Breakfast in Beauclair

Tim and Val from Whiskey with Witcher join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Baptism of Fire, Chapter 1 (Part 1). Very important bits include: the origins of Whiskey with Witcher, Sapkowski's beloved framing narratives, odd things that become our whole personalities, book-inspired tattoos, baptisms of fire, catching up with Ciri and the Rats, and the introduction of a fan-favorite character, Milva. [0:00] Cold Open [0:52] Introduction [3:06] Guest Introductions [13:58] Chapter Recap [16:57] Overall Thoughts [22:16] Milva and the Framing Narrative [32:20] Milva's Loyalty [43:21] The Scoia'tael's Role [49:52] “A baptism of fire” [58:56] Ciri's Character Arc [1:08:19] The Rats' Impact [1:15:52] Final Thoughts [1:19:05] Outro [1:21:24] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Alyssa's in the hot seat to reflect upon the last five years of Breakfast in Beauclair with Witcher Kitchen's Anita Sarna and Karolina Krupecka. Very important bits include: the origins of the podcast, highlights from the last five years, and plans for the future of the show. [0:00] Cold Open [0:42] Discussion [17:49] End Theme This episode is available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher.

Mitch Fey and Rob Pigott from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 308 "The Cost of Chaos". Very important bits include: leadership in the face of uncertainty, pivotal moments in Ciri's character development, Geralt's change of heart, the right amount of shaky cam, a show-only perspective, and our takeaways from Netflix's the Witcher Season 3. [0:00] Cold Open [1:02] Introduction [4:45] Guest Introductions [11:23] Episode Recap [13:18] Overall Thoughts [25:47] Yennefer's Leadership [29:15] Confronting Vilgefortz and the Scale of War [31:28] Changes in Redania [36:54] Ciri's First Kill [47:16] Fake Ciri [52:12] Geralt's Change of Heart and Welcoming Liam Hemsworth [57:10] A Show-Only Perspective [1:01:10] Season 4 and Beyond [1:10:08] Final Thoughts [1:20:35] Outro [1:26:37] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Danny and Kerri from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 307 "Out of the Fire, Into the Frying Pan". Very important bits include: how to successfully adapt a solo storyline, breaking down the visual effects in the Korath desert, Ciri's readiness and internal conflicts, her visions, Falka's influence, and preposition soup. [0:00] Cold Open [0:45] Introduction [3:11] Guest Introductions and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes [10:16] Episode Recap [13:33] Overall Thoughts [19:47] Danny's VFX Breakdown [24:32] Highlights and Lowlights [32:52] Easter Eggs [36:09] Adapting A Solo Storyline [40:42] Ciri's Readiness [43:32] Ciri's Internal Conflicts [51:44] Falka and Relinquishing Magic [59:24] Final Thoughts [1:03:02] Freya Allen and Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes [1:04:46] Outro [1:07:44] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Lucie from London and Pauline from Germany join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 306 "Everybody Has A Plan 'Til They Get Punched In The Face". Very important bits include: loyalty and betrayal, notes on character motivations and direction, inevitable confrontations, and comparisons to Andrzej Sapkowski's Thanedd Coup in ‘Time of Contempt'. [0:00] Cold Open [1:42] Introduction [3:18] Guest Introductions [8:30] Episode Recap [12:02] Overall Thoughts [23:49] Easter Eggs [25:32] Episode Themes [30:54] Power, Betrayal, Alliances, and Rivalries [34:37] Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer [41:41] Cahir and Ciri [51:31] Comparisons to ‘Time of Contempt' [59:27] Final Thoughts [1:02:58] Outro [1:03:14] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in July 2023 prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Michelle from the US and Oleg from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 305 “The Art of Illusion". Very important bits include: the efficacy of non-linear storytelling, the morality of neutrality, the character's and audience's big red herring, and our thoughts on the mid-season finale. [0:00] Cold Open [1:25] Introduction [3:16] Guest Introductions [11:12] Episode Recap [14:29] Overall Thoughts [21:03] Easter Eggs [25:54] Non-Linear Storytelling [29:47] Valdo Marx [32:06] Geralt v. Istredd & “Things To Do” [42:26] Geralt's Neutrality [51:57] Stregobor, the Red Herring, and Vilgefortz [1:02:00] Mid-Season Finale [1:06:03] Dream Thanedd Outfits [1:11:14] Outro [1:14:50] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in July 2023 prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Bo from the US and Elora from the Netherlands join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 304 “The Invitation". Very important bits include: Emperor Emhyr's beliefs, Yennefer's place within the Brotherhood of Sorcerers, a short return to ‘monster of the week', the search for self-worth, and the heightening of conflict before the end of Season 3, Part 1. [0:00] Cold Open [1:02] Introduction [3:19] Guest Introductions [7:59] Episode Recap [11:32] Overall Thoughts [15:48] Easter Eggs [17:13] The Reconciliation Scene [21:19] A Little Sacrifice & Adapting Short Stories [25:58] The Seasons: Length and Subjects [29:18] Emhyr's Morals & Cahir's Isolation [37:22] Yennefer's Role in the Brotherhood [46:11] Monster of the Week [52:08] Worthiness [53:43] Valdo Marx [57:54] Worthiness (Continued) [1:04:49] Final Thoughts [1:11:32] Outro [1:13:38] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in July 2023 prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Emma from the US and Tracie from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 303 “Reunion". Very important bits include: new aspects of Jaskier's character, Yennefer's journey to motherhood, the difficult choices that parents make, and tests of allegiance and loyalty across the Continent. [0:00] Cold Open [0:52] Introduction [3:00] Guest Introductions [10:11] Episode Recap [14:18] Overall Thoughts [26:54] Jaskier's Queerness [32:52] Yennefer's Journey to Motherhood [39:16] Choice in Parenthood [46:54] Hedwig's Death [52:40] Emhyr and Cahir [57:32] Gallatin's Death [1:03:08] Final Thoughts [1:06:46] Outro [1:08:39] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in June 2023 prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Kyle from the US and Sam from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 302 “Unbound". Very important bits include: Yennefer's evolving relationship with Ciri, a debate on which Nilfgaardian has the short stick, a truly horrific monster of the week, and the things men will do instead of going to therapy. [0:00] Cold Open [1:11] Introduction [3:07] Guest Introductions [13:55] Episode Recap [16:56] Overall Thoughts [31:17] Yennefer and Ciri's Relationship [38:21] Ciri's Morality and Responsibility [43:57] Cahir and Fringilla [51:02] Nilfgaardian Emperor, Emhyr Var Emris [59:07] Geralt and the Fight at Vuilpanne Castle [1:05:30] Dijkstra's “Therapy” [1:10:35] Final Thoughts [1:11:42] Outro [1:12:09] End Credits [1:12:52] Piper Visits the Sound Booth The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in July 2023 prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Gintare from the UK and Vang from Denmark  join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 301 “Shaerrawedd". Very important bits include: Yennefer and Geralt's evolving relationship, the newly abstract nature of Dol Blathanna, the development of Ciri's morals and ideals, and dead devils. [0:00] Cold Open [1:24] Introduction [3:05] Guest Introductions [7:44] Episode Recap [10:56] Overall Thoughts [16:03] Vang's Artistic Inspiration [16:47] References and Easter Eggs [18:33] Francesca's Song [20:56] Transition from S2 to S2 [23:11] Yennefer & Geralt's Relationship [28:40] Dol Blathanna [32:53] Ciri's Morals and Ideals [38:22] Should Geralt have spared Rience? [43:58] Raising the Stakes After Shaerrawedd [51:53] Final Thoughts [53:58] Outro [55:58] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 was recorded in June 2023 and originally released in July prior to the Hollywood writers' and actors' strikes. Elsa from the UK and James from the US join Alyssa for our pre-premiere discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3. Very important bits include: our standout moments from Season 1 and 2, our characters to watch, and our wildest Season 3 predictions. [00:00] Cold Open [01:33] Introduction [04:48] Guest Introductions [09:34] S1 & S2 Recap [10:50] Standout Moments from S1 & S2 [16:22] S3 of The Witcher [30:31] Characters to Watch [40:30] Wildest S3 Predictions [46:16] Easter Eggs [52:25] Why You Should Watch S3 [55:55] Outro [56:55] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Anita Sarna and Karolina Krupecka from Witcher Kitchen join Alyssa to discuss their debut book, ‘The Witcher Official Cookbook: Provisions, Fare, and Culinary Tales from Travels Across the Continent'. Very important bits include: the origin of their new work, collaborating with CD Projeckt Red and their publisher, Ten Speed Press, the highs and lows of production, and a preview of what you can expect from this unique culinary take on the Witcher world. [0:00] Cold Open [0:44] Introduction [4:46] Guest Introduction [5:44] Witcher Kitchen Origin Story [9:03] The Polish Fandom [15:20] Introducing the Cookbook [23:21] The Narrator & The Story [35:05] Highlights [41:28] Working Together [53:19] International Editions & Hopes [1:04:06] Favorite Recipes & Polish Cuisine [1:12:59] Wrap-up [1:16:20] Andrzej Sapkowski's Foreword & Thanks [1:21:55] Outro [1:24:44] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt and this episode of the podcast contain discussions of violence and sexual assault. Listener discretion is advised. Kade from the US and Matthew from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 7. Very important bits include: the ominous close of the novel, the risk of loneliness, harmful stereotypes, Times of Contempt, and critical conversations around assault. [0:00] Cold Open [1:32] Introduction [4:28] Guest Introduction [9:25] zrivie potions [14:55] Chapter 7 Recap [16:55] Overall Thoughts [28:54] Attitude Toward the Rats [29:43] Ciri x Mistle [48:30] “Falka” [53:15] The Risk of Loneliness [57:34] “Contempt” [1:03:39] Wrap-up [1:07:00] Outro [1:07:24] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Gabriela from Poland and Kája from the Czech Republic join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 6. Very important bits include: how Ciri's trial in the desert transforms her, the importance of her loved ones, Little Horse, dialects in translations, and her Time of Contempt. [0:00] Cold Open [0:21] Introduction [3:07] Guest Introduction [8:37] Chapter 6 Recap [9:44] Overall Thoughts [19:38] Translations [26:05] The Desert for Ciri [35:49] Ihuarraquax's (Little Horse's) Role [42:17] The Unicorn Dialect [51:38] Ciri's Loss of Magic [1:13:11] Wrap-up [1:17:43] Outro [1:19:07] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Cyprian from Berlin and Štěpán from the Czech Republic join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 5. Very important bits include: new insight into the Czech translation of the Witcher, parallels between the second Nilfgaardian war and our modern military history, Geralt's evolving perspective on neutrality, vignettes from the front, and someone throws down the gauntlet over the second best Witcher game. [0:00] Cold Open [3:16] Introduction [4:55] Guest Introduction [10:18] Chapter 4 Recap [12:22] Overall Thoughts [19:55] Translations [26:15] Guest Historical Backgrounds [27:39] Historical Parallels in The Witcher [41:48] The Authorial Voce [50:27] Geralt's Changing Neutrality [1:02:25] Margarita Laux Antille & Rayla [1:06:05] Contrasting Themes [1:10:48] Wrap-up [1:16:46] Outro [1:17:31] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Nicola from Italy and Ruark from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 4. Very important bits include: using action to tell a story, the reasons behind an act of mercy, the role of prophecy in the Witcher, and Geralt's Himbo Origin Story. [0:00] Cold Open [1:00] Introduction [2:11] Guest Introduction [5:09] Chapter 4 Recap [7:16] Overall Thoughts [15:28] Cahir v. Ciri [23:31] Geralt's Act of Mercy [27:42] The Role of Prophecy [34:57] Sapkowski's Writing Choices [52:36] Cahir, Himbos, and the Lone Brain Cell [57:03] Wrap-up [1:05:19] Outro [1:08:00] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Alycia from France and Sarah A. from the UK join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 3. Very important bits include: Geralt and Yennefer's atypical relationship, the role of sorcerers on the Continent, Sapkowski's framing narratives, and Watership Down. [00:00] Cold Open [00:51] Introduction [1:59] Guest Introduction [5:32] Chapter 3 Recap [7:25] Overall Thoughts [22:44] Chapter Preface [26:27] About the Mages' Class [39:14] Geralt and Yennefer [49:15] Sapkowski's Framing Narrative [53:55] Geralt and Vilgefortz [1:07:23] Geralt's Neutrality [1:18:43] Wrap-up [1:24:22] Outro [1:26:46] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Allison from the US and Liv from Brazil join Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 2. Very important bits include: Ciri's coming of age, some of the most memorable excerpts from the series, shades of femininity in The Witcher, and “Dolish Ponuts”. [00:00] Cold Open [1:46] Introduction [3:38] Guest Introduction [3:22] Chapter 2 Recap [15:44] Overall Thoughts [22:20] The Chapter Preface [27:15] Our New Ciri [36:34] Ciri's Rebellion & Yennefer's Intentions [42:05] Margarita's Quote [49:25] Shades of Womanhood & Femininity in The Witcher [1:02:13] The Role of Poetry [1:13:48] Wrap-up [1:19:39] Outro [1:19:57] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

John aka Softie from the UK joins Alyssa for our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt, Chapter 1. Very important bits include: the life and times of a royal messenger, sly historical references, and the correct way to wear a squirrel's tail. [00:00] Cold Open[01:23] Introduction [03:20] Guest Introduction [08:47] Chapter 1 Recap [11:53] Overall Thoughts [23:13] Transitioning between Books [28:26] On Aplegatt's Role [41:39] On “Modern Witchers” [45:18] Codringer's False Ciri [49:59] The Scoia'tael Fight for Freedom [1:01:14] Wrap-up [1:14:30] Outro [1:19:04] End Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Due to the emerging guidelines for creators and influencers about the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, I am making the decision to pause on any active promotion of the Netflix show on the podcast feed and social media channels until the strike is over. Breakfast in Beauclair will release episodes on Netflix's The Witcher Season 3 after the strike. In the meantime, the podcast will take a brief break for August and return on Thursday, September 7, 2023 with Andrzej Sapkowski's Time of Contempt or The Hexer TV series (2002). If you'd like to read more about creator guidelines for the strike, you can do so here: https://www.sagaftrastrike.org/influencer-faqs The full transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Elsa from the UK and James from the US join Alyssa for our pre-premiere discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Season 3. Very important bits include:  our standout moments from Season 1 and 2, our characters to watch, and our wildest Season 3 predictions. [00:00] Cold Open [01:24] Introduction [04:37] Guest Introductions [10:40] Standout Moments from S1 & S2 [16:12] S3 of The Witcher [30:21] Characters to Watch [40:31] ‘Tidings from Toussaint', Mid-Episode News Segment [44:41] ‘Dear Friend', Listener Call-in Segment [46:03] Wildest S3 Predictions [51:54] Easter Eggs [58:01] Why You Should Watch S3 [1:02:27] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

This episode of ‘Breakfast in Beauclair' is sponsored by Lengthy Tangent and our debut audio fiction series, ‘Peculiar Radio.' Support the ‘Peculiar Radio' crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo now through May 2023 and listen to the podcast when it premieres this year. Doug Cockle from CD Projekt Red's ‘The Witcher' video games and Peter Kenny from ‘The Witcher' audiobooks join Alyssa for a conversation on their careers, voice acting, and The Witcher, and the actor's endless search for emotional truth. Very important bits include: a masterclass worth of materials for voice actors, sending your best people on the hardest jobs, trading stories about our favorite author, what Geralt says to Doug around the house, and Dandilion, Dandelion, and Dandelion. [00:00] Cold Open [01:33] Introduction [04:12] How did you get into the Witcher? [12:33] Preparing Scripts & Materials [19:09] Caring For Your Voice [23:55] Vocal Combat v. On-Screen Combat [28:22] Recording for User Choice in Games [38:19] Episode Sponsor: Lengthy Tangent & Peculiar Radio [40:32] Regional Accents for Audiobooks [47:38] Dandilion, Dandelion, Dandelion [51:17] The Making of the Lodge of Sorceresses [55:55] Handling Emotional Content [1:01:32] Geralt of Rivia & Parenthood [1:08:24] Singing in Audiobooks [1:11:43] Skills Development [1:14:42] The Witcher Community [1:21:59] Book Recommendations [1:26:40] Takeaways from The Witcher [1:31:19] Video Preview: Witcher Improv with Doug Cockle & Peter Kenny [1:31:52] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Danny from the US and Lucie from London join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher: Blood Origin Episode 104 "Of Mages, Malice, and Monstrous Mayhem". Very important bits include: the thesis of ‘Blood Origin', the public reception to the show, how Ithlinne's prophecy has come to pass, how ‘Blood Origin' expands the Witcher Universe, and the limited series' impact on our bridge characters, Jaskier and Avallac'h. [00:00] Cold Open [00:44] Introduction [00:56] Doug Cockle and Peter Kenny are coming to the podcast! [05:00] Guest Introductions [17:02] Episode Highlights & Lowlights [31:19] ‘Tidings from Toussaint', Mid-Episode News Segment [36:48] How has Ithlinne's prophecy come to pass? [40:46] What is the thesis of ‘Blood Origin'? [45:46] How do ‘Blood Origin''s elves differ from contemporary humans? [57:19] Can ‘Blood Origin' stand on its own? [01:01:47] How does ‘Blood Origin' expand the Witcher Universe? [01:07:17] How might this affect Jaskier in Season 3? [01:10:22] What are the implications of Avallac'h's mid-credits scene? [01:18:49] Closing Thoughts [01:21:15] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Michelle from Mexico and Vang from Denmark join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher: Blood Origin Episode 103 "Of Warriors, Wakes, and Wondrous Worlds". Very important bits include: our episode highlights and critiques, whether or not history is destined to repeat itself, pre-Conjunction magic versus Chaos magic, how ‘Blood Origin's' proto-witcher compares to the contemporary ones of Geralt's time, Scían's secret plan, representations of Irish culture and folklore in the show, and cross-over production details from ‘Blood Origin' to ‘The Witcher'. Plus, stick around until the end as Michelle and Vang cut onions for Alyssa. [00:00] Cold Open [01:04] Introduction [10:04] Episode Highlights & Lowlights [13:30] Do you agree that history repeats itself? [19:55] How does the proto-Trial inform our understanding of pre-Conjunction magic? [23:38] How does Fjall compare to contemporary witchers? [27:12] What does Scían's storyline tell us about her character? [34:26] What elements of Irish or Celtic culture, heritage, or folklore do we see in Blood Origin? [37:50] A Discussion of Production Details [40:43] Final Thoughts on ‘Blood Origin' 103 [57:10] Guest Wrap-Up [59:24] Who's Cutting Onions? [01:01:16] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Merete from the US and Mindy from the StoryTinker join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher: Blood Origin Episode 102 "Of Dreams, Defiance, and Desperate Deeds". Very important bits include: How the worldview of each character affects their actions and decisions, the elven social hierarchy, symbolism within costuming and visuals, and our very best understanding of Celestial siblings. [00:00] Cold Open [01:06] Introduction [14:55] Episode Highlights & Lowlights [18:10] How do their worldviews affect the characters' actions? [35:26] What do we learn about Meldorf? [39:00] What do the visions in the Marsh of the Mists show us? [45:51] How do Celestial siblings expand magic on the Continent? [50:24] How does the costuming reflect our characters? [57:27] What themes did you identify in Ep. 102? [1:02:49] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Ben from the US and John aka Softie from the UK join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher: Blood Origin Episode 101 “Of Ballads, Brawlers, and Bloodied Blades”. Very important bits include: our standouts and critiques, how the framing narrative eases the viewer into the prequel, pre-Conjunction Elven architecture, the early journey of our protagonists and how their internal conflicts are illustrated in combat, and whether or not the betrayal of the monarchies was justified. Plus, Softie brings a revelation of monolithic proportions. [00:00] Cold Open [01:07] Introduction [08:58] Episode Highlights & Lowlights [15:30] “How does the framing narrative ease the viewer into ‘Blood Origin'?” [22:29] “How is the Elven aesthetic realized?” [34:14] “How do Fjall and Éile cope with their losses?” [39:03] ‘Tidings from Toussaint', Mid-Episode News Segment [43:56] “How does the show further contextualize the monoliths?” [52:59] “Do you believe the betrayal of the kingdoms was justified?” [1:03:47] “How are the fight scenes representative the characters' internal conflicts?” [1:17:56] Outro & Credits The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

In this special conversation, Lars from WitcherFlix joins Alyssa to discuss ‘The Witcher' Seasons 2 and 3, ‘The Witcher: Blood Origin', and the future of the Witcher at Netflix. Very important bits include: the highs and lows of Season 2 and look ahead to Season 3; our predictions and questions for the upcoming limited series, ‘Blood Origin'; the spin-off stories we'd green-light; the elephant in the room; and Lars' Prophecy. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Mitch Fey from the US and Rob Pigott from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 208 “Family”. Very important bits include: the evolution of Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri throughout the season, Yennefer's ‘Spider-Man 2' arc, our opinions on the Voleth Meir plotline and its purpose in the story, the changes we would have made to this season, successes and opportunities in the adaptation, and what we're looking forward to in the future of the Witcher Universe. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Mitch Fey from the US and Rob Pigott from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 208 “Family”. Very important bits include: the challenges of translating from book to script to screen, how each faction across the Continent turns against Ciri, a punishment of biblical proportions, Yennefer's willing sacrifice, speculation about the future of the elves, a waterfall of cliffhangers, and our reaction to Season 2 dropping The Biggest Honking Secret in the Witcher series. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Mitch Fey from the US and Rob Pigott from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 208 “Family”. Very important bits include: catching up on their work in the film and game industries since their appearances three years ago, Ciri confronting the loss of her home and family while trapped in a dreamscape, Ciri/Voleth Meir's slaughter of the witchers and Geralt and Vesemir's resulting conflict, Francesca on the edge of revenge, Yennefer and Jaskier taking things into their own hands, Nilfgaardian scheming, Cahir's [redacted] arc, and unleashing Jurassic Park in Kaer Morhen. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Allison from the US and Bo from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 207 “Voleth Meir”. Very important bits include: Yennfer's realization of Ciri's potential and her change of heart, Vilgefortz's unnerving personality change, Fingilla's slow isolation and consequent outburst, using primordial magic for everyday productivity, a TED talk on Deadly Nightshade, Stormchasers: Nilfgaard, and how this episode in particular is an examination of hope. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Allison from the US and Bo from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 207 “Voleth Meir”. Very important bits include: Ciri's deadly consequences for the people of the Continent, the willingness to hope, how Cahir's return to Cintra and Francesca's seeming abandonment change Fringilla, Voleth Meir's hand in elven genetics, Geralt's “special friends”, Vilgefortz and Tissaia?!???!?!?!??, and the definitely-probably-possibly-canonical first witchers, Phil and Gordon. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Charli from Austria and Kim from Germany join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 206 “Dear Friend”. Very important bits include: how the birth of the elven baby will change the alliance between the elves and Nilfgaard, how resentment poisons the self rather than harming the object of resentment, Lara Dorren—and consequently, Ciri—as genetic weapons, breaking down the fight between Geralt and the Michelet Brothers, and my take on the macro villain arc for Season 2. Plus: Kingsman, Deadpool, and The Flying Tooth. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Charli from Austria and Kim from Germany join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 206 “Dear Friend”. Very important bits include: ‘The Aard Incident', parallels to the 2001 Polish series, ‘The Hexer', becoming the only human in a Muppet noir, what Cahir's bathrobe tells us, the history of wooden training swords. and the proper etiquette for ‘Reuniting With The Ex Lover You Abandoned at the Top of a Mountain At Least 15 Years Ago, probably.' The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Charli from Austria and Kim from Germany join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 206 “Dear Friend”. Very important bits include: the fantasy books we'd like to see adapted, the religion and Temple of Melitele, Geralt's (maybe unhelpful) words of affirmation, Rience's cross-Continent zoomies, and this Roach's probable age. Plus, help us name the Kaer Morhen wifi! The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

In this bonus episode of Breakfast in Beauclair, Alex Berner from Pocket Bard, the composer of Breakfast in Beauclair, joins Alyssa to discuss the music behind the podcast—from corporate holiday to trap to beachy hippy camper van. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

James from the US and Robin from the Netherlands join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 205 “Turn Your Back”. Very important bits include: An exploration of femininity and the breadth of women in the Witcher, how the score underlines the themes of the show, deconstructing both the narrative and character reasonings behind the Elder Blood plot line, Digimon-Bionicle-Transformers, tapping into the Continent's boom box network, and sharing a brain cell at the bottom of a canyon. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

James from the US and Robin from the Netherlands join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 205 “Turn Your Back”. Very important bits include: the introduction of new antagonists, flipped perspectives, fresh combinations of characters, the importance of building trust between actors, a deep dive into the Elder Blood plotline, splitting the party, how “Turn Your Back” is realized throughout the episode, and ‘Twisted Mermaids'. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Dallas Wheatley from the US and Emma Sherr-Ziarko from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 204 “Redanian Intelligence”. Very important bits include: how cinematography enhances the storytelling, furthering the plot versus furthering the story, meta dialogue in both the show and books, deciphering the Continent's prophecies, my best Vesemir impression, and ‘saying the quiet part out loud.' The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Dallas Wheatley from the US and Emma Sherr-Ziarko from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 204 “Redanian Intelligence”. Very important bits include: story and character comparisons to Blood of Elves, the dynamic of Geralt and Yennefer's relationship and the space between them, the expanding Witcher Universe, Cahir's faith, Yennefer's development, Jaskier's breakup hair, and finding love in the frat house of the Continent. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Dallas Wheatley from the US and Emma Sherr-Ziarko from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 204 “Redanian Intelligence”. Very important bits include: Emma pairs the Witcher with wine, an introduction to the world of audio fiction, practical v. CGI effects, comparisons between the show and Chapter 2 of Blood of Elves, and a minor meltdown over how long it's been since Lord of the Rings. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

In this bonus episode of Breakfast in Beauclair, Elora from the Netherlands and Kyle from the US join Alyssa for The Quiz of Surprise, in which guests of the podcast go head-to-head in trivia on the episode we literally just discussed. Find out who wins in this bonus episode and catch other episodes on the Breakfast in Beauclair patreon! The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Elora from the Netherlands and Kyle from the US, join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 203 “What is Lost”. Very important bits include: Yennefer's stroll through the Tall Grass of Aretuza, parallels between Vesemir and Eskel and Tissaia and Yennefer, the most famous quality of trees, Face Acting!, and my secret conspiracy theory about this very episode. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Elora from the Netherlands and Kyle from the US join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 203 “What Is Lost”. Very important bits include: Elora's Visual Analysis Corner, primal human fears, The Pendulum in the Netflix series versus our Pendulum in The Hanza Discord, how much Stregobor just sucks, what makes a good villain, and our best impressions of Scottish Ciri. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

David from WhibbsGames and Tracie, Miss Magitek, join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 202 “Kaer Morhen”. Very important bits include: Eskel and the infamous leshy fight; Baba Yaga and the magic number 3; successful examples of special effects, practical effects, and editing; themes of figures, dreams, longing, faith, devotion, and desperation; and how we would have changed this episode and this season. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

David from WhibbsGames and Tracie, Miss Magitek, join Alyssa for our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 202 "Kaer Morhen". Very important bits include: TTRPGs and card games, shared dreams, parallels from The Witcher to our own lived experiences, the history of elves on the Continent, Geralt's approach to fatherhood, speculation as to why Ciri hadn't had any fighting training so far, connections to Nightmare of the Wolf and “Blood Origin”, and wooden beasts and Eskel's… bucket list. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Charlotte from Vengerberg Glamarye and Elsa from France join Alyssa for Part 2 of our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 201 “A Grain of Truth”. Very important bits include: the connections Ciri makes to the “monsters” of the manor and monster as metaphor, Yennefer's characterization in Season 2, foreshadowing with literal shadows and the mechanics of the Chinese Trotting Horse Lamp, echos from the Witcher games, “Tears of Fear”, and Heebie-Jeebies! The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Charlotte from Vengerberg Glamarye and Elsa from France join Alyssa for Part 1 of our discussion of Netflix's The Witcher Episode 201 “A Grain of Truth”. Very important bits include: the role of a script editor, the parental relationships between Yennefer & Tissaia and Ciri & Geralt, comparisons to Sapkowski's short story, “the ancient art of bucket swinging”, and Elsa breaks down the Big Question of The Witcher Season 2. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Rob, TheUndeadGamr, and Piotr from Witcher School join Alyssa for Part 2 of our discussion of Netflix's anime spin-off film, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf. Very important bits include: the depiction of The Trial of the Grasses in both the film as well as at Witcher School LARP in Poland, Tetra's Mean Girls moment, the consequences of mutagenic alchemy, the fall of Kaer Morhen and the completion of Vesemir's arc from a carefree and detached nature to acceptance of responsibility and his destiny. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Rob, TheUndeadGamr, and Piotr from Witcher School join Alyssa for Part 1 of our discussion of Netflix's anime spin-off film, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf. Very important bits include: The Witcher in animation, station and the desire for ‘something more', changes from the existing lore of the Witcher, narrative storytelling in VR, Witcher Monster Slayer from Spokko and CD Projekt Red, Sapkowski Verbatim!, LARP 101: An Introduction to LARP with Witcher School in Poland, and Puppies of Surprise. The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.

Breakfast in Beauclair will return on Thursday, February 3, 2022! Sarah A. from the UK and Alycia from France join Alyssa for Part 2 of our discussion of Andrzej Sapkowski's first Witcher novel Blood of Elves, Chapter 7. Very important bits include: the strength and softness that Yennefer and Ciri bring out in each other; magic as chaos, art, and science; prophetic visions; lessons on intimacy and consent; Owls, Monkeys, and little Ugly Ones; Polish euphemisms; and—oh, yeah—the end of Blood of Elves and “HEY, GERALT, REMEMBER WHEN YOU DATED THAT HAG, YENNEFER?” The full episode transcript, show notes, merchandise store, and access to our social platforms are available at breakfastinbeauclair.com.