Harry Potter and the Sacred Text

This week, Vanessa is joined by the lovely Colette Potts (!!), to explore the theme of Wandering in Chapter Thirty-Five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Voldemort's journey back to embodiment, Dumbledore's big reveal to Harry, and Barty Crouch Jr.'s meandering series of tasks. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can wandering be valuable even when our end goal is undefined? Thank you to Megan for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter 36, The Parting of the Ways, through the theme of Teamwork.Vanessa and Colette are co-leading a Harry Potter pilgrimage to West Yorkshire, August 31-September 3rd! Find out more and learn how to join them here.--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.

The Not Sorry Team is at our summer camp this week, so we're re-leasing a few of our favorite Women of Harry Potter episodes. These episodes feature the wonderful co-founders of Black Nerd Create, Bayana Davis and Robyn Jordan. We'll be back next week with Chapter 35, Veritaserum, through the theme of Wandering, with special guest Colette Potts.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Conspiracy in Chapter Thirty-Four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the circle of Death Eaters, Harry's refusal to obey Voldemort, and Harry's allies back at Hogwarts. Throughout the episode we consider the question: can there be a conspiracy without active conspiring? Thank you to Rebekah for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Chapter 35, Veritaserum, through the theme of Wandering, with special guest Colette Potts!!--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Invisibility in Chapter Thirty-Three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the newly visible Dark Marks, Voldemort's still unnamed "faithful servant" at Hogwarts, and the masked Death Eaters. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what do we make visible with our care and attention?Thank you to Karen for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Chapter Thirty-Four, Priori Incantatem, through the theme of Conspiracy.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Intention in Chapter Thirty-Two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Voldemort's Rube Goldberg machine, Cedric's big brother attitude, and Wormtail's new hand. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how strictly should we commit to our original intentions?Thank you to Teddy for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Chapter Thirty-Three, The Death Eaters, through the theme of Invisibility.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Spite in Chapter Thirty-One of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Rita Skeeter's motivation, Harry's growing awareness of the full scope of Voldemort's harm, and Harry/Cedric's spiteful politeness. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does our spite end up harming us, and when does it alert us to surrounding dangers?Thank you to JM for their voicemail! Next time we're reading Chapter Thirty-Two, Flesh, Blood, and Bone, through the theme of Intention.--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.

Today, Vanessa is joined for a small bonus conversation by Hannah McGregor and Marcelle Kosman! Marcelle and Hannah are the cohosts of the podcast Witch, Please and will be leading several workshops for our upcoming summer camp: Calling All Magnificent People. Together, they apply a critical lens to traditional camp structures, and explore how we hope to create a more inclusive and welcoming space at our own camp. If you haven't yet signed up for camp, you can do so on our website! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, we've been grappling with how to appropriately talk about house-elves in the Harry Potter series. As the books progress and we spend more and more time with Dobby, Winky, and the members of S.P.E.W., we've decided to use this week to hand the mic over to our dear friends at Witch, Please for this special deep dive. We hope you enjoy their interview with Jessica Marie Johnson (she/her), who is an Associate Professor in the Department of History at Johns Hopkins University and a Fellow at the Hutchins Center for African and African American Studies at Harvard University. She is also the Director of LifexCode: Digital Humanities Against Enclosure. Jessica is a historian of Atlantic slavery and the Atlantic African diaspora. She is the author of Wicked Flesh: Black Women, Intimacy, and Freedom in the Atlantic World.Next week we're reading Chapter Thirty-One, The Third Task, through the theme of Spite.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Comfort in Chapter Thirty of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry's journey into the depths of Dumbledore's memories, Barty Crouch Sr.'s role in sentencing his own son, and the pensieve as a form of journaling. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is comfort helpful, and when does it limit our ability to take appropriate action?Thank you to Dani for her voicemail! Next time we're reading Chapter Thirty-One, The Third Task, through the theme of Spite.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa continue exploring the theme of Silence in Chapter Twenty-Nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Ron's aversion to any mention of Voldemort, Fred & George's business venture, and Dumbledore's office decor. Throughout the episode we consider the question: are we really experiencing silence, or simply choosing what we pay attention to?Thank you to Kirby for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Thirty, The Pensieve, through the theme of Comfort.--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.

Julia Argy, our incredible pilgrimage director has her first book out today! It's called The One, and it's about a woman who joins a reality television show to find love. Publishers Weekly says it best: “[A] smart debut…Argy takes on voyeurism, feminism, and gender norms, as Emily wonders if she really ought to put all her energy into finding love, which is what she was conditioned to do all her life…. [A] winning portrait of a young woman trying to come into her own.”In this bonus episode, Vanessa and Julia discuss what reality dating shows reflect about our own culture of love and surveillance. Julia's book is out today, be sure to check it out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Silence in Chapter Twenty-Eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the trio's uncomfortable trip to the Hogwarts kitchens, Krum's explosive encounter with Barty Crouch Sr., and Hermione's hate mail. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can silence be both oppressive and empowering? Thank you to Sully for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Nine, The Dream, through the theme of Intention.--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa are joined by special guest Casper ter Kuile as they explore the theme of Legacy in Chapter Twenty-Seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Mr. Crouch's parenting, Sirius's relationship to house elves, and Rita Skeeter's hard hitting journalism. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how is a legacy passed on, and how much of that is out of our control? Thank you to our anonymous listener for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Eight, The Madness of Mr. Crouch, through the theme of Silence.--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.

Vanessa is joined for a small bonus conversation by Nathalie Folkerts, the director of our upcoming summer camp: Calling All Magnificent People. They explore how Nathalie's background in political organizing found a home in building our camp and discuss some of behind-the-scenes dreaming and decision making that's been happening. If you haven't yet signed up for camp, you can do so on our website! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Purpose in Chapter Twenty-Six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the tournament's use of children as bait, love as motivation and purpose, and Snape's begrudging approach to his own designated purpose as Harry's protector. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is there such a thing as one "true" purpose? Thank you to Kimberly for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Seven, Padfoot Returns, with special guest Casper ter Kuile through the theme of Legacy!--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Contemplation in Chapter Twenty-Five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Snape vs. Moody, the Prefect baths, and the pros and cons of a nice nighttime stroll. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is the appropriate time to be contemplative? Thank you to Sarah for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Six, The Second Task, through the theme of Purpose!--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.

This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Rejection in Chapter Twenty-Four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Cedric’s role as an ally to Harry, Bagman’s ulterior motives, and the neglected Beauxbaton horses. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we use rejection as a way of protecting ourselves, and how effective is it really? Thank you to Elin for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Five, The Egg and the Eye, through the theme of Contemplation!--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.

This week, Matt and special guest Jolie Doggett explore the theme of Change in Chapter Twenty-Three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione and Ron’s respective changes, Maxime and Hagrid’s relationship, and this chapter as a turning point in the series. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we embrace the change in our relationships? Thank you to Shalmar for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Four, Rita Skeeter’s Scoop, through the theme of Rejection!--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.

Dropping in a special bonus today - Vanessa and Dr. Stephanie Paulsell talking about the sacredness of Emily Dickinson and what she can teach us about solitude! Join them on pilgrimage from July 14 – 17th in Amherst, MA. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Matt and special guests Hannah McGregor and Marcelle Kosman from the wonderful podcast Witch, Please explore the theme of Ceremony in Chapter Twenty-Two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss dress robes, Fred & Angelina, and the joy and horror of school dances. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is ceremony just a formality, and when does it signal a genuine transformation? Thank you to Emily for her voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Three, The Yule Ball, through the theme of Change with Jolie Doggett!--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.

This week, Matt and special guest Jackson Bird (!!) explore the theme of Vulnerability in Chapter Twenty-One of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Rita Skeeter's interest in Hagrid, Neville's trauma, and the hidden power of the house-elves. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we take care of ourselves after we've chosen to be vulnerable? Thank you to Kait for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-Two, The Unexpected Task, through the theme of Ceremony with Hannah and Marcelle from the wonderful podcast Witch, Please!--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.

Hello everyone! Today we're very excited to bring you this special episode of HPST, in conversation with Delphene Mooney, Executive Director at On The Rise. Over the month of February, we're hoping to raise $10k to support their incredible organization. If you haven't already, please check out our fundraiser. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Matt and special guest Margaret H. Willison (!!) explore the theme of Intelligence in Chapter Twenty of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione's approach to studying, Harry's natural ability on the broom, and Ron's apology, or lack thereof. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what distinguishes intelligence from other forms of talent? Thank you to Rebecca for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty-one, The House-elf Liberation, through the theme of Vulnerability with special guest Jackson Bird.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Annoyance in Chapter Nineteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry’s misdirected annoyance at Cho, Hermione’s growing frustration in the role of mediator, and Charlie’s touching concern for Harry. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what distinguishes annoyance from genuine fear or anger, and how can we handle it appropriately? Thank you to Ingrid for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Twenty, The First Task, through the theme of Intelligence.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Reluctance in Chapter Eighteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the "Potter Stinks!" badges, Rita Skeeter's journalistic practices, and the home court advantage of Mr. Ollivander examining the wands. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what can we learn from paying attention to moments where we feel reluctance? Thank you to Lynn for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Nineteen, The Hungarian Horntail through the theme of annoyance.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Embarrassment in Chapter Seventeen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the growing teen angst in these chapters, Karkarov and Maxime's reaction to unexpected tournament changes, and Ron's intertwining feelings of anger and embarrassment. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does our embarrassment indicate about our values? Thank you to Alicia for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Eighteen, The Weighing of the Wands, through the theme of reluctance.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Maturity in Chapter Sixteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the Goblet of Fire's age restriction, lurking romances at Hogwarts, and poor Poliakoff. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we measure maturity, and how is it limited by ability? Thank you to Krissy for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Seventeen, The Four Champions, through the theme of embarrassment.--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.

This week, Matt is joined by Stephanie Paulsell to discuss Wizarding supremacy in the Harry Potter series and a recent report on the legacy of slavery at Harvard. The two consider how we might use the Harry Potter series to think through injustices that are deeply ingrained into our buildings and gathering places, and what responsibility we have to name and atone for our shared history of violence and oppression.Thanks to Callie, Jaime, Erica, and our anonymous caller for their beautiful voicemail contributions! Next week we're reading Chapter Sixteen, The Goblet of Fire, through the theme of maturity.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Creativity in Chapter Fifteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Harry and Ron's creative predictions in Trelawney's class, Snape's threatening approach to a potions lesson, and Neville's involuntary gymnastics. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we harness our creativity in order to problem solve? Thank you to Courtney for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Sixteen, The Goblet of Fire, through the theme of maturity.--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.

Every Christmas, we like to share a favorite poem. This year it's 'Christmas Dog' by Shel Silverstein.We'll be back with our regularly scheduled episodes on January 5th. Happy Holidays! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beloved co-host of the pod, Matt Potts, released his book Forgiveness: An Alternative Account a few weeks ago and it is so! good!! We're very excited to bring you an exclusive excerpt from the book - read by Matt himself. You can find the book wherever books are sold, or snag a signed copy from our website!--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Intellectual Humility in Chapter Fourteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, with some help from Dr. Daryl Van Tongeren! They discuss Snape's cruelty towards Neville, the logic behind Barty Crouch Jr. / Moody's approach to teaching the unforgivable curses, and the early days of S.P.E.W. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we use the concept of Intellectual Humility to be more "right-sized" in our everyday lives? We're taking a break for the holidays, but we'll be back next year reading Chapter Fifteen, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang through the theme of Creativity!--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Rage in Chapter Thirteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Bobotuber pus, Hagrid's care of magical creatures, and the classic Barty Crouch Jr. / Mad-Eye Moody conundrum. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when does anger spill over into rage? Thank you to Emily for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Chapter Fourteen, The Unforgivable Curses, through the theme of Intellectual 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.

Last week, our very own Matt Potts published his book Forgiveness: An Alternative Account, in which he explores the complex moral terrain of forgiveness. In honor of the book being out, we're bringing you this special episode of HPST - looking at the theme of Forgiveness in the Harry Potter series! Throughout the episode we use Matt's theory on forgiveness to help us better understand the text, and one another. Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 13, Mad Eye Moody, through the theme of Rage.--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt explore the theme of Compassion in Chapter Twelve of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss Hermione's introduction to house elves at Hogwarts, the Giant Squid's excellent demonstration of compassion in action, and the lack of support for rain drenched children at Hogwarts. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do allow ourselves self-compassion? Thank you to Aurora for their voicemail. Next week we're doing a special episode on the theme of Forgiveness in the Harry Potter series to celebrate the release of Matt's book!--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.

This week, Vanessa and Matt are joined by special guest Jolie Doggett as they explore the theme of Peace in Chapter Eleven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! They discuss the lack of peace in Moody's life, a classic Draco Malfoy train encounter, and Ron's superhuman strength. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we find little pockets of peace when life becomes overwhelming? Thank you to Bitty for their voicemail! Next week we're reading Book 4 Chapter 12, The Triwizard Tournament, through the theme of Paranoia.--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.

Vanessa 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

This 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.

Welcome 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.

Vanessa 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.

Vanessa 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.