RPGBOT.Podcast

Latest Episodes:

THE PLANE OF MECHANUS - Where everything is lawful and orderly and predictable Jul 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we delve into the intricacies of one of the most fascinating planes in the D&D cosmology: Mechanus. Known for its absolute order and interlocking gears the size of small countries, Mechanus is a plane like no other. Join us as we explore the various features and inhabitants of this highly structured and symmetrical world. From the Modron bureaucracy to the optional rules, get ready for a deep dive into the intricacies of Mechanus. Grab your dice and join us as we take a journey into the heart of this incredible plane.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, We break down the Plane of Mechanus in the D&D cosmology. We describe Mechanus as a plane of absolute order, with interlocking gears the size of small countries. We talk about the Modrons, creatures that inhabit Mechanus and are known for their bureaucratic and orderly nature. Two optional rules for Mechanus: the Law of Averages, where creatures always use the average damage result for attacks and spells, and Imposing Order, where visitors must make a Wisdom saving throw at the end of a long rest to avoid changing their alignment to lawful neutral.

We also delve into the hierarchy of Modrons, the native inhabitants of Mechanus, and their roles and functions within the plane. We share tidbits about Modrons, such as their limited communication abilities and the constant replacement of Modrons in the hierarchy upon death. We touch on the challenges of finding stat blocks for higher-ranking Modrons. We discuss various aspects of Mechanus, the plane of law and order in the Dungeons & Dragons multiverse. We cover topics such as the ruling modron hierarchy of Mechanus, Asmodeus's Ruby Rod, the Formians, the Gate Town of Automata, and the Great Modron March. We also mention the Hall of Concordance in Sigil.

Takeaways

Mechanus is a plane of absolute order with interlocking gears the size of small countries
The gears are habitable on both sides and everything is perfectly balanced and symmetrical
Mechanus connects to three other planes: Acheron, Arcadia, and Sigil
Modrons, creatures that inhabit Mechanus, are known for their bureaucratic and orderly nature
Two optional rules for Mechanus: Law of Averages and Imposing Order Pathfinder has a plane dedicated to law called Axis, which falls between Mechanus and Sigil.
Modrons are the only native inhabitants of Mechanus and exist in an absolute hierarchy based on the number of sides they have.
Modrons have limited communication abilities and can only communicate with Modrons one step above or below them in the hierarchy.
When a Modron dies, they are immediately replaced in the hierarchy, and Primus creates new Monodrones to maintain a stable number of Modrons in the multiverse.
Finding stat blocks for higher-ranking Modrons can be challenging, and previous editions may provide more information. Mechanus is the plane of law and order in the D&D multiverse
The Modrons are the ruling hierarchy of Mechanus
The Ruby Rod is a powerful artifact that controls the Slodds
The Slodds are chaotic creatures that seek to break free from Mechanus
The Formians are ant-like creatures that have invaded Mechanus
Automata is a Gate Town in Mechanus known for its bureaucratic and orderly nature
The Great Modron March is a mysterious event that occurs every 289 years
The Hall of Concordance in Axis is a place where contracts are signed and enforced
Mechanus is a fascinating and complex plane with many unique features and creatures

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

If you love the show, consider joining us on Patreon, where backers at the $5 and above tiers get ad free access to RPGBOT.net and the RPGBOT.Podcast, can chat directly to members of the RPGBOT team and community on the RPGBOT.Discord, and can join us for live-streamed recordings.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

INITIATIVE & SURPRISE (Remastered!) - Challenging the Traditional and Spicing Up Your Game Jul 20, 2024

Show notes

In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss initiative and surprise mechanics in TTRPGs. We examine how initiative and surprise work in DnD 5e and how people are using it wrong, we compare 5e to other RPGs including Pathfinder 2e and The One Ring, and we explore some variant initiative options which you might use in your own games.

This episode was originally published April 6, 2022

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

Dungeons and Dragons 5e

Pathfinder 2e

Other Stuff

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2014 DnD 5e WIZARDS Levels 7 - 20 with Treantmonk Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to part 2 of our Wizards optimization discussion with the one and only Treantmonk! In the previous episode, we delved into the world of D&D 5e Wizards and explored their potential at lower levels. Now, we continue our journey and tackle the exciting realm of mid to high levels. Brace yourselves, as we discuss powerful spell choices, gameplay strategies, and the fierce competition for spells among our characters. Grab your spellbooks and let's dive in!

Summary

In part 2 of our Wizard optimization discussion with Treantmonk, we continue optimizing our Wizards. We continue from level 7 and discuss our spell choices and subclass features. The gameplay of each character is described, with Ash focusing on confusion and illusion, Randall using magic missile as a machine gun, Chris restraining and damaging enemies, and Tyler causing mischief from a distance. We also discuss the importance of spell selection and the competition for spells as wizards progress to higher levels. We're excited about the powerful spells we have access to and the creative ways in which we can use them.

We discuss the importance of optimizing our characters and the fun of collecting and using a wide variety of spells. We talk about our choices for Spell Mastery feature at level 18. We briefly discuss their choices for second-level spells, with Chris taking Tasha's Mind Whip and Vortex Warp, Ash choosing Phantasmal Force and Mirror Image, and Randall debating between Web and Shatter. We debate the usefulness of the Wish spell and the potential problems it can cause at the table. In the final part of our conversation, we discuss our choices for signature spells at level 20.

Takeaways

Choosing the right spells is crucial for optimizing a Wizard character in D&D 5e.
Each player has a unique play style and strategy based on their chosen subclass and spell selection.
Higher-level spells offer more powerful and versatile options for combat and utility.
Competition for spells in our spell draft increases as characters progress to higher levels.
Understanding the mechanics and synergies of spells can lead to creative and effective gameplay.
They express excitement about the powerful spells they have access to and the creative ways they can use them.
The hosts discuss the importance of optimizing their characters and the fun of collecting and using a wide variety of spells.
They also discuss high-level subclass features and the unique abilities they provide.
They debate the pros and cons of the Wish spell, acknowledging its power but also the potential problems it can cause at the table.
The hosts make their selections for the Spell Mastery feature at level 18, with each host choosing spells that complement their playstyle.
They also briefly discuss their choices for second-level spells, considering their usefulness and synergy with their overall spell selection.
At level 20, characters can choose two third-level spells to be their signature spells, which they can cast once per day without expending a spell slot.
The hosts have fun joking around and making light of their choices for signature spells.
The conversation highlights the camaraderie and enjoyment that can come from playing high-level wizards in Dungeons & Dragons.
The hosts also discuss the challenges and limitations of certain spells at higher levels.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

Treantmonk (Chris Honkala)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2014 DnD 5e WIZARDS Levels 1 - 7 with Treantmonk! Jul 15, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to the ultimate guide to optimizing your wizard in Dungeons & Dragons 5e! Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, our guest Chris Honkala (Treantmonk) joins us to share expert tips and strategies for creating a powerful and effective wizard. From race and ability scores to spellcasting and subclasses, we'll cover everything you need to know to make the most out of your wizard character. So grab your spellbook and get ready to become the ultimate arcane master!

Summary

In this episode, Chris Honkala (Treantmonk) joins Tyler, Ash, and Randall to discuss optimizing wizards in Dungeons & Dragons 5e. They cover various topics such as race and ability scores, proficiencies, spellcasting, and subclasses. We share opinions on different subclasses and our favorite spells. We also discuss the Wizard's low-level features and their usefulness. We provide insights and tips for players looking to optimize their wizard characters.

We also discuss our opinions on different wizard subclasses in Dungeons and Dragons, covering every official suclass, and offering a polite nod to the Critical Role subclasses. We share thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each subclass and our personal preferences. We also discuss the features and abilities they gain at different levels, such as improved minor illusion and arcane deflection. We talk about the mechanics of copying spells into spellbooks and the importance of initiative for wizards.

In this episode, we draft our spells, each picking just two per spell level in random order. Forced to compete for our favorites, we make some interesting choices to grab the best spells we can at each spell level from 2nd through 4th. We also look at our various subclass features and how they work with our spell choices.

Takeaways

Wizards are full spellcasters and their spellcasting feature is their main focus.
The Arcane Recovery feature allows wizards to recover spell slots during a short rest.
Different subclasses offer unique abilities and playstyles for wizards.
Choosing the right spells is crucial for optimizing a wizard character.
Consider race and ability scores to maximize the effectiveness of a wizard.
The hosts discuss their opinions on different wizard subclasses in Dungeons and Dragons, sharing their thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses of each subclass
They discuss the mechanics of copying spells into spellbooks and the importance of initiative for wizards
Spell choices should be based on personal playstyle and the needs of the party.
Listeners can find the guest, Chris, on his YouTube channel, TreatMonk's Temple.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

Treantmonk (Chris Honkala)

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

CREATING YOUR BACKSTORY (Remastered!); Getting to know your character Jul 13, 2024

Show notes

In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore creating your character's backstory. Creating a compelling character is an essential part of playing Dungeons and Dragons (D&D). While the game may be full of dragons, magic, and epic battles, it's the characters that bring the story to life. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, here are some tips and tricks for bringing your adventurer to life and making them a memorable part of your D&D experience.

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2014 DnD 5e BARBARIANS Levels 5 - 20: Woohoo! Smash, smash, smashy smash! Jul 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to part two of our comprehensive guide to optimizing your Barbarian character in D&D! In our previous episode, we covered the basics of the class and its features at low levels. Now, we delve into the more advanced features and abilities gained by the Barbarian as they level up. Get ready to unleash your inner savage and learn how to maximize your Barbarian's potential!

Summary

In our second part of our guide to optimizing Barbarians, we talk about the features and abilities gained by the Barbarian class at levels 5 to 20. We explore the unique paths of Ancestral Guardian, Giant, and Wild Magic subclasses and their unique features. We also cover the Barbarian's optional class feature, such as Instinctive Pounce, as well as different ability score improvements and feats.

In the final part of the conversation, we talk about the level 15-20 features of the Barbarian class. We highlight the improvements and new abilities gained at each level, such as increased Brutal Critical damage, additional resistances, and unlimited rages. We also discuss the limitations and drawbacks of certain features. We share our thoughts on playing a high-level Barbarian and express excitement for the upcoming episode on the Wizard class.

Takeaways

The Extra Attack feature at level 5 doubles the Barbarian's damage output
The Path of the Wild Magic and Path of the Ancestral Guardian subclasses offer unique abilities and playstyles
The Elemental Cleaver feature allows the Path of the Giant Barbarian to infuse their weapon with primordial energy, dealing extra damage of a chosen type
The Spirit Shield ability allows the Barbarian to reduce damage taken by an ally within 30 feet
The Instinctive Pounce feature allows the Barbarian to move half their speed when they rage
The Feral Instinct feature gives the Barbarian advantage on initiative rolls
The Brutal Critical feature has limitations and may not be as impactful as expected.
The Relentless Rage feature can be a lifesaver in combat.
The Polearm Master feat can provide additional reach and combat options.
Features like increased damage, additional resistances, and unlimited rages enhance the Barbarian's combat capabilities.
Certain features have limitations and drawbacks, such as limited scaling and situational usefulness.
Playing a high-level Barbarian can be fun and rewarding, especially with optimized strategies and creative character concepts.
The hosts express excitement for the next episode on the Wizard class.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

Content from RPGBOT.net
Other Stuff
- Johnn Four: The 5-Room Dungeon
- Zangief

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2014 DnD 5e BARBARIAN Levels 1 - 4: The Frat Bro' of the DnD World Jul 08, 2024

Show notes

Unleash your inner primal warrior with our guide to optimizing the Barbarian class! From race and ability scores to managing rage and exploring different flavors of this ferocious class, we'll help you create the ultimate Barbarian for your next campaign. Don't settle for a one-dimensional brute – unlock the full potential of this versatile class with our expert tips and strategies.

Summary

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we optimize Barbarians. We explore the race, ability scores, skills, and features of the Barbarian class. We touch on the limitations of rage and the importance of managing rage uses. We emphasize the importance of considering different flavors and interpretations of rage to make the Barbarian class more interesting and diverse.

We also discuss the role of Barbarians in combat and their limited utility outside of combat. We review the different subclasses of the Barbarian class in Dungeons & Dragons, provide our opinions on each subclass, and highlight their strengths and weaknesses. We discuss the subclasses which we've have chosen for our example barbarians. Ash chooses the Path of the Giant, which allows him to become a fairy giant barbarian with increased reach and size. Tyler chooses the Ancestral Guardian subclass, which grants him the ability to protect his allies by taunting enemies and reducing damage to them. Randall chooses the Path of Wild Magic, which gives him the ability to roll on a table and gain beneficial effects whenever he enters a rage. We also share some of their favorite memories from D&D and Pathfinder games.

Takeaways

Barbarians are primarily focused on strength and constitution, with a splash of other abilities depending on the desired character build.
Rage is the central feature of the Barbarian class, providing resistance to certain types of damage and a damage bonus on strength-based melee attacks.
Managing rage uses is crucial, as Barbarians have a limited number of rages per day.
Flavor and interpretation of rage can vary, allowing for different character concepts and playstyles.
Barbarians excel in combat but may have limited utility outside of combat.
Consider the adventuring day structure and the limitations of rage when playing a Barbarian.
The Bear Totem subclass of the Totem Warrior is a popular choice for its survivability.
The Ancestral Guardian subclass is powerful but can be boring to play.
The Berserker subclass is considered the worst subclass due to the exhaustion mechanic.
The Path of the Beast subclass is fun and offers a Lycanthrope-like experience.
The Path of the Juggernaut subclass is compared to the Home Run Bat from Super Smash Bros.
The hosts discuss the importance of setting expectations and discussing subclass choices during session zero.
The hosts discuss the subclasses they have chosen for their barbarian characters. Ash chooses the Path of the Giant, Tyler chooses the Ancestral Guardian subclass, and Randall chooses the Path of Wild Magic
They share some of their favorite memories from D&D and Pathfinder games

Materials Referenced in This Episode

Content from RPGBOT.net
Other Stuff
- Johnn Four: The 5-Room Dungeon
- Zangief

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

PUZZLES (Remastered!) Mastering Mind Games and Solving the Enigma Jul 06, 2024

Show notes

Are you looking to add some brain-teasing challenges to your Tabletop RPG sessions? Look no further! In this remastered episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we explore the world of puzzles in tabletop RPGs. From tips on how to run them effectively to utilizing character abilities, we have you covered. Plus, we'll take a trip through history to uncover some inventive puzzle ideas for your game. Get ready to level up your tabletop experience with these thrilling and strategic puzzles!

This episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast was originally published March 22, 2022.

MATERIALS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE

RPGBOT.Podcast Episodes

RPGBOT.Podcast Episode 4 – Failure, with special guest Colby of the Crit Fails Podcast

Dungeons and Dragons 5e

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely

Professional Game Master on StartPlaying.Games
Twitter: @GravenAshes
YouTube@ashravenmedia

Randall James

@JackAmateur
Amateurjack.com

Producer Dan

@Lzr_illuminati

2014 DnD 5e DRUID Levels 5 - 20: Summoning Cows to Fall from the Skies onto our Enemies Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

In this second half of our breakdown of Druids, we dig into the exciting world of druid spells and abilities at 5th level and above. We take a look at the higher-level abilities and playstyle of a druid, including their powerful Wild Shape and spellcasting abilities. Get ready for an insightful and in-depth exploration of the Druid class in this episode. Let's dive in!

Material Referenced in This Episode

Takeaways

Druids gain powerful spells like Call Lightning and Conjure Animals at 5th level.
Summoning spells can be used creatively to overwhelm enemies or control the battlefield.
Some spells, like Sleet Storm, may have limitations or drawbacks that make them less effective.
The Cosmic Omen subclass feature grants druids special reactions based on dice rolls, providing additional utility in combat. Druids gain access to powerful area control spells at higher levels.
The Circle of Stars subclass allows druids to transform into celestial forms and gain additional benefits.
Druids can increase their ability scores or choose a feat at level 12.
Seventh-level spells grant druids even more powerful abilities, such as Firestorm and Plane Shift.
At level 14, druids receive their final subclass feature, such as the ability to cast Alter Self at will. The Druid class gains powerful abilities and features at higher levels, including the ability to shapechange into powerful creatures and cast spells while in Wild Shape.
At level 20, Druids become nearly unkillable with the Archdruid feature, allowing them to use Wild Shape an unlimited number of times.
Druids have a wide range of spells at their disposal, including powerful area-of-effect spells like Earthquake and Tsunami.
The versatility of the Druid class allows for a variety of playstyles, from being a frontline tank to a spellcasting support character.
The Druid class offers unique opportunities for epic storytelling and gameplay, with the ability to commune with nature and shapechange into powerful creatures.

2014 DnD 5e DRUIDS Levels 1 - 4 - Druidic is just Elvish for Hipsters Jul 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the RPGBOT.Podcast, we discuss druids in Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, covering topics such as race and ability scores, proficiencies, class features, spellcasting, and the role of druids as controllers in combat. We also break down the different Druid subclasses and their features and express our opinions on each subclass and provide insights into their strengths and weaknesses.

We'll decide on our own subclass choices: Tyler chooses Circle of Spores, Ash chooses Circle of Stars, and Randall chooses Circle of the Moon. We talk about the different forms that Moon Druids can take and the spells they can use at different levels. We explore the benefits of several forms and spells, as well as the strategies and tactics that can be employed in combat. Our conversation concludes with a preview of the next episode, where they will cover levels 5 to 20 for the Druid class.

TAKEAWAYS

Druids in D&D 5th edition are versatile spellcasters with a focus on area control and summoning magic.
Dexterity is crucial for druids due to their limited armor options.
Druids excel at controlling the battlefield and manipulating the movement of creatures.
Druids have a unique language called Druidic, which is similar to thieves' cant.
The Circle of the Land subclass provides additional cantrips to compensate for the druid's lower number of starting cantrips.
Druids have exclusive cantrips like Primal Savagery, which is a powerful melee attack option. The Circle of the Moon is a popular choice for new players and offers powerful wild shape abilities.
The Circle of Spores is a complex subclass that requires careful optimization to be effective.
The Circle of Stars is a versatile subclass with strong spellcasting abilities and unique features.
The Circle of Dreams is generally considered a weak subclass due to its limited healing capabilities.
The Circle of the Shepherd is a good option for players who enjoy summoning and controlling creatures.
The Circle of Wildfire offers a mix of healing and offensive abilities, as well as a companion creature.
The Circle of the Land is a solid choice for players who want a straightforward druid experience.
The Circle of the Stars is highly recommended for its versatility and powerful features.
The Circle of Spores is a complex subclass that requires careful optimization to be effective.
The Circle of the Moon is a popular choice for new players and offers powerful wild shape abilities. Moon Druids have a variety of forms to choose from, each with its own benefits and abilities.
Spells like Heat Metal and Spike Growth are effective for damage and control in combat.

Materials Referenced in This Episode

Wild Shape

If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. It's a quick, free way to support the podcast, and helps us reach new listeners.

Support us on Amazon.com when you purchase products recommended in the show at the following link: https://amzn.to/3NwElxQ

How to Find Us:

In-depth articles, guides, handbooks, reviews, news on Tabletop Role Playing at RPGBOT.net

Tyler Kamstra

Ash Ely