WHEN WE WERE WIZARDS Podcast
Limited Series Podcast explores the human flaws that drove the turbulent origins of D&D and TSR.
WHEN WE WERE WIZARDS (W4) is a 14-episode documentary podcast that takes a journalistic approach to explore the human flaws that drove the turbulent history behind D&D and TSR.
Told in the voices of those who lived through it, W4 charts the rise and fall of Gary Gygax – covering everything from the inception of the game, the Satanic Panic, Gary’s Hollywood excesses, and the incredible 1985 boardroom coup that cost Gary the game itself. Featuring interviews with Gary’s ex-wife, two children, employees, friends, and partners, W4 is a sweeping tale of ambition, greed, corporate chaos, and the price of fame.
The show was co-produced by and co-hosted by D&D historian Paul Stormberg, one of the world’s top collectors of RPG history and memorabilia. He has penned numerous articles, given dozens of interviews, and is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost authorities on the history of D&D and TSR. Not only does W4 incorporate rare selections from Paul’s extensive collection of letters, memos, and essential documents, it also includes first-hand accounts from key figures in TSR's history to give listeners a front row seat to every critical moment in the story.
This podcast is a deep dive that challenges assumptions about Gary and humanizes figures that have long been regarded as villains. For any gamer who doesn’t know this history, W4 is essential listening. For anyone who thinks they know it, we promise you don’t know it like this. Never before has this tale included so many astounding insights, discoveries, heart-wrenching recollections, and stunning revelations.
The series debuted in 2022 with the first three episodes and returned in May 2024 for its final run. The last episode is set for release on August 4th.
Listen to the entire series on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
