Mitch and Blake propose a framework for understanding user-generated content in games based on two central metaphors -- the playground and the stage -- representing the two ways users "create" content in games through play and performance. They discuss the rise of sandbox games, The Sims, GTA3, Runescape, Second Life, EVE Online, and Minecraft. Mitch explains the evolution of games as performance spaces, beginning with early machinima and progressing to YouTube videos and Twitch streaming. They conclude with a brief look at Roblox and Discord as two "third places" that people hang out online, and the influence of games on the future of social networks. Links & Show Notes: Bartle’s Taxonomy The Sims (WaPo article) GTA 3 (The Ringer retrospective) Second Life and lessons for the metaverse Empires of EVE Minecraft hits 1 trillion views on YouTube Machinima Starcraft on Korean TV (2008) Ninja and Drake on Twitch Roblox S-1 Discord

Explore the recent court ruling deeming the Corporate Transparency Act unconstitutional, legal challenges in Alabama and Arizona, debates on reporting requirements for small businesses, navigating compliance complexities, and discussions on challenges and loopholes in money laundering disclosure requirements.

Blake, host of the Rethinking Christianity podcast, shares his thoughts on Christian Deconstruction, the politics of the evangelical church in America, the challenges of interpreting the Bible, abuse within the church, and the impact of scripture. They also discuss mega-churches, Christian dating, spiritual practices, and their goals for the podcast.

Dr. Mfon Akpan discusses incorporating AI in accounting education, skills gap in graduates, future of the CPA profession, and importance of personal interaction in education. Topics cover challenges and benefits of AI in education, improving salaries in accounting, balancing work-life, and embracing AI in accounting. Guest stresses lifelong learning amid technology advancements.

Founders of X Recruiter, Declan and Blake, share lessons from launching 40+ recruitment agencies. They discuss the traits of successful recruiters, support for independent agency owners, misconceptions and success stories, focusing during a recruitment slump, selling with stories, investing in your team, and the challenges of starting an agency.