Best Worldbuilding wizard Podcasts (2025)

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Factions: The #1 Trick to Raising Stakes in Your TTRPG | Wizards of Eem Podcast EP014 18:07

Play Pause

4d ago18:07

18:07

Send us a text Have you ever wondered why some tabletop RPG campaigns feel vibrant, dramatic, and full of intrigue—while others fall flat? In this episode of the Wizards of Eem Podcast, we’re diving deep into the power of factions and why they’re the ultimate tool for raising the stakes in your TTRPG. Factions aren’t just background flavor—they’re …

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FM-11 | Full Moon Assessment 2:03:13

11d ago2:03:13

2:03:13

This is our second "book assessment" episode. It contains a higher level discussion of Fool Moon along with an examination of the stats collected during our read through and some fun rating and rankings of the characters and books. Check out our new Patreon (patreon.com/RNTPod), where we'll post our episodes detailing all Dresden content outside th…

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Episode 127 - A Host of Horrors 2:44:34

16d ago2:44:34

2:44:34

The host of the Null comes forth! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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SF-13 | New Reader Reactions 1:33:28

18d ago1:33:28

1:33:28

This week on a very special episode of Recorded Neutral Territory: Patrick and Charlotte join the show to discuss their reaction to Storm Front as brand new readers to the series. (00:00) - Intro (03:20) - Overall Thoughts & Comparisons (09:48) - Plot and Mystery Analysis (25:03) - Thoughts on Dresden as a Character (48:21) - Other Characters (01:0…

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FM-10 | Who Warned Denton and Why? 1:18:22

25d ago1:18:22

1:18:22

On this week's episode we cover the last 4 chapters of Fool Moon: Ch. 31 (Part 2) - Team Dresden is thrown in the pit, and Marcone is strung up like bait. Ch. 32 - Team Dresden escapes from the pit (with Marcone’s help), defeats the FBI agents, and then Harry and Murphy stay to confront the Loup Garu. Ch. 33 - Harry tries to free Marcone quietly, b…

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The Science Bros Answer Your Science Questions, Part 2, ft. Rob & Jon Mound 48:33

29d ago48:33

48:33

You guys had so many science questions that our resident scientists couldn't answer them all in just one episode! In this episode, Rob & Jon Mound tackle important questions such as time travel, the mutability or lack thereof of the laws of physics, and dragon taxonomy. Also, why we are not going to Mars. Show Notes: The Forever War, Joe Haldeman T…

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FM-09 | Does everyone see the same thing when they gaze Harry? 58:33

1M ago58:33

58:33

Check out our new show logo: https://i.imgur.com/cNTXfjt.jpeg Ch. 28 - Harry sends the wolves to come in from a broken section of wall while he climbs over. Ch. 29 - Harry watches the last of his allies fall to tranq darts. He is now truly alone inside Marcone’s estate. Ch. 30 - Harry captures Denton and tries to reason with him, but Denton reveals…

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How to Be A Great Player at the RPG Table | Wizards of Eem Podcast EP013 16:21

1M ago16:21

16:21

Send us a text What makes a good player at the table? In this episode of the Wizards of Eem podcast, we dive into what it means to bring your best self to a game of Land of Eem—and really, any TTRPG. From bold roleplay to embracing failure, we explore how to make every session more fun, not just for you, but for your whole group. We break down the …

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FM-08 | How does a wizard's stamina work? 1:14:53

1M ago1:14:53

1:14:53

In chapters 24 through 27, Harry manages to escape the battle in the Fool Moon garage, interrogate Agent Harris, flee the scene and find a quiet moment with Susan to discuss their relationship. (00:00) - Intro (02:14) - Ch. 24 - Harry cowering in the garage (23:31) - Ch. 25 - The Interrogation of Roger Harris (34:12) - Ch. 26 - The Burger King (of …

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Episode 126 - Princely Portal Pursuits 2:46:51

2M ago2:46:51

2:46:51

The group puts a plan together to find a lost royal. JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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FM-07 | What's the Deal with Shadow Harry? 1:08:06

2M ago1:08:06

1:08:06

Chapters 20 through 23 include Harry's first conversation with Shadow Harry, getting captured by the Streetwolves, and Harry managing to escape to hide in the back of the Fool Moon garage just as Denton, Marcone, and the Streetwolves tear into teach other. (00:00) - Intro (01:59) - Ch. 20 - Meeting Shadow Harry (13:05) - Ch. 21 - He jumped out of t…

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The Science Bros Answer Your Science Questions, Part 1, ft. Rob & Jon Mound 1:01:16

2M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

Suspension of disbelief is a cornerstone of speculative fiction, but as writers and fans, we often find ourselves wondering just how grounded in reality our favourite stories really are. We asked you, our listeners, for questions like: What would happen if I went through a wormhole? Does a Star Trek transporter just kill you and create a new copy o…

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FM-06 | Carmichael Assessment 1:34:14

2M ago1:34:14

1:34:14

Chapter 17 includes Harry sneaking into SI, but finding out he's too late to put a cage around the Loup Garu. MacFinn tears through prisoners, and then comes for Harry. Chapter 18 starts with Murphy saving Harry's life using inherited silver bullets. This allows Harry to back off and take a breather, where he realizes that the silver bullets caused…

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FM-05 | What Can a Wizard Gaze? 1:16:01

2M ago1:16:01

1:16:01

In Chapters 14 through 16 of Fool Moon: Harry's gunshot wound is treated by Tera, who leads him to MacFinn. He shares information with Harry, but not enough to draw any conclusions. Then the whole group gets scattered when the cops show up, and Harry/Tera/Susan go back to his apartment for supplies. (00:00) - Intro (01:33) - Ch. 14 - Tera the Comba…

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Episode 125 - Past Pandemonium Part 2 2:41:37

2M ago2:41:37

2:41:37

Temptation comes calling. JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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FM-04 | Who Killed Harry's Parents? 1:19:13

3M ago1:19:13

1:19:13

In Chapters 11, 12, and 13 of Fool Moon, Harry calls up a demon for information, examines Kim Delaney's murder scene, and barely avoids getting arrested with the help of Tara West. (00:00) - Intro (02:05) - Ch. 11 - Summoning Chauncy (22:40) - Ch. 12 - Kim Delaney's Body (45:40) - Ch. 13 - Escape From The Feds with Tera's Help (53:59) - QfB: Who Ki…

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Episode 124 - Past Pandemonium 2:56:47

3M ago2:56:47

2:56:47

The journey into the past comes to a head! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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FM-03 | What mortal magic is the most unusual? 1:07:39

3M ago1:07:39

1:07:39

In chapters 8, 9, and 10: Harry will pass off his werewolf report to Agent Denton, and receive a wild goose chase in return. Upon reaching the Fool Moon garage, Harry bumbles the interrogation and instead of leaving with answers, he leaves with more enemies. Finally, Marcone confronts Harry and offers him a deal, but is forced, instead, to accept H…

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Against Hopepunk ft. Nick Mamatas 45:07

3M ago45:07

45:07

Sci-fi and fantasy has always had an optimistic current, whether it’s utopian space-age cities or noble chosen ones vanquishing a dark lord. In recent years, with the popularity of romantasy and cozy fantasy, it’s easier than ever to immerse yourself in a more hopeful world. But what if instead we made you feel bad? In this wide-ranging conversatio…

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Random Encounters: The Secret to Effortless GMing | Wizards of Eem EP012 18:41

3M ago18:41

18:41

Send us a text Random encounters aren’t just filler—they add depth, immersion, and flexibility to your tabletop roleplaying games! Whether you're running a sandbox campaign or following a published adventure, random encounters provide the juice for entire sessions, making your world feel alive and unpredictable. In this episode, Ben Costa and James…

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FM-02 | What's the dumbest thing anyone's done? 1:34:37

3M ago1:34:37

1:34:37

Harry continues to fumble his relationship with Murphy in this set of chapters (5, 6, & 7). We also meet the Alphas for the first time, and learn about all the different types of werewolves while Bob helps Harry make two potions that definitely won't backfire later in the book. (00:00) - Intro (00:52) - Ch. 5 - Meeting the Alphas (17:18) - Ch. 6 - …

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Episode 123 - Scene Skipping 2:24:39

3M ago2:24:39

2:24:39

We're tying up some loose ends and getting to the point! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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Fool Moon - 01 | What if Kim Told The Truth? 1:02:25

3M ago1:02:25

1:02:25

We're off to a quick start in our analysis of Fool Moon. This episode discusses the first 4 chapters of the second book, consisting of Harry's inauspicious meeting with Kim Delaney, Murphy dragging him to the Crime scene, a tense standoff with FBI Agents, and a reconciliation between Harry and Murphy. Finally, our Question for Bob discusses how thi…

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The Case for Imbalanced Combat | Wizards of Eem EP011 15:30

3M ago15:30

15:30

Send us a text Wizards of Eem EP011 – The Case for Imbalanced Combat Are you a GM tired of building "perfectly balanced" encounters? In this episode, we explore why Land of Eem embraces unfair fights—and how imbalance leads to better stories. Topics include: Why imbalance creates tension, surprise, and creativity How Land of Eem’s conflict system r…

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The Easiest Way to Run TTRPGs for Kids | Wizards of Eem EP010 13:27

4M ago13:27

13:27

Send us a text Are you a parent or educator looking to introduce tabletop roleplaying games to kids? TTRPGs aren’t just fun—they build social skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities while keeping kids off screens! As new dads, Ben Costa and James Parks wanted to create an RPG that kids can pick up and play without the complexity of tradit…

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SF-12 | Assessing Storm Front 1:48:51

4M ago1:48:51

1:48:51

We've finished our chapter by chapter re-read of Storm Front, but we're not done yet. This episode dives into the unresolved questions around this book. We start with an additional analysis of the book's major beats and best scenes. We then examine Harry's use of Magic and Gadgets within this book, and we then rank his relationships with other char…

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We Failed Every Roll…and it was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009 16:57

4M ago16:57

16:57

Send us a text We Failed Every Roll... and It Was GLORIOUS | Wizards of Eem EP009 June 20, 2025 | Actual Play Tips & GM Advice In this episode of the Wizards of Eem podcast, we explore one of the most powerful storytelling tools in tabletop RPGs: failure. Join us as we break down the Land of Eem’s unique dice system and the mechanics that make fail…

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The Ur-Pisode: The Queer Heart of The Epic of Gilgamesh, ft. Julian Gunn 54:30

4M ago54:30

54:30

For 4000 years, The Epic of Gilgamesh has influenced mythology, theology, and literature, and its rediscovery in the 1850s is itself an epic tale of war, theft, and Hobby Lobby. A meditation on love and death, rage and grief, civilization and nature, starring two problematic queer frat boys, it is the foundation of so many of our stories. In this e…

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SF-11 | What Could Harry Have Done Differently? 1:30:45

4M ago1:30:45

1:30:45

This week we're discussing the final 3 chapters of Storm Front (25, 26, and 27). Harry finally confronts the Shadowman, decides to sacrifice himself to stop him, and then gets rescued anyway. The story concludes Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: What Could Harry Have Done Differently*? (00:00) - Intro (00:49) - Ch. 25 Harry Ente…

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Episode 122 - Deputized Desperado Dismantles Dwarven Devices 1:57:02

4M ago1:57:02

1:57:02

Isla concocts an unexpected diversion! JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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SF-10 | How Does Air Magic Work? 1:24:05

4M ago1:24:05

1:24:05

This week we're delving into chapters 22-24 of Storm Front. This includes Harry fighting against the Scorpion, his confrontation with Morgan at Macs, and his confrontation against his own darker nature outside the lake house. Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: How does Air Magic Work with Physics? (00:00) - Intro (01:49) - Ch. 22…

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SF-09 | What's the Enemy's Plan? 1:20:10

5M ago1:20:10

1:20:10

This week we're tackling chapters 18, 19, 20, and most of 21. We explore the information presented about Harry's father, Malcom Dresden. Next, we discuss Harry's confrontations with the Photographer and Monica Sells until ultimately, Monica cracks the case wide open for him. Finally, we dive into our question for Bob this week: What was the Enemy's…

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Episode 121 - Divine Disappointments 2:12:12

5M ago2:12:12

2:12:12

Salai learns something unexpected. JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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Unleash Dynamic Monsters: How to Make Engaging Creatures | Wizards of Eem EP008 14:19

5M ago14:19

14:19

Send us a text Unleash Dynamic Monsters: How to Make Engaging Creatures for TTRPGs In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we explore how to create truly memorable monster encounters in your tabletop RPG sessions. Monsters shouldn't just be bags of hit points—they can be fully realized characters that shape your story in unexpected ways. We cover how to…

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SF-08 | Why isn't Thaumaturgy Weaponized More Often? 1:06:33

5M ago1:06:33

1:06:33

This week we're exploring chapters 15, 16, and 17. Harry is at his lowest point, blaming himself for Linda's death, lying to Murphy, and then, having his hair stolen by one of Marcone's thugs! The final chapter of this episode examines the first time we see a wizard going 'all out', as Harry blasts his way into the Varsity to confront Marcone. Fina…

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Blight, ft. Rachel A. Rosen 49:28

5M ago49:28

49:28

Break out the cake, balloons, and gigantic bone tentacles, it's season 2 of Wizards & Spaceships! Rachel has a new book out, Blight, the sequel to her first novel, Cascade. In this episode, you get a behind-the-scenes look at the newest instalment in the Sleep of Reason series. And did you know that tomorrow is Rachel's birthday? Why not celebrate …

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Why Adventures Fall Flat (And How to Fix Them) | Wizards of Eem EP007 14:14

5M ago14:14

14:14

Send us a text Struggling to Hook Your Players? 4 Keys to Better RPG Adventures | Wizards of Eem Podcast Do your RPG sessions fall flat? Are players ignoring your carefully planned quests? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we reveal the four essential elements that make any tabletop RPG adventure instantly more engaging—no matter the system you pl…

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SF-07 | What makes a great fight scene? 1:17:59

5M ago1:17:59

1:17:59

This week we tackle Chapters 13 and 14, which contains the first fight scene in the series, along with the first use of combat magic! Adam discuses the setup of the fight, while Brian discusses the conjugations of Latin nouns. Of course, we also find some time to discuss the fight with the Toad Demon, itself. Finally, we dive into our question for …

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Worldbuilding Factions with Martha Wells (Part 2) 30:12

6M ago30:12

30:12

How do protagonists and villains get things done in your world? Probably not all by themselves! Factions - whether they're religious, corporate, political or trade organizations - are a VITAL part of your worldbuilding, adding spicy conflict when interests don't align. Join Janet and the AMAZING Martha Wells (The Murderbot Diaries) as they discuss …

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Worldbuilding Factions with Martha Wells (Part 1) 29:15

6M ago29:15

29:15

How do protagonists and villains get things done in your world? Probably not all by themselves! Factions - whether they're religious, corporate, political or trade organizations - are a VITAL part of your worldbuilding, adding spicy conflict when interests don't align. Join Janet and the AMAZING Martha Wells (The Murderbot Diaries) as they discuss …

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SF-06 | What Changes When Rampires Turn? 56:33

6M ago56:33

56:33

This week we're covering Storm Front chapters 10, 11, and 12. In these chapters, Harry follows up on some leads, gets a concussion, ruminates on the case with Murphy, and passes out. Brian and Adam dig in to the interesting questions these chapters present. Why did Linda Randall change her mind about talking to Dresden? Why was the Three-Eye junkie…

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Your NPCs Are Boring! Here’s How to Fix Them! | Wizards of Eem EP006 13:34

6M ago13:34

13:34

Send us a text How to Create Unforgettable NPCs for Your Tabletop RPG | Wizards of Eem Podcast Want to make NPCs that your players will actually care about? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we uncover the secret to creating memorable, fully realized NPCs that drive your story forward. Learn how to give every non-player character real motivations,…

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Episode 120 - Interstitial Insight 2:41:38

6M ago2:41:38

2:41:38

The group speaks with someone familiar. JOIN OUR DISCORD Help support the show by visiting our Patreon and find even more content on our Website! Intro/Outro Music “Jotunheim (Chiptune Version)” Courtesy of Rush Coil Original Composition by Serpent Sound StudiosBy The Pod Called Quest

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Crafting Creatures That Make Scientific Sense with Shirin Sheppard (Part 2) 26:37

6M ago26:37

26:37

We're joined by illustrator and creature designer Shirin Sheppard to talk about making monsters that make scientific sense! How could dragons actually breathe fire? When do you reference real-world biology - and when do you leave it behind? Bring your creature questions to this fun interview! https://www.facebook.com/shirinillustration/ WORLDBUILD …

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Crafting Creatures That Make Scientific Sense with Shirin Sheppard (Part 1) 31:06

6M ago31:06

31:06

We're joined by illustrator and creature designer Shirin Sheppard to talk about making monsters that make scientific sense! How could dragons actually breathe fire? When do you reference real-world biology - and when do you leave it behind? Bring your creature questions to this fun interview! https://www.facebook.com/shirinillustration/ WORLDBUILD …

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Why Monster Hunters Matter with Laura Anne Gilman (Part 1) 32:32

6M ago32:32

32:32

Join us as we chat with best-selling fantasy author Laura Anne Gilman about writing MONSTER HUNTERS. Whether you're talking historical fantasy, urban fantasy or gothic horror, these iconic characters stalk the night. Let's discuss tropes, tips, and what these archetypal heroes add to your games and stories. https://www.lauraannegilman.net/ WORLDBUI…

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Why Monster Hunters Matter with Laura Anne Gilman (Part 2) 33:24

6M ago33:24

33:24

Join us as we chat with best-selling fantasy author Laura Anne Gilman about writing MONSTER HUNTERS. Whether you're talking historical fantasy, urban fantasy or gothic horror, these iconic characters stalk the night. Let's discuss tropes, tips, and what these archetypal heroes add to your games and stories. https://www.lauraannegilman.net/ WORLDBUI…

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The Lord of the Rings meets The Muppets?! Why Tone Matters in TTRPGs! | Wizards of Eem EP005 15:58

6M ago15:58

15:58

Send us a text How does tone affect your tabletop RPG sessions? In this episode of Wizards of Eem, we explore how shifting adventure tone—Hijinks, Derring-Do, and Doom & Gloom—can transform your game. Whether you're running a lighthearted fantasy romp or a grimdark perilous quest, tone directly impacts player engagement, story pacing, and memorable…

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SF-05 | Is The "Doom" the Best Option? 1:19:40

6M ago1:19:40

1:19:40

This week we explore chapters 8 and 9 of Storm Front; asking questions like: "Why do potions get phased out of the series?" and "What limitations does Bob have with regard to Harry's control?" We also spend some time exploring Murphy's flaw in this early book before moving on to one of the most impactful scenes in the series: Harry's first confront…

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Transhumanism and AI ft. Robert J. Sawyer 1:00:03

6M ago1:00:03

1:00:03

It's been an entire year of Wizards & Spaceships! Thank you for coming along with us on this wild and magical space ride. You can't turn on the news or doomscroll social media without hearing about how AI will revolutionize everything. Unfortunately, the worst people in the world seem to be in charge of it. In this episode, we talk to sci-fi legend…

Worldbuilding Wizard Podcasts