An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

Latest Episodes:

Magic in the Shire with Jake and Lana Sep 25, 2026

Show notes

He goes by many names- Warhammer Time. The Dungeon Slayer. Jake the Snake.

But we call him our Friend... and we're lucky to do so.

Join us as Ez, Goldberry, Ace and Lane sit around the fire with Jake and Lana reflecting on their time in Amanda, reliving their favourite moments from Middle-earth and guarding the leftover Mexican carry-out from Ace's sneaky paws!

Jake's been with us since the beginning and to be able to record in the backyard is something we will never forget and just one of the many ways that Tolkien's mythical world creates real magic in our every day lives.

Frodo lives.

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LEP Four Ever Sep 24, 2026

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Well, LEP 4 has come and gone... and it was unFOURgettable. We had friends from all over (the world in some cases- Jake and Lana) gather in the backyard of Bag End, enjoying good foods, fun games and even outlasting the rains. Sarah and Ethan even started a glorious fire from the storm-soaked ashes of the fire pit.

We'll never forget it and we think this conversation with Griffin and his dad Dr. Damion is the best way to commemorate our last LEP... his passion for LOTR and Tolkien reminded us a bit of our younger selves... except we were never that sharp!

We hope you enjoy it- Frodo Lives!

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LEP4 Schedule | Thráin in Rings of Power? AI in Hunt for Gollum? Sep 10, 2026

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We have finalized the details on our upcoming fourth Long Expected Party (in Amanda, Ohio). Check instagram or DM us for questions/ details if needed. This week we are diving into some huge Middle-earth news! In this episode we discuss the possibility of Thráin appearing in The Rings of Power, and explore the growing conversation around AI being used in The Hunt for Gollum.

What could Thráin’s inclusion mean for the future of The Rings of Power? And should fans be concerned about AI becoming part of major Middle-earth productions? Let’s break down the news, rumors, and possibilities.

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Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/

If you'd like to send us something please address it to:

The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102

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 rewards include an exclusive podcast series, LIVE discord pre-recording show, bi-weekly chats with the guys, exclusive Instagram chat for the Lords and Ladies of Gondolin, access to our secret "speak pipe" which allows your voice to be heard on the show, sticker packs, handwritten letters and much more!

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The Night Booze with Ez and Lane and the Boys Aug 09, 2026

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This very special episode of The Night Breeze was recorded on location in the Booze and Boos Studio with Alex, James and Shanan, affectionately known as the (Illinois) Boys. We had an absolute blast of a whirlwind visit with them rekindling friendships forged at LEP Three and hope you enjoy this fly on the wall episode we recorded with them- complete with a fun trivia challenge hosted by Alex- Booze and Boos, himself!

You can join millions and listen to Booze and Boos on Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/43BJPjVXSUjpEKEdrS5KK3?si=20f81223a3f74d12

If you'd like to submit your own spooky, scary or paranormal story to be featured on an episode email Alex at submityourscarystory@gmail.com

You can also purchase killer merch at https://inkedandawkward.com/ where Alex sells apparel featuring artwork created by local artists (NO AI!)

Follow Shanan and James as they continue the beast that started it all, the Black Crypt Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/4AQiPX3Kmp1CGqnvxBB1ln?si=b5e174473eff4e54

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LEP Four: The Quadruplogy: Saturday, September 19, 2026 Jul 30, 2026

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Hello friends- Let the countdown begin (or continue) for LEP 4!

In this episode, Lane shares a quick rundown of general specifics for our Fourth LEP which will be taking place on Saturday 9/19/26. While there are still many details to pin down, you can bet your bottom farthing where we'll all be on that magical Saturday- in the back yard of a hobbit hole in a little Village called Amanda!

Complete with ample food, fine company and all the comforts of home (not to mention the 4th Potato Cookoff, Trivia, Games, Drinks, and more) we hope you'll consider joining us in, what may perhaps be, the last LEP for some time.

AS Mentioned in the episode, Amanda is about 45 minute drive from John Glenn Airport in Columbus and rests right between Circleville and Lancaster. The Hocking Hills region is also breathtaking and just to the southeast of Amanda. Here are some of our favorite spots and sights:

Circleville

Eateries: Lindsey's Donuts (Year round, world-famous pumpkin donuts), Richie's NY Corner Deli

Lancaster

Eateries: Alehouse 1890, Provisions, O'Huid's Gaelic Pub, The Pink Cricket, Fairview Inn Bar, Cherry Street Pub, Brigg's Restaurant

Destinations: Mt Pleasant and Rising Park, Ohio Glass Museum, Sherman House Museum, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, Georgian Museum, Flat Rocks Disc Golf Course

Amanda

Eateries: Tavern 22, Spade's Cafe & Bakery, Clearcreek Cakes and Bakes

Destinations: Clear Creek Metro Park

Hocking Hills

Destinations: Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow (Gorge Trail), plus tons of awesome cabins and Air BNB Availabilities

Amanda's surrounded by great places to explore and be swept off to no tellin' where!

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The Silmarillion: Chapter Twelve: Of Men Jun 17, 2026

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This episodes was recorded in Ohio, transported to Germany, edited and posted from the SHIRE ~ Cirencester, England! The stars are no longer the only lights in Middle-earth, and the Elves are no longer alone. This week, we dive into Chapter 12 of The Silmarillion, "Of Men."

As the Sun first rises in the West, the second children of Ilúvatar awake in the far east of Hildórien. We discuss the striking differences between the Firstborn and the Followers, the mystery surrounding Men's early days, and how Morgoth immediately moved to corrupt them. Plus, we break down the "Gift of Men"—mortality—and how Tolkien sets up the ultimate bittersweet destiny of humanity in Arda.

We also discuss: Rings of Power Season 3, The Hunt for Gollum, and Shadow of the Past

#lordoftherings #hobbit #shire

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The Silmarillion: Chapter Eleven: Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor May 13, 2026

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In this episode, we break down “Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor” Tolkien's origin story of the Sun and the Moon and the Valar's collective response to refuse the death of hope, instead hoping against all hope for light to be rekindled and the world brought out of the domain of Morgoth- utter darkness.

We see the power of Yavanna and Nienna as a single golden fruit from Laurelin and a solitary silver flower from Telperion are beckoned forth, preserved and turned into the lamps of Ilmen.

And with the coming of Men soon on the horizon, this illumination couldn't come at a more perfect time.

In yet another attempt to protect what remains of the blessed realm, the Pelori are raised even higher, and the Calacirya left open but guarded so that no living creature uninvited or unbeckoned should enter into Valinor ever again.

If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.

#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarth

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The Silmarillion: Chapter Ten: Of the Sindar Apr 24, 2026

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In this episode, we break down “Of the Sindar” a chapter full of filling in the white spaces of the events in Beleriand and all Middle-earth for those elves who decided to stay: the twilight, the Grey Elves, the Sindar.

We see the arrival of the Dwarves and get to marvel at their creations as well as collaboration with the Eldar- the pinnacle being the city of Menegroth- home of King Thingol and Queen Melian and their daughter Luthien.

But Dark forces are emboldened and venture further west and with the arrival of Melkor and Ungoliant and the fortress of Angband being rebuilt, crowned with the Thangorodrim, we witness a breaking of the peace, changing Middle-earth forever.

A decision to guard Doriath is made and Melian sets her Girdle high all around to protect all the Eldar within... just in time for the arrival of Feanor at Drengist... The board is set for the action to come.

If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.

#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarth

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The Silmarillion: Chapter Nine: Of the Flight of the Noldor Apr 07, 2026

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In this episode, we break down “Of the Flight of the Noldor,” one of the most tragic and defining chapters in The Silmarillion.

After the Darkening of Valinor, the Noldor are driven by grief, pride, and vengeance—leading to rebellion, exile, and one of the most devastating moments in Tolkien’s legendarium.

We explore:

Fëanor’s influence and leadership
The Oath of Fëanor and its consequences
The rebellion against the Valar
The Kinslaying at Alqualondë
The journey of the Noldor into exile

This chapter sets the stage for the entire First Age and the wars that follow in Middle-earth.

If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.

#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarth

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The Silmarillion: Chapter Eight: Of the Darkening of Valinor Apr 06, 2026

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SPECIAL GUEST: In this episode, we dive into one of the most devastating and pivotal moments in Tolkien’s legendarium: The Darkening of Valinor from The Silmarillion.

This chapter marks the destruction of the Two Trees, the rise of Morgoth’s power, and the beginning of the long darkness that shapes the fate of Middle-earth.

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We break down:

The role of Morgoth and Ungoliant
The destruction of the Two Trees of Valinor
The theft of the Silmarils
The consequences for the Valar, the Elves, and the world

Whether you’re reading The Silmarillion for the first time or revisiting Tolkien’s deeper lore, this breakdown will help you understand one of the most important turning points in the entire story.

If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, be sure to subscribe for more.

#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Valinor #MiddleEarth #Morgoth

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