Best Dungeons Newbies Podcasts (2026)

1
Be a Better DM: 6 Ways to Actually Improve this Year 15:35

Play Pause

2h ago15:35

15:35

Welcome to today’s episode. Today we talk about how to actually improve this year. Start recording your sessions Use the Dungeon Master Level Up Guide Find a group of your peers Take the PPDS Self Assessment Daily Study Dedicated Practice Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here are some spons…

1
What Have I Got Myself Into? 30:45

4d ago30:45

30:45

Welcome back to RPG Blokes! It’s Season 2, and we’re diving into what really happens after your first few games — when “trying D&D” turns into “I think I’ve got a new hobby.” We talk about what comes next: the growing time commitment, the emotional rollercoaster of your first character, and the new worlds that open up beyond the table. From paintin…

1
Enjoy Season 2 with RPG Blokes + 12:10

6d ago12:10

12:10

This episode’s short and sweet — the Blokes lift the lid on RPG Blokes +, our new subscriber service. For just £3 a month, you’ll get weekly episodes, meaning an additional 35 Episodes through the year. Including exclusive live plays, behind-the-scenes extras, and the chance to help us keep the dice rolling. We explain how it works, what you get, a…

1
Session Prep with No Time: 5 Tips to Maximize Your Time 14:07

12d ago14:07

14:07

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. Today we talk about 5 tips for session prep with no time. Adjust your expectations Get inside your players’ minds WorldSmith Get a repository of Maps Get Transposable Material Thanks for listening to today’s show. Merry Christmas Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to sup…

1
Cliffhangers: 3 DM Tips for using them like a— 13:24

19d ago13:24

13:24

It almost feels like cliffhangers are a requirement for some DMs, or at least the professional ones! But are cliffhangers always necessary? And how can you use them more effectively as storytelling devices? Tanner discusses 3 tips for maximizing their effectiveness while avoiding cliffhanger-burnout.…

1
Tips for Improv: Reacting and Responding to Players’ Unexpected Choices Part 3 13:08

30d ago13:08

13:08

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. Today we continue talking about improv. We finish our tips for responding to player choices and actions. Here are the tips: The Rule of Intent Yes AND Spark or Prompts Take Pauses and Breathes Take Advantage of Cool Moments Outsource to the Players Maintain the tone or Subvert it Thanks for listening t…

1
Lessons in Collaborative Storytelling 19:36

1M ago19:36

19:36

Do you give your players much of a chance to collaborate on the storytelling? No? Well, you wouldn't be alone! In this episode, Tanner discusses some ideas for introducing collaboration into your D&D party so you can ramp up the storytelling AND player engagement!

1
5 D&D Game Mechanics to Get Excited About 21:36

2M ago21:36

21:36

Today's episode is all about taking a normal or underutilized D&D game mechanic and using it to its fullest to add some real excitement to your D&D games! And if anyone deserves more excitement for playing, it's the DM. Tanner shares 5 specific mechanics to check out. Are there any others you can think of?…

1
Tips for Better DM Improv Part 2 12:35

2M ago12:35

12:35

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM today we continue talking about better Improv Tips for DMs Here’s what we cover: The Rule of Intent Yes AND Sparks or Prompt Lists Taking Pauses or Breathes Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here are some sponsor links and links to our other stuff: Worldsmi…

1
What to do with an NPC Companion... 20:20

2M ago20:20

20:20

The problem of the NPC companion... the poor shmuck that your party drags along with them that YOU suddenly have to play as if you were both a player and a DM. They are just trouble, right? NO! If you learn how to pick your battles when using them in combat, roleplay situations, and other situations, you'll see that they can add to important moment…

1
Better Improv For Dungeon Masters: The Rule of Intent and Yes AND 12:46

2M ago12:46

12:46

Welcome to How to Be a Better DM Today we talk about improving improvisation when your players do something out of the blue. Tip #1: The Rule of Intent - think about the intent of the player as you improvise and try to meet and fulfill that intent. Tip #2: Yes AND - in your yes anding the AND should be capitalized because that’s the most important …

1
Embracing External Inspiration in D&D Without Shame 14:26

3M ago14:26

14:26

Oh, so you'd like to create EVERY story arc, enemy, NPC, and element of your D&D adventure out of thin air, without resorting to using characters who are blatant knockoffs of well-known actors or movie characters? And let me guess: you'd also like every adventure arc be an entirely new story that's never been seen (or at least is heavily disguised)…

1
The Secret Inner Work of Exceptional Dungeon Masters 16:36

3M ago16:36

16:36

Thanks for listening. Today we talk about the secret inner work required to be a great dungeon master. Here are some notes: People Management of yourself as the DM Self Validation Jealousy Curiosity Self Regulation Six Pillars of Self Esteem Don’t take things personally The 4 Agreements Assertiveness Personal Clarity Journaling Self-Discipline Rout…

1
Do Your Words Have Weight As A DM? 20:23

3M ago20:23

20:23

Do you ever wish that players would just STOP and take things seriously for one minute?! After all, you want the next moment to FEEL important... but how can you do that? How can you add weight to your words? Namely, the type of weight that gets players to quiet down, lean forward, and think. It's not easy, but it is absolutely possible!…

1
4 Tools for Dungeon Master Improvement 10:41

3M ago10:41

10:41

Every DM wants to get better, but “improvement” can feel vague. In this episode, we break it down into four concrete tools you can use to actually level up your Dungeon Mastering—whether you’re running your first campaign or your fifth. The 4 Tools 1. The Dungeon Master Level Up Guide • A free newsletter from Session 0 Studios that delivers practic…

1
How to Make Combat Encounters Fun Again: Part 3 12:40

4M ago12:40

12:40

Here are my tips: Use scatter terrain Use distance Use elevation Capture the Flag VIP Zombies Tag Hide and Seek Snatch and Grab Ingredient Gathering King of the Hill The Ground is Lava Shock and Awe Library Book The Shell Game Add Water Elements Add the Weather Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here…

1
What To Do When Your Campaign Stops 9:07

4M ago9:07

9:07

Most DMs have had at least one period of time when their party suddenly starts meeting A LOT less often. Whether it's life changes or just a lack of interest, what do you do? Do you quit, stay the course, or make a change? That's the topic of today's podcast with Tanner. He gives DMs 3 steps to help them decide on next steps if their campaign is be…

1
Combat Encounters are Broken: Let’s Fix Them - Part 2 11:31

4M ago11:31

11:31

Today we fix combat encounters, plus my kids have something to say. This is what we talk about: Use scatter terrain Use distance Use elevation Capture the Flag VIP Zombies Tag Hide and Seek Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here are some sponsor links and links to our other stuff: Worldsmith: http:/…

1
Lichmaster: Session Zero, Part 9 – La Mason Taal 36:32

4M ago36:32

36:32

The journey through Session Zero reaches its conclusion. In this episode, the party arrive at La Mason Taal — where they learn about the job ahead and what’s really at stake. It’s a chance to set the stage, bring the characters together with purpose, and prepare for the campaign to properly begin. For newcomers, this shows how Session Zero naturall…

1
Embracing Randomness in D&D 18:19

4M ago18:19

18:19

Do you feel like, unless you plan every single item, NPC interaction, and every encounter down to the letter, that you'll lose control as a DM? Well this episode is for you! Tanner discusses randomness, rolling for items, enemies, and more, and also shares ways your next D&D session can be RANDOM without being LESS. Also, for anyone curious about F…

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 8 – To the Monastry 18:36

5M ago18:36

18:36

The road out of the mountains is anything but simple. In this episode, the party face the last of their mountain trials — finishing their fight with Shaven, overcoming encounters along the way, and finally descending into the valley where the monastery awaits. It’s a mix of combat, travel, and discovery, leading us to the gates of safety at last. F…

1
How to Fix Combat Encounters Part 1 11:57

5M ago11:57

11:57

Today we talk about how to fix Combat Encounters 1. Use Scatter Terrain 2. Use Distance 3. Use Elevation Also, we are doing 6 panels at FanX coming up in Salt Lake City in September so if you are in the area, come see us! Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you like our stuff and want to support us, here are some sponsor links and links to our…

1
Points of Interest: Prepping Multiple Meaningful Options Without Losing Your Mind 21:06

5M ago21:06

21:06

Tanner talks about Points of Interest: what they are, why some DMs find them difficult to prepare, and how to make them worthwhile. Remember that it's about making the world exciting, not just full!

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 7 – The 1000ft Drop 34:06

5M ago34:06

34:06

The journey continues — and danger is never far away. In this episode, our newly formed party face their first real challenge together: a perilous climb, a 100ft drop, and the risks that come with pushing forward. It’s a tense mix of problem-solving, roleplay, and teamwork, all playing out as naturally as it would at any real in-person table. For n…

1
7 Dungeon Master Mistakes I’m Still Making 11:35

5M ago11:35

11:35

Welcome to How to Be a Better DM Today we talk about 7 mistakes I still make: Not taking in the moment and enjoying. Not surprising my party Trying to be a dungeon master that I’m not Comparing Myself to Other DM Not being me Forcing my expectations on other players Not Skipping the Boring Bits Thanks for listening to today’s show. If you li…

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 6 – Onward Bound 30:27

5M ago30:27

30:27

With backstories now in place, our characters take their first steps into the world — together. In this episode, we shift from individual origins to shared purpose, as the group begins their journey in earnest. The roleplay is still low-pressure and grounded, just like a real first session, but we’re moving into party dynamics, character interplay,…

1
Are You Starting Your D&D Campaign... With Fun? 12:37

5M ago12:37

12:37

Tanner shares a minor update about the podcast from his perspective, and talks about how to prioritize fun when starting a campaign. Hint: it's not with a lot of roleplaying like he did with his recent campaign...

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 5 – Back Stories 33:18

6M ago33:18

33:18

In this episode, we move from character creation into something a little more narrative. The ideas that started taking shape during character generation — backgrounds, motivations, relationships — are now being brought to life through a short roleplaying session. We’re stepping into the past. What you’re hearing is the backstory — played out as a s…

1
Why Your Combat Slogs and How to Fix It 11:37

6M ago11:37

11:37

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Why your combat Slogs You haven’t set the ep…

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 4 – Completed PC's 35:21

6M ago35:21

35:21

In Episode 4 of our Session Zero series, we finish building our characters from the ground up. Careers are locked in, skills and talents are finalised, and equipment is sorted — but the real fun is just beginning. With the mechanics in place, we start to explore who these characters really are. Where do they come from? What drives them? What secret…

1
We’re Still Alive… But things are Changing 12:20

6M ago12:20

12:20

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Today we are announcing that going forward, …

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 3 – Fleshing It Out 27:08

6M ago27:08

27:08

In this episode, we’re continuing character generation — getting into the finer details that bring each character to life. We’re choosing star signs, picking out talents, and assigning skills. It’s the nuts and bolts of the character sheet, but still full of laughs and light conversation. This is what it really sounds like to build your first RPG c…

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 2 – The Thick of It 35:44

6M ago35:44

35:44

In this episode, we’re continuing our character generation. Last time, we laid the groundwork — and the rough shape of who these people are. This time, we’re diving a bit deeper. It’s still casual and unfiltered — the sort of conversation you’d have round the table at your first proper session. If you’re new to the hobby, this is a chance to hear h…

1
Lichemaster: Session Zero, Part 1 – The First Steps 37:13

7M ago37:13

37:13

Thinking of trying out tabletop roleplaying games but not sure where to start? This episode kicks off our Session Zero — a relaxed, real-time walkthrough of what it’s like to sit down for your first ever game night. We begin with character creation: building our alter egos from scratch, chatting through choices, and setting the scene for the advent…

1
DM Lessons Learned from Standup Comedy with Kyle Shire 34:20

7M ago34:20

34:20

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon While our guest, Kyle Shire, has many talent…

1
The Season One Debrief 27:32

7M ago27:32

27:32

In this season finale of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry look back on their journey through Season 1 with humour, honesty, and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. They revisit standout episodes, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and reflect on the show’s aim to welcome new players while still offering insight for veterans. The conv…

1
Brief Announcement + How to Restart Your D&D Campaign 22:23

7M ago22:23

22:23

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon We share a brief announcement in this episod…

1
Why Your Sessions Fall Flat—and the DM Energy Fix That Changes Everything 24:44

7M ago24:44

24:44

TL;DR: If your sessions start strong but crash halfway through, it’s not your story, your prep, or even your players—it’s your energy management. In this episode, Justin breaks down the hidden reason your games lose momentum mid-session and teaches you how to fix it permanently. Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7…

1
I'm Still Concerned I Might be too Old to Play D&D 23:47

8M ago23:47

23:47

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the often-overlooked topic of age in tabletop gaming, challenging the idea that Dungeons & Dragons is just for the young. They share their own stories of entering or re-entering the hobby later in life and celebrate the richness older players bring to the table. The conversa…

1
Writing a Homebrew One-Shot: Part 6 1:08:33

8M ago1:08:33

1:08:33

Welcome back to the 6th installment of our short series on writing a Homebrew one-shot. In this episode, we're joined by our friend Rob Van Auken and we continue work on The Chimefall Ceremony: For Whom the Bell TolIs. This miniseries is designed to help give you an idea of how to collaborate on a project like this and how to write and publish a on…

1
No More Boring NPCS - Design a Better NPC with London Carlisle 34:16

8M ago34:16

34:16

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Justin and Tanner are joined for this episod…

1
Alignment Choices in D&D 5e 34:08

8M ago34:08

34:08

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry tackle one of Dungeons & Dragons’ most iconic (and often misunderstood) mechanics: the alignment system. From lawful good to chaotic evil, the team breaks down each of the nine alignments, sharing how they influence gameplay, storytelling, and party dynamics. The conversation highli…

1
The 4 Core Skills of Dungeon Mastery (Plus the Secret 5th One) 34:02

8M ago34:02

34:02

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Feeling stuck or burned out as a Dungeon Mas…

1
Should You Handhold New Players Into Loving D&D? 19:40

8M ago19:40

19:40

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Whether your new player is a wide-eyed first…

1
Independent RPGs the Beginners Guide 37:31

8M ago37:31

37:31

In this episode of RPG Blokes, hosts Mark, Jon, Stephen, and Barry explore the world of tabletop RPGs beyond Dungeons & Dragons, offering insights for middle-aged newcomers eager to expand their gaming horizons. The discussion covers standout indie titles like The One Ring, Earthdawn, and Call of Cthulhu, emphasizing fresh mechanics, immersive lore…

1
Build Cities That Breathe: Mastering “Show, Don’t Tell” in Worldbuilding 35:34

8M ago35:34

35:34

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Your world deserves to feel alive. In this e…

1
Why Doesn't Your D&D Combat Feel Fun? Plus How To Fix It! 20:45

9M ago20:45

20:45

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon We've all been there: the endless turns, act…

1
D&D The Ultimate Gateway System 56:21

9M ago56:21

56:21

In this episode of RPG Blokes, the team dives into the world of Dungeons & Dragons—often called the perfect starting point for newcomers to tabletop RPGs. Stephen, the D&D veteran, shares insights from playing every edition since the 80s, while John highlights how the polished resources make the game approachable. Barry, with five years’ experience…

1
The Hidden Costs of Using AI in Your D&D Prep - Is it Helping You or Holding You Back 36:41

9M ago36:41

36:41

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon AI is here—and it’s not going anywhere. But …

1
How to make Lifelike NPCs with DMs Shea and Kyle from Dungeon Master Talk 55:06

9M ago55:06

55:06

Here are today's sponsors: Worldsmith - Easy D&D Prep - Start a Free 7 Day Trial: https://session0studios.com/worldsmith-podcast Roll and Play Press - Easier D&D: https://session0studios.com/rollandplay Studio Fantasms: https://session0studios.com/fantasms Our Patreon: https://session0studios.com/patreon Is it important for you NPCs to "feel" a cer…