In this episode of Play Saves the World, hosts Daniel and Kevin discuss their experiences at Geekway 2025, a board game convention in St. Louis, Missouri. They explore the significance of play in human flourishing and share their top five games from the convention, along with honorable mentions. The conversation highlights the importance of community, social interaction, and the joy of discovering new games. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the gaming community and share their own experiences.
00:00 Introduction to Geekway 2025
03:11 Understanding Geekway: The Board Game Convention
05:42 Top Games Played at Geekway
08:11 Honorable Mentions: Games That Almost Made the Cut
15:44 Top Five Games: Personal Favorites from Geekway
23:55 The Joy of Cooperative Games
26:38 Exploring Flip 7: A Card Game Delight
29:36 Wilmot's Warehouse: A Fun Challenge
37:04 Rebirth: A Beautiful Game Experience
38:30 Twilight Imperium: The Ultimate Strategy Game
In this episode we explore the transformative practice of bullet journaling. We discuss its purpose as a tool for self-reflection, mental clarity, and personal growth. The conversation delves into the historical context of journaling as a spiritual practice, the importance of naming emotions, and the balance between productivity and playfulness. Kevin shares his personal experiences with bullet journaling, including its mechanics and the joy of tracking daily accomplishments. The episode emphasizes the significance of gratitude and reflection in enhancing one's life narrative.
Takeaways
Bullet journaling serves as a mirror for the soul.
Naming emotions helps in managing them effectively.
Journaling can be a spiritual practice with historical roots.
Reflection through journaling allows for personal growth.
Worrying often leads to facing problems twice.
Tracking daily accomplishments can enhance mental clarity.
Gratitude journaling fosters a positive mindset.
The act of writing by hand can improve memory retention.
Creating titles for journal entries helps in recognizing patterns.
Bullet journaling can be a playful and creative outlet.
Chapters
00:00 The Joy of Bullet Journaling
04:03 Understanding the Purpose of Journaling
08:02 The Historical Context of Journaling
11:54 Journaling as a Tool for Reflection
15:59 Gratitude and Awareness in Journaling
19:57 The Narrative of Our Lives
24:01 Naming Emotions and Their Impact
26:41 Introduction to Bullet Journaling
28:09 The Process of Bullet Journaling
30:44 The Benefits of Writing by Hand
32:25 The Constraints of Physical Journaling
34:08 Daily Reflections and Monthly Reviews
36:30 The Flexibility of Bullet Journaling
39:11 Integrating Work and Personal Life
42:28 The Playful Nature of Bullet Journaling
45:43 Finding Time for Journaling
49:40 Conclusion and Resources
CALL TO ACTION:
We dive into Steven Johnson's book 'Wonderland: How Play Made the Modern World,' which shows how play has been a catalyst for invention, the interconnectedness of ideas, and the impact of play on technology and culture. How can we create spaces for play that fosters change?
Takeaways
Play is essential for human flourishing and creativity.
Steven Johnson's 'Wonderland' explores the role of play in invention.
Fashion and consumer culture emerged from playful pursuits.
Play leads to unforeseen discoveries in various fields.
The spice trade significantly influenced global commerce and exploration.
Exploration has both positive and negative consequences.
Ideas and fields of study are interconnected in surprising ways.
We are products of generations of creative thought.
Cultivating play can lead to positive change in the world.
Play should be valued for its own sake, not just for its utility.
Chapters
00:00 The Role of Play in Human Flourishing
05:11 Exploring 'Wonderland' by Steven Johnson
09:15 Play as a Catalyst for Invention
15:24 The Intersection of Play and Commerce
20:51 Exploration and Its Shadow Side
28:30 The Role of Public Spaces in Idea Formation
31:19 Interconnectedness of Ideas and Knowledge
34:38 The Illusion of Self-Made Success
40:52 The Power of Play in Innovation
44:50 Cultivating Virtue Through Play
49:36 Creating Space for Change Through Play
CALL TO ACTION:
Daniel Hilty and Kevin Taylor welcome Caleb Cabiness, an actor and theater practitioner, to discuss the joy of theater and its significance in human flourishing. They explore Caleb's journey in theater, the vibrant theater scene in the Twin Cities, and delve into the lives of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, highlighting the connections between theater, play, and creativity. They delve into the nature of acting, exploring the concept of hypocrisy in performance and the philosophical implications of play. They discuss the creation of a musical inspired by Bob Ross, highlighting themes of positivity and personal growth. The dialogue shifts to the friendship between C.S. Lewis and Tolkien, examining their differing views on faith and evangelism. The intersection of theater and spirituality is explored, emphasizing storytelling as a means of expressing faith. Finally, the conversation wraps up with a shared passion for board games, showcasing the joy of cooperative play.
The Twin Cities have a supportive theater community.
Theater allows for a unique connection with live audiences.
C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien had a significant friendship.
The joy of theater is in the collaborative experience.
Theater can be a source of joy and fulfillment.
Caleb's experiences in church plays shaped his acting career.
The concept of play is integral to the theater experience. St. Augustine viewed acting as a form of hypocrisy.
The term 'hypocrite' originates from the Latin word for actor.
The magic circle of play creates a temporary reality.
Theater can serve as a lens for interpreting life.
Bob Ross's teachings inspire positivity and creativity.
C.S. Lewis and Tolkien had a complex friendship.
Faith and theater intersect through storytelling.
Acting can be a form of worship and expression of faith.
Board games foster community and shared experiences.
Cooperative games emphasize teamwork and strategy.
00:00 Introduction to the Joy of Theater
06:13 Caleb Cabaniss: A Journey in Theater
10:30 Theater Scene in the Twin Cities
11:38 Exploring C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien
22:21 The Connection of Theater and Play
29:22 The Nature of Acting and Hypocrisy
31:47 The Magic Circle: Play and Reality
32:38 Creating 'The Joy of Painting' Musical
38:18 Exploring C.S. Lewis and Tolkien's Friendship
42:31 The Intersection of Theater and Faith
48:08 Board Games: A Shared Passion
Links:
In this episode of Play Saves the World, hosts Daniel and Kevin celebrate the third anniversary of their podcast while discussing the significance of play in human flourishing. Daniel shares his experience hosting a game night at a local shelter for unhoused individuals, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and the role of play in stressful situations. The conversation highlights the thoughtful selection of games that promote inclusivity and ease of learning, ensuring a positive experience for all participants. In this conversation, Kevin and Daniel explore the themes of connection, creativity, and the power of play through board games and community interactions. They discuss various cooperative games, the joy of building relationships through play, and the inspiring story of a man who, despite his challenges, expresses his creativity through writing. The conversation highlights the importance of play in fostering community and resilience.
Takeaways
Play is essential for human flourishing.
Hosting a game night can foster community connections.
Sensitivity to participants' circumstances is crucial.
Cooperative games are ideal for stressful environments.
Engaging with the arts can address social issues.
Celebrating milestones can strengthen community bonds.
The importance of play as a human right.
Creative approaches can enhance outreach efforts.
Games should be easy to learn and inclusive.
Community support can enhance event planning. The joy of playing games is in building relationships.
Cooperative games foster teamwork and connection.
Creativity can thrive even in challenging circumstances.
Play provides an escape from the stresses of life.
Engaging with others through play can create meaningful connections.
The power of storytelling is evident in games and literature.
Community interactions can lead to unexpected friendships.
Play can be a form of resilience in tough times.
Theater and play share a deep connection in their essence.
Encouraging play in various forms can enrich lives.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Play Saves the World Podcast
03:04 Celebrating Three Years of Podcasting
05:59 Game Night at the Shelter: A New Experience
09:09 The Importance of Play in Human Experience
12:04 Community Engagement and Board Game Night
15:01 Choosing the Right Games for the Audience
18:00 Exploring Cooperative Board Games
20:55 The Joy of Connection Through Play
25:53 Creativity and Resilience in Challenging Times
29:58 The Power of Play in Community
31:02 Looking Ahead: The Role of Play in Theater
Join Us!
In this episode we explore the vibrant world of board game conventions through our personal experiences, what newcomers can expect, and the reasons why attending these conventions can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. From the joy of playing games with friends to the opportunity to try new games without the commitment of purchase, the conversation emphasizes the community and fun that board game conventions foster. In this conversation, Kevin and Daniel explore the enriching experience of board game conventions, discussing the concept of the 'magic circle' where players step into an alternate reality. They highlight the sense of community found at these events, the joy of shared experiences, and the increasing diversity within the gaming culture. The discussion also includes practical tips for attendees to enhance their convention experience, emphasizing the importance of connection and enjoyment in the gaming world.
Takeaways
Casual gaming should be accessible to all skill levels.
Games should have a low barrier to entry and quick setup.
Replayability is important for maintaining interest in games.
A mix of cooperative and competitive games is ideal.
Games should accommodate different group sizes.
Consider the time commitment for each game.
Games like Telestrations generate deep laughter and connection.
Incorporating themes can enhance the gaming experience.
Games can be a great way to engage in community settings.
The joy of gaming often comes from the shared experience rather than competition.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Casual Gaming Groups
01:59 Criteria for Selecting Board Games
05:27 Top 10 Board Games Overview
06:33 Game #10: Similo
08:57 Game #9: Anomia
15:19 Game #8: Quirkle
20:46 Game #7: Seven Wonders Architects
25:42 Game #6: Coup
29:14 Game #5: Codenames
36:04 Exploring Codenames: A Game of Strategy
38:23 Trio: The Joy of Simple Card Games
40:33 Secret Hitler: Deception and Strategy
44:56 Scout: A Unique Card Game Experience
47:16 Bananagrams: Fast-Paced Word Play
49:58 Telestrations: Laughter Through Drawing
54:52 Just One: Cooperative Clue-Giving
01:01:22 Honorable Mentions: Expanding the Game List
In this episode of 'Play Saves the World', Daniel Hilty interviews Julian Davis Reed, an artist theologian who explores the intersection of black music and spirituality through his project 'Notes of Rest'. Julian discusses the importance of rest in the context of faith, the role of black music in understanding scripture, and the challenges of integrating his artistic and theological pursuits. The conversation delves into the cultural significance of rest, the pushback against the Protestant work ethic, and the transformative power of music in spiritual formation. In this conversation, Julian Davis and Daniel explore the complexities of being a musician, particularly the exhausting lifestyle that comes with touring and performing. They discuss the importance of rest, the tension between work and play, and how silence and stillness play a crucial role in music and spirituality. Julian shares personal practices that help him maintain balance and creativity, while also reflecting on the nature of labor in the music industry and the need to preserve the joy of making music. The conversation culminates in a discussion about art, faith, and the gratuity of God, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the gift of creativity beyond commercial value.
Julian Davis Reed emphasizes the importance of rest in spiritual practice.
Black music serves as a lens to understand scripture and faith.
The concept of 'two-ness' in black identity influences musical expression.
Music emerges from both pain and hope, reflecting the black experience.
The integration of music, theology, and community is essential for spiritual growth.
Rest is a form of resistance against societal pressures to be productive.
Julian's project 'Notes of Rest' invites people to explore biblical practices of rest.
The pandemic highlighted the need for rest and reflection in our lives.
Sound and silence coexist in the experience of faith and spirituality.
The conversation challenges the Protestant work ethic and promotes a holistic view of rest. The life of a touring musician is often exhausting.
Rest is essential for musicians, yet often overlooked.
There is a tension between the demands of work and the need for rest.
Silence and stillness are integral to the experience of music.
Musicians often feel pressured to take every gig due to financial constraints.
The concept of labor in music is complex and often undervalued.
Preserving the joy of music is crucial for artists.
Art serves as a reminder of the gratuity of God's gifts.
The commercialization of music can overshadow its spiritual significance.
Consciousness and grace are vital in navigating the music industry.
00:00 Introduction to Julian Davis Reed and His Ministry
03:00 The Intersection of Black Music and Spirituality
06:00 Understanding Rest Through Music and Scripture
09:59 The Genesis of Notes of Rest
16:56 Confronting the Protestant Work Ethic and Embracing Rest
22:39 The Exhausting Life of a Musician
24:10 The Importance of Rest in Music
26:09 The Tension Between Work and Rest
28:01 The Role of Silence and Stillness
30:23 The Nature of Labor in Music
32:36 Preserving the Playfulness of Music
34:15 Art, Faith, and the Gratuity of God
36:05 Consciousness and Grace in Music
00:00 Introduction to Play and Animals
04:36 Exploring Animal Play: Definitions and Perspectives
18:14 The Evolutionary Question: Why Do Animals Play?
21:43 The Nature of Play and Evolution
28:19 Play as a Mechanism for Meaning
32:39 The Dignity of Animals and Play
36:56 Understanding Play Across Cultures
39:33 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations
CALL TO ACTION:
In this episode of Play Saves the World, hosts Daniel and Kevin explore the significance of play in human flourishing through the lens of the book 'It's All a Game' by Tristan Donovan. They discuss the history of board games, the cultural reflections within them, and how games can help manage fears. The conversation also touches on the evolution of popular games like The Game of Life and Monopoly, and how modern board games are shaped by societal changes. The hosts share personal recommendations for games they are currently enjoying, emphasizing the joy and connection that play brings to life.
"It's all a game."
"Games are an essential part of human history."
"Culture really shapes how we play."
00:00 Introduction to Play Saves the World Podcast
02:06 Exploring the Book: It's All a Game
05:57 The Ancient History of Games
09:34 Cultural Reflections in Board Games
13:44 The Evolution of The Game of Life
17:36 Modern Games and Cultural Commentary
21:43 The Influence of Play on Culture
25:03 The Role of Play in Managing Fears
32:19 Cultural Significance of Murder Mysteries
34:26 Celebrating What Grows: The Impact of Recognition
45:48 Current Board Game Trends and Recommendations
In this episode of 'Play Saves the World', Daniel and Kevin engage with Dr. Rachel Kowert, a research psychologist specializing in the intersection of digital games and mental health. They explore the impact of digital games on human flourishing, the moral panic surrounding gaming, and the benefits of play for social skills and mood management. Dr. Kowert shares her journey into the field of gaming research, the misconceptions about video games, and the importance of understanding the underlying issues that may lead to problematic gaming behavior. The conversation culminates in a fun game segment, 'Game or Box', where they discuss the merits of a board game inspired by a video game.
Digital games can enhance social skills and creativity.
Moral panic around video games has persisted for decades.
Games are tools for connection and emotional management.
Research shows games are not inherently harmful or addicting.
Escapism through games can be healthy if not used for avoidance.
Games can help manage moods and provide a sense of achievement.
The impact of games on mental health is a growing field of study.
Understanding the underlying issues is crucial for addressing gaming problems.
Games can foster community and relationships among players.
The design of games should prioritize player well-being.
"Games are tools for connection and creativity."
"Moral panic has lasted literally 50 years."
"Games help us manage our moods and emotions."
Links:
In this episode of Play Saves the World, the hosts Daniel and Kevin are joined by Thomas Jones, also known as the Birdman, to discuss the love of homing pigeons. They talk about the different types of pigeons, the special abilities of homing pigeons, and the bond between humans and these birds. Thomas shares his personal journey with pigeons and how they saved his life by keeping him away from negative influences. The conversation also touches on the intelligence of crows and the role of nature in providing a sense of freedom and calm. Thomas shares how he got into raising and racing pigeons, including a story about hatching a pigeon from an egg found by his son. He talks about different types of pigeons and their abilities, as well as the process of racing pigeons. Thomas also discusses his ministry of releasing pigeons at funerals and weddings, explaining the symbolism behind it. He shares some fun facts about pigeons and surprises the hosts with a live pigeon named Wolf. The conversation ends with Thomas sharing his YouTube channel and the impact his videos have had on viewers.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
02:40 The Special Abilities of Homing Pigeons
07:58 The Bond Between Humans and Pigeons
13:23 The Calming and Freeing Power of Nature
20:52 Rediscovering Childhood Hobbies
24:49 Thomas's Journey into Raising and Racing Pigeons
32:40 The Symbolism of Releasing Pigeons at Funerals and Weddings
35:41 Fun Facts About Pigeons: Heart Rates and Training
41:01 The Challenges of Raising Pigeons: Cleaning and Care
43:37 The Longevity of Pigeons: Up to 20 Years in Captivity
45:51 Thomas's YouTube Channel: Sharing the Love for Pigeons
Links:
In this episode, Daniel and Kevin discuss the necessary and unnecessary aspects of play. They explore how play helps us focus on the present moment and be more present to the realities in front of us. They also discuss how play reflects the values of God and is a core element of our humanity. Playfulness allows us to be fully engaged in the present and brings joy and fulfillment to our lives. Play allows us to be present and free from the burden of seriousness. It is a way to engage in lightness and self-forgetfulness. Playfulness is a mark of divinity, as angels can fly because they take themselves lightly. Play is unnecessary and purposeless, which brings joy and freedom. It helps us reject the oppressive narratives of the world and embrace our core identity. Play is a revolutionary act that rejects the compulsory nature of work and allows us to be truly human.
Sound Bites
"Play really helps us to focus on the gift of being over doing."
"Play gives us the ability to be more present to the things right in front of us."
"Play is the necessary unnecessary."
"Creating points of focus and goals that are so unnecessary that we don't get tricked into thinking they are serious and important."
"Creating a mandala that gets destroyed or moving a piece across a board that doesn't matter."
"Play is a powerful tool for freedom and gracefulness."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
14:40 Recap of Previous Episodes
19:50 The Necessary Unnecessary: Play and Our Humanity
23:53 Play as a Reflection of God's Values
25:54 The Gifts of Playfulness: Joy and Fulfillment
29:16 Play: A Necessary and Defining Element of Our Humanity
32:10 The Power of Presence and the Freedom of Play
37:22 The Theology of Play: Connecting Play and Grace
46:48 Embracing Lightness and Laughter: The Oppression of Seriousness
50:23 Playfulness as a Revolutionary Act
57:15 The Joy of Being Light: Laughter and Freedom
01:00:51 Exploring Tabletop Games and the Joy of Raising Homing Pigeons
CALL TO ACTION:
Previously, We Discussed How Play is Non-Instrumental, Voluntary, and Unnecessary. And yet, as will discover this episode, it is a necessity for human flourishing. It is the "necessary unnecessity."
Playfulness is ubiquitous for animal life
Playfulness in Ubiquitous to Human Experience Since the Beginning - For Adults Too
Playfulness is Behind Creativity and Cultural Advancement
Play is Essential for Human Development
Play is Therefore a Basic Human Right
Jane McGonigal - Given that We are Wired for Play, How Can We Gamify Life?
So What's Going On Here? If Play is Unnecessary, Why is it Such a Necessity?
In this episode, Daniel and Kevin explore the concept of play and its distinction from work. They discuss how play is fundamentally non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end. Play can generate its own purpose and goals, which are often short-lived and inconsequential but deeply meaningful. They reference the work of philosopher Bernard Suits, who argues that our true human identity is as the grasshopper, a playful creature, despite societal pressures to be like the ant, focused on work. Play and games are interconnected, as play requires some structure or rules to create a sense of playfulness. Play is defined as the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles. It is non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end. Play is also unnecessary, but it is essential for human beings. It allows us to be fully human and brings meaning to our lives. Play can be structured or unstructured, but it always involves accepting certain obstacles or rules. It is distinct from work, which is instrumental and necessary for survival. Play is wired into our nature and is a fundamental part of being human.
Play is fundamentally non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end
Play can generate its own purpose and goals, which are often short-lived and inconsequential but deeply meaningful
Our true human identity is as the grasshopper, a playful creature, despite societal pressures to be focused on work
Play and games are interconnected, as play requires some structure or rules to create a sense of playfulness Play is the voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles
It is non-instrumental and not a means to an end
Play is unnecessary but essential for human beings
It can be structured or unstructured, but always involves accepting certain obstacles or rules
Play is distinct from work, which is instrumental and necessary for survival
Play is wired into our nature and is a fundamental part of being human
"Play is fundamentally non-instrumental"
"Play can generate its own end, its own goal"
"Our true human identity is as the grasshopper"
"The voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles"
"It is the necessary unnecessary to be human"
"Play is without a means to an end"
00:00 Introduction and Recap
11:12 The Non-Instrumental Nature of Play
30:49 Embracing Our Inner Grasshopper
32:53 Introduction and Dalek Voice
37:30 The Definition of Play
45:21 The Essentiality of Play
54:34 Structured vs Unstructured Play
56:21 The Distinction Between Play and Work
59:42 Wired for Play
To define what play is, we have to define what work is.
(This isn’t all that unusual – scholars do it with secular vs. religious, or prose vs. poetry.)
Work or labor is intentional human activity to support our needs and wants, or those of others or our larger group.
Work is something we do for another purpose – it is 2-eyed, 1 eye to the activity itself and 1 to its outside result (payment, food, etc.).
It is a means to an end.
Work isn’t inherently bad. In the Bible it is implied that humans would work the earth before the Fall. Work is not a result of original sin, but original sin corrupts work, so that the ground is cursed, and there are thorns and thistles in our gardening. We will now sweat to make the bread we must eat.
In fact, work can be marvelous
Work and play are not necessarily opposed to each other
But clearly work can be oppressive
Protestant work ethic
As a result, we can feel a profound lack of freedom, value, and agency.
The truth is: work is often overwhelming. It can be good. But it cannot save us. It is not our true purpose.
Daniel and Kevin attended Geekway to the West in St. Charles, Missouri, and bring you this special episode filmed live with their 3,500 best friends. Some special guests join us, and then we share some favorite convention moments and games, along with some special announcements.
Sam Macdonald of Garphill Games discusses his religious journey and board game philosophy. Sam explores the connections between board game design and religious faith, especially in the areas of community, self-expression, rules, fun, and the joy of discovery. We also take a stab at potential games based on Biblical stories.
Game design can reflect the heart of God by promoting fellowship, agency, following rules, and having fun.
The Art of Discovery in games, with hidden gems and Easter eggs, can create a sense of enjoyment and excitement for players.
Game design can provide opportunities for players to express themselves creatively and explore different strategies.
Following rules in games and in life can lead to a more peaceful and joyful experience.
The intersection of games and faith offers unique opportunities for exploration and growth. Finding new strategies and paths to victory in board games can be a fun and rewarding experience.
The Bible contains hidden meanings and connections between passages that can be discovered through deep reading and study.
Games can facilitate fellowship and problem-solving, providing a safe environment to solve problems and feel a sense of mastery.
The art of discovery can also be found in reading scriptures, where the Holy Spirit can illuminate truth to the reader.
Designing biblical-themed games can be challenging, as it's important to balance creating enjoyable experiences with conveying a message.
Links:
The conversation explores the idea that faith is often associated with restrictions and limitations, but it should actually set us free. The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom. The conversation also touches on the article 'Play and Freedom, Patterns of Life and the Spirit' by Simeon Zahl, which discusses the tension between law and grace in Protestant Christianity. It highlights the need to understand the freedom that comes with the Spirit and the danger of idolizing past patterns of faith. The conversation also delves into the popular notion of destiny and how it can hinder the freedom of the Spirit. In this conversation, Daniel and Kevin discuss the concept of play and its relationship to grace and work. They explore the idea that play is an attitude and an activity that brings joy, freedom, and creativity. They emphasize the importance of play in living a meaningful life and how it can help us overcome the burden of seriousness and unrealistic expectations. They also announce a transition in the podcast to focus on the intersection of play and meaning, with the new name 'Play Saves the World.'
"What if the point of faith is to set us free for something better?"
"The Spirit of God makes freedom a reality through play and games."
"Is grace something that removes us from the law or empowers us to keep the law?"
"The spirit is playful, meaning that it causes joy and delight."
"Play is grace that expresses itself through play."
"Play is the overcoming of unnecessary obstacles."
00:00 Introduction: Faith and Freedom
07:30 The Tension Between Law and Grace
13:25 The Freedom of the Spirit
27:56 The Spirit of Play and Freedom
34:17 The Unimportance of Play's Goals and Purposes
45:45 Play as an Attitude to Life
Links:
We explore the concept of seasons in the context of board gaming and life, and discuss the origins of the phrase "this too shall pass" and its relevance to the changing nature of emotions and experiences. Daniel and Kevin share their personal gaming stages and how their approach to board games has evolved over time. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of selectivity and finding contentment in the games we already own. We discuss their evolving gaming preferences and the stages of faith. We explore the enjoyment of lighter and quicker games, the appreciation for simple solo games, and the adaptation to changing gaming preferences. We also draw parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, reflecting on the journey from zealousness to a holistic approach. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the continued enjoyment of games and the avoidance of jadedness.
00:00 Introduction
02:01 The Origins of the Topic
03:02 The Concept of Seasons
04:22 The Story of "This Too Shall Pass"
06:21 The Wisdom of Ecclesiastes
09:17 Personal Gaming Stages
12:22 Discovering Board Game Geek
13:34 The Magic of Board Games
15:17 Rediscovering the Magic
24:16 Transition to Selectivity
28:02 Realizing the Need for Selectivity
30:12 Preference for Lighter and Quicker Games
30:57 Enjoyment of Simple Solo Games
33:18 Adapting to Changing Gaming Preferences
36:18 Appreciation for Game Setup and Learning
37:35 Stages of Faith and Stages of Gaming
46:15 Connecting Games to Life and Faith
49:07 Reflections on Becoming the Person You Once Judged
53:08 Continued Enjoyment of Games and Avoiding Jadedness
57:13 Upcoming Episode: Book Club and Special Announcement
NEXT TIME - Book Club: Simeon Zahl Article, "Play and Freedom: Patterns of Life in the Spirit"
