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Religion & Spirituality
Not Sorry Productions
It’s the English class you didn't know you missed and the meaningful conversations you didn't know you craved. Join Vanessa Zoltan and Matt Potts as they bring thought, reflection and laughter to Harry Potter; not just as novels, but as instructive and inspirational texts that will teach us about our own lives. Relive the magic of Harry Potter chapter by chapter as Matt and Vanessa explore themes such as commitment, revenge and forgiveness. This podcast creates time in your week to think about life’s big questions. Because reading fiction doesn’t just help us escape the world, it helps us live in it.Harry Potter and the Sacred Text is produced by Not Sorry Productions, a feminist organization that produces podcasts, educational content, live shows, and immersive experiences with the explicit goal of addressing the spiritual needs of its participants. Through community, rigor, and ritual, we treat traditionally secular things as if they were sacred. To learn more about what we do, visit https://notsorryworks.com/. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Compassion: The Advance Guard (Book 5, Chapter 3)
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 needs a meditation practice. Our question this week is: How do we be compassionate to someone who doesn't want to receive it? Next week we're reading chapter four, Number Twelve Grimmauld Place, through the theme of Anger. Thanks this week to Nikki Spencer for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:3306/09/2018
Frustration: A Peck of Owls (Book 5, Chapter 2)
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 Mrs. Figg, and Dudley's crumbling sense of his own supremacy. Our question this week is: When does frustration enable learning? Next week we're reading chapter three, The Advance Guard, through the theme of compassion. Thanks this week to Rabbi Max Chaiken for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
31:2630/08/2018
Belief: Dudley Demented (Book 5, Chapter 1)
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 his friends, and Harry and himself. Throughout the episode they consider the question: what makes us believe things, beyond just 'the facts'? This week, we're trying out a new spiritual practice: Marginalia. This week's voicemail is thanks to Emily Anderson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35:1523/08/2018
Special Edition: What We’re Excited for in Order of the Phoenix
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 trailer about Dolores Umbridge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
19:4409/08/2018
Special Edition: Owl Post with Professor Stephanie Paulsell
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. Inspired by our callers, Stephanie and Vanessa discuss embodiment, communion, and the limits of radical love. NB: We’re taking a week off, but we'll back with season five and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on August 9th! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:3426/07/2018
Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
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 Cedric's death, and dissect the role of the Goblet of Fire itself. Throughout the episode they take a critical eye to the stories we tell ourselves and whether those are a force of good or complacency. Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation with our house mentor, Stephanie Paulsell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29:0519/07/2018
Love: The Beginning (Book 4, Chapter 37) — Live from London
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 generosity of Cedric's parents, the false promise of the Triwizard Tournament, and whether love can be political. We were so very lucky to have our dear friend and mentor, Stephanie Paulsell, with us to tell a story from her experience.Next week we're doing a wrap-up of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Thanks to everyone who came out to the London show. We have three events coming up in August; you can check them out at: http://www.harrypottersacredtext.com/live-events/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
57:4312/07/2018
Disillusionment: The Parting of the Ways (Book 4, Chapter 36)
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 clarity of purpose in taking care of Harry, and the way government leaders tend to let us down. Our question this week: how much are we allowed to change the 'facts' of our own story?Next week we're reading the very last chapter of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, chapter thirty-seven, The Beginning, through the theme of "love." We'll be coming to you live from our London show. Thanks this week to Kelly Webb for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35:1305/07/2018
Betrayal: Veritaserum (Book 4, Chapter 35)
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 in this chapter, and why villains are prone to monologuing. We return to the question this week: how do we hold people accountable for their bad actions without isolating or radicalizing them? Next week we're reading chapter thirty-six, The Parting of the Ways, through the theme of "disillusionment." Thanks this week to Amanda Holly for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
31:5028/06/2018
Grief: Priori Incantatem (Book 4, Chapter 34)
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 mentor from Harvard Divinity School. In the episode, we discuss Cedric's last request, Wormtail's hand, and whether we believe in the idea of 'sin.' Our question this week: is grief an emotion or something more permanent and essential? Next week we're reading chapter thirty-five, Veritaserum, through the theme of "betrayal." Thanks this week to Jessica Hyde for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35:2221/06/2018
Necessity: The Death Eaters (Book 4, Chapter 33)
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 discuss the human instinct towards survival. Our question this week is: how do we decide what's heroic?Next week we're reading chapter thirty-four, Priori Incantatem, through the theme of Grief. Thanks this week to Rachel Diebner for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
30:0314/06/2018
Waste: Flesh, Blood, and Bone (Book 4, Chapter 32)
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 of Cedric's death. Our question this week is: how do we keep in mind our own mortality without letting our fear of death control us?Next week we're reading chapter thirty-three, The Death Eaters, through the theme of Necessity. Thanks this week to Allison Boldt for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29:4907/06/2018
Kindness: The Third Task (Book 4, Chapter 31)
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, and the need for self-care. Our question this week is: how much do we have to take responsibility for our creations?Next week we're reading Chapter 32, Flesh, Blood, and Bone, through the theme of waste. Thanks this week to Connie Carringer for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:5931/05/2018
Special Edition: Owl Post and Rabbi Scott Perlo (Again!)
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 and Kate respond to Casper's question about the importance of libraries, Talya shares some Jewish thoughts on around pregnancy, and Kate recounts how she got her 15 minutes of national fame. Casper also has the opportunity to chat with our old friend, the brilliant Rabbi Scott Perlo, about the 'canon' of sacred texts and how ideas of canon play out in the Jewish tradition.Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 31, The Third Task, through the theme of kindness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35:0824/05/2018
Chance: The Dream (Book 4, Chapter 29)
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 and author of Harry, A History. In the episode, we discuss Fred and George's blackmailing plan, Harry's leadership ability, and The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Our question this week is: how much agency can we exert in our lives, given our belief in the arbitrariness of the universe? Next week we're reading chapter thirty, The Pensieve, through the theme of "comfort." Thanks this week to Ji Kweon for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:2110/05/2018
Inspiration: The Madness of Mr. Crouch — With John Green (Book 4, Chapter 28)
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 humanity, and some of the sadness of parenthood. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we commit ourself to doing work after the inspiration happens?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-nine, The Dream, through the theme of "chance" with special guest Melissa Anelli. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bronwyn Toth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
48:3103/05/2018
Corruption: Padfoot Returns (Book 4, Chapter 27)
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 her bravery, and have a debate about one of the most quotable lines of the series. Our question this week is: When do we want people to be corruptible? Next week we're reading chapter twenty-eight, The Madness of Mr. Crouch, through the theme of Inspiration - with special guest John Green! Thanks this week to Wesley Cheney for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
31:3326/04/2018
Loyalty: The Second Task (Book 4, Chapter 26) – Live from Minneapolis
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-six of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss the root of Harry's heroism, the fish in the Great Lake, and why Hermione trusts Severus Snape. We return to the question: How do you have loyalty and maintain integrity?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-seven, Padfoot Returns, through the theme of corruption! Thanks this week to everyone who came out to the Minneapolis show, our special guest storyteller, Travis Salisbury, and the whole team at The Basilica of St. Mary. Also a special thanks to Jeff Emtman for composing our live show music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:09:2319/04/2018
Preciousness: The Egg and the Eye (Book 4, Chapter 25)
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 Mad Eye Moody's good luck. Our question this week is: How do we appreciate the things that are precious to us without coveting them?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-six, The Second Task, through the theme of loyalty - live from Minneapolis! Thanks this week to Lyra Hara for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:4312/04/2018
Integrity: Rita Skeeter's Scoop (Book 4, Chapter 24)
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, and Fleur's disadvantage in the second task. Our question this week is: Are loyalty and integrity always in conflict?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-five, The Egg and the Eye, through the theme of preciousness. Thanks this week to Margot Zarin-Pass for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:4005/04/2018
Guilt: The Yule Ball (Book 4, Chapter 23)
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 the pervasiveness of gift-giving in our culture. Our question this week is: How do we protect ourselves from turning guilt into shame?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-four, Rita Skeeter's Scoop, through the theme of integrity. Thanks this week to Topher Soltys for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
31:0229/03/2018
Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Gretchen Rubin
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 Gretchen nerd out about this week's chapter and learn more about her theory of The Four Tendencies. Happy Friday! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
18:0123/03/2018
Happiness: The Unexpected Task (Book 4, Chapter 22)
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 Gretchen Rubin. Gretchen tells our opening story, sharing from her experience switching career paths. Our question this week is: What is the difference between procrastination and time for 'self-care'?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-three, The Yule Ball, through the theme of Guilt. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Amanda Patton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
40:2822/03/2018
Faith: The House-Elf Liberation Front (Book 4, Chapter 21)
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 state in the US, and the internalized oppression of house-elves. Our question this week is: What does faith look like when it's not religious?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-two, The Unexpected Task, through the theme of Happiness. Thanks this week to Austin Bucholtz for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29:0115/03/2018
Opportunity: The First Task (Book 4, Chapter 20)
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 thinks about "Fifty Shades of Grey." Our question this week is: How do we create our own opportunities in the world?Next week we're reading chapter twenty-one, The House-Elf Liberation Front, through the theme of faith. Thanks this week to Hannah Burgess for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:0808/03/2018
Delight: The Hungarian Horntail (Book 4, Chapter 19)
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, and Madame Maxime's potential manipulation. Our question this week is: What's the purpose of delight?Next week we're reading chapter twenty, The First Task, through the theme of opportunity. Thanks this week to Kelly Petrauskas for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:1101/03/2018
Special Edition: Owl Post and Broderick Greer
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 opportunity to learn a new spiritual practice, Marginalia, from the charming and wise Reverend Canon Broderick Greer.Next week, we'll be reading Chapter 19, The Hungarian Horntail, through the theme of delight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:5922/02/2018
Glory: The Weighing of the Wands (Book 4, Chapter 18)
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 empty threats. Our question this week is: Does glory require sacrifice?Next week we're reading chapter nineteen, The Hungarian Horntail, through the theme of delight. Thanks this week to Lia Hagan for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
30:2715/02/2018
Unity: The Four Champions (Book 4, Chapter 17)
Note: We discuss sexual assault and suicidal ideation in this episode. If these topics are something you want to avoid, we understand. Here's a funny picture of a walrus to hold you over until next week. Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "unity" in chapter seventeen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we ask: Why is Snape in the back room? Why is Ron so mad? Why can’t Hagrid wave hello? Our philosophical question this week is: When is the dissolution of difference worthwhile for the sake of unity? Next week we're reading chapter eighteen, The Weighing of the Wands, through the theme of glory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:4809/02/2018
Resentment: The Goblet of Fire (Book 4, Chapter 16)
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 hospitality. Our question this week is: whose responsibility is it to correct for resentment? Next week we're reading chapter seventeen, The Four Champions, through the theme of unity. Unfortunately, the episode will be out a day late, so look out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:2201/02/2018
Trauma: Beauxbatons and Durmstrang (Book 4, Chapter 15)
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 Maxime. Our question this week is: how do you integrate trauma into your personal narrative?Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, The Goblet and Fire, through the theme of resentment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:2525/01/2018
Transformation: The Unforgiveable Curses (Book 4, Chapter 14)
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 and The Liturgists. We discuss the ways that Neville as like Christ, Moody is like the Buddha, and Snape is maybe, possibly pitiable. Our question this week is: Can transformation ever be complete?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bethy Crowe. Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang, through the theme of trauma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
47:1918/01/2018
Judgment: Mad-Eye Moody (Book 4, Chapter 13)
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 joy in Draco being turned into a ferret. Our question this week is: how do we learn to value things based on their inherent worth, rather than their functionality?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bri Anele. Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, The Unforgivable Curse, through the theme of transformation. We'll be also be joined by special guest, Science Mike, from The Liturgists podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:0011/01/2018
Excitement: The Triwizard Tournament (Book 4, Chapter 12)
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 wonder what Barty Crouch Jr. must be feeling. Our question this week is: Are formal ceremonies impersonal or transcendent? Our voicemail this week is thanks to Charlotte Binks. Next week we're reading chapter thirteen, Mad-Eye Moody, through the theme of judgement.. Stay warm! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
34:3704/01/2018
A Christmas Poem: Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf
Here's a little treat from Casper. You can find the poem in Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl. Happy Holidays! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
02:2925/12/2017
Special Edition: Owl Post and Marya Bangee
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 Hermione's muggle knowledge. Thanks so much to Angela Higginson, Jennifer Asturias, Jarrod Green, and Annalisa Galgano for sending in their messages. We also are visited by activist and organizer Marya Bangee, who tells us about her work and teaches us a little bit about the Quran.Next week, we're reading Chapter 12, The Triwizard Tournament, through the theme of excitement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:1521/12/2017
Play: Aboard the Hogwarts Express (Book 4, Chapter 11)
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 education, and why it's okay to be rude behind closed doors. Our question this week is: Is there ever a time when play isn't appropriate? Our voicemail this week is thanks to Sara Ayebar. Next week, tune in for an owl post with special guest Marya Bangee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:3114/12/2017
Promises: Mayhem at the Ministry (Book 4, Chapter 10)
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 the ministry, and shifting familial roles. Our question this week is: When is it appropriate to break promises?Next week we're reading chapter eleven, Aboard the Hogwarts Express, through the theme of play. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Crysta Swarts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:2907/12/2017
Grudges: The Dark Mark (Book 4, Chapter 9)
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 between the personal and the political, and celebrate Hermione's truth-telling. Our question this week is: what responsibility to do we have to understand and forgive people who perpetrate violent hate crimes?Next week we're reading chapter ten, Mayhem at the Ministry, through the theme of promise. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Lonna Hays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:0130/11/2017
Fandom: The Quidditch World Cup (Book 4, Chapter 8)
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 Christian Fun. We discuss Veeela, nationalism, and Krum's decision to catch the snitch. Our question this week is: Is there a difference between sports fans and other fans?Next week we're reading chapter nine, The Dark Mark, through the theme of grudges. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Fran Smith. Happy Thanksgiving! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
39:1723/11/2017
Beauty: Bagman and Crouch (Book 4, Chapter 7)
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 Ron, and why Fred and George gamble their whole life savings. Our question this week is: Can you disentangle beautiful things from the sometimes ugly situations (and people) that create them?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Emily Pickens. Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Quidditch World Cup, through the theme of fandom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29:5516/11/2017
Acceptance: The Portkey (Book 4, Chapter 6)
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 manifest in Amos and Cedric Diggory and The Weasleys. Our question this week is: How do we know when to accept someone else's choice, even if we think it's the wrong one? Next week we're reading chapter seven, Bagman and Crouch, through the theme of beauty. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Leena Werskey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:0009/11/2017
Masculinity: Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes (Book 4, Chapter 5)
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 performance, and Mr. Weasley's Oedipal conflict. Our question this week is: How does one actually get outside the boundaries of gender? Next week we're reading chapter six, The Portkey, through the theme of Acceptance. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Weronika Bartczak. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:3102/11/2017
Mystery: Back to the Burrow (Book 4, Chapter 4)
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 Church. Zach tells our opening story, shares from his experience with the foster care system, and deconstructs what Arthur Weasley does right in this chapter. Our question this week is: How do we manage our fear of the unknown?Next week we're reading chapter five, Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, through the theme of masculinity. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Tom Johnson. And here's a link to that episode of Radiolab Vanessa mentions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
50:4626/10/2017
Awareness: The Invitation (Book 4, Chapter 3)
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 perfect letter to the Dursleys, and why Muggles can't go to The Quidditch World Cup. The burning question this week is: Who is the narrator of this text?Next week we're reading chapter four, Back to the Burrow, through the theme of mystery. Our sponsor this week is Care/Of and our voicemail this week is thanks to Kate McManus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:5019/10/2017
Destruction: The Scar (Book 4, Chapter 2)
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, discuss the nature of confidentiality, and celebrate a non-present Hermione. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can destruction be a force for good?Next week we're reading chapter three, The Invitation, through the theme of awareness. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Olga. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
33:4112/10/2017
Instinct: The Riddle House (Book 4, Chapter 1)
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 Frank's PTSD, Nagini's anatomy, and how Voldemort is just a big baby. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we avoid prejudice while following our instincts? This week our voicemail is thanks to Katie Kelly-Hankin. Next week we're reading The Scar, through the theme of destruction. Be sure to check out our website harrypottersacredtext.com to buy tickets for our live shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37:5505/10/2017
Trust: Cat, Rat and Dog (Book 3, Chapter 17) — Live from Washington, DC
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 read Prisoner of Azkaban chapter 17, Cat, Rat and Dog, through the theme of trust. We'll be back to our regular episode on October 5th with Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
01:19:2119/09/2017
Special Edition: Owl Post and Sejal Patel
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. We also do a last round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, hearing your thoughts about friendship, trauma, isolation, and spiritual practices.The incredible choir is: Ann Phelps, Suzanne Daniel, John-Wesley Hodges, Robert Totten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32:1512/09/2017
Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
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, reflect on Voldemort's absence, and compare Draco to a young white supremacist. Throughout the episode they come back to ideas about purity, justice, and identity formation. Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation about justice with lawyer Sejal Patel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
42:5805/09/2017