Professor Game Podcast
#1 Gamification Podcast | Insights and Real-World Strategies to Boost Engagement, Loyalty & Retention. Professor Game helps innovators, product leaders, and educators use gamification and game thinking to create engagement that lasts. đïž Hosted by Rob Alvarez â TEDx Speaker, consultant, and host of the #1 Gamification Podcast â each week brings you practical insights, case studies, and frameworks from 400+ global experts and proven real-world examples. Expect interviews with top practitioners in gamification, game design, and behavioral strategy, plus solo episodes where Rob breaks down practical frameworks you can apply in your team, classroom, or product. Join the movement to make engagement, motivation, and loyalty truly meaningful â with stories and strategies that transform the way people learn, work, and play. đĄ Listen. Learn. Apply Play to Your Strategy.
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From Tank to Healer: Gamifying Academic Teams | Episode 432
02/16/2026
From Tank to Healer: Gamifying Academic Teams | Episode 432
Recently funded and aiming for sustainable retention? Intro chat (no sales pitch): What if your research team worked like a raid party? Raul Mora shares how bringing gamer language and MMORPG structures into academia boosted clarity, motivation, and long-term commitment. This conversation explores community design, role-based engagement, and why listening to gamers is the most underrated retention strategy in education. RaĂșl is a professor at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana in MedellĂn, Colombia, now also teaching remotely from Trondheim, Norway. He's been in education for over 30 years, including time as a school and English teacher and as a college professor. His research explores second language literacy practices in the city, digital spaces, and schools. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Webs: Guest: Research Lab: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Bluesky: Book: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: James P. Gee Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Gamification Isnât About Games. Itâs About Motivation | Episode 431
02/09/2026
Gamification Isnât About Games. Itâs About Motivation | Episode 431
Iâve interviewed hundreds of experts and now lead Engagement Strategy (EU) at The Octalysis Group. If you want help applying this, start here: Why do people ignore things they know are good for them and obsess over games instead? In this episode, we introduce the Octalysis Framework, unpacking the eight core drives of human motivation and explain how human-focused design leads to stronger engagement, higher retention, and better-designed products, platforms, and learning experiences. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: by by Lets's do stuff together!
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Gamification Where You Least Expect It with David Dand | Episode 430
02/02/2026
Gamification Where You Least Expect It with David Dand | Episode 430
If youâre considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, Iâm happy to compare options with you: The biggest impact of gamification often happens in the least obvious places. In this episode, Rob Alvarez talks with David Dand about using game-inspired strategies in recruitment, leadership, and employee experience to attract better-fit talent, reduce churn, and build stronger, more human organizations, even in highly traditional sectors. David is the Founder and Managing Director of Coreus, a boutique hiring services provider based in Brighton. Coreus specialises in helping professional SMEs tackle critical talent challenges and is experienced in the complexities of recruiting in skilled, competitive, and often highly regulated markets. David is a CIPD-qualified HR and recruitment expert with a career spanning global firms such as EY, AXA, and Roche, with a focus on cultural fit, leadership assessment, and career coaching. He lives in the South Downs near Brighton, UK, with his wife and their three mischievous children. His interests include music, travel, and sport. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Personal: Company: Instagram: Links to episode mentions: Recommended book: by Jerome Ternynck Favorite game: and Lets's do stuff together!
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Tom Vorselen On Why Effort Isnât the Problem (Your Learning Systems Are) | Episode 429
01/26/2026
Tom Vorselen On Why Effort Isnât the Problem (Your Learning Systems Are) | Episode 429
Youâll get the same 14-day free trial either wayâbut if you use my link, youâll also be supporting Professor Game: đ What if learning felt less like burnout and more like leveling up? We welcome Tom Vorselen, founder of The Study Coach, to explore how active learning, mindset shifts, and gamified structures help students and professionals overcome procrastination, manage time better, and achieve results without overwhelm. Tom Vorselen is the founder of The Study Coach, a global coaching brand helping students and working professionals overcome procrastination, master time management, and study smarter with proven science-based methods. After struggling with poor grades and burnout during university, Tom transformed his own approach using evidence from cognitive psychology and neuroscience, eventually graduating with top marks and turning his system into a full-time mission. Today, The Study Coach supports learners in over 40 countries through personalized coaching, online programs, and workshops focused on efficiency, focus, and mindset. Tomâs methods have helped thousands of students from medicine to business to engineering achieve higher results in less time and regain confidence in their ability to learn, grow, and perform at their best. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Study Breakthrough Bundle: Send a DM to on IG and send the word PROFESSOR Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Facebook: YouTube: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Dan (A Team Member) Recommended book: by Rob Dial Favorite game: (FC nowadays) Lets's do stuff together!
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From Theater to Gamification: Lessons I Learned from My Dad | Episode 428
01/19/2026
From Theater to Gamification: Lessons I Learned from My Dad | Episode 428
In this heartfelt episode, Rob reflects on the profound impact his father, , had on his life, particularly as a prominent actor in Venezuela. As he commemorates the 25th anniversary of his father's passing, Rob shares personal anecdotes that highlight the lessons he learned from Mariano, including the importance of believability in storytelling, the value of physical fitness, and the significance of generosity. Through his father's legacy, Rob connects these lessons to his work in gamification, emphasizing how immersive experiences can evoke empathy and engagement in audiences. Rob also reminisces about their shared love for superheroes and video games, illustrating how these interests were nurtured by his father. He discusses the influence of Mariano's career in theater and film, and how it shaped his understanding of performance and audience connection. Ultimately, this episode serves as a tribute to Mariano's life and the enduring lessons that continue to inspire Rob in both his personal and professional endeavors. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links and Info Wikipedia IMDb (one of the characters he represented) Lets's do stuff together!
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When the Game Is Rigged: Why Venezuela Couldnât Win | Episode 427
01/12/2026
When the Game Is Rigged: Why Venezuela Couldnât Win | Episode 427
In this rare and deeply personal episode, Rob steps away from the traditional gamification conversation to speak as a Venezuelan. Blending lived experience, political involvement, and game-thinking principles, Rob reflects on the cost of doing everything âby the rules,â the exhaustion of democratic paths, and why this moment matters so deeply to millions of Venezuelans around the world. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.
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Beyond Points & Badges: How James Portnow Designs Intrinsic Engagement | Episode 426
01/05/2026
Beyond Points & Badges: How James Portnow Designs Intrinsic Engagement | Episode 426
If youâre considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, Iâm happy to compare options with you: What if gamification isnât about rewards at all? James Portnow joins the Professor Game Podcast to explain why intrinsic engagement, thoughtful iteration, and strong design goals matter more than mechanics. From YouTube education to tabletop games, this conversation is packed with insights on building experiences people truly care about. James Portnow is a Game Designer by trade, who's worked on games ranging from the Call of Duty Series to League of Legends to Farmville. His latest project, Cyberpunk Legends (the official Cyberpunk co-op card game), Kickstarted for over a million dollars, putting it in the top 1% of kickstarters ever created. He is also the creator of one of the most popular YouTube channels on history, Extra History. He's spoken at universities and corporations around the world and at conferences ranging from GDC to PAX to SXSW. He's been quoted in the New York Times and Time Magazine, published by Oxford University Press and has taught at the Masters and Bachelor's level. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Facebook: Bluesky: YouTube: Other links: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: of Magic The Gathering Designer on Candy Crush - Perhaps ? The Slay the Spire guys - Recommended book: by Aristotle by Scott McCloud by Don Norman by Jean Baudrillard Favorite game:
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The Magic Doesnât Start Where You Think It Does | Episode 425
12/29/2025
The Magic Doesnât Start Where You Think It Does | Episode 425
Want to run away from destroying an experience? Happy to brainstorm â A magical Christmas experience in Madrid almost collapsed because of one overlooked detail. We break down a real-world holiday experience through the stages of gamification, and reveal where confusion can destroy even the most beautiful experience. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: Lets's do stuff together!
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Your Bio as an Origin Story: Gamifying the Job Hunt with Jade Arthur | Episode 424
12/22/2025
Your Bio as an Origin Story: Gamifying the Job Hunt with Jade Arthur | Episode 424
If youâre considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, Iâm happy to compare options with you: What if your bio was more than a skills list and your job hunt felt like a well-designed game? We explore with our guest Jade Arthur how to gamify the job search for the games industry, creating stories, systems and mindsets that boost confidence, visibility and long-term career engagement. Jade is a language and mindset coach for job seekers in gaming. She helps job seekers take down the villains in their job search like the "Cover Letter Crusher" and the "Interview Assassin." Her mission is to give job seekers the knowledge to authentically express their value and vision while finding joy in the process. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guests: Bruno Frasca Recommended book: by Dan and Chip Heath Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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You're Using Streaks Wrong - Here's What Actually Works | Episode 423
12/15/2025
You're Using Streaks Wrong - Here's What Actually Works | Episode 423
Exploring useful streaks for your product or org? Letâs chat â Why do streaks motivate users at first but eventually push them away? Rob explores the psychology behind collapses, the dangers of existing habit metrics, and practical ways to redesign streaks so they support, not sabotage, long-term engagement. Perfect for product leads, community builders, and behavior designers. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: (language learning & streak mechanics) Meditation (formerly 10% Happier) (habit-tracking app) (self-care & habit-tracking app) (gamification & Core Drives) (psychology of lapses) Lets's do stuff together!
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Quests, Self-Talk & Health: Glen Lubbert's Stamina Lab Game of Life | Episode 422
12/08/2025
Quests, Self-Talk & Health: Glen Lubbert's Stamina Lab Game of Life | Episode 422
Retention or loyalty on your roadmap? Happy to brainstorm â We unpack the âtell the cab driver where to goâ strategy, health quests, and the eight magic words that shift self-talk from guilt and shame to possibility and lasting change on this chat with Stamina Lab CEO Glen Lubbert. We discuss how to turn health and well-being into a game you can actually win. Glen is the co-founder and CEO of Stamina Lab, a health tech company that helps people create lasting well-beingânot through willpower, hacks, habits, or fixing themselvesâbut by building on the inner resources and skills they already have. His company combines solution-focused health coaching, behavior science, and personalized data to improve energy, focus and resilienceâwithout the usual shame or overwhelm. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: X/Twitter: YouTube: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: by Peter Attia Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Stop Shaming Your Users: Ethical Alternatives to Dark Patterns | Episode 421
12/01/2025
Stop Shaming Your Users: Ethical Alternatives to Dark Patterns | Episode 421
Exploring behavioral design without shaming? Letâs chat â In this episode, we break down the wild world of âconfirm shamingâ: manipulative, guilt-driven prompts apps use to push you into saying yes. From hilarious to downright unethical examples, we unpack why these dark patterns harm long-term loyalty and how to use motivation ethically to build real engagement and retention. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: Lets's do stuff together!
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Building Beats Playing: Matt Dalioâs Path | Episode 420
11/24/2025
Building Beats Playing: Matt Dalioâs Path | Episode 420
Build a thriving, monetized communityâwithout chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: đĄ When is failure the first step to real success? In this episode, Matt Dalio, founder of Endless Studios, shares how a dream project collapsedâand sparked a breakthrough. Discover how building games, not just playing them, helps kids master coding, design, and 21st-century skills. From pragmatic lessons on profitability to testing assumptions cheaply, Matt reveals how to turn ambitious visions into lasting, scalable impact. Matt is the founder of Endless, which is fighting for a world in which every kid is a creator. Endless Studios is a youth game making studio built to introduce youth to 21st Century skills like coding and design. Mattâs mantra is that if you can engage them, you can teach them. His second mission is to make that available to everyone in the world by addressing the device and internet gap, which is the work of the Endless Foundation. Matt dreams of a world in which every kid can shape their technology instead of being shaped by it. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: Links to episode mentions: Recommended book: by Elizabeth Gilbert by Julia Cameron Favorite games: Lets's do stuff together!
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8 Years Building the Global Leading Gamification Podcast | Episode 419
11/17/2025
8 Years Building the Global Leading Gamification Podcast | Episode 419
Aiming for sustainable retention? Intro chat (no sales pitch): Eight years, 420 episodes, and countless insights later: we celebrate the incredible journey of the Professor Game Podcast. From humble beginnings to becoming the #1 gamification podcast in the world, this episode dives into consistency, growth, and whatâs next for the Engagers community. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: Episodes mentioned: ! , winner of the Educational Gamification Project of the Year 2016 Professor Game, the worldâs #1 gamification podcast, is recognized by independent rankings such as , , , and others like . , this is the most official reference still online I could find! Community Building Resources: Social Media and Contact Information: Lets's do stuff together!
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Design With Audiences: Mister and Mischiefâs Playful Guide to Engagement | Episode 418
11/10/2025
Design With Audiences: Mister and Mischiefâs Playful Guide to Engagement | Episode 418
Build a thriving, loyal communityâwithout chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: đĄ From theme parks to zines, Andy & Jeff Crocker reveal how analog thinking powers modern engagement. We explore Infinite Right Answers, designing for collaboration, embracing imperfection over performance, and a field-tested model (confidence + generosity) that boosts motivation, loyalty, and community value. With roots firmly planted in the worlds of theatre and themed entertainment, Mister & Mischief (a.k.a. Jeff and Andy Crocker) create fun-forward journeys beyond the fourth wall. With an unexpected blend of storytelling and real-world engagement, the husband-and-wife team help foster curiosity and connection through immersive experiences that encourage participants to revisit an opportunity to play pretend. Think of them as your extroverted friends that allow anyone a safe place to step out of their shell and explore in places theyâd otherwise never go. have created experiences for clients including Universal Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering and their award-winning work has been praised by The New York Times, Broadway World and No Proscenium. They were recently named in Blooloopâs International list of Top 50 Immersive Influencers Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Lets's do stuff together!
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The Secret Framework That Keeps Users Coming Back | Episode 417
11/03/2025
The Secret Framework That Keeps Users Coming Back | Episode 417
Exploring gamification for your product or org? Letâs chat â We dive into the fascinating overlap between product thinking and gamification. By bridging Marty Caganâs product discovery mindset with the Octalysis framework, we uncover how to build not just functional products â but ones users love coming back to. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: Some public references to the Octalysis Framework and the process discussed: References to Marty Cagan and his works and principles through Silicon Valley's Product Group (SVPG): Lets's do stuff together!
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From Viral Spike to Sticky Play: Doug Weitzbuch on Building Housle | Episode 416
10/27/2025
From Viral Spike to Sticky Play: Doug Weitzbuch on Building Housle | Episode 416
Want your members to actually stick around and engage without burning out or guessing what works? Join our free community of retention-focused leaders: đ„ What happens after âgoing viralâ? Doug Weitzbuch (Housel) breaks down the Wordle-style mechanics, player feedback he wishes heâd acted on sooner, and the roadmap to localized, high-intent engagement. Practical lessons on PR, streaks, and turning play into business outcomes. Doug Weitzbuch is a television producer with credits on hit series including Hellâs Kitchen, World of Dance, Lip Sync Battle, and Duck Dynasty. After producing Netflixâs Buy My House, a Shark Tankâstyle real estate series, he created HOU$LE, the viral daily house-price guessing game often described as âWordle for Real Estate.â He currently produces FOXâs The 1% Club, hosted by Joel McHale. Doug lives in Los Angeles with his wife (a real estate agent, naturally) and their two kids. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Guest Links and Info Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: A16Z Speedrun Recommended book: Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Epic Fight? Here's What Really Happened | Episode 415
10/20/2025
Epic Fight? Here's What Really Happened | Episode 415
Exploring gamification for your product or org? Letâs chat â No, there was no epic showdown, just a powerful new alliance. Rob joins The Octalysis Group and reveals how this new chapter amplifies his mission to make gamification practical, ethical, and impactful. Plus, what stays the same on Professor Game. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A gamification strategist and , he founded and hosts , the #1 gamification podcast, and has interviewed hundreds of global experts. He designs evidence-based engagement systems that drive motivation, loyalty, and results, and teaches LEGOÂź SERIOUS PLAYÂź and gamification at top institutions including , , and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links to episode mentions: by Rob Lets's do stuff together!
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From Fan to Creator: Jaime Schwarz on the IP Economy | Episode 414
10/13/2025
From Fan to Creator: Jaime Schwarz on the IP Economy | Episode 414
Want your members to actually stick around and engage without burning out or guessing what works? Join our free community of retention-focused leaders: đ„ What if your game character could earn you royalties? Jaime Schwarz unpacks co-creation, interactive media, and why the next frontier of engagement lives in the IP economy. A must-listen for future-focused creators! After an award winning 15 years as a copywriter and creative director for NYC agencies, Jaime Schwarz dove into Web3, first by filing the worlds first NFT patent in 2017 and then by founding brand therapy teaching brands to speak for themselves. After co-founding 7 startups from then till 2022, Jaime co-founded the Team Flow Institute using employee intelligence and Parallel Worlds, the first spatial transformation company. With his patent granted he is now also the founder of MRKD.dj ensuring DRRM (digital rights and royalties management) by smart contracting the samples themselves for infinite drops. On the roadmap is MRKD.worlds which expands stories across media using the same name chain as MRKD.dj to ensure interoperability and equitable co-creation across an open spatial web. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: LinkedIn: Instagram: Other Webs: Lets's do stuff together!
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The One Choice That Will Determine Your Online Success | Episode 413
10/06/2025
The One Choice That Will Determine Your Online Success | Episode 413
Build a thriving, monetized communityâwithout chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: đĄ Thinking of trying Skool? Use my link to get the 14-day free trial (same as direct)âand youâll also be supporting my work: đ Content is not king. In this episode, we unpack the 3 key âenginesâ that turn passive followers into engaged community members. If youâre tired of content burnout and ready to build something meaningful, this one's for you. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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 and Info Free Resources to try this out: Try Skool for free: Lets's do stuff together!
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Why Careers Need a Game Loop, with Unity's Jessica Lindl | Episode 412
09/29/2025
Why Careers Need a Game Loop, with Unity's Jessica Lindl | Episode 412
Build a thriving, monetized communityâwithout chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: đĄ Vice President at Unity and author of The Career Game Loop, Jessica Lindl shares how game-based strategies build better communities, improve retention, and drive real impact. Jessica Lindl is the Vice President of Ecosystem Growth at Unity Technologies, where she leads global efforts to empower creators, learners, and professionals through transformative, game-inspired solutions. With over 20 years of experience at the intersection of gaming, education, and workforce development, Jessica has helped millions of learners build meaningful careers. She is also the author of The Career Game Loop: Learn to Earn in the New Economy, a groundbreaking book that applies game design thinking to real-world career growth. Jessica is a Pahara-Aspen Fellow and serves on advisory boards for GSV Ventures and Jobs for the Future. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in community building and education. 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: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: YouTube: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: by Jane McGonigal Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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How To Grow Your Community! Without Paying For Ads | Episode 411
09/22/2025
How To Grow Your Community! Without Paying For Ads | Episode 411
Your next viral title is already written. Get the free sheet: đ Curious about Skool? Grab the 14-day free trial through my link (and it helps me keep creating resources for you): đ Think ads are the only way to grow your community? Think again. Rob reveals how he grew his community to 140+ members with $0 in ad spendâusing three powerful, game-inspired strategies you can start today. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: YouTube Titles Spreadsheet: Start your community on Skool: Lets's do stuff together!
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Escape Rooms for Growth with Sarah Iverson | Episode 410
09/15/2025
Escape Rooms for Growth with Sarah Iverson | Episode 410
đ Build a thriving, playful communityâwithout chasing members or creating endless content. âš Get started free with our community The Game of Skool: Magic in the Mundane: Sarah Iverson on Gamifying Wellness Discover how Sarah Iverson transforms personal growth into playful adventures through wellness escape rooms, storytelling, and creative game design. Sarah Iverson is the founder of Curious Sunshine, a play-based wellness initiative that transforms personal growth into an imaginative adventure. A multidisciplinary artist, graphic designer, and holistic coach, Sarah fuses her love of puzzles, storytelling, and wellness to create experiences that spark joy, reflection, and real change. Backed by a B.A. in Art and a Masterâs in Environmental Leadership, Sarahâs work lives at the intersection of creativity and consciousness. Through Curious Sunshine, she develops escape rooms, courses, and coaching programs that help people move from stuck to sparkedâusing play as the engine for transformation. Whether itâs decoding riddles or unblocking old patterns, Sarah invites you to explore the magic of your mind, one curious step at a time. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: LinkedIn: Instagram: YouTube: Links to episode mentions: Recommended book: by Anthony T. DeBenedet Favorite game: series Lets's do stuff together!
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I Tried VR Fire Training (and Failed to Find the Phone) with Ludus | Episode 409
09/08/2025
I Tried VR Fire Training (and Failed to Find the Phone) with Ludus | Episode 409
Health and Safety đ„ training is a drag and ineffective or expensive and dangerous â ïž... Or is it? Check out what's possible with our sponsor Ludus and their Free Guide: Or just book a free VR demo. Warning: you might end up liking Health and Safety training... Hearing this only? Check out the video episode on or straight on On this sponsored episode, we dive into the world of VR-based health and safety training with Ludus. You'll get a behind-the-scenes peek into my home HQ as I test five of their standalone VR/AR simulations â from firefighting to CPR and even recycling! I share honest, hands-on impressions of how they look, feel, and function, including what works, what could be clearer, and how gamified experiences like these can truly enhance engagement and learning. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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 and Info Free Demo with Ludus: Health and Safety Training with Ludus VR Free Guide: Lets's do stuff together!
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I Paid 5 Growth Experts To Create A Growth Playbook For The Same Community | Episode 408
09/01/2025
I Paid 5 Growth Experts To Create A Growth Playbook For The Same Community | Episode 408
Donât guess your next title â get the proven ones for free: đ Want your content to actually get seen? I paid five growth experts to reverse-engineer how to grow a communityâwithout spending a cent on ads. In this episode, I reveals the three biggest levers. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: Want titles that actually earn clicks? Grab the ! by (and help Professor Game without paying anything) Lets's do stuff together!
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Civic Engagement Through Classroom Games with Kerry Flanagan-Owen | Episode 407
08/25/2025
Civic Engagement Through Classroom Games with Kerry Flanagan-Owen | Episode 407
Book a free 1:1 call to create your personalized gamification game plan: đŻ Can games teach students to navigate politics and power? Kerry Flanagan-Owen from the Bill of Rights Institute says YESâand sheâs showing us how playful learning is transforming civics education in classrooms across the U.S. Kerry Flanagan-Owen is the Senior Manager of Learning Design at the Bill of Rights Institute, where she leads the development of free Kâ12 civics, government, and U.S. history resources. With a background in teaching and instructional coaching, Kerry brings deep expertise in designing engaging, inquiry-driven experiences for classrooms nationwide. Most recently, she spearheaded the creation of a series of card-based games as part of the Institute's Government and Politics: Civics for the American Experiment curriculum, using play to bring abstract civics concepts to life for high school students. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: X/Twitter: YouTube: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Game Design and SEL Psychologist and GBL Recommended book: by David Elkind Favorite game: and Episode Lets's do stuff together!
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How to Win at the Game of Life (Without Playing by the Rules) | Episode 406
08/18/2025
How to Win at the Game of Life (Without Playing by the Rules) | Episode 406
If you feel like your inner explorerâs been benched for too long... youâre not alone. Weâre rebuilding new learning quests inside a Skool group. Might be your next side quest. đŻ Education wasnât built to empowerâit was built to control. In this episode, Rob Alvarez breaks down how education evolved into a grind loop and how we can flip the system using gamification. If you've ever felt like your inner explorer got benched, this one's for you. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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: Peter Gray's article: to rekindle curiosity, play and exploration Lets's do stuff together!
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From Skeptics to Superstars: The Power of Play at Work with Alex Suchman | Episode 405
08/11/2025
From Skeptics to Superstars: The Power of Play at Work with Alex Suchman | Episode 405
đ Want your community buzzing and bringing in more revenue? Snag my free mini course with 3 killer gamification hacks: Forget trust falls and awkward icebreakers. Alex Suchman is redefining the workplace with intentional play. Tune in to find out how one game changed a managerâs mindsetâand why play may be the missing ingredient in your team culture. Alex Suchman is the CEO and co-founder of Barometer XP, whose mission is to create cultures where people are excited about their work because they feel a strong sense of purpose and belonging. She uses games and play to strengthen interpersonal dynamics, such as trust, accountability, and psychological safety, into the workplace. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in community building and education. 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: LinkedIn: Play Concierge Platform: Links to episode mentions: Recommended book: by Les McKeown Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Why Your Game Mechanic Is the Learning with Elisa Navarro Chinchilla | Episode 404
08/04/2025
Why Your Game Mechanic Is the Learning with Elisa Navarro Chinchilla | Episode 404
Get access to over $1,000 worth of retention and gamification strategies, templates, and live sessionsâfor free. All inside our Professor Game community: đ What happens when a powerful game opens Pandoraâs box? Elisa Navarro Chinchilla shares the highs, lows, and serious challenges of designing games for real-world impactâfrom schools in Mexico to reforestation efforts in Afghanistan. Elisa Navarro Chinchilla is the CEO and co-founder of Gold Bug Interactive and a veteran educational video game developer with more than 25 titles under her belt. Her most recent projects include Dino Dance for PBS Fred Rogers, Sabz, a reforestation game for Afghanistan; Protection, a tabletop game to teach Results Based Protection for InterAction; Chuka: Break the Silence, developed for the Education for Justice initiative of the UNODC, that leverages social and emotional learning to help prevent domestic violence, and consulting for Project 21, FES, to develop a game for youth participation, governance and citizenship in the MENA region. Convinced of the power of games to support underprivileged contexts through collaborative learning, she has received several national grants in Mexico (Fonca, Procine, Prosoft) to create educational experiences with networked technology, alternate reality games, and digital literacy workshops. Her games challenge players to develop resilience through problem solving, stimulate critical thinking, and practice transferable skills. Elisa has an MA from the Institute of Education at UCL, UK. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in community building and education. 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: Website: LinkedIn: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: by James Paul Gee Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Secrets to Building the Most Engaging Community Ever | Episode 403
07/28/2025
Secrets to Building the Most Engaging Community Ever | Episode 403
Click the link below to book a quick 10â15 minute chat with me. No sales, no pressureâjust ideas and clarity on how to engage your community and grow revenue. đ What do sticky communities and addictive games have in common? We break down two powerful design moves to build a community you love showing up toâand one your members will too. Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, 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 and Info Book your clarity call: Start your own community on Skool and take advantage of the perks of using this link: (let me know on a DM in Skool) Lets's do stuff together!
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