Shows
Wizards of EemHow to Market Your TTRPG: Tips for Indie Game Creators | Wizards of Eem Podcast EP016Send us a textYou made the game. That wild, wonderful TTRPG idea is real now—but how do you get people to notice it? On today’s Wizards of Eem Podcast, we dive into practical, approachable marketing advice to help indie creators take their tabletop RPG public without losing their soul (or their sanity).In this episode, we use Land of Eem as a case study to explore how to clearly describe your game in a way that resonates. We talk about why leading with tone, feel, and identity matters more...
2025-12-1923 min
Land of Eem: Actual PlayRoad to the Lost Willows | Land of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05EP07Have something to say? Send us a Text!The Land of Eem Actual Play returns with a squelching, swamp-soaked journey through the Quagmash—where the world doesn’t try to kill you outright so much as slowly wear you down. This episode is packed with whimsical danger, comedic chaos, and meaningful choices, perfect for fans of family-friendly TTRPG actual plays and the delightfully lighthearted world of Land of Eem.Brendo and Hooch kick things off in a spill-side tavern, scraping together hit points, coins, and clues about the...
2025-12-182h 00Land of Eem: Actual PlayHex-Crawl Survival, Gang Intrigue, and the Lost Willows | Land of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05EP06Have something to say? Send us a Text!The swamp doesn’t care if you’re ready—but in this Land of Eem Actual Play, our heroes limp in anyway, light on rations and heavy on jokes. What starts with broom-closet lodging, “swamp carrots,” and a roadside magic shop soon unravels into gang intrigue, dangerous travel, and a lead on the elusive Harn Twinbeard.Bogtown proves to be a crossroads: Charlie pays us for our troubles but tries to keep his Underbrink ties under wraps. We shadow the Tricky Toe pickup, uncover wh...
2025-11-201h 30Land of Eem: Actual PlayFriendship, Luck, and Tiny Swords | Land of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05EP05Have something to say? Send us a Text!"You’re bringing a mascot costume to a toxic dive?” That’s just another day in Bogtown for our heroes in this episode of the Land of Eem Actual Play—a lighthearted yet high-stakes TTRPG adventure full of gangs, gators, and mutant mayhem.We kick things off with a tense alleyway standoff against Bonnie Badapple that spirals into full-on chaos when the Copper Hats show up. A garbage can tumble, some questionable rolls, and a scrappy charm check later, and we’re on the run—hi...
2025-11-061h 55Wizards of EemInspirations Behind Land of Eem: Our Appendix N | Wizards of Eem EP015Send us a textWhat inspired the whimsical yet epic world of Land of Eem? In this episode of the Wizards of Eem Podcast, creators Ben Costa and James Parks pull back the curtain on the books, movies, comics, and shows that shaped the heart and humor of this one-of-a-kind fantasy RPG. Think of it as our very own Appendix N—a creative roadmap in the spirit of Gary Gygax’s legendary list from the Dungeon Master’s Guide.We explore how The Muppets,
2025-10-2429 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayWe Tried to Join a Noodle Gang and All We Got Was Food Poisoning | Land of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05 EP04Have something to say? Send us a Text!🍜 What starts as a secret bard concert with a speakeasy vibe takes a sharp left turn into Bogtown’s most feared storefront: Nork’s Noodles. In this episode of our Land of Eem Actual Play, the party dives into criminal intrigue, kitchen warfare, and dangerous loyalties in the heart of the Mucklands.The plan was simple: pull a Yojimbo, infiltrate a gang, and free the streets with clever moves. But behind the counter at Nork’s, things got messy fast. From Bonnie Ba...
2025-10-231h 35Wizards of EemFactions: The #1 Trick to Raising Stakes in Your TTRPG | Wizards of Eem Podcast EP014Send us a textHave you ever wondered why some tabletop RPG campaigns feel vibrant, dramatic, and full of intrigue—while others fall flat? In this episode of the Wizards of Eem Podcast, we’re diving deep into the power of factions and why they’re the ultimate tool for raising the stakes in your TTRPG.Factions aren’t just background flavor—they’re story engines. By introducing groups with clear goals, allies, and enemies, you can instantly transform your campaign into a world teeming with drama and consequence. We’ll break down how...
2025-10-1018 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05EP03 | Secrets of Underground Bard SceneHave something to say? Send us a Text!Bogtown’s underbelly comes alive with gang rivalries, conspiracies, and forbidden music in this whimsical yet perilous Land of Eem Actual Play adventure! Our family-friendly TTRPG campaign takes a dramatic turn as the party dives deeper into Bogtown’s hidden power struggles.Fresh off their victory in apprehending a Tricky Toe gang member for Detective Underbrink, the heroes soon uncover a dangerous secret world of rival factions and outlawed performances. When Brendo is invited by the enigmatic Delora the Blue to perform at a clandestine bard...
2025-10-091h 25Land of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem Fantasy Actual Play S05EP02 | How Not to Catch a FirebugHave something to say? Send us a Text!Step into the whimsical chaos of Land of Eem Actual Play, where family-friendly fantasy RPG meets hilariously bad decision-making! In this episode, Brendo the Welkin Bard and Hooch the Mushroom Rascal are tasked by Inspector Maisel Underbrink with capturing Vern “the Burn” Mancini—Bogtown’s most notorious arsonist.But in true Land of Eem fashion, things quickly spiral out of control. Instead of a straightforward arrest, our heroes hatch a bizarre plan involving more arson, shady insurance schemes, and gambling with Bogtown’s most dangerous crime boss...
2025-09-251h 28Wizards of EemHow to Be A Great Player at the RPG Table | Wizards of Eem Podcast EP013Send us a textWhat makes a good player at the table? In this episode of the Wizards of Eem podcast, we dive into what it means to bring your best self to a game of Land of Eem—and really, any TTRPG. From bold roleplay to embracing failure, we explore how to make every session more fun, not just for you, but for your whole group.We break down the essentials of player ownership, speaking in character, and finding joy in both success and failure. You’ll hear tips for shy players, stories of unex...
2025-09-0516 min
The Unhidden MinuteGordon ParksGordon Parks (1912–2006) was a groundbreaking Black American photographer, filmmaker, and writer whose work forever shaped American culture. Born in Fort Scott, Kansas, Parks grew up in poverty and experienced the harsh realities of segregation. Despite these challenges, he taught himself photography and used the camera as a tool for social change. His early photo essays revealed systemic racism and poverty, including his iconic American Gothic portrait of Ella Watson, a Black cleaning woman in Washington, D.C.In 1948, Parks became the first Black staff photographer at Life magazine, where he documented civil rights struggles, urban life, and po...
2025-09-0201 minLand of Eem: Actual PlayLand of Eem Actual Play RetrospectiveHave something to say? Send us a Text!From a chance encounter with Sven the Yodeling Troll to a daring escape through a portal with the legendary Eye of Ek, our 63-episode Land of Eem Actual Play campaign has been nothing short of a whimsical TTRPG journey. This finale retrospective dives into the wildest moments of Riley and Galen’s adventures across the Mucklins—and the unforgettable cast of characters that grew out of dice rolls and chance encounters.As we flip through George’s meticulous GM notes, we relive every twist: installing Sklunc...
2025-08-282h 04Wizards of EemRandom Encounters: The Secret to Effortless GMing | Wizards of Eem EP012Send us a textRandom encounters aren’t just filler—they add depth, immersion, and flexibility to your tabletop roleplaying games! Whether you're running a sandbox campaign or following a published adventure, random encounters provide the juice for entire sessions, making your world feel alive and unpredictable.In this episode, Ben Costa and James Parks break down why they rely on random encounters in Land of Eem, how they eliminate prep time for live games, and how they help GMs keep the adventure moving even when players take unexpected turns.Rollin' Down the Road...
2025-07-1118 minWizards of EemThe Case for Imbalanced Combat | Wizards of Eem EP011Send us a textWizards of Eem EP011 – The Case for Imbalanced CombatAre you a GM tired of building "perfectly balanced" encounters? In this episode, we explore why Land of Eem embraces unfair fights—and how imbalance leads to better stories.Topics include:Why imbalance creates tension, surprise, and creativityHow Land of Eem’s conflict system rewards clever thinkingFamous examples of underdogs overcoming impossible oddsReal GM tips for using imbalance as a storytelling toolForget stat math—this is about drama, discovery, and heroic failure.Tune in and l...
2025-07-0315 minWizards of EemThe Easiest Way to Run TTRPGs for Kids | Wizards of Eem EP010Send us a textAre you a parent or educator looking to introduce tabletop roleplaying games to kids? TTRPGs aren’t just fun—they build social skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities while keeping kids off screens!As new dads, Ben Costa and James Parks wanted to create an RPG that kids can pick up and play without the complexity of traditional games like D&D. That’s why they developed Dungeoneer Adventures: The Beginner’s RPG, designed specifically for families and classrooms.Rollin' Down the Road is featured in the Rickety Stitch Book 2: The Midd...
2025-06-2713 minWizards of EemWe Failed Every Roll…and it was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009Send us a textWe Failed Every Roll... and It Was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009 June 20, 2025 | Actual Play Tips & GM AdviceIn this episode of the Wizards of Eem podcast, we explore one of the most powerful storytelling tools in tabletop RPGs: failure.Join us as we break down the Land of Eem’s unique dice system and the mechanics that make failure not just tolerable—but fun and essential to great gameplay. Learn how complete failure, failure with a plus, and success with a twist turn miss...
2025-06-2016 minWizards 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
Lake Superior PodcastS6 E6: Fort Wilkins, Copper Harbor, and Living History in the Keweenaw – An Interview with Barry JamesLong before the Keweenaw Peninsula became a destination for hikers, bikers, and Lake Superior rock hounds, it was the stage for a national copper rush. Shortly after Michigan became a state in 1837, Geologist Douglas Houghton was sent to Copper Harbor to explore reports from Native Americans about copper in the region. By 1844, Fort Wilkins was built to be the military base helping to keep the peace as fortune-seekers came to the state’s most northern port. In this episode of the Lake Superior Podcast, Walt Lindala and Frida Waara talk with Barry James, Upper Peninsula historian with the...
2025-05-0730 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
Making Our WayNational ParksEpisode 57 - National ParksOfficial transcript: https://www.cheynemusic.com/transcriptsWe conclude our discussion of our National Parks experiences; the economic argument for National Parks; Niagara Falls: a cautionary tale; Nature as witness to Creation; Ranger talks; Rob’s career goal; the Canadian Rockies; and dogs in the National Parks.Links:Making Our Way is hosted through buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.comMore information about Deanna & Jim Cheyne is here: https://www.cheynemusic.comThanks for listening. Share with your friends. Find this and more at ch...
2025-04-2328 minWizards 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 minLand 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 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 48Wizards of EemThe Secret to Making a Graphic Novel | Wizards of Eem EP002Send us a textHow do you make a 657-page graphic novel series? In this episode, we, Ben Costa and James Parks, take you through every stage of the creative process behind Rickety Stitch and the Gelatinous Goo. From outlining and scripting to thumbnailing and illustrating, we share how we brought this epic fantasy adventure to life—one page at a time.If you’re curious about what it takes to make a massive creative project or looking for practical tips to refine your own process (and get it done!), this episode is packed with acti...
2025-02-2125 minLand 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 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 13Land 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 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 54
The McKinney PodcastAmy Kinkade - City of McKinney, Parks and RecreationWelcome to The McKinney Podcast, where we celebrate the people and happenings that make our city "Unique By Nature."Our guest for this episode is Amy Kinkade, Director of Parks and Recreation, City of McKinney.The MCKPOD is presented by RiskWell and FredShots Photography and recorded at the RiskWell studio in McKinney. Your hosts are James Jenkins and Fred MahusayKey Topics:
Amy Kinkade’s journey to becoming McKinney’s Parks and Recreation Director
The importance of preserving green spaces and...
2024-09-3037 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 05