In this episode of Game Jam, Max sits down with Vanessa Lane, founder of BetterPlay Studios, to unpack how cozy games are reshaping the way we think about mental health, emotional regulation, and community connection.

Vanessa brings a rare perspective — part game developer, part educator, and full-time mom — on why play is a vital part of adult well-being, how BetterPlay curates therapeutic games, and why the label “gamer” means more than ever in 2025.

They dive into:

• The biggest myths about cozy gaming

• How parents can actually use gaming to connect with their kids

• What the science says about “disordered gaming” (and what it often misses)

• Why seniors, women, and non-traditional gamers are fueling the next wave of growth

• The problem with most publishing models—and how BetterPlay built a sustainable alternative

Whether you’re a gamer, a parent, a developer, or just curious how games can support mental health, this episode will change how you see the controller in your hand.

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