A Point of Inspiration! NADDPOD: Skaldova!
Take part in The Two Crew's newest adventure!
This week’s point of inspiration comes from Not Another DND Podcast, or NADDPOD. Specifically We’re taking a look at the newest season, Skaldova.
I’ve been listening to NADDPOD since 2022 and they were one of my first introductions into the Dungeons and Dragons Actual Play podcasting scene. (For those who may be unfamiliar, an Actual Play podcast is one where the cast actively plays a ttrpg on air usually edited down to focus on telling the story that takes place. Most commonly you’ll see Dungeons and Dragons actual play podcasts like NADDPOD, Critical Role, Dungeons and Daddies, and more!) Since then I’ve listened and relistened to the cast go on adventures across three campaigns and a host of mini series/one shots. While I’d recommend starting off with campaign one I feel the new GM would learn a lot from Skaldova as it is one of the host’s first time running a game!
Jake Hurwitz has played in each campaign since season one, clearly having absorbed the game mastering techniques of his co -hosts. Hearing his campaign take place has been something special. Leading up to Skaldova he’d mentioned feelings that are familiar to a lot of new game masters: nervousness, excitement, etc. (no doubt magnified by having his sessions broadcasted to many fans worldwide!). I found that to be reassuring, then when we got to episode one of Skaldova I was blown away. Jake’s world was vivid and his NPCs all uniquely voiced and vividly described. His skill in GMing has been a wonder to behold. His creativity is on clear display through his detailed world building and decisive use of flavor to create a setting that feels full of mystery despite the fog of dread that seems to cling to it.
His fellow hosts, Brian Murphy, Emily Axford, and Caldwell Tanner have added so much with their characters. Each of the hosts also have GM’d for the show so I’d recommend going and listening to every season, one shot, and mini series they’ve got to observe a wide array of game mastering techniques as they are all very distinctive in how they run their games! This cast of characters this season have been fun to listen to as they take in the world presented to them. My personal favorite so far is Caldwell’s Boggy Rodger. The character's voice is delightful and his antics have been very entertaining, his backstory adds a thick layer of tragedy as we get to hear how each of Boggy’s buds met their demise. Emily’s Sir Welly and Murph’s Zudrick of the Murder have been amazing as well. The two play off each other really well and have had some intriguing exchanges on faith and hope that resonates beyond the show without breaking the immersion.
The collaborative work of these four minds is some of my all time favorites. Whether you start off listening to the current season or start from the very beginning, you’ll be in for something special. I’d even recommend listening to the current season and in between episode releases catching up on their past seasons.
If you find that you are enjoying their content I suggest subscribing to their Patreon for the exclusive content they post there! You’ll get episodes from their Mixed Bag releases and a bunch of episodes of their show, Dungeon Court. Dungeon court can be a great spot to learn about table etiquette and how to handle rulings at the table when the answer does not seem readily apparent.
You can find NADDPOD wherever you listen to podcasts! I listen primarily on Spotify and Patreon but I’m sure they’re available wherever you listen to your content.