In this episode, hosts Angela and Kelsey explore how music weaves through every layer of Middle-earth—from the cosmic creation of the Ainulindalë to hobbits singing in the Shire. They discuss how Tolkien uses song as a form of soft power, examine epic singing battles between elves and Sauron, and celebrate Lúthien's voice that literally brought down fortresses.

They also dive into how different cultures express themselves through music, from melancholy elvish laments to rousing Rohirric battle chants, and share why Howard Shore's film score has become inseparable from how fans hear Middle-Earth today.

Whether you're a song-skipper or a dedicated verse reader, join Angela and Kelsey for a deep dive into why music matters in Tolkien's legendarium.

In this episode, hosts Angela and Kelsey explore the overlooked topic of illness in Middle‑earth—everything from Bilbo’s little cold to the Great Plague, Morgul‑wounds and the Black Breath, dragon‑sickness, and the spiritual trauma carried by characters like Frodo.

The episode looks at canonical mentions, theories about Sauron and Morgoth’s influence, how different peoples (elves, men, hobbits, and dwarves) resist or suffer disease, and the ways healing—herbal lore, Elvish arts, and the Houses of Healing—try to mend body and spirit.

**This episode contains brief mentions of sensitive topics in the context of Tolkien’s works, including depression, PTSD, and suicide, that may be triggering for some individuals.

Back from the holiday break, Angela and Kelsey take a playful, lore‑rich tour of Middle‑earth’s worst jobs. Ever wonder what it would be like to be a hobbit postman, or survive the deadly the mountain patrols past Shelob's lair? What about what it's really like to work for Barliman Butterbur? Or how about if you had to make a fleet of thousands of ships doomed to failure and alter the very nature of the universe?

Mixing humor and close reading, we explore thankless, hazardous, and even cosmically consequential roles and invite listeners to weigh in with their own picks. Check out Episode 7 - the Worst Jobs in Middle-Earth.