Best Prof. Julian Wamble Podcasts (2025)

1
Ambition and Audacity: The Two Faces of Quirinus Quirrell 1:06:38

6d ago1:06:38

1:06:38

What if the villain wasn’t overtaken—but offered himself up? In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble dives into the sweaty, stammering chaos of Professor Quirrell—and the dangerous audacity that lies beneath it. Often remembered as little more than a jittery man in a turban, Quirrell is actually one of the clearest caution…

1
The Silent Suffering of Minerva McGonagall 1:15:07

20d ago1:15:07

1:15:07

“She was watching the Dursleys all day while everyone else celebrated—and somehow, we still expect more from her.” In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we take a long-overdue deep dive into the one and only Minerva McGonagall. Often admired for her strength, fairness, and dry wit, McGonagall is seen by many as the model of a good teacher, a go…

1
Prof Responds- Remus Lupin & the Struggle to Stay Human 38:55

27d ago38:55

38:55

Welcome to Critical Magic Theory, where we deconstruct the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—because loving something doesn’t mean we can’t be critical of it. This week’s Prof Response tackles one of our most emotional episodes to date: Remus Lupin. But before diving in, we confront a real-world reality—J.K. Rowling’s continued advocacy for trans-exc…

1
3.3%=100%: The Remus Lupin Story 1:25:23

1M ago1:25:23

1:25:23

Why didn’t Lupin ever write to Harry? Why did he run from Tonks? And how does someone who survives so much still feel like they deserve so little? In this soul-stirring episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble peels back the layers of Remus Lupin—the beloved professor, the loyal Marauder, and the walking embodiment of internalized …

1
Prof Responds: Has anyone seen Peter Pettigrew? 43:05

1M ago43:05

43:05

What if the biggest betrayal in the Wizarding World wasn’t just about evil—it was about never being seen in the first place? In this episode chat of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble deep-dives into the fallout from “The Radacity of Peter Pettigrew” episode, reflecting on listener reactions and further complicating our understanding of…

1
The "Ratdacity" of Peter Pettigrew 1:15:15

2M ago1:15:15

1:15:15

Thirteen years hiding in plain sight. A friendship shattered beyond repair. A betrayal so bold it rewrote the entire course of the wizarding war. The question isn’t whether Peter Pettigrew had audacity—it’s where he found the ratdacity. In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we’re scurrying deep into the shadows of the Marauders’ messiest member…

1
Prof Responds- Death Eaters, Country Clubs, and the Cosplay of Power 39:56

2M ago39:56

39:56

Can a villain be a good leader? Not if he’s noseless and narcissistic. Welcome back to Critical Magic Theory, where we deconstruct the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—because loving something doesn’t mean we can’t be critical of it. In today’s Prof Responds episode, I’m diving deep into your post-episode thoughts on none other than the noseless won…

1
Lord Voldemort: More Diva than Dark Lord 1:11:49

2M ago1:11:49

1:11:49

Is this an episode of Real Housewives of the Wizarding World? No, just an episode about ole Voldy V- the ultimate diva. From his obsession with power to his need for an audience at every major moment, we unpack how his insecurities, delusions, and over-the-top theatrics make him one of the most absurd villains in fiction. We revisit the iconic grav…

1
Prof Responds: The Power, The Pettiness, and The Pretty 49:58

2M ago49:58

49:58

In this lively and deeply engaging episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble responds to the fiery post-episode discussion about Tom Riddle. From dissecting the many hilarious and shady nicknames the CMT community bestowed upon Voldemort to unpacking the complexities of his insecurities, Julian dives deep into what makes Tom Riddle …

1
[Tom] Riddle Me this: The origin story of a pick me 1:15:40

2M ago1:15:40

1:15:40

In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we begin our deep dive into the origins of Lord Voldemort by unpacking the complexities of Tom Riddle Jr. Professor Julian Wamble explores what made young Tom tick—his ambitions, insecurities, and relentless desire to prove himself in the Wizarding World. Was he a textbook Slytherin, or did his ego ultimate…

1
Prof Responds- The Pureblood Showdown 29:43

3M ago29:43

29:43

With chaos, controversy, and critical insight, Professor Julian Wamble dives into the passionate post-episode discussion following the Pure-Blood Showdown episode. With the fandom in an uproar over Narcissa Malfoy being crowned Best Parent, Julian unpacks the arguments from Patreon listeners, exploring the biases and dynamics at play in how fans ju…

1
It's a Pureblood Showdown: The Best, The Worst, and Everything in Between 1:18:49

3M ago1:18:49

1:18:49

BUST OUT YOUR YEARBOOKS!! It's time for the best and worst of the Purebloods! In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we wrap up our epic 14-month journey through the world of pure bloods. We explore what it truly means to be a pureblood in the Wizarding World—unpacking the social constructs, privileges, and pressures that shape their identities.…

1
Prof Responds: LAVENDER BROWN 40:11

3M ago40:11

40:11

In this special mini-episode of Critical Magic Theory, Professor Julian Wamble introduces a new segment: Prof Responds. This segment is designed to continue the discussion from the Patreon post-episode chat, allowing deeper engagement with listeners’ comments and insights. The focus of this episode is Lavender Brown, exploring how race and gender i…

1
Lavender Brown: Messy? Maligned? or Misunderstood? 1:19:46

3M ago1:19:46

1:19:46

Through a mix of critical analysis, and a healthy dose of chaos, Professor Wamble and Cassie (one of the Patreon “chronic overthinkers,”) reconsider Lavender Brown’s role in the series, her legacy, and what she can teach us about gendered expectations and internalized misogyny. They deep dive deep into the misunderstood and often maligned character…

1
Merope Gaunt and the space between victimhood & villainy 1:18:50

4M ago1:18:50

1:18:50

TW: DV and SA are discussed in this episode. Can a villain also be a victim? Embark on a journey through the layered narrative of Merope Gaunt, the enigmatic mother of Voldemort, as we mark one year of Critical Magic Theory. Merope's contentious life story, shaped by a web of abuse and desperation, invites a deeper examination of the societal and f…

1
Poverty, Power, and the Paradox of the Gaunts 55:15

4M ago55:15

55:15

Join us as we unpack the paradoxical realities of the Gaunt family in the Harry Potter universe. Discover how Marvolo and Morfin Gaunt's fierce dedication to their bloodline leads to a toxic supremacy that survives despite their poverty and lack of societal advantages. This episode promises to uncover the complex dynamics that set the stage for Mer…

1
Luna Lovegood's Path to Authenticity, Courage, and Friendship 1:06:49

5M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

What if you could navigate life with unapologetic authenticity? Discover how Luna Lovegood exemplifies this bold approach, as we explore her fascinating character from the Harry Potter series. In this latest episode, you'll gain insights into Luna's remarkable ability to be herself, challenging societal norms and inspiring self-acceptance. We delve…

1
Cedric Diggory: Not a Hero, but a Champion 1:09:09

6M ago1:09:09

1:09:09

Our latest episode of Critical Magic Theory dives headlong into the enigmatic nature of Cedric Diggory from the Harry Potter series. Join us for an illuminating conversation as we dissect Cedric's brief but impactful presence and his embodiment of Hufflepuff values such as fairness, loyalty, and integrity. We explore Cedric's actions during the Tri…

1
The Ministers’ Manipulative Ministrations 1:04:07

6M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

What if the key to understanding the wizarding world's political chaos lies in the flawed leadership of Cornelius Fudge and Rufus Scrimgeour? This episode of Critical Magic Theory uncovers how these Ministers of Magic, potentially products of a society favoring pureblood supremacy, navigated a complex landscape riddled with biases. By examining the…

1
The Quiet Complexity and Courage of Neville Longbottom 1:23:23

7M ago1:23:23

1:23:23

What if Neville Longbottom had been the chosen one instead of Harry Potter? Join Professor Julian Wamble on Critical Magic Theory as we explore this intriguing thought and unravel Neville's heroic journey in the wizarding world. We'll dive into his evolution from a timid boy into a courageous figure, challenging traditional notions of valor and red…

1
The Duplicity of Barty Crouch Jr: Radicalized Victim or Perpetual Villain? 1:10:02

7M ago1:10:02

1:10:02

What if the key to understanding one of the Harry Potter series’ most enigmatic figures lies in examining the fragile line between victimhood and villainy? On this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we unravel the complexities of Bartemius Crouch Jr., alongside Professor Charlie Hunt, a political scientist and co-host of the podcast Scandalized. We …

1
The Mind Games and Mayhem of Barty Crouch, Sr. 1:13:21

8M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

What if the very officials tasked with protecting the wizarding world were its greatest threats? Join us on this episode of Critical Magic Theory as we dissect the morally ambiguous and controversial actions of Barty Crouch Sr., a high-ranking Ministry official whose decisions have left indelible marks on the Harry Potter series. We’ll scrutinize h…

1
The Chaotic Neutrality of Horace Slughorn 1:09:02

8M ago1:09:02

1:09:02

Does Horace Slughorn's neutrality make him a hero or a coward? Join us on Critical Magic Theory as we dissect this enigmatic Potions Master from the Harry Potter series, exploring his ambiguous moral compass. Discover the depths of Slughorn's relationship with Tom Riddle, a connection that becomes a mirror reflecting his own darker ambitions. Our d…

1
James Potter: Heroic Gryffindor? Privileged Bully? 1:09:39

9M ago1:09:39

1:09:39

Curious about how a childhood bully turns into a heroic figure? Join us on Critical Magic Theory as we dismantle the layers of James Potter's character from the Harry Potter series. What makes James Potter both admirable and flawed? We analyze his confrontation with Voldemort, his loyalty to friends like Sirius Black, and the ultimate betrayal by P…

1
The Seriously Tragic Tale of Sirius Black 1:32:07

10M ago1:32:07

1:32:07

In this episode of Critical Magic Theory, we challenge the widely held perceptions of Sirius Black, diving into the depths of his character with our thoughtful Patreon contributor, Eric. Join us for a riveting exploration as we dissect some of Sirius's defining moments, drawing comparisons with other iconic Gryffindors and pure-blood characters. Di…

1
Andromeda and Regulus: Pureblood Rebels with a Cause? 1:14:03

10M ago1:14:03

1:14:03

Can the enigmatic lives of Andromeda Tonks and Regulus Black offer us lessons in courage and defiance against pureblood supremacy? Join us on this episode of Critical Magic Theory as Professor Julian Wamble navigates the sparse yet captivating details about these two lesser-known Harry Potter characters. We challenge the conventional views on Regul…

1
The Bellatrix Paradox: "Love?" Loyalty, and Lunacy 1:20:51

11M ago1:20:51

1:20:51

Is Bellatrix Lestrange driven by true love for Voldemort, or is it something darker? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, on Critical Magic Theory as we dissect the enigmatic and terrifying loyalty of one of the wizarding world's most notorious villains. We'll untangle the web of motivations behind Bellatrix's actions, questioning whether her devotion…

1
Draco Malfoy: Spoiled Rich Boy or Reluctant Anti-Hero? 1:20:46

11M ago1:20:46

1:20:46

Is Draco Malfoy a misunderstood anti-hero or simply a privileged, spoiled rich boy? Join us on this episode of Critical Magic Theory as we untangle the web of Draco's complex motivations and actions throughout the Harry Potter series. Was his decision to join the Death Eaters an act of desperation or a genuine desire for glory? Together, with our i…

1
Draco Malfoy: Misunderstood, Maligned, or Merely A Malfoy? 1:21:49

12M ago1:21:49

1:21:49

Is Draco Malfoy misunderstood or just a product of his environment? Join us for a compelling discussion as we celebrate Draco's birthday and kick off our two-part series dedicated to this enigmatic character. With the insightful Eve Medina from our Patreon community, we unpack Draco's upbringing, his complex relationships with his parents, and the …

1
Lucius Malfoy's Path to Power (& Flawless Hair) 49:20

12M ago49:20

49:20

Could Lucius Malfoy's impeccable hair be the only redeeming quality of this notorious antagonist from the Harry Potter series? Join us as we peel back the layers of Lucius's character, questioning his loyalties and unveiling the roots of his bitter rivalry with Arthur Weasley. We weave critical thinking with a touch of humor, contrasting Lucius's v…

1
Narcissa Malfoy: The Villain, The Mom, & the Hero? 53:22

1y ago53:22

53:22

Can the matriarch of the Malfoy family be seen in a different light? Unravel the complexities of Narcissa Malfoy's character with me, Professor Julian Wamble, as we dissect her life's choices, from the fierce protection of her son to her covert defiance. Our discussion probes the depths of her role as a pureblood within the Malfoy legacy, consideri…

1
The Best and the Worst of the Weasleys 49:24

1y ago49:24

49:24

Embrace the charm and complexity of the Weasley family with Professor Julian Wamble as we traverse the intriguing landscape of family dynamics in the wizarding world. Prepare to engage with the characters you thought you knew, as we assign whimsical superlatives and reveal surprising poll results about the most admired Weasley. From Ginny's triumph…

1
Maybe she's born with "it." Maybe she's Ginny Weasley 53:47

1y ago53:47

53:47

Have you ever considered the intricate layers behind Ginny Weasley's character in the Harry Potter series? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, as we unravel the nuances of this fierce and independent witch. Through a blend of shared traumas and her unique place as the only Weasley daughter, we explore how Ginny's experiences shape her into a formidab…

1
Ronald Weasley is NOT Your Coworker 56:52

1y ago56:52

56:52

Unlock the hidden layers of loyalty and humor within the Harry Potter series' most underrated character. Joined by Ron Weasley aficionado Dani Alexander, I, Professor Julian Wamble, take you behind the spectacles of everyone's favorite ginger to discover just how his steadfast friendship and quick wit define the core of the beloved trio. We'll unra…

1
Ron Weasley- Almost Too Normal to Appreciate? 57:24

1y ago57:24

57:24

Unravel the enigma of Ron Weasley with Professor Julian Wamble and the pod's FIRST EVER guest, Dani Alexander. This episode promises a deep reexamination of the often-misunderstood youngest Weasley son, challenging the ambivalence he evokes. Together, Dani and Prof. W. dissect Ron's insecurities, his quest for individual distinction, scrutinize his…

1
Fred & George's Fits & Giggles 52:37

1y ago52:37

52:37

Are Fred and George Weasley merely the jesters of the Wizarding World, or is there a darker side to their antics? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, for a journey through the magical mayhem of the Weasley twins, where we scrutinize their pranks and entrepreneurial exploits to uncover the true nature of these iconic characters. This episode promises …

1
The Perils of Prefect Percy 49:49

1y ago49:49

49:49

Have you ever wondered why Percy Weasley's relentless ambition didn't land him a spot in Slytherin? Join Professor Wamble as he peels back the layers of one of the most polarizing characters in the Harry Potter series, probing into Percy's complex journey from rule-abiding prefect to estranged Weasley family member. Together, along with the survey …

1
Arthur's Peer-ent Trap 47:52

1+ y ago47:52

47:52

Could your affection for the whimsical Arthur Weasley be tinted with shades of complexity you've never considered? Join me, Professor Julian Wamble, for a stimulating journey through the nuanced character of the Weasley family patriarch. Together with insights from your survey responses, we unpack the layers beneath Arthur's seemingly carefree fasc…

1
Mommy Issues? or Molly Issues? 38:47

1+ y ago38:47

38:47

Summary In this episode, Professor Julian Wamble explores the character of Molly Weasley from the Harry Potter series. They discuss Molly's role as a pureblood, a mother, a hero, and a friend. They also delve into Molly's fears and trauma, and how it shapes her actions and beliefs. The episode concludes with a preview of the next episode, which wil…

1
CRITICAL MAGIC THEORY TRAILER 1:39

1+ y ago1:39

1:39

Host, Professor Julian Wamble invites you to join him on his journey to deep dive in to your favorite Harry Potter characters to gain a deeper, more critical understanding of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.By Prof. Julian Wamble

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Prof. Julian Wamble Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen