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. 🎙️ Hosted by Rob Alvarez — TEDx Speaker, consultant, and host of the #1 Gamification Podcast — 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 — with stories and strategies that transform the way people learn, work, and play. 💡 Listen. Learn. Apply Play to Your Strategy.
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Why a Gamification Expert HATES Duolingo’s Strategy | Episode 444
05/11/2026
Why a Gamification Expert HATES Duolingo’s Strategy | Episode 444
Get the free Core Drives in the Wild guide, behavioral design applied to real products: Episode Summary Tetiana Kobzar, product designer with 18 years of experience and creator of the Comportance Framework, joins Rob to share how behavioral design turns clinical and educational software into products people actually want to use. She walks through the seven steps of Comportance (goal, baseline, emotion, hypothesis, minimum validation, cadence, and iteration) and shows how it shaped a gamified speech therapy app for Alder Hey Children's Hospital and a mini-game replacement for 27 cognitive assessment tests. The conversation covers why founders overload products with functionality, why Duolingo's Black Hat motivation works for some users and burns out others, and how Octalysis fits inside a wider behavioral design practice. Listeners leave with a practical structure for designing engagement and a sharper read on when game-based beats gamified. About the Host 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. Key Takeaways The Comportance Framework runs seven steps in order: define the goal, set the baseline metrics, design the emotion (motivation and positioning), state one hypothesis, build the minimum validation, set the measurement cadence, and iterate. Most founders skip the goal and emotion steps and jump straight to functionality. Tetiana's team at Alder Hey Children's Hospital replaced weekly-only speech therapy with a gamified app where clinicians set tasks as mini games, letting kids practice pronunciation between sessions while the therapist tracks progress. A separate Tetiana project replaced 27 pen-and-paper cognitive assessment tests with mini games on tablets, capturing extra signal (timestamps, finger tremor, voice recordings) that paper tests cannot measure. Most products fail not because users are irrational but because founders treat them as rational agents. Behavioral biases and cognitive overload kill engagement faster than missing features. The Pareto trap in client work: founders spend 80% of their attention on the 20% of clients who complain, while the 80% of healthy clients who quietly bring most of the revenue get under-served. Reverse the ratio to protect recurring revenue. Duolingo's streak mechanic is heavy Black Hat motivation. It drives high retention but creates rage-quit risk: a user who loses a 4,000-day streak rarely returns. The near-miss has to threaten loss without delivering it. Game-based design (where the experience itself feels like a game) opens more creative options than gamification (points, badges, leaderboards bolted onto a non-game product), but both belong inside a wider behavioral design practice. Topics Covered 0:00 — Why Duolingo's Black Hat motivation backfires 0:24 — Rob's intro and the Core Drives in the Wild guide 2:47 — Daily life after the acquisition 4:14 — Favorite fail: design for the end game 8:16 — Alder Hey speech therapy app and 27 cognitive tests as games 11:26 — Game-based versus gamified, and where the line blurs 15:44 — Where Octalysis fits inside the Comportance Framework 17:11 — The seven steps of Comportance, walked end to end 23:50 — Cognitive overload and treating users as humans 27:24 — Duolingo streaks, near-miss design, and rage-quit risk 31:42 — Book picks: Cialdini, Yu-kai Chou, Don Norman 33:29 — Civilization, board games with the kids, final advice Get the free Core Drives in the Wild guide, behavioral design applied to real products: About Tetiana Kobzar is a product strategist and behavioral designer with 18 years of experience building software for healthcare, wellness, and education. She is the creator of the Comportance Framework, a seven-step methodology that brings behavioral science structure to product design. Her recent work includes a gamified speech therapy app for Alder Hey Children's Hospital and a tablet-based replacement for 27 cognitive assessment tests, and she shares behavioral design ideas through her #BehaviouralDesignThursday LinkedIn series and industry talks. Find the Guest Online Mentioned in This Episode Proposed guest: someone from Duolingo Recommended book: by Yu-kai Chou Recommended book: Influence by Robert B. Cialdini Recommended book: The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman Favorite game: Civilization series (The Octalysis Group) Alder Hey Children's Hospital speech therapy app (Tetiana's project) Comportance Framework (Tetiana's seven-step methodology) Octalysis Framework by Yu-kai Chou Free Resources and Get in Touch
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What UI Designers DON'T Tell You About User Onboarding | Episode 443
05/04/2026
What UI Designers DON'T Tell You About User Onboarding | Episode 443
Don't experiment on your own revenue with broken game mechanics. Get our guide "Core Drives in the Wild" to learn how to apply real behavioral science to your product: Most apps lose 77% of their users within the first three days because they treat onboarding like a tax audit instead of a human journey. In this episode, Rob Alvarez breaks down why your "helpful" 15-step toolkit might actually be causing cognitive friction and driving users away. By moving from function-focused design to human-focused design, you can transform a bounce into a lifelong advocate. Rob explores the "Christmas Magic Mistake," the "Hello World" principle for instant wins, and the "Miyagi Method" of scaffolding to ensure your users actually want to come back for Day 2. 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: (Christmas experience episode) Lets's do stuff together!
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From Grand Theft Auto to Fighting Dementia | Episode 442
04/27/2026
From Grand Theft Auto to Fighting Dementia | Episode 442
Identify the exact strategies Sharon and Rob discussed so you can start increasing engagement in your own projects today. Grab our Core Drives in the Wild guide for free What if the secret to solving real-world isolation or preventing misconduct wasn't more rules, but better play? Sharon Wood, a veteran gaming executive who helped launch the original Grand Theft Auto, joins us to discuss her shift from commercial hits to "Serious Games" with a scientific edge. We explore the neurological reality that the brain cannot distinguish between real and virtual experiences, making games a potent tool for building empathy and confidence. From memory care apps that reunite families to clinical trials in schools, this episode moves past the "points and badges" surface of gamification to show how progressive mastery actually changes lives. Sharon Wood is a seasoned gaming executive with over four decades of experience spanning sports marketing, entertainment, media, and video game development. Her career began in the fast-paced world of sports and entertainment marketing before she entered the gaming industry in 1996 during PlayStation's early days, where she orchestrated groundbreaking partnerships between major brands like Pepsi and Frito-Lay and video games. Most notably, Sharon launched the original Grand Theft Auto on a modest marketing budget. While defending the controversial title in the media, she consulted with psychologists and discovered something surprising: games could actually provide safe environments for exploring moral concepts rather than encouraging negative behaviors. This revelation changed everything. Inspired by gaming's positive potential, Sharon collaborated with a psychologist around 2012-2013 to create "Luminous," a game designed to help women and girls build self-confidence. Within months of launch, it became a top-five app in 34 countries. This success led Sharon to found Happy People Games (HPG), a company dedicated to creating "serious games": interactive experiences that merge scientific evidence with engaging gameplay to deliver real-world benefits beyond entertainment. Unlike simple gamification with badges and points, HPG builds games that create progressive mastery experiences, harnessing the natural reward response from achievement and channeling it toward positive outcomes. 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 Websites: Instagram: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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If You are Losing Users Despite Growth, Watch This! | Episode 441
04/20/2026
If You are Losing Users Despite Growth, Watch This! | Episode 441
Don't experiment on your own revenue with broken game mechanics. Get our guide "Core Drives in the Wild" to learn how to apply real behavioral science to your product: Most companies treat user churn as a data problem, but looking at "where" someone leaves doesn't explain "why" they lost interest. We break down the "Engagement Leaks," a phenomenon where record-breaking marketing spend fails to fix a product that is effectively a sieve for users. By analyzing the high-touch onboarding of Superhuman, the "novelty hangover" of Robinhood’s digital confetti, and the legendary community design of Harley-Davidson, this episode reveals how to use the Octalysis Framework to plug leaks in different stages of the user journey. A masterclass in transitioning from a product people merely start to one they actually stay with. 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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Stop Sprinkling Joy: Integrating Delight into the Core Loop | Episode 440
04/13/2026
Stop Sprinkling Joy: Integrating Delight into the Core Loop | Episode 440
Exploring gamification for your product or org? Let’s chat → We sit down with product leader and author Nesrine Changuel to explore the behavioral science of "Product Delight." Nesrine pulls from her extensive experience at tech giants like Google and Spotify to explain why emotional connection cannot be treated as an afterthought in product design. By distinguishing between purely functional requirements and deep emotional motivators, she reveals how features like Google Chrome's inactive tabs or Spotify's curated playlists solve core psychological needs rather than just technical problems. You can walk away with actionable frameworks for removing user friction, anticipating needs, and asking the ultimate design question: "If my product were a human, how would the experience be better?" Nesrine is a product coach, trainer, speaker, and author the author of . With a background in research and over a decade of product experience, she has built products used by millions like Google Chrome, Google Meet, Spotify, and Skype. Nesrine is known for her focus on emotional connection and user delight. Today, she helps teams create products people don’t just use, but truly love. 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: Book Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: by Don Norman Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Why is EVERYONE Failing At Gamification? (WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON?) | Episode 439
04/06/2026
Why is EVERYONE Failing At Gamification? (WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON?) | Episode 439
Master the science of motivation and see how top experts do it right. Get the free 9-day "Core Drives in the Wild" email sequence here: We break down three massive gamification disasters from 3 huge companies to reveal exactly what happens when we ignore behavioral science. We explain how well-intentioned features like leaderboards and point systems can accidentally create toxic work environments or destroy thriving communities. By applying the Octalysis framework, we highlight the dangers of relying too heavily on Black Hat motivation and extrinsic rewards without balancing them correctly. You will learn how to design systems that drive genuine engagement rather than building expensive burnout traps. 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. Lets's do stuff together!
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Joris Beerda tested Human-Focused Design vs Design Thinking (Which actually works?) | Episode 438
03/30/2026
Joris Beerda tested Human-Focused Design vs Design Thinking (Which actually works?) | Episode 438
Wondering if Octalysis fits your challenge? Quick intro chat → Most companies rely on traditional design thinking to build their products. That assumption is exactly why their retention rates flatline. In this episode, Rob Alvarez sits down with , CEO of , to unpack the five-step Octalysis design process that drives engagement for Fortune 500 companies like and . They discuss the critical difference between human-centered and human-focused design, the mechanics of building a high-functioning loyalty loop, and how to prioritize features using the "Biggest Bang for the Buck" model. If you want to move beyond simple points and badges to build experiences users genuinely care about, this conversation lays out the exact blueprint. is the Co-Founder and CEO of . As a world-leading expert in Human-Focused Design and Octalysis Gamification, Joris’ global career in creating engagement spans across 20 years, 15 countries and 7 languages. He has designed Human-Focused experiences for dozens of Fortune 500s as well as medium-sized companies. Joris is also a well known Keynote Speaker on Gamification in many renowned conferences throughout Europe, Asia, and Australia. 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 LinkedIn: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: or Recommended book: by Robert Kurzban Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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How To Boost Long-Term Retention! Without Relying on Novelty | Episode 437
03/23/2026
How To Boost Long-Term Retention! Without Relying on Novelty | Episode 437
Don't experiment on your own revenue with broken game mechanics. Get our guide "Core Drives in the Wild" to learn how to apply real behavioral science to your product: professorgame.com/WildCD We dismantle the myth that simply adding points, badges, and leaderboards will fix a broken product. We explore why superficial rewards often lead to a 90% failure rate in corporate gamification and cause dangerous spikes followed by massive engagement crashes. By contrasting Google News's failed badge system with Wikipedia's intrinsic motivation model, we highlight the critical shift from transactional features to human-focused behavioral science. You can learn how to balance White Hat techniques like Epic Meaning with Black Hat mechanics like Scarcity to build long-term retention without burning out your user base. Rob Alvarez is Head of Engagement Strategy, Europe at The Octalysis Group (TOG), a leading gamification and behavioral design consultancy. A globally recognized gamification strategist and TEDx speaker, he founded and hosts Professor Game, 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and gamification at top institutions including IE Business School, EFMD, and EBS University across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Links and resources Google News: https://news.google.com Wikipedia: https://www.wikipedia.org Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com The Octalysis Group: https://octalysisgroup.com Lets's do stuff together! Core Drives in the Wild: Professor Game Guide Let's chat about your gamification project YouTube LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Start Your Community on Skool for Free Ask a question
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Using AI to Build Better Learning Games | Episode 436
03/16/2026
Using AI to Build Better Learning Games | Episode 436
Have a product challenge around retention? Quick intro chat → Leif Sorensen reveals why most corporate learning games fail. We discuss the "magic powder" fallacy, where companies try to cram too many behavioral frameworks into a single experience. Leif breaks down his process for building AI-generated learning games at Actee and explains why focusing on the transfer of learning is the real secret to changing behavior. The episode also explores the post-COVID failure of traditional LMS platforms and how facilitators can run better sessions by focusing on player engagement instead of memorizing game content. Leif Sørensen is the founder and owner of Actee, a global platform using games to develop soft skills and support learning and change in organizations. He works closely with companies, consultants, and learning professionals to design engaging, research-based learning game experiences. Leif is a frequent speaker and podcast host, focusing on gamification, leadership, and how games can make complex topics easier to understand and act on. 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: Instagram: Spotify: Links to episode mentions: Proposed guest: Recommended book: by Robert E. Haskell Favorite game: Lets's do stuff together!
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Why Your Team Hates Your AI Strategy (And How to Fix It) | Episode 435
03/09/2026
Why Your Team Hates Your AI Strategy (And How to Fix It) | Episode 435
If you’re implementing AI and want to realize that promised ROI, let’s see if Octalysis fits → Breaking down why most AI projects fail despite being technically flawless. The problem isn't the code; it’s the lack of behavioral design. By applying the Octalysis Framework, we see how to move away from "Black Hat" implementations that trigger resistance and identity threats. Instead, we shares how to design AI as an individual contributor’s superpower. It is a deep dive into balancing short-term Black Hat-driven data bumps with long-term White Hat engagement to ensure your team feels like masters of their craft rather than data entry clerks for an algorithm. 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: Let's implement AI successfully leveraging Octalysis Behavioral Design Some of The Octalysis Group's resources: Lets's do stuff together!
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The Blueprint to Leading High-Performing Teams from Day 1 | Episode 434
03/02/2026
The Blueprint to Leading High-Performing Teams from Day 1 | Episode 434
I’ve interviewed hundreds of experts and now lead Engagement Strategy (EU) at TOG. If you want help applying this, start here: Can a leader truly be effective without ever presenting a single slide? Clark Aldrich returns to the show to dismantle the "expert-led" model of management and education. He introduces Socratic Cards: a physical tool designed to replace passive consumption with active, high-stakes inquiry. By shifting the responsibility of learning from the teacher to the learner, Clark explains how organizations can transition from "easily replaceable employees" to "heroic tribes" that thrive on peer mentorship and meaningful challenges. Clark Aldrich is a past guest (episode and ) and is the award-winning creator/author/founder of Short Sims, Unschooling Rules, The Complete Guide to Simulations and Serious Games, and Gartner’s eLearning coverage. Aldrich's sims and games have been covered extensively, including by The New York Times, ABC, CBS, NPR, ESPN, and CNN. 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: Lets's do stuff together!
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Getting ADDICTED to CAREER PROGRESSION is Easy, Actually | Episode 433
02/23/2026
Getting ADDICTED to CAREER PROGRESSION is Easy, Actually | Episode 433
Have a product challenge around retention? Quick intro chat → Stop feeling like you're grinding without a progress bar. In this episode, we explore the behavioral science of "leveling up" in real life to combat burnout and invisible growth. By applying the Octalysis Framework we discusse how to map your career as an evolving skill tree. Whether you are a product leader looking to build meaningful user progression or an individual seeking to reclaim your "Player 1" status, this episode provides a blueprint for turning disjointed milestones into a cohesive, high-functioning journey of mastery. 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 Yu-kai Chou Lets's do stuff together! Looking forward to reading or hearing from you, Rob
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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. RaĂşl 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 Isn’t About Games. It’s About Motivation | Episode 431
02/09/2026
Gamification Isn’t About Games. It’s About Motivation | Episode 431
I’ve 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 you’re considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, I’m 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 Isn’t the Problem (Your Learning Systems Are) | Episode 429
01/26/2026
Tom Vorselen On Why Effort Isn’t the Problem (Your Learning Systems Are) | Episode 429
You’ll get the same 14-day free trial either way—but if you use my link, you’ll also be supporting Professor Game: 👉 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. Tom’s 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 Couldn’t Win | Episode 427
01/12/2026
When the Game Is Rigged: Why Venezuela Couldn’t 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 “by the rules,” 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 you’re considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, I’m happy to compare options with you: What if gamification isn’t 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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 Doesn’t Start Where You Think It Does | Episode 425
12/29/2025
The Magic Doesn’t Start Where You Think It Does | Episode 425
Want to run away from destroying an experience? Happy to brainstorm → 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 you’re considering gamification for engagement, retention, or loyalty, I’m 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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? Let’s chat → 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 → We unpack the “tell the cab driver where to go” 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-being—not through willpower, hacks, habits, or fixing themselves—but 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 resilience—without 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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? Let’s chat → In this episode, we break down the wild world of “confirm shaming”: 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 Dalio’s Path | Episode 420
11/24/2025
Building Beats Playing: Matt Dalio’s Path | Episode 420
Build a thriving, monetized community—without chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: 🏡 When is failure the first step to real success? In this episode, Matt Dalio, founder of Endless Studios, shares how a dream project collapsed—and 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. Matt’s 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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 what’s 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 world’s #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 Mischief’s Playful Guide to Engagement | Episode 418
11/10/2025
Design With Audiences: Mister and Mischief’s Playful Guide to Engagement | Episode 418
Build a thriving, loyal community—without chasing members or cranking out content 24/7. Join us for free: 🏡 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 they’d 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 Blooloop’s 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? Let’s chat → We dive into the fascinating overlap between product thinking and gamification. By bridging Marty Cagan’s product discovery mindset with the Octalysis framework, we uncover how to build not just functional products — 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: 👥 What happens after “going viral”? Doug Weitzbuch (Housel) breaks down the Wordle-style mechanics, player feedback he wishes he’d 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 Hell’s Kitchen, World of Dance, Lip Sync Battle, and Duck Dynasty. After producing Netflix’s Buy My House, a Shark Tank–style real estate series, he created HOU$LE, the viral daily house-price guessing game often described as “Wordle for Real Estate.” He currently produces FOX’s 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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? Let’s chat → 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 LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® 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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