The Monster's Playbook
104 episodes
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Creator: The Monster's Playbook
Full cast Occult and Supernatural Longform Audio RPG
Synopsis:
The Monster's Playbook is an actual play Monster of the Week RPG podcast where the real world crashes into the paranormal over and over and over again. And where no monster can hurt you as much you hurt yourself. Set in Minneapolis, MN, our current campaign (The Cover Story) follows the exploits of journalist and ex-cultist Kira Ashwood, supernatural social outcast Mark Clayton, Special Agent Casey Davis, and professional sorceress Theo Nessos as they battle monsters threatening the city.
Format: Audio RPG
RPG system: Monster of the Week
Continuity: Longform
Writing: Improvised
Voices: Full cast
Genres: Occult and Supernatural, Horror, Adventure
Maturity: Mature
Country of origin: United States
Completion status: Partial
Not tagged: [Creator demographics] [Character demographics] [Transcript] [Content warnings]
Click here to update these tags.
Episodes:
Dockers' Highlights: The DRUM arc (Patreon re-release)
Tue, 11 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT
Enjoy our first batch of Patreon bloopers from Season 2's DRUM arc, now available for all!
Aw, hey guys! It's me, Dockers. Everybody's favorite high guy who's not alive. Things have been pretty scary on the show lately, but that doesn't mean we don't have fun around here. These guys talk a lot and sometimes the words just get away from them, you know? Let's take a listen to some futzes and flubs from the DRUM arc and bonus episode, Bid Around the Bush.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon:Head to ourPatreonfor bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show:Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to ourDirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord!Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound
Off the Books: The Painted Crow (Patreon re-release)
Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT
The Painted Crow was one of our first Patreon NPC bonus episodes, now available for all!
How did Ramsey / Lincoln end up as the taciturn shopkeeper with more knowledge than patience? Unfortunately, we're about to find out. Something important has gone missing from the Clockwork Child. Skaal, the mystical tracker, is meant to be resting safely in the mural on the back of the store. But he's been taken. If Lincoln / Ramsey hopes to get him back, they'll have to rely on somebody they hoped they'd never have to see again: The mentor that made them who they are today. It's an origin story in retrospect! And it's not going to go well!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (Campaign Wrap-Up)
Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:00:00 GMT
After four years and almost a hundred episodes, it's over. The Cover Story Campaign is finally complete. Join the cast as we answer questions from listeners—and from each other—and reflect on everything our characters have been through, and maybe what it all means.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to everyone for submitting questions and listening along! We'll see you again with campaign 2 soon!
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:00:00 GMT
When the battle is over, it’s time to rebuild. And around here, that means reconnecting with the people you love. Maybe now that the threat to existence has ended, we can just spend some time together, and nothing dramatic has to happen. DID YOU HEAR ME, GUYS? NOTHING dramatic has to happen…We’ll see about that.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for The Storyteller Squad. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Scorched Earth Pt. 5: What's Your Story? (S3E43)
Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:00:00 GMT
FULL ON ASSAULT! It’s final boss time, everybody! For too long, it’s been The Star King making plans. But now Kira, Anna, Mark and Theo have put their plan into motion as well. And now it’s like they say: May the best plan win. -------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Gestalheim Productions' campaign Welcome to Pratchetville. Check them out on their Linktree and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Special Thanks: A very special thank you to our friends Quinn, Kyle, and Hannah from Monster Hour; Ian from Shrimp and Crits; and Natalie from The Storyteller Squad for lending us their amazing voice-over talent during Anna's spell.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Scorched Earth Pt. 4 Uncrowned (S3E42)
Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:46:28 GMT
Okay. Cool. We got him. The Star King is trapped. That’s… good, right? Except hang on: He still has the team’s closest friends god knows where, they still have the Star Princes to worry about and—oh yeah—there’s still the last phase of the plan to *checks notes* rewrite an entire chapter of reality. No pressure, gang.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Thorne Files. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Scorched Earth Pt. 3 - Point and Shoot (S3E41)
Tue, 22 Oct 2024 09:11:44 GMT
If you’re trying to trap a god, what do you use as bait? Why, everything, of course. It will take some of the team’s finest minds to lure the Star King into a snare, while a completely different set of equally fine minds try to lure his Princes to a battlefield the good guys control. We’ve got Thinkers, and we’ve got Bruisers, and everybody has their work cut out for them. All they have to do now… is win. --------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, 5 GMs in a Trenchcoat. Check out this ttrpg pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts. --------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/monstersplaybook/support
Scorched Earth Pt. 2 - The Sky Has Fallen (S3E40)
Tue, 08 Oct 2024 18:41:00 GMT
The balance of power has changed in a big way. After some major shifts in the Kingdoms of There—and we do mean MAJOR—it's anybody's guess whether our heroes will be able to pull off their crazy-ambitious plan. It would be a toss-up on the best of days, and these… are not the best of days. ------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, No Quest for the Wicked. Check out this Starfinder pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Scorched Earth Pt. 1 Something to Believe In (S3E39)
Tue, 24 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT
When the bad guys make big moves, the good guys make big plans. On this show, the bad guys are really bad. But there are also a LOT of good guys on this show. Maybe it's time to give some of them a call? It's all hands on deck for the Cover Story crew. But will it be enough?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week's promo is for The Between, a new PBTA game about monster hunters in Victorian-era London. Learn more about the game and show your support on Backerkit now!
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Best Defense Pt. 3 - Princes (S3E38)
Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 GMT
Everybody has a reason why they fight. For our heroes, it’s the friends & family they need to protect. They’ll push themselves to the limits to keep them safe. Trouble is: their enemy has a reason, too. And The Star King doesn’t have the same limits they do…
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Gimme Da Loot. Check out this DnD 5e pod on their Linktree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Best Defense Pt. 2 Thorns (S3E37)
Tue, 27 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT
No more mysteries. It’s time to get to the bottom of everything. While Mark recovers from his grave injuries inside Ramsey/Lincoln’s mysterious wooded tapestry, Kira, Theo and Anna seek answers from some unexpected sources. When your enemy is on the scale of a King of There, every other threat suddenly doesn’t seem as scary.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Dice Company. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons podcast on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Home is Where the Hunt is (Bonus)
Tue, 20 Aug 2024 05:00:00 GMT
SPECIAL GUEST ALERT!!! Friend-of-the-Pod Sero invited Jonny to run a one-shot and you KNOW our guy loves to make players smile/suffer. This time it's a reality TV competition show pitting the newcomer Remington family against the instantly unlikable reigning champs, The Crest-Colgates. This episode has everything: Ghosts. Urban Development. Unscrupulous Reality TV Directors. Maybe a Werewolf? Dysfunctional Family Vibes. And of course, Drama.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to Sero (Redgate and Wolf) for having us on your show, as well as Mr. Ray ($2 Creature Feature) and Jason (Memester of the Week) for playing along with us. Be sure to check out our friends on social media, and listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
Mr. Ray as Vlad Remington (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Trish Remington (The Curse Eater)
Jason as Mikey Remington (The Action Scientist)
Sero as Nora Remington (The Wronged)
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Best Defense Pt. 1 Locks (S3E36)
Tue, 13 Aug 2024 05:07:56 GMT
What happens when your sanctuary becomes a target? The Clockwork Child is under siege. But it’s not as simple as fighting off attackers. It’ll take brains and brawn to protect their friends and save as many people as they can.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Mystery Frequency. Check out this audio drama pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
The Deep End Pt. 3 Come Back (S3E35)
Tue, 30 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT
When you've got a big problem, you need a big idea. And Mark, Kira, Anna and Theo are trying to pull off a couple of the biggest ideas they've ever had. They've got to deal with the Reaper. They've got to escape from the Sea Kingdom AGAIN. And in the end? They have to prevent the walls that hold up the universe from crashing down around them. We know we're working with Big Ideas. Let's see if any of them are Good Ideas.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Thornvale. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Deep End Pt. 2 - Rebuild (S3E34)
Tue, 16 Jul 2024 18:36:01 GMT
Sometimes you get exactly what you want, but it's all too much. When Theo claims the Eye of Endregoras, will she be able to handle all that power? And even though they've got the target of the heist, there's still the matter of the Reaper--the living spirit of death that keeps the Dead Sea dead. The mission is simple: Make it out alive.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Damsels in Dicestress. Check them out on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Deep End Pt. 1 - Heist Mode (S3E33)
Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:00:00 GMT
It's Heist Time, Baby! We've set our sights on one of the most powerful artifacts in creation YET AGAIN, and it'll take all the cunning and connections they've got for Mark, Theo, Anna and Kira to secure the second Eye of Endregoras. Bad news? It's located in the Dead Sea Kingdom. MORE bad news? The way back in is through the office of the city's premier crime boss—and resident nemesis—Rex Crook.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Lizards and Locations. Check them out on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: My Name Is... (Bonus)
Tue, 25 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT
How it started vs how it's going ttrpg characters. Book Club is back with an intimate conversation with Cap (Shrimp and Crits), Teo (Monster Hour) and Lauren (The Monster's Playbook) about their approach to character creation. This episode is perfect for players who need some inspiration on creating characters, getting into your character's mindset and much more.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Miah Detjen-Wander
Lauren Johnson
Cap from Shrimp and Crits
Teo from Monster Hour
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Written in the Stars Pt. 3 - Sins of the Father (S3E32)
Tue, 18 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT
It turns out, even if the future is scary, the past can be even worse. For the last year, Mark, Kira, Anna, and Theo have been discovering more about themselves than they ever wanted to. But if there's one thing we've learned on this journey, it's that no challenge goes away until you confront it. Even the scary ones. You know what? Especially the scary ones.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Storybook Ending. Check them out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Written in the Stars Pt. 2 - Twin Flames (S3E31)
Tue, 04 Jun 2024 05:00:00 GMT
Have you ever been so angry that it felt like you were a different person? Kira Ashwood has. And it's finally time for her to reconcile with the part of herself she's spent so much of her life trying to keep at arm's length. But she can't do it alone. That's the thing about being a person: You need other people. And sometimes, you even need people you don't want to need.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for a brand new actual-play podcast, of Monsters and Mixed Successes. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Written in the Stars Pt. 1 - In for the Night (S3E30)
Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT
What do you do when you're scared? When the forces allied against you seem truly unstoppable? When even your very best hope seems—at best—confusing to work with? Well, if you're the crew of the Cover Story, you take some time to just hang out! They've created what may be one of the most dangerous artifacts in creation, but this week, they'll be spending some time with an even more powerful asset: Friends.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Wing Women Pod. Check out this fellow actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: The Great Monster Make-Off (Feed Drop)
Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT
This one is a must for any aspiring GMs and Keepers. It's The Great Monster Make-Off! Jonny was lucky enough to be invited onto Sero's stream with Ian and Cap (Shrimp and Crits), for a game show hosted by Sero and Monster Daddy himself, the creator of Monster of the Week, Michael Sands! It'll take more creativity than usual for Jonny, Ian and Cap to build monsters, mysteries and more right before your very eyes. Wait: I mean ears. Audio medium. Along the way, we have a great discussion of this game, how it works, and how to create within it.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Affiliate Link: Get a copy of Monster of the Week here to support our friend Sero, and visit the SeroDoesStuff Twitch Channel.
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Cast:
Jonny, Ian, and Cap as the contestants
and Sero and Michael Sands as the judges
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (S3, Act 2)
Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 GMT
A lot has gone down, and there's clearly more to come. So how are we all feeling? Join us as we digest Act 2 of Season 3, and check in with the players as we head into what will become … our Endgame.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Forged in Fire Pt. 4 - Balance (S3E29)
Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT
The Kingdoms of There have a vital purpose. A threat to them is a threat to everything. Unfortunately, there are so. Many. Threats. And only Kira, Anna, Mark and Theo—and their friends—know enough to face them. But around here? Knowing is WAY more than half the battle.
Content Warning: Brief mention of suicidal thoughts
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're once again featuring a promo for No Latency. Check out this actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Forged in Fire Pt. 3 - The Right Decision (S3E28)
Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:00:00 GMT
So here's the plan: Fight fire with fire. It's simple, but it won't be easy. The forge is under the control of an unscrupulous wing of the Magio, the stones that will serve as materials are… unstable at best, and even once they find this forge, what kind of weapon will be strong enough to save the whole world?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're featuring a promo for No Latency. Check out this actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Forged in Fire Pt. 2 - A Bird in a Cage (S3E27)
Tue, 26 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT
What do you do when you're walking around with a weapon that can destroy everything? Keep it pointed at the bad guys. The hunt is on for a legendary forge that can craft vital resources out of the team's most dangerous liabilities. They have more than one mystic stone imbued with the flames from the end of the world. I guess using that stone to build something is.... certainly An Option.
Content Warning: This episode includes depictions of dissociative disorders and confronting an abuser. Additionally, there is a short scene at the end of the episode depicting home hospice care (1:41:30-end).
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties, please contact the professionals who can help you. And for more information about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Mage Hand High Five. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Forged in Fire Pt. 1 - Forward (S3E26)
Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:00:00 GMT
Okay, it's time once again to ask our favorite question: What the hell do we do now!? The immediate threat from The Magio has been handled, but now an even bigger threat looms. And some of the biggest players in the game want Mark, Theo, Kira and Anna to get on the front lines in a battle they're only just beginning to understand. Lock and load, people.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, $2 Creature Feature. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Midnight Council Pt. 3 - Blood of the Centaur (S3E25)
Tue, 27 Feb 2024 13:36:36 GMT
All families have secrets. But when your family is the head of a magical organized crime outfit, your secrets are going to be a little bit bigger than most. We'll have to go pretty deep to get to the bottom of this one. Deep like all the way into the underworld. So pack light, and dress warm. We're going to finish this one way or the other.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Sprouting. Check out this Call of Cthulhu pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Midnight Council Pt. 2 - One Step at a Time (S3E24)
Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:00:00 GMT
The Magio has one rule above all others: You do not contact the dead. And Theo Nessos is about to break it. She's going to get to the bottom of the one mystery that's defined her adult life: How and why did Selena Nessos die?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, 5 GMs in a Trenchcoat. You can check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Midnight Council Side Story - Littlebear (S3E23)
Tue, 30 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT
Project Littlebear. One of the notorious Nathaniel Rose's pet projects. But what is it? Donovan and Kira go behind enemy lines to see what's behind the project. But where Nathaniel Rose is involved, you just KNOW it's not gonna be a teddy bear factory.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Midnight Council Pt. 1 - Date Night (S3E22)
Tue, 16 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT
If you thought the Nessos siblings were spooky, wait until you meet the rest of The Family. Something is happening behind closed doors in the Magio, and when it comes to our local magical Casa Nostra, that's literally never good.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for The Storyteller Squad. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Ghosts of the Past Pt. 3 - Sonoma (S3E21)
Tue, 02 Jan 2024 06:00:00 GMT
What did you think we meant by "ghosts of the past"?! Someone very important comes back into our story that we thought we might never see again. But… she's been changed, man. She's seen some things. And some stuff. And stunningly, the person best equipped to help her might just be a stoner ghost who just wants to hang out, bro.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Deck of Many Aces. Check out this D&D pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Ghosts of the Past Pt. 2 - The Young King (S3E20)
Tue, 19 Dec 2023 06:00:00 GMT
The Undying Soldier seems to have made her move, so it's all hands on deck to try to put a stop to the very annoying cult she serves, and the sinister machine she's helping to fuel. To make the stakes even higher, if they can't steal that machine back, they'll have no way to stop the oncoming apocalypse. So y'know. No pressure.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
-------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Ghosts of the Past Pt. 1 - Treasure Machine (S3E19)
Tue, 05 Dec 2023 06:00:00 GMT
The thing about prophecies is you can never be sure if you're better off ignoring them or obeying them. The team decides to split the difference and investigate some mysteries. Can we get in touch with Ember? Can we track down the Heat Sink to stave off the apocalypse? And can we learn anything else from the catchy little ditty we heard by that robot from the future?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Dumb Dumbs and Dragons. Check out this D&D 5e pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Home Front Pt. 2 - Study Hall (S3E18)
Tue, 21 Nov 2023 06:00:00 GMT
Now that they've caught their breath, it's time to make a plan. Some big things are happening in the world of the Cover Story, which means the hunters are going to have to do some big things themselves to keep their friends and their world safe. The team is hitting the books, and the bad guys are about to learn that knowing is way more than half the battle.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo forthe RPG Goblin. Check out this new pod on their LinkTree and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Home Front Pt. 1 - Garage Sale Weekend (S3E17)
Tue, 07 Nov 2023 06:00:00 GMT
What do you do after you've trudged through hell and battled the devil himself? If you're Mark Clayton, you go shopping! It's a desperate quest for some normalcy on our show this week. Which always works out GREAT!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Gals and Goblins. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons 5e pod on their LinkTree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (S3 Act 1)
Tue, 31 Oct 2023 05:00:00 GMT
So much has happened, but what does it all mean? Well, we can't tell you everything, but we can tell you how we feel about it. Join the cast as we reminisce on everything that's happened in the first Act of the final Season of The Cover Story. Let's indulge in all that intensity as we revisit the Family Business, Dead Sea, Reaper, Face to Face and Witchwood arcs. WE HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS!!!!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
-------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Witchwood Pt. 4 - Into the Fire (S3E16)
Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:00:00 GMT
It's time to finally face down Tower—or whatever she's become—as well as her new ally. And if that ally lives There, it is not going to be good. This week on the Cover Story? The Truth Hurts.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Slay the Stars. Check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to their new limited series, Bella's Comet here, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Witchwood Pt. 3 - Into the Sea (S3E15)
Tue, 10 Oct 2023 05:00:00 GMT
It's true what they say: "Nothing Lives in the Sea Kingdom." But that doesn't mean there isn't something bad lurking inside. Turns out you don't have to be alive to cause problems, and the people our heroes are after are causing some SERIOUS problems.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Thorne Files. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Blades in the Dark Pt. 2: I Didn't Think I'd Get This Far (Bonus)
Tue, 26 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT
Ace, Echo and Wicker head to the very top of the bottom as their hunt for the Glasstown thieves leads them to a Matriarch of the Bridgeway. But their true goal leads them deeper into the underbelly of the town than they'd planned. And the score they're after is not what it seems. As long as they stick to the deal and don't open the case, they should be okay… right?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the GM
John Wander as Ace (The Hound)
Lauren Johnson as Echo (The Whisper)
Miah Detjen as Wicker (The Lurk)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Blades in the Dark Pt. 1: Welcome to Brickwall (Bonus)
Tue, 26 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT
What happens when you take a dyed-in-the-wool crew of Monster of the Week lifers and make them play a different system? Well, it's delightful, that's what. Welcome to Blades of Brickwall. A Blades in the Dark miniseries set in the homebrew city of Brickwall. Ace, Echo and Wicker are a crew of small-time criminals who get a job that could put them in the big leagues and almost immediately find themselves in over their heads. I mean like... instantly.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the GM
John Wander as Ace (The Hound)
Lauren Johnson as Echo (The Whisper)
Miah Detjen as Wicker (The Lurk)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 19 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT
Welcome back to BOOK CLUB! This time John had the chance to talk with David (Trials of the Apocalypse), Quinn (Monster Hour) and Natalie (The Storyteller Squad) about how they create game worlds that capture the hearts and minds of players and audiences alike. This is an amazing peek behind the curtain of some of our favorite shows that you won't want to miss!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to our wonderful guests for joining us this episode. Be sure to check out their shows wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
John Wander
Jonny Grubb
Quinn Majeski (Monster Hour)
David Easley (Trials of the Apocalypse)
Natalie Fuinha (The Storyteller Squad)
This episode was edited by Miah Wander
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Witchwood Pt. 2 - Into the Dark (S3E14)
Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:01:36 GMT
The Witchwood is an ancient tree, a boundless source of arcane power. But for years, it's been lost to the world. Turns out, it's not so lost anymore! Good news: the team's new ally can use powerful magic again. Bad news? So can whoever has found it. Yeah, we don't know what they're up to but we know we want to stop them.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for the Stories and Sorceries podcast. Check out this D&D 5e pod on their Twitter and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Witchwood Pt. 1 - Into the Fog (S3E13)
Tue, 29 Aug 2023 05:00:00 GMT
It's another case of bad news, worse news. Bad news? Otherworldly fog is invading the city. Worse news? Kira's apprentice Gad has gone missing investigating it. By now the team knows that the best way to get ahead of something weird is to bring in something weirder. And that's exactly what they do by reaching out to someone from Mark's mother's former coven.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Seasons of Skyrend. Check out this pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Face to Face Pt. 4 - Less Afraid (S3E12)
Tue, 15 Aug 2023 05:00:00 GMT
It’s time for an assault on the Stroud Manor. That’s where their friend Aaron is, it’s where their enemy Nathaniel Rose is. It’s time to finally put an end to this. But what, exactly, has Nathaniel been doing this whole time? And will it be too late to stop him? Content Warning: This episode contains violence, body horror, and dissociative episodes.
Face to Face Pt. 3 - Bound in Blood (S3E11)
Tue, 01 Aug 2023 05:00:00 GMT
The team gets a lead on their arch-nemesis… from their other arch-nemesis. But Nathaniel Rose isn’t the only monster stalking the city tonight. It’s time for those famous last words: “Let’s Split Up, Gang!” But this’ll probably go all right. … Right?
Content Warning: This episode contains violence and some brief moments of body horror.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Lucky Die. Check out this DnD 5e pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Goat Crashers with Shrimp & Crits! (Bonus)
Tue, 25 Jul 2023 05:00:00 GMT
We turned some shrimps into goats. That’s right, we invited the crew of Shrimp and Crits to play a little game called Goat Crashers with Miah and Lauren. It’s simple, the players are goats and they want to party!! Problem is, the humans are hosting the party and they don’t want goat guests. So the goats have no other option but to PARTY HARD and access their power of chaos. -------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to Shrimp and Crits for joining us for this chaotic one-shot. You can find them on their website, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
Miah Detjen as the Goat Master
Lauren Johnson as Gina the Fainting Goat
Ian Mauldin as Jerry Rice the Pygmy Goat
Cap as Bucephalus aka "Bucky" the Satanic Goat
Katie as Sad Janice the Big-Horned Goat
Ryan as Ken. Griffy Jr. the Fancy Goat
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Face to Face Pt. 2 - The Lion and the Mouse (S3E10)
Tue, 18 Jul 2023 05:00:00 GMT
With a missing friend and a killer on the loose, things are getting a little tense around supernatural Minneapolis. And they’re about to get worse. Because whoever’s out there hurting people, isn’t only hurting them. They’re harvesting. But for what purpose? And will the team be able to stop them in time? Content Warning: Dissociative Episodes
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Tabletop Tiddies! Check out this queer and feminist TTRPG podcast on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Face to Face Pt. 1 - Doc (S3E9)
Tue, 04 Jul 2023 05:00:35 GMT
An unexpected phone call puts the team on their very least favorite kind of case: A Missing Person. And, in true Cover Story fashion, it gets worse. There’s a serial killer on the loose. A set of gruesome murders around the city may be something less-than-natural. And with that kind of danger out there, you do NOT want to have one of your friends missing.
Content Warning: Dissociative Episodes
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Merely Roleplayers. Check out this roleplaying audio drama on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 20 Jun 2023 05:00:59 GMT
Confrontation! The team finds themselves up against an enemy where just killing it might not be an option. So they'll have to fight smarter, not harder, if they're going to make it out. As always, after the fight comes something even worse: Consequences. Content Warning: Dissociative episodes, emotional abuse
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Reaper Pt. 2 - Injured Things (S3E7)
Tue, 06 Jun 2023 05:00:37 GMT
It's just about as normal a week as we get around here. Bowling dates, long shifts at work, and quality time with loved ones. But someone with familiar glowing tattoos seems to be following our heroes around the city. Is this who we think it is? Or is it—somehow—even worse?
Content Warning: Reference to Self-Harm
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for the podcast Ghosts on a Train. Be sure to check them out on their website, and listen to them wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Goons in Toyland (Bonus)
Sat, 03 Jun 2023 05:00:43 GMT
A child’s imagination brings a toy to life, helping them forget the world as it is and protecting the child from what lurks in the shadows. Like many kids, they grow up and unfortunately lose or outgrow their toys. Some lost toys are not always unloved toys. Sometimes they are misplaced. This may be the case for Polly the lost Polly Pocket, Commander Midnight the lost GI Joe, Mikey the lost Mr. Mike Rockin' Robot and Queen Wildberry Empress of Shadow aka Snuggles the lost Furby. Growing up is tough, but nostalgia is forever.
Join us for this special one-shot of Goons in Toyland GM'd by Miah!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Be sure to check out Goons in Toyland by Mr. Ray over on his Itchio page and support other game creators this International Tabletop Day!
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Cast:
Miah Detjen as The GM
Jonny Grubb as Commander Midnight
Sarah Baker as Polly Pocket
Brittney as Queen Wildberry Empress of Shadow (Storyteller Squad)
Pat as Mr. Mike Rockin' Robot (Trials of the Apocalypse)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Act Like a Hero (Bonus)
Tue, 30 May 2023 05:00:54 GMT
Welcome back to Book Club! This one is a must for anyone looking to level up their roleplaying. Lauren had the absolute pleasure to speak with fellow podcasters and self-proclaimed "theater kids" Allard (The Dice Crisis), Cap (Shrimp and Crits), Ghost (Dungeons and Pop), and Heather (Nameless Monsters). Come listen as we discuss the highs and lows of roleplaying, tips for getting into character, and advice for better roleplaying with others around the table. -------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to Allard, Cap, Ghost and Heather for joining us for this episode. Be sure to check out their show links below!
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Cast and Special Guests:
Lauren Johnson
Allard (The Dice Crisis)
Cap (Shrimp and Crits)
Ghost (Dungeons and Pop)
Heather (Nameless Monsters)
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Reaper Pt. 1 - Making Plans (S3E6)
Tue, 23 May 2023 05:00:54 GMT
The team is out of the Dead Sea, but they're not out of the woods yet! The first steps back on solid ground are shaky. Obviously, they've wound up in the last place on Earth they want to be. Plus, something is wrong with Mark's "brother" Lowry. And who's that sneaking around? It's The Invisible Family. And they do not like being interrupted.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for the podcast, Pest Control. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Dead Sea Pt. 2 - Nothing Lives in the Sea (S3E5)
Tue, 09 May 2023 05:00:20 GMT
It's a return to THERE. But this time, they have a couple of advantages. First, they already have a guide. But more than that, with Mark's history returned, he can fully navigate the mysterious Kingdom of the Sky. That advantage will only take them so far, because Kira Ashwood is in the Sea Kingdom. And you know what they say about the Sea…
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Cybertopia. Be sure to check them out on their Itchio website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Dead Sea Pt. 1 - Where is Kira Ashwood? (S3E4)
Tue, 25 Apr 2023 05:00:08 GMT
Kira Ashwood is missing. Her hunt for The Tower sent her somewhere Anna, Theo and Mark cannot follow. The good news is, they have an ally who will know how to track her down. The bad news is, they might not like what they find.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Raven's Realm. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons 5e pod on their LinkTree and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Family Business Pt. 3 - The Grim Ledger (S3E3)
Tue, 11 Apr 2023 05:00:59 GMT
The true culprit has been sussed out, but what is she up to? Kira, Anna, Mark and Theo track down the villainous Tower, and do what they can to get to the bottom of her sinister plans. What they find will take them deeper than they may want to go… Content warning: Substance abuse -------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week's promo is for the actual-play podcast, A Fools Quest. Be sure to check them out on their website, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Family Business Pt. 2 - Four Wings (S3E2)
Tue, 28 Mar 2023 05:00:42 GMT
Content Warning: Self-harm
"I'm Quatraile!" Mark, Theo, Kira, and Anna meet a mysterious captive with more secrets than she knows what to do with. But getting her free isn't going to be easy. And not just because of the horde of monsters descending on the team. There's something odd going on with the girl. Something… not quite alive.
In Memory of Betsy: This episode is dedicated to our dear friend Betsy, who recently passed away from Stage 4 Cholangiocarcinoma. Betsy was a badass, a talented writer, and a wonderful human being who we miss greatly. If you're able, please join us in donating to Betsy's Go Fund Me or to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. Thank you for being our friend, Betsy. -------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Dice Collectors. Be sure to check them out wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Safety First (Bonus)
Tue, 21 Mar 2023 05:00:25 GMT
Welcome back to BOOK CLUB! The fictional worlds we build in TTRPGs can get pretty dangerous, but the people at the table should always feel safe. Jonny talks with Natalie, Keeper of the Storyteller Squad and Zoe, GM of The Writer’s Room to talk about what makes roleplaying a uniquely vulnerable experience for players and GMs alike, how to make your table welcoming to all, and how working with your players to build and maintain a safe space to game can make your stories so much better
In Memory of Betsy: This episode is dedicated to our dear friend Betsy, who recently passed away from Stage 4 Cholangiocarcinoma. Betsy was a badass, a talented writer, and a wonderful human being who we miss greatly. If you're able, please join us in donating to Betsy's Go Fund Me or to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. Thank you for being our friend, Betsy.
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Safety Tools Resources:
- X-Card by John Stavropoulos
- The Digital RPG Consent Checklist
- Toolkit: The OK Check-In
- TTRPG Safety Toolkit by Kienna Shaw and Lauren Bryant-Monk
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, subscribe to our Patreon, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Special thanks to our guests Natalie and Zoe for joining us. Be sure to check out The Storyteller Squad and The Writer's Room wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
Natalie: Keeper, The Storyteller Squad
Zoe: Narrator, The Writer's Room
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Family Business Pt. 1 - Investigators (S3E1)
Tue, 14 Mar 2023 05:00:48 GMT
SEASON THREE PREMIERE!! Life has gone back to what passes for normal for Mark, Theo, Kira and Anna. But a new mystery comes knocking—literally. Mark is summoned to take on an investigation for a familiar client: Rex Crook. But what does it mean to go into business with the city's pre-eminent supernatural crime lord? And what could he possibly need help with?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Dice Populi. Be sure to check them out on their website, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (Act 3)
Tue, 28 Feb 2023 06:00:35 GMT
That was nuts, right!? In this edition of BOOK CLUB we'll answer Jonny's favorite question: "What was everybody's least favorite part?" We'll look back on not just the last, biggest mystery of the year, but at the entire second season. We'll look at how far our characters have come, and talk about how some of them will be moving forward, even as others are moving on.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 14 Feb 2023 06:00:51 GMT
It's over. It's finally over. But then… nothing is really over. The threat is ended, but the damage is done. As Mark, Kira, Anna and Theo reflect on the havoc The Drum has wrought on the world and on their lives, Casey looks forward to the future. As they know better than anyone: No matter what happens, the most important thing is what you do next.
Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of child abuse and dissociative disorders. To learn more about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Submit your questions for our Season 2 Q&A by midnight February 21st by DMing us on social media, emailing us at monstersplaybook@gmail.com, or in our Discord Server.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Goblets and Gays. Check out this queer, Pathfinder 2e podcast on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM Pt. 6 - Humanity (S2E32)
Tue, 31 Jan 2023 06:00:01 GMT
THE BATTLE OF THE BARN. The Drum descends upon the Dress Barn. Will Casey, Mark, Theo, Kira and Anna be able to stand against the combined might of the Director and his minions? Maybe, if Captain Torres, Donovan, Dockers, The Sparks Brothers, Mark's Mom and all of Dawnbreak have anything to say about it!
Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of child abuse and dissociative disorders. To learn more about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Power Word Fail. Be sure to check them out on their website, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 24 Jan 2023 06:00:05 GMT
Book Club editor edition! Wondering how The Monster's Playbook sounds so good? Or who's the music magician behind some of your favorite podcasts? Miah geeked out with fellow podcast editors Ian from Shrimp and Crits and Matt from Debate This! learning about how they fell into the seat of podcast editor, what are their computer setups and what grinds their audio gears. Take a peak behind the curtain into the world of poor posture, low lighting, 12-button computer mice, and big headphones of our beloved audio engineers.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better. And check out Shrimp and Crits and Storyteller Squad on the Podcast Nexus server (formerly CastJunkie).
Thank you to Ian and Matt for joining us for this installment of Book Club! Be sure to check out their shows wherever you get your podcasts. You can find Ian on Shrimp and Crits, and Matt on Debate This!
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Cast:
Miah Detjen (Editor, The Monster's Playbook)
Ian Mauldin (Editor, Shrimp and Crits and Monster Hour)
Matt Cole (Editor, Debate This! and Storyteller Squad)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM pt. 5 - The Director (S2E31)
Tue, 17 Jan 2023 06:00:59 GMT
Pieces are being moved into place on both sides of the board. The end, as they say, is nigh. Mark and Kira are learning more about themselves than ever before, but what will they do with what they learn? Captain Torres is reuniting with allies from her past, for better and for worse. Anna and Theo are getting downright experimental with their magical skills. And Casey? She’s about to go to war with the highest authority in her world: The Director, himself.
Content Warning: Violence, Death
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Ballad of the Seven Dice. Be sure to check them out on their website and listen to them wherever you get your podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM Pt. 4 - Infiltration (S2E30)
Tue, 03 Jan 2023 06:00:52 GMT
Sneaking into your own workplace shouldn’t be this stressful. But EARS isn’t just any office. It’s the home base of the secretive and sinister Drum, and the deeper in they go, the harder it will be to get out in one piece.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Slay the Stars. Check out this DnD 5e pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Bid Around the Bush (Bonus)
Tue, 27 Dec 2022 06:00:08 GMT
Have you ever watched a reality tv series like Storage Wars and thought, "Man, I wish there was a ttrpg for this"? Look no further than Bid Around the Bush, a one-page GM-less game, where the PCs try to make a profit from abandoned storage units. Join Jonny, Miah, John and special guest Ian Mauldin for this wild one-shot as their characters battle it out and risk it all in the hopes of finding treasure, not just trash, in their storage units.
Content Warning: Sexual Themes
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Special thanks to Ian for playing with us this episode. Be sure to check out his podcast, Shrimp and Crits on their website, and buy yourself Bid Around the Bush for $1 over on Ian's Itchio.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as Brett Havers
John Wander as Collin Grey
Miah Detjen as Bradi Wayne
Ian Mauldin as John Lasthand Jr.
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM Pt. 3 - Preparation (S2E29)
Tue, 20 Dec 2022 06:00:28 GMT
Knowledge is power. And Mark, Casey, Theo, Tiff, Anna & Kira are going to need as much of both as they can get. The Drum isn’t just any threat and this won’t be just any mission. They’ll only get one shot. So they better not miss…
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Don't Wreck Yourself. Check out this pod on their website, and on Twitter, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM Pt. 2 - Blooming Silence (S2E28)
Tue, 06 Dec 2022 06:00:45 GMT
Sick of being on the wrong side of the upper hand, the team plans to move against The Drum. Fortunately, they’ve made just about as many friends as enemies. And it’s time to call in some favors.
Content Warning: This episode contains instances of dissociative episodes. To learn more about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for the Debate This! podcast. Check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The DRUM Pt. 1 - Agent M (S2E27)
Tue, 22 Nov 2022 06:00:00 GMT
Captain Torres returns. With horrible news. She's uncovered a troubling operation begun years ago by none other than The Drum. But it gets worse. Because somehow, the operation involves Kira Ashwood herself. And they're running out of time to try and stop it.
Content Warning: This episode contains instances of dissociative episodes. To learn more about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch or support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Bad Heroes. Check out this Pathfinder 1E pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (Act 2)
Tue, 08 Nov 2022 06:00:55 GMT
Welcome back to BOOK CLUB. We're entering the final arc of our season, and rushing headlong into finally going up against the sinister Drum that's been hounding our heroes all season. But that isn't the only thing they've been up against. Exciting new characters, unsettling reunions, and Mark finally got a bird! Let's check in with our players and their characters before we step into the final act.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, support us on Ko-Fi, and check out our merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Double Cross Pt. 3 - Salt in a Mortal Wound (S2E26)
Tue, 25 Oct 2022 05:00:16 GMT
It's the final faceoff against the enemy team. But there's more going on here than the present tense. Their enemy has ties to everything from the Drum to the Invisible Family itself. And the only thing more important than winning today is finding out how to fight for tomorrow.
Content Warning: This episode contains instances of dissociative episodes and verbal abuse. To learn more about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
DirectMe Profile (Support the Show): Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Once Upon a Monster of the Week. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Double Cross Pt. 2 - Ashworld (S2E25)
Tue, 11 Oct 2022 05:00:32 GMT
Kira and Tommy may be locked up, but they're not alone. Will another group of prisoners help them escape? Or are they another threat? Meanwhile, Mark, Anna, Casey and Theo try to call in some big guns to fight their way in. Trouble is, those big guns might just belong to their enemy.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
This week's promo is for Nameless Monsters. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Double Cross Pt. 1 - The Drummers Have EARS (S2E24)
Tue, 27 Sep 2022 05:00:19 GMT
I did NOT see that coming! The sudden betrayal of [REDACTED] is as surprising as it is devastating. Now Kira and Tommy are trapped, and it's up to the rest of the team to get them out. Trouble is? The rest of the team doesn't even know they're missing.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for 19 Hits the Dragon, an interview podcast about DnD, TTRPGs, and other nerdy things. Check out this pod on their LinkTree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Absurdia—The Big Box
Tue, 20 Sep 2022 05:00:37 GMT
No one remembers exactly when the Big Box arrived, but everyone tells the same story. It simply appeared one day at the edge of town with a block-letter sign overhead that reads: “For All Your Needs.” What does the Big Box offer? What lies within its mammoth frame? It's up to a group of truly bizarre citizens to find out. Join the cast and guest GM Quinn Majeski for this bonus one-shot episode of Absurdia, a brand new PbtA game!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Bring Your Own Mech. Check out this Lancer pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Quinn Majeski as the GM
Lauren Johnson as Raven Price (The Curio)
Miah Detjen as Remi Hainsley (The Zeitgeist)
Jonny Grubb as Jeruselum Feedback (The Void Archivist)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Chicago Pt. 3 - The Council of Many (S2E23)
Tue, 13 Sep 2022 05:00:14 GMT
The good news? The hunters are able to bring The Dagger to justice. The bad news? Its a kind of justice they barely understand. They'll have to rely on a jury of inhuman beings to end the threat she represents. But there are more players on the board than they know.
Content Warning: This episode contains brief moments of body horror.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Crit! Like a Girl. Check out this D&D 5e pod on their linktree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Chicago Pt. 2 - Look to the Sky (S2E22)
Tue, 30 Aug 2022 05:00:16 GMT
The Dagger makes her moves, and our heroes will have to manage in the aftermath. Can Kira stay strong in the face of unknown threats? Will Theo be able to trust her brother? And how is Mark suddenly the one arguing for acting normal??
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Show Links (Support the Show): Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, buy us a coffee on Ko-fi, or check out our wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for The Writer's Room. You can check out this 7th Sea actual-play podcast on their Twitter, and be sure to listen to them wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 23 Aug 2022 05:00:32 GMT
BOOK CLUB! This one is a must for aspiring GMs! Jonny had the absolute pleasure to chat with some superstar Keepers from throughout the MotW universe. Sarah from Redgate & Wolf, David from Trials of the Apocalypse and Susannah from Thornvale shed light on what they love about this game that's stolen our souls, and chat about their approach to creating memorable mysteries. Along the way, we'll get to the bottom of what makes our games special, and how we got where we are. No jokes this time! This is a really nice episode!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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CAST:
Jonny Grubb as The Keeper
And fellow Keepers Sarah from Redgate and Wolf; David from Trials of the Apocalypse; and Susannah from Thornvale.
Chicago Pt. 1 - The Welcoming Party (S2E21)
Tue, 16 Aug 2022 05:00:41 GMT
Theo is headed to Chicago to start her new life working with her brother Jacob. As her only sibling to ever fully escape the family business, she's eager to learn from him and follow in his footsteps. Surely nothing weird happens in Chicago, right?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for fellow actual-play podcast, The Dice Crisis. Check out this Pathfinder 1e pod on their website, or on Twitter, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Murder on the Dance Floor
Tue, 09 Aug 2022 05:00:35 GMT
OFF THE BOOKS! The year is 1982. Disco is dying, but so are dancers and clubgoers all over the city. And it's up to a whole other trio of monster hunters to get to the bottom of it before the music stops. This week's mystery comes to us courtesy of Luke Green aka Thrythlind Books & Games.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for an all new actual-play podcast, Free Action: Cry. Check out this 5e Dungeons and Dragons pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Jack Price (The Hardcase) and Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Veronica Mitchell (The Gumshoe) and Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Dani Clefton (The Spooky) and Casey Davis (The Freelancer)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Downtime Pt. 4 - Shadow Girls (S2E20)
Tue, 02 Aug 2022 05:00:21 GMT
Captain Torres and Kira Ashwood aren't so different. They're both on the vanguard of the supernatural, and they both have an upsetting degree of control over the forces of darkness. Not, like, 'evil,' I mean like literal darkness. Shadows. And shadows have a way of attracting secrets.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Roll Players. Check out their new Monster of the Week supplement on DriveThru RPG and Itchio and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Downtime Pt. 3 - The Party Don't Stop (S2E19)
Tue, 19 Jul 2022 05:00:44 GMT
"I don't think we're in Minneapolis anymore, Tommy." Casey's home is under attack. Lucky for the hunters, this is Casey we're talking about. Her home is BUILT to withstand an attack. This is still supposed to be a party after all. And we are GOING to PARTY!!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for a fellow actual play podcast, Monster Hour. Check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
and Special Guest Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Downtime Pt. 2 - We Can Make This a Party (S2E18)
Tue, 05 Jul 2022 05:00:40 GMT
EARS is much bigger than just Casey Davis. Meet Captain Torres. A security officer with a dark secret who's drawn by a mysterious offer. But you need allies to move forward. Both Casey and Torres need to find ways to attract others to their cause. And you know what that means: It's Party Time.
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Support reproductive justice and abortion funds: https://choice.crd.co/
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Dungeons and Pop. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
and Special Guess Sarah Baker as Tiff Torres (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Downtime Pt. 1 - To Fresh Starts (S2E17)
Tue, 21 Jun 2022 05:00:07 GMT
Theo finally finds a way to escape her family's shadow, but it means running away from everything she's built. Meanwhile, Mark helps show Anna Ashwood how to do the hard work of acting like a real human being. At least for now, the real world seems to have more pressing needs than the world beyond.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week's promo is for The Waffling Taylors podcast featuring in-depth discussions on video games and lighthearted nonsense. Be sure to check out their latest episode featuring our own Jonny Grubb, and check them out on their website.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Sigma Pt. 3 - Out of Your League (S2E16)
Tue, 07 Jun 2022 05:00:30 GMT
The elemental fiends continue their assault, and the team continues their investigation into what's really going on with the many covert groups looking into them.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Memester of the Week. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on Twitter, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Sigma Pt. 2 - Meet the Family (S2E15)
Tue, 24 May 2022 05:00:34 GMT
At the end of the day, Casey, Kira, Mark and Theo haven't been friends all that long. So what happens when old friends from the past show up? And what happens when some of those old friends have monsters chasing them?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Trials of the Apocalypse. You can find them on Twitter, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen) and Anna Ashwood (The Protector)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Hex)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Sigma Pt. 1 - All You've Ever Wanted (S2E14)
Tue, 10 May 2022 05:00:36 GMT
Upon returning from There, Mark, Theo, Casey and Kira find quite a few things have changed. Many of them for the better. But that can't be good…
Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline [https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/] at 1-800-273-8255 to speak with someone who can help. You are not alone.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word, and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Redgate and Wolf. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: Covering the Story (Act 1)
Tue, 26 Apr 2022 05:00:00 GMT
Welcome to BOOK CLUB! Join the cast and creators of The Monster's Playbook as we talk about Act I of The Cover Story (episodes 1-13). We'll reflect on what's happened so far, and check in with where our characters and their players are at with all the scary monsters and scarier feelings they've been subjected to. Think of it like a talk show, except with no guests and four hosts.
Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of mental health topics and dissociative disorders. If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties, please contact the professionals who can help you. And for more information about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Follow The Monster's Playbook on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook; and head to our website for more information on our show.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Thornvale. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Here and There Pt. 2 - What Sets You Free (S2E13)
Tue, 12 Apr 2022 05:00:00 GMT
It's finally time for Casey Davis to decide. Does she want to remain as a mysterious nonentity? Or will she do what it takes to bring herself back?
Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is struggling, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to speak with someone who can help. You are not alone.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Audible Free Trial: Try a 30-day free trial of Audible Premium Plus and support the show by using our Affiliate link: audibletrial.com/monstersplaybook
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb. "Bring You Back to Life" by Jonny Grubb, featuring Lauren Johnson.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Here and There Pt. 1 - What Ties You Down (S2E12)
Tue, 29 Mar 2022 05:00:00 GMT
Everyone splits up, which is never good. Mark is offered a deal to become even more than what he is. Theo learns about her family's secret magical heritage. Casey digs deeper on the Drum and its connections to EARS. And Kira encounters an old enemy from a previous life.
Content Warning: This episode contains instances of physical abuse.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also shouting out a brand new actual play and audio drama podcast, Parallel to Anywhere. Be sure to check them out on their Twitter, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Exploding Boy Pt. 3 - Catch Me (S2E11)
Tue, 15 Mar 2022 05:00:00 GMT
{Stay awake / Be the most me I can be / Even though my body doesn’t have a presence you can see // I’m a disease / And you’re all gonna catch me} It's concert night in the Twin Cities. But the headliner has made a deal with a devil and has set his sights on turning his sold-out crowd over to his otherworldly partner. With a problem this big, can they fight the monsters without becoming monsters themselves?
Content Warning: This episode contains instances of dissociative episodes.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're highlighting our new friends, $2 Creature Feature, a Monster of the Week podcast that just started a brand new campaign. Check them out on their website, and be sure to follow along with their adventures wherever you get your podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Exploding Boy Pt. 2 - I Know What I'm Doing (S2E10)
Tue, 01 Mar 2022 06:00:00 GMT
{For every problem I know there's always a way around it / You take one look and know that I'm willing to bleed} The team finds themselves defending Kira's house from a horde of mesmerized normies that appear to be under the thrall of a demon prince from another realm. And that prince has some connection with everyone's least-favorite electronic musician.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're highlighting our new friends, Shrimp and Crits, a fantastic and fun-filled monster of the week podcast. Check them out at their linktree. And be sure to follow along with their adventures wherever you get your podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Exploding Boy Pt. 1 - The Drive (S2E9)
Tue, 15 Feb 2022 11:00:00 GMT
{When there's thunder, I'm your lightning / You can find the light in me} The hunters take some time between crises to shore up their defenses against what might come next. With more than one secret organization on their trail, they'll need all the advantages they can get. Meanwhile, there's a new hit musician lighting up the dial. But you know what's weird? He sucks.
Content Warning: This episode contains elements of physical abuse.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're highlighting our new friends, The Storyteller Squad, a great monster of the week podcast. Check them out at thestorytellersquad.com, or find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. And be sure to follow along with their adventures wherever you get your podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song and "I'll Be Your" song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Visible Family Pt. 4 - Not Alone (S2E8)
Tue, 01 Feb 2022 11:00:00 GMT
Rex Crook's plan is finally laid bare, but Mark isn't in much shape to stand in his way. Lucky for him, he's got backup. But Mark isn't the only one with family issues…
Content Warning: This episode contains elements of physical abuse.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Dream Away the Time One-Shot
Tue, 25 Jan 2022 07:00:00 GMT
The village of Handfast has been blessed with good fortune for generations. But recently, there's been multiple accounts of food spoiling, unusual weather events, and a spate of violent attacks that have its people on edge. The good news - a team of CISRA investigators are on the case. Join Special Agent Ronan Parks, Doctor Olivia White, and local thug Vincent MacGill in this bonus one-shot episode GM'd by our own Lauren Johnson.
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Special Thanks to Evil Hat Productions and Generic Games for creating the "Dream Away the Time" mystery. This mystery is currently free to play on Roll 20's website for anyone looking to try it out.
If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Lauren Johnson as the Keeper
John Wander as Ronan Parks (The Professional)
Jonny Grubb as Vincent MacGill (The Crooked)
Miah Detjen as Olivia White (The Action Scientist)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Visible Family Pt. 3 - The King (S2E7)
Tue, 18 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT
The truth about Mark and his mother's past comes to light. Then The Drum reappears to cause trouble, but who are they really after?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Visible Family Pt. 2 - Anchors (S2E6)
Tue, 04 Jan 2022 11:00:00 GMT
After meeting a surprising old friend at his mother's house, Mark Clayton has some questions. Meanwhile, ghosts from the past are haunting the team and those close to them. There's more going on than meets the eye, and they'll have to fight to stay alive long enough to figure it out.
---------------------------------------------
If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Visible Family Pt. 1 - Who is Mark Clayton? (S2E5)
Tue, 21 Dec 2021 06:00:00 GMT
Returning from their ordeal in Duluth, the team takes a moment to catch their breath, run some errands, and check in with friends and family. Unfortunately for our heroes, mystery has a way of finding them no matter where they go.
-------------------------------------------------
If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Duluth Pt. 3: The Blood (S2E4)
Tue, 07 Dec 2021 06:00:00 GMT
The search is on for the original Sideris portrait–the only thing that can stop Lysander—while his spirit settles in to a new host.
Content Warning: This episode contains elements of physical abuse.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Duluth Pt. 2: The Vessel (S2E3)
Tue, 23 Nov 2021 06:00:00 GMT
Lysander Sideris' spirit is still out there and it's a race against the clock to find a way to destroy him before he can inhabit a new vessel.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 09 Nov 2021 06:00:00 GMT
The team takes a roadtrip to Duluth to investigate an artist whose latest showing features dozens of portraits of the same man: Lysander Sideris—who died hundreds of years ago.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 26 Oct 2021 05:00:00 GMT
Casey Davis is missing. Not just from where she’s supposed to be, but from everywhere. It’s like she never existed. As if that’s not enough, the rest of the team’s allies are under attack from an unknown enemy, and they’re running out of time.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Cover Story Wiki: Confused about what happened in Season 1, or who the heck that one NPC was that Jonny mentioned? We've got you covered with The Cover Story Wiki.
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, support us on Ko-Fi, and check out our merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
The Cover Story: Season 1 Recap
Tue, 12 Oct 2021 05:00:00 GMT
Welcome to the Monster's Playbook and the Season One recap of The Cover Story campaign! Hear from Mark, Casey and Kira as they tell the story of the weirdest year of their lives and the events leading up to season two.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Tue, 12 Oct 2021 05:00:00 GMT
Welcome to the Monster's Playbook and to session 0 of The Cover Story campaign! Join us and get acquainted with the world, the players, and the Monster of the Week game system we're all playing so you can jump into our series and enjoy what's going on.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow The Monster's Playbook on social media, head to our website, and check out our new merch store by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Chosen)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Flake) and Theo Nessos (The Spell-Slinger)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Thu, 23 Sep 2021 02:52:36 GMT
The Monster's Playbook is a real play Monster of the Week RPG podcast where the real world crashes into the paranormal over and over and over again. Join us for episode one of The Cover Story campaign, premiering October 26th!