Back in the beginning of January, my friend Josh set out with fellow adventurers and created the Radiance Podcast. The format of the podcast is simple:
- Life check-in + a brief discussion on what games everyone has been playing
- A featured guest interview that explores faith, life, and game development.
- Last but not least, an exploration of the featured game of the week. The guys dissect design elements and seek out lessons Christian game developers can learn/apply.
The Good
Perhaps I am partial because Josh is my friend, but I think he does a great job keeping things on track and offers a unique perspective. In a sea of developers, he provides the listener with a lifeline into the world of design.
For their first test season, the Radiance Podcast has featured a solid line up of guests. I have appreciated hearing their individual life stories and different expressions of faith.
The Bad
The podcast is edited in a way that does not sound natural. Laughs are cut off, potential dead air space does not exist, etc. There is a feeling of heavy production and a lack of organic sound.
Personal Preference Alert! I wish the music/interlude music sounded more game-like and less stuffy/church-like.
The End
The meat of this podcast, the interviews with the developers, are where this show shines. If it were me, I would take out the beginning “what are you playing” segment and just dive on in. For example: The GameChurch Podcast does a fantastic job of focusing on the interview portion and less on the small talk.
Bottom Line: I think Radiance Podcast needs a second season to get comfortable and find the podcast groove. The audience is out there, Radiance Podcast just needs more time to find and connect with them.
As of now, Radiance Podcast has completed it’s first season. You can check them out on their website or on iTunes. Make sure to give them feedback either way. The second season of the show hangs in the balance based on feedback received. UPDATE: A second season of the podcast will occur. Just a matter of scheduling/recording.
I’ve listened to two of the podcast and I’m working my way through. I definitely appreciate the quality of the cast – no microphones popping or dogs barking. I don’t know much about independent game development so I’m learning a lot. It is interesting how the faith stories can be so similar to others that I’ve heard. God is working and moving all over the place.
Hey Ted, thanks for stopping by! God is indeed moving and working all over the place. It has been fun to see the relationships that have come about because of Theology Gaming.
My most favorite part of the Radiance Podcast has been listening to Josh grow as a host. The dude is awesome!