Shows
Growing Up SkywalkerSkeleton Crew Season 1 Premiere: "This Could be a Real Adventure"This could be a real adventure—and a real vibe shift for Growing Up Skywalker.Hot off the heels of our coverage of The Mandalorian’s first season, we’re diving into a brighter side of the galaxy in Skeleton Crew.In our recap of the premiere, “This Could Be a Real Adventure,” we discuss the mysteries of At Attin, the tyranny of suburbs, and the glorification of busyness. We also cover the critical reception of the show (which contrasts heavily with the reception of The Acolyte during a similar timeframe) and continue our Mandal...2025-03-041h 03Growing Up SkywalkerThe Acolyte: Teach / CorruptOur recap of “Teach / Corrupt” (The Acolyte S1, E6) focuses on mirrors, desire, and the faces we present to the world.
We talk through the responsibilities teachers have to their pupils and discuss which of Star Wars’ teachers merit the title of “good.” We also talk through the temptations presented by the Sith, Qimir / The Stranger’s many masks, and the ones Sol might be wearing, too.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:09:46 Vernestra Roh Discussion
00:14:46 The Jedi and The Stranger Discussion
00:21:28 Desire, Corruption, and Teaching Young Ones
00:38:15 The Many Fac...2024-10-081h 04Growing Up SkywalkerThe Acolyte: Day / NightSurprise! Just like Mae and Osha, we’ve got a two-for-one special this week: We’re recapping both “Day” and “Night” (The Acolyte S1, episodes 4–5).
We dive deep into the twisting forest of Khofar this week. Our discussion covers the secrets of the Sith-like Stranger, the hypocrisies of the Jedi, and the razor line between light and dark.
We also recap these episodes’ spectacular saber fights and how they’re stylized—with far more finesse than flash and bang. And of course, we sing praises to our favorite Padawan, Jecki. Sadly, Bae Watch is looking more like Death Watc...2024-10-011h 06Growing Up SkywalkerThe Acolyte: DestinyWitches. Get. Stitches. We’re in flashback mode this episode as we hearken back to the Clone Wars’ Nightsisters, and bring back the same conversation we had during their extermination—about the persecution of powerful women.
This episode spirals us through a million possible theories of what happened The Night of the Fire. What do we really know about the Jedi on Brendok? Whose jurisdiction applies? Would you rather be groomed into a cult leader or a child soldier? And what can we surmise about this coven of dark witches? Most importantly, Mae and Osha’s story continue...2024-09-241h 02Growing Up SkywalkerThe Acolyte: Revenge / Justice“The Acolyte” is a cop procedural, right?? That’s our working thesis this week as we recap episode two, “Revenge / Justice,” which opens on a locked-room murder scene, and introduces fascinating new allies and enemies.
This week, we dive deep into Mae’s revenge and Torbin’s justice—maybe. The Acolyte continues to twist our perceptions of what’s real and who’s responsible, and just when we think we have the means, motive, and opportunity, new wrinkles are revealed.
Join us for Law & Order: Outer Rim!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Who Are We Tho
00:02:00 P...2024-09-1753 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Acolyte Season 1 Premiere: Lost / FoundIn a perfect galaxy, where our in-universe chronology could stretch uninterrupted, this would be our very first podcast episode. So…welcome to Growing Up Skywalker!
We’re typewritering back in time to watch “The Acolyte” (2024). The season premiere, “Lost / Found,” invites us to ask about the elitism of the Jedi, the seeds of fascism, and the good twin/bad twin paradigm. We also talk about this episode’s beautiful pacing and masterful manipulation of reality, perception, and time.
If you’re looking for a non-toxic space to love on The Acolyte, Growing Up Skywalker is your home. Join...2024-09-101h 06Growing Up SkywalkerReturn of the Jedi: Part 2Freed from the tiny little raccoon hands of the Ewoks, our heroes immediately split up and start really moving the needle on the main plot of the Original Trilogy. Buckle in losers, we've got a redemption arc, a Death Star to destroy, and heroic (carnivorous) teddy bears!
After 160 episodes of Growing Up Skywalker, we finally hit the end of the Original 3. The moment of Anakin's redemption hits really different after seeing his entire story. This week, we had a deep conversation on the nature of the Force, cosmic death, destiny, and redemption.
Next week, we're n...2024-09-031h 10Growing Up SkywalkerReturn of the Jedi: Part 1The first half of "Return of the Jedi" is a who's who of who dies how on Jabba's sail barge. It also gives us the perfect opportunity to zoom out and discuss Luke's Hero's Journey and his 5 Jedi Trials, the big picture of galactic conflict, Leia's rebrand to Huttslayer, and teeny-weeny bikinis.
Did Anna or did Anna not read an entire doctoral thesis on Women of Star Wars to decide how she felt about Leia and Jabba? Find out!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Who Are We Tho
00:01:53 Plot Overview
00:14:04 Big Picture and...2024-08-271h 11Growing Up SkywalkerThe Empire Strikes Back: Part 2Welcome to Cloud City! This week, we’re covering 01:06:33 all the way to the end of “The Empire Strikes Back.” The Original Trilogy flexes its operatic muscles and hits on deep themes of family, loyalty, individuality, and fate.
The second half of “The Empire Strikes Back” is massively influential and changes the entire course of Star Wars. But how did it change the course of our history? Join us and find out!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Who Are We Tho
00:04:44 Plot Overview
00:18:19 Legacy and Critical Reception of Empire Strikes Back
00:27:29 Characters...2024-08-201h 13Growing Up SkywalkerThe Empire Strikes Back: Part 1The Rebellion struck..and The Empire Strikes Back.
This week, join us for 00:00 to 01:06:33—the first half of 1980’s “Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.” On a freezing planet, the Rebellion bides its time. On a swamp and fleeing through an asteroid belt, the Rebels run from enemies and dive into mystery. The first half of Empire Strikes Back sets an atmosphere and cadence that weaves the Original Trilogy magic.
Is Empire the best Star Wars film of all time? Tune in for our thoughts on this film’s critical reception, its budding romance (or lack thereo...2024-08-131h 18Growing Up SkywalkerA New Hope: Part 2We’re carrying the wisdom of 150+ episodes of Growing Up Skywalker into our viewing of the second half of 1977’s “Star Wars: A New Hope.” Turns out, we’re super jaded about Luke and Han shooting down a measly 4 TIE fighters—but Leia’s sass will never get old.
This week, we’re diving into Star Wars archetypes, tropes, and sacred plotlines. We’re also doing deep dives into Leia, Han, Luke, Obi-Wan, and Vader—and shedding not a single tear for Wilhuff Tarkin.
This week, we’re also discussing Star Wars women on the Patreon. Join us!
...2024-08-061h 16Growing Up SkywalkerA New Hope: Part 1Hello there! Welcome from a new point of view.
After more than three years watching Star Wars in universe chronology, we hit the grandaddy of it all: 1977’s “Star Wars: A New Hope.”
Watching this film with the context of everything that has come before it makes for an absolutely extraordinary viewing experience.
Join us for 00:00 to 01:05:49—right when the Millenium Falcon is tractor beamed into the not-moon of the Death Star. We’re talking hard about the veteran viewer’s experience versus a new fan’s; deep dives into Obi-Wan, Han, and Luke; and what’s still working, nearly 50 years...2024-07-301h 11Growing Up SkywalkerRogue One: Part 2Rogue One's second half starts with a crash and gets wilder from there. From 56:17 on, we string together heroic space battles, Vietnam war techniques, and Star Wars’ classically atrocious file-sharing practices. We do, indeed, both cry about X-wings.
But now, the real question. Does this Growing Up Skywalker experiment work? Is the strict internal chronology the way to watch Star Wars? Join us next week for 1977's breakout, genre-defining classic—”A New Hope,” Part One.
Timestamps:
00:03:04 Plot Overview
00:18:01 That Space Battle Tho
00:25:08 Veteran Fan Vs. New Fan Impressions
00:35...2024-07-231h 18Growing Up SkywalkerRogue One: Part 1Welcome to the magnificent, galaxy-sweeping, planet-shattering Rogue One (Part One).
From its first scenes, "Rogue One" carries weight. This week, we watched until 56:17, when Cassian’s crew lands on Eadu, and talk through the thematic ties between Andor and Rogue One, the film’s critical reception, and deep dives into our main characters: Cassian, Jyn, and the one and only Saw Gerrera. Plus, we talk about what’s a treat for a veteran fan versus what might get a new fan lost in translation.
We had so much to talk about this week that we record...2024-07-161h 09Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: "Family Reunion - And Farewell" (Season 4, Episode 15)Well, that's it. Rebels is done. What a ride! From the epic action to the thrilling post-war coda, this episode encapsulated the true meaning of rebellion. We cried (a lot).
"Family Reunion - And Farewell" (Season 4, Episode 15) pulls together everything the Rebels needed to pull off the biggest mission they've ever undertaken—the polestar of the whole series—the liberation of Lothal. Thrawn can’t even hope to thwart them this time. But just as Rebels giveth, Rebels taketh away, and we spend time coming to terms with the sacrifices that Lothal’s liberation required.
What's ne...2024-07-091h 08Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: "A World Between Worlds" and "A Fool's Hope" (Season 4, Episodes 13–14)This is the final countdown…before the end of Rebels!!
Everything comes together in these episodes: Ahsoka, Ezra, Palpatine, the past, the future, and the necessity of sacrifice.
In "A World Between Worlds" (Season 4, Episode 13), we get the answer to Ahsoka’s fate from waaaaaay back in Season 3. (SHE LIVES!!!) As Ezra is forced into a devastating choice, the Phoenix cell is left with burnt bridges and scarce resources. But they are Rebels—and this is where they excel.
In "A Fool's Hope" (Season 4, Episode 14) the Rebels scrape together every ally they can for a d...2024-07-0259 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: "Dume” and "Wolves and a Door” (Season 4, Episodes 11–12)Welcome to our most mystical, magical episode of Rebels (and Growing Up Skywalker…and probably Star Wars) ever.
“Dume” and “Wolves and a Door” (Rebels S4, 11–12) bring back the mysteries of the Mortis Arc and take us deep into the heart of Force magic. We guess about the connection between Kanan and the Loth-wolf Dume, and question what Palpatine wants from a gateway that allows someone to bend space/time and control the galaxy. And, of course, because we’re still not over it—we meditate on different forms of grief.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
...2024-06-181h 04Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: "Rebel Assault” and "Jedi Night” (Season 4, Episodes 9–10)X-wings and Major Plot Development, here we come.
The rebel assault in "Rebel Assault" (Rebels S4, 9) goes off with a bang, but then goes down in flames. With our heroes on the run or worse, the Loth-wolves have important information to share with Kanan.
However, "Jedi Night"(Rebels S4,10) breaks the mold about what a star wars episode is, and we are left dealing with devastating fallout both on Lothal and in the hearts of watchers. We still have more of Rebels S4, but the stakes have never been higher for what will happen on L...2024-06-1158 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: "Kindred” and "Crawler Commandeers” (Season 4, Episodes 7–8)On all levels except physical, this episode is just wolves.
We delve deeper into Loth-wolf lore in “Kindred” and “Crawler Commandeers” (Rebels S4, 7–8) as we learn they can step across space and time…and drop our intrepid heroes in the path of sinister Imperial plots on Lothal. As the Rebellion’s invasion of Lothal approaches, TIE Defenders may be not be their biggest worry.
Send Us Your Thoughts: S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media...2024-06-041h 06Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: "The Occupation” and "Flight of the Defender” (Season 4, Episodes 5–6)A tension has settled over Lothal. The Empire has locked down the entire planet, and is debuting the new and improved TIE defender. Fortunately, this gives Sabine and Ezra pretty much every chance to shine.
In our recap of “The Occupation” and “Flight of the Defender” (Rebels S4, 5–6) we talk about Loth-wolves, environmentalism, and the fever pitch of Imperial atrocities. And (duh) we sing a swan song to the TIE Defender Elite and why it might be even more important than the Death Star.
These episodes are tough to talk about with spoiling Episode IV, A New Hope...2024-05-2858 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: “In the Name of the Rebellion” (Season 4, Episodes 3–4)It’s iconic vistas time. For the first time in Star Wars chronology, welcome to Yavin 4!
Joining back up with the rest of the Phoenix cell on Yavin 4 for the first time, our heroes are once again confronted with doing good versus doing right. When Saw Gerrera shows back up to solve problems his way, we're brought along as well!
“In the Name of the Rebellion” (Rebels S4, Ep 3–4) covers a lot of emotional ground. We see the Rebels confront the question of doing good versus doing what’s best for the Rebellion. They battle with a des...2024-05-211h 06Growing Up SkywalkerRebels Season 4 Premiere: “Heroes of Mandalore” (Season 4, Episodes 1–2)While the Phoenix cell was getting obliterated on Atollon last week, war was brewing on Mandalore. Joining Clan Wren and the Protectors is our favorite redhead (besides Anna)—Bo-Katan Kryze!
In "Heroes of Mandalore" (Rebels S4, Ep. 1–2) we talk about Mandalorian warrior culture, the ethics of imperialism, the darksaber, and the importance of family. Also, it's been a long time since Bo-Katan crashed into her sister's throne room with Ahsoka in S7 of The Clone Wars, so we speculate a LOT about what she's been up to.
This arc is fast and violent and involves a pai...2024-05-1454 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: "Zero Hour" (Season 3 Finale)Welcome to the end of Rebels Season 3.
In the most cinematic Rebels episodes yet, “Zero Hour” (Rebels S3, Ep. 21–22) brings all the elements of Season 3 crashing together. In our recap, we tally up the wins and losses for the Rebellion and the Empire, wonder what people across the galaxy think about it, and talk about the Bendu’s fate. We also pick our favorite Season 3 moments.
Between the heroic score, sweeping visuals, deep family love, and epic sacrifice, these episodes brought us both to tears. And there’s more coming! Sabine still has a debt to rep...2024-05-071h 08Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Twin Suns” (Season 3, Episode 20) feat. Tim Beisiegel of the FSF PopcastIt’s the final countdown…to the duel that took 30 years to finish.
This week, we have special guest Tim Beisiegel of the FSF Popcast on the show to talk about the final duel between Maul and Obi-Wan Kenobi. We talked all about THAT DUEL THO, in addition to the prophecy of the Chosen One, the end of Darth Maul’s journey, the significance of these two Force masters to Ezra, and the wider Rebellion.
"Twin Suns" (Rebels S3, Ep. 20) is a fan favorite for a reason—so join us in watching (and discussing) one of the b...2024-04-301h 08Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Secret Cargo” and “Double Agent Droid” (Season 3, Episodes 18–19)Welcome to the Rebel Alliance.
“Secret Cargo” (Rebels S3, Ep. 18) starts off with a bang and finishes with Mon Mothma—last seen in Andor—calling for each rebel cell to unite. But to get there, the Spectres have to fly through a nebula, chased by Thrawn’s TIE Defender, and barely escape with their lives. Sam cried so much at all of this.
We also made some time to laugh this episode. In “Double Agent Droid,” the most musical episode of Rebels, AP-5 and Chopper are up to their old tricks (and confronted by the most dangerous...2024-04-2352 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Warhead” and “Trials of the Darksaber” (Season 3, Episodes 14–15)“Trials of the Darksaber” (Rebels S3, Ep. 15) is, quite simply, one of the tightest-scripted, haunting, and beautiful episodes of Rebels so far. And “Warhead” (Ep. 14) is a delightful buddy cop special feat. Zeb and AP-5.
This week, we dive deep into the lore of lightsabers and darksabers. We talk about what it means to wield the Force, rather than just be a part of its flow, and talk about Sabine’s inner demons. And Sam crowns Sabine and Kanan’s training duel as one of the Top 5 Lightsaber Duels, Ever.
In the meantime, Thrawn has cut his list...2024-04-091h 02Growing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Ghosts of Geonosis” Parts 1 and 2 (Season 3, Episodes 12–13)Have you ever wanted to spend half an hour debating the moral calculus of war and the conflicting ethics embodied by Saw Gerrera? Boy are you in the right place!
In “Ghosts of Geonosis,” Rebels’ mid-season 3 arc, we do a deep dive into fanaticism, rebellion, and the meta-narrative of a character who has been in just about every single Star Wars series up until now. Saw Gerrera is one of the most puzzling and polarizing characters in Star Wars, and Ghosts of Geonosis pitches his rebelliousness against the larger backdrop of the Rebellion.
Want even more G...2024-04-0257 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Out of Darkness” and “Empire Day”You know how Anna’s spent the last month begging for more Spectre backstories? Well, “Out of Darkness” and “Empire Day” (Rebels S1, episodes 7–8) deliver them in a big way.
In this week’s recap, we talk about Ezra’s tragic backstory, Sabine’s time as a cadet on Mandalore, and Hera and Kanan meeting. We also dive deep into the tyranny, propaganda, consent, and control strategies the Empire deploys—especially on Empire Day, the 15th anniversary of Palpatine’s victory over the galaxy.
Join us next week to resolve the “Empire Day” cliffhanger in episodes 9–10, “Gathering F...2023-08-0859 minGrowing Up SkywalkerRebels: “Spark of Rebellion” Parts 1–2Get in fam, it’s time for the Rebels pilot!
We’ve finally arrived at Sam’s favorite Star Wars show—Rebels. This week, we recap the double-header pilot, “Spark of Rebellion,” which originally premiered in 2014 as an hour-long movie.
We talk about the critical reception Rebels received when it premiered versus its reputation now, which is a show for true fans. We also talk about the expansion of the Empire across the galaxy, how each Spectre is a part of the family and also a distinguishable member of a D&D party, how some people just g...2023-07-181h 00Growing Up SkywalkerObi-Wan Kenobi, Part IVObi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV is tense, beautifully shot, and full of Easter eggs.
In our recap this week, we talk about the MANY different kinds of violence threaded through the episode, from Tala’s martial arts moves to Obi-Wan firing up his lightsaber again to the casual violence of Imperial reign.
We also talk about rooting for Reva (even though we’re not supposed to), job security for the Inquisitors, purge troopers, embalming former Jedi, and why T-47s swooping out of the sky is Sam’s love language.
For bonus audio content from th...2023-06-271h 05Growing Up SkywalkerThe Bad Batch — “Pabu” and “Tipping Point” (Season 2, Episodes 13–14)Brb, retiring on Pabu.
This week, we recap Bad Batch in Paradise: “Pabu” and “Tipping Point” (Season 2, Episodes 13–14). The Batch takes a well-deserved tropical vacation, eating sushi and combating natural disasters, while Crosshair fights his way out of an interrogation chamber to warn them that the Empire is coming for Omega.
In our discussion, we talk about what to do during a tsunami, how Crosshair’s love language is murder, and wonder if the Batch could ever really retire. We also sing a love song to Echo, the best Batch of the bunch.
Join us next w...2023-05-021h 01Growing Up SkywalkerCrossover Connection featuring The FSF PopcastThis week, we're excited to bring you a Crossover Connection special. Instead of us, this week you can listen to the phenomenal FSF Popcast interview of Anna Graves (aka Duchess Satine from The Clone Wars). We are obsessed with Anna Graves and we are obsessed with the FSF Popcast: your one-stop shop for all things nerdy (and never dirty).
Notes from The FSF Popcast:
Episode 31 - The Duchess of Mangalore ft. Anna Graves
If you're a fan of Star Wars Clone Wars, then you are familiar with Anna Graves. Anna voiced Duchess Satine...2023-02-1452 minGrowing Up SkywalkerTales of the Jedi: Ahsoka’s TaleIn another glorious stroke of in-universe chronology meeting up with the Star Wars release schedule, we got to watch Tales of the Jedi (Ahsoka’s Tale) this week!
We recapped Chapters 1, 5 and 6 (“Life and Death,” “Practice Makes Perfect,” and “Resolve”) and cried a LOT.
In our discussion, we talked about how these episodes give Ahsoka a natural continuation of the Martez Sisters arc from S7 of The Clone Wars — and Sam teases where she’s going next. We also talk about Inquisitors, what makes Ahsoka a hero, Pav-ti giving really good mom-wisdom, raising a Force-sensitive baby, and discuss...2022-12-061h 02Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: The Bad Batch, Part 1The Bad Batch is the Best Batch and that’s canon.
This week, we recapped the phenomenal first half of the Bad Batch Arc (The Clone Wars 7.1–2, “The Bad Batch” and “A Distant Echo”). Anna cried, Sam mused, and we laughed a LOT.
The Bad Batch are an elite special forces squad of “defective” clones with “desirable mutations.” In other words, they are fantastic — and different from Rex and Cody, who team up with them to infiltrate a Separatist cyber center to unravel why their enemies are anticipating their every move.
We talk all about Clone 99 bei...2022-09-271h 00Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: "The Lost Ones"In which the Jedi Council remembers they never bothered to have a funeral for Sifo-Dyas.
We jest. “The Lost One” (The Clone Wars 6.10) is a dense and beautiful foreshadowing for the events of Revenge of the Sith. It also gives us a seven-layer tiramisu of MYSTERIES. Why did Jedi Master Sifo-Dyas have to die? Why did Dooku care about him at all? And what was the relationship between them? Also, who gave the Pykes the right to be so great?
For our recap, we hop into the Mystery Van and go sleuthing. We also talk abou...2022-08-3049 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: The Disappeared ArcIn the glorious Disappeared Arc of the Clone Wars, Jar Jar gets to be a love interest…the hero of the galaxy…and the one who gets the girl. Oh, Mace Windu is there, too.
The Disappeared Arc (The Clone Wars 6.8–9, “The Disappeared, Part One” and “The Disappeared, Part Two”) introduces us to the Dagoyan Masters of Bardotta, ancient mystics who are estranged from the Jedi Order. But their mystics are disappearing one by one, and it’s up to the unlikely dream team of Jar Jar Binks and Mace Windu to save them — and the galaxy.
If you did n...2022-08-1657 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Rush Clovis ArcGuess who’s back, back again? The Right Honorable Rush Clovis — except he’s wrong, and dishonorable, and wrecking not just Anakin and Padmé’s marriage but also the GALAXY’S ENTIRE BANKING SYSTEM.
In our recap of the Rush Clovis Arc (The Clone Wars 6.5–7, "An Old Friend", "The Rise of Clovis,” and "Crisis at the Heart”) we talk about why the Clone Wars chose to tell another economic story, and figure out why it’s so compelling. We talk about Padmé and Anakin’s terrible marriage, whether or not Rush Clovis is redeemable, and why Palpatine is the GOAT master pla...2022-08-091h 01Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Conspiracy Arc, Part 2In which we discuss how Fives revealed the entire Sith ascension plan to some of the most powerful people in the galaxy…….and they didn’t listen.
The end of the Conspiracy Arc (The Clone Wars 6.3–4, “Fugitive” and “Orders”) shows us how the truth dies: in a dark office, with Chancellor Palpatine gaslight/gatekeep/girlbossing you for all you’re worth. In this arc, we follow Fives’ desperate scramble to reveal the conspiracy of the clones’ inhibitor chips. We see the Sith’s plan to discredit him — by framing him for an assassination attempt against the Chancellor — and discuss how the Kaminoan...2022-08-0251 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Conspiracy Arc, Part 1The first episodes of Season 6 of The Clone Wars (6.1–2, “The Unknown” and “Conspiracy”) tell us exactly why the Clone Wars exist. And that’s just the BEGINNING.
In our recap, we talk about how Anna forgot Order 66 happened (but alas, social media exists). We deliver a treatise on why Fives is The Best, how this episode is a storytelling Russian nesting doll, and what the inhibitor chips really steal from the clones. Justice for Season 6, these episodes are gorgeous.
Next week, we’re finishing the Conspiracy Arc with 6.2–3, “Fugitive” and “Orders.”2022-07-2659 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Jedi Temple Bombing, Part 2Cue the tears. In the long-awaited (first) finale of The Clone Wars (5.19–20), enemies turn to friends…friends turn to enemies…and we cry a LOT.
In our recap of the end of Season 5, we ask so many questions. Why does Ahsoka choose to leave the Jedi Order? What are Barriss’s motivations? Where was Luminara in all of this? Did Anakin suddenly become relatable? And most importantly — what have the Clone Wars done to the Jedi Order?
We also want to send a huge and heartfelt thanks to all of our listeners who have stuck with us fo...2022-07-1959 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Jedi Temple Bombing, Part 1Fire up your righteous indignation. We’re recapping the Jedi Temple Bombing Arc (The Clone Wars 5.17–18) and seeing Ahsoka framed for murder.
The Clone Wars is continuing to snap the pieces together to make a bridge between Episodes 2 and 3. In our recap, we talk about how the clones who once trusted and deferred to Ahsoka so quickly turn against her; the Jedi’s nosediving reputation; Jedi funerals; and why the darkness of the Clone Wars feels so prescient today.
Next week, we finish the Jedi Temple Bombing Arc and the final episodes of Season 5: The Clone...2022-07-1255 min
Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Revenge Arc, Part 2Alexa, play “Taps.”
The body count in the second half of the Revenge Arc might not be as high as the Umbara Arc. But as Mandalore descends into civil war and political leaders become cannon fodder, it feels like this is just the start of something bigger.
In our recap of The Clone Wars 5.15–16, “Shades of Reason” and “The Lawless,” we dissect both spectacular darksaber duels blow-by-blow. We talk about Duchess Satine’s isolation as she tries to live out her ideal of pacifism. (Also, how it’s a direct contrast to Bo-Katan’s warlike alliances.) We even...2022-07-051h 04Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Revenge Arc, Part 1Buckle in, kiddos: It’s time for REVENGE.
In the first half of the Revenge Arc (The Clone Wars 5.1 + 5.14, “Revival” and “Eminence”) Maul and Savage almost manage to take over Hondo Ohnaka’s pirate crew, but then very nearly become fishsticks floating in space. Then they effortlessly raise an army of terrifying criminals and set out to help Death Watch take over Mandalore — maybe.
In our recap, we talk about Maul’s plan to eviscerate not just Obi-Wan, but also his legacy. We cover Palpatine’s plan within plans, quote half of Maul’s lines and all of Hondo’s...2022-06-2856 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: D-Squad Arc, Part 2What do you get when you cross a clone, a bad case of amnesia, and 10,000 canisters of Rhydonium? The second half of the D-Squad Arc, that’s what you get.
This week, we’re recapping The Clone Wars 5.12–13, “Missing in Action” and “Point of No Return”, a.k.a. two episodes that debuted at the top of Anna’s Cry-O-Meter. We meet Gregor, a MIA clone commando who has to embark on a hero’s journey to reclaim his destiny. The D-Squad holds the lives of thousands in their little droid spanners, and Meebur Gascon continues to be the worst.
...2022-06-1453 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: D-Squad Arc, Part 1The lack of a reliable file-sharing system in Star Wars comes into play once again in the D-Squad Arc (The Clone Wars 5.10–11, "Secret Weapons" and "A Sunny Day in the Void").
It turns out that this critically-panned series of episodes is a fascinating meditation on inequality, oppression, meritocracy, the military-industrial complex, and why WAC units are indeed so wack.
In our recap this week, we continue our conversation on droid rights and admit to all kinds of meatbag foibles (we’re just not suited to long marches across the desert, okay!!)
Next week, we’r...2022-06-0753 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Ahsoka + Younglings Arc, Part 2Hondo Ohnaka has a no-good, very bad day during the second half of the Ahsoka + Younglings arc (The Clone Wars 5.8–9, “Bound for Rescue” and “A Necessary Bond”).
Our dashing crew of younglings have to infiltrate a traveling carnival to rescue Ahsoka from Hondo Ohnaka’s base — which Grievous promptly overruns. In our recap, we talk about all the ways Hondo Ohnaka would disappoint us if he was our uncle, the advice we would give to younglings, lightsaber fighting styles, and why this crew of baby Jedi is so dang lovable.
Buckle up, because next week we’re covering...2022-05-3158 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Ahsoka + Younglings Arc, Part 1 with Raphael, The Geeky Dad, and Arianna, The Multiverse KidHold onto your lightsabers, because Hondo Ohnaka is coming for them.
In the first half of the Ahsoka + Younglings arc (The Clone Wars 5.6–7, “The Gathering” and “A Test of Strength”) we meet a crew of Jedi younglings who find their very own kyber crystals — just in time to almost lose them to Hondo’s pirate gang. (And they actually DO lose Ahsoka.) But don’t worry. Petro, Katooni, Ganodi, Zatt, Byph and Gungi are up to the challenge!
For this week’s recap, we invited an actual youngling to talk about the arc. Raphael, the Geeky Dad, and Ari...2022-05-2457 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Onderon Arc, Part 2They never said revolution would be easy. In the final half of the Onderon Arc (The Clone Wars 5.4–5, “The Soft War” and “Tipping Points”) we see that Onderon’s rebels are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to throw off Separatist rule.
In our recap, we talk about the rightful king, Dendup, and why he’s the worst. (Steela Gerrera 4 Queen of Onderon.) We figure out how you can successfully make a gambit for neutrality between the Republic and Separatists — another reason why Dendup is the worst. And we talk about Ahsoka’s radicalizing moment, where she sees the Jedi Coun...2022-05-1758 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Onderon Arc, Part 1Hot on the heels of our arc about brotherhood, we have another sibling story — and this time, it’s about Saw and Steela Gerrera.
Our recap of the first half of the Onderon Arc (The Clone Wars 5.2–3, “A War on Two Fronts” and “Front Runners”) throws us into a rebellion of Anakin’s making. There is a fantastic training montage, a sort of meh love triangle between Ahsoka, Steela and Lux, and a delightful heist that brings the rebellion to new heights. We talk about overachieving daughters and proxy wars of history. Most importantly, we celebrate Anakin giving extremely...2022-05-101h 00Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: 50th Episode and One Year Anniversary Celebration! Asajj + Maul Arc, Part 2 with Tim Beisiegel of Funny Science Fiction PodcastWe have so much to celebrate this episode! The Asajj + Maul Arc, Part 2 marks the end of Season Four of the Clone Wars…our 50th episode…our one-year anniversary as a podcast…and May the 4th (Be With You).
We’re so excited to have Tim Beisiegel of Funny Science Fiction Podcast and Pop Culture Addicts on the show with us. Tim has been a champion of Growing Up Skywalker from the beginning, and it was a delight to hear him talk about some of his favorite Clone Wars episodes!
If you like lightsabers, this is the a...2022-05-041h 08Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Asajj + Maul Arc, Part 1Buckle in, kiddos, because we’re headed to Dathomir. In the first half of the Asajj and Maul arc, Asajj renounces her ties to the Sith and pledges herself to the Nightsisters. Cue Dooku losing his dang mind.
We talk about loyalty, betrayal, witchy covens, catharsis, and Asajj’s four life-altering transformations: slave to Jedi, Jedi to Sith, Sith to Nightsister, and Nightsister to outcast. Somehow we also touch on the meaning of life???
Our follow-up discussion to this episode, “You Say ‘Witch’ Like it’s a Bad Thing,” is available exclusively to Patreon subscribers.
And we h...2022-04-2658 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Rako Hardeen Arc, Part 2Did you know that Star Wars has a bounty hunter-themed reality TV show in the middle of Season Four? Who knew! Shenanigans continue in the second half of the Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.17–18) as Dooku whittles down 12 of the galaxy’s greatest bounty hunters to five. It’s a race against time — and Anakin’s impatience — as Obi-Wan tries to thwart Dooku’s plans to kidnap Chancellor Palpatine.
In our recap, we talk about what it takes to be a bounty hunter, Obi-Wan as The Negotiator, Cad Bane’s code of ethics, and the beginning of the end of An...2022-04-1959 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Rako Hardeen Arc, Part 1The first half of the Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.15–16) is a romp, y’all. Obi-Wan goes undercover as a hardened criminal to sabotage a plot against Chancellor Palpatine as the entire galaxy believes him to be dead. He hooks up with Cad Bane — who can be threatening even when he’s only armed with a toothpick — and tries to outrun Anakin and Ahsoka, on the warpath for vengeance.
We talk about great villains, iconic prison breaks, and how when Anakin tries to avenge his best friend’s murder, he comes perilously close to committing that murder himse...2022-04-0556 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: “A Friend in Need”“A Friend in Need” (The Clone Wars 4.14) is the last standalone episode of The Clone Wars series, and boy howdy is it chock-full of discussion topics.
In 22 minutes, we see Ahsoka reunited with her BOYFRIEND Lux Bonteri, watch the Separatist-Republic peace talks disintegrate (again), meet up with Death Watch, see Bo-Katan for the first time, witness R2D2 raise a droid army, and see an entire village subjugated (no word on how their situation pans out, either).
In our recap, we talk about Lux Bonteri’s options after he became a war orphan, the decay of Dea...2022-03-2958 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Zygerrian ArcThe Zygerrian Arc of the Clone Wars (4.11–13, “Kidnapped,” “Slaves of the Republic,” and “Escape from Kadavo”) begs us to consider: Who are the real slaves under the Republic?
In this three-part arc, we see Anakin, Ahsoka and Kenobi struggle to free the Togrutan people of Kiros from being condemned to a life in chains. There are heists, spies, infiltration plots, fake names, fake imprisonment (plus actual imprisonment), and a seduction (ooh la la). In our discussion, we recap the grand tradition of slavery in Star Wars and discuss what it tells us about power in the galaxy — who has it, and...2022-03-2257 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Umbaran Arc, Part 2Betrayal has a long legacy in Star Wars, and in the final half of the Umbaran arc (The Clone Wars 4.9–10) we come face-to-face with one of the galaxy's greatest traitors.
In our recap of “Plan of Dissent” and “Carnage of Krell,” we put the spotlight on the 501st. Through heartbreak, sacrifice and betrayal, they go against their beliefs, have existential crises, and eventually learn to find their own way. We get an answer to our question from the last episode — What does it mean to be a good soldier? And we talk about how the Clone Wars continues to...2022-03-151h 02Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Umbaran Arc, Part 1No more fun and games. We’re getting down to business in the first half of the Umbaran Arc (The Clone Wars 4.7–8).
When’s the last time you read the Geneva Convention? Because war crimes abound on Umbara, especially after Anakin is sent home to Coruscant mid-invasion and the 501st is put under General Pong Krell — a Besalisk with a VERY bad attitude. We rabbithole into Civil War-era parallels to the full-frontal assault into Umbaran territory, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Chickamauga. We also talk about what it means to be a good soldier...2022-03-0859 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: R2 and C-3PO ArcThe R2 and C-3PO arc (The Clone Wars 4.5–6) has the strangest and yet most strangely delightful Clone Wars episodes in a while. We talk about fairytales, magical realism, the Balance, and droid rights/droid supremacy. R2 talks trash to every sovereign leader they meet in the LONGEST episode ever, and in the face of death, 3PO has — for once — a heartfelt moment. This arc is an actual fever dream, and we laughed a LOT.
This was our last moment of levity for a while. Next week, we’re covering the first two episodes of the Umbaran arc: The...2022-03-0154 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: "Shadow Warrior"“Shadow Warrior” (The Clone Wars Season 4.4) is one giant, beautiful retribution for Star Wars’ treatment of the Gungans thus far. As Jar Jar is forced to impersonate Boss Lyonie to keep his people from going to war against the Naboo, we (finally) get to see the Gungans step into the light. We get fierce Gungan warriors, ancestral Gungan magic, a fantastic callback to Padmé’s switcheroos in the Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones — and the power of friendship, which runs through it all. Justice for Jar Jar. Justice for the Gungans. May we all hold ourselves to their stand...2022-02-2248 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Mon Cala ArcSurf’s up! The first arc of Season 4 of the Clone Wars has our faves swimming with the fishes. We’re introduced to yet another teenage monarch — Prince Lee-Char — who’s navigating a civil war between the Mon Calamari and Quarren and orchestrated, as always, by Count Dooku. Kit Fisto is glorious, Padmé and Anakin are mostly there to be threatened with drowning, Ahsoka does Anakin’s job from Attack of the Clones ten times better than he ever did, and the Gungans absolutely saved the day.
In a special segment, we also answer a burning question left over fro...2022-02-1558 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Ahsoka Hunted Arc with Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction PodcastHappy Star Wars Podcast Day!
We’re closing out Season 3 of The Clone Wars with the most dangerous game of them all — messing with Ahsoka and her band of misfit Jedi younglings. And we’re thrilled to have Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction as a guest on this week’s show!
In the Ahsoka Hunted arc (The Clone Wars 3.21–22) we meet a group of Trandoshan weekend warriors who like to hunt younglings down for sport. Humility is learned, jungle shenanigans are pulled, and it becomes more evident than ever that the best skill you can have i...2022-02-0851 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Citadel ArcIt’s time for a classic Clone Wars mess-around! The Citadel Arc (The Clone Wars 3.18–3.20) has everything: battle droids, ambushes, a rescue mission, carbon freezing, Ugnauts, a phenomenal MacGuffin (the Nexus Route hyperspace lanes), Kenobi banter and a truly astonishing amount of foreshadowing for Anakin’s journey. If you are a Wilhuff Tarkin fan, this is the arc for you. (If you are a no-Jedis-shall-hurt-the-space-doggos fan, it’s definitely not.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re excited to have a special guest appearance from Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction Podcast on the show! Nick will help...2022-02-0156 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Mortis ArcHold onto your Star Wars encyclopedias, because we’re in for the ride of our lives! In the Mortis Arc (The Clone Wars 3.15–17) we get the deepest dive into the lore of the Force so far — and that’s just where the first episode starts. We talk about good, evil, and ambivalence…why wisdom has to be earned to be learned…and all about the family story at the heart of Star Wars. Buckle up, baybees, because the Mortis Arc puts Anakin Skywalker’s story on fast-forward, and it’s all playing on the giant celestial chessboard of the galaxy.
W...2022-01-251h 00Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Nightsisters ArcThe Clone Wars so far has been a series of appetizers, but with the Nightsisters Arc (3.12–14) we’re getting filet mignon, baybee! As Assajj and her witchy sisters plan vengeance on Count Dooku, we’re introduced to Anna’s big sad baby, Savage Opress — and then things get spooky, y’all. We talk about Star Wars steroids, the Rule of Two, identity erasure, unexplainable magic, and the moment when female power meets manipulation.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting even darker with the Mortis arc: The Clone Wars 3.15–3.17, “Overlords,” “Altar of Mortis,” and “Ghosts of Mortis.”2022-01-181h 01Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: "Senate Murders"Lieutenant Divo is back on the case in “Senate Murders” (The Clone Wars 2.15) — and so is Action Padmé! As Padmé struggles to maintain her political leverage against the clone-troop bill, she’s beset on all sides by the creepiest of the Galactic Senators. Friends become enemies! Enemies become…non-enemies! (Because they’re dead.) And the question of whether the Clone Wars will continue hangs in the balance.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting dark with the Nightsisters arc: The Clone Wars 3.12–3.14, “Nightsisters,” “Monster,” and “Witches of the Mist.”2022-01-1151 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Funding the War ArcWe’ve got war and war profiteering on the mind during our recap of the Funding the War arc (The Clone Wars Season 3.11–12, “Heroes on Both Sides” and “Pursuit of Peace”). Padmé and Ahsoka take a field trip to Raxus to broker peace with the Separatists, Ahsoka meets a boy, and Bail Organa continues to be the best. There is murder! There are speeches! There is creative accounting! And there is perhaps the best political reckoning of war in the Star Wars universe so far.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re finishing the question of funding the war...2022-01-0454 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Ziro the Hutt ArcComing to you live from our luxury conveyex on Vandor, we bring you a deep dive into the swamps of Nal Hutta — and the twisted politics of the Hutt Council. In the Ziro the Hutt arc (The Clone Wars 3.8–3.9 and 1.22), Ziro rekindles his love affair with cabaret cutie/part-time bounty hunter Sy Snootles. We meet Jedi Master Quinlan Vos, finally discover C3PO’s real backstory, and witness an incredibly exciting aerial boss battle on Teth. This episode has everything: Romance! Betrayal! A makeover for R2! And coming out on top is the lady, the myth, the legend…Miss Snootles...2021-12-2958 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: "Arc Troopers"This week, we talk about heroes great and small as we recap “Arc Troopers” (The Clone Wars 3.2). As you can imagine, Anna’s notes for this episode are mostly frowny faces. And we have so many questions!! What makes a noble death? What are the limitations of being a general by the sword? Is the glory of combat all it’s cracked up to be? And, if you had to pick a favorite clone for this episode, would it be Echo, Fives, or 99?
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re finally finishing season 1 of the Clone Wars! (Yea...2021-12-2158 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: “Assassin” + “Sphere of Influence”It’s never a good day to be a Neimoidian, but especially not in “Assassin” (The Clone Wars Season 3.7) and “Sphere of Influence” (3.4). As we carefully unpick the convoluted chronology of The Clone Wars’ third season, we see Ahsoka thwarting Aurra Sing (again), Senator Chuchi achieving legendary BAMF status (again), and the dream team making fools out of the entire Trade Federation. This is officially an Ahsoka-Padmé-Chuchi fan club and we are not sorry about it.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping “Arc Troopers” (The Clone Wars Season 3.2).2021-12-0753 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Second Mandalore ArcWe’ve got heart eyes for the Scooby Gang in the Second Mandalore arc (The Clone Wars Season 3, episodes 5-6). The Moogans would have gotten away with their entire racketeering scheme if it weren’t for those pesky kids! In other news, we talk about Padme’s grace in the face of a diplomatic rabble, corruption schemes of yore, and why the kids — cadets Korkie, Amis, Lagos and, ya know, the blonde one — are all right.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping “Sphere of Influence” (The Clone Wars Season 3.4) and “Assassin” (3.7).2021-11-3050 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Young Boba vs. Mace WinduIt’s the Boba Fett and Mace Windu show! (Yeah, yeah, Aurra Sing and Plo-Koon are there, too.) Boba serves up vengeance just the way he likes it in the final arc of season two of The Clone Wars: spicy-hot and full of explosives. In our recap, we talk about wolves in sheep’s clothing, the intimacy of being known, generational debts, whether or not Aurra Sing is a good mom and all about the EDM scene in downtown Coruscant. Also, Plo’s Bros.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the Second Mandalore arc: The Clon...2021-11-231h 00Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: First Mandalore ArcIt’s time to talk about the greatest romance of Star Wars history. No, it’s not Anakin and Padme. Or Leia and Han. It’s Obi-Wan and Satine’s world, and we’re all just living in it!! This episode, we’re recapping The First Mandalore Arc (The Clone Wars Season 2, episodes 12-14) and talking all about false flag operations, the cultural juggernaut of Mandalore’s warrior past and, MOST importantly, Satine’s dating life. The banter is strong with this one, y’all.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the Young Boba Fett vs. Mace Windu...2021-11-161h 01Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Lightsaber LostIn Anna’s second favorite Clone Wars episode (beaten only by “Trespass”) we’re blessed with dad jokes, grandad-vice and an epic American Ninja Warrior Challenge across Coruscant. We talk about great teachers and great lessons, Padawan electives and the origins of Bae Watch. All hail Tera Sinu-bae.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the First Mandalore Arc: The Clone Wars Season 2, episode 12-14.2021-11-0952 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: The Deserter ArcClones: Rural soldier philosophers married to hot babes OR speeder bike enthusiasts with no concept of self-determination?
In the Deserter Arc (The Clone Wars, Season 2, episodes 9-10) Obi-Wan exhibits both internal and external screaming as Grievous escapes from him once more. We get not one, but TWO new Jedi masters, adorable smol children and one very spooky cornfield. It has been 0 days since Sam cried at a Clone Wars episode.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping Lightsaber Lost: Season 2, episode 11.2021-11-0254 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Brain Invaders ArcJust in time for spooky season, we have the creepiest Clone Wars arc yet. In “Legacy of Terror” and “Brain Invaders” (Season 2, eps. 7-8) we get up close and personal with parasitic brain worms, an underground egg-laying queen and a horde of zombie warriors. Yes, this is all canon.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping the Deserter arc: Season 2, episodes 9-10.2021-10-2658 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Second Battle of GeonosisGrab your Gatorade and orange slices, because Ahsoka and Barriss Offee are girlbossing VERY close to the sun. We’re going full “Saving Private Ryan” in the Second Battle of Geonosis arc (The Clone Wars season 2, episodes 5-6). There are super-tanks, flamethrowers, Lord of the Rings-style kill counts and a genuinely moving #TeamPadawan arc. It is...spectacular.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping the Brain Invaders arc: Season 2, episodes 7-8.2021-10-1252 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Senate SpyWorst date ever. The date was my ex, my husband was our driver, the Jedi Council set us up, there was poison. Two stars.
Also known as: that time Padmé had a very hard day at the office. Join us for our recap of Senate Spy — The Clone Wars Season 2, episode 4, in which we talk Hitchcock references, fancy flying, and what makes a healthy marriage. (Spoiler alert: Anakin and Padmé do not have one.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping The Second Battle of Geonosis: Season 2, episodes 5-6.2021-10-0550 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: The Zillo Beast ArcUnleash your inner Reptar, because we’re meeting the Zillo Beast. Everything’s fun and games until Anakin and Mace Windu wake a literal dragon in episodes 18-19 of The Clone Wars Season 2. Palpatine is shady AF, Dr. Boll is too good at her job, and Mace Windu stars in his very own sexy PETA ad.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Senate Spy: Season 2, episode 4.2021-09-2855 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Bounty HuntersCool Hat Tuesday continues as we meet a bunch of bounty hunters with hearts of gold — and re-meet OG Cool Hat Guy Hondo Ohnaka. In an homage to Akira Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai,” our seven heroes fearlessly face down Hondo’s gang of capitalists. The local villagers face a #Relatable case of imposter syndrome, Obi-Wan gets his flirt on, and Anakin and Ahsoka are in it to win it.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re talking animal rights, empathy and all things Mace Windu in the Zillo Beast arc: Season 2, episodes 18-19.2021-09-2150 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Holocron ArcJoin us for the inaugural Cool Hat Tuesday, featuring Cad Bane’s excellent fedora. This arc has everything: Anakin/Obi-Wan banter, child-stealers, countless heists, and even a glorious Kit Fisto cameo.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is a Patreon exclusive for the most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday. We’re also airing “Sam’s Naval History Minute” for all the people who look up when a plane flies by.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re continuing our disreputable streak with “Bounty Hun...2021-09-1456 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Season 1 RetrospectiveAs we approach 20 episodes, we’re taking a look back at how far we’ve come. Sam and Anna cover The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones and all of season one of The Clone Wars in our “Season 1” retrospective. Plus, we include snippets of the thoughts and opinions you sent in for this episode, and sit down for a discussion with our listener Chris, who was inspired to watch The Clone Wars for the first time.
In this episode: choosing between Phantom and Attack of the Clones, favorite one-hit wonder heroes and villains, and changing hearts and mind...2021-09-071h 01Growing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Ryloth ArcLife imitates art (or art imitates life??) in the Ryloth Arc, where a war-torn country is ravaged by hostile non-governmental actors. (Yikes.) On a brighter note, Sam and Anna discuss the Peak Dad-akin energy in this arc, clone snugs, what women really want, and Mace Motherf****** Windu.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is a Patreon exclusive for the most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday. We’re also airing “Sam’s Naval History Minute” for all the people who look up when a plane flies by.2021-08-3157 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Blue Shadow Virus ArcHold onto your plague helmets, folks, because the Blue Shadow Virus arc has everything: Star Wars COVID, a precocious mechanic child, Darth Jar-Jar, Action Padme, tiny murder robot jump-scares, a nefarious Nazi plague scientist and literally the most handsome Obi-Wan yet.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is for a Patreon exclusive for most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching the FINAL ARC of Season 1 of The Clone Wars: Episodes 19-21, “Storm Over Ryloth,” “Innocents of...2021-08-2452 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: TrespassIn Anna’s favorite episode of The Clone Wars so far, Sam refuses to say someone died like a b**** (but REALLY wants to). Winter fashion is all the rage on Orto Plutonia, and we find out Anakin and Obi-Wan look exceptional in balaclavas. Also, we have confirmation that the Star Wars universe has a maximum age for senators (16) and it’s...kind of working out for them.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is for a Patreon exclusive for most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Th...2021-08-1748 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Anakin Injured ArcSam and Anna dive deep into the politics of pacifism in a recap of the Anakin Injured arc (Season 1, Episode 13-14) and long for the simplicity of life as a Lurmen. Place your bets on who loves Aayla Secura more. Also, a Bae Watch mega-surprise! Plus, a shoutout for all our intergalactic realtor friends - help us find a planet to colonize, we beg you.
Tune into our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run.” We’re also releasing an unedited, un-cut, full-length version of this episode for ALL patreon subscribers (aka, the Zack Snyder's Justice League version.)
Watc...2021-08-1055 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Count Dooku Captured ArcShenanigans ensue in the Count Dooku Captured arc (Season 1, Episodes 11-12) and “disreputable” is the word of the day. Dooku might have racked up the second highest kill count of the episode (behind the one and only Jar-Jar Binks) but Obi-Wan’s banter slays. Come for the cutting insults and stay for the cutting insults!
PS: Tune into our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run!”
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 13-14, “Jedi Crash” and “Defenders of Peace.”2021-08-0353 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Nute Gunray Captured ArcIn our recap of the Nute Gunray Captured Arc (The Clone Wars Season 1, Episodes 8-10), Anna creates the Cult of Jedi Master Jar-Jar. Despicable wealth worms ruin our day, Ahsoka learns no valuable lessons, and we would like to formally apologize to all Chads, everywhere.
PS: Tune in for our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run!” This is our off-the-cuff, no-holds-barred bonus content for only the most discerning of Outer Rim smugglers.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 11-12, “Dooku Captured” and “The Gungan General.”2021-07-2759 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Replacement Droid ArcIn our recap of The Clone Wars Episodes 6-7, we see the greatest betrayal in Star Wars history. (Well, second greatest.) Anakin anthropomorphizes his favorite toolkit, we’re marching for droid rights, and Obi-Wan has HAD IT. And, we are just as surprised as you are to be discussing fart jokes in Star Wars. Tune in to see the fate of the Republic once again resting on one 14-year-old’s shoulders!
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 8-10: “Bombad Jedi,” “Cloak of Darkness” and “Lair of Grievous.” See you Tuesday!2021-07-2057 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: RookiesParty at Domino House! In our recap of the standalone episode “Rookies,” we reunite with Domino Squad...just in time to see them fall. On the plus side, Rex is making barbecued eel for dinner (and we’re pretty sure he won the genetic lottery.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 6-7: “Downfall of a Droid” and “Duel of the Droids.” See you Tuesday!2021-07-1339 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: The Malevolence ArcIn this triple-header recap of Season 1, Episodes 2-4, General Grievous pimps his ride, Sam talks about WWII naval warfare (somehow it’s relevant) and you’ll never look at can openers the same way again. Come for Ahsoka’s backseat driving, stay for the giant space manta rays.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episode 5: “Rookies.” See you Tuesday!2021-07-0653 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: AmbushOur timelines converge (finally) as we catch up to “Ambush,” the pilot episode of The Clone Wars TV series. In other news, Toydarians are morally superior to all of us (Watto excluded) and healthy mentor/mentee relationships are not the Sith’s style. First 100 listeners get a visit from a chaos gremlin.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering the Malevolence arc of The Clone Wars TV show: Episodes 2-4 of Season 1 (“Rising Malevolence,” “Shadow of Malevolence,” and “Destroy Malevolence.” See you Tuesday!2021-06-2943 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Clone Cadets + Supply LinesAnd we’re back (to The Clone Wars TV series, that is)! Anna cries, Sam becomes a big-brained antagonist apologist, and then Anna cries again. #JusticeFor99.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering “Ambush,” the pilot episode of The Clone Wars TV series. See you Tuesday!2021-06-2245 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars Movie, Part 2In the second half of the feature-length Star Wars: The Clone Wars movie, Sam and Anna talk at length about Huttese genders and Ahsoka and Anakin get shot down again (yes – again). We also see IG-100 MagnaGuards at their absolute finest. First 100 listeners get to babysit baby Jabba. All listeners should beware of senators wearing white jumpsuits.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering The Clone Wars TV episodes “Clone Cadets” (Season 3, Episode 1) and “Supply Lines” (Season 3, Episode 3). See you Tuesday!2021-06-0859 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars Movie, Part 1Introducing Snips! In the first half of the feature-length Star Wars: The Clone Wars movie, we do our best to keep up with the lightning-fast plot changes. Obi-Wan commits war crimes, Anakin deals with an intern crisis and we (reluctantly) explore sex ed for Hutts.
Watching along with us? Next Tuesday, we’re covering the second half of the film.2021-06-0159 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Clone Wars: Cat and Mouse + Hidden EnemyDiving straight into The Clone Wars TV series, we cover Season 2, Episode 16 (“Cat and Mouse”) and Season 1, Episode 16 (“Hidden Enemy”). Faux-hawks and facial hair abound in our first introduction to the Republic’s clone army. We talk about how Anakin was #BornThisWay, radicalizing moments, and why the aliens in The Clone Wars are just built better.
Watching along with us? Next Tuesday, we’re watching the first half of Star Wars: The Clone Wars (the 2008 feature-length film).2021-05-2555 minGrowing Up SkywalkerAttack of the Clones, Part 2In the second half of Attack of the Clones, we sing an ode to Mace Windu and rank Padme’s best outfits. Also, we throw in a casual conversation about the meaning of death (to Force users, that is). Quoth Anakin to C3PO: “Get in, loser, we’re going to Geonosis.”
Watching along with us? Next up in chronological order, we have Season 2, Episode 16 of The Clone Wars TV show, “Cat and Mouse,” then Season 1, Episode 16, “Hidden Enemy” – both of which we’ll cover next Tuesday!2021-05-1848 minGrowing Up SkywalkerAttack of the Clones, Part 1In the first half of Attack of the Clones, Anna finds out she accidentally became a true Star Wars fan and we discuss the impeccable Kaminoan aesthetics. Also, the Fetts get an honorary award for the healthiest father-son dynamics in Star Wars (for about 20 minutes, that is). Tune in on 99.7 The Podrace, Anakin’s signature station.2021-05-1157 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Phantom Menace, Part 2*slow, operatic fight scene music intensifies*
Join for this week’s episode, where we talk about the thrilling conclusion to The Phantom Menace (not actually inspired by #WakandaForever) and how a 16-part plan cooked up by a 14-year-old actually works. First 100 listeners get a Gungan peace orb.2021-05-0447 minGrowing Up SkywalkerThe Phantom Menace, Part 1Let’s talk about the Jar-Jar in the room.
Podracing: it’s the best. Qui-Gon is bae. #JusticeForJarJar. Join us for all these spicy takes and more in the first full-length episode of Growing Up Skywalker! All listeners get season tickets to the Malastare Podracing Circuit.2021-05-0449 minGrowing Up SkywalkerEpisode 0: IntroductionA long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...Sam (resident Star Wars expert) and Anna (resident non-expert) began a Star Wars podcast that combines wisdom and wonder.
Join us on Tuesdays as we watch every canonical Star Wars film and television appearance in chronological, in-universe order. Reliving the experience? Seeing it for the first time? We’re here for you, wherever you receive your holocrons.2021-05-0403 min