Dungeons & Disciples

Welcome to Dungeons & Disciples: a show relating our Christian walk to our favorite TTRPG.--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!https://discord.gg/UAKw7bjRInstagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In the debut episode of Dungeons & Disciples, Josh Shaw and Tony Benda discussed their passion for using Dungeons and Dragons as a tool to share Jesus with others. They shared their personal experiences and emphasized the importance of building a spirit-filled role-playing community and fostering fellowship. They also discussed the two primary methods for creating characters in D&D, and how self-awareness is crucial for personal growth and communication. Later, they talked about the intersection of personal growth and safety in tabletop gaming, and how Christians can integrate their faith into the gaming community.--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

After a quick recap from episode 1, we had an unexpected phone call from one of our D&D buddies, Jarek Partsch. After listening to this episode, go check out their podcast: The Tales We Tell. Jarek produces the show with his wife, Hannah, and co-host Katy.We get back into the episode by exploring the journey from character creation to gameplay from a unique perspective. We delve into what it means to play from a meta perspective and how that translates to our spiritual walk with Jesus. More importantly, we dive into the understanding of not walking out our lives from a meta perspective, but using our God-given identity and creativity to look beyond immediate circumstances or the desire to control our situations and align with God's calling and direction. By examining biblical insights and personal testimonies, we hope to inspire listeners to integrate these lessons into their daily lives and live their lives hungry and thirsty for righteousness.Here is the site we mentioned for all resources D&D related.https://www.dndbeyond.com/--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In this week's episode, Josh and Tony talk about the question that we believe is alive and well at every table, every session: "DM (or GM), did we long rest? This hits close to home as we experience this ourselves. We look forward to that point in our games when we can take a moment to catch our breath with a short rest, or benefit from the full long rest where we are as good as new! We also discuss how this concept of rest is important in our spiritual walks as well. Jesus Himself talks about that in Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In this episode, Josh and Tony discuss what it means to be in shackles in D&D, as well as the bondage sometimes carried in our spiritual lives. Dive into a crazy episode with us we also recount some of the ways we almost ended up in shackles ourselves!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In this episode, Josh and Tony are joined by their first special guest, and Tony’s younger brother, Aaron Benda. Rejoicing at the appearance of their first guest, there was also tremendous gratitude because something unique (and ironic) has happened to Josh while recording as well!!!This episode will dive into what it means to use character voices in the world of D&D. Character voices make gameplay so fun, and they share some of their favorite voices and personal inspirations! But also, how do we use our voices to carry the gospel to the nations (Matthew 28:19)? How do we find out voices? And because God also has a voice, how do we lean into that voice?--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

At the end of every session (almost without fail), people ask that same age-old question: did we level up? HA!!!! In this episode, Josh and Tony discuss what it means to level up both in D&D gameplay, as well as spiritually. God doesn't want us to stay where we are, but for us to grow in our faith - level up if you will - and grow closer to Him.--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

What is one thing TTRPG players love to do? Use weapons! In this week’s episode, Josh and Tony talk about some of their favorite weapons, spells, and character buffs to make combat fun and effective in D&D. In the Christian walk, one must also understand their weapons of warfare against the enemy if we are to succeed in the middle of spiritual warfare. But here are the real questions: Who is this enemy? What are our weapons? When does the fight start? Lean in, roll for initiative, and let’s get fighting together!!!AMAZING game Tony play-tested with the guys at GenCon 2024: SPACEOFFwww.instagram.com/spaceoffgameFacebook Group mentioned: https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianboardgamersSurrounded (Fight My Battles) - UPPERROOM song referenced in today's episode:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vx6mfAgHDsYLyric breakdown/scriptures mentioned:https://bibleconnections.org/2018/07/23/this-is-how-i-fight-my-battles/--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In this episode, Josh & Tony explore a bit of a hard topic: the stigmas of D&D. Need we say more? Tune in to find out what they say.YouTube sources for old audio:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL7lEwD1uGIhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7Ies6NVAeA--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Tune in this week as Josh and Tony explore what it means to be a DM! World building, storytelling, and much more. We are joined by some special guests and some of our favorite people, Tuck Choate and Stephen Kachur. We unpack some of our favorite DMing moments together and oh the stories we tell... Stick around next time for part 2 of this multi-part episodic adventure!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Welcome back to part 2 this week while Josh and Tony continue exploring what it means to be a DM! Worldbuilding, storytelling, and much more. We are (still) joined by special guests and some of our favorite people, Tuck Choate and Stephen Kachur. We unpack more of our favorite DMing moments together and oh the stories we tell... Stick around next time for another special episode of this multi-part episodic adventure!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

D&D isn’t just for adults, but for kids too! Because of looming stigmas that surround the game, many kids are not allowed to play. In this episode, Josh and Tony talk about how this game can be enjoyed in an appropriate and fun way for kids, including how to honor parents, steer clear of graphic content, and leaning into Christ in the midst of playing as a young player. Still not convinced? Josh and Tony are also joined by some special guests that have extensive wisdom and experience on this topic that will blow you away!Check out Xavier & Fish on their show, The Fishers of Men Podcast!https://open.spotify.com/show/1GQGa55gzXn5aPetKxMteI?si=39c339668203444dhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fishers-of-men-podcast/id1726944727--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

BE PREPARED FOLKS. Josh and Tony are a bit unhinged in this episode. LOL. They are pretty transparent and vulnerable as they discuss what it means to be properly aligned with God, or even how to re-align ourselves if we've drifted a bit. Remember that according to Psalms, God's word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path.Alignment Explained - BlogSongs mentioned:"You're Enough" (Sleeping At Last)Spotify Link Here, Apple Music Link Here, YouTube Link Here"Maybe It's Okay" - We Are MessengersSpotify Link Here, Apple Music Link Here, YouTube Link Here--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

There is nothing better than a good celebration! Those times uplift, encourage, and produce joy inside of us. But what happens when you invited to a celebration in the middle of heartache, grief, or hurting? In this episode, Josh and Tony dive into some cool environmental scenarios to produce amazing story telling opportunities in at your gaming tables with carnivals (times of fun, laughter and joy) and caravan stops (times of reflection, processing, and character building). More importantly, the Word of God has much to say about both of those concepts when you feel like you’re on the mountain top and down deep in the valley. Sometimes this is not an easy path to understand or even go down, but we have one question for you: are you ready to journey with us down it?Tony's Original Song: "6:35"https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/tonybenda/635--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

You ever read all of the terms and condition’s when you update your phone, tablet, or computer? Yeah, we don’t either. But conditions we DO pay attention to are the conditions that we experience in D&D. They can impact gameplay tremendously, and Josh and Tony explore what some of those are. Also, they take a deep dive into what exactly is this Unconditional Love of God. It’s hard to fathom it; it’s hard to understand it; but we certainly are thankful for it every single day that it truly is a love that is unreserved and unlimited! We highly recommend sharing this one with a friend!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

You know it, we know it, everyone knows it… Nat 20’s give us everything we need!!!In this episode, Tony and Josh explore spells/character abilities that help identify, locate, or even see things beyond other player understanding in gameplay. In this conversation, they rolled to see identity not just our identity in God, but rolled to understanding exactly who God is. What is He like? How do you describe Him? What does he do for us? I’m sure you can guess by now what they rolled, but tune in to see all that they discovered!!!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Here's to our 2nd Season! Thanks for being a part of the community! Love you all <3--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Are you ready for season 2? We are, and we are ready to GO BERSERK BECAUSE OF THE EXCITEMENT!!!! Tony and Josh are kicking off this new season by discussing character classes, starting with Barbarians. Outside of the cool things you can do war hammers and Reckless Attacks, today’s conversation also talks about how anger impacts are walk with Jesus. What does the Bible say about anger? How are we called to handle our emotions? How do we lead when we are frustrated and overwhelmed? Join us @ the Game Table!!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Come one, come all! Sit with us as we gather around our tents and tables, recounting the tales of old! Join us in song, dance, and glad tidings!!! 🕺🎶🙌🏻You catch the drift yet? No? Ok, we’ll tell you. In this episode, Josh and Tony are going over what it means to be/play a Bard in D&D. There are so cool and challenging things as a Bard, but so much fun to be had!Josh and Tony have also discovered that in our Christian walks, we are just like Bard’s in many ways, gleaning from Biblical Teachings about dancing, singing, and the power of our own speech. You aren’t gonna want to miss this one!!----------------------------------Intro track for the poem:"The Queens Quarters" by Alon Peretz. Used under license.--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

In this episode, Josh & Tony continue their journey through character classes, taking this episode to talk about Clerics. While the class may seem generic, they have a variety of cool features that makes them versatile and a fun class to play!One thing the boys honed in on with this class is a great discussion about Holy Spirit. What exactly is the Holy Spirit? What power does it hold, and how do we access that? While you may not fully know now, we promise that the Holy Spirit moved in this episode, leading to a lot of authentic and vulnerable conversation about the hurts that have occurred, how the church has responded during these times, and how we as believers can no longer quench it! You don’t want to miss it!!--------------------Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission).Join us on Discord!Instagram:@dungeonsanddisciplesFacebook@DungeonsAndDisciplesEmail us at:dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com