Book
Roll for Insight
Applying Leadership Theory at the Table and Beyond
It turns out that being a Game Master is leadership. Not like leadership. Leadership. You set expectations, keep momentum, manage conflict, and adapt when the plan blows up in your face. the table may be covered in dice and character sheets instead of quarterly reports, but the muscles are the same.
This book takes the frameworks of academic leadership theory and drops them right into the GM's chair—because sometimes the fastest way to understand how to lead humans at work is to watch what happens when a chaotic bard tries to drink from a cursed fountain.
Readers keep saying the same thing: "Huh, this goofy gaming book just taught me something I can use at work." That's the point.
Inside the Book
Here's a taste of the frameworks, quick wins, and sticky ideas waiting inside the book:
The Crown and the Cloak
Every GM carries both. The Crown sets boundaries and keeps tempo; the Cloak joins the rhythm and shares the story. Great leadership comes from knowing which the moment requires.
The Rules Layer & Spotlight Seeker
Two classic player archetypes that derail games in different ways—one clings to rules, the other to attention. Learn to direct both without grinding the session (or your patience) to dust.
The Conflict Compass
Disputes rarely come from where they appear. The Conflict Compass helps you spot the real source—miscommunication, mismatched goals, clashing styles—before small problems turn into table-flipping blowups.
The De-escalation Die
When tensions rise, roll the De-escalation Die. It's a practical toolkit of steps that cool conflict, restore focus, and get everyone ready to move forward together.
The Threefold Seal
Clear, Calm, Consistent. This framework for communication makes sure your message survives impact—whether you're managing a dungeon crawl or a Monday staff meeting.
The Silent Player Problem
Every table has someone who fades into the background. The Silent Player framework shows you how to bring them in without putting them on the spot—or letting them drift away.
What You're Probably Wondering
Think of this as Session 0 for your preorder—we'll cover the basics before the adventure begins.
Do I need to know D&D to get it?
Nope. The RPG references are seasoning, not the whole meal. Even if you've never rolled a d20, the leadership lessons will land.
Is this just for Game Masters?
Game Masters and Dungeon Masters are the primary audience, but the parallels work anywhere people need to lead—shops, offices, crews, you name it.
When is the book coming out?
So far, things are looking good to physically have it in your hands by early 2026. I'll provide updates if it looks like that's going to change.
Will there be an audiobook?
Yes. Eventually. I still need to figure out the logistics, but the plan is to put this book in your hands—or ears, or whatever—so you can listen on your commute, at the gym, or while you prep your next session.
What do I get if I preorder?
- A signed first edition hardcover shipped at launch
- Sample Chapter PDF
- The Threefold Seal Checklist PDF—a one-page framework card to keep your communication Clear, Calm, and Consistent
- Behind-the-scenes updates as the book heads toward release
Ready to Roll?
Leadership isn't a skill that's locked in at character creation. It's something you can train, adapt, and upgrade like any other ability--and this book shows you how to do it.