Josefine Schwarzer Applied Games and Mental Health

In this episode of Experience Points, Dave Eng interviews Josefine Schwarzer, a German occupational therapist exploring how tabletop RPGs and LARPs support mental health. Josefine shares how role-play creates safe, expressive spaces that boost self-esteem and break from anxiety. She recounts clients using fantasy roles to assert themselves and even physical rehab sessions transformed into Minecraft sword battles. Together, they discuss “bleed,” storytelling’s power to build empathy, and how shared narratives deepen therapeutic bonds. Josefine highlights the inclusive LARP community and encourages playful approaches in therapy. The episode reveals games’ unique ability to connect, heal, and inspire personal growth.

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Game on!

Get the full transcript and references for this episode here: https://www.universityxp.com/podcast/149

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Michael Low and Luna Uni: A New World of RPG Writing Instruction

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng welcomes Michael Low—educator, game designer, and creator of Stories RPG. Michael shares the powerful story behind Luna Uni, a tabletop role-playing curriculum that transforms writing instruction through collaborative storytelling. From 100% student writing gains to building emotionally resonant classrooms, Michael explains how play, character-driven narratives, and East Asian story structures can supercharge literacy and connection. Whether you're an educator, gamer, or curious learner, this episode unpacks the magic of fusing RPGs with pedagogy to build a joyful, self-sustaining learning culture.

If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing.

Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you.

I’d also love it if you took some time to rate the show!

I live to lift others with learning. So, if you found this episode useful, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit.

Also make sure to visit University XP online at www.universityxp.com

University XP is also on Twitter @University_XP and on Facebook and LinkedIn as University XP

Also, feel free to email me anytime at dave@universityxp.com

Game on!

Get the full transcript and references for this episode here: https://www.universityxp.com/podcast/148

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Shaun McMillan on Turning Lectures into Games

In this episode of Experience Points, host Dave Eng interviews educational game designer Shaun McMillan about transforming traditional lectures into interactive, game-like experiences. Shaun shares his framework for designing lectures around a single compelling multiple-choice scenario, enabling students to engage deeply with content by making critical decisions. He discusses integrating game mechanics such as voting, uncertainty, and narrative outcomes to enhance didactic instruction. The episode also explores Shaun’s classroom megagame ALLIANCE, a geopolitical simulation for up to 100 players. Shaun emphasizes modular design, accessibility, and the power of storytelling in creating immersive, educational experiences. Learn more at BestClassEver.org.

If you liked this episode please consider commenting, sharing, and subscribing.

Subscribing is absolutely free and ensures that you’ll get the next episode of Experience Points delivered directly to you.

I’d also love it if you took some time to rate the show!

I live to lift others with learning. So, if you found this episode useful, consider sharing it with someone who could benefit.

Also make sure to visit University XP online at www.universityxp.com

University XP is also on Twitter @University_XP and on Facebook and LinkedIn as University XP

Also, feel free to email me anytime at dave@universityxp.com

Game on!

Get the full transcript and references for this episode here: https://www.universityxp.com/podcast/147

Support the show