Game Schooler Podcast

I had my own podcast about board games a while back, but it's success wasn't meant to be. After calling it quits, I was in search of board gaming podcasts that were close to what I was trying to do. To the point, concise and informative podcasts with their own uniques twist. Not just a group of friends who fill their show with never ending inside jokes and like the sound of their own voice. Luckily, I found these guys, and although they are way more family friendly than my show was, the information on the games is solid and their personalities are relatable all the same. Meaning they make you feel like you could sit and play a game with them. Not a huge fan of the over exaggerated introduction voice they use, but otherwise, I really enjoy the way they approach games from the perspective of what skills you can learn while playing. I know their thing is family weight games, but I've noticed they'ved dabbled into some heavier things lately. Maybe one day we'll get some bonus episodes featuring games that are on the next level from the family weight. Either way, keep up the great work, guys.

Every week, Mike and Doug break down skills involved in a board game that they recommend. Educational concepts, skill-building, and difficulties are discussed, along with techniques to make learning easier and more fun. Although the show can run a little long, the different segments that make up a show are all great.

I’ve probably bought 20 games based on their recommendations! Such great insight into the educational opportunities these games utilize. I’ve gotten my extended family into the podcast and recommend it to coworkers and friends frequently! One thing in particular that I appreciate is they will give recommendations on age that don’t necessarily match up to the box recommendation. So helpful!

I recommend Game Schooler to every parent that’s interested in play-based learning so literally every parent out there because kids learn best through play. However, many parents may not know about the power of board games in education which these two, very pleasant gentlemen and subject matter experts excellently talk about. They found a very powerful niche in the boardgames space in which they connect educational concepts to games primarily for families. Whether you are a parent or educator on the lookout for creative approaches, this is a must-listen podcast. I’m a parent (quasi teacher myself with a middle-school teaching wife *wink*) and passionate board gamer who is on a quest to tell more parents about the under-valued and under-utilized medium “board game” so I’m very pleased to hear from Doug and Dr. McCabe. Way to go, gentlemen!