Hooks that Actually Hook

Not all adventures start with a bang—some start with a hook that falls flat. In this episode, I take a deep dive into the craft of building effective story hooks that truly grab your players. Whether you're prepping a one-shot or planning a full-length campaign, a strong hook can mean the difference between player investment and polite indifference.

We'll break down the anatomy of a great hook, explore six classic types of adventure openers, discuss how to tailor them to your players' personalities, and cover what to do when a hook doesn’t land the way you hoped. I also share real examples from my own tables—both the hooks that soared and the ones that flopped. Whether you're a new Game Master or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you start your sessions with purpose and energy.