• History, Nostalgia & The Future of Gaming | 40-Something Gamers w/ Joshua Patterson
    Jan 25 2026
    The conversation covers the history of gaming, favorite games, and the evolution of gaming consoles. It also delves into the music and soundtracks of classic games, as well as the impact of DLC on the gaming industry. The discussion explores the era of online gaming and the influence of sports games on the gaming experience. The conversation covers a range of gaming genres, including first-person shooters, action-adventure games, and RPGs. It also delves into the art of game design and the intersection of video games and music. The discussion touches on the nostalgia of classic games and the evolving landscape of gaming platforms.

    Takeaways -
    Team Sonic vs. Team Mario preference
    • The evolution of gaming consoles and the impact of DLC on the gaming industry Diverse Gaming Genres
    • - Art and Game Design - Nostalgia and Classic Games
    • - Evolution of Gaming Platforms Chapters
    • - 00:00 Favorite Era of Gaming - 23:39 Evolution of Gaming Platforms and Memory Challenges - 33:07 The Future of Gaming and Parting Words #GamingPodcast #VideoGames #GamingHistory #ClassicGames #RetroGaming #GameDesign #GamingPodcast #VideoGames #GamingHistory #ClassicGames #RetroGaming #GameDesign


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    35 Min.
  • Unlocking the Joy of Gaming: Insights from a Hypnotherapist and Gamers Unite
    Jan 19 2026
    Introduction:
    In a world where video games are often misunderstood, the 40 Something Gamers podcast brings a refreshing perspective on the relationship between gaming, mental health, and personal growth. Joined by certified hypnotherapist Scott Rust, hosts Markivus Nious and Scharonne dive into the nuances of gaming culture, explore its impact on mental well-being, and share their passion for nostalgic gaming experiences.

    Main Content:
    1. The Hypnotherapist’s Perspective
    Scott Rust, a certified hypnotherapist and life coach, brings a unique lens to the discussion. He simplifies his services into two categories: "bad things go away" and "good things come in." This straightforward approach resonates with many who feel overwhelmed by the pressures of life. Scott emphasizes that gaming can play a pivotal role in mental health. He states, "The more somebody does things that require imagination and creativity, the healthier their brain will be." This insight highlights how video games can foster problem-solving skills and lateral thinking, which are essential for personal growth.

    2. Nostalgia and Gaming Culture
    The conversation shifts to the nostalgic elements of gaming, invoking memories of classics like Super Mario Brothers and Duck Hunt. Markivus and Scharonne reminisce about their first gaming experiences, illustrating how these early interactions with video games shaped their identities as gamers. The hosts discuss the evolution of gaming systems, from the original Nintendo to the modern Switch, and how innovation continues to drive the gaming industry.
    3. Gaming and Mental Health
    A significant part of the discussion centers around the misconceptions about gaming and its effects on mental health. Scott points out that while many believe video games are detrimental, they can actually enhance cognitive functions. He explains, "Gamers can come up with creative solutions to other problems," which can be beneficial in therapeutic settings. This perspective dispels the myth that gaming is merely a distraction, instead framing it as a tool for mental exercise and emotional resilience.
    4. The Greatest Gaming Era
    As the conversation progresses, the trio reflects on the greatest eras in gaming history. Scott advocates for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, noting that it laid the foundation for modern gaming with iconic titles like Halo and God of War. This period is marked by a focus on storytelling and gameplay, elements that many gamers still cherish today.
    5. The Future of Gaming
    Finally, the podcast touches on the future of gaming technology and its potential impact on social interactions. With innovations like the Nintendo Switch, gaming has become more inclusive, allowing friends to connect and play together regardless of physical distance. The hosts express excitement about the possibilities that lie ahead, emphasizing that gaming is not just a hobby but a way to forge and maintain friendships.
    Conclusion:
    The 40 Something Gamers podcast serves as a reminder that gaming can be a positive force in our lives, offering not only entertainment but also avenues for personal growth and connection. As discussed, the insights from Scott Rust reveal that video games can enhance mental health through creativity and problem-solving. Whether you're a die-hard gamer or a casual player, embracing the joy of gaming can lead to a healthier mindset and fulfilling relationships.
    Key Takeaways:
    - Video games can positively impact mental health by fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
    - Nostalgia plays a significant role in gaming culture, connecting generations of players.
    - The gaming industry continues to evolve, with innovations enhancing social interactions among players.
    - Understanding the therapeutic benefits of gaming can help dispel negative stereotypes associated with video games.
    Tags: Gaming, Mental Health, Hypnotherapy, Video Games, Nostalgia, Personal Growth, 40 Something Gamers, Gaming Culture, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, Creativity, Problem-Solving


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    34 Min.
  • Exploring the Evolution of Nintendo: A Journey from the Wii to the Switch 2.
    Jan 10 2026
    Keywords
    Nintendo, Switch 2, gaming nostalgia, video games, gaming community, game recommendations, innovative technology, gaming history, multiplayer games, gaming ecosystem

    Summary
    In this engaging conversation, Markivus Nious and Scharonne delve into their shared love for gaming, particularly focusing on Nintendo's innovative history and the evolution of the Switch. They discuss their experiences with various gaming consoles, the nostalgia associated with classic games, and the excitement surrounding new releases. The duo also shares their favorite games, recommendations, and the importance of community engagement in the gaming world.

    Takeaways
    Nintendo has always been known for its innovative technology.
    The Switch 2 is seen as a significant improvement over previous consoles.
    Nostalgia plays a big role in gaming experiences.
    The gaming ecosystem allows for seamless transitions between consoles.
    Comparison between games can detract from enjoyment.
    Family-friendly gaming is a core aspect of Nintendo's appeal.
    The evolution of gaming technology has made gaming more accessible.
    Community engagement enhances the gaming experience.
    Game recommendations can lead to discovering hidden gems.
    The importance of plug-and-play gaming for casual gamers.

    Titles
    Exploring Gaming Nostalgia with Nintendo
    The Evolution of the Switch: A Gamer's Perspective

    Sound bites
    "I love the Mario Kart world."
    "Nintendo is just fun."
    "I just want to plug and play."

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Gaming Nostalgia
    02:45 Nintendo's Innovative History
    05:54 The Switch Evolution
    08:58 Game Comparisons and Ecosystem
    12:01 Favorite Games and Recommendations
    15:01 The Future of Gaming and Community Engagement


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    34 Min.
  • Leveling Up in Gaming: A Nostalgic Journey Through the Classics with guest Orphan Prodigy
    Jan 1 2026
    In today’s episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the world of gaming and pop culture, reflecting on our favorite childhood memories and the evolution of video games from the 90s to the present day. With our special guest, Orphan Prodigy, we explore the impact of iconic figures in the gaming industry and share our personal experiences with the latest gaming trends.
    **Honoring a Gaming Visionary**

    We start our discussion with heartfelt condolences for the late Vincent Pella, a visionary in the gaming industry known for his work on the groundbreaking "Modern Warfare" series. Orphan Prodigy reminisces about Pella's influence, stating, "He was a visionary... Modern Warfare was like the GoldenEye of the 2000s." This reflection sets the tone for our conversation, emphasizing the profound loss felt within the gaming community.

    **Rediscovering Nostalgia with New Titles**
    As the podcast progresses, we shift gears to share our experiences with the latest gaming releases. Markivus Nious enthusiastically admits to finally getting a Nintendo Switch for Christmas, revealing, "Me and Sharon... we were playing that new Avengers game." This game pays homage to the classic 1990s X-Men arcade titles, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics.
    Scharonne adds to this enthusiasm, mentioning, "It plays homage to... the Konami era of arcade games... you could play up to maybe six people online." The camaraderie of gaming is palpable as they discuss the joy of multiplayer experiences, highlighting how these games create connections among friends.

    **The Debate: Mario vs. Sonic**
    Our conversation takes a fun turn as we engage in the timeless debate: Team Mario or Team Sonic? Orphan Prodigy leans toward Mario, citing classics like "Super Mario World" and the revolutionary "Mario 64" as pivotal moments in gaming history. He reflects, "That changed the game forever." This light-hearted debate showcases not just personal preferences but also the cultural significance these characters hold in the hearts of gamers.

    **Modern Gaming Experiences: A Mixed Bag**
    As we dive deeper into contemporary gaming, Orphan Prodigy shares his mixed feelings about the latest titles, particularly relating to the "Battlefield" series. He states, "It feels like Battlefield, but it also feels like Call of Duty at the same time." This sentiment resonates with many gamers who crave the nostalgia of past titles while navigating the complexities of modern gaming.

    **Conclusion: Embracing the Evolution of Gaming**
    As we wrap up the podcast, we reflect on the evolution of gaming, the impact of legendary figures like Vincent Pella, and the joy of sharing gaming experiences with friends. The conversation serves as a reminder that no matter how much gaming changes, the sense of community and shared memories remains constant.

    **Key Takeaways:**
    1. The gaming community deeply mourns the loss of influential figures like Vincent Pella.
    2. Modern games can successfully honor nostalgic titles while providing new experiences.
    3. Engaging debates, such as Mario vs. Sonic, highlight the lasting impact of classic games.
    4. The essence of gaming lies in shared experiences and the connections we build with others.
    **Tags for SEO:**
    Gaming, Nostalgia, Vincent Pella, Modern Warfare, Nintendo Switch, Avengers Game, Mario vs. Sonic, Multiplayer Gaming, Gaming Community, X-Men Arcade.

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    37 Min.
  • Title: The Evolution of Gaming: A Conversation with Isaac Shaker.
    Dec 24 2025
    In a world where gaming has evolved from pixelated screens to immersive universes, the nostalgia for classic games remains strong among 40-something gamers. In this engaging podcast episode, hosts Markivus Nious and Sharonne Herrington invite special guest Isaac Shaker to reminisce about their gaming journeys, discussing favorite consoles, iconic games, and the shifts in gaming culture over the years.

    Main Content:

    1. **The Battle of the Titans: Mario vs. Sonic**
    The episode kicks off with a light-hearted debate: Team Mario or Team Sonic? Isaac reveals his allegiance to Team Wario, highlighting his experiences with Nintendo games rather than Sega's offerings. This sets the stage for a deeper discussion about how different gaming experiences shaped their childhoods. Markivus and Sharon chime in, sharing their own preferences and memories associated with these classic characters.

    2. **First Consoles and Gaming Beginnings**
    Isaac shares that his first console was the PlayStation 2, which he acquired specifically to play the Lunar games. This nostalgic mention resonates with the hosts, who recall their own first gaming experiences. Markivus and Sharon discuss their early consoles, including the original Game Boy and other handheld devices, emphasizing the excitement of gaming in their youth.

    3. **The Soul Calibur Phenomenon**
    A significant part of the conversation revolves around the fighting game Soul Calibur. Isaac explains how the quick match format made it a favorite among friends, allowing for interactive gameplay that kept everyone engaged. Sharon adds her thoughts on the game's brilliance, pointing out its innovative mechanics compared to other fighting games. This section highlights the importance of social gaming experiences and how they fostered friendships.

    4. **Transitioning from Handhelds to Consoles**
    As the discussion progresses, Isaac reflects on the transition from handheld gaming to console experiences. He recalls the stark difference in graphics and gameplay, particularly with titles like Soul Calibur and Mortal Kombat. Markivus and Sharon share their own transitions, reminiscing about the excitement of upgrading to more powerful systems and the games that defined their experiences.

    5. **The Rise of PC Gaming**
    The conversation shifts to PC gaming, with Isaac discussing his experiences with Steam and the Steam Deck. He mentions the convenience of mobile gaming and how it has changed the way people play. Markivus and Sharon express their preferences for console gaming, highlighting the comfort of using controllers over keyboards. This section underscores the ongoing debate between PC and console gaming and the unique advantages of each platform.

    6. **Pros and Cons: PC vs. Console**
    The podcast concludes with a discussion on the pros and cons of PC gaming versus console gaming. Isaac points out the exclusivity of certain titles and the delays in porting games to PC. Markivus and Sharon reflect on their own experiences, noting how some iconic games took longer to reach PC users.

    Conclusion:
    This episode of 40-something Gamers serves as a heartfelt reminder of the joy and camaraderie that gaming brings, transcending generations. From nostalgic debates about beloved characters to the evolution of gaming platforms, Markivus, Sharon, and Isaac share an engaging dialogue that resonates with gamers of all ages. Key takeaways include the importance of social connections in gaming, the transformation of technology, and the enduring love for classic games that continue to shape our experiences today.
    Tags:
    Gaming, Video Games, Retro Gaming, Console Gaming, PC Gaming, Soul Calibur, Mario, Sonic, PlayStation, Game Boy, Nostalgia, 40-Something Gamers

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    32 Min.
  • Exploring the Evolution of Gaming with actor/podcaster Lawson Nuland.
    Dec 18 2025
    In this episode of 40 Something Gamers, hosts Markivus Nious and Scharonne Herrington welcome actor and podcaster Lawson Nuland for a nostalgic and thought-provoking conversation about gaming’s past, present, and future.
    From the origins of Lawson’s podcast Super Wall Jump—a name inspired by classic Super Mario mechanics—to deep dives into console wars, franchise consistency, and the evolution of how we consume games, this episode blends humor, insight, and genuine love for gaming culture.
    What We Talk About:
    • The story behind the Super Wall Jump Podcast
    • Mario vs. Sonic — why consistency matters in game design
    • First consoles, shared family gaming moments, and the rise of PS2, PS3, and Steam
    • How Nintendo carved out its own lane and won the modern console war
    • Cross-platform gaming and what the future may hold for consoles

    Whether you grew up blowing into cartridges or discovered gaming through digital storefronts, this episode hits home on why nostalgia, quality, and community keep gaming timeless.
    Listen now and join the conversation.

    Support the Show
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    45 Min.
  • From Arcades to Cozy Nights: Special guest Tisha's gaming journey
    Dec 14 2025
    In this episode of 40 Something Gamers, hosts Markivus Nious and Scharonne Herrington welcome special guest Tisha for a fun, nostalgic, and insightful conversation about gaming across generations.
    Tisha takes us back to her earliest gaming memories, from watching her brother dominate Mortal Kombat to discovering the game that truly pulled her into the world of gaming—The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. From there, the discussion spans everything from classic consoles and arcade culture to modern handheld gaming.
    The crew dives into:
    • Console evolution and why portability matters more than ever
    • Cozy favorites like Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley
    • Challenging moments (Kingdom Hearts fans know the pain of Sephiroth )
    • Psychological and scary games that leave a lasting impact
    • The magic of arcades and shared gaming memories

    Tisha also shares why she’s firmly Team Mario over Team Sonic, her love for the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, and why gaming is as much about community and shared experiences as it is about the games themselves.
    This episode is a reminder of why gaming sticks with us—through every stage of life—and why talking about it together matters.
    Tune in, laugh, reminisce, and celebrate gaming culture with us. Episode Takeaways
    • Team Mario vs. Team Sonic debate lives on
    • Ocarina of Time is still a gateway game
    • Cozy games can be just as powerful as hardcore ones
    • Psychological horror hits differently than jump scares
    • Arcades shaped how many of us fell in love with gaming
    • Community is at the heart of the gaming experience
    Listen, Subscribe & Join the Conversation
    Available on your favorite podcast platforms.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your own gaming memories with us!
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    29 Min.
  • Special guest Faith Thomas discusses the Cosmic Afroverse & Representation in Gaming
    Dec 7 2025
    In this inspiring and eye-opening episode, hosts Markivus Nious and Scharonne Herrington sit down with Faith Thomas, the creator of the Cosmic Afroverse — a community built to empower Black women and feminine-presenting individuals in gaming and creative spaces.

    Together, they dive into the rich conversation around:
    The historical underrepresentation of Black characters in video games Why representation matters for both players and creators The creative power of RPGs and storytelling The importance of inclusive communities where everyone is seen and valued Faith’s mission to build resources and opportunities for aspiring Black women game developers
    Faith shares her gaming journey, her creative inspirations, and the challenges that come with navigating a space that hasn’t always welcomed diversity. The episode is a heartfelt celebration of creativity, identity, and community building — reminding us all that every voice counts, and that creativity should never be stifled.

    Tune in for stories, laughs, and real talk about the future of gaming.Representation. Creativity. Empowerment. This is the Cosmic Afroverse. Show Takeaways
    • The Cosmic Afroverse uplifts and empowers Black women gamers
    • Representation has improved, but there’s more work to do
    • RPGs help us connect deeply with characters and stories
    • Creative expression fuels personal and professional growth
    • Community building is essential for empowerment
    • Diversity and inclusion make the gaming industry stronger
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    30 Min.