Epic Realms Podcast

Join us on this episode of Epic Realms as we welcome author and storyteller Nathan Crowder! Creator of the superhero universe Cobalt City, Nathan blends comic book flair with literary grit. We talk about writing, world-building, tabletop RPG's, Influences, and how a childhood shaped by books, and RPGs led to an award-winning career in speculative fiction. https://nathan-crowder.com/

This week on Epic Realms, Nick welcomes author Paul G. Vecchiet, writer of the thought-provoking novel The Disclosure Paradox. In this episode, we dive into the real-life experiences that inspired Paul's speculative fiction, including his time as a U.S. Air Force Civil Engineer and the discovery of cryogenics in unexpected military blueprints. We explore themes of meditation, spiritual awakening, skepticism of religion, and the connections between consciousness and the UFO and UAP phenomena. Paul shares how his own journey parallels that of the book's main character, and we discuss what's next in his universe, including the upcoming prequel and sequel to The Disclosure Paradox. If you're fascinated by government secrets, spiritual mysteries, and the unknown, this is an episode you won't want to miss. https://thedisclosureparadox.com/ Check out our Sponsor - Hello Fresh https://strms.net/hellofresh_epic_realms Or Use Code: POGHF158359 at Checkout

In this episode of Epic Realms, Nick is joined by author and writer Kelli Fitzpatrick. Kelli is a science fiction writer, game writer, and teacher. She is the author of Captain Marvel: Carol Danvers Declassified (BenBella Books, 2025) and a contributing writer for the Star Trek Adventures roleplaying game from Modiphius. Her story “The Sunwalkers” won the 2016 Strange New Worlds contest from Simon and Schuster. Her short fiction has been published by Baen Books, Crazy 8 Press, Flash Fiction Online, and more. She also writes essays on sci-fi pop culture for outlets like StarTrek.com, Women at Warp, and anthologies from Sequart and ATB Publishing. Kelli has even written for NASA's Hubble outreach and Arizona State University's Interplanetary Initiative. On top of it all, she has more than a decade of experience teaching high school and college courses. We talk about her early life and the geeky inspirations that led her into writing, watching Star Trek with her family, playing board games, and how those experiences sparked a love for storytelling. During National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), Kelli challenged her students to join her in writing a novel, which inspired her to later submit a story to a Star Trek fiction contest that she ended up winning. That moment opened the door to a whole new world. We also dive into her many anthology projects, how she joined Modiphius, and her unexpected but rewarding introduction to tabletop roleplaying games. She shares how RPGs have helped her grow as a writer and how they can benefit others too. Plus, we talk about her passion for Marvel and her recent Carol Danvers Marvel book, how the character shaped her fandom and why getting to tell that story was such a meaningful opportunity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends fandom, education, creativity, and the power of storytelling.

This special charity livestream for AIM Youth Mental Health featured bestselling author Michael Witwer as we explored the rich history of Dungeons & Dragons. From the game's origins with Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson to its lasting impact on pop culture, we covered the creators' influences, original monsters, and behind-the-scenes stories. We also took audience questions live during the show for an interactive look at the world's most iconic roleplaying game. If you are interested in checking out or helping with AIM Youth Mental Health see our link below! https://aimymh.org/

In this episode of Epic Realms, we sit down with legendary author and game designer Bruce Nesmith to explore his incredible career spanning decades of storytelling. From his early days at TSR, crafting unforgettable adventures for Dungeons & Dragons in settings like Ravenloft and Spelljammer, to his influential work as a freelancer across the tabletop RPG industry, Bruce has helped shape the worlds we love. We dive into his time at Bethesda, where he played key roles in iconic titles like Skyrim, Fallout, and Starfield. Now enjoying retirement, Bruce continues to share his imagination through original fantasy novels. This is an unforgettable conversation with a true titan of fantasy and gaming! ---------------------- Check out our Sponsor Factor75 - Chef made meals delivered to your door! Use my link to get 50% off and free shipping on your first Factor box! https://strms.net/factor75_epic_realms Code:  FACTORSE69608

Jim Zub is a powerhouse in the world of comics and storytelling. Known for his work on Dungeons & Dragons, Avengers, Conan the Barbarian, and creator-owned series like Skullkickers and Wayward, Jim blends action, humor, and heart in everything he writes. Join us as we dive into his creative career, his love for RPGs, and the stories behind some of your favorite characters and comics! https://www.jimzub.com/ Also check out our Sponsor at Factor75 ou can try it out today and get 50% off your first order plus free shipping with my code FACTORSE69608. That's FACTORSE69608—check it out and support the show at the same time! https://strms.net/factor75_epic_realms

James L. Sutter is a co-creator of the Pathfinder and Starfinder RPGs. During his time at Paizo (2004–2017), he helped shape Pathfinder, launched Starfinder as Creative Director, and oversaw the Pathfinder Tales novel line. He's the author of the queer YA romances Darkhearts and The Ghost of Us, as well as the award-winning fantasy novels Death's Heretic and The Redemption Engine. His work has appeared in Nightmare, F&SF, Escape Pod, and more. In addition to writing comics, essays, and tabletop content, he has contributed to video games and bestselling anthologies. In this episode we catch up with him where we left off, we also talk about sharing his voice in the writing world, his shift from writing fiction to writing YA (young adult) Romance stories. And how he has gotten to return to thing things he loved about roleplaying games.

Today's guest is an award-nominated game designer and writer with an impressive portfolio. They've worked with industry giants like Paizo and Green Ronin and contributed to renowned franchises such as Cyberpunk, Fallout, Star Trek, Dishonored, and more! In this episode, we dive into their journey into the gaming world, how they broke into the industry, and their experiences crafting adventures. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of freelancing for some of the biggest names in tabletop games as well as talk about some of their works as an author.

New York Times bestselling author Kevin Hearne returns to Epic Realms to share updates on his latest projects, creative insights, and journey as a writer. We dive into his expansion across multiple genres, his experiences in publishing, and his independent imprint, Horned Lark Press. Kevin also discusses Coyote Run, his upcoming collaboration with Lilith Saintcrow, and provides exciting updates on fan-favorite series, including Ink & Sigil, the Iron Druid Chronicles, and The Seven Kennings. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his work, this episode is packed with must-hear details! Don't miss this fantastic conversation with Kevin Hearne!

Carlos Cabrera is an ENNIE-winning game designer, writer, and voice actor with a passion for storytelling and world-building. As the founder of Something Clever Games, he has contributed to Pathfinder RPG, Dungeons & Dragons 5E, and numerous other TTRPG projects. He is the lead designer for the upcoming Welcome to Night Vale Roleplaying Game, bringing the surreal world of the beloved podcast to tabletop. In addition to game design, Carlos has worked as a voice actor and industry event contributor. Join us as we dive into his journey, insights, and what's next for him in the world of gaming! Carlos Cabrera's Site https://somethingclevergames.com/ Welcome to Night Vale RPG link https://renegadegamestudios.com/welcome-to-night-vale-roleplaying-game/  

B. Dave Walters is a celebrated storyteller, writer, and TTRPG personality, renowned for his work as a Dungeon Master on The Black Dice Society and his appearances in numerous other tabletop gaming shows. He is a writer for Dungeons & Dragons comics and worked on the Marvel's Multiverse RPG, as well as a key creator behind the Kickstarter-backed Into The Motherlands RPG. A passionate advocate for representation and diversity, B. Dave captivates audiences with his dynamic characters, immersive storytelling, and vibrant worlds. Tune in to Epic Realms as we explore his creative journey and the art of storytelling!

Game design legend Matt Forbeck returns to Epic Realms. We catch up on the Marvel Multiverse RPG, Him working with his son Marty, what games he has been playing lately. We also talk about the Diana Jones awards and more! Its always great to sit with Matt Forbeck.

For our New Years episode we have a special event that was Live at Twin Cities Con 2024 with John Jackson Miller and Timothy Zahn. The interview host is author Jeri Shepherd. We want to thank Twin Cities Con for having us. Be sure to check out Twin Cities Con and join them for their 2025 event at TwinCitiesCon.Com

Scott Rogers is a legendary game designer and author of over 50 AAA titles, including God of War and Pac-Man World, with sales topping 50 million copies. A former Disney Imagineer, he created innovative park experiences and authored the bestselling Level Up! and Your Turn! He has also been nominated for many of his tabletop board games, and he shares his expertise through teaching at USC and the Masters of Game Design series. He joins us to talk about how D&D and Comics built his life for both Video Game Design and Board Game Design! The Episode is filled with great tale and stories.

Join us in this exciting episode of Epic Realms as we welcome award-winning author Jennifer Brozek! Known for her incredible work in tie-in fiction for popular franchises like Arkham Horror, Battletech, and Shadowrun, Jennifer shares her journey from gamer to writer and editor. In this episode, we dive into her experiences in the world of tabletop role-playing games, her unique approach to storytelling, and the challenges she has faced as a writer with dyslexia and autism. Jennifer also discusses her latest projects, including the upcoming Augment magazine for Shadowrun, which features in-world confessions and missions, and the anthology "Shadowrun Through the Decades" celebrating 35 years of the franchise. Discover how Jennifer balances her roles as an author and editor, her thoughts on themes in anthologies, and her creative process for developing stories in shared universes. Plus, get a sneak peek into her future works and her upcoming appearances at conventions! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes featuring amazing authors and their stories! Follow Jennifer Brozek: Website: jenniferbrozek.com BlueSky: @jenniferbrozek Facebook: facebook.com/jennifer.brozek Instagram: @jennifer_brozek Augment Magazine for Shadowrun - https://pulsepublishingsubmissions.moksha.io/publication/augment-the-shadowrun-magazine/

In this episode we are joined by Pathfinder Author Liane Merciel. Leanne discusses her background, writing career, and work on various fantasy franchises including Pathfinder and Dragon Age. She talks about growing up in a military family and how those experiences influenced her writing. Leanne describes her process for writing tie-in fiction and working within established game worlds. She discusses her Pathfinder novels set in Nidal and Cheliax, as well as her work on sourcebooks. Leanne also talks about writing a Dragon Age novel and a recent Warhammer Age of Sigmar book. The interview concludes with discussion of her newest Pathfinder novel 'Godsrain', which ties into upcoming storylines about gods dying in the game world. Throughout, Leanne provides insights into her writing process, inspirations, and experiences working on different fantasy properties.

Join us in this exciting episode of Epic Realms as we welcome the legendary Mark Mir, renowned actor, voice actor, and writer, best known for his iconic role as Commander Shepard in the Mass Effect series! In this episode, Mark shares his experiences from PAX Australia, including a memorable Mass Effect cosplay meetup and his love for the Call of Cthulhu RPG. We dive into the nuances of acting and voice acting, exploring how Mark's journey began with Dungeons & Dragons and how it shaped his career. Mark discusses the evolution of the gaming industry over the years, his creative process in developing unique character voices, and the collaborative nature of video game production. He also shares insights into his recent projects, including his portrayal of the Joker in a fan film and his involvement in actual play RPGs like Bookshops of Arkham and Graveyards of Arkham. Whether you're a fan of video games, tabletop RPGs, or just love a good story, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Don't miss out on Mark's thoughts on cosplay, conventions, and the vibrant world of nerd culture!

In this episode of the Epic Realms Podcast, we are joined by award-winning author and game designer Jedediah Berry! A lifelong enthusiast of roleplaying games, board games, and storytelling. Berry shares insights into his creative journey. We discuss his life, his novels, his game design projects, and his innovative approach to storytelling. His latest book, The Naming Song, brings a fresh twist to narrative structure and is available on bookshelves now! https://thirdarchive.net/  https://ninepinpress.com/ 

We are joined in this Episode by NYT Bestselling Author John Jackson Miller. He tells us about his upbringing, college, and love for pop culture movies, comics and more! We also talk Star Wars, Star Trek, telling a narrative, and of course his new book Batman: Resurrection. We also both spend some time geeking out with our love for the Batman Burtonverse.

In this episode we are joined by NYT Bestselling author Olivie Blake! She is also known as Alexene Farol Follmuth. Her love for writing and literature shows in this enthusiastic episode. We find out many of her inspirations old and new. As well as get a look inside how she builds her stories and worlds. We go on a journey of her life from writing fan fiction all the way to publishing multiple novels. https://www.olivieblake.com/ https://www.alexenefarolfollmuth.com/

We did a special episode of Off The Pod that was a charity for the GLSEN Organization. Where our team raised over $4000. This episode was a 2 hour livestream event with Author Michelle Franklin.  We talked about Cryptids and Aliens and fantastical creatures of all sorts! If you want to participate or help with the charity or just look them up here is their link https://www.glsen.org/

Renee Gittins is former Executive Director of the International Game Developers Association, and now runs her own company Stumbling Cat Games. Her new game "Potions: a Curious Tale" is now available. In this episode we talk about her life and growing up as a gamer. We also talk about her evolution in the gaming industry, her work at the IGDA. As well as dealing with toxicity in the gaming world. It's an amazing and inspiring story with an amazing inspiring person! Enjoy the show! Stumbling Cat Games  Potions: A curious Tale Game Company https://www.stumblingcat.com/ 

In this episode Dave Schrader returns to Epic Realms. He has a bunch of new projects including a new book with more to come called Theater Of The Mind. We talk about charities, helping the community, Paranormal events and all the new things in his life. It's a great show. Please enjoy the episode. Dave Schrader is a radio and podcast host, paranormal investigator, you have seen him on the Holzer Files, Ghosts of Devils Perch, Curse of Lizzy Borden, and many more. He is also an Author, his new book "Theater of the Mind" is available now! Check out The Paranormal 60 anywhere you get your podcasts! Paranormal60.com

In this episode of Epic Realms, award-winning author and renowned editor James Lowder joins the Nick to discuss his extensive experience in writing, editing, and the world of tabletop gaming. From his early days in high school to his work on iconic projects like Forgotten Realms, Ravenloft and Call of Cthulhu. James shares insights into his creative journey. Discover his passion for horror, his upcoming projects, and his appearances at Gen Con and Gamehole Con. Plus, get a peek into his latest works. Don't miss this engaging conversation with a true industry expert!

Todd Lockwood is an artist known for his fantasy and science fiction illustration. he gained his largest following from for his work on the role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, as well as novels from Tor Books, DAW Books, and on magazine covers, including Satellite Orbit magazine, Asimov's Science Fiction, Analog Science Fiction and Science Fact, Realms of Fantasy, World of Warcraft, Dragon Magazine, and Dungeon Magazine. We talk about his career, stories, upbringing, and his new projects as well. https://www.toddlockwood.com/

Richard Lee Byers returns to Epic Realms! We catch up on all of his projects since we last spoke to him. We talk about Marvels Legends of Asgard books, Basil and Moebius, Conventions, the D&D Movie, and so much more! We talk about working with tie in fiction and scriptwriting! Its always great to catch up with Richard.

Django Wexler is a fantasy author of a multitue of novel series'. Including "How to Become the Dark Lord and Die Trying, Ashes of the Sun, and The Thousand Names, as well as series for middle grade and young adults. He has also written stories for Magic The Gathering and now the Dungeons and Dragons new SpellJammer Novel Memories Wake - Available Tuesday June 4th. We talk about his journey to becoming a novelist, table top roleplaying, building stories and more! Its a great chat! https://djangowexler.com/

We are joined by video game designer, and author Austin Grossman. His novels include "Soon I Will Be Invincible", "You", and "Crooked". Soon I Will Be Invincible was nominated for the 2007 John Sargent Sr. First Novel Prize. His writing has also appeared in Granta, the Wall Street Journal, and the New York Times. His game credits include Ultima Underworld 2, System Shock, Trespasser, Deus Ex, Epic Mickey, and Dishonored. He is currently Director of Game Design and Interactive Storytelling at Magic Leap. Austin joins us and talks about his life and journey in two industries and the story telling process for both novels and video games. we also talk about his new Novel "Fight Me" which becomes available May 23rd in the UK. Pick It Up Here! https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/446205/fight-me-by-grossman-austin/9780241555941

We are Joined by Narrative Game Designer Winter Mullenix. We talk about her journey through the entertainment industry. Acting, Voice Overs, Music, Video Games, and Writing. She takes us on her whirlwind journey! We talk a lot about how her past experiences lend a hand in video game work and creating amazing video game stories. Such as Neverwinter, Orcs Must Die, Lucky's Tale, Magic Legends, and more. So much was discussed, you will learn a lot and ask for more in this episode with Winter Mullenix.

We are joined by the 3 time Epic Realms alumni guest. Ed Greenwood. Ed Greenwood is the creator D&D's Forgotten Realms setting. He has worked on a plethora of different RPG's, and other Tabletop Games. He has consulted for video games, other authors, and game companies. All of that said, none of that compares to his laundry list of amazing novels he has written over his career. In this episode we catch up with Eds projects and get his raw thoughts on the D&D movie, Baldurs Gate 3, His Youtube, Patreon and more! 

We are joined by Professional Wrestler Beer City Bruiser. We talk about his early career, as well as behind the scenes story of his early days. We also chat about his friends and connections he has built throughout his career and his joy seeing their successes. We also branch over and talk about his run ins with the world of the paranormal and his connections there and his work with Darkness Radio. It is an amazing show and a lot of fun with the one and only Beer City Bruiser!

In this episode we are joined by author Deborah Wilde. We talk about her life, and how her life built up to the amazing author so many love and gain insights into her stories and characters. (Excerpt from her Website) Deborah Wilde is a global wanderer and hopeless romantic. After twelve years as a screenwriter, she was also a total cynic with a broken edit button, so, she jumped ship, started writing funny, sexy, urban fantasy and paranormal women's fiction novels, and never looked back. https://deborahwilde.com/

Christopher D Schmitz is a multi genre author who "writes books nerds like." We chat about his works, helping other authors, being an indy author, and working the convention scene. Check out his new Kickstarter starting March 18th! https://www.authorchristopherdschmitz.com/ https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/feyduelist/the-esfah-sagas

Our guest Mike Mason is an RPG Designer and Creative Director for Chaosium games Call of Cthulhu brand. We talk a lot about his history with RPG's how he got into the business as well as Warhammer, his background in technical writing and sales. Of course lots of Call of Cthulhu talk as well. its a great episode and a fun guest!

Today's guest is well known on social media as a "Former McDonalds Corporate Chef" He can be seen on Plex's Dungeons and Dragons Cooking show Heroes Feast. Where he Co-Hosts the show with Sujata Day. We talk cooking, being a chef. Food science, Dungeons and Dragons, and so much more. It is a high energy episode with Chef Mike Haracz!

Our guest is award winning board game designer, Corey Konieczka. From a fan of board and card games to designing award winning games and expansions. We talk about his career from humble beginning to running his own game company and working with well known properties such as Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, and World of Warcraft. If you have ever been a fan of board games of any kind, this is a great episode. Unexpected Games - https://unexpectedgames.com/ Factor75 Sponsorship Link -  https://strms.net/factor75_epic_realms

Amelia Cotter is an author, poet, researcher, and storyteller with a special interest in the supernatural, history, and folklore. She has appeared on various radio and television programs. In this Episode we talk about some of Amelia's experiences. Her views on the paranormal, the modern pros and cons of Paranormal Reality TV. As well as her books and the people she has met in the field. From heartwarming tales, to a journey about self discovery and taking care of ourselves. this is a great episode and I hope you enjoy it. Also check her out here on youtube  @ameliamcotter   Amelia's Website https://www.ameliacotter.com/ Factor75 Sponsorship Link -  https://strms.net/factor75_epic_realms

In this episode we are joined by amazing friend of the show. He is the owner of both Fate of the Norns and Pendlehaven Press. Game Designer and Author. The Amazing Andrew Valkauskas! We have a great time and it went by so fast. we talked about Ath Cliath, Yule (or Jul), Odin being Santa, drinking card games, board games, history, mythology and soo much it was a great episode. Enjoy! Check them out at FateoftheNorns.com

This episode we were joined by award winning game designer, author, editor, and Co-Founder of Monte Cook Games. Shanna Germain. We talked about her life growing up, gaming, writing, and the origins of Monte Cook games. As well as their strategy for coming up with amazing new games! Its a great listen and a lot of fun. https://www.shannagermain.com/ https://www.montecookgames.com/ https://www.patreon.com/shannagermain

Michael Witwer is a bestselling author. He joins us to talk about his love for D&D and all of his books and how they came to be. We get some amazing behind the scenes stories and fun quips about his journey. We talk about Gary Gygax, Heroes Feast, the new Heroes Feast show, as well as Vivian Van Tassel! Michael Witwer Website - https://www.empireofimagination.com/ Epic Realms Movember Page -https://us.movember.com/mospace/1356562

In this episode we are joined by Diana Jones Award winning game designer Connor Alexander. His RPG Coyote and Crow is a multiple award winning and nominated sci-fi and fantasy tabletop role playing game set in a First Nations alternate future where colonization never happened. This game was created and lead by an all Native team, and is made for all people to play. https://coyoteandcrow.net/ https://www.nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov https://us.movember.com/mospace/1356562

In this episode we are joined by amazing urban fantasy author Heather Harris. We talk about her upbringing, and ties to books and writing. We also dive into her process, and get inside the differences in all her characters. It's a lot of fun with a lot of laughs.

This episode we are joined by actor and #1 NYT Bestselling author Wesley Chu. We talk martial arts, Acting, Writing Combat scenes, co writing and so much more. its a great show with lots of insights! Check out his new book Art of Destiny. The sequel to Art of Prophecy! Out Now! www.wesleychu.com

We are joined by USA Today bestselling Author Author Rhett C Bruno. We talk about his publishing company Aethon books, his books, his writing style, how he collaborates with other authors, and so much more. We covered so much it was a great episode with Rhett C Bruno! https://aethonbooks.com/ https://rhettbruno.com/

This episode we are joined by the amazingly talented Scott Innes. Voice Actor of Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, and many many others! He is also a radio legend, songwriter, painter, actor, and has done so much! He has Amazing stories to tell. And tell he did!

Todays Episode we are joined by author Destiny Soria also known as D.L. Soria. We talk about her young adult fantasy books as well as her new adult book "Theif Liar Lady" We hear some of her inspirations, what it was like growing up to become an author, some of her processes, D&D, and more. Its a great show with Destiny Soria! http://www.destinysoria.com/

Justin Leslie returns to Epic Realms. We talk about how things have changed in 2 years. We catch up on his books, as well as talk about his new stuff. We also chat about his friends Hunter Blain and Luke Daniels. It's a fun episode and was great to have Justin back on the show. www.justlinleslie.com

Josh Malerman is an amazing NYT Bestselling Author. Known most for his book Bird Box which was adapted to movies! We talk about this, his writing style, and differences in themes of all of his stories as well. We also talk about his new book "Spin a Black Yarn" which is available August 15th! https://joshmalerman.com/

Gabrielle Harbowy is an award-nominated editor, author, and anthologist. She wrote a handful of great novels and anthologies and has edited for many of our previous guest authors. She has also written game adventures for Pathfinder Society and D&D Adventurers League.

A special after show Q&A Session with the one and only Andy Law! If you missed the main episode with Andy go check it out!

Todays guest has a great history of RPG's including his own shows on twitch and his own company Rookery Publications. He is most well known for his work on Critical Roles Exandria Campaign as their cartographer as well as all his works with the Warhammer RPG. Welcome writer, roleplayer and artist Andy Law!