PUBLIC SPEAKING OR DEATH: ENCOURAGING ROLEPLAY (Remastered)

RANDALL: “They say people fear public speaking more than death. Which means that, statistically, most players would rather TPK than deliver an in-character monologue.”

ASH: “Honestly? Same.”

TYLER: “So today we’re doing the impossible—convincing gamers that pretending to be a half-elf sorcerer in front of their friends doesn’t have to be terrifying.”

Show Notes

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, the hosts dive into one of tabletop gaming’s most universal fears: speaking in character. Whether it’s performing a heartfelt speech to rally the party, negotiating with a dragon, or just trying to remember your bard’s accent, encouraging roleplay can feel like public speaking in front of a judgmental lich.

The hosts explore why roleplaying in tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) and Pathfinder often triggers the same nerves as giving a speech—and how to overcome it. Drawing from years of experience as Dungeon Masters, players, and accidental thespians, they break down how to build confidence, improve storytelling, and make roleplay fun for everyone at the table.

Learn how public speaking skills and improv techniques can enhance your D&D roleplay, how to encourage shy players without pressure, and how a supportive group dynamic transforms tabletop gaming into something deeper and more memorable. Whether you’re a veteran DM or a first-time player who’d rather hide behind your dice, this episode helps you turn stage fright into character insight—one awkward monologue at a time.

Topics discussed include:

• How public speaking anxiety translates into roleplaying hesitation
• Techniques to encourage roleplay among shy players
• Using improv and acting tips to bring characters to life
• Building player confidence and group trust
• Balancing storytelling and game mechanics in tabletop RPGs
• Making Dungeons & Dragons sessions more expressive and inclusive
• Why roleplay and performance make better campaigns
• Strategies for Dungeon Masters to create safe spaces for expression

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

• Dice Math – RPGBOT.Podcast S2E92

Other Stuff

• GiffyGlyph

Key Takeaways

• Encouraging Roleplay Builds Community: Players open up more when the table feels safe, supportive, and judgment-free.
• Public Speaking and D&D Go Hand-in-Hand: Overcoming stage fright at the table often translates to confidence outside of it.
• Start Small: Begin with simple gestures, dialogue, or motivations instead of full speeches.
• Dungeon Masters Lead by Example: If the DM embraces roleplay, players will follow.
• Improv Skills Improve Immersion: Using “yes, and…” and