As we prepare to launch our Goblet of Fire Chapter-by-Chapter series, we're excited to finally do a movie commentary track for the fourth Harry Potter movie!

Join the MuggleCasters as they watch and discuss Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. You will need to bring your own copy of the movie's standard edition in order to get the full experience. Before the movie begins, we help you sync up with us so we're all watching together (The sync point is as soon as you get through the 'WB' logo and see a skull).

And have a celebratory drink prepared - like an orange juice if you're under 21 or a screwdriver if you're above 21 - for an iconic moment.

Note: This episode was recorded before the passing of legendary actor Michael Gambon, who played Albus Dumbledore in this and many more Harry Potter movies. We will look back at his legacy on the next episode of MuggleCast.

The MuggleCast 2023 Listener Survey is HERE and is open to all listeners through October 6th! We want to know what you love about the show, what you think could improve it, and what other content you’d be interested in us making.

This week’s episode is brought to you by Indeed. Claim your $75 credit at Indeed.com/MuggleCast.

629: 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' Movie Commentary Track!

It's time to reflect on our recent re-read of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! Join Andrew, Eric, Micah, and Laura as they open the MuggleMail bag once more to tackle an array of voicemails, e-mails and chicken soup submissions following our recent excursion into Book 3's Chapter-By-Chapter.




The MuggleCast 2023 Listener Survey is HERE and is open to all listeners through October 6th! We want to know what you love about the show, what you think could improve it, and what other content you’d be interested in us making.
Check out Parts 1 and 2 of Belated Binge Podcast's "Harry Potter: A History" and "Harry Potter: A Fandom" series with Eric!
We begin our Book 3 wrap-up by revisiting our 7 Word Summaries and voting on which one should get a re-do!
7-Word Summary of Book 3: Sirius prevails over Ministry officials and Snape
Voicemails include: Is there a connection between the Deathly Hallows and the gifts Harry receives from the Dursleys?
Does the prophecy's existence explain why Snape picks on Neville? Is there another reason why Voldemort doesn't have hair?
Lupin's werewolf depiction may be referenced elsewhere, and the phases of the moon are more gradual than you may think!
A listener writes in about Micah's criticism of Time-Turning.
Why are Lupin's lesson plans so creature-centric?
Is there a reason behind the many strained paternal relationships in HP?
Would Veritaserum help crack a Fidelius Charm? And, is being someone's Godfather a special magical bond?
Listeners also point out: McGonagall's anti-Divination stance goes back to Book One. And, how does Professor Binns grade papers?
One 13-year-old listener made her parents detour around Mount Greylock (we 100% support this).
Quizzitch: Who found the Riddle family dead?
Next week: Goblet of Fire movie commentary!
This week’s episode is brought to you by Better Help (Visit BetterHelp.com/mugglecast today to get 10% off your first month.)!
And don't forget you can join our community at Patreon.com/MuggleCast and receive magical benefits, including Bonus MuggleCast! This week, we discuss moments that were cut from Book 4 for the movie!

628: Did the Dursley's Gifts to Harry Foreshadow 'Deathly Hallows'? And More MuggleMail

This week, we're closing the book on Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! Join Andrew, Eric, Micah, Laura and Melissa as they avoid Snape's wrath, have real talk with Lupin and Dumbledore and finally get permission to go to Hogsmeade. Oh, and be sure to check with your cat that your new pet isn't secretly a mass murderer!




Welcome Slug Club member, Melissa!
LAST CHANCE! Time is running out to subscribe to this year's MuggleCast Collectors Club over on Patreon. Be sure to opt-in to this special benefit by September 22nd!
The MuggleCast 2023 Listener Survey is HERE and is open to all listeners through October 6th! We want to know what you love about the show, what you think could improve it, and what other content you’d be interested in us making.
Chapter-by-Chapter for Prisoner of Azkaban concludes with Chapter 22: Owl Post Again
7-Word Summary: Justice is served by Hermione and Harry
Snape claims he knows how Sirius escaped! Does he really KNOW it was Harry & Hermione? How secret is Hermione's Time-Turner?
The hosts (and Fudge) react to Snape's unhinged behavior
Dumbledore The Drama Queen is stoking the flames!
Lupin regifts Harry the Marauder's Map forever connecting him with his father
How did Dumbledore manage to convince Fudge that Lupin didn't aid Sirius?
Harry is upset that Pettigrew got away, but Dumbledore tells him his choices made all of the difference. Does this moment feel authentically Dumbledore? Does it make more sense that they gave these lines to Lupin in the movie?
By gifting Pigwidgeon to Ron, is Sirius trying to further endear himself to Harry?
We analyze the book coming full circle and the balance of power shifting at Privet Drive
Prophecies & Animagi - there ARE some things Dumbledore doesn't know!
Could Trelawney be deep-linked to Harry and Voldemort? 
How did the Marauder's keep their situation secret from Dumbledore?
Odds & Ends cover The Quidditch World Cup, the Grindylow tank, Percy's Ministry ambitions, Harry sititng by the lake and more!
Quizzitch: Who gives Pigwidgeon his name?
Next week: We start Goblet of Fire with a special movie commentary track!
This week’s episode is brought to you by Indeed (claim your $75 credit at Indeed.com/MuggleCast), and Better Help (Visit BetterHelp.com/mugglecast today to get 10% off your first month.)!
And don't forget you can join our community at Patreon.com/MuggleCast and receive magical benefits, including Bonus MuggleCast! This week, we discuss several news stories surrounding the Fantastic Beasts film franchise and Harry Potter television reboot!

627: A Normal Friday Night at Hogwarts (POA Chapter 22, Owl Post Again)

Three turns ought to do it, MuggleCast! This week we plumb the depths of time with Harry and Hermione as Chapter-by-Chapter covers Chapter 21 of Prisoner of Azkaban, Hermione's Secret! Join Andrew, Eric, Laura and Micah as they ask the tough questions such as, how is Snape 




Time is running out to subscribe to this year's MuggleCast Collectors Club over on Patreon. Be sure to opt-in to this special benefit by September 22nd.
Chapter-by-Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 21: Hermione's Secret
7-Word Summary: Hermione saves Buckbeak with a time turner
Somebody Call the WAMBULANCE for Snape!
We unleash our new "Severus Lie Count" right in the nick of time!
Is Snape pointing out the uneven leniency given to Harry helpful or harmful to his cause? He sure knows how to play Fudge.
Could Snape actually secretly believe Harry and Hermione's side of events?
Once Hermione busts out the Time-Turner to save the day we must ask: is traveling in time morally correct?
What alternatives must there have been to giving Hermione a Time-Turner at age 13?
What gives Dumbledore the authority to play God in this situation?
What If: The Time-turning sequence all went wrong?
We review why Time Turners may have been more hassle for the author than a help, and ask if it was worth it.
Quizzitch: At the end of term, who arrives to see Lupin after Harry does?
Next week: Chapter 22: Owl Post Again, the FINAL CHAPTER of POA! And two weeks from now, we'll record a Goblet of Fire movie commentary track!
This week’s episode is brought to you by Indeed (claim your $75 credit at Indeed.com/MuggleCast), and Better Help (Visit BetterHelp.com/mugglecast today to get 10% off your first month.)!

626: Snape's Best Memory (POA Chapter 21, Hermione's Secret)

MuggleCast celebrates the month of August with this LIVE recording from LeakyCon 2023 at McCormick Place in Chicago IL! Recorded on Saturday, August 5 our audience-participatory mega show includes fan-favorite game segments such as Dueling Club, Make the Connection, and a new segment titled, "Is MuggleCast Older Than...?" Join Eric, Micah, Chloé with a special guest appearance by LeakyCon's founder, Melissa Anelli, as they play games and reflect on the fandom space across 18 years of Harry Potter podcasting!




Welcome to LeakyCon 2023! We're old but we brought a cake... for Micah.
How did we each get started with MuggleCast? The hosts reflect.
Game: Is MuggleCast Older Than...? Rounds include "Taylor Swift's debut album" and "The iPhone."
What have been some of our favorite moments in MuggleCast history?
Game: The Dueling Club. Nonhumans edition, DADA professors, and Weasley family members!
What moments in fandom were the most surprising and unbelievable when they happened in the moment?
Game: Make the Connection returns! This one you have to hear to believe. (Chloé crushes it.)
Thanks to all who came out to see us in Chicago!

625: MuggleCast LIVE from LeakyCon 2023

KISSY KISSY! This week, be sure to put on your chapstick because the Dementors are ready to pucker up! Join our hosts as they exit the Whomping Willow and attempt to tackle what awaits them on the Hogwarts grounds.




Chapter-by-Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 20: The Dementor's Kiss
7-Word Summary: Chaos ensues on Hogwarts grounds under moonlight
WHAT IF... Peter hadn’t escaped and Sirius’ innocence had been proven? Would Dumbledore have been forced to explain Harry’s blood protection sooner? Would the Ministry have allowed Harry to live with Sirius?
Do we think Sirius is mature enough or in the right state of mind to care for Harry?
Does it cross Lupin's mind at all that if the moon comes out, they’re screwed? 
Why is Pettigrew not completely immobilized? 
We rate Lupin's transformation: did the book vs. the movie do it better?
Lupin can be controlled by his Animagus friends, but Sirius doesn’t have much luck - is he out of practice? 
Soooo, Harry and Hermione are totally cool leaving Ron and Snape helpless with a werewolf running around while they go tend to Sirius?
Why doesn't Harry's thought of living with Sirius work on the Dementors?
Connecting The Threads: Harry attempts to save Sirius in both Prisoner of Azkaban and Order of the Phoenix
Quizzitch: How old was Sirius Black when he played the trick on Snape with Lupin?
Next week: We're off, but we'll be releasing our live show from LeakyCon in Chicago!
Don't forget! Year 2 of the MuggleCast Collectors Club is here!  Each year between now and 2026, we’re sending 4-5 exclusive, new stickers that celebrate the show’s past and present. We’re also giving you the Collector’s Club Card, on which you can place the stickers. It’s a beautiful backing card showing our MuggleCast listeners heading to Hogwarts. Pledge at the $5 or $10 level by September 22 to receive this year’s stickers and the Club Card at Patreon.com/MuggleCast!
This week’s episode is brought to you by Indeed (claim your $75 credit at Indeed.com/MuggleCast)!

624: Where's the Moonscreen? (POA Chapter 20, The Dementor's Kiss)

The rat is revealed! We finally understand the events of this school year at Hogwarts as well as how Sirius Black escaped from Azkaban prison. Join Andrew, Eric, Micah and Laura as they discuss Chapter 19 of Book 3, including asking whether Crookshanks should be punished for stealing the password sheet and whether Sirius was selfish for not being the Potter's Secret-Keeper.




The MuggleCast Collectors Club stickers for 2023 have now been revealed!
Pledge on Patreon at the $5 or $10 level by September 22 to receive this year’s stickers and the Club Card!
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 19: The Servant of Lord Voldemort
7-Word Summary: Pettigrew begs Harry for forgiveness for murder
Snape enters in full Prosecute Mode! Why can he not be swayed to consider alternate views?
Do the Marauders know more than they indicate about Snape's feelings toward Lily?
Would Snape have used an Unforgivable Curse in this moment? Would it have worked?
What If? the Trio did not knock out Snape? How would events have unfolded differently?
Micah has a theory on what Pettigrew's missing toe might signify.
Should Crookshanks see punishment for stealing the Gryffindor password sheet for Sirius?
Was Sirius selfish to push the Secret Keeping on to Peter? The hosts discuss.
The real reason Pettigrew was in hiding is revealed and there's an unexpected connection to Book 6
Are the others Marauders to blame for Peter's poor choices?
Harry comes into his own, and sparing Peter will have repercussions in Book 7...
Quizzitch:  Who leads the group first out of the Shrieking Shack?
This week's MuggleCast is brought to you by Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now), BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month) and MeUndies (get 25% off your first order, plus free standard shipping at MeUndies.com/MuggleCast).

623: Double Double-Crosser (POA Chapter 19, The Servant of Lord Voldemort)

Orca, Pigeon, Racoon & Lemur! Well, it's not exactly Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs, but it sounds way cooler, right?!?! On this week's episode, the truth about the Shrieking Shack and the Marauders is revealed, and we catch everyone's favorite headmaster telling some pretty big fibs! The Dumbledore Lie Count is BACK, BABY!




Welcome Slug Club Member, Jason!
Eric and Micah attended LeakyCon this past weekend in Chicago and they recap their favorite moments!
Chapter-by-Chapter returns with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 18: Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs
7-Word Summary: Lupin reveals backstory to many children, tada!
Sirius seemingly has no intentions to clear his own name. He’s waited all year to catch Peter and now he’s just going to kill him?  Why does he have so little regard for himself on this matter?
Scabbers is a serious flight risk! Why didn't the adults or even Hermione come up with a way to neutralize Pettigrew? 
Main Discussion #1: Lupin’s Tragic Backstory and The Shrieking Shack Origin
The Wizarding World has done little in the way of "normalizing" werewolves and their condition. Should there be a school for werewolves and other wizarding world beings/creatures? Or does that defeat the purpose of an integrated magical society?
Main Discussion #2: The Greatest Hoax Ever Perpetrated in Hogsmeade Village
What EXACTLY went down with the Shrieking Shack, historically? Who else was in on the hoax?
The Dumbledore lie count is FINALLY going up!
Amato Animo Animato Animagus! We take listeners step-by-step through the process of becoming an Animagus
What Animagus would each of the hosts transform into?
Why did Lupin feel more normal during his transformations with Padfoot, Prongs and Wormtail around?
Odds & Ends cover the Marauder's Map legitimacy, Harry's mental state, Snape the Sneak and more!
Quizzitch:  Who casts "Expelliarmus" against Snape inside the Shrieking Shack?
This week's episode is brought to you by Indeed (claim your $75 credit at Indeed.com/MuggleCast) and HelloFresh (visit HelloFresh.com/50muggle and use code 50muggle for 50% off plus free shipping)!

622: Sneaky Snack for the Dumbledrama (POA Chapter 18, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs)

MuggleCast was born on Sunday, August 7, 2005, and this week we're releasing a special episode of Bonus MuggleCast from our Patreon to celebrate our 18th birthday!

Your Harry Potter friends look back at what was going on in the Muggle world in 2005, reflect on 18 years of podcasting, and attempt to say who our favorite host on the show is. We also share our favorite episodes and look at how the podcast has helped us in our daily lives.

Later, we play voicemails from our listeners, who shared really touching thoughts on the show's impact on their lives. Here's to the next 18 years!

Thank you everyone for sticking with us - the reason we continue to do this show is YOU!

For two exclusive Bonus MuggleCast episodes every month, join our Patreon! You'll receive a slew of other sweet benefits too. Free trials and annual pledges are available as well.

This week's episode is brought to you by BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month), Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now), and Factor (visit FactorMeals.com/MuggleCast50 and use code mugglecast50 to get 50% off your first box.)

MuggleCast Turns 18 Years Old! Time For A Birthday Party!

It's time to re-open the MuggleMail bag as we prepare to read the closing chapters of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Join Andrew, Eric, Laura and Micah as they answer questions relating to class schedules, GCSE's, sports equality, prejudice toward 'soft' subjects and more!




Happy birthday, Neville and Harry! While we may not be covering those characters today, Episode 523 and Episode 481 both have excellent discussion of Neville and Harry and the prophecy.
Speaking of birthdays, MuggleCast is about to turn 18! We will be releasing a special birthday episode on August 7th in conjunction with our Patreon where we release Bonus MuggleCasts twice monthly to patrons.
The MuggleCast Live at LeakyCon schedule is now available on our web site! In addition to our Live MuggleCast show, all panels and events with us participating will be listed there in one place for attendees to reference. We hope to see you there!
Main Discussion: MuggleMail returns!
How does dropping a Hogwarts class work? Wouldn't more students beside Hermione have class times that conflict?
Was Scabbers / Pettigrew present during the table of 13, and does that doom Dumbledore?
A listener draws the comparison between Quidditch broom model discrepancies between teams and professional Boblsleigh racing and Formula One. We love it.
Is Divination maligned on purpose in the books, and does the issue largely resolve when Firenze is brought in?
Harry's Helping Horcrux is debated by a listener who thinks it would hinder Harry's Patronus-making skills.
Did Snape know about the DADA job being cursed? Was Professor Lupin searching Filch's office for the Marauder's Map?
Quizzitch: Who did Snape see Lupin traveling with on the grounds of Hogwarts, toward the Whomping Willow, in the 1970s?
Micah, Eric and Chloe will be at LeakyCon 2023 in Chicago from August 4-6!  Listeners interested in registering for the con can visit LeakyCon.com and enter code Muggle during checkout for a $10 discount. Our live panel will be on Saturday, August 5 at 1:15 p.m. Check the full list of our panels on our web site!

621: Did Snape Know About the DADA Curse? And More MuggleMail

The threads are slowly starting to connect themselves as we head toward the final few chapters of Prisoner of Azkaban! Join Andrew, Micah, Laura and Meg as they battle the Whomping Willow and brave the Shrieking Shack, only to be confronted by an unregistered Animagus and a fraudulent werewolf professor. All on this week's episode!




Welcome back, Meg!
Our birthday is just a couple weeks away! To celebrate, we’ll be recording a special episode that looks back on 18 years of podcasting! AND WE WANT YOU INVOLVED! Submit a voice message to mugglecast@gmail.com by Friday, July 28 and we just might include it on our birthday episode!
Last chance! There’s less than a week left to become a Patron and order the Exclusive MuggleCast Beanie! Learn more about how you can get yours by clicking here!
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 17: Cat, Rat and Dog
7-Word Summary: Sirius attacks Ron viciously when Scabbers appears 
Do we think the attack was premeditated? Was Crookshanks actively shadowing Harry, Ron and Hermione waiting for Scabbers to reappear? 
Animagus Sirius is really strong! Despite his weak, ragged human condition, how does he drag a (nearly) fully grown person, pulling so hard he breaks Ron’s leg? 
Why doesn't Sirius come clean immediately with Harry, Ron and Hermione?
What must Hermione be thinking when Crookshanks protectively leaps on Sirius's chest? And just how have Sirius and Crookshanks been communicating?
Harry is too young to know the Unforgivable Curses. How is he planning to kill Sirius? Could the Horcrux be influencing his emotional state?
Why would Sirius not have told Lupin the truth about the Secret Keeper Switch? 
Hermione and Ron SOUND OFF on Lupin! We examine their biases in depth!
Strong threads are connected between lycanthropy and the HIV/AIDS epidemic
Hagrid, Trelawney, Lupin: how do we feel about Dumbledore’s hires?
When time turning, would Harry and Hermione appear twice on the Marauder's Map?
Quizzitch: According to the Animagus registrar Hermione looks at, how many registered Animagi have there been this century?
Micah, Eric and Chloe will be at LeakyCon 2023 in Chicago from August 4-6!  Listeners interested in registering for the con can visit LeakyCon.com and enter code Muggle during checkout for a $10 discount. Our live panel will be on Saturday, August 5 at 1:15 p.m.
This week's episode is brought to you by BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month)!

620: Holy Cheese! (POA Chapter 17, Cat, Rat, and Dog)

It's exam time again! On this week's episode we are joined by Professor Julian Wamble, PhD. (@ProfW on TikTok), who teaches a college course on Harry Potter and who shares his awesome thoughts on TikTok! The hosts dive in to chapter 16 of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, "Professor Trelawney's Prediction." We examine Trelawney's brand of divination and question whether she has ever been right to her knowledge. Is Dumbledore to blame for what kind of teacher she has become? And what is the source of Harry feeling out of it after leaving Hagrid's hut? All of that and more on episode 619!





Our 2023 Patreon Physical Gift is here! We're so excited to debut our MuggleCast Beanie, perfect for those outdoor winter and indoor air conditioned months! Let's face it, it'll look great on you anytime of the year! This knitted, high quality beanie features colors inspired by our current album art (which, conveniently, are also the four hosts' Hogwarts Houses) and a MuggleCast patch on the front with the MicBolt built in! Learn more about how you can get yours by clicking here!
There will be a live MuggleCast meet up in downtown Chicago next month! Please RSVP to let us know if you can make it! The event is during LeakyCon but open to the public regardless of your ticket status.
Welcome to the show Professor Julian Wample, PhD.!
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 16: Professor Trelawney's Prediction
7-Word Summary: Exams consume clairvoyance and shocking revelations, executions
Hermione's exam schedule is the biggest example yet of her secretive methods, why do Ron and Harry not say something?
Buckbeak's appeal looms, but the executioner is coming. Should Ron have spoken his mind to Fudge?
Some hosts believe that Hagrid gives Dumbledore WAY too much credit. Should Dumbledore have put a stop to the whole Buckbeak incident?
What did Parvati Patil do to impress Trelawney so much? Why does Ron fail but Harry skate by on his?
Andrew catches something amazing about the circumstances surrounding both Trelawney predictions.
Harry feels "unreal." Would this have something to do with there being *two* of him, we wonder?
Odds and Ends features a particular pair of footsteps...
Quizzitch: What spell does Sirius Black use on Harry and Hermione?
Next Week: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 16: Professor Trelawney's Prediction
This week's MuggleCast is brought to you by Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now), ZocDoc (visit ZocDoc.com/MuggleCast, download the app, and schedule your next health appointment today!) and Factor (visit FactorMeals.com/MuggleCast50 and use code mugglecast50 to get 50% off your first box.)

619: Unfogging the Fraud (POA Chapter 16, Professor Trelawney's Prediction)

Our crystal ball told us that we can expect a lot of emotions this week as Chapter by Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban Chapter 15, "The Quidditch Final"! Plus, there's a new Gryffindor-themed playlist to listen to, new social media apps where you can find MuggleCast, and more technical fouls than you can shake a stick at! Join Andrew, Eric, Laura and Micah for this guaranteed good time episode.





Our 2023 Patreon Physical Gift is here! We're so excited to debut our MuggleCast Beanie, perfect for those outdoor winter and indoor air conditioned months! Let's face it, it'll look great on you anytime of the year! This knitted, high quality beanie features colors inspired by our current album art (which, conveniently, are also the four hosts' Hogwarts Houses) and a MuggleCast patch on the front with the MicBolt built in! Learn more about how you can get yours by clicking here!
TikTok star Chanel Williams has graced us with her talents by the record machine. Her new collab with MuggleCast is the Gryffindor Glory playlist! Sure to meet all of your Gryffindor representation needs.
There will be a live MuggleCast meet up in downtown Chicago next month! Please RSVP to let us know if you can make it! The event is during LeakyCon but open to the public regardless of your ticket status.
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 15: The Quidditch Final
7-Word Summary: Fatigue sets in for Hermione intensely whoa
From sleeping in the Common Room, slapping Malfoy and quitting Divination, just what is going on with Hermione?!

The hosts examine the consequences of Hermione's overpacked class schedule.
Is Professor Trelawney a bully?
A listener e-mail responds to common criticisms of Divination and defends the real-world practices, and we discuss our favorite types to use in real life.
We contrast the Quidditch play style of Cho Chang versus this game's Slytherin players.
The age-old house rivalry between Gryffindor and Slytherin heats up once again. Entire groups must walk with Harry to keep their Seeker safe. Is this overkiil?
Lee Jordan is at his peak best, while the whole school apart from Slytherins is cheering for the red team.
We contrast the Quidditch play style of Cho Chang versus this game's Slytherin players.
Odds and Ends include Harry's dreams, Crookshank's friend and Draco's name origin.
Quizzitch: What is the first line of Professor Trelawney's PETTIGREW prophecy?
Next Week: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 16: Professor Trelawney's Prediction
This week's MuggleCast is brought to you by Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now), BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month) and MeUndies (get 25% off your first order, plus free standard shipping at MeUndies.com/MuggleCast).

618: The Eruption of Mt. Hermione (POA Chapter 15, The Quidditch Final)

This week, we're hosting a Wizarding Wold BBQ! See who is invited and what they would bring to the party! Then, your Harry Potter friends attempt to be better friends to each other than Harry is to Hagrid, Lupin and Hermione as we discuss the latest chapter in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban! 





Our 2023 Patreon Physical Gift is here! We're so excited to debut our MuggleCast Beanie, perfect for those outdoor winter and indoor air conditioned months! Let's face it, it'll look great on you anytime of the year! This knitted, high quality beanie features colors inspired by our current album art (which, conveniently, are also the four hosts' Hogwarts Houses) and a MuggleCast patch on the front with the MicBolt built in! Learn more about how you can get yours by clicking here!
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 14: Snape's Grudge
4-Word Summary: Mud finds its recipient 
Security is ramping up at Hogwarts! Why weren’t these measures taken after the Fat Lady was attacked? And, as we’ve asked many times before in this book, WHERE is the Ministry?
Neville takes the fall for Hogwarts being a security nightmare! Is his punishment fair or just downright humiliating?
DAD-GRID: Hagrid gives his best lesson of the year, but it’s not in Care of Magical Creatures, it’s in FRIENDSHIP! Does he get through to both Harry and Ron?
Do we agree with Hermione's threat to turn in the Marauder's Map?
Snape has DADDY -- and bullying -- issues!
Is it a crime for Harry and Neville to be walking around the castle while the other students are in Hogsmeade? 
Why doesn’t Harry wait in the passageway until the area is free of Snape? 
Does Snape use Legilimency on Harry or does he just sense a student being up to no good?
Connecting The Threads: Snape’s Worst Memory (Order of the Phoenix) is an extension of Snape’s Grudge (Prisoner of Azkaban)
We reveal never-before-heard audio from the 30-year-old conversation between Snape and Harry!
Should a teacher really talk to a student the way Snape talks to Harry?
How much does Snape truly know about the Marauders Map and its manufacturers?
Much like in the beginning of the chapter, Harry feels as if he’s let someone else he cares about down! In this case, it's Lupin!
Odds & Ends cover Sirius Black's knife, Ron's popularity, Snape's ego, the Shrieking Shack and more!
Quizzitch: Which class with the Gryffindors does Hermione forget to attend?
Next Week: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 15: The Quidditch Final

617: Wizarding World BBQs and Daddy Issues (POA Chapter 14, Snape's Grudge)

The friendship between Ron and Hermione receives its greatest test to date, while the friendship of your MuggleCast hosts remains solid as ever. We tackle Chapter 13 of Prisoner of Azkaban, "Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw" and ask Micah all of the sports questions as it pertains to Harry's new broom and Cho Chang's sports tactics. There is also an appearance from Sirius Black, and four Slytherin students are busted but ultimately given a light slap on the wrist for their attempted sabotage. All of that and more on this week's MuggleCast!




The MuggleCast Patreon is now offering free trials for 7 days as a way of promoting our amazing bonus content, as well as the upcoming physical gift. Join our Patreon today!
Chapter-by-Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 13: Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw
Seven Word Summary: Cho distracts Harry with her amazing looooooooooooks
Is Ron being overdramatic about Scabbers' disappearance? Do we side with Ron or Hermione now that the worst has presumably happened?
Expert thread-connector Laura details moments when the trio argues with each other in the future.
Did we ever argue with our friends when we were 13 and are we still mad about it today?
On the Quidditch field, Cho has a strategy that gets Harry's attention. We examine whether it's fair to play in this way and whether Hogwarts should give everybody the same broom.
Harry succeeds in casting his first full Patronus, but is it really an accomplishment given the circumstances?
Does McGonagall go easy on Draco, Crabbe, Goyle and Flint?
The hosts examine Harry's latest dream and connect it to future books.
Did nobody show Sir Cadogan a picture of Sirius Black? How secure is Hogwarts anyway?
Quizzitch: What does Flitwick do to the front doors of Hogwarts?
Next Week: Chapter 14 of Prisoner of Azkaban, "Snape's Grudge"
This week's episode is brought to you by Indeed. Visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now.
In Bonus MuggleCast, Laura takes us through stories that seem to be full-on Harry Potter rip-offs, worldwide. Join our Patreon at Patreon.com/MuggleCast today to listen!

616: Scabbergrew (POA Chapter 13, Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw)

Expecto Patronum! On this week's episode of MuggleCast, Andrew, Micah, Laura and Chloé join Harry as he faces down his biggest fears under the tutelage of his greatest teacher! Plus, just what's up with Oliver Wood? Was he really going to bench The Chosen One?




Happy 20th anniversary to Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix! On this week's bonus MuggleCast on Patreon, we celebrate 20 years of the fifth book!
Chapter-by-Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 12: The Patronus
Seven Word Summary: Lupin teaches Harry how to fight Dementors 
How does the faculty feel about Lupin searching their personal spaces for a boggart?
Why is it that a boggart Dementor has the same effect on Harry as a real Dementor?
Harry struggles to find a powerful enough memory to conjure a Patronus. If we were in Harry’s position, what would we choose?
Harry's internal struggle: for as much as he wants to fight the Dementor, he also wants to hear his parents
How much is the Horcrux influencing Harry at certain moments throughout this chapter?
Lupin is the first adult figure to really believe in Harry!
We examine Lupin's reactions to the mentions of both James and Sirius
What if the dementor’s kiss was your FIRST (and only) kiss? ::vomit::
Lupin challenges Harry on Sirius receiving the Dementor's Kiss. Is this as a friend, a compassionate human being or a bit of both?
Anywayyyyyyy, back to the Firebolt Fiasco!
Wouldn’t a teacher have found out eventually that Harry had a super cool new broom, and wonder where it came from? Which begs the question... shouldn't there be standardized equipment for school-based Quidditch?
Did Oliver Wood plan to bench Harry? Is there nothing he wouldn't do to win?
Odds & Ends cover Lupin's condition, Neville's password problem, Hermione's favorite subject, and more!
Quizzitch: What does Percy win from his girlfriend Penelope when Gryffindor beats Ravenclaw?
Next Week: Chapter 13 of Prisoner of Azkaban, Gryffindor vs. Ravenclaw
This week's episode is brought to you by Factor (visit FactorMeals.com/MuggleCast50 and use code mugglecast50 to get 50% off your first box)and BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month).
Our Patreon is now offering 7-day free trials: Get full access to Bonus MuggleCasts and behind-the-scenes extras for a limited time! 

615: Dementor Duck (POA Chapter 12, The Patronus)

On this week's episode of MuggleCast, it's Christmas break at Hogwarts and the castle is full of emotions... and mostly the not-so-good kind. Since Hogwarts doesn’t have a guidance counselor, we’ll be the trio’s guiding light today! Join Andrew, Eric, Micah, Laura and Jason as they enjoy a special meal inside The Great Hall with all the stress and awkwardness of a normal holiday family get-together!




Welcome Slug Club member, Jason!
Our Patreon is now offering 7-day free trials! Get full access to Bonus MuggleCasts and behind-the-scenes extras for a limited time!
Chapter-by-Chapter continues with Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 11: The Firebolt
Seven Word Summary: Somebody sends a Firebolt mysteriously to Harry
“A hatred such as he had never known before was coursing through Harry like poison." Harry quickly grows obsessive over hating Sirius Black. How much could his Horcrux be fueling these emotions?
Why didn't anyone ever tell Harry that the reason James and Lily Potter died was because their best friend Sirius had betrayed them?
We discuss how in both Prisoner of Azkaban and Order of the Phoenix, Harry not being given information negatively impacts his mental health and leads to reckless decision-making!
We analyze Harry's treatment of Ron and Hermione in this  chapter
Comparing Gryffindors: Peter Pettigrew and Neville Longbottom
Comforting Hagrid: Lucius Malfoy’s influence rear its ugly head again! Did they not learn from the previous year when he threatened the Board of Governors?
Hagrid goes into grim detail about his time in Azkaban. Should Azkaban just be for maximum security prisoners?
Fan Fic Alert: “The Other Prisoner of Azkaban” by Jack Ichijouji
The Firebolt: Does Hogwarts not have a security measure in place for packages delivered to the school? Why, just now, are they “evaluating” the broom?
When 13 dine, the first to rise is the first to die: did Trelawney get it right after all?
What crawled up McGonagall's @$$?
Hermione's Most Gryffindor Moment
Odds & Ends cover Manticores, Lupin's condition, Pettigrew's finger and more!
Quizzitch: In which location does Harry’s first Patronus lesson take place?
Next Week: Chapter 12 of Prisoner of Azkaban, The Patronus
This week's episode is brought to you by Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now)  and ZocDoc (visit ZocDoc.com/MuggleCast, download the app, and schedule your next health appointment today)!

614: The Real Housewives of Hogwarts (POA Chapter 11, The Firebolt)

From pranksters to marauders, this week’s chapter by chapter episode of MuggleCast is PACKED with all of our favorite characters and overflowing with plot. Join Andrew, Eric, Laura and Micah for a trip to Hogsmeade where we learn all about Sirius Black and his secret connection to Harry. Also, Professor Lupin reminds us why he’s our favorite teacher.




Our Patreon is now offering 7 day free trials! Get full access to Bonus MuggleCasts and behind the scenes extras for a limited time!
This week, we read through Prisoner of Azkaban Chapter 10, “The Marauder’s Map”!
Seven Word Summary: Secrets are divulged via Professors drinking Butterbeer
The hosts reflect on Harry’s attachment to his broken Nimbus 2000 and their own attachment to inanimate objects from their youth.
Harry’s isolation is hard to watch as with Book Five, but why doesn’t he reach out to Hermione and Ron? And, is Dumbledore to blame for all of it?
When Lupin reaches for Harry, should we have intuited more about his relationship to the boy? What about when he drops his briefcase?
Just how hard is it to learn the Patronus Charm and why isn’t it more widely taught?
Is the Marauder’s Map a dangerous magical item? Are Fred and George reckless for giving it to Harry?
How did Fred and George learn to use the map? Did the map itself help?
What impressive magic is involved in the function of the map?
Secrets are revealed and we wonder how the teachers could have kept this from Harry.
Quizzitch: What date is set for the Ministry hearing of Hagrid and Buckbeak?
This week’s episode is brought to you by Indeed (visit Indeed.com/MuggleCast to start hiring now) and BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month).

613: More Mead, More Secrets (POA Chapter 10, The Marauder's Map)

This week, we're taking a break from your regularly scheduled programming! BUT, Micah recently got a chance to preview Harry Potter: The Exhibition in New York City! Enjoy this MuggleMiniCast, which includes an interview with Tom Zaller, the President & CEO of Imagine Exhibitions.





Harry Potter: The Exhibition is now open in NYC’s Herald Square!
Micah speaks with Tom Zaller, the President & CEO of Imagine Exhibitions
Eric and Micah discuss how this exhibition differs from previous ones, what to expect as you make your way through, favorite moments, exclusive merchandise and more!
Next week: Chapter-by-Chapter returns with Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 10: The Marauder's Map
And don’t forget! There’s much more MuggleCast waiting for you on Patreon, including Bonus MuggleCast segments! Most recently we discussed if HBO Max should gear the new Harry Potter TV show towards adults and the next Wizarding World park coming to Universal Orlando! Become a patron of ours today at Patreon.com/MuggleCast! As always, we appreciate your support of the show!

MuggleMiniCast: Reviewing The Harry Potter Exhibition

On this week's episode, join us as we elude mass murderers with a sleepover in The Great Hall, attend a brutal Defense Against The Dark Arts class and play Quidditch in the worst possible conditions! What could possibly go wrong?





Harry Potter: The Exhibition is now open in NYC’s Herald Square! Micah got a chance to preview the experience, so keep an eye out for a Muggle MiniCast set to be released Memorial Day Weekend, which includes an interview with Tom Zaller, the President & CEO of Imagine Exhibitions.
Main Discussion: Prisoner of Azkaban, Chapter 9: Grim Defeat
7-Word Summary: Suspicions rock the Hogwarts student body tonight
With Sirius Black running around Hogwarts, shouldn’t at least one professor have stayed WITH the students in The Great Hall? 
How did Sirius Black break into Hogwarts? Could Crookshanks have been involved? Has Sirius formed a connection with him at this point? 
Why isn’t the Ministry alerted? This is now TWICE that Sirius has gotten past the Dementors!
What was the conversation like between Sirius Black and the Fat Lady?
We analyze Snape's conduct in teaching Defense Against The Dark Arts, his great joy in criticizing the students’ lack of knowledge on the subject, and his attempt to sow seeds of doubt amongst about Lupin’s effectiveness as a teacher!
Snape is trying to OUT Lupin! Is Snape more vicious in Prisoner of Azkaban than he is at any other point in the series? 
Do we think Sirius knows Lupin is at Hogwarts? Did he use Lupin’s "time of the month" to his advantage as well?
Could Lupin be “sick” because of the guilt of knowing that Sirius broke into the castle? 
Quidditch Controversy: What's up with the Slytherin favoritism?
Did the dementors come onto the Quidditch pitch because of Sirius? 
Odds & Ends cover Cedric Diggory, Harry's worst memory, Hermione's bloodshot eyes and more!
Quizzitch: In what school year of theirs did the Weasley Twins obtain the Marauder's map?
Next Week: Reminder, we’re off BUT you will get a very cool MuggleMiniCast all about the new Harry Potter: The Exhibition!
This week’s episode is brought to you by BetterHelp (visit BetterHelp.com/MuggleCast today to get 10% off your first month)!
And don’t forget! There’s much more MuggleCast waiting for you on Patreon, including Bonus MuggleCast segments! This week, we’ll have a new look at the next Wizarding World park coming to Universal Orlando! Become a patron of ours today at Patreon.com/MuggleCast! As always, we appreciate your support of the show!

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