The Art of Weaponized Stupidity: Using Chaos to Create

Creating your character

Before joining the workshop, take a moment to think about the most chaotic moments you've experienced at a gaming table. Bring stories of: • The plan that went spectacularly wrong • The accidental TPK • The NPC your party unexpectedly adopted • The villain who became an ally • The ally who became the villain • The joke that somehow became campaign canon • The rule of cool that changed everything • The session that went completely off the rails • The character decision that shocked the entire table • The campaign that was destroyed by chaos • The campaign that was saved by chaos • The moment everyone laughed so hard the game had to stop We'll use real examples from participants throughout the workshop to explore why some forms of chaos create unforgettable stories while others create unforgettable headaches. Whether your chaos was glorious, disastrous, heroic, catastrophic, or all four at once, bring it with you. The best lessons in D&D rarely come from the plan. They come from what happened after the plan exploded.

Preparing for the session

No preparation is required—just bring your imagination and a willingness to participate. If you have a favorite D&D story involving a spectacular failure, an accidental hero, a Chaos Goblin moment, or a plan that went horribly wrong, bring it along! We'll use real examples from players and Game Masters throughout the workshop. A notebook is optional if you'd like to jot down improv exercises, storytelling techniques, and ideas for future games. This workshop is interactive but low-pressure. Participation is encouraged, but you're welcome to simply listen, laugh, and learn if that's more your style. Recommended (but not required): • A microphone for optional participation • A favorite D&D character concept • One terrible idea you've always wanted to try in a game • A healthy respect for the consequences of your actions

What Mike Siscoe brings to the table

Participants can expect a highly interactive workshop filled with practical techniques, real-world examples, and plenty of laughter. Drawing from my experience as a stand-up comedian, improviser, storyteller, and Game Master, I'll provide tools you can immediately use in your D&D games and other tabletop RPGs. We'll explore improv fundamentals, collaborative storytelling, character development, reading the room, embracing failure, and transforming chaos into memorable moments. This workshop includes: • Live instruction and discussion • Interactive improv and storytelling exercises • Real examples from D&D campaigns and tables • Opportunities for questions and group participation • Practical techniques for both players and Game Masters • A welcoming, low-pressure environment where experimentation is encouraged My GM philosophy is simple: the best stories happen when creativity, collaboration, and consequences collide. I believe in "Yes, And," failing forward, sharing the spotlight, and helping every participant discover new ways to create unforgettable moments at the table. Whether you're looking to become a better player, a more adaptable GM, or simply a more confident storyteller, you'll leave with new tools, fresh ideas, and at least a few terrible plans you're excited to try in your next game.

How Mike Siscoe creates a safe table

Breaks, 18+ warning, check-in. X,O,N cards