Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Justice in chapter twenty-nine of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we are joined by Vanessa's dear friend Amanda , who shares an opening story about a rediscovered document from her childhood. Casper and Vanessa discuss Neville's glow up, Ginny's jealousy, and the transformation of Hogwarts under the Carrow regime. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is punishment a necessary part of justice? Thanks to Destinee for this week’s v...
Dec 10, 2020•51 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Fate in chapter twenty-eight of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the similarities and differences between Albus and Aberforth Dumbledore and how nice it must be for the trio to have and adult to keep them safe. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Are we fated to be who we are? Thanks to Laura for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 29, The Lost Diadem, through the theme of Justice. --...
Dec 03, 2020•41 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Loneliness in chapter twenty-seven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Voldemort's relationship with Nagini, the freedom of the Gringott's dragon, and how to make friends in an isolating age. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What's the difference between loneliness and solitude? Thanks to Rebecca for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 28, The Missing Mirror, through the theme of F...
Nov 26, 2020•42 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Time in chapter twenty-six of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss how hard it must be for Hermione to look like Bellatrix, the dragon in the belly of Gringotts, and the many parallels in this chapter with the Triwizard Tournament. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What does it mean to ‘heal’ from trauma and is it possible? Thanks to Jaxn for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 27, The ...
Nov 19, 2020•51 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Doubt in chapter twenty-five of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we appreciate Ron's role in the trio, debate the effectiveness of eye contact, and continue to grapple with what this book is trying to say about Goblins. Throughout the episode we consider the question: When do we know that our doubts are legitimate vs. just holding us back? Thanks to Maryse for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 26, Gringott...
Nov 12, 2020•35 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of mystery in chapter twenty-four of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we are joined by the brilliant Dr. Hannah McGregor, co-host of the podcast Witch, Please, who shares an opening story about her relationship with books. Casper and Vanessa discuss Dobby’s funeral, the secrets of wand lore, and the man who Harry has become over the course of these books. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What are eulogies for? Thanks to Vanessa ...
Nov 05, 2020•52 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Legacy in chapter twenty-three of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the ambivalence of Draco Malfoy, the divinity of Luna Lovegood, and the sexiness of Ron Weasley. Throughout the episode we consider the question: where can we look to find the legacies in our lives? Thanks to Abigail for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be reading Chapter 24, The Wandmaker, through the theme of Mystery. -- It’s two sickles to join...
Oct 29, 2020•43 min
This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by cultural critic Jolie Doggett to discuss representation, appearance, and body positivity in Book 7. Together, they explore how we conceptualize “good” and “bad” bodies, and how those stereotypes show up in the text. Thanks to Destiny, Sophie, Skyler, and Marcella for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 23, Malfoy Manor, through the theme of Legacy. -- It’s only two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only t...
Oct 22, 2020•49 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Knowledge in chapter twenty-two of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron's new-found maturity, Harry's newest obsession, and why Hermione doesn't believe in the Hallows. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we move from knowledge to belief? Thanks to Vickela for this week's voicemail! Next week we'll be doing an Owl Post episode with Jolie Doggett where we discuss beauty and representation in Book 7. ...
Oct 15, 2020•45 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Dreams in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Luna’s beautiful mural of friends, Hermione’s small preparations for emergency situations, and whether we forgive Xenophilius for betraying the trio. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we continue to dream of a better world during seemingly hopeless times? Thanks to Weston for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter ...
Oct 08, 2020•40 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Reality in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss a lot of things about Ron! We discuss Ron's separation from the trio, the reasons he didn't go back to the Burrow, and his attempts to get Hermione back. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we make room for subjectivity without degrading the importance of facts? Thanks to Angela for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapte...
Oct 01, 2020•39 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Courage in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Hermione’s grief after Ron leaves, Ron’s courage in coming back, and the importance of mentorship. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do you hold space for the vulnerability and uncomfortableness of courage? Thanks to Odelya for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapter 20, Xenophilius Lovegood, through the theme of Realit...
Sep 24, 2020•38 min
Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Youth in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Dumbledore’s relationship with Grindelwald, Rita Skeeter’s offensive nicknames for people, and the parallels to the Holocaust in this chapter. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How do we allow people to change and also hold them accountable for their previous actions? Thanks to Anisa for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re be reading Chapt...
Sep 17, 2020•43 min
Casper and Matt Potts explore the theme of Faith in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss singing as a sacred practice, the locket as a metaphor for trauma, and the sign in front of Potter Cottage. Throughout the episode we consider the question: How can we build faith in each other rather than in facts? Thanks to Bronwyn for this week's voicemail! Next week Vanessa’s back and we’ll be reading Chapter 18, The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledor...
Sep 10, 2020•48 min
CW: Because of the plot of this chapter, Vanessa and Casper spend a lot of time talking about grief, death, and trauma. The chapter includes some suicidal ideation and Casper and Vanessa very briefly touch on that as well. Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Peace in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Harry’s visit to Lily and James’ graves, why Dumbledore is so frustrating, and the joy (and disappointment) of Christmas. Throughout the episode...
Sep 03, 2020•42 min
In honor of Hogwarts day, September 1st, we present to you the first day of class you’ve always dreamed of from your two favorite lady scholars: Witch, Please | Ep. 1, The Chosen One. We at Not Sorry Productions are so proud to be working with Hannah and Marcelle of Witch, Please. We were huge fans of the first run of their podcast, and can't wait to listen to the newest season! Their first episode goes back to the very beginning–to the concept of origin stories themselves–to explore how a...
Sep 01, 2020•1 hr 3 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Ownership in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Muggle/Goblin relations, the Sword of Gryffindor, and of course, the big fight between Harry and Ron. Throughout the episode we consider the question: What are things we can never own? Thanks to Cindy for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading Chapter 16, Godric’s Hollow, through the theme of Peace. -- It’s two sickles to join S.P.E.W., and only...
Aug 27, 2020•44 min
Vanessa offers an update on plans for Harry Potter and the Sacred Text and Not Sorry Productions in general. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Aug 24, 2020•6 min
This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by journalist Lauren Sandler to discuss her book This is All I Got: A New Mother’s Search for Home , and what it teaches us about homelessness in America. Together, they explore how Harry, Ron, and Hermione are feeling the pressures of housing insecurity in the seventh book, and how to think about Ron leaving. Thanks to Jessica, Laura, Thomas, Rebecca, and Hannah for their beautiful voicemail contributions. Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 15...
Aug 20, 2020•46 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Belonging in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the shifting dynamics of the trio as they find themselves far from home, find compassion for Ron as he navigates feelings of isolation when voicing beliefs that differ from those of his friends, and recognize Hermione's strength as someone who can create the conditions of safety and belonging for those around her. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Whe...
Aug 13, 2020•46 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Arrogance in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss how Umbridge has changed since we last saw her, Harry’s rash decision to try and free some Muggle-Borns, and why Hermione has trouble casting a Patronus. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Does it count as arrogance if you’re actually right? Thanks to Chelsea for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be reading Chapter 14, The Thief, through the theme...
Aug 07, 2020•40 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Truth in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the new ministry statue, the fate of poor Mafalda Hopkirk, and whether or not Ron is useless. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we hold multiple truths at the same time? Thanks to Danielle for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be running our first ever re-run episode. We'll be revisiting our episode on Chapter 10 of Book 1, through the theme of...
Jul 23, 2020•37 min
Today’s owl post episode is in response to J.K. Rowling’s recent and vehement transphobia. We’re joined by our friend Jackson Bird to talk about why it’s important to condemn Rowling, and what we’re thinking about in terms of the future of this podcast. We are so grateful to the dozens of trans and non-binary people who sent in voicemails for this episode. Thanks to Alicia, Ariel, Cody, Drew, and Lin for the beautiful contributions you can hear in this episode. You can find a pla...
Jul 16, 2020•55 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Normalcy in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the role of pain in Harry’s life, the changes being made at the Ministry, and why Lupin can’t come hunt horcruxes. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we notice what’s become normal, but needs to be changed? Thanks to Ava for this week's voicemail! Next week we’ll be doing an Owl Post episode with special guest Jackson Bird on the topic of J.K. Rowl...
Jul 09, 2020•43 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Neglect in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Sirius' childhood bedroom, the lack of stories that Harry has about his parents, and Harry's kindness towards Kreacher. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we take time for ourselves without neglecting the things that are important to us? Thanks to Culver for this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eleven, The Bribe, through the theme of ...
Jul 02, 2020•37 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Relief in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss Ron’s moving concern for his family, Harry’s persistant need to self-isolate, and how Hermione’s marginalized identity leads to her great foresight. Throughout the episode we consider the question: Is relief even possible in such a broken and complicated world? Thanks to Shannon who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter ten, Kreacher’s Tale, throug...
Jun 25, 2020•38 min
Hi all, Casper here. There are moments in life when you look around and wonder at the marvel of it all. Today my book is published - and it would never have happened without YOU, our dear listeners. Thank you for traveling with us through the books, for exploring new spiritual practices together, and for opening my heart and mind with your wisdom and encouragement. In many ways, I wrote this book for you. May it be a blessing in your life as it has been in mine! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pr...
Jun 23, 2020•52 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Independence in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week Vanessa shares a cautionary tale of Crystal Light and we discuss the magic of wizard wedding, Luna’s relationship with her father, and Elphias Doge’s love for Dumbledore. Throughout the episode we consider the question: what do we risk by giving up our independence? Thanks to Selia who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter nine, A Place to Hide, throug...
Jun 18, 2020•47 min
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Identity in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. This week we discuss the many gifts in this chapter: Harry’s birthday gifts, what Dumbledore leaves the trio in his will, and the gift of a new haircut. Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we escape who we used to be? Thanks to the anonymous listener who sent in this week's voicemail! Next week we’re reading chapter eight, The Wedding, through the theme of Independence. ...
Jun 11, 2020•49 min
We’ve decided not to release an episode of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text today. Instead we have an episode of #WizardTeam from the brilliant women over at Black Girls Create. #WizardTeam is a Harry Potter podcast housed under Black Girls Create, a hub for Black creators and critical fandom. The hosts Robyn Jordan and Bayana Davis close read and discuss the original Harry Potter series and post-canon from their perspectives as Black women and Potterheads. You can find their work at ...
Jun 04, 2020•2 hr 50 min
