Harry Potter and the Sacred Text
by Not Sorry Productions
It’s the English class you didn't know you missed and the meaningful conversations you didn't know you craved. Join Vanessa Zoltan and Matt Potts as they bring thought, reflection and laughter to Harry Potter; not just as novels, but as instructive and inspirational texts that will teach us about our own lives. Relive the magic of Harry Potter chapter by chapter as Matt and Vanessa explore themes such as commitment, revenge and forgiveness. This podcast creates time in your week to think about life’s big questions. Because reading fiction doesn’t just help us escape the world, it helps us live in it. Harry Potter and the Sacred Text is produced by Not Sorry Productions, a feminist organization that produces podcasts, educational content, live shows, and immersive experiences with the explicit goal of addressing the spiritual needs of its participants. Through community, rigor, and ritual, we treat traditionally secular things as if they were sacred. To learn more about wha
Episodes
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Special Edition: Why Do We Love Mystery Novels?
Vanessa Zoltan is joined by friend and mentor Dr. Stephanie Paulsell to discuss the appeal of mystery novels and their relationship to religion. If you're interested in joining Stephanie and Casper on the Agatha Christie pilgrimage, you can learn more at commongroundpilgrimages.com.
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Commitment: The Boy Who Lived (Book 1, Chapter 1)
In the very final episode of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, Vanessa Zoltan, Casper ter Kuile, and Matt Potts revisit Book 1, Chapter 1 through our very first theme of commitment. They discuss why the Dursleys love normalcy, what Dumbledore is thinking when he leaves Harry on the doorstep, and...
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Special Edition: Lectio Divina with Vanessa and Ariana
A new Lectio Divina every week with Vanessa and Ariana. Sign-up on Patreon at www.patreon.com/harrypottersacredtext
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Whole Series Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Sacred Text
Vanessa and Casper look back at the past ten years of making Harry Potter and the Sacred Text and their experience reading Harry Potter. What have they learned along the way? What characters, themes, and questions are staying with them from this project? Next week, our final episode of the show!...
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Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Vanessa and Casper wrap up their discussion of The Deathly Hallows with a look back on the entire book! They discuss Grindelwald's end, Harry's clarity, and the bravery and sacrifice of so many 'side' characters. Next week, we're back with a whole series wrap-up! Harry Potter and the Sacred Text…
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Love: Nineteen Years Later (Book 7, Epilogue)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Love in the epilogue of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss 'all was well,' Ron as a husband and father, and the power of privacy. Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is teasing loving? Thank you to Sophie for…
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Legacy: The Flaw in the Plan (Book 7, Chapter 36)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Legacy in Chapter 36 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Bellatrix's death, the centaurs and house elves joining the battle fray, and Neville's bravery. Throughout the episode we consider the question: can you control your own...
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Sympathy: King's Cross (Book 7, Chapter 35)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Sympathy in Chapter 35 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss whether the Voldemort baby could be helped, Dumbledore’s failings as a mentor, and Harry’s return to battle. Throughout the episode we consider the question: is sympathy...
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Impossibility: The Forest Again (Book 7, Chapter 34)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Impossibility in Chapter 34 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Voldemort’s understanding of Harry, the Resurrection Stone, and Neville! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do we resign ourselves to perceived...
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A Christmas Poem from Casper: Priest by Knut Ødegård
Every Christmas, we like to share a favorite poem. This year it's 'Priest' by Knut Ødegård. We'll be back with our regularly scheduled episodes on January 8th. Happy Holidays!
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Special Owl Post Edition: Reflecting with Ariana!
This week Vanessa and Casper are joined by their old pal Ariana to respond to a few of the wonderful voicemails we've received while making our final season of Harry Potter and the Sacred Text! Thanks to Johanna & Regine, Jenny, Julie, Kieran, Rowan & Caitlin for their beautiful voicemail...
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Imagination: The Prince’s Tale (Book 7, Chapter 33)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Imagination in Chapter 33 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Petunia’s childhood, Snape & Lily, and Harry’s connection to Voldemort! Throughout the episode we consider the question: under what types of conditions are we able to...
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Humility: The Elder Wand (Book 7, Chapter 32)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Humility in Chapter 32 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Snape’s final words, Hermione’s plea, and Luna’s words of encouragement! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is humility a hindrance and when is it...
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Freedom: The Battle of Hogwarts (Book 7, Chapter 31)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Freedom in Chapter 31 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Fred’s death, Malfoy’s pals, and the very big fire! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can freedom feel like a burden? Thank you to our anonymous…
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Our Favorite Episodes! Friendship: Halloween (Book 1, Chapter 10)
As we wrap up our final season of HPST, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite moments! This week we're revisiting our 2016 episode on Friendship - one of the first times we really connected with Sacred Imagination, reading the scene with Hermione vs. The Troll. Harry Potter and the...
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Mercy: The Sacking of Severus Snape (Book 7, Chapter 30)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Mercy in Chapter 30 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Harry’s unforgivable curse, Percy’s return, and Slughorn’s options! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is the cost of mercy? Thank you to Thulasi for…
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Growth: The Lost Diadem (Book 7, Chapter 29)
This week, Casper and Jolie Doggett explore the theme of Growth in Chapter 29 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Neville’s growth, the last relatively peaceful moments, and the DA’s resistance! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is the difference between…
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Special Edition: Halloween! with Jackson Bird
Every once in a while we like to take a step back from our current chapter, and appreciate some overarching themes and important characters from the series. This week, Vanessa and special guest Jackson Bird are talking about Halloween and their favorite spooky moments throughout the series! Harry...
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Closure: The Missing Mirror (Book 7, Chapter 28)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Closure in Chapter 28 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Aberforth’s advice, the real story of the Dumbledore family, and the portrait! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when do we gain a sense of closure? Thank...
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Advocacy: The Final Hiding Place (Book 7, Chapter 27)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Advocacy in Chapter 27 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss empathy for the dragon, Voldemort’s big realization, and next steps for the trio! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is it possible and necessary to...
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Introducing: When We All Get to Heaven
Co-founder of Not Sorry, Ariana Nedelman, has a new podcast project out today! When We All Get to Heaven is a 10-episode series that tells the story of one of the first gay-positive churches, the Metropolitan Community Church of San Francisco, and how it faced the personal, social, and political...
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Transitions: Gringotts (Book 7, Chapter 26)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Transitions in Chapter 26 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Hermione’s transformation into Bellatrix, changes at Diagon Alley, and the descent into Gringotts! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we deal…
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Special Edition: Sacred Reading with Stephanie Paulsell!
Every once in a while we like to take a step back from our current chapter, and appreciate some overarching themes and guiding principles from the series. This week, Vanessa and special guest Stephanie Paulsell are talking about Sacred Reading and the early days of the pod! Harry Potter and the...
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Bonus Conversation: Ending Harry Potter and the Sacred Text
As we continue to think about how to end this series well, Vanessa and Casper sit down to talk about ending and our upcoming gathering in Cambridge, Massachusetts. You can find more information about the Harry Potter and the Sacred Text upcoming Sacred Practice Weekend on our website.
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Acceptance: Shell Cottage (Book 7, Chapter 25)
This week, Casper and Vanessa are joined by special guest Christine Flynn as they explore the theme of Acceptance in Chapter 25 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Griphook’s proposal, Wizarding / Goblin relations, and Lupin’s son! Throughout the episode we consider the…
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Denial: The Wandmaker (Book 7, Chapter 24)
This week, Casper and special guest Julia Argy explore the theme of Denial in Chapter 24 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Harry’s scar pain, Dobby’s burial, and the conversation with Griphook! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when is it helpful to deny ourself...
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Healing: Malfoy Manor (Book 7, Chapter 23)
This week, Matt and Casper explore the theme of Healing in Chapter 23 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Dobby’s return, Lucius’s attempts to get back in Voldemort’s good graces, and Wormtail’s hand! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to heal...
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Farewells: The Deathly Hallows (Book 7, Chapter 22)
This week, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Farewells in Chapter 22 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Potterwatch, hearing Lupin’s voice again, and Ron’s return from his own farewell! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how does a farewell differ from a...
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Resistance: The Tale of the Three Brothers (Book 7, Chapter 21)
This week, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Resistance in Chapter 21 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Xenophilius’s trap, Hermione’s outgoing act of kindness, and the three brothers! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we prepare to resist? Thank…
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Purpose: Xenophilius Lovegood (Book 7, Chapter 20)
This week, Vanessa and special guest Micaela Blei explore the theme of Purpose in Chapter 20 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Xenophilius’s predicament, the search for Hallows, and Ron’s new sense of purpose! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is underneath...
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Peace: The Silver Doe (Book 7, Chapter 19)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Peace in Chapter 19 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Ron’s return, the destruction of the trio’s first horcrux, and Hermione’s anger! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do we set the stage for peace? Thank…
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Redemption: The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore (Book 7, Chapter 18)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Redemption in Chapter 18 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Hermione’s tea offering, Harry’s broken wand, and young Dumbledore’s politics! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what are our less visible acts of...
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Friendship: Bathilda’s Secret (Book 7, Chapter 17)
This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Friendship in Chapter 17 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Bathilda’s master plan, Harry’s resentment, and the notes at Godric’s Hollow! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what are all the different kinds of...
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Beginnings: Godric’s Hollow (Book 7, Chapter 16)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Beginnings in Chapter 16 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Harry and Hermione’s new partnership, the return to Godric’s Hollow, and the concept of a “kissing gate”! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when can we...
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Reconciliation: The Goblin’s Revenge (Book 7, Chapter 15)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Reconciliation in Chapter 15 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Ron’s departure, Hermione’s concessions, and magically fishing for salmon! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what does it mean to reconcile with...
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Our Favorite Guest Episodes! Love: Dobby's Reward (Book 2, Chapter 18) - with Stephanie Paulsell
As we wrap up our final season of HPST, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite moments! This week we're revisiting our 2017 episode where special guest, Professor Stephanie Paulsell, introduces a new spiritual practice to Vanessa and Casper — Florilegia. Harry Potter and the Sacred Text...
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Authenticity: The Thief (Book 7, Chapter 14)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Authenticity in Chapter 14 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Voldemort’s name, Hermione’s truth telling, and Ron’s splinching! Throughout the episode we consider the question: when should we prioritize authenticity? Thank you…
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Ritual: The Muggle-Born Registration Commission (Book 7, Chapter 13)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Ritual in Chapter 13 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Umbridge’s list, the trio’s new identities, and the rituals of court! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what is the difference between habit and ritual?…
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Trust: Magic Is Might (Book 7, Chapter 12)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Trust in Chapter 12 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Hermione’s planning, Harry’s gut, and Kreacher’s new attitude! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can trust help us better navigate life’s uncertainties?...
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Intimacy: The Bribe (Book 7, Chapter 11)
This week, Matt and Vanessa explore the theme of Intimacy in Chapter 11 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss wizarding supremacy’s paradoxical enemy, Harry and Lupin’s relationship, and fighting with the people you love most! Throughout the episode we consider the question: what…
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Resilience: Kreacher’s Tale (Book 7, Chapter 10)
This week, Casper and Vanessa explore the theme of Resilience in Chapter 10 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Kreacher's titular tale, Mundungus's thievery, and Wormtail's appearance in the chapter! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how does resilience differ…
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Special Edition: Dragons! with Hannah McGregor
Every once in a while we like to take a step back from our current chapter, and appreciate some overarching themes and important characters from the series. This week, Vanessa and special guest Hannah McGregor are talking about dragons throughout the series! Harry Potter and the Sacred Text is a...
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Uncertainty: A Place to Hide (Book 7, Chapter 9)
This week, Casper and special guest Courtney Brown explore the theme of Uncertainty in Chapter 9 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Hermione’s big bag, Harry’s lingering Trace, and the group dynamic in this time of chaos! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can...
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Storytelling: The Wedding (Book 7, Chapter 8)
This week, Vanessa and special guest Micaela Blei explore the theme of Storytelling in Chapter 8 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Dumbledore’s legacy, Krum’s wedding experience, and Bill and Fleur’s wedding! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how do the stories…
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Our Favorite Guest Episodes! Hope: The Flaw in the Plan - with John Green
As we wrap up our final season of HPST, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite moments! This week we're revisiting our 2021 episode with John Green, talking about hope in the penultimate chapter of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Harry Potter and the Sacred Text is a Not Sorry...
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Progress: The Will of Albus Dumbledore (Book 7, Chapter 7)
This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by special guest Hanna Thomas Uose as they explore the theme of Progress in Chapter 7 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Harry’s 17th birthday, Hagrid’s unicorns, and Scrimgeour’s visit! Throughout the episode we consider the question:...
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Commitment: The Ghoul in Pyjamas (Book 7, Chapter 6)
This week, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Commitment in Chapter 6 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss the trio’s commitments to each other, Molly’s parenting, and Voldemort’s tunnel vision! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can we make sure our...
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Memory: Fallen Warrior (Book 7, Chapter 5)
This week, Vanessa and special guest Mauricio Bruce explore the theme of Memory in Chapter 5 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss Hedwig and Moody’s deaths, and how the body keeps the score in this chapter! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how does memory push us...
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Outrage: The Seven Potters (Book 7, Chapter 4)
This week, Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Outrage in Chapter 4 of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows! They discuss the 6 extra Potters, Hedwig’s death, and Mundungus’s forced service! Throughout the episode we consider the question: how can a series of experiences lead us to a place of...
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The Real Question: Should I Take an Art Class in 2025? (with Vanessa Zoltan)
This week, we want to share with you an episode of another Not Sorry podcast, The Real Question. The Real Question is a show that holds space for life’s tough questions. Each episode, a guest brings a personal question they’re grappling with, and Chaplain Mauricio Bruce helps them find an answer....
About this show
It’s the English class you didn't know you missed and the meaningful conversations you didn't know you craved. Join Vanessa Zoltan and Matt Potts as they bring thought, reflection and laughter to Harry Potter; not just as novels, but as instructive and inspirational texts that will teach us about our own lives. Relive the magic of Harry Potter chapter by chapter as Matt and Vanessa explore themes such as commitment, revenge and forgiveness. This podcast creates time in your week to think about life’s big questions. Because reading fiction doesn’t just help us escape the world, it helps us live in it.
Harry Potter and the Sacred Text is produced by Not Sorry Productions, a feminist organization that produces podcasts, educational content, live shows, and immersive experiences with the explicit goal of addressing the spiritual needs of its participants. Through community, rigor, and ritual, we treat traditionally secular things as if they were sacred. To learn more about wha
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Not Sorry Productions
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