Shows
GAMELAYER202 ALIVE From Charcuterie Carts to Culinary Classes: A Journey Ja'net Renee Morgan Graze in Grace Charcuterie LLCSummaryIn this engaging conversation, Ja'net Renee Morgan, the owner of Graze in Grace Charcuterie LLC, shares her journey of launching a mobile charcuterie service. She discusses the various events her business caters to, from birthday parties to corporate gatherings, and expresses her excitement about expanding into teaching charcuterie workshops. Jaynet draws parallels between launching her business and leveling up in a video game, emphasizing the importance of gathering the right resources and validation before advancing. Her background in human resources and training plays a significant role in her approach to both her business and her upcoming...
2026-03-1305 min
GAMELAYER201 ALIVE- Meeting the Need: Ronda Meriweather on Caregiving and Entrepreneurship | Ronda Meriweather Transport-USummaryIn this episode, David Kolmer interviews Ronda Meriweather, the founder of Transport-U LLC, a non-emergency medical transportation service. Rhonda shares her journey of starting the business, which was inspired by her personal experiences as a caregiver for her family members who required transportation to medical appointments. She emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation for seniors and disabled individuals, highlighting the challenges she faced in finding dependable services for her loved ones. Rhonda discusses the growth of her business, which has expanded to include three vans and a team of contracted drivers, and her...
2026-03-0606 min
GAMELAYER135 ALIVE | Learning Design Between Vision and Constraints | Destery HildenbrandSummaryIn this engaging conversation, David Kolmer interviews Destery Hildenbrand, a learning technology consultant, about the intricacies of design and technology in the context of educational tools. In this, the final episode of season 1, they discuss the challenges faced when working with emerging technologies, particularly the frustrations of coding and the creative process. Destery shares insights on how the vision for a project can sometimes clash with technical limitations, leading to a struggle between creativity and practicality. The dialogue also touches on the importance of adaptability and the willingness to learn from failures in order to achieve...
2026-01-2030 min
GAMELAYER134 ALIVE | Alchemy and Witnessing - What Feels True | Carriann Lane & Josh "Doc" YavelbergSummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer turns both mics over. Doc Yavelberger and Carriann Laner explore the intricate relationship between intuition and data, emphasizing the importance of balancing both in decision-making processes. The THEY discusse the challenges of interpreting data sets, particularly in the context of personal experiences and societal narratives. The conversation delves into the disruption of traditional perspectives in art and data analysis, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of various viewpoints. The THEY also highlight the significance of agility in design, stressing the need for innovation while managing risks effectively.
2026-01-1920 min
GAMELAYER133 ALIVE | The Measure of Meaning - Who Gets to Define the Canon? | JOSH "DOC" YAVELBERGSummaryThis conversation explores the complex relationship between intuition and data, emphasizing the importance of perspective in understanding various narratives. It discusses the role of human-centered design in the age of AI, highlighting the need to keep the human element in design processes. The dialogue also addresses the balance between efficiency and humanity in design, advocating for a thoughtful approach to innovation and accurate research methodologies.TakeawaysIntuition and data can often present conflicting narratives.Personal experiences can shape our understanding of data.Correlation does not...
2026-01-1818 min
GAMELAYER132 ALIVE | Instructional Design Takes the Stage: Theater, AI, and Instructional Design | Josh PenzellSummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer and Josh Penzel delve into the intersection of creative processes, instructional design, and the role of AI in augmenting human performance. They draw parallels between theater and instructional design, emphasizing the importance of engagement and coaching in facilitating learning. The discussion also touches on the variability of AI and its implications for performance in various fields.Alternate Universe TitlesAll the World’s a Classroom: Theater, AI, and the Art of Learning DesignThe Art of Instructional DesignBridging Theater an...
2026-01-1709 min
GAMELAYER131 ALIVE | False Ending to Season 1 | David KolmerDavid Kolmer records a personal message about the learnings from the process he designed around Gamified Podcast recording at the end of this scheduled time. Little does he know that others from the conference will approach him to record what end up being longer, deeper conversations around Design, Learning, and Play.SCRIPT: All right, so that's about all she wrote. I'm running out of time here. Essentially, the test kitchen for tech learning is about to start and I'm go help Kassy Labore with that. And I believe at this point, that's...
2026-01-1603 min
GAMELAYER130 ALIVE | The Power of Customization in Learning Experiences | Vaughn O'LearySummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer speaks with Vaughan O'Leary from KPMG about the role of gamification in learning and engagement. They discuss how player reactions during testing can indicate successful design, the importance of customization in learning experiences, and the benefits of community involvement through tournaments. Vaughan shares insights on how to implement gamification strategies effectively, even without digital solutions, to enhance team engagement and learning outcomes.TakeawaysEngagement can be measured through player reactions during testing.Customization allows learners to take ownership of their experience.
2026-01-1505 min
GAMELAYER129 ALIVE | The "F" WORD | Betty DannewitzSummaryIn this engaging conversation, David Kolmer interviews Betty Danowitz, a learning solutions architect and podcaster, who drops the "F" bomb. They discuss the role of FUN in the workplace 🫢, the importance of treating design as a practice rather than a checklist, and how shared experiences can enhance team collaboration. Betty also shares insights about her upcoming sessions at TechLearn, including topics on podcasting and the impact of technology on imposter syndrome.TakeawaysOrganizations often view design as a checklist rather than a practice.Fun in the workplace is...
2026-01-1410 min
GAMELAYER128 ALIVE | Navigating the Future of Building and Design with AI | Christian GossanSummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer interviews Christian Gossan from Sharpen Advisory, discussing the evolving landscape of building and design in the context of AI. They explore the shifting roles in digital project development, the importance of quality assurance, and the necessity of risk management in digital projects. Christian emphasizes the need for a solid architectural foundation in AI applications and shares insights on how to effectively harvest ideas from conferences. The discussion also touches on the role of play in our lives and how different motivations drive our engagement with games....
2026-01-1311 min
GAMELAYER127 ALIVE | The Power of Constraints in Music | Ashlin ParkerSummaryIn this conversation, Ashlin Parker, a trumpet player and educator, discusses the creative process, the importance of constraints in fostering creativity, and the significance of mentorship in music education. He shares insights on building a community of musicians through the 'trumpet mafia' and emphasizes the value of experience for aspiring musicians. The conversation concludes with light-hearted remarks about food and the interview process.TakeawaysTeaching a course in creative processing.Virgil Abloh's influence on design thinking.Constraints can enhance creativity.Smaller ideas can...
2026-01-1207 min
GAMELAYER126 ALIVE | Consent and Autonomy: The Ethical Dilemmas in Game-Based Learning | Frank ParkerSummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer and Frank Parker discuss the ethical implications of game learning, focusing on player autonomy and the importance of consent. They explore the boundaries of player manipulation and the necessity of inviting players to engage freely in the gaming experience. The discussion emphasizes the need for ethical practices in game design, particularly in educational contexts, and the significance of checking in with learners to ensure their comfort and willingness to participate.TakeawaysThe dominant side of Frank is science and logic.Ethical dilemmas...
2026-01-1106 min
GAMELAYER125 ALIVE | Breaking Boundaries: The Art of Creative Design | Phil CowcillSummaryIn this conversation, Phil Cowcill shares insights from his 42 years in the field of design, focusing on the creative process and how constraints can lead to innovative solutions. He discusses the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges and emphasizes the value of exploring bad ideas to spark creativity. Phil also reflects on his journey from Canada to the conference, highlighting the significance of reflection in the creative process.TakeawaysCreativity often thrives in constraints. Finding creative ways to engage learners is essential. Design trade-offs can...
2026-01-1005 min
GAMELAYER124 ALIVE | Navigating Life with Intuition and Logic | Mosam AminSummaryIn this conversation, Mosam Amin, a pharmacist, discusses the interplay between intuition and logic in decision-making, using personal experiences and analogies. He explores the concept of life through the lens of a video game, emphasizing the soul's journey and the impermanence of the physical body. Mumin also delves into the significance of intentions behind actions, particularly in the context of karma and learning, advocating for a focus on personal growth rather than competition.TakeawaysI take both logic and intuition are in play.Intuition is more of...
2026-01-0911 min
GAMELAYER123 ALIVE | Unlocking Creativity in Game Design | Jazmin WebsterSummaryIn this conversation, Jazmin Webster discusses the importance of the creative process in game design, emphasizing the need to understand audience motivation. She shares insights on how designers can enhance their creativity by exploring games outside their comfort zone and incorporating audience feedback into their design process. The discussion highlights the significance of game-learning and the role of fun in engaging learners effectively.TakeawaysThe creative process is essential in game design.Understanding audience motivation influences design decisions.Designers should explore games outside their preferences.
2026-01-0805 min
GAMELAYER122 ALIVE | Transforming Education through Game Mechanics | Aaron HuffmanSummaryIn this conversation, Aaron Huffman discusses his journey in the creative process of learning design, focusing on the importance of gamification in making learning more engaging. He shares insights from his experiences in both small tech companies and corporate environments, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to traditional learning methods. Huffman also provides practical advice for educators looking to implement game mechanics in their teaching.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Creative Learning and Design02:48 Transforming Compliance Training through Gamification05:06 Practical Tips for Implementing Storyline in Learning
2026-01-0708 min
GAMELAYER121 ALIVE | Navigating the Mystic Maze of Perpetual Learning | Sherry PrindleKeywordslearning, training, biases, engagement, content, context, rituals, coaching, development, educationSummaryIn this conversation, Sherry Prindle discusses her extensive experience in the training world, emphasizing the importance of understanding the context and content of learning. She highlights the role of biases and beliefs in shaping the learning experience and advocates for engaging learners by taking on their perspective. The discussion also touches on the mystical journey of learning, where various components must be navigated to achieve growth and understanding.https://sherryprindle.com/
2026-01-0606 min
GAMELAYER120 ALIVE | The Role of Mindfulness in Cybersecurity | Rebecca ArnnettKeywordscybersecurity, behavior change, mindfulness, learning and development, playtesting, human behavior, email security, awareness training, personal security, team ritualsSummaryIn this conversation, David Kolmer discusses the intersection of cybersecurity and human behavior, emphasizing the importance of playtesting and understanding user experiences. He highlights the need for behavior change in cybersecurity practices, advocating for mindfulness as a tool to enhance awareness and decision-making. Kolmer also calls for more professionals in cybersecurity to engage in learning and development to better teach and influence positive behaviors.Chapters
2026-01-0506 min
GAMELAYER119 ALIVE | Unlocking Creativity in Instructional Design | Shawna StushnoffSummaryIn this conversation, Shona Sushnoff discusses the importance of the creative process in instructional design, particularly in the context of game-enhanced learning. She emphasizes the role of instructional designers in engaging learners and the need for innovative approaches in education. The discussion also covers practical strategies for enhancing engagement and the importance of collaboration among educators.TakeawaysThe creative process is essential for instructional designers.Instructional designers should leverage cognitive learning science.Engagement is key to effective learning experiences.Professors...
2026-01-0405 min
GAMELAYER118 ALIVE | No Time for Creativity | Mike MowadSummaryIn this conversation, Mike Moad, the manager of documentation and training at Docuvera, discusses the complexities of managing e-learning and training for pharmaceutical software. He highlights the challenges of customizing training for different software releases and the design choices made to enhance user engagement. The conversation also touches on the balance between creativity and time constraints in developing effective learning modules.Keywords: Docuvera, Learning Management System, e-learning, software training, instructional design, user engagement, training customization, pharmaceutical training, design choices, learning pathsChapters00:00Introduction to Docuvera and Learning Management Systems
2026-01-0306 min
GAMELAYER117 ALIVE | Navigating the Paradox of Data and Belief | Carriann LaneSUMMARYIn this conversation, Carrie Anne Lane discusses thecomplexities of reconciling personal beliefs with data-driven insights. She shares her experiences with neurodiversity in her family and how empirical evidence often challenges her initial perceptions. The dialogue transitions into the importance of integrating data into design processes, emphasizing the need for understanding user experiences through data. Carrie also suggests practical rituals for teams to adopt in order to foster a data-driven culture.GAMELAYER Alive Gameified Podcast Creation. Recorded live on site at GAMICON 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. This is a mini-series that highlights...
2026-01-0206 min
GAMELAYER116 ALIVE | Breaking Barriers: Access in Gaming Technology | Jonathan Peters PhDSUMMARYIn this conversation, Jonathan Peters, PhD discusses the future of gaming, focusing on the importance of understanding player archetypes, the barriers to access in gaming technology, and the implications for game design with David Kolmer. The dialogue emphasizes the need for inclusivity in gaming experiences and the challenges faced by new players in adapting to advanced gaming technologies.GAMELAYER ALIVE: Gamified Podcast Creation. Recorded live on site at GAMICON 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. This is a mini-series that highlights experts in the field of game learning, simple practitioners, and even those who are just...
2026-01-0105 min
GAMELAYER115 ALIVE | Tech Test @GAMICON2025 | David Kolmer M.S.GAMELAYER Alive is a gameified process of podcast creation. Recorded live on site at GAMICON 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. This is a mini-series that highlights experts in the field of game learning, simple practitioners, and even those who are just curious, who happen to be at the conference. These high signal micro-episodes will be released daily, January 2026.This miniseries itself is organized through a card game that promotes conversations through self-hugging. Self-hugging is the aspect or tendency of a designer to create learning environments or artifacts that they themselves would enjoy consuming. This is...
2025-12-3102 min
GAMELAYER114 - Process Facilitation, but Can We Make it Fun!? Linmin (Michelle) ZhangProcess Facilitation – Can we Make it Fun?In this engaging conversation, Michelle Zhang and David Kolmer explore the nuances of process facilitation, contrasting it with content facilitation. Michelle shares her journey from a project manager to a facilitator, emphasizing the importance of letting go of control and embracing flexibility. They discuss the role of games in learning, particularly focusing on a game called 'Chasing the Chair,' which Michelle uses to teach collaboration and communication. The conversation also delves into cultural narratives, with Michelle reflecting on the Monkey King story and its relevance to le...
2025-12-0456 minGAMELAYER113 THE GAME - IX - RABBITS SE1🎃Happy Halloween🎃...Here is #13! 🚪THE DOOR IS OPEN 🚪Episode 13 examines an ARG (Alternate Reality Game) proposed by a podcast, ‘Rabbits’, which is part of a largeruniverse created by Terry Miles. This universe also includes other podcasts: ‘TANIS” (not Tennis), ‘The Black Tapes,’ and The Last Movie.The discussion delves into the mysterious and otherworldlynature of “THE GAME”, its connection to the proposed Multiverse, and the concept of free will. The conversation also touches on the use of technology, such as altered legacy video game cabinets, interconnected telephone systems,enchanting looping videos, and other impossible artifacts, demonstrating travel through alt...
2025-11-021h 19GAMELAYER113 THE GAME - IX - RABBITS SE1🎃Happy Halloween🎃 ...Here is #13! 🚪THE DOOR IS OPEN 🚪Episode 13 examines an ARG (Alternate Reality Game) proposed by a podcast, ‘Rabbits’, which is part of a larger universe created by Terry Miles. This universe also includes other podcasts: ‘TANIS” (not Tennis), ‘The Black Tapes,’ and The Last Movie.The discussion delves into the mysterious and otherworldly nature of “THE GAME”, its connection to the proposed Multiverse, and the concept of free will. The conversation also touches on the use of technology, such as altered legacy video game cabinets, interconnected telephone systems, enchanting looping videos, and other impossible artifacts, demonstrat...
2025-10-311h 19GAMELAYER112 ART as Nourishment for the Soul - Caleb WillitzThis discussion also explores the concepts of play and creativity, the role of nourishment in work, and the balance between technique and artistic freedom. In this engaging conversation, David Kolmer interviews his old friend Caleb Willitz, exploring Caleb’s journey from a music student to a recording engineer and artist. They discuss Caleb’s transition from classical music to exploring various instruments and his passion for helping young artists in Chicago.OUTLINE00:00 Welcome and Studio Tour04:04 Musical Background and Evolution07:12 Exploring Player Taxonomy11:43 The Role of Technique in Art
2025-10-181h 07GAMELAYER111 Queen of Cast - Betty DannewitzKeywordspodcasting, learning and development, gamification, augmented reality, storytelling, social connections, personal growth, fictional podcasts, community, engagement SummaryIn this engaging conversation, David Kolmer and Betty Dannewitz explore the themes of purpose, podcasting, and the intersection of games, play, and learning. Betty shares her journey of discovering her glorious purpose in helping others and how it led her to podcasting. They discuss the importance of social connections, the role of augmented reality in learning, and the impact of fictional podcasts on storytelling. The conversation also delves into the mechanics of games a...
2025-08-2955 minGAMELAYER110 A Quest For Results - Monica CornettiMonica Cornetti shares her insights on game-enhancedlearning, emphasizing the role of activities and the importance of embracing failure as a learning tool. Description: In this engaging conversation, MonicaCornetti and David Kolmer explore the intricacies of game-enhanced learning, the importance of failure in education, and the personal journey of Monica from being an "activity goddess" to a globally ranked Gamification Master Craftswoman to owning the Sententia brand, which focused on training Learning and Development professionals on gamifying learning content. They discuss various aspects of gamification, including misconceptions, the role of activities in learning, and the balance be...
2025-08-1657 minGAMELAYER109 The Learning Stage - Kassy LaBorieIn this conversation, Kassy LaBorie discusses her transition from virtual training guru to keynote speaking, emphasizing the importance of engagement, performance, and the role of play in learning. She shares insights on instructional design, personal growth, and creating safe environments for exploration. The discussion highlights innovative activities that enhance learner engagement and the significance of offering perspectives rather than directives in keynote speaking. Sound bites"Engagement is foundational to effective learning experiences.""Unlearning old perspectives is crucial for personal growth.""Keynote speaking can be an offering rather than a d...
2025-07-2538 minGAMELAYER108 From XP to UX – Brett WardleIn this episode of Gamelayer, we delve into the intersection of game design, user experience, and product development with special guest Brett Wardle. From his roots in gaming to his current work at the intersection of UX and gamification, Brett shares his unique journey and insights.We explore what makes games engaging, how game mechanics translate to product design, and why humility and continuous learning are crucial in any creative field. Along the way, we discuss the evolution of gaming platforms, the power of the modding community, and how games like Minecraft are shaping not just entertainment bu...
2025-07-041h 09GAMELAYER107 Aesthetics & Dying Well | Benjamin GardnerThis episode explores the intersection of creativity and mortality. Ben Gardner discusses his artistic journey, the philosophy of aesthetics, and the value of embracing slow, intentional living through play and self-reflection.Benjamin Gardner is an artist with a unique vision of what success looks like. Go slow, do less, and focus on quality, not quantity. His work resembles vibrant medieval manuscripts of secret rites long forgotten from times before written language had fully formed. www.benjaminagardner.com His message is to slow down, turn off your electronics, and embrace silence, the haunting beauty of...
2025-06-061h 02GAMELAYER106 Of Cards and Stars | Jazmin WebsterIn episode 6, Jazmin Webster takes listeners on a captivating journey through gamification, spirituality, and personal growth. The conversation opens with Jazmin’s introduction and her unique path into gamification, quickly segueing into the intriguing intersections between fortune telling, spirituality, and the cultural significance of playing cards. As Jazmin unpacks the symbolism behind different cards and spreads, she shares personal stories and insights, revealing how these ancient tools can illuminate our life paths and personal development journeys. Listeners are treated to a deep dive into specific card meanings as related to the life of the host, David Kolmer, suc...
2025-05-301h 17GAMELAYER105 Job Search Joy | Jade ArthurJade Arthur is an educator who uses fun and games to level up her learners. Listen in as she shares how she uses joy to sweeten the job search, games to take the bite out of learning, and Pokémon to enrich her life. Jade runs "Make the Grade,” a gamer's one-stop shop for job search coaching, English instruction, and self-paced digital courses.Episode Chapters0:00 Introduction to Jade Arthur and Her Interests02:54 Exploring Language Education and Teaching Philosophy05:54 Gamification in Language Learning09:05 Finding Joy in Job Sea...
2025-05-2333 minGAMELAYER104 Gamifying the Job Hunt | Dellyn LeeIn this episode, Dellyn Lee digs into his process of gamifying the process of looking for employment. He shares personal stories around his “trifecta” of experience after getting gut-punched on Halloween and getting laid off. Then goes on to share that this was one of the best experiences he has had because it opened his mind to existing paths he never would have considered or even noticed. This led Lee down the path to volunteering for programs led by Amir Satvat, and Games for Love.👤 Dellyn Lee is a founder and CEO who focuses on helping job seekers...
2025-05-0935 minGAMELAYER103 Leveling Up Business Strategy with Gamification | Caitlin JohnsonCaitlin Johnson, a seasoned gamification consultant and performance coach, dives deep into the art of gamifying business strategies. In this episode, she shares her journey from overcoming personal challenges to founding Bold Bird Consulting. Explore how she designs projects, aligns client needs, and integrates game mechanics into corporate strategy. Caitlin also discusses her vision for the future and the transformative power of gamification in personal and professional growth. Whether in Learning and Development, as a leader, or even as an entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you turn challenges into epic quests.This...
2025-04-0352 minGAMELAYER102 Motivation | Jonathan Peters PhDListen in as Jonathan Peters PhD, illuminates Johan Huizinga's "The Circle of Play," connecting magic 🔮 with science 🧪 on GAMELAYER.fm 🎲 David Kolmer takes the liberty of connecting Dr. Peters insights to his own experience training and working in the theatre world. Gamemaster Kolmer layers on the ideas of "the given circumstances" and the "Magic WHAT IF," as a means to pave forward into the domain of play. Steven Reiss pioneered research into human motivation, culminating in the creation of the Reiss Motivation Profile (RMP), which is widely used by organizations to understand individual motives and improve engagement through tools like the...
2025-03-2957 minGAMELAYER101 Games of My Own Invention | Paul SmithWelcome to the first episode of GAMELAYER. Paul Smith is from Edinburgh, Scotland, and resides in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. In this episode, Paul and David Kolmer discuss a case study of a project he designed for AtkinsRéalis in Montreal, QC. There is also discussion around Chess, original games, Gamification, teaching ESL (English as a Second Language), representation of gender, age, race, religion, ethnicity, and potential complications related to these topics. GAMELAYER RADIO is found wherever you get your podcasts.Transcripts and swag coming soon at Gamelayer.fmTheme Music by Calbe Willitz. c...
2025-03-2555 minGAMELAYER000 Welcome to [({GAMELAYER.fm })]Welcome to GAMELAYER RADIO where we discuss the science of play and the quest of learning. Join David Kolmer as he guides you through engaging discussions and inspiring stories, reminding you to stay present and never postpone joy. Subscribe now and explore the transcendental potential of play in your life.Transcripts and more available at GAMELAYER.FMTheme Music by: Caleb Willitz https://calebwillitz.com/Created, Performed, Edited, and Produced by David Kolmer https://davidkolmer.com/Artwork by David Kolmer
2025-03-2001 min
ifyouaskbetty10 I'm Just Ken! Lessons Learned from the Barbie MovieListen in as I chat with L&D powerhouses - ✨Kassy LaBorie, David Kolmer, Robin Sargent, Russell Sweep, and April Hennessey about what we thought about and learned from the Barbie Movie.
Everyone has great thoughts and feelings about the movie - not all in favor. We even get some juicy contrarian views and find insights and connections between what we do every day in L&D and the lessons put forth in the Barbie movie.
2024-07-171h 07