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Lay It On The Table

Lay It On The Table

In this biweekly podcast, Geek and Southern's James Engelhardt and Joe Mahaffey discuss the golden age of board games and role playing games from a Southern perspective. Including interviews and insights from game designers and creatives that makes this hobby so compelling.

Recent Episodes

Mythicon West
1
Jan. 12, 2026

Mythicon West

Summary In this episode, Joe Mahaffey and James Engelhardt sit down with Richard Fortuna, one of the masterminds behind Mythic Con West, a community-driven tabletop gaming convention. They discuss the legacy of Mace, the challenges of running a convention, the importance of community support, and the vibrant indie gaming scene. Richard shares insights on the venue, the unique vibe of Asheville compared to Charlotte, and the future of tabletop gaming. The conversation wraps up with details on reg
The Twelve Days of Games
13
Dec. 21, 2025

The Twelve Days of Games

In this episode, Joe and James reflect on the holiday season, discuss the evolving landscape of the board game industry, and share insights on economic trends affecting gaming. They explore the concept of themed board games, share their recent gaming experiences, and discuss upcoming titles they are excited about. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the future of gaming and holiday wishes for listeners.
Smells Like Bard Spirit
12
Nov. 23, 2025

Smells Like Bard Spirit

In this episode, we dive into the creative journey of John Bailey, the founder of HumbleBard Games. John shares his transition from a music background to board game design, discussing the inspiration behind his company and the development of games like 'Spirits of Christmas.' We explore the challenges and triumphs of self-publishing, the importance of theme in game design, and the collaborative process with his daughter on art and design. https://thehumblebard.com
Was ist Das Spiel?
11
Nov. 2, 2025

Was ist Das Spiel?

In this episode of "Lay It On The Table," hosts Joe Mahaffey and James Engelhardt dive into the world of board games, discussing the latest releases and their experiences at Spiel Essen, the world's largest game event. They explore a variety of games, from light deck builders like "Bohemians" to heavier worker placement games such as "Covenant." The conversation also touches on the intricacies of games like "Cribbage" and "Edo," highlighting the unique mechanics and themes that make each game st
Rust Never Sleeps
10
Nov. 2, 2025

Rust Never Sleeps

In this episode, hosts Joe Mahaffey and James Engelhardt discuss their return to the podcast after a hiatus, share updates on upcoming episodes, and highlight the Mythicon convention in Charlotte, North Carolina. They delve into industry news, including Gamma's global expansion, the strike by Kickstarter employees, and financial challenges faced by CMON and Elf Creek Games. The hosts also review two games: Trinket Trove, a quick and easy card game, and The Red Cathedral, a medium-weight game wit
Shelf of Shame
7
June 14, 2025

Shelf of Shame

SummaryIn this episode, Joe Mahaffey and James Engelhardt discuss various topics related to the board game industry, including the bankruptcy of Seamon, the impact of tariffs on game production, updates on Kickstarter projects, and the introduction of Game Toppers 5.0. They also share insights from their experiences at May X, focusing on student engagement with deck-building games and the learning dynamics involved. In this conversation, James Engelhardt and Joe Mahaffey delve into the i

About the Hosts

Joe Mahaffey Profile Photo
Joe Mahaffey

Host

Host of Lay It On the Table Board Game Podcast and DM for Curse of Strahd in Appalachia. Both on the Geek & Southern on YouTube Network. Charlotte Native, Cancer Survivor & Advocate, D&D Raconteur, Board Game Zealot, & Liberal Arts Technologist, He/Him

On Mastodon: @gadgetjoseph@onthetable.social

James Engelhardt Profile Photo
James Engelhardt

Host

James talks a lot about games with Joe Mahaffey on Lay It on the Table and takes damage on the Curse of Strahd in Appalachia as Hal Rennickson. He also writes about games as a poet and essayist, and he teaches about tabletop games—and poetry—at Furman University.