Episode 689: Bring Out the Claw

Episode 689: Bring Out the Claw

Author: Kenneth Hite and Robin D Laws March 6, 2026 Duration: 1:05:28
In the Gaming Hut we explain why idiot plotting is an even bigger problem in tabletop rpgs than fiction or movies. At the behest of beloved Patreon backer Ginge the Tradecraft Hut rips the lid off of the submarine exploit that was Project Azorian. The Mythology Hut goes to the woods to reveal the surprising […]

Imagine a table in a cozy pub where two of the sharpest minds in gaming and pop culture have gathered for their regular chat. That’s the feeling you get with Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff. Each episode, Kenneth Hite and Robin D. Laws dive into a wonderfully eclectic mix of topics pulled from history, conspiracy theories, film, and of course, the intricate craft of game design. Their conversation is less a formal interview and more like eavesdropping on two friends who happen to be encyclopedic experts, effortlessly connecting the dots between a forgotten historical figure and a modern storytelling technique. You’ll hear them dissect the mechanics of a role-playing game with the same engaging depth they apply to analyzing a classic noir film or unpacking an odd slice of folklore. The charm of this podcast lies in the genuine chemistry between Ken and Robin-their thoughtful debates, witty asides, and shared enthusiasm make even the most niche subject feel immediately accessible and fascinating. It’s a consistent source of intellectual curiosity and entertainment for anyone who enjoys seeing where a meandering, insightful conversation between two creative professionals can lead. Tune in for a regular dose of clever ideas and unexpected connections, all delivered with a warm, conversational ease that feels both smart and welcoming.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Ken and Robin Talk About Stuff
Podcast Episodes
Episode 685: Eleven Johnsons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:02
Before beloved Patreon backer Sikander can betray us, the Gaming Hut answers his question about the Mr. Johnson trope in roleplaying games. Special guests Gareth Ryder-Hanrahan and James Wallis join us in the Mythology H…
Episode 684: His Other Cavil is Even Worse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:00:16
In the Gaming Hut we reluctantly rouse ourselves to answer beloved Patreon backer Toonspew’s request for a look at the Church of the Sub-Genius. At the request of estimable backer Neon Fox, the History Hut finds the real…
Episode 683: Disturbing Holes and Barrows [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:29
In the Gaming Hut we look at the sorts of stories that work as Page Turners scenarios. The Archaeology Hut digs into the case of the Russian archaeologist arrested in Poland for damaging the Crimean site of Myrmekion. In…
Episode 682: The Biter Has Departed [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:15:45
The Gaming Hut follows up a previous pedagogical segment by wondering what a course syllabus for tabletop rpg development and editing might look cover. The Crime Blotter peers at the surprisingly long list of criminal fo…
Episode 681: Space Oprah [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:40
As you may have heard in our previous episode, a mysterious technical event ate our recording of our live episode at this year’s Dragonmeet. In the face of this tragedy we prevail with a not at all convincing recreation…
Episode 680: It’s the American [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:52
The Gaming Hut wonders what would happen in an F20 world where the smoke from burned magic scrolls produced a potent intoxication? Thanks to the Secret Maps exhibition at the British Library, the Travel Advisory veers in…
Episode 679: His Frequency is Powerful [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:05:20
Beloved Patreon backer Ben A. takes the Gaming Hut to New York’s Chinatown in 1973 for tips on a game that mixes triads with the Bruce Lee legacy. Estimable backer Philip Masters gains access to the Tradecraft Hut for an…
Episode 678: A Word for All the Chairs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:04
In the Gaming Hut we look at a core part of the rpg designer’s skill set, table sense, or the ability to predict what players will do with your material. The Mythology Hut tells the story of a historical figure reputed t…
Episode 677: South America is Very Long [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:11:36
Beloved Patreon backer Darcy Casselman summons us to the Gaming Hut in search of tips on playing a gestalt or troupe-style leader character, such as a starship captain. The Architecture Hut peers at Sibiu, Transylvania,…