The Interview
Back in August 2024 Dan was invited to the Giant Robots On Tour podcast, where hosts Sami Birnbaum and Rémy Hannequin talked with Dan about the transformative powers of gaming through emotional support mentoring.
Dan discusses how MindJam was created to support neurodivergent young people (including those with ADHD and autism) by using video games like Minecraft to build trust and engagement. The idea gained traction during the pandemic when online support became essential. MindJam has since grown to over 150 mentors assisting over 3,000 young people globally.
The discussion also covers the broader benefits of gaming, including cognitive improvements, social skills, problem-solving, and even mindfulness. Dan emphasises the need to shift negative perceptions of gaming in education and parenting, advocating for a more constructive and informed approach. He shares inspiring success stories of young people finding confidence and career paths through gaming.
The episode concludes with information about the BAFTA Young Game Designers Awards and how people can reach out to MindJam for support or mentorship opportunities.
About The ‘Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots’ – Podcast Series
The Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast, produced by thoughtbot, delves into the design, development, and business aspects of software products. Launched on June 11, 2012, the podcast has surpassed 500 episodes, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
In June 2024, the podcast introduced a limited series titled Giant Robots On Tour, focusing on regions including Europe, West Asia, and Africa. This series is co-hosted by thoughtbot developers Sami Birnbaum, Svenja Schäfer, Rémy Hannequin, and Jared Turner. The inaugural episode features the co-hosts sharing their journeys into the tech industry and brainstorming the series’ name, ultimately deciding on Giant Robots On Tour to reflect their exploration and collaboration across diverse regions.
Whether you’re a software development professional or an enthusiast, the Giant Robots Smashing Into Other Giant Robots podcast provides valuable insights into the tech industry’s intricacies. You can check other episodes through the link below.
https://podcast.thoughtbot.com/
You can also learn more about thoughbot here:
