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Finding Atoria episodes
- Furry Vengeance: The FURRIES Act and Game-Based Learning in Schools
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The Modern “Satanic Panic” and Game-Based Learning
Malcolm takes the referee seat for this episode, while Tori rolled highest on initiative and dives back into the topic of the “Satanic Panic”, now resurfacing in modern form as the FURRIES Act, introduced by a Texas legislator. Because of the bill’s vague language, it could potentially block TTRPG clubs in schools under the claim of “nonhuman behavior.”
After the break, Arcadia explores game-based learning and its role in the classroom. This approach adapts TTRPGs for traditional educational settings, offering multiple ways to engage students in active learning—especially those whose preferred learning styles aren’t considered standard. Game-based learning is more common than many realize and can improve outcomes while keeping students engaged across a variety of learning styles.
Our Sources:
- The Magazine Article on Texas FURRIES Act
- Rascal News: Texas FURRIES Act & TTRPGs in Schools
- NY Post: Texas Bill Targets “Non-Human Behavior”
- Fox News: “FURRIES Act Texas”
- Rascal.news: “A Texas Conformity Bill Could Impact TTRPG in Schools Statewide”
- Above the Table: “Roleplaying is Under Attack Again”
- Eldritch Rolecast: “Has the Roleplaying Satanic Panic Returned?”
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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42 min - Character Flaws and Roleplaying: Depth Without the Drama
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Exploring Character Flaws and You Don't Have To Be an Actor To Roleplay
Tori takes the referee seat for this episode, and we have a guest! Jess joins us in the studio as Malcolm kicks off the conversation with a discussion on character flaws. These aren’t about nerfing your character—they’re a way to prevent munchkining while adding depth beyond stereotypical heroes. Some examples include Shadowrun’s “elf poser” and Vampire: The Masquerade’s “known corpse,” “compromised haven,” and “prey exclusion.”
Many players include flaws without thinking, but for DMs, they can flavor the game in countless ways. Flaws can evolve alongside characters, helping PCs become more dynamic and engaging. Unfortunately, Jess had to leave early due to nasty Midwest weather.
After the break, Arcadia discusses the challenges of roleplaying. Not everyone is an actor, nor can everyone emote like one—and that’s okay. TTRPGs don’t gatekeep based on acting ability. Players can describe actions instead of acting them out, or lean into the roleplaying if they enjoy it. The game accommodates many styles, making it welcoming for everyone.
Our Sources:
- Dungeon Master’s Guide 2nd Edition
- Dungeon Master’s Guide 5th Edition
- Vampire: The Masquerade Player’s Handbook
- Shadowrun Player’s Handbook
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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44 min - Don’t Be That Player: TTRPG Pet Peeves and Handling Character Death
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Gaming Pet Peeves and PC Death: Tips for Players and GMs
Arcadia takes the referee seat in this episode as Tori opens with a list of gaming pet peeves from both sides of the table. Most of them boil down to one key idea: remember that TTRPGs are collaborative games. Be courteous to your fellow players and the GM—these roles aren’t adversarial. And don’t forget to check your character sheet! Knowing your character prevents slowing down gameplay and helps everyone stay engaged.
After the break, Malcolm dives into player character death. This can be highly emotional for everyone involved, which is why it’s important to discuss it during Session Zero. Planning ahead ensures that everyone understands how to handle it and keeps the game enjoyable. PC death can happen, and while it’s serious, it can sometimes add meaningful moments to the story—if everyone is prepared. May your dice never roll a 1 on a death saving throw…
Our Sources:
- All of the D&D creators on YouTube
- D&D 5th Edition Player’s Handbook and Dungeon Master’s Guide
- Pathfinder 1st Edition Player’s Handbook
- Vampire: The Masquerade, newest edition Player’s Handbook
- 2024 Player’s Handbook and Dungeon Master’s Guide
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
52 min - Min-Maxing and Don’t Forget About Dave: From Table Tricks to the History of Blackmoor
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Min-Maxing Mayhem and the Secrets of Blackmoor
Arcadia steps up as moderator for this episode as Tori dives into the world of min-maxing in D&D. An admitted optimizer herself, she shares how to build strong characters without becoming a problem player. We break down the differences between min-maxers, optimizers, munchkins, and powergamers—plus how DMs can handle main character syndrome when it shows up at the table.
After the break, Malcolm takes us into gaming history with The Secrets of Blackmoor. This documentary reveals the story of David Arneson, co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons, and how his Blackmoor campaign shaped the role of the Dungeon Master and the game we know today.
Our Sources:
- “I Hate Min-Maxxing” — The Grungeon Master
- “Powergamers, Munchkins, Optimizers, and Min/Maxers in D&D” — Treatmonk’s Temple
- “Know Your Player: Minmaxer” — Runesmith
- “D&D Min-Max-ers Are Valid” — Dimension 20
- The Secrets of Blackmoor
- IMDB
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
48 min - Gotta Make That Castle Payment: The Satanic Panic and D&D Movies
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From Satanic Panic to Honor Among Thieves
In this episode, Tori takes the moderator’s chair as Arcadia kicks things off with the Satanic Panic mishigas of the 1980s, and how Dungeons & Dragons got pulled into the chaos. With latchkey kids spending their free time gaming, worried parents and sensationalist media painted D&D as dangerous—despite the irony that those kids were usually the “good kids.” TSR didn’t help itself with some of its darker book covers, either. Still, D&D became a safe haven for outcasts, a place to belong even when they didn’t fit society’s norms.After the break, Malcolm turns the spotlight to the four Dungeons & Dragons movies. From the “so bad they’re bad” early attempts to the triumphant Honor Among Thieves, he covers the good, the ugly, and the Easter eggs that made the latest film such a gift to longtime fans.
Sources:
- You’re Wrong About (podcast)
- IMDB
- Fandom.com
- Dungeons & Dragons
- Dungeons & Dragons: Wrath of the Dragon God
- Dungeons & Dragons 3: The Book of Vile Darkness
- Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Support the show
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
54 min - Level 1 or Bust: Debates and Spooky Stories
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Level 1 or Bust: Starting Your Campaign
Malcolm takes the moderator role in this episode as Arcadia argues for starting campaigns at level 1. Beginning at the lowest level allows players to grow alongside their characters, learn the do’s and don’ts of gameplay, and naturally move the story forward. Tori counters that starting at level 1 can sometimes feel slow—but both agree that the early levels provide invaluable learning experiences for all players.The discussion also touches on milestone vs. XP leveling, weighing the benefits of each approach for different campaigns.
Tori wraps up the episode with some spooky stories from the TTRPG world—plus a few chilling tales from her LARPing adventures—reminding us that the hobby isn’t just about rolling dice; it’s about storytelling, suspense, and fun.
Sources:
- Trendy Lobotomy: “Irvington, Cemeteries, D&D, and Witches?” and “LARPing Gone Horribly Wrong and the Flowers Are Still Standing”
- Weird Kentucky, Beargrassthunder.com, Wkms.com, Oxygen.com, Imdb.com, Tourmurray.com, Crimesandconsequences.com
- Hillbilly Horror Stories: Episode 187: Kentucky Vampires
- Morbid Episode 17: Rod Fereel “The Vampire Cult Killer” AKA Turbo Douche
- YouTube: Kentucky Teenage Vampire – Real Stories
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
37 min - If You Build It, They Will Play: Session 0 and Backstories
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Session 0 and Backstories: Laying the Groundwork
In this episode, Arcadia takes the moderator’s seat as Malcolm kicks things off with a deep dive into Session 0. This first session is an essential tool for any TTRPG table—it helps establish a “social contract,” outline house rules, and set expectations for both DMs and players. Session 0 is also the perfect time to address trigger warnings, likes, dislikes, and personal limits, ensuring everyone at the table feels safe and ready to play.After the break, Tori takes the spotlight to talk about the importance of backstories. A well-crafted backstory not only gives a character depth but also informs the story and guides gameplay in meaningful ways. By integrating this step during character creation, players can connect more fully with their PCs and the world around them.
Sources:
- Quick Questions for Fantastic Backstories in D&D 5e — Dungeon Dudes
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Support the show
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
54 min - GMing and Playing Your First TTRPG: It Isn’t as Hard as You Think
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So You Want to Be a DM (or a PC)
In this episode, Arcadia takes the moderator’s chair while Malcolm—our forever GM since the ’90s—opens the discussion on what it’s really like to run a game. Spoiler: It might not be as scary as you think. With so many GM resources available, anyone can get started. Rule #1? If you’re not having fun, your players probably aren’t either. And remember: the players will derail you. (Yes, they will.) But that can lead to some of the best, most unexpected stories.Tori follows up with advice for new players stepping into the game as a PC. Don’t worry if you’re not role-playing like the veterans right away—it takes time, and that’s okay. Starting with a martial class can be easier than diving straight into spellcasting, and leaning on a more experienced player for guidance is a great way to learn. Above all, your backstory matters, and the Player’s Handbook will be your best friend in those first sessions.
Sources:
- The Secrets of Blackmoor (film)
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Support the show
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
44 min - Finding the Right Table: Inclusion, Friendship, and the Healing Power of TTRPGs
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Finding the Right Table
In this episode, Tori takes the moderator’s chair as Arcadia opens the discussion with one of the most important parts of TTRPGs: finding the right table. Not every group is a good fit, and sometimes the wrong table can sour the whole experience. As the saying goes, no D&D is better than bad D&D. But when you do find the right group, those connections often grow into lifelong friendships.Arcadia reminds us of the heart of the hobby—you don’t just play, you create. Malcolm then shares how gaming is increasingly recognized as a form of therapy. From working through trauma to exploring personal growth, tabletop RPGs offer powerful therapeutic benefits. He highlights the work of Kate Welch and others leading this conversation.
Tori closes with a personal story about how gaming truly saved her life, underscoring just how meaningful this hobby can be.
Sources:
- “The Magic of D&D Can Save Us” — Kate Welch, Time Magazine
- “Tabletop Role-Playing Therapy” — Dr. Megan A. Connell
- Time Magazine Special Edition: Dungeons & Dragons — The Storied Roots by Michael Witwer, p.12
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Support the show
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Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
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A production of WordLeaf Media
50 min - Welcome to the Table: The Changing World of TTRPGs
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Welcome to our table!
We’re three friends with over 100 years of combined TTRPG experience, gathering to talk about one of our favorite pastimes. With Malcolm as moderator, the discussion kicks off as Tori explores how the hobby is becoming more accessible and widely accepted. Increased visibility has brought exciting changes—more inclusivity, more players, and more ways to engage with the game.On the flip side, Arcadia dives into the rise of pay-to-play games. While these offer opportunities for those without a regular group, they can sometimes take away a bit of the social magic that makes TTRPGs so special.
In the end, one thing’s certain: being a geek has never been better.
Our Sources:
Player’s Handbook (Editions 1–6)
Dungeon Master’s Guide (Editions 1–6)
Music Credit:
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi — licensed under CC BY-NC 4.0https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Support the show
https://licensebuttons.net/l/by-nc/4.0/88x31.png
Rise (Epic, Inspirational, Cinematic) by Artur Aravidi is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Contact Us on Our Socials:
A production of WordLeaf Media
44 min
About Finding Atoria
From the publisher's feed
Three friends, each with 30+ years playing and running TTRPGs sit down weekly to tell stories about the games, community and topics surrounding the Table Top Role Playing world.