Best Deep And The Tater Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 2: The One with a Terrible Dad, General Gandalf, & Theoden's Charge 57:50

10h ago57:50

57:50

Kritter and Jessica continue their journey through The Return of the King, embarking on Book 5, chapters 3-5. Join them as they discuss the parallel journeys of Merry and Pippin, hear their thoughts on Denethor, and spend some time picturing our beloved White Wizard cosplaying as a military leader. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons…

1
Queen Deep Dive: We were born to be "Princes of the Universe" 44:14

10h ago44:14

44:14

The closing number of Queen's 12th album and Freddie's only contribution as sole composer, "Princes of the Universe" captures earlier rockin' Queen and features many fast-paced moments and thrills. Freddie sings aggressively throughout, Brian's solo is epic, Roger plays live drums with bombast and John pounds his bass like no other. The Townhouse e…

1
Episode 1: The One with Minas Tirith, Eowyn's Cage, & Paths of the Dead! 1:03:25

4d ago1:03:25

1:03:25

Join Kritter and Jessica once more as they begin the last leg of their journey through the Lord of the Rings Trilogy! This episode they dive into the Return of the King, Book 5, chapters 1 & 2. They finally see Minas Tirith, we hear a lot of frustration from Eowyn, and Aragorn makes a decision that leads into a very unsavory neighborhood! Don’t for…

1
Bonus Episode: The Two Towers Wrap Party! 1:06:40

10d ago1:06:40

1:06:40

Jessica and Kritter have finished The Two Towers and here's the Wrap Party to prove it! Listen along as they discuss the highs, the lows, and how we're one step closer to One MVP to Rule Them All! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known as …

1
Episode 8: The One with a Betrayal, Shelob, & Master Samwise 46:33

27d ago46:33

46:33

Join Kritter and Jessica as they finish The Two Towers. This week's episode covers Book 4 Chapters 9-10. Things finally come to blows for Sam and Smeagol, Shelob the Terrifying arrives, and everything rests on Samwise and his choices. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod…

1
Episode 7: The One with Lies of Omission, Minas Morgul, & Many Stairs! 55:32

1M ago55:32

55:32

Join Kritter and Jessica in their penultimate episode for this season! Here they cover book 4, chapters 6 through 8. Did Frodo lie to Smeagol? Did you know about Minas Morgul? How many stairs are there, geez? They discuss these questions and more! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and Bu…

1
Queen Deep Dive: "Don't Lose Your Head" no, don't lose your head 42:55

1M ago42:55

42:55

One of the danciest rock things Queen ever did (and really, it sometimes feels nothing like Queen), Roger's "Don't Lose Your Head" is driven by bombastic percussion that never gets a break, Brian's echoing gritty guitars and Freddie's crystal clear vocals (lead and all backing). But I don't know if I believe Freddie as he implores us to chill out. …

1
Episode 6: The One with the Black Gate, Taters, & Faramir! 1:08:37

1M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

Join Jess and Kritter once more, this time for The Two Towers Book Four Chapters 3 through 5. After a brief, spontaneous cicada discussion, they are off to the Black Gate, Sam makes a stew, and the party encounters some important, new strangers. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But …

1
Episode 5: The One with a Palantir, Frodo and Sam, & the Taming of Smeagol 1:06:53

2M ago1:06:53

1:06:53

Kritter and Jessica return to The Two Towers to finish book 3, chapter 11 and begin book 4 with chapters 1 and 2. At the end of book 3, Gandalf teaches us about the Palantiri while also (thankfully) saving Pippin's biscuits! Book 4 finally brings us back to Sam and Frodo but unfortunately brings Gollum back as well, and some real talk about the dan…

1
Episode 4: The One with Well-Earned Comforts & a Chat with Saruman 1:01:41

2M ago1:01:41

1:01:41

Kritter and Jessica continue through The Two Towers chapters 8 through 10 this week. Listen along as they discuss the reuniting of some of our party, learning new words, & so much more about Saruman! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known …

1
Episode 3: The One with King Theoden & the Battle of Helm's Deep 49:20

2M ago49:20

49:20

Kritter and Jessica continue their journey through Two Towers book 3 chapters 6 and 7. They make it to Rohan, meet King Theoden, and finally face the foe with him at Helm's Deep. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known as Twitter. You can f…

1
Queen Deep Dive: I am the god of kingdom come, "Gimme the Prize (Kurgan's Theme)" 40:41

2M ago40:41

40:41

Brian brings the heat, the roar and a guitar bagpipe solo in "Gimme the Prize (Kurgan's Theme", an aggressive and demanding metal-tinged anthem inspired by Highlander's villain. Distorted guitar layers and Freddie's sharply delivered full chest vocals make this one of Queen's heaviest songs. It was never performed live but several "eYe Versions" ex…

1
Episode 2: The One with the White Rider & the Ents 53:46

2M ago53:46

53:46

We continue on with Kritter and Jessica as they read through The Two Towers, chapters 4 and 5. We learn about Ents, hear some theories, and meet an old friend. Again. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known as Twitter. You can find Kritter …

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Episode 1: The One with a Funeral, Uruk-hai, & Riders of Rohan 1:01:10

3M ago1:01:10

1:01:10

Join Kritter and Jessica as they dive back in with Two Towers, chapters 1-3. The action is high as we find out what becomes of Boromir, run multiple marathons with Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas, and catch up with Merry and Pippin! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just…

1
Joy in Everything 30:22

3M ago30:22

30:22

Life has a way of reminding us we're seldom in control. Life comes at us, things happen, and we're pushed to the ground. When we go through turmoil and tragedy, it changes us; forever, and sometimes deeply. But as we decide to fight and we rise, something remarkable happens, and we suddenly realize...this is what I've been missing.…

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Queen Deep Dive: "Who Wants to Live Forever", forever is our today 51:20

3M ago51:20

51:20

Brian's grandiose "Who Wants to Live Forever" was ignored when Queen's twelfth album was released. Nevertheless, the song has become a fan favorite. Inspired by Highlander's love story, Brian wrote it quickly in the car, laid down the entire track and its impressive chords in the "Skips Demo" versions, and worked with a full orchestra to create one…

1
Queen Deep Dive: Right 'till the end, "Friends Will Be Friends" 44:09

4M ago44:09

44:09

Another gorgeous Freddie/John co-write and one of Queen's last piano-driven songs, "Friends Will Be Friends" is an impactful power rock ballad that emphasizes the importance of relationships. Freddie performs his lyrics with impressive dynamics, tackling massive intervals effortlessly. Brian's guitar is soulful as ever, complimenting Freddie's bril…

1
Bonus Episode: The Fellowship of the Ring Wrap Party! 1:16:33

4M ago1:16:33

1:16:33

Jessica and Kritter have finished and share their final thoughts about The Fellowship of the Ring in a YouTube livestream wrap party. Who won MVP? Which quote was best? Can Jessica count? Find your answers here! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, for…

1
Be Intentional 34:36

4M ago34:36

34:36

There comes a time when we realize...we're doing way too many things in this attempt to do everything. Sometimes, life demands compromise, and we have to set aside our aspirations simply to function. But when we're given the opportunity to love life, and not just live it, we should be absolutely intentional only with what matters most. Don't spread…

1
Boobs, Burlesque and Summer Blockbusters; Subtitled: A Mother’s Helper Expresses Herself 54:05

5M ago54:05

54:05

Ann & Nancy say more with their guest Moorea Malatt, a lactation specialist, burlesque performer, and future family therapist. What a combination! From a very in depth exploration of brassieres to public breast feeding to a very spicy Dear Ann & Nancy letter from a listener, this is one you don't want to miss.…

1
Episode 9: The One with Galadriel's Gifts & the Breaking of the Fellowship 58:40

5M ago58:40

58:40

Join Kritter and Jessica for the last installment of their read of The Fellowship of the Ring, covering chapters 8-10. The party gets some amazing gifts (at least some of them do), has a picnic on the riverbank, and one of them makes a very tough decision. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTo…

1
Episode 8: The One with a Balrog, Gandalf’s Fall, & Galadriel! 59:31

5M ago59:31

59:31

Kritter and Jessica are joined by Kat for this week's journey through chapters 5 through 7 of the Fellowship of the Ring. We learn more about the tragic end of Balin and his troupe and are ultimately confronted by the same evil from below! Orcs, cave trolls, and a Balrog, oh my! Then our intrepid force experiences its own sharp and sudden loss. Wit…

1
Queen Deep Dive: "Pain Is So Close to Pleasure", everybody knows 30:34

5M ago30:34

30:34

Freddie and John's collab, "Pain Is So Close to Pleasure", is such a well-executed motown pop rock number. Brian embellishes with soulful guitar and Roger may or may not appear on accented percussion. It's a lively contrast of lighthearted vocals and dreamy chords against heavier concepts, and key changes aplenty. The remixed single version (and it…

1
Episode 7: The One with Caradhras, the Watcher Under the Water, & Balin’s Fate 39:37

5M ago39:37

39:37

The Party is set and finally departs Rivendell. Kritter and Jessica follow along in Chapters 3 & 4 as our troupe sets out in earnest for their perilous quest. First, they face dangers from the elements above, have a close call with a Kraken to gain access to the fabled Mines of Moria, and then unholy foes below! The danger and loss they face become…

1
Episode 6: The One with Don Marshall & the Council of Elrond! 1:38:30

5M ago1:38:30

1:38:30

Kritter and Jessica have a very special guest for a very special episode! Join them as they discuss all things LOTR with Don Marshall, THE Obscure Lord of the Rings Facts Guy! Don pops in on the journey for Book 2 Chapters 1 and 2 which is convenient because we learn A LOT in Chapter 2 Council of Elrond! There are laughs, silly faces and even a wil…

1
Episode 5: The One with Fredegar’s Fate, Weathertop, & the Ford of Rivendell 59:09

6M ago59:09

59:09

Kritter and Jessica continue their trek through The Fellowship of the Ring, this time discussing chapters 10 through 12. We learn more about Strider and the dangers facing our troupe, encounter incredible foes on Weathertop, and plunge into the Ford as we try to make our way to the safety of Rivendell! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dra…

1
Queen Deep Dive: Just "One Year of Love" 39:37

6M ago39:37

39:37

Nearly a John and Freddie collaboration, the ballad "One Year of Love" is unapologetically romantic. Brian (and perhaps Roger) is absent, and a saxophone fills the solo space, along with sweeping strings. John's hands on nearly all instruments create a lush and relaxed atmosphere, with Freddie crooning in controlled expressions of sensitivity and c…

1
Episode 4: The One with Goldberry, Barrow-wights, & Strider! 44:07

6M ago44:07

44:07

Join Kritter and Jessica as they continue on their quest through The Fellowship of the Ring. This week they discuss chapters 7 through 9, where we spend some quality time with Tom and Goldberry, have a harrowing experience with Barrow-wights, and finally make it to the Prancing Pony! There they encounter many locals, Men and Hobbits alike, but none…

1
My Favorite Songs (According to My iPod) 49:32

6M ago49:32

49:32

I wanted to talk about something fun and music related, so we're going through my top songs by play count, on my old iPod Nano. We're covering a lot of genres here! From industrial experimentation to funk rock to hard rock to hip hop pop...you might discover something new and fall in love. Bonus: A link to the live version of one of my favorites; a…

1
Episode 3: The One with Farmer Maggot, the Conspiracy, & Tom Bombadil! 1:02:36

6M ago1:02:36

1:02:36

The journey continues for our Party and for your hosts Kritter and Jessica! Keep pace as they discuss The Fellowship of the Ring chapters 4 through 6. Plenty of action abounds as they encounter Farmer Maggot—who is not what Jessica was expecting; find out about a Secret and a Conspiracy; and finally meet the Legend himself, Tom Bombadil! Don’t forg…

1
Queen Deep Dive: This is "A Kind of Magic" 46:00

6M ago46:00

46:00

One of Queen's best pop singles, "A Kind of Magic" started life as a mashup in "A Kind of Vision" and was elevated to grand energy in Roger's original version (featured in the Highlander film credits); before Freddie injected a commercialized streak, creating the final take that would be released as a single. This lively song features everyone at t…

1
From Peach Trees to Pike Place, Two Artists’ Odyssey Aboard The Yacht That Rocks; Subtitled: How to Have a Swell Time with Seamen. 55:12

6M ago55:12

55:12

Eavesdrop while the gals dive right on in with illustrator Kate Endle and her husband, actual famous person Chris Ballew, front man of The Presidents of The United States of America and Casper Babypants himself. It's one of those you-don't-want-to-miss-it kind of situations. Trust us.By The Famous Filson Sisters

1
Episode 2: The One with a Ring Reveal, Dropped Eaves, & Gandalf Being Gandalf! 53:38

6M ago53:38

53:38

Join Kritter and Jessica as they continue on their journey through The Fellowship of the Ring. This week they discuss chapters 2 & 3, where we learn all that Gandalf has uncovered about this ring, the amazing friendships these characters have, and what Frodo must do. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram…

1
Queen Deep Dive: Give me "One Vision" (or fried chicken) 46:24

6M ago46:24

46:24

Arguably one of Queen's best album (and concert) openers, "One Vision" kicks off album twelve with heavy rock and brighter pop elements. It's credited to the entire band and perfectly blends Roger's (original) lyrics, Freddie's powerful playfulness, Brian's rock hooks and John's bopping bass. There's even a documentary of their energetic collaborat…

1
Episode 1: The One with Hobbits, Pipe-weed, and a Party 1:14:37

7M ago1:14:37

1:14:37

Join Kritter and Jessica as they continue their adventure by diving into The Fellowship of the Ring. This time with a guest! Long time Tolkien lover and friend of the podcast, Roofmistress Leigha, joins in the discussion of chapter 1 and what comes before, namely the foreword, the prologue, and the epigraph! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are The…

1
We Finished the Hobbit! Final Thoughts… 1:11:19

7M ago1:11:19

1:11:19

Jessica and Kritter recorded their final thoughts on The Hobbit live on YouTube during a Season 1 wrap party, and this is that recording! Who was our favorite character? What did we like most? And when do we think it’s ok to stop reading…the end of a sentence? A page? A chapter? Find out in this bonus episode! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are T…

1
Queen Deep Dive: It's A Kind of Magic 1:00:46

7M ago1:00:46

1:00:46

After Queen's The Works in 1984, the band wanted a break. But the success of Live Aid led to fresh developments, and an opportunity to contribute songs for the film Highlander. Those invigorating and energized songs shaped the boys' 12th album, the pop rock celebration A Kind of Magic. The first digitally produced Queen album, its plethora of synth…

1
Episode 6: The One with Bard, Betrayal, & the Battle 1:03:17

7M ago1:03:17

1:03:17

It’s the final countdown! Kritter and Jessica have made it to the final chapters of The Hobbit (Chapters 14-19). Spoiler Alert- Smaug gets taken out by a new player, and the long-foreshadowed Battle of the Five Armies kicks off! Kritter and Jessica also talk about Thorin…like…a LOT! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, Yo…

1
Episode 5: The One with the Mountain, Lake-Town, & SMAUG! 58:01

8M ago58:01

58:01

Come along for the ride that is Episode 5! Kritter and Jessica are discussing Chapters 10 through 13 of The Hobbit as we barrel toward the climax (see what we did there?)! We finally see our final destination, The Lonely Mountain. Bilbo and the dwarves make it to Lake-Town. But, more importantly, we FINALLY get a dragon. It's SMAUG! AHHH! We also t…

1
Episode 4: The One with Spiders, Wood Elves, & Barrels 56:20

8M ago56:20

56:20

We're back for more with Episode 4! Kritter and Jessica dive right back into chapters 8 and 9 of The Hobbit this week and all that that entails. We finally enter the ominous Mirkwood with our intrepid party and, if that's not bad enough, then we're faced with spiders. Like, a lot of them! Listen along as we chat about this and more; what it means t…

1
Queen Deep Diversion: When Queen Dominated Live Aid 44:28

8M ago44:28

44:28

Voted the greatest live performance in the history of rock. The Note Heard Round the World. Queen at Live Aid was an incredible moment that unified and encouraged and roused us. To this day, it's heralded as one of the best, if not the absolute best, rock moments ever. And we have four fabulously talented men to thank.…

1
Episode 3: The One with Wargs, Eagles, & Beorn! 58:26

8M ago58:26

58:26

We continue our journey with Bilbo and his companions through chapters 6 & 7 of The Hobbit. This week we have a close encounter with wargs, soar with Eagles, and make ourselves at home with a reluctant host! Things aren't all smooth sailing beyond the goblin caves, but the party does get a brief repose followed by strong warnings for the path ahead…

1
Episode 2: The One with Elrond, Goblins, & GOLLUM! 1:08:58

8M ago1:08:58

1:08:58

Join us this week as we discuss chapters 3 through 5 of The Hobbit. In these chapters, we visit Rivendell, meet icon Elrond, and fall into the hands of some nasty goblins. But probably most epic is the meeting between our relatable king, Bilbo, and the much-anticipated Gollum! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube,…

1
Episode 1: The One With The Hole In The Ground 52:02

9M ago52:02

52:02

Where our adventure begins! Join us as we dive right into Tolkien's the Hobbit with Chapters 1 and 2. Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known as Twitter. You can find Kritter at Kritter XD on YouTube, TikTok, and X, and at Kritter _XD on In…

1
What It's About 1:24

9M ago1:24

1:24

A little introduction to our podcast and what we're about! Don’t forget to follow us at But Are There Dragons on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, and But Dragons Pod, just one t, on X, formerly known as Twitter. You can find Kritter at Kritter XD on YouTube, TikTok, and X, and at Kritter _XD on Instagram. You can find Jessica by searching …

1
Resilience 53:59

9M ago53:59

53:59

Whether or not we realize, we are resilient beings. Our spirits retain a resilience even our miraculous bodies cannot touch. Despite the fear and doubt we sometimes feel, we have the ability to rise. It's almost supernatural, and otherworldly. But when we're challenged and we're facing the toughest struggles, something compels and encourages us to …

1
Queen Deep Diversion: He stole my attention on The Works 26:31

10M ago26:31

26:31

When it came time to name the man who stole my ears the most on this dynamic and accessible album, I hesitated. I couldn't decide. And then a recent interview drove me to reassess and revisit the songs. The expression. The emotion. Throughout every genre tackled in these compositions, one thing suddenly pulled it all together more than anything els…

1
Queen Deep Dive: "Is This the World We Created...?" What did we do it for? 41:18

10M ago41:18

41:18

Pensive isn't often a word used to describe Queen's music. But Brian and Freddie's co-written "Is This the World We Created...?" is a perfect example of urgent restraint and seriousness, created with a sparse arrangement of 12-string guitar and tugging vocals. Moved by visions of disturbing living conditions in Africa, our co-writers took a unique …

1
Queen Deep Dive: We're just waiting for the "Hammer to Fall" 34:01

11M ago34:01

34:01

A sturdy rock number from Brian, "Hammer to Fall" is about death; which seems to be one of Brian's favorite subjects. Nevertheless, the energy of this song is rousing, impressive and electric, an almost empowering take. Freddie is in fine vocal form, busting out some impressive high notes. And Roger's bombastic drums are back (as are his aggressive…

1
The Musical Bandwagon 33:58

11M ago33:58

33:58

Have you always detested current artists and musical trends? Hey, I see you. I was, and to an extent, still am that person. For various reasons, I wouldn't listen to music everyone else loved; partially because I thought it to be boring and surface and lifeless. What I failed to notice at the time was just how genius many of those songs were, and t…

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