The Return of the Tavern Chat Podcast to Anchor/Spotify is Now!

As many have remarked recently, and justifiably complained, I had stopped uploading recent episodes of the daily Tavern Chat Youtube series to Anchor. The reason was simple - it could take up to half an hour for Anchor to upload and format a 15-minute video as a podcast, and the process often crashed. The process was worse for the live streams, as they are often 2 hours in length. The process hadn't always been so long and tedious (it was never quick), but something had changed on the Anchor side of things.

Recently, Anchor invited me to apply for their new "videocast" program, which promised to have uploaded videos available as video AND audio feeds on Spotify, and audio elsewhere. I applied and was accepted.

Late this afternoon I uploaded one of the recent videos I had recorded on Arduin. I went to the YouTube page to copy and paste the description, and in that time, the file had uploaded and converted. Literally, as fast as I could copy and paste, episodes were going live on Anchor.

I put up five episodes thus far, all touching on Arduin. I'll likely start uploading some Talking Crit live streams next, and see how long that process takes. I'm very hopeful.

I never thought I'd be saying this, but Anchor not just fixed a problem, but they improved the process from where it was before the slowdown.

It's almost like an early Christmas gift :)

(edit - the new episodes are now Season 2, with numbering starting from 1)

(edit two - this week's Talking Crit took less than 5 minutes to upload and process to Anchor - holy shit!)

Here's the link to the Anchor Tavern Chat Channel

State of the Tavern - Which Comes First, The Podcast or the Livestream or YouTube? The Blog!

So, before tonight's Iron Rations LiveStream with JoetheLawyer (and Matt & Mike), Joe tossed out the idea that I should consider ditching the Tavern Chat podcast and move to just doing the Tavern's YouTube Channel. Thankfully, Joe didn't suggest that I ditch the blog ;)

Now, I understand where Joe is coming from. Four of the daily YouTube shares each week are simply reshares of the podcast, and three episodes each week are reshares of the YouTube livestreams. They are, in effect, imperfect mirrors of each other.

What I AM thinking of doing is recording Tavern Chat as a video initially, sharing it to YouTube, and then upload the audio to the podcast side of things. From the podcast side of things, little if anything would change. Same content, same show. On the YouTube side of things though, it would do away with the generic static image that is generated when the podcast gets converted to video. Instead, you would get my lovely image 7 days a week, in addition to my voice.

It would be a small amount of extra work on my end, but it might just be worth it for those that prefer using YouTube.

As an aside, I'd like to thank the recent subscribers that put the channel over 300 subs. We truly appreciate the support.

In any case, that's the current thought. If you have feedback or suggestions I'd be glad to have it.

The Tavern is supported by readers like you. The easiest way to support The Tavern is to shop via our affiliate links. DTRPG, Amazon, and Humble Bundle are affiliate programs that support The Tavern.  

You can catch the daily Tavern Chat podcast on Anchor, YouTube, 

or wherever you listen to your podcast collection.

Open Call for Topics for Bad Mike & Tenkar to Talk Crit about

Mike & I are digging in and getting ready to do our Talking Crit Live on Wednesday Nights @ 8 PM Eastern, afterwards the audio will get uploaded to the Tavern Chat Podcast.

Our usual "go-to", WotC doing something stupid, was fine when we were doing Talking Crit once or twice a month, but we can't rely on WotC fucking up often enough for us to Talk Crit on a weekly basis - so we are putting our crit talking into your hands.

While we plan on doing an episode on some of the bigger Funded & Failed Kickstarter Creators (a list that is sadly, far too long) we need more and varied topics, and that where you come in.

What do you want us to talk about? Some sample ideas are:

• The best, and worst, of each of the D&D / AD&D editions
• The best, and worst, of the early RPGs (pre-1980)
• The Gygax Memorial Fund - an overview

Comment below, because we want to hear from you!

You can watch Talking Crit live via Facebook or YouTube each Wednesday Night @ 8PM Eastern, but if you want to comment during the podcast and be sure we get a chance to read it, we recommend you watch via YouTube, as the Facebook commenting is iffy.

The link to The Tavern's YouTube Channel is YouTube.com/ErikTenkar

You can watch the last two episodes of Talking Crit at the above link.

We'll Be Adding YouTube Videos to The Tavern's Mix Next Week

Yep, The Tavern has a YouTube Channel and it's fairly easy to remember the URL: YouTube.com/ErikTenkar

At the moment its some old videos and a reposting of The Tavern Chat Podcast, but starting next week (or sooner) I'll be adding regular, exclusive material. Games From the Basement, a series of posts here at The Tavern, known for highlighting RPGs and other tabletop games that have been in my collection since the 1980s, will return as a video series. Its a visual thing, so the podcast doesn't work so well, but its also sentimental, which doesn't always convey well with the written word.

Additionally, the initial plan is to record two episodes of the Tavern Chat Podcast each week, live-streamed via YouTube, for real-time feedback and interaction from the viewers. I'll announce days / times shortly. Afterwards, it will then be uploaded to the podcast feed. Additionally, I'd like to move future Fireside Chats / Interviews to a Livestream format. Again, this will allow for more immediate feedback and interaction from the viewers.

So, subscribe to The Tavern's Official YouTube Chanel at YouTube.com/ErikTenkar to never miss an episode.

As we get closer to Christmas, I suspect that OSR Christmas will intersect with The Tavern's YouTube Channel. I heard it from some elf that was talking to this dwarf...

The Tavern is supported by readers like you. The easiest way to support The Tavern is to shop via our affiliate links. DTRPG, Amazon, and Humble Bundle are the affiliate programs that support The Tavern.  

You can catch the daily Tavern Chat podcast on Anchor, YouTube, or wherever you listen to your podcast collection.

More info here at The Tavern Chat Podcast

Coinage in Fantasy RPGs - Why So Large?

 

One thing that has irked me since my early days of gaming was the 10 coins to a pound ratio in AD&D. Even in my teen years it seemed outrageously large, and I vaguely remember an issue of The Dragon from the early 80s discussing such.

Above I have a pic of some Roman coins and a US Quarter. One pound of quarters gives you 80 quarters, so a coin in AD&D is the weight of 8 quarters I (2 bucks of coins jangling in your pocket)

At 10 coins per pound, a gold coin weighs in at 1.6 ounces. That's roughly $3k in today's dollars.

The denarius (Latin pronunciation: [deːˈnaːrɪ.ʊs], pl. dēnāriī [deːˈnaːrɪ.iː]) was the standard Roman silver coin for about 450 years (211 BC to 244 AD). There were 72 denarii to the pound of, though by the end of its mintage that had lighted to 96 to a pound or (and lighter still at the end).

So, 100 coins to the pound isn't a stretch, its historically accurate. Certainly more realistic.

So, why 10 coins to the pound in AD&D 1e? I'm guessing to make retrieving the spoils a worthy effort. I just don't see the need for such heavy coinage and never have.

What are your thoughts?

Further thoughts at tonight's podcast:

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E846---Are-Coins-in-ADD-Too-Heavy-eke117

The Tavern is supported by readers like you. The easiest way to support The Tavern is to shop via our affiliate links. DTRPG, Amazon, and Humble Bundle are the affiliate programs that support The Tavern.  

WotC Explains that the recent Legacy Disclaimer is only an Early Step

From the WotC Facebook page

Rach and I discussed on the Tavern Chat Podcast earlier tonight

A disclaimer has been added to several legacy titles on our partner distribution sites. We'd like to talk about why we've added that disclaimer, what it means, and other steps that are being taken to address a legacy of ethnic, racial, and gender prejudice in some old products. 

This is an early step and not done in a vacuum. It's not enough to evaluate ourselves. As outlined in our original diversity statement (http://spr.ly/6184GTbpj), we're undergoing the process of reviewing our content and practices and hiring external consultants to review with us. 

These processes take time to implement, and we'll continue to provide future updates. Unfortunately, our disclaimer was added before we were ready to fully communicate the steps we are taking. We apologize for failing to handle this situation with the care and grace it deserves.
Lastly, we want to make it clear that we condemn the harassment or bullying of those raising their concerns about our content, past or present. D&D wants to be an open, welcoming, and inclusive space. Those who do not reflect those values are not welcome in our community. 

Simply put, we messed up and we're sorry. Wizards of the Coast is constantly working to be better, and we have a lot of work to do, especially so in repairing trust with our community. Thank you for continuing to use your voice so that we may continue to make meaningful change."

Kickstarter - Swords and Wizardry: Limited and Collectors Edition Box Sets

Wow. Holy shit! Seriously!

The Swords and Wizardry: Limited and Collectors Edition Box Sets Kickstarter hit its $12k goal in 25 minutes. 8 hours later, it has surpassed $36k. You want proof of the viability of the OSR? You are looking at it.

I'm as excited as all hell. I LOVE Swords & Wizardry and this simply shows how much love everyone else has for it too :)

I interviewed Pexx from Frog God Games earlier today regarding this very Kickstarter. I interview Matt Finch at 10 AM EST tomorrow (Wednesday, Jan 28, 2020) on the Tenkars Tavern Discord Server. There will be further interviews with Frogs over the next few weeks on the Tavern Chat Podcast.

Standard Box is 50 bucks, limited wood grain box is 55.

What is Swords & Wizardry?

Swords & Wizardry is more than a re-statement of the original rules that gave rise to 5e. It is fast-playing, easy to start, and easy to learn by anyone. Swords and Wizardry is  a snapshot of the rules as they existed in 1978 right before "first edition" was released. The fifth edition game currently played, watched and beloved by millions is great fun, but the structure of the rules has changed over the course of editions, and there's a unique feel to the earlier versions of the game which you may not have encountered before. 

The rules in Swords & Wizardry are based on the original 1974 game, plus all of the supplements released from 1974 to 1978, articles in the Strategic Review and the Dragon magazine from that period, plus tips for house rules choices. The rules are organized in a more modern fashion than the original books, and are more accessible to those who started gaming after the 1970s.

Swords and Wizardry Box Set Contents 

Four Softcover Rule-books :
Player Book
Spells & Magic
Monsters
Referee's Book 

Also includes:
Extra height is reserved for dice,minis, adventures or ... expansions?

Stretch Goals 

Can you tell I'm excited?

Swords & Wizardry Continual Light attains Electrum Status on DTRPG - 50% off in PDF for the Month of October

Sometime over the last few weeks, Swords & Wizardry Continual Light attained Electrum Status on DTRPG. Huzzah!

Additionally, last night was the 500th episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast. 500 daily episodes. More Huzzah!

To celebrate, we're putting the Swords & Wizardry Continual Light PDF on sale for the month of October - 50% off (just $1.25)

Thanks to all that made this possible. It is humbling.

Yep, that's an affiliate link above. Affiliate links keep the beer cold and the lights on at The Tavern.

There's a Giveaway over on The Tavern Chat Podcast - The City of Great Lunden (MonkeyBlood Design)

Yep, in celebration of my birthday (which was yesterday) I'm giving away a print copy of Glynn Seal's (MonkeyBlood Design) The City of Great London. All you need do is call into the Tavern Chat Podcast via the app or the google number and pitch a topic for an episode of the podcast. Entries must be in by noon, EST, August 5th, 2019. No more than one pitch per person per day. A random "pitcher" will be the gift receiver and will be chosen on August 5th. Yes, your pitches may be used in the podcast, that is the whole point ;)

Note, this is US only because shipping outside the states requires me to sacrifice my firstborn son, and as I have only one, it ain't happening ;) Those that drop a pitch and are outside the US are eligible to receive a $10 DTRPG Gift Certificate - that ship free :)

Here are some useful links and numbers:

Tavern Chat Podcast: https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E439---Tavern-Chat-Birthday-Giveaway-e4pruo/a-ajtqa8 (limited to 1 minute)

Voicemail # ‪(347) 509-5168‬ (limit three minutes)

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Tavern Chat - Tonight 9 PM Eastern - We Have Much to Talk About!

I've touched on a few topics that have been well received on the Tavern Chat Podcast, and I suspect much of tonight's conversation will evolve around much of what I said in those episodes.

Here are the Tavern Chat Podcast episodes in question:

E401 - The OSR, Inclusivity, Gatekeeping, Walled Gardens, Safe Spaces & a Sweet Gaming Table - pretty much what it says on the tin. It not about politics or justice, its all about control and power. Those that don't have control over their own personal lives wish to exert power over others via social media shaming and fragmenting of communities.

E402 - A Rant about Vagebooking by a Worthless Piece of Excrement - heh - pretty much what it says on the tin too - Here is the screenshot in question:

E403 - Such Positive Feedback - But None Made Publicly for Fear of The Outrage Brigade - although accurate at the time, I have since received many voicemails in support.

If you aren't already a member of the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server, here's the link to join:

https://discord.gg/Eegc9z

You may be asked to prove you are a live person and not a bot. Shouldn't be hard to accomplish, assuming you are not a bot ;)

Remember, 9 PM Eastern. The voice chat room is on the left side of the page, in the LIVE CHATS section.  We'll be using the Speakeasy channel for voice and #tavern-chat for text and links.

Folks, probably the easiest way to support The Tavern is to use our Amazon link. It costs you nothing more than you were already going to spend on Amazon, and a portion of sales monies goes to support The Tavern. www.amazon.com/shop/eriktenkar "Shop Smart - Shop TenkarSmart" - Ash Williams

Live from NTRPG Con, Mike and Erik are Talking Crit

Bad Mike and myself set ourselves up in the main convention room late last night for a live at NTRPG Convention Talking Crit for the Tavern ChatPodcast. We had a nice number of industry guests stop by :)

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E387---NTRPG-Con-Live-Talking-Crit-With-Bad-Mike--Special-Guests-and-a-Mini-Bar---Oh-My-e49eoi

Tavern Chat - Tonight's Episode was 365 is 365 Days!

I figured I should share this over on the blog side (Tenkar's Tavern has a huge milestone later this month but I digress) Tonight was the 365th episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast. 365 episodes in 365 days. I never would have guessed when I recorded the first episode that not only would Tavern Chat be around a year later, but it would have such a large and loyal following.

Truly I am blessed.

Additionally, today Anchor (my podcast host / service) added a new feature - Voicemails for All. Prior to today if you wanted to leave a voicemail you needed to use the Anchor app on your cellphone or tablet.

Now, all you need do is go here: https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/message

Pretty damn cool. I look forward to hearing from you all calling in ;)

The Tavern Chat Podcast - 100k Total Plays - Thank You!!!

We did it. Thanks to listeners like you, The Tavern Chat Podcast has 100k Total Plays. If you aren't a listener, why not? ;)

The Tavern Chat Podcast has a series of Fireside Chats (35 so far) with Designers & Makers from the OSR and beyond, a weekly Talking Crit with Erik & Mike (Bad Mike) and shorter pieces with gaming news and thoughts. There is a new episode every day.

You can use any of the following links to listen, or even better yet, subscribe!

Anchor
https://anchor.fm/tavernchat

Apple Podcasts
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/tavern-chat/id1386740882?mt=2

Google Podcasts
https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80MjA2MWZjL3BvZGNhc3QvcnNz

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/5PrKxXwIrfRm6SXPrEiqBq

Breaker
https://www.breaker.audio/tavern-chat

Castbox
https://castbox.fm/channel/id1290778

Google Play Music
https://play.google.com/music/listen?t%3DTavern_Chat%26pcampaignid%3DMKT-na-all-co-pr-mu-pod-16&u=0#/ps/Iduziflps4q5tz5inee5ghtfw3e

Overcast
https://overcast.fm/itunes1386740882

Pocket Casts
https://pca.st/zYQe

PodBean
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/7jmfh-6e8bb/Tavern-Chat-Podcast

RadioPublic
https://play.radiopublic.com/tavern-chat-WezkVJ

Stitcher
https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/anchor-podcasts/tavern-chat

TuneIn
https://tunein.com/podcasts/Sports--Recreation-Podcasts/Tavern-Chat-p1145738/

21 Designers & Makers Fireside Chats Completed over at the Tavern Chat Podcast - 22 More on the Sheet ;)

This afternoon was the 21st Designers & Makers Fireside Chat. There are 19 more scheduled between Monday, February 11th and Thursday, April 11th (and a handful more where we have to pin down a date.)

I've been extremely pleased with how the sessions have gone and I think they've gotten strong (and longer) as I've grown into the role of host, interviewer and fellow Tavern patron just chewing the fat with friends.

Here's a list with links of the Fireside Chats that have gone up on the Tavern Chat Podcast thus far:

E269 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Puddles (Strange Gods Podcast)

Published on Feb 9, 2019
Today I sat down for a fireside chat with Puddles of the Strange Gods Podcast (and soon to be released Swords & Wizardry / Blight Podcast).
We talk gaming, cops shows, free-range chickens, campaigns, TPKs and more. Oh, and I blush loud enough you should be able to hear it on the podcast. That's a first ;)

E268 - Designers & Makers Fireside Chat with SagaNick (Saga RPG)

Published on Feb 8, 2019
In today's episode of Tavern Chat, I have a virtual fireside chat with SagaNick of Saga RPG Publishing. We discuss some Kickstarter strategies, Rappan Athuk and more.

E267 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Courtney Campbell (Hack & Slash)

Published on Feb 7, 2019
With this episode, I have a fireside chat with Courtney Campbell of the Hack & Slash blog (among many other avenues of creativity.) We talk multiple income streams, creativity, love & hate, real life, drive, emotion, kickstarters, Con Man Ken, Gail, Gareth and everything under the sun. If you listen to only one episode on the Designers & Makers series of fireside chats, this might be the one to listen to.

E265 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Jerry (Frog God Games)

Published on Feb 5, 2019
Today I had a fireside chat with Jerry - Noble Herald Frog of Frog God Games. We had some technical difficulties in the beginning, but thanks to Jerry switching to his cell phone and Pexx adjusting the bitrate we recovered. Jerry is a fine example of backing into a position with a gaming company. I happen to be another example ;)

E259 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Tyson (Smunchy Games)

Published on Jan 30, 2019
In today's episode of The Tavern Chat podcast, I hang out with Tyson of Smunchy Games. I'm eagerly awaiting the board game/RPG hybrid.

E258 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Alexander Macris (Autarch/ACKS)

Published on Jan 29, 2019
In this installment of the Designers & Makers series of fireside chats I sit down with Alex Macris, the main man at Autarch publishing and best known for the Adventurer Conqueror King System (ACKS). We talk awards, projects past and present, old Commodore 64 video games and more :)

E255 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Melkor (Strange Gods Podcast)

Published on Jan 26, 2019
On today's episode, I hang out with Melkor of the Strange Gods Podcast (and the fairly soon to be released Swords & Wizardry powered and Blight setting podcast)
We talk old school, new school, OSR, Pathfinder ! & 2, 5e and more. Houserules and on the fly conversions.
We forgot to bring the beer :(

E252 - Designers & Makers - Kevin Watson/Dark Naga Games (Writer/Publisher)

Published on Jan 23, 2019
In the latest episode in the Designers & Makers series of fireside chat, I get to sit down with Kevin Watson of Dark Naga Games. We talk OSR & 5e as well as Kickstarters past, present, and future.

E251 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Elfstar (Adventure & Computer Game Designer)

Published on Jan 22, 2019
With this episode, we present the latest in the Designers & Makers series of fireside chats. This time I chat with Elfstar, adventure and computer game designer. We hit on some hexcrawl/sandbox points of interest that may be of interest to others ;)

E249 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Robert/Sizzoul (Strange Gods Podcast)

Published on Jan 20, 2019
In the latest of the Designer's & Makers series of interviews / fireside chat, I talk with Robert/Sizzoul of the Strange Gods Podcast and we learn more about the upcoming Blight/Swords & Wizardry podcast they have in the hopper ;)

E247 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Humble Joe / Izzy (Strange Gods Podcast)

Published on Jan 18, 2019
In this episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, we continue with the Designers & Makers series of "fireside chats". This time I sit down with Humble Joe / Izzy of the Strange Gods Podcast, am actual play podcast featuring Pathfinder (and soon to include a sister podcast featuring Swords & Wizardry). Join us, won't you? :)

E245 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Skeeter Green (Bard's Gate)

Published on Jan 16, 2019
Today I sat down with Skeeter Green, formerly of Frog God Games and currently with Skeeter Green Publishing. Skeet wraps up talking about his upcoming Kickstarter. Take my money already...

E242 - Designers & Makers - Fireside Chat with Josh Beckelheimer (Swords & Wizardry One Sheets)

Published on Jan 13, 2019
In today' s episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, we have the latest in the series of Designers & Makers "fireside chats". That's what we are calling it now. Josh talks about his venture into gaming, his relative youth, why one sheet adventures are a passion of his and future plans.

E237 - Designers & Makers - I Hang Out with Vince Florio (Wild Games Productions)

Published on Jan 8, 2019
In the latest Designers & Makers entry, I hang out with Vince Florio, podcaster, Youtube and game designer, Vince is the main man at Wild Game Productions and is the main designer of the ENnie award-winning Mazes & Perils. He is also the man that introduced me to the world of podcasting. See, now you know who to blame ;)

E234 - Designers & Makers "Fireside Chat" with Omer Golan (Stellagama Publishing)

Published on Jan 5, 2019
In today's episode of The Tavern Chat Podcast, I hang out with Omer Golan of Stellagama Publishing. Omer has a number of releases in support Stars Without Number and White Star but is perhaps best known currently for Cepheus Light, a reworked and re-edited version of Cepheus, which is itself an OGL clone of Mongoose Traveller 1e. Come for the Traveller talk, stay for the AD&D 2e observations ;)  Above includes an affiliate link. Affiliate links keep the beer cold at all things Tavern.

E233 - Designers & Makers - I Sit Down with Ian McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing

Published on Jan 4, 2019
Today we have the next installment in the Designers & Makers series of interviews. I am actually loathed to call them interviews at this point, as they have turned more into friendly chats than scripted interviews. This time I sit down with Ia McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing.

E227 - Designers & Makers - I Hang With Jason Hobbs (Hobbs & Friends, Hex Talk, Random Screed)

Published on Dec 29, 2018
This morning we recorded another in a series of interviews with Designers & Makers in tabletop gaming. With this episode, I hang with Jason Hobbs, of the Ennie nominated Hobbs & Friends of the OSR, Hex Talk and Random Screed podcasts. Jason and I have been friends for a while and it was great to catch up with him :)

E218 - Designers & Makers - I Interview Douglas Cole (Gaming Ballistic)

Published on Dec 20, 2018
In this episode of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Douglas Cole of Gaming Ballistic. We talk GURPS, OSR, Kickstarter, usable unarmed combat rules for OSR gaming, as well as Doug's current Kickstarter - Lost Hall of Tyr (2nd Edition)

E217 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Zach Glazar (Frog God Games)

Published on Dec 19, 2018
Today I interviewed Zach Glazar (Frog God Games). No Hawk the Slayer question, because the man has never seen the movie. Sigh

E215 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Carl Heyl (Save or Die Podcast)

Published on Dec 17, 2018
In this installment of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Carl Heyl of the Save or Die and The Crusader Podcast. Yes, we even talk Hawk the Slayer ;)

E213 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Tom Knauss (Writer/Freelancer/Frog God Games)

Published on Dec 15, 2018
On today's episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, I talk sit down across the virtual table with Tom Knauss, best known for his work as a writer for Frog God Games. We talk RPGs, art, Hawk the Slayer and more ;)

E210 - Designers & Makers #1 - Interview with Michael "BadMike" Badolato (NTRPG Con/Frog God Games)

Published on Dec 12, 2018
Today we kick off the Designers & Makers series of interviews (with about 40 interviews currently on the grid over the next three months). Michael "BadMike" Badolato has the notoriety of being our first guest in the series. BadMike is one of the main guys behind the NTRPG Con, works for Frog God Games and does his own business selling old school games on eBay. Join us as BadMike answers "Ths Five Questions" after which we free range a bit ;)

Recapping the Designers & Makers Series of Interviews Thus Far (and a peek at what's coming up this week)

I can't believe we've done eight interviews in the Designers & Makers series on the Tavern Chat Podcast thus far. Not that I can even call them interviews anymore, because they don't keep to a script. It was suggested I refer to them as "fireside chats" and I guess that's as accurate as anything.

So, here are the ones we've done thus far:

E210 - Designers & Makers #1 - Interview with Michael "BadMike" Badolato (NTRPG Con/Frog God Games)

Today we kick off the Designers & Makers series of interviews (with about 40 interviews currently on the grid over the next three months). Michael "BadMike" Badolato has the notoriety of being our first guest in the series. BadMike is one of the main guys behind the NTRPG Con, works for Frog God Games and does his own business selling old school games on eBay. Join us as BadMike answers "Ths Five Questions" after which we free range a bit ;)

E213 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Tom Knauss (Writer/Freelancer/Frog God Games)

On today's episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, I talk sit down across the virtual table with Tom Knauss, best known for his work as a writer for Frog God Games. We talk RPGs, art, Hawk the Slayer and more ;)

E215 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Carl Heyl (Save or Die Podcast)

In this installment of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Carl Heyl of the Save or Die and The Crusader Podcast. Yes, we even talk Hawk the Slayer ;)

E217 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Zach Glazar (Frog God Games)

Today I interviewed Zach Glazar (Frog God Games). No Hawk the Slayer question, because the man has never seen the movie. Sigh.

E218 - Designers & Makers - I Interview Douglas Cole (Gaming Ballistic)

In this episode of the Designers & Makers series of interviews, I talk with Douglas Cole of Gaming Ballistic. We talk GURPS, OSR, Kickstarter, usable unarmed combat rules for OSR gaming, as well as Doug's current Kickstarter - Lost Hall of Tyr (2nd Edition)

E227 - Designers & Makers - I Hang With Jason Hobbs (Hobbs & Friends, Hex Talk, Random Screed)

This morning we recorded another in a series of interviews with Designers & Makers in tabletop gaming. With this episode I hang with Jason Hobbs, of the Ennie nominated Hobbs & Friends of the OSR, Hex Talk and Random Screed podcasts. Jason and I have been friends for a while and it was great to catch up with him :)

E233 - Designers & Makers - I Sit Down with Ian McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing

Today we have the next installment in the Designers & Makers series of interviews. I am actually loathe to call them interviews at this point, as they have turned more into friendly chats than scripted interviews. This time I sit down with Ia McGarty of Silver Bulette Publishing. 

E234 - Designers & Makers "Fireside Chat" with Omer Golan (Stellagama Publishing)

In today's episode of The Tavern Chat Podcast I hang out with Omer Golan of Stellagama Publishing. Omer has a number of releases in support Stars Without Number and White Star but is perhaps best known currently for Cepheus Light, a reworked and reedited version of Cepheus, which is itself an OGL clone of Mongoose Traveller 1e. Come for the Traveller talk, stay for the AD&D 2e observations ;)

Later this week we'll be adding interviews with Vince Florio (Wild Games Productions / Podcaster), Sizzoul (Strange Gods Podcast), Skeeter Green (needs no introduction ;) and Josh Beckelheimer (JB Productions) with at least another eight on tap before the end of January.

Strap in because it's going to be a helluva ride!  :)

The Tavern Chat Podcast - Weekly Roundup - December 8th thru December 15th, 2018

Last week was a busy week in the Tenkar household. We started with a stomach virus at the beginning of the week and finished it with three birthdays in the end. All that and we kicked off the Designer's and Makers series of interviews on The Tavern Chat Podcast. Woot!

E207 - Podcast Nominations at ENWorld and some Minor Rants
Published on Dec 9, 2018
ENWorld is looking for nominations of the Best Podcasts of 2018. I rant a bit about the LotFP Referee Book and Far West, then look at the POD of the AD&D 2e rulebooks on DriveThruRPG.

E208 - 52.5 Million G+ Accounts Exposed to Private Data Breach Bug, Shutdown Moved Up to April 2019
Published on Dec 10, 2018
Google has proven to be an unreliable custodian of personal data, with 52.5 million accounts' personal data exposed.

E209 - Episode Zero of Designers & Makers - Wherein Your Bartender Interviews Himself ;)
Published on Dec 11, 2018
We'll be kicking off the Designers& Makers series of interviews in the next couple of days, but to prepare folks for what's in store, I asked myself (and answered) the five questions that will be asked of all. These are not the be all and end all of the questions, but simply a common baseline. Enjoy :)

E210 - Designers & Makers #1 - Interview with Michael "BadMike" Badolato (NTRPG Con/Frog God Games)
Published on Dec 12, 2018
Today we kick off the Designers & Makers series of interviews (with about 40 interviews currently on the grid over the next three months). Michael "BadMike" Badolato has the notoriety of being our first guest in the series. BadMike is one of the main guys behind the NTRPG Con, works for Frog God Games and does his own business selling old school games on eBay. Join us as BadMike answers "Ths Five Questions" after which we free range a bit ;)

E211 - Hawk the Slayer - I Finally Watched from Beginning to End
Published on Dec 13, 2018
Yep, apparently I never actually watch Hawk the Slayer in its entirety until this morning. You can find it to stream on Amazon (3 bucks to rent / 10 to buy) Its a fun movie so long as you go into it accepting its limitations - low budget, poor acting, lame special effects, and a horrid script. Pass me the beer and popcorn please!

E121 - Follow up to Hawk! News - New D&D Show Starring Daredevil’s Deborah Ann Woll
Published on Dec 14, 2018
Tim Shorts calls the podcast. Designers & Makers Networking Group kicks off on the Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server. Daredevil’s Deborah Ann Woll to headline a new D&D show for streaming. New drama, same drumbeat.

E213 - Designers & Makers - I Talk with Tom Knauss (Writer/Freelancer/Frog God Games)
Published on Dec 15, 2018
On today's episode of the Tavern Chat Podcast, I talk sit down across the virtual table with Tom Knauss, best known for his work as a writer for Frog God Games. We talk RPGs, art, Hawk the Slayer and more ;)

Designers & Makers Interview with Michael "BadMike" Badolato on The Tavern Chat Podcast

Today we kick off the Designers & Makers series of interviews (with about 40 interviews currently on the grid over the next three months). Michael "BadMike" Badolato has the notoriety of being our first guest in the series. BadMike is one of the main guys behind the NTRPG Con, works for Frog God Games and does his own business selling old school games on eBay. Join us as BadMike answers "Ths Five Questions" after which we free range a bit ;)

Link to today's episode of The Tavern Chat Podcast:

https://anchor.fm/tavernchat/episodes/E210---Designers--Makers-1---Interview-with-Michael-BadMike-Badolato-NTRPG-ConFrog-God-Games-e2ohls

Tavern Chat Podcast Weekly Roundup for the week of December 2 through December 8th, 2018

This is the Tavern Chat Weekly Roundup for the week of December 2 through December 8th, 2018.

E206 - Annual Tavern Meeting Roundup and a Look at ENWorld's Most Anticipated Games of 2019

Published on Dec 8, 2018
Last night was the first annual Tavern meeting. We are on pace for an amazing 2019. ENWorld has posted the results of its most anticipated games of 2019 - any wonder the pic on the ENWorld splash page is number 10 on the list - but their own release.

E205 - What's Your Experience with Experience Points?

Published on Dec 7, 2018
Much like Hit Points, Experience Points do not have a direct relationship with the real world. Sometimes a game must be seen from the game's perspective.

E204 - So, What Exactly are Hit Points in AD&D?

Published on Dec 6, 2018
Today we look at page 82 of the AD&D 1e DMG and discuss Hit Points. If the class will open their DMGs and follow along ;)

E203 - Languages in AD&D 1e - Even the Dumbest Thief Starts Out with Three. Why?

Published on Dec 5, 2018
Ever since last night, some of the language rules in AD&D 1e have been irking me. Alignment tongues, Druid and Thief languages, nine starting languages for elves (ten if they are a thief) - this and more make me question how language was used in 1e.

E202 - News - She Bleeds update and an OSR Survey

Published on Dec 4, 2018
James Raggi gives us an update on the She Bleeds controversy and I have some issues with a current OSR survey.

E201 - Zero or More Copies of She Bleeds are Allegedly Destroyed - But No Details as to By Who

Published on Dec 3, 2018
I posted about the alleged destruction of Zero or more copies of the LotFP release of She Bleeds by an unidentified warehouse (Raggi claims he knows the warehouse and the numbers are unknown and could be Zero). With some additional information I dig deeper, and the more we know, the less we know.

E200 - The Not So Wondrous Tavern Chat Episode One, With Special Guest JoeTheLawyer

Published on Dec 2, 2018
Join JoeTheLawyer, Rach, Judd & myself as we record a live episode of The Not So Wondrous Tavern Chat at the Faile Pun on West 33rd Street in NYC.

We had a great time recording this episode and we hope you'll have a great time listening :)

State of The Tavern: What Insanity Have We Wrought? 26 Designer's & Makers signed up to be Interviewed on the Tavern Chat Podcast

This morning Pexx and I, Pexx being the right hand at The Tavern's Discord server and many other things Tavern related, had one of our twice-monthly virtual meetings. We brainstorm ideas and come up with a schedule a few months in advance for things we'd like to see happen with The Tavern. Today Pexx pitched "why don't you do a series of interviews on the Tavern Chat podcast with the Designers & Makers - the creators in the OSR community."

Damn, that was a great idea. I told Pexx to make it so. Four hours later, he had 26 interviews lined up and loosely scheduled. I say loosely, as I wasn't involved in the scheduling and some simply won't fit my schedule, as open as it generally is. Still, 26 interviews waiting to be done, kicking off tonight. That was the response in the first 4 hours. I'm honored and terrified at the same time.

I was thinking of sharing the interviews once a week on the Tavern Chat Podcast, but we may have some weeks where we have two. And yes, the crossover episodes are still going on. Phew!

Tenkar's Tavern Patreon

Tavern Chat Podcast

Tenkar's Tavern Discord Server

The Tavern Chat Podcast Surpasses 50k Downloads with its 201st Episode - Thank You All!

Holy shit! I'm floored. I am truly at a lack for words, which isn't exactly easy when one posts daily blogs and records a daily podcast.

The Tavern Chat Podcast surpassed 50,000 downloads tonight. I can't thank you all enough for sticking with me. 201 episodes in the mix already. Hopefully, I can keep the pace and the quality for the 201 episodes, and then the next 201 episodes, and then...

Here's the link to the cast: https://anchor.fm/tavernchat

Now, off to bed. Assuming I can fall asleep ;)