Shows
Unwritten Earths SymposiumThe TBR Pile EpisodeIn this episode we tackle our to-be-read piles of recent game acquisitions for our homework, highlighting more recent work that we've both been digging and finding some common themes across different genres and types of game. We then talk about "instructional" and "non-instructional" text in games, what that divide even means, and pursue some questions that that brings up for our own work.
Show Notes:
Check out the Adventure & Hobbyist Annual 2025
The latest Possible Worlds Games Kickstarter funding 3 new games runs through Friday, 9/26
Games Mentioned:
Knight Forlorn (Blackfisk Publishing)
Usagi Yojimbo (2nd Edition) (Sanguine...
2025-09-171h 03
The IJGlobal PodcastInfra Dig – The PIDG InterviewThis latest episode of the IJGlobal podcast – Infra Dig – sees the spotlight turn on infrastructure and energy investments across Africa and Asia Pacific. IJGlobal editorial director Angus Leslie Melville sits down with Philippe Valahu – chief executive of Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) – for a tell-all interview on the investment environment. Philippe takes the listener through the reality of investing across African and APAC infra/energy where there’s an historically lower default rate than in many developed market regions… and a considerably lower default rate than other emerging market regions. He explains why sponsors should ha...
2025-04-2215 min
Blended Knowledge by GuarantCoMobilising capital for ESG projects through certified green bondsGreen bonds are one of the most attractive investment vehicles when it comes to sustainability, accounting for 54 percent of total sustainable issuances. So what makes them so effective, and why are they so suited for mobilising capital for environmental projects at scale?In this episode we learn how green bonds diversify the investor base and contribute to a broader shift towards ESG goals. We learn about a number of GuarantCo’s green bond transactions that have made significant contributions to markets in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Cambodia. And we find out how PIDG Technical Assistance plays a critical ro...
2024-07-2228 min
Hearts On Fire PodcastHoF #5: Ethan Pidgeon — Graphic Design, Mastery, & FulfillmentEthan Pidgeon is an incredible graphic designer. He has a unique origin story and is someone who continually chips away at mastery in design every day. He focuses on his craft persistently and has interesting perspectives and insights as a result.
In this episode, we dive into:
The love of progress with your craft
Fulfillment from contribution
Finding ideas rather than coming up with ideas
The crux of what makes good design
Intuition through experience
Working for an industry leader in design
... and more
❤️🔥
Check out Ethan’s work here:
https://www.instagram.com/pidg.design/https...
2024-05-161h 18
The IJGlobal PodcastAfrica Uncovered – Roland Janssens, EAIFThis latest IJGlobal podcast revives the “uncovered” series that delves into bigger picture market intelligence for infrastructure and energy.The focus of this podcast turns to Africa and sees IJGlobal content director Angus Leslie Melville sit down for a chat with Roland Janssens – managing director of the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EIF).The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund was established as the first company within the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), a multi-donor organisation with members from 7 countries and World Bank Group.EIF is managed by Ninety One, and it provides long-term debt to delive...
2024-05-0329 min
PIDG Pulse#12 IWD Special: The PIDG Gender Equity Diversity and Inclusion initiativeA year on from our last International Women’s Day conversation about gender lens investing, much has been done to advance the agenda. PIDG’s own efforts have evolved, leading to the creation of the PIDG Gender Equity Diversity and Inclusion initiative, GEDI.In this episode we learn about the three main pillars of the GEDI, and how PIDG is broadening its mandate, redefining what it means to be inclusive. We learn about the projects that demonstrate PIDG’s commitment to the GEDI, including a look at its work with Acorn Student housing in Kenya. And we learn...
2023-03-0826 min
PIDG Pulse#11 Investing in Biodiversity and NatureMany know about the climate crisis, but what’s often less covered is the biodiversity crisis. But the two crises are intimately linked, and it’s critical that both are considered in our approach to investing in infrastructure. With the biodiversity conference COP15 underway we’re finding out how and why we need to take action to halt and reverse nature loss.In this episode we find out why a ‘do no harm’ approach is no longer enough - and why our infrastructure projects must actively improve the natural environment. We find out what to expect from the Post-2...
2022-12-1410 min
PIDG Pulse#10 PIDG at COP27With the COP27 climate conference in Egypt now at a close, the PIDG team has been reflecting on the outcomes. With the focus firmly on climate adaptation and resilience, rather than emissions reductions, we ask - are our climate goals ambitious enough? Many of the countries in which PIDG operates are the most vulnerable to climate change, and that’s why it's working hard across its portfolio to invest in sustainable infrastructure. In this episode we explore PIDG’s role in providing infrastructure that creates a better future for people and planet, we find out how African capit...
2022-12-0230 min
India Speak: The CPR PodcastEpisode 38: Road to COP27: What's at Stake?In the third episode of Road to COP27, a special series as part of India Speak: The CPR Podcast, Navroz K. Dubash speaks to Rachel Kyte, Dean of The Fletcher School at Tufts University on the geopolitical context for COP27 and its implications. This series will bring leading experts in the lead up to Conference of the Parties (COP) 27, being held from 6-18 November 2022 at Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. They discuss the Inflation Reduction Act, the new climate legislation passed by the United States, and what it could mean for climate diplomacy. The episode also explores questions on climate finance, whether...
2022-11-021h 02
PIDG Pulse#9 PIDG 2021 Annual Review: Empowering womenAs we reflect on 2021, we see that despite the pandemic-induced challenges of the last two years, amazing developments have been made in providing infrastructure to those who need it most. In this current global climate, PIDG’s mission is more relevant today than when it was first established. And with 19 projects closed last year, and a continued commitment to the SDGs, progress is not slowing down.In this episode we highlight one aspect of this work - the advancement of gender equality - and how a commitment to SDG5 can improve lives. As part of PIDG’s ge...
2022-07-2211 min
PIDG Pulse#8 An introduction to PIDG Technical AssistanceMany ‘first of its kind’ projects can’t get off the ground, despite their potential to create real impact. Particularly in low and middle income settings, infrastructure projects facing unusually high development costs may not be deemed financially viable. And that’s where PIDG Technical Assistance comes in, to bridge the financing gap and meet a range of needs associated with the infrastructure project development cycle. In this episode members of the PIDG TA team explain why technical assistance is needed and how it works both on the government and project side. And they explore three projects...
2022-04-2021 min
Social Impact PioneersPeter Hall, Race to ResilienceWhat does climate resilience mean and why does it need to be a vital part of business and community activities as we get ready for the full impacts of climate change?
Meet Peter Hall. He is the Vice President & Global Director for Climate Resilience & ESG at Woodplc. Peter is a specialist in all things resilience. Whether building climate resilient cities; homes; and infrastructure; or investing in climate resilience and developing frameworks to help navigate resilient actions.
During our conversation Peter will reveal why we need to join his mission to shift infrastructure to be climate resilient whilst creating opportunities and...
2021-12-3021 min
ART ROUTE RadioBrushstrokes of Community with Guest Artist Val Trevis E015
In this episode of AR:T ROUTE Radio Loughery hopes to share the importance of the connections we make and the words we write. Placing intention and collaboration in a place that supports it, by keeping a creative life.
Michelle and her guest Artist/Writer Val Trevis talk volunteering, community and living artful lives. An inspiring conversation of women who have worked in the same community for years, and both look at community as an opportunity to create legacies and the importance of art in life’s healing journeys.
An authentic look at life and death in the painting of words...
2021-12-1140 min
Blended Knowledge by GuarantCoCapacity building to bridge the infrastructure funding gap in AfricaAccording to the Africa Development Bank, Africa’s infrastructure requirements range between USD 130 and USD 170 billion with an infrastructure funding gap of USD 68 to USD 108 billion. These figures demonstrate the critical need to provide essential infrastructure to local people to ensure long-term economic growth. At the core of this issue is the lack of technical capabilities which GuarantCo, supported by PIDG Technical Assistance funding, is addressing by organising capacity building workshops across Africa. In this episode we hear from stakeholders, partners and participants of the events who explore the transformational impact of capacity building. Contributing to the...
2021-12-0913 min
PIDG Pulse#7 Our Climate FutureAs governments come under fire over a lack of action on climate change, it’s becoming increasingly clear that words are not enough. At PIDG we take our role in climate action seriously - it’s a major consideration in every single investment and operation decision we make. Lower income countries, those that PIDG operates in, may produce the least carbon emissions, but they’re the hardest hit by climate change. So how do we ensure investment is directed where it’s needed most? In this special episode we hear from climate change expert Rachel Kyte, committee member for PIDG, Dean of...
2021-10-2921 min
Invest Africa InsightsInvesting in Climate Resilience in Africa with Marco Serena, Head of Sustainable Development Impact, Private Infrastructure Development GroupOn Invest Africa Insights we spoke to Marco Serena, Head of Sustainable Development Impact at the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) about investing in climate resilient infrastructure in Africa. The Continent faces the triple challenge of meeting its socio-economic development goals, building climate resilience and responding to the challenge of Covid-19. Infrastructure sits at the heart of these challenges and it is essential that the Continent is not locked in to high emissions model.
For more information about PIDG: www.pidg.org
For more information about the PIDG Climate Strategy: https://www.pidg.org/wp-content...
2021-10-2934 min
Blended Knowledge by GuarantCoGreen Capital Market Capability Building in VietnamThe need for sustainable infrastructure in Vietnam is rapidly growing. Whilst the conditions are ripe for the growth of green and climate instruments in the country, local stakeholders continue to have reservations about its necessity. In July 2021, GuarantCo, through the PIDG Institute, organised a two-day virtual Vietnam green capital market capability building event, funded by PIDG TA and facilitated by Climate Bonds Initiative to address the concerns and demystify this new proposition.Contributing to the podcast areNishant Kumar, MD Asia at GuarantCoJoywin Mathew, Partner Capital Markets and Structured Investments at DLA PiperMarika Stocker, Senior Manage...
2021-08-3122 min
PIDG Pulse#6 Kenya Capital MarketsKenya is a crucible of innovation within East Africa. PIDG companies have been based in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, for more than five years, and are helping to pioneer new infrastructure asset classes and private sector investment opportunities. In this episode we discuss Kenya’s clear commitment to embracing change, we explore key projects PIDG has enabled, including the Acorn Affordable Student Accommodation and Kenya credit enhancement facility, and we highlight the opportunities presented by Kenya’s new strategic partnership with the UK. On the show are Sarah Siliya from GuarantCo, Gbemi Adeniyi-Williams from InfraCo Africa, Jasper Onyango from PIDG Techni...
2021-08-1619 min
CD Insights#1 Capital Mobilisation Through Local Currency GuaranteesLocal currency guarantees are a game-changer - they offer a way of bridging the massive infrastructure funding gap in Sub-Saharan Africa and they put control back in the hands of the local business ecosystem. As the capacity of local markets grows, they are increasingly becoming part of the solution. But there are still barriers that need addressing, like credit risk, high interest rates and investor confidence. In this episode we explore how Cardano Development is teaming up with other industry experts to push through those barriers, transforming the financial markets of frontier economies. On the line up we have: Joost...
2021-07-1732 min
KoosmineInfraCo Africa partners with Cardano DevelopmentThis episode is also available as a blog post: https://koosmine.medium.com/infraco-africa-a-subsidiary-of-the-private-infrastructure-creation-group-pidg-has-signed-a-9b9cf76f9688
2021-07-0403 min
Blended Knowledge by GuarantCoGrant funding to Acre Impact CapitalWhen GuarantCo can't directly fill a gap in an emerging market, it teams up with PIDG Technical Assistance to provide a grant to a company that can. By bridging these gaps and supporting new local champions, grant funding makes a real, tangible difference to people's lives, and helps to improve essential infrastructure in lower income countries in Africa. A powerful example showcasing the impact of grant funding is GuarantCo’s and PIDG TA’s new partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation, who have teamed up to provide funding to Acre Impact Capital. This podcast includes contributions fromAn...
2021-06-2110 min
PIDG Pulse#5 PIDG Annual Review2020 was a year like no other, one which could only be navigated with fortitude and quick action. As PIDG launches its annual review, it’s clear that amid this pandemic the company’s work in providing infrastructure to the world’s most fragile communities has never been more critical. In this episode we reflect on everything from the company’s pandemic response, to sustainable development, safeguarding and future challenges. Sharing their views on this special edition of the podcast are the Chair of PIDG, Andy Bainbridge, and the CEO Philippe Valahu. They explore the many ways PIDG has continued to innovate...
2021-06-0919 min
PIDG Pulse#4 Health, Safety, Environmental and SocialTo deliver meaningful change and improve the lives of people in fragile communities, we must protect those lives as well. One loss of life is unacceptable. This World Day for Safety and Health at Work, we explain why an effective HSES framework is an essential part of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects. With the advent of the global covid-19 pandemic, the world is waking up to the importance of HSES now more than ever, and PIDG is continuously enhancing its protocols to keep pace. In this episode we explore PIDG’s 5 HSES policies, learn about the company’s strategic priorities, and find...
2021-04-2816 min
PIDG Pulse#3 Gender Lens InvestingGender-blind infrastructure projects lead to massive failings across the board, creating problems that last for decades. Ignoring the needs and expertise of women not only puts them at risk, it also puts a strain on business performance. That’s where gender lens investing comes in. The practise is gaining momentum across the globe and showcases the strong business case for gender equality, celebrating the power of female leadership, whilst highlighting issues that affect women and girls around the world, like gender-based violence and harassment. In this episode find out how gender equity is vital in addressing both the climate crisis an...
2021-03-1019 min
PIDG Pulse#2 Climate ActionInfrastructure projects have a long life cycle, so the choices we make today directly impact our future. So as the whole world strives to hit net zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement, it’s vital that the long-term implications of infrastructure investments are addressed. In this episode we learn about the five dimensions that inform the PIDG approach to climate action, we explore issues of transport, gender and population growth, and we find out how PIDG is demonstrating its commitment to a greener future. On the show are Marco Serena, head of development impact at PIDG, and Em...
2021-03-0314 min
PIDG Pulse#1 Introduction to PIDGThrough affordable and sustainable infrastructure projects, the Private Infrastructure Development Group has opened up vast opportunities for economic growth in some of the world’s poorest countries, changing the lives of millions. Leading the way in conscious investment, PIDG works to serve the communities of Sub-Saharan Africa and South and Southeast Asia. Over the course of this podcast series we’ll be examining its groundbreaking work in areas including gender diversity, health and safety, and renewable energy. In this episode we meet the CEO of PIDG, Philippe Valahu, who gives us an introduction to the company, exploring the scale of the...
2021-02-1108 min
Invest Africa InsightsAfrica's Infrastructure Funding Paradox with Philippe Valahu, CEO, PIDGThis week on Invest Africa Insights we spoke to Philippe Valahu, CEO of PIDG about his view of the appetite for African infrastructure investment in global markets and how to best leverage blended financing solutions to build a more robust pipeline of bankable projects for private sector players.
For more information about PIDG: https://www.pidg.org/
For more information about The Africa Debate: https://theafricadebate.com/
For more information about Invest Africa: www.investafrica.com
2020-10-0730 min
THE MINI RADIO PODCAST WITH TINUADEPIDG-EN. Pidgin or English. How would you rather tell it?PIDG-EN. Pidgin or English, which language makes your story sound more funny and interesting? Or would you rather not choose and let the environment decide?
2020-07-1704 minInvest Africa InsightsFood Security in Africa: Scaling up in the time of COVID-19According to the World Economic Forum, the COVID-19 pandemic could lead to upwards of 265 million people globally at risk of starvation. Listen to Invest Africa Ltd's panel of experts as they discuss the future of food security in Africa in light of the COVID-19 crisis, how the pandemic will create the catalyst to implement new innovative solutions and what roles DFIs and multi-laterals will play in facilitating those investment solutions?
Thank you to Simon Buchler, Senior Associate, BCLP for chairing the panel and to our speakers: Peter Njonjo, CEO & Co-Founder, Twiga Foods, Marco Serena, Head of Development...
2020-05-1259 min
The African Business PodcastSustainable Investing with the Private Infrastructure Development Group Podcast host Desne Masie speaks to group publisher, Omar Ben Yedder back from his travels on the African continent and beyond. Omar has over the past month been to several high level conference and working groups, including World Economic Forum Davos 2020 in Switzerland, The 33rd AU Summit in Addis Ababa and the Intra-African Trade Fair pre-meetings in Kigali. We discuss whether Davos is still fit for purpose and the AU's plans for increasing peace and security in Africa through the Silencing the Guns initiative, focused on the Sahel and West Africa. Our special guest is Philippe Valahu, the CEO of the P...
2020-03-0251 min
The African Business PodcastInsurance trends in Africa with African Risk Capacity LimitedIn this episode, Editor of African Business Magazine, David Thomas, and podcast host, Desne Masie, discuss the response to the Corona Virus in Africa, the recent plague of locust in East Africa and other effects of climate change in Africa. We also consider if South African Airways should be wound up given its neverending financial troubles. In the diary we look ahead to the sustainable investment forum with Invest Africa and the Private Infrastructure Development Group on 11 February in the City of London. Our special guest this week is the CEO-designate for African Risk Capacity...
2020-02-1046 min