Shows
Sermon of the WeekResponding to Opportunities for Growth - Rev. Eric CarswellThe beginning of a new year is a time that encourages people to think of the poast year and reflect on the new year beginning. Most of us would acknowledge that the last nearly ten months have been far from easy for many of us. What would the Lord like us to take away from these experiences? How can they serve the Lord's goals for our lives now and on to eternity? References: Lessons: Psalm 65:4-7 Mark 4:35-41, Apocalypse Explained (AE) 419:24. Text: Mark 5:37-38 By Rev. Eric Carswell Recorded at Bryn Athyn C...
2026-01-0223 min
The Ethan C. Lewin Podcast#5 – Ian Carswell – How to Retire Early Without Selling Your SoulIan Carswell is a friend, mentor, and a living example that you can write your own story. He retired at 39—not because he stopped working, but because he no longer had to trade time for someone else’s dollar.In this episode, we rewind to Ian’s early hustles—reselling deformed gummy bears, mowing lawns, and running backyard carnivals. He shares how he reached FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), what poker taught him about making decisions with incomplete info, and the underrated superpower of setting clear goals.For Ian, wealth isn’t just money. It's about heal...
2025-06-212h 02The Ethan C. Lewin Podcast#5 – Ian Carswell – How to Retire Early Without Selling Your SoulIan Carswell is a friend, mentor, and a living example that you can write your own story. He retired at 39—not because he stopped working, but because he no longer had to trade time for someone else’s dollar.In this episode, we rewind to Ian’s early hustles—reselling deformed gummy bears, mowing lawns, and running backyard carnivals. He shares how he reached FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early), what poker taught him about making decisions with incomplete info, and the underrated superpower of setting clear goals.For Ian, wealth isn’t just money. It's about heal...
2025-06-202h 02
The Tolkien Road0364 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 38 » The Third Age (A Brief Chronicle)With Sauron having been defeated and disembodied at the end of the Second Age, and a time of peace settling in upon the free lands of Middle-earth, how do we arrive at the events of The Lord of the Rings, some 3,000 years later?The account we’ll be looking at in this episode is taken entirely from Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age, and describes the major events that lead up to A Long-Expected Party, and the forming of the Fellowship of the Ring.EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
2024-02-1920 min
The Tolkien Road0363 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 37 » SA3329-3341 » The Last Alliance of Men and ElvesWith Elendil and his sons having founded Arnor and Gondor after the downfall of Númenor, Sauron wastes little time in launching an assault upon them, his aim to conquer the free lands of Middle-earth once and for all!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- SaberSystems- Melkor27- KGWATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/FTBb9KDSOKEWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/98234215LISTEN AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/98234234FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:
2024-02-1232 min
The Tolkien Road0362 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 36 » Founding of Arnor & Gondor » SA3320In this episode, we’re approaching the END of our journey through the Fall of Númenor as we explore the founding of Arnor and Gondor after the downfall of Númenor. Join us!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- SaberSystems- Melkor27- KGWATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/XCeXZeKhSi4WATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-97791398LISTEN AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/founding-of-and-97793301FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWI...
2024-02-0540 min
The Tolkien Road0350 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 25 » SA1699-1700 » The Battle of the Grey HavensIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through the Fall of Númenor by exploring Sauron’s full scale invasion of Eriador and the subsequent counterattack of the Númenoreans.When we left off, things were looking pretty dire for the Elves of Eriador against the army of Sauron. In this chapter, we’ll continue our exploration of Sauron’s War Against The Elves, or The War of the Three Rings, as I also refer to it.The chapters we’ll be looking at are:- 1699 Sauron overruns Eriador - 1700 Tar-Minastir sends a great navy from Númenor...
2023-10-1627 min
The Tolkien Road0349 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 24 » SA1693-1697 » The War of the Three RingsWith this episode, the War of Sauron Upon The Elves (what we might also call the War of the Three Rings) begins. And given the relative length of the next 3 chapters, as well as their unified theme, I decided to combine them into this one episode.The chapters we’ll be looking at are:- 1693 - War of the Elves and Sauron Begins. The Three Rings Are Hidden. - 1695 - Sauron’s forces invade Eriador. Gil-galad sends Elrond to Eregion.- 1697 - Eregion Laid Waste. Death of Celebrimbor. The Gates Of Moria Are Shut. Elrond Retreats with...
2023-10-0931 min
The Tolkien Road0348 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 23 » SA1600 » Sauron Forges The One RingIn this episode, we're continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor with "c1600 - Sauron Forges The One Ring In Orodruin. The Completes The Barad-dûr. Celebrimbor Perceives The Designs Of Sauron." Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/vZyIucaQEjgWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-90163414EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOK...
2023-10-0231 min
The Tolkien Road0347 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 22 » SA1590 - The Forging of the Three RingsIn this episode, we're continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor with "c1590 - The Three Rings Are Completed In Eregion"!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/1tsKulWfUBkWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-88290129EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:- take 10% OFF Tolkien Road merc...
2023-09-2528 min
The Tolkien Road0346 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 21 » SA1500 » Sauron The Generous DemonThe full title of this chapters is "c1500 - The Elven Smiths Instructed By Sauron Reach The Height Of Their Skill. They Begin The Forging of the Rings of Power."In this episode, we discuss the nature of Sauron's "gifts" to the Noldor, and how their nature and past makes them particularly prone to Sauron's malevolent plot.Join us as we discuss!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/1tsKulWfUBkWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-88290129EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lo...
2023-08-2830 min
The Tolkien Road0345 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 20 » SA1200 » Sauron Seduces The Eldar (But Not Gil-galad Or Elrond)In this chapter, we find rumors of Sauron beginning to unveil his plot. In fact, it’s even debatable what Sauron’s “plot” was from the beginning!Even so, Gil-galad and Elrond refuse to treat with him, though the Elven-smiths of Eregion are won over. All the while, the Númenoreans begin to make permanent havens in Middle-earth (and that's a bad thing).Join us as we discuss!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/cY5EmQrBD2kWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-87936457EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of...
2023-08-2123 min
The Tolkien Road0344 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 19 » SA1075 » The Reign of Tar-AncalimëIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through the Fall of Númenor by exploring the chapter 1075 - TAR-ANCALIMË BECOMES THE FIRST RULING QUEEN OF NÚMENOR. Having covered the life and significance of one of Númenor’s most important rulers, Tar-Aldarion, we now turn to a rather brief description of the reign of his daughter: Tar-Ancalimë, the first Ruling Queen of Númenor.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/eIFl6hkEV1AWATCH AD-FREE » https://www.patreon.com/posts/ad-free-video-of-87604391EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
2023-08-1415 min
The Tolkien Road0343 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 18 » SA1000 » Sauron Founds MordorIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through the Fall of Númenor by exploring the chapter c1000 SAURON CHOOSES MORDER. After our deep dive in to the story of Númenor’s pivotal 6th king, Tar-Aldarion, we return now to Sauron, and take a look at the founding of Mordor and the building of Barad-dûr.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/Lkjvn-3A1SE EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KG...
2023-08-0315 min
The Tolkien Road0342 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 17 » SA883 » The Accession of Tar-AldarionThis chapter concludes the era of Aldarion, one of the most important kings in the history of Númenor. As we learned in the last episode, his father, Tar-Meneldur, chose to turn the rule of Númenor over to Aldarion earlier than was normal, due to a letter from the Elven High-King Gil-galad. asking for Númenor’s aid amidst the increasingly dire situation in Middle-earth. In this chapter, we’ll explore Aldarion’s reign, as well as what becomes of his wife Erendis and daughter Ancalimë.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/wOznMB_I9fQEXECUTIVE...
2023-07-2425 min
The Tolkien Road0341 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 16 » SA870: The Wedding of Aldarion & Erendis » Gil-galad, Tar-MeneldurThis chapter continues the story of Aldarion, destined to be Númenor’s 6th King. While it begins with the wedding, long-expected, of Aldarion and Erendis, it concludes with many events unexpected, including word from Gil-galad to the King of Númenor regarding “ a new shadow arising in the East”. This is a long chapter dense with nuance and character development, perhaps the richest glimpse we get into the various psyches of Númenoreans as individuals, and while I’d love to give it a much more in depth reading, I’m only going to hit the high points as regards this...
2023-07-1728 min
The Tolkien Road0340 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 15 » SA800 » Aldarion & Erendis » Uinen, Ossë, Tar-MeneldurOver the next 3 episodes in our Fall of Númenor series, we’ll return to the story of Aldarion, whom we met 2 episodes ago. Aldarion is the son of Tar-Meneldur and the expectant heir to Númenor's throne. But as we will learn, he is a man torn between a deep longing for the sea and his destiny as Númenor’s king. We have in fact covered this story before, in great detail, in episodes 183, 185, 186, and 187. For a more detailed discussion of the story itself, I’ll refer you to to those episodes. Check the show notes for more info. How...
2023-07-1021 min
The Tolkien Road0339 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 14 » Eregion Founded By The NoldorIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by exploring the year SA750, when Eregion was founded by the Noldor.750 years into the Second Age, things are relatively peaceful. Númenor’s benevolent influence is extending into the lands once ruled by Morgoth’s minions, and there is little news of war or misery. However, with the shadow of Morgoth now a fading memory, a new power begins to stir, and Elvish craftsmen dream anew of beauty that will influence the fate of Middle-earth.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/eUbGHjoOe...
2023-06-1917 min
The Tolkien Road0338 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 13 » The Voyages of Aldarion • Tar-MeneldurIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by exploring The Voyages of Aldarion, the grandson of Vëantur, and future King of Númenor. While we don’t have any narratives from the Second Age on the scale of Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, or even some of the greater legends of The Silmarillion, we do have the better part of one story concerning the people of Númenor: the tale of Aldarion and Erendis, aka The Mariner’s Wife. In this chapter, we’re introduced to the figure of Aldarion and his great lo...
2023-06-0634 min
The Tolkien Road0337 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 12 » SA600 The First Ships Of The Númenoreans Appear Off The Coast Of Middle-earthIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by examining Númenor’s return to Middle-earth in the year 600 of the Second Age. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/VumQLI07YW4EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:- take 10% OFF Tolkien Road merch at...
2023-05-3032 min
The Tolkien Road0336 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 11 » Silmariën, Elendil, & The Lords of AnduniëIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by considering the curious case of Silmariën, the daughter of Elendil (but not the sister of Isildur). Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/UWgGk5hz3xsEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:- take 1...
2023-05-2216 min
The Tolkien Road0335 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 10 » Sauron Stirs In Middle-earthIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by examining the return of Sauron around the year 500 of the Second Age. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/JwxMA3AICiQEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:- take 10% OFF Tolkien Road merch at True Myths Press...
2023-05-1837 min
The Tolkien Road0334 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 9 » Dwarves, Moria, and the Death of ElrosIn this episode, we’re continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor by considering the state of Dwarf-dom at the beginning of the Second Age, the founding of Moria / Khazad-dûm, and well as the death of Númenor’s first king. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/obyO3Q40xqQEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Melkor27- KGFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS...
2023-05-0831 min
The Tolkien Road0333 » Lord of the Rings & Easter Joy » Everything Sad Will Come Untrue » Samwise and The Field of CormallenHappy Easter everyone! (we're Catholic, and so was Tolkien, so it's still Easter...) In this episode, we read Samwise's astonished awakening in The Field of Cormallen after the destruction of the One Ring, and discuss how it relates to the overwhelming joy of Easter. “The Resurrection was the greatest ‘eucatastrophe’ possible in the greatest Fairy Story – and produces that essential emotion: Christian joy which produces tears because it is qualitatively so like sorrow, because it comes from those places where Joy and Sorrow are at one, reconciled, as selfishness and altruism are lost in Love.” ~ J.R.R. Tolkien, L...
2023-04-1533 min
The Tolkien Road0332 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 8 » The Life of the NúmenoreansWhat was it like to be an every day Númenorean? How did it feel to be one of that blessed number who were able to enjoy a much longer lifespan in an island paradise? While these details may not seem of particular importance in advancing the story of Númenor’s downfall, they do help us to better grasp the significance of being Númenorean, and to juxtapose life in Land of Gift with our everyday lives. Perhaps, through these details, we can arrive at a better characterization of Númenorean culture, so that we can more deeply unders...
2023-04-0340 min
The Tolkien Road0331 » "The Natural Life of Númenor" » The Fall of Númenor » Pt 7In this episode, we’ll be continuing our journey through The Fall of Númenor as we explore the section title “The Natural Life of Númenor.” In this section, we’ll learn about the beasts, birds, plants, and other natural phenomena of Númenor, according to Tolkien!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/r1CHGU4gKvgEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTER
2023-03-2039 min
The Tolkien Road0330 » "The Geography of Númenor" » The Fall of Númenor » Pt 6How big was Númenor? What was it like? Did it have any cities? In the latest episode, we're discussing the geography of Númenor. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/MXVNVJvm-Fw EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:take 10% OFF Tolkien Road merch at True Myths Press » https://truemythspress.com/discount/TENOF...
2023-03-1328 min
The Tolkien Road0329 » The Fall of Númenor Pt 5 » SA32 » The Edain Reach Númenor » Elros Tar-MinyaturNúmenor becomes a reality in year 32 of the Second Age. In this section, we’ll learn about the people who became Númenoreans, the various figures that aided them in establishing Númenor, and how they came to Númenor in the first place. Join us!WATCH » https://youtu.be/HyOY1QEbtjUEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAM...
2023-03-0633 min
The Tolkien Road0328 » The Fall of Númenor » Pt 4 » SA1 » "The Foundation of the Grey Havens and Lindon"In this episode, we’ll be exploring the “Foundation of the Grey Havens and of Lindon” in Year 1 of the Second Age. Topics include the overthrow of Morgoth, Thranduil (father of Legolas), Gil-galad, Galadriel, Celeborn, Elrond, and Elros. Join us!WATCH » https://youtu.be/ihNUr7WQokYEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:take 10% OFF Tolk...
2023-02-2725 min
The Tolkien RoadREACTION: New MIDDLE-EARTH Films On The Way! » Good News, Bad News...???New Line / Warner Brothers have announced that they are forging ahead with plans to create new films based on Lord of the Rings and the Middle-earth legendarium! What does this all mean? Let's talk about it!https://deadline.com/2023/02/lord-of-the-rings-the-hobbit-movies-new-line-warner-bros-1235268633/WATCH » https://youtu.be/orNIHH4oYksEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:ta...
2023-02-2411 min
The Tolkien Road0327 » The Fall of Númenor » Pt 3 » "Before the Second Age"This is the third episode in my series exploring The Fall of Númenor, the recently published collection of Second Age writings, edited by Brian Sibley.“Before The Second Age” is, in a way, the book’s second introduction. Here, Sibley goes into the Middle-earth legendarium’s internal history, putting to heavy use what is probably Tolkien’s most famous letter, The Waldman Letter, in which Tolkien gave a thorough account of Middle-earth’s entire timeline to a prospective publisher.WATCH » https://youtu.be/dGCv15COfPIEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
2023-02-2027 min
The Tolkien Road0326 » Leaf By Niggle 2023 » Featuring Dr. Chris Hackett » Tolkien's Purgatorial MythLeaf By Niggle, 2023! Dr. Chris Hackett (https://HackettWrites.com) joins us for what has become an annual tradition on The Tolkien Road. While we’ve covered Leaf By Niggle several times in the past, and frequently refer to it, it’s an incredible gem, hidden behind the mountainous wonder that is the Middle-earth legendarium. For me, it’s a story that never ceases to fill me with wonder and joy, and if I’m being honest, it always manages to get me a little choked up. I suppose this effect has something to do with what Tolkien called “Christian joy”, that...
2023-02-131h 24
The Tolkien Road0325 » The Fall of Númenor » Part 2 » The Saga of a Dark AgeThis is the second episode in my series exploring The Fall of Númenor, the recently published collection of Second Age writings, edited by Brian Sibley. Sibley’s introduction is titled “The Saga of a Dark Age”. Tolkien himself termed the Second Age a “Dark Age” in an important letter. Why did he do so? Watch and learn!WATCH » https://youtu.be/FTP5KNJG9xIEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:
2023-02-0625 min
The Tolkien Road0324 » The Fall of Númenor » Part 1 » An OverviewI'm beginning a journey through The Fall of Númenor, the recently published compilation of Tolkien's Second Age and Númenorean writings! Join me!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Eru27WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/Xz1MWsk7EpcFOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:take 10% OFF Tolkien Road merch at True Myths Press » https://truemythspress.com/discount/TENOFF (enter code TENOFF at checkout)listen to TOLKIEN'S WORKS for FREE » https://www.audibletrial.com/everonbuy Tolkien...
2023-01-3030 minThe Tolkien Road0323 » Smith of Wootton Major » The Background & The StoryFinally, we arrive at SMITH OF WOOTTON MAJOR!In this episode, we’ll be reviewing the story and having a knock-down, drag-out, deep dive discussion, classic Tolkien Road style!But here’s the thing: as you’re going to find out, Smith of Wootton Major is one of Tolkien’s biggest mysteries. And a lot of other folks have written extensively about WHAT IT MEANS, including Tolkien himself. For that reason, there will be Part 2 coming at a later date. So you’ll want to make sure and subscribe NOW so you don’t forget, because THEN you’ll never find...
2023-01-231h 01The Tolkien Road0322 » The Mythic Mind with Andrew SnyderIn episode 322, I'm joined by Andrew Snyder of The Mythic Mind podcast. We talk Middle-earth, Tolkien, Christianity, Kierkegaard, The Shadow, and the consolation that Tolkien provided in Andrew's life during a very dark period. Join us!ANDREW SNYDER » https://linktr.ee/andrewnsnyderEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Eru27WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/xVL_yySA5Z0FOLLOW & SUPPORT THE TOLKIEN ROAD:PATREON » SUPERFANS!TWITTERFACEBOOKINSTAGRAMLINKS & MATHOMS:take 10% OFF Tolkien Road...
2023-01-161h 02
The Tolkien Road0321 » Rings Of Power Seasons 2 and 3 + Middle-earth and ChristmasMerry Christmas, fellow travelers! Let's take a close look at the Middle-earth / Christmas connection as well as the recent Rings of Power discussion with Amazon Studios' Vernon Sanders. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/gr7WfZZoFAkEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Scotchy Bobo- Eru27FOLLOW & SUPPORT US:- https://patreon.com/tolkienroad (get TWO MONTHS FREE for a limited time)- https://twitter.com/tolkienroad- https://t...
2022-12-2744 min
The Tolkien Road0320 » The Song of Númenor » Elendil, The Lost Road, CS Lewis, The Rings Of PowerWhat was the purpose of Númenor? In this episode, we explore that question through the lens of the song of Númenor.Many of you know that I have argued that Númenor’s purpose went beyond being a mere reward for the descendants of the Edain, and seemed to be filled with symbolism and rituals intended to point them to a greater destiny both in this world and beyond it. "Lovely is Númenor. But my heart resteth not here for ever; for here is ending, and there will be an end and the Fa...
2022-12-1928 min
The Tolkien Road0319 » The Rings of Power » How Do They Work?Have you ever asked yourself how the Rings of Power work? In other words, WHY did Sauron’s Ring bring him mastery over the other Rings? What sorts of power did the Rings convey? Let's take a close look at these questions!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/-w5vlKc6pH0 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS:- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- John R- Jacob Lockham- John H- Scotchy Bobo- Eru27This episode was released early for our Patrons! Learn more » https://patreon.com/tolkienroad
2022-12-1230 minThe Tolkien Road0318 » Where Do We Go From Here?2022 was a pretty busy year for this podcast and for Tolkiendom on a broad scale! It was pretty intense to cover both The Silmarillion and The Rings of Power. And, to quote Bilbo, it's made me feel like butter scraped over too much bread. I may have been TOO HASTY at times!There’s so much Tolkien still to cover. And to re-read!But sometimes you need to slow down and breath a little deeper...FOLLOW & SUPPORT US:- https://patreon.com/tolkienroad (get TWO MONTHS FREE for a limited time)
2022-12-0529 minThe Tolkien Road"Frodo Failed" » What Did Tolkien Mean?In a 1963 letter, we find this remarkable line from Tolkien: “Frodo indeed ‘failed’.”What did he mean by that? Is there a deeper message that Tolkien himself took away from writing the scene of Frodo’s failure? What bits of wisdom can we glean from Tolkien’s commentary on Frodo’s failure at Mt Doom?We’ll dive into these questions and seek to understand what deeper truths about mercy, justice, and suffering Tolkien took away from the stark reality of Frodo’s failure. WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/01Hayh_6KE0LINKS:
2022-11-2807 minThe Tolkien Road0317 » The Fall Of Númenor » Book ReviewIs the latest Tolkien book worth your time and money? In this episode, I take a close look at The Fall of Númenor and tell you what I think!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/kx-r92L7ydc EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo, Eru27Buy THE FALL OF NÚMENOR » https://amzn.to/3U7Z3Vf “Of Númenor [Elrond] spoke, its glory and its fall, and the return of the Kings of Men to Middle-earth out of the deeps of the Sea...
2022-11-2420 minThe Tolkien Road0316 » Wrestling With The Rings Of PowerIn this episode, we will be looking back on The Rings of Power season 1, and most importantly, discussing some of the in-depth feedback we’ve received along the way!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/E-RTe65YO78 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo, Eru27TOLKIEN, 1957: "You will receive on Monday the copy of the ‘Story Line’ or synopsis of the proposed film version of The Lord of the Rings. I could not get it off yesterday. . . . . An abridgement by selection with some good picture-work would be pleas...
2022-11-2152 minThe Tolkien Road0315 » Of The Rings Of Power And The Third Age 2022Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age", an account that covers six millennia of Middle-earth history, from the beginning of the Second Age to the end of the Third.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/oajJtpC8_HAEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo, Eru27This final chapter of The Silmarillion is really something completely separate from the rest of the book: an Age-spanning synopsis of the events leading up to and including The Hobbit an...
2022-11-141h 11The Tolkien Road0314 » Akallabêth 2022Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Akallabíth", the legend of Númenor's fall from JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the rise of Sauron, Pharazôn's assault on Valinor, and the escape of Elendil and Isildur to establish Arnor and Gondor.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/JRqaGOaRkz0 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo, Eru27With Morgoth having been finally defeated in the War of Wrath, the Men allied with the Elves of Beleriand are rewarded with an earthly paradise: the Islan...
2022-11-071h 13The Tolkien Road0313 » The Rings of Power » How I Would Have Done ItThe first season of The Rings of Power is behind us, and for a lot of us, including me and Greta, it was pretty disappointing.In this episode, I’m going to explore how I would have approached telling the story of the Second Age.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/g2ScN9YK-0A EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo, Eru27*** RELEASED TWO DAYS EARLY FOR OUR AMAZING PATRONS ***SPECIAL THANKS:- John R- Kaitlyn of Tea with...
2022-10-3127 minThe Tolkien Road0312 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 24 » Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of WrathJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Voyage of Eärendil and the War of Wrath", the 24th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about Eärendil's and Elwing's journey to the Blessed Realm, the final battle with Morgoth, and the fates of the Silmarils and the Sons of Fëanor.RELEASED 2 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR AMAZING PATRONS » https://patreon.com/tolkienroadWATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/lgI8ldBpAYQ EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy Bobo With Morgoth having...
2022-10-241h 01The Tolkien Road0311 » The Rings of Power Ep 8: Alloyed » Reviewed!In "Alloyed", the Three Elven Rings are created, Tar-Palantír dies, and Sauron is REVEALED! Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/tQ45xB90Jsw EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboTHE THREE ELVEN RINGS» https://tolkiengateway.net/wiki/Three_RingsGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF"What really happens is that the storymaker proves a successful ‘sub-creator’. He makes a Secondary World which your mind can enter. Inside it, what he relates is ‘true’: it...
2022-10-171h 07The Tolkien Road0310 » The Rings of Power Ep 7: The Eye » Reviewed!In "The Eye", Elrond is denied access to Mithril, Galadriel and the Númenoreans search for survivors, and The Stranger departs for Greenwood the Great. Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/6Lv9JqFcMTw ***THIS AUDIO AND VIDEO WERE RELEASED 3 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS!!!***EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboQUENYA TRANSLATION SOURCES» https://folk.uib.no/hnohf/wordlists.htmGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF"What really happens is that the...
2022-10-1157 minThe Tolkien Road0309 » The Rings of Power Ep 6: Udûn » Reviewed!In "Udûn", the Southlanders stay the Orcs, Númenor comes to their aid, and something boils to a blow beneath the surface of Middle-earth. Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/ncrSx2IoF0M EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF"What really happens is that the storymaker proves a successful ‘sub-creator’. He makes a Secondary World which your mind can enter. Inside it, what he relates is ‘true’: it accords with...
2022-10-0858 minThe Tolkien Road0308 » The Rings of Power Ep 5: Partings » Reviewed!In "Partings", a sinister new figure arrives at The Stranger's crater, Galadriel is addicted to fighting, Gil-galad makes a big deal about Mithril, and Númenor's forces depart for Middle-earth. Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/hUykYXcIboA ***AUDIO RELEASED 3 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS***EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF"What really happens is that the storymaker proves a successful ‘sub-creator’. He makes a Secondary World which your mi...
2022-09-261h 12The Tolkien Road0307 » The Rings of Power Ep 4: The Great Wave » Reviewed!In "The Great Wave", Míriel is haunted by a prophetic dream, Galadriel touches a Palantír, and Arondir delivers a message from Adar! Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/kWoODn2MFJ8 ***AUDIO RELEASED 3 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS***EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboFOLLOW & SUPPORT US:- https://patreon.com/tolkienroad- https://twitter.com/tolkienroad- https://truemythspress.com/- https://facebook.com/tolkienroad- https://instagram.com/tolk...
2022-09-191h 13The Tolkien Road0306 » The Rings of Power Ep 3: Adar » ReviewedIn "Adar", we finally arrive in Númenor, and we're introduced to a mysterious orc father-figure. Join us as we discuss it all!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/D78RkJzkx_E ***AUDIO RELEASED 2 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS***EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF"What really happens is that the storymaker proves a successful ‘sub-creator’. He makes a Secondary World which your mind can enter. Inside it, what he relates is ‘true’: it accords wit...
2022-09-1250 minThe Tolkien Road0305 » The Rings of Power Ep 2: Adrift » Reviewed!"Adrift" introduces Dwarves, Khazad-dûm, Eregion, Halbrand, and "The Stranger", and we're covering it all in Episode 305. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/v7f4fgjLUu0 ***VIDEO RELEASED 1 DAY EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS******AUDIO RELEASED 3 DAYS EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS***EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboGOOD FANTASY VS. THE SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF "What really happens is that the storymaker proves a successful ‘sub-creator’. He makes a Secondary World which your mind can enter. Inside it, what he rela...
2022-09-0945 minThe Tolkien Road0304 » The Rings of Power Ep 1: A Shadow of the Past » ReviewedThe Rings of Power is upon us! What Would Tolkien Think???Greta and I discuss Episode 1, A Shadow of the Past, and go into all of the things Amazon got right and wrong. Join us!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://www.patreon.com/posts/reaction-rings-1-71443807 EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboTOLKIEN vs. TIME COMPRESSION "I fail to see why the time-scheme should be deliberately contracted. [. . .] I cannot see why definite time-statements, contrary to the book and to probability, should be made." - To...
2022-09-061h 04The Tolkien Road0303 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 23 » Of Tuor and the Fall of GondolinJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Tuor and the Fall of Gondolin", the 23rd chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about Tuor's journey and Ulmo's efforts to save Turgon and his people from doom!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/Ynw-JeVnhRk EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboWith Nargothrond and Doriath both having fallen, and the Sons of Fëanor reduced to wretchedness, only Gondolin remains of the great Elven realms. But how long will Gondolin remain hidden, and, if it...
2022-08-3039 minThe Tolkien Road0302 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 22 » Of the Ruin of DoriathJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Ruin of Doriath", the 22nd chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about Morgoth's twisted plot to defeat Thingol, and the role the Silmaril of Beren and Lúthien plays in it!***THIS AUDIO WAS RELEASED 1 DAY EARLY FOR OUR PATRONS***WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/a3kHJfQ1ucM EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboAfter the devastating tragedies of Chapter 21, we get…more devastating tragedies! Chapter 22 picks up with Húrin, n...
2022-08-2353 minThe Tolkien Road0301 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 21 » Of Túrin TurambarJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Túrin Turambar", the 21st chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the tragic tale of the ill-fated son of Húrin, one of the Great Tales of Middle-earth's First Age!WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/ekQQ69g6J8E EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboThe tale of Túrin Turambar is a long one, rivaling “Of Beren and Lúthien” and “Akallabêth” as the longest chapter in The Silmarillion. It is also quite t...
2022-08-1548 minThe Tolkien Road0300 » How Tolkien Saved My LifeThis is our 300th episode! Given that, I decided it was time to look back on this journey, and see how far we’ve come, and reflect on everything behind us. It struck me that, especially in the last few years, I’ve been moving at such a hurried pace that I haven’t taken enough time to do that, to simply look back and ask myself “Has this been worth it? Why am I doing this?”In episode 300, you'll learn how the podcast came to be, where we're going, and the role we believe Tolkien plays in i...
2022-07-2545 minThe Tolkien Road0299 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 20 » Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth ArnoediadJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Fifth Battle: Nirnaeth Arnoediad", the 20th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the cataclysmic battle that brings the Noldor to ruin, and sets in motion the climax of the First Age!WATCH THE VIDEO» https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QaFHbuVxdQEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboChapter 20 tells of the fifth great battle of Beleriand, the most fateful and cataclysmic yet, in which the Noldor seek to put an end to Mo...
2022-07-1144 minThe Tolkien Road0298 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 19 » Of Beren and LúthienJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Beren and Lúthien", the 19th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the story Tolkien called "the seed of Middle-earth", in which a forefather of the Men of the West sets out to obtain one of the Silmarils from the Iron Crown of Morgoth!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboChapter 19 is the story of Beren and Lúthien, aka The Tale of Tinúviel, aka The Lay of Leíthian, aka one of the Great...
2022-07-041h 37The Tolkien Road0297 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 18 » Of the Ruin of Beleriand and the Fall of FingolfinChapter 18 concerns the Battle of Sudden Flame and the aftermath thereof. It sets in motion the action-packed final third of The Silmarillion, in which many of the great stories of the First Age occur.WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/3RQYy0j4fT4EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboQUOTE OF THE WEEK » "To Men Morgoth feigned pity, if any would hearken to his messages, saying that their woes came only of their servitude to the rebel Noldor, but at the hands of the rightful Lor...
2022-06-2755 minThe Tolkien Road0296 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 17 » Of the Coming of Men into the WestJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Coming of Men Into the West", the 17th chapter of JRR Tolkien's The Silmarillion. Learn about the early ancestors of Aragorn, Boromir, Faramir, and other Men of the West! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboIn Chapter 17, we learn of how the first Men came into Beleriand, of their interactions with the Elves already living there, and of Melkor’s response to their coming.QUOTE OF THE WEEK » "‘A darkness lies behind us,’ Bëor said...
2022-06-201h 03The Tolkien Road0295 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 16 » Of MaeglinJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of Maeglin", the 16th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading as we unpack this story of Elvish tragedy!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John H, Scotchy BoboIn Chapter 16, we learn of a tragic tale of Aredhel, the White Lady of the Noldor, Eöl, the dark Elf of Nan Elmoth, Maeglin, their son, and Idril, the daughter of Turgon.WATCH THE VIDEO» https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JPgoqAi8qFQQUO...
2022-06-1352 minThe Tolkien Road0294 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 15 » Of the Noldor in BeleriandJoin us for an in-depth discussion as we explore "Of the Noldor in Beleriand", the 15th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading as we unpack this story of the founding of Gondolin!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John HIn Chapter 15, Turgon creates Gondolin, Galadriel and Melian converse, Thingol learns of the Kinslaying, and Finrod forecasts his doom.QUOTE OF THE WEEK » “‘I would take what joy is here left, untroubled by memory. And maybe there is woe enough yet to come, though...
2022-05-3042 minThe Tolkien Road0293 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 14 » Of Beleriand and Its RealmsJoin us for an in-depth discussion of "Of Beleriand and Its Realms", the 14th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of the map of Middle-earth's First Age.EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob Lockham, John HIn Chapter 14, we’ll learn of Beleriand’s regions, rulers, and key geographical features!WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/AQCD0gBtfoEQUOTE OF THE WEEK: “I am sorry about the Geography. It must have been dreadfully difficult without a map or maps.” - Letter 1...
2022-05-2438 minThe Tolkien Road0292 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 13 » Of the Return of the NoldorHaving arrived to Beleriand, Fëanor wastes no time in confronting Morgoth.WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/NfTQcLXGQHYEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamQUOTE OF THE WEEK: "His prayer was answered swiftly. For Manwë to whom all birds are dear, and to whom they bring news upon Taniquetil from Middle-earth, had sent forth the race of Eagles, commanding them to dwell in the crags of the North, and to keep watch upon Morgoth; for Manwë still had pity for the exiled Elves."CONTENTS- Timel...
2022-05-1852 minThe Tolkien Road0291 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 12 - Of MenJoin us for an in-depth discussion of "Of Men", the 12th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of the origins of Men.With the Sun having risen upon Middle-earth for the first time, we finally meet the Younger Children of Ilúvatar: US!WATCH THE VIDEO OF THIS EPISODE » https://youtu.be/TnfCUPkjbno The audio of this episode was released 3 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons » https://patreon.com/tolkienroadEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with...
2022-05-0943 minThe Tolkien Road0290 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 11 - Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of ValinorJoin us for an in-depth discussion of "Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor", the 11th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of the creation of the Sun and the Moon.EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamWATCH THE VIDEO OF THIS EPISODE » https://youtu.be/-vWPUtk5kwkChapter 11 gives us a moment to catch our breaths after the intense action of the last several chapters. It introduces a new epoch in...
2022-05-0259 minThe Tolkien Road0289 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 10 - Of the SindarJoin us for an in-depth discussion of "Of the Sindar", the 10th chapter of The Silmarillion. Get the most out of your Silmarillion reading from this long-form exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of Beleriand's first war!WATCH THIS EPISODE » https://youtu.be/24axMxpUGekEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamIn Chapter 10, the perspective shifts from the Blessed Realm to Beleriand, where it will remain for the rest of The Silmarillion. We jump back to where we left Beleriand - at the point when the Vanyar, Noldor, and Te...
2022-04-2552 minThe Tolkien Road0288 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 9 - Of the Flight of the NoldorThis is an in-depth discussion of "Of the Flight of the Noldor", the 9th chapter of The Silmarillion. Learn how to get the most out of your reading from this long-form exploration of JRR Tolkien's First Age story of Fëanor's Oath!Chapter 9 brings us to the terrible aftermath of Valinor’s Darkening. Will Melkor be held to account? Can Ungoliant be stopped? Is there any saving the Two Trees? And what of the Silmarils?WATCH THE VIDEO » https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqNlLvJkvaA The audio of this episode was released 2 days early and...
2022-04-181h 21The Tolkien Road0287 » Silmarillion 2022 Ch 8 - Of the Darkening of ValinorChapter 8 brings us to the great catastrophe of the Blessed Realm. What happens in this chapter sets in motion tidal waves of tragedies whose effects are felt, for good and for ill, down to the years of Frodo’s journey.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/1JbIgPaPkM0 The audio of this episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!Support us on Patreon » https://patreon.com/tolkienroadEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamQUOTE OF THE WEEK » “There in the black shadows, beyond t...
2022-04-1152 minThe Tolkien RoadThe God and Gods of Middle-earth feat. Fr. Andrew Stephen DamickIs Lord of the Rings Christian, Pagan or, in some way, both? In the legendarium of Middle-earth, Tolkien connects the gods of the ancient world with the God of biblical Christianity in a manner that, somehow, he intended to be acceptable to "a mind that believes in the Blessed Trinity." How can this be?John is joined by Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick to discuss this question. Fr Andrew is the host of both Amon Sûl, a Tolkien podcast, as well as Lord of Spirits, which explores the seen and unseen world of the Bible.
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The Tolkien Road0286 » The Silmarillion 2022 Ch 7 » Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the NoldorWhat are the Silmarils and what is their significance? We finally reach the answer to these questions in Chapter 7, learn of the intrigue surrounding them, and how their existence becomes a curse for the Blessed Realm.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/KW2gfIX3cCA The audio of this episode was released 3 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamQUOTE OF THE WEEK » “As three great jewels they were in form. But not until the End, when Fëanor shall return...
2022-04-041h 07The Tolkien Road0285 - All Things Tolkien March 2022 LivestreamHey there, fellow travelers!You are about to listen to an audio recording of our MARCH 2022 YouTube livestream. For the video of this replay, including all of the chats from those who were live with us, check the show notes for the link.WATCH ON YOUTUBE » https://youtu.be/TSETOcK2anUThis was the 3rd monthly livestream that we've done, and it was a blast! We're having a lot of fun interacting with everyone who shows up.If you enjoy this replay, then we hope you'll join us for our APRIL livestream, w...
2022-03-281h 26The Tolkien Road0284 » Of Fëanor & The Unchaining Of Melkor » The Silmarillion Ch 6With Melkor having been imprisoned, Valinor enters a long era of peace. To Finwë, High King of the Noldor, a son is born: Fëanor, the “Spirit of Fire”, whose destiny is bound up with the fate of many. And all the while, a perilous shadow grows upon the Blessed Realm…WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/JlOJNE0mBE0 The audio of this episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamQUOTE OF THE WEEK » "But they obeyed the judgeme...
2022-03-211h 05The Tolkien Road0283 » Of Eldamar & the Princes of the Eldalië » The Silmarillion Chapter 5With 3 groups of Elves - the Vanyar, Noldor, and Teleri - having arrived on the threshold of the Great Sea, they must make the final leg of their journey to the Land of the Valar, Aman, and will do so by extraordinary means. Once they arrive, they will establish their own kingdoms within the Blessed Realm.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/E8Bl86m5Y9k The audio of this episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons! https://patreon.com/tolkienroadEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R...
2022-03-1454 minThe Tolkien Road0282 » Of Thingol and Melian » The Silmarillion Ch 4 » Elwë, Grey-ElvesWith Melkor imprisoned in Mandos and the Elves on the way to the Blessed Realm, we pause to consider a BRIEF love story that lays the groundwork for a considerably EPIC love story later in The Silmarillion. Like Chapter 2, Chapter 4 doesn’t so much advance the plot from the previous chapter as it provides explanatory detail that will come into play much later.WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/z1a3ELPMuqwThe audio of this episode was released 3 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John...
2022-03-0748 minThe Tolkien Road0281 » Rings Of Power Controversies, The Silmarillion, and more!During our Feb 2022 Livestream, we discussed all of the controversies surround The Rings Of Power, our journey thus far in The Silmarillion, and a bunch of amazing correspondence from you, our amazing Fellowship!The audio of this episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!WATCH THE VIDEO » https://youtu.be/fGfLBgNy5hA EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS » Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien, John R, Jacob LockhamSPECIAL THANKS:- John R- Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien- Jacob Lockham- Ms. Anonymous- Andrew T
2022-02-281h 32The Tolkien Road0280 » Of The Coming Of The Elves & The Captivity Of Melkor » The Silmarillion Chapter 3Having taken a scenic detour in Chapter 2, in Chapter 3 we pick up where Chapter 1 left off. Though the Blessed Realm of Aman is now lit by the Two Trees of Valinor, the rest of Middle-earth lay in “twilight under the stars”. While the Valar and their people dwell in relative security, Melkor labors ceaselessly to dominate the rest of the world, even as the dawn of the Children of Ilúvatar draws nigh.WATCH THE VIDEO» https://youtu.be/2ZEa5HCYYYAThe audio of this episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!
2022-02-211h 13The Tolkien Road0279 » Of Aulë and Yavanna » The Silmarillion Chapter 2 » Dwarves, Ents, Eagles, and More!After the epic span of Chapter 1, which culminated in the creation of The Two Trees of Valinor and introduced the juxtaposing natures of Elves and Men, Chapter 2 is something of an interlude, though one of great consequence. In it, we learn about the creation of the Dwarves, and the mysterious origins of other important creatures as well. This episode was released 3 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons!We also get a “behind the scenes” glimpse into the creative relationships of certain Valar. The major events of Chapter 2 include: - Aulë’s creat...
2022-02-1449 minThe Tolkien Road0278 » Silmarillion 2022 » Ch 1: Of the Beginning of Days - Part 2Having established their home in Valinor of the Blessed Realm, the Valar begin a new work: the Two Trees of Valinor. What are the Two Trees and what is their significance for Middle-earth? Furthermore, how do they prepare the way for the coming of Elves and Men, and work against the dark designs of Melkor? Join us as we discuss the second half of The Silmarillion, Chapter 1: Of the Beginning of Days!This episode was released 2 days early and ad-free for our amazing patrons! » https://patreon.com/tolkienroadWatch this episode » https://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
2022-02-071h 13The Tolkien Road0277 » Silmarillion 2022 » Ch 1: Of the Beginning of Days - Part 1Chapter 1 picks up the story where “Ainulindalë” left off. The Valar have entered the world created by their music, only to find it essentially UNFORMED, and in need of their labor to achieve the shape they had envisioned. And, ultimately, to set the stage for the coming of the Children of Ilúvatar.EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: John R, Kaitlyn of Tea with TolkienQUOTE OF THE WEEK: “The dealing of the Ainur have indeed been mostly with the Elves, for Ilúvatar made them more like in nature to the Ainur, though less in might and stature; whereas t...
2022-01-3147 minThe Tolkien Road0275 » In The House of Tom Bombadil » C.R. Wiley Interview » New LOTR-Focused Book » Extended DiscussionWho is Tom Bombadil? This is a topic we've covered several times on the Tolkien Road, but it's an undying enigma for Lord of the Rings fans, and we're always hungry for new insights into the mysterious nature of The Old Forest's Master. In episode 275, John discusses this topic with writer C.R. Wiley, whose new book IN THE HOUSE OF TOM BOMBADIL is receiving rave reviews for its treatment of the subject. Join us!WATCH THIS EPISODE » https://youtu.be/wb80qngLtFgEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: John R, Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien
2022-01-2457 minThe Tolkien Road0274 » Valaquenta » Silmarillion 2022 » Manwë, Ulmo, Aulë, Gandalf, and more!In episode 274, we explore Valaquenta, the pantheon of Middle-earth's gods! "Valaquenta" introduces us to the Valar, the Maiar, and the main Enemies of Middle-earth. We get to know a few about figures like Manwë, Varda, Ulmo, and Yavanna, and this really helps when you're diving into The Silmarillion. Join us!WATCH THIS EPISODE » https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtRxezDytYoEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: John R, Kaitlyn of Tea with Tolkien QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “The cycles should be linked to a majestic whole, and yet leave scope for other minds and hand...
2022-01-171h 11The Tolkien Road0273 » Ainulindalë » Silmarillion 2022 » Music of the Ainur, Melkor, IlúvatarIn episode 273, we explore the Middle-earth Creation myth, "Ainulindalë", otherwise known as the Music of the Ainur. “Ainulindalë” is one of the most fascinating legends that Tolkien wrote, and it introduces key characters and themes into the legendarium. Furthermore, it sets the stage for everything that comes after, from the First Age to the Third (and beyond)! If this is your first time reading it, you’re in for a big treat! Join us as we discuss "Ainulindalë"!WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE ***THIS EPISODE WAS RELEASED 2 DAYS EARLY AND AD-FREE FOR OUR BELOV...
2022-01-101h 06The Tolkien Road0272 » Silmarillion 2022 » Introduction, Contents, Map, Waldman LetterHey there, FELLOW TRAVELERS!So you want to read The Silmarillion, eh? If you have any interest in Middle-earth, it’s only natural. Especially for those who have completed The Lord of the Rings (no small feat in and of itself), it’s the most logical next step.In episode 272 of The Tolkien Road Podcast, we kick off our Silmarillion re-read that will span the better part of 2022. Over the next several months, we'll be going chapter-by-chapter through Tolkien's saga of Middle-earth First Age.If you're planning to watch LOTR on Prime, whic...
2022-01-031h 07The Tolkien Road0271 » Carl Hostetter » LOTR on Prime, Peter Jackson's Films, Tolkien's Catholic Faith, and more!Hey there, fellow travelers!By far, the biggest thing to happen to Tolkiendom in 2021 was The Nature of Middle-earth, the latest collection of previously unpublished Tolkien writings. When we interviewed Carl Hostetter, the book's editor, back in August, we recorded a special bonus episode for our patrons, in which we got Carl's takes on topics including Peter Jackson's Middle-earth films, LOTR on Prime, Tolkien's Catholic Faith and the role it plays in Middle-earth, and controversy in the world of Tolkien Studies.Carl has made an incredible contribution to Tolkien's legacy with The Nature of...
2021-12-2726 minThe Tolkien Road0270 » Fly, You Fools! » LOTR on Prime, Silmarillion, Return of Haiku, Isildur, Gandalf, and moreWe did a LIVESTREAM! So this one will feel a little experimental - not our normal open, and lots of banter with the patrons who joined us! We had a lot of fun doing it, and it will certainly be the first of many to come. It was mostly a pilot for the WISDOM app, which we kinda struggled with...hence, the title of this episode.WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE » https://youtu.be/42z1VTfp8ac***THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED 4 DAYS EARLY AND AD-FREE WITH OUR BELOVED PATRONS!*** » https://pa...
2021-12-2052 minThe Tolkien Road0269 » Tolkien‘s Lost Christmas Poem ”Noel”In 2013, Tolkien's lost poem "Noel" was discovered in the archives of an Oxfordshire school. With Christmas just around the corner, we take a close look at this 1936 poem, and discover the thematic seeds of Middle-earth's epic drama. Join us! WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE ***THIS EPISODE IS 3 DAYS EARLY AND AD-FREE FOR OUR BELOVED PATRONS!******LIVE DISCUSSION - DEC 16TH @ 7PM CT »»» https://www.wisdom.audio/*** If you’ve ever wanted to engage with us LIVE, your opportunity is coming up! On Thursday, December 16th, at 7pm CT, we’ll be goin...
2021-12-131h 02The Tolkien Road0268 » The Goblin Wars!!!Have you ever heard of Tolkien's GOBLIN WARS? (HINT: you won't find them in the Middle-earth legendarium). These are the stories of Goblins invading the North Pole and stealing gifts intended for the children of England from Father Christmas' cellar. Join us as we explore how the "Other Fellowship" of Father Nicholas Christmas, the North Polar Bear, the Red Gnomes, and others join forces to save Christmas! EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk, Kaitlyn of Tea with TolkienWATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE » https://youtu.be/BEK4vr1gXAw***T...
2021-12-1350 minThe Tolkien Road0267 » Letters from Father ChristmasWe take a look at Letters From Father Christmas, a collection of Christmas-themed illustrated letters that Tolkien wrote this children from 1920-1943.SPOILER: they're great!Join us!EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk, Kaitlyn of Tea with TolkienWATCH THIS VIDEO ON YOUTUBE » https://youtu.be/QG4DH67BcQA***THIS EPISODE WAS 2 DAYS EARLY AND AD-FREE FOR OUR BELOVED PATRONS!***CONTENTS:- Background » 7:20- Contents » 13:00- Characters » 21:48- Themes » 27:45 LINKS:- buy The Father Christmas Letters » https://amzn.to/3FS...
2021-12-1355 minThe Tolkien Road0266 » Tolkien vs. Narnia!The conventional wisdom says that JRR Tolkien didn't much care for his buddy C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia.Is this true? If so, what was so off-putting about the stories from Tolkien's perspective?In episode 266, John is joined by Holly Ordway (author of Tolkien's Modern Reading) and David Bates (of Pints With Jack, the C.S. Lewis podcast) to explore these questions and more. Join us!Originally published on November 22, 2021.WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE » https://youtu.be/kuTXCxB92zcEXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk, K...
2021-12-1353 minThe Tolkien Road0265 » Númenorean Living & The Nature of Middle-earth » Important LOTR on Prime Details!In episode 265, we're looking at life in Númenor, as spelled out in The Nature of Middle-earth!Originally published 2021-11-15 05:00.WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Andrew T, John R, Ms. Anonymous, Redhawk, Kaitlyn of Tea with TolkienT-SHIRTS! Get your Tolkien Road T-Shirt now and take 10% Off! Just use the code ROAD at checkout.***THIS EPISODE IS 2 DAYS EARLY AND AD-FREE FOR OUR BELOVED PATRONS!***CONTENTS- Númenorean Chieftains Were Beardless » 11:31- Long Life and Peace » 14:30- Weariness / Clinging to Life » 21:00...
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