Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology Podcast

Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology Podcast

The Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology Podcast is a TTRPG podcast that helps collaborative storytellers build great campaigns using psychology. Each episode dives into different aspects of tabletop roleplaying games, and offers listeners (psyclithids) tricks of the trade for how to improve their own games. Your host, Robert Walker, is a longtime DM and holds a MS in I/O Psychology. He is also the author of "Session Zero: The DMG to Writing Great Campaigns in any System."

Episodes

September 23, 2024 19 mins

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In this episode, Robert Walker, author of 'Session Zero: The DMG to Writing Great Campaigns in Any System,' explores the value of dice rolls, probability, and statistics in tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). The episode delves into the psychology of chance, focusing on concepts like apophenia and the gambler's fallacy. Later Walker explains how understanding probability can help players and DMs...

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In-Depth with Tabletop Misfits: GM James Jackson on Immersive Storytelling & RPG Adventures

In this episode, we sit down with James Jackson from Tabletop Misfits to discuss the growth and evolution of Tabletop Misfits, from hosting multiple shows to their current staple, Tavern Talks. James shares his experience transitioning to a GM role on Gen Con TV's official Twitch channel, the intricacies...

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September 19, 2024 23 mins

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In this episode, Robert Walker, author of 'Sessions Zero: The DMG to Writing Great Campaigns in Any System,' explores the emotional impact and psychology behind character death in tabletop role-playing games. He delves into the concept of willful suspension of disbelief, originally discussed by Samuel Coleridge, and why it plays a crucial role in how players experience grief and loss during gameplay. W...

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September 18, 2024 16 mins

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Welcome, adventurers! Today, we're diving into a unique strategy to enhance your roleplaying games: the Roadmap Method. This method will streamline your game planning and ensure every session is an epic journey.
First, let's break down what the Roadmap Method is. Essentially, it's a structured approach to game planning that helps Dungeon Masters (DMs) create detailed, cohesive storylines while...

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September 17, 2024 16 mins

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Join us as we explore the power of paradigm shifts in role-playing games. Discover how to craft surprising and satisfying plot twists that will leave your players breathless. Learn about the growth potential of paradigm shifts when they happen in real life, with a couple examples from my own life that occurred around D&D. In tricks of the trade we'll delve into the art of setting up hidden identities, r...

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September 16, 2024 23 mins

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 This episode culminates our exploration of leveling up in real life, with a look at the Monk class. Discover how to cultivate the physical prowess, mental focus, and inner peace that define a true master of self-improvement. Learn practical exercises to develop your dexterity and wisdom, and explore essential philosophies to guide your journey. We'll also delve into the challenges you might face and how to...

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September 3, 2024 17 mins

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Embark on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth as a Cleric! This episode explores the path to becoming a beacon of hope, a leader of others, and a force for positive change. Discover practical tips on cultivating inner wisdom, developing charisma, and inspiring those around you. Learn how to embrace your role as a healer and guide, and make a lasting impact on the world.

Download YOUR Charac...

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August 4, 2024 17 mins

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Episode Description:

Unleash your inner Paladin! This episode dives deep into the world of champions, exploring how to cultivate the physical strength, unwavering determination, and inspiring leadership of a true Paladin. Discover practical tips on building a strong foundation, developing your communication skills, and forging a personal code of ethics. Learn how to balance your physical and mental well-being whi...

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Episode Summary:

Unleash Your Inner Warlock! This episode dives deep into the world of pacts and power, exploring how to cultivate the charisma, mental resilience, and insatiable hunger for knowledge that define a true Warlock. Discover practical steps to forge your own pact, develop persuasive communication skills, and harness the power of your mind. From understanding the Warlock mindset to building a personali...

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Unleash your inner barbarian! This episode of The Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology Podcast delves into the world of these powerful warriors, exploring how to cultivate their strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit in your own life. We'll guide you through a three-month plan to build your physical prowess, sharpen your mental focus, and develop the resourcefulness of a true Barbarian. Learn how to tra...

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In today's episode, Robert Walker, author of Session Zero: The DMG to Writing Great Campaigns in Any System, explores the multifaceted nature of Rangers and how to level up in real life by mirroring their skills and mindset. Learn the importance of dexterity and strength, and discover practical steps to enhance these abilities in both urban and wilderness settings. This episode also covers essential su...

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This episode explores the wisdom and empathy of Druids, translating their magic into actionable steps to protect the environment in our everyday lives.

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Key Takeaways:

  • The Druid Mindset: Cultivate reverence for nature, understand the interconnectedness of all living things, strive for balance, and embrace lifelong learning.
  • Sharpen Your WISDOM (WIS): Deepen your connection ...
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Ever dreamed of wielding magic like a true Wizard? In this episode of Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology, we delve into the minds of these intellectual powerhouses and explore how to cultivate the skills and mindset of a real-life Wizard!

Expand Your Mind:

  • Learn how to develop the core Wizard stats: Intelligence (INT) and Dexterity (DEX).
  • Discover strategies to become a voracious learner, critical thinker, and...
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In this episode, we explore the concept of the 'rogue spirit' emphasizing independent thinking, resourcefulness, and problem-solving as key traits that can be developed in real life. Drawing parallels between fantasy rogues and real-world skills, We discuss a three-month plan designed to cultivate agility, strategic thinking, and adaptability.

I recommend 3 specific books that align with the r...

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May 7, 2024 21 mins

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This week we delve into the coveted flow state! Feeling completely absorbed, energized, and enjoying the game to the fullest – that's the magic of flow. But how can you, the Dungeon Master, create an environment that fosters this optimal experience for your players? We've got you covered!

First we tackle the components of achieving flow state in an RPG and discuss why each component is important. Then, ...

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April 30, 2024 15 mins

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Do you ever feel the urge to use your player knowledge to give your character an unfair advantage? Is meta-gaming the arch-nemesis of immersive storytelling, or can it be wielded for good?

This episode dives deep into the psychology behind meta-gaming, exploring the situations where it breaks the spell and the moments where it can actually benefit your campaign. We'll also equip you with "Tricks of the ...

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Ever feel like you have an untapped well of power just waiting to be unleashed? Then you might be a Sorcerer in the making! This episode cracks open the magical world of Sorcerers, those who wield innate power, and discusses how to level up as one in real life.

We delve deeper than fireballs and flashy spells to explore the real-life skills and mindsets that make a true Sorcerer. Learn how to cultivate powerful c...

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Calling all aspiring Bards!  This episode equips you with the tools to level up your real-life Bardic skills.  We explore the "3 Book Rule," focusing on three key areas to unleash your inner creative force.

Master the Art of Storytelling: Learn how to craft captivating narratives that connect with your audience, inspired by Carmine Gallo's "The Storyteller's Secret."

Find Your Artisti...

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April 3, 2024 26 mins

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Unsheathe your metaphorical sword and unleash your inner strength! This episode is all about leveling up as a Fighter in the real world. We'll guide you through building raw power, incredible stamina, and the unwavering spirit of a true hero.

Learn how to:

  • Choose real-life skills that boost your strength and constitution.
  • Set SMART goals to fuel your Fighter spirit.
  • Track your daily habits to stay on track ...
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Episode Details & Links

Today is all about creating YOUR character sheet for the process of leveling up IRL. Here you will start the adventure by giving your heroic self a character name, choosing a class, picking skills, setting SMART goals, tracking habits, and hitting benchmarks to increase your ability score and your level.

Download YOUR Character Sheet

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