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Spilling The Sinistea

Author: Ezra Gray-Holt and Chelsea Sturkie

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Welcome to Spilling the Sinistea, where we are spilling every drop of our fan opinions of the Pokémon franchise. If you are a fan of the TCG, video games, or anime, this is the place to be for the hot gossip. 


Each week, listeners can expect in-depth conversations about TCG strategy, emotional nostalgia on Pokémon GO, and our personal opinions about what types make up the best teams - among many other exciting topics. Whether you've been a fan since Red, Blue, and Yellow, or just got your started in Paldea, there is definitely something for everyone.



75 Episodes
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In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea give their hot takes as to why the new Mega Evolutions being shown for the upcoming Legends: Z-A game are so disappointing, both from an artistic point of view and from a nostalgic point of view. They discuss the evolution of the design in Pokémon games and why the newer games feel less grounded and real than they did in previous iterations. Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
Today, Chelsea and Ezra talk about why kids should be allowed to bring cards to school (as long as it’s not against the rules), why it’s good for kids to do so, and what to look out for. They dive into how to prepare kids for the possibility of loss or theft, and offer insight on how taking cards to school can be a learning experience and build responsibility in kids while supporting community and fun with friends.Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea go on a wild journey from Intro to Nuzlockes 101 through how modern culture and consumerism are changing the way players engage with video games and media.   Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea break down what we are seeing from the Pokémon Legends: Z-A Demo from Pokémon World Championships 2025. They discuss the potential problems of the real-time battles, the unfortunate art design, and the influencerization of the Pokémon franchise. While still trying to remain optimistic, Ez shares why it is getting more and more difficult for them to stay that way, the more we see coming out about the latest Pokémon video game.   Episode References:10 Minutes of Pokémon Legends Z-A in 4K HDR | GAMEPLAY + PREVIEW [Direct Feed](Nintendo Switch 2) - Nintenduo World - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dzi-oo32Tpg Pokémon Legends Z-A Full Gameplay Demo (Pokémon World Championships 2025) - Austin John Plays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTbBSDeOKck Everything YOU Missed from the Pokémon Legends Z-A Demo! - Austin John Plays - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_mx3n9X0es  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea chat about their experiences as a long-time Pokémon fan (Ez) and a newbie fan (Chels). They dive into some of the inside jokes (Ketchup Pikachu) and heartwrenching moments (Bye Bye Butterfree), as well as talking about how understanding more of the lore and history of the franchise brings a richer experience to your Pokémon journey. There is no wrong way to explore your journey, but delving into some of the older material can bring a depth and love for the franchise that you may not yet know.  Episode References:Ketchup Bottle Pikachu - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8UHXGY-_BU The Song of Jigglypuff - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ss13Pnq6XII  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea discuss the supposed 19th Pokémon type: Stellar. They dive into why Stellar should not qualify as one of the official typings, why it is more of an attribute that the Pokémon in Scarlet & Violet during certain battles can access, and express frustration with the world of Tera Raids and gaining access to the Stellar typing in-game.    Episode References:Master the Stellar Tera Type—the 19th Tera Type! - https://scarletviolet.pokemon.com/en-ca/news/stellar_tera_type/  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into the latest TCG Expansions…Black Bolt & White Flare! In this double expansion drop, fans of the Unova region have ample choices and cards to seek out. However, with so many chase cards and the lack of Booster Boxes, this is going to be a difficult set to get your hands on the products, let alone complete your set. Chelsea and Ezra encourage you to do your research ahead of time and see what’s really important to you in this set before purchasing. Disclaimer: Ezra was gifted product samples of the Black Bolt & White Flare TCG Expansion sets ahead of launch by The Pokémon Company. This is not a sponsored episode, but they thank The Pokémon Company for their generosity. Episode References:Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Black Bolt and White Flare Product ShowcaseBlack & White Pokédex: https://pokemondb.net/pokedex/game/black-white  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ez and Chelsea discuss the Switch 2 patch for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. Ez breaks down the experience playing with the updated frame rates, the better graphics, and…all the same weaknesses that the game had before. They touch on the consumerist nature of S&V and, once again, ask for better from Nintendo.   Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea (but mostly Ez) break down the truth of the new Nintendo Switch 2…. Is it worth it? They discuss the controversies around the price point of the console and the new games. They delve into the battery life, playability, screen graphics, and what you need to know about this next generation of Nintendo console. Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
Chelsea and Ez jump on the Eeveelutions bandwagon, speaking about the upcoming Eevee Grove expansion for Pokémon TCG Pocket. They cover hopes, dreams, and desires for the set, and how this could be a chance for the mobile app to finally address some of its more pressing issues. Episode References:It’s a Cuteness Overload in Pokémon TCG Pocket’s Upcoming Eevee Grove Expansion https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-news/its-a-cuteness-overload-in-pokemon-tcg-pockets-upcoming-eevee-grove-expansion  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into the world of Pokémon that just give us the ick, particularly bipedal Pokémon who should just not be bipedal. They talk about the pros and the cons (mostly the cons) of super-humanoid Pokémon, Pokémon that appear to be wearing clothes or doing human jobs (for reasons unknown to all), and all others that fit the “that makes me uncomfortable” category. They also share their, perhaps, controversial favorite bipedal Pokémon! Share with us your favorite and least favorite Pokémon in a review or on socials!  Episode References:Life of a Wailord | Pokearth by EnlargedKai:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmOGOVD3Vfc  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In this week’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into the world of Pokémon TCG (and TCG Pocket) abilities! They discuss building decks utilizing abilities, pros and cons of building with abilities, and add the reminder to read your abilities all the way through to ensure full understanding before play. They talk about how they’ve used abilities in various decks and traps they have fallen into, so you don’t make the same mistakes. Let us know your favorite abilities and how you like to play them in a review, via email, or on socials!  Episode References:Search “Ability” in Card Text on https://www.pokemon.com/us/pokemon-tcg/pokemon-cards   Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into the latest Pokémon TCG set - Destined Rivals. If you are a player, this set is exciting, full of hyper-playable cards, and fun trainers. If you are a collector, this set is going to be a difficult one, with a massive card list and low pull rates for the special illustrations and gold rare cards. Getting the full set will be difficult and expensive. They discuss their thoughts on the featured characters - including the disappointing exclusion of more focused Marnie and Steven trainer cards - and talk about the powerhouse cards of Cynthia’s Garchomp ex, Arven’s Mabosstiff ex, Marnie’s Grimmsnarl ex, and Steven’s Metagross ex.  Episode References:Pokémon TCG Hands-On: Is The Destined Rivals Expansion Worth It?: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/pokemon-tcg-destined-rivals-expansion-worth-it/ Best Cards To Pull in Pokémon TCG Destined Rivals: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/pokemon-tcg-destined-rivals-best-cards/ Pokémon TCG Destined Rivals Set's Most Valuable Cards: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/pokemon-tcg-destined-rivals-sets-most-valuable-cards/ Disclaimer: Ezra was gifted product samples of the Prismatic Evolutions TCG Expansion set ahead of launch by The Pokémon Company. This is not a sponsored episode, but they thank The Pokémon Company for their generosity. Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Chelsea and Ezra talk about why Scarlet & Violet saved bank accounts, how a love for Charizard became a full-on card-hunting addiction, and what happens when you have a need to be the very best in a situation where you have no control over pull rates. This episode is NOT clickbait.Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea reiterate what they discussed back on Episode 58: Buying Pokémon TCG in 2025, but delve deeper into pitfalls and things to watch out for when buying from online box store websites. Many box stores these days, including Target, have third-party resellers. They are not always super clear as to who is doing the selling, and it is not always obvious as to the markups that you are seeing with these resellers. They talk about the things to watch out for and the things that you, as a smart, savvy consumer, can do to make sure you aren’t being scammed by scalpers.  Episode References:https://www.pokemoncenter.com/  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra touts the benefits of the newest updates in Pokémon TCG Pocket to convince Chelsea to reopen the game for the first time in months. They discuss the new trainer cards (including breaking down the benefit of the Rare Candies), appreciate the better rewards in the Solo Battle events, and, most importantly, mention the introduction of Bewear to the card set (a fact which, frankly, had Chelsea opening the app during the recording). Hit us up on Bluesky or via email about your TCG Pocket deck-building strategies and keep the conversation going!  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into what we know about the Switch 2 and the increased price for the next Pokémon video game. They discuss the benefits of the Switch 2, as well as the downsides of the newest Nintendo console. They also talk about concerns they have for the fate of well-loved games currently in the Switch store and the concerning statement by Nintendo that “Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be fully supported or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.” Episode References:Nintendo Switch 2 – First-look trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itpcsQQvgAQ Nintendo Switch 2 – Overview Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9flte56erE8  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea dive into the world of buying Pokémon TCG Cards. They do get a little political and break down where to buy your TCG cards when you are supporting the boycotts of big box stores. They discuss the red flags to watch out for when purchasing and the green flags you will likely see at great local card shops. Ez and Chelsea encourage you to shop local, shop smart, and do your research to ensure the best experience possible.  Episode References:YouTube, Streaming, Influencers & Scalpers - The Effect of Modern Social Media on The Pokémon Franchise:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/6y35wroC0kCKMA0W30u4Xc?si=pMeQ1eVlTOiS9CCnn7xVdQ  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
In today’s episode, Ezra and Chelsea break down what they know about the Pokémon TCG Journey Together set. They discuss the importance of reintroducing Trainer’s Pokémon cards and how they differ from the Trainer Gallery sets of Sword & Shield. They also discuss the best collector additions and put out a general PSA about not buying from scalpers.   Episode References:Pokémon TCG Journey Together Card List – Most Valuable Cards & Buy Guide: https://bonus-action.com/guides/pokemon-tcg-journey-together-card-list-most-valuable-cards-buy-guide/TCG Player: https://www.tcgplayer.com/search/pokemon/sv09-journey-together Life of a Wailord | Pokearth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmOGOVD3Vfc  Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com 
In today’s episode, Ezra gives the equivalent of a Ted Talk on why Megas are the GOAT and how they actually function. Ez and Chelsea also talk about why you can expect more Mega Evolutions in the new Pokémon Legends: ZA game dropping later this year, speculate on what a Mega Eeveelution might be, and finally, drop their favorite current Mega Evolution forms. Share your favorite Mega forms as you rate, review, and engage with this podcast on social media and wherever you listen to your podcasts.  Episode References:Confirmed Megas on Pokémon Legends: ZA - https://legends.pokemon.com/en-us/   Connect with Ezra & Chelsea:Website: https://bonus-action.com  Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/ba-original.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BonusActionVideo Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BonusActionCommunity Ezra’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/lauragrayholt1.bsky.socialChelsea’s Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chelseasturkie.bsky.social Ezra’s Email: laura.grayholt@gmail.com Chelsea’s Email: chelseataylorsturkie@gmail.com
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