Taking 20 Podcast

Épisodes

• 
  Ep 286 - Your Villains Suck 18.10.2026 26min

  Are your campaign villains feeling generic and disposable? Give this episode a listen to learn the crucial difference between a villain's goals and plans, the importance of villain power dynamics, and why taking time and care to design your villain can turn a predictable encounter into an unforgettable, cinematic climax.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #dmtips #villains Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Ep 64 - Beholders - The Eyes Have It - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-64-monster-series-beholders-the-eyes-have-it/
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  Ep 285 - Mentoring Players and DMs 04.10.2026 21min

  There’s an art to any kind of mentorship but it’s a critical skill for all of us to learn to bring new players and DMs to the table.  Tune in for some of my tips for guiding the next generation to become the TTRPG players and DMs for tomorrow’s games.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #mentoring Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast
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  Ep 284 - Better PCs & NPCs 20.09.2026 20min

  Ever feel like you're spending too long coming up with  backstories or detailed NPC lore that your players completely ignore—or worse, that your characters end up feeling flat at the table? Give this a listen for some essential advice for both GMs and players on how to make your NPCs and PCs truly come alive.  Also, my apologies that the sound quality is a bit diminished this episode, I had a lot of hard “P” and “B” sounds to remove (called plosives) and didn’t have time to do a re-record. #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #PC #NPC Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast 
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  Ep 283 - Saying No 06.09.2026 21min

  Ever feel like your players' chaotic choices are steering your campaign off a cliff? In this episode, we explore the ultimate tool for protecting your game, your players, and your own sanity: the word "No" #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #sayingno #no Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast
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  Ep 282 - Cults 23.08.2026 27min

  Are your players tired of generic hooded villains who just want to be evil for the sake of it? Let’s dive deep into the mechanics of cults, exploring how to craft antagonists that are active, isolationist (or even well-integrated), and genuinely dangerous. Discover how to transform faceless goons into compelling, campaign-level threats that will keep your players guessing—and maybe even looking over their shoulders.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #cults Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Episode 150 - Rovagug - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-150-rovagug/  Cult Generator:  https://old.reddit.com/r/rpg_generators/comments/1vk05gi/new_generator_secret_society_cults_and/
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  Ep 281 - Soft Debilitating Conditions 09.08.2026 29min

  Following up on Episode 280, this time we’re going to talk about soft debuffs - slow burn threats like poisons, diseases, curses, and lycanthropy.  Tune in for my tips on how to handle these longer-term afflictions.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #debuffs #criticalfail Resources: Archives of Nethys:  https://archivesofnethys.com/  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast 
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  Ep 280 - Hard Debilitating Conditions 19.07.2026 21min

  Let’s dive into the "hard debuffs" that threaten to end your players' fun—and their characters—in a single roll. From paralysis and petrification to mind-controlling charm spells, we discuss the fine balance between challenge and player agency. Join us for actionable DM tips on how to foreshadow these lethal threats and replace "save-or-suck" mechanics with progressive failures that keep the table engaged, not frustrated.    #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #debuffs #criticalfail   Resources: Archives of Nethys Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/nethys  Archives of Nethys:  https://archivesofnethys.com/  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast 
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  Ep 279 - Changing Characters 05.07.2026 16min

  In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of letting players swap characters in the middle of a campaign. We discuss exit strategies, player motivations, and how DMs can facilitate this change with minimal loss to game momentum.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #characterchange
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  Ep 278 - Player Expectations of their GMs 21.06.2026 21min

  Please accept my apologies that this episode sounds a bit hollow.  I am having problems with Hindenburg, my audio processing software and their support has been very unsupportive.  I’m working to get the audio issue fixed.   In this episode, we’re flipping the script to explore the reasonable expectations players should have of their GMs. We’re breaking down why the DM screen is an honor, not a crown, and discussing the three essential pillars of a great game.  Give this episode a listen!   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast
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  Ep 277 - GM Expectations of Players 07.06.2026 18min

  Game night being derailed by players poor attitudes, unsure actions, and unreliability?  Don’t be that player.  In this episode I talk about the social contract of tabletop RPGs and what YOU can do to support your DM and not be a distraction.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast 
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  Ep 276 - Try New Games 24.05.2026 27min

  Is your long-running RPG group stuck in a rut, playing the same game system year after year? In this episode, we tackle the toughest quest in tabletop gaming: convincing your friends to try something new.  I’ll talk about reasons for resistance, the best arguments for trying new systems and some tips for making it successful   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #NewRPG Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social    Chris Cocks Interview:  https://www.gamesradar.com/tabletop-gaming/our-players-are-going-to-be-pretty-psyched-hasbro-ceo-talks-d-and-d-video-games-and-playing-to-win/  Ep 184 - Preparing One Shots - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-184-preparing-one-shots/  Ep 221 - Rules Light RPGs - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-221-rules-light-rpgs/
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  Ep 275 - Monster Series - Golems 10.05.2026 20min

  Let’s look at Golems! Mindless, magically-constructed automatons that are the ultimate guardians. We break down the classic types—Flesh, Clay, Stone, and Iron and give some  essential DM tips for deploying these terrifying, tireless constructs in your D&D and Pathfinder campaigns. #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #golems Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social 
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  Ep 274 - Character Backstories 19.04.2026 18min

  Want to make your characters better?  Consider adding flaws to your character.  What kinds of flaws are there and how do you add them  in a way that’s not disruptive to the game?  Give this episode a listen and find out.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #backstory Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social    WOTC TRPG Publishing Lead - https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4385555228/ 
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  Ep 273 - Flaws 05.04.2026 19min

  Want to make your characters better?  Consider adding flaws to your character.  What kinds of flaws are there and how do you add them  in a way that’s not disruptive to the game?  Give this episode a listen and find out.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #flaws Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social 
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  Ep 272 - Session 0 Redux 22.03.2026 25min

  NOTE:  My apologies for the audio quality.  The entire recording/audio processing chain was rushed this week.   Is your TTRPG campaign falling apart after only a few sessions? The problem might be that you need a Session Zero. In this third part of our "setting expectations" series  we dive into the vital, often-overlooked conversations DMs and players need to have before rolling the first die. Learn how to align your creative visions, manage game logistics, and agree on crucial player safety tools to ensure everyone is on board with the social contract for a lasting, fun adventure. #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #startingcampaign #sessionzero #session0 Resources: Ep 47 - Comprehensive Session 0 Guide for DMs - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-47-comprehensive-session-0-guide-for-dms/  Ep 48 - Session 0 Guide for Players - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-48-less-comprehensive-session-0-guide-for-pcs/  Ep 271 - Setting & Tone - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-271-setting-and-tone/  Ep 214 - House Rules to Make Your Game Easier - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-214-house-rules-to-make-your-game-easier/  Ep 215 - House Rules to Make Your Game Harder - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-215-house-rules-to-make-your-game-harder/  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social
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  Ep 271 - Setting and Tone 08.03.2026 30min

  In this episode we continue the “setting expectations” series, hopefully helping to stop mismatched expectations from derailing your TTRPG campaign! GMs, this episode is packed with practical advice for designing and effectively communicating your game's Tone and Setting.    #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #tone #setting #expectations Resources: Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social
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  Ep 270 - Starting Your Campaign 22.02.2026 16min

  Ready to start your TTRPG campaign in some way besides a boring tavern? Episode 270 is here to help! We dive deep into the real purpose of a campaign's beginning and explore three powerful ways to unite your party from the jump   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #startingcampaign Resources: Episode 47 - Comprehensive Session 0 Guide for DMs - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-47-comprehensive-session-0-guide-for-dms/  Episode 100 - Starting Anywhere But A Tavern - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/episode-100-starting-anywhere-but-a-tavern/  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social 
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  Ep 269 - DM Burnout and Showing Progression Through Descriptions 01.02.2026 20min

  Do your descriptions fall flat?  Are your characters, locations, and NPCs just static items in time that never change?  In this episode I’ll give players some tips for changing their character descriptions and for GMs to change NPC and place descriptions to improve their game.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #burnout #descriptions Resources: Crispy’s Tavern, The Real Matt Mercer -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FV-4HnJT_Rg Roll 4 Initiative - A Guide to Better Descriptions - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhFmAW3KIYY Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social 
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  Ep 268 - Should Villains Be Sympathetic 11.01.2026 19min

  Is your campaign's "big bad" just evil, or is there a hero beneath the monster? This episode dives into the age-old debate for Dungeon Masters: how important is a sympathetic backstory for a villain, and whether you should include complex antagonists in your game   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #roleplaying #villains Resources: Episode 180 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-180-let-villains-be-villains/  Episode 235 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-235-the-why-of-villains/  Episode 253 - https://www.taking20podcast.com/e/ep-253-recurring-villains/  Thor Skywalker - Why does everyone seem to love “Sympathetic Villains” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO2dBY8DPho  Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social
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  Ep 267 - Should you Counter PC Abilities 28.12.2025 22min

  Description Today we dive into the age-old debate that divides Dungeon Masters: When do you negate a powerful spell or maneuver? We explore the thin line between creating epic tension and causing frustration. Tune in to discover the crucial difference between an earned victory and a slog, and learn the rules of engagement for challenging your players in the most satisfying way.   #rpg #ttrpg #dnd #pathfinder #gmtips #playertips #tabletop #roleplaying #Countering Resources: Episode 135 - The Rule of 3 Episode 64 - Beholders, the Eyes Have It Buy Me a Coffee! - ko-fi.com/taking20podcast www.taking20podcast.com  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/taking20podcast  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/taking20podcast  Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/taking20podcast.bsky.social