The Bearded Nerd Podcast

Handling Player Conflict at the Table: Keeping Your Game Fun and Drama-Free

Every Game Master will eventually face player conflict at the table—whether it’s clashing playstyles, rules disputes, or personal disagreements. But how you handle it can mean the difference between a game-ruining argument and a quick resolution that keeps the fun going.
In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we dive into:🎭 Recognizing the real source of player conflict⚖️ How to mediate disputes fairly and keep the session moving🎲 Session Zero techniques to prevent conflicts before they happen🚩 When to step in, set boundaries, or even remove a disruptive player
If you want to maintain a positive, drama-free table, this episode will give you practical strategies to defuse tension, balance different player expectations, and create a welcoming game environment for everyone. Tune in and take your GM skills to the next level!
Did you enjoy this episode? Please consider supporting us on Patreon where you will receive D&D 5e and general world-building content that you can plug-and-play in ANY TTRPG. Keep Gaming!

Running One-Shots: How to Create a Complete Adventure in a Single Session

Want to run a TTRPG adventure in just one session? One-shots are the perfect way to introduce new players, experiment with new mechanics, or run a fun, low-commitment game. But designing a great one-shot isn’t as simple as cramming a full campaign into a few hours—you need tight pacing, engaging characters, and a satisfying story arc that wraps up in a single sitting.
In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we break down the step-by-step process for crafting memorable one-shots, including:🎭 How to structure a one-shot using the three-act format⚔️ Balancing combat, roleplay, and exploration for maximum impact⏳ Keeping pacing tight to avoid dragging scenes or rushed endings🤯 Adding unexpected twists and dynamic encounters to keep players engaged
Whether you’re running a convention game, a break from your main campaign, or a special event, this episode will give you everything you need to design and run a thrilling one-shot adventure. Tune in and level up your GM skills! 🎲🔥
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If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and support me over on Patreon. Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Mastering the Art of Improvisation: How to Keep Your Game Flowing Without Prep

No matter how much you prepare, players will always find a way to go off-script. But don’t panic—great GMs embrace improvisation! In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we dive into the "Yes, And" rule, the Three-Question Method, and the Lift & Shift technique—powerful tools that will help you react confidently, create compelling NPCs on the fly, and keep your players immersed in the game, even when they go completely off the rails. Whether you’re running a sandbox game or dealing with unpredictable players, this episode will level up your improv skills and make you a more adaptable GM. 🎭✨
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to check out this link here. You can find the affiliate link for Dungeon Soap where 10% of your purchase comes back to me and supports this podcast. You can also find a link to the Patreon page where you can find my D&D 5e content for your game; I also have general TTRPG content that works in ANY game. Thank you and Keep Gaming!
-Brian

An Evening with The Story Engine Team

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, I sat down with Miroki and Peter who are part of the core team on The Story Engine Deck. The Story Engine Deck is an open-ended prompt creation tool that allows writers and Game Masters to generate endless story ideas, creative writing prompts, and D&D campaign ideas. 
We spoke about their initial founding, the inspiration behind the Deck, and insights into the various decks and their possibilities (roughly 30 billion). If you enjoyed this episode and want to see what these decks entail, check out their website linked here. If you decide to purchase a deck or five, be sure to use: BEARDEDNERD10 for 10% off your order!
Enjoy and Keep Gaming!

The Art of Pacing: Keeping Your TTRPG Sessions Engaging and Balanced

Struggling to keep your TTRPG sessions flowing smoothly? Pacing is one of the most critical GM skills—too slow, and your players get bored; too fast, and they feel rushed. In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we break down how to balance combat, roleplay, and exploration, maintain tension, and keep your players engaged from start to finish. Learn how to read the room, cut to the action, and use timing tools like the Three Clue Rule and real-time tension mechanics. Whether you're running a sprawling campaign or a one-shot, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you master the flow of your game! 🎲✨
If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider supporting us to keep the show going by checking out this link here. And if you believe that this episode helped you, feel free to subscribe and share this episode with others. Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Crafting a Living, Breathing World: How to Make Your TTRPG Setting Feel Real

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we dive deep into what makes a TTRPG world feel truly alive. A great setting isn’t just a backdrop—it reacts, evolves, and makes players feel like they’re part of something bigger.
We’ll explore how to make your world dynamic with shifting politics, evolving cities, and NPCs who remember and react to player choices. Learn how to introduce organic world events, cultural traditions, and immersive details that keep players engaged. Plus, get practical tips on using rumors, natural disasters, and faction conflicts to create a setting that feels alive whether or not the players are there.
If you want your world to feel like more than just a map, this episode is for you! 🎲✨
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To support the podcast, consider the following:
Becoming a guild member over on Patreon!
Buying some Dungeon Soap (use "Bearded10" to save 10% your final order)
Keep Gaming!
 

The Art of the NPC: Making Memorable NPCs

NPCs are the heartbeat of any great TTRPG campaign. In this episode, we explore the art of creating NPCs that players will remember long after the dice have been rolled. Whether they’re allies, rivals, villains, or mysterious wildcards, NPCs bring your world to life and add depth to your story.
What You’ll Learn:
Defining an NPC’s Role: How to ensure every NPC serves a meaningful purpose in your campaign.
Making NPCs Memorable: Adding unique traits, quirks, and impactful introductions.
Building Depth: Crafting goals, flaws, and secrets that make your NPCs feel real.
Tying NPCs to Players: Creating connections to backstories and motivations.
Roleplay and Adaptability: Tips for improvising and bringing NPCs to life at the table.
Key Takeaways:
Make NPCs stand out with unique details and engaging introductions.
Give them depth with clear motivations, personal flaws, and hidden secrets.
Connect NPCs to your players’ stories for greater emotional impact.
Use roleplay and improvisation to keep NPCs dynamic and reactive.
Resources Mentioned:
NPC Creation Toolkit: Downloadable templates, examples, and generators to help you create unforgettable NPCs. Available on Patreon!
Follow and Support:
Like this episode? Leave a review and subscribe for more TTRPG tips and tools.
Check out our Patreon for exclusive resources and behind-the-scenes content.
Connect with us on social media: https://beacons.ai/thebeardednerd

First Time Playing D&D: What to Do and Not Do

In this episode, I sat down with two of members of our community to discuss their journey into the D&D hobby. We spoke about the pros and cons, the worries that they had when they began their journey, and we shared advice for new players.
James and Kyle not only are members of The Guildhall, but they are moderators and community leaders within our community. If you enjoyed this episode and want to directly ask them questions or just want to surround yourself with like minded nerds, be sure to join us on Discord.
If you enjoyed this episode, consider supporting the podcast here on Patreon where you will have behind-the-scenes content, digital materials for your 5e game, and more!
Keep Gaming!

6 Ways to Build a Fantasy City from Scratch

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we break down the step-by-step process of creating an immersive fantasy city for your TTRPG campaigns. From determining its purpose and geography to crafting vibrant cultures, dynamic factions, and adventure hooks, this guide has everything you need to bring your city to life. Whether it’s a bustling trade hub, a mystical religious center, or a fortress in the mountains, you’ll leave with actionable tips and examples to captivate your players. Tune in and start building your masterpiece! 🎲🏙️
If you enjoyed this episode, support us over on Patreon. Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Taming the Chaos: How to Deal with "Murder Hobo" Players

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we tackle one of the most chaotic challenges a GM can face—dealing with "murder hobo" players. These are the characters who loot, kill, and destroy indiscriminately, often derailing campaigns and leaving the game world in ruins. But fear not! We’ll explore why players lean into this style, how to redirect their energy, and ways to introduce meaningful consequences without stifling their fun. From setting clear expectations in Session Zero to crafting moral dilemmas and dynamic consequences, this episode is packed with tips to help you manage and channel the chaos. Tune in and learn how to keep your game engaging and balanced, no matter what your players throw at you! 🎲🔥
If you enjoyed this episode, please support the podcast by becoming a patron. Keep Gaming!