Ember Island Podcast: An Avatar The Last Airbender Podcast

Korra Book 2: Chapter 5: Peacekeepers

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 19:32:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of The Legend of Korra (and Avatar: The Last Airbender) from start to finish!

Spoiler Warning: Spoiler for future season 2 episodes from 1:14:15 to 1:14:32 (no, we didn't cut it out :P )

Trigger Warning: Discussion of abusive relationships between 53:07 and 56:00, and mental health issues AND abusive relationships between 59:00 and 1:05:00

This discussion includes: Korra's dilemma as the Avatar, Unalaq lied (but why?), Tenzin's subplot is so short, Meelo is a Pokemon master, Peaceful protests ruined, Where is Katara?, Bolin has nothing to do (and the writers know it), Korra meets with the President, all Korra and Mako do is fight, maybe intentional commentary on the film industry with Bolin, we're upset Iroh looks worse, Iroh's easily on board with treason and we're confused, We're 100% Team Mako, this episode is extremely Anti-Feminist, Asami is just here again, and is Flameo a Curse?

This episode includes the fifth episode of Season 2 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 2: Spirits: Chapter 5: Peacekeepers

Korra Book 2: Chapters 3 and 4: Civil Wars

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 19:17:00 -0700

Part 1's discussion includes: How at least Bolin has something to do now, tons of separate plots, Is Korra Dumb (about Unalaq)?, Northern Water Tribe badddies, Daddy Aang analysis, sibling sadness/jealousy, Mako's dating advice (ROFL), ThE AVatAR mUst BE NEutRAL, Unalaq found the throne room, Neglected Kids Search Party (tm), the emotional analysis of Aang's children's pressures and challenges, unseen northern/southern tensions, and Bumi and Kya are Aang's kids too.

Starting at 1:05:30, Part 2's discussion includes: Totally fair trials, every single baby bison (Blueberry Spice Head, Princess Rainbow, Twinkle Star Child and Juniper Lightning Bug, Bolin fails to bribe the right guy, familial love/friendship is magic, Unalaq is evil without nuance, Unalaq doesn't know what 'neutral' means, Korra kill counts, why did we even need that plane, Varrick?, jailbreaks, the airbending kids make up (and our hearts are full), and too many plots that don't mesh together!!!

This episode includes the third and fourth episodes of Season 2 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 2: Spirits: Chapters 3 and 4: Civil Wars Parts 1 and 2

Korra Book 2: Chapter 2: The Southern Lights

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 3 Jul 2021 18:56:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Tenzin's family visits the Southern Air Temple, the air nomads' weird treatment of his family, we're supposed to like Korra still, the Everstorm (tm), Bolin starts to regret his terrifying romance with the girl twin Eska, spirit world solstice info-dump, spirit lore retcons/redefining/myths, Mako and Bolin's brotherly moments, sad exile backstories, why destroy the magic forest?, Korra tries to spirit bend, Korra fights her dad senselessly, Korra vs Zuko, Why is no one upset with Korra by now?, Korra tries to punch the spirit gate open, Jinora senses a disturbance in the force, an extremely old Avatar statue made of wood (and our original hype), Aang vs Korra, and Mako is Asami now (oh no!).

This episode includes the second episode of Season 2 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 2: Spirits: Chapter 2: The Southern Lights

Korra Book 2: Chapter 1: Rebel Spirit

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 17:26:00 -0700

This discussion includes:The history of Book 2 and production, reboot-like art direction and character direction, can we have real recaps please?, Asami is doing business numbers now (was there a board?), all of Korra's character growth regresses (and not in a good way), we don't have an issue with Mako this episode, the kids are wonderful, Southern Water Tribe Hot Dads, Uncle Unalaq is totally not evil, Eska and Desna are our creepy twin spirit animals, spiritualism versus commercialism and innovation, we meet Varrick, Bolin is a wonderful cinnamon roll (who is in danger), spirit bending, Korra still wants to punch her problems away, and Avatar Korra abandons Tenzin in the worst way possible (YIKES), and the Aang's Kid B-Plot begins.

This episode includes the first episode of Season 2 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 2: Spirits: Chapter 1: Rebel Spirit

Korra Book 1 Recap!: The Best and Worst from Book 1: Air

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 10 Jun 2021 19:58:00 -0700

This discussion includes: the best and worst, our most favorites and least favorite things, episodes, and characters from The Legend of Korra Book 1: Air!

Warning: Opinions about and spoilers for the entire book ahead!

This episode includes all episodes from Season 1 of The Legend of Korra: Book 1: Air

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Korra Book 1: Episode 12: Endgame

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 1 Jun 2021 19:34:00 -0700

This discussion includes: We're in the Endgame now! "I Wish" moments, message interceptions don't matter, being captured doesn't matter, Asami's talk with her dad, Remember Bolin?, Katara loses her bending, desperation Airbending, Amon/Noatak and Tarrlok and Yakone's legacy, Tarrlok corrects his past regrets with a murder speedboat, we talk about "The Implication",The aftermath of Korra losing her bending (the avatar cycle?), Aang, magic avatar state deus ex machina, unlocking the avatar state is easy now, Korra's feelings, we talk about what-ifs and spirit logistics and lead-ups, and final season ending thoughts.

Trigger Warning: Murder-suicide and possible suicide talk ahead

This episode includes the twelfth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 12: Endgame

Korra Book 1: Chapter 11: Skeletons in the Closet

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 22 May 2021 19:27:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Amon and Tarrlok foreshadowing, giant Amon masks, statue symbolism, oppression?, dumpster gruel, Asami is right there!, awkward flirting, how does this commune work?, we love Iroh (look at his arm!), how did the mines get in the bay?, Iroh and Bumi headcannons, Iroh is the only one that matters, Korra realized it's time to go off alone (we are at episode 11 afterall), bombshell after bombshell from Tarrlok, Amon/Noatak and Tarrlok's differing temperaments and bloodbending, Yakone's revenge, how their parents impacted them in different ways, we yet again question how bloodbending takes bending away, Korra and Mako's next steps, and a sequel that doesn't make everyone related to the Gaang.

Warning: Attack on Titan spoilers from 44:10 to 45:40

This episode includes the eleventh episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 11: Skeletons in the Closet

Korra Book 1: Chapter 10: Turning the Tides

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 11 May 2021 19:50:00 -0700

This discussion includes: We geek out over Zuko's voice actor/General Iroh/Dante Basco, we're still sick of this love triangle, Asami wants to have an adult conversation with Mako (which he sidesteps), Air Temple chore disaster headcannons, Lin babysits, needless spider rat exterminator cosplays, Korra tried to parallel park, Republic City is attacked from all sides, Tenzin's airbending skill, we are still confused over the electricity/lightning bending rules, airbending kids kick ass, the risk of the loss of airbending, Naga totally kills a guy via bitchslap, and Lin's badass sacrifice.

This episode includes the tenth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 10: Turning the Tides

Korra Book 1: Chapter 9: Out of the Past

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 1 May 2021 20:00:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Amon is a great villain, Tenzin's lack of sleep, Lin's metallic badass batman fashion, adult Gaang voice acting choices, Asami finds out Mako cheated on her, we hate the love triangle, how does everyone believe Tarrlok?, Aang flashbacks, Sokka's boomerang/sparky sparky boom man flex, Councilman Sokka, how people other than Korra know about bloodbending, Amon raising the stakes, extremely smart and resourceful Korra, tricky villain plans or bad planning/plot holes, and Naga is Korra's best friend.

This episode includes the ninth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 9: Out of the Past

Korra Book 1: Chapter 8: When Extremes Meet

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 17:25:00 -0700

This discussion includes: a wild non-bender appears! Childhood throwbacks, Asami MVP, Lin will be back after she recover(s her team), Tarrlok is a villain? No way..., Lampshading the plot, The Avatar State and Failure, How does lightning bending/electrocution work now?, we remember how types of bending were special before, Admiral Zhao, Asami and the boys are arrested for being friends with Korra, Political and racial/non-bending injustice and how we wish the show really explored these themes and tensions, Marginalized non-bender ghettos, Tarrlok has the perfect fighting office, The fight we've been waiting for!, Our bloodbending theories, and Kidnapped Korra under a crescent moon.

This episode includes the eighth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 8: When Extremes Meet

Korra Book 1: Chapter 7: The Aftermath

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 9 Apr 2021 07:54:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Asami is written as the 'girl in the group' and we hate it, obvious twist villains, having your bending taken away withers your self confidence, Asami starts to gain characterization and speed, Cabbage Corp is a rival to a car company? (cabbage cars please), secret underground mansion bunker, how is Asami not in on it?, how dare trash Mako ruin our show, platinum world-building, Bioshock Big Daddies, "Stay in the Mech!!!", missed opportunities, BAMF Lin, and "Join me, and together we can rule the galaxy!"

#JusticeforCabbageCorp

This episode includes the seventh episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 7: The Aftermath

Korra Book 1: Chapter 6: And the Winner Is...

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 1 Apr 2021 03:57:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Plot Happens!, Lin/Tenzin chemistry (platonic or otherwise), Cabbage Corp, Pro-bending is the only thing we have for unity we guess?, We want more non-bender representation and perspective, our frustration with the lack of metal detectors and bag checks, Lin tries to be less abrasive, Pabu is precious, does pro-bending cheating make it better?, why is no one booing?, the Equalists are so skilled and prepared it's embarrassing, Korra and Lin aerial tag-teaming, and Republic City is at War.

Spoiler Alert: The Winner is... the Equalists

This episode includes the sixth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 6: And the Winner Is...

Korra Book 1: Chapter 5: The Spirit of Competition

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 19:05:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Love triangles are dumb and we don't care, there is no plot this episode, we compare Korra romance and characterization to Avatar romance and characterization, Asami is a plot prop for Korra, Bolin is a cinnamon roll, soap opera teen romance, Mako is trash to Asami and Bolin (poor Bolin), Miyazaki tears, (remember how Sokka got lei'd?), and we analyze why we think pro-bending (and this episode) is boring.

(If you haven't noticed, we don't like this episode, so it's a fun one!)

This episode includes the fifth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 5: The Spirit of Competition

Korra Book 1: Chapter 4: The Voice in the Night

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 20:48:00 -0700

This discussion includes: Asami's there, Korra's existential dread nightmares and fear, Shady Politician Tarrlok, Tenzin rebuilding Air Nomad culture one child at a time, romantic relationship writing and pacing issues, bribes, car commercials, Mako still has dead parents, our problems with Masami, the true horror of Amon, Gaang flashbacks (yay!), the lack of Sokka, How did Toph end up founding the police department?, Korra's justified break down, and Avatar cycle theories.

Spoiler at 1:17:18: We accidentally guess the plot of the next episode Chapter 5 (oops?)

This episode includes the fourth episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 4: The Voice in the Night

Korra Book 1: Chapter 3: The Revelation

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 20:34:00 -0800

This discussion includes: Hardworking street urchin newsies, Korra has never needed money, hot orphans, Pabu Circus, the bending economy, how are rare bending forms normal now?, Mako is Batman, Equalist Samuel Savery and Korra being a bully, we never see non-benders which causes plot issues, the map puzzle is so dumb, do the Equalists have a point?, missed opportunities, muddy politics, Amon hung out with the same spirit lion turtles Aang did, and very close calls.

This episode includes the third episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 3: The Revelation

Korra Book 1: Chapter 2: A Leaf in the Wind

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 2 Mar 2021 21:02:00 -0800

This discussion includes: Korra's fuse is too short, Pro-Bending, Tenzin hates airball, Korra wants to be where the people are, Bolin and Mako are from the Aladdin school of hard knocks, dead parents?, pokemon arenas, Korra is Season 1 Zuko, Fatal flaws and reactions throughout the series, we analyze why we're more mad at Korra, Epic Jinora, teenagers, Korra does not know the rules at all, proud Tenzin, Korra/Jasmine and Mako/Aladdin, and Zutara 2.0.

This episode includes the second episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 2: A Leaf in the Wind

Korra Book 1: Chapter 1: Welcome to Republic City

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:57:00 -0800

This discussion includes: Our history with watching Korra (instead of Avatar), precocious Korra has no friends, Tenzin and his army of lovable children, Gran Gran Katara, the evolution of society and architecture due to bending, Korra stops 1920's gangsters using her fists and collateral damage, big empty streets, Chief Beifong is a boss, Aang's legacy, and the Avatar has returned to public life.

This episode includes the first episode of Season 1 of The Legend of Korra:

Book 1: Air: Chapter 1: Welcome to Republic City

Legend of Korra Series Predictions!

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 20:57:00 -0800

This discussion includes: A new (and old) watcher of Legend of Korra's character and series predictions! We explain the plot of The Little Mermaid 2: Return to the Sea, gush over the pets, girl-crush everyday on Asami, and make wild guesses and assumptions about the series!

Is Mako well-adjusted Zuko? Are Varrick and Julie Team Rocket? Will Bolin bake bread? Stay tuned for future LoK episodes for the answers to these questions and more!

Warning: Some guesses might be very right (or very wrong) and involve some spoilers for the season, so new Korra viewers listen at your own risk!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 3 Recap!: The Best and Worst from Book 3: Fire

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 9 Feb 2021 20:11:00 -0800

Stay tuned for more episodes as we discuss The Legend of Korra next!

This discussion includes: the best and worst, our most favorites and least favorite things, episodes, and characters from ATLA Book 3: Fire and the entire series as a whole!

Warning: Opinions about and spoilers for the entire book (and series) ahead!

This episode includes all episodes from Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 3: Fire

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 3: Chapters 20 and 21: Sozin's Comet Parts 3 and 4

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 2 Feb 2021 21:34:00 -0800

This episode half's discussion includes: This is the end of the finale (and the series)! The gaang divides and conquers, Hotcakes and sweetcream wasn't provided for the very special birthday, quintessential Avatar humor, Azula's mental mirror is cracking, Zuko's final fight against Azula, Zuko sacrifices himself for Katara (Zutara?), Zuko and Aang have matching brother scars (Zaang?), Toph's blind trust in Sokka, the power of the Order of the White Lotus, Ozai finally arrives to fight Aang, and success is on the edge of a knife.

Time Stamp: Sozin's Comet Part 4 starts at 1:13:30.

This episode half's discussion includes: Iroh meets his destiny and takes back Ba Sing Se, Zuko is rolling death saving throws, Katara is a true and confident master, broken Azula and an alternate path for Zuko, Lion Turtle Energy Bending deus ex machina, the many character issues we have with the Energy Bending end of Ozai, reunions for everyone, the nations come together for Zuko's coronation, our thoughts on Kataang, and our final thoughts on the end and the show overall.

This episode includes the twentieth and twenty first episodes of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 20 and 21: Sozin's Comet Parts 3 and 4

Book 3: Chapters 18 and 19: Sozin's Comet Parts 1 and 2

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 20:53:00 -0800

This episode half's discussion includes: The end is neigh! Sokka's world-building underwear, Zuko reminds everyone about the comet (and tells the Gaang about his father's secret war meeting), how skipping the comet would even work?, Katara's secret thing with Haru, Ozai was a baby once (but we don't care), the duality and complexity of Aang's morality, we want Toph's life changing field trip with Zuko too, and how Ozai throws Azula away and crushes her dreams.

Time Stamp: Sozin's Comet Part 2 starts at 1:10:33.

This episode half's discussion includes: We're back in the good old days with Zuko chasing Aang, June's back, Zuko and Iroh's sandle, Aang spirit-calls past avatars hoping for the answer he wants, past avatars dropping HARD truths on Aang, the Avatar versus the Self, we meet the old masters (who are all secret friends), the OLD OWL, everyone else escaped Bumi, the best scene in the entire show (Iroh's crying, Zuko's crying, we're crying), and Lion Turtle BAD.

This episode includes the eighteenth and nineteenth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 18 and 19: Sozin's Comet Parts 1 and 2

Book 3: Chapter 17: The Ember Island Players

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 12:54:00 -0800

This episode's discussion includes: This is our namesake episode! Is this recap episode the best recap episode ever made? The Boy in the Iceberg: The Play, Zuko's a theater nerd, Katara and Hope, Sokka's hungry, Aang is a woman (keeping with theater tradition), stagehands for the win, "My name's Toph, because it sounds like Tough!", Zuko's fabulous hair is out of control, they have no idea how Mai and Ty Lee work, we discuss Kataang in length, how we were robbed of Toph's Zuko field trip, the 'finale' of play, and Zuko's character arc.

This episode includes the seventeenth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 17: The Ember Island Players

Book 3: Chapter 16: The Southern Raiders

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 21:11:00 -0800

This episode's discussion includes: We ship the Painted Lady and The Blue Spirit, Katara hates Zutara fanfiction, Azula makes it ("Of course she did") and the metaphors associated, why Katara doesn't trust Zuko right now, Sokka and Suki's Love Tent (how did they get away with it???), Everyone's opinion on Katara's revenge (and how they are all justified in their own way), Katara's childhood trauma is explored, Zuko helps Katara gain closure, bloodbending, the Last Waterbender, and Katara gives the coldest burn to the worst man.

Warning: Sokka's romantic evening is ruined and almost-murder ahead!

Trigger Warning: Body control, loss of agency, genocide, murder, and childhood trauma are discussed.

This episode includes the sixteenth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 16: The Southern Raiders

Book 3: Chapters 14 and 15: The Boiling Rock

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 4 Jan 2021 16:37:00 -0800

This episode half's discussion includes: Sokka's Zuko field trip! Sokka's hot dad, Zuko's friendship and tea journey, guilt, how easy it is to infiltrate a prison and just hang around, Suki's here, Suki reasonably decks a disguised Sokka (how is he so smart yet so dumb?), convenient chores, and a plan forms...

Time Stamp: The Boiling Rock Part 2 starts at 1:10:53.

This episode half's discussion includes: Sad Hot Dad is best Hot Dad, the warden is the warden in every prison movie, Mai is not happy- at all, Zuko's break up letter/text/post-it, the prison guards and warden are sooo dumb, Chit Sang, Zuko and Mai's stares say a thousand words, Bad Ass Suki, how diverse and skilled the ensemble is at fighting, and the complexity of Mai,Ty Lee, and Azula's friendships, the death of Azula's Angels, and the start of the downfall of Azula.

This episode includes the fourteenth and fifteenth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 14 and 15: The Boiling Rock Parts 1 and 2

Book 3: Chapter 13: The Firebending Masters

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 1 Jan 2021 21:08:00 -0800

This episode includes: Our Zuko Fanfics All Came True (except Zutara), 'derpy' firebending, the origin of Iroh's title 'The Dragon of the West', The Sun Warriors, magic dragon dancing, the real test is walking up those stairs, the ending credit music, The Last Dragons and dragon color symbolism, another reason why Iroh is legendary, and what fire really is!

This episode includes the thirteenth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 13: The Firebending Masters

Book 3: Chapter 12: The Western Air Temple

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 11:12:00 -0800

This episode includes: Hiatus Discussions, Hello- Zuko here!, Zuko's past embarrassment and remorse on how he treated Iroh, Remember when Zuko personally betrayed Katara? Katara does (and is justified)!, Zuko's never had friends, boomerang always comes back!, Sparky-Sparky Boom Man's video game weakness, Toph's missing field trip with Zuko, and how Zuko will fit in with the Gaang as the series goes on.

This episode includes the twelfth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 12: The Western Air Temple

Book 3: Chapters 10 and 11: The Day of Black Sun, Part 1 and 2

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 14:34:00 -0800

This episode does have a few sound issues (echoing in some parts), so please bare with us for this amazing episode!

This episode half's discussion includes: Everyone comes back for this episode! We're upset with Haru's facial hair, Sokka created Atlantis-esque submarines/Toph's worse nightmare, Kaatang romance (and Star Wars prequel references), Zuko's drama cloak and stupidly brief breakup letter, and the countdown begins.

Time Stamp: Day of Black Sun Part 2 starts at 1:16:21.

This episode half's discussion includes: How the stakes and risks are extremely high and palpable, Zuko finally tells his dad everything he has wanted to tell him for years and it is beautiful and deserved, how we thought Azula was a second Avatar (she's just that good), Sokka and Azula (the master manipulator), The firelord bunker has all the tea (both actual and metaphorical), the Ursa Reveal, running out the clock, the symbolism behind Zuko redirecting lightning (and us freaking out), Ursa versus Ozai and The Search comics, Iroh is the One Man Army we don't deserve, the children escape and the adults sacrifice themselves, and Zuko+Gaang anticipation!

This episode includes the tenth and eleventh episodes of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 10 and 11: The Day of Black Sun Parts 1 and 2

Book 3: Chapter 9: Nightmares and Daydreams

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 19 Nov 2020 20:31:00 -0800

This episode's discussion includes: An abundance of classic anime and movie references, Aang (and Leslie) forgot about their test, breaking down Aang's death dreams frame-by-frame, macaroni sculpture continuity, forever girls, hot towels and ten-step palanquin rides in the Crater of Privilege, "snuggling", The Meeting, and Zuko gets what he thought he wanted.

Warning: Aang forgot to put on pants ahead!

This episode includes the ninth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 9: Nightmares and Daydreams

Book 3: Chapter 8: The Puppetmaster

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 16:14:00 -0800

This episode's discussion includes: Horror movie tropes, how puppets are always terrifying, the rationale of the Fire Nation, how the Gaang is somehow never caught, and how undeniably skilled, masterful, and badass Katara is!

Trigger Warning: mind control, body control, kidnapping, torture, animal cruelty, and loss of agency.

This episode includes the eighth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 8: The Puppetmaster

Book 3: Chapter 7: The Runaway

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 19:47:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Katara suddenly doesn't like stealing anymore (since she isn't doing it?), Aang is a liar as a character trait, the opening flash-forward scene is pointless and doesn't set up intrigue, shell game con debates, Sokka and Toph's scams, Katara is a 100% spot-on armchair psychologist, Katara is a mom, how messenger hawks work, Sokka and Toph bonding over their family issues and their appreciation of Katara (in the scene that saves the episode), the 'Mom' of the group, Sparky Boom Man charades, the timeline of this episode doesn't make sense, Combustion Man's awesome hidden backstory, Toph confronting her guilt over her parents, and our final (mediocre) thoughts on this episode and all episodes before the Day of Black Sun.

Warning: Fan favorite character Hawky goes missing and Toph wears shoes with soles by mistake.

This episode includes the seventh episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 7: The Runaway

Book 3: Chapter 6: The Avatar and the Firelord

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 17 Oct 2020 21:03:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Aang's emergency spirit call from Roku, the framing of this episode compared to The Storm, why Zuko is a light sleeper, Zuko's invisible ink destiny scroll makes no sense and it makes Barbara angry, Toph can feel hundreds of empty houses and graves under the volcano and can somehow sleep at night, how Zuko's surroundings make him look small and alone, the awesome dragon catacombs, how Roku and Sozin both tell the truth in their stories from their different perspectives, Roku and Sozin were best bros, how condensing the story of a lifetime in twenty minutes somehow works well, how smart Avatar is with showing relationships, Roku and Sozin's fight for power and dominance, Roku unleashes the Avatar State onto Sozin and doesn't talk to him for twenty five years, Roku's roll in the 100 year war, Spirit World appearance theories, Roku/Sozin/Zuko's crown prince crown metaphors, Roku's tragic final acts and Sozin's final betrayal, Fang being a good boy and we're both sad, Roku's death to Aang' birth, Sozin's Roku-hate fueled Avatar paranoia and Zuko's banishment, Zuko's internal war and mixed legacy impacting his destiny of restoring balance, "Is this the push Zuko needs to commit to the good side?", Iroh and Zuko's imprisoned framing, the message of choice, we rewrite the episode, and a friendship so strong it transcend lifetimes (and us gushing over it).

Warning: Brief Legend of Korra spoiler 7:00 - 10:00 and the novel Foundryside by Robert Jackson Bennett spoilers 17:35 - 18:45

This episode includes the sixth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 6: The Avatar and the Firelord

Book 3: Chapter 5: The Beach

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 20:08:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Sparky Sparky Boom Man's deal, Zuko's hair, Ember Island, Lu and Li's old-lady house, Zuko's angst (and seagulls), Azula acting 'normal', Ty Lee in her element, Zuko's terrible dating skills, Mai is done with Zuko's brooding, Ty Lee's extremely popular (and Azula is jealous), Azula skills and personality in a different context are a detriment, Azula and success. awesome volleyball, the royals weren't invited to the house party, Azula trying to be normal and accidentally succeeding, possessive Zuko and mourning, Breakfast Club fire, Azula and Zuko's strained strange relationship, Ty Lee's individualism and agency, Mai's ennui and forced subservience, Azula's view of emotion as performance, us trying to be couch psychologists with no training, Zuko reading Mai's signals 100% wrong, Zuko's bottled emotions, Frozen asides, Azula and Ty Lee's relationship, Azula thinks she's a monster, trashing Chan's house, and the Gaang is here too?

Warning: Obligatory anime beach episode ahead!

This episode includes the fifth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 5: The Beach

Book 3: Chapter 4: Sokka's Master

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 20:43:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Sokka-centric episodes are great, Toph's blind jokes, Iroh's amazing deception, the logistics of Iroh getting swole, alternate timelines stemming from Lu Ten not dying, Aang's DLC armor, Sokka's weapons skills, Avatar beards, the Gaang is terrible at being undercover, Sokka's humbleness making him worthy, Sokka's 'special' warrior training, Sokka makes a space sword (and it's kind of realistic), Master Piandao wasn't born yesterday, Sokka vs Master Paindao, Sokka and Iroh's mirroring progression, Sokka's smart enough not to fight fair, Master Paindao's scabbard skills, and another sign of the Order of the White Lotus (showing the writer's planning and foreshadowing since Book 1).

Warning: Hot side-characters, terrible naming side conversations, and Sokka's terrible art skills ahead!

This episode includes the fourth episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 4: Sokka's Master

Book 3: Chapter 3: The Painted Lady

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sat, 19 Sep 2020 20:04:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Difference in opinions, what is the line in helping/stopping progress, industrialization versus nature (but in a bad way), Sokka is 100% right (and Katara is wrong, but with good intentions), Appa is a hill now, weird hat guy's split personalities, Katara asserting her ideals on the village and the village's oppression, Impulsive Katara, pretending to poison Appa, Katara's fancy Painted Lady costume, Katara's secret night waterbending, does destroying the factory actually help?, Sokka and Toph upset with Aang and Katara, sideburns, The Painted Lady Versus Jet, the heart of our problem with this episode, spirit bending and the Gaang's implicit trust in each other and their bending, and our frustration with the 'moral' of the story.

Warning: MORE Stealing (not from pirates), our frustration, creepy horror movie children, and spooky spirits ahead!

This episode includes the third episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 3: The Painted Lady

Book 3: Chapter 2: The Headband

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 20:56:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Undercover Gaang, costume changes, FLAMEO HOTMAN and our catchphrases, Sad vegetarian Aang, Aang goes to school and makes macaroni art, Aang socializes with children his own age, bowing, dictatorship and the Fire Nation, Zuko's mean to Iroh and we hate it, dissecting Iroh's love and disappointment with Zuko, the Fire Nation's propagandist version of the 100 Year War, 80's Teen Movie tropes (Save the Rec Center! Footloose!), Azula walks circles around Zuko, Azula's concern for Zuko, awesome secret cave dancing, headband-based subversion of authority, and Sparky Sparky Boom Man.

Warning: Stealing (not from pirates), Zuko breaks our heart some more, and dancing (GASP) ahead!

This episode includes the second episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 2: The Headband

Book 3: Chapter 1: The Awakening

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 14:39:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Discussing the gap between Book 2 and Book 3, the Book 3 trailer, exposition without too much exposition in medias res, Aang's head injuries, bye bye Earth King, Aang's lack of agency, Katara and Zuko, how scary the Dai Lee's double cross was, we finally see Ozai's face, Katara's feelings of abandonment and her father, Zuko's daddy issues, Zuko's guilt concerning getting 'his honor' back, Azula's masterful plan (and her hair), and cyclical story telling.

Warning: Real-life and in-series time-skips ahead!

This episode includes the first episode of Season 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 3: Fire: Chapter 1: The Awakening

Book 2 Recap!: The Best and Worst from Book 2: Earth

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 8 Sep 2020 19:59:00 -0700

This discussion includes: the best and worst, our most favorites and least favorite things, episodes, and characters from ATLA Book 2: Earth

Warning: Opinions about and spoilers for the entire book ahead!

This episode includes all episodes from Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 2: Earth

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapters 19 and 20: The Guru and The Crossroads of Destiny

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 3 Sep 2020 21:35:00 -0700

Note: Episode 20 discussion starts at 1:03:50

This episode's discussion includes:

Part 1: Why Barbara and Leslie like to be angry, Last Time on Avatar, Zuko's forced anger repression, Sokka and his (very) hot dad, Sokka's worries and abandonment in becoming a 'real' member of the water tribe and planning with his dad (who is proud of and loves him), the grand opening of The Jasmine Dragon, Tylee and Mai's acting against the Dai Lee, the masterful explanation of chakras to a young western audience, Aang's chakra visions and his self acceptance in relation to his control over the Avatar State, Toph discovers metal bending, Aang tries to let go of Katara but he can't, and visual metaphors.

Part 2: planned Dai Lee coup by Azula, Zuko and Katara in the crystal cave of betrayal and love, Katara explains her anger to Zuko, political intrigue, Zutara and emotional sexy scars, magic water possibilities, Azula's masterful manipulation and thought process, Iroh framing Zuko's choice for good, Zuko makes his hardest choice and why he makes that choice, the fandom after the twist, one of the best fight scenes in this series, Star Wars analogies, Aang in the Avatar State, Azula's lightning strike, Aang falls, Iroh willingly lets himself e captured, magic water what-ifs, Azula capturing Ba Sing Sae, and Zuko's conflicted betrayal and honor.

Warning: Zuko breaks all of our hearts (while Azula crushes our dreams happily) and we talk about it for thirty minutes.

It's a double feature! This episode includes the nineteenth and twentieth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 19: The Guru, and

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 20: The Crossroads of Destiny

Book 2: Chapter 18: The Earth King

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 19:05:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: why we don't like this episode, the triumphant Appa reunion we've been waiting for, the Gaang finally tries to talk to the Earth King, Toph does not trust Positive Sokka, Saddle continuity, Long Feng and Bite Continuity, Katara only heals potential future boyfriends, Zuko's sick after doing a good deed (We can change him!), Zuko's dream sequence hallucinations and the meaning of his missing scar, Zuko has a drinking (and throwing things) problem, how strange and sudden the Earth King's change in loyalty is, Long Feng is Long Gone, The Earth King finally learns about the Day of Black Sun, Sokka and Katara sibling moments, Group Hugs, Famous Last Words, Toph's captured, Missing Suki, and 'Kyoshi Warriors' ahead.

Warning: Zuko has Angsty Pretty Fever Syndrome, Regular Bears, and King Fools ahead.

This episode includes the eighteenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 18: The Earth King

Book 2: Chapter 17: Lake Laogai

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 21:40:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Brainwashing, Sokka's amazing drawing skills, Classic Blind Jokes, Zuko wants so much more than this provincial life, We dream of Tea Time with Iroh, Sleeper Agent Joo Dee, Lake Laogai Vacation Posters and Slogans, the search for Appa, how confusing the Dai Li's plan is, Iroh sees his simple Jasmine Dragon dream, Toph is a lie detector now, Brainwashed Jet, creepy Dai Li hand metaphors and Lake Laogai coloring choices, Zuko's choice to free Appa (and finally let the Avatar go?), Jet's final act and loss of agency, Jet and Zuko similarities, BAMF Appa's reunion with Aang, "Don't listen to Zuko!", Iroh finally reaches his limit, and the metaphor around Zuko relinquishing his Blue Spirit mask.

Warning: The Earth King invites you to Lake Laogai. You are honoured to accept his invitation.

This episode includes the seventeenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 17: Lake Laogai

Book 2: Chapter 16: Appa's Lost Days

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 6 Aug 2020 20:54:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Depression, Appa is a warmhearted BAMF, Fire Nation Circus torture, Appa understands everything, Appa's fear of fire, Appa's sad eyes and body language, Suki and Azula, Guru Pathik sees Appa's heart and his connection with Aang, the split-second miss of Momo and Appa, and Long Feng's blackmail.

Warning: Animal Abuse (TRIGGER WARNING) and Heartbreak ahead.

This episode includes the sixteenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 16: Appa's Lost Days

Book 2: Chapter 15: Tales of Ba Sing Se

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 4 Aug 2020 20:53:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Vignette anthology explanations and thoughts, discussion on the order of vignettes, Toph and Katara's friendship, Toph's self-actualization, the many sides, facets, and faces of Iroh, how our heart breaks for Iroh, Lu Ten's death, Aang helps the 'nasty and broke' zoo, Sokka is a funny, confident, haiku genius, Awkward Date Zuko, Zuko likes to do nothing for fun, us Zuko fangirling and dissecting, Momo's search for Appa, animal cruelty and sadness, and the heartbreak (and excited mystery!) of Momo's Tale.

Warning: Leaves from the Vine... Falling so slow...

This episode includes the fifteenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 15: Tales of Ba Sing Se

Book 2: Chapter 14: City of Walls and Secrets

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 4 Aug 2020 20:26:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes:How there is no War in Ba Sing Se. Here we are safe. Here, we are free.

Warning: It is the strict policy of Ba Sing Se that the War not be mentioned within the walls...

This episode includes the fourteenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 14: City of Walls and Secrets

Book 2: Chapters 12 and 13: The Serpent's Pass and The Drill

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 29 Jul 2020 19:44:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: Iroh's history, Suki and Sokka's healthy wonderful relationship, "Peaceful ferry ride? or deadly pass?", refugees and world-building, Jet and his remaining freedom fighters, Jet and Zuko are Robin Hood outcasts, Jet the Fighter, Suki being wonderful to Aang, Suki and Sokka under the moon, HOPE, useless generals, The Drill, Ty Lee flirting with Sokka, Azula's foreshadowing, information scarcity and political intrigue and power.

Warning: Jet gas lighting and extremely slow construction ahead!

It's a double feature! This episode includes the twelfth and thirteenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 12: The Serpent's Pass, and

Book 2: Earth: Chapter 13: The Drill

Book 2: Chapter 11: The Desert

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 19:39:00 -0700

This episode's discussion includes: The blocking of the beginning of the episode, Missing Appa and Aang's pain, Iroh's past? with the Rough Rhinos, the desert and how the artist's show the toll of the desert on the Gaang, Cactus Juice (it's the quenchiest) and how amazing Sokka is this episode, Hope Mom Katara, The Order of the White Lotus and how people join, Aang's emotional breakdown, the desert people, the rage and emotional drain after the loss of Appa, and Aang and Katara's relationship.

Warning: Cactus juice drug PSA and aangsty Aang as John Wick (John Wick spoilers ~52:00) ahead!

This episode includes the eleventh episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 11: The Desert
Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 10: The Library

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 23 Jul 2020 19:40:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: How creepy the spirits are, Aang can't hide his arrow ever, Professor Zei's passion and nerdy-ness, Sokka's realistic pursuit of maps and knowledge of the Fire Nation, Wan Shi Tong's Library, foxy knowledge seekers, Wan Shi Tong's omniscience, the gaang's field trip to the library, the animals (and avatar spirits) of Avatar, Zhao is STILL the worst, book burning makes us sad, The Darkest Day of Fire Nation History, grey morality, Miyazaki references, the horror of the Spirit World, and Toph and the terrible aftermath of the gaang's escape.

Warning: Bear fan theories and Spooky Bitter Spirits Ahead!

This episode includes the tenth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 10: The Library
Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 9: Bitter Work

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 18:50:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Aang's difficulty earthbending, Iroh's dream about Lu Ten, how minor characters greatly impact the Avatar universe and story, Aang's problems with facing things head-on, Toph's teaching style, the methodology and techniques of lightning bending, Iroh's style in teaching Zuko, Aang/Zuko parallels, trapped Sokka's perseverance and boomerang metaphors, Zuko's learning/peace/anger difficulties, Zuko's breaking point, and storm metaphors.

Warning: Instead of lightning, it just blows up in Zuko's face- just like everything always does.

This episode includes the ninth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 9: Bitter Work
Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Episode 8: The Chase

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 20:53:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Azula's small elite team (Azula's Angels), Katara and Toph's new relationship, Toph 'carrying her own weight', the comedy of sleep deprivation, Katara's fear of Ty Lee, Iroh being the best, Toph's Tea-time with Iroh, Western-Like Fight Backgrounds, how unfair the fight is in this episode, Iroh's sacrifice, Toph learning to accept help, and Zuko not being able to trust or accept help.

Warning: Extreme sleep deprivation ahead!

This episode includes the eighth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 8: The Chase
Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Episode 7: Zuko Alone

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 17:40:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: excitedly dissecting everything about Zuko (alone), including more sad points in Zuko's life, his decision not to steal from innocent travelers, Korra and Avatar Wan references, Zuko's mother Ursa and Zuko's (more) terrible childhood, Zuko sucking at chores, Iroh's gifts and their deeper meaning, Ozai's manipulations with both of his children, Big-Brother Zuko with Lee (and also himself), Lu Ten's death, the exhibition, Ursa's discovery through Azula, Ursa and Zuko's wonderful relationship, Zuko outing himself, and the horrible present-day and past aftermath.

Warning: "Never Give Up Without a Fight" - 100% Zuko ahead!

This episode includes the seventh episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 7: Zuko Alone

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Episode 6: The Blind Bandit

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 26 May 2020 20:08:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: TOPH, the 'aimless' pacing of season 2, Sokka's new bag (and belt) regret, Earth Rumble VI, wrestling tropes and personas, The Blind Bandit, how scary Katara is, ~~Watertribe~~, Toph's parent's ableist infantilism of her, how Toph 'sees' even though she is blind, division of gender and bending based on nation's culture, earth bending strength subversion through Toph, and Toph's ongoing relationship with her family.

Warning: Rock puns and wrestling ahead!

This episode includes the sixth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 6: The Blind Bandit Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 5: Avatar Day

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 7 May 2020 18:14:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Where the Gaang is trying to travel to, how the Rough Rhinos are terrible, Sokka loses his boomerang (causing an existential crisis), Elemental Nation Currencies, Avatar Day festivities, Aang standing trial, Sokka is Sherlock Holmes and the Scooby Gang, "Stop Being Mean to Sokka!", Kyoshi Island and foreshadowing, Kyoshi being a boss, the wheel of punishment and terrible town laws, status quo and avatar parallelism, boomerang always comes back, Iroh and Zuko runaway adventures, and Zuko making the bad decision to go Zuko Alone.

Warning: Burning effigies and (almost) boiling oil ahead!

This episode includes the fifth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 5: Avatar Day

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 4: The Swamp

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 14 Apr 2020 18:47:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Where the Blue Spirit mask comes from, Iroh's singing, begging, and flirting, Creepy Spirit Swamp and Aang's Horror Movie logic, Smart Momo and Appa being bros, Miyazaki Environmentalism and the angry, vengeful swamp, Nice but weird swamp people, Katara's mother and her pain, Sokka's guilt over the loss of Yue, the build-up to Tophi, Vine Waterbending and how waterbending is over powered, Circle of Life, Florida jokes, Sokka the Cynic, and Zuko's pride and the range of the Blue Spirit.

Warning: Creepy horror movie swamp escapades, swamp people, bad jokes, and spirit visions ahead!

This episode includes the fourth episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 4: The Swamp

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Episode 3: Return to Omashu

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 31 Mar 2020 07:48:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Big doors, Bumi and how his choices save Omashu, how good Avatar's writing is, adorable purple pentapus and Avatar animal discussions, the setup of Omashu, Azula's relationship with Ty Lee, fire nation school, Liberty's Kids, how wonderfully bored Mai is, Flopsy, mail shoot fighting, how scary Ty Lee's ability is, and how Mai wasn't written to be a love interest but an actual character who happens to be a love interest too.

Warning: Bittersweet endings, Leaving old friends, Azula's forcible friendship, and accidental kidnapping ahead!

This episode includes the third episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 3: Return to Omashu

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 2: The Cave of Two Lovers

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 11:45:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Lots of singing, romance lamp-shading and subversion, traveling bards and 'real legends', Zuko's fishing skills, Sokka the Cynic, The History of Omashu and the wonderful art and music design, Aang's terrible romance skills, Zuko's lack of friends and companionship or connection, Zuko's weakening elitism, how badgermoles (and Sokka) are the best, "Did Aang and Katara kiss?", Zuko's path and how it is good writing even though we are frustrated with him, and how the songs make this episode wonderful.

Warning: SECRET TUNNELS and lots of (bad) singing (from us) ahead!

This episode includes the second episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 2: The Cave of Two Lovers

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 2: Chapter 1: The Avatar State

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 11 Mar 2020 18:27:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Aang's fear of the Avatar State and himself, the dangers of the Avatar State (and foreshadowing), how Zuko and Iroh survived at sea, how extra and amazing Azula is (finally), Zuko's relationship with his family and how his family's motivations contrast, Fire Nation sibling rivalry, the set up of lightning bending, how amazing Iroh is (again), and hair cutting metaphors.

Warning: Very bad Avatar State decisions, Sad Zuko, lightning bending, and the first of Azula's manipulations ahead!

This episode includes the first episode of Season 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 2: Earth: Chapter 1: The Avatar State

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1 Recap!: The Best and Worst from Book 1: Water

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 3 Feb 2020 08:09:00 -0800

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This discussion includes: the best and worst, our most favorites and least favorite things, episodes, and characters from ATLA Book 1: Water

Warning: Opinions about and spoilers for the entire book ahead!

This episode includes all episodes from Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender: Book 1: Water

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapters 19 and 20: The Seige of the North, Part 1 and 2

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 20 Jan 2020 22:36:00 -0800

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This finale's discussion includes: the Moon and Ocean spirit's lore, Yue and Sokka's forbidden love, Zuko and Iroh's relationship, Zuko's lack of self-preservation, Aang and the Spirit-World's rules, how terrifying and interesting Koh the Face-Stealer is, how evil Zhao really is, color imagery, Zuko's compassion in spite of himself, and Yue's sacrifice and presence throughout the series.

Warning: heartbreak, face-stealing horror, inner turmoil, the death of the moon, Aang possessed by the Ocean spirit, and spoilers ahead!

This episode includes the nineteenth and twentieth episodes of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 19: The Siege of the North, Part 1
Book 1: Water: Chapter 20: The Siege of the North, Part 2

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 18: The Waterbending Master

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Sun, 27 Oct 2019 17:13:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Reaching the North Pole (FINALLY), Water Tribe architecture, Sokka's first love story, Zhao vs. Zuko, Street Fighter Pirates II, Zuko and Iroh's spy movie espionage, Princess Yue being on boats, plot necklace payoff, and lack of Female empowerment and equality in Northern Waterbending.

Warning: Awesome Powerful and Assertive Katara, sexist and racist pigs, assassination attempts, and teenage romance ahead!

This episode includes the eighteenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 18: The Waterbending Master
Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 17: The Northern Air Temple

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 19:44:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: the Gaang's finances, how Aang reacts to change and the temple's new history, a brief history of paper and books, minority/disability representation in Avatar (and how wonderful it is), preservation versus progress, and the Gaang's body-count this episode.

Warning: Hermit crabs "metaphors", lack of glider safety, and the smell of rotten eggs ahead!

This episode includes the seventeenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 17: The Northern Air Temple

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 16: The Deserter

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 5 Aug 2019 18:14:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: How this episode is just an abridged version of "Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad, the voice actor Scott Menville, differences between air bending and fire bending outcomes, breathing candle circles, and Admiral Zhao's angsty student backstory.

Warning: Fire Bending = Bad this episode, Zhao acts like a child (per usual), and various burned hands ahead!

This episode includes the sixteenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 16: The Deserter

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 15: Bato of the Water Tribe

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 18:16:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: How everyone is out-of-character this episode, why there are nuns in the forest making perfume, the coolest side character design in the show, how no one ever cares Aang is the Avatar, Disney sequels, and misinterpreted conversation rom-com tropes.

Warning: TRUST, overt guilt and shaming to teach morals, and wolf-themed wisdom ahead!

This episode includes the fifteenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 15: Bato of the Water Tribe

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 14: The Fortuneteller

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 8 Jul 2019 19:49:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: The validity of fortune telling, our horoscopes, Kataang vs. Zutara, Destiny, cloud formations (and how clouds change!), and love~

Warning: Sokka the Cynic and breakfast fruit decisions ahead!

This episode includes the fourteenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 14: The Fortuneteller

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 13: The Blue Spirit

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 16:34:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: "Incurable cough of death" trope, our thoughts on pets, the amazing sound design and choreography of this episode, and even more "What If's" concerning Zuko and Aang

Warning: an amazing twist and conversations about pets ahead!

This episode includes the thirteenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 13: The Blue Spirit

Correction: The Yuyan archers are seen in future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 12: The Storm

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 18:32:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: In-depth analysis of this episode and overall Avatar themes, the duality of Zuko and Aang, and the (heavy) exploration of 'the storm' as a metaphor

Warning: amazing flashbacks exploring the guilt, shame, and lack of agency of our main characters ahead! This is our longest episode yet!

This episode includes the twelfth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 12: The Storm

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 11: The Great Divide

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 18:27:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Pro-tarp and Anti-tarp, how terrible both of the tribes are, the science of how canyons are formed, and justified lying

Warning: this episode is so bad we just gave up- this podcast is a fun one!

This episode includes the eleventh episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 11: The Great Divide

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 10: Jet

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 20 May 2019 20:06:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: A LOT of Peter Pan, Once Upon a Time, how lame and hilariously narcissistic Jet is, and how wonderful Sokka is!

Warning: "Sokka's Instincts" and emotional manipulation ahead!

This episode includes the tenth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 10: Jet

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 9: The Waterbending Scroll

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Tue, 16 Apr 2019 19:15:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Street Fighter pirates, cursed monkey statues, lotus tiles, and our habit of 'losing' things we are currently using (namely our phones)

Warning: "High Risk Trading" ahead!

This episode includes the ninth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 9: The Water Bending Scroll

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapters 7 and 8: The Winter Solstice, Part 1 and 2

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Thu, 4 Apr 2019 19:09:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Studio Ghibli parallels, Avatar animal guides, why Zhao is not a very compelling villain, the horror that is the Spirit World, and the awesomeness that is Avatar-freaking Roku!

Warning: Koh the Face Stealer, Nightmare Bear Hei Bai, and spoilers ahead!

This episode is a double-feature! It includes the seventh and eighth episodes of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 7: Winter Solstice, Part 1: The Spirit World and
Book 1: Water: Chapter 8: Winter Solstice, Part 2: Avatar Roku

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 6: Imprisoned

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 3 Apr 2019 18:30:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: Hope, engineers sucking at math, Hook (The Movie) featuring Dante Basco (the voice of Zuko), childhood crushes, and the worst old man who ever lived.

Warning: Inspirational speeches ("Hope... is all we have!"), Haru's glorious hair, and spoilers ahead!

This episode includes the sixth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 6: Imprisoned

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 5: The King of Omashu

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 20:11:00 -0700

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: How airbending speed works, death by rock candy, and the "royal cougher"!

Warning: Game of Thrones Season 7 Episode 6 Spoilers Ahead (13:20 - 14:10 for avoidance)

This episode includes the fifth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 5: The King of Omashu

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 4: The Warriors of Kyoshi

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 20:54:00 -0800

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: sucking at directions, the deadly Avatar drinking game, relatable painters, how expensive silk is, and GIRL POWER!

Warning: partial drowning, mouth-foaming, and terrible nicknames ahead!

This episode includes the fourth episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 4: The Warriors of Kyoshi

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapter 3: The Southern Air Temple

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 2 Jan 2019 20:49:00 -0800

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes: parental figures in Avatar and other media, which Hogwarts house each nation would be sorted into, ripped Zuko, and genocide in a show for children!

Warning: Terrible truths, flying lemurs, and spoilers ahead!

This episode includes the third episode of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 3: The Southern Air Temple

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com

Book 1: Chapters 1 and 2: The Girls in the Podcast

emberislandpod@gmail.com (Reality and Reel Podcasts) — Wed, 2 Jan 2019 18:03:00 -0800

Come on an auditory adventure with the Ember Island Podcast (Leslie and Barbara) as we analyze, review, and rave about every episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender (and The Legend of Korra) from start to finish!

This episode's discussion includes:the series premiere of Avatar: The Last Airbender (or ATLA), painful tattoo applications, amateur editing debates, and the first (but definitely not the last) episode where we praise the show's writing, world-building, and character arcs.

Warning: Penguin sledding and spoilers ahead!

This episode includes the first two episodes of Season 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender:
Book 1: Water: Chapter 1: The Boy in the Iceberg
and
Book 1: Water: Chapter 2: The Avatar Returns

Note: The audio is still not the greatest (i.e. some of it cuts out from time to time) but we are working on improving it for future episodes!

Contact us at: EmberIslandPod@gmail.com