Dungeon Master Tips – Page 5

The (Almost Hidden) D&D “Further Resources”

While working on my video about the D&D for Kids “Build an Adventure” kit, I noticed a section on the Wizards of the Coast website that I’d never really paid attention to: the “Resources” tab. So in this video, I took some time to dive into it and see what’s really there—and how it can…

Managing & Dungeons & Dragons

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how the best Dungeon Masters and the best managers often share similar skills and philosophies. Both roles are all about understanding the team, working with a wide range of talents, and helping everyone feel engaged in the mission—whether that mission is saving a kingdom or completing a work…

How to Play D&D for Free! (or Almost Free)

With all the talk around new editions and the shift to digital tools, it’s easy to worry that playing D&D might start getting expensive. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a mountain of books or a shiny subscription to get rolling. In this video, I share some of my favorite ways to play…

How to Create Memorable NPCs for D&D

One of my favorite parts of running a D&D game is creating NPCs that feel real—characters who aren’t just static quest-givers or background filler, but who come alive and become memorable parts of your players’ journey. By definition, NPCs (non-player characters) are anyone the DM controls: allies, enemies, townsfolk, or that one rival the players…

Running an Intermission Session for D&D

Back in my post about running Session Zero, I talked about how valuable it is to get everyone on the same page before starting a campaign. But what happens when things pop up mid-game—stuff you didn’t see coming? Maybe something’s not clicking, or maybe the energy at the table has shifted in a way you…

D&D for Kids | The Advantages of Family D&D Sessions

Family game night can be more than just a few rounds of cards or a board game rivalry—it can be an adventure that lasts for years. In this episode of our D&D for Kids series, I explore how D&D can be a collaborative and creative experience for the whole family. Fun and ConnectionD&D is an…

D&D for Kids | Encouraging Roleplay

Role-playing is at the heart of D&D—especially for kids, it’s a chance to build confidence, explore creativity, and have a lot of fun. In this video, I share a few tips on how to encourage kids to dive into that role-play experience and make the game their own. One thing I’ve noticed over the years:…

Inadvertent Gatekeeping in Fandoms

Today’s post is a little different from the usual format. In this video, I’m not reading from a script or sharing a carefully structured list of tips. Instead, I wanted to talk openly about something that’s been on my mind: inadvertent gatekeeping in fandoms. I watched a great video by Super Geek Mike that really…

D&D for Kids | How to Run a Roleplaying Game for Kids

Dungeons & Dragons is an amazing tool for teaching kids essential skills—teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and even some math. But running a D&D game for kids isn’t always the same as running a game for adults. In this video, I share some key tips to make your table a fun, safe, and accessible place for younger…

How to Use Dungeon Master Screen Notes

When you see a Dungeon Master’s screen propped up at the table, it’s more than just a dramatic prop. It’s a tool packed with quick-reference notes, improvisational cues, and rules reminders that make the DM’s job a whole lot easier. In this video, I take you behind my screen to show you exactly what I…