Dingus and Dingus

Floyd Bishop

www.dingusanddingus.com Stop listening to the PR-friendly version of the video game industry. Most conversations about gaming and tech stay on the surface. We’re here to dig up the hilarious, chaotic, and often bittersweet reality from the perspective of two industry veterans with over 100 years of collective experience. From the peaks of Triple-A development to the trenches of the "shifting sands" in modern tech, this is your all-access pass to the stories that usually stay behind NDAs. 🎮 What Really Happens Behind the Scenes?We’ve seen it all: the games that defined generations and the legendary titles that vanished right before release. We’re peeling back the curtain on the "Industry Graveyard," including the truth behind Jetmoto 2124 and the Neopets project that almost stayed in purgatory forever. If you want to know why your favorite game was canceled or how a masterpiece falls apart weeks before launch, you’re in the right place. 🔥 From Retro Toys to the AI RevolutionOur roots go deep. We explore how the world of 80s and 90s pop culture—from He-Man and Transformers to G.I. Joe—shaped the creative landscape we work in today. But we don't just look back; we’re dissecting the massive shifts happening right now in 2026. We dive deep into: AI vs. CGI: Why the AI explosion feels like the early days of CGI—and why the industry is moving faster than humans can adapt.The Layoff Reality: An honest, unfiltered look at the cycle of industry layoffs and the resilience required to survive a 30-year career.Wild Studio Tales: From "accidental nosebleeds in dumpsters" to the bizarre reality of creative production.Career Survival: Why building strong friendships and staying adaptable is the only way to navigate a turbulent professional landscape.🚀 Who Is This For?Whether you are a game developer in the trenches, a tech enthusiast curious about the future of AI, or a collector who grew up on 80s cartoons and retro toys, this podcast is for you. We offer a blend of high-level industry insight, career coaching, and raw storytelling that you won’t find anywhere else. In this business, the only constant is change. Join us for the laughs, the secrets, and a reminder that while nothing lasts forever, the stories certainly do. Connect with us: Subscribe for weekly episodes on the reality of the game industry, tech trends, and creative resilience. #GameDev #VideoGameIndustry #Podcast #TechTrends #AI #GamingHistory #RetroToys #Transformers #GIJoe #CareerAdvice #Animation

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 21: The Lost Episode

    The hosts discuss the naming of the podcast, the setup of the website, and the use of AI tools to cut up episodes. They also reminisce about swag from their time at Sony and share childhood stories of getting hurt. The conversation covers a range of topics including childhood memories, layoffs, industry advice, and humorous anecdotes. The hosts share personal experiences and offer valuable insights for professionals in the industry. The conversation is light-hearted and engaging, providing a mix of entertainment and wisdom. Takeaways Podcast naming and website setupReminiscing about swag from SonyChildhood stories of getting hurt Childhood memories and experiences shape our interests and hobbies.Navigating layoffs and career challenges requires resilience and a sense of humor.Industry advice emphasizes the importance of being kind and considerate in professional interactions. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Naming and Website Setup03:59 Reminiscing about Swag from Sony19:08 Childhood Stories of Getting Hurt24:16 Childhood Memories and Transformers30:09 Layoffs and Career Challenges42:22 Industry Advice and Insights

  2. Aug 7

    Episode20: Interview with Rich Sjoberg and Tom Moon

    The conversation covers the introduction and gratitude expressed by Floyd, the early career experiences and work on Free Realms, and the transition to SOE and involvement in EverQuest. The guests share insights into their journey in the gaming industry and the development of iconic games like EverQuest. The conversation delves into the world of game development, particle effects, and the challenges of creating realistic magic effects. It also explores the transition to MMO gaming, fan interactions, and the career paths of the speakers. The discussion highlights the creative freedom, project highlights, and the longevity of careers in the gaming industry. Additionally, it covers memorable projects, career milestones, and innovative game development techniques. The conversation covers the evolution of game development, the power of proper tools, office antics and pranks, problem solving and collaboration, the joy of audio cassette recordings, unexpected connections and reunions, the birth of a podcast, nostalgia for 1980s toys, childhood pranks and experiments, memories of cap guns and explosions, advice for aspiring game developers, the role of math in game development, workplace anecdotes and lessons, and the untold tales of game development. Future guests and meetups are also discussed. Takeaways Gratitude for mentorship and support in the gaming industryChallenges and experiences during the early days of the guests' careersTransition to SOE and involvement in the development of EverQuest Challenges of creating realistic magic effectsTransition to playing MMO gamesLong-term employment in the gaming industryPride in specific game projects and effectsEvolution of game engines and development tools Evolution of game developmentThe power of proper tools Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude01:25 Early Career and Free Realms02:56 Transition to SOE and EverQuest25:31 Game Development and Particle Effects26:42 Realistic Magic Effects and Game Launches27:47 Transition to MMO Gaming and Fan Interactions30:15 Work Experience and Career Paths32:24 Creative Freedom and Project Highlights37:36 Longevity in the Gaming Industry40:10 Memorable Projects and Career Milestones46:28 Innovative Game Development Techniques53:58 The Evolution of Game Development55:11 The Power of Proper Tools56:29 Office Antics and Pranks59:06 Problem Solving and Collaboration01:00:01 The Joy of Audio Cassette Recordings01:01:00 Unexpected Connections and Reunions01:03:03 The Birth of a Podcast01:04:12 Nostalgia for 1980s Toys01:05:12 Childhood Pranks and Experiments01:07:37 Memories of Cap Guns and Explosions01:08:45 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers01:12:28 The Role of Math in Game Development01:13:18 Workplace Anecdotes and Lessons01:16:01 The Untold Tales of Game Development01:17:57 Future Guests and Meetups

  3. Jul 31

    Episode 19: Interview with ChatGPT

    The podcast episode features the exploration of the new voice mode, troubleshooting audio difficulties, role-playing scenarios, multilingual capabilities, Transformers trivia, ASMR scenarios, and a discussion on AI conversational monitoring and privacy. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including consciousness, inner voice, safeguards, prime directives, favorite technology, video game knowledge, female ninja turtles, favorite ninja turtle, summer vacations, childhood memories, childhood scary stories, Speak & Spell, amazement at AI technology, and robot body preferences. The conversation delved into various aspects of AI, voice experience, nostalgia, language, robotics, AI ethics, career advice, and a call to action for the audience. It was a blend of exploration, reminiscence, and practical insights into the world of technology and AI. Takeaways New voice mode capabilities enhance conversational experiencesMultilingual and improvisational capabilities of Chat GPT are impressive AI's ability to recall and synthesize information in real-time.The nostalgic and futuristic implications of AI technology. Exploration of AI and voice experienceNostalgia and sci-fi referencesEthical use of AICareer advice and learning in tech Chapters 00:00 Setting Up the New Voice Mode01:07 Troubleshooting Audio Difficulties03:09 Exploring the New Voice Model04:30 Role-Playing and Character Voices11:02 Multilingual Capabilities and Improvisation14:36 Transformers Trivia and ASMR Scenarios20:27 AI Conversational Monitoring and Privacy21:44 Consciousness and Inner Voice22:48 Safeguards and Prime Directives24:18 Favorite Technology and Video Game Knowledge25:40 Female Ninja Turtles and Favorite Ninja Turtle30:00 Summer Vacations and Childhood Memories40:07 Childhood Scary Stories and Speak & Spell43:36 Amazement at AI Technology44:25 Robot Body Preferences44:49 Exploring AI and Voice Experience45:26 Nostalgia and Sci-Fi References49:01 Language and Translation46:28 AI and Robotics54:40 AI Ethics and Responsibility56:54 Career and Learning in Tech01:03:49 Nerdy Rabbit Holes and Nostalgia01:06:27 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

  4. Jul 30

    Episode 18: Interview with Vanessa Landeros

    The conversation covers Vanessa's journey from her early days as an animator to her transition into game animation, working on Avatar, exploring different studios, and joining Riot. It also highlights her career milestones and experiences along the way. The conversation covers the life of an animator, advice for aspiring artists, and a discussion about weird and wonderful toys. Takeaways Animation career evolutionTransition from film to gamesNavigating different studios and projectsNegotiating job offersCareer milestones and reflections Continuous learning is essential for success in the animation industry.Persistence and dedication are key to building a successful career in the arts. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Animation03:06 Transition to Game Animation11:09 Working on Avatar and Transition to Games25:02 Exploring Different Studios31:53 Joining Riot and Career Milestones33:45 The Life of an Animator51:46 Advice for Aspiring Artists55:06 Weird and Wonderful Toys

  5. Jul 30

    Episode 17: Interview with Scott Butler

    The conversation covers Scott Butler's early career in the games industry, including his introduction to game development and his transition to Sony. It also explores the challenges and experiences of working on various game projects. The conversation covers various topics including game development, pitching a new game idea, layoffs, childhood memories, and non-video game work. It also delves into the experience of attending a convention and the impact of weather on mental health. Scott Butler shares his experiences at Comic Con, his transition to acting, and his involvement in the Star Wars fandom. He also discusses his role in 'Agatha All Along' and the importance of character preparation in acting. The conversation covers a range of topics, including technical difficulties, the Marvel Universe and superhero shows, video game development, acting career, and fun facts about facial hair. The guests share insights and experiences related to these themes, providing valuable information and entertainment. Takeaways Early experiences in game developmentTransition to Sony and game development Game development often involves long hours and intense periods of work known as 'crunch time'.Pitching a new game idea can be a challenging but rewarding process, leading to the development of innovative projects.Layoffs and studio closures are common in the video game industry and can have a significant impact on employees and their careers. Comic Con covers a wide range of fandoms and activities.Transitioning to acting can be a result of curiosity and a desire to overcome personal challenges.Character preparation is essential for bringing depth to a role in acting. Marvel Universe and superhero shows offer diverse and engaging contentVideo game development and acting careers have accessible resources for beginners Chapters 00:00 Early Career in Games02:02 Transition to Sony and Game Development20:40 Game Development and Crunch Time21:14 Transition to New Game Project25:20 Pitching a New Game Idea33:05 Layoffs and Studio Closure38:30 Collecting Transformers and Childhood Memories41:04 Oregon Convention and Non-Video Game Work41:13 Comic Con Adventures42:04 Transition to Acting43:00 First Acting Class43:36 Star Wars Fandom46:27 Agatha All Along01:02:24 Character Preparation in Acting01:03:47 Technical Difficulties and Rebooting01:05:00 Marvel Universe and Superhero Shows01:14:26 Video Game Development and Acting Career01:20:34 Facial Hair and Fun Facts

  6. Jul 10

    Episode 16: Interview with David Hall

    https://www.artstation.com/dhallzy The conversation covers David Hall's journey from studying at the Art Institute to working in the video game industry, experiencing layoffs, and navigating the challenges of the industry. It also delves into his time at Riot Games and the impact of the pandemic on the industry. The conversation covers a range of topics including remote work, commuting, career transitions, and personal anecdotes. It also delves into the challenges of job loss and the impact on individuals and families. The discussion highlights the experiences of visual effects artists and the dynamics of the industry. The conversation covers various topics related to job experiences, layoffs, life events, and the impact of AI on the industry. It also delves into the significance of relationships, memories, and the use of AI as a tool in creative work. Takeaways Career challenges in the video game industryTransition from student to professionalImpact of the pandemic on the industry Remote work flexibility enabled career transitions and relocations.The impact of job loss on individuals and families is significant. Life events often coincide with job changes.The use of AI as a tool in creative work requires a nuanced understanding and a balance between human expertise and AI capabilities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Legacy03:01 Teaching at the Art Institute and Industry Challenges09:03 Transition to Video Game Industry and Early Career15:01 Layoffs and Career Challenges20:00 Riot Games and Pandemic Impact20:57 Industry Challenges and NFTs22:51 Transitioning to Remote Work and Relocation32:14 Visual Effects Career and Industry Dynamics42:37 Challenges of Job Loss and Impact on Individuals43:08 Life Events and Job Changes45:31 Impact of Layoffs and Job Experiences49:38 Advice for Aspiring Video Game Professionals55:35 The Role of AI in Creative Work

  7. Jul 3

    Episode 15: Interview with Steve George and Sebastian Strzalkowski

    The podcast episode features introductions, reminiscences, and discussions about game development, industry beginnings, and the closure of Free Realms. The hosts and guests share personal experiences and insights related to their careers in the gaming industry, highlighting the challenges and successes they encountered. The conversation covers a range of topics including the changing landscape of employment, the transition to indie game development, reflections on rewarding projects, freedom and creativity in indie game development, and nostalgic reflections on Free Realms. The conversation covers topics such as project planning and idea generation, transitioning between projects, the role of AI in development, and advice for aspiring game developers. It explores the challenges of project planning, the use of AI as a tool for creativity and efficiency, and the importance of completing projects and developing a unique voice in game development. Takeaways Insights into the early days of game development and industry connectionsThe impact of project closures and transitions in the gaming industry The indie game development industry offers freedom and creativity for developers.Nostalgic reflections on past projects can evoke fond memories and camaraderie among team members. Differing approaches to project planningChallenges in translating creative ideas into actionable plansExperience in transitioning between projectsCollaborative project planning and executionAI as a tool for creativity and efficiencyThe evolving role of AI in game developmentImportance of completing projectsDeveloping a unique voice and perspective in game development Chapters 00:00 Introductions and Reunions11:49 Transition to New Projects and Closure of Free Realms20:11 Changing Landscape of Employment29:20 Freedom and Creativity in Indie Game Development34:59 Nostalgic Reflections on Free Realms41:35 Transitioning Between Projects46:38 AI in Development01:00:43 Advice for Aspiring Game Developers

  8. Jul 1

    Episode 14: Interview with Stephen Case

    The Dingus and Dingus Podcast features a conversation between Floyd, Matt, and Stephen, who discuss their backgrounds in graphic design, the evolution of graphic design tools, and the impact of technology on the industry. They also share anecdotes about their experiences with various design software and the challenges of working in the field. The conversation provides insights into the technical and artistic aspects of graphic design and the changes in the industry over time. The conversation covers the evolution of digital design, the impact of technology on creative processes, and the challenges of working with new tools and techniques. It also delves into the complexities of e-learning and instructional design, as well as the humorous anecdotes of working in unconventional industries. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including animation projects, forensic animation, instructional videos, toy collections, and more. The speakers share insights and experiences from their careers in the graphics industry, offering advice and anecdotes along the way. Takeaways Graphic design is a blend of technical precision and artistic creativity.The evolution of graphic design tools has had a significant impact on the industry, influencing the way designers work and the quality of their output. Digital design evolutionChallenges of working with new toolsComplexities of e-learning and instructional designHumorous anecdotes of working in unconventional industries Animation projects require creativity and technical expertiseForensic animation demands precision and subject matter expertise Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds in Graphic Design06:04 Education and Career Trajectories in Graphic Design13:07 Evolution of Graphic Design Tools and Technology20:08 Influence on Graphic Design Tools and Industry Impact40:17 Unconventional Industry Experiences46:14 High-Profile Projects and Brand Collaborations

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Ratings & Reviews

3.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

www.dingusanddingus.com Stop listening to the PR-friendly version of the video game industry. Most conversations about gaming and tech stay on the surface. We’re here to dig up the hilarious, chaotic, and often bittersweet reality from the perspective of two industry veterans with over 100 years of collective experience. From the peaks of Triple-A development to the trenches of the "shifting sands" in modern tech, this is your all-access pass to the stories that usually stay behind NDAs. 🎮 What Really Happens Behind the Scenes?We’ve seen it all: the games that defined generations and the legendary titles that vanished right before release. We’re peeling back the curtain on the "Industry Graveyard," including the truth behind Jetmoto 2124 and the Neopets project that almost stayed in purgatory forever. If you want to know why your favorite game was canceled or how a masterpiece falls apart weeks before launch, you’re in the right place. 🔥 From Retro Toys to the AI RevolutionOur roots go deep. We explore how the world of 80s and 90s pop culture—from He-Man and Transformers to G.I. Joe—shaped the creative landscape we work in today. But we don't just look back; we’re dissecting the massive shifts happening right now in 2026. We dive deep into: AI vs. CGI: Why the AI explosion feels like the early days of CGI—and why the industry is moving faster than humans can adapt.The Layoff Reality: An honest, unfiltered look at the cycle of industry layoffs and the resilience required to survive a 30-year career.Wild Studio Tales: From "accidental nosebleeds in dumpsters" to the bizarre reality of creative production.Career Survival: Why building strong friendships and staying adaptable is the only way to navigate a turbulent professional landscape.🚀 Who Is This For?Whether you are a game developer in the trenches, a tech enthusiast curious about the future of AI, or a collector who grew up on 80s cartoons and retro toys, this podcast is for you. We offer a blend of high-level industry insight, career coaching, and raw storytelling that you won’t find anywhere else. In this business, the only constant is change. Join us for the laughs, the secrets, and a reminder that while nothing lasts forever, the stories certainly do. Connect with us: Subscribe for weekly episodes on the reality of the game industry, tech trends, and creative resilience. #GameDev #VideoGameIndustry #Podcast #TechTrends #AI #GamingHistory #RetroToys #Transformers #GIJoe #CareerAdvice #Animation

Information

  • Creator
    Floyd Bishop
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Floyd Bishop