Explore every episode of the podcast Podventures in Odyssey

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Bernard and Joseph, Part 2,” in which we hear the exciting conclusion to the Joseph story. Dreams interpreted and fulfilled, hearts broken and changed, vengeance offered and refused. Typical Bible stuff! Also, sibling antics, and lessons to learn from Potiphar’s wife (primarily, don’t be like her). Be careful out there, everyone. It’s a cow-eat-cow world.

Oh brother(s)! In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Bernard and Joseph, Part 1,” in which Bernard sits Arty down to tell him the first half of the Joseph story from Genesis. Arty, having never heard it before, is a fount of colorful commentary. It’s a fun dramatization with fleshed out characters and great dialogue. Also, our own dream interpretations, a call to elevate the Potiphar numbers, and a natural skit that evolves naturally and naturally fits right in with the Joseph theme. Naturally.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “All’s Well With Boswell,” in which Robyn's first babysitting job turns out to be a catsitting job, and it all goes downhill from there. A broken figurine, a spilled food bag, an escaped cat, an accidental trip to Connellsville, a fortuitous return... yet it manages to be one of our least favorite episodes of all time!Also, soap opera analysis, too many ethics questions to choose from, and 10,000 different rewrites.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Return to the Bible Room,” in which Jack and Lucy shirk their church clean-up day duties to explore the Bible Room at Whit’s End. Mr. Whitaker takes the opportunity to tell them the story of Jonah. Also, Bible Alexa, imaginary characters gaining sentience, and why we run from God. Hey everyone, remember Jimma and Donny? How about Lack and Jucy?

CW: Mention of Assyrian torture and Cannanite human sacrifice

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Case of the Secret Room, Part 2,” in which Whit and a small child crack the case and solve the crime! Also, the importance of evidence, commodified cultural memorabilia, dramatic scene introductions, and Whit’s utter lack of danger sense.

You know, it’s hard to imagine all of this happening in Odyssey.

CW: spooky, scary skeletons, discussion of death, discussion of police

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Case of the Secret Room, Part 1,” in which Whit and a small child are on the case! Also, Whit is pro-library, anti-TV.

CW: spooky, scary skeletons, discussion of death and body decomposition, scary music stings

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Camp What-A-Nut, Part 2,” in which each camp narrative finds its resolution, some more satisfying than others. Spoilers: everyone lives! Also, animal facts, camp crushes, and hard-hitting discussion questions. *Apologies for minor audio skipping-recording bug*

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Camp What-A-Nut, Part 1,” in which Donnie McCoy documents a week full of classic summer camp antics: crushes, pranks, wildlife encounters, and more. Also, translation irritations, sharing feelings, playacting mortal peril, and a new podcast tradition is born. Guess what: we figured out what State Odyssey is in. Wake up sheeple!

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Kid’s Radio”, in which Brad Dillard learns that it takes a huge commitment to turn his dream of running a radio station “by kids, for kids” into a reality, but not everyone is willing to put in the work. Also, Whit doing his good Mr. Whittaker-ing, pulled strings in Washington, and Whit’s excellent pitch for a radio show. Throw the switch, Sherman!

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “V.B.S. Blues” in which Whit hears the laments of Ned Lewis, a discouraged youth leader who spent the last week of V.B.S. wrangling a trio of troublemakers bent on ruining his play about the fiery furnace. Whit, of course, has another perspective on the situation. Also, Proto-Eugene, V.A.A., biblical literacy, fiery furnaces, and OT faves.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Stormy Weather”, in which Connie experiences some of the rougher weather Odyssey has to offer and finds out how her beloved boss handles himself in a crisis. Stormy weather, And I just can’t get my poor self together, Oh, I'm weary all of the time.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Day Independence Came,” in which Irwin Springer, our resident Revolutionary War enthusiast, experiences the founding of America firsthand! Well, firsthand-ish. Also, not-so confusing phrases, America through America’s eyes, crossfit/horsefit, vehicular bingo, and Deism.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Family Vacation, Part 2,” in which Jimmy concludes his narrative about the Barclay family misadventure in the town of Hopwood and Donna learns a lesson about boredom. Also, dark o’clock in the morning, living the Bible with farm animals, and healthy communities. Do you have a fun family time childhood memory?

We've got two updates for you! (Don't worry, it's not a hiatus announcement.)

First, we're going to be guests on another Adventures in Odyssey podcast, called Your Fellow Odyssians! Second, Emilee is going to the Odyssey One Grand Show event, and wants to know what your questions are for the cast, as they will be pooling questions from the audience. Polls are very limited, so if you have specific question ideas, please email us at podventuresinodyssey@gmail.com.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Family Vacation, Part 1,” in which Jimmy recounts the Barclay family’s great summer vacation. Also, classic comedy dads, non-diagetic Reveley, and boys vs. girls. If there’s one thing we learned this episode, it’s that children bickering is all of us.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “A Change of Hart,” in which Freddie Hart has to decide between the quirky things he loves and the acceptance of his peers. But the ultimate question is, whose approval should he really be seeking? Also, science by ear, nerd things, and boys learning masculinity.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Recollections,” in which Connie learns from Tom about Whit’s wife Jenny and how Whit’s End came to be. (I’m not crying, you’re crying.) Also, villain-of-the-week Philip Glossman and the importance of cultural context. Next episode is the last one of this album. Get hyped!

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “A Member of the Family, Part 2,” in which the Whitaker family drama continues, now pivoting from Whit’s grandson Monty to Whit’s daughter Jana. Also, conflict patterns, corporal punishment, and parent/child friendship. We wish we could say it’s all lighter than it sounds.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “A Member of the Family, Part 1,” in which Whit’s entitled grandson Monty visits Odyssey and gets a serious attitude check. Also, brownie tactics, watching other people’s kids, and moral universalism. Where is Jennifer? And more importantly, WHO IS JIMMY?

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Tangled Web”, in which Connie learns from Jeremy how a lie can haunt you for the rest of your life. Also, 50 short stories, oatmeal quotas, comedic interludes, and buying your mom some flowers. This one’s for all you non-relisteners.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Nothing to Fear,” in which little Shirley Zigler learns how to cope with her myriad fears in the midst of a prank gone wrong. Also, note taking, rodent ranking, night vacuuming, and panic attacks. Have we got a pod for you!

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Promises, Promises,” in which Connie bites off more than she can chew and learns about the meaning of sin nature. Also, tiny mathletes, postmodernist nihilism, and Chris, bowling.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Day After Christmas,” in which Whit takes Annie McNeal on an eye-opening trip to the other side of the tracks. Also, racism in America, cat-like trust, and the inherent Christianity of owning up to the past.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Gifts for Madge & Guy,” in which Whit relates a classic Christmas tale, with a Golden Era radio-style twist. Also, good voice acting, 80s gender humor, and a touching little melody.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode "The Winning Edge," in which the Stingrays find a new coach in Bart Rathbone. What could possibly go wrong? Tracy and Robyn, best friends turned rivals, face off against one another in the girl's softball league, one the star pitcher and the other the star hitter. However, Tracy may have gotten a little too carried away with her sense of competition. Also, Eau de Bart, compliment toast, and winning the trolley problem.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Connie Comes to Town,” in which Whit hires a new employee who has no interest in Odyssey or Jesus… yet. Also, biblical mountains, narrative messiness, and emotional labor.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “The Life of the Party,” in which Craig Moorhead learns that jokes alone do not lasting friendships make. Also, fruit puns, parental problems, and an 80s skateboarding montage of angst.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Whit’s Flop,” in which klutzy Davey Holcomb learns to overcome his fear of failure by following Whit’s example. Also, plumbing mishaps, incongruous character moments, and lessons in persistence.

In this podventure, we introduce ourselves and the purpose of the show. Also, our histories with the show, miscellaneous Odyssey praise, and meta discussions about podcasting.

Author's Note: At time of recording, no other podcasts were doing our concept, which was part of the impetus for beginning this podcast. At time of publication, however, the lovely show Return to Odyssey had been available for awhile. They are also going through Odyssey episode-by-episode from the very beginning. So if you like our podcast, go check them out! And if you found us after listening to them, welcome!

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Castles and Cauldrons, Part 2,” in which Jimmy’s cousin Len continues to drag Jimmy down the dark path of dubiousness that is their shared fantasy “game.” Will Jimmy give up his scruples in order to appease his abusive cousin? Does Len have the demonic power to control cats? Will they summon a literal demon together using a blood ritual in the woods? Are these questions you ever thought you would have to ask yourself about an episode of Adventures in Odyssey? Tune in to find out! Also, RPG escapades, setting boundaries, and some sincere life affirmations.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Castles and Cauldrons, Part 1,” in which Jimmy’s cousin Len introduces Jimmy to the wonderful(?) world of Castles and Cauldrons, a game(?) loosely based on an idea of a concept of a rumor of what Dungeons and Dragons might be like in an alternate universe. (We’ll let the inaccuracies go eventually.) Len insists it’s just a game, but Whit senses that spiritual warfare is afoot as Len constantly pushes Jimmy beyond his comfort zone and into darker and more uncomfortable imaginative territory. Also, a little education on the subject of actual TTRPGs (Table Top Role-Playing Games), discussions of cults, bullying, nerd culture, and our own lengthy experiences with roleplaying games.

Content Warning: Discussions of child trafficking and abuse

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Missing Person,” in which Rodney Rathbone runs away from home, Isaac learns a lesson about loving your enemies, and we ask why this episode isn’t more entertaining. What, did you think this was going to be a prodigal son allegory? Incorrect.

Also, all bad guys have R names and all good guys have J names, the goody two-shoes parade, Isaac the counselor, and self-aware Rodney.

Alternate Episode Title: Son Leave, Son Come Back

Origin of Ollie Ollie Oxen Free: https://www.supsalv.org/what-does-ollie-ollie-oxen-free-mean/

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Pranks for the Memories,” in which Odyssey is stricken by a rash of pranks. Who should be behind it but the self declared Prankster King, Curt Stevens. Curt boasts that he is above retaliation for his practical jokes. Ah, but heavy is the head that wears the prankster crown. Like many famous kings before him, Curt descends into paranoia, accepts wisdom from dubious advisors, and becomes the author of his own demise. Whit and Tom are here. Tar and feathers are involved. Also, the slowest roll a punchline can have, a discussion of risk-reward re: pranking strangers, and the hardest left turn in Discussion Question history.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode "An Act of Mercy," in which Rodney Rathbone reenacts the parable of the unmerciful servant from Matthew 18. While Rodney receives mercy for stealing apples from Tom Riley's farm, he shows no mercy to Pete, a child who owes him $2 in lunch money. But don't worry, Tom, Bart, and Officer O'Ryan have a scheme to set him straight. Also, kid/borrowing cultures, the long arm of the law, and how to start your very own detective business.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Suspicious Minds,” in which $100 mysteriously goes missing from the Whit’s End cash register. Connie and Eugene initially join forces to catch the culprit, but soon their suspicions turn toward one another. Can Whit convince them to stop acting like Looney Tunes characters before someone electrocutes someone with a car battery? Is Bernard having the time of his life? The answers are no and yes. Also, tonal inconsistency, further thoughts before final thoughts, and the real question: why didn’t this episode come before Applesauce?

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Curious, Isn’t It?,” in which Esther and Ben overhear a shocking conversation between Whit and a mystery woman. As Esther’s wild speculations spiral out of control, the rest of the town of Odyssey gets sucked into the whirlpool of her conjecture. Also, monkey suits, the idiot ballpit, and playing the part of the Fool.

Editor’s Note: Apologies for the glitches! Some of the audio near the beginning got corrupted during recording.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Not One of Us,” in which Lucy learns the meaning of prejudice and bigotry firsthand so she can finish her article for the Odyssey Owl. Also, equal opportunity offenders, a horrible Brigadoon, dismissal, distrust, disdain, disregard, and a selpurcless man to the rescue. If there’s one thing we learned this episode, it’s that anyone can be exploited by mining barons.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “First Love,” in which Connie meets the high school baseball star Jeff Lewis. They hit it off and start spending a lot of time together. But alas, Jeff is *gasp* not a Christian! How long can Connie convince herself that “missionary dating” is a good idea? We’ll find out in today’s Podventure in Odyssey! Also, the “not like other girls” trope, how to explain why Christians should date other Christians, and two important questions: Which Odyssey character are you, and what kind of plant? Potato?

In this podventure, we discuss the episode "A...is for Attitude," in which we take a tour of Connie's follies after she dishes out some misguided advice about the benefits of a positive attitude. Also, personal trainer Connie, mortal peril, and a discussion of the way women are taught the consequences of their actions.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Bad Luck,” in which Robyn receives a chain letter asking for a dollar and promising grave consequences if refused. Believing the letter wholeheartedly, Jessie tries to persuade Robyn to comply. When she does not, the two friends spend the rest of the episode debating whether Robyn’s run-of-the-mill misfortunes are the cause of supernatural bad luck, or just a normal part of life. Also, the invention of a fun new mail-related game, a Christianese word study, and an open invitation to confess (podfess?) at our confessional (i.e. podfessional).

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “By Any Other Name,” in which Kurt Stevens, with the help of Lucy’s campaign management skills, runs for class rep so he can get a passing grade in social studies. Meanwhile, the town of Odyssey comes face-to-face with Phil Phillips, who is here to help those struggling small businesses rebrand—for a nominal fee, of course. Also, the Raw Metal Power Push Starcade, Lucy’s weakness to compliments, and the introduction of a very fun main cast member.

Welcome to another Album Art Review, in which we discuss the original cover art on the album we just finished. In this review, we cover art from many episodes in this album, but mostly Isaac the Coureagous and The Very Best of Friends. Once again, we got a couple bonus episodes from the Odyssey app that were not present in the original physical album. You can follow along with photos on our reddit as we discuss the classic children’s story book style art, whether we’re guessing the depicted characters correctly, and how often gym class features in this album.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Thanksgiving At Home,” in which Jimmy and Donna take it upon themselves to cook Thanksgiving dinner while their parents languish in bed with the flu. WhAt cOuLd gO wRoNg?? A lot, and yet, at the same time, not very much. Also, hyperspecific Bible advice, the origin of the First Thanksgiving myth, and the invention of a brand new, much-needed holiday.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode "One Bad Apple," in which some poisoned apples send Tom, Whit, and Curt on an after hours sleuthing mission to Edgebiter's upstream Odyssey office. Also, bad security guards, bureaucracy montages, individual vs. collective responsibility, and Tom as the Mandalorian.

Here are further resources on some of the topics we covered:

Amazon Deforestation & Carbon Update for 2023 - https://www.maaproject.org/2023/amazon-deforestation-carbon/

Recovery of the Ozone Layer - https://www.npr.org/2023/01/10/1147977166/ozone-layer-recovery-united-nations-report

Kurzgesagt video which discusses the carbon footprint - https://youtu.be/yiw6_JakZFc?si=sB02S5oYJC8zRMg5

Hank Green discusses Geo Engineering wtih Miriam (zentouro) and Adam (climateadam) - https://youtu.be/Gs-ed1CEokc?si=A5o47UY21QApCU18

The Sunday Story: The Quickening - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sunday-story-the-quickening/id1222114325?i=1000624978869

XKCD graphic of global warming trends over time - https://xkcd.com/1732/

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Isaac the Courageous,” in which Isaac tries to join…the Bones of Rath??? That’s right, Rodney Rathbone has arrived on the cast list! Isaac, continuing to wrestle with his identity, longs to prove himself in the eyes of his peers. And what better way than by subjecting himself to Rodney’s horrible gang initiation rites? Thankfully, Whit is able to provide some insight into the true nature of courage, and you can bet Isaac will have an opportunity to exercise his newfound virtue before the day is done. If you thought “Ice Fishing” would be the episode to feature a crisis on a frozen body of water, you would be mistaken! Also, a cursed ‘ship, Odyssey geography, and unpredictable discussion questions.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Lincoln, Part 2,” in which Jimmy finishes his imagination station adventure, bearing witness to the events which led to the end of the Civil War. Also, sanctioned times for deception, the myth of Robert E Lee, dirty sarsparilla, and tonal whiplash.

We have lots of resources for you this time:

The Atlantic article about the myth of Robert E Lee - https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2017/06/the-myth-of-the-kindly-general-lee/529038/

The Civil War, Part 1: Crash Course US History - https://youtu.be/rY9zHNOjGrs?si=k4H2I283f4XyFUgs

The Civil War, Part 2: Crash Course US History - https://youtu.be/GzTrKccmj_I?si=nb0seOiyj4UkGGIe

Brennan Lee Mulligan Civil War ghost sketch - https://youtu.be/FAZJVkelgcg?si=4NFmkoTmASba9izN

In this podventure, we discuss the episode "Lincoln, Part 1," in which Jimmy is cajoled into taking his first ever Imagination Station adventure through the annals of American History. Jimmy gets dropped into a forest, where he meets 'Abe' and they become fast friends through the time-honored pastime of squirrel hunting. After discovering that his friend Abe is in fact President Lincoln, Jimmy is whisked away on a grand adventure as one of the president's confidantes. Also, the greatness that is Zapazoids, a few suspicious fellows, and an episode cliffhanger that almost, but doesn't quite, hit the mark.

Additional Resources:

Sunn m'Cheaux, Harvard-based Gullah Teacha, can be found at https://www.sunnmcheaux.com/

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Have You No Selpurcs?” in which Curt and Lucy’s bickering over hypothetical ethical dilemmas inspires Whit to create a game on the same theme. The game, “Selpurcs,” is essentially a mediocre scavenger hunt. But by the end, Curt and Lucy know what selpurcs are, and they are, perhaps, better off for it. Alternative titles could have included: Slaroms, Scihtes, and Snoitcnupmocs. Also, a discussion about holding wisdom graciously, and a few ethical conundrums of our own.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Front Page News,” in which we are introduced to Curt Stevens! Curt ropes Oscar into joining the school paper with him in order to skip Phys Ed. For their first assignment, they must interview their intimidating former coach. All goes exactly according to plan and they get away with it. Just kidding. Also, coach insults, a different F bomb, the two types of exercise: cardio and muscle stuff, and how to stand up for what’s right. Gloves come off. Tats is skewered.

In this podventure, we discuss the episode “Scattered Seeds,” in which Connie wants nothing more than to write stories like Whit, but laments that nothing interesting has happened in her life from which she can draw inspiration, unlike Whit, who is a font of endlessly interesting life experiences. Whit sets out to prove otherwise by having Connie recount the tale of her directorial debut. In the end, Connie learns that anything can be a good story, from the right point of view. Also, Eugene sings, literary advice, and Lord of the Rings fan fiction.