3RPG Podcast

Sometimes the bard really has it coming, but should you? On today's episode, the 3RPG team explores character vs character combat and how to make sure it doesn't turn into player vs. player.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

6:00 - Difference between CvC and PvP

11:27 - Emotional burden of CvC

14:46 - When CvC turns into bullying

19:17 - Establishing combat consent

23:35 - Sponsor - UHoard

25:35 - CvC inspiration

29:55 - Dialing up conflict

34:08 - RP considerations after CvC

39:31 - Dear GM Letter...

Everyone dreams of the mythical, magic RPG group that meets on the regular, but what if was real? Join the 3RPG hosts as they reveal the magic incantation to summoning committed players for a long-term campaign.

Comments:

♦The Borellus Connection (Module) - Kenneth Hite & Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan: https://pelgranepress.com/product/the-borellus-connection/

♦Ginny Di - I ran a $5k D&D game (and had a panic attack 😰) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjvYbXZv6tY

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro - Owen "wow" in WoW / Split Fiction

06:53 - Interpersonal dynamics

08:20...

Abandoned temples are great places to send your doomed party, especially when its ancient and starving deity still lurks the halls. Join the 3RPG team as they create your next 1-shot: The Temple of Ichor.

Comments:

43:50 - It really is just called a scroll shelf, or scroll holder, or if you're being fancy.... a wall scroll holder. If you want a fun scroll-related word, Capsae is a cylindrical container for holding scrolls whereas an Amaria is a type of cupboard that could technically be used to hold scrolls, books, etc.

Timestamps:

00:00...

You want session music? We have your session music (especially Jay!). Tune in this week for a playlist refresh that is certain to bring your campaign to the next level.

Comments:

Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (Book) - Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

05:37 - Music 2.0 / Perfume soundtrack

08:29 - Avoid clichés, subvert the genre

10:49 - Session openings / ending themes

12:30 - Setting the mood with vocal tracks & era music

22:10 - "AD": Uncle Scabby's Tickle Shack

23:33 - Making music for your o...

Rolling for combat is a given in TTRPG, but are there other areas that can benefit from a bit more randomness? On this week's episode, the 3RPG team explores when to roll the dice and the ethics of fudging results.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

2:41 - When to use dice

7:59 - Failed rolls

9:15 - Degrees of success vs. pass/fail

13:14 - Good roleplay bonuses

14:54 - Random encounters, Zig when I zag

19:19 - Rolling for new players

20:29 - Fast and loose combat

23:09...

Halloween provides the quintessential horror setting, but what if you want to go beyond pumpkins and candy corn? Join the 3RPG crew as they make a bigger, faster, more diabolically devious Halloween to inspire your next holiday session.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro - Hallow-comedy

4:00 - Costume confessional

15:04 - Costumes in rpg

22:47 - Trick or treat origins & ideas

28:00 - Jack-o-lantern reimagined

29:55 - Making candy corn, better?

32:02 - Color palate

35:37 - Psychological fear and horror

56:00 - Making death scary in RPG

1:00:57...

Description:

TTRPG touts the social aspect of gameplay, but what if characters disagree and want to split the party? Join the 3RPG team as they tackle the how and why of party splits and whether co-DMing could work in your world.

Comments:

In Deep Geek: https://www.youtube.com/indeepgeek

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

7:10 - Should you split the party?

10:43 - Avoiding boredom for the non-active party

16:01 - Encouraging the split narrative

22:27 - Pitfalls

24:52 - Philly Phil's take on RPGs

Two of our favorite things at 3RPG are trying new systems and supporting indie creators. In this episode, hosts Jay and Sandra get to sit down with Robby Howell, mastermind of the diceless TTRPG system, Enclave.

Comments:

To learn more and support the upcoming Kickstarter for Enclave Aspirant:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@robbylavagames

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577601998241

Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/757240159/enclave-aspirant?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaekbmjEh6hyOyWJzFTqylcKEp9-DID2_xmho50ryzCM7IgCOiGPJZT2kZNr0Q_aem_MkHyCEdgRHtuNAv4NZHoiA

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro<...

Description:

Every character deserves their own unique moments to shine, but how do you ensure each player at your table gets a proper spotlight? Join the 3RPG hosts as they explore both GM and player ways to provide feel-good, memorable moments that everyone can feel great about.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

2:43 - Bards then and now

5:52 - Character space does not only mean hero moments

7:41 - Setup vs fudging

12:52 - Reframing failed rolls for storytelling

18:45 - Using NPCs to guide a moment

21:50...

Description: Though faith is a common theme in fantasy TTRPG, deciding exactly when and how to incorporate elements into your story can be daunting. Join the 3RPG hosts as they explore the difference between harmful representation, respectful exploration and inspiration.

Comments:

See where the marshmallow thing all began - Top 10 of 2025 episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YsoV9MESnw&t=8s

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

6:50 - When (and why) to introduce religion

11:40 - Defining god(s) in TTRPG

16:45 - Divine game mechanics

(19:07)

<...

Description:

Ever get eaten by a mimics disguised as a treasure chest? You may just be a loot goblin! On today's episode, the 3RPG hosts discuss the bounds of what loot is and how to make it both meaningful and memorable without breaking your game.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

4:13 - What is loot, exactly?

9:56 - Loot vs lore swag (and how often)

13:26 - Using 'Monkey's paw' items

15:33 - Novel loot ideas

22:44 - Quick fix - fixing a too-powerful loot item

24:01 - Loot ideas...

Description:

We're told that its not the destination, but the journey, yet the calm spaces between encounters can quickly feel like one long, boring tavern crawl. Join hosts Sandra, Jay, and Chris as they spice up the downtime and also discuss their favorite video game inspirations.

Comments:

The Alexandrian Dragon Heist Remix - https://thealexandrian.net/wordpress/41217/roleplaying-games/dragon-heist-remix-part-1-the-villains

Video game picks-

Sandra (atmosphere and camaraderie):

World of Warcraft

Guild Wars 2

Shadowbane

Jay (experimental):

Elden Ring

...

Description:

While TTRPG is no replacement for proper therapy, table top gaming is known to offer benefits to mental health, social skills, and self exploration. Join us on the therapy couch as psychotherapist and author, Z.D. Gladstone explains the science behind why RPGs can be such a boon to our well-being.

Timestamp:

00:00 Intro

1:29 - Introduction of psychotherapist, Z.D. Gladstone

6:08 - Consensus about TTRPGs amongst psychotherapists?

9:13 - Personality types in TTRPG

13:32 - Empathy and social skills

16:37 - Creating a safe space in...

Description:

Needing inspiration for your next campaign? The 3RPG hosts dig deep to bring some of the most wild and obscure folklore to liven up your storytelling.

Comments:

Writers commonly question if their use of folklore and mythology is inspiration or cultural appropriation. Learn the difference with this article by author Jeanette Ng: https://medium.com/@nettlefish/cultural-appropriation-for-the-worried-writer-some-practical-advice-ac21710685e3

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

1:37 - Vegetable Lamb of Tartary

3:55 - Barnacle Geese

7:00 - How wild folklore comes about

7:53 - Kukilialuit

11:33 - Akaname <...

Description:

By now you've probably asked "What's up with that Jay guy?" Let's find out as Chris and Sandra put the screws to their suspiciously Austrian bodybuilder sounding co-host and find out what's hiding out in that lil'noggin.

Comments:

Here I Stand - https://www.gmtgames.com/p-917-here-i-stand-500th-anniversary-reprint-edition-2nd-printing.aspx

Project Zomboid - https://projectzomboid.com/blog/

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

4:40 - The origin story of Jay's interest in TTRPG

10:03 - Music composition

12:23 - Favorite session moments

14:53 - What...

Ever wonder what its like to go to one of the largest fan-focused conventions in the world? Madness... but also incredible amounts of fun. Join us for this special episode where co-host Sandra Rosner tries to distill 4 days of fandom overload at San Diego Comic Con into a single hour.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

5:50 - First time cosplay experience

9:36 - Cosplaying = instant community

12:40 - Gatekeeping

16:14 - Tips for first time cosplaying at a convention

22:23 - A word from our sponsor... or is it?

23:22 - Convention...

Description:

Names have the power to evoke strong associations to the people, places, and events they reference. Join the ThreeRPG as they explore the art of crafting memorable monikers in writing and campaign settings.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

4:30 - Methods for creating novel names

11:33 - Nicknames, honorifics, and avoiding faux pas

15:35 - Name conventions to support world building

17:56 - Name regret strategies

23:09 - Creating memorable locations

30:55 - Novel naming methods and mechanics

34:21 - Favorite names

38:25 - Non-fantasy inspiration

Description:

Every town has a tavern, but they can be so much more than the rest stops of TTRPG. In this episode, the ThreeRPG team discusses ways to turn your next travel respite into a memorable and meaningful event.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

2:50 - Taverns and how to make them interesting

26:09 - Building a menu for your tavern

38:34 - Novel tavern ideas for your next campaign

43:08 - Real life tavern experiences we loved

For more games stuff by Jay Underwood and other creators check out...

Description:

Questions abound about the illusive Chris and we aim to answer them! Join Jay and Sandra as they grill their co-host, Chris, and learn why he loves snow globes and what made him D&D curious.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

2:15 - Artist origin story

4:20 - First TTRPG experience

7:35 - Best art advice received

8:57 - New players

10:52 - Breaking the rules

12:50 - Maps

14:22 - Overcoming campaign writers block

16:05 - Worst GM experience

19:23 - Hit point values

Description:

The ThreeRPG team wades into the AI debate within the creative space, and Beyond the Ticking Clock: exploring elements of tension.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

3:59 - AI in the creative space

27:25 - Elements of tension

For more games stuff by Jay Underwood and other creators check out: www.tanukigames.org

To see more from Sandra Rosner:

https://www.twitch.tv/ladyvonfrost

https://www.instagram.com/sandra.a.rosner/

https://bsky.app/profile/sandrarosner.bsky.social

https://www.goodreads...

Description:

Jay and Chris summon their co-host, Sandra, for part interview, part roast, and all around chaotic-good time.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

2:55 - Writer origin story

6:30 - The boon of collaboration

9:00 - The study of books, genres, and 'reading in 3s'

13:20 - Rereading books

14:00 - Writing dialogue & developmental editing

20:20 - Biggest misconception of being a writer

21:55 - Writing outside your experience

23:20 - Inspiration and frisson

27:12 - Staying motivated

29:22 - Emotional expression

33:50 - Favorite...

Description:

What makes a villain we love to hate, or hate to love? In this episode, the ThreeRPG team tackles the essentials for crafting a memorable BBEG.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

6:46 - Favorite villains

12:48 - The anatomy of a great villain

24:00 - Villains in our campaigns

38:57 - How to build a villain

49:04 - A cautionary note

To see more from Sandra Rosner:

https://www.twitch.tv/ladyvonfrost

https://www.instagram.com/sandra.a.rosner/

https://bsky.app...

Description:

While TTRPG's roots lie in fantasy, campaign inspiration can come from any genre and medium. In today's episode, the ThreeRPG team explore their favorite non-fantasy movies and shows as table-top settings, and what things are forbidden from their tables.

movies for inspiration

things not to allow at the table.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

8:31 - Movies to inspire

12:55 - Sandra's picks

20:09 - Chris's picks

25:21 - Jay's picks

46:35 - Forbidden from the table

On-screen:

26:21 - link to episode 8...

Description:

Modules are awesome, but what if you have a killer idea for a new campaign? Take a peek inside the creative minds of ThreeRPG as they brainstorm a playable world in real-time.

Timestamps:

Brainstorming

00:00 Intro

10:10 - Genre and setting

17:22 - Creating the conflict

25:20 - exploring uncommon TTRPG genres

World Creation

28:19 - finding your entry point

38:53 - building out from the hook

45:43 - Creating the adventure

To see more from Sandra Rosner:

https...

Description:

While nearly every story has a hero, attempting to define this crucial element can be notoriously difficult. Join ThreeRPG for a spirited discussion on what makes a hero and how to create memorable hero moments in your campaign.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

8:10 - What is a hero? The mono myth vs other structures

15:50 - Antiheroes

18:35 - Protagonist vs. hero vs. villain

27:15 - Do heroes need to be 'good'?

32:45 - The creator, viewer, art connection

40:50 - Recreating favorite hero traits in our...

Description:

Join the marshmallow revolution! Chris, Jay, and Sandra give their top 10 lists of the most overrated and underrated features in RPG for 2025.

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

Overrated:

8:00 - #10:

16:04 - #9:

20:53 - #8:

26:38 - #7:

33:05 - #6:

37:08 - #5:

44:22 - #4:

48:50 - #3:

52:51 - #2:

56:14 - #1:

1:02:28 - Dishonorable mentions:

Underrated:

1:04:35 - #10:

1:06:19 - #9:

1:10:58 - #8:

1:16:26 - #7:

1:21:10 - #6:

1:26:19 - #5:

1:30:40 - #4:

1:34:31 - #3:

1:37:37 - #2: <...

Description:

Session Zero is the cornerstone of an immersive campaign, so how do you set your table up for success? In this episode, the ThreeRPG team tackles everything from group cohesion and character creation to creating a safe environment for all of your players.

Content warning - This episode involves discussions on trauma, SA, and gender.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

3:52 - what is session zero?

5:11 - Purpose of session zero - creation, cohesion, rules, short scenario

9:22 - Genre & the 5 prime questions

14:50 - Character sheets<...

Description:

The ThreeRPG crew discusses the fine line between immersion and boredom through lore balancing. Also in this episode: It's a trap! - designing better traps and 'where blades should be drawn' - crafting memorable locations for combat.

The 6 Ts - threat, trap, timer, treat, terrain, twist

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro - remembering the World of Warcraft ZG plague event

3:30 - Lore balancing

18:53 - It's a trap!

35:06 - Where blades should be drawn - crafting memorable locations for combat

To see more from Sandra...

Description:

Sandra queries resident DM's, Jay and Chris, about the use of animal familiars and how to prevent them from breaking your campaign. Also in this episode: Reskinning magic to enhance lore and mechanics, and 'Going Beyond the Madness' - making barbarians interesting.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro

2:35 - Animal familiars

15:54 - Reskinning magic

34:31 - Going beyond the madness - making barbarians interesting

To see more from Sandra Rosner:

https://www.twitch.tv/ladyvonfrost

https://www.instagram.com/sandra.a.rosner/

...

Description:

Novelist and lore writer, Sandra Rosner, joins the ThreeRPG team to discuss the use of soundtracks to elevate your RPG session, player conflict resolution mechanics, and theater of the mind gameplay vs. tactical battle maps.

Good soundtracks and using music in your RPG session

Player conflict resolution mechanics

Theater of the mind vs. tactical battle maps

Timestamps:

00:00 - Sandra Intro

1:15 - Soundtracks

11:26 - Player conflict resolution mechanics

27:10 - Theater of the mind vs. tactical battle maps

To see...

Description:

Professional DMs Chris and Jay give their impressions on the new D&D handbook,

making dice rolls better with the B.A.I.T system, and methods for getting players into character.

Timestamps:

0:00 - DM impressions of the new 5e D&D players hand book

11:55 - making dice rolls better B.A.I.T. - Bravado (fun), advancement, information, tension

27:09 - methods of getting into character

#podcast #dungeonsanddragons #dnd #gaming #ttrpg #ttrpgcampaign #ttrpgtips #ttrpginspiration #ttrpgcommunity #fantasy #fantasyauthors #fantasyauthor #rpg

Description:

Seasoned GMs Jay and Chris discuss the differences in their gaming styles and why it works for their tables. Also in this episode: the purpose of hit points and how to make them more meaningful in your campaign.

Timestamps:

0:00 - Gaming styles

12:45 - Hit points

26:55 - Host projects

#podcast #dungeonsanddragons #dnd #gaming #ttrpg #ttrpgcampaign #ttrpgtips #ttrpginspiration #ttrpgcommunity #fantasy #fantasyauthors #fantasyauthor #rpg