Best Ottley Podcasts (2024)

1
Episode 17 - Lessons In Parenting || The Pact & Boon 1:18:05

2h ago1:18:05

1:18:05

Welcome back! After a month long break, Episode 17 sends our heroes to yet another city in Tirash in search of answers surrounding the mysterious lethargy. The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the cont…

1
How to upgrade your games with Monument Studios 53:22

7h ago53:22

53:22

On today's episode, we have Tyler & Noah, the musical masterminds behind Monument Studios. As some of you know, Monument Studios has been a sponsor of How To Be a Better DM, and our Live-play D&D show The Pact & Boon for the better part of the past year. Their app Fantasy + is a must have for any dungeon master! Tune in to hear about their upcoming…

1
In the Footsteps of Giants: Part 1 33:18

3d ago33:18

33:18

Welcome to How to Be a Better DM. Today is a special episode. In it, you'll hear the first 30 minutes of one of our professional dungeon mastering sessions. Some of the players are new to D&D and have very little experience. If you're interested in this episode, and want to hear the rest of the session, reach out to us on our Discord. If enough peo…

1
Milly Johnson - Just Write The Book! - JU223 1:00:27

4d ago1:00:27

1:00:27

INTERESTED IN SELF-PUBLISHING? CHECK OUT THIS ONE DAY COURSE SIGN UP TO MY FREE WORKSHOPS NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE NOW WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS Grab a free Audible 30 Day Trial and listen to SAFE HANDS for FREE! It’s episode 223 with the funny and inspiring Milly Johnson talking about her long writing journey, including writing greetings ca…

1
3 Questions To Determine a Combat Encounter’s Length 24:25

5d ago24:25

24:25

When you are planning a combat encounter, do you know how to get it into the "Goldilocks" zone in terms of length? You don't want it so short that no one got anything out of it, but you also don't want it so long that all the players are secretly praying that it will be over after the next turn. To help you plan the length of your encounter, whethe…

1
Navigating Data-Driven Dreams with Soo Tang Yuk 🇻🇮🇹🇹🇦🇼🇨🇳 40:37

7d ago40:37

40:37

Soo Tang Yuk (she/her) is an entrepreneur, co-founder of a global tech consultancy, and Women in Tech evangelist. With a background in IT and a passion for mentoring, community building, and also as a podcast producer, she drives innovation and leads strategic initiatives. In this episode, Soo Tang Yuk shared more about her Caribbean identity, care…

1
11 More Things Every Dungeon Master Should Remember Part 2 18:58

11d ago18:58

18:58

Things Every Dungeon Master Should Remember As a Dungeon Master you have so much to remember, it’s a wonder you can even remember your own name. Yet, what if, by remembering a few more things, you were able to not only make your game better, but feel better yourself, and make everything you do as a Dungeon Master better? I know what it’s like to de…

1
11 More Things Every Dungeon Master Should Remember Part 1 31:57

12d ago31:57

31:57

Things Every Dungeon Master Should Remember As a Dungeon Master you have so much to remember, it’s a wonder you can even remember your own name. Yet, what if, by remembering a few more things, you were able to not only make your game better, but feel better yourself, and make everything you do as a Dungeon Master better? I know what it’s like to de…

1
Recap of Episodes 1-5 (Written by Joland Grei) 25:41

12d ago25:41

25:41

**Special Episode** Don't want to start listening to The Pact & Boon from the beginning? Start here! Gain insight into the mind of the character Joland Grei as he writes a recap of the first 5 episodes in his journal. The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos - A world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, hum…

1
How to Start Terrainscaping for your D&D Games with Jay's Tabletop Terrain 35:00

19d ago35:00

35:00

Have you ever seen amazing terrainscapes worthy of legend and have looked on with envy? Do you want to learn how to start getting into terrainscaping so you can have amazing battlemaps like all of the famous actual play shows? Well, this is the episode for you. Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. Today Justin and Tanner are joined by Jay from Ja…

1
Ranking Our Favorite Episodes of Invincible! 1:36:18

25d ago1:36:18

1:36:18

We each ranked our favorite episodes of the Invincible animated series (so far...), then assigned them points based on their position, and then turned that into our official list of Top Episodes! This definitely won't get heated...right? We also cover the latest in Invincible news, read listener emails, and dive into another issue of Invincible wit…

1
Lessons Learned My First Year DM'ing 11:54

26d ago11:54

11:54

Welcome to How To Be a Better DM. In today's episode I (Cayden) go over 3 of the biggest lessons I've learned over this past year as I've started running D&D games for my friends & family. Hopefully something in this episode inspires those of you who have yet to give DM'ing a shot, to try it out. Mentioned in this episode: Sign Up For Dungeon Maste…

1
Liz Fenwick - Sometimes, not writing is still writing! 59:52

29d ago59:52

59:52

SIGN UP TO MY FREE WORKSHOPS NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE NOW WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS Grab a free Audible 30 Day Trial and listen to SAFE HANDS for FREE! It’s episode 222 with inspirational commercial fiction writer, Liz Fenwick talking about her Cornish novels, methods of research, her writing process and her advice for those of us struggling…

1
Episode 16 - We're Gonna Be Stars! || The Pact & Boon 59:39

1M ago59:39

59:39

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Downtime Activities in D&D, Part 4: Running a Business 29:25

1M ago29:25

29:25

Should you encourage your players to run a business in your campaign? What would that even look like? And, most importantly, can allowing players to run a business in your D&D Campaign become an additive to the overall story, or a distraction? Tanner explores these questions, their many other nuances, and the effects of a player-run, in-game busine…

1
Where Have My Fingers Been & Why Players Should All Be DMs - Guest Appearance on RPG Academy 54:53

1M ago54:53

54:53

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. Today is a special bonus episode. We were fortunate enough to have been invited onto RPG Academy. Listen to our conversation but absolutely check them out at https://therpgacademy.com/ Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Session 0 Studios Visit session0studios.com for more information. Give Us a Ratin…

1
Episode 15 - It's a Crestor Miracle! || The Pact & Boon 1:10:57

1M ago1:10:57

1:10:57

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
10 More Tips for Even Better One-Shots 18:30

1M ago18:30

18:30

“You creep slowly through the cobwebbed dark of the crypt, your breath coming out in puffs of steam that you’re trying your hardest to cover. You reach the corner and peer around down the hall. You see the source of the thumping sound. It’s a creature the size of an ogre, with the same proportions. The only difference is that where an ogre would ha…

1
Navigating Global Operations with Yesenia Monroy 🇸🇻 35:13

1M ago35:13

35:13

Yesenia Monroy (she/her) is an accomplished Global Client Experience leader with expertise in cultivating high-performing teams, optimizing technology, and driving progressive operational efficiencies. In this episode, Yesenia shared insights on her connection with Central America, her professional journey, and the influence of her cultural backgro…

1
Alison Barrow on PR and Publishing - JU221 59:25

1M ago59:25

59:25

SIGN UP TO MY FREE WORKSHOPS NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBE NOW WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS Grab a free Audible 30 Day Trial and listen to SAFE HANDS for FREE! It’s episode 221 with publishing PR legend, Alison Barrow who is PR Director at Penguin Random House and has been involved in some of the most well known campaigns around, including SJ Watson…

1
Episode 14 - We Yee'd Our Last Haw || The Pact & Boon 1:19:29

2M ago1:19:29

1:19:29

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Yes And... Why Improvisation Isn't About You | Talking Improv and Comedy with TJ from Comedy Sports 57:02

2M ago57:02

57:02

How do you improvise things that make the game better? How do you add comedy to the game without making it corny? Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. Today I talked with TJ Salmon from Comedy Sports, located in Provo Utah. For more information check out https://www.comedysportzutah.com/ The biggest lesson of today's show is that improv, and come…

1
Digital AWS Leadership with Walyce Phillip 🇧🇷 35:25

2M ago35:25

35:25

Walyce Phillip (she/her) is a leader in digital media products and operations with extensive program management experience. She excels in driving product strategy by setting priorities and guiding products through the execution cycle, with a focus on enhancing customer experience and engagement. In this episode, we’ll uncover the key milestones in …

1
Joined Up Live with Helen Cooper - JU220 57:00

2M ago57:00

57:00

SUBSCRIBE NOW WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS Grab a free Audible 30 Day Trial and listen to SAFE HANDS for FREE! It’s episode 220 and it’s with psychological thriller writer, Helen Cooper who I interviewed in front of a live audience at Leicester’s Central Library. It was the first Joined Up Live and I got to chat to Helen about her latest gr…

1
Episode 13 - Crestor? I barely know hor || The Pact & Boon 1:15:20

2M ago1:15:20

1:15:20

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
How to World Build Using Conflict: Into the mind of Jake Packham (DM of The Pact & Boon) 16:38

2M ago16:38

16:38

In today's episode, we talk to Jake Packham, who is the dungeon master behind our live-play show "The Pact & Boon." Listen as we ask Jake how he goes about applying his inspiration to create compelling campaigns, and grow his home-brew world of Calignos. Mentioned in this episode: Always Have Your Sessions Prepared! You work 8 hours a day. You spen…

1
Chief Marketing Officer Extraordinaire with Adriana Pirela 🇱🇨🇻🇪 51:42

2M ago51:42

51:42

Adriana Pirela (she/her) is not your ordinary Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), she has conquered markets from the US to the Caribbean, showcasing her prowess in boosting revenue and mastering customer acquisition. She's not just about numbers – Adriana's a brand-building maestro, celebrated for her strategies that elevate retention and cut acquisitio…

1
Honour Among Spies with Merle Nyegate - JU219 1:04:07

2M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

SUBSCRIBE NOW ON – iTUNES STITCHER SPOTIFY OVERCAST It’s episode 219 with Merle Nyegate, TV screenwriter and novelist, returning to talk about her new espionage novel – Honour Among Spies. We talk about theme, structure and writing a sequel. Merle is a screenwriter, script editor, screenwriting lecturer and novelist; she's worked on BAFTA winning T…

1
How to World Build in a Player and Character Focused Way 17:17

2M ago17:17

17:17

Here's a bonus episode for you about how to World Build with Your players and Characters in mind. Here are some helpful tips: When you world build for players, you leave open spaces that players can help fill It gives your worldbuilding direction, which makes the story that much better. It saves time and effort because you only build about 20% more…

1
Episode 12 - Ciril, The Serial Killer || The Pact & Boon 1:29:05

2M ago1:29:05

1:29:05

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Downtime Activities in D&D, Part 3: Carousing 18:44

2M ago18:44

18:44

In today's episode of How to Be a Better DM, we are continuing our exploration of downtime activities, and we are focusing on the mother of all "timewasters," carousing! But, is it a waste of time? Or is carousing in D&D one of the best opportunities to enrich your story, introduce characters, and build memories through the craziest experiences! Me…

1
Guest Interview: Yoshi Vu, Artist & Designer on the Invincible animated series! 1:23:16

2M ago1:23:16

1:23:16

We're joined by the amazing artist & designer, Yoshi Vu, to talk all about his history in the industry and his work on the Invincible animated series! We also cover the latest in Invincible news, read listener emails, and dive into another issue of Invincible with our Issue Spotlight segment!You can follow Yoshi here:Instagram: @YoshiVuArtTwitter: …

1
Episode 11 - Somebody That I Used To Smell || The Pact & Boon 1:07:11

2M ago1:07:11

1:07:11

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Easier DND Prep and Planning Through the CASE Framework 25:35

2M ago25:35

25:35

Abridged Show Notes Feeling overwhelmed by D&D campaign planning? Struggle to connect your grand ideas into a single, captivating story? This episode unveils the CASE Framework, a simple yet powerful system that will transform your planning sessions. Learn how to craft unforgettable campaigns, memorable story arcs, and engaging encounters that will…

1
Manda Scott and Thrutopian Fiction - Joined Up 218 50:51

2M ago50:51

50:51

SUBSCRIBE NOW ON – iTUNES STITCHER SPOTIFY OVERCAST It’s episode 218 with the fascinating Manda Scott, talking about her new Thrutopian novel, Any Human Power, why she wanted to take a different path between dystopia and utopia, how she literally felt a calling to write this book and that all important step of trying to find your voice. We do all t…

1
Navigating the Software Landscape with Rwynn Christian 🇸🇷 28:00

2M ago28:00

28:00

Rwynn Christian (he/him) is an experienced Software Engineer at ReflexSystems and an IT Consultant with a Master's degree in Computer Science from The University of Texas in Austin, specializing in Software Systems Engineering and Business Analysis. In this episode, Rwynn shares about his professional engineering journey, providing career advice an…

1
Episode 10 - Pan Fried, Not Stirred || The Pact & Boon 1:32:44

3M ago1:32:44

1:32:44

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Railroading and the Illusion of Choice: Do Players Care About Being Railroaded? 35:39

3M ago35:39

35:39

Welcome back to another episode. Today we walk about railroading, allowing players to do whatever they want, focusing on player perception and making sure the game is fun for the player at all times. If you want more, check out session0studios.com Mentioned in this episode: Brought to you by Session 0 Studios Visit session0studios.com for more info…

1
Episode 9 - That's So Draven || The Pact & Boon 1:30:47

3M ago1:30:47

1:30:47

The Pact & Boon is an actual play D&D 5e show set in the home-brew world of Calignos! In a world plagued by a mysterious lethargy, humanoids and beasts twist into monstrous forms across the continent of Rel. Amidst this chaos, an unlikely band of adventurers unite in the fiery depths of the 9 hells, fighting for survival against unfathomable odds. …

1
Build Your Dream D&D Game Room: Top Tips from Daniel Hanzlian 27:16

3M ago27:16

27:16

Ever dreamt of creating the perfect D&D game room, but felt overwhelmed by budget, and space limitations, or clueless about the coolest tech hacks? This episode is your one-stop guide! We'll delve into inspiring ideas, from crafting an immersive atmosphere to incorporating unexpected gadgets to elevate your campaign. Whether you're a seasoned Dunge…

1
Home Brew Rules From Different Game Systems on the Level Up Your Gaming Podcast 54:57

3M ago54:57

54:57

Welcome back to today's show. Today, Tanner and Justin have the great pleasure of joining the Level Up Your Gaming Podcast (https://levelupyourgaming.buzzsprout.com/) with hosts Josh and Aaron to talk about transplanting rules into your game from different RPG systems. Mentioned in this episode: Add the Magic of Sound to Your Gameplay When you set …

1
Episode 8 - We Set Fire To The Plains || The Pact & Boon 1:18:52

3M ago1:18:52

1:18:52

Welcome to The Pact & Boon - An actual play D&D show taking place in the home-brew world of Calignos. We hope you heard Adele in your head when you read that title. Check our other podcasts out at: https://session0studios.com Join our discord (The Guild) for behind the scenes, tips, and a community of dungeon masters: https://www.patreon.com/Sessio…

1
Our Convention Adventure - C2E2 2024 1:22:51

3M ago1:22:51

1:22:51

The four of us don't get together often, but when we do, it's always a lot of fun! This time, we went to Chicago to attend C2E2 2024. Meeting listeners, chatting with Invincible creators, taking pictures with cosplay and nearly dying... we're back with ALL the stories!Timecodes:0:00 Intro 4:47 Guarding The Globe7:50 Email: Alternate Invincibles15:2…

1
10 Places That Your Fantasy Town NEEDS! 19:53

3M ago19:53

19:53

What's up everyone! Thanks for listing to how to be a better DM. Here's a quick synopsis of today's episode hosted by (me) Cayden Ottley. In today's episode I talk about 10 places that you need in any fantasy town that your players are visiting. This obviously varies from place to place depending on setting, political system, and your own rules to …

1
Solving The Puzzle with Samuel Burr - JU217 51:13

3M ago51:13

51:13

SUBSCRIBE NOW ON – iTUNES STITCHER SPOTIFY OVERCAST It’s episode 217 with Samuel Burr, ex-TV executive turned author with his debut book, The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers. This is a lovely chat covering Samuel’s journey to publication, how his time spent filming in a retirement village inspired his book, pitching tips and, of course, the book that sa…

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