I’m usually skeptical of any “celebrities interviewing other artists” type podcasts, so almost didn’t hit play when the algorithms told me to listen to one of these episodes and saw one of the hosts was “that grizzled guy from that railroad show” (as my husband put it) I was pleasantly surprised this is emphatically not what the show is at all. So far the episodes I’ve listened to have been (mostly) really interesting explorations into the nature and experience of creating and appreciating art. That sounds weirdly deep and philosophical, but it’s also funny and surprising (not one of the interviews have seemed to be just advertising for some studio or publishing house). I especially liked the episode on synesthesia (which I experience) and the shows with Doug Jones, whose work outside of Star Trek I was totally unfamiliar with- there’s a lot of variety and Anson and Brendan seem ready to chase down a rabbit hole just because they’re interested in it and take listeners (and each other) along, it reminds me a bit of a lighter, more art and pop-culture oriented version of RadioLab or Ologies at times. Generally when I see white guys trying to enter the “conversation” surrounding race and racial justice I’m prepared to roll my eyes and walk away - but they approach these topics thoughtfully with humility and curiosity so they genuinely felt like conversations, which was wholly unexpected. Its one of those pod casts where I hit play on a specific episode of interest to me and end up bingeing the next five even though I finished mowing the lawn after the first.

(This is a long review- make sure you click the more button to expand at the bottom, or you’ll miss the whole thing! You should be seeing a long wall of paragraphs :-) Here we go.) I’ve been binge-devouring The Well from the beginning, and I am fixated- grab a drink, get comfy, because you’re in for a very long story— let me tell you why I’ve been gobbling this podcast up like the Cookie Monster. It’s been a… well, a well! of delight; creative/intellectual/emotional/mental stimulation; perspective- and empathy-provocation; and change-for-the-better inspiration that I desperately needed. It’s also a lighthouse beacon of not-being-alone-ness, human connection and togetherness, the likes of which cover me in a warm blanket of comfort & contentment. The Well has blessed me with these wonderfully juxtaposed, complementary, harmonious feelings: of a relieved exhale in the midst of a grounding hug from a friend; of a roaring fire sparkling throughout my soul, urging me to dream wilder & gallop further & make better, and the deep, eager inhale that stokes the flames as I get up & go; of the growth, that only comes from learning what the world is through someone else’s eyes; and much more. It’s an amalgamation of profundity, pathos, insight, & levity. The Well podcast has inspirited me to reconnect with my soul as an artist. If I’m not creating art, I don’t know who I am; I’m aimless & amorphous without it. But a sustained culmination of circumstances restricted my ability to create for a long time, and left me living disquietingly amorphously. Then at just the right time as I was regaining abilities, and needing to get my spirit back into the swing of it; along came this podcast, reaching right in, stirring that spirit up, taking its hand and gently guiding it back to its feet. It got me making again, and I am healing & reconciling who I am. The guests featured are diverse in their starkly varied walks of life, as well as in their method(s) of expression/artistry/science/etc/whatever field of expertise they flourish through - this cultivates a wide & multifaceted curriculum of life lessons ripe for reaping as you listen. In addition, it’s crucial to mention the moments of comedy threaded throughout!! I’ve even been subjected to physically painful amounts of laughter on occasion (a few times listening to it while in the car, we’ve had to stop & find somewhere to pull over and park before proceeding, because we were helpless to the sob-laughing.) There’s an abundance of bits that earn a pleasant & more reasonable chuckle, but then there’s also this little handful of particular moments that just REALLY got me for one reason or another. And, the best of the best is when the stars align such that the same thing hits Branan & Anson just as good, so we’re all having a shared beat of giggly hysteria. As a previous reviewer wrote, “and there is a lot of giggling. I love the giggling.” I emphatically second this assessment. It’s frabjous. The levity doesn’t impede honest discussions of more serious topics, which are addressed appropriately and handled with respect. These types of conversations are exceptionally informative and focused on continual betterment. I’ve gained awareness of various realities & truths of what this life is which are far different from my own, enhancing my understanding of other humans’ experiences in an essential way. So that I can do better. And overall, I appreciate that there’s both fun and serious, imagination and reality - and either way, exceedingly vulnerable and sincere. Almost done!! I also want to say that Branan & Anson are as captivating as their guests, both spectacularly passionate, talented, smart, and compassionate; I’m grateful for the facets of them each that I am afforded the privilege to discover, as they share them with us through the podcast. I long to sit down & have a really good conversation with both of them; the kind that’s had on this show (Anson, Branan, if you’re reading this…) The same can be said for the guests!!!! I’ve “met” so many new artists, scientists, creatives, activists, specialists, etc - people - to admire. Or, learned new and deeper things about those I already knew. Plus, I’ve discovered new interests and passions I didn’t know I had! I don’t have a conclusion paragraph… just, thank you to Branan, Anson; Jonathan Meiburg for the theme music; the guests; and everyone else who’s ever been involved in one way or another, for your time and love, for any capacity in which you were part of making this come to life.

I found The Well three months ago and it has been an abundant life line for my soul through harrowing times. I had been out wandering in an isolated desert and stumbled upon this oasis. Like the Urim and Thummim rocks in The Alchemist’s pocket, they guided, advised, and kept peeling back the deeper truths, embodied curiosity, awe and mystery. A bastion of hope. A soft cardigan sweater. A rainbow of thoughtfully curated musings and heartfelt utility belt of resources. Each episode a talented artful weaving! Just good storytelling. Branan and Anson are seriously good company. There are no “sermons from the mount” only fantastic conversations and inspiring leadership. They invite all travelers to sit down at the campfire and get comfortable. They share memories, food, laughs and their real evolving lives and experiences. I felt at ease. As a woman who felt continuously threatened and underseige by the ideology of white male domination culture I felt… seen and safe here. “Safety is not the absence of threat, it’s the presence of connection” Gabor Maté. Thank you for your vulnerable and brave dismantling; two kindred friends, with a steady resolve of moving forward into all aspects of unexplored space (internal and external worlds). Way-finding for the systems of collective good and a future full of thriving equality. Thank you for being verbs, not nouns on the public stage. For being in process; wet pliable clay still very much students of the wyrd and divine mystery that threads all things together. A deep bow and blessings to you as you continue to equip the global village though curiosity and consilience.

So engaging. With The Well as sound track the most mundane of tasks can become enjoyable. It doesn’t hurt that Anson Mount’s voice is as gorgeous as he looks.

I met Anson at NY Comic Con and he gave me a business card for the podcast so I started checking it out. I like that they discuss different topics. Not your typical interview topics, which I can appreciate.

This has so much to think about, in depth discussions regarding creative people & things. I’m enjoying it so much!

I feel very “late to the party”! I just recently found this podcast through Anson’s Instagram page. Of course I am starting from the beginning and will be “binge listening” for awhile… So far I couldn’t be happier with the episodes and look forward to every one. Thank You, Ann

Creativity can come in many forms, and it’s clear that Branan and Anson understand this very well (no pun intended there). Whether you’re a writer, actor, musician, or another type of craftsman, this podcast is for you! By providing this listening space, Branan and Anson invite us to explore along with them the kaleidoscope-like process of creativity. It’s refreshing to hear artists admit that it’s not always a beautiful and sublime journey towards creation. It can be downright brutal and terrifying. Listening to these two individuals share their honest experiences with their craft and talk with other artists about their process gives me the motivation to continue honing my own craft. Thank you Branan and Anson! You’ve made a fan out of me :)

Can you do an episode on Capt. Pike’s shoulder routine?

LOVE this podcast! Insightful, thought-provoking, intelligent, fun and witty. Keep it up guys!

I highly recommend this thought provoking and insightful podcast. Intelligent conversations with creative, passionate people. Absolutely excellent.

Just picked up The Well Podcast and flew right through it. I can’t get enough of this thought provoking series that examines inspiration and creativity with really in-depth and personal interviews with some truly fascinating folks. To top it off, the hosts are both incredibly engaging and entertaining. I can’t recommend this podcast enough. Edit: I’m not actually editing anything; I loved the podcast when I discovered it years ago, I love it still. I’m just adding this as an experiment to see if it’ll pop my glowing recommendation up to the top of the list so that it has a better chance of getting read on the next episode of The Drop.

I'm only into the first dozen or so episodes and I am hooked :-) I wish I had found these sooner. The content tells such beautiful and inspiring stories that really make me think and make me feel like these are conversations I would love to have in the real world. It feeds that curious side of my mind that I have been missing. Looking forward to working my way the episodes!

I have really been enjoying this podcast over the last few months. I am late to the game and discovered it after (also late to the game) finally watching Star Trek Discovery. Anson Mount’s portrayal of Captain Pike was beautiful and led me down a rabbit hole to this podcast. Something about this podcast has been just what I needed after the dark hole that has been 2020. The way Branan and Anson discuss life, tell stories and interview guests captivates me. Through this podcasts I’ve realized just how important hearing about others’ experiences and stories is to me and makes me feel part of something beyond our ugly news cycle. So thank you, gentlemen, for helping me feel grounded and connected as I listen to your stories and interviews.

These interviews are amazing. They feel personal, like friends sitting down to speak over coffee. I love these. The Ethan Peck and Doug Jones captivated me as a Trek fan.

Thank you guys for putting your energy, intellect and joy into such an excellent podcast. I started from the beginning at your recommendation, and it’s been so good. Nothing like hearing talented people talk about the things they’re passionate about. So many topics I never knew I was interested in! It’s a joy to hear.

Intelligent conversation! The interviews remind me of TV talk shows of long ago, such as Dick Cavett. I discovered The Well Podcast after watching twice both seasons of Star Trek:Discovery leading up to and following my liver transplant June 30. The interviews with Doug Jones and Ethan Peck were enjoyable. Thank you for this wide variety of guests and interviews, informative and inspiring.

The emphasis is on the person being interviewed. Interviews are thoughtful and not all the people who are out selling their books.

Good listen and pretty informative based on the topic.

Really enjoy listening to your show. Especially Dusty’s purr!!!😻😻😻

I love hearing creators talk about their craft. Anson and Branan talk with a wide range of people, from visual artists to actors to writers and musicians. Their conversations are fascinating to listen to, and they ask intelligent, thoughtful questions. And there is a lot of giggling. I love the giggling.

Have really been enjoying the podcasts, especially now that we are all trying to stay home. You guys are a great team, love all the different topics you discuss, & the guests you interview. Looking forward to your new podcasts . Stay safe & healthy.... Janet 👍😊...

I recently started exploring podcast channels and this one about creative inspiration is pretty good. It was created by actor/producer/writer Anson Mount (star of Hell on Wheels, Star Trek: Discovery to name a few) and his good friend Branan Edgens director/filmmaker. Each episode covers a range of topics from literature, science, art, music, television, film, travel, history, personal experiences and current events. Hosted in a calm and soothing manner, punctuated with humor and plenty of laughter, The Well Podcast is informative, thought provoking and sure to inspire, or in some cases, rekindle your own long forgotten creative inspirations. Enjoy!

After watching Hell on Wheels, I found your podcast and loved it. You are a great team, and I hope to see new podcasts soon because we need to hear your calm voices at this time in our lives. Thanks for all you do, and hope y’all are well.

Dear Anson and Branon PLEASE COME BACK! (I totally forgive the Sherlock thing in my earlier review below. You can’t be right ALL the time.) I can’t think of anything better than listening to your languid ruminations to sustain perspective during this thing. Plus, your book and movie reviews (of things deep in the bowels of Netflix or similar) are in effect a critical public service! Kinda like the BBC and Churchill’s fireside chats during the Blitz. Chloe (This review used to be what’s below. I am leaving this for context, and because I am still a little disappointed in this one tiny thing) FORMER REVIEW Been listening to the podcast for a few weeks now and love it. I have recommended it to lots of people and thrilled to hear reviews of books and films I might have missed. Wonderful things. Big Little Farm. First Man. Thoughtful, quiet and funny. Listened to the purring cat and the sound of you both eating the pasteis de nata several times and thrilled that you had bothered to put it out. And in that episode the Oxford Uni joke was properly funny. But please please rewatch the first episode of Sherlock which you reviewed as great in this episode. I was stunned by this. Observe the treatment of EVERY female character. The lab tech (lipstick), the policewoman (her strident characterization and silenced by ‘dirty knees’), the murdered woman (sexual history a key plot point), the housekeeper (all that shouting at her necessary?). Is that all ok? I thought I could rely on you both to say ... hold on a minute! I often disagree with reviews - but this is about something bigger than a difference of opinion. You both recommended the show - specifically... ‘from the first episode’ so you couldn’t have missed it. PS happy for the US as ‘elementary’ is a far superior tv series based on Holmes. Comparatively the BBC has put together nonsense for a lad mag generation

Just started listening, I’ve taken their advice and started from the beginning. Very inspiring and creative. Keep up the great work.

I enjoy this podcast, really enjoy it! They always have interesting guest and topics. I feel like I’m in the same room listening to the interviews or conversations. I absolutely love the mixing of dialogue, sound effects and music. Each episode feels solid and well crafted. I’ve learned a tremendous amount about creativity and maybe more importantly, our humanity. I’m grateful for the personal sharing from Anson and Branan, it makes a huge impact on each episode. I feel like I know them well and would definitely enjoy a bourbon with them. Great work, men! Keep ‘em coming! Thanks you.

The Well is a show about creative inspiration, that is itself creatively inspiring. It’s a show I like to listen to when I’m not doing other things because it rewards active listening. Branan and Anson have an easy rapport, and the interviews are always thought-provoking and interesting. For a show that's so well-produced, it also has an extremely chill, almost meditative vibe.

These two are completely laid back, not anxious about selling something every few seconds. Genuine people talking about things that they’ve discovered out in the world. Cover music, books, tv, film.

I hadn’t heard of The Well until I had the chance to meet Anson at Dragon Con earlier this year. He may have been there for Star Trek but you could tell in seconds that his passion lies with The Well. He suggested I give it a listen so I have. I had no idea what I was missing. He and Branan make a great team, the episodes are well put together and do exactly what they advertise: they talk about how their guests have to think out of the box or derive inspiration. It’s filled with incredible stories from all walks of life. I highly, highly recommend it.

I started watching Star Trek discover and found Anson Mount I looked him up on Instagram and found him talking about the well ever since I’ve been listening to them.

I love it! ❤️

I never ever review podcasts. I’m breaking this rule because Anson and Branan have consistently been a huge part of my week. I stumbled across The Well because I truly loved the AMC western, Hell on Wheels, which Anson starred in a leading role. Then, Anson recently reappeared in my life because as a lifelong Star Trek fan I saw Anson’s magnificent performance as Captain Pike in STD. That was enough for me to google and see what else he was up to. The authenticity and joy Anson and Branan put into this podcast is so refreshing. I’ve adored every episode. Please continue! If you need help, I’m there.

My only criticism: it’s so hard to wait for a new season. I discovered this podcast (thanks to seeing Anson Mount at a recent ComiCon event) and I am bowled over by how much I enjoy their fresh perspective on interviewing guests. The topics are fascinating and so varied. Never a dull moment!

First of all I love that you warn listeners when strong content and language is involved and provide options. I first listened to the interview with Todd Komarnicki entitled “Spectacularly Saved” and I was so moved by his story. Then I listened to the Xzibit interview and then June Jones! Amazing! I’m working my way through these interviews and I love them. Thank you for sharing such inspiring and honest stories. I am hooked and can’t wait to listen to more.

I love his voice. It is so rich and deep and calming, but beyond that the content is great. I love learning more about people, the host as well as his guests. I look forward to every podcast.

This podcast is a great escape for the mind.

But already had me at Ken Leung. It was his story and "Who's Your Superhero," with the cast of The Inhumans that got me to watch the series - but it the Ken Leung interview only drew me in to listen to more. Reggie Watts? I'm appalled that I didn't know anything about him, but it was the Part II that totally slayed me. What he said about what White Supremicists want and and how he combats it was just what I needed. Lately social media has been a bit putrid with, "no you're stupid and I'm right - SEE?" It's driving me crazy. Reggie's words were a balm. And now I'm listening to two men watch another man do wicked things with martini garnish while talking about Japanese philosophy and I think, humanism? It's not done yet, and the guys are getting a little fuzzy on what I think is the third martini. This series is freakin AMAZING - because I have no idea what to expect. It got me to thinking that I need to explore doodling - no, no no, don't ask me how that connects. It just does. Because draw, but I don't doodle, but I do associate color with certain music and certain sounds. Not in the way of synesthesia, it's just color theory, playing with color and it's relation to sound, using Procreate on the iPad. It's becoming very meditative, although so far the results look like the old lava lamp projections they used to throw up on the screens in the theaters where I grew up. Also, I grew up in Minnesota and I'd like to apologize to Leon Ingulsrud. He's cool. And he's making Anson and Brennan giggle.

This podcast has stretched my brain in ways that I wasn’t expecting. Start from the beginning and come along for a truly one of a kind podcast.

Anson has such a soft and gentle way of interviewing his guests.

I met Anson at Silicon Valley Comic Con for Star Trek and didn’t know what to expect when he gave me a card for his podcast. I wasn’t certain I’d be interested in it, “a podcast about creativity and inspiration” sounded vague to me, but the show has taken me by surprise. Anson and Branan are interesting (and relaxing) to listen to and they’ve got great guests and stories to tell. Like the Alice Cooper and Trek episodes, hope you get more of the Discovery cast on! ALSO WHEN ARE WE GETTING A CAPTAIN PIKE SHOW?

While The Well is not a Star Trek centric podcast, the way I discovered this hidden gem was by hearing Anson Mount (the host of the podcast and the actor who played Captain Pike in Star Trek Discovery) speak at a recent comic book convention in San Jose, California. Mount spoke with such passion about the podcast that I decided to give it a listen. I'm now happily working my way through the backlog of episodes during my work commute. The topics are deep and rich, explorations of the human experience through caring and thoughtful interviews with insightful perspectives by Mount and his cohost Branan Edgens. I'm so glad I stumbled into this hidden gem of a podcast.

Was listening to one of my favorite podcast, The Greatest Discovery, and they interviewed Mr. Mount at Star Trek Las Vegas. I enjoyed the interview so much, and Mount’s thoughtfulness to answering Ben & Adam’s questions that I decided I had to check it out! After I listened to the first episode, I found myself completely hooked, and I’ve already made it though about 15 episodes. I really like the hosts way of conducting their interviews. The structure is more focus more on what drives the person they’re interviewing than what they are known for. Thus far this has ranged from a coach, a handful of actors, a botanist, to a maritime heritage program coordinator. Really looking forward to catching up on all the episodes. And on a Star Trek related note, I hope we all get more of Mount’s Pike in more DISCO, or maybe even his own spinoff series! 🖖😉👍 —Zachary Presley

Anson Mount is an incredibly empathetic and enthusiastic interviewer. The selection of topics and the subjects who tell the stories featured in The Well are a wonderful blend of information and exploration of the human condition. Well done, all should listen.

The summer episode “The Drop” gives listeners the opportunity to find out what Anson and Branan are up to during the off-season, from music to what they’re reading to some personal events. I never come away from an episode without a new idea to entertain or, perhaps, research a bit further. This particular episode - Anson is reading A Canticle for Leibowitz. I knew I was headed for the bookstore when I found myself talking back to the hosts as if they were in the room. If you’re looking for splash and drama, this isn’t your gig. However, if you want to broaden your horizons and enjoy thoughtful interviews seasoned with humor and humility, this well is a fine place to dip your bucket.

It is so refreshing to here fun but serious talk about creativity, friendships, and life. I came because of Anson Mount, and stayed because both Anson and Branan bring their hearts and minds and thoughtfulness to the interviews. Thank you both for making my summer.

I’m stunned when I hear Men speaking together about feelings and spiritual matters. Being from Minnesota, it’s fun to hear reference to Dylan in your discussion. Love it love it love it....Mrs Vigness

Binged listened for 5 episodes.....and loved it good job guys .

How about Wellets?

Great discussions that are connected to our every day lives, humorous and thoughtful. What do you call the time between seasons, shoulder or Between Wells. Just a shout out to a possible title. I look forward to season three, try season one and two I think you’ll be very happy with them. I Listen to them in the morning and on the way to work often. Thank you for your creativeness.