A podcast for Mage: The Ascension players, storytellers, and World of Darkness fans.
Adam’s riding solo on this one, and he’s pulling a bundle of helpful tricks and tips out of his Storyteller’s saddlebag—especially for folks just starting out running Mage games. If you’re a veteran, you might hear some familiar ground, but if you’re new to the Storyteller’s seat, this one’s a gold mine.
In this special pre-recorded episode from July 2024, Adam and Terry (with recovered audio thanks to Josh, Heath, and Pooka) dive deep into M20 Sorcerer. From forgotten hedge wizards to psychic phenomena, they unpack systems, powers, affiliations, and the curious absence of a storyteller chapter.
Adam interviews Jiba Anderson, writer of the Bata’a chapter in Forbidden and Forgotten Orders. Jiba discusses how he reimagined the Bata’a craft, blending African and diasporic spirituality, music, and coded communication. He emphasizes authenticity, research, and the Bata’a’s global, secretive nature. Jiba also shares his broader work in comics, including The Horseman and upcoming projects.
This lost episode of Mage: The Podcast features a pre-recorded discussion with the late Terry Robinson and Michael Mercere on the Houses of Hermes, blending Mage: The Ascension and Ars Magica lore. They explore the Orders legalism, politics, traditions, and mysticism, touching on key figures, tribunal systems, magical legacies, and house-specific quirks.
Pooka G chats with Atalanti Evripidou about her Sisters of Hippolyta chapter for Forbidden & Forgotten Orders. Atalanti is a longtime TTRPG fan and revamped the Sisters’ lore, blending myth, academia, and hope punk themes. Atalanti aimed to make them inspiring to play—strong, supportive, and fighting for change in many ways!
Adam interviews Satyros Brucato—writer, developer, and architect of Mage: The Ascension’s evolving mythos—who has been guiding mages through paradox-laden landscapes since the first edition. He played a key role in defining the game’s earliest metaplot, developed the majority of the first two editions, and later helped craft Mage 20, writing several of its core books. Today, he joins us to discuss Forbidden & Forgotten Orders, the latest release that explores hidden magical factions, lost alliances, and the enigmatic Solificati.
Adam chats with longtime contributor Rachelle Udell. Rochelle shares her journey through Mage projects—from her early days to her favorite, The Fallen Tower: Las Vegas—and dives into her hefty chapter on the Ngoma in Forbidden and Forgotten Orders. With wit and warmth, she unpacks magical lore, quirky pronunciations, and rich traditions that keep the Mage universe alive. Enjoy this friendly ride through mystical realms!
Hey folks, we’ve got something special for you—a new podcast series featuring our dear friend Terry Robinson, recorded before his passing. With the blessing of his loved ones, we’re rolling out these episodes alongside some fantastic guest co-hosts.
In this first installment, co-produced by Pooka (Changeling: The Podcast) and Josh Heath (Werewolf: The Podcast), we explore World of Darkness: Tokyo. We chew over everything from wraith politics to supernatural factions and Japan’s eerie, mystical underbelly. There’s plenty to love and plenty to scratch our heads over—some parts don’t quite hold up, and there are missed chances here and there. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of gold to dig up for your own storytelling!
Adam sits down with Kim Godwin to chat about about her chapter in Forbidden and Forgotten Orders, an upcoming Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition book. Kim shares her love for TTRPGs, her experience with Mage, and how she reworked the Kahu faction with a stronger cultural foundation. She highlights the importance of preserving traditions while adapting for survival. Kim also shares insights on her horror fiction, webcomics, and a pile of exciting TTRPG projects. Lots of fun, magic, and creativity in this one!
This week on Mage: The Podcast, we’ve got something special for you—two deep dives into the ever-shifting world of magic and role-playing!
First, we sit down with Douglas Rushkoff—media theorist, writer, and host of the Team Human podcast—to explore how RPGs, especially Mage: The Ascension, serve as tools for reality manipulation and self-discovery. We’ll talk about the changing face of magic in society, its impact on public figures, and how Storytellers can weave true magical sensibilities into their campaigns.
Then, we chat with Richard Metzger, lifelong explorer of the occult and host of the Magic Show. He takes us on a journey through the cultural evolution of magic, its place in pop culture, and intriguing ideas like radionics that could bring a whole new layer to modern RPGs.
Whether you’re a seasoned mage or just stepping onto the path, these conversations will challenge your thinking, spark your imagination, and maybe even change how you see magic in the 21st century.