PODCAST · leisure
Tabletop Tune Up
by Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman
Here's a podcast for you, the rpg gamemaster (or dungeonmaster). Join your hosts and GMs Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman as they give you the short-form tips and tricks on how to make your rpg adventures easier for you and more fun for everyone.Theme music by Suno, cover image by Dall-E.
Episodes
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The Old School Renaissance
How good were the good old days? In this week's episode, Mark and Ben talk about the Old School Renaissance, a trend in modern games to return to themes and styles of play popular in the early days of role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. We'll talk about some of those themes and styles,...
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Running the First Session
In this session, Mark and Ben talk about a recent campaign they've just started, and how to start that first session well. Whether it's getting players into the action or setting up the story threads that bring the characters together beyond the initial moments of adventure, we'll discuss how to...
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Cultural Appreciation
This time Mark and Ben take on the touchy topic of cultural appropriation in RPG settings. As a worldbuilder and in the run of your games, you'll draw on real world history, culture, and traditions, and it's likely not all of them will be your own. We discuss how to do so with appreciation and...
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Planetcrafting
In this episode, Mark and Ben seek out the lore of how to create and use strange new worlds in a variety of different science fiction genres. Whether it's hard science fiction focused on the science of the setting, soft science fiction focused dramatic alien encounters, or the science fantasy...
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Railroading, All Aboard!
In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss the complaint, issue, and (surprising!) opportunity of railroading your player characters. We'll talk about when to put smart limits on player agency for the benefit of the game and the players. In this week's Tune Up segment, we also talk about how to make...
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Let's Build a Magic Item
In this week's episode, Mark and Ben build a magic item. Yes, it's time to put all our theory to work and actually build something for use at the table. We've attached the description below, and we hope you'll tune in to hear our thinking about how we made the choices that gave this item its...
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Interview with Duncan Rhodes
This week Mark and Ben interview Duncan Rhodes, author of the newly released Creative Gamemaster's Guide to Extraordinary Locations. In this episode, we talk about what makes a great map, the ways that maps can enhance story, and set the stage for great encounters of all kinds. Join us to hear...
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AI Tools Again
A year on, Mark and Ben revisit the evolving discussion around AI for the GM. This episode takes on questions related to people's concerns about creativity, privacy, and IP before moving on to what's changed in the landscape of AI tools since the last time this topic was discussed. Tune in to…
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Going Critical
In this episode, Mark and Ben talk about the highs and lows of critical results. Whether it's a natural 20, an exploding damage die, or an incredible result on an old school crit chart, these extraordinary results can create extraordinary moments at your table. Join us as we discuss various…
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When Dice Say Die
Character death in RPGs can be a gut punch — but it’s also one of the richest storytelling tools in the game. Whether it’s a heroic sacrifice, a tragic misstep, or the fallout of a risky choice, death can add weight, emotion, and legacy to your campaign — if handled well. In this episode, we...
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Large Player Groups
Running a game with a large table can feel like wrangling a small army—but it can also be hugely rewarding if you know how to manage the challenges. In this episode, Mark and Ben talk about the hurdles that come with oversized groups: scheduling nightmares, spotlight imbalance, scaling…
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Mass Combat
This week Mark and Ben talk about mass combat--those great battles that decide the fates of great powers and make great stories memorable. We'll discuss methods to keep your focus on the player characters as well as interesting intersections with war games that let players play out grand…
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Our 50th Episode Review
Join us for our 50th episode! In this episode, Mark and Ben reflect on the lessons and highlights of the Tabletop Tune Up podcast, and look ahead to new topics and games to be covered in upcoming episodes. If you're a new listener, you'll get a sense of what our GMing podcast is about, and if...
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RPG Review: Broken Compass & Outgunned
This week it's another RPG review of the Broken Compass and Outgunned games from Two Little Mice. If you're someone who left every great action movie thinking "I want to play that RPG!" then this game is probably for you. Broken Compass and its refined descendent, Outgunned, are cinematic action...
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Player Crafting
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben talk about player-crafted items. Crafting is a part of many RPGs, but it's not often discussed in relation to the party's advancement or storytelling. This week we discuss a number of factors to think about when considering what kinds of items…
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Player Character Backgrounds
What makes a good player character backstory? This week we discuss the ways backstory can open up new story possibilities and begin character journeys through your campaign. Backstories are about balancing the need for hooks that bring characters into the narrative with mysteries that are left…
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RPG Review - Traveller
In this episode, Mark and Ben talk about Traveller. Its a system whose origins lie in the fateful summer of 1977 when another huge science fiction release (Star Wars) ensured it would gain instant traction with people hungry to embrace the stars. After several iterations, today's line of books is...
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GM Interview - Bob Gerard - Part 2
This week we conclude our two-part interview with Bob Gerard, GM, player, Storyteller, Pinballer, and Star Wars fan. We talk about all those things and how they contribute to making you a better GM. Whether you're bringing Star Wars to life with the Hero's Journey or you're replenishing your...
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GM Interview - Bob Gerard Part 1
In this interview episode, Mark and Ben welcome their friend Bob Gerard, a podcaster, Star Wars superfan, storyteller, learning expert, and of course, a fellow GM. We ask Bob about his early experiences with role playing games, his thoughts on storytelling, and what it's like to visit Tokyo for…
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GM Interview - Brandon Holland
This week we interview our friend Brandon Holland, a fellow old school GM who shares with us his insights on the importance of box text, early RPG influences, and the emergent magic of shared storytelling with great players. Join us for a discussion at the GM's table where we're all still…
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Tabletop Tune Up Reviews: Palladium Games
In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss the first and still much loved series of games published by Palladium Games. Their entry point to the system was the comic book-inspired Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Other Strangeness, and that led to titles in other genres that used the same system…
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Work Your One Shots
This week we're talking about one-shots and convention games. With GenCon's schedule release fresh in mind, now's a good moment to talk about why short-form RPGs are special, offering unique opportunities to test new games, build communities around your favorite games, and explore exciting...
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Win with Westerns
In this episode, we saddle up and ride into the wide-open world of Western RPGs. The Western genre continues to captivate players, and we'll explore classic tropes like morally grey heroes, high-stakes showdowns, exploration, redemption, and the struggle against nature. You can create memorable...
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Level Up Your Lairs
Whether it’s a fortified castle, secret bat-cave, spaceship, or even a humble basement office, the right lair can give players a secure home, strategic advantages, and powerful story opportunities. We'll discuss how to introduce lairs meaningfully—through conquest, inheritance, or rewards—and...
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Playing the Odds
In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss the power and pitfalls of dice in tabletop RPGs. Dice introduce suspense and uncertainty, becoming the "third storyteller" at your table. Dive into Dice 101, and discover how probability affects the stories you tell at your table. We discuss the implications…
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Conquer Conflict
In this episode, we dive into a crucial topic for every GM—how to handle and resolve conflicts within the group. From differing expectations about the game to personality clashes and in-game character disputes, conflicts can arise in many forms. We'll explore common sources of tension, like...
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Double Your Dungeonmastery
In this episode, Mark and Ben explore the exciting and collaborative world of co-GMing—trading off gamemastering duties with a friend. Co-GMing offers a way to prevent burnout, combine creative strengths, and make storytelling even more fun. We'll discuss the importance of working with the right...
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Roll for Romance
In this episode Mark and Ben tackle an often-overlooked but emotionally rich aspect of tabletop RPGs—romance! While romance in games can feel intimidating, especially with its potential for awkwardness, this episode breaks down how to handle it with care. From setting boundaries and ensuring…
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Power Up with Pulp!
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, learn how to borrow the key elements of pulp storytelling to add thrills and chills to your games. Pulp is a style of storytelling distinct from the 1930's time period it is often associated with. Pulp stories tend to feature powerful, virtuous heroes…
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Talking Trash
In this episode, Mark and Ben dive into the art of trash talking in tabletop RPGs—without crossing the line. They explore how to effectively use banter to create excitement, foster camaraderie, and raise the stakes during gameplay. Learn how trash talk can engage players between sessions and...
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Balancing Your Party
Whether you’re a GM striving for harmony or a player finding your niche, achieving balance can be the key to a memorable game. We break down the different ways to define balance, from party composition and individual capabilities to fitting challenges within encounters. Learn how to manage…
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Enhancing Your NPCs
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the world of NPCs and how to make them memorable in your RPG sessions. From serving the story and building the world to helping manage time and providing fun moments, NPCs are essential tools for GMs. Learn how to give each NPC clear...
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Finding Your Character's Voice
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we discuss the fun and creative process of finding your character's voice in RPGs. Accents and vocal choices can add depth to character portrayal, and voices can be a memorable extension of a character’s story. You don't have to be an experienced voice actor…
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Building and Balancing Encounters
In our last episode for 2024, we explore what makes a good encounter. Great encounters advance the story and characters, creating memorable moments with real stakes. Learn how to design encounters that resonate long after the game ends, and discover how to break down your adventure into…
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The Holiday Special
In our special Holiday episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben show you how to create the perfect holiday-themed RPG adventure! Drawing on beloved TV tropes and seasonal traditions, we discuss how to incorporate classic holiday elements and festive experiences into your game. We'll talk about...
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Advance Your Adventures!
It's time to kick off a new series focused on the art of adventure design. Adventures are pivotal segments in larger campaigns, and designing them thoughtfully ensures they drive the story forward while providing exciting, memorable experiences for the players. This episode covers key...
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Power Up Your Prep
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we dive into the essential skill of prep—why it’s crucial, and how it can make your GMing smoother and more flexible. We explore how preparation lightens your workload during sessions, allowing you to improvise and adapt easily when the story takes unexpected...
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Interview with Tad Leckman
In this special episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben sit down with Tad Leckman, a seasoned learning professional with experience at Industrial Light and Magic, Activision-Blizzard, and as a game design instructor at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Tad shares his insights on leading...
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Giving Thanks for Players
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben express their gratitude for the players who elevate every RPG experience. They discuss what makes great characters—from those with rich backstories and room for growth, to ones that enhance the party dynamic and align with the campaign. Good…
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The Rogues Return!
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore how to make your villains unforgettable and keep them central to the story. From ensuring your villain’s presence is felt—even when they’re not on screen—to effective ways of insulating them from overzealous players, we cover the…
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Raise Your Rogues Gallery
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the world of villains and how to craft memorable antagonists for your RPG campaigns. Drawing inspiration from cinema, they explore how different villain archetypes—like the Authority, the Bully, and the Mastermind—translate to the…
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Tools of the GM's Trade
In the this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the myriad tools available today to enhance player immersion and spark imagination in tabletop RPGs. From sourcing evocative music—like soundtracks from iconic films and ambient tracks on YouTube—to the importance of maps and…
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Heighten Your Horror!
In this special Halloween episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we explore how to craft immersive horror experiences that leave players trembling. Discover how to set the mood with ambiance, sound, and props while building suspense through subtle hints of unseen threats. Learn to limit planning time to...
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Fire Up Your Factions
This week Mark and Ben induct you into the fascinating world of factions within your RPG civilizations. We explore what factions are, and how they play a critical role in driving conflict and drama in your campaigns. Factions help your characters align their moral compass, and add layers to your...
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Chris Robichaud on Horror RPGs
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, we sit down for an insightful conversation with Chris Robichaud, a philosopher, an RPG enthusiast, and most importantly, our guide into the dark realms of the horror RPG genre. Join us as Chris leads Mark and Ben into the chilling world of horror GMing to...
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Putting Wonder In Your World
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the magical concept of wonder—an essential element that makes RPGs a unique and shared experience. Moments of wonder not only inspire players but also serve as story high points that elevate campaigns to unforgettable heights. We’ll...
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Worldbuilding History and Civilizations
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben explore the intertwined topics of civilizations and history in worldbuilding. We dive into how civilizations shape cultures, characters, and narratives. History is the backdrop to your players' adventures, influencing motivations for villains and...
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When Things Go Wrong
In this episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben dive into the challenging topic of recovering from a campaign that has hit a rough patch. We'll explore a range of issues that can derail a campaign, including story problems, bad social dynamics, poor system fit, and the ever present hazard of a...
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Mapping Your Realm
In the fourteenth episode of Tabletop Tune Up, Mark and Ben tackle the art of world mapping—an essential aspect of crafting immersive RPG settings. This episode offers practical guidance on creating maps that support every kind of adventure, from fantasy realms and superhero cities to futuristic...
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GM Interview - Randy
In this episode Mark and Ben interview a GM who's been an important influence on their games and growth as GMs. Meet Randy, whose homebrewed world began drawn with colored pencils on letter-sized paper inspired decades of gameplay with several local groups. We'll ask Randy about Kiras, about how…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Here's a podcast for you, the rpg gamemaster (or dungeonmaster). Join your hosts and GMs Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman as they give you the short-form tips and tricks on how to make your rpg adventures easier for you and more fun for everyone.Theme music by Suno, cover image by Dall-E.
HOSTED BY
Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Tabletop Tune Up have?
Tabletop Tune Up currently has 62 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Tabletop Tune Up about?
Here's a podcast for you, the rpg gamemaster (or dungeonmaster). Join your hosts and GMs Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman as they give you the short-form tips and tricks on how to make your rpg adventures easier for you and more fun for everyone.Theme music by Suno, cover image by Dall-E.
How often does Tabletop Tune Up release new episodes?
Tabletop Tune Up has 62 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Tabletop Tune Up?
You can listen to Tabletop Tune Up on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Tabletop Tune Up?
Tabletop Tune Up is created and hosted by Ben Dyer and Mark Lehman.
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