Synopsis
Its the English class you didn't know you missed and the meaningful conversations you didn't know you craved. Join Vanessa Zoltan and Casper ter Kuile as they bring thought, reflection and laughter to Harry Potter; not just as novels, but as instructive and inspirational texts that will teach us about our own lives. Relive the magic chapter by chapter as they explore themes such as commitment, revenge and forgiveness. This podcast creates time in your week to think about lifes big questions. Because reading fiction doesnt just help us escape the world, it helps us live in it.
Episodes
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Special Announcement: Rebecca Pilgrimage with Dana Schwartz!
14/11/2022 Duration: 13minVanessa is joined by Dana Schwartz to chat about their upcoming Rebecca pilgrimage and the theme of haunting. Find out more here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Quitting: Mayhem at the Ministry (Book 4, Chapter 10)
10/11/2022 Duration: 55minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Quitting in Chapter Ten of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Arthur's obligations as both a parent and government employee, Harry's confession to his pals, and the usefulness (or lack thereof) of portkeys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does quitting allow us to choose something better? Thank you to Sarah for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 11, Aboard the Hogwarts Express with special guest Jolie Doggett (!!), through the theme of Peace.Vanessa's new project, "Should I Quit" is now available wherever you listen to podcasts!--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Humility: The Dark Mark (Book 4, Chapter 9)
03/11/2022 Duration: 50minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Humility in Chapter Nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the return of the Death Eaters, Harry's Quidditch dreams, and Winky's predicament. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be appropriately humble? Thank you to Callahan for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 10, Mayhem at the Ministry, through the theme of Quitting.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Nostalgia: The Quidditch World Cup (Book 4, Chapter 8)
27/10/2022 Duration: 53minThis week, Vanessa and very special guest Jackson Bird explore the theme of Nostalgia in Chapter Eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss sports(!!!!!), Dobby stirring the pot for house elves, and the Malfoy vs Weasley dichotomy. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we reconcile our conflicting feelings about the past? Thank you to Sydney for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 9, The Dark Mark, through the theme of Humility.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Service: Bagman and Crouch (Book 4, Chapter 7)
20/10/2022 Duration: 51minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Service in Chapter Seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss muggle obliviation, Harry & Hermione's limited camping knowledge, and Percy/Weatherby's dedication to Barty Crouch Sr. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do pay homage to that which is important to us, through our service? Thank you to Grace for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 8, The Quidditch World Cup, with special guest Jackson Bird (!!) through the theme of Nostalgia.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Insight: The Portkey (Book 4, Chapter 6)
13/10/2022 Duration: 44minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Insight in Chapter Six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry's muggle expertise, Amos Diggory's glowing pride in his son, and Fred & George's unappreciated talents. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can our insights help us to better understand each-other?Thank you to Paige Erin for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 7, Bagman and Crouch, through the theme of Service.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Owl Post Edition: An Interview with Hannah McGregor!
06/10/2022 Duration: 56minThis week Vanessa is joined by fellow podcaster, writer, and All Star Human Hannah McGregor for this special Owl Post edition of the podcast! They respond to some listener voicemails and discuss Hannah's recent book release - A Sentimental Education, which explores what podcasting has taught her about feminist scholarship.Thanks to Kath, Sam, and Beth for their beautiful voicemail contributions! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 6, The Portkey, through the theme of Insight.--It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollar to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Healing: Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes (Book 4, Chapter 5)
29/09/2022 Duration: 50minThis week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Casper ter Kuile (!!) as they explore the theme of Healing in Chapter Five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Arthur's work in Wizard/Muggle relations, Fred and George's burgeoning business venture, and poor, poor Bertha Jorkins. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we properly assess and cherish relationships that were broken in some way but have since been healed?Thank you to our anonymous listener for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Book 4 Chapter 6, The Portkey, through the theme of Insight.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Fun: Back To The Burrow (Book 4, Chapter 4)
22/09/2022 Duration: 49minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Fun in Chapter Four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the fun had at Dudley's expense, Harry's return to the Burrow, and a cramped moment in the Dursley fireplace. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we learn to find and cherish the fun in unplanned situations?Thank you to Michael for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 5, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, through the theme of Healing with special guest Casper ter Kuile!!--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Relief: The Invitation (Book 4, Chapter 3)
15/09/2022 Duration: 56minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Relief in Chapter Three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry's stash of birthday cakes, Vernon's opposition to difference, and the relief of Harry's upcoming reunion with the Weasleys. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we create a sense of relief for ourselves?Thank you to our anonymous voicemail contributor! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 4, Back to the Burrow, through the theme of Fun.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Earnestness: The Scar (Book 4, Chapter 2)
08/09/2022 Duration: 56minThis week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Earnestness in Chapter Two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the peek into Voldemort's perspective, the many earnest desires revealed through Harry's thoughts in this chapter, and the abundance of pen pals. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when and how can we be earnest while also being considerate of how people receive our honest thoughts?Thank you to Ruth for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 3, The Invitation, through the theme of Relief.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Tradition: The Riddle House (Book 4, Chapter 1)
01/09/2022 Duration: 56minWelcome back for Season 4! This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Tradition in Chapter One of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss life in Little Haggleton, Voldemort's return, and Frank's unfortunate existence as the town's scapegoat. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we change traditions over time, and how do they in turn change us?Thank you to Clare for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 2, The Scar, through the theme of Earnestness.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Wrap-Up: The Prisoner of Azkaban
11/08/2022 Duration: 47minVanessa and Matt wrap up their their discussion of The Prisoner of Azkaban with a look back on the entire book! They discuss Voldemort's absence, the fleshing out of Harry's parents' personalities, and the growing distrust we as readers have for the Ministry of Magic. We're taking a quick break, but will be back in two weeks to discuss Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire!--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Love: Owl Post Again (Book 3, Chapter 22)
04/08/2022 Duration: 51minVanessa and Matt explore the theme of Love in Chapter Twenty-Two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Madam Pomfrey's attentive care, Harry's choice to save Peter Pettigrew's life, and Hagrid's faith in Buckbeak. Throughout the episode we consider the distinction between love as a responsibility vs. love as a feeling.Thank you to Eileen for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban!--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Revisionist History: I Was A Stranger And You Welcomed Me
01/08/2022 Duration: 34minWe're excited to share this special preview of Revisionist History with you today! In this episode Malcolm Gladwell tells the story of how his parents and their friends sponsored three Vietnamese refugees, in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. And wonders: do we underestimate the value of ordinary acts of kindness?You can hear the full episode, and more from Revisionist History, wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Anticipation: Hermione's Secret (Book 3, Chapter 21)
28/07/2022 Duration: 55minVanessa and Matt explore the theme of Anticipation in Chapter Twenty-One of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Sirius waiting to face the dementors, Dumbledore's vague hint of a plan, and, of course, Hermione's big secret! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we form a healthy relationship with anticipation?Thank you to Ann for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 22, Owl Post Again, through the theme of Love.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Confidence: The Dementor's Kiss (Book 3, Chapter 20)
21/07/2022 Duration: 52minVanessa and Matt explore the theme of Confidence in Chapter Twenty of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Sirius offering Harry a new home, Harry's emergency Patronus, and Peter's escape. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is confidence appropriate, and what are the limits of it?Thank you to Nicoletta for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 21, Hermione's Secret, through the theme of Anticipation.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Virtue: The Servant of Lord Voldemort (Book 3, Chapter 19)
14/07/2022 Duration: 49minVanessa and Matt explore the theme of Virtue in Chapter Nineteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Snape delivering wolfsbane to his nemesis, Peter's consistent alliance with power, and Harry summoning some of his father's virtue. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we live virtuously in morally complicated situations?Thank you to Jessica for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 20, The Dementor’s Kiss, through the theme of Confidence.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Friendship: Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs (Book 3, Chapter 18)
07/07/2022 Duration: 51minVanessa and Matt explore the theme of Friendship in Chapter Eighteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! This week they discuss Peter as a failed friend, Sirius & Lupin's renewed friendship, and some perspective from Aristotle. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to be a good friend?Thank you to Bianca for this week’s voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 19, The Servant of Lord Voldemort, through the theme of Virtue.--It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only two dollars to join our Patreon for extra bloopers every week! Please consider helping us fill our Gringotts vault so we can continue to make this show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Owl Post Edition: An Interview with Imara Jones!
30/06/2022 Duration: 50minThis week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by fellow podcaster and award-winning journalist Imara Jones to discuss her work founding Translash Media, a cross-platform journalism, personal storytelling and narrative effort, which produces content to shift the current culture of hostility towards transgender people in the US.Thanks to Barbara, Adeetee, Dasha, and our anonymous listener for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we're reading Chapter 18, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs, through the theme of Friendship.Listen to Imara on the Translash podcast here, and the Anti-Trans Hate Machine podcast here.A list of people, resources, and media Imara mentioned in the episode:Chase Strangio - Lawyer with the ACLUThe Trevor Project - Accurate information on gender identityLocal orgs in your state working to fight anti-trans bills - for example TENT in Texas Laverne Cox - actress Janet Mock - author and creator of PoseSarah McBride - Delaware state senator The historic Transgender