
The Lazy RPG Podcast - D&D and RPG News and GM Prep from Sly Flourish
The Lazy RPG Talk Show and the Lazy GM Prep show. D&D news, commentary, spotlights, Q&A, and lazy GM prep with Mike Shea of Sly Flourish.
Latest episodes

8 snips
May 30, 2025 • 29min
The Third Heaven – Dragon Empire Prep Session 24
In a thrilling campaign session, characters navigate a daring heist's aftermath in the treacherous Dragon Empire. They strategize to disrupt a powerful citadel and face a dragon commander while grappling with the fallout from gold mismanagement. The discussion dives into enhancing character development through secrets and creative map use. Unique treasures are introduced, including a teleporting ship, alongside new monsters to elevate the adventure. Excitement builds as preparations for upcoming wyvern encounters unfold.

7 snips
May 26, 2025 • 1h 2min
Daggerheart Released – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Discover insightful updates and resources for tabletop RPG fans, including the exciting launch of Daggerheart and a deep dive into the Old School Essentials bundle. The conversation highlights creative strategies from 'Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master' for effective game prep. There's also an exploration of new RPG releases like 'Blades in the Dark Deep Cuts,' along with tips for enhancing player experiences in encounters. Plus, valuable discussions on rolling ability scores and managing powerful legacy items round out the talk.

6 snips
May 23, 2025 • 38min
The Shadow Drake – Dragon Empire Prep Session 23
Join the thrilling adventure as characters embark on a daring heist in a dragon vault, battling eerie creatures in the Shadow Realm and confronting a captivating queen. Discover effective methods for crafting challenge-rated encounters in the dangerous city of Nerderan, complete with engaging factions. Witness the transformation of a creature into a shadow drake, enhancing the narrative with intricate character dynamics. Finally, unravel the struggles of the Southern Dragon Coil Legions while customizing magical items for unforgettable RPG adventures.

9 snips
May 19, 2025 • 1h 5min
Gary Gygax's 25 Year D&D Predictions from 1999 – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Dive into the fascinating world of tabletop RPGs! Discover insights on adapting 'Lord of the Rings' for D&D 5E and explore Gary Gygax's ambitious 1999 predictions for D&D's future. Check out the unique gameplay of Neon City Outlaws, showcasing the evolution of RPGs and the growing influence of tech. Learn how strategic 'lightning rods' can enhance gameplay by complementing character abilities. Lastly, ponder the humorous impact of AI in traditional RPG experiences—will it take over the game?

8 snips
May 16, 2025 • 26min
Court of Winter's Love – Dragon Empire Prep Session 23
Dive into a thrilling campaign prep as heroes escape a castle while contending with the Blue Barbers, cunning smuggler assassins. The intricacies of fey court politics unfold, revealing choices between negotiation and hidden dangers. Explore the detailed landscapes of the Shadow Realm and meet the enigmatic Queen Kalliser. New gameplay mechanics and character development are examined, providing fresh ideas for RPG enthusiasts. Plus, essential strategies for organizing game sessions make this a treasure trove for any GM.

8 snips
May 12, 2025 • 1h 7min
Three 5E Systems in One Game – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Explore the exciting realm of integrating multiple D&D 5E systems in the same campaign! Discover how players navigated their preferences in a unique City of Arches setting. Dive into the intricacies of stealth mechanics, examining player negotiation and the latest game updates. Delve into the advantages and challenges of one-on-one gameplay, highlighting the Sherlock Holmes and Watson dynamic. Plus, get insights on managing character options and the Artisanal Monster Database filled with creative monsters!

7 snips
May 9, 2025 • 31min
The Scholar's Path – Dragon Empire Prep Session 22
Get ready for an adventure in the Dragon Empire! Dive into crafting magical items like the northern wind battle axe, which can unleash an ice storm. Discover the tangled web of character backgrounds and the hefty gold complications that come with fortune. As the heroes toast their dragon victory, they face a daunting assassination mission ahead. Explore the mysterious Scholar's Path with its secrets, guardians, and twists, ensuring every moment is packed with excitement for game masters and players!

6 snips
May 5, 2025 • 1h 7min
Chessex Battle Mat Deep Dive – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Dive into the latest tabletop RPG news, from exciting Kickstarter projects like Fury of the Forsaken to valuable updates for GMs. Discover the pros and cons of Chessex Battle Mats versus Pathfinder Flipmats, focusing on durability and usability. Explore strategies for multi-wave encounters and the impact of character motivations. Gain insights on managing monster difficulty and adjusting challenge ratings for a more engaging gameplay experience. Whether you're a seasoned DM or a newcomer, there's a wealth of useful tips to enhance your RPG sessions!

6 snips
May 2, 2025 • 28min
Sunray – Dragon Empire Prep Session 21
Mike gears up for an exciting infiltration mission in the Dragon Empire. Players strategize to undermine the empire's wealth while facing formidable challenges, including ghostly guardians and a young copper dragon. They must make tough decisions about resource management and navigate family dynamics amidst a looming threat from spies. The adventure unfolds with strategic planning for the Maradi armies, blending character skills with potential mission failures, all while engaging the audience through interactive content.

7 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 60min
Is WOTC a Good Steward of D&D? – Lazy RPG Talk Show
D&D and RPG news and commentary by Mike Shea of https://slyflourish.com
Contents
00:00 Show Start
01:04 Sly Flourish News: Ruins of the Grendleroot On Sale
04:42 Sly Flourish News: 5e Artisanal Monster Database Updated with D&D 2025 MM Monsters
07:42 Sly Flourish News: New Articles and Podcasts
10:04 Kickstarter Spotlight: Knock Issue 5 from Merry Mushman
13:17 D&D & RPG News: 5.2 SRD Released into the Creative Commons
22:07 Commentary: What can GM's Do with the 5.2 SRD?
27:40 Commentary: A Look at Mike's Little Candles -- Is WOTC Being a Good Steward of the Hobby?
45:36 D&D & RPG News: D&D 2024 Errata
49:34 DM Tip: Using Physical Book At the Table
Links
Ruins of the Grendleroot On Sale for $5
Subscribe to the Sly Flourish Newsletter
Support Sly Flourish on Patreon
Buy Sly Flourish Books:
Knock Kickstarter
5.2 SRD Page
5.2 SRD PDF
D&D 2024 PHB Errata
D&D 2024 DMG Errata
D&D 2024 MM Errata