Dante Basco

Émissions

Épisodes

  1. The Boy in the Iceberg: Beginning the Journey with Aang

    Saison 1, épisode 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.

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

    Saison 4, épisode 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.

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

    Saison 4, épisode 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?”

    1 h 6 min
  4. The Avatar Returns: Aang’s Awakening & Zuko’s Hunt

    Saison 1, épisode 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!

    52 min
  5. Chased by Azula: ATLA’s “The Chase” with Erika Ishii

    Saison 2, épisode 18

    Chased by Azula: ATLA’s “The Chase” with Erika Ishii

    Sleep-deprived and running for their lives—Team Avatar is feeling the heat in Book Two’s action-packed episode 8, “The Chase.” Janet and Dante are joined by actor and performer Erika Ishii for a breakdown of the Gaang’s mounting tension and Azula’s relentless pursuit. They discuss Ty Lee and Mai’s tracking tactics, Katara’s leadership, and just how real things get when rest runs out. It’s a fun and fiery look at an ATLA episode full of friction (and Fire Nation pressure).

    58 min
  6. ATLA Origins Pt. 1: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko

    Saison 1, épisode 2

    ATLA Origins Pt. 1: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko

    Jump into a multi-layered conversation with Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, the creative minds behind Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra! This episode gives fans invaluable insight into the birth of the Avatarverse — from Aang’s earliest concept sketches to bending philosophies and beyond.

    52 min
  7. The Cinematic Evolution of Avatar with Director Joaquim Dos Santos

    Saison 4, épisode 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.

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

    Saison 4, épisode 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.

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

    Saison 4, épisode 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.

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

    Saison 4, épisode 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!

    1 h 5 min
  11. ATLA Origins Pt. 2: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko

    Saison 1, épisode 3

    ATLA Origins Pt. 2: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko

    It’s part two of our illuminating chat with Avatar: The Last Airbender creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko! Discover how key decisions shaped the show, what it took to bring Aang and Team Avatar to life, and how Mike and Bryan built a world that still inspires fans decades later.

    48 min
  12. Scoring TLOK's Jazz-Age Tension with Composer Jeremy Zuckerman

    Saison 4, épisode 4

    Scoring TLOK's Jazz-Age Tension with Composer Jeremy Zuckerman

    Award-winning composer and Avatarverse legend Jeremy Zuckerman returns to the pod to break down his sonic approach to The Legend of Korra, especially the eerie tension of Book One’s Equalist uprising. Jeremy joins Janet and Dante to discuss Episode 3, “The Revelation,” where Korra uncovers the terrifying rise of Amon, chi-blockers, and steampunk-inspired resistance fighters. The team explores how the show’s 1920s jazz influences and rhythmic experimentation shaped Korra’s distinct musical identity, from moody horns to haunting motifs. Plus, they revisit the Avatar live concert, the legacy of chi-blocking from Ty Lee to the Equalists, and why limitations in the score made Korra’s world sound more raw, real, and revolutionary.

    50 min
  13. The Warriors of Kyoshi: Jennie Kwan on Playing Suki

    Saison 1, épisode 8

    The Warriors of Kyoshi: Jennie Kwan on Playing Suki

    Join Jennie Kwan as she discusses her iconic role as Suki in Season 1, Episode 5 of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Janet, Dante, and Jennie discusses their love of Suki and Kyoshi Warrior cosplay; something that suspiciously seems like Zuko’s breakdancing moves; the concept of gender fluidity in the Avatar legacy; and how to empower a person who has a lot to learn (Sokka!) by using toughness and a little patience.They also talk about Zuko’s growth and what makes Suki such a powerful and empowering character in the world of ATLA.

    32 min
  14. Korra’s Shocking Season Finale Decision Explained! with Adrian LaTourelle ("Unalaq")

    Saison 4, épisode 29

    Korra’s Shocking Season Finale Decision Explained! with Adrian LaTourelle ("Unalaq")

    The stakes couldn’t be higher in The Legend of Korra Book Two finale, and the world will never be the same. Hosts Janet Varney and Dante Basco sit down with Adrian LaTourelle, the voice behind Unalaq, to break down the shocking decision that changed the Avatarverse forever. Adrian shares what it was like to voice a character who begins as Korra’s spiritual guide and transforms into one of the franchise’s most chilling villains. From the rise of the Dark Avatar and the epic showdown with Vaatu to Korra’s bold choice to leave the spirit portals open, this conversation dives deep into the philosophy, the drama, and the behind-the-scenes stories that make this finale one of the most talked-about moments in Avatar history. Adrian shares behind-the-scenes stories from the recording booth, reflections on acting technique, and insights into why Unalaq’s teachings still echo through Korra’s journey. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a villain terrifying, how the Avatar balances light and dark, or why this finale redefined the role of the Avatar, this is the episode you can’t miss. Join the fun and react to the season finale discussion in this episode on the official Avatar YouTube Channel!

    1 h 11 min
  15. “The Desert” with Jason Mantzoukas: Appa’s Disappearance

    Saison 2, épisode 25

    “The Desert” with Jason Mantzoukas: Appa’s Disappearance

    Things get sandy—and serious—in this unforgettable ATLA episode 11, “The Desert.” Janet and Dante are joined once again by actor and comedian Jason Mantzoukas (The Good Place, Big Mouth) to dive into the heartbreak of Appa’s disappearance, the mystery of the White Lotus, and the horror of those terrifying buzzard wasps. Jason brings the laughs, but also gets real about what makes the Avatarverse so emotionally powerful. This is one Braving the Elements episode you won’t want to miss!

    58 min
  16. Metalbending Mastery feat. Mindy Sterling "Lin Beifong" (Toph’s Daughter!)

    Saison 4, épisode 7

    Metalbending Mastery feat. Mindy Sterling "Lin Beifong" (Toph’s Daughter!)

    Mindy Sterling joins Janet and Dante to talk about voicing Lin Beifong, The Legend of Korra’s master metalbender and the daughter of ATLA’s Toph. In Book One’s “And the Winner Is…”, Lin steps up to defend the pro-bending finals against Amon’s threat. The trio unpacks Lin’s metalbending might, her Marina Dietrich-inspired swagger, and how it feels to carry on Toph’s legacy. Plus, a hilarious attempt at a Shiro Shinobi recap and behind-the-scenes stories that prove Lin’s not the only scene-stealer in the room.

    51 min
  17. ‘The Puppetmaster’ with Joaquim Dos Santos

    Saison 3, épisode 14

    ‘The Puppetmaster’ with Joaquim Dos Santos

    Scary ghost stories, creepy dark woods, and an eerie little town in the Fire Nation…what could possibly go wrong?  Dive into this fan favorite ep with Janet & Dante as they are joined by storyboard artist & director Joaquim Dos Santos. We hear some insider info about alternate titles for the episode and all the ways the original series broke the rules of animation. Then Joaquim shares his most memorable moments from working on the show, and the trio talks about the importance of stranger danger when hanging out in the woods at night (we’re lookin at you, Team Avatar). Catch Dante’s survival instincts kicking in and find out what Janet has deemed the “most effective scare” in the series, in ‘The Puppetmaster’.

    55 min
  18. The King of Omashu: André Sogliuzzo Brings King Bumi to Life

    Saison 1, épisode 10

    The King of Omashu: André Sogliuzzo Brings King Bumi to Life

    In Season 1, Episode 6 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, it’s time to travel to the eccentric city of Omashu, where Aang, Katara, Sokka, and the gang meet the the strange, spirited leader of Omashu himself, King Bumi. Dante and Janet chat with prolific voice actor André Sogliuzzo about bringing the quirky king to life, how he created Bumi’s distinct voice, and the unique energy he brought to the show. They also discuss the ATLA world-building that introduced this fan-favorite character and his iconic love for cabbages!

    48 min
  19. Uncle Iroh Returns! Greg Baldwin & Cora Baker on Korra’s Spirit World Journey

    Saison 4, épisode 25

    Uncle Iroh Returns! Greg Baldwin & Cora Baker on Korra’s Spirit World Journey

    In this unforgettable episode, we are joined by two incredible guests: Greg Baldwin, the voice of Uncle Iroh (yes, that Iroh!), and Cora Baker, who brought young Korra to life (and happens to be Dee Bradley Baker’s daughter!). We dive into The Legend of Korra Book 2, Episode 10: “A New Spiritual Age” where Korra enters the Spirit World and faces her deepest fears—but she’s not alone. We talk about Iroh’s surprise return, his most iconic line, and how Korra’s emotions literally reshape the Spirit World. Plus, behind-the-scenes stories from Greg and Cora, favorite spirit creatures, shipping hot takes (Korrasami fans, this one’s for you), and why this episode feels like a Miyazaki-inspired masterpiece. And don't forget to watch the full episode on YouTube to see our special guests react to this episode in real time!

    1 h 6 min
  20. Zuko Alone: ATLA’s Boldest Character Study with Adal Rifai

    Saison 2, épisode 16

    Zuko Alone: ATLA’s Boldest Character Study with Adal Rifai

    This week, Zuko is anything BUT alone, since Dante and Janet are joined by ATLA superfan Adal Rifai for “Zuko Alone!” It’s the episode (and episode title) that would end up launching future iconic storylines (“Suki Alone,” “Korra Alone”) and Adal Rifai (Hello From the Magic Tavern, Hey Riddle Riddle podcasts) is here for the deep dive! Find out more than ever before about Zuko’s troubled childhood, including his relationship with Azula, Ozai, and his beloved mother's mysterious disappearance. Oh, and yes—TURTLE DUCKS. You'll leave knowing why this solo story has become one of the most emotionally resonant moments in the Avatarverse.

    45 min
Dante Basco sur Apple