01:02:42 The Struggle for Love and Acceptance
01:04:33 Intimacy Through Shared Spaces
01:08:37 The Obsession with Winning vs. Love
01:11:43 The Fear of Losing Someone
01:14:24 Taking Action in Relationships
01:14:43 Missed Opportunities in Narrative

In Part 5 of our Heated Rivalry book club series, Silvan is joined by special guest Alicia, long-time listener and book club member. Together, we unpack Shane’s honest conversation with Rose and the realisation that the future he imagined for himself may not be the one he truly wants.

Our discussion explores the differences between the book and the TV adaptation, from Rose’s role in Shane’s journey of self-discovery to the introduction of Svetlana and the ways both versions of the story handle friendship, family, and identity. Silvan and Alicia also dive into the subtle emotional beats of Ilya’s perspective, examining the heartbreak, longing, and misunderstandings that shape the reunion in Tampa.

Along the way, Alicia brings a unique perspective as a Spanish reader who chose to read the novels in English, leading to a fascinating conversation about language, translation, immigration, and how cultural identity shapes both Shane and Ilya’s experiences. 

Find Alicia on instagram: mividaennaranja 

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/t9KnTDF_W0c

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Guest Introduction and Community Engagement
01:36 Discovery of Heated Rivalry
03:28 Discussion of Chapter 15 and Character Impressions
07:13 Sexual Dynamics in the Story
12:42 Character Development and Representation
18:06 Women in Hockey and Their Knowledge
22:57 Exploring Problem-Solving Perspectives
24:46 Character Dynamics and Misunderstandings
25:43 Inner Monologues and Relationship Realizations
28:57 Coping Mechanisms and Emotional Repression
32:06 Language and Cultural Adaptation
39:01 Elia's Language Journey
40:30 Cultural Displacement and Identity
44:19 The Immigrant Experience
47:44 Language and Emotional Expression
50:39 Reflections on Representation in Media

Declan and Silvan sit down with Caroline Plyler, director of the hit vertical romance Next Door, to discuss her journey from actor and script supervisor to first-time director. Caroline shares how her own experiences  shaped the story, why she wanted to create the "queer Disney Channel movie we never got," and what it has been like seeing audiences around the world connect with Kit and River's love story.

We explore the rise of vertical filmmaking, how platforms like Candy Jar are changing the way stories are discovered, and why Caroline believes mobile-first storytelling is here to stay. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at directing Next Door, working with first-time leads, collaborating with cast and crew, and the realities of making a film for today's social-media generation.

We discuss queer representation in media, the importance of joyful LGBTQ+ stories, Caroline's love of Sophia Coppola, the books she'd love to adapt, and her advice for aspiring filmmakers looking to break into the industry.

Next Door is available now on Candy Jar.

Fine Caroline on Instagram and Tiktok: carolinegrayplyler
Find CandyJar on Instagram and Tiktok: watchcandyjar

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/NqD-jMfkq7g

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Next Door and Its Impact
02:41 Caroline's Directorial Debut and Personal Connection
06:01 The Unique Appeal of Next Door
10:20 Creating a Wholesome Queer Narrative
12:03 The Importance of Diverse Queer Representation
15:18 Audience Reactions and Surprises
16:59 Caroline's Journey to Directing
20:01 The Role of Script Supervision
25:24 The Importance of Preparation in Filmmaking
35:16 Preparation and Respect for the Crew
36:06 Directorial Styles and Preferences
38:06 Inspirations from Iconic Directors
39:39 The Journey with Candy Jar Productions
42:00 Resonating with the Story of Nextdoor
46:28 Creating a Lighthearted Queer Romance
48:52 Vertical Storytelling: A New Format
54:27 The Impact of Second Screen Watching
01:03:04 The Future of Vertical Storytelling
01:04:32 Opportunities with Candy Jar Productions
01:06:49 The Impact of Fan Creations
01:09:08 Adapting Queer Stories
01:16:01 Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
01:19:42 Quickfire Questions with Caroline
01:24:30 The Heart of 'Next Door'

Declan and Silvan dive into Part 4 of our Heated Rivalry book review series. This is one of the most important introductions in the entire story, Rose.

We compare Rachel Reid's novel with the TV adaptation, and explore why Rose feels different on the page versus on screen. I’m e discuss how Sophie Nélisse's performance elevated the character and why Shane and Rose's relationship serves such an important purpose in Shane's journey toward self-acceptance.

Along the way, we unpack the idea of "meeting the right woman," reflect on our own experiences of questioning identity, and discuss how both the book and show portray the pressure to follow a traditional path before embracing who you really are.

We also spend time breaking down the club scene, from wardrobe choices and celebrity culture to the emotional tension between Shane and Ilya. Does Shane and Rose's whirlwind romance feel longer than it actually is? We dfiscuss if Rachel Reid missed an opportunity to explore Shane's perspective more deeply during one of the story's most pivotal moments.

This episode is packed with character analysis, adaptation comparisons, personal reflections, and plenty of tangents about dancing, fashion, skinny jeans, and why Rose remains one of the most beloved characters in the Heated Rivalry universe.

The next episode of the podcast will be published on Sunday 14th June.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rose and Character Comparisons
02:41 The Role of Rose in Shane's Journey
05:50 Language and Feminist Commentary in Character Dialogue
08:09 Shane's Internal Struggle with Identity
11:17 The Dynamics of Shane and Rose's Relationship
13:18 The Impact of Time on Relationships in the Story
16:04 Celebrity Culture and Public Perception
19:00 The Club Scene: Book vs. TV Show
22:08 Fashion and Social Expectations in Club Culture
29:00 Body Image and Insecurities
31:56 Fashion and Identity
35:51 Atmosphere in Storytelling
39:21 Dancing Dynamics
44:28 Sexual Tension and Character Development
49:08 Missed Opportunities in Narrative

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 
Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/hnlLC04hXjU

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Declan and Silvan are joined by Jenn from the Book Refuge for Part 2 of our Fan fiction and AO3 episode. We go deeper into the world of AO3 and fancition. 

We cover tags such as hurt/comfort and soulmate Alternate Universess to secret marriages, social media disasters, and the infamous plane crash fic. Jenn guides us through the stories that have captured the Heated Rivalry fandom's imagination. We explore why readers are drawn to angst, whether suffering makes a love story more meaningful and how fanfiction allows us to revisit beloved characters in entirely new ways while keeping the original story intact.

We also unpack the difference between canon, fanon, and headcanon, discuss why some fanfiction can successfully transition into traditionally published novels while others lose the very thing that made them special and debate what makes readers emotionally invest in a story in the first place.

Jenn puts us to the test with a fanfiction recommendation game, where we rank a selection of Heated Rivalry fanfics based only on their summaries. Some are romantic, some are chaotic, some are surprisingly emotional and a few leave us wondering what exactly we've gotten ourselves into.

This episode is a celebration of fandom creativity, storytelling, and the many ways readers keep Shane and Ilya's story alive long after the final page.

The next episode of the podcast will be published on Sunday 7th June.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Fanfiction and AO3
01:46 Exploring Heated Rivalry Tropes
07:22 The Community of Fanfiction Writers
11:20 Understanding Gender Dynamics in Romance
18:09 Recommendations for New Readers of Romance
18:39 Exploring Romance Preferences
20:56 Character Connection in Storytelling
23:40 The Value of Emotional Stakes
26:33 The Role of Antiheroes in Fan Fiction
29:03 Transforming Villains into Heroes
32:25 The Impact of Fan Fiction on Canon
35:55 The Appeal of Catastrophe in Stories
39:57 The Creative Process in Fan Fiction
42:46 The Challenge of Traditional Publishing
45:24 Understanding Canon vs. Fanon
51:40 The Separation of Fan Fiction and Traditional Publishing
01:08:00 The Fallout of Public Breakups
01:11:01 Fan Fiction and Social Media Dynamics
01:13:58 Exploring Alternate Universes in Fan Fiction
01:19:36 The Complexity of Relationships in Fiction
01:23:44 The Appeal of Fake Relationships
01:28:42 The Intrigue of Cheating and Open Relationships

Join our Long Game Podcast Book Club on Fable to read along with us each week.: https://fable.co/club/long-game-pod-book-club-with-long-game-pod-349252537194?invite=fc285de0-86ea-45c4-ab3f-8dcc82b8cad8&referralID=4tVUzsxlCC

Find Jenn:
Instagram: thebookrefuge18
Youtube: TheBookRefuge

Find us on instagram: longgame.heatedrivalry.pod
Write to us: longgamepod2481@gmail.com

Find Declan: 
Instagram: declan712
Tiktok: declanmccallion1

Find Silvan:
Instagram: Silvates
Tiktok: silvates1

Listen to the Podcast on:
Apple podcast: 

Spotify podcast: 

Amazon podcast: 

Watch it on youtube: https://youtu.be/ua60zP9zahk

Listen to Silvan’s ‘Silvates’ podcast here:
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/silvates/id1531620495
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xMX59teVzpf6M86Cv7WG9?si=016f5477aed14697

Fic recommendations we spoke about in this episode:
Mutually Assured Exposure: https://archiveofourown.org/works/77434821/chapters/202760196  
Slipfast:  https://archiveofourown.org/works/73643456/chapters/191997696 
The Game Plan: https://archiveofourown.org/works/42797457/chapters/107510184  
Something You Can Fix: https://archiveofourown.org/works/76495636 
Shane Hollander is dating a nice man from Montreal: https://archiveofourown.org/works/77871996/chapters/204023421 
If This Is It: https://archiveofourown.org/works/80245286/chapters/210674496