An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

The Silmarillion: Chapter Twelve: Of Men 17.06.2026 1h 55m

This episodes was recorded in Ohio, transported to Germany, edited and posted from the SHIRE ~ Cirencester, England! The stars are no longer the only lights in Middle-earth, and the Elves are no longer alone. This week, we dive into Chapter 12 of The Silmarillion, "Of Men."As the Sun first rises in the West, the second children of Ilúvatar awake in the far east of Hildórien. We discuss the striking differences between the Firstborn and the Followers, the mystery surrounding Men's early days, and how Morgoth immediately moved to corrupt them. Plus, we break down the "Gift of Men"—mortality—and how Tolkien sets up the ultimate bittersweet destiny of humanity in Arda. We also discuss: Rings of Power Season 3, The Hunt for Gollum, and Shadow of the Past #lordoftherings #hobbit #shireAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Eleven: Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor 13.05.2026 3h 22m

In this episode, we break down “Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor” Tolkien's origin story of the Sun and the Moon and the Valar's collective response to refuse the death of hope, instead hoping against all hope for light to be rekindled and the world brought out of the domain of Morgoth- utter darkness.We see the power of Yavanna and Nienna as a single golden fruit from Laurelin and a solitary silver flower from Telperion are beckoned forth, preserved and turned into the lamps of Ilmen.And with the coming of Men soon on the horizon, this illumination couldn't come at a more perfect time.In yet another attempt to protect what remains of the blessed realm, the Pelori are raised even higher, and the Calacirya left open but guarded so that no living creature uninvited or unbeckoned should enter into Valinor ever again.If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarthBECOME A PRODUCER of CONCERNING HOBBITS: THE RED BOOK OF WESTMARCH- A RADIO DRAMAhttp://spot.fund/5j4hmw4scSupport all our friends!Shell Cottage Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/00xZWsuhusYF7uR2nhJ7Yu?si=211a8c5190114c03Spaced Out Media: https://www.spacedoutmedia.co/Booze and Boos: https://www.youtube.com/c/BoozeandBoosThe Well Earned Comforts Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well-earned-comforts-a-tolkien-podcast/id1620882112What Inspired Me Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-inspired-me-today/id1613783617Little Rosy Cheeks Creations: https://www.instagram.com/rosylittlecheeks/Firelight Fables Candle Company: https://www.firelightfables.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq697kzW3BI0tix9TZtJVd9IdYGX1X8fLRBVDEcV5x6OlEOMwuqDJ LOTR: https://linktr.ee/djlordoftheringsClaire Nichols Design: https://www.worldofcan.com/Crafts by Christine: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftsbyTineRebecca Rovny Violin: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FvieLhrjIfa5gUpiihLeU?si=rKZOkmXxRVeCb-zrXbofbQWyrd Leather and Mead: https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeffAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Ten: Of the Sindar 24.04.2026 1h 37m

In this episode, we break down “Of the Sindar” a chapter full of filling in the white spaces of the events in Beleriand and all Middle-earth for those elves who decided to stay: the twilight, the Grey Elves, the Sindar.We see the arrival of the Dwarves and get to marvel at their creations as well as collaboration with the Eldar- the pinnacle being the city of Menegroth- home of King Thingol and Queen Melian and their daughter Luthien.But Dark forces are emboldened and venture further west and with the arrival of Melkor and Ungoliant and the fortress of Angband being rebuilt, crowned with the Thangorodrim, we witness a breaking of the peace, changing Middle-earth forever.A decision to guard Doriath is made and Melian sets her Girdle high all around to protect all the Eldar within... just in time for the arrival of Feanor at Drengist... The board is set for the action to come.If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarthSupport all our friends!Shell Cottage Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/00xZWsuhusYF7uR2nhJ7Yu?si=211a8c5190114c03Spaced Out Media: https://www.spacedoutmedia.co/Booze and Boos: https://www.youtube.com/c/BoozeandBoosThe Well Earned Comforts Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well-earned-comforts-a-tolkien-podcast/id1620882112What Inspired Me Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-inspired-me-today/id1613783617Little Rosy Cheeks Creations: https://www.instagram.com/rosylittlecheeks/Firelight Fables Candle Company: https://www.firelightfables.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq697kzW3BI0tix9TZtJVd9IdYGX1X8fLRBVDEcV5x6OlEOMwuqDJ LOTR: https://linktr.ee/djlordoftheringsClaire Nichols Design: https://www.worldofcan.com/Crafts by Christine: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftsbyTineRebecca Rovny Violin: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FvieLhrjIfa5gUpiihLeU?si=rKZOkmXxRVeCb-zrXbofbQWyrd Leather and Mead: https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeffAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Nine: Of the Flight of the Noldor 07.04.2026 2h 20m

In this episode, we break down “Of the Flight of the Noldor,” one of the most tragic and defining chapters in The Silmarillion.After the Darkening of Valinor, the Noldor are driven by grief, pride, and vengeance—leading to rebellion, exile, and one of the most devastating moments in Tolkien’s legendarium.We explore:Fëanor’s influence and leadershipThe Oath of Fëanor and its consequencesThe rebellion against the ValarThe Kinslaying at AlqualondëThe journey of the Noldor into exileThis chapter sets the stage for the entire First Age and the wars that follow in Middle-earth.If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, subscribe for more Silmarillion breakdowns.#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Noldor #Feanor #MiddleEarthAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Eight: Of the Darkening of Valinor 06.04.2026 3h 35m

SPECIAL GUEST: In this episode, we dive into one of the most devastating and pivotal moments in Tolkien’s legendarium: The Darkening of Valinor from The Silmarillion.This chapter marks the destruction of the Two Trees, the rise of Morgoth’s power, and the beginning of the long darkness that shapes the fate of Middle-earth.Be sure to follow our guest: https://www.instagram.com/djlordoftherings/https://www.instagram.com/dungeon.slayer/We break down:The role of Morgoth and UngoliantThe destruction of the Two Trees of ValinorThe theft of the SilmarilsThe consequences for the Valar, the Elves, and the worldWhether you’re reading The Silmarillion for the first time or revisiting Tolkien’s deeper lore, this breakdown will help you understand one of the most important turning points in the entire story.If you enjoy deep dives into Tolkien lore, Middle-earth history, and epic fantasy storytelling, be sure to subscribe for more.#Silmarillion #TolkienLore #Valinor #MiddleEarth #MorgothAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Shadow of the Past: The Most Unexpected Lord of the Rings Movie Ever? 26.03.2026 1h 32m

Stephen Colbert Is Making a Lord of the Rings Movie?! A brand new Lord of the Rings movie has been announced… and it might be the most unexpected project in Middle-earth history. Shadow of the Past brings together Peter Jackson, members of the original film crew, and—somehow—Stephen Colbert and his son.In this episode, we break down our initial reactions, what we know so far, and what this could mean for the future of Tolkien adaptations. Is this a passion project? A bold new direction? Or something fans should be cautious about?We also dive into the legacy of the original Lord of the Rings trilogy, Peter Jackson’s return to Middle-earth, and whether this new film can capture the magic that made the originals so iconic.If you’re a fan of Tolkien, Middle-earth, and everything Lord of the Rings, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.⚔️ Topics Covered:Shadow of the Past announcement detailsStephen Colbert’s surprising involvementPeter Jackson and the original crew returningFirst reactions and concernsWhat this means for the future of LOTRSubscribe for more deep dives into Lord of the Rings, fantasy lore, and storytelling breakdowns.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Seven: Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor 09.03.2026 2h 18m

Another Silly Silmarillion Solo venture- but this time, it's Lane battling the dimming light of his very own eyesight and the unrest of his mind (undiagnosed ADHD), as we all wait to see- can he actually navigate us through a chapter without the guidance of the Flannel Wizard? Only you will decide!Creation. Contrivance. Corruption. Chapter Seven has it all, as Fëanor, son of Finwë, greatest Elven Smith of all time creates the Silmarils to honour the height of elvendom only to proceed in falling victim to the machinations of Melkor. At least he's not alone, right? For unrest and discord now indeed sours all Valinor.As mentioned in this episode, check out Wyrd Leather and Mead and support Travis' incredible business and their move to a PNW Castle! https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeffAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Six: Of Fëanor and the Unchaining of Melkor 02.03.2026 2h 7m

We have another major addition to the conspiracy! Nienna and possibly Gandalf are involved this time ~ Join us as we dive into the story of Fëanor and the unbelievably short trial to unchain the Darkest Lord of all time lol ... We are also joined by our special guests, The Lords and Ladies of Gondolin: The House of Flour Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Five: Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Eldalië 22.02.2026 2h 48m

Before the wars, before the Silmarils, before the exile… there was Eldamar.In this episode, we step into the Blessed Realm itself — the shining lands of the Elves beneath the light of the Two Trees. But beneath the beauty, Tolkien quietly plants the seeds of one of the greatest tragedies in all of Middle-earth.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Four: Of Thingol and Melian 05.02.2026 3h 7m

In this episode, we journey into one of the most quietly powerful chapters of The Silmarillion: Of Thingol and Melian.This is the story where myth slows down and something rare happens — an Elf and a Maia meet beneath the stars, and Middle-earth is changed forever. But obviously we caught a whiff of some conspiracy stuff ... Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Anniversary Episode: 8 Years... Who Would Believe It? 03.01.2026 3h 14m

In this episode, we celebrate 8 years in a very unique way- giving you our "TOP 5" in everything from films and tv shows to local restaurants and dive bars!8 years is far too short a time to spend amongst such excellent and admirable UPers... so let's just never stop then. What say you?Thank you for all of your support, for listening for near a decade, but most of all for becoming our dear friends along the way. Through life's unforeseen ebbs and flows, ups and downs- it's you UPers that have been the constant. And it's something we don't take for granted.PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwOrder your CANDLES: Firelight Fables CandlesConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Three: Of the Coming of the Elves and the Captivity of Melkor 31.12.2025 3h 5m

In this episode, we finally witness the arrival of the Children of Eru Illuvatar- but right from the start, Melkor sows deception and discord. Not only that, many elves go missing, only to be taken by Melkor- tortured and mutilated, they are transformed into an utter mockery and perversion (Orcs). With the Children in mortal danger, what are the Valar to do?After a quick council, it's decided that the Children should be defended and protected (and Tulkas smiles) and Melkor's butt kicked, destined to be held prisoner in the Halls of Mandos for a sentence of no less than 3 ages.Meanwhile, after Ingwe (Vanyar), Finwe (Noldor) and Elwe (Teleri) visit Valinor and witness the light of the Trees, they return to Cuivienen (the birthplace of the elves) as ambassadors with an invitation from the Valar to come venture westward and make a home in Valinor. What follows is truly the genesis of all drama (and doom) in Arda. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter Two: Of Aulë and Yavanna 08.12.2025 2h 51m

In this episode, we return to the heart of Arda and explore one of the most beautiful contrasts in all of Tolkien’s legendarium: the brilliant craftsmanship of Aulë and the life-giving grace of Yavanna.Aulë, the Smith of the Valar, is restless with creativity — shaping mountains, forging the deep places of the earth, and longing for minds to teach. Yavanna, the Giver of Fruits, watches over every green thing that grows, from towering forests to the smallest blades of grass. Their desires clash, intertwine, and ultimately give birth to some of the most important beings in Middle-earth’s history. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwOrder your CANDLES: Firelight Fables CandlesConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Chapter One: Of the Beginning of Days 24.11.2025 3h 11m

In this episode, we witness the beginning of days as the Valar and Maiar strive to bring the vision and music of Eru Illuvatar to life, while fending off the discord of Melkor relentlessly being woven into the alreay young world, as all await the arrival of the Children of the One. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwOrder your CANDLES: Firelight Fables CandlesConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Valaquenta: Of the Valar and Maiar 10.11.2025 2h 19m

In this episode, we explore the Valaquenta, and get to the know the Valar and Maiar a little better! But it's October 31st, so we've dressed for the occasion ... and Mor-goth has made an unexpected apperance to play a GAME with Blue Suit Andy Serkis ... Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwOrder your CANDLES: Firelight Fables CandlesConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Ainulindalë: The Music of the Ainur (Part 2) 27.10.2025 2h 58m

In this episode, we explore Tolkien's letter 131 &The Ainulindalë, the opening chapter of The Silmarillion, where Tolkien’s world begins with music. Discover how Eru Ilúvatar and the Ainur sang creation into being, what the Flame Imperishable means, and how Melkor’s discord shaped Middle-earth’s destiny. Join us as we journey chapter by chapter through The Silmarillion—unraveling Tolkien’s myths, symbols, and hidden connections to The Lord of the Rings.PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Silmarillion: Ainulindalë: The Music of the Ainur (Part 1) 27.10.2025 2h 32m

Part 1 - In this episode of An Unexpected Podcast, we embark on our new journey to cover the Silmarillion and march our way back through Tolkien's legendarium. We have a lot of catching up to do in this episode: Quick Council, Droppin Eaves (Rings of Power Season 3 News & the Hunt for Gollum news & speculation), and other corners of Middle Earth. In Part 2, we will be discussing Tolkien's letter 131 and part I of the Silmarillion - Ainulindalë: The Music of the AinurPATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Long Expected Party #3 RECAP: Inspiration, Healing, and the Road to The Silmarillion 02.10.2025 1h

After the joy of LEP3, we’re taking a moment to reflect on just how powerful and inspiring that celebration was. It felt like a shadow was lifted, and our hearts were truly healed by the laughter, fellowship, and love of Tolkien’s world.In this episode, we share how that experience reignited our passion and inspired us to bring this podcast into its full glory. And with fresh energy and new light, we’re setting our course for the next great adventure: The Silmarillion. Discord is BACK! Patreon exclusive Podcast is BACK! We have tons of new extra perks up on Patreon! Go check them out or at least start chatting with us and friends in Discord (it's FREE). PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/If you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

LEP3: A Long Expected Party – Live Lord of the Rings Trivia for Bilbo’s Birthday! 02.10.2025 1h 24m

Welcome to LEP3, our Long Expected Party #3! We’re celebrating International Hobbit Day and, of course, Bilbo Baggins’ birthday with something truly special: a LIVE recording of Lord of the Rings trivia!PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienJOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdwConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/If you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Long Expected Party #3 - Full Schedule & Details 08.09.2025 43m

Speak "Friend" and ENTER - It is time for LEP3 baby! Lane breaks down the schedule for September 19th - 21st ~ This will tell you exactly where Lane and Ez will be during the day, so that you can better plan your experience. We are excited to share what we have planned for the third Long Expected Party! We can't wait to see you there. It's going to be a blast!PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/c/uptalkintolkienConcerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/If you'd like to send us something please address it to:The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102Follow Ezra & Lottie’s Projects: Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizardIf you'd like to support the show and get access to additional Middle Earth content then hit us up at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/uptalkintolkien Patreon exclusive podcast series include: Extended Edition - Lane and Ez continue the episode Melkor's Discord – Join us on Discord before the show Peekin’ in the Palantir- Predictions about the show/future of middle earth The Appendices – Lane and Ez talk about nothing deep into the night!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy