Growing Up Skywalker: Recent Episodes
Sam Nilsson & Anna Squires
Growing Up Skywalker is a Star Wars podcast that combines wisdom and wonder. Co-hosts Sam Nilsson (resident expert) and Anna Squires (resident non-expert) move through every Stars Wars film and television appearance in chronological, in-universe order.
Visit us online: https://www.growingupskywalker.com/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/growingupskywalker
Welcome to our most mystical, magical episode of Rebels (and Growing Up Skywalker…and probably Star Wars) ever.
“Dume” and “Wolves and a Door” (Rebels S4, 11–12) bring back the mysteries of the Mortis Arc and take us deep into the heart of Force magic. We guess about the connection between Kanan and the Loth-wolf Dume, and question what Palpatine wants from a gateway that allows someone to bend space/time and control the galaxy. And, of course, because we’re still not over it—we meditate on different forms of grief.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:31 Mortis Arc and Palpatine Redux
00:32:02 Kanan and DUME
00:45:35 Big Questions from this Episode
00:55:29 Bae Watch
01:03:01 Closing Thoughts
Send Us Your Thoughts: S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
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X-wings and Major Plot Development, here we come.
The rebel assault in "Rebel Assault" (Rebels S4, 9) goes off with a bang, but then goes down in flames. With our heroes on the run or worse, the Loth-wolves have important information to share with Kanan.
However, "Jedi Night"(Rebels S4,10) breaks the mold about what a star wars episode is, and we are left dealing with devastating fallout both on Lothal and in the hearts of watchers. We still have more of Rebels S4, but the stakes have never been higher for what will happen on Lothal.
Send Us Your Thoughts: S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:01:50 Plot Overview
00:12:25 Kanan Jarrus Retrospective
00:33:38 Swan Song to Hera Syndulla
00:43:14 The Empire is Writing Its Own Doom
00:49:09 Bae Watch
00:56:19 Closing Thoughts
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On all levels except physical, this episode is just wolves.
We delve deeper into Loth-wolf lore in “Kindred” and “Crawler Commandeers” (Rebels S4, 7–8) as we learn they can step across space and time…and drop our intrepid heroes in the path of sinister Imperial plots on Lothal. As the Rebellion’s invasion of Lothal approaches, TIE Defenders may be not be their biggest worry.
Send Us Your Thoughts: S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:52 The Bigger Picture of These Episodes
00:32:01 Loth-Wolf Symbolism
00:40:30 Hera and Kanan and THE SMOOCH
00:56:28 Bae Watch
01:03:12 Closing Thoughts
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A tension has settled over Lothal. The Empire has locked down the entire planet, and is debuting the new and improved TIE defender. Fortunately, this gives Sabine and Ezra pretty much every chance to shine.
In our recap of “The Occupation” and “Flight of the Defender” (Rebels S4, 5–6) we talk about Loth-wolves, environmentalism, and the fever pitch of Imperial atrocities. And (duh) we sing a swan song to the TIE Defender Elite and why it might be even more important than the Death Star.
These episodes are tough to talk about with spoiling Episode IV, A New Hope, which reminds us how close we are to the original trilogy!
Send Us Your Thoughts: S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:17 TIE Defenders Are Ominous
00:29:48 Nature, Environmentalism, The Fever Pitch of Empire
00:48:58 Bae Watch
00:55:20 Closing Thoughts
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It’s iconic vistas time. For the first time in Star Wars chronology, welcome to Yavin 4!
Joining back up with the rest of the Phoenix cell on Yavin 4 for the first time, our heroes are once again confronted with doing good versus doing right. When Saw Gerrera shows back up to solve problems his way, we're brought along as well!
“In the Name of the Rebellion” (Rebels S4, Ep 3–4) covers a lot of emotional ground. We see the Rebels confront the question of doing good versus doing what’s best for the Rebellion. They battle with a desire for vengeance, and weigh the pros and cons of Saw Gerrera’s scorched earth philosophy.
Our view of Gerrera is see-Sawing, so join our conversation on war, state-sponsored violence, and the scenic planets of Rebels Season 4!
S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:19 Saw Gerrera, U-Wings, and Victory
00:26:21 Saw Gerrera versus Mon Mothma
00:43:00 Yavin 4
00:54:25 Bae Watch
01:01:328 Closing Thoughts
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While the Phoenix cell was getting obliterated on Atollon last week, war was brewing on Mandalore. Joining Clan Wren and the Protectors is our favorite redhead (besides Anna)—Bo-Katan Kryze!
In "Heroes of Mandalore" (Rebels S4, Ep. 1–2) we talk about Mandalorian warrior culture, the ethics of imperialism, the darksaber, and the importance of family. Also, it's been a long time since Bo-Katan crashed into her sister's throne room with Ahsoka in S7 of The Clone Wars, so we speculate a LOT about what she's been up to.
This arc is fast and violent and involves a paint-bombed convoy ambush, plus fighting TIE fighters with just Ezra’s fists. But we also take a minute to talk about Sabine and Bo-Katan struggling with what the future holds for them, as Mandalorians, as leaders, and as women.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:08 Bo-Katan’s Journey
00:27:28 Family and The Ethics of Empire
00:42:51 Hera and Kanan and Sexytimes
00:46:25 Bae Watch
00:51:36 Closing Thoughts
S4 of Rebels is a short one…and new shows have come out since we started. What should Growing Up Skywalker watch next? Make your voice heard on social media, or drop us a line at growingupskywalker@gmail.com.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupskywalker/message
Welcome to the end of Rebels Season 3.
In the most cinematic Rebels episodes yet, “Zero Hour” (Rebels S3, Ep. 21–22) brings all the elements of Season 3 crashing together. In our recap, we tally up the wins and losses for the Rebellion and the Empire, wonder what people across the galaxy think about it, and talk about the Bendu’s fate. We also pick our favorite Season 3 moments.
Between the heroic score, sweeping visuals, deep family love, and epic sacrifice, these episodes brought us both to tears. And there’s more coming! Sabine still has a debt to repay, Phoenix Cell is homeless again, and Thrawn is out for revenge. Now’s the time to follow along with Growing Up Skywalker.
With a heroic score, and visual elements that bring both your hosts to tears, this episode is an epic, sweeping, season finale that was worth the effort, and showcases the growth in the whole narrative in Star Wars in Rebels.
And there is more coming! With Sabine's debt to repay, Phoenix Cell homeless again, and Thrawn out for revenge, we are waiting impatiently for Season 4!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Want more nerdy content? Check out Sam’s articles on Couch Soup!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:13 Calculating the Wins and Losses
00:44:27 The Bendu’s Fate
00:48:19 Standout Season 3 Moments
00:56:59 Bae Watch
01:05:51 Closing Thoughts
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It’s the final countdown…to the duel that took 30 years to finish.
This week, we have special guest Tim Beisiegel of the FSF Popcast on the show to talk about the final duel between Maul and Obi-Wan Kenobi. We talked all about THAT DUEL THO, in addition to the prophecy of the Chosen One, the end of Darth Maul’s journey, the significance of these two Force masters to Ezra, and the wider Rebellion.
"Twin Suns" (Rebels S3, Ep. 20) is a fan favorite for a reason—so join us in watching (and discussing) one of the best lightsaber duels of all time.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Make sure to check out:
The FSF Popcast
FSF’s interview with Sam Witwer, the voice of Darth Maul
FSF’s interview with Vanessa Marshall, the voice of Hera Syndulla
FSF’s interview with Taylor Gray, the voice of Ezra Bridger
Timestamps:
00:02:21 Plot Overview
00:7:13 Darth Maul, Fin.
00:28:52 That Duel Tho
00:38:13 Who Is The Chosen One, Really?
00:53:20 Bae Watch
00:58:50 Closing Thoughts
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Welcome to the Rebel Alliance.
“Secret Cargo” (Rebels S3, Ep. 18) starts off with a bang and finishes with Mon Mothma—last seen in Andor—calling for each rebel cell to unite. But to get there, the Spectres have to fly through a nebula, chased by Thrawn’s TIE Defender, and barely escape with their lives. Sam cried so much at all of this.
We also made some time to laugh this episode. In “Double Agent Droid,” the most musical episode of Rebels, AP-5 and Chopper are up to their old tricks (and confronted by the most dangerous foe in the Empire: nerds).
We laughed, cried, and cheered in this week's episode. Our heroes seem strong enough to take on anything. But are they? Join us next week to find out, as we recap “Twins Suns” with special guest Tim Beiseigel from the FSF Popcast.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:20 Mon Mothma and the Rebellion
00:32:00 Droids, Droids, Droids
00:45:50 Bae Watch
00:49:56 Closing Thoughts
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The darksaber saga continues!
Following up on the stellar darksaber training montages of last week, "Legacy of Mandalore" (Rebels S3, Ep. 16) brings Sabine and her family into direct conflict—over Satine’s past mistakes and her potential to lead all Mandalorians. Will found family fight blood? We dive deep into Mandalorian culture and the futility of feudal life.
Then we take a turn straight into Alexsandr Kallus’ eyeballs. "Through Imperial Eyes" (Rebels S3, Ep. 17) is a taut spy story with brutal conclusions for our heroes and a dark turn, as well as some delightful Easter Eggs. These episodes center on trust and betrayal, and the potential for betrayal seems to be lurking around every corner.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We're posting over an hour of bonus content this week!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:33 Mandalorian Feudal Hierarchy
00:35:26 Trust and Betrayal in the Empire
00:50:51 Bae Watch
00:55:08 Closing Thoughts
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“Trials of the Darksaber” (Rebels S3, Ep. 15) is, quite simply, one of the tightest-scripted, haunting, and beautiful episodes of Rebels so far. And “Warhead” (Ep. 14) is a delightful buddy cop special feat. Zeb and AP-5.
This week, we dive deep into the lore of lightsabers and darksabers. We talk about what it means to wield the Force, rather than just be a part of its flow, and talk about Sabine’s inner demons. And Sam crowns Sabine and Kanan’s training duel as one of the Top 5 Lightsaber Duels, Ever.
In the meantime, Thrawn has cut his list of planets the Rebels may be inhabiting down to 94…
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re about to deliver a book report on Claudia Gray’s “Master and Apprentice,” feat. baby Obi-Wan and peak Qui-Gonn Jinn.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:54 Lightsabers and Darksabers Discussion
00:17:19 Sabine’s Demons
00:28:12 The Force for Non-Force Users
00:39:28 Imperial Infiltration
00:53:34 Bae Watch
00:58:38 Closing Thoughts
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Have you ever wanted to spend half an hour debating the moral calculus of war and the conflicting ethics embodied by Saw Gerrera? Boy are you in the right place!
In “Ghosts of Geonosis,” Rebels’ mid-season 3 arc, we do a deep dive into fanaticism, rebellion, and the meta-narrative of a character who has been in just about every single Star Wars series up until now. Saw Gerrera is one of the most puzzling and polarizing characters in Star Wars, and Ghosts of Geonosis pitches his rebelliousness against the larger backdrop of the Rebellion.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Now is the perfect time to join in on the fun, because you have a chance to request our next Spice Run project—otherwise, Sam is threatening another 5-hour Sam’s Naval History Minute.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:9:11 Deep Dive into Saw Gerrera
00:30:50 Klick-Klack and the Ethics of Geonosian Survival
00:44:30 Rebel Command
00:49:29 Bae Watch
00:55:14 Closing Thoughts
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Not to dunk on it too badly, but so little of note happened in “The Wynkahthu Job” (Rebels S3, Ep. 9) that we added “Visions and Voices” (Rebels S3, Ep. 11) to our watch this week. Combined, these episodes show that there are two Boomers inside of you—a Hondo and a Maul—and you become the one you feed.
We spend quality time on Dathomir getting hassled by Nightsister ghosts, and watch Thrawn touring the facility and picking up slack on Lothal.
Join us this week for an impromptu triple-header as we explore themes of sabotage, betrayal, and oppression. We also talk about the next owner of the darksaber, Maul’s trauma-goggles, and Ezra growing up.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! After we finish Visions Season 2, we’re on to a big old recap of Claudia Gray’s “Master and Apprentice” novel, starring baby Obi-Wan and peak Qui-Gonn Jinn.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:42 Threads Tying These Episodes Together
00:28:41 Thrawn, Sabotage, and TIE Defenders,
00:44:35 Lingering Questions
00:55:02 Bae Watch
01:02:32 Closing Thoughts
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Do you want to know everything there is to know about Mandalorian internal politics? You’re in luck! In our discussion of “Imperial Supercommandos” (Rebels S3, Ep. 7) we explore Mandalorian clans, the Protectors of Concord Dawn, family loyalty, treason, and responsibility. Star Wars was only mostly samurai-inspired before this!
On the flip side, “Iron Squadron” (Rebels S3, Ep.8) gives us…youths. There is some nice space combat and deep lore into a Legends-imported ship—but at what cost?? Thrawn lets the Rebels go free, and that’s always bad news.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:38 Easter Eggs
00:20:06 Mandalorian Politics
00:34:22 Iron Squadron
00:52:33 Bae Watch
01:00:08 Closing Thoughts
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Welcome to a “Best of Thrawn” homage. In “Hera’s Heroes” (Rebels S3, Ep. 5) we talk all about the grandest art appropriator of them all—and how art theft is a theft of self.
In the second installment this week,”The Last Battle,” we get a deeply ominous situation which ends up being DELIGHTFULLY silly. We see the Clone Wars from the other side—from the battles we fought in the past, to what we need to do to overcome them. As generals become allies and allies become friends (maybe?)—and B1 battle droids continue to be goofballs—we see actual growth from some of the old guard as the new generation takes over.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:16:22 Art Appropriation and Why It Makes Thrown Scary
00:38:57 Real and Psychological Wars
00:52:45 Bae Watch
00:57:52 Closing Thoughts
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Fate in the Star Wars universe: Can you escape it? Does free will exist? All these questions and more come up during “The Holocrons of Fate” (Rebels Season 3, Ep. 3) as our heroes have to contend once again with an angry Maul.
We also dance around some of the setup and payoff for the events of the original trilogy in “The Antilles Extraction” (Rebels Season 3, Ep. 4). Wedge Antilles, Boy Wonder and heartthrob of Skystrike Academy. We get to see Sabine shine as she infiltrates the Empire’s elite flight academy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:51 Caleb Dume, Maul, and Destiny
00:35:10 Fate and Destiny in Star Wars
00:44:41 Wedge Antilles, My Friends
00:56:03 Bae Watch
01:02:37 Closing Thoughts
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And you thought we were anxious during the Rebels S2 finale!
After a six-month time skip, everyone has new hair and new vibes. We’re also introduced to two new characters: the Bendu (iconic, btw) and GRAND. ADMIRAL. THRAWN.
We talk about Thrawn’s canon importance, the nature of the Force, and absentee parents. We also question when a healthy relationship is just unbelievable. (C’mon, Hera, yell at your man!!) as well as what the wider Rebellion is up to. There’s so much going on in these episodes that Hondo Ohnaka is in them and barely got a mention.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:17 Ezra’s Steps Into Shadow
00:24:31 The Bendu, The Ashla, and the Bogan
00:33:34 Kanan, Hera, and Healthy Relationships
00:44:13 Grand. Admiral. THRAWN.
00:57:02 Bae Watch
01:02:10 Closing Thoughts
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In the Rebels Season 2 finale, the Force users of the Rebels crew head to Malachor to find answers. However, between a new Inquisitor, MAUL, DARTH VADER, and a ton of lightsaber fighting, things get pretty scary this week too!
But whose twilight is this? Depa Billaba’s apprentice, recently blinded? Palpatine’s apprentice, shaken in faith? Kanan Jarrus’ (and possibly Maul’s apprentice) taking steps into a new, darker world? We have more questions than answers this week, but sometimes that’s the point!
Join us in our “I watched Rebels Season 2 and I am not okay” support group and hang on until next week for whatever the heck is going to happen next!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:36 The Theme of “Twilight”
00:35:31 Ahsoka’s Fate
00:55:31 Bae Watch
01:06:30 Closing Thoughts
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There’s only one crew member of the Ghost who hasn’t fulfilled their Season 2 recruitment goals, and it’s Chopper. Fortunately, he fills his quota this week—so let’s give a warm leg of applause to the newest Spectre recruit, AP-5! “The Forgotten Droid” (Rebels S2, Ep. 19) shows the bravery and honor of droids and how metallic brethren become friends.
With a bench full of recruits and a safe base at last, we move into “The Mystery of Chopper Base”...which isn’t too much of a mystery, tbh. Unless you weren’t expecting giant schmonsters. In our recap, we talk about friendship, the growing divide between Team Rebels and Team Force-Users, tough conversations with your romantic partner, and the ethics of piracy.
Join us next week for the Rebels Season 2 finale—it’s going to be a doozy!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:17:16 Strategic Importance and Themes
00:33:51 When the Rebels Are Also Baddies
00:54:07 Bae Watch
01:03:10 Closing Thoughts
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Dive out of your escape pod and into an enemies-to-lovers DREAM. “The Honorable Ones” (Rebels S2, Ep. 17) strands Zeb and Agent Kellus on a dangerous moon. And there’s only one heating cube. ;) Our discussion centers on whether or not there’s space in literature for males to have intimate friendships without intimacy, and the dual theories on whether Kallezub is canon. We’ll see if there’s a continuation of these two!
Moving into far more esoteric territory, “Shroud of Darkness” (Rebels S2, Ep. 18) carries on the long-standing tradition of Force-centric Clone Wars episodes. We explore the nature of reality and the Force, and what really happens when we learn the lesson we had inside of us all along.
Join us for discussions about the Force, love, friendship, romance, and profound personal growth in this week’s episode.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:30 Enemies to Lovers in “The Honorable Ones”
00:32:00 Force-Visions, Lessons, and a Shroud of Darkness
00:55:45 Bae Watch
01:01:36 Closing Thoughts
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Avast, ye scurvy spacelubbers, join us on our Moby Dick-themed Rebels tour! We start—well, we actually started our discussion this week with “Homecoming” (Rebels S2 Ep. 15), but bear with us, because we also recapped “The Call” (Rebels S2, Ep. 14). Our discussion there centered on the confluence of nature, science, technology, and magic, all of which intertwine with Ezra’s growth as a Force user and a true Jedi. And yes, there is WHALE RIDING IN SPACE.
We also dug deep into “Homecoming,” which brings back one Cham Syndulla! And Numa! And Gobi Glie! We work through generational trauma at the speed of plot, and how trust in oneself is the real lesson to learn from one’s parents.
Together, these episodes paint a deeper picture of what a family can look like—and what a true Jedi’s skills are.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:05 Cham Syndulla and “Homecoming”
00:29:48 Ezra, the Force, and “The Call”
00:48:59 Bae Watch
00:54:30 Closing Thoughts
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In our two backstory episodes this week, we gain allies, freedom from self-recrimination, and some of the best music Rebels has to offer. Hop in, we’re going on a field trip!
“The Protector of Concord Dawn” (Rebels S2, Ep. 13) asks the Rebels to decide whether to show force or try diplomacy to win new allies against the Empire. Unfortunately, they’re both dangerous games, and Kanan and Sabine have to pull literal Western saloon hijinks just to stay alive.
Changing gears entirely (because Hondo Ohnaka stole our transmission), “Legends of the Lasat” (Rebels S2, Ep. 14) puts Zeb center stage. In a beautiful and thrilling ode to Force magic, we explore prophecy, freedom, and the Lasat promised land. And we reference the Anakin Injured arc from Season 1 of the Clone Wars, because we always do.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:10 Mandalorians
00:25:52 Lasat Force Magic
00:31:41 Lasat Diaspora
00:42:47 Bae Watch
00:49:38 Closing Thoughts
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“Legacy” and “A Princess on Lothal” (Rebels S2, Ep. 11–12) dive deep into why and how the Force calls—and how it moves the universe. It also introduces us to sassy, 16-year-old Leia Organa on her very first mission. Cue absolute delight.
We centered this week’s discussion on heritage, both Ezra’s and Leia’s, and the gifts they’ve gotten from their families. We also call back to the many ties that bind Rebels and Andor together, from shady prison-labor camps to two very differently handled prison breaks. We also zoom out and discuss why new fans and veteran fans both have something beautiful to look forward to.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’re now taking suggestions on what to watch after we finish Visions Season 2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:00 Ezra and The Force
00:30:28 Leia Discussion
00:47:56 Bae Watch
00:55:00 Closing Thoughts
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“Stealth Strike” (Rebels S2, Ep. 9) starts out all fun and games. Then it continues to be fun and games. Then, in “The Future of the Force” (Ep. 10) Ahsoka comes down on the Inquisitorius like an avenging angel and WE. ARE. HERE FOR IT!
In our discussion, we dive deep into the gravity well technology of Interdictor-class Star Destroyers. We talk about how these episodes are remixes of classic Clone Wars mess-arounds, and ask, “What do bad guys do with Force-sensitive babies?” Also, how do Inquisitors get promotions? And, what has Ahsoka been up to? And does leaving your baby in the car attune you to the dark side of the Force?
Join us to delight as Rebels hits its stride—with friends, impact, consequences, humor, and a cliffhanger combined.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is almost finished.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:18 Stealth Strike Discussion
00:27:45 The Future of the Force Discussion
00:44:58 Fun Facts
00:51:14 Bae Watch
01:01:07 Closing Thoughts
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Come fly with us! This week offers inspiring examples of womanhood as well as good old-fashioned vroom vroom/pew pew space action.
In our recap of “Wings of the Master” and “Blood Sisters” (Rebels S2, Ep. 7–8), we soar through the misty spires of Shantipole to watch Hera prove that she's not just a pilot, she's the pilot. Then, Sabine’s past bites back in the form of legendary Black Sun bounty hunter Ketsy Onyo—but she shows as much friendship and forgiveness as Chopper shows mischief.
What lengths should someone have to go to to prove themselves professionally? How does an inspiring leader act? What are B-wings good for? Join us to answer all of these questions and more, set against a backdrop of incredible female leadership and warrior prowess.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:26 Hera, the Rebellion, and Proving Your Worth
00:20:13 B is For B-Wings
00:26:05 Sabine and Ketsu, Friends 4Ever
00:36:30 Rebellion vs. Empire
00:51:31 Bae Watch
00:55:13 Closing Thoughts
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This week takes us on a wild ride from “too spooky” to “too goofy.”
In our recap of “Always Two There Are” and “Brothers of the Broken Horn” (Rebels S2, Ep. 5–6), we crawl through an abandoned medical station that almost certainly isn’t infested with brainworms, but IS infested with Inquisitors! But as a palate cleanser, crazy drunk uncle Hondo Ohnaka shows up with a plan that will certainly pay off—at least for him.
We also talk about Inquisitor politics, how much fun Hondo always brings, and the curricula of raising Force-sensitives. The comparison between all the Age of Empire works is strong in this one!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:03 Inquisitors Discussion
00:21:06 Kanan, Rex, and Ezra Discussion
00:34:29 Hondo Ohnaka Discussion
00:43:54 Inquisitors Discussion Part II
00:50:57 Bae Watch
00:57:42 Closing Thoughts
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Calling the “crying over clones” club! This week, we reunite with our old (and we do mean old) faves: Grandpa Rex, Grandpa Wolffe, and crazy Uncle Gregor. And boy do they still got it.
In our recap of “The Lost Commanders” and “Relics of the Old Republic,” (Rebels S2, Ep. 3–4) we talk through the decade since we last saw Rex and pick through major themes of this arc: betrayal, trust, and what it takes to really leave an old life behind.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:18:45 Catching Up On Rex’s Rebellion
00:30:29 What Does It Take To Re-Learn Trust?
00:47:03 Bae Watch
00:55:21 Closing Thoughts
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With the Empire reeling from the uprisings on Ferrix and Lothal, things are looking bright for the Rebellion. Then Darth Vader shows up.
In “The Siege of Lothal,” (Rebels S2 Ep. 1), Darth Vader all but rubs his hands together and cackles gleefully as he squeezes the life out of the Rebels, one A-wing at a time. Fortunately, the Spectres are made of sterner stuff.
Our recap centers on the DRAMATIC tone shift from Andor to Rebels, even as the themes and plot meticulously line up. We also do a deep dive into Darth Vader’s psyche, and sing our praises for the best Spectre of them all. (Spoiler alert: It’s Hera. It’s always Hera.)
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:42 The Andor-to-Rebels Tone Shift
00:29:06 Darth Vader’s Psyche
00:53:26 Bae Watch
01:00:52 Closing Thoughts
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What game is this? No game—just the beginning of the fight of the Rebels’ lives.
The Rebellion is about to take a new shape so it can take on the Empire at large. In our recap of the Andor Season 1 finale, we dive deep into the many meanings of Andor’s ending, and what it signifies for Luthen, for the Empire, and for the Rebellion. (We also discuss if it was an effective ending for all fans, or just for veteran viewers.)
More delightfully, we touch base on everyone’s crushes, and grudgingly acknowledge that this is Syril’s most attractive episode. (He really was willing to take a grenade for Dedra Meero.)
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! Our watchthrough of Visions Season 1 is going strong.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:15 How About That Ending?
00:32:59 The New Shape of the Rebellion
00:44:14 Updates on Everyone’s Crushes
00:58:10 Bae Watch
01:04:13 Closing Thoughts
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This week, we recap “Daughter of Ferrix” (Andor S1, Ep. 11), where each character is looking down the barrel of a loaded gun and wondering what they’ll decide. Will Cass return to Ferrix, or warn the galaxy about Narkina 5? Will Bix give up her final secret to the Empire? Will Maarva live up to her promise to join the Rebellion (from beyond the grave)?
In our recap, we talk about how to link up with your friendly local rebel cells, why a second generation 13-year-old Chandrilan immigrant would find religion, and why hope is the fuel of the Rebellion—it’s an antidote to the darkness and pain that gives Palpatine and Vader power.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! We’ve officially begun our watchthrough of Visions Season 1.
Timestamps:
00:01:54 Plot Overview
00:19:34 Finding Your Friendly Local Rebels
00:26:34 Mon, Leida, and Chandrilan Customs
00:37:39 Maarva, Bix, Torture, and Hope
00:52:37 Bae Watch
01:02:03 Closing Thoughts
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The only way out is through.
Our recap of “One Way Out” (Andor S1, Ep. 10) takes us through a discussion of Andor’s chain-linked, escalating structure. We talk about freedom, prison, sacrifice, and the mental calculus of ethics. We also ask who Andor wants us to see as a hero—and who is a hero behind the curtain.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we’re finishing our Patreon exclusive recap of the Tartakovsky Clone Wars and beginning on Visions Season 1.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:14 Andor’s Escalating Structure
00:17:57 Freedom, Prison, Sacrifice, and Moral Calculus
00:40:36 Kino Discussion
00:46:10 Bae Watch
00:52:38 Closing Thoughts
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Such a jaunty title for such a dark episode. “Nobody’s Listening!” (Andor S1, Ep. 9) is a meditation on suffering, and power, and and breaking points. Fortunately, we do get to lighten up the conversation by talking about not one, but TWO toxic crushes (sorry Vel, Cinta may not be the one???) (also sorry not sorry that Deedra Meero had to fend off romantic overtures at work, she deserved it).
In our recap this week, we talk about why everyone’s crushes are toxic, why this episode WORKS, parallels to prequel-era Star Wars, and whether or not this is the most evil we’ve ever seen the Empire.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:44 Everyone’s Crushes Are Toxic (Sorry)
00:17:50 Why This Episode Hit New Heights
00:45:24 Bae Watch
00:51:56 End Credits
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Welcome to the darkest timeline. “Narkina 5” (Andor S1, Ep. 8) throws Cassian Andor by the scruff of his neck into the prison-industrial complex. And given how the surveillance state is working for the Empire so far, the rest of the galaxy doesn’t seem to be far behind.
In our recap, we talk about Cassian’s Hero’s Journey, what Saw Gerrera really wants, what drives Dedra Meero, and how Andor is a mirror that reflects back everything in our society that makes us so uncomfortable.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:45 Surveillance State/Prison-Industrial Complex
00:22:42 Saw Gerrera’s Goal
00:34:36 Cassian’s Hero’s Journey
00:42:47 What Drives Dedra Metro?
00:51:12 Bae Watch
01:00:22 End Credits
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The Rebellion has made its announcement: It’s in this fight for real. In response, the Empire made several terrible announcements back. Welcome to a totalitarian galaxy.
This week, our recap of “Announcement” (Andor S1, Ep. 7) focuses on the rapid slide of the Empire from an authoritarian state to totalitarianism—and why Luthen is intentionally pushing it that direction even faster. We also dive deep into the Hero’s Journey (Cassian is refusing the call—while Maarva is answering it) and discuss Mon Mothma’s cunning, subversive form of rebellion.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:58 Plot Overview
00:18:05 Syril Karn Discussion
00:22:08 Cassian and The Hero’s Journey
00:35:28 The Empire and Totalitarianism
00:49:34 Mon Mothma Discussion
00:54:41 Bae Watch
01:01:51 End Credits
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The train heist in Solo walked so the Aldhani heist in Andor could run. And that just scratches the surface of why “The Eye” (Andor S1, Ep. 6) is phenomenal television.
In our recap, we talk about the aftermath of the grand plan to secure $80 million credits for the Rebellion. We discuss the Empire and its gleeful colonization, military spending siphoning away funding for medical science, Cassian’s moral code, and why Andor is a radical call to action (even for those of us in the year of our Lord 2023).
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:09 The Heist and its Aftermath
00:20:46 Cassian’s Morals
00:26:37 The Empire and Colonization
00:42:32 Medical Science and Military Funding
01:01:40 Bae Watch
01:06:20 End Credits
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Andor is a show that loves grassroots revolution. And we love that for Andor.
“The Axe Forgets” takes us deep into the psyches of the people choosing to rebel against the Empire. We have Skeen, from whom the Empire took a childhood (and a brother). And we have Nemik, a true, hotblooded philosopher-rebel. And we have Lieutenant Gorn, who lost his love to Imperial control—and, of course, Cassian, who has a million mysterious reasons to hate the Empire (very few of which have been shown on-screen).
In this week’s recap, we talk about rising up against tyranny, the claustrophobia of group projects, what seeds Star Wars is sowing for its grand, future rebellion—and what it costs you to rebel.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:59 Plot Overview
00:13:40 Cassian and the Heist Crew
00:18:30 Grassroots Revolution in Andor
00:31:00 Perrin and Mon Mothma
00:36:08 The Future of Andor’s Rebellion
00:45:11 Bae Watch
00:59:21 End Credits
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“Aldhani” (Andor S1, Ep. 4) is an episode cut with surgical precision.
The four looping subplots of Aldhani draw us through one of the most beautiful and intricate Star Wars episodes we’ve ever seen. The dialogue? Perfection. The scenery? Flawless. The depths of Star Wars lore plumbed? Fathomless. We are BIG FANS.
In our recap, we talk about the 10,000 Easter eggs and pieces of trivia saturating this episode. We also discuss the characters we love…to hate. (Syril Karn is finally booted out of the Number One spot by Mon Mothma’s terrible husband, Perrin.) And we dive deep into Cassian’s Mimban backstory—plus, discuss the many women struggling to negotiate their roles in the galaxy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:30 Plot Overview
00:14:54 Aldhani’s Deep Star Wars Lore
00:31:01 Characters We Love (To Hate)
00:44:58 Cassian’s Mimban Backstory
00:50:24 Bae Watch
00:58:21 End Credits
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This is what a reckoning sounds like.
In this week’s episode, we recap “Reckoning” (Andor S1, Ep. 2). Cassian and Luthen heist their way through Ferrix, Syril Karn cements his status as a wet noodle, and Space Timm receives his comeuppance for being a snitch—plus, after tying up the Kenari plotline, we’re ready to hurtle into the unknown.
We talk about Andor’s stance on police brutality, religion in Star Wars, and “rescuing” children from the wilderness. We also talk about Andor’s love of mirroring and plot parallels, and how beautifully they tie into one another.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:02:27 Plot Overview
00:12:21 Police Brutality and the Doctrine of Fear
00:31:13 Maarva and the Kenari Plot
00:45:00 Religion in Andor?
00:52:02 Bae Watch
00:58:29 End Credits
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Star Wars goes domestic in “That Would Be Me,” the second episode of Andor. (Incidentally, so did we: The Growing Up Skywalker team is officially getting married!)
“That Would Be Me” gives us sneak peeks into what life is like for regular people on Ferrix. We see booty calls, money problems, crappy work schedules, and messy houses. It’s a big vibe shift and a perfect contrast to the deeply unsettling realization this episode gives us about Kenari—specifically, why there is a group of children Lord of the Flies-ing through the jungle.
We also talk about Andor’s stane on police brutality, Syril Karn stepping into his destiny, and why Bix is out of Space Timm’s league.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:03:05 Plot Overview
00:11:22 Life on Ferrix Discussion
00:26:04 Linus Mosk and Police Brutality Discussion
00:34:10 Syril Karn Is Stepping Into His Destiny
00:39:41 Kenari Discussion
00:48:21 Bae Watch
00:53:26 End Credits
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Welcome to a new side of the galaxy—a very dark one.
The Season 1 premiere of Andor (“Kassa”) is the grittiest Star Wars we’ve seen so far. Planets are ruled by corporations, sentient beings are for sale on the street, and people are just eking out a living however they can. Also, everyone in the show is already 100% fed up with Cassian Andor, which is…pretty great.
In our recap, we talk about Cassian’s role as a Star Wars rogue and draw parallels between other beloved intergalactic grifters—Han Solo, Lando Calrissian, and Hondo Ohnaka. We also dive deep into class systems in Star Wars and make our guesses about how the Kenari plotline will play out.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:56 Cassian Andor Discussion
00:19:40 Exploitation and Class Discussion
00:35:00 Kenari and Star Wars “Village Stories”
00:46:50 Critical Reception
00:50:17 Bae Watch
00:58:15 End Credits
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The Spectres are out of the frying pan and into the fire—a fire that’s spreading across the galaxy.
Our recap of the Rebels Season 1 finale centers on metamorphosis, rebellion, how a Padawan becomes a Jedi Knight, Kanan’s incredible dad energy, and what it will take for a galaxy to rise up against the Empire. We also cover the breadcrumb trail that leads to Fulcrum’s identity, and our thoughts on Season 1 as a tight, intentional, eyes-on-the-prize piece of media. (It was a bop.)
Also, the people have spoken! Next week, we’ll begin our foray into Andor, which also takes place in BBY 5, beginning with the Andor pilot, “Kassa.”
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:01:47 Plot Overview
00:11:00 Clues and Bookends in Season 1
00:18:38 Kanan Discussion
00:28:58 Fulcrum Discussion
00:36:39 Rebelling Against the Empire Discussion
00:48:02 Rebels S1 Thoughts
00:54:17 Bae Watch
00:59:10 End Credits
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Calling all Tarkin stans—Rebels S1 is the man’s time to shine.
This week, we covered the two episodes leading up to the Season 1 finale: “Call to Action” and “Rebel Resolve” (episodes 13–14). And Grand Moff Tarkin is displeased with EVERYBODY’S job performance.
In our recap, we cover Tarkin’s job description, the strategic importance of the Outer Rim using a pizza analogy, and everything we know about Fulcrum so far (very little). We also talk about Hera’s allegiance to the rebel cause over love, raising rebel children, and Ezra’s message of hope for the galaxy.
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Join us next week for the REBELS S1 FINALE—and then for our foray into ANDOR!
Timestamps:
00:02:37 Plot Overview
00:12:20 Information We Have in 2023 vs. 2014
00:15:09 Tarkin Discussion
00:35:21 Hera, Fulcrum, and Rising Rebel Kids
00:49:27 Bae Watch
00:55:47 End Credits
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Smuggler? Such a small word. He’s more of a…galactic entrepreneur.
This week, our episodes (Rebels S1, 11–12, “Idiot’s Array” and “Vision of Hope”) feature special guest and major scamp LANDO CALRISSIAN. We also meet the strawberry-shaped/ strawberry-slurping merchant of questionable morality, Azmorigan, and hang out with exiled senator Gall Trayvis. Hera punches every single one of them, and every single one of them deserved it.
In our recap, we talk about how Lando has changed from Solo and Lando now, how Ezra’s Force sensitivity is incredibly attuned to Lothal, and propaganda techniques from WWII–now. We also talk about the renowned voice actors who graced this episode and why it’s so important than Ezra is being trained by the whole family.
Tune in next week as we cover “Call to Action” and “Rebel Resolve” (Rebels Season 1, episodes 13–14). And make sure to take our poll below, on whether we should continue with Rebels seasons 2–4, or slot in Andor season 1!
Want even more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content.
Timestamps:
00:01:51 Plot Overview
00:13:48 Lando Discussion
00:20:48 Idiot’s Array’s Problems Discussion
00:29:26 Ezra and the Force Discussion
00:33:38 Gall Trayvis, Sleeper Agent Discussion
00:50:54 Bae Watch
00:58:18 End Credits
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This week’s episode is all about elaborate Padawan training rituals, bonding with monsters through the Force, and surviving being a 15-year-old boy. We. Are. All. About it!
“Gathering Forces” takes Ezra and Kanan back to the moon where Sabine and Hera were almost eaten by dragons—and forces Ezra to confront a deep fear. Then, immediately in the next episode, “Path of the Jedi,” he has to confront his EVEN DEEPER fears!!
We talk about what our customized Padawan training rites would look like, where Yoda was when he tuned into the goings-on at the Lothal Jedi temple, and why the Kanan/Ezra bonding hits so hard. We also give our best advice for teenage listeners.
Tune in next week as we cover “Idiot’s Array” and “Vision of Hope” (Rebels Season 1, episodes 11–12).
Want more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content!
Timestamps:
00:02:01 Plot Overview
00:15:21 Tseebo Discussion
00:17:56 Kanan, Ezra, and the Force
00:32:40 Yoda and the Temple Discussion
00:38:10 Padawan Trials Discussion
00:47:41 Ezra’s Lightsaber Discussion
00:51:19 Bae Watch
00:57:45 End Credits
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You know how Anna’s spent the last month begging for more Spectre backstories? Well, “Out of Darkness” and “Empire Day” (Rebels S1, episodes 7–8) deliver them in a big way.
In this week’s recap, we talk about Ezra’s tragic backstory, Sabine’s time as a cadet on Mandalore, and Hera and Kanan meeting. We also dive deep into the tyranny, propaganda, consent, and control strategies the Empire deploys—especially on Empire Day, the 15th anniversary of Palpatine’s victory over the galaxy.
Join us next week to resolve the “Empire Day” cliffhanger in episodes 9–10, “Gathering Forces” and “Path of the Jedi.”
This is also a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! This week, we’re watching and talking about the Volume 2 premiere of the 2003 Tartakovsky Clone Wars.
Timestamps:
00:01:34 Plot Overview
00:13:15 Ezra’s Tragic Backstory
00:17:28 Consent, Propaganda, and Tyranny
00:27:48 Sabine and Hera Discussion
00:41:31 Kanan Discussion
00:51:17 Bae Watch
00:56:35 End Credits
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Welcome to Halloween in August. This week’s Rebels episodes are a spooky bunch.
“Rise of the Old Masters” and “Breaking Ranks” (Season 1, episodes 5–6) take us to a remote fortress called the Spire where Luminara Unduli is being held captive, and the inside of the Imperial child soldier academy. They’re callbacks to classic Clone Wars plotlines: the Rako Hardeen arc, Boba Fett infiltrating Tipoca City, and the Citadel arc. And they also take us to new understandings of childhood (or the lack thereof) in Star Wars, being a teacher even when you don’t feel ready, and choosing the family you have.
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! This week, we’re sharing leftover topics from this week’s episode: debates on the quality of Stormtroopers as soldiers, and how Star Wars handles Blackness.
And you can join us next week for episodes 7–8 of Star Wars Rebels: Out of Darkness and Empire Day.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:14:44 Rise of the Old Masters Discussion
00:27:25 Child Soldiers and Childhood in Star Wars
00:44:51 Luminara Discussion
00:47:53 Bae Watch
00:53:10 End Credits
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This is Commander Meiloorun speaking. Rebels is very silly and we love it very much.
We’re a little later than normal this week due to updated podcast guidelines from SAG-AFTRA in light of the writer and actor strike. But, we are able to be in your earbuds this week with a recap of Rebels Season 1, episodes 3–4, “Droids in Distress” and “Fighter Flight.”
In our recap, we talk about how Rebels holds dark themes very lightly, and how that makes it a time capsule for 2014. We discuss the morality of the Spectres, fellow rebels, the Empire, and Agent Callus in particular. We talk about brotherhood and being parents of unruly children. And we also cackle about the straight-into-the-vein injection of pure delight that is “Fighter Flight.”
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! And join us next week for the Star Wars Rebels: Rise of the Old Masters and Breaking Ranks.
Timestamps:
00:02:31 Plot Overview
00:13:06 Meta Themes of the Arc
00:16:10 Characters Discussion
00:28:20 Fighter Flight Discussion
00:40:58 Morality and Darkness Discussion
00:55:03 Bae Watch
00:59:17 End Credits
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Get in fam, it’s time for the Rebels pilot!
We’ve finally arrived at Sam’s favorite Star Wars show—Rebels. This week, we recap the double-header pilot, “Spark of Rebellion,” which originally premiered in 2014 as an hour-long movie.
We talk about the critical reception Rebels received when it premiered versus its reputation now, which is a show for true fans. We also talk about the expansion of the Empire across the galaxy, how each Spectre is a part of the family and also a distinguishable member of a D&D party, how some people just grow up and start adopting dangerous street youths, and why Rebels is (and is not) a “kid’s show.”
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! And join us next week for the pilot of Star Wars Rebels: Droids in Distress and Fighter Flight.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:38 Characters Discussion
00:28:45 The Empire in Rebels
00:36:46 Rebels as a Series Discussion
00:43:17 Rebels as a “Kids Show”
00:54:06 Bae Watch
00:57:58 End Credits
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The Obi-Wan Kenobi finale is a SWAN SONG to Star Wars. It teaches us about the Force, about being an avatar of the Light, about friendship and love, and when it’s time to be a warrior (versus when it’s time to go back to grad school).
In our recap, we talk about the role of love in catalyzing Obi-Wan to finish his duel with Darth Vader. We discuss which characters got a hello in this series, and which ones got a goodbye. We award the Darth Lola Redemption Medal to Owen Lars, whose character got a truly phenomenal upgrade, and have a fascinating discussion about who Palpatine would have chosen as his new apprentice if Kenobi had decided to end Vader once and for all.
This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content on Obi-Wan Kenobi! And join us next week for the pilot of Star Wars Rebels: Spark of Rebellion, Parts 1–2.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:11:26 Star Wars is About Love (And Warriors)
00:16:31 Vader Discussion
00:23:00 Character Hellos and Goodbyes
00:30:53 Ending the Prequel Era Discussion
00:39:34 Reva Discussion
00:50:04 What Did Kenobi Contribute to Star Wars?
00:52:14 Bae Watch
01:03:05 End Credits
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We loved Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part V so. gosh. dang. much. And not for entirely uncomplicated reasons.
Our recap centered on discussions of the series’ two most powerful women: Tala and Reva. We used this episode as a way to process not just the death of a compelling female character, but Star Wars’ long, long history of killing off (almost all of) its compelling female characters. In the case of Part V, we ultimately realize something beautiful.
We also talk about the Anakin/Obi-Wan practice duel and how it had us smiling ear-to-ear, Reva’s tragic backstory, and the Jedi who have traveled the Path.
For bonus audio content on Obi-Wan Kenobi, sign up for our Patreon! And join us next week for the Obi-Wan Kenobi finale, Part VI.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:56 The Practice Duel Discussion
00:22:41 Tala Discussion
00:28:40 Was Tala Fridged? Discussion
00:39:10 Reva Discussion
00:44:59 Vader and Leia Discussion
00:53:44 Bae Watch
00:59:14 End Credits
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Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV is tense, beautifully shot, and full of Easter eggs.
In our recap this week, we talk about the MANY different kinds of violence threaded through the episode, from Tala’s martial arts moves to Obi-Wan firing up his lightsaber again to the casual violence of Imperial reign.
We also talk about rooting for Reva (even though we’re not supposed to), job security for the Inquisitors, purge troopers, embalming former Jedi, and why T-47s swooping out of the sky is Sam’s love language.
For bonus audio content from this episode, sign up for our Patreon! And join us next week for Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part V.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:08:36 Critical Reception
00:11:45 Different Forms of Violence Discussion
00:26:08 Purge Troopers and the Tomb Discussion
00:36:10 Darth Vader Discussion
00:39:26 Reva Discussion
00:45:01 Tala Discussion
00:51:05 Rebels + T-47 Discussion
00:57:15 Bae Watch
01:02:09 End Credits
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupskywalker/message
What makes the darkest episode of Obi-Wan Kenobi (so far) tick? Exquisite world-building, delicious power dynamics, and a real contribution to Star Wars’ anti-fascism agenda. Also, some capital-D drama courtesy of capital-D Darth Vader.
Obi-Wan Kenobi Part III takes us into Vader’s inner world—one where he’s spent 10 years planning revenge on his former master. We get to see what that revenge looks like, and how he pits the Inquisitors against each other to get to it (and laugh about the ~scenic vistas~ from his office windows).
We also get to talk about the appeal of the Empire for people like Tala and Freck, Underground Railroads of history, and all the deep lore scratched into the Rebel safe room walls.
This week marks our 100th podcast episode! It’s also a great time to sign up for a membership on our Patreon. In honor of 100 episodes, we’re releasing 30 minutes of bonus content on Obi-Wan Part III this week—and just $3 a month gets you access to it, plus two years of backlogged content. (PS: Welcome to our newest patron, Tim!)
Join us next week for Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part IV!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:10:41 Story Structure and Spacing Discussion
00:13:45 Vader and Capital-D Drama Discussion
00:16:50 The Weight of the Past Discussion
00:23:17 The Force Discussion
00:25:51 Fame, Fear, Power, and Fascism Discussion
00:36:48 Reva and the Inquisitors Discussion
00:46:40 Easter Eggs
00:52:01 Bae Watch
00:58:38 End Credits
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupskywalker/message
Our recap of Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part II centers on Inquisitors—but we also talk about the Sith, the light side of the Force, and truly terrible bosses.
Part II brings us to Daiyu, which is cyberpunk Coruscant and is DELIGHTFUL. We get to see Obi-Wan’s best Breaking Bad impression, the immediate father/daughter chemistry between him and Leia, and his bone-deep fear of using the Force again.
But mostly, we get fascinating insights into what it’s like to be an Inquisitor and can only guess what caused these former Jedi to become what they are. We also talk about Vader’s burning vengeance, the Padmé callback that left us shooketh, and shopping with Leia.
Join us next week for (already!) the midpoint of the series, Obi-Wan Kenobi: Part III. This will be our 100th episode!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:8:10 Daiyu vs. Coruscant Discussion
00:10:54 This Obi-Wan vs. General Obi-Wan Discussion
00:21:18 Inquisitors and Other Terrible Workplaces Discussion
00:31:32 Inquisitors and the Sith Discussion
00:37:48 Vader and Vengeance Discussion
00:43:03 Critical Reception/Why Diversity Is Necessary
00:51:26 Bae Watch
01:00:07 End Credits
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupskywalker/message
Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part I opens on a broken man. But it looks like he’s not going to stay that way.
This week, we had the inestimable Kathleen Wass from The FSF Popcast on our show to talk all things Kenobi: from Inquisitors and seeing a full-strength Vader to raising an absolute firecracker of a 10-year-old.
We talked about whether this show resonates differently for veteran fans and new ones, how Inquisitors are the scariest people around on a planet ruled by the Hutts, and why the pacing of this show is absolutely perfect.
You should go watch @fsfpopcast immediately to hear from every sci-fi star you’ve ever dreamed of meeting. FSF Popcast can be found at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsfpopcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCREtAFjZf4JDFNZeaRx5sNQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fsfpopcast/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fsfpopcast?lang=en
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/fsfpopcast
Join us next week to talk shop about Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part II!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:23 Veteran Fan Reactions
00:18:40 Kenobi for Veteran Audiences vs. New Fans
00:26:56 The Age of the Empire + Inquisitors Discussion
00:40:30 The Pacing
00:44:30 Obi-Wan Discussion
00:50:59 Bae Watch
00:55:00 End Credits
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/growingupskywalker/message
We asked a provocative question in our show this week: Should Solo be the first Star Wars movie a brand-new fan watches?
There aren’t any Jedi in Solo—or even any Force users—but it’s a Star Wars story that shows a very familiar (and very fun!) side of the galaxy. Star Wars isn’t just about galactic duels between good and evil. It’s also about space heists, found family, and pushing the limits of what you think is possible. Also, spanking good costumes. Solo has it all.
Join us for discussions into all the major characters, morality, rebellions, and powerful Star Wars women. (We’re looking at you, Qi’ra, L3, and Enfys Nest.)
Join us next week for the pilot episode of Kenobi! We’re reviewing Obi-Wan Kenobi, Part 1 with Kathleen Wass from The FSF Popcast as our special guest.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:21:14 Solo—Big Picture Discussion
00:23:59 Should Solo Be Someone’s First Star Wars Movie?
00:28:40 Morality in Solo
00:34:30 Dryden Vos Discussion
00:37:53 Han and Chewie Discussion
00:47:39 Qi’ra and Maul Discussion
00:54:02 Rebels (With and Without a Cause) in Solo
01:33:00 Bae Watch
01:07:38 End Credits
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The world wasn’t ready for Solo: A Star Wars Story when it premiered in 2018. But we contend it’s the perfect Star Wars movie for 2023.
In our recap of the first half of Solo, we talk about the critical reception this movie got—probably TOO critical, since it’s a romp and it’s absolutely delightful. We talk about growing up as a scrumrat on Corellia, Qi’ra’s ascent to a position as top lieutenant among Crimson Dawn, and why young Han Solo is so shiny and likable. We make a case for creating a lighter Star Wars story, and talk about why this non-Jedi-centric movie works.
The ships are fast, the banter is faster, and the aesthetics are impeccable. We can’t wait to review the second half.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:18:18 Solo’s Critical Reception
00:25:25 The Case For A Lighter Star Wars Story
00:28:36 Crimson Dawn/Imperial Law and Order Discussion
00:37:02 A Non-Jedi Centric Story
00:39:00 Qi’ra Discussion
00:46:39 Val, Rio, Beckett Discussion
00:51:06 Lando and L3 Discussion
00:54:39 Chewie Discussion
00:56:46 Bae Watch
01:01:03 End Credits
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It’s Bad Batch Season 2 finale time. Now entering the first stage of grief (denial).
“The Summit” and “Plan 99” (The Bad Batch Season 2, Episodes 15–16) form the elegant, muted, devastating conclusion to the second season of the Bad Batch. It’s a good thing we’re moving through Star Wars chronologically and behind Disney’s release schedule 100% of the time, because if we didn’t know there was a Season 3 coming we might spontaneously combust.
In our recap, we talk about how the Bad Batch storytelling is the sophisticated older cousin to The Clone Wars. We talk through character arcs from Season 1 to Season 2—covering Cid, Tarkin, Saw Gerrera, Tech, and Emerie. We deliver some odes to a fallen friend. And we come to an agreement: No body, no crime.
Grab your lucky dice and start your engines, because next week, we finally get to recap the slickest, speediest Star Wars movie of all time: Solo!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:54 Season Finale Discussion
00:27:57 Cid Discussion
00:33:05 Tarkin Discussion
00:37:51 Saw Gerrera Discussion
00:40:30 Tech Discussion
00:48:44 Emerie Discussion
00:53:51 Bae Watch
01:04:50 End Credits
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Brb, retiring on Pabu.
This week, we recap Bad Batch in Paradise: “Pabu” and “Tipping Point” (Season 2, Episodes 13–14). The Batch takes a well-deserved tropical vacation, eating sushi and combating natural disasters, while Crosshair fights his way out of an interrogation chamber to warn them that the Empire is coming for Omega.
In our discussion, we talk about what to do during a tsunami, how Crosshair’s love language is murder, and wonder if the Batch could ever really retire. We also sing a love song to Echo, the best Batch of the bunch.
Join us next week for a triple celebration!! May the 4th Be With You marks our second podcast-a-versary, and our recap of the Bad Batch Season 2 finale. We’re going to celebrate with a special stream of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor…except Anna’s going to be on the controls.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:16:43 “Pabu” Discussion
00:28:20 “Tipping Point” Discussion
00:46:12 Easter Eggs
00:51:52 Bae Watch
00:59:15 End Credits
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Alexa, play “Taps.”
“Metamorphosis” and “The Outpost” (The Bad Batch Season 2, Episodes 11–12) are the darkest Batch episodes yet. As the Batch scavenges a downed cruiser and Crosshair makes an icy trek across Barton-IV, the past comes back to haunt them: from cloned horrors of yesteryear, to the planned obsolescence of the clone army, to Crosshair’s bad decisions.
In our recap, we talk about Emperor Palpatine’s plans for immortality, parallels to the Umbaran Arc, great Bad Batch moments, and the true meaning of ice vultures.
Join us next week to recap “Pabo” and “Tipping Point” (Season 2, Episodes 13–14).
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:06 “Metamorphosis” Discussion
00:31:51 “The Outpost” Discussion
00:51:26 Tiny Beautiful Moments
00:56:39 Bae Watch
01:03:39 End Credits
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Get in, King Katuunko heads, we’re going to Space Arizona!
Our recap of “The Crossing” and “Retrieval” (The Bad Batch S2, 9–10) takes us to the slot canyons of Sedona—sorry, Ipsidon—where the Bad Batch is besieged by lightning, thunder, explosions, theft, gravity, and a herd of space gazelles. They also confront the evils of capitalism, and convince a bunch of kid miners to unionize.
In our recap, we talk about the softest conversation in Bad Batch so far, between Tech and Omega. We also recap mining unionization in American history (more interesting than it sounds—also bloodier) and famous leaders of child pickpocketing gangs. Also, what’s Cid’s deal?
Join us next week to recap “Metamorphosis” and “The Outpost” (Season 2, episodes 11–12).
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:12:15 This Episode is Set in Space Arizona
00:17:33 Mokko and the Exploitation Station
00:24:29 Benni and the (Unionized) Jets
00:33:24 What’s Cid’s Deal?!
00:35:14 Omega and Tech Discussion
00:49:23 Easter Eggs
00:55:02 Bae Watch
01:00:36 End Credits
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Hold onto your tear ducts, friends, because we have a one-two punch of emotional walloping for you.
“The Clone Conspiracy” and “Truth and Consequences” (The Bad Batch Season 2, Episodes 7–8) are a glorious callback to everything Clone Wars. We spend both episodes on Coruscant (including in Trace and Rafa Martez’s garage), hang out with Senator Chuchi and disgraced Senator Burtoni, see bureaucrats fighting over how to fund (and defund) their war machines, and hang onto the edge of our seats as noble politicians fight to expose galactic corruption. And, in true Clone Wars fashion, we see them thwarted just when victory is within grasp.
In our recap, we talk all about the many historical callbacks in these episodes, passing the Bechdel test, where we go from here, and Echo’s amazing trajectory from Domino Squad to rebel-rouser.
To skip to your favorite segments, check out the timestamps below.
Join us next week to recap “The Crossing” and “Retrieval” (Season 2, Episodes 9–10).
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:15:07 “Clone Conspiracy” Discussion
00:30:45 “Truth and Consequences” Discussion
00:45:56 Easter Eggs + Politics
00:53:14 Where Do We Go From Here?
00:56:57 Bae Watch
1:05:06 End Credits
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There’s nothing in common between “Entombed” and “Tribe” (The Bad Batch S2, Episodes 5–6) except for the adults being great role models, and that’s okay.
“Entombed” charts us a path through an Indiana Jones homage, complete with puzzle rooms, treasure maps, and unethical archaeology, plus some DEEP Star Wars lore. We get to spend time with pirate queen Phee, and see Omega become the #1 best treasure hunter student ever.
“Tribe” brings us to Kashyyyk (!!) to reunite with one of our absolute favorite Padawans (!!!!). We talk about eco warriors, the natural resource curse, cultural assimilation, and how drop-dead gorgeous Kashyyyk is. Also, Ferngully. Also, why Bad Batch is the sweetest Star Wars show (yet).
To skip to your favorite segments, check out the timestamps below.
And join us next week to watch “The Clone Conspiracy” and “Truth and Consequences.”
Timestamps:
00:00 Plot Overview
14:37 “Entombed” Discussion
28:30 “Tribe” Discussion
40:28 Are The Kids Gonna Be All Right?
47:16 Bae Watch
55:51 End Credits
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“The Solitary Clone” and “Faster” (The Bad Batch S2, Ep. 3–4) are such beautiful love letters to the prequel era that we forgot we weren’t watching The Clone Wars for a second.
In our recap, we talk about the many blasts from the past we get in these episodes: podracing (!!!!), callbacks to the Funding the War Arc with Mina Bonteri, hanging out with Commander Cody, more emotional trauma in front of the clone trooper memorial on Coruscant, and allllll the Separatist battle tech. On the less fun side, we also get a callback to the unfortunate prequel-era habit of killing off Star Wars’ coolest and most powerful women (more on that during Bae Watch).
To skip to your favorite segments, check out the timestamps below.
And join us next week to recap “Entombed” and “Tribe” (Bad Batch Season 2, Episodes 4–5).
00:00:00 Plot Overview
00:13:53 “The Solitary Clone” Discussion
00:22:17 Calling Back to “Heroes on Both Sides”
00:26:25 How Strong Is The Empire Anyway?
00:31:07 The Bad Batch As a Samurai Story
00:38:35 “Faster” Discussion
00:50:36 Bae Watch
01:00:54 End Credits
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The Batch is back, back again! In the SEASON 2 PREMIERE (!!!) we talk about war, peace, love, death, capitalism, exploitation, and Count Dooku’s tragic backstory. Also, everybody’s sweet new character designs.
“Spoils of War” and “Ruins of War” smash-open Season 2 of The Bad Batch with business as usual. Except…business is about to get unusual. In a few months, Cid predicts that the Empire will be knocking down her door on Ord Mantell, and the Bad Batch’s vagrant lifestyle will be over….unless they loot Count Dooku’s palace on Serenno and use his former war chest to start a new life.
But just like the light shifts through a kaleidoscope, jobs for the Bad Batch rarely go as planned. And these two episodes give us some deep looks into how far the Batch has come, and where they might be headed in the future.
Join us next week to recap “The Solitary Clone” and “Faster” (Season 2, Episodes 3–4). And check out episode timestamps below!
00:00 Plot Overview
13:57 Season 2 Themes Discussion
27:29 Piracy/Exploitation/Capitalism
34:53 Dooku’s Exploitation of Serenno
40:41 The Whitewashing
47:01 Easter Eggs
51:51 Bae Watch
56:20 End Credits
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It’s finale time! The final episode of Bad Batch Season 1 sees the Batch literally (or, well, at least figuratively) reborn in fire and blood, shot straight out of the test tubes that grew them back into the world for a second chance at life.
We talk about the finale, “Kamino Lost,” and also discuss Season 1’s themes: purpose, togetherness, liberty vs. order, fascism, and whether or not you understand that your life is what you make it. Yes, these are all themes in a kid’s show, and yes, they are all beautifully wrought. We crown Baes for the episode and overall Baes for Season 1. And we laugh a LOT.
Next week, join us for the first two episodes of the newly-dropped Bad Batch Season 2 (!!!)—”Spoils of War” and “Ruins of War” (Season 2, Episodes 1–2).
And check out timestamps for each chapter of the episode below!
Timestamps:
0:00-Plot Overview
8:28-Episode Discussion
22:34-Season 1 Wrap-Up Discussion
37:09-The Second Birth of the Bad Batch
41:51-Easter Eggs
48:14-Bae Watch
58:47-End Credits
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The first two episodes of the Bad Batch Season 1 finale (“War-Mantle” and “Return to Kamino,” Episodes 14–15) are just as thrilling as you might expect. What you might not expect is to be a little heartbroken by their revelations.
These episodes pit Hunter and Crosshair together like two magnetic poles, each fighting for the direction the Bad Batch will go. We see a new kind of Imperial army forming—this one filled with voluntary recruits. We also say hello to an old friend…and goodbye to an old haunt.
Join us next week for the thrilling conclusion to Season 1: “Kamino Lost” (Episode 16). And then it’s onwards and upwards to Bad Batch Season 2!
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We said “Reunion” was the best episode of S1 of The Bad Batch. Then we said it about “Devil’s Deal.” And now we’re saying it again about “Rescue on Ryloth” (S1, Episode 12) because holy shiznibblets!!
This week, we’re recapping “Rescue on Ryloth” and “Infested,” which is pretty unfair to “Infested,” tbh. (But it does have some thoughts on trust fund babies, which are always appreciated.)
We follow Hera Syndulla as she and the Bad Batch lie, cheat, steal, and explode their way into the prison where her parents are being held for false accusations of trying to assassinate Orn Free Taa (relatable). And then we follow Cid and the gang as they reclaim her office/bar, which has been taken over by a minor crime-lord-in-training. These episodes were not created equal, but we sure laughed a lot talking about them (and cried a lot watching one of them), and Nepotism Baby Roland Durand will always hold a place in our hearts, if only for having a really dumb name.
Join us next week as we discuss the PENULTIMATE! two episodes of Season 1: “War-Mantle” and “Return to Kamino” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 14–15).
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The Bad Batch becomes the Syndulla Show in mid-to-late S1 and that is fantastic and we are fangirling so hard.
“Common Ground” and “Devil’s Deal” (The Bd Batch Season 1, Episodes 10–11) are mirror images of each other, each giving us a front row seat to the Empire taking over the galaxy. But coups, curfews, military occupation, civilian disarmament, and forcible manipulation of political figures all take a backseat to the real stars of the show: Cham, Eleni, and Hera Syndulla (!!!). Also, Chopper. Also, Omega. Also, Cid. Also, everyone in this show is the best and we love them so. freaking. much.
Join us next week for more Syndulla stanning as we recap “Rescue on Ryloth” and “Infested” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 12–13). After that, there are only two more podcast episodes before we hit Season 2!
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This week, we're excited to bring you a Crossover Connection special. Instead of us, this week you can listen to the phenomenal FSF Popcast interview of Anna Graves (aka Duchess Satine from The Clone Wars). We are obsessed with Anna Graves and we are obsessed with the FSF Popcast: your one-stop shop for all things nerdy (and never dirty).
Notes from The FSF Popcast:
Episode 31 - The Duchess of Mangalore ft. Anna Graves
If you're a fan of Star Wars Clone Wars, then you are familiar with Anna Graves. Anna voiced Duchess Satine Kryze amongst other characters in the series as well. But with as talented as Anna Graves is, Star Wars Clone Wars is not the only universe she has lent her voice to. She has portrayed characters in the Metro Video Game Series, Star Wars Rebels, Voltron, Jumanji Video Games, and so many others! Enjoy the show!
To find out more about Anna Graves - please visit the following
Instagram - @gravypic
Twitter - @gravyvoice
Her website - www.annagraves.com
For RSWOF Merch - https://www.teepublic.com/t-shirt/31938193-rswof?store_id=1397534
100% of all proceeds Benefit Wish Upon a Teen For direct contributions - www.wishuponateen.org
Join the FSF Popcast Discord! https://discord.gg/cpry4fCDTq
FSF PopCast on Twitter and Instagram - @fsfpopcast Buy us Coffee - https://ko-fi.com/fsfpopcast
For more on our show partners - Big Boy Graphics - www.etsy.com/shop/bigboygraphics
Bridgework Studios - https://www.teepublic.com/user/bridgework-studios
Level Up Sabers - https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=2018189&u=3289465&m=124959&urllink=&afftrack=
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Once you hit the middle of Season 1 of The Bad Batch (“Reunion” and “Bounty Lost,” episodes 8–9) the hits start coming and they don’t stop coming. We get revelations about Omega’s origins, a terrible run-in with a former friend, and a knock-down, drag-out fight between two legendary bounty hunters.
The stakes are high, but we laughed a LOT and loved these episodes for their drama, their cinematic mastery, and deft callbacks to about a million Clone Wars references.
Join us next week to recap “Common Ground” and “Devil’s Deal” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 10–11). After that, there are only three more podcast episodes before we hit Season 2!
PS: This episode celebrates Star Wars Podcast Day, the annual Feb. 7 celebration of the date the first-ever Star Wars podcast premiered in 1999. Check out #SWPD2023 for more!
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The Bad Batch is officially a show about parenting and we’re okay with that.
In “Decommissioned” and “Battle Scars” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 6–7) we get the good, the bad, and the unintentional, as far as parenting goes. Good: Hunter rescuing Omega from a lava-fired slag pit in a droid decommissioning factory. Bad: Wrecker’s inhibitor chip finally snapping him into an Order 66-fueled fugue state. Unintentional: RAFA MARTEZ showing up having become a much better influence on her lil sister, Trace…all thanks to Ahsoka being herself in Season 7 of The Clone Wars.
We also talk about bow and arrow safety, what Rex is up to, and the increasingly narrow line between droids and clones.
Join us next week to recap “Reunion” and “Bounty Lost” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 8–9).
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We cackled our way through a recap of “Cornered” and “Rampage” (The Bad Batch S1, Ep. 4–5) because the Bad Batch is FUN, y’all.
This week, we talk about the new reality the Bad Batch faces: no snacks, no gas, no summer job. And also, their ship is on a watchlist and there’s a smoky-eyed bounty hunter after Omega.
The Bad Batch has to play hot potato with their young protege across the entire city of Pantora (!!) and also take a job from the sassiest Trandoshan who ever sassed. We talk about the Bad Batchers’ parenting styles, Clone Wars references of yore (Zygerrians, anyone?) and space doggos. It is truly and deeply delightful.
Join us next week to recap “Decommissioned” and “Battle Scars” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 6–7).
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Good soldiers follow orders, but we’re just following the Bad Batch (with heart eyes) as we continue our Season 1 recap!
“Cut and Run” and “Replacements” (The Bad Batch S1, Ep. 2–3) continue to illuminate a changing galaxy. The Empire is rolling out chain codes to register and track citizens, sending elite forces to wipe out insurrectionists, and scheming to make the former Republic’s clone troopers obsolete. At the same time, the Bad Batch is skittering from one hidey-hole to the next, never able to stand still.
The tension is tight, but we still get some absolutely delightful moments: Omega seeing sunlight and dirt for the first time, reuniting with Cut Lawquane and Suu, moon dragons, piggy-back rides from Uncle Wrecker, and a plot that revolves around getting a family onto a bus out of town. This show has us in tears in all the best ways.
Next week, join us in recapping “Cornered” and “Rampage” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 4–5).
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And we’re back! We return from our holiday hiatus with a brand new phase for the podcast, a brand-new series, and a brand-new galaxy for our heroes to survive.
The 70-minute pilot episode of The Bad Batch, “Aftermath,” smash-opens with another view of Order 66 (like we needed to suffer this pain again). Then we follow the Bad Batch as they navigate a changing galaxy — one that isn’t exactly giving them cakes and wishing them a fine day. We meet Omega, a tiny girl with a mighty Australian accent, and reencounter some old favorites (including SAW GERRERA!). There is a food fight, a delightful battle simulation, and a betrayal of the highest order. Also, so many hand signals. This is basically the Clone Wars Season 8 and we are here for it.
Next week, join us in recapping “Cut and Run” and “Replacements” (The Bad Batch Season 1, Episodes 2–3).
PS: A huge thank you to Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction Popcast for our fantastic new show intro!
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In another glorious stroke of in-universe chronology meeting up with the Star Wars release schedule, we got to watch Tales of the Jedi (Ahsoka’s Tale) this week!
We recapped Chapters 1, 5 and 6 (“Life and Death,” “Practice Makes Perfect,” and “Resolve”) and cried a LOT.
In our discussion, we talked about how these episodes give Ahsoka a natural continuation of the Martez Sisters arc from S7 of The Clone Wars — and Sam teases where she’s going next. We also talk about Inquisitors, what makes Ahsoka a hero, Pav-ti giving really good mom-wisdom, raising a Force-sensitive baby, and discuss the criticism of “Resolve” (potentially) erasing an Ahsoka love interest.
Next…we’re taking a hiatus! Now that Growing Up Skywalker has concluded Phase 1 of our chronological watch-through, we’re putting the show on hold until January 10, because we’re busy moving in together (!!!). We’ll be back in your earbuds in January with our review of “Aftermath,” the Bad Batch S1 pilot.
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For the first time ever, Growing Up Skywalker’s chronological walkthrough lines up with something Star Wars recently released…Tales of the Jedi!
This week, we talked about Dooku’s Tale: Chapters 2, 3 and 4 (“Justice,” “Choices,” and “The Sith Lord”). We go chapter-by-chapter, discussing Dooku’s genuine love for Qui-Gon, the trauma of being a young person having to watch out for the adults in your life, Master Yaddle’s absolutely beautiful soul, the Star Wars smoothie-blend of history and culture, and the (missing) checks and balances in the Jedi Order.
We were also thrilled to talk about Tales of the Jedi on The FSF Popcast last week! Check them out on YouTube and everywhere you get podcasts.
Next week, we’re recapping Tales of the Jedi (Ahsoka’s Tale): Chapters 1, 5 and 6 (“Life and Death,” “Practice Makes Perfect,” and “Resolve”).
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It’s really here — the end of The Clone Wars.
In our recap of the final episodes of The Clone Wars (7.11–12, “Shattered” and “Victory and Death”) we talk about tragedy, betrayal, and the power move of asking a bunch of mischievous astromech droids to help you throw an entire cruiser into chaos. Most importantly, we talk about seeing Ahsoka fully mature into her powers — and deprogramming herself from being a soldier, so she can become a keeper of the peace.
Next week, we’re recapping chapters 2, 3, and 4 of Tales of the Jedi (Dooku’s Tale). The week after that, we’re recapping chapters 1, 5 and 6 (Ahsoka’s Tale). And before we get to The Bad Batch, we’re taking a small vacation from the podcast, because we’ll be busy moving in together!
This week, we were also delighted to be special guests on The FSF Popcast, where we talked all about Tales of the Jedi. Like, follow, and subscribe to The FSF Popcast on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and every major podcast platform!
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We finish Revenge of the Sith — the sweeping conclusion to the Prequel Era — with big feelings on Order 66 and the end of the Jedi Order, big love for beloved characters, and big thoughts on the cyclical story of Star Wars.
As the Empire takes power in Revenge of the Sith, the galaxy is plunged into darkness. But is the sun setting or rising for our favorite characters? In our character study, we talk about Anakin’s slow descent into darkness, Obi-Wan’s total control, and Padmé’s dreamlike passivity. In our big-picture discussion, we analyze the ultimate confrontation between Sith and Jedi, and decide who walks away stronger. This film is big, and bombastic, and inevitable, and utterly confident, and we love every minute of it.
Join us next week for the conclusion to the Prequel Era — the Siege of Mandalore, Part 2 (The Clone Wars 7.11–12, “Shattered” and “Victory and Death”).
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Another happy landing!
This week, we’re army-crawling to the finish line of the Prequel Era. In our recap of Revenge of the Sith (Part One), we talk about the gorgeous visuals, tight plotting, absolutely delightful banter and compelling themes of Star Wars’ final prequel film. We talk about Anakin and Obi-Wan vanquishing their ultimate foes, R2 disassembling Grievous’s droid army, Palpatine’s completely insidious (heh) manipulation of EVERYBODY, and the forces tugging Anakin to the Dark Side (and back to the Light).
Next week, we’re finishing Revenge of the Sith. Then, we’ll have a surprise special guest for the final episodes of The Clone Wars: “Shattered” and “Victory and Death.”
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Begun, the Clone War has!
This week, we’re rewatching Attack of the Clones in all of its magnificent sprawl. We talk all about the rewards of a second watch-through after seeing the Clone Wars TV show, the huge differences in production between The Phantom Menace and Attack, the weirdness between Anakin and Obi-Wan, the iconic Yoda/Dooku duel. We have lots of thoughts about Padme and Anakin. And you already know we talk about Padme’s outfits.
Next week, we’re returning to our regularly scheduled programming, and our regularly structured episodes. We’ll cover the first half of Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. After we finish Revenge, we’ll cover the final two episodes of The Clone Wars TV show. And then we’re onto Bad Batch!
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Start your engines! Just in time for the Boonta Eve Classic, we’re getting back to our roots with a rewatch of The Phantom Menace.
A lot has changed since we watched Phantom on the first two episodes of Growing Up Skywalker (and we have, too!). Our recap centers on the viewers we used to be versus the watchers we are today. We talk about how our perceptions of the main quartet — Anakin, Qui-Gon, Padmé and Shmi — have changed wildly over time. We try to figure out why George Lucas decided to start Star Wars here, and why he decided to frame it around an economic story. We share our favorite Easter eggs, and — most importantly — crown a Queen of Bae Watch.
Grab your rain slicker and Zam Wesell’s red lipstick, because next week, we’re rewatching Attack of the Clones!
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The Siege of Mandalore has begun — not with a bang, but with many. And also, Ahsoka somersaulting into Sundari, backlit by the carnage she has caused. This is some of the best action of Star Wars, and it is DELIGHTFUL.
“Old Friends Not Forgotten” and “The Phantom Apprentice” (TCW 7.9–10) form the first part of the Siege of Mandalore Arc, which blends the action in the Clone Wars with the events of Revenge of the Sith. In our recap, we talk about how Maul escaped from Darth Sidious to become the leader of a crime syndicate, the dynamic between Maul and Ahsoka, and whether the Anakin of these episodes is Anakin at his best. (Highly possible.)
We also break down some of the most iconic dialogue and best action scenes. Ahsoka’s twin lightsabers are the star of the show.
Next week, we’re NOT continuing straight into the second half of the Siege of Mandalore. First, we’ll rewatch The Phantom Menace, and then Attack of the Clones. Then, we’ll split Revenge of the Sith into a traditional two-part episode. And finally, we’ll finish the Siege of Mandalore — and then begin the Bad Batch.
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Season 7 of the Clone Wars only has three arcs, and we finished up the second by recapping 7.3–4, “On the Wings of Keeradaks” and “Unfinished Business.”
The second half of the Bad Batch arc isn’t nearly as much fun as the first. Echo has to regain the trust of everyone around him (and find trust in himself). Rex has to carry his guilt over leaving a man behind. And Anakin has to face the fact that he no longer considers himself a Jedi.
So, this arc is less fun, but no less worthy. We laugh a LOT about Wat Tambor, Mace Windu and the TechnoUnion being full of nerds.
Next week, we’ll start the final arc of S7: the Siege of Mandalore, Part 1 (“Old Friends Not Forgotten” and “The Phantom Apprentice”). Then we’re returning to Episode 1: The Phantom Menace and Episode 2: Attack of the Clones! We’ll review those in single episodes, and then finish up the final arc of S7.
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The Bad Batch is the Best Batch and that’s canon.
This week, we recapped the phenomenal first half of the Bad Batch Arc (The Clone Wars 7.1–2, “The Bad Batch” and “A Distant Echo”). Anna cried, Sam mused, and we laughed a LOT.
The Bad Batch are an elite special forces squad of “defective” clones with “desirable mutations.” In other words, they are fantastic — and different from Rex and Cody, who team up with them to infiltrate a Separatist cyber center to unravel why their enemies are anticipating their every move.
We talk all about Clone 99 being the house dad of the entire clone operation on Kamino, why you want (and don’t want) an entire clone army made out of Bad Batchers, and why Hunter is a walking thirst trap. Also, how Padmé is second-trimester-preggo in this arc and Anakin didn’t notice (?!).
Next week, we’ll finish the Bad Batch Arc, covering TCW 7.3–4, “On the Wings of Keeradaks” and “Unfinished Business.”
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The second half of the Martez Sisters Arc (The Clone Wars 7.7–8, “Dangerous Debt” and “Together Again”) has us debating the thorniest ethics questions around. But like, in a fun way.
This arc sees Ahsoka, Rafa and Trace escaping from the Pyke prison — again — and again — and again. While their dashing escapes are foiled, we get to catch up with some old faves: Bo-Katan and the Nite Owls, that random goat guy from Season 5 and (spoiler alert) DARTH MAUL?!?! We also get the tragic Martez sister backstory and a few minor prison breaks.
We hope you’re waiting with bated breath for next week…the first half of the CHAD BATCH ARC! We’ll be covering TCW 7.1–2, “The Bad Batch” and “A Distant Echo.”
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Do you ever have days when you just want to be part of a cool trio of BIPOC female minor criminals, and it’s just not working out that great for you? Ahsoka does!
In the Martez Sisters Arc, Part 1 (The Clone Wars 7.5–6, “Gone with a Trace” and “Deal No Deal”) we find out what Ahsoka’s been up to for the last minute or two — trying to keep a disreputable minor crime-lord and her sister out of trouble.
In our recap, we talk about living a life of crime in the Coruscant underworld, the Martez sisters’ wonky dynamic, and how great the animation is in Season 7.
Tune in next week for the exciting conclusion to this arc — TCW 7.7–8, “Dangerous Debt” and “Together Again.”
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Season 6 of The Clone Wars ends not with a bang, but with a sigh of surrender — and hope for a different kind of victory.
In the Yoda’s Journey Arc (TCW 6.11–13, “Voices,” “Destiny,” and “Sacrifice”) we follow Yoda from Coruscant to Dagobah, to the heart of the universe, and then finally to Moraband, the ancient homeworld of the Sith. His quest takes him through every step of the Hero’s Journey in pursuit of “the great gift:” the secret of creating consciousness after death. And he discovers the truth about the Jedi’s hopes of winning the Clone War.
Throughout his quest, Yoda has to face down everything from creepy-crawly Sith smoke snakes to the dark gremlin inside of himself. And it…is…FANTASTIC. We do a blow-by-blow recap of the epic duel between Yoda and the Dark Lord of the Sith, recite a CVS receipt-length litany of Yoda wisdom and shed some tears for the wisest Jedi of all.
Next week, we’re beginning Season 7 of The Clone Wars! YAHOO! Tune in for our recap of the first half of the Martez Sisters Arc (TCW 7.5–6, “Gone with a Trace” and “Deal or No Deal”).
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In which the Jedi Council remembers they never bothered to have a funeral for Sifo-Dyas.
We jest. “The Lost One” (The Clone Wars 6.10) is a dense and beautiful foreshadowing for the events of Revenge of the Sith. It also gives us a seven-layer tiramisu of MYSTERIES. Why did Jedi Master Sifo-Dyas have to die? Why did Dooku care about him at all? And what was the relationship between them? Also, who gave the Pykes the right to be so great?
For our recap, we hop into the Mystery Van and go sleuthing. We also talk about how much we love Pyke society, Obi-Wan and Anakin as “complementary halves of a single warrior” and break down the most beautiful lightsaber duel of the Clone Wars so far. (Spoiler alert: Dooku is the SECOND-best part.)
Next week, we’re covering the final arc of Season 6: Yoda’s Journey (6.11–13, “Voices,” “Destiny,” and “Sacrifice”).
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In the glorious Disappeared Arc of the Clone Wars, Jar Jar gets to be a love interest…the hero of the galaxy…and the one who gets the girl. Oh, Mace Windu is there, too.
The Disappeared Arc (The Clone Wars 6.8–9, “The Disappeared, Part One” and “The Disappeared, Part Two”) introduces us to the Dagoyan Masters of Bardotta, ancient mystics who are estranged from the Jedi Order. But their mystics are disappearing one by one, and it’s up to the unlikely dream team of Jar Jar Binks and Mace Windu to save them — and the galaxy.
If you did not already know, this podcast is a #1 foam finger Jar Jar Binks fan club. Even without him, this arc would be FAN-TASTIC. It gives us demon cultists who wear terrifying masks and backhand people down stone slip-and-slides, an ancient prophecy foretelling the rise of darkness across the galaxy, deeper discussions on the living Force, and a scene where Jar Jar and Mace Windu have to rent space-camels to go charging across the desert to save Jar Jar’s one true love. I don’t know what more you could want!!
Next week, we’re covering a one-off episode: “The Lost One” ( The Clone Wars 6.10). Then we’re onto the final arc of Season 6: Yoda’s Journey (6.11–13, “Voices,” “Destiny,” and “Sacrifice”).
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Guess who’s back, back again? The Right Honorable Rush Clovis — except he’s wrong, and dishonorable, and wrecking not just Anakin and Padmé’s marriage but also the GALAXY’S ENTIRE BANKING SYSTEM.
In our recap of the Rush Clovis Arc (The Clone Wars 6.5–7, "An Old Friend", "The Rise of Clovis,” and "Crisis at the Heart”) we talk about why the Clone Wars chose to tell another economic story, and figure out why it’s so compelling. We talk about Padmé and Anakin’s terrible marriage, whether or not Rush Clovis is redeemable, and why Palpatine is the GOAT master planner.
It’s all set against the gorgeous Swiss chalet backdrop of Scipio, feat. Embo, his dog, and an absolutely fantastic snowboard chase scene.
Next week, we get a palate cleanser in the form of a JAR-JAR ARC! We’re watching “The Disappeared” parts one and two (The Clone Wars 6.8–9).
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In which we discuss how Fives revealed the entire Sith ascension plan to some of the most powerful people in the galaxy…….and they didn’t listen.
The end of the Conspiracy Arc (The Clone Wars 6.3–4, “Fugitive” and “Orders”) shows us how the truth dies: in a dark office, with Chancellor Palpatine gaslight/gatekeep/girlbossing you for all you’re worth. In this arc, we follow Fives’ desperate scramble to reveal the conspiracy of the clones’ inhibitor chips. We see the Sith’s plan to discredit him — by framing him for an assassination attempt against the Chancellor — and discuss how the Kaminoans are complicit in about 10,000,000 different ways. It's all part of Palpatine's plan to execute Order 66.
Sam promises that there is more to this story, which is great, because this arc is HEARTBREAKING.
Next week, we’re starting the Rush Clovis Arc! (Yes, folks, he’s back!) We’ll recap The Clone Wars 6.5–7, "An Old Friend", "The Rise of Clovis,” and "Crisis at the Heart."
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The first episodes of Season 6 of The Clone Wars (6.1–2, “The Unknown” and “Conspiracy”) tell us exactly why the Clone Wars exist. And that’s just the BEGINNING.
In our recap, we talk about how Anna forgot Order 66 happened (but alas, social media exists). We deliver a treatise on why Fives is The Best, how this episode is a storytelling Russian nesting doll, and what the inhibitor chips really steal from the clones. Justice for Season 6, these episodes are gorgeous.
Next week, we’re finishing the Conspiracy Arc with 6.2–3, “Fugitive” and “Orders.”
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Cue the tears. In the long-awaited (first) finale of The Clone Wars (5.19–20), enemies turn to friends…friends turn to enemies…and we cry a LOT.
In our recap of the end of Season 5, we ask so many questions. Why does Ahsoka choose to leave the Jedi Order? What are Barriss’s motivations? Where was Luminara in all of this? Did Anakin suddenly become relatable? And most importantly — what have the Clone Wars done to the Jedi Order?
We also want to send a huge and heartfelt thanks to all of our listeners who have stuck with us for 60 episodes. What an accomplishment!! Don’t worry — we’re nowhere near done. Next week, we’re starting Season 6 of The Clone Wars: “The Unknown” and “Conspiracy” (6.1–2).
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Fire up your righteous indignation. We’re recapping the Jedi Temple Bombing Arc (The Clone Wars 5.17–18) and seeing Ahsoka framed for murder.
The Clone Wars is continuing to snap the pieces together to make a bridge between Episodes 2 and 3. In our recap, we talk about how the clones who once trusted and deferred to Ahsoka so quickly turn against her; the Jedi’s nosediving reputation; Jedi funerals; and why the darkness of the Clone Wars feels so prescient today.
Next week, we finish the Jedi Temple Bombing Arc and the final episodes of Season 5: The Clone Wars 5.19–20, “To Catch a Jedi” and “The Wrong Jedi.”
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Alexa, play “Taps.”
The body count in the second half of the Revenge Arc might not be as high as the Umbara Arc. But as Mandalore descends into civil war and political leaders become cannon fodder, it feels like this is just the start of something bigger.
In our recap of The Clone Wars 5.15–16, “Shades of Reason” and “The Lawless,” we dissect both spectacular darksaber duels blow-by-blow. We talk about Duchess Satine’s isolation as she tries to live out her ideal of pacifism. (Also, how it’s a direct contrast to Bo-Katan’s warlike alliances.) We even talk about all the Mandalorian artwork we see — moar Cubism! — and how it’s a form of propaganda that helps keep Mandalorian society together.
Next week, we start the final arc of Season 5: the Jedi Temple Bombing arc, part one (5.17–18, “Sabotage” and “The Jedi Who Knew Too Much”).
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Buckle in, kiddos: It’s time for REVENGE.
In the first half of the Revenge Arc (The Clone Wars 5.1 + 5.14, “Revival” and “Eminence”) Maul and Savage almost manage to take over Hondo Ohnaka’s pirate crew, but then very nearly become fishsticks floating in space. Then they effortlessly raise an army of terrifying criminals and set out to help Death Watch take over Mandalore — maybe.
In our recap, we talk about Maul’s plan to eviscerate not just Obi-Wan, but also his legacy. We cover Palpatine’s plan within plans, quote half of Maul’s lines and all of Hondo’s, and discuss Pre Vizsla and the noble trope of the buttmonkey.
The drama is ratcheting up, and next week, we’re finishing the Revenge Arc with Season 5.15–16, “Shades of Reason” and “The Lawless.”
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What do you get when you cross a clone, a bad case of amnesia, and 10,000 canisters of Rhydonium? The second half of the D-Squad Arc, that’s what you get.
This week, we’re recapping The Clone Wars 5.12–13, “Missing in Action” and “Point of No Return”, a.k.a. two episodes that debuted at the top of Anna’s Cry-O-Meter. We meet Gregor, a MIA clone commando who has to embark on a hero’s journey to reclaim his destiny. The D-Squad holds the lives of thousands in their little droid spanners, and Meebur Gascon continues to be the worst.
This arc is about heroism, sacrifice, and never judging a book by its cover, and it is SO GOOD.
Next week, we’re taking a breather (literally, we can’t breathe, we have COVID). Then we’ll be back in your earbuds with the Maul Arc! And we’ll be joined by special guests from Wookieepedia.
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The lack of a reliable file-sharing system in Star Wars comes into play once again in the D-Squad Arc (The Clone Wars 5.10–11, "Secret Weapons" and "A Sunny Day in the Void").
It turns out that this critically-panned series of episodes is a fascinating meditation on inequality, oppression, meritocracy, the military-industrial complex, and why WAC units are indeed so wack.
In our recap this week, we continue our conversation on droid rights and admit to all kinds of meatbag foibles (we’re just not suited to long marches across the desert, okay!!)
Next week, we’re finishing the D-Squad arc (The Clone Wars 5.12–13, “Missing in Action” and “Point of No Return”) so we can finally get to the Maul arc of Season 5!
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Hondo Ohnaka has a no-good, very bad day during the second half of the Ahsoka + Younglings arc (The Clone Wars 5.8–9, “Bound for Rescue” and “A Necessary Bond”).
Our dashing crew of younglings have to infiltrate a traveling carnival to rescue Ahsoka from Hondo Ohnaka’s base — which Grievous promptly overruns. In our recap, we talk about all the ways Hondo Ohnaka would disappoint us if he was our uncle, the advice we would give to younglings, lightsaber fighting styles, and why this crew of baby Jedi is so dang lovable.
Buckle up, because next week we’re covering the first half of the D-Squad arc! (The Clone Wars 5.10–11, “Secret Weapons” and “A Sunny Day in the Void”.)
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Hold onto your lightsabers, because Hondo Ohnaka is coming for them.
In the first half of the Ahsoka + Younglings arc (The Clone Wars 5.6–7, “The Gathering” and “A Test of Strength”) we meet a crew of Jedi younglings who find their very own kyber crystals — just in time to almost lose them to Hondo’s pirate gang. (And they actually DO lose Ahsoka.) But don’t worry. Petro, Katooni, Ganodi, Zatt, Byph and Gungi are up to the challenge!
For this week’s recap, we invited an actual youngling to talk about the arc. Raphael, the Geeky Dad, and Arianna, the Multiverse Kid, joined us to talk about lightsabers, Star Wars girls and the challenges we overcome to become better. If you like baby Wookiee Jedi, this is the arc for you!
Next week, we’re tumbling (literally) into the second half of the arc, “Bound for Rescue” and “A Necessary Bond” (The Clone Wars 5.8–9).
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They never said revolution would be easy. In the final half of the Onderon Arc (The Clone Wars 5.4–5, “The Soft War” and “Tipping Points”) we see that Onderon’s rebels are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to throw off Separatist rule.
In our recap, we talk about the rightful king, Dendup, and why he’s the worst. (Steela Gerrera 4 Queen of Onderon.) We figure out how you can successfully make a gambit for neutrality between the Republic and Separatists — another reason why Dendup is the worst. And we talk about Ahsoka’s radicalizing moment, where she sees the Jedi Council do so little to stop the wasting of lives for a good cause.
Don’t worry. There are laughs, too, because HONDO OHNAKA is there and he’s doing the most.
Next week, we’re beginning the wholesome goodness of the Ahsoka and Younglings arc (The Clone Wars 5.6–7, “The Gathering” and “A Test of Strength”).
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Hot on the heels of our arc about brotherhood, we have another sibling story — and this time, it’s about Saw and Steela Gerrera.
Our recap of the first half of the Onderon Arc (The Clone Wars 5.2–3, “A War on Two Fronts” and “Front Runners”) throws us into a rebellion of Anakin’s making. There is a fantastic training montage, a sort of meh love triangle between Ahsoka, Steela and Lux, and a delightful heist that brings the rebellion to new heights. We talk about overachieving daughters and proxy wars of history. Most importantly, we celebrate Anakin giving extremely good dad-vice to Ahsoka. Snips and Skyguy 4ever.
Next week, we’re finishing off the Onderon Arc with 5.4–5, “The Soft War” and “Tipping Points.”
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We have so much to celebrate this episode! The Asajj + Maul Arc, Part 2 marks the end of Season Four of the Clone Wars…our 50th episode…our one-year anniversary as a podcast…and May the 4th (Be With You).
We’re so excited to have Tim Beisiegel of Funny Science Fiction Podcast and Pop Culture Addicts on the show with us. Tim has been a champion of Growing Up Skywalker from the beginning, and it was a delight to hear him talk about some of his favorite Clone Wars episodes!
If you like lightsabers, this is the arc for you! In our recap of “Brothers” and “Revenge” (The Clone Wars 4.21–22) we talk about Mother Talzin’s band of terrifying children, Sam Witwer’s theory of the void inside all Sith, the symmetry of Anakin and Darth Maul’s journeys, and Obi-Wan’s imposter syndrome.
Join us next week to begin Season Five of The Clone Wars, but watch out — due to chronological timelines, we’re not watching the first episode of the season yet! We’ll be recapping 5.2–3, “A War on Two Fronts” and “Front Runners,” the first half of the Onderon Arc.
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Buckle in, kiddos, because we’re headed to Dathomir. In the first half of the Asajj and Maul arc, Asajj renounces her ties to the Sith and pledges herself to the Nightsisters. Cue Dooku losing his dang mind.
We talk about loyalty, betrayal, witchy covens, catharsis, and Asajj’s four life-altering transformations: slave to Jedi, Jedi to Sith, Sith to Nightsister, and Nightsister to outcast. Somehow we also touch on the meaning of life???
Our follow-up discussion to this episode, “You Say ‘Witch’ Like it’s a Bad Thing,” is available exclusively to Patreon subscribers.
And we have exciting news! Next week is not only May the 4th (Be With You), but also the show’s one-year anniversary and our 50th episode. We’re inviting special guest Tim Beisiegel from Funny Science Fiction Podcast onto the show to celebrate!
Join us next week to finish out Season Four of The Clone Wars with the end of the Asajj and Maul arc: “Brothers” and “Revenge” (The Clone Wars 4.21–22).
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Did you know that Star Wars has a bounty hunter-themed reality TV show in the middle of Season Four? Who knew! Shenanigans continue in the second half of the Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.17–18) as Dooku whittles down 12 of the galaxy’s greatest bounty hunters to five. It’s a race against time — and Anakin’s impatience — as Obi-Wan tries to thwart Dooku’s plans to kidnap Chancellor Palpatine.
In our recap, we talk about what it takes to be a bounty hunter, Obi-Wan as The Negotiator, Cad Bane’s code of ethics, and the beginning of the end of Anakin’s trust in the Jedi Council. Come for the jokes, stay for the astonishing Zillo Beast cameo!
Next week, we’re recapping the beginning of Season Four’s final arc: Asajj + Maul, Part 1 (The Clone Wars 4.19–20).
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The first half of the Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.15–16) is a romp, y’all. Obi-Wan goes undercover as a hardened criminal to sabotage a plot against Chancellor Palpatine as the entire galaxy believes him to be dead. He hooks up with Cad Bane — who can be threatening even when he’s only armed with a toothpick — and tries to outrun Anakin and Ahsoka, on the warpath for vengeance.
We talk about great villains, iconic prison breaks, and how when Anakin tries to avenge his best friend’s murder, he comes perilously close to committing that murder himself.
Next week, we’re diving into the second half of the Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.17–18).
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“A Friend in Need” (The Clone Wars 4.14) is the last standalone episode of The Clone Wars series, and boy howdy is it chock-full of discussion topics.
In 22 minutes, we see Ahsoka reunited with her BOYFRIEND Lux Bonteri, watch the Separatist-Republic peace talks disintegrate (again), meet up with Death Watch, see Bo-Katan for the first time, witness R2D2 raise a droid army, and see an entire village subjugated (no word on how their situation pans out, either).
In our recap, we talk about Lux Bonteri’s options after he became a war orphan, the decay of Death Watch into a biker gang, and Ahsoka — who is all grown up and saving everybody. Special shout-out to her phenomenal fur coat.
Next week, we’re diving into the first half of the four-part Rako Hardeen arc (The Clone Wars 4.15–16).
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The Zygerrian Arc of the Clone Wars (4.11–13, “Kidnapped,” “Slaves of the Republic,” and “Escape from Kadavo”) begs us to consider: Who are the real slaves under the Republic?
In this three-part arc, we see Anakin, Ahsoka and Kenobi struggle to free the Togrutan people of Kiros from being condemned to a life in chains. There are heists, spies, infiltration plots, fake names, fake imprisonment (plus actual imprisonment), and a seduction (ooh la la). In our discussion, we recap the grand tradition of slavery in Star Wars and discuss what it tells us about power in the galaxy — who has it, and why it profits them.
Next week, we’re hanging out with Ahsoka and her BOYFRIEND (!!!!) in “A Friend in Need” (The Clone Wars 4.14).
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Betrayal has a long legacy in Star Wars, and in the final half of the Umbaran arc (The Clone Wars 4.9–10) we come face-to-face with one of the galaxy's greatest traitors.
In our recap of “Plan of Dissent” and “Carnage of Krell,” we put the spotlight on the 501st. Through heartbreak, sacrifice and betrayal, they go against their beliefs, have existential crises, and eventually learn to find their own way. We get an answer to our question from the last episode — What does it mean to be a good soldier? And we talk about how the Clone Wars continues to show us that a single person’s decisions can matter, whether you’re fighting for the light or the dark. Join us in pouring one out for the brave boys of the 501st and 212th.
Next week, things take a turn for the political in the Zygerrian arc: The Clone Wars 4.11–13.
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No more fun and games. We’re getting down to business in the first half of the Umbaran Arc (The Clone Wars 4.7–8).
When’s the last time you read the Geneva Convention? Because war crimes abound on Umbara, especially after Anakin is sent home to Coruscant mid-invasion and the 501st is put under General Pong Krell — a Besalisk with a VERY bad attitude. We rabbithole into Civil War-era parallels to the full-frontal assault into Umbaran territory, including the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of Chickamauga. We also talk about what it means to be a good soldier, what a general owes their troops, and why the Jedi Code slides in times of war.
Next week, it gets darker. We’re covering the final two episodes of the Umbaran arc: The Clone Wars 4.9–10, “Plan of Dissent” and “Carnage of Krell.”
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The R2 and C-3PO arc (The Clone Wars 4.5–6) has the strangest and yet most strangely delightful Clone Wars episodes in a while. We talk about fairytales, magical realism, the Balance, and droid rights/droid supremacy. R2 talks trash to every sovereign leader they meet in the LONGEST episode ever, and in the face of death, 3PO has — for once — a heartfelt moment. This arc is an actual fever dream, and we laughed a LOT.
This was our last moment of levity for a while. Next week, we’re covering the first two episodes of the Umbaran arc: The Clone Wars 4.7–8, “Darkness on Umbara” and “The General.”
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“Shadow Warrior” (The Clone Wars Season 4.4) is one giant, beautiful retribution for Star Wars’ treatment of the Gungans thus far. As Jar Jar is forced to impersonate Boss Lyonie to keep his people from going to war against the Naboo, we (finally) get to see the Gungans step into the light. We get fierce Gungan warriors, ancestral Gungan magic, a fantastic callback to Padmé’s switcheroos in the Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones — and the power of friendship, which runs through it all. Justice for Jar Jar. Justice for the Gungans. May we all hold ourselves to their standards.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting front seat tickets to R2 and C3PO’s technicolor adventure in The Clone Wars 4.5–6, “Mercy Mission” and “Nomad Droid.”
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Surf’s up! The first arc of Season 4 of the Clone Wars has our faves swimming with the fishes. We’re introduced to yet another teenage monarch — Prince Lee-Char — who’s navigating a civil war between the Mon Calamari and Quarren and orchestrated, as always, by Count Dooku. Kit Fisto is glorious, Padmé and Anakin are mostly there to be threatened with drowning, Ahsoka does Anakin’s job from Attack of the Clones ten times better than he ever did, and the Gungans absolutely saved the day.
In a special segment, we also answer a burning question left over from the Ahsoka Hunted arc: What happened to the Force-sensitive younglings abandoned to be hunted by the Trandoshans, Jinx and O-Mer?
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re hanging out with the Gungans again in “Shadow Warrior” (The Clone Wars 4.4).
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Happy Star Wars Podcast Day!
We’re closing out Season 3 of The Clone Wars with the most dangerous game of them all — messing with Ahsoka and her band of misfit Jedi younglings. And we’re thrilled to have Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction as a guest on this week’s show!
In the Ahsoka Hunted arc (The Clone Wars 3.21–22) we meet a group of Trandoshan weekend warriors who like to hunt younglings down for sport. Humility is learned, jungle shenanigans are pulled, and it becomes more evident than ever that the best skill you can have in the Star Wars universe is the ability to fabricate a tracking beacon out of scrap metal.
P.S: The special character appearance in this arc is going to blow your mind.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping the opening of season 4 in the Mon Cala Arc (The Clone Wars 4.1–3, “Water War,” “Gungan Attack,” and “Prisoner”).
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It’s time for a classic Clone Wars mess-around! The Citadel Arc (The Clone Wars 3.18–3.20) has everything: battle droids, ambushes, a rescue mission, carbon freezing, Ugnauts, a phenomenal MacGuffin (the Nexus Route hyperspace lanes), Kenobi banter and a truly astonishing amount of foreshadowing for Anakin’s journey. If you are a Wilhuff Tarkin fan, this is the arc for you. (If you are a no-Jedis-shall-hurt-the-space-doggos fan, it’s definitely not.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re excited to have a special guest appearance from Nick Stockbridge of Funny Science Fiction Podcast on the show! Nick will help us recap the Ahsoka Hunted Arc (The Clone Wars 3.21–22, “Padawan Lost” and “Wookiee Hunt”).
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Hold onto your Star Wars encyclopedias, because we’re in for the ride of our lives! In the Mortis Arc (The Clone Wars 3.15–17) we get the deepest dive into the lore of the Force so far — and that’s just where the first episode starts. We talk about good, evil, and ambivalence…why wisdom has to be earned to be learned…and all about the family story at the heart of Star Wars. Buckle up, baybees, because the Mortis Arc puts Anakin Skywalker’s story on fast-forward, and it’s all playing on the giant celestial chessboard of the galaxy.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting back to the classics with the Citadel Arc: The Clone Wars 3.18–3.20, “The Citadel,” “Counterattack,” and “Citadel Rescue.”
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The Clone Wars so far has been a series of appetizers, but with the Nightsisters Arc (3.12–14) we’re getting filet mignon, baybee! As Assajj and her witchy sisters plan vengeance on Count Dooku, we’re introduced to Anna’s big sad baby, Savage Opress — and then things get spooky, y’all. We talk about Star Wars steroids, the Rule of Two, identity erasure, unexplainable magic, and the moment when female power meets manipulation.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting even darker with the Mortis arc: The Clone Wars 3.15–3.17, “Overlords,” “Altar of Mortis,” and “Ghosts of Mortis.”
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Lieutenant Divo is back on the case in “Senate Murders” (The Clone Wars 2.15) — and so is Action Padmé! As Padmé struggles to maintain her political leverage against the clone-troop bill, she’s beset on all sides by the creepiest of the Galactic Senators. Friends become enemies! Enemies become…non-enemies! (Because they’re dead.) And the question of whether the Clone Wars will continue hangs in the balance.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re getting dark with the Nightsisters arc: The Clone Wars 3.12–3.14, “Nightsisters,” “Monster,” and “Witches of the Mist.”
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We’ve got war and war profiteering on the mind during our recap of the Funding the War arc (The Clone Wars Season 3.11–12, “Heroes on Both Sides” and “Pursuit of Peace”). Padmé and Ahsoka take a field trip to Raxus to broker peace with the Separatists, Ahsoka meets a boy, and Bail Organa continues to be the best. There is murder! There are speeches! There is creative accounting! And there is perhaps the best political reckoning of war in the Star Wars universe so far.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re finishing the question of funding the war in “Senate Murders” (The Clone Wars 2.15).
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Coming to you live from our luxury conveyex on Vandor, we bring you a deep dive into the swamps of Nal Hutta — and the twisted politics of the Hutt Council. In the Ziro the Hutt arc (The Clone Wars 3.8–3.9 and 1.22), Ziro rekindles his love affair with cabaret cutie/part-time bounty hunter Sy Snootles. We meet Jedi Master Quinlan Vos, finally discover C3PO’s real backstory, and witness an incredibly exciting aerial boss battle on Teth. This episode has everything: Romance! Betrayal! A makeover for R2! And coming out on top is the lady, the myth, the legend…Miss Snootles herself.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re pinching pennies in the Funding the War arc (The Clone Wars 3.10–11, “Heroes on Both Sides” and “Pursuit of Peace”).
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This week, we talk about heroes great and small as we recap “Arc Troopers” (The Clone Wars 3.2). As you can imagine, Anna’s notes for this episode are mostly frowny faces. And we have so many questions!! What makes a noble death? What are the limitations of being a general by the sword? Is the glory of combat all it’s cracked up to be? And, if you had to pick a favorite clone for this episode, would it be Echo, Fives, or 99?
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re finally finishing season 1 of the Clone Wars! (Yeah!) We’re recapping the Ziro the Hutt arc: “Evil Plans” (The Clone Wars 3.8), “Hostage Crisis” (1.22) and “Hunt For Ziro” (3.9).
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It’s never a good day to be a Neimoidian, but especially not in “Assassin” (The Clone Wars Season 3.7) and “Sphere of Influence” (3.4). As we carefully unpick the convoluted chronology of The Clone Wars’ third season, we see Ahsoka thwarting Aurra Sing (again), Senator Chuchi achieving legendary BAMF status (again), and the dream team making fools out of the entire Trade Federation. This is officially an Ahsoka-Padmé-Chuchi fan club and we are not sorry about it.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping “Arc Troopers” (The Clone Wars Season 3.2).
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We’ve got heart eyes for the Scooby Gang in the Second Mandalore arc (The Clone Wars Season 3, episodes 5-6). The Moogans would have gotten away with their entire racketeering scheme if it weren’t for those pesky kids! In other news, we talk about Padme’s grace in the face of a diplomatic rabble, corruption schemes of yore, and why the kids — cadets Korkie, Amis, Lagos and, ya know, the blonde one — are all right.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping “Sphere of Influence” (The Clone Wars Season 3.4) and “Assassin” (3.7).
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It’s the Boba Fett and Mace Windu show! (Yeah, yeah, Aurra Sing and Plo-Koon are there, too.) Boba serves up vengeance just the way he likes it in the final arc of season two of The Clone Wars: spicy-hot and full of explosives. In our recap, we talk about wolves in sheep’s clothing, the intimacy of being known, generational debts, whether or not Aurra Sing is a good mom and all about the EDM scene in downtown Coruscant. Also, Plo’s Bros.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the Second Mandalore arc: The Clone Wars Season 3, episodes 5-6.
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It’s time to talk about the greatest romance of Star Wars history. No, it’s not Anakin and Padme. Or Leia and Han. It’s Obi-Wan and Satine’s world, and we’re all just living in it!! This episode, we’re recapping The First Mandalore Arc (The Clone Wars Season 2, episodes 12-14) and talking all about false flag operations, the cultural juggernaut of Mandalore’s warrior past and, MOST importantly, Satine’s dating life. The banter is strong with this one, y’all.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the Young Boba Fett vs. Mace Windu arc: The Clone Wars Season 2, episode 20-22.
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In Anna’s second favorite Clone Wars episode (beaten only by “Trespass”) we’re blessed with dad jokes, grandad-vice and an epic American Ninja Warrior Challenge across Coruscant. We talk about great teachers and great lessons, Padawan electives and the origins of Bae Watch. All hail Tera Sinu-bae.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re reviewing the First Mandalore Arc: The Clone Wars Season 2, episode 12-14.
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Clones: Rural soldier philosophers married to hot babes OR speeder bike enthusiasts with no concept of self-determination?
In the Deserter Arc (The Clone Wars, Season 2, episodes 9-10) Obi-Wan exhibits both internal and external screaming as Grievous escapes from him once more. We get not one, but TWO new Jedi masters, adorable smol children and one very spooky cornfield. It has been 0 days since Sam cried at a Clone Wars episode.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping Lightsaber Lost: Season 2, episode 11.
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Just in time for spooky season, we have the creepiest Clone Wars arc yet. In “Legacy of Terror” and “Brain Invaders” (Season 2, eps. 7-8) we get up close and personal with parasitic brain worms, an underground egg-laying queen and a horde of zombie warriors. Yes, this is all canon.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping the Deserter arc: Season 2, episodes 9-10.
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Grab your Gatorade and orange slices, because Ahsoka and Barriss Offee are girlbossing VERY close to the sun. We’re going full “Saving Private Ryan” in the Second Battle of Geonosis arc (The Clone Wars season 2, episodes 5-6). There are super-tanks, flamethrowers, Lord of the Rings-style kill counts and a genuinely moving #TeamPadawan arc. It is...spectacular.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping the Brain Invaders arc: Season 2, episodes 7-8.
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Worst date ever. The date was my ex, my husband was our driver, the Jedi Council set us up, there was poison. Two stars.
Also known as: that time Padmé had a very hard day at the office. Join us for our recap of Senate Spy — The Clone Wars Season 2, episode 4, in which we talk Hitchcock references, fancy flying, and what makes a healthy marriage. (Spoiler alert: Anakin and Padmé do not have one.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re recapping The Second Battle of Geonosis: Season 2, episodes 5-6.
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Unleash your inner Reptar, because we’re meeting the Zillo Beast. Everything’s fun and games until Anakin and Mace Windu wake a literal dragon in episodes 18-19 of The Clone Wars Season 2. Palpatine is shady AF, Dr. Boll is too good at her job, and Mace Windu stars in his very own sexy PETA ad.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Senate Spy: Season 2, episode 4.
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Cool Hat Tuesday continues as we meet a bunch of bounty hunters with hearts of gold — and re-meet OG Cool Hat Guy Hondo Ohnaka. In an homage to Akira Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai,” our seven heroes fearlessly face down Hondo’s gang of capitalists. The local villagers face a #Relatable case of imposter syndrome, Obi-Wan gets his flirt on, and Anakin and Ahsoka are in it to win it.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re talking animal rights, empathy and all things Mace Windu in the Zillo Beast arc: Season 2, episodes 18-19.
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Join us for the inaugural Cool Hat Tuesday, featuring Cad Bane’s excellent fedora. This arc has everything: Anakin/Obi-Wan banter, child-stealers, countless heists, and even a glorious Kit Fisto cameo.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is a Patreon exclusive for the most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday. We’re also airing “Sam’s Naval History Minute” for all the people who look up when a plane flies by.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re continuing our disreputable streak with “Bounty Hunters,” Season 2, Episode 17.
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As we approach 20 episodes, we’re taking a look back at how far we’ve come. Sam and Anna cover The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones and all of season one of The Clone Wars in our “Season 1” retrospective. Plus, we include snippets of the thoughts and opinions you sent in for this episode, and sit down for a discussion with our listener Chris, who was inspired to watch The Clone Wars for the first time.
In this episode: choosing between Phantom and Attack of the Clones, favorite one-hit wonder heroes and villains, and changing hearts and minds about one Jar-Jar Binks.
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Life imitates art (or art imitates life??) in the Ryloth Arc, where a war-torn country is ravaged by hostile non-governmental actors. (Yikes.) On a brighter note, Sam and Anna discuss the Peak Dad-akin energy in this arc, clone snugs, what women really want, and Mace Motherf** Windu.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is a Patreon exclusive for the most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday. We’re also airing “Sam’s Naval History Minute” for all the people who look up when a plane flies by.
Next week we’ve got a fun surprise for you: a retrospective of the episodes we’ve watched so far! We’re covering The Phantom Menace, Attack of the Clones, and Season 1 of The Clone Wars. Plus, we’re featuring all the thoughts, questions and notes you’ve sent in. See you Tuesday!
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Hold onto your plague helmets, folks, because the Blue Shadow Virus arc has everything: Star Wars COVID, a precocious mechanic child, Darth Jar-Jar, Action Padme, tiny murder robot jump-scares, a nefarious Nazi plague scientist and literally the most handsome Obi-Wan yet.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is for a Patreon exclusive for most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching the FINAL ARC of Season 1 of The Clone Wars: Episodes 19-21, “Storm Over Ryloth,” “Innocents of Ryloth” and “Liberty on Ryloth.” Send us your thoughts and questions!
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In Anna’s favorite episode of The Clone Wars so far, Sam refuses to say someone died like a b**** (but REALLY wants to). Winter fashion is all the rage on Orto Plutonia, and we find out Anakin and Obi-Wan look exceptional in balaclavas. Also, we have confirmation that the Star Wars universe has a maximum age for senators (16) and it’s...kind of working out for them.
Want more Skywalker? Tune into our new series, “Spice Run!” This unedited, no-holds-barred series is for a Patreon exclusive for most dedicated of Outer Rim smugglers. New shorts launch every Thursday.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 17-18, “Blue Shadow Virus” and “Mystery of a Thousand Moons.”
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Sam and Anna dive deep into the politics of pacifism in a recap of the Anakin Injured arc (Season 1, Episode 13-14) and long for the simplicity of life as a Lurmen. Place your bets on who loves Aayla Secura more. Also, a Bae Watch mega-surprise! Plus, a shoutout for all our intergalactic realtor friends - help us find a planet to colonize, we beg you.
Tune into our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run.” We’re also releasing an unedited, un-cut, full-length version of this episode for ALL patreon subscribers (aka, the Zack Snyder's Justice League version.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episode 15, "Trespass."
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Shenanigans ensue in the Count Dooku Captured arc (Season 1, Episodes 11-12) and “disreputable” is the word of the day. Dooku might have racked up the second highest kill count of the episode (behind the one and only Jar-Jar Binks) but Obi-Wan’s banter slays. Come for the cutting insults and stay for the cutting insults!
PS: Tune into our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run!”
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 13-14, “Jedi Crash” and “Defenders of Peace.”
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In our recap of the Nute Gunray Captured Arc (The Clone Wars Season 1, Episodes 8-10), Anna creates the Cult of Jedi Master Jar-Jar. Despicable wealth worms ruin our day, Ahsoka learns no valuable lessons, and we would like to formally apologize to all Chads, everywhere.
PS: Tune in for our new Patreon-exclusive series, “Spice Run!” This is our off-the-cuff, no-holds-barred bonus content for only the most discerning of Outer Rim smugglers.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 11-12, “Dooku Captured” and “The Gungan General.”
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In our recap of The Clone Wars Episodes 6-7, we see the greatest betrayal in Star Wars history. (Well, second greatest.) Anakin anthropomorphizes his favorite toolkit, we’re marching for droid rights, and Obi-Wan has HAD IT. And, we are just as surprised as you are to be discussing fart jokes in Star Wars. Tune in to see the fate of the Republic once again resting on one 14-year-old’s shoulders!
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 8-10: “Bombad Jedi,” “Cloak of Darkness” and “Lair of Grievous.” See you Tuesday!
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Party at Domino House! In our recap of the standalone episode “Rookies,” we reunite with Domino Squad...just in time to see them fall. On the plus side, Rex is making barbecued eel for dinner (and we’re pretty sure he won the genetic lottery.)
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episodes 6-7: “Downfall of a Droid” and “Duel of the Droids.” See you Tuesday!
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In this triple-header recap of Season 1, Episodes 2-4, General Grievous pimps his ride, Sam talks about WWII naval warfare (somehow it’s relevant) and you’ll never look at can openers the same way again. Come for Ahsoka’s backseat driving, stay for the giant space manta rays.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re watching Season 1, Episode 5: “Rookies.” See you Tuesday!
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Our timelines converge (finally) as we catch up to “Ambush,” the pilot episode of The Clone Wars TV series. In other news, Toydarians are morally superior to all of us (Watto excluded) and healthy mentor/mentee relationships are not the Sith’s style. First 100 listeners get a visit from a chaos gremlin.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering the Malevolence arc of The Clone Wars TV show: Episodes 2-4 of Season 1 (“Rising Malevolence,” “Shadow of Malevolence,” and “Destroy Malevolence.” See you Tuesday!
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And we’re back (to The Clone Wars TV series, that is)! Anna cries, Sam becomes a big-brained antagonist apologist, and then Anna cries again. #JusticeFor99.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering “Ambush,” the pilot episode of The Clone Wars TV series. See you Tuesday!
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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In the second half of the feature-length Star Wars: The Clone Wars movie, Sam and Anna talk at length about Huttese genders and Ahsoka and Anakin get shot down again (yes – again). We also see IG-100 MagnaGuards at their absolute finest. First 100 listeners get to babysit baby Jabba. All listeners should beware of senators wearing white jumpsuits.
Watching along with us? Next week, we’re covering The Clone Wars TV episodes “Clone Cadets” (Season 3, Episode 1) and “Supply Lines” (Season 3, Episode 3). See you Tuesday!
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Introducing Snips! In the first half of the feature-length Star Wars: The Clone Wars movie, we do our best to keep up with the lightning-fast plot changes. Obi-Wan commits war crimes, Anakin deals with an intern crisis and we (reluctantly) explore sex ed for Hutts.
Watching along with us? Next Tuesday, we’re covering the second half of the film.
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Diving straight into The Clone Wars TV series, we cover Season 2, Episode 16 (“Cat and Mouse”) and Season 1, Episode 16 (“Hidden Enemy”). Faux-hawks and facial hair abound in our first introduction to the Republic’s clone army. We talk about how Anakin was #BornThisWay, radicalizing moments, and why the aliens in The Clone Wars are just built better.
Watching along with us? Next Tuesday, we’re watching the first half of Star Wars: The Clone Wars (the 2008 feature-length film).
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In the second half of Attack of the Clones, we sing an ode to Mace Windu and rank Padme’s best outfits. Also, we throw in a casual conversation about the meaning of death (to Force users, that is). Quoth Anakin to C3PO: “Get in, loser, we’re going to Geonosis.”
Watching along with us? Next up in chronological order, we have Season 2, Episode 16 of The Clone Wars TV show, “Cat and Mouse,” then Season 1, Episode 16, “Hidden Enemy” – both of which we’ll cover next Tuesday!
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In the first half of Attack of the Clones, Anna finds out she accidentally became a true Star Wars fan and we discuss the impeccable Kaminoan aesthetics. Also, the Fetts get an honorary award for the healthiest father-son dynamics in Star Wars (for about 20 minutes, that is). Tune in on 99.7 The Podrace, Anakin’s signature station.
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slow, operatic fight scene music intensifies
Join for this week’s episode, where we talk about the thrilling conclusion to The Phantom Menace (not actually inspired by #WakandaForever) and how a 16-part plan cooked up by a 14-year-old actually works. First 100 listeners get a Gungan peace orb.
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Let’s talk about the Jar-Jar in the room.
Podracing: it’s the best. Qui-Gon is bae. #JusticeForJarJar. Join us for all these spicy takes and more in the first full-length episode of Growing Up Skywalker! All listeners get season tickets to the Malastare Podracing Circuit.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
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A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away...Sam (resident Star Wars expert) and Anna (resident non-expert) began a Star Wars podcast that combines wisdom and wonder.
Join us on Tuesdays as we watch every canonical Star Wars film and television appearance in chronological, in-universe order. Reliving the experience? Seeing it for the first time? We’re here for you, wherever you receive your holocrons.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/growingupskywalker/message