Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and Vanessa are joined by special guest Casper ter Kuile as they explore the theme of Legacy in Chapter Twenty-Seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Mr. Crouch's parenting, Sirius's relationship to house elves, and Rita Skeeter's hard hitting journalism. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how is a legacy passed on, and how much of that is out of our control?
Thank you to our anonymous listener for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Eight, The Madness of Mr. Crouch, through the theme of Silence.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Purpose in Chapter Twenty-Six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the tournament's use of children as bait, love as motivation and purpose, and Snape's begrudging approach to his own designated purpose as Harry's protector. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is there such a thing as one "true" purpose?
Thank you to Kimberly for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Seven, Padfoot Returns, with special guest Casper ter Kuile through the theme of Legacy!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Contemplation in Chapter Twenty-Five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Snape vs. Moody, the Prefect baths, and the pros and cons of a nice nighttime stroll. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is the appropriate time to be contemplative?
Thank you to Sarah for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Six, The Second Task, through the theme of Purpose!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Rejection in Chapter Twenty-Four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Cedric’s role as an ally to Harry, Bagman’s ulterior motives, and the neglected Beauxbaton horses. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we use rejection as a way of protecting ourselves, and how effective is it really?
Thank you to Elin for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Five, The Egg and the Eye, through the theme of Contemplation!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and special guest Jolie Doggett explore the theme of Change in Chapter Twenty-Three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione and Ron’s respective changes, Maxime and Hagrid’s relationship, and this chapter as a turning point in the series. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we embrace the change in our relationships?
Thank you to Shalmar for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Four, Rita Skeeter’s Scoop, through the theme of Rejection!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and special guests Hannah McGregor and Marcelle Kosman from the wonderful podcast Witch, Please explore the theme of Ceremony in Chapter Twenty-Two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss dress robes, Fred & Angelina, and the joy and horror of school dances. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is ceremony just a formality, and when does it signal a genuine transformation?
Thank you to Emily for her voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Three, The Yule Ball, through the theme of Change with Jolie Doggett!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and special guest Jackson Bird (!!) explore the theme of Vulnerability in Chapter Twenty-One of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Rita Skeeter's interest in Hagrid, Neville's trauma, and the hidden power of the house-elves. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we take care of ourselves after we've chosen to be vulnerable?
Thank you to Kait for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Two, The Unexpected Task, through the theme of Ceremony with Hannah and Marcelle from the wonderful podcast Witch, Please!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt and special guest Margaret H. Willison (!!) explore the theme of Intelligence in Chapter Twenty of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione's approach to studying, Harry's natural ability on the broom, and Ron's apology, or lack thereof. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what distinguishes intelligence from other forms of talent?
Thank you to Rebecca for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-one, The House-elf Liberation, through the theme of Vulnerability with special guest Jackson Bird.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Annoyance in Chapter Nineteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry’s misdirected annoyance at Cho, Hermione’s growing frustration in the role of mediator, and Charlie’s touching concern for Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what distinguishes annoyance from genuine fear or anger, and how can we handle it appropriately?
Thank you to Ingrid for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty, The First Task, through the theme of Intelligence.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Reluctance in Chapter Eighteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the "Potter Stinks!" badges, Rita Skeeter's journalistic practices, and the home court advantage of Mr. Ollivander examining the wands. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what can we learn from paying attention to moments where we feel reluctance?
Thank you to Lynn for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Nineteen, The Hungarian Horntail through the theme of annoyance.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Embarrassment in Chapter Seventeen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the growing teen angst in these chapters, Karkarov and Maxime's reaction to unexpected tournament changes, and Ron's intertwining feelings of anger and embarrassment. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does our embarrassment indicate about our values?
Thank you to Alicia for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Eighteen, The Weighing of the Wands, through the theme of reluctance.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Maturity in Chapter Sixteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the Goblet of Fire's age restriction, lurking romances at Hogwarts, and poor Poliakoff. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we measure maturity, and how is it limited by ability?
Thank you to Krissy for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Seventeen, The Four Champions, through the theme of embarrassment.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Matt is joined by Stephanie Paulsell to discuss Wizarding supremacy in the Harry Potter series and a recent report on the legacy of slavery at Harvard. The two consider how we might use the Harry Potter series to think through injustices that are deeply ingrained into our buildings and gathering places, and what responsibility we have to name and atone for our shared history of violence and oppression.
Thanks to Callie, Jaime, Erica, and our anonymous caller for their beautiful voicemail contributions! Next week we're reading Chapter Sixteen, The Goblet of Fire, through the theme of maturity.
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Creativity in Chapter Fifteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry and Ron's creative predictions in Trelawney's class, Snape's threatening approach to a potions lesson, and Neville's involuntary gymnastics. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we harness our creativity in order to problem solve?
Thank you to Courtney for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Sixteen, The Goblet of Fire, through the theme of maturity.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Every Christmas, we like to share a favorite poem. This year it's 'Christmas Dog' by Shel Silverstein.
We'll be back with our regularly scheduled episodes on January 5th. Happy Holidays!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Beloved co-host of the pod, Matt Potts, released his book Forgiveness: An Alternative Account a few weeks ago and it is so! good!! We're very excited to bring you an exclusive excerpt from the book - read by Matt himself.
You can find the book wherever books are sold, or snag a signed copy from our website!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Intellectual Humility in Chapter Fourteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, with some help from Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren! They discuss Snape's cruelty towards Neville, the logic behind Barty Crouch Jr. / Moody's approach to teaching the unforgivable curses, and the early days of S.P.E.W. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we use the concept of Intellectual Humility to be more "right-sized" in our everyday lives?
We're taking a break for the holidays, but we'll be back next year reading Chapter Fifteen, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang through the theme of Creativity!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Rage in Chapter Thirteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Bobotuber pus, Hagrid's care of magical creatures, and the classic Barty Crouch Jr. / Mad-Eye Moody conundrum. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does anger spill over into rage?
Thank you to Emily for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Fourteen, The Unforgivable Curses, through the theme of Intellectual Humility.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Last week, our very own Matt Potts published his book Forgiveness: An Alternative Account, in which he explores the complex moral terrain of forgiveness. In honor of the book being out, we're bringing you this special episode of HPST - looking at the theme of Forgiveness in the Harry Potter series! Throughout the episode we use Matt's theory on forgiveness to help us better understand the text, and one another.
Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 13, Mad Eye Moody, through the theme of Rage.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Compassion in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione's introduction to house elves at Hogwarts, the Giant Squid's excellent demonstration of compassion in action, and the lack of support for rain drenched children at Hogwarts. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do allow ourselves self-compassion?
Thank you to Aurora for their voicemail. Next week we're doing a special episode on the theme of Forgiveness in the Harry Potter series to celebrate the release of Matt's book!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Jolie Doggett as they explore the theme of Peace in Chapter Eleven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the lack of peace in Moody's life, a classic Draco Malfoy train encounter, and Ron's superhuman strength. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we find little pockets of peace when life becomes overwhelming?
Thank you to Bitty for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 12, The Triwizard Tournament, through the theme of Paranoia.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Quitting in Chapter Ten of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Arthur's obligations as both a parent and government employee, Harry's confession to his pals, and the usefulness (or lack thereof) of portkeys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does quitting allow us to choose something better?
Thank you to Sarah for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 11, Aboard the Hogwarts Express with special guest Jolie Doggett (!!), through the theme of Peace.
Vanessa's new project, "Should I Quit" is now available wherever you listen to podcasts!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Humility in Chapter Nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the return of the Death Eaters, Harry's Quidditch dreams, and Winky's predicament. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be appropriately humble?
Thank you to Callahan for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 10, Mayhem at the Ministry, through the theme of Quitting.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and very special guest Jackson Bird explore the theme of Nostalgia in Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss sports(!!!!!), Dobby stirring the pot for house elves, and the Malfoy vs Weasley dichotomy. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we reconcile our conflicting feelings about the past?
Thank you to Sydney for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 9, The Dark Mark, through the theme of Humility.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Service in Chapter Seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss muggle obliviation, Harry & Hermione's limited camping knowledge, and Percy/Weatherby's dedication to Barty Crouch Sr. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do pay homage to that which is important to us, through our service?
Thank you to Grace for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 8, The Quidditch World Cup, with special guest Jackson Bird (!!) through the theme of Nostalgia.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Insight in Chapter Six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry's muggle expertise, Amos Diggory's glowing pride in his son, and Fred & George's unappreciated talents. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can our insights help us to better understand each-other?
Thank you to Paige Erin for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 7, Bagman and Crouch, through the theme of Service.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week Vanessa is joined by fellow podcaster, writer, and All Star Human Hannah McGregor for this special Owl Post edition of the podcast! They respond to some listener voicemails and discuss Hannah's recent book release - A Sentimental Education, which explores what podcasting has taught her about feminist scholarship.
Thanks to Kath, Sam, and Beth for their beautiful voicemail contributions! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 6, The Portkey, through the theme of Insight.
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Casper ter Kuile (!!) as they explore the theme of Healing in Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Arthur's work in Wizard/Muggle relations, Fred and George's burgeoning business venture, and poor, poor Bertha Jorkins. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we properly assess and cherish relationships that were broken in some way but have since been healed?
Thank you to our anonymous listener for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Book 4 Chapter 6, The Portkey, through the theme of Insight.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Fun in Chapter Four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the fun had at Dudley's expense, Harry's return to the Burrow, and a cramped moment in the Dursley fireplace. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we learn to find and cherish the fun in unplanned situations?
Thank you to Michael for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 5, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, through the theme of Healing with special guest Casper ter Kuile!!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Relief in Chapter Three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry's stash of birthday cakes, Vernon's opposition to difference, and the relief of Harry's upcoming reunion with the Weasleys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we create a sense of relief for ourselves?
Thank you to our anonymous voicemail contributor! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 4, Back to the Burrow, through the theme of Fun.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Earnestness in Chapter Two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the peek into Voldemort's perspective, the many earnest desires revealed through Harry's thoughts in this chapter, and the abundance of pen pals. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when and how can we be earnest while also being considerate of how people receive our honest thoughts?
Thank you to Ruth for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 3, The Invitation, through the theme of Relief.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back for Season 4! This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Tradition in Chapter One of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss life in Little Haggleton, Voldemort's return, and Frank's unfortunate existence as the town's scapegoat. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we change traditions over time, and how do they in turn change us?
Thank you to Clare for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 2, The Scar, through the theme of Earnestness.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt wrap up their their discussion of The Prisoner of Azkaban with a look back on the entire book! They discuss Voldemort's absence, the fleshing out of Harry's parents' personalities, and the growing distrust we as readers have for the Ministry of Magic. We're taking a quick break, but will be back in two weeks to discuss Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Love in Chapter Twenty-Two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Madam Pomfrey's attentive care, Harry's choice to save Peter Pettigrew's life, and Hagrid's faith in Buckbeak. Throughout the episode we consider the distinction between love as a responsibility vs. love as a feeling.
Thank you to Eileen for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're excited to share this special preview of Revisionist History with you today! In this episode Malcolm Gladwell tells the story of how his parents and their friends sponsored three Vietnamese refugees, in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. And wonders: do we underestimate the value of ordinary acts of kindness?
You can hear the full episode, and more from Revisionist History, wherever you get your podcasts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Anticipation in Chapter Twenty-One of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Sirius waiting to face the dementors, Dumbledore's vague hint of a plan, and, of course, Hermione's big secret! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we form a healthy relationship with anticipation?
Thank you to Ann for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 22, Owl Post Again, through the theme of Love.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Confidence in Chapter Twenty of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Sirius offering Harry a new home, Harry's emergency Patronus, and Peter's escape. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is confidence appropriate, and what are the limits of it?
Thank you to Nicoletta for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 21, Hermione's Secret, through the theme of Anticipation.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Virtue in Chapter Nineteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Snape delivering wolfsbane to his nemesis, Peter's consistent alliance with power, and Harry summoning some of his father's virtue. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we live virtuously in morally complicated situations?
Thank you to Jessica for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 20, The Dementor’s Kiss, through the theme of Confidence.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Friendship in Chapter Eighteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Peter as a failed friend, Sirius & Lupin's renewed friendship, and some perspective from Aristotle. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be a good friend?
Thank you to Bianca for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 19, The Servant of Lord Voldemort, through the theme of Virtue.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by fellow podcaster and award-winning journalist Imara Jones to discuss her work founding Translash Media, a cross-platform journalism, personal storytelling and narrative effort, which produces content to shift the current culture of hostility towards transgender people in the US.
Thanks to Barbara, Adeetee, Dasha, and our anonymous listener for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we're reading Chapter 18, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs, through the theme of Friendship.
Listen to Imara on the Translash podcast here, and the Anti-Trans Hate Machine podcast here.
A list of people, resources, and media Imara mentioned in the episode:
Chase Strangio - Lawyer with the ACLU
The Trevor Project - Accurate information on gender identity
Local orgs in your state working to fight anti-trans bills - for example TENT in Texas
Laverne Cox - actress
Janet Mock - author and creator of Pose
Sarah McBride - Delaware state senator
The historic Transgender District in San Francisco - the first legally recognized trans district in the world
The Equality Federation - for tracking anti-trans bills being introduced across the country
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Partnership in Chapter Seventeen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss the difference between partnership and friendship, the trio's unwavering dedication to one another, and Crookshanks' role as intermediary. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is required for a strong partnership?
Thank you to James for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 18, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs, through the theme of Friendship.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This year in commemoration of Juneteenth, we’re spotlighting The Final 5 Campaign, a coalition working to close the final five youth prisons in Illinois. We’re joined in conversation by one of their leaders, Alicia Brown, who tells us about what it means to be a prison abolitionist and her work with the campaign.
Please join us by making a donation, learning more about the failures of youth prisons, contacting your legislators about prisons in your state, and listening to their new podcast, Free The Youth.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Rest in Chapter Sixteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss end of year exams, Trelawney's mid-nap prediction, and the inefficient use of time-turners. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we embrace and account for rest as a necessity?
Thank you to Tatiana for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 17, Cat, Rat, and Dog, through the theme of Partnership.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're taking a quick break from our usual programming to introduce the newest season of Hot and Bothered, where we're currently reading through Pride & Prejudice! Each week, Vanessa and Lauren Sandler will deep dive into a chapter (or two or three) of the novel. We are talking to Jane Austen scholars, fans, and skeptics and we are going to constantly be asking ourselves: Why is this the bible of the Romance genre? What does this book believe about love, marriage, and money? And are those things we still want to be passing on?
We'll be back next week, with Chapter 16 of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Triumph in Chapter Fifteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Gryffindor's big win, Hermione's out of character behavior, and Trelawney's dedication to feuding with children. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we think of triumph in a way that doesn't put down others?
Thank you to Amber for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 16, Professor Trelawney’s Prediction, through the theme of Rest.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Every week during our episode, we dedicate some time to remembering members of our community who have been loved and lost. This week we are also remembering the 19 children and 2 teachers killed in Uvalde, Texas last week. May their memories be a blessing to us all.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt are joined by very special guest Casper ter Kuile to explore the theme of Wisdom in Chapter Fourteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss increased security measures at Hogwarts, a timely piece of sage advice from Hagrid, and the teeny tiny delivery owls. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we combine our lived experiences and personal knowledge wisely?
Thank you to Madi for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 15, The Quidditch Final, through the theme of Triumph.
You can learn more about Casper's new project here!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Independence in Chapter Thirteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss sports(!!!), Neville's exile, and the pros and cons of Hermione's current lack of dependence on the boys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: to what extent does independence truly exist in our interconnected lives and relationships?
Thank you to Stephanie for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 14, Snape's Grudge, through the theme of Wisdom - with our ever-so-special guest host Casper ter Kuile!!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Inspiration in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss the trio's ongoing friendship troubles, the proper inspiration behind a successful patronus, and the healing properties of Lupin's steady supply of chocolate. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is inspiration and how can we persevere through the ebbs and flows of its presence?
Thank you to Youval for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 13, Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw, through the theme of Independence.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Pride in Chapter Eleven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Harry's pride in his broom, the etymology of pride vs. how it is understood in the modern day, and the intersection of pride and recklessness inherent in Harry's pursuit of Sirius Black. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is pride a display of excess self regard, and when is it a display of appropriate and necessary self regard?
Thank you to Christin for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 12, The Patronus, through the theme of Inspiration.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Confusion in Chapter Ten of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss the trio's stay at Hogwarts over the holidays, Harry's attachment to the shards of his broomstick, and the disruption that the dementors create on school grounds. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can confusion contribute to isolation, and how do we overcome this barrier?
Thank you to Erin for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 11, The Firebolt, through the theme of Pride.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Rehabilitation in Chapter Nine of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Harry's fall from his broomstick, the rehabilitation of Snape's image, and Cedric Diggory's good sportsmanship. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can rehabilitation help us move forward, when we are not able to return to the way things were?
Thank you to Isabelle for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 10, The Marauder’s Map, through the theme of Confusion.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Respect in Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Lupin's robes, the inkling of respect Peeves shows to Dumbledore, and Hermione's disdain for Trelawney. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we recognize and appreciate the different ways people may show respect?
Thank you to Anjoli for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 9, Grim Defeat, through the theme of Rehabilitation.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Jackson Bird this week, as they explore the theme of Burnout in Chapter Seven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss the etymology of burnout, Snape's villain origin story, and the Boggart as an exercise in teamwork. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what resources can we draw upon to mitigate burnout?
Thank you to Amy for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 8, Flight of the Fat Lady, through the theme of Respect.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Joy in Chapter Six of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Slytherin laughter, the joy of teaching, and McGonagall's take on Trelawney. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we find joy even during long periods of stress and unhappiness?
Thank you to Sam for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 7, The Boggart, through the theme of Burnout, with special guest Jackson Bird!!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Redemption in Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Scabbers vs. Crookshanks, Percy's love life, and Lupin's redemption arc. Throughout the episode we consider the question: who has the power to redeem us?
Thank you to Hannah for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 6, Talons and Tea Leaves, through the theme of Anxiety.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Matt and special guest Jolie Doggett (!!!) explore the theme of Home in Chapter Four of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Harry's newfound freedoms, the abundance of good meals in the chapter, and Crookshanks' new home. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what contributes to our sense of home?
Thank you to Rhi for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 5, The Dementor, through the theme of Redemption.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Effort in Chapter Three of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss the myth of effort as an unlimited resource, the Ministry's search for Sirius Black, and Stan's introduction to "Neville Longbottom". Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we apply effort efficiently?
Thank you to Anna for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 4, The Leaky Cauldron, through the theme of Home, with special guest Jolie Doggett!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Ignorance in Chapter Two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss news coverage of Sirius Black, the ignorance of muggles, and, of course, Aunt Marge's Big Mistake. Throughout the episode we consider the question: at what point does ignorance become willful?
Thank you to Millie for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 3, The Knight Bus, through the theme of Effort.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back for Season 3! This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Inclusion in Chapter One of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! They discuss Harry’s special birthday celebration, Ron's fearless use of muggle technology, and the Weasleys' cute family vacation. Throughout the episode we consider the question: does inclusion necessitate exclusion, and how can we expand the community that we include?
Thank you to Lois for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 2, Aunt Marge's Big Mistake, through the theme of Ignorance.
Please consider making a donation to the Loveland Foundation here.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt wrap up their their discussion of The Chamber of Secrets with a look back on the entire book! They discuss Harry's sense of belonging at Hogwarts, Dumbledore's flaws, and Hagrid's growing family of pets/friends.
We're taking a quick break, but will be back in two weeks to discuss Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Love in Chapter Eighteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss the Weasley family's reunion, the pattern of Dumbledore's poor hiring decisions, and Dobby as free elf. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what must we add to our love (intention, reflection, justice?) in order to truly act lovingly?
Thank you to Leah for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Compassion in Chapter Seventeen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss Harry’s introduction to the real Tom Riddle, Fawkes’s heroic entry, and the perils of journaling. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how does understanding the root of our compassion lead us to act in more kind and loving ways towards others?
Thank you to Laura for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 18, Dobby’s Reward, through the theme of Love.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Yearning in Chapter Sixteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss Moaning Myrtle's big reveal, Lockhart's (lack of) responsibility in crisis, and Hermione's scrunched up clue. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to yearn, and how is this different from other forms of desire?
Thank you to Kayla for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 17, The Heir of Slytherin, through the theme of Compassion.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Charm in Chapter Fifteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss Matt's charming children, Ernie Macmillan's earnest apology, and the children's total inability to charm Aragog. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how is charm like a spell, and what conditions allow that spell to be successful?
Thank you to BA for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 16, The Chamber of Secrets, through the theme of Yearning.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and special guest Jackson Bird (!!) explore the theme of Humility in Chapter Fourteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss the line between humility and humiliation, Hermione's petrification, and Hagrid's arrest. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can humility help us to build stronger relationships and adapt to a changing world?
Thank you to our anonymous listener for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 15, Aragog, through the theme of Charm.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Every Christmas, Casper likes to read us a poem. This year it's 'Good Bones' by Maggie Smith.
We'll be back with our regularly scheduled episodes on January 6th. Happy Holidays!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're bringing back some of our Women of Harry Potter blessings as bonus episodes sprinkled into your feed. Enjoy this 2019 blessing of Minerva McGonagall (with special guest Margaret H. Willison!) with an intro from 2021 Vanessa!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Community in Chapter Thirteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss the wonderful HPST community, Lockhart's vision for Valentines Day, and Harry's introduction to Tom Riddle. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can community help us through difficult times?
Thank you to Raj for this week’s voicemail! We'll be taking a break for the holidays, but we'll see you in the new year for Chapter 14, Cornelius Fudge, which we will be reading with very special guest Jackson Bird, through the theme of Humility.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Guilt in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets! This week they discuss the intentions of the Sorting Hat, how having a sense of purpose can relieve us of feeling guilty, and Draco's passion for the news. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how are guilt (the feeling) and guilt (the fact) related?
Thank you to Justus for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 13, The Very Secret Diary, through the theme of Community.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're bringing back some of our Women of Harry Potter blessings as bonus episodes sprinkled into your feed. Enjoy this 2019 blessing of Hannah Abbott with an intro from 2021 Vanessa!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Shame in Chapter Eleven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, with special guest Casper ter Kuile! This week they discuss the highs and lows of sleep-away camp, Crabbe's potion-making skills, and Harry's newly discovered fluency in Parseltongue. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what lies on the other side of shame?
Thank you to Prabhanjan for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 12, The Polyjuice Potion, through the theme of Guilt.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We hope you enjoy this sneak peak into our Patreon content! Each week patrons receive bloopers, a bonus discussion, and more. In this episode, Matt and Vanessa discuss ideas for their own Lockhart style memoirs.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Dignity in Chapter Ten of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss Lockhart's dignity, or lack thereof, athletes practicing ballet, and Dobby's big reveal. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is there an inherent human dignity that cannot be stripped away by others?
Thank you to MJ for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 11, The Dueling Club, with very special guest Casper Ter Kuile, through the theme of Shame.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're bringing back some of our Women of Harry Potter blessings as bonus episodes sprinkled into your feed. Enjoy this 2019 blessing of Cho Chang with an intro from 2021 Vanessa!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Hate in Chapter Nine of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss the discovery of Mrs. Norris's petrified body, Justin Finch-Fletchley's new fear of Harry, and the trio's Polyjuice Plan. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how is hatred a distinct and particular form of animosity?
Thank you to Kate for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 10, The Rogue Bludger, through the theme of Dignity.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Frustration in Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss the difference in how Nearly Headless Nick and Argus Filch handle their respective frustrations, the Headless Hunt's rules and regulations, and Moaning Myrtle's exile. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is frustration the inability to close the gap between what you believe you should be able to do, and what you are actually able to do?
Thank you to Emma for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 9, The Writing On The Wall, through the theme of Hate.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're bringing back some of our Women of Harry Potter blessings as bonus episodes sprinkled into your feed. Enjoy this 2019 blessing of Lily Potter with an intro from 2021 Vanessa!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Forgiveness in Chapter Seven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss Ron's broken wand, the book's possible critiques of retaliation, and Hagrid's exile. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we understand forgiveness without putting an unfair burden on victims?
Thank you to Sarah for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 8, The Deathday Party, through the theme of Frustration.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Narcissism in Chapter Six of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss the efficacy of Molly's Howler in teaching Ron his lesson, Justin Finch-Fletchley's introduction to the trio, and Lockhart's teaching style. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we better see and respond to the needs of those around us?
Thank you to Maggie for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 7, Mudbloods and Murmurs, through the theme of Forgiveness.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this special bonus episode, Vanessa and Matt answer some questions sent in by listeners. Thank you so much to everyone who wrote in! We hope you enjoy this look into the show & our dear hosts.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Anxiety in Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss the enchanted Ford Anglia, McGonagall's lax punishment, and our introduction to the Whomping Willow. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how is anxiety relational?
Thank you to Emily for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 6, Gilderoy Lockhart, through the theme of Narcissism.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Patience in Chapter Four of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss bliss at The Burrow, our introduction to Gilderoy Lockhart, and Lucius's parenting. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how does patience balance competing desires?
Thank you to Oliver for this week’s voicemail. Next week we’re reading Chapter 5, The Whomping Willow, through the theme of Anxiety.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa is joined by dear friend and special guest Jolie Doggett as they explore the theme of Friendship in Chapter Three of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week they discuss Mr. Weasley's obsession with muggles, the ethics of de-gnoming, and Ron's confidence in his friendship with Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be a good friend?
Thank you to Amanda for this week’s voicemail. Next week we’re reading Chapter 4, At Flourish & Blotts, through the theme of Patience.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest John Green as they explore the theme of Health in Chapter Two of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week we discuss the connection between individual and social health, the efficacy of Dobby's messaging, and Mrs. Mason's traumatic dinner party experience. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we support each other in building healthier communities?
Thank you to Donovan for this week’s voicemail. Next week we’ll be joined by our wonderful friend Jolie Doggett, as we read Chapter 3, The Burrow, through the theme of Friendship.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back! In our first episode of Season 2, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Bravery in Chapter One of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This week we discuss the difference between bravery and bravado, Vernon's drill salesmanship, and Harry's faith in his friendships. Throughout the episode we consider the question: does bravery require confidence, or is it even braver to act when you are unsure?
Thank you to Hanna for this week’s voicemail. Next week we’ll be joined by special guest John Green, as we read Chapter 2, Dobby's Warning, through the theme of Health.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa is joined by fellow podcaster and author of IRL: Finding Realness, Meaning, and Belonging in Our Digital Lives, Chris Stedman, to discuss grief, fandom, and how online communities can help us process significant events in our lives.
Thanks to Sam, Courtney, Brianna, Mallory, and Cathy for their beautiful voicemail contributions. On Thursday we’ll be starting Book 2, Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets, and reading Chapter 1, The Worst Birthday, through the theme of bravery.
Listen to Chris's podcast, Unread, and check out his new book here!
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt wrap up their first season together with a look back on all of Book 1! They discuss Harry's arc, Neville's role as a perpetual outsider, and the way that fantasy as a genre works with
the progressively more vivid violence in the books.
We're taking a quick break, but will be back in two weeks to discuss Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Love in Chapter Seventeen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss the relationship between love and power, whether or not Quirrell can be classified as a victim, and the Power of Ritual (hi Casper) in creating and maintaining loving relationships. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we most lovingly take care of ourselves and others?
Thank you to Kimmie for this week’s voicemail. Join us next week for our Book 1 Wrap-Up episode!
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Freedom in Chapter Sixteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss the obstacle course approach to security at Hogwarts, the children's successful journey to the stone, and McGonagall's inability to see the danger at hand. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be free when we are in relationship with others, and how can we become free to be our best selves?
Thanks to Claire for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 17, The Man With Two Faces, through the theme of Love.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Punishment in Chapter Fifteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Filch, McGonagall, and Hagrid's vastly different approaches to punishment, Harry's scary jaunt in the woods, and the centaurs' obsession with Mars. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what makes something a punishment, and what purpose does punishment serve?
Thanks to Katie for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 16, Through The Trapdoor, through the theme of Freedom.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Jackson Bird as they explore the theme of Obligation in Chapter Fourteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss the children's sense of obligation towards Hagrid, Charlie's lawbreaking buddies, and how hard it is for us as muggles to gauge danger in the wizarding world. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we juggle our conflicting needs and obligations, and which should we prioritize?
Thanks to Jessica for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 15, The Forbidden Forest, through the theme of Punishment.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Anger in Chapter Thirteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Ron's fight with Crabbe and Goyle, Neville's justified rage, and Snape's unconventional refereeing tactics. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is anger the affective space between hurt and an outward act, and if so, how do we harness it most effectively?
Thanks to Aidan for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 14, Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback, through the theme of Obligation.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Wisdom in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Fred and George’s intuition about Quirrell, what a happy person might see in the Mirror of Erised, and the Restricted Section of the library. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge?
Thanks to Elena for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 13, Nicolas Flamel, through the theme of Anger.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of likability in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss how easy it would be to hate Harry at Hogwarts, how we feel about Hermione looking over the boy's homework, and Oliver Wood's pre-game pep talk. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we mitigate our initial attraction to (and repulsion from) other people?
Thanks to Lauren for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 12, The Mirror of Erised, through the theme of Wisdom.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of protection in chapter ten Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss why Hermione lies about the troll, why we like dangerous sports, and how the ‘damsel in distress’ trope plays out in this chapter. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When is it okay for the maker of rules to break them?
Thanks to Carol for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 11, Quidditch, through the theme of Likability.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week we're joined by THE Casper ter Kuile as we explore the theme of meanness in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss whether Harry acts too aggressively with Malfoy, whether McGonagall is treating Harry like a piece of meat, and whether Draco ever meant to go to the midnight duel. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do you be anti-violence and still intervene in wrong-doing?
Thanks to Brittany for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 10, Hallowe'en, through the theme of Protection.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of belonging in chapter eight Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we examine Hagrid’s hut as a welcoming space, discuss how Snape’s cruelty confirms Harry as special, and have our first conversation about pedagogy at Hogwarts. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we belong to another person without trying to possess them?
Thanks to Katta for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 9, The Midnight Duel, through the theme of meanness.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of revenge in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Dumbledore's whimsy as a tool of hospitality, whether Peeves should be punished, and the context of Nearly Headless Nick’s beheading.Throughout the episode we consider the question: is living well the best revenge?
Thanks to Ashley for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 8, The Potions Master, through the theme of belonging.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of fear in chapter six Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss how the Dursleys change (and don't change) towards Harry, Ron's role in his family, and how truly wonderful Molly is to Harry and her kids. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what makes someone a bully?
Thanks to Amethyst for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 7, The Sorting Hat through the theme of revenge.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of awe in chapter five Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Harry’s fame, Draco’s relationship with his wand, and the joys and overwhelm of travel. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can you be in awe of things that aren't 'good'?
Thanks to Rachell for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 6, The Journey to Platform Nine and Three-Quarters through the theme of fear.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by Naomi Westwater to discuss how we see Wizard Supremacy operating in the text and how it helps us understand supremacy in our lives.
Thanks to for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading Book 1, Chapter 5, Diagon Alley, through the theme of awe.
If you're interested in joining Naomi's class, you can sign up here!
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of celebration in chapter four Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Harry’s birthday feast, the relentlessness of the Hogwarts letters, and the way that Hagrid intimidates the Dursleys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Does celebration need to be joyful? Or is the ritual of it the important thing?
Thanks to Didi for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re doing an Owl Post episode with Naomi Westwater on Wizard Supremacy.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week we're lucky to be joined by Jolie Doggett as we explore the theme of obedience in chapter three Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Vernon's toxic masculinity, Dumbledore's manipulation, and whether Petunia fell in love with Vernon because he's so dominant. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do you choose what to be obedient (or disobedient) to?
Thanks to Zoe for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 4, The Keeper of the Keys, through the theme of Celebration.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of hope in chapter two Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss Harry's scar, descriptions of Dudley's body, and the 'foreignness' of the escaped boa constrictor. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Are small sources of hope helpful or cruel?
Thanks to Olivia for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 3, The Letter's from No One, through the theme of Obedience.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of frustration in the very first chapter of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. This week we discuss how the Dursley's are raising Dudley, why Vernon is so offended by seeing men in robes, and whether it's okay to just leave a baby on a doorstep (Spoiler: it's not). Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we react to frustration productively?
Thanks to Dallas for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 2, The Vanishing Glass, through the theme of Hope.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We made it all the way back to Book 1 and there are some changes happening around Harry Potter and the Sacred Text! Namely, we have a brand new co-host: The brilliant and wise Matt Potts.
This week, Vanessa and Matt get together to talk about what they’re excited for in the first book, share their thoughts about sacred reading, and introduce a new critical lens to our reading practice.
Next week, we’re reading Chapter 1 of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, The Boy Who Lived, through the theme of Frustration.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We have one more week off between seasons of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text! While we're off, we thought we'd share a recent episode from our sister show, the brilliant feminist Harry Potter podcast Witch, Please.
--
We have an episode for you that, in our professional opinion, is very gay. And by gay we mean inviting expansively, radically, resistantly queer readings of a text that is trying very very hard to perform heterosexuality and binary gender! We breeze by the obvious details—like Lockhart's character flaws as coded within his failure to correctly perform masculinity or Harry & Draco's flagrant obsession with each other—and into some of this text's more subversive queer potentials.
This episode acknowledges the existence of sex, so use discretion if in the company of young ears! This episode also discusses the continued abuse of Harry by the Dursleys, so take care of yourselves.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're taking a two week break between seasons of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text! While we're off, we thought we'd share a recent episode of The Real Question.
Casper wants to feel closer to his paternal grandparents. But there’s a problem: they’ve been dead for a few years now. Is there a way, as he grows older, for him to keep his grandparents an active part of his life? Drawing upon The Suitcase by Frances Stoner Saunders and Children and Art from the musical Sunday in the Park with George, Casper and Vanessa think through how grief changes over time.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Casper finish their time together by reading Book 1, Chapter 1 through the theme of Transitions. We recorded this episode live in front of a streaming audience in partnership with 6th and I in Washington, D.C. It's Casper's last episode and we love him so much!
Thanks to everyone who made it to the live stream! We’ll be taking the next week off. Book one, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, starts April 22th with our new co-host, Matt Potts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper look back at the past five years of making Harry Potter and the Sacred Text and their experience reading all seven Harry Potter books. What surprised them along the way? What do they wish they had done differently? And will they ever write that book about the failed pedagogy of Hogwarts?
Next week, our final episode of the series! We'll be reading Book 1, Chapter 1 through the theme of transitions.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by mentor Stephanie Paulsell to discuss why we re-read sacred texts and what we should keep in mind for starting again at Book 1.
Thanks to Ali, Julianne, Scott, Melissa and anonymous for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be doing a whole series wrap-up episode covering all seven books.
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper look back at all of Season 7 and pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. They explore the path of the Malfoys throughout this book, the blooming relationship between Ron and Hermione, and what they think the fate of Slytherin House should be. Throughout the episode they explore the question: What would change if this book was called Harry Potter and the Ministry of Magic?
Next week, we're doing final Owl Post episode and a conversation with our mentor, Stephanie Paulsell.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Casper's criticisms of boarding school, Arthur Weasley's anti-pure-blood agenda, and why everyone should be giving Neville Longbottom their love. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How is love (and trauma) passed between generations?
Thanks to Ania for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re doing a wrap-up episode of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're reaching the end of Casper's tenure here on Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, but never fear! You can still get your Casper and Vanessa fix over on our new show, The Real Question. Our first episode is out today, and Casper and Vanessa discuss all things Tooth Fairy.
After playing the Tooth Fairy for her two step-daughters, Vanessa is having doubts about the appropriateness of this supposedly silly childhood ritual. Drawing up a recent article about the Marquis de Sade and the song Super Trouper from Mamma Mia, Vanessa and Casper try to wade through the fears that a parent can have for their kids.
--
The Real Question is a weekly podcast exploring life’s questions through a surprising mix of pop culture and academic insight. Vanessa Zoltan and Casper ter Kuile learned in divinity school about the art of paying attention. By paying attention to very specific things in our lives, we can begin to see something true about big, universal questions. In this podcast, they turn that attention to a variety of everyday scenarios in their own lives to see what’s really at stake. Questions about the tooth fairy can really be about the fear we have for our children. Questions about driving can really be about what it means to be a good partner. Each week, Vanessa and Casper walk each other through the process of figuring out what their ‘real’ questions are in conversations with texts ranging from movie musicals to theological treatises. In this intimate, thoughtful podcast we explore how friendship can be a tool for living a more intentional life.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper are joined by John Green to explore the theme of hope in the penultimate chapter of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss what to do with the Malfoys, what to do with Slytherin house, and how Neville finds the courage to be such hero. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is it worth it to have hope on a grand scale?
Thanks to Phoebe for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading the Epilogue, Nineteen Years Later, through the theme of love.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of trust in chapter thirty-five of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the landscape of this 'afterlife' for Harry, why Dumbledore is untrustworthy, and whether Voldemort's soul is redeemable. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is anything that happens in this chapter real?
Thanks to Christine for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 36, The Flaw in the Plan, through the theme of hope with special guest John Green.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of reunion in chapter thirty-four of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss why Harry doesn't say goodbye to Ginny, why Harry is the natural inheritor of the Invisibility Cloak and why Hogwarts is an insufficient home for Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can we summon our lost loved ones without a resurrection stone?
Thanks to Erik for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 35, King's Cross, through the theme of trust.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of accompaniment in chapter thirty-three of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Dumbledore's solitude, Snape's courage, and an inspiring scene for Sex and the City. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Does accompaniment have to be passive?
Thanks to Ingrid for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 34, The Forest Again, through the theme of reunion.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of contentment in chapter thirty-two of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the impact of Fred’s death on the trio, Hermione’s quick thinking under pressure, and how amazing it is that Trelawney starts throwing crystal balls. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is contentment possible after trauma?
Thanks to Sam for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 33, The Prince’s Tale, through the theme of accompaniment.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper continue exploring the theme of survival in part two of chapter thirty-one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron and Hermione's big kiss, Draco Malfoy's failure of choice, and some plot holes that Vanessa found in the text. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What happens to us when part of our identity doesn't survive?
Thanks to Julia for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 32, The Elder Wand, through the theme of contentment.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Survival in the first half of chapter thirty-one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Yes, that's right, we've split a chapter in half for the first time in our whole show history!
This week we are joined by Dr. Allie Bayne from HERstory on the Rocks, who shares an opening story about sexual abuse and how she sees herself in Helena Ravenclaw. Casper and Vanessa discuss the existential experience of ghosts, the behavior of Pansy Parkinson, and whether Albus Dumbledore would have taken hostages. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what actions are justifiable in order to survive?
Thanks to Isabella for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Part 2 of Chapter 31, The Battle of Hogwarts, continuing through the theme of survival.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Vanessa and Matt discuss their own New Year's traditions and the language we use around this time of year.
Thanks to Charity, Luna, TeaKay, Matías, and Zack for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading part one of Chapter 31, The Battle of Hogwarts, through the theme of Survival.
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Every Christmas, Casper likes to read us a poem. This year it's 'Ring Out, Wild Bells' by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.
We'll be back with our regularly scheduled episodes on January 7th. Happy Holidays!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Chaos in chapter thirty of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (we're getting so close to the end!). This week we discuss Harry and McGonagall's use of unforgivable curses, generational differences in the fight for good, and Percy's return. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is chaos clarifying?
Thanks to Amanda for this week’s voicemail! We're taking two weeks off for the holidays, but you'll hear from us again on January 7th with an Owl Post episode.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Justice in chapter twenty-nine of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we are joined by Vanessa's dear friend Amanda, who shares an opening story about a rediscovered document from her childhood. Casper and Vanessa discuss Neville's glow up, Ginny's jealousy, and the transformation of Hogwarts under the Carrow regime. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is punishment a necessary part of justice?
Thanks to Destinee for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 30, The Sacking of Severus Snape, through the theme of Chaos.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Fate in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the similarities and differences between Albus and Aberforth Dumbledore and how nice it must be for the trio to have and adult to keep them safe. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Are we fated to be who we are?
Thanks to Laura for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 29, The Lost Diadem, through the theme of Justice.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Loneliness in chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Voldemort's relationship with Nagini, the freedom of the Gringott's dragon, and how to make friends in an isolating age. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What's the difference between loneliness and solitude?
Thanks to Rebecca for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 28, The Missing Mirror, through the theme of Fate.
--
If you can, please join us in donating to the Okra Project for Casper's birthday!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Time in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss how hard it must be for Hermione to look like Bellatrix, the dragon in the belly of Gringotts, and the many parallels in this chapter with the Triwizard Tournament. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What does it mean to ‘heal’ from trauma and is it possible?
Thanks to Jaxn for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 27, The Final Hiding Place, through the theme of Loneliness.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Doubt in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we appreciate Ron's role in the trio, debate the effectiveness of eye contact, and continue to grapple with what this book is trying to say about Goblins. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When do we know that our doubts are legitimate vs. just holding us back?
Thanks to Maryse for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 26, Gringotts through the theme of Time.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of mystery in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we are joined by the brilliant Dr. Hannah McGregor, co-host of the podcast Witch, Please, who shares an opening story about her relationship with books. Casper and Vanessa discuss Dobby’s funeral, the secrets of wand lore, and the man who Harry has become over the course of these books. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What are eulogies for?
Thanks to Vanessa for this week’s voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 25, Shell Cottage, through the theme of Doubt.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Legacy in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the ambivalence of Draco Malfoy, the divinity of Luna Lovegood, and the sexiness of Ron Weasley. Throughout the episode we consider the question: where can we look to find the legacies in our lives?
Thanks to Abigail for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 24, The Wandmaker, through the theme of Mystery.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by cultural critic Jolie Doggett to discuss representation, appearance, and body positivity in Book 7. Together, they explore how we conceptualize “good” and “bad” bodies, and how those stereotypes show up in the text.
Thanks to Destiny, Sophie, Skyler, and Marcella for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 23, Malfoy Manor, through the theme of Legacy.
--
It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Knowledge in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron's new-found maturity, Harry's newest obsession, and why Hermione doesn't believe in the Hallows. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we move from knowledge to belief?
Thanks to Vickela for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be doing an Owl Post episode with Jolie Doggett where we discuss beauty and representation in Book 7.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Dreams in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Luna’s beautiful mural of friends, Hermione’s small preparations for emergency situations, and whether we forgive Xenophilius for betraying the trio. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we continue to dream of a better world during seemingly hopeless times?
Thanks to Weston for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter 22, The Deathly Hallows, through the theme of Knowledge.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Reality in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss a lot of things about Ron! We discuss Ron's separation from the trio, the reasons he didn't go back to the Burrow, and his attempts to get Hermione back. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we make room for subjectivity without degrading the importance of facts?
Thanks to Angela for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter 21, The Tale of the Three Brothers, through the theme of Dreams.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Courage in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Hermione’s grief after Ron leaves, Ron’s courage in coming back, and the importance of mentorship. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do you hold space for the vulnerability and uncomfortableness of courage?
Thanks to Odelya for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter 20, Xenophilius Lovegood, through the theme of Reality.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Youth in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Dumbledore’s relationship with Grindelwald, Rita Skeeter’s offensive nicknames for people, and the parallels to the Holocaust in this chapter. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we allow people to change and also hold them accountable for their previous actions?
Thanks to Anisa for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter 19, The Silver Doe, through the theme of Courage.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper and Matt Potts explore the theme of Faith in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss singing as a sacred practice, the locket as a metaphor for trauma, and the sign in front of Potter Cottage. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How can we build faith in each other rather than in facts?
Thanks to Bronwyn for this week's voicemail! Next week Vanessa’s back and we’ll be reading Chapter 18, The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore, through the theme of Youth.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
CW: Because of the plot of this chapter, Vanessa and Casper spend a lot of time talking about grief, death, and trauma. The chapter includes some suicidal ideation and Casper and Vanessa very briefly touch on that as well.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Peace in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Harry’s visit to Lily and James’ graves, why Dumbledore is so frustrating, and the joy (and disappointment) of Christmas. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How can we define ‘peace’ outside of the context of war?
Thanks to Tristan for this week's voicemail! Next week Matt and Casper are reading Chapter 17, Bathilda’s Secret, through the theme of Faith.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In honor of Hogwarts day, September 1st, we present to you the first day of class you’ve always dreamed of from your two favorite lady scholars: Witch, Please | Ep. 1, The Chosen One.
We at Not Sorry Productions are so proud to be working with Hannah and Marcelle of Witch, Please. We were huge fans of the first run of their podcast, and can't wait to listen to the newest season! Their first episode goes back to the very beginning–to the concept of origin stories themselves–to explore how and why Harry Potter fits into a long tradition of “chosen one” narratives.
Quick, before you misplace your remembrall again, go subscribe wherever you find your podcasts!
[This episode is rated Explicit for some swearing]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Ownership in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Muggle/Goblin relations, the Sword of Gryffindor, and of course, the big fight between Harry and Ron. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What are things we can never own?
Thanks to Cindy for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 16, Godric’s Hollow, through the theme of Peace.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by journalist Lauren Sandler to discuss her book This is All I Got: A New Mother’s Search for Home, and what it teaches us about homelessness in America. Together, they explore how Harry, Ron, and Hermione are feeling the pressures of housing insecurity in the seventh book, and how to think about Ron leaving.
Thanks to Jessica, Laura, Thomas, Rebecca, and Hannah for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 15, The Goblin’s Revenge, through the theme of Ownership.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Belonging in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the shifting dynamics of the trio as they find themselves far from home, find compassion for Ron as he navigates feelings of isolation when voicing beliefs that differ from those of his friends, and recognize Hermione's strength as someone who can create the conditions of safety and belonging for those around her. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Where can we locate a sense of belonging in ourselves and in the various places that are part of our journeys?
Thanks to Linh for this week's voicemail! Next week we have an Owl Post episode on the theme of homelessness with our friend Lauren Sandler.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Arrogance in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss how Umbridge has changed since we last saw her, Harry’s rash decision to try and free some Muggle-Borns, and why Hermione has trouble casting a Patronus. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Does it count as arrogance if you’re actually right?
Thanks to Chelsea for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 14, The Thief, through the theme of Belonging with special guest Laura Tee from Mugglecast.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Truth in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the new ministry statue, the fate of poor Mafalda Hopkirk, and whether or not Ron is useless. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we hold multiple truths at the same time?
Thanks to Danielle for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be running our first ever re-run episode. We'll be revisiting our episode on Chapter 10 of Book 1, through the theme of Friendship.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today’s owl post episode is in response to J.K. Rowling’s recent and vehement transphobia. We’re joined by our friend Jackson Bird to talk about why it’s important to condemn Rowling, and what we’re thinking about in terms of the future of this podcast.
We are so grateful to the dozens of trans and non-binary people who sent in voicemails for this episode. Thanks to Alicia, Ariel, Cody, Drew, and Lin for the beautiful contributions you can hear in this episode. You can find a playlist that highlights the other voicemails we received here. Thanks also to the coalition of trans and non-binary listeners who emailed us and asked for this episode.
Next week, we’re reading Chapter 12, Magic is Might through the theme of Truth. Some resources we encourage you to check out related to the topic of this episode:
- The Gayly Prophet
- How to Talk and Listen to Transgender People
- Andrew James Carter's Twitter Thread
- Responding to J.K. Rowling's Essay: Is it Anti-Trans
- Harry Potter Saved My Life. J.K. Rowling is Now Endangering Trans People Like Me.
- Understanding Transgender People
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Normalcy in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the role of pain in Harry’s life, the changes being made at the Ministry, and why Lupin can’t come hunt horcruxes. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we notice what’s become normal, but needs to be changed?
Thanks to Ava for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be doing an Owl Post episode with special guest Jackson Bird on the topic of J.K. Rowling’s recent transphobia.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Neglect in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Sirius' childhood bedroom, the lack of stories that Harry has about his parents, and Harry's kindness towards Kreacher. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we take time for ourselves without neglecting the things that are important to us?
Thanks to Culver for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eleven, The Bribe, through the theme of Normalcy.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Relief in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron’s moving concern for his family, Harry’s persistant need to self-isolate, and how Hermione’s marginalized identity leads to her great foresight. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is relief even possible in such a broken and complicated world?
Thanks to Shannon who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter ten, Kreacher’s Tale, through the theme of Neglect.
--
For the month of June we'll be raising money for organizations supporting Black lives. Please join us.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hi all, Casper here. There are moments in life when you look around and wonder at the marvel of it all. Today my book is published - and it would never have happened without YOU, our dear listeners. Thank you for traveling with us through the books, for exploring new spiritual practices together, and for opening my heart and mind with your wisdom and encouragement. In many ways, I wrote this book for you. May it be a blessing in your life as it has been in mine!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Independence in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week Vanessa shares a cautionary tale of Crystal Light and we discuss the magic of wizard wedding, Luna’s relationship with her father, and Elphias Doge’s love for Dumbledore. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what do we risk by giving up our independence?
Thanks to Selia who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter nine, A Place to Hide, through the theme of Relief.
--
For the month of June we'll be raising money for organizations supporting Black lives. Please join us.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Identity in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the many gifts in this chapter: Harry’s birthday gifts, what Dumbledore leaves the trio in his will, and the gift of a new haircut. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we escape who we used to be?
Thanks to the anonymous listener who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eight, The Wedding, through the theme of Independence.
--
For the month of June we'll be raising money for organizations supporting Black lives. Please join us.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We’ve decided not to release an episode of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text today. Instead we have an episode of #WizardTeam from the brilliant women over at Black Girls Create.
#WizardTeam is a Harry Potter podcast housed under Black Girls Create, a hub for Black creators and critical fandom. The hosts Robyn Jordan and Bayana Davis close read and discuss the original Harry Potter series and post-canon from their perspectives as Black women and Potterheads. You can find their work at blackgirlscreate.org and #WizardTeam on a podcasting app near you.
--
For the month of June we'll be raising money for organizations supporting Black lives. Please join us.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Hesitation in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the role of The Burrow in Harry’s life, why more people can’t hunt horcruxes, and the book’s conception of what souls are. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we introduce little moments of hesitation into our normal lives?
Thanks to Kylie for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter seven, The Will of Albus Dumbledore, through the theme of Identity.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hi everyone! Yesterday we released the latest Women of Harry Potter episode on Patreon. We make a new episode once a month and it’s our favorite Patreon perk. We've now released 30 episodes of our little spin-off show!
As a special treat today, we're releasing our March episode where Vanessa and Ariana blessed Aunt Muriel. If you haven't already, you can support us at https://www.patreon.com/harrypottersacredtext and hear all of our previous episodes, including this month's episode where we bless Katie Bell.
We so appreciate all of your support on Patreon, we genuinely could not make our show without you.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Health in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we take some time to discuss the incredible grace of three characters: George Weasley, Ted Tonks, and Molly Weasley. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we disrupt the binary of ‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’ bodies?
Thanks to Cory for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter six, The Ghoul in Pyjamas, through the theme of Hesitation.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Devotion in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Hedwig’s death and her role in Harry’s life, Petunia’s obsession with cleanliness, and Hagrid’s relationship with 4 Privet Drive. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is the relationship between duty and devotion?
Thanks to Dani for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter five, Fallen Warrior, through the theme of Health.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Growth in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we say goodbye to the Dursley’s and spend a little time talking about each of them. We look at how far Vernon has come in his grudging acceptance of Muggle/Wizard relations, celebrate Dudley’s steps away from his parents, and pity Petunia’s lack of strength. Throughout the episode we consider the question: where is growth happening that we cannot see?
Thanks to Catie for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter four, The Seven Potters, through the theme of Devotion.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Boldness in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss and what Dumbledore really saw the Mirror of Erised, Dudley's attempt at an olive branch, and the politics of Dumbledore's obituary. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is boldness always a mistake?
Thanks to Jess for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter three, The Dursleys Departing, through the theme of Growth.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Suspicion in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Snape’s bravery, the team culture amongst death eaters, and how Voldemort builds the groundwork for Narcissa’s betrayal. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How are suspicion and humiliation tied together?
Thanks to Miriam for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter two, In Memoriam, through the theme of Boldness.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Season 7! This week, Vanessa and Casper get together to talk what they're looking forward to in Deathly Hallows. They discuss all the heroism to come: Ron’s great return, Narcissa’s daring betrayal, and Dobby’s selfless sacrifice.
Vanessa and Casper also reveal what’s in store for the future of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text now that we’ve reached the last book of the series.
Next week, we’re reading Chapter 1, The Dark Lord Ascending, through the theme of Suspicion.
--
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Happy Friday everyone! We have a new project to keep you company while sheltering in place: Twilight in Quarantine.
Is Twilight by Stephenie Meyer the best book of all time? No it’s not. Is it the kind of cotton candy escapism joy we need during these uncertain times? Hell yes it is.
We'll be publishing Monday, Wednesday and Friday in the Hot and Bothered feed. Go subscribe!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are ‘thoughts and prayers’ worth anything? This week, Casper is joined by our mentor Stephanie Paulsell to talk about the practice of prayer. Stephanie introduces us to ideas of prayer from theologians such as Evagrius Ponticus, Augustine of Hippo, Simone Weil, and Howard Thurman. And together, Stephanie and Casper talk about what prayer could look like during the Coronavirus.
We’ve had a flood of voicemails in the wake of the Coronavirus! This week, we’ve decided to feature voicemails about how people are thinking about and handling their lives during the epidemic. Thanks to Jemma, Rachel, Camden, Kenna and Paige for their beautiful contributions.
Also, in case you missed it:
- Casper has written a book: The Power of Ritual!
- In July we’ll be doing a twenty-one city live show tour to celebrate the book and many tickets are already on sale.
- We've launched several online classes. We have a new one starting Sunday just for kids!
We’re taking next week off! Season 7, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows starts April 16th.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper look back at all of Season 6, and pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. They explore the deep similarities between this book and Book 2 of the series: comparing Slughorn to Lockhart, Snape's potions book to Tom Riddle's diary, and Tom Riddle to Draco Malfoy. Throughout the episode they explore the question: How much do we hold people accountable for their flaws, while knowing that we are all flawed?
Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation with our mentor, Stephanie Paulsell. Also, in case you missed it, Casper has written a book: The Power of Ritual! In July we’ll be doing a twenty-one city live show tour to celebrate the book and some tickets go on sale TODAY!
Another thing you can do during quarantine is join us at our 8-week online class: Together in Quarantine. We had our first gathering this week and it was so good to see you all we almost cried. The next class is Tuesday, March 31st.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa Casper explore the theme of Love in the last chapter of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we praise Hagrid for his patient accompaniment throughout the series, defend Ginny and Harry's break-up, and examine the way that funerals fail us. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we bring discipline into our love?
We also announce some pretty big news this week! Casper has written a beautiful book, The Power of Ritual. In July we’ll be doing a twenty-one city live show tour to celebrate the book, but it’s available for pre-order right now! Stuck instead during this Coronavirus quarantine and looking for a way to give your days meaning? Do yourself a favor and go order a copy! Next week tickets will go on sale for our tour. We’d love to see you and celebrate with you in one of the cities we’ll be preforming in.
Another thing you can do during quarantine is join us at our 8-week online class: Together in Quarantine. We'll be gathering to treat Harry Potter as a Sacred Text. The first class is this coming Tuesday, March 24th.
Thanks to Emma Boyd for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Friends, these are scary times and things have been feeling rather uncertain for us at Not Sorry Productions! So much of our revenue is based on travel for pilgrimages and live shows, and we’ve already had to postpone one pilgrimage and cancel two live events. If you want to support us, and have the means, we would be so grateful if you consider becoming a member of our Patreon. We’re doing a lot of number crunching right now, and any amount of support goes a long way towards protecting our staff. And if you sign up now or increase your membership, we’ll read your name at the end of an episode!
We’ll keep you posted as we figure out what the future of our little podcast company is. We are brainstorming ways to better support you, our community, during this very anxiety producing time. In the meantime, please please take care of yourselves! So many people are feeling very alone in this time of social distancing. Remember to reach out to those you love, take deep breaths, and eat a lot of ice cream. We’ll be back on Thursday with the last chapter of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa Casper explore the theme of Power in chapter twenty-nine (the penultimate chapter!) of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Ginny’s strength, McGonagall’s leadership style and Fawkes’ song. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What kind of leaders do we want to be?
Thanks to Hanna for this week's voicemail! Next week and we’re reading the final chapter of Half-Blood Prince, The White Tomb, through the theme of Love.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and friend of the podcast Matt Potts explore the theme of Perfection in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss how Harry gently shepherds Hagrid into grief, why Hagrid still has to use an umbrella as a wand, and how Snape manages to take care of Harry despite his own deep brokenness. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we use imperfect tools to do good work?
Thanks to Steve for this week's voicemail! Casper is back next week and we’re reading chapter twenty-nine, The Phoenix Lament, through the theme of Power.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Earnestness in the much-dreaded chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we celebrate Dumbledore's humanity, sympathize with Draco's impossible situation, and discuss why Vanessa doesn't like death bed confessions. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When is earnestness actually naiveté?
Thanks to Diana for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-eight, Flight of the Prince, through the theme of Perfection with our friend Dr. Matt Potts.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Persistence in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Voldemort's fatal flaws, Harry's great strengths, and the imminent loss of Dumbledore will all its implications. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do you know that you should persist on someone else's behalf?
Thanks to Katherine for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-seven, The Lightning-Struck Tower, through the theme of Earnestness.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Indignation in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Trelawney's defensiveness, Dumbledore's injured hand, and the sometimes cyclical nature of progress. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can indignation be useful?
Thanks to Christie for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-six, The Cave, through the theme of Persistence.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Regret in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by writer, pastor, and theologian Nadia Bolz-Weber, who shares an opening story about the way that accidents weigh on us. Casper and Vanessa discuss how much they blame Harry for hurting Draco, Snape’s punishment, and Harry and Ginny’s first kiss. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to live with no regrets?
Thanks to Rachel Friedensen for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-five, The Seer Overheard, through the theme of Indignation.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Memory in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry’s resemblance to Tom Riddle, Dumbledore’s impending doom, and their different theories of the soul. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what’s our theory of the difference between a memory and a story we tell ourselves?
Thanks to Clover for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-four, Sectumsempra, through the theme of Regret with special guest Nadia Bolz-Weber.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Bitterness in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss why Hermione doesn’t want to go to Aragog’s funeral, whether Slughorn does a good eulogy, and Miriam from the story of Exodus. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Does bitterness have something to do with sorrow?
Thanks to Eve for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty-three, Horcruxes, through the theme of Memory.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Affirmation in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry and Hermione’s different relationships with house-elves, Ron’s sense of sufficiency, and some icky sexist moments that stuck out in this chapter. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can you affirm yourself?
Thanks to Sam Blanckensee for this week's voicemail! If you want to read our response to J.K. Rowling’s tweet, you can find it here. Next week we’re reading Chapter twenty-two, After the Burial, through the theme of Bitterness.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How and why should we be in community? This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Reverend Burns Stanfield from 4th Presbyterian Church in Boston. Together they discuss how community gets us better at loving one another and ourselves.
This episode we also hear owl post from Karen, Natalie, Cara, Christoffel, and Rachel. Next week we’re reading Chapter 21, The Unknowable Room, through the theme of Affirmation.
It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only a dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Good Will in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Dumbledore’s disappointment with Harry, Luna’s burgeoning friendship with Ron, and the backstory of Hepzibah Smith. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does Good Will become naiveté?
Thanks to Jordan for this week's voicemail! We’re taking two weeks off for the holiday but we’ll be back on January 9th with an Owl Post episode.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re in our last week of raising money for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Harmony in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss the downfall of Cormac McLaggen, Luna’s sports commentary, and Harry’s sense of home. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is it important to blend in vs. stand out?
Thanks to Becca for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twenty, Lord Voldemort’s Request, through the theme of Good Will.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’ll be raising money through Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Recklessness in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Casper’s experience in graduate school, Harry’s privilege in Potion’s class, and the three ‘D’s of apparition. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is recklessness in the eye of the beholder?
Thanks to Brady Call for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter nineteen, Elf Tails, through the theme of Harmony.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’ll be raising money through Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of attention in chapter 17 of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we come to you live from our show in Washington, D.C. We discuss how the Ministry treats Morfin, how Hermione ignores Ron, and the similarities between Voldemort and Dumbledore. We were so very lucky to have our dear friend, Ursa Ghazi, with us to tell a story from her experience.
Next week we're reading Chapter 18, Birthday Surprises, through the theme of Recklessness. Thanks to everyone who came out to the D.C. show.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re trying to raise $35K by Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Erosion in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by writer and mentor Terry Tempest Williams, who shares an opening story about the landscape of Utah. Casper and Vanessa discuss Molly’s tireless work for her family, the way Harry stands up to Scrimgeour, and how Vanessa came to love musicals. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we stay open to change without degrading sense of self?
Thanks to Paulinie Marie Dias for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter seventeen, A Sluggish Memory, live from Washington D.C., through the theme of Attention.
Don’t forget to check out Terry’s new book, Erosion: Essays of Undoing.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thank you so much to everyone who has donated to our Don’t Be a Dursley campaign! We have hit our goal of $25,000 a full month earlier than expected. But please, don’t stop donating! We’ll still be running our campaign through December 25th and hope to raise another $10k by then.
*Harry and the Potters *have so kindly donated this song, Don’t Be a Dursley, as a congratulations for hitting our goal! Please enjoy and if you want to purchase this song all proceeds will go to RAICES.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of sacrifice in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Snape’s love of Draco, Luna’s calming presence, and Hermione’s date with McLaggen. Throughout the episode we consider the question: can someone force you to sacrifice? Or does it have to be a choice?
Thanks to Niya Kelly for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter sixteen, A Very Frosty Christmas, through the theme of Erosion, with very special guest Terry Tempest Williams.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re trying to raise $25K by Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of resistance in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss LARPing, Vanessa’s experience in Business School, and how the patriarchy acts on Ron. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do our fears keep us from learning?
Thanks to Grace Carroll for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter fifteen, The Unbreakable Vow, through the theme of Sacrifice.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re trying to raise $25K by Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper and special guest, Mike Schubert from the Potterless Podcast, explore the theme of superstition in chapter thirteen (spooky!) of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. They discuss Tom Riddle’s need for control, Dumbledore’s self-awareness, and the power of hindsight. Throughout the episode they consider the question: how do we acknowledge our own lack of control in a healthy way?
Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, Felix Felicis, through the theme of resistance. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Kimberley Moran.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re trying to raise $25K by Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of resilience in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry’s obsession with Draco, why Filch is still at Hogwarts, and Katie’s amazing friend Leanne. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we know when to keep going and when to quit?
Thanks to Annie for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter thirteen, The Secret Riddle, through the theme of Superstition, and we’ll be joined by special guest Mike Shubert from the Potterless Podcast!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of pleasure in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss the ethics of Hermione confunding McLaggen, Hagrid’s fight with the trio, and Lavender’s crush on Ron. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Do we like things more when we get to experience them less?
Thanks to Emily Hilton for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter twelve, Silver and Opals, through the theme of Resilience.
Please consider supporting our Don’t Be A Dursley campaign. We’re trying to raise $25K by Christmas for RAICES - an organization that helps immigrants and refugees struggling for rights in our country.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The whole idea of this podcast is that we want to get ready for when tragedies happen near us. We want to make sure that if an opportunity to love a one year old, dropped off at our door were to ever happen to us, we won't be a Dursley.
Tragically, a vividly clear example of this is happening on our figurative doorstep; the American southern border with family separation, closing of borders from people feeling life-threatening conditions and more.
To that end, we have partnered with RAICES and set a goal that between today, Indigenous People’s Day, and Christmas, our loving community can raise $25,000 together. Please join us, and take one further step on your journey to not being a Dursley. You can donate at: give.classy.org/dontbeadursley
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of temptation in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa unpack the tragic story of Merope Gaunt, considering her abuse and the way she perpetuates it with Tom Riddle Sr. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we interrupt temptation when it leads us astray?
Thanks to our anonymous listener for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eleven, Hermione’s Helping Hand, through the theme of Pleasure.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why would anyone want to be a Slytherin? Vanessa and Casper to talk with Travis McElroy about his devotion to his Slytherin identity. They touch on the importance of pride, the difference between patriotism and nationalism, and whether we should just dismantle the whole house system.
This episode we also hear owl post from Laura, Harriet, an Anonymous caller, Sasha, and Tesla.
Next week, we’re reading chapter 10, The House of Gaunt, through the theme of Temptation.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of friendship in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by internet super-star Gaby Dunn, who shares an opening story about a friendship break-up. Casper and Vanessa discuss McGonagall’s relationship with Neville, whether Ginny considers Harry ‘family’, and why Harry isn’t friends with Ernie Macmillan. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is it possible to become friends with your mentors?
Thanks to Nicole Engelhardt for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re doing an Owl Post episode where we discuss Slytherin identity with Travis McElroy.
Don’t forget to check out Gabby’s new book, Please Send Help.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of anxiety in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Harry’s response to Snape, Hagrid’s imminent disappointment, and Ginny’s non-anxious presence. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we take care of ourselves and each other in moments of anxiety?
Thanks to Kent Stephenson for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter nine, The Half-Blood Prince, through the theme of Friendship with special guest Gaby Dunn.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of glamour in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Draco’s violence, Harry’s relationship with Neville and Luna, and how the members of the Slug Club are treated. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we embrace moments of glamour without objectifying ourselves?
Thanks to Hongyue Guo for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eight, Snape Victorious, through the theme of Anxiety.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of stubbornness in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Draco’s need to be taken seriously, Molly’s fear for her children, and Ron’s eternal hope that he’s the same as Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: can there be ‘big’ stubbornness? Or is it always about small things?
Thanks to Kath for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter seven, The Slug Club, through the theme of Glamour.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
CW: This week’s voicemail is about the shooting in Dayton, Ohio. If you’d rather skip it, the blessing start around 48:30.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of yearning in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we’re joined by John Green, who tells an opening story about heart-break set in Alaska. Vanessa and Casper discuss Fleur’s feelings in the Burrow, Ron’s adorable bro-iness, and Hermione’s obsession with her grades.Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does yearning help us take action?
Thanks to Colton for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter six, Draco’s Detour, through the theme of Stubbornness.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of joy in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Horace’s supposed ‘cowardice’, Dumbledore’s good pedagogy, and the usefulness of inappropriate jokes. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is joy more likely in community?
Thanks to Vivianna for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter five, An Excess of Phlem, through the theme of Yearning. We’ll be joined by friend of the podcast, author John Green, who will tell our opening story.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Skepticism in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Harry’s magical thinking, Kreacher’s humiliation, and Dumbledore’s relationship to lemon drops. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do we need to trust authority and when should we be skeptical?
Thanks to Nici for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter four, Horace Slughorn, through the theme of Joy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Prudence in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. This week we discuss Peter Pettigrew’s relationship to his hand, Narcissa and Bellatrix’s love for one another, and when to quit a job. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can you only know prudence in hindsight?
Thanks to K Doraiswamy for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter three, Will and Won’t, through the theme of Skepticism.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Helplessness in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. This week we discuss the election of Rufus Scrimgeour, all things related to the muggle Prime Minister, and whether Fudge is too polite for his own good. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How much information helps us during times of crisis and how much actually hurts us?
Thanks to Marianna Hackney for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter two, Spinner’s End, through the theme of Prudence.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Season 6! This week, Vanessa and Casper get together to talk what they're looking forward to in Half Blood Prince. They discuss the complications of Slytherin identity, Vanessa’s feelings about Ron, and Harry’s evolution from the last book.
Next week, we’re reading Chapter 1, The Other Minister, through the theme of Helplessness.
’
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Our new podcast, Hot & Bothered, officially launched today. We’re so proud to share our first episode with you: Justice for Dragons. This is the only episode of Hot & Bothered we’ll drop in this feed, so please go subscribe wherever you find your podcasts!
—
Vanessa Zoltan thinks that happy endings are the best part of romance novels. Bryce Gilfillian is writing his first romance novel and refuses to write a happy ending.
On our very first episode of Hot & Bothered, we explore the trope of “Updated Fairytale.” Bryce sets out to write the gay fairytale he never had growing up. Meanwhile, Vanessa wrestles with her own princes, witches, and dragons.
Along the way we get a little help from Professor of Folklore and Mythology at Harvard University, Maria Tatar, and receive our first writing assignment from our own fairy godmother, #1 New York Times best-selling author, Julia Quinn.
You can follow along on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does the 4th of July mean and what should it mean? It’s Independence Day in the United States and so Casper sits down again with Professor Matt Potts to talk about tradition. They touch on marriage equality, Lectio Divina, and Matt’s favorite Christian Theologian - Julian of Norwich.
This episode we also hear owl post from Rachel, Emily Ross, Ariel Weeks, Rachel Quint, and Mike Murphy.
We’re taking two weeks off before we start Season 6: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. But do check back July 16th to listen to our first episode of Hot & Bothered!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the final episode of season five, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They give Luna Lovegood her due praise, analyze Harry’s relationship to gifts, and Vanessa comes around more to the importance of Quidditch. Throughout the episode they unpack the growing presence of death in Harry’s life and this series.
Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation with our mentor, Matthew Potts. Don't forget to hop over to the Women of Harry Potter feed on July 1st, to hear our episode on Lily Potter.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "love" in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our London show, where we were very lucky to be joined by John Green. We discuss Luna’s lost objects, John’s history with bullying, and Vanessa’s perspective on the afterlife. Throughout the show we consider the question: How can we best meet people in their grief?
Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Thanks to everyone who came out to the Indianapolis show. We have more events coming up in the fall; you can check them out at: http://www.harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Patience in chapter thirty-seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss occlumency lessons, waiting rooms, and how we feel about Dumbledore locking Harry in his office. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Can you force someone to be patient?
Thanks to Kailina Mills for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be coming to you live from our Indianapolis show with John Green for the last chapter of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, The Second War Begins, through the theme of love.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Jealousy in chapter thirty-six of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss our love for Dumbledore and his relationships with Voldemort, Fudge, and Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What other emotion is Jealousy hiding?
Thanks to Ann-Mary Cloutier for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-seven, The Lost Prophecy, through the theme of Patience.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We have two special guest on this week’s episode of Women of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text - our friends from Reading Glasses Podcast, Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara. They have chosen to bless McGonagall for being a great Boss Lady and maternal without having her own children. Vanessa invents a game about badass Scottish women.
You can hear Vanessa on Reading Glasses Podcast here.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Home in chapter thirty-five of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss the individuality of the Death Eaters, Harry’s relationship to Sirius, and the realities of war. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we appreciate a piece of text we hate?
Thanks to Sarah-Jane for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-six, The Only One He Ever Feared, through the theme of Jealousy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Concealment in chapter thirty-four of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Ron’s comment about the prophecy, whether Harry is fooling himself about Sirius, and the physical landscape of The Department of Mysteries. Throughout the episode we consider the question: If you could know when you die, would you want to?
Thanks to Lorraine Haymen for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-five, Beyond the Veil, through the theme of Home.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Inheritance in chapter thirty-three of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week discuss Centaurs as isolationists, Neville’s wand, and Luna’s redemption in Vanessa’s eyes. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What’s the relationship between inheritance and loss?
Thanks to Kimia for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-four, The Department of Mysteries, through the theme of Concealment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Redemption in chapter thirty-two of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we look at a few characters and their possible arcs of redemption: Dolores Umbridge, Severus Snape, Kreacher, and Ron Weasley. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Do we feel comfortable saying that certain people are irredeemable?
Thanks to Leah Holleran for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-three, Fight and Flight, through the theme of Inheritance.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Celebration in chapter thirty-one of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Ron’s victory in the quidditch match, Harry’s opportunity to show off his Patronus skills, and joy as a tool of resistance. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we make celebration about collection triumph rather than individual superiority?
Thanks to Erik for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty-two, Out of the Fire, through the theme of redemption.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa sits down with Professor Matt Potts to discuss the theology of Apocalypses. They discover that many fruitful questions come out of contemplating an Apocalypse: What makes for a good life? What am I trying to preserve? Who is my responsibility to protect? What do I want to survive?
This episode we also hear owl post from Peach Perera, Stephanie Greenley, Brit Barkholtz, Kari Gottfried, and Connie Kucani.
Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 31 of Order of the Phoenix, O.W.L.s, through the theme of Celebration.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Familiarity in chapter thirty of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we really pick apart Hagrid’s decision to ask the kids to take care of Grawp. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When does familiarity keep us from seeing the dangers around us?
Thanks to Tess Schleitwiler for this week's voicemail! Next week Vanessa will be joined by Professor Matt Potts to talk about the apocalypse and answer some Owl Post.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Revenge in chapter twenty-nine of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss the tension between Umbridge and Mcgonagall, the brilliance of Fred and George, and Harry’s dream to be an Auror. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we dissipate our need for revenge?
Thanks to Kat Zdan for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirty, Grawp, through the theme of familiarity.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of “entitlement" in chapter 28 of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our San Francisco show. We discuss Umbridge’s relationship to her own authority, Snape’s shame over insulting Lily, and the healing power of tea. We were so very lucky to have Tara-Nicholle Nelson of SoulTour join us, with a story about her tonsils and our own worthiness.
Next week we're reading Chapter 29, Career Advice, through the theme of revenge. Thanks to everyone who came out to the California shows!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Hate in chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Umbridge’s hate of non-human creatures, Harry’s relationship to Draco, and Dobby’s attempts at self-harm. Throughout the episode they consider the question: what do the things we hate mean about ourselves?
Thanks to Shannon Budelman for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-eight, Snape’s Worst Memory, through the theme of Entitlement live from San Francisco.
NB: During this week’s episode, Casper tells a story about self-harm and Vanessa tells a story about assault. If you’d like to skip those topics, our spiritual practice starts around minute 26.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Obligation in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week, Vanessa starts to feel bad for Harry in his Occlumency lessons, Casper talks about the best and worst moments in his marriage, and they both gush over Seamus Finnigan. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When is a little obligation actually liberating?
Thanks to Iris Gonzalez for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-seven, The Centaur and the Sneak, through the theme of Hate.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Defiance in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Hermione’s manipulation of Rita, Neville’s embrace of the DA, and Cho’s disappointment in Harry. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is defiance always personal?
Thanks to Andy Phillips for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-six, Seen and Unforeseen, through the theme of obligation.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s Vanessa’s turn to bless a female character of Harry Potter, and she’s chosen to bless Madam Pomfrey for her invisible labor. Ariana invents a game about woman doctors in America.
NB: Ariana’s ‘fact’ about disneyland is, of course, an urban legend. It’s quoted as being true in a few disney related biographies, but pretty easily proved otherwise through some googling… which we did after recording this episode.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Curiosity in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They really zoom in on the Harry/Snape dynamic in this chapter: discussing the first Occlumency lesson, examining Snape’s motivations, and as always, finding a way to blame Dumbledore. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How much curiosity do we owe people?
Thanks to Trey Lyon for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-five, The Beetle at Bay, through the theme of defiance.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Control in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Molly’s anxiety over Arthur, Neville’s relationship with his grandmother, and poor sad Professor Lockhart. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we recognize when we’re telling distorted stories about ourselves?
Thanks to Kelsi Moore for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-four, Occlumency, through the theme of curiosity.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Distance in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss the fabulous headmaster portraits in Dumbledore’s office, Dumbledore’s love for Harry, and how Harry cleverly changes his story throughout this chapter. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What technologies are actually helpful in closing the distance between people?
Thanks to Holly Glover for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading chapter twenty-three, Christmas on the Closed Ward, through the theme of control.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Honesty in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Nora McInerny, the host of one of our favorite podcasts: Terrible, Thanks for Asking. We discuss Ron’s bro-iness, Harry’s kiss with Cho, and the Thestrals as witnesses of grief. Our question this week is: When is honesty actually the best policy?
This week’s voicemail is thanks to Ricker Bailey. Next week we're reading chapter twenty-two, St. Mungo’s Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries, through the theme of Distance.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Inspired by last week's chapter, Vanessa sits down with our mentor, Professor Stephanie Paulsell, to learn more about the theology of pilgrimages. They discuss the Japanese poet Bashō, their own Virginia Woolf pilgrimage, and Hagrid’s journey to the giants. Throughout the conversation they consider the question: Must you leave your house to make a pilgrimage?
This episode we also hear owl post from Danielle Daniels, Marcie Walker, Leah Bauman, Darlyn Summers, and Molly.
CW: This episode contains voicemails about some intense topics, including grief and miscarriage.
Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 21 of Order of the Phoenix, The Eye of the Snake, through the theme of Honesty.
You can read more about our pilgrimages at: https://www.readingandwalkingwith.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Peace in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss wizard/giant relations, analyze Umbridge’s intimidation strategy, and compare The Second Wizarding War to World War I. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do you respond to violence with restorative peace?
Thanks to Felix Moore for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be doing an Owl Post with Professor Stephanie Paulsell.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Distraction in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Hermione’s brilliant DA galleon, Run’s crush on Hermione (who could blame him?), and Vanessa’s continued distain for the house system. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When is distraction more worthy than the end goal?
Thanks to Kat Severin for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 20, Hagrid’s Tale, through the theme of Peace.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of “failure" in chapter 18 of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our Cambridge show. We discuss whether Angela Johnson fails as a quidditch caption, what Hermione learns from S.P.E.W, and the brilliant women of the DA. We were so very lucky to have our dear friend and mentor, Dr. Matthew Potts, with us to tell a story from her experience.
Next week we're reading Chapter 19, The Lion and the Serpent, through the theme of distraction. Thanks to everyone who came out to the Cambridge show. You can see David’s incredible painting at harrypottersacredtext.com/daphatplay
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Supremacy in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Angelina Johnson’s prophetic position, how The Patriarchy shapes the actual building of Hogwarts, and the enduring grace of Helga Hufflepuff. Throughout the episode they consider the question: how do we celebrate ourselves without wanting to be better than others?
Thanks to Hannah Ricks for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re coming to you live from our Cambridge show with chapter eighteen, Dumbledore's Army, through the theme of failure.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Respite in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Aberforth living in Dumbledore's shadow, Ron wanting to step out of his prefect roll, and Harry needing a break from his trauma. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can respite be healing?
Thanks to Maloy Moore for this week's voicemail. We're taking two weeks off for the holidays, but we'll be back on January 10th with Chapter 17, Educational Decree Number Twenty-four, through the theme of supremacy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Healing in chapter fifteen of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Artie Wu, the founder of Preside Meditation and a dear friend of Casper's. We discuss Umbridge's use of silence, Harry's perception of his own survival, and the importance of a diagnosis. Our question this week is: what is the relationship between individual and collective healing?
Thanks this week to Charlyn for our voicemail. Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, In the Hog's Head, through the theme of respite.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Boundaries in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss the chemistry between Harry and Cho Chang, Sirius's wise thoughts on Umbridge, and Pansy Parkinson's racist comment. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What boundaries bring us closer to loving one another?
Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, The Hogwarts High Inquisitor, through the theme of Healing. Thanks this week to Bayana Davis for joining us for our sacred practice. You can find her podcast, #WizardTeam, here.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Obsession in chapter thirteen of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss Hermione's House Elf activism, Umbridge's thirst for power, and Harry's love of Quidditch. Our question this week is: What are we willing to sacrifice for our work?
Next week we're reading Chapter 14, Percy and Padfoot, through the theme of Boundaries. Don't forget to buy tickets for our upcoming live shows in Cambridge, and Orlando: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Pride in chapter twelve of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss the different political strategies of Umbridge, Hermione, Parvati, and Harry in this chapter. Our question this week is: When is pride healthy, and when does it lead to our downfall?
Next week we're reading Chapter 13, Detention with Dolores, through the theme of Obsession. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hi everyone! Bad news: The file for this week's episode got corrupted (probably by Voldemort). Unfortunately, Vanessa had minor surgery this week (she’s recovering well!) and Casper’s off in a monastery, so that only left one person to record something last minute for this week’s episode — me, your loyal producer, Ariana. It’s super low-tech – we’re just hanging out in my apartment, but you get to hear me do a truly terrible British accent and gush about Vanessa and Casper. I’ve also included the newest trailer for our upcoming show, Hot & Bothered. You can go subscribe now!
I was assisted in this episode by the very talented Jeff Emtman, who interviewed and recorded me. You can find his podcast, Here Be Monsters, at hbmpodcast.com.
Next week, we’ll get back in the studio and re-record the promised episode, Pride: Professor Umbridge (Book 5, Chapter 12). Thank you for bearing with us this week, and extra thank you to everyone who sent in questions over Twitter and Facebook.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Dread in chapter eleven of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss Hermione's insight into Umbridge, Harry and Seamus' big fight, and the content of The Sorting Hat's New Song (surprise!). Our question this week is: Is dread about the certainly of what's coming? Or the uncertainly of what could come?
Next week we're reading Chapter 12, Professor Umbridge, through the theme of Pride.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Casper is out sick, so Vanessa is taking over our owl post episode this week. We talk Brett Kavanaugh and answer voicemails about his hearing, Voldemort's name, Advent and marginalia.
Vanessa also has the opportunity to chat with Dr. Lynne Gerber, a friend of the podcast from Harvard Divinity School. They discuss Lynne's experience with neo-paganism and how to create feminist spaces for religious practice.
Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 11 of Order of the Phoenix, The Sorting Hat's New Song, through the theme of dread.
You can hear the rest of Stephanie Paulsell's sermon here.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Humility in chapter ten of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we talk about Luna's truth-telling, Neville's nerdiness and Ron and Hermione's different approaches to being prefects. Our question this week is: why don't we live more radical lives?
Next week we're doing an Owl Post episode with special guest Lynne Gerber talking to us about paganism. Don't forget to buy tickets for our upcoming live shows in Austin, Cambridge, and Orlando: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Will Power in chapter nine of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we continue to obsess about Percy Weasley, congratulate Ron on his grace around being Head Boy, and very much want to punch Lucius Malfoy. Our question this week is: does will power have to happen in the moment, or is something you can plan for?
Next week we're reading chapter ten, Luna Lovegood, through the theme of Humility. Don't forget to buy tickets for our upcoming live shows in Chicago, Austin, Cambridge, and Florida: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Partnership in chapter eight of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Lauren Taylor, co-author of The American Healthcare Paradox and fellow Harvard Divinity School alum. We discuss Fudge and Dumbledore's polarizing effect, Percy's place in the ministry, and give our first impressions of Dolores Umbridge. Our question this week is: how close can we actually get to the kind of 'divine' partnership described by philosophers?
Next week we're reading chapter nine, The Woes of Mrs. Weasley, through the theme of Will Power.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "Progress" in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss whether owls are an obsolete technology, The Fountain of Magical Brethren, and the power of Mamma Mia. Our question this week is: is progress inevitable?
Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Hearing, through the theme of Partnership. Thanks this week to Aya Ahmed for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "memory" in chapter six of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Kreacher's institutional memory, Sirius's family tapestry, and whether or not you should cut an ex out of a photo. Our question this week is: what’s the difference between a memory and a record?
Next week we're reading chapter seven, The Ministry of Magic, through the theme of Progress. Thanks this week to Rae Muhlstock for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "gratitude" in chapter five of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Mundugus Fletcher's apology, Molly Weasley's protectiveness, and the memory of James Potter. Our question this week is: what should the timeline of gratitude look like?
Next week we're reading chapter six, The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black, through the theme of Memory. Thanks this week to Miriam Wilks for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "Anger" in chapter four of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Percy's betrayal, Ginny's coolness, and how badly Harry is treating his friends. Our question this week is: Is anger ever a productive emotion?
Next week we're reading chapter five, The Order of the Phoenix, through the theme of Gratitude. Thanks this week to Beth Strickland for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper return to the theme of "compassion" in chapter three of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Tonk's hair, Moody's eyeball, and how Harry really needs a meditation practice. Our question this week is: How do we be compassionate to someone who doesn't want to receive it?
Next week we're reading chapter four, Number Twelve Grimmauld Place, through the theme of Anger. Thanks this week to Nikki Spencer for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper return to the theme of "frustration" in chapter two of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss the psychology of Mundungus Fletcher, the heroism of Mrs. Figg, and Dudley's crumbling sense of his own supremacy. Our question this week is: When does frustration enable learning?
Next week we're reading chapter three, The Advance Guard, through the theme of compassion. Thanks this week to Rabbi Max Chaiken for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix with the theme of belief. They discuss the breakdown of trust between Harry and the Dursleys, between Harry and his friends, and Harry and himself. Throughout the episode they consider the question: what makes us believe things, beyond just 'the facts'? This week, we're trying out a new spiritual practice: Marginalia.
This week's voicemail is thanks to Emily Anderson.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our last episode of season four, we catch up on some owl post with Stephanie Paulsell. We hear from Angela Hronek, Michelle Solomon, Jaxn Hill, Margaret Cooney and an anonymous caller. Inspired by our callers, Stephanie and Vanessa discuss embodiment, communion, and the limits of radical love.
NB: We’re taking a week off, but we'll back with season five and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on August 9th!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the final episode of season four, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. They take some time to talk about Harry Potter himself, reflect on Cedric's death, and dissect the role of the Goblet of Fire itself. Throughout the episode they take a critical eye to the stories we tell ourselves and whether those are a force of good or complacency.
Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation with our house mentor, Stephanie Paulsell.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "love" in the final chapter of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we come to you live from our London show. We discuss the grief and generosity of Cedric's parents, the false promise of the Triwizard Tournament, and whether love can be political. We were so very lucky to have our dear friend and mentor, Stephanie Paulsell, with us to tell a story from her experience.
Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Thanks to everyone who came out to the London show. We have three events coming up in August; you can check them out at: http://www.harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "disillusionment" in chapter thirty-six of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Snape's bravery in revealing his dark mark, Molly's clarity of purpose in taking care of Harry, and the way government leaders tend to let us down. Our question this week: how much are we allowed to change the 'facts' of our own story?
Next week we're reading the very last chapter of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, chapter thirty-seven, The Beginning, through the theme of "love." We'll be coming to you live from our London show. Thanks this week to Kelly Webb for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "betrayal" in chapter thirty-five of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Neville and Harry’s friendship, poor Winky and her grief in this chapter, and why villains are prone to monologuing. We return to the question this week: how do we hold people accountable for their bad actions without isolating or radicalizing them?
Next week we're reading chapter thirty-six, The Parting of the Ways, through the theme of "disillusionment." Thanks this week to Amanda Holly for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "grief" in chapter thirty-four of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Professor Matt Potts, a beloved mentor from Harvard Divinity School. In the episode, we discuss Cedric's last request, Wormtail's hand, and whether we believe in the idea of 'sin.' Our question this week: is grief an emotion or something more permanent and essential?
Next week we're reading chapter thirty-five, Veritaserum, through the theme of "betrayal." Thanks this week to Jessica Hyde for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "necessity" in chapter thirty-three of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we get into Voldemort's psychology, take pity on Wormtail, and discuss the human instinct towards survival. Our question this week is: how do we decide what's heroic?
Next week we're reading chapter thirty-four, Priori Incantatem, through the theme of Grief. Thanks this week to Rachel Diebner for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "waste" in chapter thirty-two of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss the most chilling scene, in perhaps the whole series - that of Cedric's death. Our question this week is: how do we keep in mind our own mortality without letting our fear of death control us?
Next week we're reading chapter thirty-three, The Death Eaters, through the theme of Necessity. Thanks this week to Allison Boldt for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "kindness" in chapter thirty-one of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Bill's generous questions, Molly's coldness to Hermione, and the need for self-care. Our question this week is: how much do we have to take responsibility for our creations?
Next week we're reading Chapter 32, Flesh, Blood, and Bone, through the theme of waste. Thanks this week to Connie Carringer for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa is still recovering from her surgery, so Casper is taking over our owl post episode this week. We hear from listeners Lóre Stevens, Kate McManus, Talya Sarna and Eva Resnick-Day. Lóre and Kate respond to Casper's question about the importance of libraries, Talya shares some Jewish thoughts on around pregnancy, and Kate recounts how she got her 15 minutes of national fame.
Casper also has the opportunity to chat with our old friend, the brilliant Rabbi Scott Perlo, about the 'canon' of sacred texts and how ideas of canon play out in the Jewish tradition.
Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 31, The Third Task, through the theme of kindness.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "comfort" in chapter thirty of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Bellatrix's fanaticism, how the pensieve is a model for virtual reality, and why Dumbledore reveals certain information to Harry. Our question this week is: Is it ever okay to be truly comfortable?
Next week we're doing and Owl Post episode with special guest, Rabbi Scott Perlo. Thanks this week to Thea Raymond-Sidel for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "chance" in chapter twenty-nine of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Melissa Anelli, host of Pottercast and author of Harry, A History. In the episode, we discuss Fred and George's blackmailing plan, Harry's leadership ability, and The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Our question this week is: how much agency can we exert in our lives, given our belief in the arbitrariness of the universe?
Next week we're reading chapter thirty, The Pensieve, through the theme of "comfort." Thanks this week to Ji Kweon for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper and special guest, John Green, explore the theme of "inspiration" in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. They discuss fainting in public, Dobby's humanity, and some of the sadness of parenthood. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we commit ourself to doing work after the inspiration happens?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-nine, The Dream, through the theme of "chance" with special guest Melissa Anelli. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bronwyn Toth.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "corruption" in chapter twenty-seven of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Barty Crouch’s governing tactics, praise Hermione for her bravery, and have a debate about one of the most quotable lines of the series. Our question this week is: When do we want people to be corruptible?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-eight, The Madness of Mr. Crouch, through the theme of Inspiration - with special guest John Green! Thanks this week to Wesley Cheney for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For the first time on the podcast, we're bringing you your weekly episode from one of our live shows! Live from Minneapolis, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "loyalty" in chapter twenty-six of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss the root of Harry's heroism, the fish in the Great Lake, and why Hermione trusts Severus Snape. We return to the question: How do you have loyalty and maintain integrity?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-seven, Padfoot Returns, through the theme of corruption! Thanks this week to everyone who came out to the Minneapolis show, our special guest storyteller, Travis Salisbury, and the whole team at The Basilica of St. Mary. Also a special thanks to Jeff Emtman for composing our live show music.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "preciousness" in chapter twenty-five of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Moaning Myrtle's voyeurism, Harry's fatal flaws, and Mad Eye Moody's good luck. Our question this week is: How do we appreciate the things that are precious to us without coveting them?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-six, The Second Task, through the theme of loyalty - live from Minneapolis! Thanks this week to Lyra Hara for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "integrity" in chapter twenty-four of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Professor Grubbly-Plank's unicorn, Hagrid's doom spiral, and Fleur's disadvantage in the second task. Our question this week is: Are loyalty and integrity always in conflict?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-five, The Egg and the Eye, through the theme of preciousness. Thanks this week to Margot Zarin-Pass for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "guilt" in chapter twenty-three of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Viktor Krum's classiness, Dobby's love of languages, and the pervasiveness of gift-giving in our culture. Our question this week is: How do we protect ourselves from turning guilt into shame?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-four, Rita Skeeter's Scoop, through the theme of integrity. Thanks this week to Topher Soltys for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Happiness in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Gretchen Rubin, host of Happier with Gretchen Rubin. Gretchen tells our opening story, sharing from her experience switching career paths. Our question this week is: What is the difference between procrastination and time for 'self-care'?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-three, The Yule Ball, through the theme of Guilt. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Amanda Patton.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "faith" in chapter twenty-one of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Vanessa's first celebrity crush, the separation of church and state in the US, and the internalized oppression of house-elves. Our question this week is: What does faith look like when it's not religious?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-two, The Unexpected Task, through the theme of Happiness. Thanks this week to Austin Bucholtz for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "opportunity" in chapter twenty of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Cedric's wholeness, Harry's brokenness, and what Vanessa thinks about "Fifty Shades of Grey." Our question this week is: How do we create our own opportunities in the world?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-one, The House-Elf Liberation Front, through the theme of faith. Thanks this week to Hannah Burgess for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "delight" in chapter nineteen of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Harry's vulnerability with Sirius, Charlie's love of Hagrid, and Madame Maxime's potential manipulation. Our question this week is: What's the purpose of delight?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty, The First Task, through the theme of opportunity. Thanks this week to Kelly Petrauskas for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa is sick today, so Casper is taking over our much-anticipated "owl" themed owl post. We hear from listeners Stefanie French, Ali Ribe, Camille Knox and Sophie Ralph. Casper also has the opportunity to learn a new spiritual practice, Marginalia, from the charming and wise Reverend Canon Broderick Greer.
Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 19, The Hungarian Horntail, through the theme of delight.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "glory" in chapter eighteen of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Draco's "Potter Stinks" badges, Hermione's toast, and Snape's empty threats. Our question this week is: Does glory require sacrifice?
Next week we're reading chapter nineteen, The Hungarian Horntail, through the theme of delight. Thanks this week to Lia Hagan for our voicemail.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Note: We discuss sexual assault and suicidal ideation in this episode. If these topics are something you want to avoid, we understand. Here's a funny picture of a walrus to hold you over until next week.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "unity" in chapter seventeen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we ask: Why is Snape in the back room? Why is Ron so mad? Why can’t Hagrid wave hello? Our philosophical question this week is: When is the dissolution of difference worthwhile for the sake of unity?
Next week we're reading chapter eighteen, The Weighing of the Wands, through the theme of glory.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "resentment" in chapter sixteen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Hermione's jealousy, Hagrid's hypocrisy, and Dumbledore's hospitality. Our question this week is: whose responsibility is it to correct for resentment?
Next week we're reading chapter seventeen, The Four Champions, through the theme of unity. Unfortunately, the episode will be out a day late, so look out!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of trauma in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss returning home, acknowledging pain, and the BAMF known as Madame Maxime. Our question this week is: how do you integrate trauma into your personal narrative?
Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, The Goblet and Fire, through the theme of resentment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of transformation in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Mike McHargue, host of Ask Science Mike and The Liturgists. We discuss the ways that Neville as like Christ, Moody is like the Buddha, and Snape is maybe, possibly pitiable. Our question this week is: Can transformation ever be complete?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bethy Crowe. Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang, through the theme of trauma.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of judgement in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss blind love, alcoholism at Hogwarts, and why we all take such joy in Draco being turned into a ferret. Our question this week is: how do we learn to value things based on their inherent worth, rather than their functionality?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bri Anele. Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, The Unforgivable Curse, through the theme of transformation. We'll be also be joined by special guest, Science Mike, from The Liturgists podcast!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of excitement in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we admire the Creevey brothers, interrogate Harry's blasé attitude, and wonder what Barty Crouch Jr. must be feeling. Our question this week is: Are formal ceremonies impersonal or transcendent?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Charlotte Binks. Next week we're reading chapter thirteen, Mad-Eye Moody, through the theme of judgement.. Stay warm!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's time for our first round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! We hear your thoughts about stigma, the S.P.E.W. campaign, Fred and George's resilience, obliviation, and Hermione's muggle knowledge. Thanks so much to Angela Higginson, Jennifer Asturias, Jarrod Green, and Annalisa Galgano for sending in their messages. We also are visited by activist and organizer Marya Bangee, who tells us about her work and teaches us a little bit about the Quran.
Next week, we're reading Chapter 12, The Triwizard Tournament, through the theme of excitement.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of play in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Queen Victoria, how defense against the dark arts is like sex education, and why it's okay to be rude behind closed doors. Our question this week is: Is there ever a time when play isn't appropriate?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Sara Ayebar. Next week, tune in for an owl post with special guest Marya Bangee.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper revisit the theme of promises in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss whether Rita Skeeter is a good journalist, Arthur Weasley's work at the ministry, and shifting familial roles. Our question this week is: When is it appropriate to break promises?
Next week we're reading chapter eleven, Aboard the Hogwarts Express, through the theme of play. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Crysta Swarts.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of grudges in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we continue our discussion about Veelas and sexism, look at the connection between the personal and the political, and celebrate Hermione's truth-telling. Our question this week is: what responsibility to do we have to understand and forgive people who perpetrate violent hate crimes?
Next week we're reading chapter ten, Mayhem at the Ministry, through the theme of promise. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Lonna Hays.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of fandom in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Kevin T. Porter, host of Gilmore Guys and Good Christian Fun. We discuss Veeela, nationalism, and Krum's decision to catch the snitch. Our question this week is: Is there a difference between sports fans and other fans?
Next week we're reading chapter nine, The Dark Mark, through the theme of grudges. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Fran Smith. Happy Thanksgiving!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of beauty in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Mr. Weasley's exoticization of muggles, Harry's generosity towards Ron, and why Fred and George gamble their whole life savings. Our question this week is: Can you disentangle beautiful things from the sometimes ugly situations (and people) that create them?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Emily Pickens. Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Quidditch World Cup, through the theme of fandom.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of acceptance in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss different parent/child relationships as they manifest in Amos and Cedric Diggory and The Weasleys. Our question this week is: How do we know when to accept someone else's choice, even if we think it's the wrong one?
Next week we're reading chapter seven, Bagman and Crouch, through the theme of beauty. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Leena Werskey.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Masculinity in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss Ron's love of quidditch, Bill's gender performance, and Mr. Weasley's Oedipal conflict. Our question this week is: How does one actually get outside the boundaries of gender?
Next week we're reading chapter six, The Portkey, through the theme of Acceptance. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Weronika Bartczak.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Mystery in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Zach Kerzee, the founding pastor of Simple Church. Zach tells our opening story, shares from his experience with the foster care system, and deconstructs what Arthur Weasley does right in this chapter. Our question this week is: How do we manage our fear of the unknown?
Next week we're reading chapter five, Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, through the theme of masculinity. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Tom Johnson. And here's a link to that episode of Radiolab Vanessa mentions.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Awareness in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper talk about Dudley's weight problems, Molly Weasley's perfect letter to the Dursleys, and why Muggles can't go to The Quidditch World Cup. The burning question this week is: Who is the narrator of this text?
Next week we're reading chapter four, Back to the Burrow, through the theme of mystery. Our sponsor this week is Care/Of and our voicemail this week is thanks to Kate McManus.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of destruction in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper negotiate their different theological perspectives, discuss the nature of confidentiality, and celebrate a non-present Hermione. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can destruction be a force for good?
Next week we're reading chapter three, The Invitation, through the theme of awareness. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Olga.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire with The Riddle House - perhaps one of the most incongruous chapter in the the whole Harry Potter series. They discuss Frank's PTSD, Nagini's anatomy, and how Voldemort is just a big baby. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we avoid prejudice while following our instincts?
This week our voicemail is thanks to Katie Kelly-Hankin. Next week we're reading The Scar, through the theme of destruction. Be sure to check out our website harrypottersacredtext.com to buy tickets for our live shows.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Thank you so much to everyone who came out for our tour this summer and made it such a success! Here's the audio from our DC show, with special guest Scott Perlo. For our East Coast tour, we read Prisoner of Azkaban chapter 17, Cat, Rat and Dog, through the theme of trust.
We'll be back to our regular episode on October 5th with Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our final episode of Season 3, we have a chance to sit down with lawyer and fellow divinity school graduate, Sejal Patel. She chats with us about justice, Hinduism, and the Niebuhr brothers. We also do a last round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, hearing your thoughts about friendship, trauma, isolation, and spiritual practices.
The incredible choir is: Ann Phelps, Suzanne Daniel, John-Wesley Hodges, Robert Totten.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the final episode of season three, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They take some time to talk about Harry Potter himself, reflect on Voldemort's absence, and compare Draco to a young white supremacist. Throughout the episode they come back to ideas about purity, justice, and identity formation.
Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation about justice with lawyer Sejal Patel.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This is our third time discussing love of the podcast, but we still have so many questions: Where does overwhelming love come from? Should we try to be selfless in our love? Is the tooth fairy a fraud?
Our voicemail this week is thanks to Colin Holden. Next week we're doing a full book review of Prisoner of Azkaban!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of crisis in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's existential crisis, Dumbledore's rebellious streak, and Madame Pomfrey's delicious boulder of chocolate. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we find meaning in this time-turner business?
Next week we're reading chapter twenty-two (the last chapter of Prisoner of Azkaban!), Owl Post Again, through the theme of love.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today was our first day back in the studio after the white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, VA this past weekend. We wanted to share a few thoughts from the team.
You can access the Charlottesville Syllabus that Casper mentions here. We've also put it as a button on the top of our website: harrypottersacredtext.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Justice in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss justice in all its forms: poetic, divine, restorative and insufficient. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can an injustice ever be rectified?
This week's voicemail was thanks to Peighton Whaley. Next week we're reading chapter twenty-one, Hermione's Secret, through the theme of crisis.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week, Casper's out of town so Vanessa sits down with Stephanie Paulsell, Professor of Ministry Studies at Harvard Divinity School, to talk forgiveness and answer some owl post. Our regular scheduled programing will be back next week with Chapter 20, The Dementors' Kiss through the theme of Justice.
Much thanks to Bri, Elizabeth, Abby, and Seth for their voicemails.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of mercy in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's dual identity, Pettigrew's shrewd manipulations, and the legacy of Lily and James Potter. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What's the differing between mercy and forgiveness?
This week's voicemail was thanks to Blair Boudreaux. Next week we're reading chapter twenty, The Dementors' Kiss, through the theme of justice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of isolation in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they pity Peter Pettigrew, wonder about The Whomping Willow and solve the problem of suffering. (Just kidding on that last one.) Throughout the episode they consider the question: What stories do the buildings and objects around us have to tell?
This week's voicemail was thanks to Keeley Harris. Next week we're reading chapter nineteen, The Servant of Lord Voldemort, through the theme of Mercy. Don't forget to tweet us your best Dumbledore drag names: @hpsacredtext.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of innocence in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They bemoan how the criminal justice system has betrayed Sirius Black, discuss Ron's prejudice again werewolves, and try and come up with a good metaphor for the chaos of this chapter. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Who do we normally suspect of guilt?
This week's story was told by Kathy Tu, the brilliant host of the Nancy Podcast from WNYC Studios. Next week we're reading chapter eighteen, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs, through the theme of isolation.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of wonder in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss flobberworms, how Divination class is like divinity school, and why Professor Trelawney doesn't believe in her own prediction. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Should we try to answer unanswerable questions?
Next week we're reading chapter seventeen, Cat, Rat and Dog, through the theme of innocence. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Laurie Benson.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of pain in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Casper's beautiful teeth, Vanessa's dislike of Hogwarts houses, and why Professor Trelawney is a better teacher than we once thought. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When is it okay to knowingly cause someone else’s pain?
Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, Professor Trelawney's Prediction, through the theme of wonder. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Lauren Lo Bue. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of imagination in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, in some major reversals, Vanessa expresses concern for Snape and Casper blesses Hermione. They also discuss babies, puppies, and our criminal justice system. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How can we use imagination to do the most good in the world?
Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, The Quidditch Final, through the theme of pain. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Tyler Reeves. Don't forget to buy tickets for our live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper and special guest, Hank Green, explore the theme of Rivalry in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between bullies and rivals, the delight of new babies, and why Cho Chang is a great model for competition. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How does power work within rivalry?
If you want to see and hear more of Hank, you can watch him on his many youtube channels, listen to him on his podcast Dear Hank and John, and catch him at PodCon, which is on December 9th and 10th in Seattle.
Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, Snape's Grudge, through the theme of imagination. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Kathy Kavanaugh. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of optimism in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, Casper tells a story about climate activism, Vanessa tries to puzzle out how boggarts work, and together they take a close look at what exactly happens during a Dementor's Kiss. Throughout the episode they consider the question: why do we need permission to be optimistic?
Next week we're reading chapter thirteen, Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw, through the theme of rivalry. Tune in for a special guest story by Hank Green! Our voicemail this week is thanks to Dave Lawson. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of duty in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Hermione's selflessness, Hagrid's traumatic experience in Azkaban, and McGonagall's harsh take-down of Trelawney at christmas dinner. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we differentiate between obedience and duty?
We are delighted to be joined this week by Father Jim Martin to discuss Jesuit spirituality and sacred imagination. He's the editor-at-large of America Magazine and author of such books as Jesus: A Pilgrimage, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Seven Last Words?
Next week we're reading chapter twelve, The Patronus, through the theme of optimism. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Sophia Charan. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of escape in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss whether we can have sympathy for dementors, Casper's college crush, and the toxic ideas that haunt us. Throughout the episode they consider the question: After we escape something awful, what allows us to go back and help others do so as well?
Next week we're reading chapter eleven, The Firebolt, through the theme of duty. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Katie Stickles-Wynen. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of frustration in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss latin etymology, quote Macbeth, and critique Snape's class design. They also talk about fun things like Sir Cadogan (who is rapidly becoming our favorite portrait). Throughout the episode they consider the question: When does frustration indicate injustice?
Next week we're reading chapter ten, The Marauder's Map, through the theme of escape. Our donor of the week is Crookshanks and our voicemail this week is thanks to Camryn Kessler.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of desperation in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the credibility of divination, the intensity of Oliver Wood's quidditch passion, and whether Harry's need to go to Hogsmeade is silly or understandable. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do you prevent desperation from going hand and hand with isolation?
Next week we're reading chapter nine, Grim Defeat, through the theme of frustration. Our donor of the week is Mikhela Ungerleider and our voicemail this week is thanks to Sara Cochennet.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of humor in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.They discuss the power of Satire, the absurdity of neck ties, and why Parvati is afraid of mummies. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is humor always rooted in truth?
This week's story was told by the brilliant journalist Chloe Angyal. Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Flight of the Fat Lady, through the theme of desperation. Our donor of the week is Andrew Stairs and our voicemail this week is thanks to Duke Lambert.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of forgiveness in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between humility and self loathing, Hagrid’s metaphorical baptism, and instances of national atonement. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is forgiveness necessarily without punishment?
Next week we're reading chapter seven, The Boggart in the Wardrobe, through the theme of humor. Our donor of the week is Hannah McGinty and our voicemail this week is thanks to Selina Mahmood.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of foresight in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the magical properties of chocolate, Harry and Ginny's romantic potential, and whether we should try and preserve the innocence of children. Throughout the episode they consider the question: is it worth knowing the future, if you can't change it?
Next week we're reading chapter six, Talons and Tea Leaves, through the theme of forgiveness. Our donor of the week is Ashleigh Gilbertson and our voicemail this week is thanks to Catherine Gilbert.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of hospitality in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They consider the ways in which Hermione is diplomatic, do the Jewish practice of PaRDeS for the first time on their own, and grudgingly admit that maybe Percy has the right idea for once. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What's the relationship between capitalism and altruism?
Next week we're reading chapter five, The Dementor, through the theme of foresight. Our donor of the week is Marilyn Pukkila and our voicemail this week is thanks to Abigail Smith.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of secrets in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the sketchiness of Cornelius Fudge, throw some shade at Stanley Shunpike and contemplate the role of socio-economic status in the wizarding world.
Next week we're reading chapter four, The Leaky Cauldron, through the theme of hospitality. Our story this week was told by our wonderful friend Jack Bird of the Harry Potter Alliance and this week's voicemail is thanks to Lyla Quinn.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of family in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss why Vanessa loves her dog so much, the age old question of nature vs. nurture, and the muggle magic of alcohol. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What are we willing to suffer for our family?
Next week we’ll be reading chapter three, The Knight Bus, through the theme of secrets.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban with the theme of mercy. They discuss Ron's difficulty with telephones, Errol the owl, and return to the spiritual practice of Florilegia. Throughout the episode they consider the question: how much does intention matter when offering mercy?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Jenn Radtke. Be sure to check out our website harrypottersacredtext.com to buy tickets for our live tour this summer!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For those who couldn't make it to our live show back in January, here' s a little taste of all the fun we had! The audio quality is not ideal, but you still can get a sense for what it was like to be in the room. If all goes well, we'll be coming to a city near you soon.
See you in Season three!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our penultimate episode of season two, we hear from listeners Christina Richardson, Margaret, Meaghan Crowley, and Abigail Morris. Vanessa and Casper also have the opportunity to learn a new spiritual practice, PaRDeS, from the charming and wise Rabbi Scott Perlo.
Next week, we'll be doing a full book review of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. In the meantime, be sure to check out our patreon at www.patreon.com/harrypottersacredtext.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Together they discuss the connection between love, memory, suffering, and why parents take their babies to the zoo. They are joined by special guest, Professor Stephanie Paulsell, to discuss and introduce a new spiritual practice — Florilegia.
This week's voicemail is thanks to Katie Bowers.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of heartbreak in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss practical jokes, juvenile delinquency, and the symbolism of Fawkes' tears. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What's the difference between heartbreak and soul-break?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Helen Valencia. Next week we’ll be reading chapter eighteen, Dobby's Reward, through the theme of love.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of grace in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the power of gratitude, the difference between the desolation of Moaning Myrtle and Ginny Weasley, and Vanessa's admiration of Johnny Cash. Throughout the episode they consider the question: why does the idea of grace make some of us uncomfortable?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Rebecca Dehovitz. Next week we'll be reading chapter seventeen, The Heir of Slytherin, through the theme of heartbreak.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of sanctuary in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the power of silence, how Hagrid is a priest-like figure, and why spiders are so afraid of the Basilisk. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Are the most ordinary among us best suited to face life's greatest horrors?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Heather McDonald. Next week we’ll be reading chapter sixteen, The Chamber of Secrets, through the theme of grace.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of loyalty in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Hagrid and Dumbledore's mutual admiration, how to navigate multiple responsibilities, and why Cornelius Fudge is a poor politician. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When does loyalty become cultish and when is it the highest form of respect?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Jane. Next week we’ll be reading chapter fifteen, Aragog, through the theme of sanctuary.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of cowardice in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss hate crimes, the psychology of murderers, and secret admirers. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What is the primary emotion associated with cowardice? Is it fear, shame, confusion, or something else?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Teague Peterson. Next week we’ll be reading chapter fourteen, Cornelius Fudge, through the theme of loyalty.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of belonging in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss magical portraits, the metaphor of the phoenix, and Vanessa’s distrust of optometry. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is a shared history necessary for feeling belonging?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Evin Shinn. Next week we’ll be reading chapter thirteen, The Very Secret Diary, through the theme of cowardice.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of excellence in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry's proficiency with Parseltongue, Ernie McMillan's authority within the Hufflepuffs, and Vanessa's esteem of Lebron James. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we make sure that we pursue excellence in way that's in line with our values?
Our story this week was told by the incredible Mark Oppenheimer of the Unorthodox podcast and this week's voicemail is thanks to Lóre Stevens.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of complaining in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Madam Hooch's negligence during the quidditch match, Lockhart's toxic masculinity, and Colin Creevey's surprising thoughtfulness. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When do we have the right to complain?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Meghan Cooper.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Innocence in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry’s continued fear of his own Slytherin-ness, the way Professor Binns thinks about history, and the powerful narrative of original sin. Throughout the episode they consider the question: why do we lie when we’re nervous, even if we have nothing to hide?
Thanks to Ian for this week's voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter ten, The Rogue Bludger, through the theme of complaining.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of rumors in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the difference between rumors and propaganda, whether Nearly Headless Nick should be allowed in the headless hunt, and how they would feel if their friends started hearing voices. Throughout the episode they consider the question: At what point do rumors become dangerous?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Antonia Aguilera.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of confusion in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Hagrid's magical umbrella, the usefulness of mantras, and what the 'mudblood' incident can help us understand about systemic racism. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When faced with pernicious confusion, what's our best course of action?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Andrew McIntyre.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of attraction in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss their schoolyard crushes, Ron's malfunctioning wand, and a metaphorical interpretation of the mandrake plant. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Where do we draw the distinction between healthy and unhealthy attraction?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Cindy Phippen.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of responsibility in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Dobby's constant meddling, Snape's connection with the Whomping Willow, and whether it's okay to bless the Dursleys. Throughout the episode they consider the question: is discipline best executed from a position of objectivity or compassion?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Maxine Kobinski.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of shame in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry's generosity, the difference between teasing and criticism, and whether there's anything to admire about Gilderoy Lockhart. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Do we inherit the shame of our fathers?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Cari Kramer.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of curiosity in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Arthur Weasley's enthusiasm for muggles, the moral implications of de-gnoming, and the alluring appeal of RuPaul's Drag Race. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is love an important component of curiosity?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Michelle Sisco.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of control in the second chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the bureaucratic power of the Ministry of Magic, the benefit of Harry's deep curiosity, and the endless frustrations of IKEA furniture. Throughout the episode they consider the question: when is control a noble intention and when is it oppressive?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Mijal Tenenbaum.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of disappointment in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss homesickness and why returning home sometimes brings out the worst in us, acknowledge Petunia's domestic labor, and return to the spiritual practice of Lectio Divina. Throughout the episode they consider the question: how do we maintain optimistic and integrity when confronted with disappointment?
This week's voicemail is thanks to Grace Halverson.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of vulnerability in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss how Harry’s experience with the sorting hat teaches us to reclaim our own narratives after trauma, and extend blessings both to know-it-all Hermione and know-nothing Neville.
*NB: Vanessa’s opening story is about sexual assault. If you want to skip it, the 30-second recap starts about 5 minutes into the episode. *
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of loneliness in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss the Dursleys' parenting choices, the significance of numbers, and the birthday blues.
A small correction: In this week’s epsiode, Vanessa says that the letters for chai are יה (yud hay), when they are actually חי (chet yud).
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, a podcast by Not Sorry Productions!
Learn more at https://www.harrypottersacredtext.com/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
