TAOW podcast — TAOW posts

Thumbs is back with Malark to discuss the difficulty of theory in war. Join us for our last show until after Battle for the Ring in January

Ends and Means in War

When we walk the path of victory, it is imperative that our ends are supported by our means. Whether by conquest or conflict, influencing our probabilities of success must be a focus if we are to succeed. Special Guest Juniper joins us to chat about ends and means in war.

The Saga of Ref the Sly (14-20)

Warmaster Soo Ma Tai joins Malark to discuss the final themes of the Saga of Ref the Sly

TAOW podcastTyler RuizAugust 1, 2021belegarth, foam fighting, the art of war, the art of wargaming, wargaming, iceland, viking, vikingr, Ref the SlyComment

The Saga of Ref the Sly (6-13)

As we get further into our story, Ref begins to live up to his moniker. Solving his problems with both strength and guile, our sly protagonist shows the advantage of thinking ahead. Special Guest Stich joins Malark to talk about our second installment of The Saga of Ref the Sly.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizJuly 18, 2021belegarth, foam fighting, the art of war, the art of wargaming, wargaming, iceland, viking, vikingr, Ref the SlyComment

The Saga of Ref the Sly (1-5)

In this episode, we look at the first part of the Saga of Ref the Sly and the beginnings of this unlikely hero. From coal-biter to budding adventurer, we see a growth and purpose to our previously unmotivated character. Turkeyfeathers joins us as we analyze the makings of a hero.

The World of the Icelanders

Before we begin our short season on The Saga of Ref the Sly, Malark does a brief examination of the world in which it was composed. The Sagas are a fascinating collection of literature from the peoples of the North Atlantic and we are excited to bring this information to you. Join us as we discover the world of the Icelanders.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizJune 20, 2021belegarth, foam fighting, the art of war, the art of wargaming, wargaming, iceland, viking, vikingr, Ref the SlyComment

The Klingon Art Of War

Thumbs is back to talk with us about the Klingon Art of War. Join us as we take a fun wander through a surprisingly sound fictional military manual.

The Price of Ambition

In this episode of our series on "The Management of Savagery", we examine the political science of any human organization. Antoinette joins Malark to talk about the burden of central leadership and disruptions that can weather an institution. We hope you'll join us as we examine the price of ambition and the cost of overreach.

Principles of Violence

While possessing the same ultimate goals, the strategies available to insurgents and counterinsurgents are quite different. One uses disorder to accomplish their operations, the other uses stability to launch theirs. This episode features long-time wargamer Par as we discuss the offensive and defensive techniques defined as principles of violence.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizMay 9, 2021belegarth, foam fighting, the art of war, the art of wargaming, wargaming, warhammer 40kComment

Building Up

This episode is about the process of founding and building up a local wargaming group. All of our contributing authors had excellent advice on this subject. Join us for a chat with our special guest Laoghaire as we explore the most effective ways to establish and govern to maximize gains.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizApril 25, 2021wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, BelegarthComment

The World of Muhammed Hasan Khalil al-Hakim

Throughout anyone’s experience with wargaming, uneven sides will undoubtedly occur. Whether the disparity is from the quality of weapons or quantity of troops, knowing how to deal with an unequal balance on the field is an eventuality that we must prepare for or suffer. In this episode, we begin our journey into a work that deals with the aforementioned topic with a simplicity that is easy to understand and a detail that explores the hidden nuances.

A Tale of Two Empires

Thumbs and Malark delve into more of Belegarth culture by studying two of the most prominent Empires of the West. The GELF and Pyke, a prominent realm of the Babylon Empire, have shaped the West in a myriad of ways. Join us as we learn more of these two powerhouses of the community.

Uplifting Primer

A surprisingly practical guide, the Uplifting Primer is the core of any guardsman's study. From training regimens to what to expect in conflict, the book is extremely thorough. Join Malark and Thumbs as we apply this wonderful work of fiction to real world combat.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizFebruary 28, 2021wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, Munitorum ManualComment

Munitorum Manual

In this first part of our Fiction Focus on the Imperial Infantryman's Handbook, Thumbs and Malark delve into all things gear. Whether it be for the field, combat, or camp; our gear can make or break any situation. From both an Imperial and practical perspective, join us for the Munitorum Manual.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizFebruary 14, 2021wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, Munitorum ManualComment

Tactics and Maxims

In this final installment in our study of Vegetius, we delve into standard tactics and formations for the era. In addition, Vegetius provides a list of Maxims which serve as easy reminders of his lessons. Join us as we share the conclusive nuggets of wisdom that Vegetius has to offer.

Gaining Initiative

When trying to get the upper hand over your opponent, there are many factors to consider. In this episode, Malark and Thumbs look at the various ways to give yourself the initiative, whether in solo combat or on a larger battlefield.

Macedonian Interlude

Thumbs and Malark take a brief interlude to examine the reign of Phillip the Barbarian of Macedonia, the prestigious father of Alexander the Great. As we talk about Alexander a great deal in the show, we thought it relevant to discuss the world that made him.

Calm Before The Storm

A battle itself is over rather quickly, but the consequences are lasting. Having the proper motives and plan are essential to a smooth operation. Join Malark and Thumbs as they analyze the calm before the storm.

Taking to the Field

While a large army may seem preferable in many ways, there are many complications that come with fielding a large force. Logistics, health, and tactics are all strained by an army of unwieldy size. In this episode, we take a look at ideal numbers in a fight and methods to maintain the morale and health of yourself and your troops.

Clockwork Precision

In this episode, Thumbs and Malark explore the necessary preparation needed for a military force to be field worthy. When a commander and their army are fully prepared, it is then time for a flawless execution. The Romans had a template for both preparation and execution that worked well for centuries, and this is our subject.