Shows
Everyday Athlete Podcast NetworkDefining the Finish Line: An Everyday Athlete’s Journey with Joe HardinWhat if the finish line isn’t a banner, a medal, or a time on your watch but a moment where you finally bet on yourself?In Episode 40 of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin steps out from behind the mic and into his own story for the first time. This solo episode is an honest, vulnerable look at sobriety, mental health, running, and the quiet resilience that defines the everyday endurance athlete.Joe reflects on reaching the 40-episode milestone, the rarity of podcast longevity, and the role community has played in building something meaning...
2025-12-1956 min
Everyday Athlete Podcast NetworkBetting On Yourself To Finish | Beyond The Finish Line with Joe HardinIn this powerful episode of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin sits down with ultra runner and filmmaker Wes Plate to explore what it truly means to bet on yourself...in running and in life.Wes’s story is one of redemption, resilience, and relentless self-belief. After overcoming personal struggles with addiction, he found his way back to running and transformed his life through endurance. From his first 50K to multi-day ultras like the Moab 240 and Cocodona 250, Wes shares lessons learned from the trails , about pacing, presence, and pushing past fear.Listeners will also hear how We...
2025-10-161h 02
Everyday Athlete Podcast NetworkDefining Your Finish Line Journey | Beyond The Finish Line with Joe Hardin and guest Dean Karnazes What does it mean to truly go beyond the finish line? In this episode of Beyond The Finish Line, host Joe Hardin sits down with legendary ultra runner Dean Karnazes, the “Ultra Marathon Man” who redefined human endurance.Dean and Joe dive deep into the mindset that drives everyday athletes to take risks, embrace discomfort, and bet on themselves. From running 350 miles without sleep to tackling a marathon at the South Pole, Dean’s story isn’t just about miles. It’s about meaning in the milesTogether, they explore what it means to define your own finish l...
2025-10-151h 00
The On Purpose PodcastEp. 317 - Joe HardinThis week Jerrod sits down with Joe Hardin, host of the Beyond the Finish Line podcast. Joe shares his remarkable journey of overcoming addiction and embracing sobriety through the transformative power of running. With over five years sober, he discusses how running not only aided his recovery but also helped him rediscover his purpose.Tune in to hear Joe’s powerful insights on resilience, community support, and the importance of celebrating each step of the journey towards one's personal finish line.Connect with Joe on Instagram @trail_tortoise_runningThank you to our spon...
2025-08-2851 min
Running BehindJoe Hardin | Beyond The Shell: The Trail Tortoise's Journey To Sobriety, Purpose and GratitudeJoe Hardin (Trail Tortoise Running) is; a father, a husband, a trail runner, an ultra marathoner, a writer , a podcast host, a poet and soon to be race director, but maybe most importantly…Joe is sober. On December 1, 2019, Joe took his last drink. I am honored to sit down with him as he shares the details on his journey to sobriety and how along the way he found and fell in love with trail running and ultra marathons (oh, and also writing, podcasting and woodworking to name a few). This promises to be a powerful and inspiring (and fun) ep...
2025-06-101h 19
The Joe Vulpis PodcastTHE OFFICE PODCAST! JAN LEVINSON & MICHAEL SCOTT RELATIONSHIP, DINNER PARTY SCENE! (MELORA HARDIN)Melora Hardin starred as Jan Levinson on The Office and discusses her relationship with Michael Scott, show creator Greg Daniels, her first audition for the show, and the initial rise of success! Melora also discusses kissing David Schwimmer from FRIENDS, starring in movies THE HOT CHICK and 17 AGAIN with Zac Efron, and acting since childhood!Watch the video podcast here: https://youtu.be/DBrWCkFVUGgEpisode 334Welcome to the LIGHTWEIGHTS PODCAST official YouTube channel! Hosted by Joe Vulpis, AKA "Ugh It's Joe" and "The Joe"...
2025-03-111h 12
Miles & MountainsFrom Addiction to Ultra Running: Joe Hardin’s Journey of Sobriety and StorytellingJoe Hardin, known as Trail Tortoise Running, transforms personal struggles into inspiring narratives. Having overcome addiction and celebrated sobriety, Joe found solace in ultra running, allowing a deeper connection with nature and community. We explore his journey from battling personal demons to discovering the meditative power of running and the joy of storytelling.Join us as we venture into the world of ultra marathons with Joe, where camaraderie and creativity reign. Music and craftsmanship reveal another side of Joe’s multifaceted life. We discuss his favorite albums of Radiohead's "Kid A" and a love for Queens of th...
2024-12-2346 min
First Baptist DallasChristmas Devotional | The Joy of Peace with Dr. Joe HardinOn day eight of our Christmas devotional series, Associate Minister of Instrumental Music Dr. Joe Hardin shares his devotional, “The Joy of Peace.” Drawing from the angelic proclamation in Luke 2:13–14, Dr. Hardin reminds us that true, lasting peace is a gift that only Jesus can bring.
2024-12-1108 min
Ultra Origins09-Joe HardinIn this episode, we meet Joe Hardin, who shares his journey of hitting rock bottom due to alcohol and substance abuse, then turning to exercise and running, which led to his finishing his first 100K this spring. Joe is also now a podcaster hosting a new podcast called "Beyond the Finish Line with Joe Hardin". We had some technical snags during the recording of this episode, so it looks and sounds a little different than normal, but I hope you enjoy the conversation.
2024-09-0437 min
The Tribe of Runners Podcast023: Joe Hardin's Journey of Sobriety to Discover His Love for Trail Running & WoodworkingSummary
In this episode, Joe Hardin shares his journey of sobriety, woodworking, and trail running. He discusses how his love for woodworking and trail running developed from his childhood experiences and his sobriety journey. Joe also talks about his involvement with the Run Try Bike community and the Everbday Athlete Podcast Network. He emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and inspiring others in the running community. Joe shares his experiences in trail running, including challenging races and his upcoming goal of running a 100-miler and eventually a 200-miler. He emphasizes the importance of deepening...
2024-08-2751 min
Everyday Athlete Podcast NetworkFrom Addiction to Ultramarathons: Joe Hardin's Inspiring Journey | Running Tales with Craig LewisWelcome to another inspiring episode of the Running Tales with Craig Lewis podcast! In this episode, Craig sits down with Joe Hardin, the incredible host of the 'Beyond the Finish Line' podcast. Joe's story is one of transformation, resilience, and the power of running in recovery. Join us as we delve into Joe's personal journey of overcoming substance abuse and addiction, and how running became a cornerstone of his recovery and mental health.
🎙️ Introduction and Podcast Network (00:03 - 10:09)
Craig kicks off the conversation by introducing Joe Hardin, a passionate trail runner and the host of the 'Beyond the Finish Line...
2024-07-2559 min
Becoming UltraMy First Ultra: 129 Joe HardinJoe Hardin is a husband, father of two, ultrarunner, aspiring writer, and an artist. He is also an advocate for addiction recovery and a plant-based lifestyle. We spoke with Joe about his journey to sobriety and the impact it has had on his life. He shared how he discovered ultras and the support he receives from the ultra-running community. Joe is genuine, relatable, and full of wisdom. We are excited to see what the future holds for him and hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.
2024-05-0757 min
The Recovery Road Runners PodcastJoe Hardin: Ultra Runner, Woodworking Artist, Writer, Father, Husband, InspirationDoug enjoys a great inspirational conversation with ultra runner, woodworking artist, writer, and sobriety advocate Joe Hardin about recovery, running, creativity, and identity.Visit Joe's blog at:https://sobrietyandsawdust.wordpress.com/Visit us on Facebook and the web!https://www.facebook.com/groups/recoveryroadrunnersrrrhttps://www.recoveryroadrunners.com/Music by Liam SullivanTrack "Find A Way"https://soundcloud.com/isitartmusic/
2024-02-2638 min
Steady StateEpisode 8: Joe Hardin on Life Transformation and Tackling Longer Races (previous format)In this episode, we are joined by Joe Hardin and Coach Sarah Scozzaro. Joe has an inspiring path to becoming an ultrarunner and we help him level up his training for the upcoming years. Topics discussed are including strength work, intensity, increasing volume, and even being plant-based. If you'd like to be on a future episode, send me an email at beyonddnf@gmail.com.Follow along with Joe's Blog:https://sobrietyandsawdust.wordpress.com/Follow Sarah on Instagram for excellent content:
2024-01-311h 10
Biggus GeekusWhat makes a Challenging Game?What
makes a Challenging Game?
Episode 167 Streamed Live Tuesday November 28, 2023
Main Topic: What makes a Challenging Game?
CR vs random tables vs encounters to fit the ‘story’/adventure.
When does challenging become a meat grinder?
How can mechanics inform the challenge of a game?
Some examples for comparison:
DnD OSR : fairly random, expect that the ‘wilderness’ could produce
almost any creature, no skill checks to challenge Player characters-
proficiencies allowed for this to a lesser extent in later editions,
combat d...
2023-11-301h 51Biggus GeekusJoe V. Randy D&D Edition War Round 2: 1e vs. 2enotes to follow
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/biggusgeekus/support
2023-10-292h 11Biggus GeekusJoe v. Randy - A Battle in the D&D Edition WarNotes to follow
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2023-10-191h 59Biggus GeekusBig Geek Con #1 ReportEpisode 158 Streamed Live Tuesday September 26, 2023Main Topic: Big Geek Con 1- Post Shenanigans ReportPeople to thankWorkers/helpers: A special nod goes to Randy’s wife & K. Scott Appreciation to Joe Hardin and His wife, L. Neumann, Martenson, Greg T., Larry E., and Fladey ( for donations to raffle) as well as David Guyll (donations for raffle- extreme number of miniatures).The GMs: Fladey, Larry N., Larry E., Martenson, Kelley, Tim, and Benny S., Darth Thiek (Commander -style tourney), Halcyon, J. Demo, Nathan Lindy, and Geoff S.Special Kudos:Ben R...
2023-09-272h 07Biggus GeekusPlanescape ReimaginedEpisode 156 Streamed Live Tuesday September 12, 2023
Mental Illness as badge of Honor
https://dotesports.com/dnd/news/first-canonically-autistic-dnd-character-arrives-in-the-book-of-many-things
Main Topic: Planescape Reimagined
The Great Wheel Cosmology:https://srd.dndtools.org/srd/environment/planesDescriptionsAndCosmology.html
Randy’s Big IDEA: The prime (Prime Plane) is prime real estate throughout the Multiverse and all the other planes want it. Why? It is the only plane that is not dedicated to a single idea or alignment. It has desirable resource (its residents) and it is no...
2023-09-132h 03Biggus GeekusCampaigns, Cabin Con CC17 and Horde WarsEpisode 138 Streamed Live Tuesday May 9, 2023
Special Guest: DM Blackwall & N. Lindy(?)
Main Topic: Campaign Analysis:
Campaign types - advantages and disadvantagesOur first effort: Hyperborea by Jeffrey Talanian of North Wind
Adventures: https://www.hyperborea.tv/
Types - Railroad vs Sandbox vs A Mixture
Also Procedural and Amusement Parks
What type is our Hyperborea game going to be?
A Cabin Con Moment: Re-cap CC17 May 4-7, 2023
We had a great time! Lots of napping between games as we...
2023-05-102h 20Biggus GeekusMonster Mash #11: ORCS & More!Episode 137 Streamed Live Tuesday May 2, 2023
Anvil: Iron Age Magazine #1
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/anvil-iron-age-magazine-issue-1/x/27459496#/
Pinkertons of the Coast Update:
https://news.yahoo.com/magic-raid-wasnt-first-time-162558008.html
Main Topic: Monster Mash #11 ORCS & More!
Orcs, goblins, bugbears, hobgoblins, kobolds, and gnolls through the editions.
Some say they are misunderstood. Some say they are stand-ins for the “other”. Honest research into the origins of our shared hobby will reveal that these monsters, for monsters they are without doubt, are formed from...
2023-05-032h 12Biggus GeekusI Don’t Want No Stinkin’ D&DEpisode 131 Streamed Live Tuesday March 21, 2023
Main Topic: 10 games You can and Should Play if you don’t want no stink’in D&D!
Randy’s List: (will populate asap)
Joe’s List:
Hyperborea
Shadowrun
Dungeons and Delvers
Stars Without Number
Mutants and Masterminds
Chronicles of Aeres
Rifts
Earthdawn
Scarlet Heroes
Castles and Crusades
We briefly discuss each one listing its merits and sometimes a flaw or two. Joe’s list has many he ha...
2023-03-222h 15Biggus GeekusWhat do we want from a Dungeon?Episode 123 Streamed Live Tuesday January 24, 2023
Tired of OGL stuff yet?
Recent news and thoughts:
DnD Shorts https://youtu.be/J4kGMsZSdbY
T-shirted Historian https://youtu.be/jP2JLWPX_LI
Done with WoTC so maybe we should just move
Dungeoncraft https://youtu.be/4oV9Fnkyyfc
Grim's Project: https://postmortemstudios.wordpress.com/2023/01/24/opendnd-public-domain-roleplaying-panza-draft-1-0
Main Topic: What do we want from a Dungeon?
We used Dungeons by Central Casting to inspire the creation of a dungeon
(Thanks to Ryan David @nerdcognito and Max @legion of myth for the suggestion)
From both...
2023-01-252h 12Biggus GeekusTuesday Night Pre-Thanksgiving Chill StreamJoe started out solo, but was joined by Bruce Lombardo of Dix Division, Hungar the Starvarian, then Randy joined in.
links: Bruce: https://youtube.com/@YourBuddy75
Hungar: https://youtube.com/channel/UCHmL5dT_lLONt5ZnJ2eA1Nw
Scrying Dutchman's Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/scryingdutchman/the-modern-adventurers-guide-to-guns-and-gear-a-5e-add-on
If you would like to support our show, please like, subscribe, and share us where you are listening or viewing the show, also:
We are on all the socials, video and podcast places as well.
Cash Support
PayPal: https://paypal.me/b...
2022-11-273h 24Biggus GeekusAttributes in D&D and Other TTRPGsEpisode 114 Streamed Live Tuesday November 15, 2022
Main Topic: Attributed to Attributes
The attributes of a character:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attribute_%28role-playing_games%29
Compare and contrast the DnD attributes: STR, DEX, CON, INT, WIS, CHA
Other systems:
Target Number systems- DnD 3.X +Savage Worlds: https://www.uptofourplayers.com/ready-to-roll/savage-worlds-rules/
Marvel Superheroes RPG (FASERIP): https://rollhighordie.com/what-is-marvel-faserip/
Roll and keep systems- L5R, Vampire: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vampire:_The_Masquerade#Game_system
https://rollandkeep.fandom.com/wiki/Introduction_and_Design_Goals#What_is_Roll...
2022-11-162h 10Biggus GeekusRetro review of D&D’s White Plume Mountain (1e) | The OSR is Dying?Episode 107 Streamed Live Tuesday September 27 ,2022
Programming Note:
Joe was solo for half of the show. He was joined by Bruce Lombardo of Dix Division: https://www.youtube.com/c/brucelombardo75
Main Topic: Retro-Review: White Plume Mountain
Summary of the 1e module
Was a TSR module. Good DM advice.
Made in the Old School ‘DIY’ way. Light on story, big on expandability.
Big Geek Updates
BG Emporium: We showed of pics of the new design.
https://biggeekemporium.com/
Geekosphere:
The OSR is DYING?!?!?
Bruce and...
2022-09-282h 13
Biggus GeekusOn The DriveThruRPG ControversyEpisode 94 Recorded Thursday June 30th 2022
Joe flies solo to talk about how the latest nonsense from DriveThru should have us all looking for or making alternatives to the platform.
To support the show please go to:
https://www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com/support
Please like share and subscribe!
Links to Materia Discussed:
Lamentations of The Flame Princess (Raggi)
https://youtu.be/PufXMjSA-Kw
Total Party Skills (waspinator)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BQkf5TOFKyM
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/b...
2022-07-0208 minBiggus GeekusCC16 Re-Cap and Lessons learnedEpisode 88 Streamed Tuesday May 17, 2022
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
1. Call-ins/emails none so far
2. We’ve lost two great ones in comics- George Perez: https://www.vulture.com/2022/05/george-perez-death-marvel-dc-comic-book-artist.html and Neal Adams: https://nypost.com/2022/04/30/neal-adams-legendary-comic-book-creator-and-batman-artist-dead-at-80/
3. Midnight rpg being re-released…yep its 5e: https://www.enworld.org/threads/what-if-sauron-won-check-out-this-trailer-for-the-midnight-rpg.688317/
4. Dark tower Kickstarter is live!: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/devillich/original-adventures-reincarnated-7-the-dark-tower?ref=53cnov
Main Topic: CC16- Re-cap and Lessons Learned
Good
1. Great time, ran smoothly,
2. loved not running any games
3. played a lot
2022-05-181h 53
Biggus Geekus5 RPGs To Play That Are Not DnDEpisode 78 Tuesday, March 8, 2022
Special Guest Host Patrick Demo!
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
1.) No calls ins or emails.
2.) A salty Brian Sanderson https://winteriscoming.net/2022/02/23/brandon-sanderson-salty-george-rr-martin-work-fromsoftware-elden-ring/
3.) A successful Brian Sanderson https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dragonsteel/surprise-four-secret-novels-by-brandon-sanderson
5 Games
Joe:
Hackmaster
Rifts (Paladium)
Ars Magica
Champions
Aliens
Patrick:
Earthdawn
Shadowrun
Harn
Lone Wolf
Sliver
Lightning Round!
1) Why?
2) What quality does it have that is different from DnD?
3) Play...
2022-03-102h 59Biggus GeekusThe 3 R’s: Renounce, Ridicule and ReplaceEpisode 75 Tuesday, February 15, 2022
Main Topic: Renounce, Ridicule and Replace
1.) Vanity Fair calls critics trolls: https://boundingintocomics.com/2022/02/10/amazon-prime-video-uses-vanity-fair-to-attack-critics-of-the-lord-of-the-rings-the-rings-of-power-as-trolls/
2.) Venger calls for DnD insurrection of some sort: https://youtu.be/m10NnMSQdMo
3.) The Waspinator: https://youtu.be/wNYG7tfeLY8
4.) For Canon’s Sake https://youtu.be/gRy--1DqF-8
5.) Nerdrotic https://youtu.be/QyResw8A_ssRc
All these speak to something serious for TTRPG gamers and nerds and reasonable folk alike- we need to stop funding this nonsense.
RENOUNCE
Buying old TSR stuff from WoTC
Should we (Biggus Ge...
2022-02-172h 08Biggus GeekusEpisode 73: 13th Age Finale ... Part TwoCome see if Biggus Geekus can manage to finish this topic. We will also banter with live chat and discuss industry and geek news.
Support the show:
PayPal: paypal.me/biggusgeekus
https://streamlabs.com/biggusgeekus1/tip
13th Age Deep Dive Finale part 2
Episode 73 February 1, 2022
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands Instead of calls and emails we talk about the Ottawa Tucker Convoy
JP Sears video on the subject: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sl88jzJK1Rs
Comic readers don’t like bi-sexual Superman? Shocking!?! https://www.outkick.com/sale...
2022-02-032h 07Biggus GeekusPros & Cons of Spellcasting Systems In Your TTRPGEpisode 68 Streamed Live Tuesday December28, 2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
None
Silent Josh Presents:
Weird Frontiers: https://www.enworld.org/threads/weird-frontiers-takes-dcc-west.684619
New Dragonlance Novel: https://www.belloflostsouls.net/2021/12/dd-theres-a-new-dragonlance-trilogy-in-the-works-for-2022.html
Main Topic: Pros and Cons of Spellcasting Systems
Main Types
1. Vancian: fire and forget Dungeons and Dragons
2. Sub-category of Vancian such as spell slots limited but adjustable: Arcana Evolved
3. Spell Points: Savage Worlds
4. Stat Drain: Cypher System
5. Spell check system: Dungeon Crawl Classics
Consequences for Spell Casting
1. DnD...
2021-12-302h 10
Biggus GeekusOn the Clock: Tracking Time In Your DnD GameEpisode 62 Tuesday, November 16 ,2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Calls-ins from Taylor of Clerics Wear Ringmail
Contest of Champions
Silent Josh Presents:
DnD Movie: https://www.slashfilm.com/658391/dungeons-dragons-release-date-cast-and-more/
DnD TV Show: https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-g4-tv-show-announced/
Willow TV Show: https://tvline.com/2021/11/12/willow-tv-series-video-warwick-davis-cast-disney-plus/
Marvel Crumbling: https://cosmicbook.news/marvel-crumbling-disney-bob-chapek-rejects-kevin-feige-woke-content
Joe Has A Rant: There are many ways to run your Dungeons and Dragons Campaign
Main Topic: On The Clock:
Tracking Campaign/Adventure time:
Tracking actions, initiative & spells
When is...
2021-11-182h 03
Biggus GeekusHow High is too High to Play?Episode 59 Tuesday October 26,2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Call-ins from: Jason, Taylor and John Allan Large
Interesting article: Arneson's Hit Points for Characters
http://playingattheworld.blogspot.com/
Contest of Champions #2
Wizard Tower Games “Controversy” https://twitter.com/realwizardtower/status/1452767531798781955/photo/1
Main Topic: How High is Too High to Play?
FOCUS: DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS
1.) Preparing for High level while playing low or mid-levels: Plant the seeds
2.) Understanding the characters: wizards v fighters v clerics v rogues
3.) Understanding the limitations of the rules: Usually No Official rules beyo...
2021-10-282h 17Biggus GeekusIt’s Time to Level Up!Episode 58 Tuesday October 19, 2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
1.) Call-ins & Emails
2.) Truth, Justice and … eh whatever: https://variety.com/2021/film/news/superman-new-motto-dc-fandome-1235090712/
3.) Contest of Champions #2- how goes it?
4.) THAC0 the clown
Main Topic: It’s Time to Level Up! “definition”: To "level" or "level up" means to gain enough XP to reach the next level.
Character Improvement/Advancement
What should “leveling up” mean practically?
Is it necessary?
What should it look like going from level 1 to level 2, or Novice to Seasoned?
Should there be a cap on adv...
2021-10-212h 18Biggus GeekusThe Ultimate Topic: Alignment- yes no or maybeEpisode 57 Tuesday October 12,2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
1.) Call Ins
Jason of Nerd's RPG Variety Cast
Taylor of Clerics Wear Ringmail
2.) Old email address
3.) New mail?
4.) Finally a Tarrasque figure: https://www.ign.com/articles/dnd-tarrasque-mini-statue-reveal-wizkids but of course $399.99...yeah, pass.
5.) Gay Johnathan Kent
6.) Arkhaven
7.) Eric July, RipperVerse
Main Topic: The Ultimate Topic: Alignment- yes or nor or maybe?
1.) What is alignment for?
2.) The Various Dungeons & Dragons Alignment Systems along with a few others
OD+D: Character Alignment, Including Various Monsters...
2021-10-142h 20Biggus GeekusBringing Your World to LifeEpisode 56 Friday October 8 ,2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
John from Red Dice Diaries
Jason from The Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast
News from the Silence (news from Silent Josh):
1.) Juiblex Figure
2.) Superman's Boyfriend?
3.) Metric System in DnD?
4.) https://comicbook.com/gaming/news/dungeons-dragons-counterspell-5e-statblock-changes/
5.) https://screenrant.com/tabletop-rpg-campaigns-non-violent-apocalypse-world-pacifist/
6.) https://www.wargamer.com/dnd/alignment-rules-changes
7.) Legion of Myth: gatekeepers Episode 1: https://youtu.be/T19Tyl1Vqcw
8.) Critical role makes the bucks: https://youtu.be/UndkdHKgdl0
Main Topic: Bringing your world to Life (sparking in...
2021-10-082h 28Biggus GeekusThe Con GameEpisode 55 Wednesday, September 29,2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Jason of Nerds RPG Variety Cast
John of Red Dice Diaries
A.) Joe cheated on Randy: https://youtu.be/RdQN0RNyT0U
Links on Dungeons and Dragons History
https://followmeanddie.com/2017/05/11/review-dave-arnesons-true-genius-robert-j-kuntz/
https://nerdvanamedia.com/gaming/fact-check-lorraine-williams-destroyed-not-created-tsr/13825/
https://dmdavid.com/tag/tag/lorraine-williams/
https://archive.org/details/60_minutes_on_dungeons_and_dragons/60_minutes_on_dungeons_and_dragons.flv
B.) Contest of Champions #2: and the winner is… hockeypuckjr
C.) Next edition of DnD announced? 50th anniversary 2024…5.5E? ht...
2021-09-302h 38Biggus GeekusOOC Player Choices, FrogGate, DnD 5e is Flawed?Episode 54 Wednesday September 20, 2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Call Ins: Jason of Nerd’s RPG variety Cast and John of The Red Dice Diaries
Contest of Champions 2: Out of the Abyss (5e DnD hardback), Codex Infernus (Savage Worlds guide to Hell), or Maximum XCrawl (PF 1e version of X-Crawl)
Game Coming up this weekend.
Gen Con:
GenCon 2021 Report from Greg D.
FROG-GATE: https://youtu.be/JtAoAWc7ObY
Kotaku Article Requires Discussion: https://kotaku.com/d-d-5th-edition-is-deeply-flawed-so-why-not-play-somet-1847698975
Main Topic: OOC Player Choices
1) In-depth vs li...
2021-09-232h 32Biggus GeekusDnD Campaign Design: Top-down vs. Bottom-upEpisode 53Wednesday September 15,2021.
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
We played last Friday…together and it was Mudsword V.1
Contest of Champions 2
Call ins:
Jason Connerly of Nerd's RPG Variety Cast
Taylor of Cleric's Wear Ringmail podcast
Pat of Pointy Hat Games
5 quick treats (courtesy of our very own Silent Josh)
Tier and Levels in Dungeons and Dragons
Stupid THACO?
Descent again
50 Riddles for DMs
Becoming a Pro DM
Main Topic: Top-Down or Bottom-Up Campaign Design?
scrivthebard
noblecrumpet
Adv...
2021-09-162h 36Biggus GeekusNaming Conventions in RPGsEpisode 52 Wednesday September 8, 2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Call ins from Jason and Joe
We talk about Randy’s recent gaming and Joe’s lack, office work, and:
Ed Greenwood’s new campaign setting Kickstarter for 5e D&D
EnWorld’s rabbit hole discussing New School and Old School playstyles.
Naming Conventions in RPGs
Definition: A naming convention is a convention (generally agreed scheme) for naming things.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naming_convention
How important is it in tabletop roleplaying games?
If a GM decides on one...
2021-09-092h 00Biggus GeekusDungeons and Dragons Class Analysis: The Gish (The Multiclassing Question)Episode 51 Wednesday September 1, 2021
Call ins & Emails from the Outlands
Jason
Taylor
Nod to Joe Richter- dropped his MOTU calls as we were arguing past one another in many cases and are gonna have to agree to disagree and move on…because neither of us are changing, Props to him for quadruple Bible reading however.
Main Topic: Class Analysis: A Gish (and Multi-classing in general)
Where we discuss the history and define terms relating to the gish and multiclassing in general and through the carious editions of Dungeons and Dragons.
De...
2021-09-022h 44Biggus GeekusA BG Retrospective: Rules, Rulings, and RolesA BG Retrospective: Rules, Rulings, and Roles
Episode 50 Wednesday August 25,2021
Special Guests:
Patrick from Pointy Hat Games
Taylor from Clerics Wear Ringmail
Call Ins and messages:
Jason
Taylor
Josh
The Positive Material Plane
Played 5e 1-shot last Saturday…much fun…no short rest…pretty deadly challenging!
Main Topic: Rules, Rulings & Roles
1. After 50 episodes:
A.) Technical side
B.) Letting each other speak: Joe, Randy & Guest(s)
C.) Show Focus
D.) Our journey to OSR Adjacent
E.) Mud-sword the RPG
...
2021-08-273h 17Biggus GeekusTop 10 Inspirational Books For Your TTRPGEpisode 49 Wednesday August 18, ,2021.
Call ins and Emails
Jason of The Nerds RPG Variety Podcast
Our friend Josh shared WizKids announces sprue-based minis
The Positive Material Plane
The Contest of Champions is next week…Episode 50! Enter Here
Main Topic: Top 10 Inspirational Books
Can we categorize them as to what RPG it best helps us with?
How do books motivate you?
Should you try to mimic Books at the table?
How about stealing the plot?
How valuable are Books for gaming research?
Do you ever read bo...
2021-08-192h 18Biggus GeekusA Biggus Geekus One ShotEpisode 48 Wednesday August 11,2021.
Joe is out this week due to illness
The Plane of Concordant Opposition (The Outlands)
Laurel Hubbard apology.
Friend’s daughter no like-y our show … and that is fine!
The Contest of Champions Update
The prizes: Waterdeep Dragon Heist, Feng Shui 2, or (Labyrinth Lord) Advanced Edition Companion.
Game Review: Ankur- The Kingdom of the Gods
Soon to be on KS as of September 1staccording to its author, Chris Miller.
Mono-Gamy or Poly-Gamy - which is better?
Shameless Plug Time:
If you...
2021-08-131h 06Biggus GeekusDragons in Fantasy RPGsEpisode 47 Wednesday July 28, 2021
Call ins & Emails
Taylor
John
Jason
The Positive Material Plane
Great Minds think alike: we both picked “In the Name of the King” for Jason’s give-away competition.
Update on our 50thepisode/ viewership YouTube GIVE-AWAY?
Played Deadlands last week also, ran a short 13th age scenario
Dragons in Fantasy RPGs
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon
Iconic: HALF OF THE NAME of the most famous of RPGS: Dungeons & Dragons
We discuss Types, Sizes, Rarity, Magic usage, Alignment, Combat, Dragons Beyond combat...
2021-07-292h 01Biggus GeekusResource Management: Abstraction or AccountingEpisode 46 Friday July 16 ,2021
Call ins & Emails
Jason
Tim
The Positive Material Plane
Upcoming Contest, New twitter account
Resource Management in RPGS: Abstraction vs Accounting
https://edowarsblog.wordpress.com/2011/12/26/supply-points-abstracting-resource-management-in-dd/
Systems to consider: OD+D – 5e, Savage Worlds: EX: Deadlands vs Necessary Evil, Post-Apocalyptic: Zombie Apocalypse vs RIFTS, 13th Age, others?
Why is it that "mundane" resource management (rations, fatigue) is generally seen as tedious, while "fantastic" resource management (power uses, item charges) isn't?
Would you want to play a game where "mundane" resource ma...
2021-07-211h 28Biggus GeekusHow Do You Roll (DnD styles)?Episode 45 Wednesday July 14, 2021
Call ins & Emails
Josh
John
Taylor
The Positive Material Plane
50th episode/YouTube subscriber contest
We played last week, Deadlands, Twitter account
How Do You Roll (DnD styles)?
The Crawls: Dungeon, Mega-Dungeon, Hex, Point, Urban
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungeon_crawl
https://www.runagame.net/2014/03/the-hex-crawl.html
Jaquaying the Dungeon
https://slyflourish.com/pointcrawls.html
http://hillcantons.blogspot.com/2016/02/hexcrawls-vs-pointcrawls.html
The Drives:
Character Driven
Plot Driven
Homebrew DM Plotted
Character driven...
2021-07-152h 26Biggus GeekusWhat Type of Gamemaster Are YouEpisode 44 Wednesday July 7, 2021
Call ins
Jason
John
Joe
Andy
The Positive Material Plane
Going to play some OSR- Swords and Wizardry running one of the Classic Adventures reincarnated as a starting point tomorrow.
Main Topic: GM Types
Do GMs GM different games differently? I.E., do you GM Deadlands differently than 3.5 DnD?
Do you fit into one or more of these types? Creator, Director, Fanatic, Manager, Opponent, Player, and Romantic: https://gnomestew.com/what-type-of-gm-are-you/
On a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high) how important...
2021-07-082h 33Biggus GeekusTop 10 Inspirational Movies for RPG GamingEpisode 43 Recorded on Tesday June 22, released on Wednesday June 30, 2021
Call ins
Jason of Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast
Andy of Expedition to The Grizzly Peaks
The Positive Material Plane
Playing Swords & Sorcery Whitebox
Got Lion & Dragon in hardback
Main Topic: Top 10 Inspirational Movies for RPG Gaming
Joe’s List: Superman, Blade, Dune, The Holy Grail, The Dark Crystal, The Three Musketeers (1978), Iron Man, Army of Darkness, Wrath of Khan, Willow
Randy’s List: LoTR, Aliens, Princess Bride, Tombstone, Army of the Dead (Netflix), Conan, Hellboy, Star Wars...
2021-06-301h 21Biggus GeekusClass & Role: Fighter AnalysisEpisode 42June 16,2021
Call ins
John Alan Large
Joe Richter
Taylor
The Positive Material Plane
50th episode contest
Taylor has a podcast!
Main Topic: Class and Role: Melee Analysis
Warrior: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/warrior
DnD Focus : Through the DnD editions
Recall the old adages? Do you like to play them?
Have they lost their luster in later editions? If so, why?
Which DnD version of Fighter is your favorite one? Why?
Opinions on fighter sub-classes/variants
What might be some f...
2021-06-232h 08Biggus GeekusPlaying the Whole GameEpisode 41 June 15, 2021
Call ins
Jason
John Alan Large
The Positive Material Plane
Our hobby now allows such an easy entrance to producing/designing RPG products.
Main Topic: Playing the Whole Game
Level 1 (beginning) and level 20(max level) or Open-Ended (no end in sight or planned)
Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dd3Bc_6ks3U
Like it, Love it, or Leave it - Getting to Know your Hosts: 3 questions for each of us
Dig this Setting: Rippers
Victorian era Monster Hunting...
2021-06-151h 40Biggus GeekusClass and Role Analysis: The ClericEpisode 40 Tuesday June 8, 2021
Call ins
Taylor
Jason
Andy
The Positive Material Plane:
Further savage antics
We are Now on Odysee
Class and Role: Divine Analysis
Healer discussion
1.) Focus: The Cleric Through the DnD editions
2.) Recall the old adages? Do you like to play them?
3) Are they too good? Are they too generic?
4) Which DnD version of Cleric is your favorite one? Why?
5) What might be some fun variants?
6) What are some final thoughts on Clerics if any?
A Cabin...
2021-06-092h 11Biggus GeekusRPG Collections & DownsizingEpisode 39 Wednesday June 2, 2021
Call Ins
Andy
Patrick
The Positive Material Plane
1)We played the Sanctuary game- good times- dumb wizard, serial killer, assassins guild, and ghosts, oh my!
2) Taylor from Clerics Wear Ringmail Blog in response to us being “noisome”:
3) T-shirt idea: “Biggus Geekus, you just have to smell it to appreciate it”
RPG Collections & Downsizing
Collector mentality - do you have it or not? Buying new RPGs: got to get it all or not? If you have space, then why ditch it?
A Cabin Con Mome...
2021-06-031h 53Biggus GeekusWhat Does Evil DoEpisode 38 Wednesday May 26, 2021
Call ins
Jason
Andy
Tim
The Positive Material Plane
Back to Sanctuary/SW game this coming weekend?
New Article Up: Orcs are Not Human
Main Topic: What Does Evil Do?
Definition of evil- profound immorality and wickedness, especially when regarded as a supernatural force
1) The 7 Deadly Sins
2) How to Portray Evil as a GM?
3.) Which Deadly sins map onto the various villain archetypes above?
4.) It is ok to use very simple/cliched villains or villainous plots to
5.) Avoid...
2021-05-272h 24Biggus GeekusExtreme PCsEpisode 37 May 19, 2021
Call-ins:
Jason of Nerd’s RPG Podcast
John of The Red Dice Diaries
Taylor of the Clerics Wear Ringmail blog
Patrick of Pointy Hat Games
The Positive Material Plane
Reviews:
“5”: ‘Highly Recommended: Excellent, Funny, and Entertaining ‘
“1”: ‘Mouthbreathers: Their views are pretty rancid. Shame as they have some good things to say about games but they just can’t get past the whinging bitterness about their hobby being stolen’
Main Topic: Extreme PCs
1. The comparison character: Fighty -Mc Fighter Man, Mr. Wizard, Holy HealBOt, and Sneaky Thief Dud...
2021-05-191h 52Biggus GeekusThe Elusive Game BalanceEpisode 36 Wednesday, May 12, 2021.
Call ins
The Positive Material Plane
Cabin Con starts tomorrow. How can we rationally talk about anything else?
The Elusive Game Balance
What is Game Balance?
"a state of equilibrium between two or more elements of a game."
https://evil-plan-banjo.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-first-question-of-game-balance.html
1) Is it an illusion?
Pro: https://mythcreants.com/blog/four-reasons-balance-matters-in-roleplaying-games/
Neutral: http://evil-plan-banjo.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-first-question-of-game-balance.html
Con: https://ruscumag.wordpress.com/2010/10/12/rpg-design-the-illusion-of-game-balance/
2) Within rules mechanics
3) Within the RP/Story part of the game
4...
2021-05-121h 51Biggus GeekusWasting Time At the Table?
Episode 35 Wednesday May 5, 2021 ( J )
The Call-In Segment
Jason of Nerd’s RPG Podcast
John of The Red Dice Diaries
The Positive Material Plane
1) It requires math and reading. Yes!
2) We have a YouTube channel now: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVze8TfIB16j0PdmE4lOJg
3) Jeff Goldbloom and Dark Dice Actual Play
Wasting Time at the Table of Time
Sometimes it’s the player’s fault. Sometimes it’s the DM’s fault. Sometimes it’s everyone’s fault.
A Cabin Con Moment
How do we...
2021-05-062h 31Biggus GeekusPotpourri With Patrick Part DeuxEpisode 34 Wednesday April 28, 2021
The Positive Material Plane
Call ins: Jason, Patrick, John, and New Caller Taylor!
Other: Our hobby invites all manner of participants: highly committed, casual and all flavors in between.
Potpourri With Patrick II
1.) Dealing with Player conflict at the Table
2.) Homebrew vs Pre-Fab- adventures/campaigns/rules
3.) Fudging Dice rolls: Yay or Nay
4.) Interrupting the DM’s monolog, can it be justified?
5.) Splitting the Party: Yay or Nay
6.) Let the Players Help
A Cabin Con Moment
How to deal with Player conflict at...
2021-04-292h 24Biggus GeekusGaming InspirationEpisode 33Wednesday April 21,2021
The Positive Material Plane
Call-ins: Jason has a whopping 33
We are in a Golden Age of Options: Crowdfunding collection
Gaming Inspiration
Both Direct and Indirect
Movies, Books, Comics, Other Games, Miniatures, Maps, Not playing, Discussion of RPGs with friends, Browsing Internet, Other Podcasts, Biggus Geekus, YouTube, Music, Blogs
A Cabin Con Moment
What is inspiring about CC? Which is greater Before or After? What inspires you to prepare for CC?
Dig this Setting: The Forgotten Realms (1987 1e, 2e, 3e, 4e, and 5e):
2021-04-222h 48Biggus GeekusManaging the Known vs the UnknownEpisode 32 Wednesday, April 14, 2021
The Positive Material Plane
Call-ins (Jason Connerly, and John Alan Large)
Good news? Making games and making game systems
Managing the Known vs the Unknown
1)Player knowledge vs character knowledge
2) How does DM keep what he knows from influencing
3) How much of the campaign setting to share with the players
4) GM Screens- is all about The Known vs the Unknown
5) The Impact of Knowing vs NOT Knowing
A Cabin Con Moment
What do we know about CC15 so far? attendees, theme, games...
2021-04-153h 27Biggus GeekusGame & Gamer MindsetsThe Positive Material Plane
Call ins: Jason of the Nerds RPG Variety Cast
3 great things about our hobby
Game & Gamer Mindsets
Def. of Mindset:a habitual or characteristic mental attitude that determines how to interpret and respond to situations.
Games and Their Mindsets:
Dungeons and Dragons (Clones +OSR, 13th Age , Pathfinder,Warhammer, Shadow of the Demon Lord, Rolemaster)
TSR vs WOTC Dungeons and Dragons
1. Definitional Characteristics of TSR/OSR vs WOTC DnD
2. 3e and the FEEL of DnD
Savage Worlds (GURPs/Gurps-lite, Cortex System, Hero System)
...
2021-04-082h 32Biggus GeekusDiscussing & Playing RPGs And How to Even it Out (twofer)Episode 30 of our podcast and the date is Wednesday March 31, 2021.
The Positive Material Plane
What have you done this week related to RPGs that has been a net positive for you and why?
Discussing vs Playing RPGs and how to even it out
1) Ignoring the podcast time, which do you/we do more of?
2) What do you think most gamers do more of, talk about or play?
3) Why don’t we play more?
4) Is discussion ever preferred over playing?
5) What is your preferred ratio of playing to discussing?
...
2021-04-011h 20Biggus GeekusMaking High Level Play Playable (updated)Episode 29 Wednesday March 24, 2021
The Positive Material Plane “Something positive about TTRPGs that we have learned over the years” We get to be heroes!
Call-Ins & Sundry
Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast
John from Red Dice Diaries
Making High level Play Playable (in D & D)
1. What are the issues?
2. Why this topic? OSR friends, recent discussions on Tenkar’s Iron Rations
3. Making the campaign open to higher level play at the start.
4. Skip the temptation to make it Monty Haul.
5. Managing player expectations. Defining/Clarifying PC goals.
2021-03-301h 57
Biggus GeekusMaking High Level Play PlayableEpisode 29 Wednesday March 24, 2021
The Positive Material Plane “Something positive about TTRPGs that we have learned over the years” I get to be a hero!
Call-Ins & Sundry
Jason from Nerd’s RPG Variety Cast
John from Red Dice Diaries
Making High level Play Playable (in D & D)
1. What are the issues?
2. Why this topic? OSR friends, recent discussions on Tenkar’s Iron Rations
3. Making the campaign open to higher level play at the start.
4. Skip the temptation to make it Monty Haul.
5. Managing player expectations. Defining...
2021-03-251h 56Biggus GeekusPotpourri with PatrickEpisode 28 Wednesday March 17, 2021
Call Ins
Our man, Jason C with some truth bombs!
Check out Iron Rations podcast from 3/12/21 “Why 5e Doesn’t teach how to DM”
The Gaming NEWS:
1) 3-D Printed Minis
2) Greg Gillespia’s Barrowmaze: Dwarrowdeep
3) The Terminator RPG Kickstarter is up
4) Encyclopedia Kickstarter is live- for DM’s & 15 different cities
5) Obvious leftist article on why DnD is dropping alignment
6) “Cook”-y Monster is up to it again- The Darkest House
A Potpourri of Gaming Topics
1) Erik Tenkar on The Most influential Ed...
2021-03-182h 21Biggus GeekusShorties Episode 3Episode 3, Sunday March 14, 2021
Call Ins
Fun times with Jason from NERDS RPG Variety
Jason discusses issues such as Player Agency, Bennies and other Hero Points, Our website (such as it is) and many other topics.
Wing’in It!
We discuss Race n Dungeons and Dragons, and how it has lost its savor.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/biggusgeekus/support
2021-03-1559 minBiggus GeekusPlayer Agency & Bennies (A Twofer)Episode 27 Wednesday, March 10, 2021
We open with our usual intro and we talk about recent and future games.
The Gaming NEWS
KS cancels Perfect RPG Campaign:
Zak Smith sues Gencon and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k-3HX1-wrlQ
DnD Survivalist Guide KS with Douglas Niles
A Twofer
1) Player Agency - this is one of those terms like RPGs and replayability that is tough to define. We give it the Geekus treatment.
Stack Exchange: What is Player Agency and what is it good for
Ask Angry: Stealing A...
2021-03-112h 18Biggus GeekusShorties episode 2Sunday March 7, 2021
Call Ins
Fun times with Jason from NERDS RPG Variety Cast
-His GM stuff
-SW: edges his only negative (btw: we are old as well - 54)
-Re-skinning trolls/don’t say the name/
-Group think/Sourcing for certain skill checks
-No such thing as GM metagaming?
-GM keeps sheets behind lots of work
-Games as Therapy
John and Hannah from the Red Dice Diaries
-chuckled at our mention of her LARP experience
Wing’in It!
How different should different tasks look in t...
2021-03-081h 01Biggus GeekusThe Obligatory Meta-Gaming EpisodeEpisode 26 Wednesday March 3, 2021
We begin with our typical intro and talk about upcoming games.
The Gaming NEWS
Big Money KS
DnD Gets New Division at Hasbro
WOTC Gets a New Logo
WOTC Levels Up at Hasbro
WOTC Makes More Money Than Hasbro’s Toy Division
Production update for New DnD Movie and Magic TV Series
6 Things The New DnD movie needs, according to Dicebreaker
Hugh Grant in as villain for movie
When should GMs ask for dice rolls
Play D &D to Discover your Gender ID...
2021-03-052h 00Biggus GeekusCR & PredictabilityEpisode 25 February 24, 2021
1st Year Anniversary (roughly)
Our usual intro and gaming blather…
Special Guest
Glen Halstrom of Radio Grognard
The Gaming NEWS
Another roll20 ranking this week (I think I know what Uncategorized is) And even more
Pericle RPG
Ravenloft …again…: and again
Beadle and Grimm Strikes Again with Finger Puppets(?) ONLY $359!!!
Jon Peterson’s Other book
Main Topic: CR & Predictability in RPGs
We discuss: Challenge Ratings and appropriately challenging encounters.
Angry GM CR, There’s a Better Way (Part 1)
Angry GM CR, The...
2021-02-251h 50Biggus GeekusShorties Episode 1Tuesday February 16, 2021
We do our usual intro and discuss recent gaming.
Call Ins
Jason from Nerds RPG Variety Cast calls in to discuss various points relative to episode 23.
Wing’in It!
A rambling discourse of many RPG topics
Shameless Plug Time
If you would like to support our show, please check out our website at: www.biggusgeekuspodcast.com/support
Any contribution is much appreciated, and we thank you for your consideration.
Please share the podcast with your friends. Its available most pl...
2021-02-2133 minBiggus GeekusPC Progression: Zero to Hero … OR NOT?Episode 24, Monday February 15, 2021
We do our usual intro and briefly talk about home games.
The Gaming NEWS:
Savage Pathfinder Q & A
Free League’s One Ring 2e KS good start (but read this short article)
We’re #2!! We’re #2!! …are you really?
A Mathematics Moment
We (or Randy to be honest) goes deep into the math of 5e’s advantage/disadvantage mechanic. Some reading can be found here
Main Topic: PC Progression: Zero to Hero … OR NOT?
We discuss RPG character progression (or advancement) types:
Zero-to-Hero...
2021-02-161h 45Biggus Geekus5E DnD a Belated ReviewEpisode 23 February 10 ,2021
Call In: From Jason of Nerds RPG Variety Cast
The Gaming NEWS:
Jon Peterson continues to provoke good discussion: “Does System Matter?”
Recall: The Blood War
Shadow of the Demonlord (been around a while)
1 on1 RPG play
Pathfinder spells to SW Powers
Keith Baker’s Eberron Remember the win
Main Topic: 5E Dungeons and Dragons- A Belated Review
We start with the Players Handbook: Rollout, Production Value, and Readability
WOTC’s replacement site for bad first printings
Phil, Joe and Randy St...
2021-02-112h 09Biggus GeekusOSR ReDuxEpisode 22 Recorded on Wednesday February 3, 2021
The Gaming NEWS:
Rob Kuntz, TLB Games and Legends of Roleplaying
Additional Info
Free Sunken City Map Package
Immersion and Roleplaying
Zinequest 3
Call Ins
We really appreciate the praise!
Red Dice Diaries- John Alan Large comments on episode 20 and about the OSR
Hobbs & Friends of the OSR - Jason Hobbs [Low Fantasy Gaming] comments on episode 21: Railroad vs Sandbox
Min-Topic - OSR Redux
Re-cap and re-hash our discussion on 3D with E.Tenkar and G. Halstrom on the Dungeons...
2021-02-041h 50Biggus GeekusThe Railroad vs The SandboxThe RR vs The Sandbox
Episode 21. Wednesday January 27, 2021
We do the usual intro and chit chat.
The Gaming NEWS:
Dragonlance Classic Announced
The Rise of Offensive Games
And Virtue Signal The Game of Social Justice
The Origins of Rule Zero
What’s an RPG?
Main Topic: The RR vs the Sandbox
We define the terms from the interwebs:
Railroad
Linear game design
Carrot-and-stick
Sandbox Game Design
We discuss these definitions, and a number of questions with respect to hoe th...
2021-01-281h 53Biggus GeekusIs This OSR?Is this OSR?
Episode 20. Tuesday, January 19th, 2021
We do our usual intro and recent gaming reports.
The Gaming NEWS:
DnD TV Show in the works: and oh and
The Origins of Rule Zero
A Bit more news on Savage Pathfinder: It launched today [ 1-19-21]. Did you back it?
How to roleplay?
Main Topic: Is this the OSR?
We define and discuss various aspects of OSR play, what we like and don’t like. We hope its an accurate decription.
A Cabin Con Moment
We r...
2021-01-201h 10Biggus GeekusPlayer BurnoutEpisode 19 Wednesday January 13, 2021
We have our usual intro and gaming situations.
The Gaming NEWS:
Candlekeep Mysteries (announced 1-12-21)
Really just the Korvair Map Rug
Is this the way?
Origins pushed back to fall in hopes of F2F Con
Free maps
New Dragonlance Novel Announced?
Main Topic: Player Burnout (in RPGS)
We define burnout and talk about how to recognize it. We also talk about solutions, and other deeper things.
A Cabin Con Moment
Do you think we will ever tire/grow...
2021-01-141h 14Biggus GeekusCombat in RPGsEpisode 18 Recorded on Wednesday January 6, 2021
We have our usual intro and gaming situations.
The Gaming NEWS:
ENWORLD is 20 years old
Diversity woes for WOTC
Playing for Two
Main Topic: Combat in RPGs
We get into the nitty gritty of combat: initiative, movement, terrain, length, PC roles, PC vs Player skill, and a host of other questions.
Initiative types taken from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Initiative_(role-playing_games)
Some Questions taken from: https://rpg.stackexchange.com/questions/7040/how-do-i-make-and-use-tactically-interesting-terrain/7044#7044
A Cabin Con Moment
...
2021-01-071h 26Biggus GeekusIf You Build Them We Will Play - Making PCsEpisode 17 Recorded on November 28, 2020 for release on December 31, 2020
We have our usual Intro and moaning about the lack of in person gaming.
Back in My Day
We talk about the Talisman board game from way back.
Main Topic: Making PCs in DnD
We compare and contrast how PCs are made in the various editions of DnD. In situations where our experience is limited and/or it is from Eons ago quotes were taken from https://rpg.stackexchange.com/questions/13212/what-are-the-big-differences-among-the-dd-editions
We also name preferences and compare to some other...
2020-12-311h 43Biggus GeekusWhat We Love about RPGsSaturday November 28, 2020 pre-recorded for Wednesday December 23rd, 2020
Our usual intro and gaming situations
No Gaming News because we prerecorded
Main Topic: What we love about RPGs
Wherein we discuss the many things that draw us to RPGs. From escapism to socializing with our pals. The kinds of games and game genre we like best. Also, we discuss our who and where gaming preferences.
A Cabin Con Moment
Our favorite things about our favorite gaming event of the year
Building A Better Gaming World
Shall we continue...
2020-12-241h 20Biggus GeekusGet Off My DomainWednesday December 16, 2020
Our usual intro and gaming situations
The Gaming News:
Chris Pine to star in new Dungeons and Dragons movie
Seems a little late for the DnD Beyond App to just now get a dice roller
LotFR has something other than Samurai to play. It’s in the top 20 for 2020 at GeekNative.
Things We Actually Like:
Tale of The Manticore
New Financial Backer!!!
Thank you to Amy and Trent. You guys are great!!!
Main Topic: Get Off My Domain!
We discuss the in...
2020-12-171h 33
97.5 FM Double K Country/Sunny 99.9"Update" Program with Vernon County Presiding Commissioner Joe HardinAndrew Pitkin and Joe Hardin talk about the Vernon County Commission's Phase III of the distribution of CARES Act funds.
2020-12-1510 minBiggus GeekusWealth in RPGsWealth in RPGs
Episode 14, Wednesday December 9,2020
We do the usual, the intro and we lament the lack of gaming for the week.
The Gaming NEWS:
Free League to release Colonial Marines Supplement
Cypher Creator System
Gift Ideas for Players
Wealth in RPGs (and their value)
We discuss tracking wealth, what we do with it as players, and it’s utility as a part of the game (or not).
Some useful articles:
https://theangrygm.com/nothing-here-but-worthless-gold/
https://mythcreants.com/blog/three-ways-of-handling-money-in-roleplaying-games/
http://bigballofnofun.bl...
2020-12-101h 31Biggus GeekusPC Power Disparity and How to Handle itThursday December 3rd, 2020
We opened with our usual intro but deviated the norm to play a few messages from John of The Red Dice Diaries. These were great and we appreciate the time he took to listen and comment. Thanks John!!!
Shout outs to Tenkar’s Tavern and Roleplay Rescue as well
We went on to discuss Randy’s lack of gaming and my excess of gaming.
The Gaming News:
Clarification #1: Comparing “Free League, the company who is responsible for Alien RPG/Tales from the Loop etc.) Revolutionary League (Anarch...
2020-12-041h 37Biggus GeekusGM & Player RANTSRecorded Tuesday, November 24th, 2020
We open with the usual intro and talk about the next session of Savage Worlds
The Gaming NEWS
1. GaleForce 9 sues WOTC breach of contract…another one?
And another?
2. Sweet towns and taverns maps
3. Pop-up terrain
4. Mophidius (of Conan fame- 2d20 system?) shows some art from the new DUNE RPG
5. The Yawning Portal ($350 price tag…YIKES!)
6. Tasha’s Cauldron Of Everything is Out
Rant Time: Frustrations with GMs and Players from the perspective of a Player and a GM
We discuss quite a few pe...
2020-11-252h 02Biggus GeekusNewbie GM AdviceNovember 19th, 2020
Intro and gaming catchup where Randy and Joe talk about their latest in person Savage Worlds Fantasy game together.
The Gaming NEWS:
1) Fun and annoyance with swords
2) New Old Survey for DnD
3) Reorg at Asmodee shuffles Star Wars mini games away from FFG
4) Free League is on Fire
5) Traveller Box Set on the Horizon
6) Blue Rose Quickstart
7) Vampire changes owner?
8) Non profit VTT
9) Nominate your fav rpg podcast
New GM Advice:
Highlights: Play with friends, keep it simple, don’t fear mi...
2020-11-202h 03Biggus GeekusMagic systems and Making Magic MagicalEpisode 10: Magic systems and Making Magic Magical
This is Episode 10 and the date is Thursday November 12, 2020.
We had a special guest to our podcast, our good friend, fellow CabinCon attendee, and CEO of Pointy Hat Games: Patrick Demo!
Pointy Hat Games can be found here.
After our usual intro and recent gaming catch-up, Joe waxed poetic about HackMaster!
The Gaming NEWS:
1) Beginner Box for PF2
2) RPG Dice Accessories Folding Tower
3) Starfinder Bundle of Holding
4) The Terminator Quick Start Rules out next month
5) Wizkid announces 2-D...
2020-11-133h 06Biggus GeekusWho Are You as a TTRPG GamerNovember 5, 2020
Intro and Our recent game together!
The Gaming NEWS:
Dungeons and Dragons Live Action Show in the works at Hasbro (Thanks to Josh Z for the tip)
Magpie Games-Urban Shadows 2e( Dresden-esque/WOD and is PbtA game)
Mutants and Masterminds 3e releases The Super team Handbook
Beadle & Grimm’s Character Chronicles
The Dungenerator Randy kicked this one.
Main topic: Who Are you as a TTRPG Gamer?
Joe and I answer a potpourri (~12 that is) of questions related to who we are as TTRPG gamers. Seeing as...
2020-11-061h 48Biggus GeekusLet's Start a CampaignOctober 28, 2020
Intro:
The usual intro and the obligatory gaming catch-up
Gaming news:
1)New Pathfinder Board game- competitive/monster fighting (to be crowdfunded)
2)New Terminator RPG coming out by Nightfall games
3)Curse of Strahd Revamped: deluxe version $99(?)
4)The Dungeon Hobby Museum and FB site what is this? Hmmmmmm……
Main Topic: Let’s Start a Campaign
We discuss starting up a campaign. DM decision or group discussion. To have Session Zero or not. X Cards; what are they and do we need them. This and more in our main topic
2020-10-291h 48Biggus GeekusHandling PC death“It’s Worse than That, He’s Dead Jim” (handling PC death)
October 22, 2020
The usual intro and the obligatory gaming catch-up
The Gaming News:
Hickman & Weis have sued WOTC for breach of contract
Sexism/racism accusations at WOTC recently
Nazi Dracula Must Die! Kickstarter
Main Topic: Handling PC Death
Is PC death a thing that should be at the gaming table? Sure it sucks, but is that a bad thing? How does player investment figure in? How about resurrection? How about no resurrection? Does system matter? The geeks discuss these...
2020-10-231h 24Biggus GeekusD&D Through The AgesWednesday September 30th, 2020
We open with the usual intro and talk about the next session of Savage Worlds
The Gaming News:
1) Fans (with some help) have made the final episode of DnD cartoon: REQUIEM
2) Power Rangers RPG coming out soon (5e rules)
3) Hellboy RPG coming (5e rules)
Main Topic: Dungeons and Dragons though the Ages
Old DnD:
OD&D (1974-1977) + Greyhawk (’75)
Holmes Basic (77’), Moldvay Basic set (81’) and D. Cook’s Expert creates B/X
Mentzer’s BECMI (83’-85’)à Rules Cyclopedia (AARON Allston revised BECMI in 1991):
Advanced...
2020-10-011h 07Biggus GeekusThe Prep ScaleThursday, July 30th, 2020
We open with the usual intro and talk about the next session of Savage Worlds
Segment #2: The Gaming NEWS:
1. On the D&D Celebration
2 Batman Gotham City Chronicles: The Role Playing Game,
Main Topic: The Prep Scale
1. How much is too much? And how much is too little?
2. Is there a ratio for hours played vs prepped? Both in general and for you specifically?
3. What kind(specifically what items)/how much do you do when you run a game? What is your process?
4. Can...
2020-07-3157 minBiggus GeekusHigh vs. Low FantasySaturday May 9th, 2020
We open with the usual and talk about not gaming. Listening to podcasts.
Main Topic: High and Low Fantasy
We come up with some definitions, then compare and contrast. Fantasy literature and other media are also brough to bear.
A Cabin Con Moment
New date announced: June 11-14, 2020
We discussed games we prepped and COVID19 related attendance issues
The Gaming NEWS
Free League doing Twilight 2000 4e
Also doing Aliens
and recently got LOTR
No Worldbuilding this time around!!!
...
2020-05-101h 04Biggus GeekusWhat Is Adventure?Saturday, May 9th, 2020
We open with the usual intro and talk about preparing for CabinCon, and our short-lived Deadlands game. Also Randy’s harrowing cellar escapade.
What is Adventure?
We defined it and spoke at length about that and how to flavor it with heroism. How Lord of the Rings, Conan, and John Carter are a kind of foundation. Also how western culture figures in.
A Cabin Con Moment
We talk schedule and number of attendees with respect to our governor’s restrictions.
The Gaming NEWS
No News this...
2020-05-031h 22Biggus GeekusCampaigns vs. One ShotsWednesday, October 7th, 2020.
This episode replaces Episode 2 from Sunday, April 5, 2020 due to it being lost.
We open with the usual intro and talk about how we are not gaming much.
The Gaming News
Monte Cook’s Diamond Throne RPG Kickstarter
BG 3 Early Access yesterday 10/6/20
Campaigns vs. One-Shots:
Campaigns and One-shot games are defined, compared and contrasted. The we say what we like about them. We express our general preference for campaigns while providing some good uses for one-shots.
A Cabin Con Moment
The end of on...
2020-04-061h 25Biggus GeekusA Very Special EpisodeTuesday, October 7th, 2020
This episode replaces our lost episode from March 1. Lost because I failed to download it from Skype before it was deleted. This is one of 2 that was lost in the same manner.
We open with the usual intro and lament at the lack of gaming in our lives.
The Gaming News:
1. As the holiday season approaches GAMA has a cool charity
2. WOTC has an update to sage advice
3. Human teeth dice
4. Pelgrane to release 3 new books
Politics and Gaming
1. Is it needed?
2...
2020-03-021h 16