Play Saves the World

Episode 108: Do Animals Play?

November 10th, 2024  |  42 mins 59 secs

Daniel and Kevin explore the concept of play in animals, discussing its definitions, evolutionary implications, and its connection to the human experience of play. They delve into the idea that play may not always have a functional purpose, challenging traditional views of evolution and survival. The conversation also touches on the dignity of play in both animals and humans, suggesting that play is essential for the soul and should be respected in all forms.

Episode 107: It's All A Game - Book Vibes!

October 20th, 2024  |  51 mins 53 secs

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.

Episode 106: Human Flourishing in Digital Space

September 29th, 2024  |  52 mins 47 secs

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. 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.

Episode 105: The Joy of Homing Pigeons

August 25th, 2024  |  51 mins 30 secs

Thomas "The Birdman" Jones joins us to discuss his love of homing pigeons – how they saved his life and continue to bring him great joy today.

Episode 104: To Play Is Human

August 4th, 2024  |  1 hr 3 mins

Play is where we discovery our deepest humanity. It is where we are present in the moment, engaged with others, and free from the burden of seriousness. Our playfulness reflects the playfulness of God.

Episode 103: Wired for Play

July 14th, 2024  |  58 mins 36 secs

In this episode, Daniel and Kevin discuss the concept of being wired for play and how play is an essential and universal part of the human experience. They explore the historical and cultural significance of play, from ancient games like the royal game of Ur to modern-day fashion and coding. They also touch on the playful nature of animals and the role of play in human creativity and cultural achievements. Play is a universal and essential part of the human experience. It drives creativity, culture, and human development. Play is not just for children, but for people of all ages. It is a human right and denying it to others is cruel. Bringing elements of play into other areas of life, such as work and problem-solving, can lead to increased creativity, team building, and enjoyment. Games can also be used to crowdsource solutions to complex problems.

Episode 102: What is Play?

June 30th, 2024  |  1 hr 3 mins

In this episode we explore the concept of play and its distinction from work. We discuss how play is fundamentally non-instrumental, meaning it is not a means to an end but something valuable in and of itself. Play can generate its own purpose and goals, and while those things may seem inconsequential to others they are, in reality, deeply meaningful.

Episode 101: What Is Work?

June 16th, 2024  |  1 hr 37 secs

definition, work

To answer what is play we have to do something a bit odd. We have to ask, what is work? Because by defining work we will have a better sense of what play is, and what its role can be.

Episode 55: Live from the Geekway Gaming Convention!

May 26th, 2024  |  18 mins 1 sec

convention

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.

Episode 54: Sam Macdonald on Game Design and Faith

May 5th, 2024  |  1 hr 5 mins

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.

Episode 53: The Spirit of Play

April 21st, 2024  |  57 mins 3 secs

book club

The Spirit of God works through play and games to bring about freedom. The conversation touches on the article 'Play and Freedom, Patterns of Life and the Spirit' by Simeon Zahl. It highlights the need to understand the freedom that comes with the Spirit and the danger of idolizing past patterns of faith.

Episode 52: Stages in Board Game Collecting

April 7th, 2024  |  58 mins 59 secs

game collecting, game theory, stages of faith

We explore the concept of seasons in the context of board gaming and life, our evolving gaming preferences, and the stages of faith. We also draw parallels between stages of faith and stages of gaming, reflecting on the journey from zealousness to a holistic approach, and conclude with a discussion on the continued enjoyment of games and the avoidance of jadedness.