Shows
Wizards of EemUnleash Dynamic Monsters: How to Make Engaging Creatures | Wizards of Eem EP008Send us a textUnleash Dynamic Monsters: How to Make Engaging Creatures for TTRPGs In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we explore how to create truly memorable monster encounters in your tabletop RPG sessions. Monsters shouldn't just be bags of hit points—they can be fully realized characters that shape your story in unexpected ways.We cover how to design monsters with depth, motivations, and unique behaviors that go far beyond combat. Learn how to:Give your monsters personality, goals, and backstoriesUse social interactions, negotiations, and tricks to create rich ro...2025-05-2314 minWizards of EemWhy Adventures Fall Flat (And How to Fix Them) | Wizards of Eem EP007Send us a textStruggling to Hook Your Players? 4 Keys to Better RPG Adventures | Wizards of Eem PodcastDo your RPG sessions fall flat? Are players ignoring your carefully planned quests? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we reveal the four essential elements that make any tabletop RPG adventure instantly more engaging—no matter the system you play.Whether you're running Land of Eem, Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, or another RPG, these storytelling tools will help you design irresistible quests, seed co...2025-05-1314 min
55:11 Podcast#35 | Faith in the Fire – A Story of Perseverance from Ukraine with Dasha NovikovaIn this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl sit down with Dasha Novikova, who shares powerful testimonies from people across Ukraine—stories of how one Bible, received in the midst of war, can bring hope, healing, and a renewed sense of faith.Dasha gives us a glimpse into what it’s like to live through ongoing conflict, while also witnessing firsthand how God is moving in the local church through trauma-informed care and the strength of community.This conversation isn’t just about war—it’s about the power of God’s presence in...2025-05-0754 minWizards of EemYour NPCs Are Boring! Here’s How to Fix Them! | Wizards of Eem EP006Send us a textHow to Create Unforgettable NPCs for Your Tabletop RPG | Wizards of Eem PodcastWant to make NPCs that your players will actually care about? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we uncover the secret to creating memorable, fully realized NPCs that drive your story forward. Learn how to give every non-player character real motivations, personality traits, goals, and quirks—and watch your tabletop RPG sessions become more immersive and engaging.Whether you're a Game Master or a player, yo...2025-04-2913 min
Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E15 | Fun with QuicksandHave something to say? Send us a Text!Ever thought a simple quest could spiral into unexpected camaraderie and chaotic mishaps? In this week’s Land of Eem Actual Play Podcast, our adventurers dive into dungeon crawls, wild creature encounters, and the colorful mayhem of Camp Mudbank—all wrapped in the signature whimsy and humor of Land of Eem!This episode is packed with hilarious storytelling, thrilling battles, and the unpredictable nature of random item generation. As our crew reflects on past escapades, they eagerly anti...2025-04-252h 14Wizards of EemThe Lord of the Rings meets The Muppets?! Why Tone Matters in TTRPGs! | Wizards of Eem EP005Send us a textHow does tone affect your tabletop RPG sessions? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we explore how shifting adventure tone—Hijinks, Derring-Do, and Doom & Gloom—can transform your game. Whether you're running a lighthearted fantasy romp or a grimdark perilous quest, tone directly impacts player engagement, story pacing, and memorable moments.We break down how the Land of Eem’s signature Adventure Tones shape gameplay, and share tips for blending tones to keep your campaigns fresh and dynamic. Learn how to adjust the mo...2025-04-1615 min55:11 Podcast#34 | When Life Breaks You, But God Restores You – A Story of Redemption With Tamika RybinskiLife has a way of leading us through unexpected twists—some that break us and some that build us. In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, host Brooke Kehl sits down with Tamika Rybinski, a writer, graphic artist, and missionary based in Vienna, Austria. Tamika’s story is one of resilience, faith, and creativity.From surviving a life-changing car accident to navigating cancer and a stroke, Tamika’s journey is marked by deep trust in God through every season. She shares how her love for art, storytelling, and missions led her to EEM, where she now designs book covers...2025-04-0247 min
Called 2 Serve PodcastLaw Enforcement| Police Academy to Patrol Sergeant | Na’eem Craft| | Called 2 Serve Podcast EP 18In this powerful episode of the Called 2 Serve Podcast, Our Host Reggie Hubbard sits down with Police Sergeant Na'eem Craft, a 12-year law enforcement veteran and founder of Hamu Woodworks & Design Co. Na'eem shares his powerful journey from surviving police academy training to leading as a police sergeant, offering rare insights into the realities of law enforcement.🔹 In This Episode, Na'eem Shares:How police academy training tests mental toughness through grueling drills and "smoke sessions" – and why 80% of cadets consider quittingThe pivotal moment that shifted him from...2025-04-0147 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E13 | The Great Egg HeistHave something to say? Send us a Text!Join us for another thrilling episode of Land of Eem, where adventure meets unexpected twists, hilarious banter, and high-stakes fantasy! As Galen returns from a solo trek, he finds himself caught in a whirlwind of mystery, magic, and mayhem—all centered around a sorcerer, a peculiar egg, and mischievous harpies.Set in the charming yet unpredictable village of Polgrub, this episode delves deep into friendship, loyalty, and quick-witted strategy, with Rylee’s sharp humor and unwavering support bringing even more depth to the party’s dynamic. Listeners can ex...2025-03-282h 07Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E12 | The Stump Witch MysteriesHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when Galen goes solo in the whimsical world of Polgrib’s village, armed with only his wits and a lingering stink problem? In this latest episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral, Galen takes center stage in an unpredictable and humor-filled adventure while Riley nurses his wounds and James is MIA.Inspired by the thrill of solo Star Wa...2025-03-142h 21Wizards of EemWhy TTRG Sandbox Campaigns Are Fantastic | Wizards of Eem EP004Send us a textAre TTRGP sandbox campaigns really the worst? Psh. No, they're fantastic. Today, we’re breaking down why they are actually one of the best ways to play and run TTRPGs as a GM.Some believe that open-world campaigns are outdated or directionless, but we’re here to debunk that myth. Sandbox campaigns encourage true exploration, player-driven storytelling, and easy GM prep.We also talk about how sandbox settings enhance narrative campaigns, why travel is one of the most overlooked aspects of RPGs, and how Land of Eem was built to em...2025-03-1422 minWizards of EemHow to Get Published: Insider Tips for Aspiring Authors | Wizards of Eem EP003Send us a textIn this episode, we share our journey to getting published and break down the key steps for aspiring authors. Learn how to network with industry professionals, acquire an agent, craft a compelling pitch, and why having complete work is essential. We also dive into working with publishers, refining your manuscript with editors, and the best ways to promote yourself using social media, school visits, and creative tools like the Land of Eem tabletop game. Whether you’re starting out or refining your craft, these tips will help you succeed in publishing!2025-03-0718 min55:11 Podcast#33 | The Power of Scripture: Why Every Bible Matters with Bart RybinskiIn this episode, Bart Rybinski joins us to look back on the challenges and victories of 2024. We talk about why trust and strong relationships matter, even when things get hard, and how unexpected partnerships have helped get Bibles into more hands.We also share stories about the impact of giving people access to Scripture and what it’s been like working in places like Poland and Ukraine. We get honest about what it means to serve and why prayer, patience, and community make all the difference.Tune in for a down-to-earth chat about faith in ac...2025-03-0453 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E11 | The Spider's BargainHave something to say? Send us a Text!What if you had to barter with a giant spider to solve a harpy problem while your best friend narrowly escaped being gulped by a fiery beast? Join Ben Costa, James Parks, and lead playtester George Higgins for another thrilling episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This chaotic adventure throws Galen and Riley headfirst...2025-02-281h 48Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E10 | Egg-citing Escapes in our 50th EpisodeHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when a group of friends bands together for a year-long adventure in a whimsical fantasy realm? Celebrate with Ben Costa, James Parks, and lead playtester George Higgins as they mark their 50th episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral. Together, they reminisce about inside jokes, fierce battles, and the camaraderie that has defined their journey through the magical world of Eem.2025-02-141h 44Wizards of EemHow Two Friends Built a Fantasy World (Plus 6 World Building Tips) | Wizards of Eem EP001Send us a textJoin hosts Ben Costa and James Parks—lifelong friends and the creative duo behind Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo, Dungeoneer Adventures, and the Land of Eem tabletop RPG—as they dive into their imaginative world. In this inaugural episode, they share their whimsical philosophy on storytelling, insights into game design, and the magic of crafting unique fantasy settings. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a budding game designer, or a passionate member of the TTRPG community, this podcast is your gateway to creativity, inspiration, and actionable advice.This episode kicks off wi...2025-02-0721 min55:11 Podcast#32 | Living as Joyful Outsiders: A Conversation with Patrick MillerIn this episode, we are joined by church leader, author, and cultural commentator Patrick Miller as we dive into what it means to embrace life as “joyful outsiders” in today’s world. Patrick shares some amazing insights from his books with co-author Keith Simon, Truth Over Tribe and the upcoming Joyful Outsiders, and we discuss how to stay true to our faith while loving people across divides. It’s an honest and encouraging conversation on finding unity, living counter-culturally, and showing Christ’s love in practical ways.
Tune in to learn more about how living with joy, radical ge...2025-02-0458 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E09 | Scroknest Mountain and Humongous GeeseHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when you’re scaling the treacherous Scroknest Mountain, debating whether to snag a precious scrokwing egg for a sorcerer with shady ties? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—along with chief gamer and George Higgins, as they relive chaotic mountain escapades in the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This...2025-01-302h 1355:11 Podcast#31 | Storms, Prisoners, and Miracles (Andy Corley)In this episode of the 55:11 Podcast, Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl are joined by Andy Corley, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship International (PFI), for another inspiring conversation on their success and challenges over the past year. Together, they discuss the life-changing work of ministering to prisoners and their families and the special focus on children with parents behind bars.
Andy also shares the heart of PFI’s global ministry–centered on worth, redemption, and the unique partnership between PFI and EEM to creatively share the gospel. With stories of God’s faithfulness, fresh insights into preventative effort...2025-01-2153 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E08 | In the Gloom King's ShadowHave something to say? Send us a Text!Ever found yourself battling blinds or questioning your culinary skills in a daring hot haunch challenge? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—along with lead playtester, the illustrious George Higgins, for another hilarious and action-packed episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.The episode kicks off with cheeky breakfast banter at 2025-01-161h 38Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E07 | Gasp! The Nackadonkee StranglerHave something to say? Send us a Text!Ever been stuck in a sticky mud trap during a rainstorm while trying to light a campfire? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—with lead playtester and mad-science collaborator George Higgins, as they recount whimsical tales from the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This episode is filled with laughter and camaraderie as th...2024-12-261h 55Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E06 | The House of Halnar and the Dragon's BoltHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when you’re late to a duel and tensions with the Felmog Knights start to boil over? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—with lead playtester and super-pal George Higgins, as they navigate a whirlwind of chaotic moments, strategic skill upgrades, and character progressions in this thrilling episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox...2024-12-191h 15Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E05 | Old King KnackHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when a holiday quest brings a ghostly pancake-loving companion, a batch of pumpkin-headed foes, and the pursuit of the elusive Dragon’s Bolt spear? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—alongside lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they navigate a chaotic and whimsical adventure in the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and publis...2024-12-122h 06Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E04 | Harpies and Hotdog ElixirsHave something to say? Send us a Text!Ever wondered how adventurers handle warlock curses, steam-powered vehicles operated by shrym and goblins, or the chaos of earning nicknames like "Stinkblade"? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—together with lead playtester and hero George Higgins, for a whimsical journey in the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.In this actio...2024-11-281h 42Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E03 | The Mischievous Mr. TrapHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when a dragon-slaying adventure turns into a hilarious debate over nicknames like “Stinkblade”? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—along with immortal friend George Higgins, as they navigate the whimsical chaos of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This episode kicks off with the aftermath of a dragon battle and the antics o...2024-11-141h 42Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E02 | The Scarlet WyrmHave something to say? Send us a Text!Join us on an audacious quest through the whimsical Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral. In this thrilling episode, our party sets out to slay the formidable scarlet wyrm nestled within the Jagged Hills, accompanied by special guest Shane Shandar—a renowned dungeoneer with an uncanny resemblance to Dolph Lundgren (from The Expendables 3) and an unexpectedly average stature.As the dragon hunt begins, the team gr...2024-10-282h 15Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S03E01 | The Gangsters of BogtownHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when a mossy-bearded adventurer, quirky gangs, and a city floating on stilts over a murky bog collide? Welcome back to Bogtown, where humor and danger go hand-in-hand in the whimsical world of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral. Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—with lead playtester George Higgins, as they dive...2024-10-171h 18Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E20 | Curse of the Goat Head (and other nonsense)Have something to say? Send us a Text!Ever wondered how a goat head curse could lead to a hilarious and magical adventure? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—along with lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they celebrate their 40th episode with a whimsical quest in the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.The journey begins with humo...2024-10-031h 5455:11 Podcast#30 | Lessons from the Persecuted Church with Ryan BrownIn this episode, we explore the impactful work of Open Doors USA, an organization dedicated to supporting the persecuted church worldwide. Despite facing severe persecution, the church in different regions continues to grow, offering a powerful testimony of faith.
Ryan Brown, CEO of Open Doors USA, shares how their mission raises awareness, provides resources, and advocates for those risking their lives to follow Christ. He emphasizes the lessons American Christians can learn from the persecuted church and the importance of prioritizing a deep relationship with God.
Watch to know more about how the global body...2024-10-0153 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E19 | The Chicken-foot WitchHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when an ancient golem and a well-dressed goblin kid join forces on an epic quest? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—along with lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they dive into another action-packed episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This week, our team navigates fant...2024-09-192h 05Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E18 | The Snakes and the GolemHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when you mix a charming stone golem, a swarm of angry bees, and a fire-breathing chimera? Pure chaos! Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—alongside lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they navigate one of their wildest encounters yet in the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.2024-09-051h 2255:11 Podcast#29 | Iran: God Moving in the Underground Church (Lana Silk)In this episode, we explore the incredible work of Transform Iran, a group dedicated to bringing freedom and hope to the people of Iran. Despite strict government rules that make it illegal to leave Islam or own a Bible, the church in Iran is growing fast. Over a million Iranian Muslims have given their lives to Christ in the past 45 years.
Lana Silk, from Transform Iran, shares how the ministry focuses on three main areas: spreading the Gospel, helping new believers grow in their faith, and bringing positive change to communities. She discusses the importance of sacrifice...2024-09-0347 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E17 | Mitch and the MutantsHave something to say? Send us a Text!What if the key to escaping a collapsing cave lies in a pocket-sized hang glider? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—alongside lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they navigate toxic wastelands, bizarre mutations, and city intrigue in this thrilling episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.Fresh from...2024-08-291h 37Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E16 | The Wrath of VolnarHave something to say? Send us a Text!What happens when Rylee and Galen brave the perilous Spill and encounter a bugbear in distress? In this thrilling episode of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral, join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—with lead playtester and friend George Higgins, for an unforgettable journey filled with peril, humor, and high-stakes adventure.Evad...2024-08-152h 1455:11 Podcast#28 | The Power of God's Word (Monty Tuttle, Jon Mark Smith, and Clyde H. Slimp)In this episode, hosts Brooke Kehl and Dirk Smith are joined by three more EEM Regional Directors – Monty Tuttle, Jon Mark Smith, and Clyde H. Slimp to talk about the impactful stories from their recent trip to Hungary and Slovakia. The Region Directors discuss their visits with various EEM ministry partners and the powerful work being done in these regions.
Hear a moving story of one woman’s surprising reaction to discovering God’s Word in her heart language for the first time. Listen to the heartwarming stories of Palanta, a puppet ministry bringing Bibles and the messag...2024-08-0654 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E15 | The Blackrill River HeistHave something to say? Send us a Text!Can Rylee and Galen outsmart the River Watch and cunning bandits with a clever disguise? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—alongside lead playtester and close friend George Higgins, as they recount the thrilling escapades of the Land of Eem TTRPG, played in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This episode takes the party down the treacherous Blac...2024-07-251h 26Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem: Fantasy Actual Play S02E14 | Goblin Mills and Mega EnginesHave something to say? Send us a Text!What’s more chaotic: an automated goblin lumber mill gone haywire or managing decade-old inventory? Join Ben Costa and James Parks—creators of Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo and Dungeoneer Adventures—alongside lead playtester and stead-fast companion, George Higgins, as they navigate the tension-filled and humor-packed Gretchomaticus dungeon rescue mission in the Land of Eem TTRPG, set in the Mucklands Campaign Sandbox Setting and published by Exalted Funeral.This episode is a rollerc...2024-07-111h 2855:11 Podcast#27 | Unity Among Believers: A Common Mission (Jim Black, Lanny Tucker, and Darryl Willis)In this episode, hosts Brooke Kehl and Dirk Smith, along with guests Jim Black, Lanny Tucker, and Darryl Willis, share impactful stories from their trip to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, highlighting the power of Bible distribution and unity among believers.
Hear about a former Soviet Air Force officer turned pastor and a gathering of church leaders in Kazakhstan sharing their experiences. They share inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome challenges and embraced their faith wholeheartedly amidst great adversity. The conversation emphasizes the boldness of Christians, the need for more Bibles, and the importance of u...2024-07-021h 04