Podcasts by Harry Potter and the Sacred Text

Introducing: Witch, Please [Explicit!] from 2020-09-01T13:00:30

In honor of Hogwarts day, September 1st, we present to you the first day of class you’ve always dreamed of from your two favorite lady scholars: Witch, Please | Ep. 1, The Chosen One. 

Ownership: The Goblin’s Revenge (Book 7, Chapter 15) from 2020-08-27T16:06:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Ownership in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Muggle/Goblin relations, the Sword of Gryffindor, and of course...

An Update from Not Sorry Productions from 2020-08-24T18:14:16

Vanessa offers an update on plans for Harry Potter and the Sacred Text and Not Sorry Productions in general.

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Owl Post Edition: Homelessness with Lauren Sandler from 2020-08-20T16:03:58

This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by journalist Lauren Sandler to discuss her book Listen

Belonging: The Thief (Book 7, Chapter 14) from 2020-08-13T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Belonging in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the shifting dynamics of the trio as they find them...

Arrogance: The Muggle-Born Registration Commission (Book 7, Chapter 13) from 2020-08-07T16:01:35

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Arrogance in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss how Umbridge has changed since we last saw her, Harry’s rash d...

HPST Re-Run – Friendship: Halloween (Book 1, Chapter 10) from 2020-07-30T16:00:48

The whole Harry Potter and the Sacred Text Team is busy this week running our summer camp, so we ...

Truth: Magic is Might (Book 7, Chapter 12) from 2020-07-23T16:25:45

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Truth in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the new ministry statue, the fate of poor Mafalda Hopkirk, and wheth...

Owl Post Edition: J.K. Rowling and Transphobia with Jackson Bird from 2020-07-16T16:07:07

Today’s owl post episode is in response to J.K. Rowling’s recent and vehement transphobia. We’re joined by our friend Jackson Bird to talk about why it’s important to condemn Rowling, and what w...

Normalcy: The Bribe (Book 7, Chapter 11) from 2020-07-09T16:01:02

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Normalcy in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the role of pain in Harry’s life, the changes being made at the M...

Neglect: Kreacher's Tale (Book 7, Chapter 10) from 2020-07-02T15:55:18

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Neglect in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Sirius' childhood bedroom, the lack of stories that Harry has about h...

Relief: A Place to Hide (Book 7, Chapter 9) from 2020-06-25T16:01:58

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Relief in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron’s moving concern for his family, Harry’s persistant need to self-...

Happy Power of Ritual Day! from 2020-06-23T13:00

Hi all, Casper here. There are moments in life when you look around and wonder at the marvel of it all. Today my boo...

Independence: The Wedding (Book 7, Chapter 8) from 2020-06-18T15:57:33

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Independence in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week Vanessa shares a cautionary tale of Crystal Light and we discuss the magi...

Identity: The Will of Albus Dumbledore (Book 7, Chapter 7) from 2020-06-11T15:57:06

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Identity in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the many gifts in this chapter: Harry’s birthday gifts, what Dumbl...

#WizardTeam: The Death Eaters (Book 4, Chapter 33) from 2020-06-04T16:16:16

We’ve decided not to release an episode of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text today. Instead we have an episode of #WizardTeam from the brilliant women over at Black Girls Create...

Black Lives Matter from 2020-06-03T14:26:32

A short note from Vanessa and Casper for our white listeners to step-up in this week of action in defense of Black lives. 

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Season 7 Trailer: When Have You Let a Bad Thought Lead You to Make a Bad Decision? from 2020-04-27T16:00:19

Every season, we make an animated video to kick-off a new book. Each video is an exploration of one character in the text, their psychology, and why they make the decision they do. Our video this s...

Suspicion: The Dark Lord Ascending (Book 7, Chapter 1) from 2020-04-23T16:05:57

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Suspicion in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Snape’s bravery, the team culture amongst death eaters, ...

Special Edition: What We’re Excited for in Deathly Hallows from 2020-04-16T16:00:57

Welcome to Season 7! This week, Vanessa and Casper get together to talk what they're looking forward to in Deathly Hallows. They discuss all the heroism to come: Ron’s great return, Narcissa’s d...

Introducing: Twilight in Quarantine from 2020-04-03T18:17:38

Happy Friday everyone! We have a new project to keep you company while sheltering in place: Twilight in Quarantine.

Is Twilight by Stephenie Meyer the best book of all time? N...

Owl Post Edition: How to Pray with Stephanie Paulsell from 2020-04-02T15:57:31

Are ‘thoughts and prayers’ worth anything? This week, Casper is joined by our mentor Stephanie Paulsell to talk about the practice of prayer. Stephanie introduces us to ideas of prayer from theo...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince from 2020-03-26T16:00:42

Vanessa and Casper look back at all of Season 6, and pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. They explore the deep similarities between this book and Book 2 of t...

Love: The White Tomb (Book 6, Chapter 30) from 2020-03-19T16:00

Vanessa Casper explore the theme of Love in the last chapter of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we praise Hagrid for his patient accompaniment throughout the series, defend Gin...

Coronavirus: Stay In and Reach Out from 2020-03-16T16:00:22

Friends, these are scary times and things have been feeling rather uncertain for us at Not Sorry Productions! So much of our revenue is based on travel for pilgrimages and live shows, and we’ve ...

Power: The Phoenix Lament (Book 6, Chapter 29) from 2020-03-12T15:59:10

Vanessa Casper explore the theme of Power in chapter twenty-nine (the penultimate chapter!) of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Ginny’s strength, McGonagall’s leaders...

Perfection: Flight of the Prince (Book 6, Chapter 28) from 2020-03-05T17:06:38

Vanessa and friend of the podcast Matt Potts explore the theme of Perfection in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss how Harry gently shepherds Ha...

Earnestness: The Lightning-Struck Tower (Book 6, Chapter 27) from 2020-02-27T16:59

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Earnestness in the much-dreaded chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we celebrate Dumbledore's humanity, sympathize w...

Persistence: The Cave (Book 6, Chapter 26) from 2020-02-20T17:00:09

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Persistence in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Voldemort's fatal flaws, Harry's great strengths, and th...

Indignation: The Seer Overheard (Book 6, Chapter 25) from 2020-02-13T17:00:15

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Indignation in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Trelawney's defensiveness, Dumbledore's...

Regret: Sectumsempra (Book 6, Chapter 24) from 2020-02-06T17:00:38

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Regret in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by writer, pastor, and theologian Nadia Bolz-Weber, who s...

Memory: Horcruxes (Book 6, Chapter 23) from 2020-01-30T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Memory in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry’s resemblance to Tom Riddle, Dumbledo...

Bitterness: After the Burial (Book 6, Chapter 22) from 2020-01-23T17:07:04

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Bitterness in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss why Hermione doesn’t want to go to Aragog...

Affirmation: The Unknowable Room (Book 6, Chapter 21) from 2020-01-16T17:02:46

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Affirmation in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry and Hermione’s different relations...

Owl Post Edition: How to Be in Community with Burns Stanfield from 2020-01-09T17:03:31

How and why should we be in community? This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Reverend Burns Stanfield from 4th Presbyterian Church in Boston. Together they discuss how community gets us be...

A Christmas Poem: Sick by Shel Silverstein from 2019-12-25T14:00

Here's a little treat from Casper. You can find the poem in “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein. Happy Holidays!

See from 2019-12-19T17:02:13

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Good Will in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Dumbledore’s disappointment with Harry, Luna’s...

Harmony: Elf Tails (Book 6, Chapter 19) from 2019-12-12T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Harmony in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss the downfall of Cormac McLaggen, Luna’s sports...

Recklessness: Birthday Surprises (Book 6, Chapter 18) from 2019-12-05T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Recklessness in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Casper’s experience in graduate school, H...

Attention: A Sluggish Memory (Book 6, Chapter 17) - Live from Washington, D.C. from 2019-11-28T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of attention in chapter 17 of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we come to you live from our show in Washington, D.C. We discuss how the Mini...

Erosion: A Very Frosty Christmas (Book 6, Chapter 16) from 2019-11-21T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Erosion in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by writer and mentor Terry Tempest Williams, who shares an o...

Don’t be a Dursley by Harry and the Potters from 2019-11-19T21:40:28

Thank you so much to everyone who has donated to our Don’t Be a Dursley campaign! We have hit our goal of $25,000 a full month earlier than expected. But please, don’t stop donating! We...

Sacrifice: The Unbreakable Vow (Book 6, Chapter 15) from 2019-11-14T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of sacrifice in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Snape’s love of Draco, Luna’s calming presenc...

Resistance: Felix Felicis (Book 6, Chapter 14) from 2019-11-07T17:01:31

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of resistance in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss LARPing, Vanessa’s experience in Business S...

Superstition: The Secret Riddle (Book 6, Chapter 13) from 2019-10-31T15:59:51

Vanessa and Casper and special guest, Mike Schubert from the Potterless Podcast, explore the theme of superstition in chapter thirteen (spooky!) of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. They d...

Resilience: Silver and Opals (Book 6, Chapter 12) from 2019-10-24T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of resilience in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss Harry’s obsession with Draco, why Filch is st...

Pleasure: Hermione's Helping Hand (Book 6, Chapter 11) from 2019-10-17T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of pleasure in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa discuss the ethics of Hermione confunding McLaggen, Hag...

Don't be a Dursley. Help us support the people on our doorstep. from 2019-10-14T16:00

The whole idea of this podcast is that we want to get ready for when tragedies happen near us. We want to make sure that if an opportunity to love a one year old, dropped off at our door were to...

Temptation: The House of Gaunt (Book 6, Chapter 10) from 2019-10-10T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of temptation in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week Casper and Vanessa unpack the tragic story of Merope Gaunt, considering her...

Owl Post Edition: Slytherin Pride with Travis McElroy from 2019-10-03T16:04:31

Why would anyone want to be a Slytherin? Vanessa and Casper to talk with Travis McElroy about his devotion to his Slytherin identity. They touch on the importance of pride, the difference betwee...

Friendship: The Half-Blood Prince (Book 6, Chapter 9) from 2019-09-26T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of friendship in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we are joined by internet super-star Gaby Dunn, who shares an opening stor...

Anxiety: Snape Victorious (Book 6, Chapter 8) from 2019-09-19T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of anxiety in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Harry’s response to Snape, Hagrid’s imminent disappointment, and ...

Glamour: The Slug Club (Book 6, Chapter 7) from 2019-09-12T16:02:10

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of glamour in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Draco’s violence, Harry’s relationship with Neville and Luna, and...

Stubbornness: Draco's Detour (Book 6, Chapter 6) from 2019-09-05T16:02:03

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of stubbornness in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Draco’s need to be taken seriously, Molly’s fear for her child...

Yearning: An Excess of Phlegm – with John Green (Book 6, Chapter 5) from 2019-08-29T16:07:10

CW: This week’s voicemail is about the shooting in Dayton, Ohio. If you’d rather skip it, the blessing start around 48:30.

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of yearning in chapter five ...

Joy: Horace Slughorn (Book 6, Chapter 4) from 2019-08-22T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of joy in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Horace’s supposed ‘cowardice’, Dumbledore’s good pedagogy, and the use...

Skepticism: Will and Won't (Book 6, Chapter 3) from 2019-08-15T16:00:32

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Skepticism in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. This week we discuss Harry’s magical thinking, Kreacher’s humiliation, and Dumbledo...

Prudence: Spinner's End (Book 6, Chapter 2) from 2019-08-08T16:01:24

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Prudence in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. This week we discuss Peter Pettigrew’s relationship to his hand, Narcissa and Bellatrix...

Helplessness: The Other Minister (Book 6, Chapter 1) from 2019-08-01T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Helplessness in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. This week we discuss the election of Rufus Scrimgeour, all things related to ...

Special Edition: What We’re Excited for in Half Blood Prince from 2019-07-25T16:00

Welcome to Season 6! This week, Vanessa and Casper get together to talk what they're looking forward to in Half Blood Prince. They discuss the complications of Slytherin identity, Vanessa’s feel...

Season Six Trailer: Whose Hard Work Makes Your Life Possible? from 2019-07-18T16:17:47

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince starts next week! As is our custom, we’ve released an animated YouTube video to celebrate the start of a new season. We’re sharing the audio here, but go chec...

Introducing: Hot & Bothered from 2019-07-16T16:08:04

Our new podcast, Hot & Bothered, officially launched today. We’re so proud to share our first episode with you: Justice for Dragons. This is the only episode of Hot & Bothered we’ll drop...

Owl Post Edition: Reclaiming Tradition with Professor Matt Potts from 2019-07-04T16:00

What does the 4th of July mean and what should it mean? It’s Independence Day in the United States and so Casper sits down again with Professor Matt Potts to talk about tradition. They touch on ...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix from 2019-06-27T16:00

In the final episode of season five, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They give Luna Lovegood her due praise, analyze Harry’s relati...

Love: The Second War Begins (Book 5, Chapter 38) – Live from Indianapolis with John Green from 2019-06-20T16:00:55

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "love" in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our London show, where we were very lucky to ...

Patience: The Lost Prophecy (Book 5, Chapter 37) from 2019-06-13T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Patience in chapter thirty-seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss occlumency lessons, waiting rooms, and how we feel abo...

Jealousy: The Only One He Ever Feared (Book 5, Chapter 36) from 2019-06-06T16:01:32

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Jealousy in chapter thirty-six of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss our love for Dumbledore and his relationships with Volde...

Blessing Minerva McGonagall from 2019-06-03T16:22:23

We have two special guest on this week’s episode of Women of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text - our friends from Reading Glasses Podcast, Brea Grant and Mallory O’Meara...

Home: Beyond the Veil (Book 5, Chapter 35) from 2019-05-30T16:00:20

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Home in chapter thirty-five of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss the individuality of the Death Eaters, Harry’s relationship...

Concealment: The Department of Mysteries (Book 5, Chapter 34) from 2019-05-23T16:05:13

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Concealment in chapter thirty-four of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Ron’s comment about the prophecy, whether Harry is f...

Inheritance: Fight and Flight (Book 5, Chapter 33) from 2019-05-16T16:03:12

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Inheritance in chapter thirty-three of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week discuss Centaurs as isolationists, Neville’s wand, and Luna’s ...

Redemption: Out of the Fire (Book 5, Chapter 32) from 2019-05-09T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Redemption in chapter thirty-two of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we look at a few characters and their possible arcs of redemption...

Blessing Molly Weasley with Dr. Chloe Angyal from 2019-05-06T16:00

We have a special guest on this week’s episode of Women of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text - our dear friend Dr. Chloe Angyal. Chloe has chosen to bless Molly for invisible labor during t...

Celebration: O.W.L.s (Book 5, Chapter 31) from 2019-05-02T16:00:10

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Celebration in chapter thirty-one of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Ron’s victory in the quidditch match, Harry’s opportu...

Owl Post from the Apocalypse with Professor Matt Potts from 2019-04-25T16:00:04

Vanessa sits down with Professor Matt Potts to discuss the theology of Apocalypses. They discover that many fruitful questions come out of contemplating an Apocalypse: What makes for a good life...

Familiarity: Grawp (Book 5, Chapter 30) from 2019-04-18T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Familiarity in chapter thirty of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we really pick apart Hagrid’s decision to ask the kids to take care ...

Revenge: Career Advice (Book 5, Chapter 29) from 2019-04-11T16:04:09

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Revenge in chapter twenty-nine of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss the tension between Umbridge and Mcgonagall, the brillia...

Blessing Ginny Weasley from 2019-04-08T16:02:29

It’s Vanessa’s turn to bless a female character of Harry Potter, and she’s chosen to bless Ginny for her trauma at the hands of Lord Voldemort. Ariana invents a game about youngest members of famou...

Entitlement: Snape's Worst Memory (Book 5, Chapter 28) — Live from San Francisco, CA from 2019-04-04T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of “entitlement" in chapter 28 of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our San Francisco show. We discuss Umbridge’s...

Hate: The Centaur and the Sneak (Book 5, Chapter 27) from 2019-03-28T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Hate in chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss Umbridge’s hate of non-human creatures, Harry’s relationsh...

Blessing Luna Lovegood from 2019-03-25T16:08:09

It’s Ariana’s turn to bless a female character of Harry Potter, and she’s chosen to bless Luna Lovegood for changing her mind about Ron. Vanessa invents a game about aptronyms (which means names th...

Obligation: Seen and Unforseen (Book 5, Chapter 26) from 2019-03-21T15:57:42

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Obligation in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week, Vanessa starts to feel bad for Harry in his Occlumency lessons, ...

Defiance: The Beetle at Bay (Book 5, Chapter 25) from 2019-03-14T16:29:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Defiance in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Hermione’s manipulation of Rita, Neville’s embrace of the DA, a...

Blessing Madam Pomfrey from 2019-03-11T16:51:37

It’s Vanessa’s turn to bless a female character of Harry Potter, and she’s chosen to bless Madam Pomfrey for her invisible labor. Ariana invents a game about woman doctors in America.

NB: ...

Curiosity: Occlumency (Book 5, Chapter 24) from 2019-03-07T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Curiosity in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They really zoom in on the Harry/Snape dynamic in this chapter: discussing ...

Control: Christmas on the Closed Ward (Book 5, Chapter 23) from 2019-02-28T17:04:12

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Control in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Molly’s anxiety over Arthur, Neville’s relationship with his gr...

Blessing Professor Trelawney from 2019-02-25T17:02:16

It’s Ariana’s turn to bless a female character of Harry Potter, and she’s chosen to bless Professor Trelawney for her mentorship. Vanessa invents a game about Nostradamus.

from 2019-02-21T16:58:54

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Distance in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss the fabulous headmaster portraits in Dumbledore’s office, Dumble...

Honesty: The Eye of the Snake (Book 5, Chapter 21) from 2019-02-14T17:02:27

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Honesty in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Nora McInerny, the host of one of ...

Blessing Fleur from 2019-02-11T17:01:12

We’re trying something new! Every other week, Vanessa and Ariana are going to sit down to bless a female character of Harry Potter. We’re calling the segment “Women of Harry Potter and the Sacred T...

Owl Post and Other Journeys with Professor Stephanie Paulsell from 2019-02-07T17:01:16

Inspired by last week's chapter, Vanessa sits down with our mentor, Professor Stephanie Paulsell, to learn more about the theology of pilgrimages. They discuss the Japanese poet Bash?, their own...

Peace: Hagrid's Tale (Book 5, Chapter 20) from 2019-01-31T17:01:44

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Peace in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss wizard/giant relations, analyze Umbridge’s intimidation strategy, and c...

Distraction: The Lion and the Serpent (Book 5, Chapter 19) from 2019-01-24T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Distraction in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Hermione’s brilliant DA galleon, Run’s crush on Hermione (who c...

Failure: Dumbledore's Army (Book 5, Chapter 18) — Live from Cambridge, MA from 2019-01-17T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of “failure" in chapter 18 of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we come to you live from our Cambridge show. We discuss whether Angela Joh...

Supremacy: Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four (Book 5, Chapter 17) from 2019-01-10T16:19:29

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Supremacy in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Angelina Johnson’s prophetic position, how The Patriarc...

Respite: In the Hog's Head (Book 5, Chapter 16) from 2018-12-20T23:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Respite in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss Aberforth living in Dumbledore's shadow, Ron wanting to step out of ...

Healing: The Hogwarts High Inquisitor (Book 5, Chapter 15) from 2018-12-13T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Healing in chapter fifteen of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Artie Wu, the founder of Preside Me...

Boundaries: Percy and Padfoot (Book 5, Chapter 14) from 2018-12-06T17:03

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Boundaries in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. They discuss the chemistry between Harry and Cho Chang, Sirius's wise thought...

Obsession: Detention with Dolores (Book 5, Chapter 13) from 2018-11-29T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Obsession in chapter thirteen of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss Hermione's House Elf activism, Umbridge's thirst for p...

Pride: Professor Umbridge (Book 5, Chapter 12) from 2018-11-22T17:09:14

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Pride in chapter twelve of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss the different political strategies of Umbridge, Hermione, Pa...

Special Edition: Q&A with Producer Ariana + New Hot and Bothered Trailer from 2018-11-15T17:00

Hi everyone! Bad news: The file for this week's episode got corrupted (probably by Voldemort). Unfortunately, Vanessa had minor surgery this week (she’s recovering well!) and Casper’s off in a m...

Dread: The Sorting Hat's New Song (Book 5, Chapter 11) from 2018-11-08T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Dread in chapter eleven of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we discuss Hermione's insight into Umbridge, Harry and Seamus' big figh...

Halloween Edition: On Witches and Brett Kavanaugh from 2018-11-01T16:04

Casper is out sick, so Vanessa is taking over our owl post episode this week. We talk Brett Kavanaugh and answer voicemails about his hearing, Voldemort's name, Advent and marginalia.

...

Humility: Luna Lovegood (Book 5, Chapter 10) from 2018-10-25T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Humility in chapter ten of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we talk about Luna's truth-telling, Neville's nerdiness and Ron and Her...

Will Power: The Woes of Mrs Weasley (Book 5, Chapter 9) from 2018-10-18T16:12:59

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Will Power in chapter nine of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, we continue to obsess about Percy Weasley, congratulate Ron on his g...

Partnership: The Hearing (Book 5, Chapter 8) from 2018-10-11T16:04:54

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Partnership in chapter eight of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix". This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Lauren Taylor, co-author of The A...

Progress: The Ministry of Magic (Book 5, Chapter 7) from 2018-10-04T16:00

Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "Progress" in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. This week we discuss whether owls are an obsolete technology, The Fountain of Ma...

Memory: The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black (Book 5, Chapter 6) from 2018-09-27T16:00

Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "memory" in chapter six of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Kreacher's institutional memory, Sirius's family tapestry, an...

Gratitude: The Order of the Phoenix (Book 5, Chapter 5) from 2018-09-20T16:00

Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "gratitude" in chapter five of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Mundugus Fletcher's apology, Molly Weasley's protectivene...

Anger: Number Twelve Grimmauld Place (Book 5, Chapter 4) from 2018-09-13T16:14

Vanessa and Casper examine the theme of "Anger" in chapter four of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Percy's betrayal, Ginny's coolness, and how badly Harry is tr...

Compassion: The Advance Guard (Book 5, Chapter 3) from 2018-09-06T16:00

Vanessa and Casper return to the theme of "compassion" in chapter three of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss Tonk's hair, Moody's eyeball, and how Harry really ne...

Frustration: A Peck of Owls (Book 5, Chapter 2) from 2018-08-30T16:01:43

Vanessa and Casper return to the theme of "frustration" in chapter two of "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." This week we discuss the psychology of Mundungus Fletcher, the heroism of M...

Belief: Dudley Demented (Book 5, Chapter 1) from 2018-08-23T16:00

Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix with the theme of belief. They discuss the breakdown of trust between Harry and the Dursleys, between Harry and hi...

Special Edition: What We’re Excited for in Order of the Phoenix from 2018-08-09T16:00

Season 5, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, launches on August 23rd. Vanessa and Casper get together to talk what they're looking forward to in Order of the Phoenix and share our season 5 ...

Special Edition: Owl Post with Professor Stephanie Paulsell from 2018-07-26T16:00

In our last episode of season four, we catch up on some owl post with Stephanie Paulsell. We hear from Angela Hronek, Michelle Solomon, Jaxn Hill, Margaret Cooney and an anonymous caller. Inspir...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire from 2018-07-19T16:00

In the final episode of season four, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. They take some time to talk about Harry Potter himself, reflect on C...

Love: The Beginning (Book 4, Chapter 37) — Live from London from 2018-07-12T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "love" in the final chapter of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we come to you live from our London show. We discuss the grief and generos...

Disillusionment: The Parting of the Ways (Book 4, Chapter 36) from 2018-07-05T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "disillusionment" in chapter thirty-six of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Snape's bravery in revealing his dark mark, Molly's...

Betrayal: Veritaserum (Book 4, Chapter 35) from 2018-06-28T15:58

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "betrayal" in chapter thirty-five of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Neville and Harry’s friendship, poor Winky and her grief ...

Grief: Priori Incantatem (Book 4, Chapter 34) from 2018-06-21T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "grief" in chapter thirty-four of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Professor Matt Potts, a beloved mento...

Necessity: The Death Eaters (Book 4, Chapter 33) from 2018-06-14T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "necessity" in chapter thirty-three of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we get into Voldemort's psychology, take pity on Wormtail, and dis...

Waste: Flesh, Blood, and Bone (Book 4, Chapter 32) from 2018-06-07T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "waste" in chapter thirty-two of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss the most chilling scene, in perhaps the whole series - that o...

Kindness: The Third Task (Book 4, Chapter 31) from 2018-05-31T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "kindness" in chapter thirty-one of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Bill's generous questions, Molly's coldness to Hermione, a...

Special Edition: Owl Post and Rabbi Scott Perlo (Again!) from 2018-05-24T16:00

Vanessa is still recovering from her surgery, so Casper is taking over our owl post episode this week. We hear from listeners Lóre Stevens, Kate McManus, Talya Sarna and Eva Resnick-Day. Lóre an...

Comfort: The Pensieve (Book 4, Chapter 30) from 2018-05-17T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "comfort" in chapter thirty of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Bellatrix's fanaticism, how the pensieve is a model for virtual...

Chance: The Dream (Book 4, Chapter 29) from 2018-05-10T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "chance" in chapter twenty-nine of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Melissa Anelli, host of Pottercast a...

Inspiration: The Madness of Mr. Crouch — With John Green (Book 4, Chapter 28) from 2018-05-03T16:00

Vanessa and Casper and special guest, John Green, explore the theme of "inspiration" in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. They discuss fainting in public, Dobby's huma...

Corruption: Padfoot Returns (Book 4, Chapter 27) from 2018-04-26T16:02:47

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "corruption" in chapter twenty-seven of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Barty Crouch’s governing tactics, praise Hermione for ...

Loyalty: The Second Task (Book 4, Chapter 26) – Live from Minneapolis from 2018-04-19T16:14

For the first time on the podcast, we're bringing you your weekly episode from one of our live shows! Live from Minneapolis, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "loyalty" in chapter twenty-s...

Preciousness: The Egg and the Eye (Book 4, Chapter 25) from 2018-04-12T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "preciousness" in chapter twenty-five of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Moaning Myrtle's voyeurism, Harry's fatal flaws, and ...

Integrity: Rita Skeeter's Scoop (Book 4, Chapter 24) from 2018-04-05T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "integrity" in chapter twenty-four of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Professor Grubbly-Plank's unicorn, Hagrid's doom spiral,...

Guilt: The Yule Ball (Book 4, Chapter 23) from 2018-03-29T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "guilt" in chapter twenty-three of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Viktor Krum's classiness, Dobby's love of languages, and th...

Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Gretchen Rubin from 2018-03-23T16:00

We could only include a few minutes of Vanessa's conversation with Gretchen Rubin into the main episode this week, but we wanted to share an extended cut of their interview. Hear Vanessa and Gretch...

Happiness: The Unexpected Task (Book 4, Chapter 22) from 2018-03-22T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Happiness in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Gretchen Rubin, host of Happier with G...

Faith: The House-Elf Liberation Front (Book 4, Chapter 21) from 2018-03-15T16:01:30

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "faith" in chapter twenty-one of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Vanessa's first celebrity crush, the separation of church and...

Opportunity: The First Task (Book 4, Chapter 20) from 2018-03-08T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "opportunity" in chapter twenty of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Cedric's wholeness, Harry's brokenness, and what Vanessa th...

Delight: The Hungarian Horntail (Book 4, Chapter 19) from 2018-03-01T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "delight" in chapter nineteen of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Harry's vulnerability with Sirius, Charlie's love of Hagrid, ...

Special Edition: Owl Post and Broderick Greer from 2018-02-22T17:00

Vanessa is sick today, so Casper is taking over our much-anticipated "owl" themed owl post. We hear from listeners Stefanie French, Ali Ribe, Camille Knox and Sophie Ralph. Casper also has the o...

Glory: The Weighing of the Wands (Book 4, Chapter 18) from 2018-02-15T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "glory" in chapter eighteen of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Draco's "Potter Stinks" badges, Hermione's toast, and Snape's e...

Unity: The Four Champions (Book 4, Chapter 17) from 2018-02-09T17:03

Note: We discuss sexual assault and suicidal ideation in this episode. If these topics are something you want to avoid, we understand. Listen

Resentment: The Goblet of Fire (Book 4, Chapter 16) from 2018-02-01T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "resentment" in chapter sixteen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Hermione's jealousy, Hagrid's hypocrisy, and Dumbledore's...

Trauma: Beauxbatons and Durmstrang (Book 4, Chapter 15) from 2018-01-25T17:04

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of trauma in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss returning home, acknowledging pain, and the BAMF known as Madame Ma...

Transformation: The Unforgiveable Curses (Book 4, Chapter 14) from 2018-01-18T17:12

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of transformation in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Mike McHargue, host of Ask Science Mike...

Judgment: Mad-Eye Moody (Book 4, Chapter 13) from 2018-01-11T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of judgement in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss blind love, alcoholism at Hogwarts, and why we all take such jo...

Excitement: The Triwizard Tournament (Book 4, Chapter 12) from 2018-01-04T17:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of excitement in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we admire the Creevey brothers, interrogate Harry's blasé attitude, and wo...

Special Edition: Puffs + T-Shirt Contest Winner! from 2017-12-28T17:01

Vanessa and Ariana took a train down to New York to see the off-broadway play, Puffs. Here's the show in their own words: "For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard ...

A Christmas Poem: Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf from 2017-12-25T21:15

Here's a little treat from Casper. You can find the poem in Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl. Happy Holidays!

See Listen

Special Edition: Owl Post and Marya Bangee from 2017-12-21T17:04

It's time for our first round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! We hear your thoughts about stigma, the S.P.E.W. campaign, Fred and George's resilience, obliviation, and Herm...

Play: Aboard the Hogwarts Express (Book 4, Chapter 11) from 2017-12-14T17:18

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of play in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Queen Victoria, how defense against the dark arts is like sex educati...

Promises: Mayhem at the Ministry (Book 4, Chapter 10) from 2017-12-07T21:16

Vanessa and Casper revisit the theme of promises in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss whether Rita Skeeter is a good journalist, Arthur Weasley's work at ...

Grudges: The Dark Mark (Book 4, Chapter 9) from 2017-11-30T19:03

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of grudges in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we continue our discussion about Veelas and sexism, look at the connection betw...

Fandom: The Quidditch World Cup (Book 4, Chapter 8) from 2017-11-23T17:25

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of fandom in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Kevin T. Porter, host of Gilmore Guys and Good Chr...

Beauty: Bagman and Crouch (Book 4, Chapter 7) from 2017-11-16T17:16

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of beauty in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Mr. Weasley's exoticization of muggles, Harry's generosity towards R...

Acceptance: The Portkey (Book 4, Chapter 6) from 2017-11-09T19:56

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of acceptance in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss different parent/child relationships as they manif...

Masculinity: Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes (Book 4, Chapter 5) from 2017-11-02T16:24

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Masculinity in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss Ron's love of quidditch, Bill's gender performan...

Mystery: Back to the Burrow (Book 4, Chapter 4) from 2017-10-26T15:54

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Mystery in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Zach Kerzee, the founding pastor of Simple Chu...

Awareness: The Invitation (Book 4, Chapter 3) from 2017-10-19T17:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Awareness in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper talk about Dudley's weight problems, Molly Weasley's perf...

Destruction: The Scar (Book 4, Chapter 2) from 2017-10-12T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of destruction in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper negotiate their different theological perspectives, discu...

Instinct: The Riddle House (Book 4, Chapter 1) from 2017-10-05T16:39

Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire with The Riddle House - perhaps one of the most incongruous chapter in the the whole Harry Potter series. They discuss F...

Trust: Cat, Rat and Dog (Book 3, Chapter 17) — Live from Washington, DC from 2017-09-19T16:00

Thank you so much to everyone who came out for our tour this summer and made it such a success! Here's the audio from our DC show, with special guest Scott Perlo. For our East Coast tour, we rea...

Special Edition: Owl Post and Sejal Patel from 2017-09-12T16:00

In our final episode of Season 3, we have a chance to sit down with lawyer and fellow divinity school graduate, Sejal Patel. She chats with us about justice, Hinduism, and the Niebuhr brothers. ...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban from 2017-09-05T16:38

In the final episode of season three, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They take some time to talk about Harry Potter himself, reflec...

Love: Owl Post Again (Book 3, Chapter 22) from 2017-08-29T15:51

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This is our third time discussing love of the podcast, but we still have so many qu...

Crisis: Hermione's Secret (Book 3, Chapter 21) from 2017-08-22T16:19

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of crisis in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's existential crisis, Dumbledore's rebellious stre...

Charlottesville: Call it what it is from 2017-08-16T22:23:56

Today was our first day back in the studio after the white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, VA this past weekend. We wanted to share a few thoughts from the team. 

You can access th...

Justice: The Dementors' Kiss (Book 3, Chapter 20) from 2017-08-15T16:08

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Justice in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss justice in all its forms: poetic, divine, restorative and i...

Forgiveness: Owl Post with Professor Stephanie Paulsell from 2017-08-08T16:19

This week, Casper's out of town so Vanessa sits down with Stephanie Paulsell, Professor of Ministry Studies at Harvard Divinity School, to talk forgiveness and answer some owl post. Our regular ...

Mercy: The Servant of Lord Voldemort (Book 3, Chapter 19) from 2017-08-01T16:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of mercy in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's dual identity, Pettigrew's shrewd manipulations, an...

Isolation: Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs (Book 3, Chapter 18) from 2017-07-25T15:57

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of isolation in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they pity Peter Pettigrew, wonder about The Whomping Willow and solv...

Innocence: Cat, Rat and Dog (Book 3, Chapter 17) from 2017-07-20T16:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of innocence in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They bemoan how the criminal justice system has betrayed Sirius Black, discuss...

Wonder: Professor Trelawney's Prediction (Book 3, Chapter 16) from 2017-07-11T16:11

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of wonder in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss flobberworms, how Divination class is like divinity school,...

Pain: The Quidditch Final (Book 3, Chapter 15) from 2017-07-04T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of pain in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Casper's beautiful teeth, Vanessa's dislike of Hogwarts house...

Imagination: Snape's Grudge (Book 3, Chapter 14) from 2017-06-27T16:30

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of imagination in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, in some major reversals, Vanessa expresses concern for Snape and C...

Rivalry: Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw — With Hank Green (Book 3, Chapter 13) from 2017-06-20T16:30

Vanessa and Casper and special guest, Hank Green, explore the theme of Rivalry in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between bullies and ri...

Optimism: The Patronus (Book 3, Chapter 12) from 2017-06-13T18:06

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of optimism in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, Casper tells a story about climate activism, Vanessa tries to puzzle ou...

Duty: The Firebolt — With Father Jim Martin (Book 3, Chapter 11) from 2017-06-06T16:29

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of duty in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Hermione's selflessness, Hagrid's traumatic experience in Azka...

Escape: The Marauder's Map (Book 3, Chapter 10) from 2017-05-30T15:59

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of escape in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss whether we can have sympathy for dementors, Casper's college cr...

Frustration: Grim Defeat (Book 3, Chapter 9) from 2017-05-23T16:00

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of frustration in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss latin etymology, quote Macbeth, and critique Snape's clas...

[Explicit] Extra! Extra!: Blooper Reel from 2017-05-19T15:48

This is not a real episode! It's a reel episode. (Groan.) 

Ariana made this little blooper reel for some of the Crowdfunder backers, but we thought it would be nice to share it ...

Desperation: Flight of the Fat Lady (Book 3, Chapter 8) from 2017-05-16T22:49

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of desperation in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the credibility of divination, the intensity of Oliver Wood's quidd...

Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Chloe Angyal from 2017-05-09T23:02:53

We could only include a few minutes of Vanessa's conversation with Chloe into the main episode this week, but we wanted to share an extended cut of their interview. Hear Chloe talk more about humor...

Humor: The Boggart in the Wardrobe (Book 3, Chapter 7) from 2017-05-09T16:08

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of humor in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.They discuss the power of Satire, the absurdity of neck ties, and why Parvati is afraid...

Forgiveness: Talons and Tea Leaves (Book 3, Chapter 6) from 2017-05-02T16:11

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of forgiveness in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between humility and self loathing, Hagrid’s metaphori...

Foresight: The Dementor (Book 3, Chapter 5) from 2017-04-25T16:16

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of foresight in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the magical properties of chocolate, Harry and Ginny's romantic potent...

Hospitality: The Leaky Cauldron (Book 3, Chapter 4) from 2017-04-18T16:01

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of hospitality in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They consider the ways in which Hermione is diplomatic, do the Jewish practice of...

Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Jackson Bird from the Harry Potter Alliance from 2017-04-11T20:47:38

We could only include a few minutes of Casper's conversation with Jackson Bird into the main episode this week, but it was so lovely that we thought it was important to share it all. So here's an e...

Secrets: The Knight Bus (Book 3, Chapter 3) from 2017-04-11T18:54

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of secrets in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the sketchiness of Cornelius Fudge, throw some shade at Stanley Shunpik...

Family: Aunt Marge's Big Mistake (Book 3, Chapter 2) from 2017-04-04T19:25

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of family in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss why Vanessa loves her dog so much, the age old question of nature vs. nurt...

Mercy: Owl Post (Book 3, Chapter 1) from 2017-03-28T17:05

Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban with the theme of mercy. They discuss Ron's difficulty with telephones, Errol the owl, and return to the spiritual ...

Special Edition: The Live Show from 2017-03-14T21:24

For those who couldn't make it to our live show back in January, here' s a little taste of all the fun we had! The audio quality is not ideal, but you still can get a sense for what it was like ...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets from 2017-03-07T20:08

In the final episode of season two, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They evaluate the evolution of Harry's character, compare Lockhart t...

Special Edition: Owl Post and Rabbi Scott Perlo from 2017-02-28T22:33

In our penultimate episode of season two, we hear from listeners Christina Richardson, Margaret, Meaghan Crowley, and Abigail Morris. Vanessa and Casper also have the opportunity to learn a new ...

Love: Dobby's Reward (Book 2, Chapter 18) from 2017-02-21T21:21

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Together they discuss the connection between love, memory, suffering, and why parent...

Heartbreak: The Heir of Slytherin (Book 2, Chapter 17) from 2017-02-14T20:35

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of heartbreak in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss practical jokes, juvenile delinquency, and the symbolism of Fawke...

Grace: The Chamber of Secrets (Book 2, Chapter 16) from 2017-02-07T18:34

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of grace in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the power of gratitude, the difference between the desolation of Moaning...

Sanctuary: Aragog (Book 2, Chapter 15) from 2017-02-01T01:12

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of sanctuary in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the power of silence, how Hagrid is a priest-like figure, and why sp...

Loyalty: Cornelius Fudge (Book 2, Chapter 14) from 2017-01-24T17:13

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of loyalty in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Hagrid and Dumbledore's mutual admiration, how to navigate multiple r...

Cowardice: The Very Secret Diary (Book 2, Chapter 13) from 2017-01-17T18:14:24

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of cowardice in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss hate crimes, the psychology of murderers, and secret admirers. Thro...

Belonging: The Polyjuice Potion (Book 2, Chapter 12) from 2017-01-10T20:10

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of belonging in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss magical portraits, the metaphor of the phoenix, and Vanessa’s distrus...

Excellence: The Dueling Club (Book 2, Chapter 11) from 2017-01-03T18:34:35

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of excellence in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry's proficiency with Parseltongue, Ernie McMillan's authority wi...

Complaining: The Rogue Bludger (Book 2, Chapter 10) from 2016-12-27T21:47

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of complaining in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Madam Hooch's negligence during the quidditch match, Lockhart's toxic ...

Innocence: The Writing on the Wall (Book 2, Chapter 9) from 2016-12-20T18:43

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Innocence in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry’s continued fear of his own Slytherin-ness, the way Professor Bin...

Rumors: The Deathday Party (Book 2, Chapter 8) from 2016-12-13T17:12

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of rumors in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the difference between rumors and propaganda, whether Nearly Headless Nic...

Confusion: Mudbloods and Murmurs (Book 2, Chapter 7) from 2016-12-06T18:42

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of confusion in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Hagrid's magical umbrella, the usefulness of mantras, and what the 'mu...

Attraction: Gilderoy Lockhart (Book 2, Chapter 6) from 2016-11-29T19:50

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of attraction in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss their schoolyard crushes, Ron's malfunctioning wand, and a metaphorical...

Special Edition: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (Spoiler Warning!) from 2016-11-28T12:27:34

After seeing Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Vanessa and Casper discuss their impressions and share their favorite moments from the film.

Listen

Shame: At Flourish and Blotts (Book 2, Chapter 4) from 2016-11-15T14:43

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of shame in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Harry's generosity, the difference between teasing and criticism, and wheth...

A Brief Post-Election Note from 2016-11-14T23:33

Hi friends, we hope you're taking care of yourselves. We offer you this reading from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

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Curiosity: The Burrow (Book 2, Chapter 3) from 2016-11-08T22:45

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of curiosity in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss Arthur Weasley's enthusiasm for muggles, the moral implications of de-...

Control: Dobby's Warning (Book 2, Chapter 2) from 2016-11-01T20:13

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of control in the second chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss the bureaucratic power of the Ministry of Magic, the benefit of Har...

Disappointment: The Worst Birthday (Book 2, Chapter 1) from 2016-10-25T19:57

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of disappointment in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. They discuss homesickness and why returning home sometimes brings out the ...

Special Edition: Owl Post and Professor Stephanie Paulsell from 2016-10-01T17:08

In our last episode of season one, we hear from a few more listeners and have a meta-conversation about the podcast itself. Vanessa and Casper also have the opportunity to chat with Professor Steph...

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone from 2016-09-24T15:30

In the final episode of season one, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They finally get around to talking about Harry himself, revisit the ki...

Love: The Man with Two Faces (Book 1, Chapter 17) from 2016-09-17T17:23

**Note: We had some technical difficulties in the studio this week (mainly with Casper’s microphone) so unfortunately the sound of this episode is not up to our usual standard and occasionally dist...

Destiny: Through the Trapdoor (Book 1, Chapter 16) from 2016-09-10T13:48

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of destiny in chapter sixteen, the penultimate chapter of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss why Neville is excluded from the trio's adventure,...

Regret: The Forbidden Forest (Book 1, Chapter 15) from 2016-09-03T11:27

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of regret in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss the eccentric behavior of centaurs, celebrate Neville's burgeoning bravery, ...

Rebellion: Norbert the Norwegian Ridgeback (Book 1, Chapter 14) from 2016-08-28T17:23

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of rebellion in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Casper's high school antics, Hagrid's lack of self-care, and whether the...

Special Edition: Catching up on the Owl Post from 2016-08-20T10:42

Vanessa recounts how she came to read literature as sacred and, in Casper’s absence, uses voicemails from the audience as her conversation partners this week. Together, they touch on a new theology...

Hope: Nicolas Flamel (Book 1, Chapter 13) from 2016-08-13T11:41

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of hope in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Neville's brawl with the Slytherins, the sacred space of quidditch, and wheth...

White Privilege: The Mirror of Erised (Book 1, Chapter 12) from 2016-08-06T06:31

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of white privilege in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Molly Weasley's continued generosity, explore the topic of invisibil...

Goals: Quidditch (Book 1, Chapter 11) from 2016-07-30T06:24

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of goals in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Voldemort's questionable judgment in this chapter, whether our intentions are ...

Friendship: Halloween (Book 1, Chapter 10) from 2016-07-23T05:05

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of friendship in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Hermione's confrontation with mortality, give an allegorical reading of Quid...

Betrayal: The Midnight Duel (Book 1, Chapter 9) from 2016-07-16T01:29

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of betrayal in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss bullying, Brexit, and why Professor mcGonagall might be a worse teacher than ...

Promises: The Potions Master (Book 1, Chapter 8) from 2016-07-09T01:33

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of promises in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss tropes in bad 80s tv shows, Harry's reaction to his own fame, and Hermione's...

Vulnerability: The Sorting Hat (Book 1, Chapter 7) from 2016-07-02T14:39

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of vulnerability in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss how Harry’s experience with the sorting hat teaches us to reclaim ou...

Expectations: The Journey from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters (Book 1, Chapter 6) from 2016-06-25T03:41

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of expectations in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Harry and Ron's budding friendship, the unusual bravery of Scabbers the ra...

Being a Stranger: Diagon Alley (Book 1, Chapter 5) from 2016-06-18T00:55

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "being a stranger" in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss hefty ideas like consumerist culture in the wizarding world, Hagrid...

Generosity: The Keeper of the Keys (Book 1, Chapter 4) from 2016-06-11T00:33

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of generosity in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. Casper demonstrates his excellent Hagrid impression and Vanessa addresses whether we can...

Fear: The Letters From No One (Book 1, Chapter 3) from 2016-06-03T21:18

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of fear in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss Vernon Dursley's illusion of control, the psychology of bullies, and climate cha...

Loneliness: The Vanishing Glass (Book 1, Chapter 2) from 2016-05-27T18:13

Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of loneliness in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. They discuss the Dursleys' parenting choices, the significance of numbers, and the bir...

Commitment: The Boy Who Lived (Book 1, Chapter 1) from 2016-05-19T15:02

In the premiere episode of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, Casper and Vanessa talk about why they are starting this project and analyze the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone ...

Harry Potter and the Sacred Text: Series Trailer from 2016-05-01T13:00

Welcome to Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, a podcast by Not Sorry Productions!

Learn more at https://www.harrypottersacredtext.com/