Janet Varney

Shows

Episodes

  1. Follow-Up S17: E25

    SEASON 17, EPISODE 25 BONUS

    Follow-Up S17: E25

    Bob, Zaq, and Janet talk about Bob's interview with Chris Bynum and answer listener questions. The majority of the funding of our work comes directly from listeners, through our Patreon community.  To join Patreon, click THIS LINK.  At the $5/month level you'll get access to lots of Patreon Only BONUS EPISODES, Ad Free versions of all episodes, an hour of Patreon Exclusive video content every week, and our new weekly podcast “Pre-Game”, which drops every Wednesday.  Not to mention early access to some episodes and the ability to watch and participate in interviews live. Today’s Sponsor: Factor Meals - Head to Factormeals.com/truth50off and use code "truth50off" to get 50% off and FREE BREAKFAST for one year.

    43 min
  2. 212 - Leg Day/This Or That (w/ Janet Varney and Neil Patrick Harris)

    JAN 26

    212 - Leg Day/This Or That (w/ Janet Varney and Neil Patrick Harris)

    On this episode of ClueLess, host Elliot Kalan welcomes back the highly entertaining duo of Janet Varney (SF Sketchfest, Avatar: Braving The Elements, Stan Against Evil) and her good friend Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother, A Series Of Unfortunate Events, Starship Troopers) to take a couple reps of a new game: Leg Day (ClueLess fans will pick this one up right away). Then, it’s a return of a new favorite, This Or That: Elliott will provide a series of clues, and on this occasion you must answer if they refer to a designer perfume or a Swedish black metal band. A knowledge of contemporary pop stars is needed for the MegaClue!   Visit SFSketchfest.com for tickets and more information! Listen to Janet’s podcast E Pluribus Motto with John Hodgman! Follow Neil Patrick Harris @nph on Insta!   New episodes every Monday. Puzzles in this episode are by Jason Reich and Brock Mahan. Script by Elliott Kalan, additional material by Maddie McCann. Music and sound effects by Devon Torrey Bryant.   Buy Elliott’s book Joke Farming: How To Write Comedy And Other Nonsense HERE. Buy Devon’s album Blame It On My Zodiac HERE or stream it anywhere you listen to records. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    29 min
  3. 211 - Breaking The Law/Linkuistics (w/ Janet Varney and Neil Patrick Harris)

    JAN 19

    211 - Breaking The Law/Linkuistics (w/ Janet Varney and Neil Patrick Harris)

    On this episode of ClueLess, host Elliott Kalan welcomes back the hilarious Janet Varney (SF Sketchfest, Avatar: Braving The Elements, Stan Against Evil), only this time she’s brought along her wonderful friend Neil Patrick Harris (Doctor Who: The Giggle, Gone Girl, Neil’s Puppet Dreams)! First up is a very relaxed game about bizarre state laws (do NOT overthink this one), and then we’ll have a return of an old favorite: Linkuistics! Elliott will give you a word and the starting letter of a second word that completes a well-known phrase, guess what the phrase is and try to keep your word chain going longer than your opponent! In the MegaClue, we’ll ask you to come up with your own connections between given words!   Visit SFSketchfest.com for tickets and more information! Listen to Janet’s podcast E Pluribus Motto with John Hodgman! Follow Neil Patrick Harris @nph on Insta   New episodes every Monday. Puzzles in this episode are by Josh Richmond and Brock Mahan. Script by Elliott Kalan. Music and sound effects by Devon Torrey Bryant.   Buy Elliott’s book Joke Farming: How To Write Comedy And Other Nonsense HERE. Buy Devon’s album Blame It On My Zodiac HERE or stream it anywhere you listen to records. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min
  4. The Legend of Korra Begins: INSIDE Book One w/ Creators Mike & Bryan

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 1

    The Legend of Korra Begins: INSIDE Book One w/ Creators Mike & Bryan

    Janet and Dante are back, but this time with a new Avatar! Season 4 of Braving the Elements launches us into The Legend of Korra: Book One with series creators Mike DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. From Korra’s earliest sketches to the design of Republic City, the invention of pro-bending, and the show's steampunk-inspired elements, this episode explores how TLOK came to life. The Two Dads dive deep into the art, themes, and groundbreaking decisions that shaped the next era of the Avatarverse. Plus, Janet shares the story of her audition and defends Korra's character arc in what would become a new kind of YA hero. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 4m
  5. The Boy in the Iceberg: Beginning the Journey with Aang

    SEASON 1, EPISODE 1

    The Boy in the Iceberg: Beginning the Journey with Aang

    In our first-ever episode, get to know your hosts Janet Varney (“Korra” from The Legend of Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko himself!), find out what to expect in this ATLA rewatch podcast, and dive into the series premiere of Avatar: The Last Airbender — “The Boy in the Iceberg.” In Season 1, Episode 1 of Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005), we meet Aang, Appa, Katara, Sokka, and the icy beginning of a legendary adventure. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 7m
  6. Avatar Korra's Debut: Welcome to Republic City with Steve Blum ("Amon")

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 2

    Avatar Korra's Debut: Welcome to Republic City with Steve Blum ("Amon")

    Voice legend Steve Blum joins Janet and Dante to unpack his iconic role as Amon, The Legend of Korra’s masked adversary! From early audition notes to the eerie voice restraint that made Amon so chilling, Steve shares how he brought this complex villain to life. The crew explores Korra’s explosive arrival in Republic City, her fiery declaration as the Avatar, and how Book One tackles weighty themes like nonbender inequality and political unrest. They also reflect on what sets Korra apart from Aang, explore their favorite ships, and challenge Steve to a round of “Quip or Cabbage?” to see how well he remembers Amon’s most iconic lines. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 2m
  7. Inside Avatar Studios: Seven Havens, New Games, and What’s Next for the Avatarverse

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 30

    Inside Avatar Studios: Seven Havens, New Games, and What’s Next for the Avatarverse

    In this season finale of Braving the Elements, hosts Janet and Dante team up with Avatar Studios insiders Isabella Boettcher and Joan Hilty for an unforgettable deep dive into the Avatarverse. Together, they explore the rich storytelling that spans across animation, comics, novels, and games, revealing how every piece connects to the larger world fans love. The conversation touches on everything from the emotional highs and heartbreaks of The Legend of Korra to the darker, more complex narratives in the Kyoshi and Yangchen novels. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes insights on how creators keep the lore consistent while expanding the universe through new mediums like tabletop RPGs, Magic: The Gathering, and major gaming collaborations with Fortnite and Overwatch. Plus, there’s an exciting tease about the upcoming series Seven Havens and what it could mean for the future of the Avatar timeline. Watch the video version on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel for even more reactions and insights! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 5m
  8. Love Triangles and 'The Spirit of Competition' with Seychelle Gabriel ("Asami")

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 6

    Love Triangles and 'The Spirit of Competition' with Seychelle Gabriel ("Asami")

    Seychelle Gabriel, the voice of Asami Sato, joins Janet and Dante to explore the tangled emotional web of The Legend of Korra’s “The Spirit of Competition.” As pro-bending battles escalate, so do the romantic tensions between Korra, Mako, and Asami. Seychelle shares what it was like to voice such a stylish, badass character in her very first voiceover gig, and reflects on Asami’s early role in the Avatarverse and her growing connection with Korra. The trio explores the roots of the Korrasami ship, behind-the-scenes stories from Seychelle’s audition, and how love, loyalty, and competition all collide in this turning point of Book One. Plus, it’s time for another round of “Quip or Cabbage?” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 10m
  9. The Cinematic Evolution of Avatar with Director Joaquim Dos Santos

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 5

    The Cinematic Evolution of Avatar with Director Joaquim Dos Santos

    Director, character designer, and Avatar legend Joaquim Dos Santos joins Janet and Dante to talk all things Korra - from the very first sketch of the Avatar herself to crafting the episode's darker, noir-inspired tone. In this episode, Team Avatar revisits The Voice in the Night, where Korra faces off with mounting fear, political pressure, and a growing Equalist threat. Joaquim shares how he helped design Korra as the "opposite of Aang," how her MMA-inspired physicality influenced her character, and how cinematic storyboarding brought a new visual language to the Avatarverse. Plus: Tarrlok’s shady charm, the chilling mystery of Amon, and why this episode marks a major tonal shift in Book One. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 3m
  10. A Life Less Ordinary with Janet Varney

    02/05/2023

    A Life Less Ordinary with Janet Varney

    After the smashing success of TRAINSPOTTING, Danny Boyle reteamed with star Ewan McGregor and writer John Hodge to…make a movie where Dan Hedaya plays the Archangel Gabriel, Stanley Tucci plays a cuck dentist, and Ewan has one of the worst haircuts in the history of cinema? Shockingly, 1997’s A LIFE LESS ORDINARY was not a hit. Actress and comedian Janet Varney (The Legend of Korra, “The JV Club”) joins us as we attempt to make sense of this bizarro road trip romance. Join our Patreon for franchise commentaries and bonus episodes. Follow us @blankcheckpod on Instagram, Threads, Facebook and X! Buy some real nerdy merch. Connect with other Blankies on our Reddit or Discord For anything else, check out BlankCheckPod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    2h 27m
  11. The Voice of Avatar Aang's Grandaughter! Darcy Rose Byrnes ("Ikki")

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 3

    The Voice of Avatar Aang's Grandaughter! Darcy Rose Byrnes ("Ikki")

    Korra takes her first (reluctant) steps into airbending in Episode 102 of The Legend of Korra, and joining Janet and Dante is voice actor Darcy Rose Byrnes, who brought the energetic Ikki to life! Darcy shares what it was like voicing the granddaughter of Avatar Aang at just 10 years old, and how Ikki’s joy and goofiness connect the spirit of ATLA to TLOK. The crew dives into Korra’s frustration with Tenzin’s teachings, her impulsive pro-bending detour, and the deeper lesson behind “being like the leaf.” What makes airbending so elusive for Korra? How does her struggle reflect her inner resistance to change? Darcy celebrates Ikki’s role as the heart of the Airbender family and even honors fan-favorite Shinobi with a fun impression. Plus, the team reflects on Korra’s moment of growth (and regret) after breaking a 2000-year-old Air Nomad artifact, the strength it takes to say sorry, and the pride in being seen by your teacher. And of course, Uncle Iroh’s Tea Time returns, with Darcy drawing wisdom from a teapot of classic Iroh quotes. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    55 min
  12. Season 3, Ep 41 - Crone Appétit (w/ Janet Varney)

    05/18/2020

    Season 3, Ep 41 - Crone Appétit (w/ Janet Varney)

    As the boys continue pondering their situation, they meet an old friend who may be able to help keep them fed, Crone Bakeress. Credits Arnie: Arnie Niekamp Chunt: Adal Rifai Usidore: Matt Young Crone Bakeress: Janet Varney Mysterious Man: Tim Sniffen Tricia: Kate James Producers: Arnie Niekamp, Matt Young, and Adal Rifai Post-Production Coordination: Garrett Schultz Earwolf Producer: Kimmie Lucas Editor: Chris Rathjen Special Assistance: Ryan DiGiorgi Magic Tavern Logo: Allard Laban Theme Music: Andy Poland You can support the show directly and receive bonus episodes and rewards by joining our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/magictavern for only $5 per month. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and now Patreon! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    45 min
  13. Season 4, Ep 89 - Merzia the Red Queen (w/ Janet Varney)

    09/11/2023

    Season 4, Ep 89 - Merzia the Red Queen (w/ Janet Varney)

    Arnie, Chunt, and Usidore meet a terrifying undead queen. Credits Arnie: Arnie Niekamp Usidore: Matt Young Chunt: Adal Rifai Red Queen Merzia: Janet Varney Mysterious Man: Tim Sniffen Producers: Arnie Niekamp, Matt Young, and Adal Rifai Associate Producer: Anna Havermann Post-Production Coordination: Garrett Schultz Editor: Garrett Schultz Magic Tavern Logo: Allard Laban Theme Music: Andy Poland Check out the new merch at our Teepublic store! You can support the show directly and receive bonus episodes and rewards by joining our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/magictavern for only $5 per month. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and now Patreon! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    52 min
  14. The Rise of the Dark Avatar w/ Special Guest Devery Jacobs

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 28

    The Rise of the Dark Avatar w/ Special Guest Devery Jacobs

    Actor and filmmaker Devery Jacobs (Reservation Dogs) joins Janet Varney and Dante Basco to break down one of the most intense episodes in The Legend of Korra: “Darkness Falls.” This is the moment everything changes—Unalaq’s plan to merge with the dark spirit Vaatu threatens to create something the Avatar world has never seen before: a Dark Avatar. Together, they explore what this twist means for Korra, the Avatar cycle, and the balance between light and darkness. From the emotional weight of Korra’s battle at the Tree of Time to the eerie Valley of Lost Souls and the heartbreaking loss of her connection to past Avatars, the conversation dives deep into why this episode hits so hard. There’s plenty of fun too—like Bolin’s unexpected romantic confession and the ongoing debate over badgermoles versus flying bison—but at its core, this discussion asks big questions: What happens when darkness wins? And what does that say about balance in the Avatar world? Will light prevail—or has the age of the Dark Avatar begun? Watch the video version on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel for even more reactions and insights! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 12m
  15. Korra’s Mom Speaks Out! Alex McKenna on Harmonic Convergence and the Dark Avatar

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 27

    Korra’s Mom Speaks Out! Alex McKenna on Harmonic Convergence and the Dark Avatar

    Harmonic Convergence has arrived, and the fate of the Avatar world hangs in the balance. In this episode of Braving the Elements, hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with Alex McKenna, the voice of Senna—Korra’s mom—to explore one of the most pivotal moments in The Legend of Korra: Unalaq’s shocking plan to fuse with Vaatu and create a Dark Avatar. Alex shares behind-the-scenes stories from recording sessions and her thoughts on Korra’s family dynamics and the fandom’s favorite ship, Korrasami. The conversation dives into why Harmonic Convergence changes everything, the philosophy of balance between light and dark, and what it truly means to be the Avatar when darkness rises. Along the way, we celebrate Naga’s fierce loyalty, Bumi’s unexpected heroics, and the emotional stakes that make this episode unforgettable. Join the fun and react to the stunning action featured in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 5m
  16. Book One Finale: Korra’s Endgame with Dee Bradley Baker (‘Tarrlok’)

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 15

    Book One Finale: Korra’s Endgame with Dee Bradley Baker (‘Tarrlok’)

    In the epic season finale of The Legend of Korra Book One, hosts Janet Varney (Korra) and Dante Basco (Zuko) are joined by voice acting legends Dee Bradley Baker (Tarrlok) and Andrea Romano (voice director) to unpack one of the most emotional and cinematic episodes in the Avatarverse: “Endgame.” From Amon’s shocking unmasking to Tarrlok’s heartbreaking final decision, this episode dives deep into themes of redemption, trauma, and moral complexity. Dee Bradley Baker shares behind-the-scenes insights on voicing Tarrlok and the show’s beloved hybrid animals, while Andrea Romano reflects on the power of subtle performance and directing one of animation’s most nuanced finales. Plus: Korra’s bending is restored, Lin Beifong rises again, and Naga proves once more that animals are the unsung heroes of the Avatar world. Join the fun and react to the stunning action featured in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 11m
  17. The Avatar Returns: Aang’s Awakening & Zuko’s Hunt

    SEASON 1, EPISODE 4

    The Avatar Returns: Aang’s Awakening & Zuko’s Hunt

    Janet and Dante recap some great listener interactions and then dig into Episode 2 of Avatar: The Last Airbender — “The Avatar Returns.” In Season 1, Episode 2 of ATLA, Aang’s identity as the Avatar is revealed, and Prince Zuko intensifies his mission to capture him. Is Appa’s new nickname “the lazy canoe?” Did Zuko get bested by his own bed? Does Janet cry during EVERY episode of ATLA? Is Dante doing a British accent? And on a more serious note, Dante and Janet discuss how a shift in perspective can change the way you see your own life and choices! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    55 min
  18. Season 4, Ep 46 - Crone Visits (w/ Janet Varney)

    10/03/2022

    Season 4, Ep 46 - Crone Visits (w/ Janet Varney)

    Crone Bakeress (or is she Braidwynn?) stops in to sell some things. Credits Arnie: Arnie Niekamp Usidore: Matt Young Chunt: Adal Rifai Crone Bakeress: Janet Varney Mysterious Man: Tim Sniffen Producers: Arnie Niekamp, Matt Young, and Adal Rifai Post-Production Coordination: Garrett Schultz Editor: Stephen Dranger Magic Tavern Logo: Allard Laban Theme Music: Andy Poland Click HERE for tickets for the upcoming live show at the Bell House (Brooklyn, NY) on October 14th. You can support the show directly and receive bonus episodes and rewards by joining our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/magictavern for only $5 per month. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and now Patreon! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

    1h 5m
  19. Meet the Cast: Jack De Sena on Voicing Sokka

    SEASON 1, EPISODE 7

    Meet the Cast: Jack De Sena on Voicing Sokka

    Janet and Dante sit down with Jack De Sena, the voice of Sokka, for a hilarious episode full of great conversation! Find out about Jack’s beginnings as a child actor to his busy college years trying to balance school with his ATLA voice-acting duties. Discover Jack’s thoughts on Sokka’s insatiable appetite (don’t eat the hybrid animals!), his favorite Sokka ship, and Jack’s thoughts on bringing this iconic character to life in the world of ATLA. It’s a can’t-miss episode guaranteed to make you laugh., To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 2m
  20. The Twist That Changed Everything: Bolin’s Heroics in Night of a Thousand Stars

    SEASON 4, EPISODE 26

    The Twist That Changed Everything: Bolin’s Heroics in Night of a Thousand Stars

    What happens when Bolin goes from movie star to real-life hero? In Night of a Thousand Stars, the Nuktuk premiere turns into chaos, President Raiko’s life is on the line, and Bolin delivers the twist no one saw coming. Hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with writer Josh Hamilton to spill the secrets behind this fan-favorite episode of The Legend of Korra. From Varrick's jaw-dropping scheme and Bolin’s epic fight to the shocking kiss that reignites Korra’s love triangle, this conversation dives deep into the drama, the laughs, and the behind-the-scenes stories that made this chapter unforgettable. If you thought you knew everything about Bolin’s big moment, think again—this episode will change how you see Book Two forever. And if you’d like to join Janet, Dante and their guest(s) as they react to some amazing action, check out the video version of this episode on the official Avatar Legends YouTube Channel! To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    1h 8m
Janet Varney on Apple