I just stumbled upon this podcast and I’m so grateful that I did. These two are fantastic, enthusiastic Tolkien fans and I’m really excited to dive into their breakdown of the Silmarillion.

I have seen the LotR movies many times, and I think personally the Watcher in the Water scene in LotR (not War of the Rohirrim) is perfectly fine. I’m excited for you to keep evering on in 2025! Great is the Fall of Gondolin.

I have listened to many Tolkien-based podcasts over the years and I have to say this one of the best. The chemistry between the co-hosts is great and the content is top-notch. I love their down-to-earth approach to tackling the deeper things of Tolkien and his writings while at the same time keeping the conversation natural and respectful to all listeners.

I was enjoying listening to Carswell and his wife discuss the Silmarillion, a Tolkien work that I feel is woefully unread by many. He obviously has loved the Professor’s work for many years, and she, through him, is discovering these works. Then came episode 6. I honestly think I may know the author of the criticism he received. I could actually hear these exact words in the voice of my erstwhile and occasional friend (whom I shall not name). The response to this unnecessary comment is well measured. I jotted down John’s haiku in response (because it’s clever and actually deep). I’ve gone from enjoying this podcast to looking forward to the next installment. I’m years behind on it (listening to episode six in October 2023), and don’t know if he’s still at it, but I’d like to meet this fellow one day. He sounds like a younger, more confident version of myself. John, if you read this, I’d love to sit and chat with you about books and music.

Longtime LOTR fan and serious Tolkien student. Ready to launch midgrade fantasy series co-developed w 3 grandkids: Narnia spirituality combined w Tolkien epic battles between good and evil. Dipped into a few podcasts and was highly impressed w content and Christian values. I decided to start w 2015 episodes and, inspired by John’s leadership/insights and Greta’s courage/authenticity, have made excellent progress in a week w The Silmarillion, which I previously avoided. Loved Tolkien’s Requiem book! John’s concept of using Beren & Luthien as a “Gateway to the 1st & 2nd Ages” is simply brilliant. I’m also going through the new book of essays about Christopher Tolkien, which is synergistic. Making rapid progress w The Silmarillion thx to John & Greta…and having fun‼️

Love listening to this show. It’s not just a break from the chaos but I’m actually learning ways to remain grounded in the chaos.

This is a great podcast and super informative but John is really rude to his wife. It’s pretty off putting.

I love how you guys mix deep Tolkien knowledge, his storytelling and his deep Catholicism. It adds a great new Dimension to the Tolkien podcast world that isn’t often discussed. Keep up the great work.

The Tolkien Road is helpful in understanding the works and views of Tolkien. I enjoy the Catholic insight on Tolkien’s work as someone who is not Catholic and would never have noticed certain nuances without this podcast’s guidance. Through the struggles of life The Tolkien Road gives me comfort. Thank you for this wonderful podcast.

I’ve only now discovered your podcast and am having a marvelous time going back to follow your explorations into the LORC. I also listened to your #300 episode and was moved and inspired by your candid openness. Dear Tolkien must indeed be watching over you! Do keep up this valuable work! And thank you! I’m playing catch up… (I’m also drawn to the Inklings, to Lewis, and to G.K.C.)

This podcast truly helped me as I read the Silmarillion and I love their dedication to give justice and insight on each major event and chapter. Thanks for all the time they took to make and record this show.

Down to earth and sincere. Absolutely love the podcast and looking forward to more episodes!

As someone who tries to avoid the despair of evil seeping into the corners all around us in the news, I find this podcast a light in the dark. I listen to it in my spare moments and while trying (sometimes in vain) to get my baby to sleep in the late hours of the night. Greta and John’s discussion is both knowledgeable and personable and I love sharing what I learn with my family and friends, not just about middle earth but about how Tolkiens ideas relate to our current lives and navigating weariness. Thank you for your inspiration!

Love the show! John has a lot of great insights and Greta helps with balance to be more conversational for folks that aren’t already in the deep end of the lore. After Rings of Power, I was digging for more second age knowledge. Really enjoyed the akallabeth and mariners wife episodes. I look forward to digging into the Silmarillion for the first time next year, which is a little less intimidating knowing there are chapter-by-chapter read-along episodes (after rereading the hobbit and LOTR, while also following the podcast).

The show really is great and shares a ton of great insight into Tolkien. I went through the 1 star review and they all seem to be butthurt Rings of Power fans who can’t take criticism. Yes, we get it. Peter Jackson took liberties too! But, the difference is Peter Jackson still kept the heart and soul Tolkien intended- Oh and he was actually a good writer/director unlike the two rookies at Amazon. All the rest seem to dislike that Tolkiens Christianity clearly influences Lord of the Rings as admitted by z Tolkien himself(subconscious at first but consciously through revision..Tolkiens own words). Give this show a shot! You won’t be disappointed.

Thanks so much for sharing your love of Tolkien and his works. You both do a great job and I enjoy listening as I go about my work day or working out at the gym.

I could do without all the Christian evangelism. It’s like the co-worker who’s always traps you in conversations about Jesus and invites to church.

John and Greta are a breath of fresh air. Their interplay and verbal jousting are hilarious. I’m sorry to see some people can’t appreciate the great relationship these two enjoy as it is obviously expressed in the casual nature and candid honesty between them. I listen for the extras now as much as for the Tolkien, though Tolkien was what first drew me here, and consider this a premier and rare source of deep conversation, playful banter and even wisdom in an endless ocean of stick-in-the-mud, dry academia that has kept much of the general population from genuinely enjoying these amazing tales in their original form (words on pages). Keep up the great work you guys. You make me laugh, inform my interest in all things Tolkien but the greatest service you all provide, in my estimation is a weaving of the entire work from Silmarillion to Return of the King in a seamless epic saga, showing Tolkien’s line of thought and close to perfect consistency throughout his matchless drama.

Not great. Pretty unstructured. Hosts use 10,000 words when 500 works. First half of every episode is just chatter. If you want just the lore, skip the first half of every episode

First, John and Greta are awesome! Love their interaction on the podcast and how they approach the story, each in their own unique way. I discovered The Tolkien Road back in July after listening to an episode of Pints with Jack where John was giving an interview. Honestly, I was a little skeptical at first but after the first episode, I was hooked! Ever since, I have been listening to episodes from this year like mad trying to catch up. You could say I have been very hobbitish in my consumption of Tolkien these past months 😁 I have been a Tolkien fan for many, many years and am now a fan of the Tolkien Road! Wonderful job ya’ll! Keep up the good work!

I was very disappointed in John’s recent comments about diversity. I respect his passion for Tolkien’s works and I hope he revisits the issue of multiracial casting in a future episode and revises his take. In his July 23rd episode, John argued that Cynthia Addai-Robinson wasn’t the “right choice” for the part of Tar-Míriel in “The Rings of Power” solely because of the color of her skin. John admits he hasn’t watched a full episode of Addai-Robinson’s performance in “The Rings of Power.” He didn’t say anything about her work in “Spartacus,” or “Texas Rising” or “Arrow.” He just saw her skin tone and declared she wasn’t the “right choice.” To judge someone before you’ve even seen their work is the very definition of pre-judging them—prejudice. In the bad old days, racists would argue that Shakespeare’s plays should only be performed by whites. Happily, in recent years, Shakespearean casting has opened up, clearing the way for great actors like Denzel Washington to take on “Macbeth.” Should we return to the bad old days where Shakespeare was whites only? Of course not. Does John want to roll back casting history and stop Marvel from casting a Mexican Namor or DC from casting an Israeli Wonder Woman? That would be crazy and wrong, and deny us Gal Gadot, among other things, who turned in one of the best superhero star turns in recent memory. And I can’t wait to see Tenoch Huerta’s spin on Namor the sub-mariner in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” If multiracial casting is good for Marvel and Shakespeare, why not for Tolkien? Why shouldn’t the part go to the best actor, regardless of race or ethnicity? If John can believe in a world filled with dragons and balrogs, why is it so difficult for him to accept seeing a brown-skinned woman from Númenor (a country that only exists in fiction)? If some people can’t suspend their disbelief when it comes to race, isn’t that their problem and not the problem of a casting department that is simply filling roles with the best actors? I hope John rethinks his take and presents a more insightful view on a future episode.

I have been a Tolkien fan since I first saw Fellowship of the Ring in theaters when I was 10 years old. I read The Hobbit & LOTR books multiple times, and failed to finish The Silmarillion multiple times. I started listening to this show as a companion for my reading through the Silmarillion, and it has helped immensely. John’s knowledge of Tolkien’s world is incredible, and both of them do such a great job of breaking down Tolkien’s work. The way they relate to and share their own experiences just adds to it. I’m so happy I stumbled upon this podcast!

Every episode you crap all over a show that you haven’t seen yet. Maybe give it a chance first? Peter Jackson made some changes to the “legendarium” as well and that seems to have worked out.

This is the first podcast I ever followed and they are amazing. I love the interaction between Greta, who is knowledgeable, and John who is very invested. They are upfront with their eagerness to know more and freely share what they know! If you enjoy talking and don’t subscribe to this you’re missing something!

A wealth of knowledge!!

I’m sorry, I’m really trying to listen to this podcast. I love the idea of it, but there are three things that make it unbearable. 1. This man speaks down to his wife and is so condescending. Sure, keep repeating fancy words from the book If that makes you feel good man, but I hope this woman doesn’t get treated like this regularly. 2. What is with all excess talking? These episodes could be 20-30 minutes of content if they weren’t constantly digressing. He mentioned editing the episodes. Are they edited? 3. As it is now, Greta doesn’t add much to this. This for two reasons: The way John speaks to her/treats her (she can barely feel confident in expressing) and also she doesn’t seem like she knows much about Tolkien overall. That’s fine, but if you’re on a podcast about the Silmarillion, at least be up to date with LOTR to avoid all the basic recapping about basic points like Lorien or the balrog in Moria. I see I’m no alone based on other comments. I kept thinking, am I being too judgmental ? No! He speaks down to his wife and it’s inappropriate.

The prime series just isn’t going to work. Loose and Inaccurate depictions of elves and dwarves, hobbits in the 2nd age. (No) Wizards in the 2nd age (no) compression of historic time lines. Lack of humility to serve the source material will be it’s downfall. The reason it’s beloved is because of the spirit of the man. Don't fall for the modernity.

Being extremely dyslexic and adhd I bought the audio book of the silmarilion. it had no Charts or maps obviously & I was lost the whole time , also when the host took a brake from the silmarilian to focus on the LOTR it truly made me want to reread the book again! Funny becase I i just recently finished the hobbit LOTR and the samarilion very quickly because I listen for long periods of time at my job !

You guys are amazing!!!

Read the review by StarkFrost on 10/21/21. I couldn’t write a better review so I am echoing what was written. I would never speak to my wife the way John does. Be a better man John.

A deep dive into all things Tolkien by a smart and funny couple. I thought I knew a lot about the Professor’s works but I always seem to learn something new listening to these guys. And I’m happy that they don’t shy away from the role faith played in Tolkien’s life and works. Highly recommend this show.

Huge fan of all things Tolkien and love this podcast. I’ve listened to every single episode at least once. I’m currently rereading The Silmarillion. I recently had a killer find on a First Print First American Edition. After each chapter, I listen to the corresponding episode for things I may have missed while reading. Listened to your episode on chapter 8 the other day, Of The Darkening Of Valinor, and the thought that I had for why Ungoliant left her master, aka Melkor, to pursue her own things to subdue, was perhaps Melkor actually created her from nothing during the weaving of themes from Ainulindale. Since the Ainur could only create from the themes they were given, and only knew Eru from the part of the mind from which they were made, and Melkor desired to be a master himself, perhaps he weaved her from his own theme, separate from illuvatar, and this is why she was able to hide herself in the darkness, completely hidden. But like her master, Melkor, who didn’t want to be ruled, she no longer wanted to be ruled but to rule, so she abandoned him like he did Eru. Everything that happened after ainulindale, he could only corrupt, because he lost his ability to create? Just a thought, would love to hear what you guys think! In the mean time, the road goes ever on, and I’m here for the journey! Sincerely Erik Y-Future Patron Member

If I could I would give more than 5 stars. I'm learning so much from John and Greta about Tolkien. I've also almost finished The Silmarillion after trying 2 previous times. I highly recommend this podcast to anyone who is a fan of Tolkien. I also find them immensely hilarious at times.

Honestly, I think you have great content. I recently started listening and I’m about 30 episodes in. However, I’m really struggling with how John constantly puts his wife, Greta, down. I feel like her part in the episodes are extremely valuable because her inexperience with Tolkien is extremely relatable to everyone who listens to a podcast like this to learn the topic. It’s obvious that this is one of John’s passions and I’m sure Greta enjoys it as well, but I’m sure as a full-time mother, she doesn’t have all the time in the world to fully encompass herself with all things Tolkien. Also, the constant tie-ins to Catholicism may not be the best move because a lot of people come here to listen to your podcast as an escape, much like reading a book. I will listen to a few of the newer episodes in hopes that things get better. “There is always hope.”

Great podcast on your favorite author. Very interesting topics and a great dynamic between the two. They get very religious sometimes but its tolerable.

New to reading Tolkien. Just started reading the hobbit and following along with your podcast has been great.

I loved the LOTR and the Hobbit books and wanted to get an understanding of the Silmarillion before I read it so I wasn’t lost with all the new characters. The Pod clearly has a respect for Tolkien’s intentions when he wrote and does a good job laying out the possibilities of the meaning behind his writings in the Silmarillion. John and Greta are very relatable and endearing as they dialogue through the writings of middle earth, aman, etc. it’s an easy listen. I did not expect to find a podcast that encouraged me as I listening to kindred spirits who are positive, kind, creative, and funny, but that is what this pod is to me. Thanks for doing a great job, your podcast is evergreen.

About ten episodes in. If I wanted to hear a guy treat a woman like garbage I would call my dad.

You guys crack me up but they are good

This podcast is a fantastic mix combining the scholarly portion of Tolkien, but also keeping it fun and finding the right balance! I really don’t understand how anybody could leave a one star review and actually mean it! I am 16 years old and I am a long distance trail runner. Every time I go for a run it has turned in to a habit to throw on this podcast and it just takes my mind of the run for one, two, or even three hours straight. I am slightly disappointed that I took so long to find this podcast, but it is also a gift because now I have what seems like and endless treasure trove of running listening!

Really a top-notch quality show filled with fascinating discussion about Tolkien’s works that doesn’t feel overwhelming or heavily-scholarly. John and Greta are great hosts and very easy to listen to. They’ve helped me rediscover a love for Tolkien that had lain dormant for a little while. Give them a listen! You won’t be disappointed.

Thank you both for the entertainment and knowledge you share.

Hey Carswells! Some of my fondest childhood memories are of watching the LOTR movies with my dad. However, I was never brave enough to really get into the literature much past the LOTR novels. In the last year or so I’ve taken a deeper dive into Tolkien’s works and my dad and I have never been closer. In September I read the Silmarillion for the first time and your explorations into the deep lore not only helped me enjoy the book more, but have inspired me to read even more of the books. Thank you for being so passionate about Middle Earth and for taking me on that journey with you. You’ve helped rekindle my love for Tolkien and for that I’m eternally grateful! Thanks for keeping it real!

As a first-time reader of The Lord of the Rings, this podcast has given me deeper insight into the world of Tolkien and a fun way of dialoguing with it. While my faith was the road that led me to Tolkien, this and other sources gave me an appreciation for his work in and of itself. As a Catholic seminarian, I appreciate the strong case you make for religion as an influence of Tolkien's: as something fundamentally present in his writing, not just something religious people "read into it." When Christian elements come up, you both are able to speak to them well without forcing it. Thanks for the podcast!

I've been a follower and patron of this podcast for a good while now. While there is no such thing as a "perfect" podcast, this show has a uniquness that most other don't. They do not claim to be "know it alls" and openly accept constructive criticism. Their earlier episodes have that raw aspect, due to the young nature of the podcast. Its fun to follow along as they provide higher quality content over time, as well as professionalism. They are real human beings sharing the same passion for Tolkien as we all have. Sure, they may slip up from time to time with responding to emails, or not have the same exact views as I do, but they are down to earth and a comforable place to enjoy all things Tolkien. You can check out other podcasts for sure, but you most likely won't find another warm and inviting home that "The Tolkien Road" provides. I highly encourage everyone to give this podcast a fair chance. I started from episode one and still get excited for what new material is coming each week. Nothing but respect for others who put out genuine content for something they love or are passionate about. Keep up the great work guys!

Really enjoy the insight and the knowledge. Fun to read along with them!! This show is great!! Keep it going strong in 2021!

New to the show loving it so far ! You have a great chemistry.. prob cause you guys are husband and wife lol cheers from cape cod mass - steve

So I am watching the Lord for the reins on HBO max. I decide to listen to some commentary so I listened to your show. I listen for a little while to fellowship of the rings the first episode. I quit listening. Maybe it’s an age factor, I don’t know. I just want to listen like you’re a professor instead of 10 minutes of the two of you joking back-and-forth

Gave the paganism episode a shot and was really looking forward to it. Couldn’t get through it though, the host seemed incapable of sticking to the subject and went on numerous tangents. Dude really seems to like the sound of his own voice, significantly more than his wife’s for sure.

I listen to this podcast a lot while winding down and going to sleep. It’s clear they are having so much fun with these books and their banter is really nice.