TV & Film

Avatar: Braving the Elements

Enter the amazing world of Avatar through the official companion podcast, Avatar: Braving the Elements from Nickelodeon. Join hosts Janet Varney (the voice of “Korra”) and Dante Basco (the voice of “Prince Zuko”) each week as they re-watch every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender then break down key themes, notable battles, and behind-the-scenes trivia you can’t get anywhere else. Special guests from cast members to producers join them to explore elements of the Avatarverse, including the origins of the story and how Avatar was brought to life.
Braving the Elements listeners can use discount code “AVATAR20” for 20% off all Avatar: The Last Airbender products on ParamountShop.com.

Latest Episodes:

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

Show notes

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

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

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

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

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

Show notes

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

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

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

Show notes

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

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

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

Show notes

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

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

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

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

Show notes

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

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

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

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

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

Show notes

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.

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

Show notes

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!

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

Show notes

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!

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

Show notes

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!

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

Show notes

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!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Avatar: Braving the Elements

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected