After Shows

Avatar: Braving the Elements

A new Avatar legend begins with the official companion podcast Avatar: Braving the Elements. Join hosts Janet Varney (the voice of Korra) and Dante Basco (the voice of Prince Zuko) each week as they watch brand-new episodes of the all-new series Avatar: Seven Havens! They’ll also be breaking down the new Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender movie, and revisiting The Legend of Korra Book 3: Change. Get ready to meet the voices behind new Avatar characters for the very first time, and hear from the creative team that helps bring these stories to life. Don’t miss the biggest season yet of Avatar: Braving the Elements!

Latest Episodes:

The Rise of the Dark Avatar w/ Special Guest Devery Jacobs Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

Actor and filmmaker Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs) joins Janet Varney and Dante Basco to break down one of the most intense episodes in The Legend of Korra: “Darkness Falls.” This is the moment everything changes—Unalaq’s plan to merge with the dark spirit Vaatu threatens to create something the Avatar world has never seen before: a Dark Avatar.

Together, they explore what this twist means for Korra, the Avatar cycle, and the balance between light and darkness. From the emotional weight of Korra’s battle at the Tree of Time to the eerie Valley of Lost Souls and the heartbreaking loss of her connection to past Avatars, the conversation dives deep into why this episode hits so hard.

There’s plenty of fun too—like Bolin’s unexpected romantic confession and the ongoing debate over badgermoles versus flying bison—but at its core, this discussion asks big questions: What happens when darkness wins? And what does that say about balance in the Avatar world?

Will light prevail—or has the age of the Dark Avatar begun? Watch the video version on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel for even more reactions and insights!

Korra’s Mom Speaks Out! Alex McKenna on Harmonic Convergence and the Dark Avatar Nov 18, 2025

Show notes

Harmonic Convergence has arrived, and the fate of the Avatar world hangs in the balance. In this episode of Braving the Elements, hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with Alex McKenna, the voice of Senna—Korra’s mom—to explore one of the most pivotal moments in The Legend of Korra: Unalaq’s shocking plan to fuse with Vaatu and create a Dark Avatar.

Alex shares behind-the-scenes stories from recording sessions and her thoughts on Korra’s family dynamics and the fandom’s favorite ship, Korrasami. The conversation dives into why Harmonic Convergence changes everything, the philosophy of balance between light and dark, and what it truly means to be the Avatar when darkness rises. Along the way, we celebrate Naga’s fierce loyalty, Bumi’s unexpected heroics, and the emotional stakes that make this episode unforgettable.

Join the fun and react to the stunning action featured in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel!

The Twist That Changed Everything: Bolin’s Heroics in Night of a Thousand Stars Nov 11, 2025

Show notes

What happens when Bolin goes from movie star to real-life hero? In Night of a Thousand Stars, the Nuktuk premiere turns into chaos, President Raiko’s life is on the line, and Bolin delivers the twist no one saw coming. Hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with writer Josh Hamilton to spill the secrets behind this fan-favorite episode of The Legend of Korra. From Varrick's jaw-dropping scheme and Bolin’s epic fight to the shocking kiss that reignites Korra’s love triangle, this conversation dives deep into the drama, the laughs, and the behind-the-scenes stories that made this chapter unforgettable. If you thought you knew everything about Bolin’s big moment, think again—this episode will change how you see Book Two forever.

And if you’d like to join Janet, Dante and their guest(s) as they react to some amazing action, check out the video version of this episode on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel!

Uncle Iroh Returns! Greg Baldwin & Cora Baker on Korra’s Spirit World Journey Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

In this unforgettable episode, we are joined by two incredible guests: Greg Baldwin, the voice of Uncle Iroh (yes, that Iroh!), and Cora Baker, who brought young Korra to life (and happens to be Dee Bradley Baker’s daughter!). We dive into The Legend of Korra Book 2, Episode 10: “A New Spiritual Age” where Korra enters the Spirit World and faces her deepest fears—but she’s not alone.

We talk about Iroh’s surprise return, his most iconic line, and how Korra’s emotions literally reshape the Spirit World. Plus, behind-the-scenes stories from Greg and Cora, favorite spirit creatures, shipping hot takes (Korrasami fans, this one’s for you), and why this episode feels like a Miyazaki-inspired masterpiece.

And don't forget to watch the full episode on YouTube to see our special guests react to this episode in real time!

Korra Crosses Over: Reacting to Her First Steps Into the Spirit World Oct 28, 2025

Show notes

What happens when Korra finally enters the Spirit World - and it doesn’t go as planned? Actor and Avatar superfan Brandon Perea (Nope, The OA, Twisters) joins Janet and Dante to break down The Legend of Korra Book 2, Episode 9: “The Guide.” With his background in breakdancing, anime fandom, and spiritual exploration, Brandon brings fresh insight into Korra’s emotional turning point and the surreal beauty (and danger) of the Spirit World.

From Tenzin’s surprising failure to Jinora’s rise as a spiritual prodigy, this episode dives deep into legacy, vulnerability, and what it really takes to connect with something bigger than yourself. Plus, Brandon shares his dream of joining the Avatar universe, his hilarious B-boy name, and how movement and meditation shaped his own journey - on and off screen.

And if you’d like to join Janet, Dante and their guest(s) as they react to some amazing action, check out the video version of this episode on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel!

Siblings Levon & Maya Hawke Break Down Avatar’s Most Intense Sibling Rivalries Oct 21, 2025

Show notes

In today's episode, we welcome real-life siblings and lifelong Avatar superfans Levon and Maya Hawke for a deep dive into the sibling relationships that define the Avatarverse. From Mako and Bolin to Amon and Tarrlok to Sokka and Katara, the conversation explores how family dynamics—rivalry, loyalty, and love—shape some of the most powerful character arcs in both Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra.

Levon and Maya share personal reflections on growing up in a big family, how they relate to characters like Toph and Katara, and what bending styles best match their personalities. They also reveal their favorite ships (Zutara fans, rejoice!), hybrid animals, and which Avatar characters they’d want on their escape room team.

And in one of the episode’s funniest moments, Dante shares a family story that leads to a shoutout to “ugly babies”—a reminder that even the least likely characters (or siblings) can grow into greatness.

And as always, you can react to the epic action featured in this week’s episode by checking out the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel!

The First Avatar: How Wan Changed the Avatarverse Forever Oct 14, 2025

Show notes

Before Aang, before Korra - there was Wan. In this episode, Janet Varney and Dante Basco are joined by the voice of Asami herself, Seychelle Gabriel, to explore the origin of the Avatar cycle and the mythic battle between light and darkness. As Korra journeys into the past, we witness Wan’s transformation from a street-smart trickster into the bridge between humans and spirits. Along the way, we meet lion turtles, spirit creatures, and the two cosmic forces - Raava and Vaatu - whose eternal battle shaped the world as we know it. Plus, we dive into the gorgeous animation style, the mystery of hybrid animals, and the surprising role of Fire Nation healing.

Join the fun and react to the stunning action featured in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel!

Asami’s Breaking Point, Betrayal & That Kiss in 'The Sting' with Seychelle Gabriel Oct 07, 2025

Show notes

We are joined by Seychelle Gabriel, voice of Asami Sato, to unpack one of Book Two’s most pivotal episodes: “The Sting.” Seychelle dives into Asami’s emotional unraveling after discovering her company has been sabotaged and her warehouse emptied - all while navigating betrayal, explosions, and a surprise kiss with Mako. From Bolin’s propaganda-fueled movie stardom to shady triad deals and rooftop chases, this episode is packed with action, drama, and the moment Asami realizes she might have trusted the wrong mogul. Whether you’re Team Asami, Team Korra, or just here for the chaos, Seychelle gives a great behind-the-scenes POV on what it was like voicing Asami during one of her most vulnerable moments—and teases the emotional fallout fans won’t want to miss.

And don't forget to watch the full episode on YouTube to see Seychelle, Janet, and Dante react to this episode in real time!

How Varrick Became the Avatarverse’s Most Unpredictable Character Sep 30, 2025

Show notes

In this unforgettable episode, the brilliant John Michael Higgins, voice of the eccentric and endlessly quotable Varrick from The Legend of Korra, joins Janet and Dante! Higgins shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories and reflects on how Varrick became one of the most beloved - and morally ambiguous- characters in the Avatar universe.

The conversation dives deep into Varrick’s chaotic genius, his complex relationship with Zhu Li, and how his character embodies the tension between bending and technology in a post-ATLA world. We also dive into the unforgettable “idea storm” scene, Varrick’s platypus bear disguise, and the moment he declares, “If you can’t make money during a war, you just flat out cannot make money.” Plus, we unpack Korra’s emotional arc, her clash with President Raiko, and the explosive breakup with Mako that leaves desks shattered and hearts bruised.

Join the fun and react to the stunning action featured in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel!

Civil War Parts 1 & 2 with Olympic Champion Laurie Hernandez Sep 23, 2025

Show notes

Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez joins hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) to break down The Legend of Korra Book Two’s pivotal double episode: “Civil War Parts 1 & 2.”

As tensions explode between the Northern and Southern Water Tribes, Korra faces her most difficult decision yet - choosing between her father Tonraq and her manipulative uncle Unalaq. Meanwhile, sibling drama unfolds at the Southern Air Temple as Tenzin, Kya, and Bumi confront their past and Avatar Aang’s legacy.

Laurie shares her love for the Avatarverse, her favorite ships (Zutara and Korrasami!), and which bending style she’d master in real life. Plus: Bolin’s chaotic romance with Eska, Verick’s platypus bear escape plan, and the unforgettable names of the baby sky bison.

And if you’d like to join Janet, Dante and their guest(s) as they react to some amazing action, check out the video version of this episode on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Avatar: Braving the Elements

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Avatar: Braving the Elements

Related Podcasts

1

2

3

4

5

6