Gaining Advantage: Recent Episodes
Wyrmworks Publishing
Tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons and Dragons have inherent benefits, but what happens when people decide to level up their play by using the game to improve the lives of others? And how can YOU do the same with your game?
How can we make tabletop RPGs more inclusive for blind players—and why does it matter? This episode of Gaining Advantage tackles accessibility in TTRPGs with Blind Temple, an advocate for blind gamers.
Temple shares firsthand experiences, challenges, and solutions for making RPGs more accessible, from game design to play at the table. We also unveil #Free5e, our ambitious project to provide a fully accessible, cost-free alternative to D&D 5th Edition.
00:00 Introduction – The Accessibility Problem in TTRPGs
00:22 The Cost Barrier in D&D – What is Free5e?
05:17 Meet Blind Temple – Advocate for Blind Gamers
06:49 Common Challenges Blind Players Face in RPGs
09:10 Exclusion at the Table – Real Stories
11:32 The Role of Digital Tools in Accessible Gaming
15:02 How GMs Can Make Their Games More Inclusive
17:06 The Biggest Accessibility Mistakes in TTRPGs
22:57 What Publishers Must Do to Improve Accessibility
27:11 Debunking Myths About Blindness in RPGs
34:38 Ableism in Gaming – What Needs to Change
42:02 The Impact of Accessibility in RPG Communities
50:04 A Message to Game Designers & Players
51:27 Upcoming Projects from Blind Temple
53:42 Final Thoughts & How You Can Help
Join us as we break down myths, share practical solutions, and fight to make tabletop RPGs truly welcoming for all!
Links & Resources:
🔗 Free5e: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/free5e-a-free-open-source-dungeons-and-dragons-alternative?ref=ahzrcq
🔗 Blind Temple on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/blindtemple.bsky.social
🔗 Blind Temple on Twitter: https://x.com/BlindTemple
🔗 Dots RPG (Braille Dice & Resources): https://dotsrpg.org
🔗 Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon (Support Community Copies!): https://patreon.com/WyrmworksPublishing
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In this episode, Dale talks with Stefan McNinch, founder of UnboxEd, a nonprofit revolutionizing education through game-based learning. Explore how Stefan’s work teaches financial literacy, persistence, and teamwork while addressing educational gaps in underserved communities. Discover why tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) can be a better educational tool than traditional methods and how they transform students' attitudes toward failure into stepping stones for success.
Listen to Stefan share insights into adapting games for learning objectives, the value of reframing failure, and the challenges of integrating TTRPGs into the classroom. Whether you're an educator, parent, or gamer, this conversation highlights how gaming can prepare students for the real world while sparking joy and creativity.
UnboxEd website: https://unboxedclassroom.com
Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
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I Never Thought of It That Way by Mónica Guzmán
- 00:00 Introduction: Can fantasy characters teach real-world skills better than traditional methods?
- 03:59 Guest intro: Stefan McNinch claims UnboxEd is solving what schools have ignored.
- 05:51 Entrepreneurship RPG: Teaching financial literacy – or is it gamifying survival skills?
- 10:44 Measuring success: Are engagement and persistence better metrics than grades?
- 13:06 Surprises: Is curiosity dead in today’s kids – or are we failing to teach it?
- 17:26 Empathy through RPGs: Are we raising a generation of roleplayers, not real thinkers?
Dale Critchley speaks with Alyssia Merrick, a PhD candidate researching the powerful effects of Dungeons & Dragons on mental health. Discover the surprising benefits that TTRPGs offer to players of all experience levels, from reduced anxiety to enhanced self-esteem and community building. Alyssia shares insights into her research, exploring how D&D can serve as a tool for self-discovery and resilience—without requiring a therapist’s couch. Whether you're a skeptical newcomer or a seasoned veteran, this episode uncovers new ways to engage with D&D for personal growth.
Alyssia Merrick (BPsych Hons) is a PhD candidate located at James Cook University, Townsville. Their research primarily focuses on the impacts of play on adults, with a particular focus on the employment of tabletop gaming as an intervention for wellbeing.
00:00 – Fantasy Characters as Therapy?00:11 – Tabletop Games with Purpose: Introducing Andovir’s Gods01:14 – Why We Created a New Class: Meet the Ardent03:10 – Interview Introduction: Alyssia Merrick05:00 – Beyond Entertainment: How TTRPGs Support Mental Health08:13 – Research Findings: Mental Health Improvement After 8 Weeks10:57 – Character Creation as Self-Exploration11:29 – Surprising Results: New vs Veteran Player.13:46 – TTRPGs in the Bigger Picture of Wellness17:08 – Psychological Theories at Play: Flow and Self-Determination19:26 – Could D&D Improve Your Next Office Meeting?21:05 – Trauma, Personified: Combatting Personal Demons Through Play21:58 – Alyssia’s Three Wishes for TTRPGs25:48 – For New Players: Drop the Guard, Dive In28:24 – For Veterans: Foster Mental Health through Play30:17 – Ongoing Projects: Bringing Game Therapy to a Global Scale33:40 – Where to Connect with Alyssia35:06 – Thanks and Farewell
Links* Investigating Tabletop Gaming for Wellness Promotion: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082697954259 * Alyssia’s Published Research: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Alyssia-Merrick-2 * Free: Gods of Andovir: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/lair/andovir/the-gods-of-andovir/ * Ardent Character Class: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/lair/andovir/ardent/ * Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
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In this episode, we explore using tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) for language learning. Shane Dunkel, a Language Pedagogy Specialist at the University of Chicago, shares his research on assessing English proficiency through board games and TTRPGs like D&D.
Discover how these games create an engaging environment for practicing real-world communication skills, from mastering idioms to navigating social cues. Shane reveals strategies for convincing skeptical faculty and his vision for embracing TTRPGs as a mainstream educational tool.
0:00 Opening0:10 Exclusive Charity Offer Reveal - How Your Purchase Can Change Lives2:49 Meet the Gamer Turned Innovative Educator Revolutionizing Language Learning4:06 Traditional vs Game-Based Teaching: The Authenticity Showdown18:26 From Munchkin to Murderhobo: Navigating the RPG Classroom Transition21:31 Mastering Real-World Interactions Through In-Game Role-Play28:34 Student Resistors vs Faculty Skeptics: Overcoming Unconventional Hurdles33:51 Three Wishes to Transform Language Education Worldwide35:45 The Recipe for Educators: Embracing Unorthodox Methods That Work40:47 Convincing the Naysayers: A Manifesto for Embracing Gaming in Academics42:34 Behind the Scenes: Upcoming Pedagogical Playground Projects44:47 Your Doorway to Immersive Language Learning Resources
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com
- Rio Grande Flood Charity Bundle: http://rio.inclusiverpg.com
- University of Chicago English Language Institute: http://esl.uchicago.edu/
- Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
This episode explores the cultural significance and far-reaching influence of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) through an insightful interview with Premeet Sidhu and José Zagal, editors of the book "50 Years of Dungeons & Dragons." It offers insights into how the iconic tabletop RPG has influenced various aspects of global culture, from gaming and entertainment to education and beyond.
The discussion covers D&D's historical roots, examining its evolution from a niche hobby to a mainstream phenomenon. Sidhu and Zagal shed light on the game's unexpected crossovers with diverse fields, such as interactive storytelling, solo journaling, and educational applications.
Key points covered include:
- The book's approach to celebrating D&D from a scholarly yet accessible perspective
- Surprising insights into the game's evolution, such as the progression of combat systems
- D&D's influence on other media and how it has been influenced by culture in turn
- The game's potential in education and fostering critical thinking
- Speculative discussions on D&D's future, including the role of AI and emergence as a mainstream entertainment genre
Links* Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing * Wyrmworks Publishing Nexus: https://books.inclusiverpg.com * Fifty Years of D&D: https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262547604/fifty-years-of-idungeons-and-dragonsi/ * Get it at the Wyrmworks Publishing Nexus & support the show: https://bookshop.org/a/103322/9780262547604 * University of Utah’s Division of Games - https://games.utah.edu/ * José Zagal Academic Profile - https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=a4a3GTMAAAAJ&hl=en * Seeing Red: Nintendo’s Virtual Boy - https://bit.ly/3UIHvmb * Premeet Sidhu Academic Profile: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=WGI4GlUAAAAJ&hl=en * Premeet Sidhu Twitter: https://twitter.com/premeetsidhu
0:00 Introduction
0:19 Wyrmworks Publishing Updates
03:18 Interview with Premeet Sidhu and José Zagal
06:12 "50 Years of Dungeons & Dragons" Book Overview
10:41 Insights and Revelations
15:58 D&D's Cultural Influence
18:33 Future of D&D
36:01 Upcoming Projects
43:57 Patreon Showcase & Closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
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We explore the connections between language, masculinity, and tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) experiences with sociologist Dr. Steven Dashiell. He studies language in male-dominated spaces like gaming conventions.
We discuss how language use, rules lawyering, gamesplaining, and off-topic conversations (metadiscourse) at gaming tables can create barriers. These reinforce masculine norms and potentially alienate players from underrepresented groups. Dr. Dashiell shares research on gendered speech patterns, the historical invisibility of women TTRPG players, and the challenges that women face asserting themselves without seeming overly aggressive.
The conversation also covers the benefits of increased gender diversity in TTRPGs. Dr. Dashiell explains how bringing your authentic self enriches the gaming experience for all. He offers insights for designers to create more welcoming, inclusive spaces.
Whether new or experienced with TTRPGs, this episode provides a valuable perspective on building a more equitable gaming culture.
Links: Dr. Steven Dashiell at American University: https://www.american.edu/soc/faculty/dashiell.cfm + Dr. Dashiell's Research and Papers: https://american.academia.edu/StevenDashiell * Accessible Character Sheet: https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/476978/Accessible-Character-Sheets-for-DD-Players-with-Print-Disabilities?affiliate_id=2455077&src=GainingAdvantage37 * Ready-to-Roll: Fairweather Friends Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/ready-to-roll-last-minute-no-prep-dandd-5e-adventure-1?ref=c7371z * Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon*: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing?utm_source=gaining_advantage&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=037
Show Outline:00:00 Welcome and intro00:21 Accessible character sheet for print & reading disabilities00:56 Ready-to-Roll: Fairweather Friends D&D adventure Kickstarter01:29 Interview with Dr. Steven Dashiell sociology of language04:57 Gender representation in TTRPG spaces06:24 Metadiscourse and inside references07:21 Masculine language and behavior in gaming08:18 Rules lawyering and excluding players12:14 Gamesplaining14:51 Historical gender erasure of women gamers16:12 Benefits of diversity in tabletop RPGs18:26 Murderhobo25:08 Charisma in D&D and its effect on inclusion28:36 Male dominance in D&D31:33 Bringing your authentic self to gaming table41:40 Designing more inclusive TTRPGs50:32 Gendered guilt when missing game sessions52:01 Jerks and toxic behavior study57:31 Support Inclusive Gaming
In this thought-provoking episode, Dale sits down with Dr. Dave Eng, an expert in using board games for educational purposes. Dr. Eng shares his groundbreaking insights on how tabletop games can revolutionize the learning experience. From cooperative classics like Pandemic to the innovative "Matrix Games" that leverage words over numbers, this episode dives into the benefits of interactive gameplay in classrooms. Discover how board games can foster critical thinking, teamwork, and experiential learning in ways traditional lectures cannot. Learn about Dr. Eng's inspiring work and his mission to bring gaming literacy to educators worldwide.
Plus, Dale reveals Wyrmworks Publishing's pioneering effort to introduce the first-ever braille ruleset for tabletop RPGs, making the hobby more accessible than ever before.
0:00 Introducing Braille to the TTRPG hobby
06:49 Interview: Dave Eng, EdD on gamifying education
42:16 An invitation to change the world
Links:
- Wyrmworks Publishing http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/
- Braille System Reference Document for D&D 5E on DriveThruRPG https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/472156/5e-SRD-51-System-Reference-Document-Braille-Transcription-and-Tutorial?affiliate_id=2455077
- Dr. Dave Eng https://davengdesign.com/
- UniversityXP https://universityxp.com/
- Banditos Gaming https://www.banditosgaming.com/
- Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Please leave us a rating and review on your podcast platform of choice!
We speak with Dr. Tanya Pobuda, an expert on issues of representation and inclusion in tabletop gaming. She shares insights from her groundbreaking research on gender and racial representation in contemporary board gaming.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Pobuda provides data-driven perspectives on the false narrative that "diversity doesn't sell" and highlights positive shifts that are possible when inclusive practices are embraced.
0:00 Introduction: Braille in TTRPG01:50 Interview: Dr. Tanya A. Pobuda52:49 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available in the feed and at our website.
Links:* Dr. Tanya Pobuda's Twitter: https://twitter.com/PobudaTanya * Dr. Pobuda's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@tanyapobuda * Our Family Plays Games YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/OurFamilyPlaysGames * Wyrmworks Publishing: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com * Ready-to-Roll: Feyweather Friends adventure on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/ready-to-roll-last-minute-no-prep-dandd-5e-adventure-1?ref=dqmst7 * Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
Please leave us a rating and review on your podcast platform of choice!
Discover new worlds and perspectives through TTRPGs! In this episode, we explore how D&D and other TTRPGs can teach us about different cultures. Dale talks with Rob Martin of Secret Garden Games about his Filipino mythology-inspired Bukana setting and Kickstarter campaign.
00:00 Holiday bundles and gift ideas04:13 Interview with Rob Martin of Secret Garden Games about his Bukana setting inspired by Filipino and Indonesian mythology41:06 Patreon updates and appreciation
Links:
- Wyrmworks Publishing Gift Cards: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/product/wyrmworks-publishing-gift-cards/
- Wyrm's Workshop: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/product/wyrms-workshop/
- 24 for $24 Bundle: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/460567/The-RPG-Advent-Calendar--24-Books-for-24-BUNDLE?affiliate_id=2455077&src=WyrmworksPubPodcast
- 75% Off Bundle: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/461941/Fantastic-Adventures-Mega-BUNDLE?affiliate_id=2455077&src=WyrmworksPubPodcast
- Bukana Bestiary on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/pineboxllc/bukana-bestiary-a-5e-wakesong-supplement
- Secret Garden Games on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secretgardengames/
- Wyrmworks Publishing Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
Please leave us a rating and review on your podcast platform of choice!
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Join Dale as he interviews Jonathan Connor Self, a top-rated pro DM and founder of the D8 Summit, a charitable organization using TTRPGs for good. They discuss using games therapeutically, fostering community, and supporting mental health. Connor also discusses Koboa, an upcoming RPG based on South American mythology.
This episode covers using tabletop RPGs to heal trauma, build connections, and create positive spaces. It's about leading with compassion at the gaming table and using the hobby to give back. From small local charities to suicide prevention, learn how you can make a difference through something you love. See how gaming can transform lives.
0:00 Introduction01:37 Interview: Connor Self42:11 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Conner Self Links* Webpage: https://thehealerdm.carrd.com/ * Socials: @TheHealerDM * D8 Summit: https://d8summit.org , email contact@d8summit.org * The National Alliance on Mental Illness https://nami.org * Become mental health first aid qualified. Search for resources local to you on Google. * Reach out to people 24-7. Text "helpline" to 62640, or call/text 988 * The Word Refinery (to learn more about what we do, and Koboa): https://thewordrefinery.org
Wyrmworks Publishing* The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Get weekly updates: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/hoard * Wyrmworks Publishing: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com
In this episode, Dale speaks with Steph from TTRPGKids.com about using tabletop RPGs to nurture creativity and connection with kids.
Before we get to the interview, here are a few updates:
- We'll be at Gamehole Con on Friday - come say hi if you're there!
- We're releasing free weekly encounters for our upcoming Limitless Champions Adventures Kickstarter. Get them by joining our email list.
- Check out our new disabled_dungeons community on Lemmy after the Reddit shutdown.
- Due to GameHole Con, there won't be a weekly adventure next week.
Do you want to ignite your child's imagination? Our guest Steph from TTRPGKids shares how tabletop RPGs can transform family dynamics and nurture creativity in kids.
Steph discusses:
- The benefits of playing TTRPGs with kids
- Choosing age-appropriate games and mechanics
- RPGs as bonding and teaching tools
- Encouraging creativity and problem-solving
- Resources for families, teachers, and creators
0:00 Introduction3:37 Interview: Steph from TTRPGKids52:33 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
TTRPGKids Links* TTRPGKids * Tattered Bear * Ludology Podcast
Wyrmworks Publishing* The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Get weekly updates: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/hoard * Disabled_Dungeons Reddit Alternative: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com/reddit-alternative-a-response-to-reddits-accessibility-hostility/ * Wyrmworks Publishing: http://wyrmworkspublishing.com
This month, we open discussing the new canon autistic character being introduced in D&D, and how meaningful representation is for traditionally marginalized groups. https://www.polygon.com/23850698/dnd-dungeons-dragons-autistic-character-asteria
Then Dale talks with Aaron Trammell, Associate Professor of Informatics at UC Irvine, about improving representation for people of color in tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons.
Key topics covered:
- How fantasy RPGs have historically lacked racial diversity and inclusion
- Racial stereotypes associated with classic fantasy races like orcs
- Colonialist attitudes reflected in fantasy language use
- Steps publishers and designers can take to improve racial representation in RPG products
- Making your gaming table welcoming for new and diverse players
- Aaron provides insight into issues around race in RPGs, and offers suggestions for how the hobby can become more inclusive. This is an important discussion about seeing diversity reflected in the games we play.
0:00 Introduction: Asteria, the first canon autistic D&D character6:10 Interview: Aaron Trammell, Associate Professor of Informatics at UC Irvine54:21 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Aaron Trammell Links * Aaron Trammell’s work: http://aarontrammell.com/ * Twitter: https://twitter.com/aarontram
Wyrmworks Publishing * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Dale welcomes George McDermith, a talented gamer and the creative mind behind the character Orrelius from the Limitless Champions campaign. George's perspective as a blind gamer offers valuable insights into inclusive gaming and the portrayal of disabled characters in Dungeons and Dragons. Discover the importance of authenticity, representation, and accessible gameplay in this enlightening conversation.
0:00 Introduction: Wyrm’s Workshop & Limitless Champions06:27 Interview: George McDermith29:10 Patreon Showcase & Closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
George McDermith Links * Facebook: www.facebook.com/blindpaladin * Twitter: www.twitter.com/blindpaladin
Wyrmworks Publishing * Wyrm’s Workshop: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/product/wyrms-workshop/ * Limitless Champions Miniatures: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/product-tag/limitless-champions/ * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT (Free 7-Day Trial!) * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Dale interviews Bill Lemmond, a passionate gamer and comic artist. Bill shares his personal story of how tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) have played a pivotal role in transforming his life, from finding joy and relaxation to overcoming depression and pursuing education. Discover the power of gaming to create a supportive community, foster creativity, and provide a much-needed escape. Join us as we explore the impact of TTRPGs on mental well-being and the importance of inclusivity and fun in gaming.
0:00 Introduction: Limitless Champions Update01:35 Interview: Bill Lemmond51:30 Patreon Showcase & Closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Bill Lemmond Links * Twitter: https://twitter.com/PastshelfdateJr
Wyrmworks Publishing * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Dale interviews Drew Wale about the Dretelia campaign setting, which is based on his chronic illness, and the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in creating meaningful and resonant tabletop roleplaying games. We discuss how drawing on personal experiences and emotions can help to create more engaging and immersive worlds, and how being open and honest about our own struggles can help to create a more welcoming and inclusive gaming community.
https://youtu.be/OXCKN9CqjXU
0:00 Introduction: Help caption the D&D cartoon03:51 Interview: Drew Wale and Dretelia Campaign Setting50:07 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Drew Wale Links * Dretelia Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dretelia/dretelia-campaign-setting-for-dandd-5e * Twitter: https://twitter.com/strongestbunny3
Wyrmworks Publishing * The Dragon’s Hoard Email Subscription: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/hoard * Help caption the D&D Cartoon: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/help-caption-the-dungeons-dragons-cartoon/ * Reddit Blackout: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/reddit-ipo-reddit-banishes-the-disabled-community/ * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Dale interviews Hunter Goetzman, the creator of Mercury Adventure Club, a TTRPG club and summer day camp that uses tabletop roleplaying games like Dungeons and Dragons to empower kids. The camp aims to provide a low-cost and accessible way for children to learn and enjoy the game while building a supportive community. Hunter discusses the benefits of introducing kids to gaming, the structure of the camp, and the positive impact it can have on their lives. The episode also highlights the Limitless Champions Kickstarter campaign, which aims to create a diverse collection of disabled fantasy game miniatures to promote inclusion in the gaming industry.
0:00 Introduction: Limitless Champions Update05:21 Interview: Hunter Goetzman of Mercury Adventure Club35:09 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Hunter Goetzman Links* Mercury Adventure Club: https://mercuryadventureclub.com
Wyrmworks Publishing* Limitless Champions: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/limitless-champions-disabled-dandd-5e-npc-cards-and-miniatures?ref=d7yy50 * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
This month, we talk to Tahina Andale, co-host of Dicecourse, about accessibility and avoiding ableism in tabletop roleplaying games. Tahina shares her experience as a disabled woman and provides tips on accommodating different accessibility needs. She emphasizes the importance of representation and encourages listeners to be more empathetic and respectful of others' needs.
0:00 Introduction: Limitless Champions Preview10:50 Interview: Tahina Andale, co-host of Dicecourse39:22 Patreon Showcase & closing
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Tahina Andale Links* DiceCourse Podcast: https://dicecourse.com/
Wyrmworks Publishing* Limitless Champions: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wyrmworkspublishing/limitless-champions-disabled-dandd-5e-npc-cards-and-miniatures?ref=d7yy50 * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
This week, we welcome Simone Arnold, owner of Hero's Journey Counseling in Vermont, who discusses outrage fatigue, which can lead to burnout and empathy fatigue, how to balance the desire to make the world better with our own limitations, and prioritize rest.
0:00 Introduction
8:59 Interview: Simone Arnold, owner of Hero's Journey Counseling
31:15 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Simone Arnold Links* Website: https://www.herosjourneycounseling.net * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@herosjourneycounseling7933 * TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@simonearnoldmc * Twitch: https://twitch.tv/dessicanuvell
Wyrmworks Publishing* Limitless Heroics: https://wyrmworkspublishing.com/product/limitless-heroics/?utm_source=youtube * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Inclusive Artwork: Fantasy Stock Art with Disability Representation for TTRPGs: https://crowdfundr.com/inclusiveartwork/?utm_source=youtube
Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Roleplaying games are already great, but what happens when they’re intentionally used to improve lives? We welcome Jack Berkenstock Jr., MHS, Executive Director, The Bodhana Group to talk about therapeutic RPG.
0:00 Introduction3:54 Interview: Jack Berkenstock Jr., MHS, Executive Director, The Bodhana Group44:43 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Script Change: http://briebeau.com/scriptchange
The Bodhana Group Links* https://www.thebodhanagroup.org * https://twitter.com/thebodhanagroup * https://www.facebook.com/thebodhanagroup
Wyrmworks Publishing* Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com * The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT * Limitless Champions: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
What happens when a bunch of neurodivergent people sit down to play D&D together and connect through the game? Things get awesome. And our guest, Caleb Valorozo-Jones, wrote a Master’s Thesis on it!
But before that, Dale takes an honest look at what it takes to get started in the TTRPG industry, especially in light of the changes at Twitter. It’s not as difficult as many would lead you to believe.
0:00 Introduction0:22 Getting started in the TTRPG Industry without Twitter17:51 Announcements22:18 Interview: Caleb Valorozo-Jones56:37 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Writing Your First Adventure (Storytelling Collective)
Caleb Valorozo-Jones Links
- All the links
- Thesis
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT
- Limitless Champions: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
Disabled people are among the most resourceful on the planet. They have to be. We welcome kindred spirits, Rachel Voss & Wesley Magee-Saxton at Forge Ahead: A Party To Access, who are creating amazing D&D 5e resources for disability inclusion. Next, we welcome Alexander Grinton on our Playing the Other segment to talk about his experience with Autism and ADHD, and how it connects with tabletop gaming.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 4:19 Interview: Rachel Voss & Wesley Magee-Saxton at Forge Ahead: A Party To Access
- 48:55 Playing the Other: Alexander Grinton
- 1:12:58 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Forge Ahead: A Party To Access Links
- Forge Ahead Website
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT
- Limitless Champions: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wyrmworksdale
What does accessibility look like in Live Action Role-Play (LARP)? We welcome Kitty Rodé from the Golden Feather Initiative to talk about that!
Kitty Rodé is a queer, South Asian artist and organizer who is passionate about storytelling, community building and trauma-informed gaming. They are a lifelong student of anti-oppression work, creating safer spaces and design for social change. Kitty is also a member of the Community Resistance Intimacy Project (CRIP) Collective, providing disability justice education and training. Visit kittyrode.com to see more of their work.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 4:36 Interview: Kitty Rodé, Golden Feather Initiative
- 36:05 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Golden Feather Initiative Links
- Folks can connect with Golden Feather Initiative on Twitter at @goldenfeatheri and on Facebook and Instagram @goldenfeatherinitiative
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- The Lair: https://cutt.ly/LairYT
- Limitless Champions: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wyrmworksdale
And here's the video Kitty references:
Roleplaying games change lives. But what happens when you intentionally turn that dial to 11? We welcome Peter Jung from Roll for Kindness to explain how that happens and how you can do it.
0:00 Introduction04:04 Interview: Peter Jung32:57 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Roll for Kindness Links
- Using RPGs for Good: https://rollforkindness.com/pathways-for-using-rpgs-for-good/
- Caravan Endures: https://rollforkindness.com/new-caravan-endures-build/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RollForKindness
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- The Lair: https://lair.WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Minis: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Patreon: https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wyrmworksdale
How do you get started with Dungeons & Dragons and find a group that’s right for you? We welcome Montana Rosalle from YVR Dungeon Masters to give you some help!
- 0:00 Introduction
- 01:44 Interview: Montana Rosalle
- 23:56 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
YVR Dungeon Masters Links
- Website: https://www.yvrdungeonmasters.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YVRDM/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvrdungeonmasters/
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- Minis: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Patreon: https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wyrmworksdale
How can game excellence make lives better? We welcome Matt Forbeck to talk about excellence in game design.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 02:54 Interview: Matt Forbeck
- 21:46 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Matt Forbeck Links
- Main: http://www.forbeck.com
- Shotguns & Sorcery 5E preorders: https://shotguns-n-sorcery.backerkit.com/hosted_preorders
- Diana Jones Award: https://www.dianajonesaward.org
- Marvel RPG: https://www.marvel.com/rpg
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: http://inclusiverpg.com
- Minis: http://mini.inclusiverpg.com
- Wyrmworks Publishing: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Patreon: https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/wyrmworksdale
How can the TTRPG industry teach the rest of the world about accessibility? We welcome Katriel Paige to talk about their work in accessibility.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 02:46 Interview: Katriel Paige
- 30:24 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Katreil Paige Links
- Tabletop Accessibility Page
- Website
- Twitter: @kit_flowerstorm
- Two to Tengu adventure on DMs Guild (co-designed with Lex Winter)
- Dystopia Rising: Evolution on DriveThruRPG
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
Let’s learn about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in a fun way, like a way that will keep your attention! We welcome Kel and Skald from Awfully Queer Heroes!
- 0:00 Introduction
- 04:38 Interview: Awfully Queer Heroes: Adventures in ADHD
- 37:53 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Awfully Queer Heroes Links
- Adventures in ADHD Kickstarter
- @awfullyqheroes
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
Let’s talk about diversity in games and how often that’s not what it could be and how to change that. Collette Quach (they/she) is an award winning writer and game designer based in California. Her focus is writing and designing within speculative fiction. She has a passion for mythology and folklore through nontraditional forms of storytelling. Her work can be found in Uncaged Anthology, Book of Seasons: Solstices, Eyes Unclouded and the Unbreakable Anthology. They also were the producer for Creepy Monster Compendium, a book of horror creatures for 5th edition. Currently they are a MFA student in Interactive Media and Game Design at USC where they are focusing on narrative and the blend between physical and digital spaces.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 01:23 Interview: Collette Quach
- 26:36 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Collette Quach Links
- Website: https://collettequach.wixsite.com/home
- Creepy Monster Compendium: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/375813/Creepy-Monster-Compendium&affiliate_id=1283059
- Link to DMs Guild Work: https://www.dmsguild.com/browse.php?author=Collette%20Quach
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
How can we make our fantasy worlds more accessible, thus encouraging more accessibility in the real world? Dale and Fay Onyx nerd out about disability, accessibility, and TTRPGs.
Fay Onyx is a queer, nonbinary, disabled writer, podcaster, game designer, and disability consultant whose work focuses on intersectional disability representation. Ze creates resources to help storytellers and game designers represent disability respectfully, including a Q&A series, a Decolonizing Games Resource List, and a series of articles about harmful disability tropes. Hir podcast, Writing Alchemy, has an actual play series about the adventures of disabled, neurodivergent, and chronically ill heroes. Fay is also working on Magic Goes Awry, a high fantasy roleplaying game that has detailed character creation with a rules-light core mechanic that creates plenty of magical mayhem.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 02:39 Interview: Fay Onyx
- 42:40 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Fay Onyx Links
- Website: https://writing-alchemy.net/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/@writing_alchemy
- Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/WritingAlchemy
- Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/S6S4BFL0
- The Owlbear Reintroduction Program Part 1: https://writingalchemy.net/podcast/episode-33-the-owlbear-reintroduction-program-part-1/
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
How can role-playing games expand your view of the real world? We welcome Paladin, co-director of The Islands of Sina Una, to talk about just that. And in our Playing the Other segment, we welcome Nikki to talk about chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 01:58 Paladin
- 23:25 Playing the Other: Nikki
- 40:15 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Paladin Links
- Twitter: @httpaladin
- Purchase The Islands of Sina Una
Nikki Links
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/beholdertonoone
- Linktree: http://linktr.ee/beholdertonoone
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
What was your camp experience like? What if it involved fighting dragons & rolling dice? We welcome Richard Malena-Webber from Academy of Adventures to describe that for us.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 02:13 Richard Malena-Webber
- 34:23 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Academy of Adventures Links
- Website: https://Academyofadventures.com
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/rmalena
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
How can the tabletop gaming space be more accessible? We welcome Jesse McNamee to discuss that question — how it has and how it could be more.
- 0:00 Introduction & Announcements
- 07:49 Jesse McNamee Interview
- 29:40 Appreciation
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Jesse McNamee Links
Twitter: @jessemcnamee
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
What makes a tabletop role-playing game accessible, both to players and characters? We welcome Jacob Wood, owner of Accessible Games, to discuss that question.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 02:10 Jacob Wood
- 24:41 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Accessible Games Links
- Accessible Games Official Website: http://www.accessiblegames.biz
- Accessible Gaming Quarterly: http://www.bit.ly/AccessibleGamingQuarterly
- Contribute to AGQ: http://www.bit.ly/AGQContribute
- Twitter: @AccessibleGames
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AccessibleGamesBiz
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
More often than not, variety makes things better. We welcome Jasper William Cartwright and Jeremy Cobb, 2/3 of the podcast Three Black Halflings to talk about diversity in the gaming space.
- 0:00 Introduction
- 2:39 2/3 Black Halflings
- 55:48 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
3BH Links
- https://twitter.com/tbhalflings
- https://www.instagram.com/tbhalflings/
- https://www.facebook.com/TBHalflings
- https://www.patreon.com/tbhalflings
- https://store.dftba.com/collections/three-black-halflings
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics: https://inclusiverpg.com
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
It’s October! It’s all about dressing up and pretending!That’s what role-players do best! And now, you can do that for charity! We welcome Oneuppington with Roleplay4Charity.
We are looking for guests for Playing the Other. If you’d like to be our guest, let us know at wyrmworkspublishing.com/contact
Content Warning: Cancer
- 0:00 Introduction
- 2:10 Rhydian "Oneuppington" John with Roleplay4Charity
- 19:38 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Roleplay4Charity Links
- Twitter: @Role4Charity
- Charity Link: https://donate.tiltify.com/+roleplay4charity/roleplay4halloween
- World Cancer Research Fund: https://www.wcrf.org/ Twitter: @wcrfint
- Wreckage RPG: https://linktr.ee/wreckagerpg and their Twitter handle: @RpgWreckage
- RPG Apparel: https://rpg-apparel.com/ and his twitter handle: @ApparelRpg
Wyrmworks Publishing
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
Life is tough, and sometimes, it seems like today’s CR is a bit too high. So what do you do? Get more people in the party! We welcome Josh Simons of Jasper’s Game Day to talk about mental health and suicide prevention through TTRPGs.
In our “Playing the Other” segment, we welcome Matt Weber with a great discussion about his physical disabilities and his decades of gaming experience.
Content Warning: Suicide, Body shape discussion, Mental Illness, Phobias
- 0:00 Introduction
- 2:26 Josh Simons & Jasper’s Game Day
- 32:34 Playing the Other with Matt Weber
- 1:10:34 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Jasper’s Game Day
- Website: https://jaspersgameday.com
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaspersGameDay
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/JaspersGame
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jaspersgameday
- Discord: https://discord.gg/MWfwpc9
- YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/youtubeJGD
Josh Simons Links
- Twitch: https://twitch.tv/joshuasimons
- Islands of Sina Una stream: https://twitch.tv/rockpunchATL
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JoshuaMSimons
- LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/joshuamsimons
Matt Weber links
- Reddit: u/DeliveratorMatt
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Limitless Heroics - Including Characters with Disabilities, Mental Illness, and Neurodivergence in Fifth Edition: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/372478/Limitless-Heroics-Including-Characters-with-Disabilities-Mental-Illness-and-Neurodivergence-in-Fifth-Edition
- Website: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Patreon: https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Maps: https://wyrmworkspublishing.itch.io
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
Twitter: @wyrmworksdale
How can TTRPGs help people on the autism spectrum? We welcome Daniel Kwan & Naomi Hazlett from Level Up Gaming, where they’re doing great work in that area.
In our “Playing the Other” segment, we welcome Nico Meyering with a discussion on breathing difficulties and other disabilities in gaming.
Content Warning: Breathing Difficulties
- 0:00 Introduction
- 1:50 Daniel Kwan & Naomi Hazlett from Level Up Gaming
- 44:48 Playing the Other with Nico Meyering
- 1:05:33 Wrap-up
Manually captioned. Transcript available at our website.
Level Up Gaming Links
- https://www.levelupgaming.ca/
Daniel Kwan’s Links
- Twitter @danielhkwan
- Web danielhkwan.com
- Podcast aznsrepresent.com
Naomi Hazlett’s Links
- Website: naomihazlett.com
- Twitter: @naomi_hazlett
Nico Meyering links
- Instagram @namestartswithn
- Twitter @namestartswithn
Wyrmworks Publishing
- The Price of Success: https://www.dmsguild.com/product/371778/Accessible-Adventure-of-the-Week-The-Price-of-Success
- https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Maps: https://wyrmworkspublishing.itch.io
- https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- @wyrmworksdale
How can TTRPGs give us perspective on our own world and the people in our lives? We welcome Hugo, Aurora, and BFA award winner, Elsa Sjunneson, an expert in perspective.
In our “Playing the Other” segment, we welcome IdenTTRPG, an endogenic plural system.
Content Warning: Endogenic Plurality, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Multiple Personalities Disorder
- 0:00 Introduction
- 3:17 Elsa Sjunneson
- 17:24 Playing the Other with IdenTTRPG
- 42:07 Wrap-up
Manually captioned for the deaf and hard of hearing. Transcript available at our website.
Elsa Sjunneson links
- Elsa's Website: https://www.snarkbat.com/
- Preorder Being Seen: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Being-Seen/Elsa-Sjunneson/9781982152376
- Elsa's Twitter: https://twitter.com/snarkbat
IdenTTRPG links
- Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/IdenTTRPG/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/IdenTTRPG
- LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/IdenTTRPG
Wyrmworks Publishing
- Website: https://WyrmworksPublishing.com
- Patreon: https://Patreon.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Maps: https://wyrmworkspublishing.itch.io
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/wyrmworkspublishing
- Twitter: @wyrmworksdale
Other resources:
Learn more about Endogenic Plurality: https://pluralpedia.org/w/Endogenic