Avatar: Braving the Elements

Introducing Avatar: Braving the Elements from Nickelodeon Jun 14, 2021

Jump into the amazing world of Avatar with Nickelodeon’s official companion podcast, Avatar: Braving the Elements. Every Tuesday, join hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco as they re-watch every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender starting with Book 1. Special guests from cast members to producers join them to explore elements of the Avatarverse, including how Avatar was brought to life and behind-the-scenes info you can’t get anywhere else.

The Boy in the Iceberg: Beginning the Journey with Aang Jun 22, 2021

In our first-ever episode, get to know your hosts Janet Varney (“Korra” from The Legend of Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko himself!), find out what to expect in this ATLA rewatch podcast, and dive into the series premiere of Avatar: The Last Airbender — “The Boy in the Iceberg.” In Season 1, Episode 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005), we meet Aang, Appa, Katara, Sokka, and the icy beginning of a legendary adventure.

ATLA Origins Pt. 1: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko Jun 25, 2021

Jump into a multi-layered conversation with Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, the creative minds behind Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra! This episode gives fans invaluable insight into the birth of the Avatarverse — from Aang’s earliest concept sketches to bending philosophies and beyond.

ATLA Origins Pt. 2: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko Jun 29, 2021

It’s part two of our illuminating chat with Avatar: The Last Airbender creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko! Discover how key decisions shaped the show, what it took to bring Aang and Team Avatar to life, and how Mike and Bryan built a world that still inspires fans decades later.

The Avatar Returns: Aang’s Awakening & Zuko’s Hunt Jul 06, 2021

Janet and Dante recap some great listener interactions and then dig into Episode 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender — “The Avatar Returns.” In Season 1, Episode 2 of ATLA, Aang’s identity as the Avatar is revealed, and Prince Zuko intensifies his mission to capture him. Is Appa’s new nickname “the lazy canoe?” Did Zuko get bested by his own bed? Does Janet cry during EVERY episode of ATLA? Is Dante doing a British accent? And on a more serious note, Dante and Janet discuss how a shift in perspective can change the way you see your own life and choices!

Behind the Avatar: ATLA Development with Eric Coleman Jul 13, 2021

Janet and Dante are joined by former Nickelodeon exec Eric Coleman, who delves further into the development of Avatar: The Last Airbender and the stories behind some of the key moments and decisions that made the show work so beautifully. Listen in on this candid discussion with “The Godfather of Zuko” and learn more about Mike and Bryan’s early ideas, what it was like to work with them, and how to get ahead in a tough industry, all the way to getting a show made... while staying true to your vision!

The Southern Air Temple: Aang’s Journey and the Search for Truth Jul 20, 2021

In Season 1, Episode 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Aang takes us to the Southern Air Temple, where he must confront difficult truths about his past. Janet and Dante join the ride to unpack everything from Momo’s peach obsession to the intense Agni Kai. They explore the themes of family loss, chosen families, and the hard truths of Aang’s journey as the last Airbender. Join them for an emotional and adventurous episode of ATLA!

Meet the Cast: Jack De Sena on Voicing Sokka Jul 27, 2021

Janet and Dante sit down with Jack De Sena, the voice of Sokka, for a hilarious episode full of great conversation! Find out about Jack’s beginnings as a child actor to his busy college years trying to balance school with his ATLA voice-acting duties. Discover Jack’s thoughts on Sokka’s insatiable appetite (don’t eat the hybrid animals!), his favorite Sokka ship, and Jack’s thoughts on bringing this iconic character to life in the world of ATLA. It’s a can’t-miss episode guaranteed to make you laugh.,

The Warriors of Kyoshi: Jennie Kwan on Playing Suki Aug 03, 2021

Join Jennie Kwan as she discusses her iconic role as Suki in Season 1, Episode 5 of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Janet, Dante, and Jennie discusses their love of Suki and Kyoshi Warrior cosplay; something that suspiciously seems like Zuko’s breakdancing moves; the concept of gender fluidity in the Avatar legacy; and how to empower a person who has a lot to learn (Sokka!) by using toughness and a little patience.They also talk about Zuko’s growth and what makes Suki such a powerful and empowering character in the world of ATLA.

Suki Speaks: More with Jennie Kwan on Her Evolution in ATLA Aug 03, 2021

This special episode featuring Jennie Kwan takes an even deeper look at her role as Suki, the Kyoshi Warrior. Janet and Dante discuss Suki’s evolution in ATLA, touching on her empowering nature and the personal challenges that she and other characters like Sokka face in the series. Jennie shares her experiences as an Asian American actor in Hollywood, and the trio explores the cultural significance of Suki’s role, as well as the larger context of diversity within the world of Avatar.

The King of Omashu: André Sogliuzzo Brings King Bumi to Life Aug 10, 2021

In Season 1, Episode 6 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, it’s time to travel to the eccentric city of Omashu, where Aang, Katara, Sokka, and the gang meet the the strange, spirited leader of Omashu himself, King Bumi. Dante and Janet chat with prolific voice actor André Sogliuzzo about bringing the quirky king to life, how he created Bumi’s distinct voice, and the unique energy he brought to the show. They also discuss the ATLA world-building that introduced this fan-favorite character and his iconic love for cabbages!

ATLA Writer John O'Bryan and the Birth of Avatar Aug 17, 2021

Get the inside scoop on the early days of writing Avatar: The Last Airbender from one of its original and long-standing writers, John O’Bryan! Meet the person who turned in the first draft of the script laying out the city of Omashu and introducing us to King Bumi! But we know what you’re all thinking… is this the mind that created one of the most iconic characters in the entire series? Is this the imagination responsible for… THE CABBAGE MERCHANT??

Imprisoned: Kevin Michael Richardson (Tyro) on Fire Nation Oppression Aug 24, 2021

In Season 1, Episode 6 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Janet and Dante explore the layers of the powerful episode “Imprisoned” with voice actor Kevin Michael Richardson, who portrays Tyro. They discuss the intense themes of oppression, the Fire Nation’s cruelty, and the emotional resonance of the prison island. Kevin also shares his thoughts on race in voice acting, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and working in the Avatarverse.

Martial Arts Deep Dive with Sifu Kisu and Bryan Konietzko Aug 31, 2021

This week we dig into the careful design and detailed mechanics of animated martial arts with Sifu Kisu and Bryan Konietzko! What would a podcast about Avatar be without at least one episode showcasing the phenomenal artistry of the fighting styles in The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra? Bryan and Kisu share the history of meeting, collaborating, and ultimately how they worked with the whole ATLA team to develop the incredible bending and combat styles of the Avatarverse.

The Winter Solstice Part One: Aang’s Journey into the Spirit World Sep 07, 2021

It’s a very important first half of a two-part story arc in which Janet and Dante start to get acquainted with The Spirit World! In Ep. 7 of Book One, we meet the understandably grumpy Hei Bai, spend some time with an intimidatingly cool spirit dragon and his “nose hairs" and see a whole lot of Uncle Iroh’s hot bath-loving bare skin. Plus: Dante compares Prince Zuko to a couple of beloved vintage detectives, leading to a surprising impression. This episode sets the stage for Aang’s deeper connection with the spiritual side of his role as the Avatar.

Meet the Cast: Zach Tyler Eisen on Voicing Aang Sep 14, 2021

That’s right! It’s the voice of The Avatar himself, Zach Tyler Eisen! Join us for this rare appearance by the wonderful former actor who gave us Aang. Janet and Dante revisit Zach’s experience of recording ATLA, which he did when he was about the same age as the character he portrayed (while still enjoying the childhood Aang may have missed). Zach also weighs in on some of Aang’s tougher choices, and illuminates us about his current career passions!

The Winter Solstice Part Two: Avatar Roku with James Garrett Sep 21, 2021

Somehow we got lucky enough to welcome two back-to back Avatars! We go from Avatar Aang last week (Zach Tyler Eisen) to this week’s guest, James Garrett— otherwise known as Avatar Roku! Janet and Dante recap Ep 8. of Book One and discuss Part Two of "The Winter Solstice,” unpacking “hot stinkers," Appa’s flying style, and so many other details big and small! Then they’re joined by the great James Garrett, who drops some pretty cool info about the Royal Shakespeare Company, his inspiration for his portrayal of Roku, and issues a special request to the fans! It’s a fascinating look at the legacy of the Avatar and how Roku’s wisdom guides Aang's journey.

Meet Avatar's Voice Director Andrea Romano Sep 28, 2021

Get ready for an amazing look inside the world of Avatar voice acting and directing with the legendary Andrea Romano! Join Janet and Dante as ATLA and TLOK’s Voice Director Andrea Romano treats them to a fascinating, in-depth and delightful conversation about her work on the other side of the microphone, and the road that led her to becoming one of the most beloved voice directors of all time. Not only will you hear wonderful behind-the-scenes tales from the Avatarverse, but stories from across the world of animation!

The Waterbending Scroll with Ify Nwadiwe Oct 05, 2021

This week Janet and Dante are joined by writer, gamer, comedian and podcaster Ify Nwadiwe, who jumps into the investigation of Ep 9 of Book One “The Waterbending Scroll!” The trio is quick to acknowledge that there is just a LOT going on in this episode, and the discussion goes from honest explorations about envy and competitiveness, to admiring Avatarverse fans for creating a real-life Pai Sho game, to Appa’s pedicure, to our friend the Cabbage Merchant, and much more. Plus! Ify brings what we think is a BRAND NEW Zuko “ship” to the table!

Spotlight on Avatar's Soundtrack with Jeremy Zuckerman and Hrishikesh Hirway Oct 12, 2021

In this very special episode, ATLA & TLOK Composer Jeremy Zuckerman sits down with Janet, Dante, and Song Exploder’s Hrishikesh Hirway! The focus is all about the music in this lively discussion about the challenges and delights of scoring television and film. Listen to tales of the very early days of Avatar to the finale of Korra! Find out what instruments make the best “cold climate” soundtracks. And learn what ATLA reprise may have snuck into Hrishi’s own music!

Crawford Wilson on voicing "Jet" the Complex Freedom Fighter Oct 19, 2021

Team Avatar encounters a controversial character in the ATLA episode “Jet”— and Janet and Dante encounter the delightful Crawford Wilson, the voice behind Jet! Take a visit to the treetops and find out the inspiration behind the Freedom Fighters’ woodsy hideout as Janet and Dante explore Episode 10 of Book One, celebrating all the terrifically-named characters in Jet’s gang (Smellerbee! Pipsqueak! Sneers! Longshot! The Duke!) and discussing the parallels between Jet and characters like Katara and Zuko. Then hear from Jet himself, the charming Crawford Wilson! Don’t miss this conversation about one of ATLA’s most controversial figures.

Animal Roll Call: Dee Bradley Baker on Appa, Momo, & More Oct 26, 2021

This week brings you an unusual and exciting listen: an episode that was recorded live on Twitch, featuring the legendary Dee Bradley Baker!
Janet and Dante spend a marvelous hour with the voice actor behind all of the animals you hear on both ATLA and TLOK —Appa, Momo, and even some of the more obscure animals in the Avatar universe.Dee even graciously tries to teach Janet and Dante how to make some of these iconic animal sounds themselves (emphasis on “try”)! Hear more about Dee’s unique and fascinating work, and find out more about how our career paths can take wonderful and unexpected turns, if we’re willing to let them.

Midseason Quiz Show: Test Your ATLA Knowledge! Nov 02, 2021

To celebrate our halfway mark in Season One of the podcast, we’re bringing in some new friends to test their ATLA knowledge! Janet and Dante welcome four incredibly awesome Avatar fans for a game show-style quiz on some of the finer details of Book One (and some foreshadow report-ish topics, too)! Who will win the most points in this friendly competition? Will it be Abiodun “Abby"" Abebefe? Dominique Gayle? Phillip Hughes? Or Jordan Wolfe? The friendly competition takes on trivia about Aang, Zuko, Katara, and other key Avatarverse moments, and fans can play along too! See who wins the most points in this fun-filled quiz!

The Great Divide Nov 09, 2021

Janet and Dante tackle one of the most debated-about episodes in Avatar: The Last Airbender as they plunge into Ep 11 of Book One “The Great Divide!” Listen in as our hosts discuss the creepy canyon crawlers and the fate of the Canyon Guide, the backstories of the bickering tribes and Aang’s surprising solution, and more of what makes this episode such a heated topic of conversation in the ATLA fandom. Will Janet and Dante be able to come to their own conclusions about it? And... what do you think about all this?

The Great Divide Debate! with Hector Navarro and Danielle Radford Nov 16, 2021

This week’s special guests jump in to help Janet and Dante further unpack the merits of “The Great Divide!” Following their lively recap last week, Janet and Dante bring in their two friends, Hector Navarro (SpongeBob BingePants podcast) and Danielle Radford (Honest Trailers), for a high-spirited-yet-extremely-friendly debate over whether this much-discussed episode of ATLA is in fact “thriller” or “filler!"

The Storm with Jack De Sena (“Sokka”) Nov 23, 2021

The wonderful Jack De Sena (“Sokka”) rejoins Janet and Dante as they sail together into ATLA’s Episode 12 of Booke One: “The Storm!" Jack comes back to bring us all a little more Sokka-- in this Book One episode that contains decidedly less Sokka than others! In addition to the gang’s breakdown of the revelations from “The Storm” (Zuko’s scar! Aang’s toys! Iroh’s lightning!), you’ll also get to hear about fun facts, like the ordinary temp jobs Dante and Jack tackled as teenagers. This episode sheds light on how Aang and Zuko's pasts shape their destinies as Avatar and Fire Nation prince.

Life Lessons: Karama Horne and Ijeoma Njaka on the Avatarverse Nov 30, 2021

Get ready for a very cool “big picture” conversation about the Avatarverse this week as Janet and Dante sit down with Karama Horne and Ijeoma Njaka! Hear from two extraordinarily awesome women who bring nuance, intellect, and humor to this very special round-table-style episode of BTE. Featuring discussions about big recurring themes in ATLA, find out about lessons we can all take into our own lives from Avatar. Karama is a culture journalist and content creator also known as @theblerdgurl, and Ijeoma is an arts educator, professor, writer and artist based in Washington, DC.

The Blue Spirit and Zuko's Duality Dec 07, 2021

Janet and Dante discuss one of the most acclaimed episodes of ATLA Episode 13 of Book One: “The Blue Spirit” — and things get emotional! As Aang rushes to find a cure for what ails Katara and Sokka, Janet and Dante rush to lavish praise on the thirteenth episode of the series’ first season. Find out what color Zuko’s mask was originally supposed to be, and why they changed it! Learn more about real-life frogs and toads in a very unscientific way! And see if Janet can get through talking about Aang and Zuko’s changing relationship without crying.

Sound Off! Benjamin Wynn on Sound Design for Avatar Dec 14, 2021

Janet and Dante joyfully welcome Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra Sound Designer Benjamin Wynn to the podcast! Ben chats with Janet and Dante about his early experiences on ATLA, including what it’s like to jump into the deep end on a job you have no idea how to do! Hear about Ben and previous BTE guest Jeremy Zuckerman’s tandem approach to sound and music, learn about their creative manifesto, and find out what 99 Cent store purchase has become part of one of animation’s most iconic scores!

The Fortuneteller w/ Special Guest Evanna Lynch Dec 21, 2021

For their interpretation and discussion of ATLA’s Episode 14 of Booke One “The Fortuneteller,” Janet and Dante are joined by their pal, the talented and wonderful Evanna Lynch (“Luna Lovegood” from the Potterverse)! Discussing Aunt Wu’s approach to fortunetelling (Cloud-reading! Osteomancy!) leads to some personal anecdotes about seeing psychic advisors IRL; everyone celebrates the introduction of the brilliant Jessie Flower/Michaela Murphy to the Avatarverse (pre-dating her role as Toph, she plays Meng in this episode!), and Evanna proves herself to be just as compassionate, thoughtful, and delightful as you could ever hope she’d be. Go ahead and press “Play:” there’s an hour of joy in your future!

Fan Favorite Holiday Special: Celebrating ATLA’s Best Moments Dec 28, 2021

Happy Holidays from your pals at Braving the Elements! This week, Janet and Dante reminisce about some of their - and YOUR! - favorite moments from Season One of the podcast. Featuring memorable conversational gems with ATLA creators and Avatar Studios’ Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino, Jack De Sena (“Sokka”), Zach Tyler Eisen (“Aang”), and Jennie Kwan (“Suki”)! Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning, or are catching up on the podcast, this episode captures great moments with just a sampling of some of our many terrific guests!

Native Representation: "Bato of the Water Tribe" with Migizi Pensoneau Jan 04, 2022

This week, Janet and Dante are joined by Avatar Studios’ Consultant on Native Representation, Migizi Pensoneau! The trio discusses the many layers of “Bato of the Water Tribe,” including Aang’s actions in this episode (controversial amongst fans!), the introduction of the very memorable shirshu (multiple-animals-hybrid alert!) and bounty hunter June, and the reinforcement of what it means to honor not just your literal family, but also your chosen one, as well as the significant role representation plays in ATLA’s storytelling.

Avatar Kyoshi, June, and Balance: A Conversation with Jennifer Hale Jan 11, 2022

You know it’s going to be an amazing conversation when you have Avatar Kyoshi and June the Bounty Hunter together in one person! Janet and Dante are thrilled to welcome their friend, VA and musician Jennifer Hale to the podcast! What follows is a conversation spanning from her beloved roles in ATLA (shout out to Nyla the shirshu), to the snowy wilds of Labrador (Jen's heritage!). And-- fascinating, inspiring thoughts on honoring your gifts, spirituality, and the word that seems to come up so often when we talk about Avatar: Balance.

The Deserter with Writer Tim Hedrick Jan 18, 2022

What do you do when you really want to wrap your head around an ATLA episode? Go to the source! This week, Janet and Dante break down Ep 16 of Book One “The Deserter” with ATLA, LOK, and Avatar Studios writer, Tim Hedrick! And yes, he IS credited with the writing of this acclaimed episode, in which we meet the mercurial Jeong Jeong, who has a lot of brilliant observations, but an equal amount of what you might call baggage. Plus! Dante draws our attention to the charms of a quaint Fire Nation village, including all the puppets and spicy snacks it has to offer.

ATLA Family Dynamics with Cheyenne Ewulu Jan 25, 2022

This week we take a closer look at the hugely important theme of "Family" with Cheyenne Ewulu! For a deeper dive into all of the various and layered family dynamics in Book One of "Avatar: The Last Airbender," Janet and Dante welcome actress, Amazon Prime Video and Funimation host, and all-around entertainer, Cheyenne Ewulu! Cheyenne’s love and understanding of the Avatarverse makes this is a great episode for fans who celebrate the depth and complexity of ATLA’s given and chosen families.

The Northern Air Temple with Jason Mantzoukas Feb 01, 2022

Hop onto your glider and come with us for this journey to “The Northern Air Temple” with special guest Jason Mantzoukas! Jason joins Janet and Dante for a rousing conversation about not just this conflict-laden episode of ATLA, but also the joy of the Avatarverse at large! Marvel at Aang’s willingness to forgive and move on; celebrate Sokka’s discovery of a cerebral kindred spirit; watch Katara soar like an airbender, and much more!

Avatarverse Engineering with Adam Savage Feb 08, 2022

Janet and Dante are still abuzz over all the gadgetry in “The Northern Air Temple,” so they decide to talk to fellow lover of gadgets, Adam Savage! From the delivery systems of Omashu to Jet’s hooked swords to the Fire Nation’s reversible tanks, Adam geeks out with Janet and Dante about some of the very cool designs to come out of Book One of ATLA. But the trio also talks about the deep, abiding emotional calls to action that come from the series, and how we can foster our own imaginations and skills!

Princess Yue "The Waterbending Master" with Johanna Braddy Feb 15, 2022

We’ve set our course heading North… and toward a great conversation with the voice of Princess Yue, Johanna Braddy! Janet and Dante explore the wonders of the Northern Water Tribe as we near the end of Book One Ep 19 of ATLA with “The Siege of the North, Part One.” After praising the amazing design of this episode’s extraordinary landscape and discussing the complicated introduction to Master Pakku, Janet and Dante are joined by Johanna Braddy for a chat about her own experiences in the Avatarverse and beyond. From Katara’s rise to Zuko’s pursuit and Pakku’s icy introduction, this episode unpacks big themes and the beauty of the North.

Directing ATLA with Giancarlo Volpe Feb 22, 2022

Join Janet and Dante for a fun and informative conversation with longtime ATLA Director, Giancarlo Volpe! Hear more about the early experience of working on ATLA from the Directing side, including very cool details about the animation process. Learn about Giancarlo’s background and what art has inspired him. And find out what final shot of a particular episode Giancarlo felt was missing… and the satisfaction of seeing how it ended up being created by a fan afterwards! And yes, more talk about… you guessed it… The Great Divide!

Zuko, Iroh, and the Fire Nation: Part 1 of the Finale with Christopher Sabat Mar 01, 2022

The penultimate episode of Book One features our guest, the voice of Vegeta (Dragonball Z) and All Might (My Hero Academia): Christopher Sabat! It’s the first half of the two-parter that marks the finale of Book One of ATLA: “The Siege of the North, Part One!” Janet and Dante are joined by their buddy Christopher Sabat to talk discovering podcasts, confusing friend zones, and the coolest way to impress someone you’re crushing on (heads up, piano players!). And, of course, the trio has to spend some time talking about that wonderful moment with Iroh and Zuko... and whether Zuko can even handle it!

Book One Recapaganza! with Hector Navarro Mar 08, 2022

As we approach the Season Finale of Book One: Water, Janet and Dante welcome back the awesome Hector Navarro! It’s a good time to take a close look at some of the big moments of Book One, and review the complex and very cool character arcs of many of our ATLA characters. And who better to join Janet and Dante than friend of the show, Hector Navarro, whose love of the Avatarverse and his passion for details has now earned him the official Avatarverse nickname: The Profector! Revisit how far Team Avatar has come in our story, relish the shifts we’ve seen in Iroh and Zuko, and much more!

The Finale! Siege of the North, Part 2 w/ Gene Luen Yang Mar 15, 2022

It’s Book One’s spectacular finale episode, and we’re talking about it with the spectacular author of the first five ATLA graphic novels, Gene Luen Yang! Janet and Dante wrap up the recap side of BTE in the second-to-last episode of the podcast’s first season, and they’re doing it in style, thanks to Gene’s insight and perspective. Highlights include Gene’s own background (in teaching, which we love!) and how he came to the Avatarverse, the creepy coolness of Koh (and all the faces he loves to show off), and of course, a lot of talk around Princess Yue and a pair of very important fish. An epic Book One ending deserves an epic conversation.

Season One Finale Game Show with Jack De Sena, Jennie Kwan, Antoine Bandele & Kendall Byrd Mar 22, 2022

It’s the final episode of Braving the Elements’ first season, and Janet and Dante are celebrating with friends new and old! The game’s afoot as Janet and Dante are joined by two amazing superfans and two delightful voice actors for a series of games that will show off just how much these four really know about Book One: Water! Antoine Bandele and Kendall Byrd bring their passion and encyclopedic knowledge of the Avatarverse! Jack De Sena (“Sokka”) and Jennie Kwan (“Suki”) pair up with our experts for this two-team showdown!

Live From New York Comic Con '21! Mar 29, 2022

Join Janet and Dante for their first-ever live Braving the Elements, which they did live at NYCC 2021!

They are joined by their friend and ATLA/TLOK staple Dee Bradley Baker for a spirited discussion about the Avatarverse… and a very special table read! They are also joined by hundreds of amazing audience members, who made the live experience so incredible and heart-warming. Would you have had the right answer to win an ATLA collectible at the show? Did Dante show off any Zuko fight moves? And did Janet get super emotional about how much fun they were having with everyone? Find out, with your ears!

Fan Favorite Special Apr 05, 2022

This week, Janet and Dante reminisce about some of their - and YOUR! - favorite moments from Season One of the podcast.

We'll hear memorable conversational gems with ATLA creators and Avatar Studios’ Bryan Konietzko and Michael Dante DiMartino, Jack De Sena (“Sokka”), Zach Tyler Eisen (“Aang”), and Jennie Kwan (“Suki”)! Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning, or are catching up on the podcast, this episode captures great moments with just a sampling of some of our many terrific guests!

Live From Emerald City Comic Con ’21! Apr 12, 2022

This exclusive release of the live Avatarverse panel at ECCC features Janet, Dante, and friend of the podcast (and talent extraordinaire) Dee Bradley Baker!

Recorded in the chilly December clouds of beautiful Seattle at Emerald City Comic Con, moderator Patrick Hawkins takes Janet, Dante and Dee through a thoughtful conversation before turning the questions over to the audience! And as usual, fans of the Avatarverse continue to prove how insightful, compassionate, and all-around awesome this fandom truly is. And don’t worry - as always, Dante represents for the Fire Nation!

Zach Tyler Eisen on Aang & more! Apr 19, 2022

Hear from The Avatar himself, Zach Tyler Eisen! Join Janet & Dante for an exclusive, rare appearance by the former actor who gave Aang life.

We revisit Zach’s experience of recording ATLA, which he did when he was about the same age as the character he portrayed (while still enjoying the childhood Aang may have missed). Zach also weighs in on some of Aang’s tougher choices, and illuminates us about his current career passions!

Introducing Season 2 of Avatar: Braving The Elements Apr 26, 2022

Ready to explore more of the amazing world of Avatar: The Last Airbender? Nickelodeon’s official companion podcast, Avatar: Braving the Elements is back for a second season! Join hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco every Tuesday as they rewatch and discuss every episode of Avatar Book 2. Plus, Janet and Dante are joined by special guests for more behind-the-scenes info you can’t get anywhere else.

Book Two: Earth Begins! (Season 2 Premiere) May 03, 2022

Welcome back to Season 2 of Braving the Elements! Hosts Janet Varney (the voice of Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko himself!) reunite for an exciting kickoff to Book Two: Earth in the world of ATLA. This special episode features a heartfelt catch-up with none other than the co-creators of the Avatarverse, Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, who share behind-the-scenes stories about how Book Two came together and tease what’s ahead for Team Avatar. Get ready to revisit the Earth Kingdom, meet fan-favorite Toph Beifong, and dive into some of the deeper themes that make Avatar: The Last Airbender one of the most beloved animated series of all time. Plus, could we get a sneak peek into what's cooking at Avatar Studios? Tune in and find out!

“The Avatar State”: Team Avatar Faces Earth Kingdom Power May 10, 2022

Team Avatar has a rough time of it in this first episode of Book Two, and Janet and Dante are feeling it! While Aang, Katara and Sokka (and, of course, Appa and Momo!) try to navigate a relationship with a very zealous Earth Kingdom General, Dante has to emotionally process the reality that before Zuko gets to enjoy the demise of Zhao, he’s confronted with his fierce and intimidating sister, Azula! Can Dante and Janet reconcile their fear of Azula with their total love of Grey DeLisle? Will she ever appear on Braving the Elements? And will Aang agree to forgo the rest of his training to face Ozai? Join us as we dig into the emotional weight of this pivotal Avatar: The Last Airbender episode.

Meet the Voice Behind Azula: Grey DeLisle Griffin May 17, 2022

This week brings you a conversation with the amazing Grey DeLisle Griffin, who voiced Azula on ATLA! It’s the long-awaited debut of the magnificent actor who brought Azula to life— in all her terrifying glory! Grey talks about her experience recording her part in the epic series, along with the process of discovering how beloved the show was after the fact. And that discovery came through the most perfect means possible— the fans themselves! Janet and Grey also talk about some of the other fantastic projects Grey has been working on the last couple of years, and Azula even pops in to deliver a message to Zuzu!

"The Cave of Two Lovers" ft. Jack De Sena (Sokka) May 24, 2022

We couldn’t cover this unforgettable ATLA episode without welcoming back Jack De Sena, the hilarious voice of Sokka. Join Janet, Dante, and Jack as they sing (maybe off-key) and laugh their way through the legendary “Cave of Two Lovers.” Celebrate the dynamic guest cast in Episode Two of Book Two of ATLA, including Dee Bradley Baker’s turn as troubadour Chong and his rendition of one of the most famous songs ever to hit animation! Will Jack, Dante and Janet be able to meet the standard? Can they carry a tune? Or even stay in sync? It’s a good thing Team Avatar isn’t depending on them doing so in order to get to Omashu!

Behind the Scenes of Secret Tunnel ft. Joshua Hamilton & Jeremy Zuckerman May 31, 2022

We're diving further into "The Cave of Two Lovers,” this time with writer Josh Hamilton and composer Jeremy Zuckerman! This episode is truly a treasure trove of trivia you could only learn from Josh and Jeremy’s uniquely "inside" perspectives. From hearing about Josh and Tim Hedrick’s own renditions of the ATLA episode’s famous songs, to finding out more about the process of making a show like Avatar, to hearing what these behind-the-scenes contributors to the Avatarverse think about all of the amazing covers of “Secret Tunnel” that are out there in the Fandom: it’s a conversation not to be missed!

Return to Omashu w/ Jennie Kwan (Suki) Jun 07, 2022

Join hosts Janet and Dante—plus returning guest Jennie Kwan, the voice of Suki—as they revisit the action-packed ATLA Book Two episode “Return to Omashu.” Episode 3 introduces fierce non-benders Mai and Ty Lee, and deepens Azula’s fearsome squad. Jennie compares Suki’s fighting style to her new foes, and the trio dives into the dynamics of Azula’s control, friendship tensions, and the importance of freeing King Bumi. A must-listen for any Earth Kingdom enthusiast or Team Avatar fan!

Meet the Voice Behind Ty Lee: Olivia Hack Jun 14, 2022

Meet the voice behind the ever-cheerful and ever-dangerous Ty Lee, Olivia Hack! Janet and Olivia sit down to discuss her experience of voicing the first character we see in the Avatarverse who can seriously affect someone’s bending power! They talk about Ty Lee’s origin story as well as Olivia’s own origin story and how she came to the series for Book Two. And never fear— even an actor who voiced a chi blocker has thoughts about what kind of bender she would be!

Exploring ATLA’s Mysterious Swamp with Hector Navarro Jun 21, 2022

Step into one of Avatar: The Last Airbender’s most mystical episodes, “The Swamp,” with returning guest Hector Navarro! Janet and Hector break down the eerie visions, spiritual symbolism, and unforgettable swampbenders from this memorable ATLA chapter in Book Two. It’s a fun, thoughtful dive into how the Avatarverse blends folklore, philosophy, and comedy—with a few great accents along the way. This episode of BTE is at least as much fun as a screaming bird with a human voice!

The Ultimate ATLA Debate: Which Element Is the Best Bending Power? Jun 28, 2022

Which element reigns supreme in the Avatarverse? Janet and Dante moderate a passionate debate among four ATLA superfans, each repping one of the four bending styles—Water, Earth, Air, and Fire. From iconic benders like Katara and Zuko to the practical and aesthetic strengths of each element, this battle of bending is both hilarious and heartfelt. Who wins? You decide.
For WATER: Amanda Castrillo Foxworth
For EARTH: Mikaila Baskin
For AIR: Suraj Muralidharan
For FIRE: Nicholas Mayfield

Live from San Diego Comic Con! Jul 05, 2022

This week we bring you a special episode from our Braving the Elements LIVE appearance at San Diego Comic Con, winter of 2021!

Janet and Dante are joined by an amazing audience of fans and friends at the show, featuring live performances by members of the audience playing all of your favorite characters in a myriad of different beloved scenes from Avatar: The Last Airbender. Among other things, this live recording just goes further to prove that the Avatarverse is one of the best fandoms in the world!

“Avatar Day” + Cabbages! With James Sie, Voice of the Cabbage Merchant Jul 12, 2022

“MY CABBAGES!” If you love this iconic ATLA line, then this episode is for you. Janet and Dante welcome James Sie, the voice behind the unforgettable Cabbage Merchant, to revisit ATLA Book Two episode 5 “Avatar Day.” They explore the episode’s themes of justice, Kyoshi Island lore, and why some villagers want to cancel the Avatar. A fun, nostalgic deep dive into one of Book Two’s quirkiest chapters—and the character who became a fandom meme legend.

Behind the Cool Exterior: Meet Cricket Leigh (Voice of Mai) Jul 19, 2022

Delight in this conversation with the incredibly warm and energetic Cricket Leigh, whom you also know as the voice of the significantly less warm and energetic Mai! Cricket opens up to Janet about joining the ATLA cast, Mai’s emotionally complex character arc, and how her chemistry with Ty Lee and Azula makes for one of the series’ most intriguing friendships. Plus, you’ll hear Mai thoughts on Zuko, shipping, and the subtleties of non-bending strength in the Avatarverse.

Toph’s ATLA Debut: “The Blind Bandit” with Director Ethan Spaulding Jul 26, 2022

Say hello to Toph Beifong! Janet and Dante welcome Ethan Spaulding, the director of “The Blind Bandit,” to celebrate the epic ATLA episode 6 that introduced one of the Avatarverse’s most iconic characters. Learn behind-the-scenes trivia about Earth Rumble Six, the casting of Toph, and what makes this earthbender such a fan favorite. Get ready for seismic-level insights into Toph’s legacy in Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Creating an Icon: TOPH! with Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko Aug 02, 2022

Janet and Dante reconnect with their “two dads” to hear more about Toph’s origin story! A character as iconic as Toph deserves a whole episode about how she came to be! Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko reminisce about their original concept designs for Toph and how they evolved during the collaborative process with writers and animators, as well as their memories of Jessie Flowers (aka Michaela Jill Murphy) — the voice is behind fan-favorite Toph lines like “Twinkle Toes!"

Meet the Voice Behind Toph: Michaela Jill Murphy Aug 09, 2022

Continuing our celebration of all things Toph Beifong, Janet and Dante welcome Michaela Jill Murphy (aka Jessie Flower), the original voice of Toph! Find out more about the real-life personality behind one of the biggest personalities in the Avatarverse as we sit down with Michaela to hear more about her life before and after joining the cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender, how much the young Jessie Flower (Michaela’s stage name) could relate to Toph’s bold and original characteristics, and what it’s meant to interact with fans in the recent resurgence of people discovering and re-discovering the Avatarverse!

Zuko Alone: ATLA’s Boldest Character Study with Adal Rifai Aug 16, 2022

This week, Zuko is anything BUT alone, since Dante and Janet are joined by ATLA superfan Adal Rifai for “Zuko Alone!” It’s the episode (and episode title) that would end up launching future iconic storylines (“Suki Alone,” “Korra Alone”) and Adal Rifai (Hello From the Magic Tavern, Hey Riddle Riddle podcasts) is here for the deep dive! Find out more than ever before about Zuko’s troubled childhood, including his relationship with Azula, Ozai, and his beloved mother's mysterious disappearance. Oh, and yes—TURTLE DUCKS. You'll leave knowing why this solo story has become one of the most emotionally resonant moments in the Avatarverse.

ATLA Beyond the Screen: Avatar Comics with Tim Hedrick Aug 23, 2022

What happens when the Avatarverse makes friends with the amazing Dark Horse Comics world? Janet and Dante chat with longtime Avatar: The Last Airbender writer Tim Hedrick about expanding the ATLA story through the Dark Horse realm. From The Promise to Smoke and Shadow, Tim shares what it’s like building the post-series world of Aang, Zuko, and the rest of Team Avatar. If you love the comics or want to know where to start, this is your must-listen guide to the canon beyond the screen.

Chased by Azula: ATLA’s “The Chase” with Erika Ishii Aug 30, 2022

Sleep-deprived and running for their lives—Team Avatar is feeling the heat in Book Two’s action-packed episode 8, “The Chase.” Janet and Dante are joined by actor and performer Erika Ishii for a breakdown of the Gaang’s mounting tension and Azula’s relentless pursuit. They discuss Ty Lee and Mai’s tracking tactics, Katara’s leadership, and just how real things get when rest runs out. It’s a fun and fiery look at an ATLA episode full of friction (and Fire Nation pressure).

San Diego ComicCon '22 Sep 06, 2022

We’re back at San Diego Comic Con for another LIVE podcast recording! This time, Braving the Elements is joined by not one but TWO beloved voice actors: Jack DeSena (Sokka) and Phil LaMarr (Kuei the Earth King).

Join us for an exclusive listen to our panel from this past July. Expect from thrilling conversations with our Avatar VOs, breaking Avatar Studios news, and of course - a dynamic table read featuring fans and friends alike of some iconic scenes from Book 2 (and beyond). With our amazing fans and friends in the room, this panel is anything but rough, buddy.

Fandom Crossover: Why ATLA Inspires Artists w/ Major Curda & Lex Mayson Sep 13, 2022

When other fandoms love the Avatarverse as much as we do, magic happens. Janet and Dante are joined by Broadway’s Major Curda (KPOP) and actor Lex Mayson (Joe vs. Carole) for a heartfelt roundtable about why Avatar: The Last Airbender is so beloved, including the ways it helps propel us forward to follow our own artistic passions. And as always with our guests, we talk hybrid animals, ships, and bending!

“Bitter Work”: Iroh’s Wisdom and Aang’s Earthbending Journey Sep 20, 2022

“Pride is not the opposite of shame, but its source.” It’s an episode full of Uncle Iroh wisdom! Janet and Dante delve into ATLA’s Ep. 9 “Bitter Work” this week, following the progress (or lack thereof) of a certain Avatar and his certain Earthbending Master, as well as training of a different sort between Iroh and Zuko. Along the way, we discover a connection between water and lightning, fire and rage, and Sokka and a very cute sabertooth moose lion cub. Gain a new appreciation for one of ATLA’s most philosophical episodes.

Season 2 Midseason Avatar Quiz Show! Sep 27, 2022

It’s a family affair for this special midseason game of Avatarverse superfans! Our Season One player Abby Abebefe is back to once again test her ATLA knowledge, but this time she’s brought two of her sisters with her! Janet and Dante welcome Abisola and Ayosola Abebefe to Braving the Elements for the first time, challenging all three sisters to discover who knows the most about the Avatarverse. Guess the answers as you listen along, and let us know how YOU did!

“The Library” with Phil Yu: Secrets Beneath the Sand Oct 04, 2022

Team Avatar uncovers ancient knowledge—and faces heartbreaking loss—in the pivotal ATLA episode 10 “The Library.” Janet and Dante are joined by pop culture critic Phil Yu (Angry Asian Man) to explore Wan Shi Tong’s mysterious desert stronghold and the revelations it holds about the Fire Nation. Can Toph save the day? What will happen to Appa? This is one of the most emotionally charged chapters in the Avatarverse, and our hosts break it all down with insight and humor.

Inspired by the Avatarverse with Daniel Mertzlufft & Katherine Lynn-Rose Oct 11, 2022

One of the most amazing things about the Avatarverse is the creativity it inspires in its fandom, as shown by this week’s guests, Daniel Mertzlufft and Katherine Lynn Rose! Janet and Dante are joined by these two innovative, collaborative content creators to talk about how they were inspired by "Avatar:The Last Airbender" and where that inspiration took their own artistic creations. Social media blew up over the songs they wrote and recorded, which collectively garnered millions of views. And... the gang comes up with a few brand new ideas during the episode!

“The Desert” with Jason Mantzoukas: Appa’s Disappearance Oct 18, 2022

Things get sandy—and serious—in this unforgettable ATLA episode 11, “The Desert.” Janet and Dante are joined once again by actor and comedian Jason Mantzoukas (The Good Place, Big Mouth) to dive into the heartbreak of Appa’s disappearance, the mystery of the White Lotus, and the horror of those terrifying buzzard wasps. Jason brings the laughs, but also gets real about what makes the Avatarverse so emotionally powerful. This is one Braving the Elements episode you won’t want to miss!

Roleplaying in the Avatarverse with Sam Riegel Oct 25, 2022

This week we talk Avatarverse, voice acting and directing, and more with Critical Role’s Sam Riegel! Sam sits down with Janet and Dante to talk not just about what makes "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and "The Legend of Korra" so special to Sam and his kids, but also what makes a great voice actor and how he approaches voice directing. From his early friendship with Janet to directing iconic shows, Sam shares insight on performance, creative collaboration, and what makes the world of ATLA so immersive.

“The Serpent’s Pass” with Afiya Augustine & Vincent Bernard Nov 01, 2022

Janet and Dante welcome podcasters Afiya Augustine and Vincent Bernard for an intense look at the suspenseful ATLA episode 12 “The Serpent’s Pass.” As Team Avatar braves this perilous crossing, our guests dive into bending battles, relationship dynamics, and how Avatar: The Last Airbender keeps fans emotionally connected. Plus, they share their favorite ships, bending styles, and what keeps the Avatarverse magical after all these years.

Braving the Elements LIVE from London! Nov 08, 2022

It’s Janet and Dante live at London Fan Expo, recorded this summer! Our Braving The Elements hosts rounded up hundreds of Avatar fans for a delightful discussion across the pond. This conversation, led by Janet and Dante featuring some truly fantastic questions from the audience, once again proves how insightful, charming, and enthusiastic the community of ATLA lovers truly is. And find out if Dante got some love of the Fire Nation from our U.K. friends!

“The Drill” with Karama Horne: Can Team Avatar Stop It in Time? Nov 15, 2022

Friend of the show Karama Horne returns to dig into “The Drill!” As a giant drill threatens to breach the walls of Ba Sing Se, Team Avatar has to figure out if it’ll be possible to stop it in time. As Azula, Ty Lee, and Mai push Team Avatar to their limits, our hosts dive into the episode’s stunning animation, smart battle strategy, and subtle character dynamics. And don’t miss Karama’s hot takes on what kind of fashion icon Mai would be in the real world!

Live From New York Comic Con 2022! Nov 22, 2022

This week brings you our happy return to NYCC (where Janet and Dante recorded their first live, in-person episode last year)! Because NYCC 2021 was such a blast, we know we had to turn it up a notch— and you were there for it! Recorded on October 6th, 2022, Janet and Dante were joined by guest after extraordinary guest! From an in-depth conversation with David Burtka and Robbie Daymond about the marvels of the Avatarverse to a table read including Michaela Jill Murphy (Toph!!) and Greg Baldwin (Iroh!!), this packed show even finished off with trivia and prizes for fans. Thank you, New York Comic Con!

Inside Avatar Studios with Isabella Boettcher & Pramodh Manian Nov 29, 2022

Ever wonder what it’s like to work behind the scenes in the Avatarverse? Janet and Dante welcome Avatar Studios friends Isabella Boettcher and Pramodh Manian for a lively conversation about their roles shaping the future of Avatar: The Last Airbender. From favorite ATLA moments to which characters they’d travel with, loan money to, or vacation alongside, this episode is a fun and fascinating peek into the people helping to expand the world of Aang, Zuko, and the Four Nations.

Secrets of Ba Sing Se: “City of Walls and Secrets” with Bryan Konietzko Dec 06, 2022

Janet and Dante are joined once again by Bryan Konietzko to talk about one of his favorite episodes! Expect a ton of great insider info for this recap and discussion surrounding the mysterious “City of Walls and Secrets,” Episode 14 of Book Two of ATLA. Explore Ba Sing Se under the watchful eye of Joo Dee as more and more walls and rings of the city are revealed… to some degree. But many secrets remain, and Janet, Dante and Bryan dig into them all! Plus: listen up for an important message about a new school of etiquette founded by an unlikely character!

Joo Dee & Beyond: A Conversation with Lauren Tom Dec 13, 2022

You know her as Joo Dee from Ba Sing Se, but Lauren Tom’s voice acting legacy stretches far and wide! Janet and Dante sit down with the multi-talented Lauren to talk about her work on Avatar: The Last Airbender, her voiceover and on-screen acting career, and her representation as a powerhouse in the Asian American artistic community. Lauren talks about her career not just in voiceover, but as an on-screen actor, accomplished writer, mother, and we celebrate her stellar representation as part of the Asian artistic community. We hope she inspires you as much as she inspired us!

“The Tales of Ba Sing Se” with Danielle Radford: Laughs and Tears Dec 20, 2022

Celebrate this beloved ATLA episode of multiple character stories with the return of our friend Danielle Radford! Janet and Dante are rejoined by the wonderful Danielle Radford, who'll ride the laughter and tears of the tales of Toph and Katara, Iroh, Aang, Sokka, Zuko, and Momo along with you. From Iroh’s legendary tale to Momo’s search for Appa, this discussion captures the heart of the Avatar: The Last Airbender experience.

Holiday Special: "Book Two: Earth" with Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko Dec 27, 2022

Happy holidays from your friends at Braving the Elements! This week, our gift to you is one of our favorite conversations we've had with Avatar show creators (and our two dads), Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko! We get into the beginnings of Book 2 and how this season came to be in the Avatarverse.

Azula Rings in The New Year w/ Grey DeLisle Jan 03, 2023

Ring in the new year with Azula herself! Janet and Dante revisit their fan-favorite conversation with voice actress Grey DeLisle, the iconic voice behind one of Avatar: The Last Airbender’s most formidable villains. From behind-the-scenes memories in the ATLA booth to Azula’s most chilling lines, Grey shares her unique experience in the Avatarverse and updates us on what she’s been working on outside of Ba Sing Se and the Fire Nation.

More "Tales of Ba Sing Se" with Andrew Huebner and Katie Mattila Jan 10, 2023

We’re not done celebrating the magic of “The Tales of Ba Sing Se.” This week we welcome two of episode's writers, Andrew Huebner and Katie Mattila! Janet and Dante are thrilled to be joined by writers Katie Mattila (“The Tale of Zuko”) and Andrew Huebner (“The Tale of Iroh”) for one of the podcast’s best behind-the-scenes episodes yet. Find out more about how The Tales came to be, including what Katie and Andrew’s actual “regular" jobs were at ATLA at the time. Get some in-depth intel on the inspirations behind Iroh’s tale, why Katie was so excited to tackle Zuko’s date, and much more!

“Appa’s Lost Days” with Evanna Lynch: The Heart of the Avatarverse Jan 17, 2023

Grab the tissues—this one's an emotional ride. Janet and Dante are joined by longtime ATLA fan Evanna Lynch (aka Luna Lovegood in “Harry Potter”) to explore the heartbreaking story told in “Appa’s Lost Days.” Revisit one of Avatar: The Last Airbender’s most gut-wrenching episodes as the trio discusses Appa’s journey, the importance of compassion in the Avatarverse, and the power of silent storytelling. How many tissues will it take to absorb our tears as we talk through Appa’s entrapment, horrible treatment, brave escape, and reunion with a gentle and much-needed friend? Get your own box of tissues ready, and find out!

The Funniest Moments in ATLA with Ron Funches Jan 24, 2023

Janet and Dante recover from “Appa’s Lost Days” with the brilliant and hilarious Ron Funches! What better way to transition from the emotionally poignant Appa-centric episode of Book Two to the rest of the season? By taking a break with one of the funniest comedians around to focus on some of the joyful, silly, and especially funny moments of ATLA, with particular focus on the second season. You’ll also hear from Ron about how he found both ATLA and TLOK, what he loves about the Avatarverse, and what YOU all told us were your favorite funny moments of Book Two. Plus: Ron makes his own fabulous suggestion for what we should call the listeners of Braving the Elements!

Designing the Avatarverse: Ba Sing Se and Beyond with Special Guests! Jan 31, 2023

Celebrate the gorgeous design of Ba Sing Se and more with three key artists of the Avatarverse! This week Janet and Dante welcome the brilliantly talented Elsa Garagarza, Angela Song Mueller, and podcast regular and “dad,” Bryan Konietzko! Find out incredible behind-the-scenes details as Elsa (Supervising Background Designer) and Angela (Character Designer) talk about their artistic development and roles in the Avatarverse. Learn about the inspirations behind many of the gorgeous scenic and character designs of Book Two and beyond, and hear all three delve into the creative process of making an episode begin to come to life!

Secrets at "Lake Laogai" with Joel Kim Booster Feb 07, 2023

Dive deep into one of the most suspenseful episodes of Avatar: The Last Airbender—“Lake Laogai”—with comedian and actor Joel Kim Booster! Janet and Dante explore the mystery surrounding Jet, the brainwashing truth behind Ba Sing Se’s political cover-ups, and Team Avatar’s daring rescue of Appa. Joel shares his love for the Avatarverse, bending preferences, and favorite creatures—including a certain polar bear dog from The Legend of Korra. This episode uncovers hidden truths in more ways than one.

Disability in the Avatarverse with Jimmy Clare and Ru Jones Feb 14, 2023

Janet and Dante welcome two amazing advocates in the disability community who also happen to be big fans of the Avatarverse: Jimmy Clare and Ru Jones! Jimmy Clare is a Motivational Speaker, Autism Advocate, Author, and Founder of CrazyFitnessGuy, and Ru Jones is a Disability advocate + content creator! Both bring their love of Avatar: The Last Airbender to BTE, and sharing their perspectives on the represenation of disability in the Avatarverse. They also make some amazing choices after questions about which characters they’d like to cook a meal with, play a game night with, and more!

“The Earth King” with Grey DeLisle: Fire and Politics Collide Feb 21, 2023

The Fire Nation and Earth Kingdom are about to collide in this high-stakes episode of ATLA, and Azula is never far from the action! Voice actress Grey DeLisle returns to Braving the Elements to join Janet and Dante in recapping Book Two, Episode 18: “The Earth King.” As Zuko battles illness and Team Avatar finally gains access to the palace, political intrigue unfolds. With the voices of Zuko and Azula reunited, expect laughs, tension—and maybe even a power struggle over the mic.

Honoring Mako: Uncle Iroh’s Legacy w/ Micheal DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko, & Andrea Romano Feb 28, 2023

Join us in remembering Mako, the legendary actor whose iconic voice brought Uncle Iroh to life. Janet and Dante are joined by Mike, Bryan, and ATLA Voice Director Andrea Romano for a wonderful conversation honoring the great Mako Iwamatsu. In addition to sharing memories of Mako’s work as Iroh in "Avatar: The Last Airbender," the group looks back on Mako’s extraordinary life and career, including his stage, screen, and television work. And the episode wouldn’t be complete without sharing some cast, crew, and fans’ favorite Iroh moments.

Chakras, Tea, and Turning Points: “The Guru” with Migizi Pensoneau Mar 07, 2023

The journey to spiritual enlightenment and emotional transformation is on full display in “The Guru,” one of ATLA’s most pivotal episodes. Janet and Dante are joined by friend and writer Migizi Pensoneau to unpack Aang’s chakra training, Sokka’s reunion with his father, and Azula’s cunning political maneuvering in Ba Sing Se. With Iroh and Zuko sharing a moment of joy over tea and Toph breaking free in true Earthbender style, this discussion captures everything that makes Avatar: The Last Airbender so layered and powerful.

Carrying the Torch: Greg Baldwin on Voicing Uncle Iroh and Honoring a Legend Mar 14, 2023

This week Janet and Dante welcome the actor who stepped in as Uncle Iroh: the delightful Greg Baldwin! Meet the warm, kind, and humble voice of the man who truly honored his predecessor by joining the "Avatar: The Last Airbender" cast after the passing of the great Mako. Always committed to respecting and continuing the work that Mako began, Greg shares some of his own background in the arts, his love of voice acting, and how his life has been impacted by interacting with so many fans who love Uncle Iroh. From his love of tea to his unparalleled guidance for Zuko, get ready to explore the heartwarming and thought-provoking lessons that Iroh imparts on the young prince and viewers alike.

Avatar’s Greatest Turning Points with Ijeoma Njaka Mar 21, 2023

In our penultimate Season Two episode, Janet and Dante welcome back Ijeoma Njaka to the pod! Who better to explore some of Book Two’s most formative and critical turning point moments than Ijeoma, an academic professor who created a class syllabus highlighting some of the great “big picture” themes of Avatar: The Last Airbender? The trio explores Zuko’s journey, the power of knowledge -- and its risks — and much more, including lots of discussion around fan favorite responses!

“The Crossroads of Destiny”: Book Two Finale w/ Michael DiMartino & Zach Tyler Eisen Mar 28, 2023

It’s the finale episode of Braving The Elements season two, and we’re going out big with two returning guests: Mike DiMartino and the voice of Aang, Zach Tyler Eisen! Hear from two adored members of the ATLA world as we face the final episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Book Two. The action-packed finale of the television season may not have as happy a conclusion as the one we have closing out our podcast season… but that’s what makes getting into Book Three so exciting!

The Origins of Toph Beifong with Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko Apr 04, 2023

Get ready to hear the story of one of the most iconic characters in the world of animation! Join Janet & Dante as they bring back Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko on a nostalgic trip down memory lane to reminisce about the creation of the legendary Toph. With exclusive insights into the creative process, we'll unpack early character concept designs and their evolution to the Toph we all know and love today. This rebroadcast promises to be an enthralling experience for all fans of the show.

Michaela Jill Murphy on Playing Toph Beifong Apr 11, 2023

Join Janet and Dante as they continue to celebrate the remarkable Toph Beifong by sitting down with Michaela Jill Murphy (aka Jessie Flower), the original voice of Toph. In this rebroadcast, Michaela shares insights into her life before and after joining the cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender, and how much she relates to Toph's bold personality. This episode promises to be a compelling and insightful conversation about the beloved character and her real-life counterpart - you won't want to miss.

Lauren Tom on Voice Acting, Joo Dee, and more! Apr 18, 2023

We're joined by Lauren Tom, the multi-talented actor and voice artist who brought to life Joo Dee, the smiling guide of Ba Sing Se and so many other memorable characters. Listen as Janet and Dante chat with Lauren about her prolific career in voiceover and on-screen acting, her success as a writer, mother, and being such a prominent figure in the Asian artistic community. In this captivating rebroadcast, Lauren shares her journey and insights into the entertainment industry, showcasing the qualities that make her a superstar.

Retelling the "Tales of Ba Sing Se" with Danielle Radford Apr 25, 2023

Let's celebrate one of the most cherished episodes in Book 2 - "The Tales of Ba Sing Se"! Joined by our dear friend and fellow Avatar stan Danielle Radford, Janet and Dante dive into an epic recap of this special collection of sentimental and emotional Avatar vignettes. We're not crying, you are...

The Hilarity of Avatar with Ron Funches May 02, 2023

Let's celebrate the funniest moments of Book 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, with comedian and Avatar fan Ron Funches. This episode rebroadcast highlights not only some of Janet, Dante and Ron's favorite scenes but also the moments our fans have shared with us over social media.

Bringing the Avatarverse to Life with Eric Coleman May 09, 2023

Join us for a special milestone as we celebrate the 100th episode of Braving the Elements! In this rebroadcast from Season 1, Janet and Dante are joined by former Nickelodeon executive (now CEO of Avatar Studios) Eric Coleman, aka "The Godfather of Zuko," for a candid discussion about the development of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Learn about Mike and Bryan's early ideas, their creative process, and valuable insights on navigating network animation development from an industry veteran!

Breaking News from Braving the Elements Jul 25, 2023

The long-awaited Avatar The Last Airbender Soundtrack, Book 1: Water, coming soon!

Introducing Season 3 of Avatar: Braving The Elements Jan 09, 2024

Coming in HOT - Nickelodeon’s official companion podcast, Avatar: Braving the Elements is back for it’s third season! Join hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco every Tuesday as they rewatch and discuss every episode of Book 3: Fire with special guests for more behind-the-scenes info you can’t get anywhere else.

Book Three: Fire Jan 16, 2024

We’re back and fired up for a new season! Janet and Dante have a ‘family’ reunion with their two dads, Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, as everyone catches up on some of the major moments from Team Avatar’s time in the Earth Kingdom. To get ready for Book Three: Fire, we’ll talk about the epic cliffhanger of season two, fiery characters we’ll meet in season 3, and some of our favorite episodes we can’t wait to watch again. Janet and Dante ask Mike and Bryan some questions from fans, and we may even hear a bit about what’s going on over at Avatar Studios…Flameo, it’s Fire Nation time!

‘The Awakening’ with Giancarlo Volpe Jan 23, 2024

Janet and Dante are joined once more by dynamo director, Giancarlo Volpe, as we welcome Aang back to the land of the living in, ‘The Awakening’! After the fall of the Earth Kingdom, Aang wakes up in some alarming new digs with a hair-raising new look (iykyk) as the Gaang makes their way towards unfamiliar Fire Nation territory. Meanwhile, Zuko finds himself feeling uneasy about his long-awaited return home after helping Azula defeat the Avatar, troubled by the question - is there a chance he could still be alive?

Janet and Dante get some insider info from Giancarlo about the elements that make this such a powerful season opener, marvel at the masterful displays of waterbending from Katara, and dive into Dante’s strong feelings about Zuko’s sinister sister and …her chess playing skills?

'The Headband' with John O'Bryan Jan 30, 2024

Janet and Dante are delighted to welcome back John O’Bryan, the writer who gave us the most iconic (and unlucky) cabbage merchant ever! John shares more behind-the-scenes intel as we catch up with Aang, the gang, and their sticky fingers, doing their best to assimilate to the Fire Nation; including ‘picking up’ some fresh new fits and taking a *brief* break from restoring world balance, to host the hottest Fire Nation school dance of the century...likely the only Fire Nation school dance of this century. Not so far away, Zuko experiences the perks and drawbacks in his relationships after returning home, and seeks help from a mysterious stranger to destroy the Avatar, once and for all.

New Bending! with Superfans Feb 06, 2024

Janet and Dante welcome 3 superfans to tell us what kind of bending THEY would love to see in the Four Nations. Along the way, important questions are answered like, who is the best ship? Do animal hybrids exist IRL? And is any type of bending innately good or evil?

Together, Janet, Dante, and our fiery fans stretch the fabric of the Avatarverse to its limits with their dream bending possibilities, and maybe even stumble upon a powerful new super bending gang of their own…

‘The Painted Lady’ with Faith Erin Hicks Feb 13, 2024

Janet and Dante are joined by Avatar graphic novel and comic book author, Faith Erin Hicks, as we follow our favorite Gaang to a peculiar little fishing village in, ‘The Painted Lady’. Plagued by the toxic run-off from the Fire Nation weapons factory up the river, the villagers suffer greatly from the surrounding polluted waters - that is, until a mysterious female figure comes to their aid…

Janet and Dante find out who Faith’s REAL favorite member of Team Avatar is, talk about the diversity and richness of female characters in the Avatarverse, and discuss the presumably *unique* flavor of turtle ducks (yum?).

Bookbending! with F.C. Yee & Nancy Wu Feb 20, 2024

Author of the Avatar Kyoshi & Avatar Yangchen novels, F.C. Yee, and the novels’ audiobook actor/narrator, Nancy Wu, join Janet and Dante to geek out! Together, they discuss team Avatar throughout history, what it's like to expand the Avatarverse with a master like Michael DiMartino, and why ‘The Great Divide’ is such an important episode.

Nancy talks about the cultural relevance and authenticity she feels as an Asian American and fan of the Avatar series. Then, Dante asks F.C. which of the novels is his favorite (possibly the full box set? *wink wink*), and more importantly, if the Fire Nation will ever receive any love from the books in the future.

Catch up with the story of Avatar Kyoshi and Avatar Yangchen here: https://www.abramsbooks.com/?s=avatar

‘Sokka’s Master’ with Jack De Sena Feb 27, 2024

Space rocks, training montages, and Fire Nation shopping sprees - there is never a dull day on a road trip with Team Avatar. In ‘Sokka’s Master’ we follow the journey of our favorite (and only) non-bending member of the Gaang as he discovers his own unique strengths and learns the skill of the blade.

And who better to join this Sokka-focused side quest than the voice of the boomerang guy himself, Jack De Sena! Jack, Janet, and Dante catch up with each other, question whether or not our friends REALLY miss us when we’re not around, and discuss the importance of honesty and humility on the path to power.

The Music of Avatar with Jeremy Zuckerman & Jeff Adams Mar 05, 2024

Leaves from vines and secret tunnels - feel all the feelings with Janet and Dante as they are joined by composer, Jeremy Zuckerman and original show editor, Jeff Adams to talk about the Avatar live concert tour and the iconic music that makes us laugh and makes us cry (especially Janet).

We’ll hear more about Jeremy's super airbending music powers and what it’s like to put the score at the forefront of storytelling and truly capture the essence and emotions of the Avatarverse. There may even be a couple special performances from Jeremy and Janet… FORESHADOW REPORT: there definitely will be.

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‘The Beach’ with Olivia Hack & Cricket Leigh Mar 12, 2024

Join Zuko, Azula, and the girlies for a bit of sun, a little relaxation, and just a touch of ambition for total world domination. We’ll get a taste of the trials and tribulations of Fire Nation teens, and witness a touching moment between siblings that *almost* convinces Dante that Azula means well. Almost.

Guests Olivia Hack (voice of Ty Lee) and Cricket Leigh (voice of Mai) help Janet brainstorm some new nicknames for Combustion Man - which is just soooo formal - and we see the line between Dante and Zuko blur yet again as we follow this fiery bunch of adolescents in, ‘The Beach’.

Drawing the Avatarverse with Lauren Montgomery Mar 19, 2024

Big burly men with lovely lady legs, iconic superheroes, and more - all in a day’s work for a storyboard artist and director, and this episode Janet and Dante are joined by one of the best, Lauren Montgomery!

Lauren gives a behind-the-scenes scoop on a couple animal hybrids that didn’t quite make the cut, and shares her very surprising favorite ship from the Avatarverse (you’re seriously never going to guess who it is).

We hear Dante’s FIRE rec for the best tea in Ba Sing Se, then he and Janet try their hands at drawing and interpreting some character shorthand. A high stakes challenge - with unreliable erasers - that you won’t want to miss!

‘The Avatar and the Firelord’ with Ify Nwadiwe Mar 26, 2024

What’s it like to be besties with the Avatar? Who gave Roku his lewk? Are there any good folks in the Fire Nation?? Answers to these questions and more as Janet, Dante and special guest, Ify Nwadiwe dive into, ‘The Avatar and the Firelord’.

We’ll catch up with Aang as he receives yet another very specific calendar ask from his predecessor, Avatar Roku, and follow along as Zuko digs deeper into his past to unearth the one family connection we truly didn't see coming. If you’ve ever wondered what a Fire Nation reality TV show would look like, this episode is for you!

‘The Runaway’ with Michaela Jill Murphy Apr 02, 2024

Janet and Dante are thrilled to welcome back Michaela Jill Murphy, the original voice of everyone’s favorite earthbending melon lord, Toph. We’ll uncover more golden nuggets from Dante’s past (y’all ever seen a pre-teen do a 3 card monte?) and discuss the one person you NEVER want to pull a scam with.

Find out what happens when cheating a cheater goes too far in, ‘The Runaway’.

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Choose Your Fate with Superfans Apr 09, 2024

Nerd out with Janet, Dante, and two superfans as they talk about all things Avatar - from which show characters they would want on their team for a 48-hour film challenge, to the impact of the thoughtful representation of disabilities in the Avatarverse.

We’ll learn a bit about the origins of extreme martial arts from real-life Korra (a title bestowed by Janet herself) and hear some spirited discussion about questions you may not have thought to ask, like ‘Is there anything worse than a spa day with Azula??’.

‘The Puppetmaster’ with Joaquim Dos Santos Apr 16, 2024

Scary ghost stories, creepy dark woods, and an eerie little town in the Fire Nation…what could possibly go wrong?

Dive into this fan favorite ep with Janet & Dante as they are joined by storyboard artist & director Joaquim Dos Santos. We hear some insider info about alternate titles for the episode and all the ways the original series broke the rules of animation. Then Joaquim shares his most memorable moments from working on the show, and the trio talks about the importance of stranger danger when hanging out in the woods at night (we’re lookin at you, Team Avatar).

Catch Dante’s survival instincts kicking in and find out what Janet has deemed the “most effective scare” in the series, in ‘The Puppetmaster’.

‘Nightmares and Daydreams’ with Grey DeLisle Apr 23, 2024

Revisit the most stressful episode of Book 3, ‘Nightmares and Daydreams’ with Janet, Dante, and…Azula?? Not quite, but it IS the iconic voice actress behind this most delightful and nightmarish princess, Grey DeLisle!

With the solar eclipse only a handful of days away, Team Avatar sets camp at the meeting spot for the invasion force. Everyone prepares and rests up for their next square off with the Fire Lord. That is, everyone except Aang who is having just a *bit* of trouble coping with the pressure before the big event (but hey, who wouldn’t be?).

Let this be a reminder to all, when facing your biggest enemy in a battle to restore peace and harmony across all four nations, it’s usually best to remember your pants!

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The Art of Cosplay with Superfans Apr 30, 2024

Janet and Dante are joined by OG Avatar superfans to talk about their best character recreations from the show, their ultimate dream cosplays, and the coolest group cosplay they’ve seen at a con to date.

We hear about DJ Dante’s most uncomfortable fit, and the gang deliberates the best character from the Avatarverse to bring to a party (SPOILER ALERT: it is most certainly, NOT Azula).

‘Day of Black Sun Part 1’ with Hector Navarro May 07, 2024

Get your eclipse glasses ready - Janet, Dante, and Avatar aficionado, Hector Navarro, are catching up with the Gaang in, ‘Day of Black Sun Part 1’.

With the arrival of some familiar faces and fancy new gadgets, Team Avatar is ready to bring the fight to the Fire Lord’s doorstep, but what trouble awaits on the other side of the palace gates? Who knows! Will they find success and redemption after their failure at Ba Sing Se? We hope so! Can Dante really find the good in ANYONE in the Fire Nation? You’ll have to tune in to find out…

‘Day of Black Sun Part 2’ with Hector Navarro May 14, 2024

Hold on to your ostrich horses - we’re back with ‘Day of Black Sun Part 2’! Janet and Dante are once again joined by friend and Avatar aficionado, Hector Navarro, to collectively scream over this mid-eclipse twist, as Team Avatar finally makes their way to the Fire Lord’s secret underground bunker only to find Princess Azula sitting smugly on her father’s throne.

Follow along as we witness a major turning point for Zuko, ponder the effectiveness of the team’s eclipse glasses, and determine who would be the best real-life PR rep for the Fire Nation (not a hard job when there are just SO many good folks there).

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Midseason Trivia May 21, 2024

Think you know Avatar? Put your knowledge to the test with Janet and Dante as they’re joined by two superfans for some FIRE trivia made by one of the biggest Avatar enthusiasts we know - Janet!

We find out who really remembers their fictional musical instruments from the Four Nations, and put Dante in the hot seat to judge fans’ best impressions of some of the most iconic characters from the animated series.

‘The Western Air Temple’ with Tim Hedrick May 28, 2024

Hello, iconic episode here! Janet and Dante hide out at ‘The Western Air Temple’ with Avatar writer, Tim Hedrick. Together, they discuss animals that are not just animals but also verbs, the most memorable lines from the episode, and their opinions on what might be a misuse of Katara’s healing water.

Dante and Janet share their personal boomerang histories and the group sympathizes with the newest friend of Team Avatar that is just SO bad at being good. (Oof, that’s rough buddy).

Bringing Characters to Life with Bryan Konietzko Jun 04, 2024

Co-creator Bryan Konietzko drops in to talk about the design of some of our favorite characters from the Avatarverse. He gives Janet and Dante some true insider info about what went into the choices that made these characters so visually dynamic, recognizable, and iconic; from the beginnings of Avatar the Last Airbender, to the first drafts of The Legend of Korra.

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‘The Firebending Masters’ with Zach Tyler Eisen Jun 11, 2024

Master of all four elements, in the house! Voice of Aang, Zach Tyler Eisen, returns for another huge fan-favorite episode.

We know Twinkle Toes has got some moves, but what other members of Team Avatar can keep up with his fancy footwork? And more importantly, can Janet convince Dante and Zach to attempt the Dragon Dance themselves? Find out, as the trio dives into, ‘The Firebending Masters’.

The Fashion of Avatar with Angela Song-Mueller Jun 18, 2024

Janet & Dante are joined by Avatar insider, Angela Song-Mueller, and fashion student Valerie Bortolutti, for an in depth discussion about the fashion of the Avatarverse. From Angela's work designing character wardrobe for the beloved animated series, to Valerie's real-life fashion line inspired by her love of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra!

‘The Boiling Rock: Part 1’ with Josh Hamilton & May Chan Jun 25, 2024

Things really start to heat up (literally) as Zuko and Sokka venture out on an impromptu, secret rescue mission to save Sokka’s father in, “The Boiling Rock: Part 1”.

Uncover more behind-the-scenes info as Janet and Dante are joined by episode writers May Chan and Josh Hamilton, who reminisce about the inception of this tense, thrilling adventure. May shares the real-life influences that made it into the final storyline of the episode and the group debates the *proper* etiquette for plus-ones during a prison escape.

Favorite Adversaries with Ethan Schulteis Jul 02, 2024

From Admiral Zhao to the Fire Lord himself, Team Avatar has had their fair share of fiery foes - but how do we really feel about their greatest enemies?

Ethan Schulteis joins Janet and Dante for a lively discussion drilling down into some of the adversaries we've met in Books One, Two, and Three. Who’s the most fun? Who deserves redemption? And how do badgers fit into all of this?? Tune in to find out!

‘The Boiling Rock: Part 2’ with Josh Hamilton & May Chan Jul 09, 2024

Dive into part two of the most epic escape! Janet and Dante are once again joined by episode writers May Chan and Josh Hamilton for the twists and turns of ‘The Boiling Rock: Part 2’.

We see just how much ‘Uncle Warden’ gets into everyone’s business, talk about the least ideal place to run into an ex, and catch yet another surprise appearance of everyone’s favorite “people person”.

Fire Nation Vacation Jul 16, 2024

You know it, we know it, and if you don’t know yet, Dante will surely remind you - there are a lot of good people in the Fire Nation! Join special guests Amytess Girgis and Lexie Henning, along with our favorite co-hosts Janet and Dante, to celebrate just that. From cool towns to spicy foods to festivals and culture, there's a lot to love in this complicated nation with a deep and layered history. Flameo, everyone!

The Gaang’s Bending Evolutions with Antoine Bandele Jul 23, 2024

Janet and Dante continue their journey to become officially unofficial professors of the Avatarverse as they are joined by Author, YouTuber, and Avatar expert, Antoine Bandele, to talk about the fiercest benders throughout the series. From the most iconic bending moments to the most underrated, the group nerds out about some of our favorite bending prodigies.

The Southern Raiders with Jennie Kwan Jul 30, 2024

It's the welcome return of the original voice of Suki, Jennie Kwan, who joins Janet and Dante for a deeper dive into the fate of Katara and Sokka's mother. Strap in for this emotional rollercoaster as Zuko and Katara team up for the ultimate side quest filled with heartbreak and healing in, ‘The Southern Raiders’.

Favorite Non-Benders with Hector Navarro Aug 06, 2024

Janet and Dante are joined once again by expert of all things Avatarverse, Hector Navarro, to give some love to the sterling non-bender characters who show us time and again their ability to defeat the toughest adversaries, come up with perfect plans, or make or break someone else's! From total powerhouses like Sokka and Suki to Mai, Ty Lee, and more - these characters prove that you don’t have to master earth, fire, water, or air to be completely in your element!

‘The Ember Island Players’ with Andrea Romano Aug 13, 2024

From the icy South Pole, to the heart of Ba Sing Se - featuring singing nomads, pirates, and a surprisingly knowledgeable merchant of cabbage, it’s ‘The Ember Island Players’.

Janet and Dante are joined by legendary Voice Director, Andrea Romano, to talk about this LEGENDARY episode where team Avatar stumbles upon a play about themselves and their adventures. The trio recalls their own experiences working together on past Avatar projects, and Andrea gives an inside look into what it was like to direct the star-studded (and unexpected!) group of guest actors in this hilarious tale.

The Elemental Players with Tim Hedrick, Josh Hamilton, & John O'Bryan Aug 20, 2024

Janet and Dante take a closer look at the marvel that is ‘The Ember Island Players’, getting the inside scoop from the writers of the episode: Tim Hedrick, Josh Hamilton, and John O'Bryan. Then, Janet shares some fan-favorite moments and we find out if the writers ever really believed ‘Zutara’ could exist.

Were they just humoring us??? Tune in to find out!

Best Redemption with Gene Luen Yang Aug 27, 2024

Forget about main character ENERGY, let’s talk about some character DEVELOPMENT.

Janet and Dante welcome back award-winning artist, and the writer of the first 5 ATLA graphic novels, Gene Luen Yang, for a thoughtful discussion about redemption - which characters deserve it, the importance of redemption in a storyline, and who had the best redemption arc of the ATLA animated series (and possibly ALL of American television???).

Sozin's Comet: Part 1 & 2 with Evanna Lynch Sep 03, 2024

With Sozin’s Comet only a few days away, Zuko shares the Fire Lord’s plans with Team Avatar. They must stop him before the comet arrives, but when the time comes, will Aang have the heart to do what he must to save his friends and restore balance to the world? It’s a heavy burden to carry (good thing it's him and not us!).

Janet and Dante are joined once again by Evanna Lynch for the first half of this spectacular series finale!

Meet the Cast with Mae Whitman and Jack De Sena! Sep 10, 2024

It’s a water tribe family reunion! Meet the voice actor who originated the courageous, compassionate and inspiring Katara - Mae Whitman! And what would a water tribe family reunion be without the voice of everyone’s favorite boomerang guy, Jack De Sena.

This fantastic duo joins Janet and Dante to talk about Mae’s early acting days and what it was like to voice an iconic character like Katara. Along the way, the group shares some of their favorite (and some very silly) memories from their time working on the beloved animated series.

Sozin's Comet: Part 3 with Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko Sep 17, 2024

Answers to fan questions, (potential) future cosplay plans from Bryan and Dante, and insider stories about how this epic, multi-part finale came to be. There’s lots of Avatar goodness to unveil as Janet and Dante welcome back their two dads, Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko for the brilliant climax to this series finale!

Trivia Spectacular! with Avatar Studios Sep 24, 2024

We couldn't wrap up the ATLA series without one last ultimate test of Avatar knowledge. Janet and Dante welcome more phenomenal superfans to go head to head with some of the series' insiders, like Avatar Studios' Isabella Boettcher & Pramodh Manian!

Sozin's Comet: Part 4 with Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko Oct 01, 2024

The end already? Say it isn’t so! Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko join Janet and Dante once more, for the EPIC finale to this beloved animated series.The comet has arrived and with the rest of Team Avatar spread out fighting their own battles, the time has finally come for Aang to go toe-to-toe with the Fire Lord and face his destiny.

Gaming the Avatarverse Oct 08, 2024

You want the inside scoop, we’ve got the inside scoop - directly from “Dad of the Podcast” and SVP of Games and Emerging Media at Paramount, Doug Rosen, as he shares a first look with Janet and Dante into some of the exciting projects set to expand the Avatar gaming world.

Saying Goodbye and Hello Oct 15, 2024

It’s the end of an era—Aang’s era, at least—as Janet and Dante look back at some fan favorite guests and various “visiting professors” that have joined their journey to their degrees in Avatar. Featuring never-before-seen video from past seasons, our favorite co-hosts reminisce as they bid a fond farewell to the world of ATLA and get ready to meet the new Avatar seventy years into the future... Korra!

Braving the Elements Season 4 Trailer: A New Avatar Rises! May 13, 2025

The official trailer for Braving the Elements Season 4 has arrived! Join hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) as they return to explore The Legend of Korra. This season, it’s all about the rise of a new Avatar, the evolution of Republic City, and the bold legacy Korra forges in Book One. Featuring cast interviews, behind-the-scenes lore, and plenty of surprises from the Avatarverse.

Available everywhere you get your podcasts on May 20th.

The Legend of Korra Begins: INSIDE Book One w/ Creators Mike & Bryan May 20, 2025

Janet and Dante are back, but this time with a new Avatar! Season 4 of Braving the Elements launches us into The Legend of Korra: Book One with series creators Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. From Korra’s earliest sketches to the design of Republic City, the invention of pro-bending, and the show's steampunk-inspired elements, this episode explores how TLOK came to life. The Two Dads dive deep into the art, themes, and groundbreaking decisions that shaped the next era of the Avatarverse. Plus, Janet shares the story of her audition and defends Korra's character arc in what would become a new kind of YA hero.

Avatar Korra's Debut: Welcome to Republic City with Steve Blum ("Amon") May 27, 2025

Voice legend Steve Blum joins Janet and Dante to unpack his iconic role as Amon, The Legend of Korra’s masked adversary! From early audition notes to the eerie voice restraint that made Amon so chilling, Steve shares how he brought this complex villain to life. The crew explores Korra’s explosive arrival in Republic City, her fiery declaration as the Avatar, and how Book One tackles weighty themes like nonbender inequality and political unrest. They also reflect on what sets Korra apart from Aang, explore their favorite ships, and challenge Steve to a round of “Quip or Cabbage?” to see how well he remembers Amon’s most iconic lines.

The Voice of Avatar Aang's Grandaughter! Darcy Rose Byrnes ("Ikki") Jun 03, 2025

Korra takes her first (reluctant) steps into airbending in Episode 102 of The Legend of Korra, and joining Janet and Dante is voice actor Darcy Rose Byrnes, who brought the energetic Ikki to life! Darcy shares what it was like voicing the granddaughter of Avatar Aang at just 10 years old, and how Ikki’s joy and goofiness connect the spirit of ATLA to TLOK.

The crew dives into Korra’s frustration with Tenzin’s teachings, her impulsive pro-bending detour, and the deeper lesson behind “being like the leaf.” What makes airbending so elusive for Korra? How does her struggle reflect her inner resistance to change?

Darcy celebrates Ikki’s role as the heart of the Airbender family and even honors fan-favorite Shinobi with a fun impression. Plus, the team reflects on Korra’s moment of growth (and regret) after breaking a 2000-year-old Air Nomad artifact, the strength it takes to say sorry, and the pride in being seen by your teacher. And of course, Uncle Iroh’s Tea Time returns, with Darcy drawing wisdom from a teapot of classic Iroh quotes.

Scoring TLOK's Jazz-Age Tension with Composer Jeremy Zuckerman Jun 10, 2025

Award-winning composer and Avatarverse legend Jeremy Zuckerman returns to the pod to break down his sonic approach to The Legend of Korra, especially the eerie tension of Book One’s Equalist uprising. Jeremy joins Janet and Dante to discuss Episode 3, “The Revelation,” where Korra uncovers the terrifying rise of Amon, chi-blockers, and steampunk-inspired resistance fighters. The team explores how the show’s 1920s jazz influences and rhythmic experimentation shaped Korra’s distinct musical identity, from moody horns to haunting motifs. Plus, they revisit the Avatar live concert, the legacy of chi-blocking from Ty Lee to the Equalists, and why limitations in the score made Korra’s world sound more raw, real, and revolutionary.

The Cinematic Evolution of Avatar with Director Joaquim Dos Santos Jun 17, 2025

Director, character designer, and Avatar legend Joaquim Dos Santos joins Janet and Dante to talk all things Korra - from the very first sketch of the Avatar herself to crafting the episode's darker, noir-inspired tone. In this episode, Team Avatar revisits The Voice in the Night, where Korra faces off with mounting fear, political pressure, and a growing Equalist threat. Joaquim shares how he helped design Korra as the "opposite of Aang," how her MMA-inspired physicality influenced her character, and how cinematic storyboarding brought a new visual language to the Avatarverse. Plus: Tarrlok’s shady charm, the chilling mystery of Amon, and why this episode marks a major tonal shift in Book One.

Love Triangles and 'The Spirit of Competition' with Seychelle Gabriel ("Asami") Jun 24, 2025

Seychelle Gabriel, the voice of Asami Sato, joins Janet and Dante to explore the tangled emotional web of The Legend of Korra’s “The Spirit of Competition.” As pro-bending battles escalate, so do the romantic tensions between Korra, Mako, and Asami. Seychelle shares what it was like to voice such a stylish, badass character in her very first voiceover gig, and reflects on Asami’s early role in the Avatarverse and her growing connection with Korra. The trio explores the roots of the Korrasami ship, behind-the-scenes stories from Seychelle’s audition, and how love, loyalty, and competition all collide in this turning point of Book One. Plus, it’s time for another round of “Quip or Cabbage?”

Metalbending Mastery feat. Mindy Sterling "Lin Beifong" (Toph’s Daughter!) Jul 01, 2025

Mindy Sterling joins Janet and Dante to talk about voicing Lin Beifong, The Legend of Korra’s master metalbender and the daughter of ATLA’s Toph. In Book One’s “And the Winner Is…”, Lin steps up to defend the pro-bending finals against Amon’s threat. The trio unpacks Lin’s metalbending might, her Marina Dietrich-inspired swagger, and how it feels to carry on Toph’s legacy. Plus, a hilarious attempt at a Shiro Shinobi recap and behind-the-scenes stories that prove Lin’s not the only scene-stealer in the room.

The Cabbage Merchant Legacy Lives On feat. James Sie Jul 08, 2025

The saga of the Cabbage Merchant continues! James Sie - the voice behind Avatar: The Last Airbender’s iconic cabbage merchant - joins Janet and Dante to unpack The Legend of Korra Book One: Air, Episode 7: “The Aftermath”. From the shocking takedown of Cabbage Corp to Hiroshi Sato’s dark secret, this episode is packed with bending betrayals, cabbage-bending conspiracies (maybe), and emotional fallout from legacy characters.

The trio explores themes of betrayal, legacy, chosen family, and how trauma fuels extremism - from Hiroshi to Jet to Amon. Plus: how the Cabbage Merchant’s legacy still echoes through the Avatarverse - one heartbreak at a time.

The Avatar Gets Bloodbent?! Feat. Special Guest Richard Epcar ("Saikhan") Jul 15, 2025

This week we're diving deep into Book One: Air, Episode 8 of The Legend of Korra “When Extremes Meet” with special guest Richard Epcar, the voice behind Captain Saikhan!

Join hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) as they unpack the shifting politics of Republic City, the rise of Tarrlok, and the chilling return of bloodbending - all while celebrating the artistry, humor, and unexpected darkness of this pivotal ATLA-universe episode.

Richard shares behind-the-scenes stories from the booth, his take on Saikhan’s controversial alliance, and why he thinks Asami Sato deserves the title of Team Avatar MVP.

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!

Avatar Aang Returns in TLOK’s Most Emotional Episode feat. Zach Tyler Eisen Jul 22, 2025

Avatar Aang makes a powerful return in TLOK Book One: Air, Episode 9, “Out of the Past” - and this week, we’re joined by none other than ATLA’s original voice of Aang, Zach Tyler Eisen. Hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco dive deep into this unforgettable episode, where Korra’s captivity triggers a chilling vision of Aang’s final showdown with Yakone and a shocking revelation about bloodbending.

Zach reflects on his emotional journey voicing Aang and what it means to revisit the Avatarverse in a moment of such high stakes and spiritual weight. Together, we explore the disturbing legacy of Yakone, Tarrlok’s betrayal, and the pain that continues to ripple through time - from Aang’s struggle to bring justice, to Korra’s growing fear of losing control.

This episode is packed with tension, legacy, and heartbreak, as past and present collide. How does Aang’s courtroom memory guide Korra through her darkest hour? And what does this spiritual encounter say about the burden - and power - of being the Avatar?

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!

Toph and The Boulder Reunite! Michaela Jill Murphy & Mick Foley Spill Avatarverse Secrets Jul 29, 2025

Did you know The Boulder was almost voiced by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson?! ATLA legends Toph (Michaela Jill Murphy) and The Boulder (Mick Foley) spill some Avatar secrets and join us for a joyful reunion full of laughs, live scene reenactments, and heartfelt fan stories. From their Earth Rumble 6 showdown to real-life convention adventures, this episode dives into the friendships and fandoms that continue to grow around the Avatarverse. Michaela shares a touching moment with a blind fan, while Mick reflects on how wrestling shaped his iconic character.

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

TLOK’s Shiro Shinobi Speaks! The Voice Behind Avatar’s Iconic Radio Voice Aug 05, 2025

You’ve heard his voice narrating every twist and turn in The Legend of Korra. Now the man behind Shiro Shinobi finally steps up to the mic! In this episode of Braving the Elements, hosts Dante Basco and Janet Varney sit down with Jeff Bennett, the voice behind Avatar’s most iconic radio broadcaster, to discuss the fan-favorite episode “Turning Tides.” From Shinobi’s Shakespearean flair to unforgettable lines like “I am currently wetting my pants,” this episode celebrates the character’s surprising rise and enduring charm. Jeff performs a custom Shinobi recap, reflects on his ATLA connections, and teases the return of General Iroh.

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!

MLB’s Pablo López on Sports x Avatar Crossovers Aug 12, 2025

Minnesota Twins MLB pitcher Pablo López joins Braving the Elements to share his deep love for the Avatarverse - and yes, he really wears a Water Tribe belt on the mound. Hosts Dante Basco and Janet Varney dive into Pablo’s personal connections to Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra, from childhood memories to life lessons drawn from Aang and Korra’s journeys. They build fantasy baseball teams with benders, debate pro-bending strategy, and explore how the show's themes mirror real-life challenges in professional sports. Plus, Magic: The Gathering designer Dillon Deveney gives us a first look at the epic ATLA x MTG crossover, revealing how the team brought bending battles and beloved characters to life in card form.

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!

Amon’s True Identity Revealed! Stephen Root (‘ Gommu’) Breaks Down This TLOK Twist Aug 19, 2025

Janet Varney and Dante Basco are joined by legendary actor Stephen Root - voice of Gommu, Republic City’s underground hobo and secret telegraph master - to unpack one of Legend of Korra’s most jaw-dropping moments: the reveal of Amon’s true identity. Together, they dive deep into The Legend of Korra Book 1, Episode 11: “Skeletons in the Closet.”

Root shares his thoughts on playing morally complex characters, why he wouldn’t want bending powers (a first for any guest!), and his surprising connection to his favorite hybrid animal from the Avatar universe, Naga. The trio dives deep into the emotional backstory of Tarrlok and Noatak, the trauma of bloodbending, and the chilling legacy of Yakone.

Plus: relationship drama, epic bending battles, and a hilarious telegraph scene that proves Gou might be the most resourceful non-bender in the Avatarverse.

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!

Book One Finale: Korra’s Endgame with Dee Bradley Baker (‘Tarrlok’) Aug 26, 2025

In the epic season finale of The Legend of Korra Book One, hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) are joined by voice acting legends Dee Bradley Baker (Tarrlok) and Andrea Romano (voice director) to unpack one of the most emotional and cinematic episodes in the Avatarverse: “Endgame.”

From Amon’s shocking unmasking to Tarrlok’s heartbreaking final decision, this episode dives deep into themes of redemption, trauma, and moral complexity. Dee Bradley Baker shares behind-the-scenes insights on voicing Tarrlok and the show’s beloved hybrid animals, while Andrea Romano reflects on the power of subtle performance and directing one of animation’s most nuanced finales.

Plus: Korra’s bending is restored, Lin Beifong rises again, and Naga proves once more that animals are the unsung heroes of the Avatar world.

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

Book Two Begins: Avatar Wan's Origin Revealed with Creators Mike & Bryan Sep 02, 2025

In this deep-dive episode of Avatar: Braving the Elements, hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) reunite with Legend of Korra creators Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko to kick off Book Two: Spirits. From the evolution of bending to the rise of technology, the team explores the rich worldbuilding behind the Spirit World, the North vs. South Water Tribe conflict, and the emotional complexity of family dynamics in the Avatarverse.

Mike and Bryan share behind-the-scenes stories about the creation of the first Avatar, Wan, the challenges of animation production, and how Book Two’s visual style was inspired by Miyazaki. Plus: new characters, sibling rivalries, and the introduction of fan-favorite Varrick.

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!

Korra Turns on Tenzin?! David Faustino ("Mako") Breaks Down Book Two’s Wild Start Sep 09, 2025

Korra turns on Tenzin?! In this explosive kickoff to Book Two of The Legend of Korra, hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) are joined by David Faustino, the voice of Mako, to break down Episode 201: “Rebel Spirit.”

From Korra’s shocking decision to ditch her mentor to Mako’s new role as a motorcycle-riding Republic City cop, this episode is packed with drama, spiritual imbalance, and family tension. David shares behind-the-scenes stories, reflects on Mako’s firebending and lightning skills, and dishes on the infamous love triangle with Korra and Asami.

Plus: the debut of eccentric businessman Varrick, creepy twins Eska and Desna, and the mysterious dark spirits threatening the Southern Water Tribe. It’s a wild start to Book Two, and the Avatarverse will never be the same.

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!

Korra's Family Fallout in Book Two 'Southern Lights' with Writer Tim Hedrick Sep 16, 2025

In this revealing episode of Avatar: Braving the Elements, hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) are joined by writer Tim Hedrick to break down The Legend of Korra Book Two, Episode 202: “The Southern Lights.”

As Korra begins her spiritual journey under Unalaq’s guidance, long-buried family secrets surface - leading to a painful fallout with her father, Tonraq. Meanwhile, Tenzin, Kya, and Bumi arrive at the Southern Air Temple, sparking sibling tension and raising questions about Avatar Aang’s legacy.

Tim shares behind-the-scenes insights on crafting Korra’s emotional arc, the inspiration behind the Southern Lights, and the creation of fan-favorite Varrick. Plus: Bolin’s inflatable snowsuit, Pabu’s scene-stealing moments, and the eerie beauty of the spirit world.

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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!

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

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

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 Shocking Season Finale Decision Explained! with Adrian LaTourelle ("Unalaq") Dec 02, 2025

The stakes couldn’t be higher in The Legend of Korra Book Two finale, and the world will never be the same. Hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with Adrian LaTourelle, the voice behind Unalaq, to break down the shocking decision that changed the Avatarverse forever. Adrian shares what it was like to voice a character who begins as Korra’s spiritual guide and transforms into one of the franchise’s most chilling villains.

From the rise of the Dark Avatar and the epic showdown with Vaatu to Korra’s bold choice to leave the spirit portals open, this conversation dives deep into the philosophy, the drama, and the behind-the-scenes stories that make this finale one of the most talked-about moments in Avatar history. Adrian shares behind-the-scenes stories from the recording booth, reflections on acting technique, and insights into why Unalaq’s teachings still echo through Korra’s journey.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a villain terrifying, how the Avatar balances light and dark, or why this finale redefined the role of the Avatar, this is the episode you can’t miss. Join the fun and react to the season finale discussion in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel!

Inside Avatar Studios: Seven Havens, New Games, and What’s Next for the Avatarverse Dec 09, 2025

In this season finale of Braving the Elements, hosts Janet and Dante team up with Avatar Studios insiders Isabella Boettcher and Joan Hilty for an unforgettable deep dive into the Avatarverse. Together, they explore the rich storytelling that spans across animation, comics, novels, and games, revealing how every piece connects to the larger world fans love.

The conversation touches on everything from the emotional highs and heartbreaks of The Legend of Korra to the darker, more complex narratives in the Kyoshi and Yangchen novels. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights on how creators keep the lore consistent while expanding the universe through new mediums like tabletop RPGs, Magic: The Gathering, and major gaming collaborations with Fortnite and Overwatch. Plus, there’s an exciting tease about the upcoming series Seven Havens and what it could mean for the future of the Avatar timeline.

Watch the video version on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel for even more reactions and insights!

Avatar Braving the Elements Season 5 Trailer: The Biggest Season Yet! Sep 18, 2026

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, as well as hear from the creative team that helps bring these stories to life. Don't miss the biggest season yet of Avatar: Braving the Elements!

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