Pixel Retentive Podcast

Hosted by Epic Made

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141

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Aug 2026

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About the show

This is Pixel Retentive podcast, where Colorful Carl, an Artist and a Business Owner, discusses the art of business and the business of art. Here, we explore the intersection of creativity, business, marketing, and entrepreneurship with some of the leading minds in the space.

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September 3, 2026Episode 14347 min

How Great Board Game Marketing Builds Lifelong Fans | Krystal Rose

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Krystal Rose , Marketing and Partnership Leader at Asmodee and Office Dog Games , to explore what makes partnerships in the tabletop industry truly successful. With more than a decade of experience spanning marketing, events, strategic communications, and gaming, Krystal shares how authentic relationships, community building, and a passion for play are transforming the way games are marketed today. Together they discuss the resurgence of board games, the differences between lifestyle games and standalone tabletop titles, why partnerships matter more than advertising, and how game companies can build communities that last. They also dive into Gen Con, the evolution of game marketing, mentorship, the importance of play in modern life, and why the future of tabletop gaming is brighter than ever. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 11:45 Meet Krystal Rose 12:45 What Makes Great Partnerships? 16:20 Why Play Matters 21:30 How Board Game Marketing Has Changed 23:00 Board Games vs Trading Card Games 27:30 Marketing Different Types of Games 31:30 Building Long-Term Creative Partnerships 36:30 Gen Con & Live Event Marketing 42:00 Everyone Is a Gamer 44:00 Mentorship in the Gaming Industry 50:15 The Future of Asmodee & Office Dog Games 53:30 Leadership Lessons & Career Advice 55:45 Where to Follow Krystal Guest Links 🌐 Asmodee: https://www.asmodee.com 🎲 Office Dog Games: https://www.officedoggames.com 💼 Connect with Krystal Rose on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moxkrystal/ Special Thanks A huge thank you to Krystal Rose for sharing her perspective on partnerships, marketing, leadership, and the power of play. Her thoughtful approach to building authentic relationships reminds us that the best marketing starts with genuine human connection and a passion for creating memorable experiences. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, storytelling, animation, entrepreneurship, branding, game development, marketing, leadership, and the business of creative work, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, board game designer, tabletop creator, marketer, publisher, creative leader, or anyone passionate about building communities through games. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #BoardGames #TabletopGames #GameMarketing #Asmodee #OfficeDogGames #GenCon #MagicTheGathering #GamingIndustry #CreatorEconomy #CommunityBuilding #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

September 1, 2026Episode 14248 min

From Far Cry to Indie Games: the Future of Game Development | Phil O'Connor

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Phil O'Connor , veteran game designer, co-founder of Big Dumb Games , and designer behind titles including Far Cry 3 , Rainbow Six Siege , and Dying Light . After nearly three decades in AAA game development, Phil shares why he's betting on indie development, what today's gaming industry gets wrong, and why creativity, authenticity, and smaller teams may shape the future of games. Together they explore the collapse of traditional AAA development models, why independent studios are thriving, how creativity and business intersect in modern game development, and what it really takes to launch a successful game today. They also discuss AI in creative industries, the realities of game funding, building communities before products, and why passion remains the most valuable asset any creator can have. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Why Phil left AAA development to co-found Big Dumb Games The biggest differences between AAA and indie game development Why so many veteran developers are starting independent studios The hidden realities behind massive AAA budgets What today's game publishers misunderstand about creative risk Why authenticity matters more than ever in game design Building Starship Bloopers from concept to prototype The importance of community building before launching a game The future of Steam, indie publishing, and game discovery The opportunities and challenges facing modern game developers Phil's perspective on AI, creativity, and the future of interactive entertainment Advice for aspiring game designers entering today's industry Guest Links 🌐 Big Dumb Games: https://bigdumbgames.com The Craft and Science of Game Design: A Video Game Designer's Manual https://www.routledge.com/The-Craft-and-Science-of-Game-Design-A-Video-Game-Designers-Manual/OConnor/p/book/9780367556532 Special Thanks A huge thank you to Phil O'Connor for sharing nearly three decades of lessons from the front lines of game development. His perspective on creativity, authenticity, independent studios, and the future of interactive entertainment offers valuable insights for developers, entrepreneurs, artists, and anyone building something meaningful. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, storytelling, entrepreneurship, design, game development, animation, leadership, and the intersection of business and art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, indie creator, designer, programmer, entrepreneur, studio founder, or anyone passionate about building great games. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #GameDevelopment #IndieGames #GameDesign #PhilOConnor #BigDumbGames #StarshipBloopers #FarCry3 #RainbowSixSiege #DyingLight #GameIndustry #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 27, 2026Episode 14140 min

Why Storytelling Belongs in Politics | Delegate Jackie Hope Glass

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Delegate Jackie Hope Glass , Navy veteran, audio producer, community storyteller, and Virginia's 93rd District Delegate, to explore how creativity, storytelling, and authentic leadership can strengthen communities and reshape public service. From championing the creative economy to challenging outdated expectations of what leadership looks like, Jackie shares how showing up as your authentic self can inspire meaningful change. Together they discuss the economic power of creativity, why storytelling is one of the most important tools in policymaking, building stronger communities through authentic leadership, and how artists, entrepreneurs, and creators play an essential role in shaping culture. Whether you're a creative professional, entrepreneur, civic leader, or simply someone who believes in building better communities, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Why authenticity is one of the greatest leadership strengths How creativity drives economic growth and community development The importance of recognizing the creative economy as real infrastructure What "Village Is a Verb" means for leadership and civic engagement Why storytelling often changes minds more effectively than statistics alone The role of artists and creators in shaping culture How Delegate Glass is advocating for Virginia's creative economy Why representation matters in public office Building stronger communities through education, advocacy, celebration, and legislation How creative entrepreneurship benefits local economies Why vulnerability and personal stories create better public policy Lessons from public service, military leadership, and community organizing Guest Links 🌐 Official Website: linktr.ee/jackie4norfolk 📱 Socials: Delegate Jackie Hope Glass Instagram Delegate Jackie Hope Glass YouTube Special Thanks A special thank you to Delegate Jackie Hope Glass for sharing her vision of leadership rooted in authenticity, creativity, and community. Her passion for empowering artists, entrepreneurs, and everyday citizens reminds us that storytelling isn't just about communication—it's about creating meaningful change. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, storytelling, entrepreneurship, design, leadership, game development, and the intersection of business and art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a creative entrepreneur, public servant, community leader, artist, educator, policymaker, or anyone passionate about building stronger communities through creativity. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #JackieGlass #CreativeEconomy #Storytelling #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #PublicService #Virginia #Advocacy #CreativeLeadership #Entrepreneurship #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 25, 2026Episode 14047 min

Stop Designing for Yesterday: The Future of Multi-sensory Design | Carolin Vedder

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Carolin Vedder , multisensory designer, futures thinker, and motion designer, to explore why designing only for the eyes is no longer enough. Carolin explains how brands, museums, hospitality, retail, and cultural institutions can create unforgettable experiences by intentionally designing for sight, sound, scent, touch, texture, temperature, and even memory. Together they discuss the science behind human perception, how multisensory experiences influence trust, emotion, and recall, and why tomorrow's designers must think beyond logos and visual identity. From MTV motion graphics to museum exhibitions and future-focused brand strategy, this conversation offers a fascinating look at where design is heading next. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: What multisensory design really is—and why it matters How motion design led Carolin into sensory experience design Why sight alone doesn't create memorable experiences The surprising relationship between scent, color, sound, and memory How restaurants, museums, retail, and hospitality already use multisensory design Why perception shapes brand value more than aesthetics alone The concept of a "sensory signature" for brands How museums can create deeper emotional connections through sensory storytelling Why future-focused design requires foresight, not just creativity How brands can intentionally design memorable customer experiences The role neuroscience plays in design decisions Why "Form Follows Foresight" may become the next evolution of design thinking Guest Links 🌐 Multisensory Design: https://multisensory-design.com 🌐 Design in Motion: https://design-in-motion.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolin-vedder/ Special Thanks Special thanks to Carolin Vedder for sharing her groundbreaking perspective on multisensory design, perception science, and the future of brand experiences. This conversation offers a completely new lens through which designers, marketers, creatives, and business leaders can think about creating deeper emotional connections with the people they serve. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, branding, storytelling, game development, design, animation, innovation, and the intersection of business and art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a designer, marketer, museum curator, creative director, brand strategist, architect, or anyone passionate about creating unforgettable experiences. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #CarolinVedder #MultisensoryDesign #BrandExperience #ExperienceDesign #SensoryBranding #CreativeStrategy #DesignThinking #MotionDesign #MuseumDesign #Neuroscience #BrandStrategy #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 20, 2026Episode 13945 min

How AI Is Changing Search & Marketing | Melinda Powelson

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Melinda Powelson , Founder and CEO of MatchEngine.com , to explore how AI, search engines, and customer behavior are reshaping modern marketing. With more than three decades of experience navigating digital transformation, Melinda shares practical insights on adapting to Google's evolving algorithms, leveraging AI without losing the human touch, and why understanding customer data is the key to long-term business success. The conversation dives into AI-powered demand generation, SEO strategy, customer language analysis, remote work, entrepreneurship, leadership, and how small businesses can survive—and thrive—through constant technological disruption. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, agency owner, or business leader, this episode is packed with actionable ideas for navigating the future of business. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Why Google's constant evolution continues to reshape digital marketing How AI search is changing SEO and customer discovery The importance of understanding customer language—not just keywords How Match Engine analyzes over 2,000 customer calls every day using AI Using AI to improve sales teams instead of replacing them Why good data still requires human interpretation How COVID permanently changed demand generation and customer behavior Why businesses must continually adapt or risk becoming obsolete The relationship between creativity, strategy, and data Building stronger company culture in hybrid and remote workplaces Why human connection remains a competitive advantage in the age of AI Leadership lessons from decades of navigating disruptive technology Guest Links 🌐 Match Engine: https://www.matchengine.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melpowelson/ Special Thanks A huge thank you to Melinda Powelson for sharing decades of experience in digital marketing, AI, demand generation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Her perspective on balancing technology with human expertise offers valuable lessons for businesses navigating today's rapidly changing landscape. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, entrepreneurship, marketing, game development, storytelling, design, AI, and the business behind great ideas, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with an entrepreneur, marketer, agency owner, business leader, founder, or anyone interested in the future of AI and marketing. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #MelindaPowelson #MatchEngine #ArtificialIntelligence #AIMarketing #SEO #DemandGeneration #DigitalMarketing #BusinessStrategy #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #SmallBusiness #MarketingStrategy #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 18, 2026Episode 13854 min

The Creator of Fallout's Vault Boy on 30 Years of Game Art | Trammell Isaac

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, Carl sits down with Trammell Isaac, veteran game developer, art director, and the creator of the iconic Vault Boy from the Fallout franchise. With more than 30 years in the games industry, Trammell shares the untold story behind one of gaming's most recognizable mascots, how Fallout evolved from a cult classic into a global phenomenon, and what it takes to build art that lasts for generations. The conversation explores the creative process behind designing Vault Boy, the misconceptions surrounding the famous thumbs-up pose, leadership in game development, the impact of AI on creative work, building sustainable studios, and why investing in people matters more than ever. Trammell also shares his latest venture, BEEKDiPP, and explains how advanced photogrammetry is helping shape the future of games, film, and digital production. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: The true origin story behind Fallout's iconic Vault Boy Why the famous thumbs-up has been widely misunderstood How Fallout grew from a cult classic into one of gaming's biggest franchises The creative philosophy behind designing memorable game icons What makes great creative leaders different from great artists Why leadership—not artistic talent—is often the hardest skill to develop How AI is transforming game development and content creation The future of smaller, faster, more efficient game studios Building BEEKDiPP and bringing photogrammetry to modern game production Why mentoring others creates opportunities you never expect Guest Links 🌐 BEEKDiPP: https://beekdipp.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tramell-isaac-bba5517/ Special Thanks Special thanks to Trammell Isaac for sharing the real story behind Vault Boy, decades of game development wisdom, and invaluable lessons on creativity, leadership, entrepreneurship, and building teams that last. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about game development, storytelling, animation, design, creativity, and the business of art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, concept artist, art director, creative leader, Fallout fan, or anyone passionate about building unforgettable worlds. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #Fallout #VaultBoy #TrammellIsaac #GameDevelopment #GameArt #ArtDirection #GameDesign #BEEKDiPP #Photogrammetry #Leadership #CreativeLeadership #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 13, 2026Episode 13748 min

Inside Nightdive Studios: Restoring Legendary Games from Code to Reality | Larry Kuperman

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast , Carl sits down with Larry Kuperman , longtime games industry executive, founding member of Nightdive Studios , and one of the industry's strongest advocates for game preservation . After more than 25 years helping publishers, developers, and studios bring both new and classic games to audiences around the world, Larry shares the lessons, stories, and philosophy that shaped an extraordinary career. Together they explore why preserving games matters just as much as preserving books and films, the business realities behind game development, what today's developers should be doing to protect gaming history, and how storytelling, personal branding, and community can shape a lasting career. Larry also shares behind-the-scenes stories from Nightdive Studios , Atari , Stardock , and the restoration of legendary classics, along with practical advice for anyone hoping to build a future in the games industry. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Larry's journey from healthcare to a 25+ year career in gaming How Nightdive Studios became the leader in game preservation Why preserving classic games is more important than ever The surprising legal challenges behind remastering old games The history of Atari, Wolfenstein 3D, Doom, and early PC gaming What today's developers should archive for future generations Why storytelling is one of the most valuable skills in game development Building your personal brand as a developer or creative Advice for indie developers pitching publishers and investors The future of game preservation and why it affects everyone who loves games Guest Links 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Nightdive Studios 🔗 International Game Developers Association (IGDA): https://igda.org/ Special Thanks Special thanks to Larry Kuperman for sharing decades of industry knowledge, championing the preservation of gaming history, and reminding us that preserving games also means preserving the stories and people who created them. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about game development, storytelling, animation, design, creativity, and the business of art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, retro gaming fan, game designer, historian, producer, or anyone passionate about the future of interactive entertainment. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #NightdiveStudios #GamePreservation #LarryKuperman #GameDevelopment #RetroGaming #Atari #Doom #Wolfenstein #IndieGames #Storytelling #GameHistory #IGDA #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 11, 2026Episode 13649 min

Behind AAA Game VFX | James L. Sanders III

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, Carl sits down with James L. Sanders III, veteran AAA VFX artist, whose career spans more than two decades creating unforgettable visuals for franchises like Borderlands, Days Gone, Ashes of Creation, and many more. Together they explore how iconic games are built, why great visual effects are about gameplay—not spectacle—and what it really takes to thrive in the modern games industry. James shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories from working through studio closures, mentoring artists, finding the "fun" in game development, and balancing creativity with technical performance. The conversation also explores AI in game development, leadership, mentorship, and why the best studios are built around passionate people—not just great technology. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: James' journey from QA tester to AAA VFX Director How visual effects influence gameplay and player experience Why finding the "fun" is the hardest part of game development Behind-the-scenes stories from Gearbox, Midway, and Sony Bend The role of mentorship in building a successful career AI's place in the future of game art and development Why soft skills often matter more than technical ability Advice for aspiring artists and game developers Building games that players remember for decades Guest Links Website: https://www.mobygames.com/person/138636/james-sanders/ ❤️ Support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Special Thanks Special thanks to James L. Sanders III for sharing decades of hard-earned experience, incredible stories from the making of Borderlands, and thoughtful advice on creativity, leadership, mentorship, and the future of game development. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about game development, storytelling, animation, design, creativity, and the business of art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, artist, VFX professional, technical artist, or anyone passionate about creating unforgettable interactive experiences. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #Borderlands #LarianStudios #GameDevelopment #GameArt #VFX #VisualEffects #GameDesign #AAA #UnrealEngine #AshesOfCreation #CreativeLeadership #GameDev #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 6, 2026Episode 13549 min

Inside Vampire: The Masquerade Reawakened | A. Khedron DeLeon, One of the Creative Leaders Behind the Project

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, Carl sits down with A. Khedron DeLeon, engineer-turned-writer and narrative designer, and one of the creative leaders behind Vampire: The Masquerade – Reawakened—an ambitious fan-made recreation of the cult classic RPG built entirely within Skyrim's Creation Kit. Together they explore what it takes to revive a beloved game, build a global volunteer development team, and balance storytelling, systems design, and technical limitations to create an unforgettable player experience. Khedron shares how he evolved from voice actor to one of the project's creative leaders, why passionate communities can outperform traditional development teams, and the unique challenges of rebuilding a classic while respecting established lore and intellectual property. The conversation also dives into narrative design, voice acting, world building, and why great games are built by people who genuinely love what they're creating. Editor's Note: During the conversation, the CD-Action Expo schedule is mentioned incorrectly. The event takes place Saturday, May 30, through Sunday, May 31, not beginning on Friday as stated in the recording. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Building Vampire: The Masquerade – Reawakened inside Skyrim Why volunteer game development can produce incredible results The challenge of honoring classic RPG lore while creating something new Narrative design, dialogue systems, and world building How engineering influences storytelling and game mechanics Working with an international team of writers, artists, and voice actors Balancing fan expectations with creative innovation The future of the Reawakened and Chronicles projects Guest Links 🌐 Website: akhedrondeleon.com/ 🧛 Vampire: The Masquerade – Reawakened Special Thanks Special thanks to A. Khedron DeLeon and the volunteer development team behind Vampire: The Masquerade – Reawakened for sharing their passion for storytelling, game preservation, and collaborative creativity. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about game development, storytelling, animation, design, creativity, and the business of art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a game developer, writer, RPG fan, creative director, or anyone passionate about building unforgettable interactive experiences. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #VampireTheMasquerade #SkyrimMod #GameDevelopment #NarrativeDesign #Storytelling #IndieGames #RPG #WorldBuilding #GameDesign #CreativeLeadership #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade

August 4, 2026Episode 1341 hr 4 min

Now Is Better, the Psychology of Optimism | 2-Time Grammy Winner Stefan Sagmeister

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, Carl sits down with legendary graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister to explore why now is better than most people believe. From award-winning album covers for The Rolling Stones and Talking Heads to groundbreaking exhibitions, TED Talks, and his latest book Now is Better , Stefan shares how design can shape not just what we see—but how we think about the world. Together, they discuss why modern media makes us believe everything is getting worse, how data tells a very different story, and why designers have a responsibility to communicate ideas that create meaningful change. Stefan also shares insights into his famous seven-year sabbaticals, designing exhibitions that challenge perspectives, and how AI may reshape the future of creativity without replacing the human spirit behind great design. Whether you're a designer, artist, creative entrepreneur, marketer, or simply someone looking for a more hopeful perspective on the future, this conversation is filled with timeless creative wisdom. Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn: Why "Now is Better" became Stefan's latest creative mission How negativity shapes modern media and public perception Turning complex research into compelling visual storytelling Designing exhibitions that change how people think Why communication design is about creating change The value of seven-year sabbaticals for long-term creativity Keeping design a calling instead of just a career What AI means for the future of graphic design Why human creativity will always matter Lessons from decades of experimental design and storytelling Guest Links 🌐 Website: https://sagmeister.com 📖 Now is Better 🎤 TED Talks Special Thanks A special thanks to Stefan Sagmeister for sharing decades of creative insight and reminding us that great design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about changing perspectives and creating meaningful human experiences. Connect with Epic Made For more conversations about creativity, design, storytelling, animation, leadership, marketing, and the business of art, visit: 🌐 https://www.epicmade.net/resources/category/Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a designer, creative leader, marketer, artist, or anyone who could use a more optimistic perspective on creativity and the future. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl #StefanSagmeister #GraphicDesign #Creativity #DesignThinking #CreativeLeadership #VisualStorytelling #NowIsBetter #TEDTalks #Happiness #AI #Design #PixelRetentivePodcast #EpicMade