stash (midterm), and slaying the monster threatening their town (long term). In a business setting, the goals will relate to completing the project. Know Your Teammates’ Strengths Here’s the kicker that made me realize the Fishels’ book could be applied to a business setting: All of those goals need to be specific, measurable and tied to the broader project. You know, SMART goals. To run a meeting like a player-centric game master, you need to focus on the skills and goals of the attendees. Instead of dominating the meeting time with lectures or explanations, come prepared with the context for the meeting and knowledge of potential obstacles. Ask thoughtful, openended questions meant to facilitate unblocking the participants’ obstacles and helping them resolve their conflicts. Encourage attendee participation by knowing their specialties and calling on them to contribute when their expertise is relevant. The handbook is filled with other ideas to create a productive, collaborative session. Even if your next meeting doesn’t feature a dragon, The Game Master’s Handbook of Proactive Roleplaying will make sure you’re ready if it does. Further Reading If you want to continue your epic journey through books that relate to both Dungeons & Dragons and business, I recommend Return of the Lazy Dungeon Master by Michael Shea and Never Unprepared by Phil Vecchione (an accomplished project manager in addition to an author of roleplaying guidebooks). What should Jessica read next? Her library of business books is large, but she's always looking to build it out. If you have any suggestions for business books that are meaningful to you, please let her know at JGR@ppai.org, and after she gives it a read, she’ll share her impressions in PPAI Magazine. Storey is a manager of content at PPAI. | Community Book Club Full Color Table Covers Go to Discountmp.com Fitted Stretch Fitted Non-Fitted FREE SETUP PPAI/582106 SAGE/50398 Choose from 5 fabrics and 4ft, 6ft or 8ft size, this determines the price Below is included ►Full Color, Full Coverage Imprint ►FREE Carry Bag ►FREE PMS Matches Choose Fitted, Fitted Stretch or Non-Fitted Choose Open, Closed or Zipper Back PPAI • JUNE 2025 • 87
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