An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

We have another major addition to the conspiracy! Nienna and possibly Gandalf are involved this time ~ Join us as we dive into the story of Fëanor and the unbelievably short trial to unchain the Darkest Lord of all time lol ... We are also joined by our special guests, The Lords and Ladies of Gondolin: The House of Flour Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Before the wars, before the Silmarils, before the exile… there was Eldamar. In this episode, we step into the Blessed Realm itself — the shining lands of the Elves beneath the light of the Two Trees. But beneath the beauty, Tolkien quietly plants the seeds of one of the greatest tragedies in all of Middle-earth. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we journey into one of the most quietly powerful chapters of The Silmarillion: Of Thingol and Melian. This is the story where myth slows down and something rare happens — an Elf and a Maia meet beneath the stars, and Middle-earth is changed forever. But obviously we caught a whiff of some conspiracy stuff ... Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we celebrate 8 years in a very unique way- giving you our "TOP 5" in everything from films and tv shows to local restaurants and dive bars! 8 years is far too short a time to spend amongst such excellent and admirable UPers... so let's just never stop then. What say you? Thank you for all of your support, for listening for near a decade, but most of all for becoming our dear friends along the way. Through life's unforeseen ebbs and flows, ups and downs- it's you UPers that have been the constant. And it's something we don't take for granted. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we finally witness the arrival of the Children of Eru Illuvatar- but right from the start, Melkor sows deception and discord. Not only that, many elves go missing, only to be taken by Melkor- tortured and mutilated, they are transformed into an utter mockery and perversion (Orcs). With the Children in mortal danger, what are the Valar to do? After a quick council, it's decided that the Children should be defended and protected (and Tulkas smiles) and Melkor's butt kicked, destined to be held prisoner in the Halls of Mandos for a sentence of no less than 3 ages. Meanwhile, after Ingwe (Vanyar), Finwe (Noldor) and Elwe (Teleri) visit Valinor and witness the light of the Trees, they return to Cuivienen (the birthplace of the elves) as ambassadors with an invitation from the Valar to come venture westward and make a home in Valinor. What follows is truly the genesis of all drama (and doom) in Arda. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we return to the heart of Arda and explore one of the most beautiful contrasts in all of Tolkien’s legendarium: the brilliant craftsmanship of Aulë and the life-giving grace of Yavanna. Aulë, the Smith of the Valar, is restless with creativity — shaping mountains, forging the deep places of the earth, and longing for minds to teach. Yavanna, the Giver of Fruits, watches over every green thing that grows, from towering forests to the smallest blades of grass. Their desires clash, intertwine, and ultimately give birth to some of the most important beings in Middle-earth’s history. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we witness the beginning of days as the Valar and Maiar strive to bring the vision and music of Eru Illuvatar to life, while fending off the discord of Melkor relentlessly being woven into the alreay young world, as all await the arrival of the Children of the One. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we explore the Valaquenta, and get to the know the Valar and Maiar a little better! But it's October 31st, so we've dressed for the occasion ... and Mor-goth has made an unexpected apperance to play a GAME with Blue Suit Andy Serkis ... Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Order your CANDLES: Firelight Fables Candles Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we explore Tolkien's letter 131 &The Ainulindalë, the opening chapter of The Silmarillion, where Tolkien’s world begins with music. Discover how Eru Ilúvatar and the Ainur sang creation into being, what the Flame Imperishable means, and how Melkor’s discord shaped Middle-earth’s destiny. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Part 1 - In this episode of An Unexpected Podcast, we embark on our new journey to cover the Silmarillion and march our way back through Tolkien's legendarium. We have a lot of catching up to do in this episode: Quick Council, Droppin Eaves (Rings of Power Season 3 News & the Hunt for Gollum news & speculation), and other corners of Middle Earth. In Part 2, we will be discussing Tolkien's letter 131 and part I of the Silmarillion - Ainulindalë: The Music of the Ainur PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

After the joy of LEP3, we’re taking a moment to reflect on just how powerful and inspiring that celebration was. It felt like a shadow was lifted, and our hearts were truly healed by the laughter, fellowship, and love of Tolkien’s world. In this episode, we share how that experience reignited our passion and inspired us to bring this podcast into its full glory. And with fresh energy and new light, we’re setting our course for the next great adventure: The Silmarillion. Discord is BACK! Patreon exclusive Podcast is BACK! We have tons of new extra perks up on Patreon! Go check them out or at least start chatting with us and friends in Discord (it's FREE). PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to LEP3, our Long Expected Party #3! We’re celebrating International Hobbit Day and, of course, Bilbo Baggins’ birthday with something truly special: a LIVE recording of Lord of the Rings trivia! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Speak "Friend" and ENTER - It is time for LEP3 baby! Lane breaks down the schedule for September 19th - 21st ~ This will tell you exactly where Lane and Ez will be during the day, so that you can better plan your experience. We are excited to share what we have planned for the third Long Expected Party! We can't wait to see you there. It's going to be a blast! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Speak "Friend" and ENTER - It is time for LEP3 baby! Lane breaks down the schedule for September 19th - 21st ~ This will tell you exactly where Lane and Ez will be during the day, so that you can better plan your experience. We are excited to share what we have planned for the third Long Expected Party! We can't wait to see you there. It's going to be a blast! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Set sail with us in this Patron-exclusive deep dive as we explore one of Tolkien’s most underrated yet emotionally layered tales: Aldarion and Erendis from Unfinished Tales. In this episode, we break down the journey of Aldarion — prince, mariner, and conflicted heir to Númenor — as he navigates the treacherous waters of duty, love, and obsession with the sea. We also provide you guys with a bit of quick council (hope you enjoy it) ~ Just had to catch up! Life has been quite the adventure! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Grab your walking stick and pack your second breakfast! In this special episode, A Middle Earth March through Mount Vernon, we are planning to celebrate National Hobbit Day with a cozy stroll through the Shire-like streets of our very own Mount Vernon. Whether you’re a Frodo fan, a Samwise fan, or just love the smell of pipe-weed and fresh-baked seed cake, this episode is for you. Follow Max: https://www.instagram.com/maxwell.leaning/ PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ever wonder what it's really like behind the scenes of Superman (2025)? In this episode, we talk to the stand-in for Rick Flag—someone who was on set for one of the biggest DCU films in years. From filming experiences to casting rumors and on-set energy, this insider gives us a rare peek behind the cape. GO FOLLOW MIKE: https://www.instagram.com/ironwolverinecosplay/ We also explore: Whether you're a Snyder-era loyalist, a James Gunn optimist, or just DC-curious, this episode has insider insight and fan speculation in equal measure. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we unravel the full story of King Thingol, also known as Elwë Singollo — the enigmatic Sindarin ruler of Doriath and one of the most influential Elves of the First Age. From his awakening at Cuiviénen, to his enchanted love for Melian the Maia, and the rise of the Hidden Kingdom of Doriath, we explore Thingol’s far-reaching impact on Middle-earth history. Discover his complicated ties to the House of Finwë, his role in the tragedy of the Silmarils, and the pride that would lead to his downfall. Whether you’re a lifelong Tolkien fan or a newcomer to The Silmarillion, this deep-dive is your ultimate guide to the life, legacy, and lore of one of Arda’s most fascinating kings Thanks again for all the support! PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

(SNEAK SNIFF) Patreon Exclusive Series - In this episode, we dive deep into the tragic tale of Túrin Turambar, one of the most complex and heartbreaking characters in all of Tolkien’s legendarium. Born under a shadow and burdened by Morgoth’s curse, Túrin’s life is marked by exile, loss, pride, and sorrow. From his foster years in Doriath to his fateful time in Nargothrond, and his doomed love in Brethil, Túrin's story echoes ancient myths of doomed heroes—part Achilles, part Hamlet. We’ll explore how Túrin’s choices and the curse of Morgoth intertwine to shape his destiny, how Tolkien weaves themes of fate, free will, and identity into his narrative, and why The Children of Húrin remains one of the darkest and most powerful tales of the First Age. Was Túrin truly cursed—or simply unable to escape the flaws within himself? Grab your sword, keep an eye out for Glaurung, and join us for a journey through sorrow, shadow, and the tragic grandeur of Middle-earth’s most broken hero. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is The Hunt for Gollum a bold new chapter in Middle-earth… or just a cash grab by Warner Bros.? In this video, we explore the controversy surrounding the upcoming Lord of the Rings movie directed by Andy Serkis and produced by Peter Jackson’s original creative team. With concerns about fan-film takedowns, a possible two-part release, and stretching limited Tolkien material, fans are asking: is this story necessary—or is the studio chasing profit? We break down both sides of the debate, analyze the source material, and discuss what this film could mean for the future of Tolkien adaptations. PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkien Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/ Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/ If you'd like to send us something please address it to: The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102 Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard If you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night! Read less Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy