The Bearded Nerd Podcast

Seeking Inspiration: Where to Source Creative Ideas for Your TTRPG

Struggling to find fresh ideas for your TTRPG campaigns? In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we explore how to draw creative inspiration from movies, anime, manga, TV shows, books, and games like Warhammer 40k. Discover practical tips for adapting these influences into your world-building, NPCs, and storylines without feeling derivative. Whether it’s the political intrigue of Game of Thrones or the epic battles of The Witcher, this episode is packed with actionable advice to fuel your imagination and take your campaigns to the next level. Tune in and start seeking inspiration like a pro! 🎲✨
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An Evening with The Queen of Cthulu, Ashley King

In this episode, I sat down with the "Queen of Cthulu" Ashley King. She is a phenomenal live-play performer and Game Master who has GM'd many games for various productions including for the Twitch Channel: The Swole Initiative. We sat down and spoke about a variety of topics including how she began playing, her connections to Appalachia, and her unique style as a Game Master.
During our conversation, we showcase a plethora of tips to help new and veteran gamers level up their craft. If you enjoyed this episode and would like to support her, please follow her on social media here. 
And if you would like to see more episodes like this one, please support us over on Patreon. Everything definitely helps! Thank you for listening and Keep Gaming!

Improv Like a Pro: Mastering On-the-Fly GM Skills

Improvisation is one of the most valuable skills a GM can develop, but it can also be one of the most intimidating. In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we explore how to handle unexpected player actions, create dynamic NPCs on the spot, and keep the story flowing with confidence. Learn practical tips like using random generators, focusing on "yes, and" storytelling, and building a toolkit of reusable content. Tune in to boost your improv skills and make your games unforgettable!
 

Bastions in D&D – Building and Evolving Your Character’s Home

In this episode, we’re talking all about D&D24 Bastions—the personal strongholds that can add incredible depth and customization to your D&D character’s story. Whether you’re a DM looking to enrich your campaign or a player excited to build your character’s own base of operations, Bastions open up tons of possibilities. From designing unique facilities and handling unexpected events to combining Bastions with other players, there’s a lot to explore.
 
Grab your free 1-page quick guide to Bastions over on Patreon and check out the new mechanics to see if this is something YOU want to add to your game. Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Flexible GM Prep: How to Improvise and Save Time for Your RPG

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we explore the art of flexible game prep for time-strapped GMs. Learn how to streamline your session planning by focusing on key objectives, using modular encounters, and embracing improvisation. We’ll also dive into time-saving tools like random generators, recycling content, and collaborating with your players to reduce your prep load. If you're looking to master efficient prep while still delivering a fun and dynamic game, this episode is for you!
Check out Patreon for more TTRPG-related content that helps you spend more time gaming and less time prepping. Enjoy this episode and Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Legendary Creatures in Your Campaign: Weaving Myths, Exploration, and Epic Battles

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we explore how to bring legendary beasts to life in your D&D campaigns. Discover how mythical creatures can enrich your world through rich lore, immersive exploration, and dynamic combat encounters. Whether you want to create multi-phase battles or tie these beasts to your world’s history, we’ve got you covered! Plus, tips for integrating beasts beyond combat. For exclusive content and advanced strategies, check out our Patreon and support the show!
Keep Gaming!
-Brian

Mastering Time: How to Run a TTRPG With Limited Prep Time

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest challenges GMs face—running a tabletop RPG with limited time for prep. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other hobbies, prepping for sessions can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategies, you can deliver a fun and engaging game without spending hours planning. I’ll share tips on how to efficiently prep for sessions by focusing on foundational world-building, setting clear session objectives, and using the "lift and shift" technique to plug pre-made content into your campaign.
Plus, we’ll explore tools and resources that can help streamline your process, like using virtual tabletops, random generators, and services like Patreon to find pre-made adventures and encounters that you can easily integrate into your game.
If you’re feeling crunched for time but still want to be an effective GM, this episode is for you. Be sure to check out my Patreon for additional resources, exclusive content, and ready-to-use material to help make your prep time even more efficient. 
Keep Gaming!

Level Up Your Con Game: Tips for Navigating The Gaming Convention Circuit

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, we’re rolling into the world of gaming conventions! Whether you’re a first-timer heading to Gen Con or PAX Unplugged, or a veteran looking for fresh tips, this episode has you covered. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from planning your trip and navigating the exhibit hall to joining games and making the most of your convention experience. Learn what to pack, how to find the best games, and crucial self-care tips to survive the convention madness. If you’re ready to level up your convention game, hit play and get con-ready!
If you enjoyed this episode, leave a comment and share with your friends. I appreciate the support and as always...Keep Gaming!

Finding Your Next Adventure: How to Find a TTRPG Group in 2024 (Even 2025)

In this episode of The Bearded Nerd Podcast, I break down the best strategies for finding a TTRPG group in 2024. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the hobby, finding the right group can be tricky. I’ll walk you through three key ways to connect with fellow players: searching for groups at your local game store, finding games online, and even starting your own group from scratch. Along the way, I’ll share tips on what to look for in a group, how to use platforms like Roll20 and Discord, and why starting small can lead to big adventures. If you're ready to level up your TTRPG experience and join a group that’s perfect for you, this episode is for you!
Here is the template I discussed in the episode:
Game Title: (Optional—Name your campaign or game for a personal touch)
Playstyle
Focus: (e.g., Roleplay-heavy, Combat-heavy, Balanced mix of Roleplay and Combat)
Themes: (e.g., Heroic adventure, Political intrigue, Exploration, Mystery)
Player Interaction: (e.g., Cooperative storytelling, Strategic combat, Puzzle-solving)
Tone: (e.g., Light-hearted, Dark and gritty, Epic and heroic, Casual fun)
House Rules: (List any custom rules or adjustments you use in your game)
Keep Gaming!

How to Marry Fitness and Nerdom with The World’s Most Powerful Nerd

In today's episode, I had the immense pleasure of sitting down with a personal hero of mine: Bobby Maximus. Bobby is a reknown Mixed Martial artist with fights in the UFC, Maximum Fighting Championship, and was a competitor in both The Ultimate Fighter 2 and 30. He has also trained many athletes, executives, and tier 1 assets of both US and Canadian Armed Forces. His love of gaming and fitness coincide with one another as he is an aficianado of Magic the Gathering and other fandoms such as The Legend of Zelda; he is known as "The World's Most Powerful Nerd" and "Lord Swoledemort".We spoke about his upbringing and how fitness and nerdom have played an integral role in his life and how he overcame constant bullying from his peers due to his love of Magic the Gathering. Bobby not only offered great tips to achieving a healthy body and lifestyle, but explained how living a healthy lifestyle improves our enjoyment in the hobby.If you enjoyed this episode and want to check out some of Bobby's content, please check his website. Thank you so much for listening to the show and support us on Patreon to get more awesome episodes like this one. Keep Building and Keep Gaming!-Brian