The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast

Special guest Mark joins the Mantis to talk about his gaming origin story. Why he loves Sci-fi games and some of the best ones out there. music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Special guest Chris joins Jesse to chew the TTRPG cud while Matty takes a well deserved break. music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio

Ready to bring prehistoric power into your campaign? In this episode, we explore how to incorporate dinosaurs into your tabletop RPG—whether you're running a classic fantasy setting, a pulpy jungle adventure, or a time-traveling twist. From riding raptors to surviving a tyrannosaur stampede, we’ll share creative ways to use dinosaurs as mounts, monsters, plot hooks, and even NPCs. Plus, tips on ba...

Bring the thunder of prehistoric beasts to your tabletop! In this episode, we explore the best resources for running dinosaur-themed TTRPGs. From rulebooks and supplements to setting ideas, encounters, and miniatures, we’ll guide you through everything you need to craft epic adventures in the age of dinosaurs. Whether you're running a lost world expedition, time-traveling escapades, or a land unto...

What happens when you combine the awe of dinosaurs with the storytelling magic of tabletop RPGs ? In this episode, we dive into how to bring these prehistoric beasts to life in your games—whether it’s a lost world setting, time travel adventure, or dino-riding fantasy epic!

In this episode, we dive into the often-debated world of roleplaying game fiction. From Dragonlance to Forgotten Realms , RPG tie-in novels have carved out a unique niche in speculative fiction—but are they genuinely compelling reads or just glorified game manuals? Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

As a new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reflect on past campaigns and set fresh goals for your tabletop adventures. In this episode, we discuss TTRPG gaming goals for 2025—whether it’s mastering a new system, becoming a better GM, creating richer characters, or finally finishing that long-running campaign. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/...

Tired of recapping every TTRPG session? You’re not alone. In this episode, we explore the growing desire to ditch traditional session summaries and why they might be more of a burden than a benefit. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

Thinking about running an evil D&D campaign but not sure if it’s the right move? In this episode, we dive into the allure and challenges of embracing the dark side. We’ll discuss what makes an evil campaign work, potential pitfalls to avoid, and how to keep the story engaging without descending into chaos. From moral dilemmas to party dynamics, we explore whether running an evil campaign can b...

Running a D&D one-shot can be a thrilling challenge—condensing epic storytelling, memorable characters, and satisfying gameplay into just a few hours. In this episode, we break down how to design and run effective one-shots, from crafting tight plots and dynamic encounters to managing pacing and player expectations. Whether you’re prepping for a convention, introducing new players, or just loo...

Buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into the full season of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew —and we’ve got opinions. In this episode, we deliver our unfiltered, controversial review of the series, breaking down what worked, what didn’t, and why it’s sparking so much debate among fans. From character arcs and pacing to its place in the larger Star Wars universe, we’re not holding back. Whether you l...

In this bonus episode, Jesse falls in love with Galveston Texas and becomes inspired to plan a Vampire game.

In this bonus episode, the boys discuss the awkward proposal of asking for feedback for both GMs and players. Follow Jesse: @Jingoistfett Follow Matty: @MattherzbergTV Follow The Mantis: @Jauntymantis or @JUANTYMANTIS (on x/twitter) Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

Whether you are tired of D&D or inspired by an exciting new purchase , it can sometimes be difficult to introduce a new game to your group. In the season 4 finale of The Jaunty Mantis, the boys discuss how to identify player boredom and burnout with your current game. Get tips and tools to build interest, learn how to teach the rules, as well as getting maximum buy-in from your group. Follow J...

Looking to spice up your pirate or thieves guild D&D campaign.? Why not use roles in addition to classes! In this episode, Jesse and Matty discuss new thoughts on PC roles - unnecessary complication or assets for your players?

Jesse and Matty discuss the types of players you might find at your gaming table. How to identify them, how to tailor your game for them, how to deal with disruptions and challenges. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

In a very special holiday bonus episode of The Jaunty Mantis. The boys uncover an old recording about LARPing with Rich Ranallo (Velvet Generation) Music: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlmen" - DJ Williams "Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairies (by Tchaikovsky)" - Tchaikovsky "Home for the Holidays" - Chris Haugen Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

The boys discuss some tips for taking a lighter approach to encounter design for combats Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

The boys discuss some tips for building up the world of your setting with player involvement and minimal homework. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

When running a role playing game, it’s important for Dungeon Masters to empower the players characters But are there situations when the opposite is needed? The boys discuss scenarios and best practices for Game Masters to recognize and address situations when they should say “No-but” instead of “Yes-and”. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

Have you ever wanted to make aliens that are more than just ridges on a forehead and a self destructive warrior culture? The boys explore ideas and methods for designing truly alien lifeforms for your science fiction and fantasy games. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

Jesse and Matty explore the appeal and pitfalls of gaming in established intellectual properties. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

The boys discuss the circumstances around player boredom and how GMs should assess and handle it. Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

The boys discuss ending long running campaigns Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work

The boys discuss the media that inspires their GMing style Music: A Stranger Thing, by Bruno E. Logos by Shannon Sipes thedigsy.myportfolio.com/work Matty’s Shadowrun Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4DxfGHBLJTZTtLAsLIN6NO?si=6c1b9984fcf449f9 Matty’s Spelljammer Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4DxfGHBLJTZTtLAsLIN6NO?si=6c1b9984fcf449f9