Professor Game Podcast | Rob Alvarez Bucholska chats with gamification gurus, experts and practitioners about education

Click the link below to book a quick 10–15 minute chat with me. No sales, no pressure—just ideas and clarity on how to engage your community and grow revenue.

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web What happens when a perfectly balanced gamification system fails with users? Alireza Ranjbar Shourabi shares this shocking experience and unpacks how cultural nuances, hidden perceptions, and behavioral insights can make or break your engagement strategy. Starting in high school, Alireza used computers as a means to create and play games, first diving into programming and then exploring 2D and 3D art. Eventually, he discovered his true passion in game design, which sparked a deep curiosity about human behavior. With this newfound interest, he went for psychology, sociology, behavioral economics, and persuasive design, continually learning about motivational theories like Self-Determination Theory (SDT), Flow, and the Fogg Behavior Model, as well as every aspect of behavioral economics available. Soon enough, he realized these principles and insights could be applied outside of games as well. This revelation led him to design engagement solutions and gamified campaigns across a variety of fields, including Fintech, E-learning, E-health, Open Innovation, and even offline advertising. With experience in designing for diverse platforms and genres, Alireza has contributed to nearly every area of gamification and game development, from systems design, AI, and UX to marketing and monetization. However, economy and balance—the 'hidden' yet crucial elements of experience design—have always been his primary focus and specialty. For him, design is about striking a balance between a fun, fair player experience and sustainable monetization for a successful business. Above all, he views players as complex individuals with limitless dimensions, constantly seeking to understand and interpret the behavioral data collected from in-game interactions—and beyond. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info LinkedIn: Alireza Ranjbar Shourabi   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guests: Joris Dormans BJ Fogg Recommended books: Game Mechanics: Advanced Game Design by Joris Dormans Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg Favorite game: Journey   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Badges won't cut it. Katie Patrick reveals how focusing on feedback loops, imagination, and measurable actions makes climate programs actually work. Join us to explore how to crush environmental inaction with game-inspired design. Katie Patrick is an Australian-American environmental engineer and climate action designer. She's author of the books How to Save the World and Zerowastify and hosts a podcast where she investigates the academic research in environmental psychology. Katie specializes in the design of getting people to change. She applies gamification and behavioral science in a way that dramatically increases the adoption of environmental programs and has worked with organizations including UNEP, NASA JPL, Stanford University, U.S. State Department, Google, University of California, Magic Leap, and the Institute for the Future. Katie started UrbanCanopy.io, a map-based application that uses satellite imaging of urban heat islands and vegetation cover to encourage urban greening and cooling initiatives. She is also the co-founder of Energy Lollipop, a Chrome extension and outdoor screen project that shows the electric grid's CO2 emissions in real time. She was CEO of the VC-funded green-lifestyle magazine Green Pages Australia and was appointed environmental brand ambassador by the Ogilvy Earth advertising agency for Volkswagen, Lipton Tea and Wolfblass Wines. She has served on the board of Australia's national eco label, Good Environmental Choice Australia, and won the Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year Award for entrepreneurship. After graduating from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology with a B.Eng in Environmental Engineering, she worked as an environmental design engineer for building engineers WSP in Sydney on some of the world's first platinum-LEED-certified commercial buildings. Katie lives in Silicon Valley with her young daughter, Anastasia.

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Forget hacks—behavioral change starts with better behavior selection. In this episode, Jason Hreha and Rob Alvarez explore how psychometrics can help align strategies with personalities for meaningful, lasting impact in business and life. For close to 15 years, Jason has been applying behavioral science research and methodologies to solve hard problems in the technology world. He is the founder and CEO of Persona, The Talent Company. They are the world's leading provider of elite non-technical talent. Jason is also a senior advisor at Edelman, a global communications firm, where he provides behavioral science insights and guidance to clients across various industries and sectors. Jason's passion is to create products and services that empower people to achieve their goals and improve their lives. He has co-founded and led several successful startups, such as Kite.io, a mobile search company that was acquired by Quixey, and Dopamine, the first tech-focused applied behavioral science firm. Jason has also served as the global head of behavioral science at Walmart, where he co-founded and built the Walmart Behavioral Science Team. Additionally, he is the creator of Behavioral Strategy, an interdisciplinary approach to ensuring that behavioral research is incorporated into new products and initiatives from the strategic planning phase. The goal of Behavioral Strategy is to achieve Behavior Market Fit. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info LinkedIn: Jason Hreha Websites: personatalent.com thebehavioralscientist.com Book: Real Change The Big Five Personality Test   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: BJ Fogg Recommended book: Personality by Daniel Nettel Favorite game: Final Fantasy VII Earthbound (NES) Overwatch   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web What if the characters we play in games reveal more about who we truly are?

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web What if playing pretend could unlock real-world skills?

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web What if your favorite video game could teach you more about life and career success than any classroom?

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web What if games could be more than just fun—what if they could transform learning itself? Our guest Dr. Mark Harvey brings a wealth of experience in integrating games into educational settings to this ongoing conversation on gamification. This conversation delves into practical strategies for enhancing classroom engagement and sharing stories that reveal the transformative potential of playfulness in education. Dr. Mark Harvey is an Associate Professor and Director of the MBA program at the University of Saint Mary. He is a co-editor of the volume Simulations in the Political Science Classroom: Games without Frontiers and the forthcoming book, Beating the Clock: The Power of Short Games and Active Learning. In addition to doing research on active learning and deploying games and simulations in his own classrooms, he has also assisted in simulations at the Command and General Staff College (CGSC) at Fort Leavenworth. He is also the author of Celebrity Influence: Politics, Persuasion, and Issue-Based Advocacy. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: stmary.edu/_faculty_import_11-5/mark_harvey LinkedIn: Mark Harvey, Ph.D. TikTok: @drmaharvey Facebook: Mark Harvey X/Twitter: @DrMAHarvey Other: beyondprofit.weebly.com   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Ryan Gibb (Extended Diplomacy simulations) Derek Glasgow (Game on John Locke) John Lahey Jim Gasperini Recommended book: The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum The Marvelous Land of Oz by L. Frank Baum Favorite games: Hidden Agenda Dungeons & Dragons Red Empire   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Unlock the secrets behind truly captivating game design and community-building. We have this conversation with Dhiraj Jujare, the force heading Warpverse X. Armed with a visionary outlook, Dhiraj demystifies the paths less traveled that bridge gamers and creators under one roof. Set your imagination free; here awaits thought-provoking discourse on harmonizing fine art with technology, built upon enduring design principles. If you have ever wondered what's at the heart of winning players' loyalty through compelling narratives and expressive visuals, this is your podcast episode! Dhiraj Jujare is a trailblazing entrepreneur and the CEO of Warpverse X, a cutting-edge gaming platform revolutionizing the digital gaming ecosystem. Known for his innovative mindset and deep passion for technology, Dhiraj has positioned Warpverse X as a central hub for gamers, developers, content creators, and brands alike. His leadership emphasizes fostering vibrant communities, leveraging advanced tools for game development, and driving forward-thinking solutions in esports and digital marketplaces. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: warpverse-x.com LinkedIn: Warpverse X Discord: discord.gg/g7D6DAhpKG   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: GameTout John Carmack (of Doom) Nikhil Malankar Recommended book: Takaiko Inue's Musashi Favorite game: Pokemon originals   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Discover the intersection of AI and gamification in education to enhance creativity and efficiency. We're joined by Dr. Victoria "Tori" Mondelli, a pioneer in the field of educational game design and the founding director of the University of Missouri's Teaching for Learning Center. This episode dives deep into the world of gamification, exploring how games can be used as powerful educational tools to enhance engagement and learning outcomes. Dr. Mondelli serves as the Founding Director of the University of Missouri's Teaching for Learning Center. She is an affiliated faculty member in Adroit Studios Gaming Lab in the College of Education & Human Development and the History Department in the College of Arts and Science. She holds a Ph.D. in early modern European history. Her training as a historian led her to prize writing across the curriculum and writing in the disciplines' pedagogies. From there, she became an expert in coaching faculty and other educators to incorporate the full gamut of evidence-based and creative practices to maximize student engagement and deepen learning. Her passion for game-based learning was ignited while at the City University of New York and led her to facilitate workshops nationally, often with her co-author, Dr. Joe Bisz. Their collaborative, highly interactive pedagogy was in need of a scholarly design method to leverage research-based principles known to improve learning. After years of research and praxis, Mondelli and Bisz released their book in 2023, The Educator's Guide to Designing Games and Creative Active-Learning Exercises: The Allure of Play. When not playing games, Dr. Mondelli can be found leading strategic teaching initiatives to enhance support for faculty members and graduate instructors. Lately, she has been in the thick or pedagogical and ethical discussions and policy-making for Gen AI at her institution. In short, tech or no tech, she aims to increase the prevalence of learning environments that intentionally build a sense of belonging for ALL learners, while structuring active learning and transparent assessment. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Websites: victoriamondelli.com allureofplay.com LinkedIn: Victoria Tori Mondelli   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Dr Robert Duncan Recommended book: Reality is Broken by Jane McGonigal Favorite game: Snake Oil   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web "I'm better than almost anyone at making complex subjects easy to understand for anybody." – Jerry Kolber. On this episode Jerry shares his journey in revolutionizing edutainment with popular shows like "Brain Games" and his podcast Who Smarted. Dive into the fascinating world of gamifying education, learn about the intricacies behind creating engaging content, and gather insights on building a successful podcast. Jerry Kolber is a creator and producer of children's educational content. Revolutionizing Edutainment with National Geographic's Number 1 Series "Brain Games", Netflix's "Brainchild" and now his podcast Who Smarted. Jerry uses games and storytelling to make kids and parents laugh as they discover a love for learning. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: atomicentertainment.com LinkedIn: Jerry Kolber Instagram: @whosmarted Brain Games Brainchild Who Smarted   Links to episode mentions: Recommended books: Influence by Robert B. Cialdini Ph.D Thinking Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman Favorite game: Settlers of Catan   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web "Life is a game, and we get to wake up and play it every day." – Bobby Donohue on the Professor Game podcast. Bobby Donohue, the founder of Planet Bonehead, an innovative educational platform designed to empower teachers and inspire students to address climate change through gamification and storytelling. With over 15 years of experience, Bobby shares his journey of using game-inspired solutions to facilitate interactive learning. Throughout the conversation, Bobby highlights both the challenges and successes of his initiatives, while also sharing valuable insights into the world of educational gamification. Bobby Donohue is the founder of Planet Bonehead, an educational platform that empowers teachers and inspires students to tackle climate change with optimism and creativity. With over 15 years of experience in educational content development, Bobby specializes in blending storytelling, gamification, and interactive learning to make complex environmental topics accessible and engaging. His work focuses on creating innovative tools and resources that encourage action and critical thinking, including the use of gamified strategies to teach kids about recycling, conservation, and sustainable living. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: planetbonehead.com LinkedIn: Bobby Donohue TikTok: @planetbonehead Facebook: Bobby Donohue Bluesky: @planetbonehead.com YouTube: youtube.com/@PlanetBonehead   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guests: Neil deGrasse Tyson Landon (Bobby's friend) Recommended book: Catch 22 by Joseph Heller Favorite game: Mario Bros   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web "Questify Your Life" system that also works alongside disabilities. We sit with Sierra Grandy to discuss how she gamifies life using her unique "Questify Your Life" system. They explore Sierra's approach to living life as a series of quests and how gamification can drive engagement and personal growth. Sierra Grandy is a recent lawyer, disability advocate, and business owner. She plays her life as if it were a quest and teaches others to do the same by using her "Questify Your Life" system. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Websites: SierraGrandy.com QuestifyYourLife.com (website in progress-soon to launch) LinkedIn: Sierra Grandy Instagram: @sierramgrandy TikTok: @questifyyourlifesierra Substack: questifyyourlife.substack.com   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Brennan Lee Mulligan Recommended book: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown Mindset by Carol Dweck Favorite game: Tabletop: Dungeons & Dragons Party Game: Business Walrus Video Game: Dark Cloud 2   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Gamification Global Gathering 2025 conference, underscoring its focus on sustainability and the strategic partnerships formed to ensure its success, including a significant collaboration with the Octalysis Group. We welcome back Antonis, a returning guest and gamification expert. We episode dive into impactful projects, including "Climate for All," a successful initiative that was recently recognized by the European Commission. Antonis Triantafyllakis is a past guest (we also had an in-person chat in Madrid). This time, we are here to discuss the Global Gamification Gathering 2025! Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Links to episode mentions: Discounted Tickets for the Conference: professorgame.com/ggg25 Information on Rob's Workshop in Cracow: professorgame.com/polandworkshop   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web "Look at what people say about other similar games and try to implement that into your game, then give it your own twist." - Bobby Voicy. Dive into the fascinating world of mixed reality technology and gaming, exploring how Mixrift is shaping immersive experiences. Learn about Bobby's journey from his previous successful gaming venture, Mavenhut, and discover insights on the evolving game development landscape. Serial entrepreneur Bobby Voicu is the CEO and Founder at MixRift, a mixed reality technology company building accessible solutions for immersive experiences. Headquartered in Dublin with teams across Portugal and Romania, MixRift represents a new wave of pan-European tech companies. This follows Bobby's previous successful exit when he sold his gaming company, Mavenhut. Having achieved a $1.6M pre-seed funding in a rapid 7-week pre-seed funding round for MixRight, Bobby's track record in scaling and exiting tech companies, combined with his insights on the evolving technology landscape, make for an engaging story. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info LinkedIn: MixRift Instagram: @mixriftgames X/Twitter: @bobbyvoicu   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: John Carmack Recommended books: Masters of Doom by David Kushner Play Nice by Jason Schreier Fun Inc. by Tom Chatfield Favorite game: Call Of Duty Warzone   Key Discussion Points: The challenges and insights of building and scaling a mixed reality game company. Lessons learned from both successes and setbacks in game development, particularly from their experience with Meta Quest and mobile gaming. Importance of balancing what game developers want to create versus what players want. Insights into prototyping, user testing, and the unique challenges faced by indie game developers. The future of mixed reality in gaming and why it's a must-experience technology.

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web This time of the year we reflect on the importance of taking time off during the holidays, sharing personal experiences with family traditions like the Elf on the Shelf. We dive deeper into how this new tradition fits into the broader Santa universe and the strategies behind creating engaging experiences that are limited in time. We also have a question for you! It relates to the planning strategies for the new year, whether or not encouraging reflection on personal and professional goals. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Links to episode mentions: Elf on the Shelf   Some Episode Takeaways The Elf on the Shelf as a modern holiday tradition. Expanding existing narratives can create new engagement opportunities. Limited time experiences can heighten excitement and engagement. You don't always need to create something new; existing themes can be effective. Integrating seasonal themes into projects can attract interest. Creating a sense of novelty can enhance user experience.   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, Join Our (FREE) Professor Game Community Now & Learn how to create true loyalty: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Can planning marketing be a make-or-break decision? This episode of the Professor Game podcast also offers a comprehensive look into the iterative development process and the importance of user-centric design. We explore how failures can be powerful learning tools and how engaging with users early can shape the app's future direction. Our guest discusses his success with a mobile game that addresses environmental issues and highlights the impact of rigorous user research. Tune in for valuable insights on crafting meaningful and engaging user experiences through gamification. Dave is a software developer specializing in mobile apps. He's currently building Roads Audio, an app designed to enable asynchronous, podcast-like conversations with the goal of helping people maintain deeper relationships. Dave also runs a YouTube channel, 1ManStartup, where he shares insights and tutorials on app development. Earlier this year, he won a competition sponsored by Global Citizen and Google with his mobile game Last Bottle, which sheds light on the often-overlooked truths of recycling. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: 1manstartup.com/about LinkedIn: Dave Faliskie Instagram: @1manstartup TikTok: @1manstartup X/Twitter: @davefaliskie YouTube: 1ManStartup   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Someone from Global Citizen Recommended book: Tomorrow, and tomorrow and tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin Irresistible by Adam Alter Favorite game: Mario series!   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, Join Our (FREE) Professor Game Community Now & Learn how to create true loyalty: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web How do you handle early failure to leverage technology? With expert insights from gamification specialist Chris Doelle, we discuss real-life case studies, the psychology behind motivation, and practical steps for implementing effective gamified strategies. From handling early failures to leveraging technology for continuous improvement, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to making gamification work for your business. From his days of designing actual board games and computer games to his marketing company that assists people in telling their stories through social, public speaking, authorship and podcasting, Chris Doelle is a lover of gamification. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Websites: freshmediaworks.com chrisdoelle.com LinkedIn: Chris Doelle Instagram: @chrisdoelle TikTok: @chrisdoelle Facebook: Chris Doelle X/Twitter: @ChrisDoelle Skool Community: skool.com/business-success-academy   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Elon Musk Recommended book: Weapons of Mass Instruction by John Taylor Gatto Millionaire Fastlane by MJ DeMarco Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek Favorite game: NCAA 14   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, Join Our (FREE) Professor Game Community Now & Learn how to create true loyalty: professorgame.com/freecommunity-web Unpack gamification's role in driving user engagement and loyalty through a lite, live coaching case. Learn about understanding your audience, defining clear objectives, choosing the right game mechanics, and creating a feedback loop that keeps users motivated. This episode offers valuable insights for businesses looking to stand out with innovative and engaging strategies. Connor Hiebel is the founder of Amelia Island Microgreens, creator of Jurassic Greens and author of the Amazon best-seller "Let's Get Growing: A Teen's Guide to Business Success." Connor is on a mission to transform reptile care with Jurassic Greens, the world's first microgreens kit designed exclusively for our scaly friends. With over a decade in the microgreens industry, he's taken his passion for sustainable, nutrient-packed greens and paired it with gamification to make feeding reptiles healthier and a whole lot more fun! As an entrepreneur at heart, Connor's not only changing how we think about pet care, he's also empowering the next generation of business-minded teens with his book, which inspires young people to turn their big ideas into big successes. From reptiles to microgreens to mentoring future entrepreneurs, Connor's journey is all about growth—one green sprout at a time! Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: ameliaislandmicrogreens.com LinkedIn: Connor Hiebel Instagram: @ameliaislandmicrogreens TikTok: @ameliaislandmicrogreens Facebook: Amelia Island Microgreens X/Twitter: @ConnorH68387 Text "Reptiles" to 26786 in the US for info on reptiles   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Jane McGonigal Recommended book: Atomic Habits by James Clear Favorite games: Minecraft Ticket To Ride   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freegamificationcourse-web From gamified learning platforms to virtual corporate training, discover how these strategies can elevate user engagement and drive business success across diverse sectors. Join us to chat with Andres Leon about the future of digital transformation through gamification and immersive technologies. We uncover the practical applications of gamification in enhancing business performance and user retention. Andres shares his experiences in leading innovative projects that blend creativity and technology, offering insights into overcoming challenges and maximizing impact. Andrés León is a recognized leader in immersive technologies and digital transformation. He currently serves as the Studio Manager for Streamline Studios in Colombia. With over two years in this role, he has successfully expanded the company's influence in Latin America by spearheading innovative projects in the metaverse and industrial metaverse sectors. His efforts focus on delivering cutting-edge immersive experiences tailored to the dynamic needs of businesses across multiple industries. Andrés also serves as a lecturer in Innovation and Digital Transformation, complementing his professional journey by guiding students and organizations to embrace new technologies. He is a frequent speaker at industry events, such as Campus Party Colombia, and was named a Top 100 Thought Leader in Digital Transformation. A passion marks his career for exploring the intersection of creativity and technology to drive impactful change. Before joining Streamline Studios, Andrés held key roles at Claro Colombia, where he led innovation initiatives and developed B2B products in areas such as IoT and Big Data. He has a strong background in innovation management, team leadership, and strategic market expansion. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: streamline-studios.com LinkedIn: Andres Leon Instagram: @streamlinestudioscolombia   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Jane McGonigal Recommended book: More of a resource that is Kadine James Favorite game: Captain Tsubasa / GTA Saga   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: professorgame.com/freegamificationcourse-web Can embracing failures and iterative improvement lead to lasting success and innovation in game creation? This conversation sheds light on how strategic experience design can achieve educational and business objectives while maintaining an element of fun and excitement. Michael also recounts his early struggles with teamwork and humility, as well as the tension between creative fulfillment and financial stability. From his tranquil morning rituals to his meticulous planning and innovative evening sessions, Michael shares invaluable insights into maintaining productivity and creativity. Michael Yang is a game designer with over a decade of industry experience, both in video games and board games. He's played an instrumental role in the release of over 20 games; everything from educational video games to mobile freemium games, to most recently making a lateral shift into Card Games as the designer and developer of Greater Than Game's hot new release, Compile. Michael dreams of making engaging content accessible to everyone and believes in the power of games to revolutionize lives and learning. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info X/Twitter: @JustGravyLLC Boardgamegeek: boardgamegeek.com/user/JustGravy   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Richard Garfield of Magic: The Gathering Recommended book: Anything Sci-Fi  The Art of Game Design: A Book Of Lenses by Jesse Schell Favorite game: World of Warcraft Keep the Heroes Out   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

With this episode, we are officially launching Professor Game's Free Community! I'd tell you all about it here, but it's better if you watch the video. I'll see you on the inside of our free community where you can find our renewed free gamification course, regular group calls, an awesome community and many more things to come. It is the best way to start building up your skills and network to create and upgrade your products, services, business or learning experiences through engagement, motivation and loyalty. Let's do this together! Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Links Professor Game Community on Skool   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web The Objectives and Key Results framework can transform ambitious visions into measurable outcomes and inspire high performance. Learn about the critical shift from activity-based goals to outcome-based objectives and how gamification can enhance engagement and loyalty. Our guest: Sara Lobkovich, a seasoned strategy coach, shares her insights and real-world examples of leveraging these powerful tools to drive remarkable organizational progress. Join us on this insightful episode where we explore the intersection of OKRs and gamification. Sara Lobkovich is a strategy coach and huge goal nerd. In her work with status-quo challenging leaders and other workplace rebels, she helps people and companies set clear goals, stay focused, and build cultures where everyone can learn, grow, and achieve meaningful results. She works with organizations implementing Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), a collaborative goal methodology; and, with individuals seeking greater career fulfillment -- especially people who are introverted, neurodivergent, and/or don't come from a "traditional" business background. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: saralobkovich.com LinkedIn: Sara Lobkovich Instagram: @redcurrant_co Upcoming book: youareastrategist.com   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Peter Drucker! Recommended book: How To Measure Anything by Douglas Hubbard Other References: Measure What Matters by John Doerr The OKRs Field Book by Ben Lamorte Objectives and Key Results by Paul Niven & Ben Lamorte Strategic Operator's Power Half Hour by Sara Lobkovich   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web Have you wondered about the significance of respecting and refining every idea within a creative team? In this episode of the Professor Game Podcast, we explore successful gamification strategies and insights with Mike Rufail, a notable figure in the gaming and gamification industry. Understand the allure and functionality of gamification, which merges game design with non-gaming environments to boost interaction and dedication. Rufail shares hard-earned lessons from his extensive career, including the significance of respecting and refining every idea within a creative team. Drawing on practical examples and professional experiences, this episode offers listeners an in-depth understanding of implementing gamification to achieve business goals. Mike Rufail is the Chief Executive Officer of Tradeoff. In more than two decades as a leader in gaming, Rufail helped popularize global competitive esports and has previously served as a consultant on video game design, competition, and esports strategy for several major companies. Before joining Tradeoff, he served as chief gaming officer and co-owner of OpTic Gaming and chief executive officer of Envy Gaming, which he founded in 2007. Rufail is based in Dallas, Texas, and is an alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: tradeoff.com LinkedIn: Tradeoff Financial Corp    Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Someone from Valve Software (creators of Steam) Recommended book: Not reading books but into what communities are saying! Favorite game: Diablo Series!   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web Games like Dungeons and Dragons can unexpectedly become a training ground for executive functioning skills, turning what many consider a challenge into a superpower for Reese. In this episode we delve into the unique relationship of ADHD and both board games and tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). The discussion features insights from Reese Zahner, exploring her journey to discover these cognitive benefits, we highlight how structured gameplay can offer more than just entertainment—it can be a therapeutic tool for managing ADHD. Reese is an avid board gamer and game master who is diagnosed with ADHD. While playing her first campaign of Dungeons and Dragons two years ago, she realized playing the game was passively working on her executive functioning skills and using her ADHD superpowers. She's excited about exploring the connection between ADHD and Tabletop roleplaying games. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: cleochilds.com   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Marcus Aurelius (Ancient Rome) Maybe AI? Recommended book: The Missing Thread by Daisy Dunn Favorite game: Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective by Dave Neale Games by Rita Orlov!   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web We discuss how to use gamification to help students overcome math anxiety. This is how Dr. Aditya Nagrath, founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy, makes education engaging and effective through gamification. By incorporating engaging and playful elements, Elephant Learning enables students to expedite their math learning significantly. This episode highlights how gamified educational platforms can make challenging subjects more approachable, motivating, and less intimidating for students. Dr. Nagrath helps students overcome mathematics anxiety. Aditya is the creator and founder of Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy which helps students learn years of mathematics over the course of a few months using their system just 10 minutes per day, 3 days per week. With a PhD in Mathematics & Computer Sciences, Dr. Nagrath has spent over 30 years in the industry as a software engineer, author, leader, speaker, and serial entrepreneur working on everything from atomic clocks to iOS and Android apps to Amazon's Kindle Fire. As the Founder of Elephant Head Software, which won the prestigious JD Edwards Innovation Award in 2015, he has also done software projects for Pearson, Verizon, Telefonica, JD Edwards (Oracle), and other billion-dollar companies. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: elephantlearning.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adityanagrath Instagram @dradityanagrath Books: Treating Mathematics Anxiety Rethinking Math Learning   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Steve Jobs Recommended books: Influencer by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, David Maxfield and others Hooked by Nir Eyal Favorite game: Skyrim Series (The Elder Scrolls)   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Instagram TikTok YouTube Twitter Facebook Ask a question

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web We discuss the significance of fostering high-performing teams and nurturing a positive studio culture. With over three decades of experience, Mark Sample shares his insights on what it takes to lead successful game development projects. Gain valuable perspectives from Mark's extensive experience in launching award-winning games across multiple platforms. Listen as he shares his approach to building strong, innovative teams and his philosophy on strategic leadership that drives creativity and excellence in game development. Mark Sample is a highly accomplished Game Development Executive with over 30 years of experience in the gaming industry. Throughout his career, he has launched multiple award-winning AAA and casual games, establishing himself as a leader in creative strategy, production, and studio management. With expertise spanning across console and mobile platforms, Mark has been instrumental in delivering over 30 credited titles, guiding teams to push the boundaries of what's possible in gaming. As a visionary in the industry, Mark has cultivated high-performing teams by fostering a positive, innovative studio culture. His strong communication skills, combined with his strategic leadership, have enabled him to build lasting relationships with stakeholders and strategic partners. Mark's passion for developing great games and mentoring future leaders makes him a driving force in the evolving gaming landscape. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: sumo-digital.com LinkedIn: Mark Sample X/Twitter: @marksample   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Will Wright Recommended book: Old Role-Playing Books! Call of Cthulu, etc. You don't have to read game development books only! Read different things Favorite game: Souls games Marvel Snap Punch-Out   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question  

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web A unique perspective on how combining diverse fields can lead to innovative and socially impactful projects, shedding light on the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing interactive media. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in enhancing user engagement through creative and collaborative approaches, whether in educational settings or business applications. Drew Davidson is a professor, producer and player of interactive media. His background spans the academic, industry and professional worlds and he is interested in stories and transformational experiences across texts, comics, games and other media. He explores the art, design, and science of making media that matters, working to expand our notions of what media are capable of doing, and what we are capable of doing with media. He is an expert in leading creative collaborations with interdisciplinary groups, orchestrating change, and building initiatives focused on making a positive social impact. He is a Teaching Professor at the Entertainment Technology Center at Carnegie Mellon University and is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Play Story Press, an open community publishing consortium, and the Well Played series and journal. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Websites: waxebb.com playstorypress.org LinkedIn Drew Davidson   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guests: Brenda Bakker Harger Jesse Schell Recommended book: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Favorite game: Sokoban   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question  

If you're struggling to keep people engaged and loyal in your product or business, check out my FREE gamification course to learn how to do just that: bit.ly/freegamificationcourse-web Learn how storytelling, achievement recognition and immediate feedback can turn passive content consumption into an active, engaging learning experience. It's a fascinating conversation about the journey of integrating gamification into online education. Our guest, a seasoned entrepreneur, shares insights into how his latest venture, Experiencify, has revolutionized the way students learn by employing a gamification-first approach. If you're struggling with student engagement in your courses, this episode is a must-listen. Murray's a serial entrepreneur with a single, simple focus in life. He loves building software platforms that make life easier for course creators, business owners, educators, trainers & coaches -- basically, anyone who sells their expertise or needs their learners to engage and learn. Right now he's obsessed with fixing online education using gamification. Online education is an industry that's seeing HUGE growth right now, and at the same time, it's the only industry with a 97% student failure rate. His latest project is called Xperiencify – the world's only gamification-FIRST online course platform, which is solving the problem using gamification, psychology, and ideas borrowed from Silicon Valley. His team of gamification advisors has worked with companies you may have heard of like Google, Tesla, Verizon, Porsche, LEGO and many more household names. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: xperiencify.com LinkedIn: Murray Gray Facebook: Murray Gray X/Twitter: @iammurraygray   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Marisa Murgatroyd Recommended book: Actionable Gamification by Yu-kai Chou Favorite game: Quake in the early days with LAN parties!   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

Can games like "Red Dead Redemption 2" help overcome stereotypes around subjects like history, making them more immersive and relatable? In this episode, we delve deep into the transformative role of video games in education. Our guest, an expert in integrating existing video games elements into learning environments, shares how gamification can make education more engaging and effective.  Tore Olsson is an associate professor of history at the University of Tennessee, where he teaches and researches American history after the Civil War. He is the author of the new book Red Dead's History: A Video Game, an Obsession, and America's Violent Past (Macmillan / St. Martin's Press, August 2024), which uses the fictional content of the Red Dead Redemption games to explore real dilemmas of violence in American history. He's a long-time gamer and believer that games can help teach us big things. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: history.utk.edu/person/olsson-tore/ Instagram: @reddeadhistory TikTok: @reddeadshistory Facebook: Tore Olsson X/Twitter: @ToreCarlOlsson Book: Red Dead's History   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Jason Schreier Recommended book: How To Hide an Empire by Daniel Immerwahr Favorite game: The Witcher III   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

From the eccentric problem-solving approach of the TV series "House, M.D.," to the essential role of team dynamics, we elucidate how these principles translate into the mechanics of creating engaging and effective gamified solutions. Join us as we delve into the multifaceted world of gamification and discover how an unexpected source of inspiration offers profound insights into the art and science of gamifying experiences.  Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Links to episode mentions: House M.D.   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

Behavioral Science Meets Learning Design. We feature a deep dive into the role of behavioral science in creating effective learning interventions. Our conversation sheds light on how principles from behavioral science can be employed to bridge the gap between knowledge and action. By focusing on learner behavior and the contexts in which they operate, we discuss how to craft learning experiences that lead to meaningful and lasting change. Our guest, a seasoned learning strategy consultant, shares practical examples and methodologies to ensure that learning is not just informative but also transformative. This is a must-listen for educators and instructional designers seeking to enhance their impact. Julie Dirksen is the author of the books Design For How People Learn and Talk to the Elephant: Design Learning for Behavior Change. She is a learning strategy consultant with a focus on incorporating behavioral science into learning interventions. Her MS degree is in Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University. She's been an adjunct faculty member at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and is a Learning Guild Guildmaster. She is happiest when she gets to learn something new, and you can find her at usablelearning.com. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.   Guest Links and Info Website: usablelearning.com Julie on LinkedIn Julie's Group on Facebook   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Dan Meyer Recommended book: Badass: Making Users Awesome by Kathy Sierra Favorite game: Gorogoa Plants vs. Zombies Behavioral Design Wheel   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

Is gamification about balancing intrinsic and extrinsic motivations? Roman is here to tell us that it is not. Our conversation delves into the principles of intrinsic motivation, emphasizing autonomy, mastery, and purpose, and contrasts them with the short-lived benefits of extrinsic rewards. Discover how thoughtful gamification design can lead to sustainable employee engagement and long-term behavior change.  Roman Rackwitz is an internationally renowned pioneer in the field of gamification and intrinsic experience design. Recognized as one of the top 10 experts worldwide, Rackwitz develops, communicates and advises government institutions and commercial enterprises worldwide with the 'Non-skinnerian Gamification' school of thought. He is also regularly invited as an expert in media such as TV, radio and print. In addition to the consulting company Engaginglab and the software Tabi, Rackwitz also founded gamification.design, a contact point for all professionals interested in the topic to receive further training and certification. In 2022, he founded CBO Media, a publisher that focuses purely on topics related to behavioral economics in order to bring this knowledge to companies in a practical way.   Links to episode mentions: Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke Roman's LinkedIn button Roman's LinkedIn   Lets's do stuff together! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question

Discover how playfulness, not just work, holds the key to creativity, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. In this engaging conversation, Rob Alvarez, founder of Professor Game, interviews Chris Marshall, a behavioral scientist and futurist who explores the power of playfulness as a pathway to human flourishing. Chris shares how his own experience with burnout led him to the transformative potential of playfulness, breaking down the essential pillars of curiosity, creativity, and connectedness. He offers practical insights into how individuals and organizations can cultivate a playful mindset, not by adding new skills, but by reconnecting with their natural, childlike curiosity and creativity. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal life or revitalize your workplace culture, Chris's advice provides a fresh perspective on how embracing uncertainty and letting go of rigid expectations can unlock a world of possibilities.   Chris Marshall is a Behavioural Scientist and Futurist whose specialist niche lies in helping individuals, teams and organizations to thrive in times of challenge, setback and disruption. He is also the founder of The Playfulness Institute, a not-for-profit organization that promotes research and strategies to build creative, engaged, dynamic organizations through playfulness as culture. Beyond this, Chris holds a vast amount of experience from a number of industries and what he labels 'obsessions'. He is a TEDx speaker on playfulness and burnout, the author of the book Decoding Change, and is currently writing his next book: The Playful Advantage.   Guest Links and Info Websites: playfulnessinstitute.org chrismarshall.uk Chris on LinkedIn   Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Hanna Kinsella Recommended book: Elastic   Do Stuff with Professor Game Subscribe to Professor Game E-mail Newsletter LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram Ask a question

Discover how to skyrocket engagement by 7,000% with innovative gamification techniques! In this conversation, Bernardo Letayf and Rob Alvarez dive into the complexities and rewards of creating meaningful, long-term engagement through gamification. They discuss the launch of Tabi, a cutting-edge platform that redefines player progression by focusing on mastery rather than rewards, and highlight how effective gamification, while challenging, yields extraordinary results.   Bernardo develops game-like solutions through their software on a mission to transform education. With over 12 years of gamification experience and over 25 years in web and UX design/development, international speaking and consulting, Bernardo has created a platform that makes learning engaging and exciting for students of all ages and backgrounds.   Guest Links and Info Website for Tabi: Tabi.one Bernardo on LinkedIn Roman on LinkedIn   Do stuff with Professor Game! Get started in Gamification for FREE! LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube Ask a question  

Skyrocketing businesses with a game? In this exciting episode of the Professor Game podcast, we dive deep into the mind of elite business consultant and gamification enthusiast Sean Delaney, who shares how he helps businesses go "further, faster, funner" with innovative strategies. Sean reveals his journey from Fortune 500 consulting to empowering entrepreneurs, detailing his unique process for creating impactful, game-based business solutions. Whether discussing a challenging early experience or a major success with a Fortune 50 company, Sean offers invaluable insights into making business both enjoyable and transformative. Sean Delaney is an elite business consultant, speaker, podcaster, and coach. He has worked with clients from the Fortune 500® to solopreneurs, solving some of the biggest to some of the most pervasive problems every business faces. Whether it is as a Fractional COO, the co-host of his Podcast ·The Ether,· or as the ·Disruptor in Chief· in his ·anti-mastermind mastermind,· his focus with Whadif is to disrupt current business thinking to transform businesses of any size into joyful and thriving impact generators. Before turning his attention to helping entrepreneurs, Sean·s client list included MetLife, Nike, Uber, Johnson & Johnson, AIG, and Jet Blue (among others). He has taken that experience and now helps entrepreneurs massively accelerate their business·s growth with his unique, holistic business model system, the HARMONIOUS Business Architecture TM. With his unique blend of knowledge, experience, and humor, he has helped businesses of every size strengthen their operations, innovate for the future, and scale ·Further, Faster, Funner.· Guest Links and Info Website https://whadif.com Sean on LinkedIn Sean on Facebook Whadif's YouTube Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Wei Houng Recommended book: The Alter Ego Effect by Todd Herman Favorite game: Red Dead Redemption 2 (and the kind) Battleship   There are many ways to get in touch with Professor Game: Subscribe to Professor Game E-mail Newsletter LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Instagram Ask a question  

Yaakov Sash is the CEO of Novospir, an innovative gaming ecosystem that introduces a groundbreaking new genre of massively multiplayer social puzzle games. With extensive experience in digital asset technology from his tenure at Credit Suisse, where he led Digital Assets Markets, Yaakov is now focused on transforming the gaming industry. Novospir's debut game, Stack the Pixels, exemplifies his vision of integrating secure, fair, and engaging gameplay with unique digital and non-digital game currency.

Dr. Mfon Akpan is an assistant professor of accounting at Methodist University. He has a passion for emerging technologies and is an expert in virtual reality technology. He researches new technologies and educational methods to offer students a current, effective, and relative teaching experience. This is not his first rodeo on the Professor Game Podcast!   Find his first interview on Episode 243.

Raghu is a serial entrepreneur and has been obsessed with the financial markets since the age of 16. After graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, he started his first company in 2006 - RK Trading Partnership - a proprietary trading company which actively traded the forex markets. He was able to turn $10k into more than $2M over a span of two years using low-latency, news trading strategies. Using the profits, he moved to India in 2008 · along with two other co-founders · and setup RKSV Securities, a retail stock brokerage, which eventually rebranded into Upstox. RKSV was also a proprietary trading firm and actively traded India·s stock markets, and Raghu led the prop desk division. After Upstox raised its Series A, the prop desk was shut down, and Raghu transitioned into a traditional co-founder role. In 2019, he stepped down from the Board of Upstox and left all operational duties, but remains Upstox·s largest individual shareholder. He took a long sabbatical, moved back to the US, and started thinking about his next venture. He wanted to create a new, bolder company, which could massively disrupt the financial markets at a larger scale than a typical stock brokerage. In 2020, he incorporated TradingLeagues, a disruptive, gamified offering for the financial markets. The goal behind TradingLeagues is to massively increase awareness and engagement with the financial markets at a global level by leveraging gamification. TradingLeagues launched globally in Dec 2023 and amassed more than 100k users. In his free time, he loves playing chess, being involved with his two young boys, and finding ways to keep his mind sharp.

Elmir is an eLearning Specialist at Catolica Lisbon Business School and a PhD Student at the University of Porto with five years of experience in higher education and corporate training and a proven track record of working with over 15 companies and universities. He creates gamified and action-oriented learning products that promote easy interaction and boost user engagement.

Matthew ·Dr. Matt· Zakreski, PsyD is a high-energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken hundreds of times all over the world about supporting neurodivergent kids. Dr. Zakreski is a member of Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC), and the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE). Dr. Zakreski graduated from Widener University·s Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology (IGCP) in 2016. He is the co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective.

Special summer episode! If you haven't, here is your reminder to take a step back, rest and recover to get ready to complete the year in full form.