Today we meet Brienne of Tarth! Dr. Kavita Mudan Finn joins Anthony to talk about a character who is more complex than the show’s adaptation. Jan Doolittle Wilson puzzles over Tywin’s war plans.

Medieval historian Valerie Garver discusses the introduction to Jojen and Meera, the political function of food, and the tragic end of Lady Hornwood. Dr. Pádraig MacCarron entertains Anthony’s fan theory about the “old gods.”

Tyrion’s relationship with Cersei is . . . complicated. John and David are back to discuss Tyrion, Cersei, the pyromancers, and more. Historian Iain MacInnis explains the practices of hostage giving.

Jan and Anthony discuss the literary rules of Martin’s story. Are noble acts rewarded or punished? Is GRRM interested in justice? Also, is Bran or Bloodraven warging into the past to thwart Hot Pie? Just another fantastic Arya chapter!

Does the Hound foreshadow his death in a line to Sansa? Anthony discusses his theory with historian Katherine Olley. Then former Olympian and heir to Cameroon royalty, Arthur Njamfa returns to dish historical gossip.

Historian Andrew Howe stops by to talk about Tyrion’s canary trap. Then Anthony and Jim talk about our upcoming fantasy auction.

Oxford Medievalist Katherine Olley talks House of the Dragon. Then NFL analyst Fran Duffy and comic Steve Ausburne discuss auction strategy.

A.Ron, Jim and Anthony discuss news about HOTD season 2. Then they are joined by Hammer-of-Gods Evan to pound out the rules for our HOTD-fantasy league.

Bran navigates life as the King’s brother, considers marriage proposals, watches Osha bathe, and butts heads with the Frey boys. Scottish historian, Dr. Iain MacInnes brings a keen eye to Lady Hornwood’s dilemma.

Tyrion navigates slanderous letters and sour smiths as he prepares for the coming battle of Blackwater Bay. Dr. A. Keith Kelly joins the pod to discuss this and entertain Anthony’s half-baked theory about Podrick’s espionage. Then Dr. Valerie Garver explains the lives of early medieval wards relative to the stories of Theon and Littlefinger.