The Academy of Esports

The Academy of Esports podcast welcomes Melissa Burns, a leader in scholastic esports in Canada, in honor of International Women's Day. Melissa is the founder and chair of Esport Canada, one of the largest Canadian esports organizations committed to excellence in gaming and supporting the growth of the Canadian esports ecosystem by connecting and amplifying diverse gaming communities. The organization values holistic development and authentic diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of their work, which has allowed them to build a federation focused on social impact. -- Melissa Burns // LinkedIn // Twitter Esports Canada // Website // LinkedIn // Twitter -- Powered by LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Leah Koons is a 10+ year gaming event and marketing veteran who has navigated and developed business relationships for endemic and non-endemic brands to the gaming industry. In our conversation, Leah invites the listener to learn how to be a successful and lasting presence in the game industry. For Leah, a bachelor's degree in psychology was the start. But it was an early decision to focus on the business of games that has led her path of success that includes working with the likes of Team Liquid, Alienware, and Riot. And now, Leah has just launched her own marketing, consulting and event business called EQME. -- Leah Koons // LinkedIn // Twitter EQME (launching soon!) -- Powered by LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dylan Liu is not one to not have an opinion on the state of collegiate esports. That is one of the things that makes him such a compelling guest for a conversation! Since 2011, Dylan has been involved in collegiate esports while founding the team at his alma mater, Texas A&M, and now serving as the CEO of his company, Uconnect. Uconnect provides a platform to help collegiate programs and clubs to connect with potential sponsorship opportunities. This wide-ranging conversation pulls no punches and looks critically at the current state of collegiate esports, and the overall business of esports. Even at an hour, there was still quite a bit to talk about.  -- Dylan Liu // LinkedIn // Twitter Uconnect -- Powered by LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

James Fudge has nearly 25 years of experience as an editor and journalist covering the video games industry, having worked for such companies as Avault, IDG Games' Games.Net, Computer Games Magazine, GameSpy, IGN, GamePro, GameShark, GamePolitics, GameCulture, Crispy Gamer, and more. Over the last three years he worked behind the scenes at The Esports Observer, where he served as senior editor for two years helping to shape the quality of the writing, steer editorial policies, and generally train writers on best practices for content creation and journalism. In this episode, James and James (James Squared) discuss the importance of journalism in gaming, and especially in the business thereof.  -- James Fudge // LinkedIn // Twitter The Esports Advocate -- Sponsor // LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

As Head of Education at British Esports, Kalam focusses on delivering growth and development of esports in education across the UK and beyond.  The recipient of the prestigious Pearson National Teaching Award for his outstanding commitment to digital innovation, Kalam, an experienced teacher, educator and educational leader previously served as Esports Programme Lead at Barnsley College, where he co-wrote the Esports BTEC (Business and Technical Education Council) in association with Pearson and British Esports. In this episode, we dive into the BTECs and their impact in on students in the UK.  -- Kalam Neale // Twitter // LinkedIn British Esports Federation BTECs and Beyond Overview -- Sponsor // LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Will English IV (the fourth!) grew up wanting to be in broadcasting. He had various jobs growing up but imagined myself as a newscaster or a weatherman, but the path to a stable career was very long. A competitive gamer at Homewood-Flossmoor High School and Northern Illinois University, Will saw esports as an opportunity to meld those worlds together. In this episode, we dive into Will's passion for the Fighting Game Community (FGC), his quest to build an amazing experience in virtual and physical spaces, what gaming has meant for his own mental health, and his love for his brother and connection they made through Sonic the Hedgehog. -- Will English IV // Twitter // LinkedIn // Twitch -- Sponsor // LeagueSpot -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dr. Seth E. Jenny returns to The Academy of Esports! Dr. Jenny is an assistant professor within the Department of Exercise Science and Athletic Training at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania (SRU).  As an esports academic, Dr. Jenny is a performance advisor to KovaaK 2.0: The Meta FPS aim trainer, founding member of the Esports Research Network, Deputy Editor of the International Journal of Esports, and Associate Editor of the Journal of Electronic Gaming and Esports.  He teaches esports courses in SRU’s undergraduate esports minor and serves as the faculty advisor to SRU’s esports team. Dr. Jenny has conducted research studies relating to video gaming and esports since 2011.  He has provided 100+ professional presentations and has published 50+ peer-reviewed academic journal articles within his prime areas of research - esports, motion-based video gaming, instructional technology, and distance running. --  Website // Twitter // LinkedIn // Book Esports Research Network International Journal of Esports The Journal of Electronic Gaming & Esports Upcoming Esports Research Network Conference 2022 in Sweden McDonald's Gaming Chair -- Sponsor // LeagueSpot  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dr. Rachel Kowert is a Research Psychologist, the Research Director for Take This, a non-profit organization that provides mental health information and resources to the gaming community and industry, and is a Henry Cavill aficionado. Dr. Kowert has been featured in various media outlets, including NPR, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, the Atlantic, Wired, and video game publications such as Kotaku and Polygon. And now, Dr. Kowert will be leading research into online extremism through a grant from the Department of Homeland Security to research, produce recommendations and supports for digital community managers to combat online extremism in all forms. In this episode, we look at this effort and the current state of online extremism in gaming spaces. -- Dr. Rachel Kowert (Website // LinkedIn // Twitter // Twitch // YouTube) DHS to Spend Almost $700,000 Investigating ‘Radicalization in Gaming’ Hate and Harassment Drive One-in-Four Moderator Actions on Minecraft Servers, Study Finds Watch "The Tudors" -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Andrew Czysz is a shoutcaster for the Horlick High School Esports Team and for the Wisconsin High School Esports Association. At a young age, Andrew has already attracted attention for his calls of the game "Rocket League," been interviewed by one of the largest newspapers in the United States, and even interviewed NFL royalty. Andrew is an example of the potential of possibilities beyond the games in scholastic esports.  --  Andrew Czysz // Twitter WIHSEA Rocket League Playoffs: [Quarter Finals]: (4) Horlick vs (1) Case The Journal Times: Meet the Horlick High School junior who could become the Al Michaels of esports -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Hillary Phan is a trailblazer in the space of Collegiate Scholastic Esports. She was a part of an amazing core of people who helped to build the University of California-Irvine Esports Program. She has also been a long-time advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. Her work with UCI, and now, AnyKey, and VOICE are critical in building a vibrant gaming community beyond varsity level competition. She will also be a panelist at the Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium 2022! -- Hillary Phan // LinkedIn // Twitter AnyKey VOICE (Voice of Intercollegiate Esports) Purdue University Games Make a Difference Symposium -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

At the start of the COVID Pandemic, Kevin Fair of I Play Games took the bold step to join up with the Chicago Park District to offer an NBA2K tournament to local children. What happened after that is nothing short of amazing! Learn about the great things that came about from the passion and love Kevin has for Chicago and the forward thinking of the CPD and their relationship with video games. --  Kevin Fair // LinkedIn // Twitter I Play Games Purdue University Games Make a Difference Symposium -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

The work of Stephen Reid is a major influence on The Academy of Esports Podcast. Stephen is a passionate advocate of both play as a powerful learning mechanism, and technology as a tool for learning. Spanning an education career of 20 years, he has used over 140 off-the-shelf games to teach in over 70 countries worldwide. Minecraft sits at the heart of his teaching toolkit for curriculum, and social and emotional learning, as well as unique learning projects such as the creation of an entire school with Minecraft and a single 3D Printer, summer camps on farms, in museums, and on archaeological digs, and a series of Teaching The Tough Stuff lessons that teach gender equality, the refugee crisis, civil rights, conservation, and more. He fosters the strong belief that all learning should be relevant and meaningful to the individual, with intentional real-life connections wherever possible. -- Stephen Reid // LinkedIn // Twitter Refugee Crisis Learning Resources Purdue University Games Make a Difference Symposium -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

In this conversation, Dr. Samantha Blackmon, Associate English Professor at Purdue University, discusses not just her work at the university but also as a researcher interested in DEI issues in gaming. Dr. Blackmon champions working specifically on ways to bring people together from the games community, the games industry, content creators, and esports in order to bring about positive change in the games space. -- Dr. Samantha Blackmon // Website // Twitch // Twitter  Not Your Mama's Gamer Podcast AnyKey Purdue University Games Make a Difference Symposium -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

In this episode's conversation, Dr. Roberto Gallardo, the Director of the Purdue Center for Regional Development comes onto the podcast to talk about the current state of Internet connectivity in rural and urban areas. The issue is very much front of mind for many, especially in how it impacted education access during the height of the COVID pandemic. Now, as more dollars are flowing into the connecting homes to the Internet, Dr. Gallardo helps to answer some of the big questions around how Indiana is encouraging Internet access in areas that have been overlooked in the past. -- Dr. Roberto Gallardo // Website // LinkedIn // Twitter Purdue Center for Regional Development Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, April 8-9, 2022 -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dr. Rachel Kowert is a Research Psychologist, the Research Director for Take This, a non-profit organization that provides mental health information and resources to the gaming community and industry, and is a Henry Cavill aficionado. Dr. Kowert has been featured in various media outlets, including NPR, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, the Atlantic, Wired, and video game publications such as Kotaku and Polygon. And now, Dr. Kowert will be a panelist at the inaugural Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium on April 8-9, 2022. In this episode, Dr. Kowert catches us up on the changing state of the world, changes in thoughts about screentime, and insights that will be further explored at the symposium. -- Dr. Rachel Kowert (Website // LinkedIn // Twitter // Twitch // YouTube) Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, April 8-9, 2022 -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dr. Kelli Dunlap is a clinical psychologist (PsyD in clinical psychology, licensed, and practicing), a game designer, an adjunct professor of game design (MA in game design), and the Head of Community at Take This. Dr. Dunlap comes onto The Academy of Esports to discuss the main challenges she sees facing the gaming space and ways to tackle them. She is an advocate for the importance of play and games to mental health in all ages, not just kids. Be sure to check out the Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, and register here. -- Dr. Kelli Dunlap // Website // LinkedIn // Twitter How Gaming Benefits Our Mental Health Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, April 8-9, 2022 -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Dr. William Watson, Associate Professor of Learning Design and Technology, and Director of Purdue Center for Serious Games and Learning in Virtual Environments focuses his work around the idea that the system of education is antiquated and designed to meet entirely different societal needs than currently exist. Like any tweaks, educational video games are not themselves enough to solve the problems facing education today. Rather, Dr. Watson believes we need a new system of education that is focused on actual learning rather than driven by time and the comparison and sorting of learners, a personalized approach to learning. Be sure to check out the Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, and register here. -- Dr. William Watson // Website // Google Scholar // LinkedIn Serious Gaming Center at Purdue Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, April 8-9, 2022 -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

As the Associate Director of Business Development at Purdue University, Chris Bishop is tasked with bringing events and initiatives to Purdue that would benefit past, current, and future Boilermakers. Three years ago, Chris and I started a conversation that morphed from "how to get esports onto Purdue's campus," into "we have all these amazing people doing work to support the gaming space on campus right now, and we need to showcase this!" On April 8-9, on the Purdue Campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, the culmination of these conversations will showcase the ecoverse around gaming and esports at the inaugural "Games Make a Difference" Symposium. This podcast episode is a first dedicated to the speakers at the conference to provide further depth and insights that can sometimes be lost in symposium conversations. Be sure to check out the Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, and register here. -- Chris Bishop // Website // LinkedIn Purdue University: Games Make a Difference Symposium, April 8-9, 2022 -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Alex McNeil is a private admissions consultant and one of the moderators of Reddit's r/ApplyingToCollege community, the largest student community in the world dedicated to college admissions. He has been working in college preparation and admissions in various capacities for almost five years — first starting a test prep company in the San Francisco Area in 2017 that was sold in 2019, then working with colleges to build and evaluate their esports programs, and then back into college admissions in late 2020 as the Founder of McNeil Admissions. In this conversation, Alex and I discuss the challenges and changes in colleges, and what to look for when considering an esports scholarship to an institution of higher learning. -- Alex McNeil // Website Applying to College Subreddit -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes Spotify License Twitter Facebook

Marcus Howard returns to the podcast to discuss his new project "Innovate: Gaming & Esports." This project is a culmination of his work to  bring a heightened level of awareness to the depth of the esports industry beyond the games, and to give light to those doing the work not always seen on big stages. As an almanac, this project also hopes to open the eyes to everyone, students in particular, that the esports industry is growing in new ways not thought of in the recent past.  --  Marcus "Esports" Howard (LinkedIn) Order your copy of "Innovate: Gaming & Esports" here! -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Chris Haskell, Head Coach of Boise State University Esports, returns to the podcast for the third time. Our conversation revolves around the development of an esports culture, and the careful considerations one must take when considering corporate sponsorships of your program. -- Dr. Chris Haskell // Twitter // Website Boise State Esports Check out the First Interview with Dr. Haskell Check out the Second Interview with Dr. Haskell -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Professor of Anthropology and Game Scholar at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Krista-Lee Malone, is a conversational guest on this episode of the podcast. As an Anthropologist, it is surprising to some her involvement in gaming. However, as Dr. Malone points out, "The social sciences have so much to offer games and vice versa. People play games - without the people, the games are meaningless." We dive into major challenges in gaming culture and esports, issues related to DEI, and ways to reduce and understand online toxicity. -- Dr. Krista-Lee Malone // LinkedIn // Twitter  Game Certificate Program at UW-Madison -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Monica Miller, Director of Ritual Motion Guild, is an independent consultant, freelance writer, and researcher who specializes in gaming and esports. With a passion rooted in the intersection of gaming and education, she calls upon her unique in-game and in real life experiences to dispel the stigma that video games are a "waste of time." -- Monica Miller // LinkedIn Ritual Motion Guild -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Tunisha Singleton is a Media Psychologist, Creative Strategist, and Sports Entertainment professional with an expertise in fan engagement, integrated marketing, and digital communication. Dr. Singleton is also President of Black Girl Hockey Club and aspires to work with more brands and non-profit organizations on projects surrounding building experiences, fandom, esports, mental health, amplifying Black voices, and race/gender/LGBTQ empowerment. -- Dr. Tunisha Singleton // LinkedIn // Twitter // Website I Have Questions Podcast Black Girl Hockey Club ---- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dan Clerke (Clerkie) has built a powerhouse esports program at Maryville University in St. Louis. He has worked to build a properly funded and staffed  program at the school. However, he has some reservations about the state of collegiate esports. He shared his thoughts on the future of collegiate esports, and steps to consider to sustain it. -- Daniel Clerke // LinkedIn // Twitter Maryville University Esports -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

When I was first introduced to George Walker through 88Nine Radio Milwaukee Host Tarik Moody, I had no idea George was a student at Rufus King High School in Milwaukee. I thought for sure this was an educator trying to bring esports to his school. George has worked with school staff to enter his high school, this spring in the midst of a pandemic lockdown, as a member of the Wisconsin High School Esports Association. This is my first student conversation on the podcast. -- George Walker Jr. (LinkedIn) George Walker Sr. (LinkedIn) -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Andrew Byrne, a professor at CalPoly, comes onto The Academy of Esports podcast to discuss a variety of counseling topics not typically discussed at the K12 level with regards to esports. Dr. Byrne has a doctorate in rehabilitation counseling/addictions from East Carolina University, so this episode is quite a change of pace. -- Dr. Andrew Byrne (Website // Twitter) CAS Standards -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Miles Harvey, Ph.D., a middle school educator in New Mexico and NASEF Scholastic Fellow, and Dr. Clint Kennedy, NASEF Board Member and Long-Time Scholastic Trailblazer, will join in on The Academy of Esports to chat about their work to deepen relationships with students through esports and gaming.  --  Dr. Miles Harvey (LinkedIn // Twitter) Dr. Clint Kennedy (LinkedIn // Twitter)  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. --  Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros  iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f  Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk  License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E  Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj  Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Patricia Smith is a chef, an artist, a former educator, a grandmother, and our host James O'Hagan's mother. Pat and James sat down in his kitchen to talk about her perceptions and thoughts about gaming and esports. This is not just about kids, but also how parents and grandparents can start to engage with their own children and grandchildren through gaming and esports. -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Clint Kennedy has been involved in Scholastic Esports for several years. He first brought about league play in Connecticut, before being a part of the start of PlayVS, and now is involved with NASEF. Dr. Kennedy is one of the few educators who has direct experience with non-profit and for-profit esports. Truly a great interview! -- Clint Kennedy (LinkedIn // Twitter) -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Chris Aviles returns to the podcast for a whole new conversation about being an accomplished author, and co-founder of a non-profit statewide esports association in New Jersey (Garden State Esports). -- Chris Aviles (Twitter // LinkedIn // Website) Garden State Esports The Esports Education Playbook: Empowering Every Learner Through Inclusive Gaming -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

In a conversation with Kevin Fair, Founder & CEO of "I Play Games!," James and Kevin dive into the issues of access to gaming, bringing tech and events to underserved communities across the country, and perspectives of those experiencing gaming for the first time. -- Kevin Fair // LinkedIn "I Play Games!" Chicago Park District adds esports to its recreational program with inaugural ‘NBA 2K21’ tournament -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

While not a perfect analogy, when you strip away the geopolitical feud between the USSR and the USA, the potential infinite possibilities of space creates an interesting mindset. In American pop culture, the space race morphs into Star Trek where society had to come together for a greater purpose. With esports, we see that need, now more than ever. We see there is not one way to create an esports experience. We see the potential of infinite possibilities for all to benefit from esports in ways that are unique to the individual. -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Jorrel Batac is an Esports Scholastic Instructional Coach & Curriculum Specialist for the North America Scholastic Esports Association and the Orange County (CA) Department of Education. Jorrel and James sat down to discuss the diversity across ideas and experiences for those involved in scholastic esports. There is a growing richness that could impact the amateur and competitive pro experiences in the future. -- Jorrel Batac // LinkedIn NASEF Scholastic Fellows Program -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Rachel Kowert is a Research Psychologist and the Research Director for Take This, a non-profit organization that provides mental health information and resources to the gaming community and industry. In this episode, we stray a little bit from talking solely about gaming to discuss topics related to the psychology around learning and interacting in digital environments. We also have a frank discussion about a new game, "Gamer Girl," and the issues related to its development and content. And she shares key insights from her book "A Parent's Guide to Video Games: The essential guide to understanding how video games impact your child's physical, social, and psychological well-being." -- Dr. Rachel Kowert (Website // LinkedIn // Twitter // Twitch // YouTube) Research Review: 2020 Bryter Female Gamer Survey NYTimes Hit Piece: Children’s Screen Time Has Soared in the Pandemic, Alarming Parents and Researchers -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Tore Olsson is a professor of history at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville. He took up playing the game Red Dead Redemption 2 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and quickly saw an undercurrent of themes related to the late 19th and early 20th century in the game. Realizing there could be educational value in using the game as a vehicle to discuss these concepts, Dr. Olsson has proposed a collegiate course using the game as a teaching tool. -- Dr. Tore Olsson // Twitter // Website Red Dead Redemption 2 Course Tweet -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Recently, Southern University Lab School launched their new esports arena. Christopher Turner returned to the podcast to talk about the space, and Cody Dragon also came on to talk about support of these spaces by the professional industry. The development of an esports arena is a major step for many schools. Southern University Lab School built their space through purposeful planning around their esports program mission. Learn how! -- Christopher Turner // LinkedIn // Twitter Cody Dragon // LinkedIn // Twitter The Future is Here at Southern University Lab School -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Stephen Reid is a Senior Project Manager at Microsoft who is showing the world new ways for children, parents and educators to embrace Minecraft as a platform for game-based learning. Listen as Stephen shares his thoughts on the new ways games are being embraced in schools, and new ideas to consider related to the rights of children in digital spaces. -- Stephen Reid // LinkedIn // Twitter UNICEF Child rights in the Digital Age UNICEF The online gaming industry and child rights -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Angelique Gianas is an educator at Helix Charter High School in San Diego, a former North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) Scholastic Fellow, and now a NASEF Scholastic Mentor. Her story about her growth in scholastic esports should resonate with many educators who are not sure where to start. She also looks at game play as a great way to engage her students, especially in a remote online setting. -- Angelique Gianas // LinkedIn // Twitter NASEF Scholastic Fellows Program -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

EPISODE 100!!! Ashley "AJ" Jones is an amazing person worth knowing in scholastic esports. Not only is she the esports head coach at Park University outside of Kansas City. She is also the chair-elect for the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE), and the vice-chair of the Kansas City Esports Coalitition. -- Ashley "AJ" Jones // LinkedIn // Twitter Park University Esports // Website // Twitter NACE Kansas City Esports Coalition  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Lori Bajorek is the President of the National Esports Association. Her organization is focused on meeting students and schools where they are, and providing new experiences unique to their needs. In a growing sea of national esports organizations, the NEA is taking a measured approach to stand out. -- Lori Bajorek (LinkedIn) National Esports Association (Website // Twitter) The Strong National Museum of Play -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Bradford Harris is an educator and the Coordinator of Digital Innovation in Aldine (TX) ISD just outside Houston. He also currently serves the Texas Scholastic Esports Federation as their Chief Learning Officer. Bradford's journey in esports is one not of a rush to implementation, but one that is carefully studying the landscape to, in the end, create an experience that is inclusive for all the students he serves. -- Bradford Harris (LinkedIn // Twitter) Texas Scholastic Esports Federation  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Darren Korb is a musician and the Audio Director of the IGN and Polygon 2020 Game of the Year, "Hades." We discuss Darren's process to develop the music for this amazing game. As esports grows in schools, this is an example of how we can think beyond the games to provide unique experiences for all our Scholar Gamers. -- Darren Korb (LinkedIn // Twitter) Hades (Game // Soundtrack) -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Kathy Chiang is the Assistant Director of UCI Esports. But one could argue that Kathy has been a key person for helping to bring collegiate esports to prominence. Since her days at Whitney High School, she has been helping to organize events and experiences that set new standards of excellence. -- Kathy Chiang (LinkedIn // Twitter) ESPN: Panelists hoping to crack code of female acceptance in gaming -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Victoria Horlsey, the Founder & President of the Unified Collegiate Esports Association, shared her story operating within the collegiate esports space. Victoria's place in the esports "Space Race" starts ten years ago through her involvement in early esports tournaments throughout the Midwest of the United States. Now, Victoria is an esports event vet. Her insights should help anyone getting started. -- Victoria Horsley (Website // LinkedIn // Twitter) Unified Collegiate Esports Association (Website // Twitter) -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Tim Kitzrow, a trained actor and the iconic voice of NBA Jam (and many other games), came onto the podcast to share his pathway to becoming that voice. He shared his thoughts on shoutcasting, as, one could argue, he is the godfather of the genre. -- Tim Kitzrow (Website // LinkedIn // Twitter) Insert Coin (Midway Documentary) -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Alex McNeil is a co-founder of Uni Esports. Their mission is transforming education through collegiate esports. And their new project to connect high school students to collegiate esports programs, LFGroup.GG, seeks to protect student data privacy, and give students, and collegiate programs, an easy way to connect. -- Alex McNeil (LinkedIn) Uni Esports   LFGroup.GG  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Derek Watford, the co-founder of High Point Gamer, works with gamers to help develop their branding. But Derek's insights into esports culture, and why connecting homes to the Internet will not just create a new gamers, are important for educators looking to grow their esports programs beyond the games. Between the voices of Derek and I, one may need to turn down the bass on this episode. -- Derek Watford (LinkedIn) High Point Gamer -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Dr. Seth Jenny is an assistant professor and researcher at Slippery Rock University, specifically in the field of Exercise Science. In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Jenny talks about the research being conducted in the field of esports, and the development of the International Journal of Esports -- Dr. Seth Jenny (LinkedIn // Twitter) International Journal of Esports Book: “Technology for Physical Educators, Health Educators, & Coaches: Enhancing Instruction, Assessment, Management, Professional Development, & Advocacy"  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Jason Kirby, the COO of Generation Esports, comes onto the podcast to talk about the work of Generation Esports, the growth of middle school esports, and the potential of schools to be selected for an esports lab through the High School Esports League. -- Jason Kirby (LinkedIn // Twitter) Generation Esports High School Esports League Apply for an Esports Lab -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan ( LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Christopher Turner is a trailblazer in scholastic esports. Not only is he the head of Southern University Lab School Esports, but he is also launching the Southern University Esports team at the premiere HBCU. Christopher also has done an excellent job of promoting his program, and his scholar gamers. This episode is an opportunity to learn from one of the best. Note: apologies for an issue with the host's microphone. -- Christopher Turner (LinkedIn // Twitter) Southern Lab's Troy Murphy is only 13, but he's already won a national championship The 2020 Dean's List: 30 Higher Ed IT Influencers Worth a Follow  -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan ( LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

David Gugliotti has helped lead the University of Oregon Esports Program from club to varsity. His valuable insights shared in this episode are lessons anyone stepping into the collegiate space should heed. The development of an esports program at a large college or university, especially one with a well established competitive culture like UO, is very different than a small collegiate institution.  --  David Gugliotti (LinkedIn // Twitter) UO Esports gives a thumbs-up to competitive video gaming -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan ( LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Esports gets publicity for many things, but not nearly enough for the rich research around it, and game play. Dr. Constance Steinkuehler has been a leader in research related to esports and game play. We dive into topics related to this research and the amazing power behind it in the impacts it can make for our children. We also talk the amazing power of Wisconsin cheese, beer, custard, and one of the state's great culinary gifts - Culver's.  -- Dr. Constance Steinkuelher (Website // LinkedIn) UC-Irvine Department of Informatics (Twitter) Culver's Location Finder Mars Cheese Castle -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Love of English cuisine aside, particularly the full breakfast, Callum Fletcher has become a revered and respected trailblazer in the collegiate esports community. This far ranging interview explores Callum's pathway to becoming a top-level director of esports at a school that has been thrust into the forefront of national collegiate esports.  --  Callum Fletcher (LinkedIn // Twitter) Illinois Wesleyan Esports Nationally Recognized Esports Program Expands Into Transformed Facility -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

Kevin Brown, Esports Program Specialist for the Orange County Department of Education & North America Scholastic Esports Federation, has an impressively varied background and skills that makes this interview truly unique. We discussed creating meaningful experiences that can provide an invitation to esports in schools, and I was fascinated to learn the work going into growing the partnership between Japan and their high schools. -- Kevin Brown (LinkedIn // Twitter) NASEF Japan High School Esports Federation -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS

In this episode, Josh Knutson of ByteSpeed chats with James O'Hagan about the current state of collegiate esports, starting a program from scratch, and some of the nuanced differences between K12 and collegiate. -- Josh Knutson (LinkedIn // Twitter) Gravity Gaming -- Esports is organized competitive video games allowing schools to redefine their athletic culture, diversify opportunities for student participation, promote physical and mental health, increase collegiate scholarship pathways, and play games!  We cannot forget the importance of play! James O'Hagan (LinkedIn // Twitter) is the Founder and Host of The Academy of Esports podcast. The Academy of Esports (Website // Twitter) You may email any questions or topic suggestions to contact@taoesports.com. -- Music provided Royalty Free "8 Bit Adventure!" Querky Fun Game Music by HeatleyBros iTunes: https://goo.gl/M3b16f Spotify: https://goo.gl/5SbVuk License: https://goo.gl/jadB5E Twitter: https://goo.gl/fKqyrj Facebook: https://goo.gl/PrsTvS