Dingus and Dingus

Floyd Bishop
  • 3.7 (3)
  • Technology

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. 2d ago

    Episode 24: Interview with Doug and Emmy Jo from The New Zoo Revue

    New Zoo Revue Interview: Behind the Scenes of a Classic Children’s TV ShowWhat made New Zoo Revue one of the most memorable children’s television shows of the 1970s? In this episode of The Dingus and Dingus Podcast, Floyd and Matt welcome Doug Momary from New Zoo Revue for a nostalgic, insightful, and deeply personal conversation about classic children’s television, memorable characters, music, family, and the lasting impact of positive messages.Doug shares the behind-the-scenes story of creating New Zoo Revue, the beloved children’s show featuring Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, Henrietta Hippo, Emmy Joe, and Doug. He explains how the series tackled important topics including kindness, bullying, drugs, greed, envy, tolerance, self-esteem, friendship, family relationships, and emotional growth—subjects that were rarely addressed so directly on children’s television. In this interview, we explore how New Zoo Revue was produced during the 1970s, including the show’s live musical performances, three-camera filming process, full-body animal costumes, character development, songwriting, and demanding production schedule. Doug also discusses the creation of more than 600 songs, the influence of musical theater and popular music, and the importance of never talking down to children. You’ll also hear stories about some of the show’s famous guest stars, including Henry Mancini, Chuck Woolery, Joanne Worley, Jesse White, and Mr. Magoo. Doug explains how the show was filmed at historic Hollywood studios, including Desilu Studios, MGM, and the Burbank Studios, now associated with Warner Bros.One of the most moving parts of this conversation is Doug’s story about reconnecting with former “New Zoo kids” at Comic Cons. Fans have shared how the show helped them through difficult childhoods and inspired them to become teachers, doctors, lawyers, community leaders, and kind, compassionate adults. Doug reflects on the responsibility of creating children’s media and the lifelong influence that positive messages can have.The conversation also looks at what a modern version of New Zoo Revue might address, including internet safety, smartphones, online bullying, digital responsibility, artificial intelligence, and the challenges facing children and parents today. Doug discusses his newer projects, including Safari Town and Knights of IT: Guardians of the Digital Realm, as well as his advice for aspiring musicians, writers, animators, and creators.Whether you grew up watching New Zoo Revue, love classic children’s television, enjoy television history, or are interested in the creative process behind iconic characters and educational entertainment, this episode is full of nostalgia, humor, history, and heartfelt lessons. In This EpisodeThe history of New Zoo RevueDoug Momary’s experience creating the showFreddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl, and Henrietta HippoHow New Zoo Revue handled difficult topics for childrenThe show’s focus on kindness, tolerance, and self-esteemThe creation of more than 600 songsBehind-the-scenes television production in the 1970sFull-body animal costumes and live performancesGuest stars including Henry Mancini and Chuck WooleryThe lasting impact of New Zoo Revue on former viewersComic Con fan stories and childhood memoriesChildren’s television then versus nowInternet safety and digital responsibilityArtificial intelligence and positive creative usesDoug Momary’s current projects and creative advice

  2. Aug 28

    Episode 23: Interview with Jeff Merghart

    The podcast episode features a lively conversation between Floyd, Matt, and Jeff Merghart, covering topics such as artistic talents, prank stories, layoffs, new beginnings, work environment, family support, early career, artistic inspiration, transition to animation, and traditional skills. The conversation delves into the art of caricature and inappropriate drawings, leading to a discussion about animation adventures, challenges of animation style, and a reflection on a prolific career and favorite projects. The conversation covers a range of topics including tech troubles and IT woes, office antics and mishaps, and Disneyland adventures and memories. The speakers share humorous anecdotes and experiences related to these themes, providing an entertaining and nostalgic conversation. The conversation covers nostalgic experiences at Disneyland, father-son bonding, passing on traditions, advice for aspiring artists, work-life balance, fond memories and friendship, and humorous anecdotes. Takeaways Artistic talents and traditional skills are essential in the animation industry.Family support and a positive work environment contribute to professional success. The art of caricature and inappropriate drawingsChallenges of animation styleReflection on a prolific career and favorite projects Tech troubles are a common source of frustration and humor in the workplace.Memories of Disneyland visits and experiences evoke nostalgia and fond recollections. Nostalgia and family traditions are deeply cherished experiences.Adaptability and learning are crucial for success in the creative industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Brotherly Banter00:24 Artistic Talents and Prank Stories02:26 Layoffs and New Beginnings03:40 Work Environment and Family Support07:09 Early Career and Artistic Inspiration23:02 Transition to Animation and Traditional Skills23:33 The Art of Caricature24:20 Animation Adventures25:38 Challenges of Animation Style38:03 Prolific Career and Favorite Projects41:41 Tech Troubles and IT Woes42:11 Office Antics and Mishaps53:30 Disneyland Adventures and Memories58:57 Nostalgia at Disneyland01:00:11 Father-Son Bonding01:01:05 Passing on Traditions01:06:03 Advice for Aspiring Artists01:08:30 Work-Life Balance01:10:41 Fond Memories and Friendship01:12:38 Humorous Anecdotes

  3. Aug 23

    Episode 22: Interview with Bill Yeatts

    The conversation covers Bill Yates' journey in the gaming industry, from his early days at Egghead Software to his roles at Sony Online Entertainment, Cryptic, and Stardock. Bill shares insights on the challenges and evolution of game development, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the game's improvement and player experience. The conversation covers a range of topics including game design, character development, player fulfillment, and industry trends. It delves into the evolution of gaming, the impact of character design on player experience, and the challenges faced by the gaming industry. The conversation delves into the challenges of game development, the use of AI and automation, and the impact of experience and talent in the industry. It also explores the evolution of game development practices and the importance of learning traditional skills before transitioning to digital tools. The conversation covers topics related to AI coding, game development, and industry insights. It also delves into the challenges and experiences of working in the gaming industry. Takeaways Career evolution in the gaming industryImportance of game-focused development Character design impacts player fulfillmentThe gaming industry faces challenges related to talent retention and industry trends Game development involves creative problem-solving and the clever reuse of assets to optimize efficiency.AI and automation can augment the work of artists and developers, but technical expertise is essential for effective implementation.Experience and talent play a crucial role in game development, and the industry needs to balance traditional skills with digital tools for continued success. AI coding tools like GPT-3 and Codex from OpenAI have advanced significantly, making it possible to generate code and game content with minimal human intervention.The gaming industry is growing, but job seekers should be patient and open to opportunities in different locations to find success. Chapters 00:00 Early Career and Entry into the Gaming Industry04:59 Transition to Sony Online Entertainment09:57 Challenges and Successes at Sony Online Entertainment15:04 Move to Cryptic and Role Evolution19:58 Game Development Philosophy and Insights26:05 Evolution of Gaming27:01 Character Design and Player Fulfillment28:28 Challenges in the Gaming Industry30:36 Innovation and Industry Trends32:14 Talent Retention and Industry Impact48:53 The Pendulum Effect in the Gaming Industry49:30 Challenges of Game Development54:21 The Role of AI and Automation57:21 Evolution of Game Development Practices01:13:41 AI Coding Tools Advancements01:14:36 Challenges of Game Development01:15:37 Insights into the Gaming Industry01:21:02 Navigating Career in Game Development

  4. Aug 14

    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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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

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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
    24
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Floyd Bishop