The Independent Characters | Warhammer 40k Podcast

Carl Tuttle

The Warhammer 40k Podcast that makes you a part of our gaming group! The Independent Characters is rated PG-13 and is family friendly. We have a positive outlook on the Warhammer 40k Hobby and explore all aspects of the Warhammer 40k Universe. Episodes release twice a month.

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20 episodes
Updated July 26

Episodes20

Newest first

July 26 · 2 hr 15 min
Episode 281 – The Warrior Lodge: The Nasty Edition
In Episode 281 of The Independent Characters, we open the doors once again to The Warrior Lodge, our roundtable-style discussion format where we bring together voices from across the Warhammer 40,000 community. This episode, Carl, Josh, and Adan are joined by Blake, better known to the community as "Big Nasty B", from Life After the Cover Save! Blake brings his own perspective from across the hobby to the table as we dig into a variety of topics currently on the minds of 40k players everywhere. Whether you're a veteran general or newly initiated into the grim darkness of the far future, The Warrior Lodge always has a seat at the table for you - and this time around, we've pulled up an extra chair. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Independent Characters! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 1:03:45 - The Warrior Lodge: Part 1 1:43:35 - The Warrior Lodge: Part 2 2:08:20 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
July 5 · 2 hr 7 min
Episode 280 - Narrative on The New Battlefield
The dust is still settling on the launch, of 11th Edition, and this edition is more than rewrite the datasheets - it has redrawn the battlefield itself. Objectives are no longer abstract circles on the cloth; they are terrain, fought over and held, and the table now has a correct shape in a way it never did before. For the competitive crowd, that clarity is a gift. But what about the rest of us - the ones who came to Warhammer 40,000 for the story? In this episode, Carl, Josh, and Adan ask the question: has the new edition quietly designed narrative play out of the core box? They dig into the shift from objective markers to objective terrain, the creep of tournament layouts into the standard game, and the worry on every kitchen-table general's mind - is 11th simply too deadly to be played on the boards we actually love to build? Along the way, they pull the conversation back from the ledge, mapping out how thematic objectives, flexible layouts, and a little fearless house-ruling can keep the soul of narrative gaming alive and well in the new edition. And with a fresh wave of hobbyists arriving on the heels of the launch, we make the case that the intention was always meant to be a sandbox, not a courtroom. Pull up a chair, set the terrain however you like, and remember - the rulebook is a tool, not a cage. We also have an announcement coming shortly for all levels of Patreon Subscribers who want a sticker from our Pride Month Sticker for free. Expect to hear about that in the next day or so. If you want one... or two.. we will send it out to you! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 1:15:15 - New Rules, old Narrative 1:39:45 - Old Narrative, new players 2:03:00 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Darcy Bono Creations Hobby Homeworld Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
June 15 · 2 hr 24 min
Episode 279 - Fresh Blood for 11th Edition
With 11th Edition launching this month, there has never been a better moment to hand a friend a Space Marine and say "let me show you something." A new edition resets the table - rulebooks, starter sets, and community energy are all aligned toward accessibility, and even veteran players are re-learning the game right alongside newcomers. In Episode 279, we dig into the art of hobby mentorship: how to recognize this rare window of opportunity and use it to bring new and younger players into the grimdark future without overwhelming them before they ever roll their first dice. We cover the full journey of introducing someone to Warhammer 40,000 - from choosing the right entry point to starting with the story rather than the stat blocks. We share the mistakes we made when we first started, reflect on what we'd do differently, and offer practical advice on how to read your new player - whether they're a painter at heart, a lore lover, or someone who just wants to push cool models around a table and roll fistfuls of dice. The key, as always, is meeting them where they are and letting their enthusiasm lead the way. Whether you're mentoring a friend, a family member, or a complete stranger at your local game store, Episode 279 is your guide to growing this hobby the right way - one new player at a time. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 1:07:10 - Fresh Blood for 11th Edition: Part 1 1:43:10 - Fresh Blood for 11th Edition: Part 2 2:19:10 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
May 23 · 1 hr 42 min
Episode 278 - Campaigns, Cards, and Community
In Episode 278 of The Independent Characters, Carl takes us along for the ride at The Maelstrom Mixer - a fantastic community event. Carl breaks down how the event is structured, walks you through the games he played, and shares the stories behind the people he met across the table. Whether you've attended a Mixer before or have always been curious what all the fuss is about, this is your inside look at what makes this kind of event so special to the narrative and community side of Warhammer 40,000. Then we turn our attention to one of the most exciting things to come out of the new Armageddon launch box - the Dominatus Deck. This innovative new system promises to transform the way groups run Warhammer 40,000 campaigns, weaving individual battles together into a living, breathing narrative while keeping the bookkeeping refreshingly light. We walk through the full four-step campaign loop: from rolling to determine contested locations and their war zone rules, to reading Alliance Briefing cards that set the narrative stakes, pursuing thematic Agendas instead of standard objectives, and earning Battle Honour or Battle Skill cards that follow your units through the campaign. At phase end, controlling alliances claim location bonuses and powerful Relic cards; all building toward a climactic three-phase arc that culminates in one decisive final battle. If you've ever wanted a campaign system that tells a great story without drowning you in paperwork, the Dominatus Deck might be exactly what we have all been waiting for. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:22:00 – The Maelstrom Mixer 1:07:00 – Dominatus Deck Discussion 1:35:15 – Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
May 6 · 1 hr 48 min
Episode 277 - Crossing the Edition Rubicon
What happens when an edition starts showing its age and a new one looms on the horizon? In this episode, Carl, Adan, and Josh take a hard look at the end of 10th Edition and what GW's own history tells us about what comes next. Because this isn't the first time the 40k Universe has gone through a transition, and if you know where to look, the patterns are hiding in plain sight. From the Narrative Avalanche of closing Warzones – the 500 Worlds, the Maelstrom, and the legendary return of Armageddon – to the historical precedent set by the Gathering Storm and the return of Guilliman at the end of 7th Edition, the crew breaks down exactly how GW winds down an edition and why, even in the chaos, it's actually a great time to be a fan. But the conversation doesn't stop there. 11th Edition previews are already dropping, and the internet is already on fire. Cover rule changes, new terrain layouts, character reveals; the crew walks through what's been shown and, more importantly, how to think about it clearly before the hot takes take over. Plus, we tackle the very real challenge of Rules Bleed (that maddening moment when your brain defaults to the old rules mid-game) and share practical tips for making a clean transition into a new edition. The edition may be ending, but the episode is just getting started! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:21:40 – Crossing the Edition Rubicon: Part 1 1:06:20 – Crossing the Edition Rubicon: Part 2 1:44:35 – Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
April 12 · 2 hr 40 min
Episode 276 - Adepticon 2026 Review
What happens when The Independent Characters descend on Milwaukee for four straight days of Warhammer 40,000, other tabletop gaming, and everything Adepticon has to offer? In this episode, Carl, Adan, and Josh bring you their full review of Adepticon 2026, the games they played, the people they met, and the moments that made the trip worth it all. But this year, the crew wasn't just attending. They were running the show! Well... specifically the Warhammer 40,000 Flex event for the second year in a row. This is quickly becoming one of the convention's most dynamic, welcoming, and inclusive Warhammer 40k events, across all four days. What goes right, what goes sideways, and what keeps players coming back year after year? From the convention floor to the event organizer's perspective, we share the experiences, the highlights, and the hard-won lessons from one of the best weeks the hobby has to offer. Whether you've been to Adepticon or it's been on your bucket list, this episode will make you feel like you were right there with us. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice 0:12:00 - Hobby Progress, and Games Played and Adepticon Review Part 1 1:26:15 - Games Played and Adepticon Review Part 2 2:35:15 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
March 9 · 2 hr 10 min
Episode 275 - Model Rescue & Restoration
In Episode 275 of The Independent Characters, we dive into one of the most satisfying corners of the hobby: Model Rescue & Restoration. Whether you've stumbled across a dusty army at a swap meet, grabbed a suspiciously cheap eBay lot, or inherited a box of badly painted miniatures from a friend, second-hand models can be a gold mine waiting to be rediscovered. In this episode we talk about how to evaluate used armies before you buy them, what warning signs to watch for, and how rescuing older models can save money, preserve classic sculpts, and give forgotten miniatures a second life on the tabletop. We also break down the practical side of the rescue process, from how to safely strip paint from plastic, metal, and resin models, repair broken parts, and rebuild units so they fit seamlessly into your existing collection. Along the way we share tips, tools, and a few cautionary tales from our own hobby workbenches. If you've ever looked at a battered old miniature and thought "this could be great with a little work," this episode is for you. Episode 275 releases March 9th, 2026. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:57:45 – Model Rescue & Recovery: Part 1 1:47:50 – Model Rescue & Recovery: Part 1 2:05:10 – Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
February 23 · 2 hr 23 min
Episode 274 - Staging the Apocalypse
What does it really take to stage a true Apocalypse game in the modern era of Warhammer 40,000? In this episode of The Independent Characters, we tackle "Staging the Apocalypse" - a deep dive into running cinematic mega-battles at 3,000+ points per side without letting the game grind to a halt. We will talk about how to make colossal games feel epic rather than exhausting, and we break down ideas on how to design, structure, and pace large-scale narrative events so every turn stays snappy and every player stays engaged. From table setup and activation structure to personal objectives and dramatic end-game triggers, we explore how to think like a Game Master instead of a tournament organizer. How do you handle Titans and super-heavies without drowning in dice rolls? And how do you end a mega-battle with a cinematic conclusion rather than fatigue on turn three? We share practical tools, hard-earned lessons, and the philosophy behind making these games unforgettable. We also address the big question: how do you run Apocalypse-style events now that Games Workshop no longer actively supports the format? With the right mindset and a willingness to simplify, narrative mega-battles may be more accessible, and more rewarding than ever. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:59:50 - Staging the Apocalypse: Part 1 1:35:10 - Staging the Apocalypse: Part 2 2:12:55 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Painted Figs Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
February 2 · 2 hr 17 min
Episode 273 - The Graveyard of Legends
Episode 273 of The Independent Characters is headed straight into the Legends Graveyard - that strange, dusty corner of Warhammer 40,000 where beloved units go when they're retired from active service. In this episode, we take a look at what it really means for a unit to be moved to Legends status, what restrictions come with it, and why it can feel like a gut punch to longtime hobbyists… even when it makes sense from a rules and balance perspective. If you've ever stared at a shelf full of classic models and wondered "Can I still play these?", this episode's for you. We also dig into where Legends units still shine brightest: narrative games, campaigns, Crusade, and casual play - and how a quick pre-game conversation can keep things fun, fair, and cinematic. Along the way we share our Top 3 Legends units we wish had stayed in the game, and our Bottom 3 that we're honestly kind of relieved to see retired. Finally, we zoom out and talk about what Legends means long-term for Games Workshop's approach to older models, and what it signals about the future of Warhammer 40,000. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:58:25 - The Graveyard of Legends: Part 1 1:24:00 - The Graveyard of Legends: Part 2 2:12:25 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
January 19 · 1 hr 41 min
Episode 272 - The Aranthian Succession: Cinderak Burning
In episode 272, Carl and Josh crack open The Aranthian Succession - Cinderak Burning, the opening salvo in a multi-episode series exploring how Necromunda's story is being pulled forward and woven more tightly into the modern Warhammer 40,000 timeline. This book doesn't just advance the plot—it reshapes the balance of power in the underhive, and sets the stage for a sector-wide reckoning that longtime lore fans will immediately feel. In the first half of the show, we focus squarely on the narrative: the political upheaval of the Aranthian Succession, the rising tensions within Hive Primus, and what the burning of Cinderak means for the future of Necromunda, and its place in the wider Imperium. This is classic Necromunda storytelling, but told with a sharper eye toward the present 40K era, bridging gaps and modernizing the setting. The back half of the episode shifts gears into the tabletop, breaking down the rules updates, campaign systems, and new tools this book brings to Necromunda players. Whether you're running a long-form campaign or just curious how these changes impact the game going forward, we've got you covered. And while Adan wasn't available for this episode, don't panic! His return is imminent. The Succession has only just begun, and there's a lot more to come. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:24:30 - Cinderak Burning: Part 1 1:02:15 - Cinderak Burning: Part 2 1:33:40 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Dec 19, 2025 · 2 hr 10 min
Episode 271 - The 2025 Warhammer Year in Review
Episode 271 of The Independent Characters is our annual 2025 Warhammer Year in Review, and it's all about taking a breath, looking back, and celebrating another packed year in the hobby. We dig into our favorite releases of 2025 across games, models, and supplements, talk about what really landed for us at the table, and reflect on the trends that shaped how we played, painted, and engaged with Warhammer this year. As always, the conversation goes beyond just "what came out," touching on how these releases impacted our enjoyment of the hobby and the broader community. This episode also marks the long-awaited return of Josh, who jumps right back into the mix and brings his perspective, enthusiasm, and sharp takes to the discussion. While Adan was originally slated to join us, a scheduling mix-up kept him from making the recording – but don't worry, he's very much part of the wrap-up. We'll be closing out 2025 properly with Adan in a special Patreon episode coming soon, where we'll finish the year together and add even more reflection to an already memorable season. Episode 271 is equal parts retrospective, celebration, and setup for what's next – a fitting way to close the book on 2025 and get ready for whatever the next year of Warhammer throws at us. We hope you enjoy! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:58:45 – 2025 Warhammer Year in Review Part 1 1:28:20 – 2025 Warhammer Year in Review Part 2 1:56:40 – Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Nov 29, 2025 · 1 hr 46 min
Episode 270 - Engines of the Apocalypse (Part 2): Xenos & Chaos Titans
In Episode 270 of The Independent Characters, we bring our monumental exploration of Titans to a close by venturing beyond the Imperium to the heretical, alien, and utterly bizarre god-engines that stalk the galaxy. In this second part of our two-part series, we delve into the corrupted Chaos Titans of the Dark Mechanicum - twisted reflections of their loyalist kin whose Machine Spirits have long since merged with the daemonic will of the Warp. From Iconoclasts and Infernals to the infamous Daemon Engines of the Traitor Legios, we examine how the powers of the Warp reshape these once-holy engines into entities of madness and malice. But the galaxy's gods of war are not limited to humanity's machines. We turn our attention to the Xenos Titans, the elegant, wraithbone Aeldari Phantoms and Revenants, the ramshackle yet terrifying Ork Gargants, and even the living, bio-engineered horrors of the Tyranids that serve as their own monstrous equivalents. Each race has its own vision of what it means to command destruction on a titanic scale, and their designs reveal as much about their cultures as their weapons do about their wars. On the tabletop, we explore how these colossal war engines appear across games like Warhammer 40,000, Horus Heresy, Adeptus Titanicus, and Legions Imperialis, comparing their aesthetics, rules, and battlefield impact. Whether it's a Gargant's laughter echoing through the smoke, an Aeldari Titan striding like a ghost through reality, or a corrupted Warlord roaring praise to the Dark Gods, each represents a unique expression of power at its most absolute. We hope you enjoy this episode! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:26:00 - Engines of The Apocalypse (Part 2): Xenos & Chaos Titans - Part 1 1:06:10 - Engines of The Apocalypse (Part 2): Xenos & Chaos Titans - Part 2 1:41:35 - Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Nov 20, 2025 · 2 hr 9 min
Episode 269 - Engines of The Apocalypse: Imperial Titans
Episode 269 of The Independent Characters strides onto the battlefield with a thunderous step as we begin a two-part exploration of the greatest war machines ever to walk the galaxy - the Titans. In this first installment, we turn our gaze to the Imperial God-Engines of the Adeptus Mechanicus and the Collegia Titanica, delving deep into their origins, traditions, and the awe-inspiring lore that surrounds them. From the Titan Legions of the Great Crusade to the battles of the 41st Millennium, we trace how these towering avatars of the Omnissiah came to symbolize the Imperium's divine right to rule through fire and steel. We discuss the classes and hierarchy of Imperial Titans - from the swift Warhound Scout Titans to the legendary Warlord and the near-mythic Imperator - and examine the sacred bond between the Princeps, Moderati, and their god-machine. These are not mere machines, but walking cathedrals of destruction, powered by faith and fury in equal measure. On the tabletop, Imperial Titans have taken many forms across Games Workshop's systems, and we look at how these behemoths are represented in Warhammer 40,000, Horus Heresy, Adeptus Titanicus, and Legions Imperialis. Whether you command a Titan Maniple in Adeptus Titanicus or field a Warlord in an Apocalypse-scale 40K battle, these engines of war have remained a constant source of fascination and terror. We also discuss the stunning models that bring them to life; each one a feat of design that captures the impossible scale and grandeur of the Imperium's god-machines. This episode marks the beginning of our most monumental topic yet, and it's only the first half of the story. In Episode 270, we'll turn our auspex toward the Xenos counterparts; the alien god-engines of the Orks, Aeldari, and beyond to see how other races of the galaxy answer the thunderous challenge of the Imperium's Titans! We hope you enjoy the show. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:49:45 - Engines of The Apocalypse: Imperial Titans - Part 1 (First Half) 1:36:30 - Engines of The Apocalypse: Imperial Titans - Part 2 2:04:45 - Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Oct 31, 2025 · 1 hr 52 min
Episode 268 - Show of Force: Oaths & Damnation Part Two
Episode 268 of The Independent Characters lumbers onto the battlefield just in time for Halloween – and it's a dark and twisted one! When we set out to cover both the Imperial Knights and their blasphemous counterparts, the Chaos Knights, it quickly became clear that the topic was far too massive for a single episode. Carl's optimism got the better of him (again), and what was shaping up to be a five-to-six-hour show had to be cleaved in two. Thus, our Show of Force: Oaths and Damnation has become a two-parter. This episode, we descend into the shadows to explore the corrupted Knight Houses that turned their backs on honor and swore allegiance to the Dark Gods. Carl and Adan take you through the lore, the tabletop presence, the terrifying rules, and the evolution of these towering engines of damnation. From the infernal bargains of the Infernal Houses to the ruthless traditions of the Iconoclasts, Chaos Knights embody the darker half of this story, and they arrive on October 31st to haunt your feed. So lock your hatches, ward your soul, and prepare for a Halloween-ready dive into the corrupted grandeur of the Chaos Knights. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:29:00 – Oaths & Damnation – Part 1 (First Half) 1:03:30 – Oaths & Damnation – Part 1 (Second Half) 1:44:15 – Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Imperium Maledictum by Cubicle7 Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Oct 18, 2025 · 3 hr 50 min
Episode 267 - Show of Force: Oaths & Damnation (Part One)
Episode 267 of The Independent Characters arrives right on schedule, and it's a big one, both in content and in subject matter. This time, we're striding into the battlefield with not one, but two colossal armies in our latest Show of Force. Join us as we explore both the Imperial Knights and their dark reflections, the Chaos Knights. These towering engines of war have a presence on the tabletop and in the lore that is impossible to ignore, and we're diving deep into every aspect of them. Edit: So as we started recording – we realize that this would turn into a 5-6 hour episode. Carl was, once again, too optimistic regarding how much we could cram into an episode. So we made the decision to divide this topic into two parts. Episode 268 will cover the Chaos Knights as Part 2 of Oaths and Damnation. Over the course of the episode, we cover their origins and history, the unique culture of the Knight Houses, and how those sworn oaths of loyalty can either lead to noble service to the Imperium or a fall into the corrupting grip of the Dark Gods. From lore to codex, units to battlefield roles, we've got it all packed in. As our Show of Force Episodes go – we'll also take a look back at their evolution over the years – how these armies have grown in design, rules, and miniature range to become some of the most striking models in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Carl and Adan – as well as a special guest, will unpack the details of these armies over the course of several hours. Fire up your void-shields because Episode 267 releases on October 18th, 2025. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 1:00:40 – Oaths & Damnation – Part 1 (First Half) 1:54:10 – Oaths & Damnation – Part 1 (Second Half) 3:23:10 – War on The Shore Narrative Event! 3:46:30 – Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Imperium Maledictum by Cubicle7 Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Oct 1, 2025 · 1 hr 43 min
Episode 266 - The 2025 Hobby Progress Challenge
It's that time again - the 2025 Hobby Progress Challenge is here, and we're diving headfirst into all the details on this episode. Chelle, Adan, and Carl sit down to go over the rules of this year's challenge, how it's tracked, and what makes it such a fun and motivating way to tackle that pile of shame. Whether you're painting for glory in the Emperor's name or fueled by the whispers of Chaos, the HPC is your chance to stay focused, productive, and inspired all year long. We'll also hear directly from our community. Listeners who took part in last year's challenge share how the HPC helped them hit their goals, what they learned along the way, and what they're looking forward to this time around. Their stories remind us that while prizes and painted models are great, it's the camaraderie and encouragement that truly keep the brush moving month after month. Of course, we'll be talking about the prize support too - because what's a challenge without a few epic rewards along the way? With fantastic sponsors stepping up again this year, every month of progress not only builds your army but also earns you entries into our prize drawings. The 2025 Hobby Progress Challenge officially kicked off on September 1st, but it's never too late to join in. Tune in October 1st to hear how it all works, get inspired by your fellow hobbyists, and take the plunge into a year of painting, progress, and shared passion for Warhammer 40K. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 0:25:20 - The 2025 Hobby Progress Challenge - Pt1 1:05:45 - The 2025 Hobby Progress Challenge - Pt2 1:25:30 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer Media Network Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Sep 16, 2025 · 2 hr 21 min
Episode 265 - 40k For a Lifetime
In Episode 265, we explore what it means to be a hobbyist over time - from the first spark of excitement, to balancing life's responsibilities, to rediscovering joy in unexpected ways. We're diving into how the hobby grows with us, and how each phase of life brings something new to the tabletop. This episode features reflections and insights from both our hosts and members of the community, sharing how their passion for Warhammer 40K has changed over the years, and what keeps them coming back. Whether you're painting your first Intercessor or pulling out Rogue Trader-era minis, this one's for you. Join us as we celebrate the long game of 40K and the people who've made it a lifelong journey. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:31:40 - 40k For a Lifetime: Part 1 1:35:00 - 40k For a Lifetime: Part 2 2:04:10 - Final Thoughts and show closing 2:12:40 - 40k For a Lifetime: Secret Last Part Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Imperium Maledictum by Cubicle7 Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
Sep 2, 2025 · 2 hr 22 min
Episode 264 - The Greatest 40k Supplements
Episode 264 of The Independent Characters is one for the ages! This time, we're not just joined by guests, we're joined by legends. That's right: the entire cast of Life After the Cover Save joins Carl in the Astronomicon! Ed, Blake, and Travis bring their unique brand of humor, hobby passion, and podcast chaos to join Carl and crew for one big crossover episode you won't want to miss. The topic? One that's bound to spark some debate... What are the greatest Warhammer 40,000 expansion supplements of all time? From the game-changing codex expansions that shaped entire editions, to legendary campaign books and wild narrative add-ons that still echo in hobby history - we're digging deep, reminiscing, and arguing about which supplements truly stood the test of time. You'll get laughs, you'll get hot takes, and you might even find yourself dusting off some old tomes from your shelf once we're done. Because let's face it, everyone has their own "best of all time" picks, and we want to hear yours too! This one's a celebration of the game, the supplements that shaped it, and the community that keeps it alive. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:34:00 - The Greatest 40k Supplements - Part 1 1:38:00 - The Greatest 40k Supplements - Part 2 2:17:00 - Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon The Beard Bunker Games Workshop The Black Library
Aug 15, 2025 · 2 hr 43 min
Episode 263 - The Warrior Lodge
In Episode 263 of The Independent Characters, we open the doors once again to The Warrior Lodge, our roundtable-style discussion format where we bring together voices from across the Warhammer 40,000 community. This episode, Carl is joined by Josh, Adan, and Skye as we dive into some of the most pressing topics currently sparking debate and reflection within the hobby. Whether you're a veteran player or newly initiated into the grim darkness of the far future, The Warrior Lodge always has a seat at the table for you. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Independent Characters! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 – Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 1:08:45 – The Warrior Lodge: Part 1 2:00:45 – The Warrior Lodge: Part 2 2:34:30 – Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! – SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies – SPONSOR Imperium Maledictum by Cubicle7 Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library Gamers Grass Bases
Jul 30, 2025 · 2 hr
Episode 262 - Imperium Maledictum: The RPG
In episode 262 of The Independent Characters, we delve deep into the shadows of the Imperium with a close look at Imperium Maledictum, the Warhammer 40,000 roleplaying game from Cubicle 7. Carl is joined by guest hosts Lars, Thom, and Steve; each bringing their unique RPG experience to the table, as we unravel the mysteries and mechanics of this investigative game set in the decaying heart of the Imperium. We begin with an exploration of the setting: This is a desperate and fractured region of space known as the Macharian Sector. The players serve shadowy patrons; from Inquisitors, Rogue Traders and Adeptus Mechanicus. Adventures revolve around investigations and surviving political intrigue, heretical threats, and the oppressive weight of Imperial bureaucracy. The game's tone is one of paranoia, secrets, and moral ambiguity - perfectly capturing the essence of the Warhammer 40k universe from a civilian perspective. Then we dive into the core mechanics and ruleset of Imperium Maledictum. From the D100-based skill checks to the Patron system that shapes your party's resources and objectives. We will explore how the game encourages teamwork, narrative depth, and immersive roleplaying. Whether you're a veteran of previous Warhammer RPGs, such as Rogue Trader or Dark Heresy, or new to roleplaying in the 41st Millennium, this episode will help you understand why Imperium Maledictum stands out as a compelling and richly detailed approach to role playing. If you ARE interested in purchasing the game after listening to this episode - please use our link below as it helps us with our Cubicle7 relationship. Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress 0:35:20 - Imperium Maledictum: Part 1 1:22:45 - Imperium Maledictum: Part 2 1:49:52 - Final Thoughts and show closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Imperium Maledictum by Cubicle7 Goonhammer War on The Shore 2026 Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library