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Explore every episode of the podcast Eragon And Back Again

Dive into the complete episode list for Eragon And Back Again. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Ep. 85 - Brisingr: Trial of Long Knives & Winged Tidings29 Oct 202601:17:15

Nasuada is so metal.


Lucy and Darien are excited to learn more about Nasuada’s heritage in Brisingr chapter seven, "Trial of Long Knives,” and chapter eight, "Winged Tidings.”


Talking points include wondering where all the gold is coming from, being very excited about a preying mantis goddess, strategies for getting vaccines to hurt less, Angela appearing so early in the book, and everyone being very upset with Eragon.


Content Warning: This episode contains reference to self-harm, not in the context of suicide but in a manner that may be distressing to some listeners. No descriptive passages from the book are read out loud. The conversation about this element of the books ends at 36:56, however the resulting injuries are mentioned a few times later in the episode.


Sparks of Inspiration 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Brisingr with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Enjoy our bonus episodes about Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing and Iron Storm while also helping Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Theme music by Jacob Hughes! Check out Jake on Instagram @j_cubhughes




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 84 - Brisingr: Rider and Ra’zac & To Walk the Land Alone17 Oct 202601:20:32

A world with a bumblebee in it is a world worth being in.


Darien and Lucy witness the end of the Ra’zac in Brisingr chapter five, “Rider and Ra’zac,” and chapter six, "To Walk the Land Alone.”


Talking points include major Kingdom Hearts vibes, a curse to set the future in zone, a life saving beauty of a bumblebee, Eragon making some interesting dietary exceptions, Sloan being the worst, Eragon being so much like Brom, and the rights of a Dragon Rider.


Content Warning: This episode contains reference to self-harm and suicide.


Sparks of Inspiration 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Brisingr with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Enjoy our bonus episode about Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing AND Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Theme music by Jacob Hughes! Check out Jake on Instagram @j_cubhughes




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 83 - Brisingr: Assault on Helgrind & Divergence30 Sep 202601:33:12

A new voice joins the podcast!


Lucy (she/her) and Darien (she/they) are delighted to have Braydon (he/him) from Fandom and Folklore on to discuss Brisingr chapter three, “Assault on Helgrind”, and chapter four, “Divergence.”


Talking points include correctly pronouncing Roran’s name, Darien immediately abandoning a bit, struggling to identify the formatting rules for the Ancient Language, a brief debunking of Medieval flat Earth beliefs, and Eragon making a decision that wasn't his to make.


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of and conversations about abusive family relationships.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Braydon shouts out Meyers Briggs in character creation.

  • Darien very much enjoyed The Ghostkeeper by Johanna Taylor.

  • Lucy is loving the romance options in Fields of Mistra. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Brisingr with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Braydon and Fandom and Folklore at https://open.spotify.com/show/3Dd2FOs3gsZGymUmWFA5Hx?si=Cffz1rsgTqGEvRm57AlK4Q&utm_source=copy-link


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Adventure Zone: Balance by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Theme music by Jacob Hughes! Check out Jake on Instagram @j_cubhughes



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 82 - Brisingr: The Gates of Death & Around the Campfire16 Sep 202601:49:21

Thank you for your patience!!


Darien and Lucy are so excited to jump into Inheritance Cycle book three with Brisingr chapter one, "The Gates of Death”, and chapter two,”Around the Campfire.”


Talking points include wild speculations on the author’s opinions regarding organized religion, drawbacks to the elven transformation, some peak sibling representation, unpacking trauma with those you trust, Eragon's very convenient justification for pining after Arya, and the mystery of the missing subtitle.


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of and conversations about ableism, self-harm, cannibalism, and racism. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy is inspired by Fruits Basket (2019) to resurrect an old project.

  • Darien rethinks her writings on witches after a lecture by @sugarmaeisagoodwife


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Brisingr with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Godzilla: King of Monsters by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Theme music by Jacob Hughes! Check out Jake on Instagram @j_cubhughes


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Chapter Break: Dragons in Europe and 7th Grade Book Reports02 Sep 202600:30:31

Slight change of plans…


Check out our Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ for visual aids from the episode! 


Brisingr begins on Wednesday, September 16!


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Reversal of the Heart by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

The Dragons' Keep UNLEASHED: How to Train Your Dragon (2010)12 Aug 202601:44:25

Some podcasts have mythology or true crime. 

We have… Dragons!


We're still on break, but we wanted to share something from The Dragons' Keep (before it was The Dragons' Keep) with our bonus episode about Lucy’s very favorite: How to Train Your Dragon! 


Just the first film this month. The sequels and TV show spin-offs (might) come later. For now, we’re examining all the reasons this might be the greatest animated movie of all time. 


Also, a brief Darien rant about live-action remakes represents an inherent disrespect of animation. 


Full spoilers for How to Train Your Dragon (2010) and How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell, as well as moderate spoilers for How to Train Your Dragon 2.


EABA will return for Brisingr on Wednesday, September 2!

Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND enjoy more bonus episodes by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 81 - Eldest Mail Bag Episode!!15 Jul 202601:13:09

A fond farewell to a fan favorite.


Darien and Lucy reflect on Eldest and celebrate being halfway through The Inheritance Cycle. 


Talking points include the future of the podcast, the requirements for discussing Eragon (2006) on the pod, external factors that contribute to publishing success, Top 10 Anime Betrayals, Greek v. Tolkenian heroes, Eragon's protagonist powers, old fandom lore, and the trouble with “growing with the characters.”


If you really need to hear us discuss the cursed Eragon movie, check out Fandom and Folklore: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Dd2FOs3gsZGymUmWFA5Hx


Skip to 46:43 to avoid minor end of the series spoilers.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Oh my goodness, we forgot to do Sparks…


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eldest with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Reversal of the Heart by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor





No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 80 - Eldest: Convergence, Eldest, Inheritance, & Reunion (w/ Diego from Tears of Fire)01 Jul 202602:06:43

Will we ever meet this red dragon?


Diego returns to join Lucy and Darien for reunions and big reveals in Eldest chapter 68, “Convergence,” chapter 69, “Eldest,” chapter 70, “Inheritance,” and chapter 71, “Reunion.”


Talking points include Roran being able to pull off all the one-liners, the most spectacular freefall, Murtagh’s dramatic return, Eragon not thinking about his supposedly dead friend for literally half the book, Roran’s big dramatic scene being in another POV, and embarrassing childhood confession, and what it means to be family.


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of suicide, sexual violence, blood, violence, and death in relation to war. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Diego is inspired by Kayla of https://twitch.tv/kaleisblue to write his own book!

  • Darien was inspired (and made depressed) by Jennifer Saint's mythology retellings. 

  • Lucy made an excellent breakthrough on her Geode!


Explore The Last Dragon Chronicles with Diego at https://open.spotify.com/show/1s4lvy8Qdoz9ZK70YWYKX1?si=4oLlR7OkTJSK2cZJNC8mTw


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Raya and the Last Dragon and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 79 - Eldest: Nar Garzhvog, Witches Brew, & The Storm Breaks17 Jun 202601:12:37

Who do you call a monster?


Darien and Lucy dive into the endgame in Eldest chapter 65, “Nar Garzhvog,” chapter 66, “Witches Brew,” and chapter 67, “The Storm Breaks.” 


Talking points include Paolini challenging the idea of monstrousness in fantasy, Nasuada being an incredible leader, the tools we can equip to never see people as things, Angela living up to her reputation as a witch, what it looks like when a Rider goes to war, and a mysterious threat coming up the river. 


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of blood, violence, and death in relation to war. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy commissioned some very good art of her D&D character. 

  • Darien is devastated by the quality of The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow.

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Raya and the Last Dragon and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for generative AI or large language models training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 78 - Eldest: To Aberon, The Burning Plains, & The Clouds of War04 Jun 202601:19:32

Why is a raven like a writing desk?


Lucy and Darien get the band back together in Eldest chapter 62, “To Aberon,” chapter 63, “The Burning Plains,” and chapter 64, “The Clouds of War.” 


Talking points include fandom attempts to solve an unanswered riddle, the recent trend of mentioning Eragon's unknown father, a very cool setting for a final battle, Eragon showing off his new powers, a hug that didn't happen, clocking Eragon's continued nonsense regarding Arya, ANGELA OUR LOVE, and the hosts cementing themselves as Trianna Defenders. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien reflects on all the places that inspired her during her European vacation.
  • Lucy was inspired by her favorite streamer to start playing Pokémon Leaf Green!


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Raya and the Last Dragon and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA





Cover art by Luana Pastor





No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 77 - Eldest: The Maw of the Ocean & Running the Boar's Eye27 May 202600:33:30

Eat your heart out, Odysseus.


Lucy and Darien find their sea legs in Eldest chapter 60, “The Maw of the Ocean,” and chapter 61, “Running the Boar's Eye.”


Talking points include appreciating the map at the front of the book, Roran busting out a folk hero speech, celebrating the shared strength of the people of Carvahall, and navigating a big, f*ck off whirlpool.


Sparks of Inspiration 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Raya and the Last Dragon and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 76 - Eldest: Red Blade, White Blade, Visions Near and Far, & Gifts13 May 202601:36:12

Learning about atheism.


Darien and Lucy have more thoughts about elves in Eldest chapter 57, “Red Blade, White Blade,” chapter 58, “Visions Near and Far,” and chapter 59, “Gifts.”


Talking points include bidding a (not-so) fond farewell to “Eragon woke” chapter openers, Arya going back to work, not tolerating Eragon trying to shirk responsibility for his actions, the culmination of the Elves Are The Best plot, new magic theory, Eragon catching up on the other POV plots, questioning the rule logic of scrying, and some sweet presents.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien celebrates a Geode of recording a bunch of podcast stuff before leaving the country.

  • Lucy shouts out Darien for inspiring her to finish a puzzle!

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Raya and the Last Dragon and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 75 - Eldest: Child's Play & Premonitions of War29 Apr 202600:51:04

An assassination attempt!


Lucy and Darien enjoy the last Nasuada POVs in Eldest chapter 55, “Child’s Play,” and chapter 56, "Premonitions of War.”


Talking points include Trianna’s stock increasing, dozens of deaths Nasuada should have need aware of, Darien protesting the use of three O names, Elva being oh so creepy, and the value of lace.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy was inspired to avoid doom scrolling by working out inside.

  • Darien appreciates Focus Friend for helping her avoid doom scrolling. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Flamecraft and Raya and the Last Dragon by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 74 - Eldest: Landfall, Teirm, Jeod Longshanks, An Unexpected Ally, & Escape15 Apr 202601:11:05

A familiar face!


Darien and Lucy are excited to reconnect with an old acquaintance in Eldest chapter 50, “Landfall,” chapter 51, “Teirm,” chapter 52, “Jeod Longshanks,” chapter 53, “An Unexpected Ally,” and chapter 54, “Escape.” 


Talking points include not repeating descriptions from previous books, it's okay for some things to be convenient for plot, a delightful exclamation, Justice for Helen, Roran getting caught up on the plot of the book series he's in, and Darien having a mini spiral about her youngest brother being Eragon's age. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien watched a Helluva Boss AMV that inspired her to write a chapter of her book. She also has a geode that she hates, but at least she wrote something.

  • Lucy is inspired by the reading recommendations of her coworkers. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Flamecraft and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 73 - Eldest: The Gift of Dragons & In a Starry Glade01 Apr 202601:15:20

We're deeply disappointed in our protagonist.


Lucy and Darien enjoy high highs and the lowest low in Eldest chapter 48, “The Gift of Dragons,” and Chapter 49, “In a Starry Glade.”


Talking points include the satisfaction of flow state, fantastical arts and crafts, partying with the elves, Eragon's surprising skill as a writer, the hosts spending way too long trying to figure out something that will be explained a page later, and some ableist nonsense.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy enjoys the new perspective offered by Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment.

  • Darien did a craft and made a Pocket Spa for her cats. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram (AND SEE THAT COOL ERAGON ART) ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Shout out to @ArtWithKoda for creating such an excellent piece for our silly show!


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Flamecraft and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 72 - Eldest: The Beginning of Wisdom & Broken Egg and Scattered Nest18 Mar 202601:11:14

Has Eragon finally learned his lesson?


Lucy and Darien suffer major second-hand embarrassment in Eldest chapter 46, “The Beginning of Wisdom,” and Chapter 47, “Broken Egg and Scattered Nest.”


Talking points include Eragon promising to be cool with Arya from now on, Arya revealing herself to a basic bitch (affectionate), a last-minute arts and crafts assignment, some deep dragon lore, the hosts doubling down on how it would be cooler/make more sense for all Riders to look like their dragons, Saphira experiencing the brutal sting of rejection, and the looming threat of the next set of chapters.


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of child death.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien fell in love with Bea Fitzgerald’s The End Crowns All.

  • Lucy is (was) so happy with the increase in sunlight hours. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Legend of Zelda and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 71 - Eldest: Narda & The Hammer Falls04 Mar 202600:50:45

Roran’s back! 


Darien and Lucy are excited to spend time with Roran again in Eldest chapter 44, "Narda” and chapter 45, “The Hammer Falls.”


Talking points include an excellent use of the physical layout of the book, Roran knowing everyone’s name, questioning who described Roran for the wanted posters, and what Roran is willing to do to protect the villagers. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy has joined a fun new D&D campaign! 

  • Darien loves her new tattoo which is a quote from The Adventure Zone.

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Legend of Zelda and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 70 - Eldest: Image of Perfection & The Obliterator11 Feb 202601:16:30

He's got ghosts in his blood!


Lucy and Darien suffer from serious secondhand embarrassment in Eldest chapter 42, "Image of Perfection" and chapter 43, "The Obliterator."


Talking points include begging Eragon to please stop, learning some deep magic lore, clocking some early 2000s beauty biases, a mini anti-gen AI rant, and speculation on the extent of elven anatomical knowledge.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien greatly enjoyed Don Martin's Verity Vox and the Curse of Foxfire.

  • Lucy is tackling her writing goals with the power of New Year's Revolutions!

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Legend of Zelda and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 69 - Eldest: The Nature of Evil21 Jan 202601:03:30

The Raz'ac are basically mosquitoes, right?


Darien and Lucy discuss just one chapter with Eldest chapter 41, "The Nature of Evil.”  


Talking points include this jerk Vanir,  Saphira having Eragon’s back, interrogating what is acceptable in war, never justifying one's own actions based off what someone else might do, magic lessons, evidence that the Twins were definitely traitors, and a very upsetting round of 20 Questions about the Raz'ac. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy was inspired to strive for immersive world building while visiting Disneyland!

  • Darien loves all the characters in Love Through a Prism. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Legend of Zelda and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 68 - Eldest: Resurgence, Why Do You Fight?, & Black Morning Glory07 Jan 202601:09:20

Eragon, you're so sixteen…


Lucy and Darien would like Eragon to chill out, please, in chapter 38, "Resurgence," chapter 39, “Why Do You Fight?” and chapter 40, “Black Morning Glory.” 


Talking points include placement of dragon scales, lessons in meditation, Eragon getting knocked down a peg, and Saphira taking a turn on the Embarrass Yourself Ride before Eragon hopes right back on. 


Content Warning: This episode contains description of excessive alcohol consumption.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien reminds everyone they should read Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series. 

  • Lucy started reading Circe by Madeline Miller and she's having a great time!

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Quest for Camelot and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 67 - Eldest: A Maze of Opposition, Hanging by a Thread, & Elva24 Dec 202501:21:36

It's all about lace.


Darien and Lucy are so excited to spend time with Nasuada in chapter 35, “A Maze of Opposition,” chapter 36, “Hanging by a Thread,” and chapter 37, “Elva.”


Talking points include Darien struggling to remember which British male fantasy writer to credit for a piece of writing advice, how to actually address crime in a community, Nasuada’s fear of magic, a brilliant solution to a complicated problem, and catching up with that baby Eragon accidentally cursed.


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy is inspired by an incredibly vivid dream

  • Darien plugs The Dragons' Keep again and praises Kelly Barnhill’s When Women Were Dragons.

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about Quest for Camelot and When Women Were Dragons by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 66 - Eldest: The Secret Lives of Ants & Under the Menoa Tree10 Dec 202501:22:02

Saphira has a crush.


Lucy and Darien have SEEN TOO MUCH in chapter 34, “The Secret Lives of Ants,” and chapter 35, “Under the Menoa Tree.”


Talking points include Saphira being so basic by having a crush on her teacher, speculating on dragon genes and scale color genetics, reading way too much into Eragon having no one to teach him how to shave, Eragon being weirdly voyeuristic, Arya having destinations in mind, and an extensive lecture on why AI is bad, for real. 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Darien has FINALLY read This is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone. It's as good as everyone says…

  • Lucy appreciates the large cast and vibrant settings of Hades 2. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our dragon bonus episodes by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 65 - Eldest: On the Crags of Tel'nae'r26 Nov 202501:03:37

We need to stop describing disabled characters as “useless.”


Darien and Lucy are joined by Cache the Dog in chapter 33, “On the Crags of Tel'nae'r.”


Talking points include the relief of no longer being alone, the EABA commitment to disagree with canon we don't like, manifesting the Disney+ show, Orik being totally responsible actually, examining the reoccurring ableism in the text, a little bit of Brom backstory, and a very indignant Pomeranian Yorkie making his displeasure known in the background (we're sorry). 


Sparks of Inspiration 

  • Lucy enjoys the energy to dedicate to creative pursuits and crafting an improved character backstory.

  • Darien loves Devin Elle Kurtz’s The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake.

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to our bonus episode about The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 


Ep. 64 - Eldest: Conviction, Repercussions, & Exodus12 Nov 202501:05:26

Peak Folk Hero


Lucy and Darien are ready to answer the call in chapter 29, “Conviction,” chapter 30, “Repercussions,” and chapter 31, “Exodus.”


Talking points include the cousins having different days, Roran’s growing resentment of Eragon, a study in character conviction, an incredible call to action, and a casual reminder of the political and moral stance of the hosts (with an invitation to find free entertainment elsewhere if needed).


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien recommends all makers read Every Tool's a Hammer: Life is What You Make It by Adam Savage 

  • Lucy shouts out the interesting dragon lore in Emma Hamm’s Fire Heart

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about The Legend of Zelda and Spirited Away by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA





Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 63 - Eldest: Queen Islanzadí & Out of the Past29 Oct 202501:13:12

Arya’s secret is out! 


Darien and Lucy discover some secrets of the elves Eldest chapter 27, “Queen Islanzadí,” and chapter 28, “Out of the Past.”


Talking points include the big reveal, Arya being manipulated into forgiveness, Eragon’s ever-present crush, a new werecat friend, the weight of inheritance, Orik being a Grade-A friend, and ANOTHER DRAGON?!


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy acknowledges the value of unwavering pettiness. 

  • Darien sings the praises of Milicent Patrick and The Lady from the Black Lagoon by Mallory O'Meara

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about The Legend of Zelda and Spirited Away by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA




Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 


Ep. 62 - Eldest: Arrow to the Heart, The Dagshelgr Invocation, & The Pinewood City,” 15 Oct 202501:20:39

Arya has a secret. 


Darien and Lucy go deeper into the woods in Eldest chapter 24, “Arrow to the Heart,” chapter 25, “The Dagshelgr Invocation,” and chapter 26, “The Pinewood City.”


Talking points include the best strategy for world building/info dumping, hammering out the timeline, examining metaphor in the death of the gyrfalcon, a good use of Eragon waking up, a hood not being enough of a disguise, forest orgy, and elven architecture.


Sparks of Inspiration


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about The Legend of Zelda and Spirited Away by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 61 - Eldest: His Enemy's Face08 Oct 202501:00:00

Six days, Roran?!


Lucy and Darien are helpless as everything goes wrong in Eldest chapter 23, “His Enemy's Face.” 


Talking points include reflecting on the first real series impact of inheritance, you, who is holding onto hope, some idle speculation about what Roran and Katrina do off page, the clever chapter title, and Sloane being the worst for real. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy is creatively inspired by this book! 

  • Darien is creatively inspired by listening to “Your Idol” from the K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack on repeat. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about The Legend of Zelda by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 


Ep. 60 - Eldest: Wounds of the Past & Wounds of the Present17 Sep 202501:13:59

Roran becomes the center of attention.


Darien and Lucy witness some small town drama in Eldest chapter 21, “Wounds of the Past,” and chapter 22, “Wounds of the Present.” 


Talking points include the masterfully crafted tension, Sloan being completely out of line, Roran's Big Announcement, Katrina making a choice, taking a sip of tea every time the word “Inheritance” is mentioned, and Darien’s plea to brew your tea properly.


Content Warning: This episode includes mentions of cannibalism and domestic violence. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien raves about Camp Damascus by Chuck Tingle.

  • Lucy rekindles her joy of Lord of the Rings with Tales of the Shire. 

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about NIMONA and SPIRITED AWAY by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 59 - Eldest: Arya Svit-kona & Ceris03 Sep 202501:18:23

Arya is not okay right now.


Lucy and Darien get a crash course in elven etiquette in Eldest chapter 19, “Arya Svit-kona” and 20, “Ceris.” 


Talking points include Arya crashing out, learning new words, exploring alternatives to avoiding long-held grudges, Eragon's “new” feelings, theorizing about the emotional regulation skills of elves, the evolutionary implications of dwarves having 14 toes, and a darker interpretation of Arya rushing the dwarves companions away. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy reflects on her recent experience entering a writing contest.

  • Darien discusses accidentally cosplaying Katniss Everdeen when making an Ares lip sync video.

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless at Universal Epic Universe AND listen to bonus episodes about NIMONA and SPIRITED AWAY by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 58 - Eldest: Down the Rushing Mere-Wash & Drifting20 Aug 202501:25:53

Is there anything more embarrassing than a crush?

 

Darien and Lucy enjoy a river cruise in Eldest chapter 17, “Down the Rushing Mere-Wash” and 18, “Drifting.” 

Talking points include interpreting Eragon’s definition of a Dragon Rider, interrogating why all magic seems to come from the elves, pondering the name origin of Morzan’s sword, some Misty Mountain vibes, an analysis of a chronic illness and physical disability narrative, and Darien and Lucy laying all the cards on the table about their feelings for the Eragon/Arya ship.


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien found a very cute picture book for her niece and nephew, The Monstore by Tara Lazar and illustrated by James Burk.

  • Lucy sings her love of character creation in TTRPG. 

Content warning: This episode contains mention of and conversations about violence, bloodshed, child death, and real world wars. 


Check out Listener Kayla's Playlists: https://open.spotify.com/user/22mtyom6qve33nsamdjjrpr5y?si=d139a44f43c4450bhttps://open.spotify.com/user/22mtyom6qve33nsamdjjrpr5y?si=d139a44f43c4450b


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Snag your own ⁠EABA merch!⁠


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor




No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Chapter Break: Dragon(-Type Pokémon) Hordes Minisode06 Aug 202500:12:46

It's our very first minisode!

Darien assigns hordes to dragon-type Pokémon. Whose horde is made up of bubble wands? Whose horde is made up of parts from imploded billionaire submarines? Listen to find out!


Get more dragons by supporting the show on Patreon and listening to the latest episodes about Dragon Tales and DragonHeart:  ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA⁠



Cover art by Luana Pastor





No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 57 - Eldest: Diamonds in the Night & Under a Darkling Sky (w/ Diego from Tears of Fire)23 Jul 202501:00:26

Roran gets emotionally drunk and pops the question.


Diego from Tears of Fire joins Lucy and Darien to watch things get rough for Carvahall in Eldest chapter 15, “Diamonds in the Night,” and 16, “Under a Darkling Sky.” 

Talking points include shouting out Paolini for his varied female characters, a good, cathartic cry session, analyzing the distinct violence of Sloan, a stark reminder about the importance of vaccines, and Roran having no guidance as he steps into his role as leader. 


Sparks of Inspiration


Explore The Last Dragon Chronicles with Diego at https://open.spotify.com/show/1s4lvy8Qdoz9ZK70YWYKX1?si=4oLlR7OkTJSK2cZJNC8mTw


Content warning: This episode contains mention of and conversations about violence, bloodshed, child death, and real world wars. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor

Ep. 56 - Eldest: Celbedeil09 Jul 202501:16:33

The unfortunate truth of coral. 


Darien and Lucy get a crash course in dwarven lore in Eldest chapter 14, “Celbedeil.”


Talking points include Eragon needing to broaden his language horizons, Pride being all year long, some very juicy dwarven lore, the struggle to explain what coral is, Darien bringing up Discworld two episodes in a row, further examination of how Paolini frames religious beliefs through the series, and when it’s okay to smack talk someone’s religious beliefs in their our religious temple. 


Content Warning for conversations about dietary changes and religious intolerance.


Sparks of Inspiration

Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 55 - Eldest: Az Sweldn rak Anhûin25 Jun 202501:02:14

Eragon can’t even walk into town without causing a riot.


Darien and Lucy get a crash course in dwarven lore in Eldest chapter 13, “Az Sweldn rak Anhûin.” 

Talking points include the co-hosts not being sure if they like Arya, Saphira being so dragon, speculating Eragon’s height, theorizing which fantasy science fiction series Christopher Paloni didn’t read, killer food descriptions, and all kinds of dwarven drama. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy created a Geode and entered a short story competition! 

  • Darien wants everyone to watch K-Pop Demon Hunters on Netflix. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 54 - Eldest: Hammer and Tongs & Retaliation12 Jun 202501:01:57

Bones?!

Lucy and Darien witness the origin of a local legend in Eldest chapter 11, “Hammer and Tongs,” and chapter 12, “Retaliation.”


Talking points include Roran and Eragon having very different days, why Darien will never order bone marrow tacos, the Empire's complete disregard for its people, accepting that the characters are not also the narrators, and how folk heroes are born.


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien sings the praise of Witchings: House of Elephants by Claribel A. Ortega.

  • Lucy had a lot of fun at Gem State Comic Con.


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 53 - Eldest: Hrothgar's Gift28 May 202500:47:20

Hey, where’s Tornac?


Darien and Lucy refuse to let the episode change POVs by sticking to delight in the events of Eldest chapter 10, “Hrothgar’s Gift.”


Talking points include once again wishing Dragon Riders grew to look that their dragons over time, Eragon belonging to all the races of Alagaësia, trying to figure out where Murtagh’s beloved horse went, Eragon’s relationship to his trauma, and Eragon once again facing an uncertain future. 


Sparks of Inspiration


Towards the end of the episode, Cache the dog got very cross about some folks walking past the house. We’ve attempted to remove the barking from the background to the best of our abilities. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Help Lucy meet Toothless in Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe by supporting the show on Patreon:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

The Dragons' Keep Unlocked: Anne McCaffrey's Dragonflight14 May 202501:52:38

Life happened and we didn't have the chance to record, so this week we're giving all listeners a sneak peak into The Dragons' Keep, our bonus feed for Patrons!

For our very first bonus episode, it was only fitting we discuss a piece of foundational dragon text: The Chronicles of Pern.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider supporting the show and joining The Dragons' Keep at https://www.patreon.com/EABA

Full spoilers for Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey

Content Warning: This episode contains mention of and conversations about sexual assault, domestic violence, and 1960s internalized misogyny.


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 52 - Eldest: Fealty & A Sorceress, a Snake, and a Scroll30 Apr 202501:14:37

We're all doomed!!


Lucy and Darien delight in the events of Eldest chapter 8, “Fealty” and chapter 9, “A Sorceress, a Snake, and a Scroll.”


Talking points include Lucy being a Pisces, acknowledging how long ten minutes really feels like when cheering, speculating on Jörmundur's true motives and nature, just a hot lady shooting her shot, road trip plans, the return of the best character in the series, and the definition of “an appropriate pause.” 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien has a Spark of Inspi-Geode.

  • Lucy crafted another short narrative piece!


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Feel like crying? Here are those cowboy funeral poems recommended by listener, Curtis Moore:

https://youtu.be/_OOz3zzYVeM?si=bxCRCouZADAaYZZk

https://youtu.be/FKThG9IjDwg?si=f-0z-pWaUar0rfzU


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! Enjoy recent episode about D-War at ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 51 - Eldest: Saphira’s Promise & Requiem (w/ Francesca McMahon)16 Apr 202501:04:48

This podcast has guests?!


Darien (she/they) and Lucy (she/her) are joined by a special guest Francesca McMahon (any) for Eldest chapter 6, “Saphira’s Promise,” and chapter 7, “Requiem.” 


Talking points include making a guest do the chapter summaries, Saphira’s unexpected remorse, the dwarves’ deepening respect for Saphira, speculation on the symbolism behind death rituals, giving Paolini props for knowing how to end a chapter strong, how Nasuada song provides insight into her backstory, and a very unhappy Cache dog barking indignantly in the background cause he had to be in his kennel during recording (sorry). 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy has a Geode this week, breaking out of her writer’s block and creating a new short story about The Deep. 

  • Fran sings the praises of Power Rangers (2017) (It’s actually great, y’all.)

  • Darien is inspired by all of her amazing friends, for real. 


Get More Fran!!

Check out their books at https://francescamcmahon.com/publication

Listen to their podcast at https://www.instagram.com/bestdamcamppod/

Follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/adoseoffran/


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! Enjoy recent episode about D-War at ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 50 - Eldest: Roran & The Hunted Hunters04 Apr 202501:11:11

A new point of view character?!


Lucy and Darien practice some political intrigue in Eldest chapter 3, “Roran,” and chapter 4, “The Hunted Hunters.”


Talking points include a sincere wondering if anyone “gets” the name of the podcast, analyzing why these chapters are seemingly “boring” compared to others, the value of social norms in a fantasy narrative, Katrina being great, how people deserve to worry about normal, everyday kerfuffles, an imbalanced loneliness between cousins, and Roran busting out the SAT words.


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy and Darien are thrilled to discuss Sara Raach’s Go Luck Yourself.


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! Enjoy recent episode about D-War at ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



Cover art by Luana Pastor



No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 49 - Eldest: The Council of Elders & Truth Among Friends19 Mar 202500:53:38

Never underestimate Nasuada.


Lucy and Darien practice some political intrigue in Eldest chapter 2, “The Council of Elders,” and chapter 3, “Truth Among Friends.” 


Talking points include how, even though Murtagh dies at the start of Eldest, Paolini wrote a whole prequel book about him and a red dragon, Lucy’s feelings about Eragon attempting to scry Murtagh using a tear, the worst time to deal with chronic pain, the best(?) place to store a dagger, Nasuada being incredible, and Arya subtle strategies to keep Eragon at a distance. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien reflects on the value of being comfortable in your creative space.

  • Lucy enjoys rereading John Flanagan’s Ranger’s Apprentice series. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! Enjoy recent episodes about The Reluctant Dragon (1941) and Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons⁠

https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 48 - Eldest: A Twin Disaster05 Mar 202500:51:44

What a way to start this book…


Darien and Lucy unpack the unexpected trauma that is Eldest chapter 1, “A Twin Disaster.” 


Talking points include Paolini's recontextualization of previous events in order to prioritize new themes, being told about and not shown some pretty important plot points, compelling evidence for Eragon having no sense of smell, a totally spoiler-free observation of the chapter title, and the ways this heavy chapter sets the tone for the rest of the book.


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy combats seasonal depression with the mobile game DragonVale!

  • Darien pretends to be an enigmatic magical girl in her new Girl by Moonlight campaign 🌙


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! Enjoy recent episodes about The Reluctant Dragon (1941) and Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


Cover art by Luana Pastor


No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 47 - Eragon Mail Bag Episode!!08 Jan 202501:15:16

Y'all Showed Up 💛💜


Let's celebrate finishing Eragon by emptying out the mail bag! Thank you dear listeners for so many wonderful, thoughtful comments and emails!!


Talking points include really digging into the Shade backstory and how it can mirror Eragon's experiences, relitigating the “Who Should Have Taken Off Saphira's Armor?” Case, taking care not to boil down the worth of a human being to their ability to reproduce, Eragon being absent in the host’s Top Three Favorite Characters lists, starting the Roran Hype Tour, an unexpected detour into Twilight lore and head canons, and Darien getting (rightfully) called out for not consistently including the podcast email in the show notes. 


Here's that deep Twilight lore account Darien mentioned in this episode: https://www.instagram.com/sarahelizabeth_talks?igsh=MWlhdnJoeW5sczZmcw==


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Our fabulous listeners!!! 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com (Here it is, Owen!!)


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 46 - Eragon: Battle Under Farthen Dur & The Mourning Sage 18 Dec 202401:05:47

We did it!


Lucy and Darien wrap the first book in The Inheritance Cycle with Eragon chapter 58, “Battle Under Farthen Dur,” and chapter 59, “The Mourning Sage.” 


Talking points include the Urgals still be labeled as monsters, Hrothgar’s daring fashion statement, Angela’s incredible entrance on the battlefield, pondering why exactly Eragon when off alone while Arya took the armor off Saphira, an epic fight scene, a somewhat oddly placed tragic backstory reveal, interrogating Eragon’s reaction to his new scar, and looking to future adventures. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy and Darien share the joy of finishing Eragon and making a podcast together. 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠⁠@EragonPod⁠⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com


Check out this AMAZING art discussed in the episode https://www.instagram.com/p/DC43uhnSvGj/?igsh=aGM2cm54NWs1Znk=


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA

 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 45 - Eragon: The Shadows Lengthen11 Dec 202400:53:20

Antici…


Darien and Lucy get ready for battle in Eragon chapter 57, “The Shadows Lengthen.” 


Talking points include an exciting new way for Eragon to wake up in a chapter, Saphira’s daring new fashion statement, Eragon praising Murtaugh for being “merciless” in situations he approves of, building tension for the coming battle, Arya being unable to shut down this kid who keeps hitting on her, and things getting wyrd. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien is enjoying the amazing Discworld series by Terry Pratchett

  • Lucy shouts out amazing DM, (and friend of the show) Dalton! 


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your thoughts about Eragon with us on Instagram ⁠@EragonPod⁠ or send an email to eragonpod@gmail.com


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! ⁠https://www.patreon.com/EABA



…pation



 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 44 - Eragon: Arya's Test04 Dec 202401:19:38

You don’t want to fail this test. 


Lucy and Darien need Eragon to get a job and leave her alone in Eragon chapter 56, “Arya’s Test.” 


Talking points include the Twins not shaking the suspicious allegations, pentagrams being just for show, majestic elven Naruto-running, interrogating why Eragon’s pining for Arya is so irritating to the hosts, a weirdly placed piece of foreshadowing, and Paolini’s habit of elevating certain female characters by tearing other women down. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy and Darien talk about the delightful and unexpected complex The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raach


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your Geodes with us on Instagram ⁠@EragonPod⁠ 


Listen to our bonus episode about Scooby Doo and the Ghoul School on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt.

Ep. 43 - Eragon: Hall of the Mountain King13 Nov 202401:03:29

Someones are very suspicious…

Darien and Lucy choose joy in Eragon chapter 55, “Hall of the Mountain King.” 

Talking points include some excellent architecture, tidbits of dwarf lore, these twins being too damn suspicious, excitement over a new cool character, troubling implications about women implied by specific word choices, and Saphira and Solembum being Magical Creature Friend Goals.


We invite all our listeners to share their examples of joyful, radical defiance with us on Instagram @EragonPod 


Share your thoughts on Eragon as a whole book or your predictions for the future by emailing us at eragonpod@gmail.com


Listen to our bonus episode about Netflix’s Damsel on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 42 - Eragon: Bless the Child, Argetlam & Mandrake Root and Newt's Tongue30 Oct 202401:02:45

Witches, rejoice!


Lucy and Darien are sure this won't come back to haunt us later in Eragon chapter 53, “Bless the Child, Argetlam” and chapter 54, “Mandrake Root and Newt's Tongue."


Talking points include Eragon having a chance to chill, Eragon passing Orik’s vibe check, Orik passing Saphira’s vibe check, Darien short but hard Will Not Eat list, the daily realities of what it means to be a Dragon Rider, using the audio book to cheat at reading the Ancient Language out loud, and Angela just being the best. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien gets into spooky season with Hellaween by Moss Lawton.
  • Lucy has some spoons back as her day job lightens up.


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your Geodes with us on Instagram @EragonPod 


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 41 - Eragon: The Glory of Tronjheim & Ajihad16 Oct 202401:14:18

Ajihad is one cool dude. 


Darien and Lucy get some answers in Eragon chapter 51, “The Glory of Tronjheim,” and chapter 52, “Ajihad.”


NOTE: In this episode, Darien draws incorrect conclusions about the inspiration of that city name Tronjheim. Listeners have since informed us that the name is a reference to a real world city in Norway! How cool!!


Talking points include Darien’s steadfast refusal correctly pronounce the name of the dwarven city, how cool Ajihad is, how very suspicious these creepy nameless twins are, mixing up the plot of the wedding episode of Monk with the plot of the wedding episode of Sherlock, avoiding [blank] as default when writing character descriptions, referencing the map, a brief AU where Arya successfully sent Saphira’s egg to Brom, filling in the details of Brom’s mysterious conversation 500 pages later, and figuring who does or doesn’t like Eragon. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Lucy celebrates starting her own book club!
  • Darien shouts out the frightening and fabulous Your Lonely Nights Are Over by Adam Sass.


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your Geodes with us on Instagram @EragonPod 


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

Ep. 40 - Eragon: Hunting for Answers02 Oct 202401:08:43

This bald man sucks.


Lucy and Darien have some OPINIONS in Eragon chapter 50, “Hunting for Answers.”


Talking points include a crucial need for italics, being right about disliking this bald guy, the excellent word choice that is “courier,” being right about liking our new dwarf friend, Lucy's impeccable memory of lines from the text, tantalizing lore drop about Darien and Lucy's time in an cosplay K-pop dance group, Eragon and Saphira demonstrating they do trust Murtagh, and Murtagh's Tragic Backstory ™.


Content Warning: This episode contains mention of torture, though does not go into more detail than what was outlined in the chapter being discussed. 


Sparks of Inspiration

  • Darien considers the words of T.J. Klune and the importance of being the Anti-J.K. Rowling.
  • Lucy restarts her writing habit after a thrilling DnD campaign finale.


Share your Sparks of Inspiration or your Geodes with us on Instagram @EragonPod 


Get more Eragon and Back Again on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/EABA


 

 

Cover art by Luana Pastor 

 

No portion of this episode may be used for AI training purposes or to create derivative works without express written permission from the creators and co-hosts Lucy Hart and Darien Smartt. 

© My Podcast Data · Independent project · Data from Apple & Spotify