Today we’re thrilled to welcome Erin Chamberlain. In this episode, Erin delves into the transformative benefits of Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games (TARPGs) within the Queer Community. She clarifies the distinctions between TARPGs and traditional TTRPGs, and shares effective techniques for integrating TARPG activities.
Erin brings two decades of mental health treatment experience, specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Her diverse background spans inpatient, outpatient, community mental health, and emergency services. About seven to eight years ago, Erin embarked on her Dungeons & Dragons journey with a dedicated group that still thrives in two different in-real-life campaigns.
Inspired by the clinical applications of TTRPGs through the Geek Therapeutics Therapeutic GM course, Erin now passionately GMs Therapeutic D&D groups for adults. Join us as we explore her invaluable insights and experiences in this exciting intersection of mental health and role-playing games.
Links:
www.stonecropcounseling.com
https://www.instagram.com/stonecropcounseling
https://www.dmsguild.com/product/195963/Death-in-the-Wood
https://www.dmsguild.com/product/279037/Gardens-of-Fog
https://2minutetabletop.com/
About the Seattle Team:
Forever GM: Conor Galagan-Mead
Therapist: Monique Thakkar
Audio: Chris Parker

In this episode, we welcome Sam "Shammo" Horne, President and Director of Outreach at Games Unbound.

Since 2002, Sam has harnessed the power of role-playing games to help players understand academics, build confidence, and develop social skills. Drawing from his extensive experience as a game master and classroom teacher, Sam shares how gaming can transform lives.

Join us as Sam discusses his journey, the educational potential of role-playing games, and how to create safe and inclusive spaces. Whether you're an educator, game master, or fan of RPGs, Sam’s insights will inspire you to explore the transformative power of play.

https://www.gamesunbound.com/
Twitter: @shammostories

Resources:
Jiangshi: Blood in the Banquet Hall
Naasii: a Coyote and Crow Dice Game
Coyote and Crow TTRPG
The Wolves Strategy Game
Tide Breaker TTRPG
How to Romance Book
Ryuutama: Natural Fantasy RPG
Take This Organization for Games and Mental Health

“No artist is pleased. There is no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer, divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.” ~ Martha Graham

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we are joined by two remarkable guests from Tennessee: Kiela Hinson and Vanessa Davis.

Kiela Hinson is a masters level clinician with a deep passion for the therapeutic benefits of role-playing games. She wrote her thesis on RPGs and wellbeing and is currently assisting with a virtual therapeutic DnD group alongside our supervisor and mentor. Kiela's insights into the intersection of mental health and RPGs bring a unique perspective to our discussion.

Vanessa Davis is a licensed counselor, supervisor, music therapist, drum circle facilitator, and therapeutic game master. With over two years of experience running therapeutic DnD groups for teens and adults, Vanessa recently facilitated a successful DnD Camp for teens. Her diverse expertise in integrating music, drumming, and role-playing games into therapy provides a holistic approach to mental wellness.

Tune in as we, Kiela, and Vanessa explore how role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons can be powerful tools for personal growth, emotional healing, and community building. Discover the magic that happens when therapy and play come together on Roll 4 Insight!
Kiela Hinson

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/kiela-l-hinson-clarksville-tn/1238527
https://www.instagram.com/side_questing_and_therapisting/
Vanessa Davis
https://replenishhere.com/vanessa-davis-nashville-tn/
https://replenishhere.com/role-playing-group-therapy-nashville-tn/
https://replenishhere.com/role-playing-summer-camp-nashville-tn/
https://www.instagram.com/creative_counselor_vanessa?igsh=Nmc4eHg2cXNyYjU2&utm_source=q

Resources:
https://soyouwannabeadm.podbean.com/
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/355433/boop
https://magpiegames.com/pages/avatarrpg
https://www.rainbowrabbits.com/
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/98778/hanabi
https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/207830/5-minute-dungeon
https://gamewright.com/product/Sushi-Go-Party
https://www.colostle.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@Drawfee

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we're joined by the multifaceted Jake Cross, a seasoned Game Master, stand-up comedian, and improv performer. Jake works at the renowned game store Mox Boarding House and has been captivating players with his immersive game sessions for years.

Join us as we dive into Jake's journey to becoming a GM. He shares his personal experiences, from the first time he picked up the GM mantle to the countless adventures he's orchestrated since. Jake opens up about the challenges he faced along the way and the strategies he used to overcome them.

Whether you're a new GM looking for guidance or a seasoned pro seeking fresh insights, Jake's story is sure to inspire. Tune in for practical tips, hilarious anecdotes, and a deeper understanding of the art and craft of game mastering.

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we welcome Jessie Murray, a dedicated therapist and pioneer in the field of Therapeutically Applied Role-Playing Games (TA-RPGs). Jessie began her journey during her last year of grad school, seeking a creative and supportive way to navigate the challenges of the pandemic. What started as a personal project soon transformed into a fulfilling career.

Join us as Jessie shares her inspiring story of integrating TA-RPGs into her therapeutic practice. She discusses the profound impact these games have had on her clients, helping them achieve personal growth and emotional healing through immersive play. Jessie also provides valuable insights on how to market and build an audience for TA-RPGs, ensuring they reach those who can benefit most.

For new GMs and therapists interested in exploring the therapeutic potential of role-playing games, Jessie offers practical tips and strategies to get started. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the power of play in promoting mental wellness.

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we sit down with the prolific Josh Heath, a US Army veteran and multifaceted game industry professional. Since 2017, Josh has written for, published, developed, project managed, and designed layout for over 80 game industry publications, with many more in the pipeline.

Check out:

High Level Games

Keep on the Heathlands

Reach Out Role Playing Games

Or his profile on RPG Geek

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Maryanne Cullinan, a dynamic middle school teacher, TTRPG researcher, and academic who is completing her PhD in Education. Maryanne is at the forefront of exploring the use of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) as an innovative pedagogical tool for middle school students.

Join us as Maryanne shares her groundbreaking research on how TTRPGs can enhance learning experiences, especially for students with multiple disabilities who qualify for extended school year programs through special education. Her insights into the intersection of play and education offer valuable perspectives for educators, game designers, and anyone interested in the power of immersive learning.

Maryanne's work is showcased on her website, Culliopes Cauldron, and she is a founding member of Tabletop EDU. Additionally, she contributes to the RPG Counterpoint blog and is co-writing a book titled "Adventures in Teaching and Learning with TTRPGs", which you can support on Kickstarter.

Known for her unique blend of cleric/cat-herder multiclass with proficiency in teenspeak and charisma-based fighting, Maryanne brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our discussion. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with practical tips, inspiring stories, and a deep dive into the transformative potential of TTRPGs in education.

Find her on Twitter and Discord @culliope

Resources:
Tabletop EDU website
TTRPG Kids website
Danger the Game
No Thank You Evil RPG
Lasers and Feelings RPG
The Witch is Dead RPG

About the Seattle Team:

In this episode, we are joined by the acclaimed Keith Ammann, an ENnie Award–winning writer based in Chicago and a veteran role-playing gamer and game master with over thirty years of experience.

Keith is the author of several popular books on fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons tactics, including Monsters Know What They are Doing: Combat Tactics for Dungeon Masters, MOAR! Monsters Know What They're Doing, and his latest work, How to Defend Your Lair, all published by Saga Press. He also runs the insightful blog, The Monsters Know What They’re Doing.

About the Seattle Team:

Hello everyone it's Monique and Conor!

In this quick teaser we give a brief description and spoilers for our future guests!

Season 1 will premiere September 3rd!