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. 1d ago

    Episode 29: Interview with Steve Merghart

    In this episode of the Dingus and Dingus Podcast, Floyd, Matt, and Steve discuss various topics including AI's impact on the job market, the evolution of animation technology, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated art. The conversation highlights the balance between leveraging AI as a tool for creativity while addressing the concerns of artists facing job displacement. The conversation delves into the ethical implications of AI's use of existing art for training, discussing the legality and morality of such practices. The participants explore the nuances of intellectual property, the evolution of AI technology, and the impact on artists and their work. The conversation explores the implications of digital piracy, the evolution of AI in gaming, and the legal gray areas surrounding intellectual property. The hosts discuss how downloading music and games has changed the industry and the impact of AI-generated content on copyright laws. Takeaways AI's impact on jobsEthics of AI in art AI's use of existing art raises ethical concernsIntellectual property laws need reevaluation Digital piracy impacts salesAI raises new copyright issues Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome02:56 AI and Job Market Dynamics05:57 Animation Technology and AI12:01 Ethics of AI in Art and Creativity18:08 Future of AI in Animation18:48 The Ethics of Book Destruction20:01 AI and Artistic Integrity22:51 Debating Theft in the Digital Age24:35 The Role of AI in Creativity28:01 Intellectual Property and AI Training30:27 The Evolution of AI Art Generation33:18 Parody Law and Artistic Expression36:10 The Future of AI and Art48:25 The Ethics of Digital Piracy50:07 AI and the Future of Gaming52:56 Intellectual Property in the Age of AI58:00 The Legal Gray Areas of AI Content01:00:51 Pop Culture References and Their Impact

  2. Oct 2

    Episode 28: Fun With Generative AI

    In this episode of the Dingus and Dingus Podcast, Floyd and Matt explore the world of image generation using AI, creating humorous and imaginative prompts that blend pop culture references. They discuss the intricacies of generating images, the challenges faced, and the fun of experimenting with different prompts. The conversation explores various nostalgic pop culture references, particularly focusing on toys, movies, and music from the past, while also incorporating humor and light-hearted banter between the hosts. They discuss the evolution of toy designs, the impact of nostalgia on current media, and even delve into creating music using AI technology. In this episode, Floyd and Matt explore the creative process of generating music and sound effects, discussing various styles and themes while humorously engaging with the absurdity of their ideas. They also experiment with remixing songs and creating unique soundscapes, showcasing their playful banter and creativity throughout the conversation. Takeaways AI image generation explorationHumor in pop culture prompts Nostalgia shapes pop cultureAI can create music easily Creative music generationHumorous exploration of themes Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI Image Generation02:55 Creating Unique Image Prompts06:02 Experimenting with Pop Culture Characters09:02 The Art of Prompt Engineering12:02 Parody and Copyright Considerations14:56 Exploring Iconic Characters in New Contexts17:57 The Importance of Prompt Order20:58 Final Thoughts on AI Creativity26:01 Nostalgic Pop Culture References29:00 Toy Design Evolution32:05 AI in Music Creation38:53 The Dingus and Dingus Podcast50:33 Musical Experimentation Begins53:09 Nostalgic References and Humor55:00 Combining Genres: A Unique Approach01:00:07 Advanced Music Creation Techniques01:04:01 Sound Effects and Their Impact01:10:09 Remixing and Live Concert Versions01:14:57 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

  3. Sep 25

    Episode 27: Pawnimals and AI Game Development

    https://store.steampowered.com/app/5223090/Pawnimals/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/4404130/Sams_Dieabalical_Minesweeper/ Floyd shares his journey of creating a game using AI and his experience with AI-powered game development. He demonstrates the game's features and functionalities, including different modes, puzzles, and gauntlet mode. He also discusses the AI's role in game development and the creative process behind the game. The conversation covers the process of creating 3D models for a chess game using a 3D modeling software. It includes discussions on generating and modeling various characters and creatures, as well as the challenges and creative decisions involved in the process. The conversation covers the creation of chess piece models, game development feedback, AI usage, and toy discussions. Takeaways AI's role in game developmentDifferent playstyles for each animal classFeatures and functionalities of the game 3D modeling software allows for the generation and modeling of various characters and creatures for use in games and animations.The process of creating 3D models involves creative decisions, challenges, and the use of different tools and techniques. Chess piece modelingGame development feedbackAI usageToy discussions Chapters 00:00 AI in Game Development03:10 Game Creation Process11:23 Game Features and Functionalities25:31 Puzzles and Gauntlet Mode30:05 3D Modeling for Chess Game31:00 Generating and Modeling Characters35:15 Challenges and Creative Decisions48:02 Exploring Different Creatures and Characters54:52 Chess Piece Modeling57:57 Game Development Feedback59:04 AI Usage01:09:25 Toy Discussions

  4. Sep 18

    Episode 25: Interview with Marc Hawes

    The conversation with Marc Hawes covers his journey from teaching music in New York to becoming a voiceover director for video games. It explores the collaborative process of voiceover direction and provides advice for aspiring voiceover artists. The conversation delves into the importance of mentorship for aspiring artists, the differences between acting in film, television, and motion capture, the nuances of voiceover and performance, the experience of motion capture and acting, and the insights into acting and auditioning experience. The conversation delves into the impact of AI in content creation, highlighting its role in game development and creative work. It also explores the evolution of game development and the defining games that have influenced the speakers' careers. The conversation covers early exposure to video games and coding, the influence of childhood gaming experiences, the challenges of game development, and anecdotes related to cancelled games and voiceover work. It provides insights into the impact of early exposure to technology and the complexities of game development, offering a glimpse into the world of video game creation and the challenges faced by developers. Takeaways Voiceover directionCollaborative voiceover process Mentorship and guidance are crucial for aspiring artists.The differences between film, television, and motion capture acting. AI in creative workImpact of AI on content creation Early exposure to video games and technology can inspire a passion for coding and programming.The process of game development involves various stages and challenges, including tight deadlines and the risk of project cancellations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marc Hawes00:45 Teaching Music in New York03:08 Theater and Art Collaboration04:01 Voiceover Direction for Video Games05:12 Localization and Performance Direction08:33 Voiceover Process and Collaboration14:38 Voiceover Direction Experience15:47 Journey to Voiceover Career21:25 Advice for Aspiring Voiceover Artists23:12 The Importance of Mentorship25:18 Acting in Film, Television, and Motion Capture27:15 Voiceover and Performance32:07 Motion Capture and Acting Experience39:26 Acting and Auditioning Experience42:39 The Impact of AI in Content Creation59:21 The Evolution of Game Development01:01:17 Early Exposure to Video Games and Coding01:01:49 The Odyssey and Casey's Crazy Chase01:02:19 Cracking the Code and Sending it to Nintendo Power01:04:34 Working at PlayStation and Game Development Challenges01:06:08 Cancelled Games and Game Development Anecdotes01:09:19 Voiceover Work and Game Development Challenges01:13:33 Game Development Anomalies and Conclusion

  5. Sep 18

    Episode 26: Interview with Graeme Davis

    https://www.routledge.com/Building-Fantasy-Worlds-A-Hands-On-Guide-to-Creating-Fantasy-Settings-for-Games-And-More/Davis/p/book/9781041331940 https://www.patreon.com/c/MonsteroftheMonthClub The episode features Graeme Davis, a narrative designer and world builder, discussing his career in the gaming industry, the evolution of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay, and the challenges of writing narrative stories for games. The conversation also delves into the complexities of game design and development, aligning story with lore and visual language, and the challenges of project management and outsourcing. The conversation covers topics such as customization and technology, writing for unknown characters, an upcoming project on building fantasy worlds, creating fantasy settings, Warhammer and technology, adapting to project changes, Mythwalker and cryptids, academic integration of a book, the Monster of the Month Club, and challenges with large monsters and technical limitations in production. The conversation covers various themes, including the approach to new writing, interactive storytelling, favorite projects, the impact of lore on imagination, artistic interpretation of backstory, advice for writers, and the importance of maintaining professional relationships in the industry. Takeaways Evolution of Warhammer Fantasy RoleplayChallenges of Game Design and Development Customization and technology play a significant role in game development and character design.Adapting to project changes and technical limitations are common challenges in the gaming industry. Approach to new writing variesInteractive storytelling involves braiding storylines Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:49 Graeme Davis's Background and Early Career02:59 Evolution of Warhammer Fantasy Roleplay07:42 Writing Narrative Stories for Games08:59 Challenges of Game Design and Development11:38 Writing Linear Stories vs. Interactive Game Stories13:12 Aligning Story with Lore and Visual Language15:45 Challenges of Project Management and Outsourcing20:38 Customization and Technology21:26 Writing for Unknown Characters22:03 Upcoming Project: Building Fantasy Worlds23:25 Creating Fantasy Settings24:23 Warhammer and Technology25:15 Adapting to Project Changes26:32 Mythwalker and Cryptids30:20 Academic Integration of Book32:28 Monster of the Month Club36:39 Challenges with Large Monsters39:56 Technical Limitations and Production40:42 Approaching New Writing43:04 Choose Your Own Adventure43:49 Favorite Project46:28 Terrifying Lore50:03 Art and Backstory54:10 Advice for Writers55:24 Staying Connected

  6. Sep 4

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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

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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
    29
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Floyd Bishop