The Prancing Pony Podcast

It’s nap time in the Old Forest as our heroes gradually succumb to the power of an ancient and angry willow. Sam rolls a natural 20 to resist the spell and manages to save Frodo, but Merry and Pippin are trapped inside the enormous tree. Just when all seems hopeless, a merry old fellow comes hopping along with a unique fashion sense and some very delicate lilies. We remember J.R.R. Tolkien’s brother Hilary and speculate about Old Man Willow; we’ll also answer all your questions about the enigmatic figure in the blue jacket and yellow boots… just not today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frodo and his companions enter into the Old Forest in the first part of Book I, Chapter 6 of The Lord of the Rings. Merry has been beyond the Hedge before and does his best to guide them, but it’s hard to navigate a forest when the trees won’t stop moving. Something or someone is making a path before them, leading them inexorably into the deepest, strangest part of the forest. We answer more questions about the One Ring from Barliman’s Bag, discuss the Hobbits’ ruthless deforestation campaign, and get schooled by a listener on basic fractions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alan and Shawn are celebrating their eleventy-first episode with a party of special magnificence! But instead of inviting you to a feast and risking a possible appearance by the Sackville-Bagginses, we’re looking back at a few dozen of our best clips from the first three seasons of the PPP, nominated by our listeners. From the silliest jokes to the most tragic readings, from great insights and character voices to the most ridiculous mistakes imaginable, it’s all here in a special that goes ever on and on. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A conspiracy is finally unmasked in the second half of “A Conspiracy Unmasked”! Frodo’s dread turns to relief when he learns his friends already know much more than he gave them credit for. They insist on leaving with him and promise to stick to him through thick and thin — all except for Fredegar, who finds those creepy, sniffing Black Riders far less scary than… uh, trees. We take time to analyze Frodo’s mysterious dream, wax poetic about the importance of fellowship, and get our hearts full of hobbitry with an uplifting Tolkien Quote of the Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the first half of Book I, Chapter 5 of The Lord of the Rings, the Hobbits cross the Brandywine and come to Frodo’s new digs at Crickhollow, where a hot bath and all the comforts of home await them. Frodo does his best to enjoy a well-earned second supper and good company, but a dark cloud hangs over him as he dreads having to tell his friends he won’t be staying. Also in this episode: architectural musings, more mushrooms, and speculation on why ordinary Hobbits like Maggot and the Gaffer don’t go all Sir Robin when face-to-face with a Ringwraith.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Hillman, a longtime Tolkien enthusiast and bookstore manager, joins to share his deep appreciation for Middle-earth. He recounts his own journey into fandom and the sense of belonging within the Tolkien community. The discussion dives into the rich themes of hobbit hospitality, illustrated by Farmer Maggot's warm welcome despite initial suspicions. They also tackle questions about Sauron's strategic decisions and analyze the unsettling encounter between Maggot and the Nazgûl. Plus, tips on making mushroom soup might just leave you hungry!

The discussion kicks off with a tribute to Tolkien on his birthday. Frodo, Sam, and Pippin find themselves refreshed after the Elf-party, but a chilling wail on the wind signals danger. The hosts delve into the disturbing origins of the Nazgûl, exploring their transformation from men to wraiths. Sam's unwavering loyalty to Frodo is highlighted, alongside the eerie powers of the Nazgûl. As the hobbits navigate the terrain, they balance moments of joy with the looming threat of pursuit, creating a tense and engaging narrative.

In what has officially become an annual event, join Alan and Shawn as they use the wayback machine to revisit episode 028 in this special director's cut re-release of our episode on Letters From Father Christmas. Marvel at how far we've come since our early days, but mostly enjoy the charming adventures of Tolkien's creations at The North Pole! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time once again for Alan and Shawn to welcome several visitors to the Prancing Pony! Hear us stay mostly on topic as we attempt to answer live, unscripted “Ask Me Anything”–style questions about The Lord of the Rings and much more. We revisit recent mailbag questions on Bilbo’s wealth and the Dead Men of Dunharrow, say a few premature words about Tom Bombadil (whom we’ll be getting to soon enough, we promise!), and demonstrate that the only thing worse than Alan’s Tom Hanks impression is Shawn’s Tim Allen impression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the magical world of Elves as hobbits encounter Gildor in the Woody End. Discover the significance of Osanwe and elvish telepathy while the hosts analyze Tolkien's symbolic opposition between light and darkness. Explore the deep connections between hobbits and Elves, reflecting on the nuances of identity and friendship. Get tips on stargazing and learn about the Elven party setting's sensory wonders. With tales of wisdom, history, and courage, the adventure through Middle-earth promises to enchant and inspire!