The Fungus Among Us

Spore Story: “Feel Her Love” In this episode of The Fungus Among Us: A Last of Us Podcast, Kelly and Paul dive into Episode 5 of The Last of Us. With the season finale fast approaching, tensions are rising and emotions are running high. The duo shares their strong take on the evolving dynamic between Ellie and Dina after Jesse’s return—was this the shift fans were bracing for?They also unpack the long-awaited return of airborne spores, a fan-favorite mechanic from the game, and what it means for Ellie’s immunity and the infected world at large. This week also brings a deeper look at the shifting power between the WLF and the Scars, with themes of loyalty, fear, and control dominating the episode. And then there’s that unforgettable confrontation with Nora... You won’t want to miss Kelly’s reaction to the episode’s ending.Plus, the team shares what they’re currently watching and playing across movies, TV, and games—and revisit a classic moment from their friendship with the infamous carrot finger story (yes, it still makes them laugh a decade later). Finally, Kelly confesses she was never really into gory horror movies—and shocks Paul with a popular film she actually - did not like.

🎙 In this heartfelt episode, Paul and Kelly dive into the emotional and beautifully crafted “The Path” from The Last of Us Season 2. Kelly shares her raw, personal reaction through the lens of her own recent loss — and how her perspective changed after a second watch. Together, they unpack the show’s layered portrayal of grief after Joel’s death, and question what lies ahead for Ellie and Dina.They also break down how Tommy and Maria may have voted, and where the path leads next. Hop on as we ride to Seattle — it’s an emotional, reflective, and at times fun journey you won’t want to miss.🎮 As always, they share what they’re playing and watching — with a light spoiler warning (because… they’re gamers too).💭 Plus: What does vengeance vs. justice mean for Ellie and the town of Jackson? Kelly even helps solve a few mysteries for Paul as they realize the show could go any direction from here.Enjoy the fungus among us, Last of Us friends!

Kelly and Paul dive into the bold deviations the show makes from the original Last of Us game—and why those changes actually made them fall in love with the story all over again.⚠️ Spoiler alerts ahead!Paul drops some juicy easter eggs 🐣 while both hosts share funny and heartfelt moments watching the show with their partners who never played the game. From Gustavo Santaolalla’s haunting score 🎻 to that unexpected Crooked Still cameo, this episode is packed with chills, laughs, and deep appreciation for the show’s fresh take.Whether you're a diehard fan or brand new to the world of The Last of Us, we’re here for the feels, the nerd-outs, and the unexpected twists.🎮 Plus—don’t miss what shows, movies, and games Kelly and Paul are into this round!

Kelly and Paul talk more exciting casting news!! Join in as they do a quick dive into Jesse and Dina.

The year is 2186. The human race is under attack from the Travelers, a sinister alien threat from beyond our galaxy, and only Dr. Daniela Star stands in their way. In this episode, Kelly and Paul dig into the story of Savage Starlight, Ellie’s favorite comic book. Join our hosts as they discuss the bits of story revealed in-game and attempt to fill in the blanks using the clues provided. Along the way, they consider the parallels between Savage Starlight and Joel and Ellie’s journey, offering a unique perspective on Ellie’s inner life.

The long awaited episode where the powerful finale is discussed. Kelly and Paul dive into The Last Of Us, Episode 9: "Look For The Light". They had a lot of processing to do. Buckle up, things get silly and also intense! We discuss it all! Ashley Johson playing the role of Ellie’s mother and the fate of the fireflies. The famous Marlene and Joel standoff. Questions of medical ethics come into play. They also break down Joel’s choices and our interpretation of Ellie’s responses. Spoiler Alerts! Kelly and Paul speculate various thoughts about how season 2 will play out compared to the game. Did we see Abby? What a blast this has been with you all!! Looking forward to (Future Days) and future Fungus Among Us fun.

Kelly and Paul discuss their feelings about The Last Of Us, Episode 7: "Left Behind". In this episode, we break down the differences between the Left Behind DLC and its adaptation in the HBO show. They dig into the meaning behind this episode's music.

Kelly and Paul navigate tough conversations in our most emotional episode so far on The Last Of Us, Episode 5: "Endure and Survive". Wonderful performances by Lamar Johnson and Keivonn Woodard, who play Henry and Sam. Paul starts out happy because he's finally seen one of his favorite parts of the game; Savage Starlight! We break down Henry and Sam, the ways they reflect Joel and Ellie's relationship, and the poetic justice in Kathleen's demise. Kelly shares a silly theory on baby clickers. And wow, that epic zombie scene blew us away! Finally, a bloater! Our joy and laughter turn to tears as we confront this episode's closing moments, then we try to mend our broken hearts for our beloved Henry and Sam.

What a tearjerker! In this episode, Kelly and Paul dry their tears and discuss their feelings about The Last Of Us, Episode 3: "Long, Long Time" as Kelly drinks expired coffee and Paul stresses about his car troubles. Bill's isolation reminds both of us of our own pandemic experiences... and his dining habits can't help but remind us of Ron Swanson. Is he, perhaps, also a mirror for Joel? This beautiful episode brought out a lot of emotions and the hosts discuss their differing reactions to their deaths. Despite the beauty of this episode's love story, we can't avoid our mixed emotions on the departure from the game... especially our sadness that we never got to see Bill and Ellie talk sass to each other.

Welcome to our first full episode! We share our reactions to the show and our relationship to the game. We talk about our love for Nico Parker's portrayal of Sarah and our excitement for the entire cast of the HBO adaptation. (so good) The origin of the infection is discussed as the fungus is among us! With the outbreak year being 2003, Kelly fears what will happen to the iconic song "Future Days" and Paul shares his theory on what will happen to the band, Pearl Jam. Sit back, have a snack. Just don't eat the raisin cookies!