
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

Apr 18, 2025 • 31min
Graymist – Dragon Empire Prep Session 20
Join in on the thrilling preparations for a tabletop RPG session in a haunted citadel as characters navigate perilous encounters with wraiths and winter wolves. Discover strategic paths, potential allies, and enemies while unearthing intriguing treasures like a haunted glass eyeball. Delve into the challenges of navigating a complex economic system in the Maradi Empire. Plus, get insights on organizing materials for an exciting game session and learn about new resources to enhance your RPG experience!

9 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 1h 9min
How RPGs Die – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Delve into the recent shakeup at Wizards of the Coast as key figures depart, potentially reshaping the future of D&D. Explore the rise of one-on-one RPG sessions that enhance player agency. Discover insights on the evolution toward D&D's sixth edition and the state of the Old School Renaissance. Get tips for using index cards as a prep tool and learn about revamped Beholder tactics from the new Monster Manual. Plus, engage with community resources that enrich the RPG experience.

Apr 11, 2025 • 39min
The Blackspire Heist – Dragon Empire Prep Session 19
Dive into the thrilling preparations for a campaign featuring a dragon's roost and strategic game map design. Explore the characters' perilous quest to the obsidian keep, battling winter wolves and navigating political alliances. Discover the intricate financial logistics of funding an army, including the tricky calculations of managing mercenary costs. Finally, uncover the treasures and creative tactics behind an upcoming heist, complete with clever strategies for transporting copious amounts of gold.

13 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
WOTC Was Right! – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Dive into the world of tabletop RPGs as a new Kickstarter campaign takes the spotlight. Discover the implications of Chris Perkins' exit from Wizards of the Coast and how tariffs are reshaping the industry. Enjoy a lively discussion on the balance between copyright and community creativity, while also exploring strategies for battling a Dracolich. Plus, get practical DM tips on character building and managing player perceptions. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their gaming experience!

8 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 42min
Path to Blackspire – Dragon Empire Prep Session 18
Mike dives into preparations for his Tales of the Valiant Dragon Empire campaign. The group faces ghost walker ettins and humorous game mechanics mishaps, leading to mysterious discoveries. Political intrigue unfolds with characters entangled in smuggler schemes and rivalries. They explore the obsidian fortress of Black Spire and its enigmatic guardians. Encounter balancing becomes crucial as players strategize against winter wolves, all while crafting immersive adventures filled with colorful NPCs and rich lore.

12 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 57min
Memoirs of a Dracolich – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Dive into the world of tabletop RPGs with exciting insights on Kickstarter projects like Free5e and the Alien RPG Evolved Edition. Explore the potential impact of a Creative Commons 5e RPG for global accessibility. Engage with the challenges of running high-stakes encounters featuring formidable Dracoliches. Uncover tips on flexible rules and strategic initiative handling in combat to enhance player experiences. Plus, discover the latest discussions on D&D 2024's stealth mechanics and promote better online gameplay behavior!

16 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 1h 12min
Sigil's Demise – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Explore the latest in D&D and RPG news, including intriguing Humble Bundles and the fate of Sigil. Delve into the Zaminora Ballad of the Witch Kickstarter while discussing community reactions to the cancellation of the Sigil virtual tabletop. Gain insights into optimizing gameplay without sacrificing fun and learn how to balance player choices through innovative mechanics. Discover the nuances of running Level Up Advanced 5E compared to standard D&D, highlighting player preferences for gameplay complexity.

8 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 42min
Shopping Cliffhanger – Dragon Empire Prep Session 17
Join Mike as he dives into the thrilling preparations for his Dragon Empire campaign. The plot thickens with a daring hijack of a dragon-linked smuggling operation, complete with magical portals and rival allies. Discover unique treasures and character lore that add depth to the game. Exciting locations like the 'Forgotten Shrine of Nackrash' and abandoned sewers are revealed as potential adventure spots. Mike shares insights on crafting balanced narratives and keeping players engaged, while offering strategic game-master tips.

7 snips
Mar 17, 2025 • 59min
Shadowdark Love-Fest – Lazy RPG Talk Show
Dive into the world of RPGs with fascinating insights on the Beyond the Woods Kickstarter, exploring its Irish folklore ties. Uncover the mechanics of the Shadowdark RPG, especially the exciting Western Reaches edition. Discussions around pricing and house rules reveal how these elements enhance gameplay. Alternatives to cultists, like mercenaries, offer new storytelling opportunities. Plus, discover tips for creating engaging adventures for novice players that keep them returning for more!

Mar 14, 2025 • 37min
The Sunless Stream – Dragon Empire Prep Session 16
Mike prepares the next session of his Tales of the Valiant Dragon Empire campaign.
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