The Havoc Rundown

This episode on Havoc Rundown, the crew sits down with NHRL’s own “Evil Henchman” Sam Hanson for a massive behind-the-scenes look at how combat robotics content gets made, how NHRL has evolved over the last few years, and what fans can expect as the Pro League era begins. From announcing events and creating viral content to helping shape the fan experience at NHRL, Sam talks about how his role has transformed since first joining the team and what it’s like becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the sport.The episode also dives deep into the future of NHRL, including Pro League structure changes, prize payouts, stream presentation updates, builder communication, and the growing push to make combat robotics feel like a truly global sport. Sam also shares stories from filming Side Quests in New Zealand, building weird robots, nearly losing a robot to the ocean forever, and why the Synthesis vs Booty Brigade fight still stands above the rest as the greatest fight NHRL has ever had.Ryan debuts an all-new “Who’s That Henchman?” Game Corner featuring evil sidekicks, stolen points, and complete chaos as the crew struggles through movie trivia ranging from Star Wars and Austin Powers to Hercules and Goldfinger. Somewhere along the way, the conversation also spirals into maple syrup crime syndicates, robot skateparks, mushroom foraging, battle boats, robot Pokémon tournaments, and the possibility of a future steel floor invitational.The episode closes out with updates on Havoc Rundown merch, Havoc TV, Bot of the Day, and a spotlight on CFA Laser, a Connecticut-based fabrication shop helping builders get combat robot parts cut fast and locally before events.If you’re into combat robotics, NHRL, behind-the-scenes production stories, robot builder culture, or just hearing a group of people completely derail into absurd conversations about syrup economics and evil henchmen, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Havoc Rundown, we welcome back a familiar voice you’ve heard in our ad reads and a name nearly every builder recognizes—Seth Schaffer from Just 'Cuz Robotics. Seth joins us to break down how his company has evolved from simple power distribution boards into one of the most influential suppliers in combat robotics. We get into the full story behind Just 'Cuz Robotics, from early experimentation and solving common builder problems to scaling into a full-time business supporting competitors across multiple weight classes. Along the way, we dive into the design philosophy behind some of his most impactful products, including the SSP kit—built specifically to make combat robotics more accessible to new builders—and the development of hub motors, which have gone on to fundamentally change how many robots are designed and built today. Beyond the products themselves, this episode explores the realities of running a niche hardware business in a rapidly evolving sport. Seth talks through the risks of bringing new ideas to market, how he approaches testing and iteration, and what it takes to balance being both a competitor and a supplier. We also discuss where the sport is heading, how technology like modern 3D printing has accelerated innovation, and what future breakthroughs might look like.We also kick things off with the return of Ryan’s Game Corner, featuring a chaotic round of “Who’s the Imposter?” that tests everyone’s knowledge of robot names across multiple categories. As always, it quickly turns into a mix of strategy, second-guessing, and complete guesswork.Corey Nason was scheduled to join us for this episode, but due to technical difficulties he wasn’t able to stay on. We’re looking forward to having him back soon to continue that conversation.If you’re a builder—or thinking about getting into the sport—be sure to check out Seth’s work at https://justcuzrobotics.com, where he continues to develop parts and tools that are shaping the current generation of combat robots.This episode also marks a small production change for us. We’re experimenting with removing background music entirely. It was originally used to mask breathing, coughing, and early audio inconsistencies, but as our production quality has improved, we’re testing whether it’s still necessary. Let us know what you think—does it feel cleaner, or do you miss the music?From product design and business insight to competition strategy and community impact, this episode covers a wide range of what makes combat robotics such a unique and constantly evolving space.

The road to NHRL April 4th is heating up, and in this episode of Havoc Rundown we break down the matchups, the bots everyone’s watching, and the potential chaos waiting in the bracket. From dangerous dark horses to the machines that could dominate the night, we’re digging into what really matters before the event kicks off.We’re also joined by Max Morningstar of Team Roboctopi Combat Division (TRC) for a behind-the-scenes look at his builds, how he approaches competition, and what it’s like navigating the ever-evolving meta at NHRL. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into staying competitive at this level, this is the conversation you don’t want to miss.Max also shares where to follow his work—check out TRC on YouTube and dive deeper into his bots on the NHRL Wiki:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TRC4918NHRL Wiki: https://wiki.nhrl.io/wiki/index.php/TRCIf you’re following the event, building your fantasy lineup, or just want to know who to keep your eyes on April 4th—this episode sets the stage.Stay up to date with everything Havoc Rundown, including the fantasy league and full bot registry, at https://havocrundown.com/enBackground Music:Teddy Bass by Ariel Shalom: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/teddy-bass/6000230Sparks by Aves: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/sparks/132130Luscious by Tim Maslov: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/luscious/109465

In this episode, we sit down with Corey Nason to talk about his trip to New Zealand to compete at Robot Rampage and what it’s like taking your bot to an international stage.From travel logistics to adapting to a completely different competition environment, Corey walks us through the experience of fighting abroad, the challenges he faced, and how the event stacked up against what we’re used to at home.We dive into the matches, the competition level, and what makes Robot Rampage such a unique event in the combat robotics world, along with Corey’s takeaways from the trip and what it means for future builds and events.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to compete internationally in combat robotics, this is one you won’t want to miss.Corey's Builder Profile: https://havocrundown.com/en/builder/corey-nason-1763909431321Website: https://havocrundown.com/enBackground Music Credits:- Go On by Flint- The Observer by Evgeny Bardyuzha- Fake Table by Benno, Eden Ladin

What does it take to stay competitive at the top of the 12-pound division? This week, we sit down with Zack Knight — the builder behind Pramheda, one of the most consistent and feared vertical spinners in NHRL, for a deep dive into design philosophy, strategic thinking, and what keeps him pushing the sport forward.Zack breaks down how he approaches robot design, why calculated risk-taking is just as important as engineering precision, and what it means to be part of the NHRL builder community. We also get a sneak peek at the stacked robot lineup heading into the next competition — and trust us, you're not going to want to miss it.Plus, Ryan takes over Game Corner with a robot name guessing game featuring some of the most creative (and chaotic) bots heading to the March NHRL event. Can the crew hold their own against Ryan's increasingly unfair ruleset? Tune in to find out.Zack Knight: https://havocrundown.com/en/builder/zack-knight-1763909411206🎵 Music Credits:No Trust by Flint & Roie ShpiglerLate Night Dreams by Kirsten CollinsNight Lights by Alex MakeMusicAll music licensed via Artlist.io

In this episode, we break down the February 7th NHRL event from top to bottom, the standout performances, the biggest upsets, and what the results mean moving forward.We’re joined by Julian and Dima Papasian to talk about their experience at the event, high-level driving strategy, tough matchups, and how preparation and adjustments play out inside the cage.We dive into the top-performing bots across the weight classes, early exits that shook up expectations, and the evolving flame bot meta that continues to shift strategy at NHRL. We also unpack a full Havoc Rundown Fantasy League recap, including major leaderboard movement and a dramatic climb up the standings.And in true Havoc fashion, things take a turn with a round of Spyfall, where one robot is the secret and the interrogation gets intense. It’s part mind game, part chaos, and exactly the kind of energy you’d expect from this crew.We wrap it all up with Listener Mailbag questions from the community, bringing even more personality and perspective into the episode.From bracket chaos to strategy deep-dives to a little undercover fun, this episode covers everything that went down on February 7th.🌐 Website: https://havocrundown.com/en🎵 Background Music Credits:Kissing the Moon by SkygazeBasement by MonakoEpisode 6 by Walz

We’re gearing up for the first major combat robotics event of 2026, and this week we’re joined by Team Omega to break down everything you need to know about Mass Destruction: Resurgence 5, happening January 31st at the Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation in Waltham, Massachusetts.Team Omega, the builders behind legendary robots like Starchild and Ripperoni and longtime pillars of the New England combat robotics scene, joins us to talk about the history of Mass Destruction, why they brought the event back, and what makes it one of the most approachable and community-driven tournaments in the sport. We dive into what makes the Mass Destruction arena unique, including its infamous launching pit, how it changes match strategy, and why this event continues to attract both first-time builders and top-tier competitors.We also walk through what to expect from the upcoming event, including the beetleweight and plastic ant classes, standout bots attending, how the event is structured to maximize fights, and what makes Mass Destruction different from larger, more rigid competitions. Along the way, Team Omega shares behind-the-scenes insight into running an event, evolving arena design, and the philosophy behind keeping robot combat fun, accessible, and chaotic in the best way possible.🛠️ Event Links - Havoc Rundown Event Page:https://havocrundown.com/en/events/events-6468Official Mass Destruction Registration:https://www.robotcombatevents.com/events/6468📺 Live Stream (Omega Robotics Team):https://www.youtube.com/@OmegaRoboticsTeam/streams🌐 Havoc Rundown Website:https://havocrundown.com/en🎵 Background Music CreditsCactus Flower (Instrumental) by Southern CallLosing Time (Instrumental) by Brian McMasterSmoke & Sizzle by Danny Shields

It’s a brand-new year at Havoc Rundown, and we’re kicking things off with a streamlined, no-frills kickoff episode. No guests, no commercials, just the crew laying out what’s changing, what’s staying, and what’s coming next.In this New Year intro, we break down everything new for 2026, including a full walkthrough of the updated Havoc Rundown Fantasy League. We cover how the league is evolving, what new formats and ideas are being tested, and how listeners can get involved this season. This episode sets the foundation for the year ahead and explains where the fantasy league is headed as it continues to grow.We also look forward to what’s coming next for the podcast, including our first official guest episode of the year, dropping soon.This is a commercial-free episode focused entirely on updates, plans, and setting expectations for the season ahead. Thanks for being part of the ride, and welcome to a new year of Havoc.🌐 Visit us at https://havocrundown.com/en🎵 Music CreditsWALAKATA by LalineaCoffee Stop by Aveso k t o b u by Benny Bronco

This week on The Havoc Rundown, the crew comes together for a special roundtable episode to close out the year and officially wrap up Season 2. With no guest and no commercial breaks, this episode is a candid, free-flowing conversation covering combat robotics, the podcast, and the community that surrounds it.The team reflects on the past year, discussing standout moments, how the sport continues to evolve, and what they’ve learned from covering events, builders, and competitions. Ryan brings a game segment to the table, sparking debate and laughs around pit life, tools, and shared builder experiences, while the conversation naturally moves into broader thoughts on events, volunteering, and what makes the combat robotics community special.On the podcast side, the crew talks openly about what worked this season, how recurring segments and listener interaction shaped the show, and how everything is becoming more connected through havocrundown.com. Tony breaks down the vision for the website, including the robot registry, stats, rankings, events, games, and plans to continue building it into a central hub for the sport.Listener mailbag questions help guide the back half of the episode, touching on future ideas, community growth, and where both the podcast and combat robotics could be heading next. As the final episode of the year and the final episode of Season 2, we want to sincerely thank our listeners for an amazing year of support. We couldn’t do this without you, and we’ll see you next season.

This week, we’re joined by Jamison Go, two-time NHRL worldchampion, BattleBots veteran, and one of the most respected builders in thesport. With the 2025 NHRL World Championships right around the corner, we sitdown to talk about what to expect across all three weight classes, who’slooking dangerous, and what it takes to show up and win on one of the biggeststages in combat robotics. Jamison shares his thoughts on the current meta, thebots and builders that could shake things up, and how experience, preparation,and adaptability all come into play when the pressure hits.We also get into builder mindset heading into a high-stakesevent, why consistency beats flash, and what makes NHRL’s championship formatso intense. Along the way there’s the usual chaos—Game Corner antics, boldpredictions, and the crew does their best to keep things on track while Jamisondrops real insight. If you’re watching the championship, building for the nextseason, or just love hearing from one of the best in the game, this is the oneto queue up.GuestJamison Go – Multi-division NHRL champion, builder of Silent X, Megatron,SawBlaze, and moreBackground Music"Memory" by Magiksolo – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/memory/63842"Relax Bro" by Flint – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/relax-bro/134054"Fat Banana" by Kicktracks – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/fat-banana/109019More from Havoc RundownTo Listen to More Episodes, Get Merch, Watch Videos and more swing on over to https://havocrundown.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Richard Tieman, the newest addition to the NHRL commentary team and a rising voice in combat robotics broadcasting. Known for his high-energy pit reporting during Prime Time and thoughtful engagement with builders behind the scenes, Richard brings a fresh perspective to how the sport is covered, narrated, and grown.We talk about his journey from radio broadcasting to combat robotics, what it takes to stay sharp on the mic during chaotic tournament weekends, and the importance of spotlighting builders, bots, and stories that don’t always make the stream.This episode dives into the challenges of live commentary, the value of storytelling in robot sports, and how media coverage can shape the experience for both fans and competitors.Guest: Richard Tieman – NHRL Commentator & Pit ReporterFollow Richard: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtieman/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/real_richard_t/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp57rT5ejVCw5MP1aHiz2mA/videosBackground Music:"Morning" by Out of Flux – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/morning/137730"Late Brew" by Danny Shields – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/late-brew/137393"Wakalata" by Lalinea – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/walakata-creative-cut-chill/137439Havoc Rundown Links:All our links, socials & merch: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this special episode, we welcome Kekoto Maane, builder of some of the most unpredictable, off-meta, and surprisingly effective robots in the combat scene, including Kill It With Fire and the multi-bot marvel Power of Friendship. We dive into his creative process, why building “weird” works, and how he turns chaos into consistency.The crew kicks off with a festive Halloween edition of Ryan’s Game Corner, featuring AI-generated costume concepts inspired by popular bots and builders. Then it’s on to Choose Your Champion, where everyone shares their top picks and predictions for the upcoming November NHRL qualifier across all weight classes.Later, in our new Bot Lab segment, we throw absurd design prompts at each other...like building bots with no motors or that lose weight every 30 seconds...to see who can come up with the most chaotic concepts. Finally, we dive into the Listener Mailbag for some great questions from the community, covering Kekoto’s robot ideas, creative philosophy, and plans for future builds.From jelly-covered arenas to Easy-Bake flamethrowers and 6-driver bots, this episode celebrates the imagination and ingenuity that makes robot combat so exciting.Guest: Kekoto Maane – Builder of Power of Friendship, Kill It With Fire, and moreBackground Music: "Together" by Out of Flux – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/together/137731"Shoujo" by Magiksolo – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/shoujo/137681"Sunshine Rider" by Dor-C – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/sunshine-rider/135317Follow Havoc Rundown: All our socials, YouTube, and merch: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode, we’re joined by Paige Clayfield, builder of Jelly Baby—one of NHRL’s most feared and consistent 3-pound control bots. Coming off her second dumpster win of the season, Paige walks us through the October 4th qualifier, the evolution of Jelly Baby’s design, and what it takes to dominate a division known for explosive spinners and fast turnarounds.We also dive into a full recap of the October NHRL event, including standout performances in the 30-pound and 12-pound brackets, emotional moments from Maximizer, and the cage-breaking clash between Ares and Deadrise.The episode opens with another chaotic edition of Ryan’s Game Corner, where the crew (with Paige’s help) struggles to guess the media references behind robot names—and slowly loses their minds in the process.Later, we talk shop about forks, foam, floppy armor, and the power of orange juice. Paige shares advice for aspiring builders, reveals her dream matchup, and discusses the community-driven spirit that keeps her coming back to the box.Guest: Paige Clayfield – Builder of Jelly BabyBackground Music:"Shoujo" by Magiksolo – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/shoujo/137681"Blue Morning" by Johnny Gorillas – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/blue-morning/123397"Coffee Stop" by Aves – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/coffee-stop/132138Havoc Rundown Links: All our links, socials & merch: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode, we welcome veteran builder and BattleBots driver Zach Lytle, the mind behind Skorpios and founder of Bot Bash, a hands-on educational robotics program that teaches kids engineering through real robot demos and engagement. Zach shares his journey from BattleBots to Bot Bash and walks us through what it takes to compete, teach, and grow the next generation of builders.We kick things off with Ryan’s Game Corner, featuring a pumpkin spice-themed trivia challenge that spirals into total seasonal chaos. Then we dive into predictions for the upcoming NHRL World Championship qualifier, share insights on standout bots across weight classes, and discuss what makes NHRL such a unique competition environment.Zach also opens up about his latest bot H-Bomb, what excites him about entering NHRL for the first time, and the importance of community support in combat robotics, from LEGO bots to 250-pound monsters.Guest:Zach Lytle – Skorpios BattleBot / Bot BashFollow Zach & Skorpios:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SkorpiosBattlebotInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skorpios_battlebots/?hl=enFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkorpiosBattleBot/Bot Bash: https://botbashparty.com/Background Music:"Shoujo" by Magiksolo – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/shoujo/137681"Late Brew" by Danny Shields – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/late-brew/137393"Fold" by Nuer Self – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/fold/137527Havoc Rundown Links:All our links, socials & merch: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

For the final episode in our Around the World summer series, we’re handing the mic to Ryan for something completely different: a full-on trivia showdown. That’s right—this one’s all games, all chaos, and absolutely no structure.Ryan takes over with a custom-built Jeopardy-style game covering everything from combat robot history to media appearances, obscure builder facts, and even some unhinged Over/Under challenges. The entire Havoc Rundown crew—Tony, Ashley, Megan, Thomas, and Justin—battle for trivia supremacy with custom buzzer sounds, questionable guesses, and a lot of shouting.Expect nonsense, obscure facts, and a surprising amount of yelling about Gundams, syringes, and Mechagodzilla alloys. It’s loud, it’s weird, and it’s a lot of fun.Huge thanks to all the builders who helped contribute questions and facts for this special episode!Video: https://youtu.be/rVzlFX9J1RoHavoc Rundown LinksAll our links and socials: ⁠https://linktr.ee/havocrundown⁠Background Music"Kissing the Moon" by Skygaze – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/kissing-the-moon/135750"Roll the Dice" by DG Pacino – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/roll-the-dice-no-lead-vocals/135538"Post Bloom" by Skygaze – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/post-bloom/137449

In this episode of our Around the World summer series, we travel to Brazil to explore one of the most decorated and innovative combat robotics teams in the world: UaiRrior Robotics, builders of the legendary heavyweight Black Dragon.We sit down with Pedro Paulo and Leonardo Labegalini from UaiRrior to talk about what makes Brazilian bots so resilient, how they’ve built a high-performance team from the ground up, and the unique role that universities play in keeping Brazil’s combat robotics scene thriving. From handmade electronics to homemade rivalries (complete with team fight songs), this is a deep dive into a community fueled by passion, precision, and a whole lot of heart.We also discuss the rise of micro hockey bots, the challenges of sourcing materials in Brazil, and how the UaiRrior team manages to remain one of the most feared—and beloved—forces on the global stage.GuestsPedro Paulo & Leonardo Labegalini – UaiRrior RoboticsUaiRrior LinksWebsite: https://uairrior.com.br/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@uairriorBackground Music"Morning Booster" by Elifas Sonaru – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/morning-booster/137482"Bokeh" by Soundroll – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/bokeh/32670"Extra Sauce" by Aves – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/extra-sauce/137138Havoc Rundown LinksAll our links and socials: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode of the Havoc Rundown, we head to Australia as part of our “Around the World” summer series to spotlight one of the most creative forces in the southern hemisphere: Ben Hayton of Team Panic Robotics.Ben shares the evolution of Australia’s combat robotics scene—from grassroots antweight events in backyard sheds to national featherweight championships—and what makes the Aussie bot community so unique. We explore differences in design philosophy, resource challenges, the joys of putting on a show, and why MDF arena floors change everything.We also dive into Ben’s prolific catalog of bots (including the squeaky hammer-bot “Squeak” and the toaster-themed “Breakfast”), how he balances building and content creation, and his dream of building a robot on-the-fly with only what he can find at a local store.Whether you’re a longtime viewer of Team Panic or curious about how combat robotics looks outside the US, this episode offers insight, laughs, and plenty of robot inspiration.GuestBen Hayton – Founder of Team Panic RoboticsTeam Panic LinksTeam Panic Wiki: https://ultimate-robot-archive.fandom.com/wiki/Team_PanicYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TeamPanicRoboticsBackground Music"Street Life" by Johnny Gorillas – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/street-life/135338"Raindrops" by Ariel Shalom – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/raindrops-instrumental-version/134999"Evening Elegance" by Avni Vibes – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/evening-elegance/131780Havoc Rundown LinksAll our links and socials: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode, we dive headfirst into the UK’s robot combat scene with two key voices behind Robot Rebellion: event organizer Gareth Anstee and head judge Ryan Bratley. Together with Justin and the Havoc Rundown crew, we explore how Robot Rebellion brings a uniquely British flavor to the sport, how their events have grown through grassroots passion and clever branding, and why their episodic YouTube content is setting a new bar for robot combat storytelling.We discuss everything from the challenges of venue partnerships to the art of judging fights fairly—and even share some laugh-out-loud moments, like the saga of inflatable bananas and a rogue robot supervisor named Mortis. Plus, Ryan and Gareth drop advice for international builders, cultural differences in robot design philosophy, and which UK bots you need to be watching.Whether you're a seasoned NHRL fan or curious about the global combat robotics scene, this episode delivers insight, inspiration, and plenty of laughs.GuestsGareth Anstee – Founder of Robot RebellionRyan Bratley – Head Judge of Robot RebellionRobot Rebellion LinksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobotRebellionUKYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RobotRebellionFeatured Music"Home Cookin’" by Jimit: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/home-cookin/136470"Sunset" by Ben Handler & Randy Sharp: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/sunset-creative-cut-chill/136488"Level Up" by Aves: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/level-up/137094Follow Havoc RundownAll our links: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode of the Havoc Rundown’s "Robots Around the World" series, the crew sits down with Tim Bouwens, the builder behind BattleBots' Ominous and the NHRL standout Wajoo. Broadcasting from the Netherlands, Tim shares his journey through nearly two decades of combat robotics—starting with antweights, building a four-wheel-drive featherweight that’s still winning, and eventually reaching global stages like NHRL, China, and BattleBots. We dive deep into the Dutch combat robotics scene, including its transformation from backyard hangouts to organized events with steel-floored arenas and crowdfunding-powered infrastructure. Tim also breaks down how Wajoo ended up so impossibly thin, why modular design is essential for international travel, and what makes the European competition culture unique. The crew covers everything from arena floors to lithium battery chaos at airports to Lars—the mythical collector who owns a heavyweight museum in his upstairs apartment. We also dig into Tim's experience as the president of Dutch Robot Games, the rise of the Netherlands as a competitive hub, the future of fire meta in robot design, and how touring bands and robots sometimes share the same road cases. Packed with insight, chaos, and cultural crossover, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how combat robotics is growing worldwide.Lars’ Robot Collection: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/56319454480/search/?q=lars%20weaving%20bakker⁠Featured Music:Silent Night by Aves: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/silent-night-beats-to-study-to/76754Summer Groove by Avni Vibes: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/summer-groove/131778Body in a Half Light by Gvidon: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/body-in-a-half-light/51896Support & Follow:Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/havocrundownHavoc Rundown Merch, Discord, Socials: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

We’re kicking off our Robots Around the World summer series with a visit to the Great White North! In this episode, we sit down with Team Unforeseen Consequences, the Canadian builders behind the terrifying melty brain robot Demon Core. We talk about how they got started, what makes the Canadian combat robotics scene unique, and how they engineered a 30lb bot that sounds like something out of a sci-fi nightmare.We dive into their experience at NHRL, their last-minute flight fiascos, the joys of testing terrifying machines in small garages, and how they plan to evolve Demon Core after a strong showing in June. There’s plenty of technical talk, great laughs, and a heated debate about the best poutine in Canada (spoiler: Costco fans, rise up).Plus, we answer your listener questions, discuss scaling melty brains to larger weight classes, and hear some incredible stories about inspiring the next generation of builders.🎵 Music by:“Baby” by EG404“Crème” by Barrell“Forgotten Dreams” by Aves📲 Links & Support:Linktree: https://linktr.ee/havocrundownMerch: https://www.bonfire.com/havoc-rundown-tee/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553209148845

On this episode of Havoc Rundown, the team dives into the June NHRL event to recap the most explosive moments from all three brackets. From Monkfish’s relentless run in the 3s, to Full Court’s suffocating dominance in the 12s, to Red Storm’s suplex-powered 30lb championship win, it’s a full breakdown of the chaos, upsets, and highlights that defined the event.Special guest Kevin Milczewski joins the Rundown to talk all things control bots—from his suplex-savvy design choices in Red Storm and Timber Viper to his sportsmanship in the finals and strategies for lifting (and flipping) house bots. He also answers a jam-packed Listener Mailbag with questions about drivetrain design, dual-jaw lifters, robot testing rituals, and why he almost welded a chair to his heavyweight.Also in this episode:Fantasy League shakeups and surprise MVPsThe evolving fire bot meta and how teams are starting to counter itA discussion on Kill Switch, Dutch Oven, and other bracket standoutsThomas’s airbag-free conspiracy theories and very serious questions about Timber Viper’s timber-vipe potential🎧 Music in this episode:Ryan Montbleau – “Break the Silence”Aves – “Forgotten Dreams”Shinto – “Dinner”Grab merch, support the show, and follow us at https://linktr.ee/havocrundownThanks to our partner Just Cuz Robotics – https://justcuzrobotics.com/

The June 7th NHRL event is almost here, and the Havoc Rundown crew is breaking it all down! We’re joined by fantasy league front-runner Dan Dischino for a stat-packed episode featuring Ryan’s chaotic new game “Over and Under,” where the house is out for blood. We preview the June event by weight class, spotlighting returning legends like Dutch Oven, Megatron, Red Storm, and fan-favorites like Big Frank and Monkfish. From flame bot meta shifts to melty brain enthusiasm, we dig into evolving strategies, emotional storylines, and what it takes to draft a championship team. Plus, listener questions, rabbit mascots, and the emotional core of combat robotics. This is the most stacked episode yet—don’t miss it.Special Guest:Dan Dischino – Fantasy League Leader, Team BrandeisSegments:🎲 Game Corner: “Over and Under”🔍 June NHRL Preview🎙️ Five in Focus: Interview with Dan Dischino📬 Listener MailbagMusic Featured:🎵 Sunshine Rider by Dor-c🎵 Oblivion by Benny Bronco🎵 On My Own by Sedley Beats🎧 Follow us, grab some merch, or join the fantasy league: linktr.ee/havocrundown

This one’s for the family bots and fantasy league fanatics! In this jam-packed episode, we dive into the unforgettable May NHRL Event, spotlighting Sad Octopus’s phenomenal semifinal run and the Garen family behind the bot. Cameron, Patrick, and Nora join us to share their journey—from foam wheels to custom casting, from test matches at home to taking down Cold Snap.🦑 We also break down other major May storylines:The rise of fire bots and how they’re reshaping the metaFantasy League shakeups and Ryan’s redemption arcStandout performances from Chaos Upright, Waddles, Open Hell, and morePrime Time surprises and the ever-evolving competition landscape🎮 Ryan brings back the Name Game in Game Corner (spoiler: the house gets some points), and we close things out with our biggest Listener Mailbag yet—shoutout to the community for top-tier questions.💡 Five in Focus gets personal with the Garen family, touching on design origins, sibling rivalries, and what it’s like to build and battle together.🎶 Music in this episode:"Will You Dance With Me" by Lalnea"Good Morning" by Barrell"Better" by Aves🎧 Music licensed via Artlist.io📌 Links Mentioned:Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/havocrundownCameron and Nora’s YouTube (DuckBots): https://www.youtube.com/@DuckBots66🙌 Subscribe, share, and join our Discord for live event chatter, fantasy league updates, and more from the world of combat robotics.

In this no-guest chaos episode of Havoc Rundown, the full crew returns for a jam-packed May NHRL preview. Things kick off with Ryan’s Game Corner and its debut segment, The Price is Fight—a Price is Right-style game guessing bot build costs, spare parts, and some hilariously overpriced eBay listings. From there, it’s on to Mayhem in May, with fantasy draft predictions and bots to watch including Kratos, Sweet Tooth, Colossal Avian, Buzzkill, Chainsaw Massacre, and hover-melty newcomer Open Hell. The team dives deep into trends like the rise of flame bots, college team surges, and what to expect from a packed 12lb field. A new segment, Pass the Question, throws the hosts into a round-robin of bizarre questions—ranging from rude animals and Mortal Kombat robot picks to cross-country road trips. Finally, the listener mailbag delivers more absurdity with zombie survival plans, sandwich debates, and robot-themed board game pitches. Whether you’re tracking your fantasy team or just here for the banter, this episode brings the full-force chaos.🎵 Background Music:“Squoosh!” by Jimit: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/squoosh/126734“The Beat Detector” by Novembers: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/the-beat-detector/97421“Cruise Control” by LOLEK: https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/cruise-control/78793Follow Us:Discord: https://discord.gg/5NU3YVznhBFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/havocrundownLinktree (for merch & more): https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

This week on The Havoc Rundown, we’re joined by none other than Tim Hebert—robotics educator, NHRL fan favorite, and the brilliant (and slightly chaotic) mind behind Chubby Unicode. That’s right, not Unicorn—Unicode. Tim talks with us about driving his bot with everything from a dance pad to a drum kit, and how experimental control systems can actually hold their own in the cage.We break down the April 5th NHRL event with over 150 bots and some of the most emotional and unexpected moments we’ve ever seen—including Chainsaw Kitty’s legendary run. Plus, we dive into some serious fantasy league drama (Dan is running away with it), and the whole crew gets tested in Ryan’s Spelling Bee of Doom.Later, we put Tim through our Five in Focus deep-dive questions and end the show with our now-iconic Rapid-Fire Build-Off, where bot pitches are built around pure chaos and random word prompts.Massive thank you to Tim Hebert for joining us, sharing his story, and giving us all a reason to believe a drum kit can be a weapon of mass disruption.Want to keep up with our latest episodes, fantasy league updates, merch drops, and more?👉 https://linktr.ee/havocrundownFollow us on your favorite social platform and don’t forget to tag us during events or while you’re watching the latest fight stream!Background Music Featured In This Episode:Put On Your Fire by Cosmonkey🔗 https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/put-on-your-fire/120462Attikan Roast by Steven Beddall & Mansij🔗 https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/attikan-roast/103837Finale by MILANO🔗 https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/finale/96343All music licensed via Artlist.io

In this special episode of Havoc Rundown, the crew welcomes an all-star lineup from the MIT Combat Robotics Club ahead of the April NHRL event. From bold design philosophies to open-source accessibility, this conversation dives into what it takes to build competitive bots under pressure—while juggling coursework, team dynamics, and the love of the sport.Each builder brings their own unique flavor to the fight, and you’ll get an inside look at six exciting bots being prepped for the arena. Plus, things get competitive in our Game Corner with a round of Name That Bot, putting the MIT crew’s trivia skills to the test.If you’re into design innovation, builder culture, or just love a good rivalry, this episode’s got something for you.🎉 Special Thanks To Our Guests from the MIT Combat Robotics ClubHuge thanks to the brilliant MIT team for joining us and sharing their builds:Ryan Duarte – Budgetboi, an open-source 12lb bot designed for maximum accessibilityAbi Dixon – Killer Queen, a striking new contender with creative weapon architectureAnhad Sawhney – Kratos, featuring a custom axial flux motor for peak performanceMiles Roper – Traiano, a hammer saw bot built with precision and powerTom Nguyen – Marshmallow, returning with smart design and tactical flexibilityCarlos Lopez – Underdawg, a bot with heart, grit, and sharp engineering instinctsWe loved having you all on the show—good luck in April!🔗 Follow Us & Join the Community!Stay locked in with everything Havoc Rundown—from fantasy league updates to bot breakdowns:📲 https://linktr.ee/havocrundown🎶 Music CreditsThis episode features royalty-free tracks from Artlist:Paving the Way by Danny ShieldsListen hereHands Held High by AvesListen herePine by JoleyListen here

The March NHRL tournament was absolute chaos, and we’re breaking down every explosive moment! 🏆🔥 From shocking upsets to dominating performances, we dive deep into the fights that shook the combat robotics world.🚀 Special guest Gwen McGuire joins us for an exclusive interview, fresh off Jackalope’s incredible run at NHRL, including an intense victory over Turbo Fiend! Hear about her journey as both a referee and a fierce competitor, and what’s next for her fan-favorite bot.📊 Plus, the Havoc Rundown Fantasy League just got wild! Who climbed the leaderboard? Who crashed and burned? And how did Ryan go from dead last to third place in one event? We break down the standout picks, sleeper bots, and bold strategies shaping the season.🔥 Other topics include:✅ Top Performers & Biggest Upsets in March✅ The rise of flame bots and how the meta is evolving✅ Gwen’s hilarious reaction to her judges’ decision win over Turbo Fiend✅ Listener Mailbag – ridiculous questions, cryptozoology facts, and why Jackalopes love whiskey 🍻💰 Support the podcast! Get exclusive content & merch:🎙️ Buy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown👕 Official merch: https://bonfire.com/havoc-rundown🔗 Linktree for all links & social media: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown🎵 Episode Background Music:🎶 Cruise Control by LOLEK – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/cruise-control/78793🎶 Solitude by Michael Drake – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/solitude/99994🎶 Day Off by Aves – https://artlist.io/royalty-free-music/song/day-off/75406📢 Don’t forget to follow us for more combat robotics & fantasy league action!🎧 Listen now and relive all the March mayhem! #WeAreSoBackalope

We're back with another action-packed episode ofHavoc Rundown! This time, we’re breaking down all the chaos from theFebruary 1st NHRL event—which bots dominated, which fell short, and how it all shook up theHavoc Rundown Fantasy League.But that’s not all—we have aspecial guest joining us!Aidan Reichenberg, the first-ever fantasy league event winner, stops by to discuss hisdraft strategy, his biggest takeaways from February, and how he plans to approach future drafts. We also previewMotorama, our standalone mini-league, and what to expect from this high-energy event.A hugecongratulations to Aidan forwinning February’s fantasy event! His strategic picks and well-calculated draft decisions earned him the top spot. Thanks for coming on the show, Aidan, and best of luck in the next round!Follow us on all our socials, check out our merch, and stay up to date with everythingHavoc Rundown through ourLinktree:👉https://linktr.ee/havocrundownThis episode features music by:🎶Traffic Jams – Aves🎶Forgotten Dreams – Aves🎶Sunset – Ben HendlerThanks for tuning in, and as always—keep the bots spinning and the draft picks winning!

In this episode, we kick off 2025 with a bang as we welcome Glenn Boxell, an incredible builder and the creative force behind the competitive bots Caldera and Caldera 12. We delve into Glenn’s journey through combat robotics, discussing his early inspirations, the challenges he’s faced as a builder, and his approach to designing bots that stand out in the arena. Glenn shares fascinating insights into the strategies and innovations that have helped him succeed, offering advice for aspiring builders and fans alike. We also dive into the action from the Havoc Rundown Fantasy League Draft for the February 1st NHRL event. With 27 participants drafting bots across Beetleweight, Hobbyweight, and Featherweight classes, we break down the standout picks, the surprise draft strategies, and the competitive energy shaping this inaugural season. Whether you’re a league participant or just curious about the fantasy league format, you’ll love hearing about the drama and excitement of the draft. A Special Thanks to Glenn Boxell We want to extend a huge thank you to Glenn Boxell for joining us on this episode. His passion for combat robotics and his openness in sharing his journey inspire us and countless others in the community. Glenn, it was an absolute pleasure having you on, and we can’t wait to see what you achieve in the arena this year! Background Music This episode features the tracks Coffee Shop by Aves and Sunchilling by Vicate. Their music perfectly complements our conversations, adding a relaxed and engaging vibe to the episode. Be sure to check out these amazing artists for more great music! Stay Connected Want to stay updated on the Havoc Rundown Fantasy League and all things NHRL? Join us on Discord and explore more at our Linktree! You’ll find everything from event updates to in-depth coverage of the league and beyond.

In this special year-end episode of Havoc Rundown, we gather to celebrate an incredible 2024 season of robot combat and gear up for an action-packed 2025. Together, we reflect on standout moments, from epic battles like Synthesis' victory over Emulsifier to the unforgettable father-son showdown between Caldera and Eruption. We also shine a spotlight on breakout stars, game-changing innovations, and the behind-the-scenes stories that defined this remarkable year. As we look ahead, we dive into our Havoc Resolutions segment, where fans, builders, and the crew share their favorite fights, breakout moments, and dream matchups for 2025. We also introduce the exciting new Havoc Fantasy League, explore how changes to mini-bot rules could shape the meta, and dream up the matchups we’re hoping to see in the upcoming season. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the National Havoc Robot League, this episode is packed with all the highlights, predictions, and insights you need to close out 2024 and kickstart 2025. Join us as we celebrate the sport we love and look ahead to another thrilling year of robot combat! Links and More:Stay connected with Havoc Rundown! Visit our Linktree for quick access to all of our podcast episodes, our vibrant Discord community, and our merch store—featuring exclusive designs for fans of robot combat. Music Credit:This episode’s background music is Auld Lange Syne by Rex Banner, adding a festive touch as we say goodbye to an amazing 2024 and welcome an exciting 2025!

In this exciting episode of The Havoc Rundown, Justin and the team dive headfirst into the world of combat robotics! Special guest Brian Boxell, creator and driver of the formidable robot Eruption, shares his journey from WPI student to competitive builder and event host. Alongside co-hosts Ryan, Ashley, and Thomas, Brian reflects on his evolution as a builder, the lessons learned from countless iterations of his robots, and the unique challenges of hosting Boxelmania. The conversation covers the origins of Eruption and its transformation into a top contender, how Brian's father joined the combat robotics scene with his robot Caldera, and funny anecdotes about 20-ton presses in living rooms and lipo battery hoarding. Brian shares strategies for aspiring builders and emphasizes the importance of starting small before tackling BattleBots. The episode also features a heated round of Ryan’s Game Corner that pits everyone against “the house.” Packed with laughs, insider tips, and a heartfelt look at the passion driving the combat robotics community, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. Stay tuned for the championship bot breakdowns and Brian’s unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in the sport. Episode: Featuring background music by Barrel (‘Takin a Walk’) and Steven Beddall (‘Taste of Freedom’) Special Thanks to: Brian Boxell Join the chaos! Connect with fellow fans on our Discord, grab exclusive merch from our Bonfire store, and explore all our content at https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this episode of the Havoc Rundown, we dive into the latest developments in competitive robotics. We’re joined by special guest Ricky Willems, Safety Director at the National Havoc Robot League (NHRL) and the builder of the legendary BattleBot, Mammoth. Ricky helps us unpack the newly updated 2025 robot design rules, offering detailed insights into what these changes mean for builders, competitors, and the league as a whole. We explore the motivations behind these rule updates, focusing on their implications for innovation, safety, and audience engagement. Throughout this episode, we break down key aspects of the new regulations, including weight bonuses, weapon lock standards, and the approval process for true walkers. Ricky shares the strategic planning that went into these updates and how the NHRL aims to balance fairness, creativity, and competitive integrity. We discuss the challenges of evolving the sport to accommodate cutting-edge designs while maintaining accessibility for new builders and ensuring the safety of competitors and spectators. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a curious newcomer, or someone fascinated by the evolution of combat robotics, this episode is packed with everything you need to stay informed. Join us for expert analysis, engaging conversations, and a deep dive into how these new rules will shape the future of robot combat. Special Thanks to: Safety Director Ricky Willems Want to join our discord, grab merch and more: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this special episode of The Havoc Rundown, we take a more relaxed approach and are joined by Luke Stangle from Behind the Bots for an easy-going conversation packed with laughs and stories. We recount the October 26th event, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes like why Luke appeared on camera dressed as a forgotten pineapple and the unexpected chaos that followed. We introduce a spontaneous new game, "The Pitch Room," where we brainstorm quirky and outrageous robot names that left us all in stitches. Plus, we delve into the standout moments of the competition, from Wazoo’s impressive, ultra-compact design to Monkfish's game-changing match-ups. This episode blends humor, robotics, and plenty of surprises that are sure to keep listeners entertained. Tune in for a fun-filled rundown brimming with lighthearted chaos and exclusive insights! Special Thanks to: Luke Stangle from Behind the Bots Check out our spotify page, merch store and more: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown Like the Background Music: Urban Late Night by Amit Dagan Velvet Sky by Ariel Shalom

Our October 26th preview episode is finally here! In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Team Honeycracked to explore their journey from fierce competitors to influential mentors and educators in the combat robotics community. We dive into their experiences in the arena, how they balance building bots with mentoring young builders, and the evolution of their successful program. We also preview the upcoming NHRL competition, sharing the robots and matchups we're most excited to see. Whether you're a die-hard combat robotics fan or just curious about the sport, join us for a fun-filled episode packed with insider knowledge, listener questions, and plenty of laughs as we chat with Team Honeycracked about their passion for building and teaching the next generation of robot enthusiasts. Special Thanks to: Zoe Lambert Cody Graham Zach Stachelczyk Want to listen to other episodes, join our discord to ask a mailbag question or buy a shirt! https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this exciting episode of The Havoc Rundown, We welcome Brandon Young, a renowned combat robotics builder and Golden Dumpster winner. Our pit control crew then dive into Brandon’s journey from early designs to becoming a top competitor in the world of combat robotics. Brandon shares his insights on building innovative 12 and 30-pound robots, his design philosophies, and how he sees the future of the sport evolving. The team also enjoys a fun game of "Name That Bot" and recaps recent events in the combat robotics community, including Boxelmania and Mechanical Mayhem 3. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to combat robotics, this episode is packed with knowledge, laughs, and inspiration. Don't miss this captivating conversation with one of the sport's brightest minds! Special Thanks to: Brandon Bennett Young Check out our socials, catch new episodes, buy some merch, join our discord and more!!! https://linktr.ee/havocrundown

In this exciting episode, we are joined by international superstar Tony Clifton for a lively discussion blending music and the world of robot combat. We dive into Tony's musical journey, including his chart-topping hit "I Hate Frank," inspired by a rival robot, and explore recent events in at NHRL. We ask Tony some important fan questions, we have fun segments like "Name That Bot," and dive into some insights into building robots, including Mr. Roper's underdog story and the birth of Sparky. We also discuss the importance of personas in robotics, showmanship, and the camaraderie that defines the NHRL community. Whether you're a fan of music, robot combat, or both, this episode offers a unique blend of entertainment, creativity, and innovation. Special Thanks to: International Superstar Tony Clifton Mark Rennie

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome special guest J Lee from The Kinekitsu Combat Group, a talented bot builder and fellow content creator. J and Thomas face off in an exciting new game devised by our gamemaster Ryan called "Name That Bot!" where they test their knowledge of combat robots by guessing a bots name using clues Ryan gives them. We also break down the action-packed bracket rounds from our Teams event that were just released on YouTube, with a special focus on standout matches like the nail-biting 3lb final between Eruption and Beetlejuice. Each of us then shares our picks for the bots to watch in our upcoming September event, choosing one 3lb, 12lb, and 30lb bot that we think will dominate the competition. Join us as we discuss what makes these bots stand out and which ones we’re most excited to see battle it out! Make sure to check out J's new merch store: https://www.kinekitsu.com/ as well as our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/havocrundown Special Thanks to: J Lee make sure to check them out at our September event! Like the background music: Gaussian Blur by Neon Beach: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/17064 Solar Wav by Gemm: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/16960 Saved by the Tell by Sam Barsh: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/1624

In this exciting episode, we sit down with Kevin Biagini and Ariel Smith, the brilliant minds behind Team Pandamonium, one of the most formidable combat robotics teams competing at the NHRL. Join us as Kevin and Ariel share the origin story of Team Pandamonium, revealing the inspiration behind their unique name and how their passion for robotics brought them together. We dive into their thrilling victory in the beetleweight division at the Teams Event, where they earned the coveted Golden Dumpster trophy. The duo also takes us behind the scenes, explaining the intriguing process of building a robot using black powder, a technique we are sure the fire marshals at NHRL are going to love. Finally, we explore what the future holds for Team Pandamonium as they continue to innovate and dominate the world of combat robotics. Don't miss this deep dive into the world of robot combat with two of the most creative and determined builders in the field! Special Thanks: Kevin Biagini Ariel Smith Background Music: "Reeqs Of Hubris" - https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/17097 & "Shiver Walk" - https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/17103 Both by Tony Sopiano

We’re back with a highly anticipated episode featuring a special guest: Kelly Biderman, the CEO of NHRL! Join us for an exclusive interview where we dive into Kelly's journey before NHRL, explore the current state of the league, and get an exciting glimpse into the future of the sport. In this episode, we ask Kelly some burning questions: What is it like being the CEO of NHRL? What are the future plans with the primetime tables? What does the academy kit look like, and is there a release date? What challenges were faced when planning events outside the House of Havoc, and what was learned for next year? And much more! Don't miss this opportunity to hang out with us and get a special peek behind the curtain. Tune in now for an in-depth conversation with the leader of NHRL, right before the Teams event hits the big screen!   Special Thanks to: Special Guest Co-Host: Gwen Mcguire Special Guest:  Kelly Biderman   If you like the background music: Tower of Gower by Sam Barsh: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/16584 Morning Macchiato by Sam Barsh: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/15258

We are back and this time we are talking to mad cat themed robot building genius himself Tom Farkas!! We get to know this fan favorite builder a little better and find out some of his favorite moments from the June NHRL event.  Every wanted to know what got Tom into combat robotics? What about why the robot Death Muffin is called that or what it was like building gigapaws. More importantly what is in the future for Paws and Frank?? Find out all of this and more on this episode of The Havoc Rundown!   Special Thanks to Tom Farkas   Like the background music: Take a Breath by JeesGuy: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/15024 Smooth Perpetrator by Sam Barsh: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/14275   Want to help the podcast out visit our buy me a coffee page at https://buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown

We are back again with a follow up of our special teams event that happened on June 1st. This was an invite only event where teams of three bots, a 3lb a 12lb and a 30lb, all competed together. In order to get an idea of what it's like in these intense fights we brought on two of our amazing Referees Gwen McGuire and Libby Albanese! We sit down with them to see what it is like being an NHRL referee and how they got to where they are. What was the most amazing fight they have ever been on the sideline for? Has a bot almost taken one of their hands off? Will we see them compete in the future? Learn the answers to these questions and more as well as a breakdown of the fights from June! Special Thanks to: Gwen McGuire Libby Albanese If you like the background music: Risky by Afternoonz: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/11663 Lilting by Sam Barsh: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/15259 Support the Podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown

We find ourselves in between events so the only reasonable thing to do is site down and get to know one of our favorite people at NHRL...Rob Sarakin!! If you have ever been to NHRL or participated in an event Rob is one of the head safety officers and is the one responsible for giving the safety speech in the morning as well as retrieving smoldering robots from cages. We start off playing our own NHRl themed version of the um actually game from Dropout. We then ask Rob how he became a henchman, when we will see him competing again and even turn into a DND podcast for a few minutes. Come hang out with us and get to know Rob a little better! Special Thanks to: Rob Sarakin If you like the background music: Storm Before the Calm by LNDO: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/16092 Return of the Villian by Ghost Beatz: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/16113 Consider helping the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown

Hey everyone we are here with your NHRL April 20th Pre event show! This is going to be an action packed event so in order to get us ready we brought on a very good friend of the show, mastermind behind Maximizer, Jake Hoffmann!! Ryan debuts a new game we are calling "Spot the bot" were he challenges Jake and Thomas to spot the fake robot name. We also talk to Jake about being a part of leading member of the University of Cincinnati Robotics team, What we can expect from Maximizer this event and who he would love to fight if he was given the chance. We also go over some of the bots that will be attending including the latest offerings from Jamison Go and Brandon Bennett Young. Come hang out with us and let us know what you are looking forward to the most this event!! Special Thanks to: Jake Hoffmann Dwight Snowberger Chris Capps If you like the background music: So Easy by Jed Stark: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/14733 One Shot by Thorr: https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/8075

Hey Everyone we are back with a new episode this time with our first returning guest Jimmy Gibson!! Jimmy is with us to help us break down the RIT event and answering a bunch of behind the scenes questions on how the event is going to work as well as what to look forward to.  We also pry some info out of him about the June 1st event, the new way all of the cages are going to be arranged and more! Come hang out with us while we pick Jimmy’s brain and get everyone excited for what is to come for the rest of the year!   Special Thanks to: Jimmy Gibson Dwight Snowberger Jeffrey Schulmberg   Support the Podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown   Like the background Music: Lilting by Sam Barsh - https://app.soundstripe.com/songs/15259

This episode we delve into the March 2nd event with fan turned builder Michael Cross, builder of Stag Beetle Bot. We pick Michael's brain a bit finding out what got him into robotics, who his biggest inspiration and mentors are as well as his build philosophy for Stag. We also go over some of our favorite things from March including the trial run of King of the Hill and Kazia's curse breaking top 4 finish with Chainsaw Kitty. Come hang out with us and make sure to tell us how you think March went. Special Thanks to: Michael Cross Kekoto Maane Dwight Snowberger Like the Background Music: Music: High Rise by PaulFromPayroll / thepayrollguy Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

This episode we highlight some of the bots we are excited to see at our March 2nd NHRL event. We wanted to bring in someone huge to help us talk about our first event of the year that will feature some heavy hitter veterans. Who else but the Master if the stats himself...Gil Hova!!!! Thats right everyone, we have the wizard himself in the house to talk about what bots he is looking forward to. We also have some amazing builders who have sent in audio clips detailing the bots they will be brining. So sit down with us and get to know Gil a little better as well as find out about some of the amazing bots who will be attending our March event. Special Thanks to: - Micah Farris - Brandon Young - Brian Thornberg - Dwight Snowberger - Jake Hoffman - Kekoto Maane - Liam King - Michael Cross - Seth Schaffer - Zoe Lambert Do you like the background music: Artist: DeKobe - https://goo.gl/GNPz22 Genre: Hip Hop & Rap - https://goo.gl/q340To Mood: Calm - https://goo.gl/3LjFLq

This episode we sit down with famed Youtuber, NHRL competitor and businessman Seth Schaffer. We talk to him about his experience in the combat robotics world and what it was like starting his own business. Have you ever used one of Seth's parts and wondered what its liek designing and manufacturing that part? Have you ever watched Division fight and wondered where the idea and design for that bot came from? Do you aspire to make combat robotics something that makes you money? Come hang out with us while we get to the bottom of these questions and more! Special Thanks to our guest Seth Schaffer as well as to community Transmissions contributor Julian Papasian! Love the episode but think we could sound better well hop on over to our buymeacoffee page and throw a few robot parts our way: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/havocrundown Want to contribute your own audio clips and questions for our guests well hop on over to our discord to participate: https://discord.gg/Q3rsjdX3 Did you like the background music and want to hear more? Music: Divergence by Filo Starquez is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... https://hypeddit.com/filostarquez/div... Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

We are back with our January 2024 New Bots event post show. This was such a huge and amazing event we couldn't possibly contain it to one podcast so we brought on some help. Joining us is Chris DeCiccio, Lindsay Baer and Luke Stangel from the Behind the Bots podcast!! We talk about: Are Multi-bots the new 3lb meta? How did Behind the Bots get started? Where Clyde got the idea for Bed Side? What exactly is a builder dex? and so much more! We also have a brand new segment called "Community Transmissions" where we hear from the builders themselves! Come hang out with us and the BTB crew while we wrapup one of the best events of the year! Special Thanks to: Chris DeCiccio Lindsay Baer Luke Stangel Bob Belansen Nate Franklin Mark Rennie Julian Papasian   If you Liked the background Music: Track: Clouds — Next Route [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: https://bit.ly/48xvGo2 Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/clouds

With the new bot event around the corner we are diving into the fight card looking at the brand new bots that are going to be competing for the first time at NHRL. We have gotten a look at the fight card so we will be going over some of the bots we are looking forward to and who they will be fighting first. We also have some audio direct from the builders themselves describing who they are and what bot they will be bringing this event. Want a first look at what we will be seeing, well come hang out with us and we will check out what you should be excited about! Like the background music: Track: Common Ground — Jay Someday [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: https://bit.ly/48K6nz7 Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/common-ground

We have arrived in a new year of robot combat and we are looking forward into what the year 2024 has to offer. To help us do that we have one of the masterminds behind every NHRL event Jimmy Gibson! Have you ever wondered what running a PGA tour is like, what goes into making sure an event goes smoothly or what kind of robot Jimmy would love to be able to make. Come hang out with us while we talk to Jimmy about what its like running operations as well as what to expect this coming year. If you like the background music: Music: Aria [Original Mix] by Aftertune is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Spotify: https://sptfy.com/aftertunemusic Apple Music: https://apple.co/35RcvHF Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/3OpVD1g Music: Sunset On Terra by HYBRID V is licensed under a Creative Commons License. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/... Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2BHFYra