2 Kobolds in a Trenchcoat
by 2KiaTPodcast
2 Kobolds in a Trenchcoat is an entirely unscripted podcast that dives into the fascinating world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). In each episode, the hosts enthusiastically explore a variety of topics, from game mechanics and storytelling techniques to character development and community highlights. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the genre, this lively conversation promises to entertain and inspire.
Episodes
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New Character, Same Party: Starting Over in D&D
What happens when your D&D character dies, retires, or simply isn't working out anymore? This week on Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat we're talking about the challenges of introducing a brand-new character into an already established adventuring party. Do you need to replace the healer? What happens...
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Dungeon Crawls: Traps, Treasure & Terrible Decisions
What makes a great dungeon crawl? This week on Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, we're heading underground to talk about one of the classics of tabletop RPGs: the dungeon crawl. From sprawling underground fortresses and shifting labyrinths to traps, puzzles, rival adventurers and rooms you really...
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From Screen to Character Sheet: Can Your Favourite Characters Work in D&D?
Could Batman actually work in D&D? What about Aragorn, Goku, Hulk, or your favourite anime character? This week on Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, we're taking characters from anime, comics, films, and TV and asking what happens when you try to squeeze them onto a character sheet. Some translate...
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GM Prep: Plans, Players & the Art of Making It Up
How prepared does a GM actually need to be? This week on Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, we're digging into GM prep, from planning long-term campaigns and keeping track of player abilities to having a Plan B when the party murders the NPC who was supposed to give them the next quest. We talk...
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Character Inspiration: From Great Ideas to Unplayed Heroes
Every great RPG character begins somewhere. Maybe they’re inspired by a favourite film character, a relationship from real life, an old hero you never got to finish playing, or a bizarre idea that arrived fully formed at two in the morning. This week on Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, we explore…
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Finding the Right System
Some RPG systems are a perfect fit. Others turn a fun game into homework, improv, or a GM test you never signed up for. If you’ve ever wondered why one game clicks instantly while another leaves you overwhelmed, this conversation breaks down exactly what to look for before you sit at the table....
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Talking Class - The Fighter
The Fighter is not the “basic” class, it’s the smartest pick if you want a martial character that’s easy to play, hard to break, and wildly more versatile than people give it credit for. Shiv and Aely make the case for why Fighter is one of the best entry points into D&D, and why its simplicity…
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The Appeal of Solo Games
Solo TTRPGs are more than a backup plan when your group falls through, they might be the most flexible, creative way to play. If you’ve ever wanted to roleplay without scheduling headaches, tabletop prep, or waiting on anyone else, this episode opens up the world of solo adventures and why…
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Which Dice Systems Work For You!
Most tabletop gamers are familiar with the classic D20 system, but the vast universe of dice mechanics holds far more secrets and surprises. In this episode of Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, Shiv and Aely explode the myth that D20 reigns supreme by dissecting unconventional systems like D10 pools,...
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How and When to Homebrew
When is it worth creating something from scratch? How do you ensure your big boss leaves a lasting impression and keeps your players on their toes? If you're tired of cookie-cutter monsters and predictable battles, this episode is your ultimate guide to crafting encounters that captivate and...
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Coriolis The Great Dark - Shiv Reviews
The darkness of space hides secrets and danger, unlike anything you've explored before. In this episode, Shiv dives into Coriolis: The Great Dark, a standalone sci-fi fantasy game set on a battered, mysterious asteroid city forged from the wreckage of a shattered civilisation. If you love cosmic...
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Overcoming World Building Block
The secret to overcoming the world-building block might be simpler than you think, and it’s not just about grinding harder or waiting it out. When even seasoned creators hit a daunting wall, what’s the secret to breaking through? Aely's solo spin on this episode reveals how to turn frustration…
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Guiding the Story
Most GMs struggle with keeping their storytelling on track without falling into the dreaded railroading trap. If your game feels like it's wandering or long pauses kill the pacing, this episode is your secret weapon. Shiv and Aely reveal practical, easy-to-implement techniques to guide your story...
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Metagaming
Uncover the truth about metagaming, why it can either ruin or enhance your role-playing experience. Is your obsession with inside info hurting your game, or can it be a secret weapon? Find out how top game masters and players navigate the fine line between strategic advantage and breaking…
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Unlikeable Player Characters
Unlikable characters can be some of the most compelling in storytelling, but why do we gravitate toward them, and how do they shape our game nights? In this candid episode, two veteran TTRPG players dive deep into the psychology of complex, flawed characters. Discover how characters like the...
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Tools!
Unlock the hidden power of tool proficiencies in your tabletop RPG campaigns. Despite their potential to fuel creativity and problem-solving, tools are often overlooked or underutilized—until now. In this episode, we peel back the curtain on how tool proficiencies can transform ordinary gameplay...
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Backup Characters
Most of us don't create backup characters — but maybe we should. When a favorite drops dead mid-adventure or a campaign takes an unexpected turn, the pain of losing a character can be overwhelming. Yet, the idea of deliberately crafting a "backup" could save you from heartbreak...or curse your…
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Int Vs Wis
Most players still misunderstand the true difference between intelligence and wisdom. In this episode of Two Kobolds in a Trench Coat, we unveil the hidden mechanics behind these core D&D stats that can transform your characters and gameplay. Ever wondered why perception checks spot the obvious,...
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The Story so Far...
In this episode of Two Kobolds in a Trenchcoat, the hosts dive headfirst into the chaos that can erupt from a single, seemingly innocuous decision. Join us as we explore a chance encounter with a cunning fox tied to shadowy deities and navigate the tangled web of city politics and underground...
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Finding Joy in TTRPGs
Discover the simple joys that make tabletop RPGs truly magical, from dice that sing to epic stories born from tiny moments. Ever wonder what keeps players and DMs coming back to the table year after year? It’s not just the rules or the worlds—they’re the little sparks of joy that turn a game into…
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The Theme is...
Unlock the secret power of storytelling in your tabletop RPGs by mastering the subtle art of themes—beyond just genre and tone. Discover how understanding and crafting themes can transform your campaigns from ordinary to unforgettable, layered with depth, emotion, and meaningful character arcs....
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5.5e Character Creation
Most players feel stuck with the new 2024 D&D rules, but what if the changes actually make character creation more frustrating than fun? In this wild episode, we dive into the chaos of rolling characters with the latest version, revealing how some seemingly "improved" mechanics actually restrict...
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Tales of the Large Table
Large tables in D&D, more than just the number of seats, can be a balancing act that challenges even seasoned GMs. Have you ever wondered how to run a thriving game with 6, 7, or even more players without losing control or engagement? If the thought of managing big groups feels overwhelming, this...
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Plant Things
Most D&D campaigns feature goblins, dragons, and undead, but plant monsters? Surprisingly rare, yet brimming with untapped potential. Imagine giant, carnivorous trees that trap and digest adventurers, or vines that respond like intelligent predators, silent, deadly, and eerily plausible in a...
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Fist: The Monk Story
In this episode, we dive deep into the evolution of the Monk, from the mystical, sometimes confusing origins to the more grounded, combat-focused class of today. We unpack the shifting terminology, from monastic traditions to martial arts, and discuss how the latest editions aim to strip away the...
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The Clique
Uncover the hidden social dynamics shaping the TTRPG community, and why cliques are quietly holding some players back. This episode dives into the often-overlooked world of online and offline groups, revealing how exclusion, favoritism, and echo chambers foster unspoken barriers, and how you can...
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There and Back Again!
In this episode, unravel the fascinating psychology behind these role reversals, sharing personal stories of burnout, anxiety, and the bold leaps that redefine their game lives. Ever wondered why some face the fear of stepping into the GM chair after years of playing? Or how long-term campaigns…
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The Recap!
In this episode of Two Kobolds, we dive deep into the world of game recaps, why they matter, how to do them effectively, and the surprising ways they can enhance your storytelling. We unpack the challenges of memory, the different styles from simple prompts to epic storytelling, and how to…
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Lore...What is it good for?
Shiv and Aely dive into the intricate world of lore building. They discuss the balance between creating expansive worlds and maintaining player engagement, drawing insights from Ed Greenwood's perspectives on D&D world-building. The conversation explores the challenges of integrating player...
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New Character Syndrome
In this episode, they explore the challenges and joys of developing characters for short campaigns, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into their creative processes. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of role-playing games, this discussion offers valuable tips on how to...
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2026! Level Up!
Join us as we delve into the art of character levelling, exploring the nuances of character development, decision-making, and storytelling. This episode is packed with engaging discussions and valuable insights from seasoned players, offering listeners practical tips and entertaining anecdotes....
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Are you Tired?
In this episode we dive into the concept of "system burnout" in tabletop role-playing games. They explore why players and game masters might feel fatigued with popular systems like Dungeons & Dragons, discussing factors such as repetitive mechanics, company decisions, and the allure of new games....
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The Carefully Constructed Railroad
In this episode, hosts Shiv and Aely dive into the art of balancing player agency with a structured narrative in tabletop role-playing games. They explore the challenges of keeping players on track without stifling creativity, sharing personal anecdotes and strategies for managing unexpected...
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Fantastical Beasts
Join Shiv and Aelyrya in this fantastically bestial episode as they delve into the world of mythical and historical creatures. From the origins of the Bulette to the terrifying Gashadokuru, discover how folklore and history inspire the creation of new monsters for your games. Whether you're a fan...
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Death Defying Saving Throws
In this episode, Shiv and Aelyrya delve into the mechanics and drama of death saves in tabletop RPGs. From the fear of hitting zero hit points to the strategic decisions players face, they explore the tension and storytelling potential of these critical moments. Tune in for insights, anecdotes…
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Make it Rain! TTRPG Weather
In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked yet fascinating role of weather in tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). Join hosts Shiv and Aelyrya as they explore how weather can transform gameplay, from adding tension and drama to creating dynamic storytelling opportunities. Discover why...
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Temptation to TPK
In this episode, they discuss the temptation and ethics of a Total Party Kill (TPK) from a Dungeon Master's perspective, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. Whether you're a seasoned DM or a curious player, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at the dynamics of storytelling and player...
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Bring the Music!
Join Shiv and Aely in this episode as they explore the transformative power of music and sound effects in tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). From the impact of iconic soundtracks to personal stories of choir days, discover how sound can elevate your gaming experience. Whether you're a seasoned...
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TTRPG Fashion
In this episode, Shiv and Aely dive into the whimsical world of TTRPG fashion. From historical inspirations to character expression, they explore how fashion choices can shape and define characters in tabletop role-playing games. Whether it's the practicality of a leather cuirass or the…
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Monsters, Monsters and More Monsters
Join Shiv and Aelyrya as they dive into the world of monstrous creatures in this Halloween-themed episode of "Two Kobolds in a Trench Coat." From dissecting the terrifying Balgura to exploring the enigmatic Aboleth, they discuss how to enhance these creatures for your D&D campaigns. With a mix of...
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Tropes Upon Tropes
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of tabletop role-playing games, where we uncover the common tropes that shape our adventures. From the classic hero's journey to the unexpected plot twists, we explore how these elements enhance storytelling and player engagement. Whether you're a...
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Burnout!
In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked topic of burnout in tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). Join hosts Shiv and Aely as they delve into how burnout impacts both players and Dungeon Masters (DMs), sharing personal experiences and insights. Discover the signs of burnout, its…
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Location, Location, Location
Embark on a journey through the most imaginative and captivating quest locations in tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). In this episode, we explore how creative settings can transform your gaming experience, from enchanted forests and mystical cities to hidden realms and ancient ruins. Discover...
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You've Won!
In this episode, we explore the art of improvisation for game masters who face the unexpected: when players defeat a boss too soon. Discover creative strategies to keep the adventure thrilling, from introducing new plot twists to crafting engaging side quests. Learn how to maintain narrative...
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Why are you Bothered??
In this episode, we embark on a journey to compare tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) with other popular hobbies and interests. Join us as we explore the unique aspects of TTRPGs, from their collaborative storytelling and creativity to the sense of community they foster. We'll discuss how these...
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When You're Away!
In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of managing long-term player absences in tabletop games. Discover strategies to maintain game continuity, keep the story engaging, and ensure every player feels valued, even when they're away. Whether you're a seasoned Dungeon Master or new to the...
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Monster Factory: Talking Troll
In this episode of "Monster Factory," we delve into the fascinating world of trolls in Dungeons & Dragons. Join hosts Shiv and Aelyrya as they explore the origins of trolls from Nordic folklore to their chaotic presence in D&D. Discover the unique traits that make trolls both formidable foes and...
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Has the Dragon Lost its way?
In this episode, we explore the exciting rise of new tabletop role-playing game systems, with a spotlight on Daggerheart. As traditional games like Dungeons & Dragons face challenges, innovative systems are capturing the imagination of players worldwide. Join us as we discuss what makes these new...
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Underrated Magic Items
Join Shiv and Aely as they delve into uncovering the hidden gems of magic items that often go unnoticed. From the versatile Bag of Tricks to the elusive Amulet of Proof Against Detection and Location, discover how these underrated items can add a twist to your campaign. Whether you're a seasoned...
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The Best Of....
Join us for a special "Best of" episode where we bring you the most memorable moments from our past episodes. From hilarious exchanges and lighthearted banter to insightful discussions and dramatic scenes, this compilation captures the essence of what makes our show unique. Whether you're a...
About this show
2 Kobolds in a Trenchcoat is an entirely unscripted podcast that dives into the fascinating world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). In each episode, the hosts enthusiastically explore a variety of topics, from game mechanics and storytelling techniques to character development and community highlights. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the genre, this lively conversation promises to entertain and inspire.
Hosted by
2KiaTPodcast