Episodes
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Episode 269: My Top 10 Recommendations
This week, James heads Beyond the Table for a relaxed, off-the-cuff episode featuring ten personal recommendations inspired by his recent interests and everyday life. The topics span books, television, movies, podcasts, YouTube, music, apps, food, everyday purchases, and experiences. It’s a…
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Episode 268: The Fall Show
In this episode, James takes a look back at Q3 and opens up his planning dashboard to share what’s coming to the table for the final quarter of 2026. Projects on tap include an Early Integration History Maker Baseball tournament, a collection of dream college football rivalry matchups, a 1975-76...
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Episode 267: Top 5 What-If Project Starters
What if you could change just one thing in sports history and play out everything that follows? In this episode of the Tabletop Sportcast, James shares five project starter ideas that bridge historical and fictional gaming. We're talking NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, Expansion, Relocation, Mergers, and...
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Episode 266: Sitting Down With ... Matt McKeever of d12 Gaming!
This week on the Tabletop SportCast, I sit down with Matt McKeever of D12 Gaming to talk about the design of their new golf game, Pocket Pro Tour. Matt takes us behind the design process and explains how the philosophy behind Pocket Pennant Run — small footprint, quick resolution, and doing more...
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Episode 265: The What-If PLAAY Holiday Sale
In this episode of the Tabletop Sportcast, James discusses the upcoming holiday sale and the changes happening within the PLAAY community. He reflects on the past year's events, including the departure of key personnel and the impact on business operations. James speculates on what the holiday…
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Episode 264: Five Years at the Table
Celebrating five years of the Tabletop Sportcast, this episode reflects on the show's evolution, personal hobby updates, and future plans. Host James shares insights on community-created content, hobby tools, and project management, emphasizing the importance of engagement and passion in the hobby.
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Episode 263: Stop Chasing the Finish Line
What if the secret to finishing a massive tabletop project is deciding you don’t have to finish the whole thing? This week, James looks at using milestones to turn oversized projects into manageable chunks, using his 1973 Hall of Fame Starting Pitcher project as a real-world example. Plus, some...
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Episode 262: Sitting Down With ... Arthur Franz!
James sits down with designer Arthur Franz for an inside look at Breakaway Football Dynasty, an upcoming game that puts players in the role of a modern football general manager. They discuss the game’s original concept, resource-management approach, randomly generated coaches and players, two...
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Episode 261: The 10 Games That Make My Moving Box (today)
What if you had to reduce your entire tabletop sports game collection to just ten titles? In Episode 261, James takes on that challenge—but this is not simply a list of his ten favorite games. With only one game allowed per sport and one per designer or game company, he builds a collection…
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Episode 260: 10 Moments that Redefined my Hobby
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James opens with a review of Sports Sim Magazine Issue #23, highlighting the articles, community voices, and free playable content that make the magazine such a valuable part of the hobby. Then, in the main topic, James looks back at ten moments that...
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Episode 259: The Summer Show
Summer has arrived on the tabletop, and episode 259 is all about turning the page from a busy spring into a fresh season of gaming. James recaps his Q2 gaming numbers, including 154 sessions, 37 different games, 23 projects, and a spring table led heavily by baseball. He also looks back at key...
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Episode 258 ... Sitting Down With ... Roy Paeth!
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James sits down with Roy Paeth for a Father’s Day conversation about games, family, community, and finding time for ourselves. Roy shares his journey from Strat-O-Matic Football and Statis-Pro Baseball to rediscovering tabletop sports games during COVID,...
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Episode 257 ... Sitting Down With ... Ian Brooke from On-Deck Baseball
This week on the Tabletop SportCast, James sits down with Ian Brooke, designer of On Deck Baseball, for a conversation about creating a baseball game that captures more than just stats on a card. Ian shares the game’s origins, the importance of fictional leagues, player artwork, fatigue,...
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Episode 256: Project Tiers: From One-Offs to Obessions
This episode explores how to categorize tabletop sports projects into five tiers based on size and commitment, helping gamers plan and execute their projects more effectively. The host shares personal insights and frameworks to tailor project scope to individual preferences.
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Episode 255: Managing Baseball on the Tabletop
On this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James explores the art of managing baseball teams in tabletop sports games. He discusses the balance between historical accuracy and personal strategy, from replaying seasons with realistic usage patterns to creating your own managerial style within...
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Episode 254: Digital to Dice 2026 Recap
In Episode 254 of the Tabletop SportCast, James Cast recaps his experience at Digital to DiceCon 2026 and explores what happens after the convention ends. From new games and community connections to project ideas and post-convention motivation, this episode focuses on how tabletop gamers can turn...
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Episode 253: Sitting Down With ... S.T. Patrick!
In this episode, S.T. Patrick shares insights on game design, the hobby's golden age, and the impact of AI on game creation. The host, James Cast, along with S.T., explore the evolution of sports simulation games, the importance of quality over quantity, and the future of the hobby. In this...
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Episode 252: Playtesting with Purpose
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James takes a closer look at playtesting and why “just play it and tell me what you think” usually is not enough. Using the DMAIC process — Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control — he breaks down how playtesting can serve a different purpose at...
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Episode 251: Reviewing The Universal Baseball Association
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James Cast takes a look at The Universal Baseball Association, Inc., J. Henry Waugh, Prop. by Robert Coover — a novel that may be one of the most fascinating books ever written for tabletop sports gamers. He summarizes the story of Henry Waugh and his...
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Episode 250: Reaching a Milestone in Indiana
On this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James Cast recaps IndiCon 2026, explores the milestone 250th episode, and reflects on the community of tabletop sports gaming. Keywords tabletop sports gaming, IndieCon 2026, podcast milestone, community, game design, project planning, interviews, hobby...
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Episode 249: The Road to IndiCon 2026
In this episode, James discusses his preparations for IndiCon, shares insights on planning gaming projects, and highlights what makes a great gaming event. He emphasizes the importance of good games, access to designers, and the power of community in enhancing the hobby experience. keywords board...
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Episode 248: The Spring Show
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James reflects on the winter season of tabletop gaming, shares insights on project management, and previews the spring season's plans, including upcoming events and new projects. keywords tabletop gaming, winter recap, spring plans, game projects,...
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Episode 247: Why I'm Choosing Gaming Right Now
In this episode, James discusses how he prioritizes his hobbies and projects, balancing game playing, content creation, and game design. He shares practical strategies like effort vs. value analysis and routine management to make informed decisions about where to focus his limited time. keywords...
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Episode 246: Stop the Slop
James explores the impact of AI on the tabletop hobby, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards and authenticity. He highlights common pitfalls of AI-generated content and advocates for thoughtful, intentional use of AI tools to preserve the creativity and trust within the...
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Episode 245: The 2024 Mets Replay Retrospective
In this episode, James reflects on his 2024 Mets replay using History Maker Baseball, analyzing what worked, what didn't, and lessons learned. He explores the nuances of managing a full season replay, the impact of strategic decisions, and how the replay mirrored or diverged from real life....
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Episode 244: When Replays Feel Like a Classic Mixtape
James explores his unique approach to tabletop sports replays, emphasizing the 'mixtape' method that blends historical accuracy with personal creativity. He shares insights on how to tweak seasons for a personalized experience, balancing authenticity with ownership. keywords tabletop sports…
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Episode 243: Managing Playing Time in Basketball Games
This episode explores managing playing time in tabletop basketball, highlighting common pitfalls like the average minutes trap and offering practical frameworks for more realistic and strategic coaching. Learn how to use game context, foul trouble, and game plans to enhance your tabletop gaming...
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Episode 242: Talking Box Seat Baseball with Dave Jackson!
TABLETOP SPORTCAST — EPISODE 242 Sitting Down With… Dave Jackson! (Box Seat Baseball) Runtime: ~1:11:00 Guest: Dave Jackson (Box Seat Baseball community contributor + “How To” video creator) EPISODE SUMMARY In this episode, James sits down with Dave Jackson to talk Box Seat Baseball—why it has…
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Episode 241: Sitting Down With ... Al Wilson!
Guest: Al Wilson (3d6 Gaming) Topic: FDF Fantasy Draft (Fast Drive Football – Fantasy Draft Expansion) Format: Pre-recorded interview (no “Around the Table” segment this week) Draft Day chaos… but on the tabletop. In this episode, I’m joined by Al Wilson of 3d6 Gaming to talk about FDF Fantasy...
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Episode 240: Top 10 Underrated Sport Games
Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James explores the world of underrated sports in tabletop gaming, presenting a countdown of the top 10 games that deserve more attention. From bowling to golf, each game is discussed in terms of its unique appeal and gameplay mechanics…
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Episode 239: Sitting Down With ... Andy Sexton!
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James sits down with Andy Sexton to discuss the intricacies of running co-op projects in tabletop sports gaming. Andy shares his journey into tabletop gaming, the appeal of co-op projects, and the challenges faced in maintaining engagement. The…
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Episode 238: The Winter Show
Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, James dives into the winter season of tabletop sports gaming, discussing what games and projects he plans to focus on during this quieter time of year. He reflects on the transition from football to basketball and hockey, emphasizing the…
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Episode 237: Sitting Down With ... Marc Unger & Ron Juckett
Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast interviews Mark Unger and Ron Juckett about their experiences in the sports gaming community and the exciting documentary project they are working on. They discuss the art of sports broadcasting, the importance of storytelling…
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Episode 236: My 2026 Annual Plan
Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, James discusses his annual plan for 2026, themed around women's sports, and outlines the structure and goals for the podcast. He shares insights on project planning, including quarterly projects, tournament structures, and game design goals,...
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Episode 235: 2025 Year in Review
Summary In this episode, James Cast reflects on his tabletop gaming experiences in 2025, discussing the goals he set for himself, the variety of games played, and the balance between gaming and content creation. He emphasizes the importance of finding enjoyment in the hobby, drawing inspiration...
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Episode 234: Top Games of 2025
Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast reviews the top games of 2025, discussing games played throughout the year. The episode is structured into tiers based on how often games made it to the table, with a focus on both new and returning games. James shares insights on...
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Episode 233: Big Changes at Plaay
Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses significant changes in the tabletop sports gaming community, particularly focusing on the impact of Sam Avallone's departure from Plaay. The conversation reflects on the legacy of the Plaay Space, the implications of...
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Episode 232: An Inside Look at ... Fight Card Boxing by Power Blue Sports
Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses the latest release from Powder Blue Sports, Fight Card Boxing, along with his experiences during the holiday sales. He shares insights on his gaming highlights, including a recreation of the 2000 US Open golf tournament, and...
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Episode 231: Holiday Sale Wish List
Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses his holiday sale wishlist, exploring various tabletop sports games and classic seasons he is interested in acquiring. He reflects on the significance of historical replays, shares insights on specific game titles, and...
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Episode 230: What Makes A Game Timeless
Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast explores the concept of timelessness in tabletop sports games. He discusses the key qualities that contribute to a game's longevity, including fun, credibility, functional elegance, fresh content, and community support. The episode…
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Episode 229: Talking Convergence with Don and Kevin
Keywords wrestling, tabletop games, fictional federations, character development, AI in storytelling, Convergence event, HCW, NPCW, collaboration, storylines Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast interviews Don Bychowski and Kevin Lloyd about their upcoming crossover...
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Episode 228: The Road to 3000
Keywords Tabletop gaming, gaming log, sports games, game sessions, board games, tabletop sports, gaming community, game reviews, gaming projects, gaming insights Summary In this episode of the Tabletop Sportcast, host James Cast reflects on his gaming journey, celebrating the completion of his...
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Episode 227: AGL Season 4 Yearbook
Keywords American Grid Zone League, AGL, tabletop sports, season recap, game expansion, player statistics, sports simulation, tabletop gaming, league structure, sports history Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast provides an in-depth look at the American Grid Zone...
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Episode 226: Building My Historical Replay List
Keywords tabletop sports, historical replays, Sports Sim Magazine, American Grid Zone League, tabletop gaming, sports history, replay games, sports simulation, podcast, gaming community Summary In this episode of Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast discusses his approach to building a list of...
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Episode 225: Q3 Retrospective
Keywords Tabletop Sports, Q3 Retrospective, Audience Growth, Game Projects, Sports Games, Podcasting, Tabletop Gaming, Game Design, Community Engagement, Q4 Plans Summary In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast reflects on the third quarter of 2025, discussing audience growth,...
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Episode 224: Sitting Down with ... John Turnbull!
Keywords Tabletop Sports, Game Design, Powder Blue Sports, John Turnbull, Drive Time Football, Baseline Basketball, Red Ice Hockey, Quick Play Games, Sports Simulation, Community Engagement Takeaways John Turnbull shares his journey into tabletop sports. The importance of simplicity in game…
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Episode 223: An Inside Look at ... Tecmo Bowl by Buffalo Games
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast provides an engaging overview of the latest tabletop gaming news, highlights from his recent gaming experiences, and a detailed review of the newly released Tecmo Bowl by Buffalo Games. The conversation covers various aspects of the game,...
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Episode 222: Non-Sports Games
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast explores the world of non-sports games, reflecting on his experiences at the Iowa 80 Truck Stop and discussing the growth of non-sports games within the tabletop community. He shares his personal gaming journey, the evolution of board...
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Episode 221: Update On Game Design
In this episode of the Tabletop SportCast, host James Cast shares updates on his game creation journey, discussing various tabletop games he is designing, including The Bannister Mile, Track the Pack, Calcio, Endure, and Foils. He reflects on the challenges of game design, the importance of...
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Episode 220: The 4th Anniversary Show
In this special anniversary episode of the Tabletop SportCast, the host reflects on four years of podcasting, sharing insights from various guests about their experiences in the tabletop sports community. The conversation covers themes of community engagement, the challenges and joys of game...