The Monster's Playbook
By The Monster's Playbook
Set in Minneapolis, MN, our current campaign (The Cover Story) follows the exploits of journalist and ex-cultist Kira Ashwood, supernatural social outcast Mark Clayton, Special Agent Casey Davis, and professional sorceress Theo Nessos as they battle monsters threatening the city.
Channels: Session Zero
These are the players. But this is no game. Welcome to Channels. It's a whole new campaign in a whole new world with a whole new player! Let's check in with Jonny, Miah, Lauren, and new player Drew! Meet Sutton Malone, a vampire doing her best to lie low. Jack Harrow, a former thief doing her best to stay on the straight and narrow. And Robert V. Slaughter, an aging custodian who is just the best. Plus, we'll talk a bit about what's new and what's not in campaign two of the Monster's Playbook. It all starts here! So jump in!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny as the Keeper
Lauren as Jack Harrow (The Crooked)
Drew as Robert V. Slaughter (The Mundane)
Miah as Sutton Malone (The Monstrous)
This episode was edited by Miah and Lauren.
Theme song by Jonny.
Cover art by Mygie.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Channels Teaser Trailer
Reality is fragile in Broken River, Minnesota. There’s been a weakening of the walls between what is real and what isn’t. And three unsuspecting citizens will find themselves unwitting adventurers in… a late-90s online video game?? Yes, elderly custodian Robert V. Slaughter, former thief Jack Harrow and literal vampire Sutton Malone will fight scary monsters, meet colorful characters, and hopefully stay alive long enough to figure out what’s going on here. In their seemingly normal home of Broken River, and in the wilds of the Sega Dreamcast game Kings of Bolera, they’ll have to explore two worlds of weirdness to get to the truth.
Join us in Channels, our new Monster of the Week campaign, premiering June 3rd.
Dockers' Highlights: The DRUM arc (Patreon)
Enjoy our first batch of Patreon bloopers from Season 2's DRUM arc, now available for all!
Aw, hey guys! It's me, Dockers. Everybody's favorite high guy who's not alive. Things have been pretty scary on the show lately, but that doesn't mean we don't have fun around here. These guys talk a lot and sometimes the words just get away from them, you know? Let's take a listen to some futzes and flubs from the DRUM arc and bonus episode, Bid Around the Bush.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon:Head to ourPatreonfor bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show:Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to ourDirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord!Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound
Off the Books: The Painted Crow (Patreon)
The Painted Crow was one of our first Patreon NPC bonus episodes, now available for all!
How did Ramsey / Lincoln end up as the taciturn shopkeeper with more knowledge than patience? Unfortunately, we're about to find out. Something important has gone missing from the Clockwork Child. Skaal, the mystical tracker, is meant to be resting safely in the mural on the back of the store. But he's been taken. If Lincoln / Ramsey hopes to get him back, they'll have to rely on somebody they hoped they'd never have to see again: The mentor that made them who they are today. It's an origin story in retrospect! And it's not going to go well!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: Campaign Wrap Up | Book Club — Covering the Story
After four years and almost a hundred episodes, it's over. The Cover Story Campaign is finally complete. Join the cast as we answer questions from listeners—and from each other—and reflect on everything our characters have been through, and maybe what it all means.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to everyone for submitting questions and listening along! We'll see you again with campaign 2 soon!
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E44 | Epilogue
When the battle is over, it’s time to rebuild. And around here, that means reconnecting with the people you love. Maybe now that the threat to existence has ended, we can just spend some time together, and nothing dramatic has to happen. DID YOU HEAR ME, GUYS? NOTHING dramatic has to happen…We’ll see about that.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for The Storyteller Squad. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E43 | Scorched Earth Pt. 5 — What's Your Story?
FULL ON ASSAULT! It’s final boss time, everybody! For too long, it’s been The Star King making plans. But now Kira, Anna, Mark and Theo have put their plan into motion as well. And now it’s like they say: May the best plan win.-------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Gestalheim Productions' campaign Welcome to Pratchetville. Check them out on their Linktree and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Special Thanks: A very special thank you to our friends Quinn, Kyle, and Hannah from Monster Hour; Ian from Shrimp and Crits; and Natalie from The Storyteller Squad for lending us their amazing voice-over talent during Anna's spell.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E42 | Scorched Earth Pt. 4 — Uncrowned
Okay. Cool. We got him. The Star King is trapped. That’s… good, right? Except hang on: He still has the team’s closest friends god knows where, they still have the Star Princes to worry about and—oh yeah—there’s still the last phase of the plan to *checks notes* rewrite an entire chapter of reality. No pressure, gang.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Thorne Files. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E41 | Scorched Earth Pt. 3 — Point and Shoot
If you’re trying to trap a god, what do you use as bait? Why, everything, of course. It will take some of the team’s finest minds to lure the Star King into a snare, while a completely different set of equally fine minds try to lure his Princes to a battlefield the good guys control. We’ve got Thinkers, and we’ve got Bruisers, and everybody has their work cut out for them. All they have to do now… is win.--------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, 5 GMs in a Trenchcoat. Check out this ttrpg pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts. --------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/monstersplaybook/support
TCS: S3E40 | Scorched Earth Pt. 2 — The Sky Has Fallen
The balance of power has changed in a big way. After some major shifts in the Kingdoms of There—and we do mean MAJOR—it's anybody's guess whether our heroes will be able to pull off their crazy-ambitious plan. It would be a toss-up on the best of days, and these… are not the best of days.------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, No Quest for the Wicked. Check out this Starfinder pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E39 | Scorched Earth Pt. 1 — Something to Believe In
When the bad guys make big moves, the good guys make big plans. On this show, the bad guys are really bad. But there are also a LOT of good guys on this show. Maybe it's time to give some of them a call? It's all hands on deck for the Cover Story crew. But will it be enough?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week's promo is for The Between, a new PBTA game about monster hunters in Victorian-era London. Learn more about the game and show your support on Backerkit now!
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E38 | The Best Defense Pt. 3 — Princes
Everybody has a reason why they fight. For our heroes, it’s the friends & family they need to protect. They’ll push themselves to the limits to keep them safe. Trouble is: their enemy has a reason, too. And The Star King doesn’t have the same limits they do…
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Gimme Da Loot. Check out this DnD 5e pod on their Linktree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E37 | The Best Defense Pt. 2 — Thorns
No more mysteries. It’s time to get to the bottom of everything. While Mark recovers from his grave injuries inside Ramsey/Lincoln’s mysterious wooded tapestry, Kira, Theo and Anna seek answers from some unexpected sources. When your enemy is on the scale of a King of There, every other threat suddenly doesn’t seem as scary.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Dice Company. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons podcast on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Home is Where the Hunt is
SPECIAL GUEST ALERT!!! Friend-of-the-Pod Sero invited Jonny to run a one-shot and you KNOW our guy loves to make players smile/suffer. This time it's a reality TV competition show pitting the newcomer Remington family against the instantly unlikable reigning champs, The Crest-Colgates. This episode has everything: Ghosts. Urban Development. Unscrupulous Reality TV Directors. Maybe a Werewolf? Dysfunctional Family Vibes. And of course, Drama.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to Sero (Redgate and Wolf) for having us on your show, as well as Mr. Ray ($2 Creature Feature) and Jason (Memester of the Week) for playing along with us. Be sure to check out our friends on social media, and listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
Mr. Ray as Vlad Remington (The Monstrous)
Lauren Johnson as Trish Remington (The Curse Eater)
Jason as Mikey Remington (The Action Scientist)
Sero as Nora Remington (The Wronged)
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E36 | The Best Defense Pt. 1 — Locks
What happens when your sanctuary becomes a target? The Clockwork Child is under siege. But it’s not as simple as fighting off attackers. It’ll take brains and brawn to protect their friends and save as many people as they can.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Mystery Frequency. Check out this audio drama pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
TCS: S3E25 | The Deep End Pt. 3 — Come Back
When you've got a big problem, you need a big idea. And Mark, Kira, Anna and Theo are trying to pull off a couple of the biggest ideas they've ever had. They've got to deal with the Reaper. They've got to escape from the Sea Kingdom AGAIN. And in the end? They have to prevent the walls that hold up the universe from crashing down around them. We know we're working with Big Ideas. Let's see if any of them are Good Ideas.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Thornvale. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E34 | The Deep End Pt. 2 — Rebuild
Sometimes you get exactly what you want, but it's all too much. When Theo claims the Eye of Endregoras, will she be able to handle all that power? And even though they've got the target of the heist, there's still the matter of the Reaper--the living spirit of death that keeps the Dead Sea dead. The mission is simple: Make it out alive.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Damsels in Dicestress. Check them out on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E33 | The Deep End Pt. 1 — Heist Mode
It's Heist Time, Baby! We've set our sights on one of the most powerful artifacts in creation YET AGAIN, and it'll take all the cunning and connections they've got for Mark, Theo, Anna and Kira to secure the second Eye of Endregoras. Bad news? It's located in the Dead Sea Kingdom. MORE bad news? The way back in is through the office of the city's premier crime boss—and resident nemesis—Rex Crook.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Lizards and Locations. Check them out on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: My Name Is...
How it started vs how it's going ttrpg characters. Book Club is back with an intimate conversation with Cap (Shrimp and Crits), Teo (Monster Hour) and Lauren (The Monster's Playbook) about their approach to character creation. This episode is perfect for players who need some inspiration on creating characters, getting into your character's mindset and much more.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Cast:
Miah Detjen-Wander
Lauren Johnson
Cap from Shrimp and Crits
Teo from Monster Hour
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E31 | Written in the Stars Pt. 3 — Sins of the Father
It turns out, even if the future is scary, the past can be even worse. For the last year, Mark, Kira, Anna, and Theo have been discovering more about themselves than they ever wanted to. But if there's one thing we've learned on this journey, it's that no challenge goes away until you confront it. Even the scary ones. You know what? Especially the scary ones.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Storybook Ending. Check them out on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E31 | Written in the Stars Pt. 2 — Twin Flames
Have you ever been so angry that it felt like you were a different person? Kira Ashwood has. And it's finally time for her to reconcile with the part of herself she's spent so much of her life trying to keep at arm's length. But she can't do it alone. That's the thing about being a person: You need other people. And sometimes, you even need people you don't want to need.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for a brand new actual-play podcast, of Monsters and Mixed Successes. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their Link Tree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E30 | Written in the Stars Pt. 1 — In for the Night
What do you do when you're scared? When the forces allied against you seem truly unstoppable? When even your very best hope seems—at best—confusing to work with? Well, if you're the crew of the Cover Story, you take some time to just hang out! They've created what may be one of the most dangerous artifacts in creation, but this week, they'll be spending some time with an even more powerful asset: Friends.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Wing Women Pod. Check out this fellow actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Feed Drop | Book Club —The Great Monster Make-Off
This one is a must for any aspiring GMs and Keepers. It's The Great Monster Make-Off! Jonny was lucky enough to be invited onto Sero's stream with Ian and Cap (Shrimp and Crits), for a game show hosted by Sero and Monster Daddy himself, the creator of Monster of the Week, Michael Sands! It'll take more creativity than usual for Jonny, Ian and Cap to build monsters, mysteries and more right before your very eyes. Wait: I mean ears. Audio medium. Along the way, we have a great discussion of this game, how it works, and how to create within it.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Affiliate Link: Get a copy of Monster of the Week here to support our friend Sero, and visit the SeroDoesStuff Twitch Channel.
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Cast:
Jonny, Ian, and Cap as the contestants
and Sero and Michael Sands as the judges
This episode was edited by Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3 Act 2 | Book Club — Covering the Story
A lot has gone down, and there's clearly more to come. So how are we all feeling? Join us as we digest Act 2 of Season 3, and check in with the players as we head into what will become … our Endgame.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E29 | Forged in Fire Pt. 4 — Balance
The Kingdoms of There have a vital purpose. A threat to them is a threat to everything. Unfortunately, there are so. Many. Threats. And only Kira, Anna, Mark and Theo—and their friends—know enough to face them. But around here? Knowing is WAY more than half the battle.
Content Warning: Brief mention of suicidal thoughts
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're once again featuring a promo for No Latency. Check out this actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E28 | Forged in Fire Pt. 3 — The Right Decision
So here's the plan: Fight fire with fire. It's simple, but it won't be easy. The forge is under the control of an unscrupulous wing of the Magio, the stones that will serve as materials are… unstable at best, and even once they find this forge, what kind of weapon will be strong enough to save the whole world?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're featuring a promo for No Latency. Check out this actual play pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E2 | Forged in Fire Pt. 2 — A Bird in a Cage
What do you do when you're walking around with a weapon that can destroy everything? Keep it pointed at the bad guys. The hunt is on for a legendary forge that can craft vital resources out of the team's most dangerous liabilities. They have more than one mystic stone imbued with the flames from the end of the world. I guess using that stone to build something is.... certainly An Option.
Content Warning: This episode includes depictions of dissociative disorders and confronting an abuser. Additionally, there is a short scene at the end of the episode depicting home hospice care (1:41:30-end).
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties, please contact the professionals who can help you. And for more information about Dissociative Identity Disorder visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Mage Hand High Five. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E26 | Forged in Fire Pt. 1 — Forward
Okay, it's time once again to ask our favorite question: What the hell do we do now!? The immediate threat from The Magio has been handled, but now an even bigger threat looms. And some of the biggest players in the game want Mark, Theo, Kira and Anna to get on the front lines in a battle they're only just beginning to understand. Lock and load, people.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, $2 Creature Feature. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E25 | The Midnight Council Pt. 3 — Blood of the Centaur
All families have secrets. But when your family is the head of a magical organized crime outfit, your secrets are going to be a little bit bigger than most. We'll have to go pretty deep to get to the bottom of this one. Deep like all the way into the underworld. So pack light, and dress warm. We're going to finish this one way or the other.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Sprouting. Check out this Call of Cthulhu pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E24 | The Midnight Council Pt. 2 — One Step at a Time
The Magio has one rule above all others: You do not contact the dead. And Theo Nessos is about to break it. She's going to get to the bottom of the one mystery that's defined her adult life: How and why did Selena Nessos die?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, 5 GMs in a Trenchcoat. You can check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E23 | The Midnight Council Side Story — Littlebear
Project Littlebear. One of the notorious Nathaniel Rose's pet projects. But what is it? Donovan and Kira go behind enemy lines to see what's behind the project. But where Nathaniel Rose is involved, you just KNOW it's not gonna be a teddy bear factory.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
-------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E22 | The Midnight Council Pt. 1 — Date Night
If you thought the Nessos siblings were spooky, wait until you meet the rest of The Family. Something is happening behind closed doors in the Magio, and when it comes to our local magical Casa Nostra, that's literally never good.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for The Storyteller Squad. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E21 | Ghosts of the Past Pt. 3 — Sonoma
What did you think we meant by "ghosts of the past"?! Someone very important comes back into our story that we thought we might never see again. But… she's been changed, man. She's seen some things. And some stuff. And stunningly, the person best equipped to help her might just be a stoner ghost who just wants to hang out, bro.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Deck of Many Aces. Check out this D&D pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen-Wander and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E20 | Ghosts of the Past Pt. 2 — The Young King
The Undying Soldier seems to have made her move, so it's all hands on deck to try to put a stop to the very annoying cult she serves, and the sinister machine she's helping to fuel. To make the stakes even higher, if they can't steal that machine back, they'll have no way to stop the oncoming apocalypse. So y'know. No pressure.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
-------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E19 | Ghosts of the Past Pt. 1 — Treasure Machine
The thing about prophecies is you can never be sure if you're better off ignoring them or obeying them. The team decides to split the difference and investigate some mysteries. Can we get in touch with Ember? Can we track down the Heat Sink to stave off the apocalypse? And can we learn anything else from the catchy little ditty we heard by that robot from the future?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Dumb Dumbs and Dragons. Check out this D&D 5e pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E18 | Home Front Pt. 2 — Study Hall
Now that they've caught their breath, it's time to make a plan. Some big things are happening in the world of the Cover Story, which means the hunters are going to have to do some big things themselves to keep their friends and their world safe. The team is hitting the books, and the bad guys are about to learn that knowing is way more than half the battle.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo forthe RPG Goblin. Check out this new pod on their LinkTree and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E17 | Home Front Pt. 1 — Garage Sale Weekend
What do you do after you've trudged through hell and battled the devil himself? If you're Mark Clayton, you go shopping! It's a desperate quest for some normalcy on our show this week. Which always works out GREAT!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Gals and Goblins. Check out this Dungeons and Dragons 5e pod on their LinkTree, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3 Act 1 | Book Club — Covering the Story
So much has happened, but what does it all mean? Well, we can't tell you everything, but we can tell you how we feel about it. Join the cast as we reminisce on everything that's happened in the first Act of the final Season of The Cover Story. Let's indulge in all that intensity as we revisit the Family Business, Dead Sea, Reaper, Face to Face and Witchwood arcs. WE HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS!!!!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
-------
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E16 | Witchwood Pt. 4 — Into the Fire
It's time to finally face down Tower—or whatever she's become—as well as her new ally. And if that ally lives There, it is not going to be good. This week on the Cover Story? The Truth Hurts.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Slay the Stars. Check them out on their website, and be sure to listen to their new limited series, Bella's Comet here, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E15 | Witchwood Pt. 3 — Into the Sea
It's true what they say: "Nothing Lives in the Sea Kingdom." But that doesn't mean there isn't something bad lurking inside. Turns out you don't have to be alive to cause problems, and the people our heroes are after are causing some SERIOUS problems.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Thorne Files. Check out this fellow Monster of the Week pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen-Wander as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Blades in the Dark Pt. 2: I Didn't Think I'd Get This Far
Ace, Echo and Wicker head to the very top of the bottom as their hunt for the Glasstown thieves leads them to a Matriarch of the Bridgeway. But their true goal leads them deeper into the underbelly of the town than they'd planned. And the score they're after is not what it seems. As long as they stick to the deal and don't open the case, they should be okay… right?
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the GM
John Wander as Ace (The Hound)
Lauren Johnson as Echo (The Whisper)
Miah Detjen as Wicker (The Lurk)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Blades in the Dark Pt. 1: Welcome to Brickwall
What happens when you take a dyed-in-the-wool crew of Monster of the Week lifers and make them play a different system? Well, it's delightful, that's what. Welcome to Blades of Brickwall. A Blades in the Dark miniseries set in the homebrew city of Brickwall. Ace, Echo and Wicker are a crew of small-time criminals who get a job that could put them in the big leagues and almost immediately find themselves in over their heads. I mean like... instantly.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the GM
John Wander as Ace (The Hound)
Lauren Johnson as Echo (The Whisper)
Miah Detjen as Wicker (The Lurk)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Book Club: In a World
Welcome back to BOOK CLUB! This time John had the chance to talk with David (Trials of the Apocalypse), Quinn (Monster Hour) and Natalie (The Storyteller Squad) about how they create game worlds that capture the hearts and minds of players and audiences alike. This is an amazing peek behind the curtain of some of our favorite shows that you won't want to miss!
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to our wonderful guests for joining us this episode. Be sure to check out their shows wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
John Wander
Jonny Grubb
Quinn Majeski (Monster Hour)
David Easley (Trials of the Apocalypse)
Natalie Fuinha (The Storyteller Squad)
This episode was edited by Miah Wander
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E14 | Witchwood Pt. 2 — Into the
The Witchwood is an ancient tree, a boundless source of arcane power. But for years, it's been lost to the world. Turns out, it's not so lost anymore! Good news: the team's new ally can use powerful magic again. Bad news? So can whoever has found it. Yeah, we don't know what they're up to but we know we want to stop them.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for the Stories and Sorceries podcast. Check out this D&D 5e pod on their Twitter and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E13 | Witchwood Pt. 1 — Into the Fog
It's another case of bad news, worse news. Bad news? Otherworldly fog is invading the city. Worse news? Kira's apprentice Gad has gone missing investigating it. By now the team knows that the best way to get ahead of something weird is to bring in something weirder. And that's exactly what they do by reaching out to someone from Mark's mother's former coven.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, Seasons of Skyrend. Check out this pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E12 | Face to Face Pt. 4 — Less Afraid
It’s time for an assault on the Stroud Manor. That’s where their friend Aaron is, it’s where their enemy Nathaniel Rose is. It’s time to finally put an end to this. But what, exactly, has Nathaniel been doing this whole time? And will it be too late to stop him?Content Warning: This episode contains violence, body horror, and dissociative episodes.
TCS: S3E11 | Face to Face Pt. 3 — Bound in Blood
The team gets a lead on their arch-nemesis… from their other arch-nemesis. But Nathaniel Rose isn’t the only monster stalking the city tonight. It’s time for those famous last words: “Let’s Split Up, Gang!” But this’ll probably go all right. … Right?
Content Warning: This episode contains violence and some brief moments of body horror.
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for another actual-play podcast, The Lucky Die. Check out this DnD 5e pod on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
Off the Books: Goat Crashers with Shrimp & Crits!
We turned some shrimps into goats. That’s right, we invited the crew of Shrimp and Crits to play a little game called Goat Crashers with Miah and Lauren. It’s simple, the players are goats and they want to party!! Problem is, the humans are hosting the party and they don’t want goat guests. So the goats have no other option but to PARTY HARD and access their power of chaos.-------
If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
Thank you to Shrimp and Crits for joining us for this chaotic one-shot. You can find them on their website, or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cast:
Miah Detjen as the Goat Master
Lauren Johnson as Gina the Fainting Goat
Ian Mauldin as Jerry Rice the Pygmy Goat
Cap as Bucephalus aka "Bucky" the Satanic Goat
Katie as Sad Janice the Big-Horned Goat
Ryan as Ken. Griffy Jr. the Fancy Goat
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E10 | Face to Face Pt. 2 - The Lion and the Mouse
With a missing friend and a killer on the loose, things are getting a little tense around supernatural Minneapolis. And they’re about to get worse. Because whoever’s out there hurting people, isn’t only hurting them. They’re harvesting. But for what purpose? And will the team be able to stop them in time? Content Warning: Dissociative Episodes
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Tabletop Tiddies! Check out this queer and feminist TTRPG podcast on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.
TCS: S3E9 | Face to Face Pt. 1 — Doc
An unexpected phone call puts the team on their very least favorite kind of case: A Missing Person. And, in true Cover Story fashion, it gets worse. There’s a serial killer on the loose. A set of gruesome murders around the city may be something less-than-natural. And with that kind of danger out there, you do NOT want to have one of your friends missing.
Content Warning: Dissociative Episodes
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If you liked this episode, please leave a rating and review to help us spread the word and don't forget to share with your friends. We love friends!
Subscribe to our Patreon: Head to our Patreon for bonus content you won’t want to miss out on.
Support the Show: Follow us on social media, buy some merch, support us on Ko-fi, and check out our Wiki by heading to our DirectMe Profile.
Join us on Discord! Come hang out with the cast on The Monster's Playbook Discord server where we can discuss the latest episodes, trade theories, answer questions, and get to know you, our listeners, a little better.
This week we're also featuring a promo for Merely Roleplayers. Check out this roleplaying audio drama on their website, and be sure to listen to them wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Cast:
Jonny Grubb as the Keeper
John Wander as Mark Clayton (The Divine)
Lauren Johnson as Kira Ashwood (The Initiate) and Anna Ashwood (The Apprentice)
Miah Detjen as Casey Davis (The Freelancer) and Theo Nessos (The Searcher)
This episode was edited by Miah Detjen and Lauren Johnson.
Theme song by Jonny Grubb.
Cover art by Gabe Schmidt.
Incidental music from Epidemic Sound.