Roll 4 Insight

Roll 4 Insight

Welcome to Roll 4 Insight, the show where the dice are always on our side and wellness is on our mind. Join us for engaging conversations with experienced Game Masters and Therapists as we explore the intersection of wellness and play. We'll delve into the creative process and explore the psychological aspects of immersive role playing games, discovering how they can be used for personal growth, mental health, and self-discovery. Additionally we will share our expertise on running various types of immersive games, crafting compelling characters, and building immersive worlds.

Episodes

  1. 11/19/2024

    Ep. 06 - Kiela Hinson & Supervisor: Vanessa Davis - Therapy with Dice?!?!?

    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: Forever GM: ⁠Conor Galagan-Mead ⁠ Therapist: ⁠Monique Thakkar⁠ Audio: ⁠Chris Parker⁠

    49 min
  2. 10/09/2024

    Ep. 03 - Josh Heath - Building Bridges Through Stories with an Army Vet GM

    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 Join us as Josh shares his impressive journey, from serving in the military to becoming a pivotal figure in the game industry. We explore his passion for storytelling and his dedication to helping not-for-profits achieve their communication goals. Josh delves into his experience running five successful crowdfunding campaigns and consulting on three others, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to bring their projects to life. Josh's skills in engaging audiences, mediating, actively listening, and educating are at the forefront of our discussion. He talks about his commitment to amplifying less-heard voices and using technology to make a meaningful impact. Whether you're a seasoned game industry professional or just starting out, Josh's story and expertise are sure to inspire and inform. Tune in to discover the secrets behind Josh Heath's success and learn how to harness the power of storytelling and community-building in the world of games. About the Seattle Team: Forever GM: Conor Galagan-Mead Therapist: Monique Thakkar Audio: Chris Parker

    53 min
  3. 09/17/2024

    Ep. 2 - Maryanne Cullinan - Teaching Kids with Tabletop Adventures

    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: Forever GM: Conor Galagan-Mead Therapist: Monique Thakkar Audio: Chris Parker

    1h 2m
  4. 09/04/2024

    Ep. 1 - Keith Ammann - How to Know Your Monsters

    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. Join us as Keith shares his deep knowledge of monster tactics and game mastery, providing invaluable advice for Dungeon Masters looking to elevate their games. We'll delve into the nuances of combat strategy, the art of playing non-player characters and monsters, and the joy of crafting memorable gaming experiences. Keith is known for his unique character portrayals, often playing outwardly abrasive helpers, out-of-their-element helpers, and genuinely nice, helpful helpers. In this episode, he offers insights into his creative process and the skills needed to bring a game to life. Whether you're a seasoned DM or new to the role, Keith's expertise and enthusiasm will inspire and equip you with practical tips to enhance your game. Don't miss this engaging conversation with one of the leading voices in the D&D community. About the Seattle Team: Forever GM: Conor Galagan-Mead Therapist: Monique Thakkar Audio: Chris Parker

    55 min

About

Welcome to Roll 4 Insight, the show where the dice are always on our side and wellness is on our mind. Join us for engaging conversations with experienced Game Masters and Therapists as we explore the intersection of wellness and play. We'll delve into the creative process and explore the psychological aspects of immersive role playing games, discovering how they can be used for personal growth, mental health, and self-discovery. Additionally we will share our expertise on running various types of immersive games, crafting compelling characters, and building immersive worlds.