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Artwork for An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

Lord of the Rings
Rings Of Power
Tolkien
Middle Earth
Sauron
Galadriel
The Rings Of Power
The Silmarillion
Celebrimbor
Noldor
Concerning Hobbits
Lord Of the Rings
Silmarillion
Middle-Earth
Elrond
Elves
Hobbits
Aragorn
The Fellowship Of the Ring
Eregion
Dwarves

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 a... more

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes213Founded8 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
BooksArtsTV & Film

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Artwork for An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

Latest Episodes

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 a... more

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 Dwa... more

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... more

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, ... more

Key Facts

Accepts Guests
Accepts Sponsors
Contact Information
Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

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Advisory Opinions
Advisory OpinionsThe Dispatch

Recent Guests

Matthew Johnson
Guest on this episode, introduced as a friend and contributor
Concerning Hobbits
Episode: The Silmarillion: Chapter 11: Of the Sun and Moon and the Hiding of Valinor
Mike Charles
Actor and Voice Actor
Episode: Superman 2025 Set Insider – Interview with Rick Flag’s Stand-In & DCU Theories
Travis Sigler
Owner of Wyrd Leather and Mead
Wyrd Leather and Mead
Episode: #148 - 1 on 1 with Travis Sigler from Wyrd Leather and Mead

Hosts

Ezra Kirk
Co-host and guide, often introduces guests and drives the conversation; deeply engaged with Tolkien lore and community
Lane Smith
Co-host, frequently contributes and challenges ideas, helps steer debates and connects with listeners

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 958 ratings
  • 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 the rail and Ez bringing him back on track.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Tlukemarshall
    United States2 months ago
  • 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 are weird.

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Nico1028tyty
    United States3 months ago
  • 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 job haha. He asked about what podcasts I listen to and I mentioned this podcast and that sparked our now amazing friendship bonding over our shared love of LOTR. This podcast makes me so happy every time I listen and I love hearing about Lane and Ez’s lives. It always feels like I’m reconnecting with old friends. Love, love, love and one of my regul... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Christinelane2018
    United States6 months ago
  • 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.

    Welcome Ez to the Dad part of the universe, blessings to him and this new chapter of his adventure.

    PS. Just realized that not only is this podcast 7 years old now, but me and my Rosie have been married 7 years two weeks ago.

    Glad to be on this journey together.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Eothane
    United Statesa year ago
  • 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.

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    Flexibleofficeruler
    United States2 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Fans echo strong camaraderie and genuine friendship between hosts, making conversations feel like chats with friends.
Episodes are deeply lore-focused with occasional long tangents; fans often cite the warmth and community as standout positives.
Listeners appreciate accessible deep-dives into Tolkien's world, with many returning for long-running discussions and humor.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#124
Netherlands/Arts/Books

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

The Silmarillion: Valaquenta: Of the Valar and Maiar
Q: Dwelling alone, she is acquainted with grief and mourns for every wound that Arda has suffered at the hands of Melkor. Who are we talking about?
Nienna, the Lady of Tears.
The Silmarillion: Valaquenta: Of the Valar and Maiar
Q: What are the Illumory?
The great horns of Ulmo.
Superman 2025 Set Insider – Interview with Rick Flag’s Stand-In & DCU Theories
Q: What was it like to work with James Gunn?
It was incredible; the whole production felt like a fun and organized experience.
Superman 2025 Set Insider – Interview with Rick Flag’s Stand-In & DCU Theories
Q: How does it feel to be in a Superman movie?
It's amazing to be part of something this huge that's taking the world by storm.
King Thingol Explained: From Cuiviénen to the Silmarils (SNEAK PEAK)
Q: Is Doriath where King Thingol saw her dancing?
Actually, just east of that, in a small glade called Non-Elmoth.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
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Frequently Asked Questions About An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien

What is An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A devoted, lore-forward show that revisits Tolkien's work chapter by chapter while also exploring related adaptations and the broader Middle-earth universe. Listeners can expect enthusiastic, friendly host banter, deep dives into mythic lore, and lively discussions about Rings of Power, film casting rumors, and fandom happenings. The format blends rigorous textual notes with personal anecdotes, community shout-outs, and occasional guest contributions, creating an approachable yet nerdily detailed listening experience. Notable for its long-running, warm community vibe and a willingness to speculate boldly about future projects while staying rooted in the source material.

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Which podcasts are similar to An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien?

These podcasts share a similar audience with An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien:

1. The Prancing Pony Podcast
2. Pagenerd
3. The Best of Car Talk
4. History of Westeros (Game of Thrones)
5. Advisory Opinions

How many episodes of An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien are there?

An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien launched 8 years ago and published 213 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien?

Recent guests on An Unexpected Podcast: Talkin' Tolkien include:

1. Matthew Johnson
2. Mike Charles
3. Travis Sigler

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