Dante Basco

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

    Сезон 1, выпуск 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 ч. 4 мин.
  2. The Legend of Korra Begins: INSIDE Book One w/ Creators Mike & Bryan

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 ч.
  3. Chased by Azula: ATLA’s “The Chase” with Erika Ishii

    Сезон 2, выпуск 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 мин.
  4. ATLA Origins Pt. 1: With Creators Mike DiMartino & Bryan Konietzko

    Сезон 1, выпуск 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 мин.
  5. Inside Avatar Studios: Seven Havens, New Games, and What’s Next for the Avatarverse

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 ч. 5 мин.
  6. Love Triangles and 'The Spirit of Competition' with Seychelle Gabriel ("Asami")

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 ч. 6 мин.
  7. The Avatar Returns: Aang’s Awakening & Zuko’s Hunt

    Сезон 1, выпуск 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 мин.
  8. Imprisoned: Kevin Michael Richardson (Tyro) on Fire Nation Oppression

    Сезон 1, выпуск 12

    Imprisoned: Kevin Michael Richardson (Tyro) on Fire Nation Oppression

    In Season 1, Episode 6 of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Janet and Dante explore the layers of the powerful episode “Imprisoned” with voice actor Kevin Michael Richardson, who portrays Tyro. They discuss the intense themes of oppression, the Fire Nation’s cruelty, and the emotional resonance of the prison island. Kevin also shares his thoughts on race in voice acting, the challenges of portraying complex characters, and working in the Avatarverse.

    1 ч. 8 мин.
  9. The Cinematic Evolution of Avatar with Director Joaquim Dos Santos

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 ч.
  10. The Voice of Avatar Aang's Grandaughter! Darcy Rose Byrnes ("Ikki")

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 мин.
  11. The Elemental Players with Tim Hedrick, Josh Hamilton, & John O'Bryan

    Сезон 3, выпуск 32

    The Elemental Players with Tim Hedrick, Josh Hamilton, & John O'Bryan

    Janet and Dante take a closer look at the marvel that is ‘The Ember Island Players’, getting the inside scoop from the writers of the episode: Tim Hedrick, Josh Hamilton, and John O'Bryan. Then, Janet shares some fan-favorite moments and we find out if the writers ever really believed ‘Zutara’ could exist.  Were they just humoring us??? Tune in to find out!

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

    Сезон 1, выпуск 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 мин.
  13. ‘The Ember Island Players’ with Andrea Romano

    Сезон 3, выпуск 31

    ‘The Ember Island Players’ with Andrea Romano

    From the icy South Pole, to the heart of Ba Sing Se - featuring singing nomads, pirates, and a surprisingly knowledgeable merchant of cabbage, it’s ‘The Ember Island Players’. Janet and Dante are joined by legendary Voice Director, Andrea Romano, to talk about this LEGENDARY episode where team Avatar stumbles upon a play about themselves and their adventures. The trio recalls their own experiences working together on past Avatar projects, and Andrea gives an inside look into what it was like to direct the star-studded (and unexpected!) group of guest actors in this hilarious tale.

    1 ч. 4 мин.
  14. Avatar Korra's Debut: Welcome to Republic City with Steve Blum ("Amon")

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 мин.
  15. Korra’s Shocking Season Finale Decision Explained! with Adrian LaTourelle ("Unalaq")

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 ч. 11 мин.
  16. Scoring TLOK's Jazz-Age Tension with Composer Jeremy Zuckerman

    Сезон 4, выпуск 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 мин.
  17. ‘The Western Air Temple’ with Tim Hedrick

    Сезон 3, выпуск 20

    ‘The Western Air Temple’ with Tim Hedrick

    Hello, iconic episode here! Janet and Dante hide out at ‘The Western Air Temple’ with Avatar writer, Tim Hedrick. Together, they discuss animals that are not just animals but also verbs, the most memorable lines from the episode, and their opinions on what might be a misuse of Katara’s healing water. Dante and Janet share their personal boomerang histories and the group sympathizes with the newest friend of Team Avatar that is just SO bad at being good. (Oof, that’s rough buddy).

    41 мин.
  18. ATLA Beyond the Screen: Avatar Comics with Tim Hedrick

    Сезон 2, выпуск 17

    ATLA Beyond the Screen: Avatar Comics with Tim Hedrick

    What happens when the Avatarverse makes friends with the amazing Dark Horse Comics world? Janet and Dante chat with longtime Avatar: The Last Airbender writer Tim Hedrick about expanding the ATLA story through the Dark Horse realm. From The Promise to Smoke and Shadow, Tim shares what it’s like building the post-series world of Aang, Zuko, and the rest of Team Avatar. If you love the comics or want to know where to start, this is your must-listen guide to the canon beyond the screen.

    45 мин.
  19. “The Desert” with Jason Mantzoukas: Appa’s Disappearance

    Сезон 2, выпуск 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 мин.
  20. ‘The Puppetmaster’ with Joaquim Dos Santos

    Сезон 3, выпуск 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 мин.
Dante Basco — Apple