SQPN: Secrets of Middle-earth

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The Secrets of Middle-earth explores the myths, legends and themes of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. A podcast about the books, the movies and the videogame 'Lord of the Rings Online', the Hobbit and the Silmarillion. Hosted by Fr. Roderick.

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    • May 20, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 2m AVG DURATION
    • 99 EPISODES

    4.8 from 149 ratings Listeners of SQPN: Secrets of Middle-earth that love the show mention: father roderick, lotro, tolkien's, roderick's, silmarillion, world of middle earth, hobbit, lord of the rings, ha ha ha, video game, panel, tour, welcome back, really enjoy this podcast, explore, clever, online, books, character, material.


    Ivy Insights

    The SQPN: Secrets of Middle-earth podcast is a wonderful and informative show that delves into the world of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. Hosted by Father Roderick, this podcast takes listeners on a journey through the rich history and mythology of the Lord of the Rings while exploring the virtual world of LOTRO. With its knowledgeable guests and insightful commentary, this podcast offers a deep dive into Tolkien's works and provides a relaxing and enjoyable listening experience.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the wealth of information it provides about Tolkien's literature and the world he created. The hosts are highly knowledgeable and passionate about their subject matter, offering in-depth analysis and discussion that is both educational and entertaining. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Middle-earth, this podcast has something for everyone, providing insights into characters, races, geography, and more.

    Another great aspect of this show is how it incorporates gameplay from LOTRO into the discussions. By exploring Middle-earth through the game, listeners can visually experience the locations being discussed and gain a deeper understanding of their significance within Tolkien's stories. This unique approach adds an extra layer of immersion to the podcast and makes it even more engaging for fans.

    While there aren't many negative aspects to this podcast, one criticism could be that it sometimes focuses too much on gameplay and movie adaptations rather than delving deeper into Tolkien's original texts. However, this is only a minor issue as there is still plenty of insightful analysis provided throughout each episode.

    In conclusion, The SQPN: Secrets of Middle-earth podcast is an excellent resource for any Lord of the Rings fan or anyone interested in exploring Tolkien's vast mythology. With its informative commentary, engaging discussions, and unique approach to exploring Middle-earth through LOTRO gameplay, this podcast offers a valuable insight into one of the most beloved fantasy worlds ever created.



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    Latest episodes from SQPN: Secrets of Middle-earth

    Fan Films

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 49:39


    From backyard battles to cinematic gems, Jeff Haecker and Thomas Salerno dissect three Tolkien fan films—highlighting heartfelt efforts, haunting blades, and heroic calls for aid. Featuring Halifirien, Legend of Gurthang, and the excellent Horn of Gondor. The post Fan Films appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    horn tolkien fan films gondor thomas salerno starquest media
    Tolkien the Artist

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 93:57


    From Middle-earth maps to Smaug's lair, Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno & artist Alix Murray unpack the genius of Tolkien's art, its symbolism, and its deep ties to his stories. Discover hidden gems of Tolkien's creative world. The post Tolkien the Artist appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    discover artist tolkien smaug thomas salerno starquest media
    Dragons of Middle-Earth

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 72:59


    What makes Tolkien's dragons so unforgettable? From the sinister Glaurung to the catlike menace of Smaug, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker unravel the lore, symbolism, and mythic roots of Middle-earth's greatest beasts. The post Dragons of Middle-Earth appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    dragons tolkien middle earth smaug patrick mason glaurung thomas salerno starquest media
    The Battle of Unnumbered Tears

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 73:24


    Tolkien's most devastating chapter takes center stage: the Battle of Unnumbered Tears. Fingon's fall, dwarven defiance, and Morgoth's dark triumph are unpacked by Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker. The post The Battle of Unnumbered Tears appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Tolkien Reading Day 2025: Fellowship and Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 61:07


    Celebrate Tolkien Reading Day 2025 as we celebrate the bonds of friendship, loyalty, and courage in Middle-earth. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason share powerful passages that reveal Tolkien's heart for fellowship and community. The post Tolkien Reading Day 2025: Fellowship and Community appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Beren and Luthien, Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 82:05


    Beren and Lúthien's legendary love story takes center stage! Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason break down its epic moments, from Sauron's defeat to the Silmaril's power and Lúthien's fateful choice. Magic, fate, and heroism collide in Tolkien's masterpiece! The post Beren and Luthien, Part 2 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Beren and Luthien, Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 87:36


    Love, doom, and destiny collide in the legendary tale of Beren and Lúthien! Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Pat Mason recount Beren's perilous quest, Finrod's heroic sacrifice, and Sauron's cruelty—plus, the latest on Rings of Power Season 3! The post Beren and Luthien, Part 1 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    The House of Finwe

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 75:29


    The House of Finwë shaped the fate of the Noldor, from Fëanor's fiery rebellion to Fingolfin's heroism and Finarfin's wisdom. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason recount the family's triumphs, tragedies, and the doom that followed their choices. The post The House of Finwe appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    house patrick mason noldor thomas salerno starquest media
    Our Dream Live Action Tolkien Series

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 84:14


    What Middle-earth stories would you bring to life? Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason unleash creative pitches from Patrons, from epic battles to whimsical tales. Hear bold ideas for Tolkien-inspired shows and share your own! The post Our Dream Live Action Tolkien Series appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    tolkien live action patrick mason thomas salerno starquest media
    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 17 – 18

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 79:00


    Discover hidden themes in The Silmarillion as Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason unravel the alliances of men and elves, Fingolfin's duel with Morgoth, and the tragedy of the Dagor Bragollach. Plus, news on Tolkien adaptations and fan feedback! The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 17 – 18 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    The War of the Rohirrim

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 90:52


    Explore The Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim with Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker as they discuss Rohan's legendary history, Helm Hammerhand's epic battles, Hera's heroic journey, and how the film honors Tolkien's deep and timeless lore. The post The War of the Rohirrim appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    war tolkien hera rohirrim patrick mason thomas salerno starquest media
    A Special Advent Message

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2024 2:43


    StarQuest needs your support to continue our mission of bringing faith and culture together in ways that educate, inspire, and entertain with all of our shows. The post A Special Advent Message appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    advent message starquest media
    Join Jimmy and Dom for Livestream Event on 12/12/24

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 6, 2024 0:40


    Jimmy Akin invites you to join him in Italy in 2025 for the Holy Year for a once-in a lifetime, 12-day pilgrimage to the mysterious shrines and holy sites of Rome, Assisi, and more. The post Join Jimmy and Dom for Livestream Event on 12/12/24 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rohan and the Rohirrim

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 85:49


    Explore with Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker the rich history and culture of Rohan including its founding, the Oath of Friendship with Gondor, and the pivotal role it plays in the War of the Ring, as well as the upcoming War of the Rohirrim movie, delving into Helm Hammerhand's tragic tale and speculating on the adaptation's portrayal of Rohan's epic struggles. The post Rohan and the Rohirrim appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 14 – 16

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 81:02


    Discover Beleriand! Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker continue their journey through the Silmarillion, incl. chapters about Beleriand and its influence on later Middle-earth settings and on Turgon's founding of Gondolin. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 14 – 16 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power Season 2 Wrap Up

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2024 95:27


    Now that season 2 of Rings of Power is complete, Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Alix Murray discuss its themes, character arcs, and story development, including some critiques on Galadriel and the Harfoots arc. The post Rings of Power Season 2 Wrap Up appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Mordor and the Fell Lands of Middle Earth

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 95:35


    For our Halloween episode, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker delve into Tolkien's “fell lands”—dark regions of Middle-Earth brimming with sinister elements, inclluding Utumno, Angmar, and Mordor, focusing on their roles in Tolkien's mythology, blending humor and lore, reflecting on both well-known settings and obscure places filled with werewolves and ancient evils, ultimately weaving a narrative of Middle-Earth's haunted geography for fans. The post Mordor and the Fell Lands of Middle Earth appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 8: Shadow and Flame

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2024 95:28


    The big season finale! Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason discuss the final episode of season 2, which dropped huge story bombs in every story line. Hear their analysis of the episode and the key themes and moments. The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 8: Shadow and Flame appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 7: Doomed to Die

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 81:33


    The fall of Eregion! Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker discuss the penultimate episode of season 2, including themes of deception and Adar's complex motivations. Plus, the significance of the new collection of Tolkien's poetry. The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 7: Doomed to Die appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 6: Where Is He?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2024 74:20


    Where is he? Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason discuss the latest episode of Rings of Power, including Elendil's faith and defiance of Pharazon, Miriel's symbolic baptism; and Annatar's manipulation of Celebrimbor. Plus Hobbit Day! The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 6: Where Is He? appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 5: Halls of Stone

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 74:33


    The best episode yet? Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason discuss Sauron's manipulation of Celebrimbor; the corruption and greed of King Durin; Pharazon's repression of the Numenor faithful; and Galadriel's enemy of her enemy. The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 5: Halls of Stone appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 4: Eldest

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 72:49


    Tom, Ents, and wights, oh my! Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Thomas Salerno discuss the latest episode of Rings of Power and the introduction or return of thse figures from Lord of the Rings; plus the Elrond & Galadriel tension; and Theo's future. The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episode 4: Eldest appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power, Season 2, Episodes 1 – 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 95:04


    Season 2 of Rings of Power is here and Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker dive into the first three episodes, including Sauron's manipulations of Elves, Dwarves, and Men; Pharazon's scheme for power in Numenor; and the return of Isildur. The post Rings of Power, Season 2, Episodes 1 – 3 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Rings of Power Season 2 Final Trailer Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2024 69:24


    On the cusp of Rings of Power season 2, Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason break down the final trailer and explore Galadriel's journey, Sauron's manipulations, the potential roles of Elrond, Dwarves, and Numenor, and Tom Bombadil. The post Rings of Power Season 2 Final Trailer Review appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch: 13 The Return of the Noldor

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 71:19


    Continuing their exploration of The Silmarillion, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker discuss "The Return of the Noldor" and the themes of victory and loss, leadership, loyalty, and kinship and the pride of the Noldor. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch: 13 The Return of the Noldor appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    silmarillion patrick mason noldor thomas salerno starquest media
    Rings of Power Season 2 Preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 80:34


    Rings of Power Season 2 is almost here and Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Mike Schramm preview the new season; their reflections on season 1; hopes and fears for the second; and the themes of friendship, loyalty, valor, and redemption that the show embraces. The post Rings of Power Season 2 Preview appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    preview rings rings of power power season thomas salerno mike schramm starquest media
    Tolkien and Lewis

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2024 69:51


    Inklings! Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Alix Murray discuss literary friends J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, how their shared experiences and academic careers led to the Inklings and how that friendship shaped Narnia and Middle Earth. The post Tolkien and Lewis appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    tolkien narnia middle earth inklings thomas salerno starquest media
    A Special Message from StarQuest

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2024 3:30


    StarQuest CEO Dom Bettinelli has a special message for all listeners and supporters of StarQuest's shows. The post A Special Message from StarQuest appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    special message starquest media
    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 10-12

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 69:01


    Of the Sindar, Sun and Moon, and Men. Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker discuss the next part of the Silmarillion in their ongoing deep read series, and discuss the themes of light vs. dark, life and death, and the gift of mortality. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 10-12 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    The Hunt for Gollum (Fan Film)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024


    Before the upcoming big budget Hollywood film was announced, there was a fan film about the hunt for Gollum, and Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason dive in to discuss it. Plus lots of discussion of upcoming Middle Earth-themed media. The post The Hunt for Gollum (Fan Film) appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 9: Flight of the Noldor

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024


    Continuing their walk through the Silmarillion, Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason discuss the tragic kinslaying and the oath that would bring doom to Middle Earth as well as the themes of pride, betrayal and the consequences of your actions. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 9: Flight of the Noldor appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Middle Earth in Star Wars

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2024 64:27


    Much of modern culture was influenced by Tolkien's writings and Star Warsis no different. Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason are joined by Kathryn Laffrey to discuss all the ways that Tolkien's ideas, characters, and plots have influenced Star Wars. The post Middle Earth in Star Wars appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    star wars tolkien middle earth patrick mason thomas salerno starquest media
    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 6, 7, & 8

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 79:39


    Continuing their dive into the Quenta Silmarillion, Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason discuss Melkor's corrupting influence, Fëanor's tragic complexity, and the symbolism of Ungoliant's darkness and hunger as they set the stage for the entire First Age. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 6, 7, & 8 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Peter Jackson's The Return of The King

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2024 92:28


    The trilogy ends! Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Alix Murray finish their discussion of the Peter Jackson LOTR trilogy, diving deep into the themes of sacrifice, courage, resilience, and more, while comparing how the films differed from original book and the film's lasting impact. The post Peter Jackson’s The Return of The King appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    peter jackson return of the king thomas salerno starquest media
    Tolkien Reading Day 2024: Service and Sacrifice

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2024 68:01


    The theme for Tolkien Reading Day 2024 is Service and Sacrifice, so Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason shares their favorite quotes from Tolkien's works on the subject, concluding that nearly the whole Legendarium is on that topic. The post Tolkien Reading Day 2024: Service and Sacrifice appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 3, 4, & 5

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 82:16


    Awakening. Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Pat Mason continue their walk through the Silmarillion, covering the creation and awakening of Elves, origins of orcs, the first binding of Morgoth, and themes of power, sacrifice, and morallity. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 3, 4, & 5 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    awakening elves silmarillion morgoth thomas salerno starquest media
    Peter Jackson's The Two Towers

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2024 70:23


    So much happens in Peter Jackson's film verison of The Two Towers. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Alix Murray discuss the film's portrayals of Faramir and Theoden; the themes of hope, unity, and despair at Helm's Deep; and the changes made from the book. The post Peter Jackson’s The Two Towers appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 1 & 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 78:31


    Continuing their discussion of The Silmarillion, Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason discuss the beginning of the Quenta Silmarillion and the themes of fate, free will, creation, and destruction within Tolkien's universe. The post Quenta Silmarillion, Ch. 1 & 2 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    tolkien silmarillion patrick mason thomas salerno starquest media
    Where Did the Blue Wizards Go? (And More Patron Questions)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2024 68:14


    We gave Patrons the opportunity to ask our Tolkien experts Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, Mike Schramm, and Patrick Mason their related questions and made the answers available exclusively to Patrons first and the later to the whole audience. This time the questions cover the origin and fate of the wizards, where the Entwives went, and what part of Tolkien's stories they would change. The post Where Did the Blue Wizards Go? (And More Patron Questions) appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    wizards tolkien patrick mason entwives thomas salerno mike schramm starquest media
    Peter Jackson's The Fellowship of the Ring

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2024 86:13


    Focusing on Peter Jackson's Fellowship of the Ring, Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Alix Murray share their experiences of the film; highlights, including Boromir's redemptive death; its cultural impact; controversies about changes from the books; and more. The post Peter Jackson’s The Fellowship of the Ring appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Father Christmas Letters

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2023 54:45


    Over 23 years Tolkien wrote a series of letters from Father Christmas to his children. Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason discuss their experiences of the letters; Tolkien's whimsical, playful side; his devotion as a father; and the enduring magic of his imagination. The post Father Christmas Letters appeared first on StarQuest Media.

    Ainulindale and Valaquenta

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2023 89:09


    Tolkien's Silmarillion begins with the Ainulindale and Valaquenta and so Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason begin the first part of a conversation about these two stories, on Middle Earth's creation, the balance of good and evil, immortality and free will, and more. The post Ainulindale and Valaquenta appeared first on StarQuest Media.

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