Loading...

PODCAST

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast

Matt Herzberg & Jesse Sauer

Three expert GMs explore the craft of tabletop roleplaying—why rules feel good, why scenes work, and how stories land. Through casual conversation, creative experiments, and honest breakdowns, this podcast celebrates what makes the hobby special and helps you run better games.

leisure games

All Episodes

00:50:33

Killer GM, Master Storyteller: Laurin on Prepping,...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/06/11

en-US

00:55::13

Beyond the Battle: Running TTRPGs with Minimal Combat

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/06/04

Chris and Jesse explore how to craft engaging TTRPG encounters, sessions, and campaigns that skip the swords and spells. Discover tools, tips, and ideas for building non-combat adventures that captivate players and deepen storytelling.

en-US

00:51:18

Maximizing Your Elevator Pitch for a Successful...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/05/28

Learn how to craft a compelling elevator pitch that sets the tone for your TTRPG campaign. This quick guide helps you hook your players, align expectations, and build excitement from your very first Session Zero. Perfect for GMs who want to start strong and keep players engaged.

en-US

00:47:15

Improv Meets TTRPGs – How Improvisation Shapes Better...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/05/21

Jesse and Karl explore how improv techniques influence tabletop roleplaying, from “yes, and” to scene framing. Discover how spontaneous storytelling skills can level up your game.

en-US

01:30:15

Creating Rolemaster Unified Characters – A Deep Dive...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/05/14

Chris, Will, and Jesse roll up characters in Rolemaster Unified, a modern take on the crunchy simulationist RPG from the 80s. Dive into stat-heavy builds, brutal crits, and old-school charm!

en-US

00:56:11

Horror in TTRPGs with Karl: Storytelling, Setting &...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/05/07

Join us for a deep dive into horror in tabletop RPGs with special guest Karl, a masterful Call of Cthulhu Keeper. We explore what makes horror storytelling work at the table, how to craft unsettling settings, and how game mechanics can enhance fear, tension, and dread. Karl also shares his personal journey as a gamemaster and the biggest skill upgrades that transformed his approach to horror. A must-listen for GMs, players, and fans of horror in RPGs.

en-US

00:44:50

Scif-i Mark has entered the chat. Science Fiction in...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/04/30

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.

en-US

00:31:50

Bog Trolls, Troika recaps, and why Chris Loves the...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/04/24

Special guest Chris joins Jesse to chew the TTRPG cud while Matty takes a well deserved break.

en-US

S5:E3 - Incorporating Dinosaurs Into Your Game

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/04/16

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 balancing them mechanically and making them feel epic, mysterious, or terrifying at the table. If your

en-US

S5:E2 - The Best Resources for Dinosaur-Themed TTRPGs

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/03/26

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 untouched by time, these resources will help your game truly roar!

en-US

S5:E1 - Dinosaurs & TTRPGs: Prehistoric Adventures at...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/03/19

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!

en-US

Is Gaming Fiction Worth Reading? | Bonus Episode

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/03/12

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

en-US

TTRPG Gaming Goals for 2025: Leveling Up Your Table |...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/03/05

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/work

en-US

Breaking the Recap Routine: Do We Really Need Session...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/02/26

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

en-US

Should I Run An Evil D&D Campaign? | Bonus Episode

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/02/19

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 be as fun (and meaningful) as it sounds—or if it’s a recipe for disaster.Music: A Stranger Thing, by

en-US

Mastering the Art of the One-Shot: How to Run D&D...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/02/12

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 looking for a low-commitment game night, we’ve got tips and tricks to help you deliver an unforgettable

en-US

Hot Takes in Hyperspace: Our Controversial Review of...

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/02/07

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 loved it, hated it, or are still on the fence, join us for a deep dive that’s sure to ruffle a few

en-US

BONUS - Jesse's Galveston Vampire Game

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/01/29

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

en-US

BONUS - How To Get GOOD Gamer Feedback

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/01/22

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

en-US

S4:E12 - How To Introduce A New Game

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast ·

2025/01/15

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 Jesse: @JingoistfettFollow Matty: @MattherzbergTVFollow The Mantis: @Jauntymantis or @JUANTYMANTIS (on

en-US

160 results

Similar Podcasts

Expres Ráno

Expres FM

Power Driven Podcast

Power Driven

The Jaunty Mantis TTRPG Podcast

Matt Herzberg & Jesse Sauer

The Right Stuff: A Blood Bowl Podcast

Empire Podcast Network

Clownfish TV Podcasts

Clownfish Studios / WebReef Media