Better Games, Better Gamers

#9: Skyler Scarlett (GameClass)

Skyler Scarlett is the founder of GameClass, an education technology platform that turns popular games and media into interactive classroom experiences. His work helps students engage with learning in ways that feel familiar, fun, and meaningful. In this episode, Skyler shares his journey from gaming enthusiast to Shark Tank contestant to edtech entrepreneur. We explore how GameClass transforms media into educational content, the rise of game-based learning, and the opportunities for media brands to make a real impact in the classroom. We discuss: * Finding Educational Value in Games & Popular Media * Digital Literacy and the Role of Technology * Challenges and opportunities in edtech for media brands * The Rise of User-Generated Content in Gaming * Understanding Gamification vs. Game-Based Learning GameClass Official Website: https://www.gameclass.net [https://gameclass.net] Skylar Scarlett on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/skylar-scarlett [https://www.linkedin.com/in/skylar-scarlett]

#8: Fay Lee (Far Out Solutions)

Fay Lee is the founder of Far Out Solutions, a creative tech studio based in Malaysia that blends immersive storytelling and interactive design with emerging tech to craft impact-driven experiences. Their work explores how extended reality and emotional UX can highlight cultural heritage, build community, and make education more engaging. In this episode, Fay shares her journey from advertising and film to founding her own design agency. We discuss the importance of empathy in the design process, and how effective UX blends analytics with creative storytelling. Episode Chapters: * Career Journey: from Film & Advertising to XR Design * Becoming a Founder with Far Out Solutions * Designing Emotional Experiences & Impact-Driven Campaigns * Balancing Emerging Tech with Creative Expression * Partnership with the Malaysian Digital Economic Corporation (MDEC) * Future of XR & Interactive Design * Cultural Awareness & Expression * XR Women & Diversity in Tech Learn more about Far Out Solutions & follow their work: Website: https://www.farout.asia [https://www.farout.asia] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faroutsolutions [https://www.instagram.com/faroutsolutions] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/far-out-solutions [https://www.linkedin.com/company/far-out-solutions]

#7: Stephen Machuga (Stack Up)

Captain Stephen Machuga is the founder and CEO of Stack Up, a non-profit organization that supports veterans' mental health by bringing people together around a shared love of gaming. In this episode, we explore the therapeutic power of gaming for veterans transitioning back to civilian life, and the meandering path that eventually led him to create a nonprofit. Stephen also discusses Stack Up's charity programs, including recreational supply crates for soldiers, peer support groups, suicide prevention teams, and their Los Angeles headquarters that serves as a community center for veterans. The conversation touches on the many challenges of leading a veteran-focused nonprofit, and the importance of providing safe spaces for authentic conversation in our increasingly difficult world. For more information on Stack Up, visit their website at: www.stackup.org [https://www.stackup.org/] or on social media: Discord [https://discord.gg/StackUpDotOrg], BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/stackup.org], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQpg1uZs3NqPiJBKxLW127Q], or Twitch. [https://twitch.tv/stackupdotorg] ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest. ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieljlipson] Twitter/X: @danjlipson [https://twitter.com/danjlipson] Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com [https://www.bettergamesbettergamers.com/episodes] Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS [https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS]

#6: Zachary Rozga (Twin Galaxies)

Zachary Rozga is a Senior Executive at Twin Galaxies, a legendary name in gaming history that built its legacy by recognizing high scores and world records. Today, the organization is evolving into a modern competitive platform where individual achievements across all games can be celebrated, powered by a no-code system that enables creators, developers, and brands to launch their own custom challenges. In this episode, Zachary shares his journey from international development to the gaming industry, highlighting the importance of fair play and the powerful role of community in shaping meaningful brand experiences. We also explore the current state of the industry, including rising development costs, the shift in esports culture, and why now is the moment to create systems that build community, empower audiences, and redefine connection through competitive play. Connect with Zack on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharyrozga [https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharyrozga] For more information on Twin Galaxies, visit their website at: https://www.twingalaxies.com [https://www.twingalaxies.com/] or on social media: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TwinGalaxies], Twitch [http://www.twitch.tv/twingalaxieslive], Twitter [https://x.com/TwinGalaxies]. ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest. ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieljlipson] Twitter/X: @danjlipson [https://twitter.com/danjlipson] Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com [https://www.bettergamesbettergamers.com/episodes] Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS [https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS]

#5: Lyn Dang (Noodle Cat Games)

Lyn Dang is the Senior Social Media & Community Manager at Noodle Cat Games, a remote-first indie studio. Noodle Cat Games was named one of the Top 25 Game Changers of 2025 by Lightspeed, GamesBeat, and Nasdaq, and they recently announced their first title, Cloudheim, a multiplayer action RPG. Lyn has a background in community management for game IPs like Summoners War and Palia, and is passionate about helping the next generation of community managers break into the game industry. In this episode, Lyn shares how she got her start and offers advice for anyone hoping to land their dream job. We also explore the challenges of moderating online communities, from navigating player feedback and crisis moments to fostering positive, welcoming spaces, all while balancing player expectations with the realities of game production. Lyn discusses how studios can create work environments where everyone feels passionate about their work, and how the freedom to experiment with quirky, player-driven campaigns (like a comically oversized in-game plushie) can foster community and turn players into advocates. We also discuss the current state of the gaming industry, including the rising costs of game development and the role of AI in moderation. Connect with Lyn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndang [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndang] Follow her on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/lynlovesgames.bsky.social [https://bsky.app/profile/lynlovesgames.bsky.social] ========== Join us on a challenging quest to discover how we can make the industry a better place for everyone who loves to play. In each episode, we'll speak with industry professionals to learn how we can resolve conflicts and bridge divides between players and game developers. We are always looking for more speakers! Contact us if you're interested in applying to be a guest. ============ LinkedIn: @DanielJLipson [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieljlipson] Twitter/X: @danjlipson [https://twitter.com/danjlipson] Web: bettergamesbettergamers.com [https://www.bettergamesbettergamers.com/episodes] Discord: https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS [https://discord.gg/y2YdjENnPS]