Wander Middle-earth with Past Episodes

Where did it all begin? Middle-earth, the languages, the books, the stories, the legends . . . Why did JRR Tolkien imagine Middle-earth? What does it all mean? What is the meaning of life? Today we explore these questions of the soul as we journey through the Waldman Letter, penned by JRR Tolkien. Okay, to confess, we may not get to the meaning of life . . . but who knows? We’re wandering Middle-earth, and if we don’t keep our feet, there’s no knowing where we’ll be swept of too, as uncle Bil...

Long before Peter Jackson's epic trilogy, a pint-sized Bilbo set out on a grand animated adventure. Discover the lost gem of Tolkien adaptations in our exploration of the 1977 Hobbit film. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Embark on an immersive jour...

Today I interview Aaron N. Hall, fantasy author and fellow Lord of the Rings super fan. We discuss Tolkien's influence on his work has an author, favorite characters, the movies, and Rings of Power. Check out Aaron's website and his new book "Love Letters to a House on Fire" today: https://www.aaronnhall.com/ Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, where the epic sagas of the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, the Silmarillion, and Unfinishe...

We explore the final two songs from the Hobbit moves: I see Fire and The Last Goodbye. We’re going to wander deep into these lyrics, but remember, just because you wander doesn’t mean you’re lost Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Embark on an immersi...

My live presentation from FanX 2023: Before Rings of Power: A Crash Course in the First Age of Middle-earth. Download a copy of slides: https://linktr.ee/lotrpodcast Support the show with a wafer of lembas or donating towards my wishlist: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, where the epic sagas of the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, the Silmarillion, and Unfinished Tales, and more come to life....

We embark on a melodious expedition, comparing and contrasting three iconic songs from "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" with their literary counterparts. These songs, "Blunt the Knives," "Far Over the Misty Mountains Cold," and "Song of the Lonely Mountain," serve as the lyrical threads that weave together the narrative fabric of Tolkien's beloved tale. They are not merely tunes but portals to the very soul of this legendary world. So, let the melodies carry you away as we explore the harmony...

We dissect the final chapter of "The Hobbit" and its portrayal in the film "The Battle of Five Armies." Our adventure begins with a farewell – the poignant moment when Bilbo bids adieu to Gandalf, before we break down the auction scene and the final shots of the movie. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer o...

“All things come to an end, even this story.” That line is from the final chapter of JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit: The Last Stage. We made it! Congrats, Middle-earth Wanderers! Today, we embark on a journey of reflection, delving deep into the final chapter of "The Hobbit." It's a chapter that stands as the reflection to the beginning stages of our adventure, where Elrond's House in Rivendell and the unexpected party in the Shire were the heralds of the unknown. Here, in "The Last Stage," we f...

Explore how the chapter “The Return Journey” was adapted in the film The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies. We’ll explore how the filmmakers stayed true to Tolkien’s work in some ways, but in others deviate significantly. And I’ll highlight a story telling technique that Tolkien uses in the Hobbit, but modern screenwriters are too scared to try. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of th...

Step into the pages of “The Return Journey,” the second to last chapter of JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit, where the echoes of transformation and bittersweet farewells linger in the air like whispers of a world forever changed. Forever changed mind you, by the virtues of a simple hobbit. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show w...

In this episode, we'll be delving into a pivotal chapter from "The Hobbit" titled "The Clouds Burst." We'll be comparing this chapter's portrayal in J.R.R. Tolkien's original text with its on-screen adaptation in Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies." As we explore the nuances and adaptations made by the filmmakers, we'll maintain a critical yet fair perspective on the changes that were introduced and examine the reasons behind those decisions, and we’ll deep dive on the re...

Today, we delve into the complexity of Thorin Oakenshield, a character whose layers unravel to reveal unexpected dimensions. We'll uncover the differences between Men and Elves, examining how their contrasting natures shape their choices and actions. And as our adventure continues, we'll trace the fulfillment of themes planted in the very first chapter of The Hobbit. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and ...

Today we explore how Peter Jackson adapted the chapter "A Thief in the Night" from JRR Tolkien's The Hobbit. We wander through some subtle yet significant changes from the source, and I'll pose an interesting question that I want you to answer! Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buy...

Today we explore three courageous decisions that show just how unexpected Bilbo Baggins can be, as he shatters all low expectations and inspires all of us, no matter how small, to be courageous. We wander chapter 16 of JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit: “A Thief in the Night.” And as a bonus we dig into the oft-tossed around theory that the Arkenstone is a Silmaril–hint, it’s—no spoilers! I’ll answer that at the end. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contac...

Today we explore how the chapter “The Gathering of the Clouds” from JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit was adapted in the third Hobbit film: The Battle of Five Armies. We explore the thrilling events surrounding the White Council's attack on Dol Guldur, the enigmatic necklace fueling the rivalry between Thorin and Thranduil, and the portrayal of the gathering armies converging on the Lonely Mountain. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social med...

Today we wander the chapter “The Gathering of the Clouds” from J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. Prepare to embark on a thrilling adventure as we explore the mysteries of talking animals, decipher the contrasting natures of dwarves and hobbits, and delve into the intricacies of Bard's claims for Thorin's treasure. From unexpected alliances to profound moral dilemmas, join us as we uncover the untold tales and invite you to be part of the magic. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodc...

In today's episode, we embark on an enthralling exploration of the chapter 'Fire and Water' from J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novel, The Hobbit, and its mesmerizing adaptation in Peter Jackson's film, The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies. Let's journey through the flames and dive deep into the depths of this captivating cinematic adaptation. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings...

In today's episode we embark on a riveting exploration of the chapter "Fire and Water" from "The Hobbit." From the symbolism of fire and water to the discovery of Bard the Bowman, this episode promises to be a journey filled with insight and revelation. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https:...

Today, we delve into J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novel, "The Hobbit," and compare the chapter "Not at Home" to its adaptation in Peter Jackson's film series, exploring the power of wealth, and Thorin's ironic trust in Bilbo. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodca...

Step into the shadows of Erebor and discover the hidden truths that lie within the depths of Chapter 13 of The Hobbit: “Not at Home” Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realms of J.R.R. Tolkien's M...

We regrettably wander through the unforgivable reimagining of the chapter "Inside Information" from JRR Tolkien’s The Hobbit to Peter Jackson’s film “The Desolation of Smaug”, where deviations run rampant and artistic license pushes the boundaries of Tolkien's beloved tale. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wa...

Imagine a small hobbit, armed with nothing but his wits and a ring of power, engaging in a high-stakes conversation with a fearsome dragon. In this episode, we explore the mesmerizing encounter between Bilbo Baggins and Smaug in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. Get ready to unravel the riddle-titles, decipher the subtle clues, and witness the remarkable transformation of our beloved hobbit. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media l...

We journey to the doorstep of adventure, comparing ”On the Doorstep” from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" with Peter Jackson's "The Desolation of Smaug." We delve into Gandalf's daring exploration of Dol Guldur and the dwarves' quest to uncover the hidden path into the heart of the mountain. Get ready for a tale of magic, mystery, and unexpected revelations. Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the...

Bilbo and the dwarves finally reach The Lonely Mountain, but are they able to find the secret door and enter the mountain without Smaug the dragon knowing? Exclusive discounts for you: https://www.ringspodcast.com/p/discounts/ Find contact info, social media links, discounts and more on the Lore of the Rings website: https://www.ringspodcast.com/ Support the show with a wafer of lembas: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lotrpodcast Embark on an immersive journey through the captivating realm...