Avatar State Radio

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into The Storm, an emotional and revealing episode that explores the pasts of both Aang and Zuko. But first—MARK HAMILL, BABY! Mike takes a moment to celebrate every version of Fire Lord we’ve had, from Mark Hamill’s legendary voice acting to Cliff Curtis and Daniel Dae Kim’s live-action performances.The episode’s intensity kicks off with Aang’s haunting dream, which starts with everyone flying in a whimsical way before turning into a nightmare about his past. Kev and Mike break down how the weight of Aang’s decision to leave the Air Nomads has been haunting him for 100 years. Meanwhile, Kev loves the episode’s flashbacks, as they provide crucial context for why Zuko is the way he is. The biggest takeaway? Zuko is not his father. When it comes down to it, he’s willing to save his people, not sacrifice them.Parallels between Aang and Zuko’s pasts become clear, with Aang’s discovery of his Avatar status quickly leading to his fateful freezing in the storm. At the same time, Zuko’s story unfolds, revealing the tragic consequences of his defiance. Kev and Mike debate what’s worse: the way the grumpy fisherman talks to his wife or adults literally hitting children.Katara reassures Aang that he gives people hope, while Iroh reminds the crew that, in his own way, the Avatar also gives Zuko hope. And speaking of Iroh—this episode delivers an incredible moment as he redirects lightning for the first time, proving just how powerful he is as a firebender.For the first time in a while, we see Aang enter the Avatar State, heightening the emotional weight of the episode. Though Kev initially feels this is one of the weaker episodes, talking it through with Mike helps him appreciate it more. Mike, however, notes that for many fans, The Storm is a top-tier episode of Season 1, leading to some fun debate. They also touch on the fascinating way the Air Nomads determine the next Avatar, which mirrors how the Dalai Lama is chosen.And finally, Kev completely loses his ability to pronounce “Zuko,” proving that even in an intense episode, there’s always room for some laughs.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | Get 'Em Next Year | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike tackle The Great Divide, widely regarded as the lowest-rated episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender. With Sokka and Katara suddenly at odds in an immature sibling squabble, and even Appa and Momo fighting, the episode starts on a strange note. But Kev argues it all serves to highlight Aang’s growth as a leader and problem-solver.The Gaang encounters two Earth Kingdom tribes—the Gan Jin and the Zhang—locked in a 100-year feud. Aang takes charge, helping the tribes cross the treacherous canyon while resolving their conflicts along the way. Kev and Mike delve into Aang’s leadership moments, including his clever (if questionable) story about the origins of the feud and his ability to unite the tribes. Was he lying, or just doing what needed to be done to bring peace?Despite the episode’s reputation, Kev found joy in the lore-building additions like the Canyon Crawlers, hilariously labeling them as “just hangry.” The duo debates the tribes’ baffling decision to bring food when they had just eaten, and how Aang’s reaction mirrored that of an exasperated parent. They also discuss the episode’s biggest missed opportunity: leaving the tribes’ history unresolved, which could have provided a more satisfying conclusion.Kev appreciates the episode for what it is—a filler that gives Aang a chance to lead—but agrees it’s the “worst” episode so far. Mike, who remembered disliking it much more, admits it wasn’t as bad as he feared. In true Avatar State Radio fashion, the conversation takes a turn with Mike asking, “Do you think you’ll hate this episode or the M. Night Shyamalan movie more?”Join Kev and Mike for a spirited discussion about The Great Divide, its place in the series, and why it’s still worth watching, even if it’s at the bottom of the rankings.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | Get 'Em Next Year | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into Jet, an action-packed chapter that blurs the line between hero and villain. The episode opens with some fun banter, including Momo’s hilarious misadventures and Sokka blaming Appa for leading the Fire Nation to them. As the story unfolds, Sokka’s instincts become a central theme, leaving the hosts questioning whether he’s right this time—or just lucky.Enter Jet and the Freedom Fighters, a charismatic yet morally ambiguous group fighting for survival. Kev and Mike debate the need for a Jet spinoff while exploring his darker side. Would Jet have killed that elderly man? He was certainly willing to destroy the entire village, Earth Kingdom citizens included, in his quest to take down the Fire Nation. It’s a chilling realization that Jet is less of a hero and more of a villain willing to sacrifice anyone to achieve his goals.Katara’s turn to fall for someone brings emotional stakes, while Aang enjoys some carefree ziplining moments. Meanwhile, Jet’s charm hides his manipulative nature, and the Freedom Fighters seem to follow his lead out of desperation and impressionability. Sokka, often underestimated, gets his time to shine when he ultimately saves the day.Kev and Mike discuss the bittersweet ending, in which, from one perspective, the good guys failed to stop Jet’s plan. Kev notes that there should have been a longer moment to dwell on that sadness before revealing Sokka’s heroic actions. The episode leaves plenty to unpack about trust, instincts, and the cost of doing what’s right.Join Kev and Mike for another engaging discussion about this pivotal episode, Jet’s moral ambiguity, and why Sokka continues to surprise us.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | We'll Get 'Em Next Year | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike discuss The Waterbending Scroll, an action-packed and character-driven adventure that introduces pirates, jealousy, and—of course—more bending! But first, the hosts share some behind-the-scenes details about Avatar State Radio and briefly discuss how Fan Expo 2024 took it out of them. They also talk about the latest Fortnite crossover featuring ATLA bending scrolls, proving that Avatar’s influence is everywhere.The story kicks off with Aang’s timeless balance of responsibility and childlike wonder. Despite knowing there’s a ticking clock to master all four elements, he still finds time to be a kid. Katara’s attempts to teach Aang waterbending take a turn when he picks it up effortlessly, sparking her jealousy and self-doubt. Kev and Mike explore whether Aang’s rapid progress is due to his years of airbending experience and/or his status as the Avatar.The Gaang’s journey takes a hit when they lose their supplies and money. Aang’s impulsive spending on a Sky Bison whistle is a life-saving decision later in the episode. Meanwhile, Cabbage Cart Man returns triumphantly—only to have his cart destroyed again, sowing the seeds of the Cabbagebender origin story.The hosts delve into the episode’s supporting characters, including pirates who are talented fighters despite not being benders. Zuko and Iroh appear briefly but make their moments count, reminding us of their presence and complexity.As the tension builds, Aang and Katara work together to recover the stolen waterbending scroll. The episode features plenty of action, from Momo fighting pirates to a thrilling battle at sea. Kev and Mike also highlight the tai-chi influence on waterbending, noting the 24-part form depicted on the scroll and Katara’s use of the single whip technique.Join Kev and Mike as they discuss this pivotal episode, which is filled with humor, drama, and bending brilliance!Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this special two-parter episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into Winter Solstice Part 1: The Spirit World and Part 2: Avatar Roku. These episodes take Aang and The Gaang on a high-stakes journey filled with emotional depth and revelations.Aang’s deep connection to nature is at the forefront as he encounters a spirit monster, reflecting his frustration with humanity’s cruelty to the environment. Kev and Mike marvel at how the series continues to balance these heavy themes with humor like Uncle Iroh soaking in a hot spring—even when captured by earthbenders. Iroh’s layered character is on full display, and Zuko’s decision to save him instead of chasing Aang highlights the heart of their complicated relationship.The action intensifies as Aang realizes he must visit Roku’s temple in the Fire Nation. The chase is on, with Zuko and Zhao both pursuing Aang while The Gaang races to help him. Along the way, Aang learns of the Fire Sages, once allies of the Avatar, who are now loyal to the Fire Nation—save for Shyu, who risks everything to help Aang reach Roku. Despite the odds, Aang’s clever thinking and teamwork open the temple, allowing him to meet Roku and uncover critical information: he has until Sozin’s Comet returns to master all bending abilities, or the Fire Nation will gain unstoppable power.These episodes also bring standout moments of levity, like Momo stealing the show with his new hat and Appa’s incredible speed proving why Sky Bison are unmatched. The two-parter concludes with a stunning moment where Roku takes over during the Avatar State, showcasing the Avatar’s immense power to everyone. A perfect “family photo” shot of The Gaang closes the episodes, leaving Kev and Mike in awe of how these stories seamlessly weave action, emotion, and humor.Join Kev and Mike as they discuss why this two-parter is a game-changer, explore the deeper themes, and, of course, dive into the science of Sky Bison flight—because no other podcast does it quite like this.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into Imprisoned, a powerful world-building episode that explores the darker realities of the Fire Nation’s occupation. The Gaang are scavenging for food when they come across an Earth Kingdom village under Fire Nation control—a stark contrast to the relatively peaceful Omashu we saw last week.Kev delights in his favorite trope, “getting captured on purpose,” as the group takes bold action to help the imprisoned earthbenders. At the heart of this episode is Katara, whose unwavering spirit inspires the broken prisoners to rise up. Haru’s bravery leads to the earthbenders fighting back, but not without Katara losing her mother’s necklace—a key detail that promises future repercussions.Zuko and Iroh return after a brief absence, but their temporary absence showcases the strength of the show’s storytelling. Plus, George Takei’s unmistakable voice brings depth to the Fire Nation warden, making this episode even more memorable.Mike’s Trivia Corner:Pat Musick, the real-life mother of Mae Whitman (the voice of Katara), voices Haru’s mother.Join Kev and Mike as they discuss the episode’s emotional weight, action-packed moments, and what this story reveals about the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike explore The King of Omashu, a fun, character-driven episode filled with laughs, lessons, and… dad jokes! Aang’s not-so-convincing disguise as Bonzu Pippinpaddleopsicopolis the Third sets the tone for an adventure that is as whimsical as it is meaningful.Through flashbacks and clever storytelling, the audience quickly realizes that King Bumi is Aang’s childhood friend. With a larger-than-life personality and a knack for thinking outside the box, Bumi challenges Aang with a series of tests that start lighthearted but lead to a powerful final lesson. And yes, Bumi is absolutely jacked. As Kev puts it, “King Bumi could kick my ass.”While the episode delivers plenty of humor, Kev feels there wasn’t quite enough time to explore the emotional weight of Aang and Bumi reconnecting after 100 years. Will we see Bumi again? And could he be the one to teach Aang earth bending? Kev sure hopes so.Kev and Mike also note how Omashu is full of earth benders who use their abilities practically, unlike the Southern Water Tribe, which only has Katara. It sparks a discussion on how benders often hold positions of power in the world of ATLA. They also reflect on how Aang’s journey is refreshingly guided by the whims of a 12-year-old savior.Mike’s Trivia Corner:This is the first episode without Zuko or Iroh, a testament to its strong storytelling.The meaning behind Bumi’s name.And more fun facts!Tune in to hear why Mike calls Bumi “Aang’s Bucky Barnes” and why this episode stands out as a filler with substance.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike discuss The Warriors of Kyoshi, where Sokka’s initial sexism is challenged, and he begins to show real growth. Meanwhile, Aang enjoys his newfound celebrity as the Avatar, seeking Katara’s attention but learning some unexpected lessons about jealousy when it comes from her instead.The hosts explore Kyoshi Island’s unique place in the world, having stayed out of the war but deeply respecting the Avatar. Will they eventually join the fight against the Fire Nation? Aang embraces his role as the Avatar for the first time, but he also learns the dangers of staying in one place too long as Zuko is always close behind.It’s a memorable episode featuring the iconic Foaming Mouth Guy and the terrifying UNAGI, along with the first time Aang enters the Avatar State. While Kev describes it as a “lower-key” episode, he notes the significant character development it offers, particularly in Aang’s confidence (or ego). Will Aang’s childish tendencies give way to greater maturity as the series progresses?Mike’s Trivia Corner:• Kyoshi’s culture is heavily inspired by Japanese traditions.Join Kev and Mike for another engaging discussion full of laughs, insights, and a little foaming at the mouth!Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into The Southern Air Temple, where Aang faces the weight of grief and loss. Katara and even Sokka step up to console him, showcasing a deeper side to Sokka’s character beyond his early portrayal. The episode balances emotion, humor, and drama beautifully—yes, the cake bit is as good as you remember!Kev and Mike explore big questions: Does Aang need to learn bending in a specific order? Could Iroh and Zuko, with their redeeming qualities, be more complex than they seem? Kev even finds himself weirdly rooting for Zuko, adding to the show’s rich character depth.And then there’s MOMO! Is Momo just a quirky animal friend, or does he have a bigger role to play? Either way, Kev is officially hooked on ATLA, with this episode solidifying just how good the show is.Mike’s Trivia Corner:Momo means peach in Japanese—fitting, since he stole one from Sokka!Commander Zhao is voiced by Jason Isaacs.Gyatso shares his name with the Dalai Lama.Did Gyatso use airbending to defeat the Fire Nation in the temple? The theories abound!Join Kev and Mike as they break down this pivotal episode and continue their journey through the Avatar universe.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike continue their journey through Avatar: The Last Airbender. Kev struggles with the names but sees redemption in Sokka. They discuss the Water Tribe’s defense being left to teenagers and how Zuko and Sokka share overconfidence—perhaps just teenage boy traits.The duo reflects on Aang’s childlike desire to ride animals while being the world’s savior. Mike breaks down Aang’s fight with Zuko, while Kev questions if bending was more common before the war. They explore what determines who can bend and what element they control, with Mike teasing that answers are coming soon.Mike’s trivia reveals that earth bending wasn’t originally part of the show’s concept, and the Fire Nation, Air Nomads, and Water Tribe were all inspired by real-world cultures. Kev checks in on how he’s enjoying the show so far.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

In this first episode of Avatar State Radio, Kev and Mike dive into Avatar: The Last Airbender (Season 1, Episode 1: The Boy in the Iceberg). As Kev experiences the show for the first time, he shares his impressions of Sokka’s rough edges, Katara’s strength, and Aang’s shocking discovery that 100 years have passed. Mike explains bending and debates whether it’s a skill for the few or the many while they question Uncle Iroh’s true nature and Zuko’s impulsive decisions.Kev quickly falls for Appa, Aang’s love of penguins, and the quirky animal mashups. Mike drops trivia about Zuko and Iroh being late additions, Katara’s original name, and Dave Filoni’s involvement—though Kev might have spoiled that fun fact! Together, they embark on this rewatch, with Kev loving the show already.Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/

Welcome to Avatar State Radio!Get ready to dive into the ultimate Avatar: The Last Airbender rewatch experience! In this debut episode, hosts Kevin M. Gallagher, Jr. and Michael DeAngelo set the stage for an exciting journey through the Avatar universe. But there’s a twist—while Mike is a devoted fan and ATLA expert, Kev is stepping into the world of Aang and the Gaang for the very first time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer like Kev, this podcast promises a fresh and fun exploration of the beloved series. Let the adventure begin!Find MikeTellest.com | Twitter @tellest | Facebook @tellestbooks | Twitch @ThatTellestGuy | Etsy | PatreonFind KevThatNerdyKev.com | Starbird Media, LLC | Everything is Awesome | @ThatNerdyKev on TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Threads, TwitchFind Avatar State RadioAvatarStateRadio.com | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | AmazonOur intro music is The Voyage by Audionautix, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Artist: http://audionautix.com/