
Advertise on podcast: An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien
Rating
4.7from
This podcast has
219 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Lord of the RingsExplicit
No
Date created
2018/01/03
Latest episode
2026/09/25
Average duration
126 min.
Release period
17 days
Description
Welcome to “An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin’ Tolkien”. We are excited to be covering the Rings of Power TV series; we also invite you to join us in an adventure as Ezra and Lane delve deep into Middle Earth. Each fortnight we will gather for a book re-read, show speculation, and much more! So grab your book, a highlighter, cup of coffee, and keep a pocket-handkerchief close at hand. Remember, “Not all those who wander are lost” and we intend to let our imagination wander far and wide. Speak "Friend" and ENTER!!!
Unlock An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details
Email contact information
Direct podcast contact details

Listeners
Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details
Podcast Insights

Social media
Check An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien social media presence
Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien podcast
Magic in the Shire with Jake and Lana
2026/09/25
He goes by many names- Warhammer Time. The Dungeon Slayer. Jake the Snake.
But we call him our Friend... and we're lucky to do so.
Join us as Ez, Goldberry, Ace and Lane sit around the fire with Jake and Lana reflecting on their time in Amanda, reliving their favourite moments from Middle-earth and guarding the leftover Mexican carry-out from Ace's sneaky paws!
Jake's been with us since the beginning and to be able to record in the backyard is something we will never forget and just one of the many ways that Tolkien's mythical world creates real magic in our every day lives.
Frodo lives.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
LEP Four Ever
2026/09/24
Well, LEP 4 has come and gone... and it was unFOURgettable. We had friends from all over (the world in some cases- Jake and Lana) gather in the backyard of Bag End, enjoying good foods, fun games and even outlasting the rains. Sarah and Ethan even started a glorious fire from the storm-soaked ashes of the fire pit.
We'll never forget it and we think this conversation with Griffin and his dad Dr. Damion is the best way to commemorate our last LEP... his passion for LOTR and Tolkien reminded us a bit of our younger selves... except we were never that sharp!
We hope you enjoy it- Frodo Lives!
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
LEP4 Schedule | Thráin in Rings of Power? AI in Hunt for Gollum?
2026/09/10
We have finalized the details on our upcoming fourth Long Expected Party (in Amanda, Ohio). Check instagram or DM us for questions/ details if needed. This week we are diving into some huge Middle-earth news! In this episode we discuss the possibility of Thráin appearing in The Rings of Power, and explore the growing conversation around AI being used in The Hunt for Gollum.
What could Thráin’s inclusion mean for the future of The Rings of Power? And should fans be concerned about AI becoming part of major Middle-earth productions? Let’s break down the news, rumors, and possibilities.
JOIN OUR FREE DISCORD: https://discord.gg/JgkhVdw
JOIN THE GROUP DISCUSSION: https://www.facebook.com/uptalkintolkien
(10% Discount) Don't forget the SNIFFING: https://www.firelightfables.com/ USE CODE: FIREITUP
(20% Discount) Lord of the THREADS https://www.threadheads.com/UNEXPECTEDPOD04712
Concerning Hobbits is NOW OUT! Please go take a listen and support your fellow Uppers! Follow the updates here: https://www.instagram.com/theredbookofwestmarch/
If you'd like to send us something please address it to:
The Shire P.O. Box 96 Amanda, OH 43102
If 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 rewards include an exclusive podcast series, LIVE discord pre-recording show, bi-weekly chats with the guys, exclusive Instagram chat for the Lords and Ladies of Gondolin, access to our secret "speak pipe" which allows your voice to be heard on the show, sticker packs, handwritten letters and much more!
Lane's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lanethevillager/
Ezra Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theflannelwizard
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Night Booze with Ez and Lane and the Boys
2026/08/09
This very special episode of The Night Breeze was recorded on location in the Booze and Boos Studio with Alex, James and Shanan, affectionately known as the (Illinois) Boys. We had an absolute blast of a whirlwind visit with them rekindling friendships forged at LEP Three and hope you enjoy this fly on the wall episode we recorded with them- complete with a fun trivia challenge hosted by Alex- Booze and Boos, himself!
You can join millions and listen to Booze and Boos on Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/43BJPjVXSUjpEKEdrS5KK3?si=20f81223a3f74d12
If you'd like to submit your own spooky, scary or paranormal story to be featured on an episode email Alex at [email protected]
You can also purchase killer merch at https://inkedandawkward.com/ where Alex sells apparel featuring artwork created by local artists (NO AI!)
Follow Shanan and James as they continue the beast that started it all, the Black Crypt Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/4AQiPX3Kmp1CGqnvxBB1ln?si=b5e174473eff4e54
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
LEP Four: The Quadruplogy: Saturday, September 19, 2026
2026/07/30
Hello friends- Let the countdown begin (or continue) for LEP 4!
In this episode, Lane shares a quick rundown of general specifics for our Fourth LEP which will be taking place on Saturday 9/19/26. While there are still many details to pin down, you can bet your bottom farthing where we'll all be on that magical Saturday- in the back yard of a hobbit hole in a little Village called Amanda!
Complete with ample food, fine company and all the comforts of home (not to mention the 4th Potato Cookoff, Trivia, Games, Drinks, and more) we hope you'll consider joining us in, what may perhaps be, the last LEP for some time.
AS Mentioned in the episode, Amanda is about 45 minute drive from John Glenn Airport in Columbus and rests right between Circleville and Lancaster. The Hocking Hills region is also breathtaking and just to the southeast of Amanda. Here are some of our favorite spots and sights:
Circleville
Eateries: Lindsey's Donuts (Year round, world-famous pumpkin donuts), Richie's NY Corner Deli
Lancaster
Eateries: Alehouse 1890, Provisions, O'Huid's Gaelic Pub, The Pink Cricket, Fairview Inn Bar, Cherry Street Pub, Brigg's Restaurant
Destinations: Mt Pleasant and Rising Park, Ohio Glass Museum, Sherman House Museum, Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, Georgian Museum, Flat Rocks Disc Golf Course
Amanda
Eateries: Tavern 22, Spade's Cafe & Bakery, Clearcreek Cakes and Bakes
Destinations: Clear Creek Metro Park
Hocking Hills
Destinations: Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow (Gorge Trail), plus tons of awesome cabins and Air BNB Availabilities
Amanda's surrounded by great places to explore and be swept off to no tellin' where!
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Twelve: Of Men
2026/06/17
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 #shire
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Eleven: Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
2026/05/13
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 #MiddleEarth
BECOME A PRODUCER of CONCERNING HOBBITS: THE RED BOOK OF WESTMARCH- A RADIO DRAMA
http://spot.fund/5j4hmw4sc
Support all our friends!
Shell Cottage Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/00xZWsuhusYF7uR2nhJ7Yu?si=211a8c5190114c03
Spaced Out Media: https://www.spacedoutmedia.co/
Booze and Boos: https://www.youtube.com/c/BoozeandBoos
The Well Earned Comforts Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well-earned-comforts-a-tolkien-podcast/id1620882112
What Inspired Me Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-inspired-me-today/id1613783617
Little Rosy Cheeks Creations: https://www.instagram.com/rosylittlecheeks/
Firelight Fables Candle Company: https://www.firelightfables.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq697kzW3BI0tix9TZtJVd9IdYGX1X8fLRBVDEcV5x6OlEOMwuq
DJ LOTR: https://linktr.ee/djlordoftherings
Claire Nichols Design: https://www.worldofcan.com/
Crafts by Christine: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftsbyTine
Rebecca Rovny Violin: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FvieLhrjIfa5gUpiihLeU?si=rKZOkmXxRVeCb-zrXbofbQ
Wyrd Leather and Mead: https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeff
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Ten: Of the Sindar
2026/04/24
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 #MiddleEarth
Support all our friends!
Shell Cottage Radio: https://open.spotify.com/show/00xZWsuhusYF7uR2nhJ7Yu?si=211a8c5190114c03
Spaced Out Media: https://www.spacedoutmedia.co/
Booze and Boos: https://www.youtube.com/c/BoozeandBoos
The Well Earned Comforts Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/well-earned-comforts-a-tolkien-podcast/id1620882112
What Inspired Me Today: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-inspired-me-today/id1613783617
Little Rosy Cheeks Creations: https://www.instagram.com/rosylittlecheeks/
Firelight Fables Candle Company: https://www.firelightfables.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq697kzW3BI0tix9TZtJVd9IdYGX1X8fLRBVDEcV5x6OlEOMwuq
DJ LOTR: https://linktr.ee/djlordoftherings
Claire Nichols Design: https://www.worldofcan.com/
Crafts by Christine: https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftsbyTine
Rebecca Rovny Violin: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FvieLhrjIfa5gUpiihLeU?si=rKZOkmXxRVeCb-zrXbofbQ
Wyrd Leather and Mead: https://www.spotfund.com/story/3921642c-2a84-4579-9541-dd76d57cbeff
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Nine: Of the Flight of the Noldor
2026/04/07
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 #MiddleEarth
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Eight: Of the Darkening of Valinor
2026/04/06
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 #Morgoth
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Shadow of the Past: The Most Unexpected Lord of the Rings Movie Ever?
2026/03/26
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 LOTR
Subscribe for more deep dives into Lord of the Rings, fantasy lore, and storytelling breakdowns.
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Seven: Of the Silmarils and the Unrest of the Noldor
2026/03/09
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-dd76d57cbeff
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Six: Of Fëanor and the Unchaining of Melkor
2026/03/02
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/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Five: Of Eldamar and the Princes of the Eldalië
2026/02/22
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/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Silmarillion: Chapter Four: Of Thingol and Melian
2026/02/05
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/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Podcast reviews
Read An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien podcast reviews
Tlukemarshall 2026/04/02
Luke Marshall
Best podcast ever. They are able to go through each chapter picking out gems the love themselves and make it fun. A perfect duo of Lane going off Al t...
Nico1028tyty 2026/03/26
Long podcasts with minimal content
These episodes are far too long and give minimal content in regards to the lore of middle earth. I’m surprised their overall rating is so high. People...
Christinelane2018 2025/12/12
One of my favorite podcasts
I’ve been listening to this podcast from the beginning and it’s actually one of the things my former boss cites as the reason he wanted to give me a j...
S&E&4 2025/01/06
Crotchfruit!
Not only has this podcast blessed my life, but it has enriched each day.
Listening to them grow and become more, just as I do has been monumental.
Wel...
Flexibleofficeruler 2024/09/27
Rings of Power
Nobody cares what you think. We listen because we like the show. You are not Siskel and Ebert God speed to your demise.
Around there 2024/09/16
Nice except..
Good conversation but the guy on the bad phone was unlistenable. I hope opt to go solo rather than have loud static inserted in the podcast. I hope t...
Brandon Stro 2024/03/13
LoTR ReRead
Starting from the beginning of the podcast I have been listening as I reread Lord of the Rings for the first time in 15 or so years and these guys bri...
GraciousRoad 2023/09/26
Tolkien & Friends
Ez and Lane offer an entertaining and leisurely reread as your new fun friends. They’re casual yet seriously committed fans who enjoy Tolkien’s work, ...
Jordan Schmedake 2023/04/25
Get ready for Middle Earth magic with Lane and Ez
Lane and Ez exude positivity, making this the most awesome place for any Tolkien fan to be. I just started the re-read with them from the very beginni...
MAJ-22 2022/09/27
Fantastic
Come for the Tolkien and stay for Lane and Ez. Travel through the adventure; bats, dark riders, and more. Enjoy the laughter, the sniffing, the beer i...
Podcast sponsorship advertising
Start advertising on An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien relevant audience podcasts
You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

4.689351210
Get Sleepy: Sleep meditation and stories
Slumber Studios

4.79026375
Life is Short with Justin Long
Audible

4.714114348
Bad Friends
Bobby Lee & Andrew Santino

4.7127870
10 to Life
Annie Elise

4.76754463
Criminology
Emash Digital & Mike Ferguson, Mike Morford

4.87505975
The Dr. John Delony Show
Ramsey Network

4.512595664
RedHanded
RedHanded

4.858201918
Sara Gonzales Unfiltered
Blaze Podcast Network

4.922682003
First15 Devotional
First15

4.861421104
The David Pakman Show
David Pakman
