Podcast appearances and mentions of ben yendall

DeWayne sits down with Ben Yendall, Sam Emry, Erica GoodWitch, and Sara Roberts to discuss how to create and get the most out of your TTRPG villains

The final question and answer episode for the season is upon us, listen as Kristine answers audience questions. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Editing by Ben YendallHeroes of the Hydian Way Season 3 … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Question and Answer 3 – Kristine's Khestions"

More lightning fast questions, and looks back to the paths we've taken on the road to here. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Editing by Ben YendallHeroes of the Hydian Way Season 3 Theme … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Question and Answer 2"

Questions are asked, answers are given. We talk about Chronicles of the Gatekeeper among the crew Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Editing by Ben YendallHeroes of the Hydian Way Season 3 Theme by … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Question and Answer 1"

The Heroes have won the day, but they have heavy injuries to take care of. Listen as they get tended to and start looking towards what will come next. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 20 – “Moving On”"

The Heroes have an upper hand, will they be able to press it home? or will they fall to the inquisitors blade? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Editing by Ben YendallHeroes of the … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 19 – “Triumph or Despair”"

As Ghillary pulls the Heroes back into the fight, curing most of their ills as the two forces rage against them. A shift has happened in one, but will it be enough for the Heroes to survive? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 18 – “Divide to Conquer”"

The battle is joined and the Heroes battle on two fronts. The dastardly Karl has Koba matched with sabers while Khesh, Ghillary, and Skipp try to occupy Warde who imposes as a wild card within the fights. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 17 – “Ebbs and Flows”"

The Heroes have written off Warde as a harmless hermit and turn to wards Karl as he approaches in his TIE fighter. How will a fight against a prepared adversary play out for the group? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 16 – “A More Dramatic Entrance”"

The Hydian Heroes have made their way to the arena where Suljo Warde has been waiting. What secrets will they find? and can the Heroes stop the fight before it even begins? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 15 – “Man of the Hour”"

The Heroes are on the search for their lost aleen as well as where the visions are directing Khesh. The spirits find ways to distract the group as they brave into the rock worn citadel and try to keep them from their intended prize. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 14 – “A Dramatic Entrance”"

Ghillary disappeared into the winds of Moraband, we find out where the aleena has been carried off to and what difficulties are in his path when he awakens in a place unlike anywhere else he's encountered. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 13 – “Not Qui Gon”"

Beset by sandstorms the Heroes have to make their way to the onyx citadel, beset by shadowy beasts they head further into the heart of a fel planet pursuing an end that the very spirits fight to deny them. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 12 – “Going, Going…”"

The Heroes set out to find Warde on a haunted planet, home to the vengeful spirits of the sith. Will it just be sand that gets in the way of the Heroes? or will there be more opposition to the wayward party? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 11 – “Whispers on the Wind”"

On the way to Moraband the crew confirms that they have some of the right about the intentions of Warde and of Karl. Letting the final discussion propel them on to the planet of selfishness and sand they find their resolve strengthening. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 10 – “Asking Kheshtions”"

The Heroes are almost back together and dealing with a large mind bending problem. What will they do now that their time on Dac seems to have come to an end? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 9 – “Shoot for the Stars”"

The Heroes are almost back together and dealing with a large mind bending problem. What will they do now that their time on Dac seems to have come to an end? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 9 – “Shoot for the Stars”"

With Ghillary and Koba off finding a ship, Khesh is drawn to a mysterious room in the outpost. Through halls and caves the trandoshan is searching for the path forward into dire danger. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 8 – “The Seeker”"

After training for a few days the Heroes are directed to a strange signal outside the outpost. What will the depths of Dac bring the Heroes as they walk into the depths of the ocean? Will the Heroes be able to find anything useful outside the outpost? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 7 – “Always a Bigger Fish”"

The Heroes find themselves preparing for their final showdown with the forces of Darkness. Collecting their wits they find images of distant places and talk with those who train and those who call. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 6 – “A Portentous Interview”"

The Heroes are drawn to the forge of the outpost, for crafting lightsabers and other uses. We delve deep into crafting and the stories it means to the players and the characters. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 5 – “At the Forge”"

The Heroes explore the outpost and find caves that are not all that they seem. What will they find and how will the force test them? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Show notes … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 4 – “A Phantom Stalker”"

The Heroes are recovering from their injuries and we find the force permeates the base where they're at. Ghillary, Skipp, Koba, and Khesh all have their own demons to deal with as they find their way through the process of healing. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 3 – “Awake and Functional… ish”"

Khesh has been hit by an arc of electricity, Skipp needs to save her. How far will Skipp go and what will the consequences be? Will Ghillary be able to find the direction that he needs? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 3 Episode 2 – “Rest and Recuperation”"

You asked the Heroes some deeper questions, we take care of the conflict of the act, and we even dodge some lightning in this episode. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Editing by Ben … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Question and Answers Part 2"

You asked and we answered questions about the long Act 2 of Chronicles of the Gatekeeper and our thoughts. There were so many questions that we had to break it up into two episodes so here is the first. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Question and Answers Part 1"

Let us look into the history of the Hydian Heroes to find a tale from the early days of Khesh and Ghillary's collaboration for their traveling from planet to station. We see them performing in an extravaganza showing off their talents and some new friends. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, … Continue reading "The Greatest Show on The Wheel – Part 1"

With the Heroes at the end of their stamina and Dalan having escaped a certain shot, will the Heroes be able to finish the threat of the Inquisitor and his bounty hunter? Or will things go even more awry than they have? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 29 – “All Hands on Deck”"

Skipp has the shot, will it land? What will Carls reaction be? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al'aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is playing Khesh Show notes for this episode: Sheathipede-class transport shuttle Editing by Ben YendallHeroes of the Hydian Way … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 28 – “Chaos”"

The Heroes are in a fight for their survival as two capable fighters are in their midst with lightsaber and blaster. Using everything in their control the Heroes fight to be rid of this inquisitor and bounty hunter. Will they survive or is everything going to be wrecked? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 27 – “Wrecked”"

Carl and Dalan have caught up to the Heroes, now we find out if the Heroes can survive the encounter? With a refreshed party and a shuttle that's moving as fast as it can the Heroes brace to be attacked. Will the advantage be in numbers? or with darkness? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 26 – “Pineapple”"

The Heroes grab a breath while healing from the massive fight they had. As they do they feel a pull in the force, what is it drawing them to? What will become of the bleeding lightsaber? Is that the last droid they've seen? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 25 – “Plan D”"

From one fight to another, the Heroes have moved into a prophesied fight that could mean their end. The hints that they were given have shown a path forward, but the path is obscured by the blaster fire of destroyer droids and the swords of commandos. Will Skipps vision hold true? Ben Yendall as the … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 24 – “Blastball Special”"

The Hydian Heroes have been ambushed by commando droids on their way to meet their destiny. Will the force wielders be able to overcome the ghosts of wars past? or will they fall victim to the roving patrols of a long abandoned palace? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 23 – “Skipp Steps Up”"

The Heroes have made it near the palace of Jorra. The old and abandoned building has a cavernous interior and the possibilities of droids being on patrol is bigger than most want to admit. Will the path be clear, and will the bridges the Heroes have to cross be completely intact? Ben Yendall as the … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 22 – “Once More Under The Bridge”"

The Heroes have escaped with their lives, barely. Now they are in a place beyond as they deal with the actions they have made since meeting Carl and Dalan as well as following the trail through Jorra. Will they be able to pay their tab? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 21 – “Conflictisode: The Return of Walther”"

The Hydian Heroes have outrun the Empire and a bounty hunter that was looking for them to get crucial information for their quest to retrieve the crystal from Suljo Warde, but will they be able to stay ahead of these dastardly characters? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 19 – “Enter the Penumbra”"

The dangers that the Heroes have run into have shown them rising to the challenge, but now there's enhanced dangers after the gas and stun attacks they've had so far. Will the master spies traps be too much for our Heroes or will we see how the scene overcomes them? Ben Yendall as the GM … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 17 – “Sense the Scene”"

The Heroes are at the base of a long climb, now it’s their turn to climb the daunting trash chute and find Zel the elderly spy from the Clone Wars that hopefully has the information they need to find the second of Wardes crystals. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 16 – “Chutes and Ladders”"

The Crimson Kreehaws cause the flames of the factory to flourish as the Heroes try to end the fight with these gangers who interrupted their conversation with Tor Haido. Will they be able to stop this hit on a source of information? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 15 – “Trash Talk”"

The Crimson Kreehawks come to silence Tor Haido and the Heroes must stop a blatant round of intimidation. With swoops racing through the factory the action ramps up as it jumps from danger to danger. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 14 – “In Media Res”"

The Heroes recoup from their run in with the bounty hunter Dalan Oberos as they mend their injuries and plan for what is going to be a race through places both above and below the bridge of Jorra. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 12 – “Bandages and Breakfast”"

As the force vision fades, the Heroes find themselves centered but no further along. What will this Imperial held world bring them for the next path they need to take? Will interest be shown for the actions they’ve taken? Does the movement of four beings matter to the galaxy? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 10 – “New Friends”"

The shadowy figure that waylaid the Heroes in the world beyond worlds haunts their actions as they finish their side quest for Kuto Jaral. What dangers lurk in the shadows of Jorra that the Heroes have yet to overcome? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 8 – “Reputation and Influence”"

The side quest is finished and the Heroes on their way back to Kuto. What things could possibly trip them up on the way? The force is mysterious on Cato Nemoidia. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 7 – “Seen”"

The Heroes have finally made it to Kuto Jaral’s former residence and now have the sizable task of robbing it, at Kuto’s behest. As the Heroes work in a battle damaged tower dangers are ever present, will they find themselves falling into the mists? Wwill there be traps? Is the safe still safe? Ben Yendall … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 6 – “Every Tool in the Toolbox”"

The Heroes found some battle droids in their explorations of the undercity of Jorra. Deciding to destroy them or drive them off they engaged and used a very effective ambush. Now will the fight still go their way? Will the Heroes find the warbonds they’re after? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 5 – “Going Down”"

In the undercity of Jorra the Hydian Heroes made it to the building they need to, now can they make it to the level they want? What snags will cross their path and can the Heroes really get the ball rolling for what they need? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 4 – “Sudden Movements”"

The Heroes are in the lift going down into the undercity of Jorra on quest for Kuto Jaral. Looking for trinkets of the past they find a city in ruins as they must explore and still get to their objective, a safe on a very low level above the mists Ben Yendall as the GM … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 3 – “No Sudden Movements”"

Out of customs the Heroes find themselves looking up past relations and seeing the local color as they see how to gain the trust of the Nemoidians who call Jorra their home. From a Tattooine Sunburn to a cargo lift, the Heroes have their work cut out for them. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 2 – “Ghillary Considers the Menu”"

The Heroes have made it to Cato Nemoidia, and now they’re having to make their way in an unknown world. By putting their heads together they can make it into the city of Jorra and find their way onto a long cold trail. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Episode 1 – “A Frank Discussion”"

With the Hydian Heroes in hyperspace they have time to prepare for a much more cutthroat jungle than Arbooine, the bridge city of Jorra on Cato Nemoidia. The preparations continue with some weapons training and much more. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Prelude 2 – “Passing Muster”"

From the force and the break we’re back to the main cast as they move from the trees of Arbooine to the bridges of Cato Nemoidia. The Heroes have some unfinished business with the SIlvered Shell and with the shade of Suljo Warde in the Holocron that they have found. Ben Yendall as the GM … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 2 Prelude 1 –”On the Move Again”"

We’ve seen regrets, we’ve seen paths unclear, we;’ve seen the search for place and hope. Now we take a look at one who is fearful of their place in the world and their desire to claim it. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Force Vision – Skipp"

When the one on the hunt must hunt through their own mind and beyond we are gifted with a telling tale of friendship, of intrigue, and of a seedy hole in the wall bar. Follow Koba as he searches for kyber crystals and a true mission in this force vision. Ben Yendall as the GM … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Force Vision – Koba"

After learning about the pains that Ghillary has, we look at the dark decisions that Khesh has made and what damage a hunter can have when they’re not looking to the goal that they’re hunting. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Force Vision – Khesh"

We come back to Star Wars and our crew on Arbooine, they’ve interacted with the force and made it back to the Silvered Shell. Our subject for this week is Ghillary and how they respond to the trials they’ve had and what shadows it might take them through. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Force Vision – Ghillary"

There were even more questions for us to answer and the much beloved lightning round of simple off the cuff questions. The Heroes had a blast answering and it gave us a great chance to reflect on our characters and actions Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 18 – Questions Part 2"

You asked, we answered, and had a bunch of fun while we did it. From some pretty small questions to big ones that made us look at what we’re doing, it’s all in here for you to listen in on. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 17 – Questions Part 1"

Giving the citizens of Quolas hope will be rewarded as the citizenry come out for a party to celebrate the Hydian Heroes. Will the wounds that arose during the fight with Marcolf be staunched? Are the Heroes shaken by it? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 16 –”Parting Gifts”"

The Heroes have captured Marcolf, but is that the end of this quest? Will the Heroes be able to find the reason why they came to Quolas? Can the rifts opened by the fight with Marcolf start to be repaired? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 15 –”Quiet Conversations”"

The Heroes are before Reeve Marcolf, and now the real confrontation begins. A warrior trained for twenty years is put to the test by a teacher, a hermit, an investigator, and a seeker. Who will be injured and who will prevail? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 13 –”Unstoppable Force”"

As the war council looks to the will of the elrit tree, a mystical choice is made that will shape Quolas for years to come. The Heroes have to hold the course and make sure that they’re mettle is up to the task. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 11 –”A New Path”"

Getting back to your regularly scheduled shenanigans, the Hydian Heroes are dealing with two community leaders who are about to tell their clan heads they’re in love and want to be wed. Oh, and also that the families should join together and over throw the despotic Marcolf. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 10 –”Balance of Power”"

While the tide flows for the Heroes, they find themselves in an unfamiliar space, with lights and cameras. What is this turn of events? How will this change what comes after? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 9 –”Conflictisode”"

Khesh is saved! As the Hydian Heroes have rescued the scorekeeper’s disciple Khesh, the decision to save and protect those who have helped them has arisen. Now the Heroes need to decide which way their story shall break. One of selfishness or looking to the state of the world after they’ve left it. Ben Yendall … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 8 –”Another Rescue”"

The talented Heroes are taking the stage to establish alibis and to show off their talents that you don’t normally see and hear for our enjoyment. Plus we get to find out what will happen to Khesh’s escape attempt. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 7 –”The Heroes Take the Stage”"

After the protest the Hydian Heroes lost their resident Trandoshan. While we’ve followed their adventures while seeing what they do in the shadows and with rebels, we now get a chance to see what happened to Khesh when the Guardians came. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 6 –”Khesh Alone”"

Most of the Heroes have been secreted away to meet with the Sathari rebels. Will the rebels be willing to help the Heroes? Will the Heroes be willing to help the Rebels? and what of the predicament of Khesh?We answer many things in this fine episode. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 5 –”A Path Among the Roots”"

The Guardians have regrouped and our Heroes are on the run. We find out what they will do when they’re out numbered and with one of their own in peril. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 4 –”Cabbage Noises”"

The Heroes head out for recon, hearing that the Mirialan that they seek now runs the city they’re in they want to make sure they have enough info before they make a move, or a plea. What will the group find? Are the guardians as harsh as Jyl has said? Ben Yendall as the GM … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Act 1 Episode 3 –”The Heroes go to the Market”"

After laying the crew of the Silvered Shell to rest the Heroes set out to make repairs to the ship and examine the mysteries of the Holocron that Skipp has taken a shine to. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Prelude Episode 4 – “A Hard Bluff”"

The Heroes have found a pilot and a Jedi Holocron in a crashed space turtle, what other secrets does this mysterious craft have? What will the force draw them into? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing KobaKristine Chester is … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Prelude Episode 3 – “The Start of a Long, Long Trail”"

The Heroes are racing to a crashed ship. What will they find? Will they be in time? What caused this crash? Can the Heroes get inside? The Force comes to our heroes today. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon Perdue is playing … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Prelude Episode 2 – “Entering and Breaking”"

After recreating on a shared wilderness tour on Felucia a small bit of engine problems will have a large effect on four individuals just wanting to get back to a good meal and a solid bed. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is playing Skipp GobiBrandon … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Prelude Episode 1 – “A Shared Vision”"

At the end of the Clone Wars a Jedi Knight was taking his new student along on a final trip before introducing the student to the Jedi Council. These are the steps leading up to the adventure Chronicles of the Gatekeeper. Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren … Continue reading "Chronicles of the Gatekeeper – Meet Suljo Warde"

To make sure all players have similar assumptions going into a game they should discuss what the bedrock understanding is for important subjects. One subject is how does the strengths and weaknesses of the characters matter to the story? Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Lord, High Lord, Ghillary Al’aurochWren Knowles is … Continue reading "Session 0 – Characters"

To make sure all players have similar assumptions going into a game they should discuss what the bedrock understanding is for important subjects. One subject is how does conflict work as a mechanic Ben Yendall as the GM Leslie Trautman is playing Wren Knowles is playing Brandon Perdue is playing Kristine Chester is playing Editing … Continue reading "Session 0 – Conflict"

The first time the second season crew get together to make a story. Now we conclude the wild times that happen when a Fiasco goes down. Ben Yendall is the Facilitator and JosiethBrandon Perdue is playing Stewart WingfieldDavid Pickering is playing Edwin Ackerlay LodgeKristine Chester is playing Eaves Wingfield Editing by Kristine ChesterHydian Hunters Theme … Continue reading "Heroes and Howitzers Pt2"

The first time the second season crew get together to make a story, we were there to record it, now we bring this to you as the fun it truly is as Eaves and Stoop sow chaos in a quaint little town. Ben Yendall is the Facilitator and JosiethBrandon Perdue is playing Stewart WingfieldDavid Pickering … Continue reading "Heroes and Howitzers Pt.1"

Force Majeure and the Heroes of the Hydian Way are very proud to present this crossover episode! A Besalisk in need of specialist help. A Gand droid-tech in search of a weapon worthy of a name. Two droid chaperones from wildly different worlds. A Rodian with an insatiable hunger for juice boxes. As these two worlds collide, who knows what might ensue! Join us, as Ben Yendall from the Hydian Way weaves their magic over a certain shop in Cynabale... Our Players: Ben - @deuteriumice - GM and Vreebo, from the Hydian Way Kristine - @12thKnight - Kaav, from the Hydian Way Leslie - @leslitgs - Billie, from the Hydian Way Adam - @maddambeltaine - Tikus Bar, from Force Majeure Mim - @mimskymim - Roy, from Force Majeure Our Links: Force Majeure - @forcemajeurepod / www.forcemajeurepod.com The Hydian Way - @thehydianway / www.thehydianway.com Music: Additional Music: "Cold Sober" and "The Show Must Be Go" by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) "Dome City Centre" and "Alien Machine Shop" by Tabletop Audio Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ For full credit and links please see the Credits page of our website.

In this Fanbase Feature, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon talks with Kristine Chester and Ben Yendall of the Heroes of the Hydian Way podcast, which creates actual play episodes and online content highlighting the Star Wars RPG system from Fantasy Flight Games. Dillon, Chester, and Yendall discuss how they became fans of role-playing (and other mediums of) games, the genesis of Heroes of the Hydian Way, the format of each episode, how those new to tabletop gaming can join the community, and much more.

This week Dan and Chelsea sit down with Ben Yendall. Ben is one of the hosts of a podcast called Tales of the Hydian Way and is the GM for a live play podcast called Heroes of the Hydian Way. Listen as they chat about Ben's podcast as well as talk about Star Wars The Last Jedi, The Red Shirt Diaries and Starship Horizon.

I had the great pleasure of talking to Ben Yendall of Tales from the Hydian Way and Trina Shessel from the Northern Nerdcast on stage at the Needle on May 12 during NorthwestFest's LunchPods series. Both Ben and Trina have cultivated a community around their podcasts, and are members of Edmonton's growing and increasingly connected podcasting community. They shared a lot of excellent insights about how and why they got into podcasting, and what they have learned about "community" in all (or at least many) senses of the word. I also talk a bit about the Alberta Podcast Network, which is now officially in the works thanks to funding from ATB Financial. This episode is also available in iTunes, on Google Play, on SoundCloud or on Stitcher. You can hear even more about the Alberta Podcast Network, and ask me anything about it, at the next Edmonton Podcasting Meetup on May 28 at 1 p.m. at Variant Edition Comics and Culture. Register here to attend.  Some other links mentioned in the show: The Northern Nerd Network's YouTube channel; Ben's other podcast, Heroes of the Hydian Way; The Tales from the Hydian Way Patreon campaign; The meetup where Ben and Trina offered advice to The Broadcast; Two big Doctor Who podcasts made in Edmonton: Radio Free Skaro and Verity!; The Chicago Podcast Cooperative, a model for the Alberta Podcast Network; Local examples of using music on podcasts: CKUA's Capital City Records podcast, Kat Griffiths's Start the Music, Cups N Cakes on Mixcloud;  Local examples of live phone-ins: The View Up Here, Northern Nerdcast on Google Hangouts; Chris Sikkenga and Paul Deleeuw's Montreal Sauce; My Edmonton podcast roundups; Castria, where award-winning podcasters help you make yours (and help me make mine); The Needle Vinyl Tavern, great hosts for the inaugural LunchPods series. Some of the other LunchPods sessions have made their way into various feeds: Northwestfest Panel, featuring Paul Matwychuk of Trash, Art, and the Movies, Erin E. Fraser and Matt Bowes of Bollywood is for Lovers and JP Fournier of The Movie Jerks; Mind the gap: How podcasting can fill a news void on women and politics: Alex Zabjek and Trisha Estabrooks of The Broadcast talk to Scott Fralick about podcasting as a vehicle for journalism. NorthwestFest is over for this year, but you can see who won the awards, and mark your calendar for more nonfiction fun in May 2018. Seen and Heard in Edmonton is brought to you this week by Taproot Edmonton, a source of curiosity-driven stories about the city, cultivated by the community.  This month Taproot published Mack Male's popular list of summer festivals and events. If you're looking for something to do over the next few months, Taproot has you covered. Taproot is a member-supported site — our stories are free for all to read, but members gets to participate in the stories from the beginning, and we have more perks coming. If you'd like to get in on the ground floor of a new way of doing and funding local journalism, join us. Musical credits: Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 2 No. 1, played by Daniel Veesey, from freemusicarchive.com.  

Our April meetup gave us a chance to talk about the power of cross-promotion by engaging in some cross-promotion — I love me some meta. We had a chance to talk Fawnda Mithrush, who is managing director of NorthwestFest, Edmonton's international festival of nonfiction film, art and music. Fawnda is the brain behind LunchPods, a series of live podcast shows on at The Needle Vinyl Tavern throughout this week in conjunction with the film festival. Fawnda also hosted I Don't Get It, an award-winning podcast about contemporary dance, which she's hoping to resurrect one of these days. But she's an awfully busy person — besides helping Guy Lavallee put on NorthwestFest, she is also the executive director of LitFest, the nonfiction literary festival that comes to Edmonton this fall. In the episode, you'll hear all about LunchPods, as well as the "wicked fun" of doing a podcast about dance; why we need to find ways for creative people to get paid; how podcasts fit in with NorthwestFest and might fit into LitFest in the fall; why nonfiction appeals to her and to Edmonton; and the collaborative spirit of our city. This episode is also available in iTunes, on Google Play, on SoundCloud or on Stitcher. The LunchPods will be recorded, so if you miss one, you can catch up, but of course it's more fun to hear in person (plus there's lunch provided): May 8: Passion Pods: Where Art and Sport Collide: Taylor Chadwick of What It Is interviewed Erika Ensign of Beginner’s Puck and Steven Schapansky of Hockey Feels about arts and sports; May 9: Dime a Dozen: Podcasting About Film: Paul Matwychuk and Erin E. Fraser of Trash, Art, and the Movies will talk to Matt Bowes of Bollywood is for Lovers and JP Fournier of The Movie Jerks about movie podcasts; May 10: Short Story Long: How Podcasts Pick Up Where News Outlets Drop Off: Alex Zabjek and Trisha Estabrooks of The Broadcast will discuss podcasting as a vehicle for journalism; May 11: Sound and Fury: The Key to Outstanding Sound and Content: Adam Rozenhart of The Expats will explore the importance of great sound and structure with Sam Power of All Intensive Purposes and Lauren Albrecht of Nerd Nite Edmonton. May 12: Together We're Stronger: YEG's Podcast Community: I’ll be talking to Trina Shessel of the Northern Nerdcast and Ben Yendall of Tales from the Hydian Way about cultivating an Edmonton podcasting community. Many thanks to NorthwestFest, Flatter:Me Belts and Variant Edition for donating door prizes, and to CafeRista for catering. (Extra shout-out to Variant Edition for hosting us despite having a flood in their store mere hours before the event. Heroes!) I said at the end of this episode that there might not be a meetup in May, but I've changed my mind, because I have big news to share: We're creating the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB! Read the back story, and then join us at the Edmonton Podcasting Meetup on May 28 at Variant Edition to discuss the network, where I'll answer as many of your questions as I can. This episode of Seen and Heard in Edmonton is brought to you by Castria, where award-winning podcasters help you take your podcast from idea to reality. Castria’s Erika Ensign and Steven Schapansky record and edit both our live meetups and the regular interviews you hear on Seen and Heard in Edmonton. If you’d like them to help you, visit wearecastria.com. Musical credits: Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 2 No. 1, played by Daniel Veesey, from freemusicarchive.com.

This week's podcast features the audio from our meetup on how to start a podcast, which we recorded way back in September. This was a departure from our usual format. We had veteran podcasters on one side of the room and aspiring podcasters on the other, and we invited the rookies to pepper the vets with questions. You'll hear questions such as these: Which sound editing program should I use? What would you do differently if you started again, especially for business? How frequently should podcasts come out? What social media channels should you use? What analytics should you track? How do you make crowdfunding work? How do you record guests remotely on your podcast when they may not be technically savvy? Where's the best place for your podcast live, for hosting and distribution? And you'll hear answers from these podcasters: Ben Yendall of Tales from the Hydian Way; Erika Ensign of Verity!, The Audio Guide to Babylon 5, Lazy Doctor Who and Uncanny Magazine; Chris Sikkenga of Montreal Sauce; Dan and Trina Shessel of Northern Nerdcast; Danica LeBlanc of Yegs and Bacon; Troy Pavlek of Basket of Yegs; Steven Schapansky of Radio Free Skaro, Hockey Feels, Lazy Doctor Who, The Memory Cheats and Uncanny Magazine. Have a listen. This episode is also available in iTunes, on Google Play, on SoundCloud or on Stitcher. Many thanks to CafeRista for hosting us. Thanks, too, to CKUA Radio and the University of Alberta Music program for donating door prizes to give away. Audio from the October meetup on how to get the word out (featuring Kelly Froese of Edmonton Nerd List and Jeff Williams of Guerrilla Radio) is slated to be published in December. As you can see, there tends to be a lag between meetup and audio release, so if you can, join us in real life. The next one will be on Nov. 19 at Variant Edition. Watch for details on the Edmonton Podcasting Meetup page. This episode of Seen and Heard in Edmonton is brought to you by Castria, where award-winning podcasters help you make your podcast sound great.  In this episode, you'll hear Erika Ensign and Steven Schapansky talk about how they got into podcasting and how they use the expertise they've earned over the past decade to help bring other podcasts into the world (including this one).

Meet Ben Yendall, the storytelling, community-building co-host of Tales from the Hydian Way, a podcast about a role-playing game set in the Star Wars universe. As Ben says, Tales from the Hydian Way is about as niche as you can get, but podcasting is a great medium for serving your particular pack of people. He followed the advice we've often heard here and elsewhere: Make the podcast you want to listen to. I don't play the game and I stopped watching Star Wars at Return of the Jedi, and yet I tune into Tales from the Hydian Way from time to time just to hear them talk. Ben and his co-hosts David and Joshua improvise fan fiction online with people all over the world in the game, and then analyze how to do it better on the podcast. Isn't that amazing? It might be tempting with that level of expertise to exclude newcomers. But Ben has no time for gatekeeping or noob-shaming. "It doesn't do us any good to make the community smaller," he says. That's pretty great, too. This episode is also available in iTunes, on Google Play, on SoundCloud or on Stitcher. Ben made these great local recommendations: Basket of Yegs, Troy Pavlek's podcast about civic affairs Northern Nerdcast, Dan Shessel's look at all things nerdy in Edmonton RPG Casts, a repository of role-playing-game-related podcasts. You can find Tales from the Hydian Way on Twitter (@thehydianway) and Facebook. Ben himself is @deuteriumice on Twitter. And you can often find him in real life at our Edmonton Podcasting Meetup. The next one is on Sept. 18 at Cafe Rista, on the subject of how to start a podcast, and we'll be mining the expertise of our veteran podcasters to help people start their own. Sign up here. This episode was one of several recorded at the Makerspace at the downtown Edmonton Public Library on 100 in 1 Day. Watch for more episodes recorded that day in future weeks. This week’s Seen and Heard in Edmonton is brought to you by Taproot Edmonton, a new member-supported home for local stories created with the community and not just for it. We just launched the Story Garden, which you'll hear Mack Male talk about in this episode. If you’d like to help create a new way to sustain how-and-why journalism in our city, join Taproot today. Musical credits: Beethoven’s Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 2 No. 1, played by Daniel Veesey, from freemusicarchive.com.

Ben Yendall joins me again on the show today to conclude our discussion of the Star Wars RPG system by Fantasy Flight Games.

Ben Yendall joins me on the show today to discuss the Star Wars RPG system by Fantasy Flight Games.