We've decided to experiment with a new show type. We don't know how often we'll do it, because it really depends on how well it works out.

All jokes aside, we're well aware of the limits of our knowledge in certain areas. The big three that come to mind are indie games, LARPing practices, and non-American gaming culture. We're like to put together a round table of experts from the industry and our fan base, with one or two of us present to moderate and keep conversation going.

This does not represent the new direction of Fear the Boot, even if it's wildly successful. It's just something we'll mix in every-so-often like we do the interview shows or bonus episodes.

For the first one, we're going to try LARPing. I would like one person to fill a seat as the expert for each of the following areas:

1. modern LARPing (Vampire, Cthulhu, etc)
2. fantasy LARPing
3. European LARPing

Boffer LARPing, the SCA, historical reenactment, etc, will be discussed, but I'm presuming someone who's big into one of the above will likely have some insight into those peripheral topics. So I'm not listing them as one of the three seats.

If you want to apply for the job, here's the requirements...

1. A microphone and headsets you can plug into your computer. The headsets are important to avoid feedback from the speakers.

2. A copy of Skype that works with your computer. There's a test feature built into Skype so you can try making a phone call to see if your setup works. I don't expect you to come across with the same sound quality we generate in the studio, but make sure you can at least be heard without deafening background hiss.

3. Strong knowledge and experience in at least one of the topics listed above.

4. Availability around 8:00pm Central time (-6 GMT) or alternately anytime on a Saturday. We'll pick the date once we have the people selected. If you have a life, that's fine, we'll work around it. But if you're so busy you can't squeeze anything in until two months from now on a Sunday morning, that won't work.

5. You must speak clear English. It's fine if English isn't your first language or you have a non-American accent, as long as people can understand you. This is FtB, not Dell tech support.

6. The ability to carry on a balanced discussion. Be opinionated without being a dick. Talk often but without dominating the conversation. You get the idea.

I'll give preference to people that are active in our community, because (1) you're a known quantity and (2) I think your participation has earned you that opportunity. However, the above six items are my overriding criteria.

If you're interested, post your Curriculum Vitae here. If you're not but know someone that is, please pass this information along! And if all else fails, I know some people at White Wolf, etc, that I can tap.

As much as I'd like to say I'm knowledgeable in one or more of those areas, unfortunately I can't unless the topics get changed to Energy Drinks, Homebrew settings and teen gamers.

I do however have some people to recommend, who I hope won't mind.

Non-US Gamers:
LF of course, but I think you've already discussed this with him.
BurnYU
Gorkamorka
Psalm

Indie gamers:
Noble Bear, he's been working on one of his own for a while now and has been learning a lot and would be a great resource.

I look forward to this new segment, I like where this is going.

This should be fun.

The guy who turned me on to FTB used to be very active in SCA. He could tell you all about it . . .in excruciating detail. I don't know if he is active on the forums or not. If you decide you need an SCAer, let me know. I bet he'd love to do it.

I actually don't have any LARP experience (yet), but I look forward to hearing some people who have talking about it on the show.

I can talk about fantasy LARPing. I'm not sure I'm the best choice for what you are seeking. My LARP experience is from 15-20 years ago and was not part of any organized body or published rules system. I have however, written and coordinated games for up to 30 paid participants, and written the attendant rule systems. Outside of fantasy, I've also produced or played in horror, sci-fi and post-apocalypse.

I did Vampire LARP for almost a year. I didn't run the even or anything though. And wow, its been like 6-7 years now since I did it.

Im certainly no expert but I suppose I could talk about what I remember in a pinch.

The pic of me all LARP'd up as a Nosferatu.

So no being a Chad. Got it.

At best I could speak some about fantasy LARPing, but I haven't been active in the hobby for about a decade now... So my knowledge isn't that current.

Well lets see...

For what it's worth I have a background in theatre, as well as have been involved in the SCA.

I have played in and helped run a few games of the old rules Vampire the Masquerade. At present I am working to build my own games with a focus on bringing in people from theatre to LARP. There have been three to date, with many more in the pipe. Each of these have been one shot all day events. A campagne is in the early planning stages for next year, most likely modern supernatural due to the ease of costuming and availability of locations. I am still trying to find a conflict resolution method that I like, that doesn't break immersion and won't get me arrested.

I have a more than passing familiarity with Call of Cthulu live action, although I have never played in a game...

Cheers

I know you are putting priority on booters, with industry folks as backup people to ask. However, judging from other podcasts I have listened to, having one person on the panel that speaks from inside the industry (especially with a roundtable, as opposed to an interview where the industry voice takes over the discussion) can add a lot of depth and insight.

Just another idle opinion. I'm eagerly looking forward to this new series of podcasts. The topics are all ones I have a strong interest in, but no experience in.

I certainly see a virtue in having industry people. I may contact Jess Hartley to see if she wants a spot, since she could represent White Wolf and the Camarilla. However, I don't feel like we "need' industry people for this topic. We're talking about the hobby -- not submission, publication, etc -- so it's really participation that makes you an expert, not receiving a paycheck.