Best Useful NPCs Podcasts (2024)

1
FOLLOWERS AND NPCs (Tyler’s Version): Master Co-op Strategy and Use Unique Characters 1:01:27

22d ago1:01:27

1:01:27

Welcome to the world of TTRPG followers! From loyal sidekicks to fierce minions, these NPCs can greatly enhance your gaming experience. On this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast we dig into the mechanics and strategies behind managing and utilizing cohorts, followers, and other unique characters in your TTRPG sessions. Whether you're a seaso…

1
What Would a Fantasy Blacksmith Shop Look Like - Wastatch Forge Blacksmith Interview Part 2 28:48

1h ago28:48

28:48

Dive deep into the captivating world of blacksmithing in Dungeons & Dragons with our special guests Matt and Stan from Wasatch Forge. In this thrilling episode, we unravel the secrets of the blacksmith's shop, from forging blades to the mystical infusion of magic into steel. Discover the craft behind the art, and uncover how you can enhance your D&…

1
LIFESTYLE RULES (Remastered!): Squalor to Splendor, Transforming Your RPG Campaign 37:21

1h ago37:21

37:21

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss a topic that many of us are familiar with: lifestyle changes. But have you ever stopped to consider how these changes can drastically transform your Pathfinder 2e or D&D 5e RPG campaigns? From going from rags to riches, or from luxury to survival, our characters' lifestyles can have a profound impac…

1
What D&D 5e Gets Wrong About Blacksmiths - Wasatch Forge Interview with a Blacksmith 48:04

1d ago48:04

48:04

Dungeons and Dragons 5e gets a lot wrong about Blacksmiths. There is almost no realism. Pretty strong statements right? But that's exactly what we dive into in our conversation today with Matt and Stan from Wasatch Forge, a local blacksmith school here in Salt Lake City Utah. Visit https://www.wasatchforge.com/ for more information. Welcome back to…

1
ARTIFICERS 2: Crafting Magic, A Guide to the Ultimate Tinkerer 1:07:49

1d ago1:07:49

1:07:49

In this two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we build upon the Artificers we created in Part 1. Artificers are a class that has long captured the imaginations of tabletop roleplaying game enthusiasts. With their mastery of technology and their ability to create powerful magical items, artificers bring a unique and exciting element to any RPG cam…

1
Bonus: Always Find Players for D&D, How to Do Lycanthropy in Your Game, The Longstrider Spell, on the Next Session Podcast 1:00:47

3d ago1:00:47

1:00:47

Finding player can be difficult. Having lycanthropes in your party can be difficult. Using the Longstrider spell can be difficult. Lucky for you, we talk about all of that. On today's BONUS episode, Tanner and Justin are invited onto the Next Session Podcast with Alyssa and Adam. They have a great conversation sharing tips for always finding player…

1
Unveiling the Undead: A Deep Dive into the Lore and Legacy of Liches in Fantasy Gaming 45:21

4d ago45:21

45:21

Ever wondered if the mystical liches of yore are facing an existential crisis of overexposure in modern fantasy? Tune in and we'll be your guides through the shadowy corridors of lich lore, from their haunting origins in Dungeons & Dragons to their complex roles in today's gaming narratives. We promise you'll emerge with a newfound appreciation for…

1
ARTIFICERS: Crafting Chaos, A Guide to Building the Master Artisan 53:03

5d ago53:03

53:03

In this two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we tackle building an Artificer. Artificers are a class that has long captured the imaginations of tabletop roleplaying game enthusiasts. With their mastery of technology and their ability to create powerful magical items, artificers bring a unique and exciting element to any RPG campaign. The team di…

1
Ep 220 - Preparing to Take a Break 14:51

5d ago14:51

14:51

Sometimes a break is inevitable. Your campaign needs to go on hiatus for one reason or another. If you know it’s coming, what can you do to prepare your game for a leave of absence? Tune in this week and find out. #dnd5e #pf2e #dnd #dmtips #gmtips #TakeABreakBy Taking 20 Podcast

1
FOOD (Remastered!): Feast or Famine: The Impact of Food on TTRPGs 56:05

7d ago56:05

56:05

When it comes to roleplaying games, there are many factors that can greatly influence the overall experience. One of these often overlooked but crucial elements is food. Whether in-game as a resource or in the real world as sustenance during a gaming session, food can have a significant impact on the gameplay and the enjoyment of players. In this r…

1
5 Tips for More Immersive World Building! 10:21

8d ago10:21

10:21

Join host Cayden Ottley on How to Be A Better DM, on a captivating journey into the realms of fantasy and adventure within Dungeons and Dragons fifth edition. In this episode, Cayden shares five invaluable tips for crafting immersive worlds in your D&D campaigns. From establishing a rich history filled with legendary events to creating diverse cult…

1
TIAN XIA WORLD GUIDE: Pathfinder Lost Omen’s Eleanor Ferron and James Case 37:04

9d ago37:04

37:04

On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, Paizo Senior Developer Eleanor Ferron and Senior Designer James Case talk about their latest creation, the Lost Omen Tian Xia World Guide. They guide us as we explore the rich history, diverse cultures, and fierce peoples of this mysterious land, and help us discover how fate and prophecy play a pivotal role i…

1
DAGGERHEART Beta 1.2 Playtest: The RPGBOT.Review 1:16:05

12d ago1:16:05

1:16:05

On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we're reviewing Daggerheart Beta Playtest version 1.2, the newest release from Darrington Press, and talking about the challenges and riches it has to offer. MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE Candela Obscura: Critical Role’s Cosmic Horror TTRPG Daggerheart Nexus on Demiplane If you enjoy the show, please ra…

1
Ep 219 - Let Players Use New Abilities 12:50

14d ago12:50

12:50

Some DMs treat new character abilities as puzzles to solve or speedbumps on the path to kill the PCs. As characters level up, they will get all kinds of abilities, some of which are carefully selected and crafted by the players. In this episode, I give DMs some practical advice for embracing these new character abilities. Resources: None…

1
Downtime Activities in D&D, Part 1: How to Build A Stronghold 27:44

16d ago27:44

27:44

Our topic today is something that you may not have experienced as a DM, since it is a very specific type of adventure mechanic. But, with the right party and right campaign, it could be a new, fun experience for you and your players. Namely, today we are talking about building a stronghold. Or, you might call it your base, your homestead, your cast…

1
BULLETS & BEYOND: Incorporating the Technology and Magic of Firearms into TTRPGs 1:06:49

16d ago1:06:49

1:06:49

On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we dive into the exciting world of firearms in tabletop roleplaying games. Whether you're a GM looking to incorporate guns into your game or a player wondering how to use them effectively, this post will cover everything you need to know. From historical accuracy to game mechanics, join us as we explore the us…

1
THE NINE HELLS (Layers 6 - 9): Beyond the Gates: A Deeper Dive 1:10:16

19d ago1:10:16

1:10:16

Welcome back to the depths of the 9 hells, where danger and treachery lurk at every turn. In this second of our two-part episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore deeper in the lore and history of these infernal planes in the world of Forgotten Realms. From tyrannical rulers to twisted creatures, join us as we journey through the dangerous landscap…

1
Ep 218 - The Power of DM Words 17:17

21d ago17:17

17:17

within the game. The way we describe encounters, how we interact with our players, and whether or not to offer advice can make a game session fun and engaging, combative, miserable, or boring. In this episode I offer some tips for choosing your words carefully while running a game and helping to ensure players get the information they need without …

1
Podcast Takeover! 2nd Episode of New Actual Play D&D Show - Pact and Boon 2:13:40

20d ago2:13:40

2:13:40

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. This is a special bonus episode. In today's episode we give you Episode 2 of the Pact and Boon actual play D&D show. If you want to subscribe to the show, check out session0studios.com/pactnboon Mentioned in this episode: Signup for Our Email Newsletter Do you love the show but can't always listen to it? Do yo…

1
Pact and Boon Episode 1: Podcast Takeover! 1:35:52

22d ago1:35:52

1:35:52

Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM. In honor of the release of our newest podcast, The Pact and Boon (session0studios.com/pactnboon/) we are releasing the first episode of that show on this podcast today. Pact and Boon is an Actual Play 5e D&D podcast and we are so excited about it. Go and check out the rest of the episodes that are out right no…

1
20 Tips for First Time DMs 24:48

23d ago24:48

24:48

Do you dream of trying out being a dungeon master, but are unsure of yourself or your abilities? Do currently DM but wish some parts of it weren’t as hard or complicated? Today’s episode is filled with 20 tips to help you skip some of the mistakes that we’ve made in our DMing journey. With these tips, you can gain the confidence to DM like you neve…

1
THE NINE HELLS (Layers 1 -5): An Introduction to the Infernal Realms 59:37

24d ago59:37

59:37

The 9 hells are a notoriously dangerous and treacherous place that have captured the imaginations of players and Dungeon Masters alike. From tyrannical rulers to twisted creatures and unforgiving landscapes, the 9 hells are a constant source of adventure and danger in the worlds of D&D and Pathfinder. On this first of our two-part episode of the RP…

1
MONSTER CORE REVIEW: Pathfinder 2e Remaster Project from Paizo 1:07:39

27d ago1:07:39

1:07:39

Step into a world of magic and mayhem, where heroes must face their greatest challenges in the form of terrifying monsters. The Remastered Pathfinder Monster Core rulebook for Second Edition is here, packed with over 400 pages of new foes to challenge your players and add depth to your campaigns. Join us, on the RPGBOT.Podcast, as we explore this e…

1
Ep 217 - Monster Series - Dragons 2 and the PF2e Monster Core Review 21:49

28d ago21:49

21:49

A listener wrote in asking for more details about dragons and I’m happy to oblige. They are complex creatures that have a lot of abilities and long lifespans for good reason. In this episode I talk about more draconic features and briefly review the Pathfinder 2e Monster Core Rulebook recently released by Paizo Resources: Archives of Nethys - https…

1
THE MONSTERIZER: Shake Up Your Sessions and Get Ready to Roar 32:24

29d ago32:24

32:24

Are you tired of using the same tired old monsters in your D&D game? Look no further than the Monsterizer from RPGBOT.net, the ultimate tool for creating unique and challenging creatures. Hear from our team about our love for custom monsters and the wild experiences we've had with them in this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast. Special thank…

1
How to DM in a Public Place | Tips for Public Dungeon Mastering with Andrew Ashby from We Geek Together 36:48

1M ago36:48

36:48

Have you ever wanted to go to that cool game store down the road and play a fun game of D&D but are maybe somewhat shy and nervous about being a DM in a public place? Wouldn't you like the ability to DM in any place at any time? Today we are going to walk you through some tips on how to manage yourself in those public places and how to make sure it…

1
PALADIN Levels 5 - 20: The Path to Paladinhood; Character Build Tips and Tricks 1:07:05

1M ago1:07:05

1:07:05

Enter the world of fantasy and embark on a heroic journey as we uncover the mysterious and powerful class of the Paladin in tabletop roleplaying games. Unwavering in their devotion and fearless in battle, the Paladin is a class that strikes awe and admiration in the hearts of many tabletop roleplayers. With their righteous cause and unbreakable cod…

1
Ep 216 - Should Players Plan During Combat? 12:24

1M ago12:24

12:24

Some groups keep combat conversations barebones, only allowing brief phrases to be exchanged during combat. In this episode, I’ll give some pros and cons about allowing players to talk during combat and provide some tips for DMs who are unsure whether they’d allow this. #dmtips #gmtips #dnd #pf2e Resources: https://www.reddit.com/r/DnD/comments/13f…

1
PALADIN Levels 1 - 4: In the Name of Good: A Guide to the Holy Warrior Class 56:46

1M ago56:46

56:46

Enter the world of fantasy and embark on a heroic journey as we uncover the mysterious and powerful class of the Paladin in tabletop roleplaying games. Unwavering in their devotion and fearless in battle, the Paladin is a class that strikes awe and admiration in the hearts of many tabletop roleplayers. With their righteous cause and unbreakable cod…

1
HORROR (Remastered!) - Critical Fails and Creepy Tales Introducing Ash Ely 1:00:42

1M ago1:00:42

1:00:42

Step into the shadowy realm of tabletop horror as we delve into the spine-chilling topic with our guest, Asher Ely of the Critical Fails podcast. Join us as we explore the stages of terror, unveil effective techniques for creating a haunting atmosphere, and reveal the key elements for crafting a thrilling horror experience in your tabletop RPG. Are…

1
5 of the BEST online resources for a more immersive world. 13:22

1M ago13:22

13:22

Thanks for tuning in today! Today's show was hosted by Cayden Ottley, and focuses on (in our opinion) the best online resources to help create a more immersive experience for your players. Here are the links to all of the websites mentioned in the episode: https://www.fantasy-plus.com/ - (Monument Studios) Use code: BETTERDM for 10% off! (it's only…

1
THE FEYWILD: Exploring the Uncharted Territory’s Mysterious Wonders 1:18:21

1M ago1:18:21

1:18:21

Welcome, adventurers! On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, follow us into the wild and wondrous world of the Feywild. A place where the impossible becomes possible and magic reigns supreme. Join us as we journey through the mystical realm, uncovering its mysteries and uncovering its secrets. So grab your maps and prepare yourselves, for the journ…

1
BARD Levels 5 - 20: From Lute to Legend, Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Build 1:10:05

1M ago1:10:05

1:10:05

Welcome adventurers, back to the world of bards. These charismatic and magical beings have been a staple in Dungeons & Dragons since its inception, and for good reason. With their alluring presence, musical talents, and versatile skills, bards offer a unique role within any party. But what if we told you there was a way to make them even more adapt…

1
Ep 215 - House Rules to Make Your Game Harder 17:12

1M ago17:12

17:12

Some players want a hard game. They’ve been there, done that and got the scars to prove it. They want something more difficult and more punishing. In this episode I float some ideas on how you can give your game some teeth and make it a little or a lot more difficult for your PCs. #dmtips #gmtips #dnd #5e #pf2e #GameDifficulty…

1
When and How to Speedrun D&D Sessions 15:36

1M ago15:36

15:36

Welcome to How to Be a Better DM! Do you ever see your players losing interest halfway through a quest, a dungeon, or an NPC conversation? Well, they may be bored, which means you should learn to speedrun certain plot point and encounters for the sake of your players' fun. Tanner discusses when to shorten, speed up, or cut out certain parts of your…

1
BARD Levels 1-4: Beyond Music and Magic, the Jack of All Trades 1:01:32

1M ago1:01:32

1:01:32

The bard, a class that has captured the imaginations of Dungeons & Dragons players for decades. With its charming presence, musical talents, and magical abilities, the bard offers a unique and versatile role within a party. In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we tackle building the bard to make them even more adaptable, with access to every skil…

1
UNDERWATER COMBAT; Randall Sinks to the Bottom; Hilarity Ensues! 1:03:36

2M ago1:03:36

1:03:36

Welcome adventurers! On this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast we're diving into the world of underwater combat. From battling sea creatures to exploring sunken cities, there's no telling what dangers await in the depths. So grab your diving gear and get ready for an action-packed adventure in the watery abyss. Whether you're a seasoned fighter or a be…

1
Ep 214 - House Rules to Make Your Game Easier 28:54

2M ago28:54

28:54

Sometimes you as the DM want to make the game a little easier for the players. Maybe the players are new or just want a game where they feel like gods among men. There are a myriad of ways to make a game easier. In this episode, I discuss a few of them. #dmtips #gmtips #houserules #dnd5e #pf2eBy Taking 20 Podcast

1
FAILURE (Remastered!) - When the Dice Betray You with Crit Fails Bea Monroe 48:47

2M ago48:47

48:47

Failure in tabletop RPGs: a topic that strikes fear into the hearts of many players and Dungeon Masters alike. But what if we told you that failure doesn't have to ruin your game? In this episode, we sit down with Bea Monroe of the Crit Fails podcast to discuss the ins and outs of failure in RPGs. Whether you're a DM struggling with how to handle p…

1
How to Write a DND Heist One Shot | Why You Should Play a DND Heist One Shot 52:39

2M ago52:39

52:39

How to Write a DND Heist One Shot Welcome back to How to Be a Better DM, I’m your mastermind for today, Justin Lewis, and you’re here with me to learn how to tell better stories for yourself and your friends as you DM sessions of Dungeons and Dragons 5e. aHow to Be a Better DM is presented to you by Session 0 Studios, D&D podcasts and shows to sate…

1
THE ETHEREAL PLANE: Exploring the Enigmatic Realm and What Lies Beyond 59:16

2M ago59:16

59:16

Welcome to a journey unlike any other as we venture into the timeless and enigmatic realm of the Ethereal Plane. Step into the mysterious mist and join us as we unravel the secrets and dangers lurking within this ethereal dimension. Whether you're a curious adventurer or a seasoned explorer, prepare to be captivated by this otherworldly dimension a…

1
SORCERER Levels 5 - 20: Mastering Magic, Essential Spells for Characters 1:03:37

2M ago1:03:37

1:03:37

Whether you're an experienced player or a newcomer to the world of tabletop RPGs, Sorcerers always seems to spark a little extra curiosity and excitement With their innate connection to arcane forces and powerful spells at their fingertips, sorcerers have a unique mystique that sets them apart from other spellcasters. But what makes them truly spec…

1
How and When to Make Realistic, Unforgettable NPCs 22:21

2M ago22:21

22:21

Are you tired of making throwaway NPCs that your players forget the next day? Then this podcast discussion with Tanner, Justin, and Cayden is for you! We discuss when to utilize realistic NPCs and ways to improve the realism of your NPCs, as well. Let's roll initiative! Mentioned in this episode: Signup for Our Email Newsletter Do you love the show…

1
BIG NEWS IN DnD! WoTC DnD Release Dates 2024(5?) and the Tomb of Gyzaengaxx with Alphinius Goo! 59:15

2M ago59:15

59:15

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we open with a review of WoTC Dungeons and Dragons Release dates for 2024 and some of 2025! Then prepare yourselves for an epic journey into the realm of nostalgia and adventure, as the team talks to Alphinius Goo from Gooey Cube who as teamed up with Luke Gygax and Gaxxworx to bring forth a special Kickstarte…

1
SORCERERS Levels 1 - 4: Good to Evil, A Guide to Building a Magical Being 53:29

2M ago53:29

53:29

Sorcerers are undoubtedly one of the most intriguing and powerful classes in tabletop RPGs. These magical beings possess an innate connection to arcane forces, allowing them to cast spells and wield incredible abilities without the need for study or training. But what is it that truly sets sorcerers apart from other spellcasters? In this two-part e…

1
Ep 213 - Back to Basics - Player Agency 20:47

2M ago20:47

20:47

Player Agency describes the power of players to make choices for their characters. There is an unspoken social contract around every RPG table that the DM won’t take these choices away and players won’t use these choices to ruin the fun of the DM. In this episode, I talk about how critical it is that both sides of the screen respect the agency of o…

1
DEATH (Remastered!): Rebuilding and Moving On After a Character's Demise 53:46

2M ago53:46

53:46

Character death is an inevitable part of the tabletop RPG experience, but it's a topic that often sparks controversy and fear among players. Whether it's a planned sacrifice or an unexpected twist of fate, the loss of a beloved character can be a difficult pill to swallow. In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we dive into the world of character d…

1
The Joys of World Building, & How To Start! 11:46

2M ago11:46

11:46

On today's episode, Cayden talks about his experience in creating home-brew worlds and mechanics without knowing much about DND in the first place. For those of you who want to play but may not have a great basis in the game, this episode is for you! But Seasoned players, don't turn away just yet. You may learn a thing or two about getting creative…

1
RUNES: Introducing Axe and Anarchy Into Your Game 1:07:47

2M ago1:07:47

1:07:47

Welcome to another episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, where we dive into all things Dungeons & Dragons. Today we're talking about the highly debated topic of magic items in 5th Edition and exploring the game-changing rune system of Pathfinder 2nd Edition. Get ready to discover the untapped potential of these rune-enhanced weapons and armor and how they…

1
SOCIAL SKILLS: Navigating Complex Social Interactions in TTRPGs 1:11:36

2M ago1:11:36

1:11:36

On this episode of the Rpgbot.Podcast we're exploring the world of social skills in tabletop RPGs. From charming your way past guards to negotiating with powerful NPCs, we'll explore the importance of social skills in shaping your character's interactions and success in the game. So grab your dice and join us as we discuss this crucial aspect of ro…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Useful NPCs Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide