A previously unreleased letter from Tolkien was recently made public that, among other things, confirms that there were Ents in the Shire (at Gandalf's request). Our hosts talk about this new letter and how it helps us appreciate Tolkien's characters and stories in new ways.

Continuing our series (and picking up on the discussion of Shire economics) our hosts venture under the mountains to discuss what sorts of jobs might be prominant in Dwarven society (and what might motivate the differences between dwarves and hobbits). After this, we shift our focus (and the meaning of "vocation") as we discuss the Elves and their callings.

Getting a little more serious on the topic of vocation, we try to actually answer the listener-submitted question: where did Bilbo (and his family) get their money from? What did he do for work (if anything)? This leads us into broader questions about the nature of the whole Shire economy and what sorts of jobs other Hobbits might be found doing.

In response to a listen question (submitted over a year ago...our bad), we begin a series of episodes exploring vocation in Middle-Earth. We start off with a (fairly unserious) look at how a few members of the Fellowship might fair in an interview. Who do you think would get the job? Let us know in the comments!

A few weeks ago (in an official document on AI and Human Dignity) Pope Leo XIV quoted Gandalf. Our hosts talk a little bit about this quote, about how Tolkien might have felt about AI, and then more broadly about how Tolkien's works continue to inform and influence our world (and our lives).

Sometimes the strongest and safest places in Middle Earth aren't its grand towers and fortresses, but instead are hidden places, secluded woods, and the like. What makes these places special? How are they distinct from the fortresses where evil lurks and the strongholds of men?

Continuing on last week's discussion, we pivot to talk about the Strongholds that are built to defy evil lords, to defend the free people, and as bastions of hope in Middle Earth.

Our hosts begin a three week series on fortresses, strongholds, and safe havens in Middle Earth. This week, the Dark Fortresses where evil hides and plots.

We kick off this episode with an exciting announcement (!!!) and then move into a chat about notable second-borns in Tolkien's world.

We take a break from our previously scheduled series to celebrate our 200th EPISODE! Thanks for listening along all these years! To celebrate, we put together a game where Ron and Jasmine try to identify several Notable Numbers in Middle Earth. Join in and play along!