A Lord of the Rings Podcast
Join our father-daughter duo of professional nerds as we dive deep into the rich world of J.R.R. Tolkien, one episode at a time. From lore to languages, hobbits to heroes, and Silmarils to second breakfasts, we’re here to celebrate everything Tolkien with thoughtful discussion, multi-generational insight, and the occasional guest who shares our passion for the legendarium.
Now five years in, we’re still having an incredible time exploring the books and branching into the wider world of Tolkien’s influence—from deep dives into the histories of Middle-earth to animated debates about adaptations. We’ve even taken our love for Tolkien on the road, attending conventions and hosting panels where we nerd out with fellow fans over everything from elvish linguistics to the legacy of fantasy literature.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just setting out on your own unexpected journey, there’s a seat for you at our table. So grab your elven bread and settle in—because we’re Tolkien About It!
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We’re a father-daughter duo, Robert and Evelyn, professional nerds and lifelong fans of all things fantastical, here to explore the rich and wondrous world of J.R.R. Tolkien together — and with you.
Robert and his wife raised their children, including Evelyn, on a steady diet of geek and nerd culture — from Star Wars marathons and Dungeons & Dragons campaigns to comic books stacked higher than a hobbit’s pantry. Tolkien was always part of that world: The Hobbit was a childhood favorite, but while Robert was diving deep into The Lord of the Rings — rereading it so many times he’s lost count, even using it in his Master’s and Doctorate work — Evelyn couldn’t quite make it past the second chapter.
And then the world changed. At the start of the pandemic, inspired by the wave of read-along podcasts and people picking up Tolkien for the first time, we had an idea: what if we finally did this together?
So here we are — Tolkien About It. A podcast where we talk (and occasionally rant) about all things Tolkien from our two perspectives: seasoned academic and curious re-reader. We bring in guests, share laughs, and sometimes even tears, as we journey from the Shire to Mordor, from the Silmarils to the Second Age.
Whether you’re a lore master or a first-time traveler to Middle-earth, there’s a seat at our table for you. So grab your elven bread and a mug of something warm — the road goes ever on, and we’re Tolkien About It.
A little over three years into Tolkien About It, something magical has happened — Evelyn has finally finished reading The Lord of the Rings, and she’s officially a convert. After spending a full season diving into the world beyond the main narrative — from the rich material in the appendices to deep-dive discussions on film, TV, and other adaptations — the podcast is now heading back to the beginning with The Hobbit.
Since The Hobbit is the only Tolkien book Evelyn read growing up, this re-read offers a fresh perspective for her — and she’s not going it alone. This season, Robert and Evelyn are joined by returning guests Evelyn Mykelrose and Amy Redman, who have only seen the Lord of the Rings films. Together, they bring the joy and wonder of first-time readers to Bilbo’s journey, while Robert lends his deep well of Tolkien knowledge to guide them through the story’s hidden depths.
