Better Games, Better Gamers

Daniel Lipson
  • 0.0 (0)
  • CAREERS

Better Games, Better Gamers is a show where we talk about how games shape and are shaped by the communities that surround them. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how to resolve conflicts and bridge divides between gamers and game developers. Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play.

Episodes

  1. MAR 31

    #9: Skyler Scarlett (GameClass)

    Skyler Scarlett is the founder of GameClass, an education technology platform that turns popular games and media into interactive classroom experiences. His work helps students engage with learning in ways that feel familiar, fun, and meaningful. In this episode, Skyler shares his journey from gaming enthusiast to Shark Tank contestant to edtech entrepreneur. We explore how GameClass transforms media into educational content, the rise of game-based learning, and the opportunities for media brands to make a real impact in the classroom. We discuss: Finding Educational Value in Games & Popular Media Digital Literacy and the Role of Technology Challenges and opportunities in edtech for media brands The Rise of User-Generated Content in Gaming Understanding Gamification vs. Game-Based Learning GameClass Official Website: https://www.gameclass.net Skylar Scarlett on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/skylar-scarlett

    42 min

  2. 11/11/2025

    #8: Fay Lee (Far Out Solutions)

    Fay Lee is the founder of Far Out Solutions, a creative tech studio based in Malaysia that blends immersive storytelling and interactive design with emerging tech to craft impact-driven experiences. Their work explores how extended reality and emotional UX can highlight cultural heritage, build community, and make education more engaging. In this episode, Fay shares her journey from advertising and film to founding her own design agency. We discuss the importance of empathy in the design process, and how effective UX blends analytics with creative storytelling. Episode Chapters:  Career Journey: from Film & Advertising to XR Design  Becoming a Founder with Far Out Solutions Designing Emotional Experiences & Impact-Driven Campaigns Balancing Emerging Tech with Creative Expression Partnership with the Malaysian Digital Economic Corporation (MDEC) Future of XR & Interactive Design Cultural Awareness & Expression XR Women & Diversity in Tech Learn more about Far Out Solutions & follow their work: Website: https://www.farout.asia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faroutsolutions LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/far-out-solutions

    37 min

  3. 08/25/2025

    #7: Stephen Machuga (Stack Up)

    Captain Stephen Machuga is the founder and CEO of Stack Up, a non-profit organization that supports veterans' mental health by bringing people together around a shared love of gaming. In this episode, we explore the therapeutic power of gaming for veterans transitioning back to civilian life, and the meandering path that eventually led him to create a nonprofit. Stephen also discusses Stack Up's charity programs, including recreational supply crates for soldiers, peer support groups, suicide prevention teams, and their Los Angeles headquarters that serves as a community center for veterans. The conversation touches on the many challenges of leading a veteran-focused nonprofit, and the importance of providing safe spaces for authentic conversation in our increasingly difficult world. For more information on Stack Up, visit their website at: www.stackup.org or on social media: Discord, BlueSky, YouTube, or Twitch. ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest.  ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS

    43 min

  4. 06/23/2025

    #6: Zachary Rozga (Twin Galaxies)

    Zachary Rozga is a Senior Executive at Twin Galaxies, a legendary name in gaming history that built its legacy by recognizing high scores and world records. Today, the organization is evolving into a modern competitive platform where individual achievements across all games can be celebrated, powered by a no-code system that enables creators, developers, and brands to launch their own custom challenges. In this episode, Zachary shares his journey from international development to the gaming industry, highlighting the importance of fair play and the powerful role of community in shaping meaningful brand experiences. We also explore the current state of the industry, including rising development costs, the shift in esports culture, and why now is the moment to create systems that build community, empower audiences, and redefine connection through competitive play. Connect with Zack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharyrozga For more information on Twin Galaxies, visit their website at: https://www.twingalaxies.com or on social media: Facebook, Twitch, Twitter. ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest.  ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS

    45 min

  5. 03/05/2025

    #5: Lyn Dang (Noodle Cat Games)

    Lyn Dang is the Senior Social Media & Community Manager at Noodle Cat Games, a remote-first indie studio. Noodle Cat Games was named one of the Top 25 Game Changers of 2025 by Lightspeed, GamesBeat, and Nasdaq, and they recently announced their first title, Cloudheim, a multiplayer action RPG. Lyn has a background in community management for game IPs like Summoners War and Palia, and is passionate about helping the next generation of community managers break into the game industry. In this episode, Lyn shares how she got her start and offers advice for anyone hoping to land their dream job. We also explore the challenges of moderating online communities, from navigating player feedback and crisis moments to fostering positive, welcoming spaces, all while balancing player expectations with the realities of game production. Lyn discusses how studios can create work environments where everyone feels passionate about their work, and how the freedom to experiment with quirky, player-driven campaigns (like a comically oversized in-game plushie) can foster community and turn players into advocates. We also discuss the current state of the gaming industry, including the rising costs of game development and the role of AI in moderation. Connect with Lyn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndang Follow her on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lynlovesgames.bsky.social ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest.  ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS

    43 min
  6. #4: Charmaine Duff (Women-Led Games)

    12/04/2024

    #4: Charmaine Duff (Women-Led Games)

    Charmaine Duff is the founder and Director of Women-Led Games, an organization dedicated to recognizing the contributions of innovative women in gaming by creating spaces to showcase their work at events like the Game Awards and Summer Games Fest. In this episode, we discuss the challenges and sexism women face in the gaming industry, including the uphill battle women must navigate when fundraising. Charmaine reflects on the importance of finding characters we identify with, sharing a powerful childhood story about her deep connection to Aerith from Final Fantasy VII. She also urges men to become more active allies and mentors by speaking up and advocating for women. We also share our predictions for 2024's Game of the Year and explore the growing trend of cross-media storytelling. Learn more about WLG by visiting: https://www.womenledgames.com  Join their Discord: http://discord.gg/ffGubbcPVd  Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Women-LedGames  Follow on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/womenledgames  ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest.  ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS

    56 min

  7. 10/20/2024

    #2: Vanessa Lane (Better Play Studios)

    Vanessa Lane is the CEO and Cofounder of BetterPlay Studios, a video game studio that works with psychologists to create a gaming platform that is fun and good for mental wellness. Kozee is a subscription-based gaming app that offers a curated selection of games that have a positive effect on your mental health, with tools to help users track the impacts and understand the theraputic benefits. In this episode, Vanessa shares her journey from teaching into running a video game company dedicated to mental health. She discusses how the studio collaborates with mental health professionals and game designers, and how she balances life as a mom, startup founder, and gaming enthusiast. Learn more by visiting their website: www.betterplaystudios.com Join their Discord: https://discord.gg/rUEBbVHM7d Play Kozee now: https://kozee.games  ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest. ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS

    42 min

  8. 03/11/2024

    #1: Eve Crevoshay (Take This, Inc)

    Eve Crevoshay is the Executive Director of Take This, a non-profit mental health organization providing comprehensive resources and support tailored for the unique needs and diverse cultures and issues of the game community. They combine clinical best practice with a love of all things gamer to provide a safe, accepting space for gamers and developers. Eve Crevoshay has over 20 years of experience with nonprofits and also serves as an advisor to the GDC Advocacy track and the Fair Play Alliance. She is the recipient of the inaugural GamesBeat Up and Comer award (2020) and the 2022 Games for Change Festival Vanguard Award. She's also an avid gardener, cook, and gamer.  In this episode, we discuss how she uses games to connect with her loved ones across generations and her work promoting mental health through research into online harassment and toxicity.  You can find mental health resources and additional information about Take This on their website, TakeThis.org or find them on social @takethisorg. ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest. ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson or @bettergamesbettergamers Twitter/X: @danjlipson Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com IG: @bettergamesbettergamers

    45 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

Better Games, Better Gamers is a show where we talk about how games shape and are shaped by the communities that surround them. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how to resolve conflicts and bridge divides between gamers and game developers. Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play.

Information