The Stranger Things Podcast

'80s pop queen Tiffany's "I Think We're Alone Now" just invaded Vecna's dream world—and in this explosive episode, the legend spills exclusively on the Upside Down magic. We sit down for a thrilling and fun chat where she reveals her phone "blowing up" after episode 3, the joy of watching Holly Wheeler dance, bake, and sass her on cassette tape ("just a pop star!"), and why it feels like pure '80s full-circle for a die-hard Stranger Things fan. We go beyond Hawkins as Tiffany dishes on her sizzling 2026 lineup: sneak peeks at the POPLife cookbook (55 '80s-inspired recipes with Vegas chef Alicia Shevetone), a charity album for Children's Miracle Network, and "Let's Food With Tiffany" cooking club gems. Hear teen tour wisdom for stars like Holly, standout 2025 tour moments with fans, and lightning-round fun—including her favorite season, favorite character, and what dish she would love to make for the cast of Stranger Things!  Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

The response to our "Sorcerer" recap was so massive, we had no choice but to dedicate an entire follow-up episode to listener theories—and it gets wild fast. Addi and Darrell dive into your reactions and ideas surrounding the episode's biggest moments, from the children's rescue mission and the Demogorgon chase into the Upside Down to Will's vision of Vecna's web and his shocking emergence as a new psychic force. This episode is fueled by the fans, breaking down how these moments may reshape the endgame of Stranger Things Season 5 and why "Sorcerer" could be the most important chapter yet. The highlight is a huge new theory from Bradley, which brilliantly connects the color symbolism from Chris in New York's earlier theory to Max's comics from Season 3, revealing a potential visual language that's been hiding in plain sight for years. There's also a lot of speculation into Max's time inside Henry's dream world and what it might mean for her fate going forward. If you love deep-cut callbacks, fan-driven analysis, and the kind of theories that make you want to rewatch the entire series, this listener-powered episode is absolutely essential listening. Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Stranger Things Season 5 just delivered its most shocking power shift yet—and it didn't come from Eleven. In our Season 5, Episode 4 "Sorcerer" breakdown, Addi and Darrell dive headfirst into the episode that changes everything. From the desperate rescue mission to save the children to the pulse-pounding moment when a Demogorgon is chased straight into the Upside Down, this chapter pushes Hawkins past the point of no return. We analyze Will's haunting vision of Vecna's web, where Holly Wheeler and other children hang suspended, and unpack how that single image reframes Vecna's endgame. Addi and Darrell also walk through Mike, Lucas, and Robin's high-risk infiltration of the military base, a sequence that blends classic Stranger Things teamwork with real, irreversible consequences. But the heart of "Sorcerer"—and of our podcast episode—is Will Byers. As three Demogorgons prepare to attack Mike, Lucas, and Robin, Will's memories of his happiest moments with Joyce, Jonathan, and Mike ignite something entirely new. He freezes the creatures in midair and kills them, revealing new psychic abilities that redefine Will's role in the fight against Vecna. Addi and Darrell connect this moment to their new theories, while also breaking down the chilling revelations about Max's experience trapped inside Henry's dream world, drawing unsettling parallels between memory, trauma, and power. If you're searching for an in-depth Stranger Things Season 5 podcast that goes beyond recap and into meaning, theory, and emotional fallout, this episode is one you don't want to miss. Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

What happens when an episode is SO explosive that listener feedback takes over the entire show? "The Turnbow Trap" broke the internet—and our inbox—so hosts Darrell and Addi are dedicating this entire episode to YOUR voices, theories, and reactions. We received an overwhelming flood of listener contributions about every major moment: the kids' ingenious plan to take down the Turnbow family, the devastating weapon that shuts down Eleven's powers, the mystery of who's trapped at the lab, and that absolutely haunting final scene where Holly encounters a figure that left us all speechless. Your insights, wild theories, and detailed breakdowns were too good not to share. From deep dives into Henry's true motives to speculation about Eleven's fate without her powers, from theories about Holly's mysterious encounter to predictions about what's really happening at the Upside Down lab—you brought the heat, and we're here to amplify your brilliance. Whether you're team "Holly is the key to everything" or convinced that Eleven will find a way to overcome this new threat, this listener-driven episode celebrates the passionate Stranger Things community that makes this show so special. Grab your Eggos and settle in—this one's all about YOU! Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

What happens when a weapon emerges that can completely shut down Eleven's powers—and who is that mysterious figure Holly encounters at the end? Is it REALLY who we think it is?  Join hosts Darrell and Addi as they unpack every twist and turn in Stranger Things season 5 episode 3, "The Turnbow Trap." This episode changes SO MUCH of what we thought we knew about Stranger Things season 5. We break down the kids' brilliant plan that took down the Turnbow family, the shocking reveal of the new weapon that neutralizes Eleven, and the mystery of the person trapped at the lab. Plus, we dive into the haunting final moments between Holly and the character she encounters, analyzing what this could mean for the rest of the season. Plus, it's time to give credit where credit is due—Darrell has predicted several plot points, and we're revisiting his spot-on theories about Tiffany, Mr. Clarke, and Jonathan that actually came true! We share our latest theories about where Holly's storyline is headed and what the implications are for Eleven now that this power-suppressing weapon exists. Whether you're still reeling from that final scene or trying to piece together what's really happening in Hawkins, this episode breakdown has all the insights and speculation you need. Let's dive in!   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Why would Vecna target the youngest Wheeler—and what does Holly's disappearance mean for everyone in Hawkins? Join hosts Darrell and Addi as we dive deep into one of the most shocking events of Stranger Things yet—"The Vanishing of Holly Wheeler." In this episode, we break down all the jaw-dropping moments, explore the increasingly complex connection between Will and Vecna, and share our genuine confusion about why young Holly became a target in the Upside Down's latest attack. We analyze the clues, discuss what this means for the Wheeler family, and examine how this episode raises the stakes for our favorite Hawkins crew. But that's not all! We're also sharing our wildest predictions and theories about where the season is headed, plus some exciting news for Stranger Things fans everywhere—there's a brand new Lego set hitting shelves, and you'll definitely want to hear about the incredible opportunity to watch the series finale in movie theaters! We also feature several amazing listener feedback contributions that bring fresh perspectives to the episode. Whether you're team "Holly has hidden powers" or team "this was random chaos," this discussion has something for every fan.    Links Mentioned in the Episode: Stranger Things Creel House Lego Set Tickets on sale NOW for watching the finale in theaters Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

The Upside Down has never felt closer, and after years of waiting, Stranger Things is finally back to terrorize our hearts one last time. Join hosts Darrell and Addi as we dive deep into the highly anticipated premiere of Stranger Things season 5 with "The Crawl." In our comprehensive episode breakdown, we share our initial reactions, analyze key plot developments, and explore the intricate details that make this opening chapter so compelling. We also take a closer look at the significance of Holly's reading material—Madeleine L'Engle's classic "A Wrinkle in Time"—and discuss how this literary choice might connect to the broader themes and supernatural elements we can expect throughout the season. Beyond our episode analysis, we're excited to share a major podcast milestone and discuss the upcoming Stranger Things virtual reality experience that has fans buzzing with anticipation. We also showcase several fantastic listener contributions and feedback from our amazing community, highlighting your theories, observations, and reactions to the premiere. Whether you're looking for in-depth character analysis, wild predictions for what's to come, or just want to relive the excitement of returning to Hawkins, this episode has everything you need to process the emotional rollercoaster that was "The Crawl."   Links Mentioned in the Episode: Stranger Things VR from Sandbox VR Netflix House Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

What if we told you that the key to understanding Stranger Things' final season has been hiding in plain sight since Episode 1? In this special episode, Addi and Darrell welcomed three incredible listeners—Emily, John, and Bradley—to help us create the ultimate roadmap for Season 5. Together, we embarked on a comprehensive journey through the Upside Down's greatest mysteries, carefully dissecting the most crucial episodes and storylines from Seasons 1-3 that we believe will be essential to understanding how this epic story concludes. Our collaborative approach brought fresh perspectives and fan insights that even surprised us as longtime followers of the series. We didn't stop there! Then we took the dive headfirst into a complete Season 4 breakdown, going episode by episode to identify every plot thread, character development, and supernatural revelation that's setting up the final showdown. The real magic happened when we opened up about our biggest unanswered questions, shared our deepest hopes for our favorite characters, and made some bold predictions about how the Duffer Brothers will wrap up this incredible saga. Whether you're a casual viewer who needs a refresher or a die-hard fan looking for deeper analysis, this episode will have you counting down the days until Season 5 drops while armed with everything you need to fully appreciate the epic conclusion. Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Netflix recently dropped a teaser trailer for Stranger Things Season 5, marking the beginning of the end for Netflix's beloved series. Set in fall 1987, this final season brings the ultimate showdown between Vecna's forces and Hawkins' determined heroes. For those of you who don't want any SPOILERS about this new season, stop reading and avoid this podcast episode. The newly released trailer reveals familiar faces alongside newcomer Linda Hamilton as Dr. Kay, while showcasing Eddie Munson's grave, Max's hospital bed, and an army of demogorgons. Stranger Things Season 5 finds Hawkins scarred by rifts, under military quarantine, with Eleven forced into hiding as the government intensifies its hunt for her. The climactic Stranger Things Season 5 will release in three volumes this holiday season: four episodes on November 26, three on Christmas Day, and the series finale on New Year's Eve 2025, all dropping at 5 pm PT. The Duffer Brothers promise a return to horror roots as our heroes unite with one goal: find and kill the vanished Vecna. The trailer's ominous tone raises fears for beloved characters' fates, though fans hope the power of friendship—and Eleven's abilities—will ultimately triumph against the darkness of the Upside Down in Stranger Things Season 5. Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Hey there, Strangers! Many of you have sent us written or audio feedback during this very long off season, and we're back to share your thoughts with the community. We tried to keep things a little extra casual in this episode as we go through all of the feedback submissions, and we also give a few podcast updates along the way. We kick things off with some news items about Millie's wedding and latest movie project, as well as some news about Finn's upcoming SNL movie project.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Eddie Munson wore a jacket all season that shared his love for the rock legend, DIO.  The music of Ronnie James Dio not only inspired and influenced the fictional character of Eddie Munson, it also inspired and influenced the lives of many in the 70s, 80's, and even today.  Although Ronnie James Dio passed away in 2010, his legacy and memory live on through his music, fans, friends, and family. Fully authorized by Dio's estate and executive produced by his widow, Wendy Dio, the documentary, "DIO: Dreamers Never Die" comes to theaters worldwide for TWO DAYS only on Wednesday, September 28 and Sunday, October 2. Click to find a theatre near you. The film delves deep into Dio's incredible rise from a '50's doo-wop crooner to his early rock days in Elf and Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, to replacing Ozzy Osbourne in Black Sabbath, and finally cementing his rock star status with his own band, DIO. In this exclusive interview with Wendy Dio and the film's directors, Don Argott and Demian Fenton, Darrell and Jason talk with them about  Dio's role in Stranger Things 4, the influence of Ronnie's music, Dio's charity work, the world of metal music, and more. Don't miss "DIO: Dreamers Never Die" in theaters for two days only on September 28 and October 2.

When we asked our listeners to give us one word to describe how they feel about the Stranger Things 4 finale, we heard words like dissatisfied, numb, anxious, resolved, crushed, bewilderment, depressed, bittersweet, and intrigued just to name a few. Now that we get to hear listeners share in-depth how they feel about it, those words definitely ring true.  Some felt that Stranger Things 4 was the best season ever, while others felt it was the worst season ever.  However, most of you felt like the season did a lot of things right and can't wait for Stranger Things 5. One thing that the entire fandom seems to be united on is the heartbreak over the death of Eddie. In this episode we hear some interesting theories about Eddie, as well as some other fun ideas about what may be in store next season.  With feedback coming in from at least 10 countries and 8 states, this is the most excellent feedback episode we've put together yet!  Thanks to all of you who made this episode possible.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

The Stranger Things 4 finale was full of SO MUCH action, suspense, sadness, exposition, humor, and intrigue!  Coming in at the run time of a full-length movie, we still wanted more! How could the Duffer brothers leave the ending on such a massive cliffhanger?  How could they yet again kill off a major fan-favorite character? Will we ever see Max alive again? Overall we found the season 4 finale to be very enjoyable. Obviously, like most (all?) of the fandom, we are not happy with Eddie's death, but the excellent storytelling in this episode built to an epic crescendo with all of the character groups coming together to push back Vecna.  The music was masterfully woven into the episode, and the use of Metallica's "Master of Puppets" was spectacular.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Why did Will lie to Mike about El commissioning his painting? How will El be able to help Hawkins with no way to get there? Did Dr. Owens have a role in raising Peter the creepy orderly? These are just a few of the interesting questions raised by listeners this week.  We also have insights on the musical selections, predictions on who will die in the finale, and multiple connections to Star Wars in this week's listener feedback episode! Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

The penultimate episode of Stranger Things season 4 has arrived and it did exactly what a penultimate episode should do! "Papa" insists that everything he has done for Eleven, and Henry too for that matter, has been in their best interests. Like, El, we strongly disagree with his point of view.  Although we can see how he could come to those conclusions, his methods are hard to justify.  Is Papa truly dead?  Only time will tell.  In Hawkins, Max is willing to put her life on the line to save the town and all her friends.  We think the kids have no idea what they are truly up against, but also agree with them that they have no better choice.  Will Eleven be able to make it to Hawkins in time?  The ending of this episode was perfect with the kids going separate ways and preparing to execute their two-pronged attack on Vecna.  We can't wait for next week's finale! Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

With the major reveals and twists of "The Massacre at Hawkins Lab," many of us are updating our theories and coming up with new ones.  Is Peter Eleven's father?  Was Brenner using El to search the void in an effort to find Peter?  Was El a pawn used by Peter, or was he being truthful with her?  Did Peter/Vecna create the upside down, or did it exist before he was sent there by El?  What's up with the earthquakes, and why is the upside down frozen at November 6, 1983? These are only a few of the discussion points and theories brought up by listeners this week.  Two of you even bring back a theory Darrell threw out after watching the very first episode of season one! We do our best to make sense of these questions, put together a list of who you all think will die this season, update Darrell's predictions from this season, and make a few more predictions on how the rest of the season will play out.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Has there ever been a more amazing or mind blowing reveal than what the Duffer brothers gave us in "The Massacre at Hawkins Lab?" Peter the friendly/creepy orderly is actually Henry Creel. I mean, he's actually 001.  What I mean to say is that he is Vecna.  And to top it all off, El created Vecna!?!?!  Wow, what a crazy twist.  Then you add in the most amazing demogorgon fight scene we've ever seen with the most exploration of the upside down that we've ever seen, and you have one amazing episode of Stranger Things. We do our best to break down all of these incredible plot developments, and Darrell talks about any spoilers he encountered about the first part of the season as well as all the things that surprised him in this episode.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

We're quickly approaching the end of Stranger Things 4 Part 1, and you all continue to come up with intriguiging theories! The debate continues on whether or not Peter is friendly or creepy, and some of you are even tossing out ideas on Peter's possible true identity.  As the community of Hawkins is lathered up into a frenzy by Jason, some of you saw parallels between Eddie's story of this season and the West Memphis 3 real-life events from the early 1990's.  In fact, your insight shared about the West Memphis 3 cause Darrell to reevaluate his theory on Miss Kelley. We love all the insightful feedback you send in each week, and look forward to hearing all of your amazing thoughts as the season continues!   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Steve jumps at the opportunity to leave the kids behind and step out of his babysitter role, but we were not prepared for him to do so! The Dive, episode 6 of Stranger Things' 4th season, left us wanting more! With the citizens of Hawkins in a frenzy thanks to Jason's accusations against The Hellfire Club, it's not only Eddie that now finds himself in their crosshairs. Eleven continues to dive deeper into her memories, exploring her previous life as Brenner's lab rat, and becoming increasing influenced by the creepy/friendly orderly, Peter.  002 is not too happy about her rising strength, and it looks like she's now convinced she is the one responsible for the massacre at Hawkins Lab. Hopper is preparing to fight a demogorgon, and it looks like his story is nearly ready to combine with that of Joyce and Murray!  Suzie provides a valuable asset to the California crew, and we wonder if Eden will join them in the weed wagon as they leave Utah in search of El.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback

Brenner is back! While his return is not really a surprise, the events that unfold in "The Nina Project" with Brenner, Dr. Owens, and Eleven do bring quite a few surprises.  We see the appearance of Peter Ballard the Friendly Orderly, and we can not agree on whether or not he is truly friendly, or truly creepy.  In Hawkins, the exploration of the Creel house has us asking new questions about how many dimensions are at play in this story, and how the gang will find their way to Vecna's lair on their own. Darrell throws out a few new theories involving 002, Henry Creel, and Peter Ballard, listeners share in some really insightful comments and theories, and we share an opportunity for a special bonus episode we're hoping to pull off at the end of this season.   Connect with The Stranger Things Podcast: Facebook community Twitter Instagram Contribute Listener Feedback