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

Mitch and Blake discuss perhaps the most important developments in the video games business since the 1990s: the explosion of casual and mobile gaming. Mitch explains how the casual business was catalyzed by the most unlikely of heroes. He talks about his time as the CEO of the first public mobile game company in the US (JAMDAT) leading up to the launch of the iPhone. They look at the rise of so-called "social gaming" on Facebook and how it was enabled by new advances in analytics and data science. They do a deep dive on the iOS App Store and Mitch talks about how Apple's desire to curate its end-user experience inadvertently led to the rise of Facebook as a customer acquisition gatekeeper. They end with a discussion of why SuperCell succeeded in building a multi-billion dollar mobile game business while Rovio did not. Links & Show Notes: Robert Westmoreland  EA's “We See Farther” Ad  Ion Storm  Taneli Armanto / Nokia Snake  JAMDAT Mobile S-1 Steve Jobs Announces the iPhone  Mobile Games Dominate User-Acquisition Spending (2021)  SuperCell 

Doug and Mitch discuss their new home lab server and the challenges of managing firewall rules. They also touch on topics such as backup disasters, self-hosting, data sovereignty, and manufacturing challenges. Additionally, they explore options for home lab servers and discuss the search for Synergy alternatives and affordable Wi-Fi cameras.

Meet Kevin, Anthony, and Mitch from Royal's collections team discussing helping borrowers with past-due payments, adjusting to changing circumstances, and building sustainable budgets. They emphasize personalized approaches to handling debts, navigating financial consolidation, and avoiding scams while adapting to regulatory changes. Learn about the significance of managing payments online and providing financial guidance.

Cardi B, the dynamic music icon and fashionista, shines as she discusses her unforgettable moments at Paris Fashion Week. Melyssa Ford, media personality and nightlife expert, shares wild tales from her evenings out, including a hilariously memorable trip to the strip club. Mitch brings in fresh insights on the potential finale of his podcast. The crew also dives into the chaos of high-profile legal battles, R&B music trends, and the emotional weight of community and artistic expression, all mixed with their signature humor.