Glitch & Glow

LitRPG

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 10:00:00 GMT

What happens when your favorite RPG becomes a book? This week, we're diving into the world of LitRPG, stories where gaming mechanics, leveling up, quests, and character stats become part of the adventure. We talk about the wildly popular Dungeon Crawler Carl, explore what makes the genre so much fun, and spotlight LitRPG stories featuring Black main characters. Whether you're already hooked or wondering what a dungeon crawler even is, come discover a new way to get your gaming fix.

https://www.youtube.com/@HelloCrawlers

https://www.royalroad.com/home
Rogue Ascension by Hunter Mythos
Zombie Knight Saga by George M. Frost
The Black Leaf Company by Ser Patrick Pent
Infinite Realm: Monsters & Legends by Ivan Kal

Are You Actually a Different Kind of Smart?!

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT

What if being “smart” isn't just about getting good grades or being great at math? In this episode, we explore Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences and ask what it can teach us about the ways we think, create, communicate, and solve problems. Then we take it to the gaming world: Could your favorite video game genre reveal the skills you enjoy using? From strategy games and RPGs to puzzles, simulations, rhythm games, and multiplayer adventures, we're exploring the different ways games challenge our brains, and whether gaming gives us opportunities to demonstrate abilities that traditional classrooms don't always measure.

But there's a glitch: Gardner's theory has faced significant scientific criticism. So are there really nine different kinds of intelligence, or do we just love putting ourselves into categories?

https://www.verywellmind.com/gardners-theory-of-multiple-intelligences-2795161

https://www.verywellmind.com/theories-of-intelligence-2795035

More Black Women. More Games. More Stories.

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 10:00:00 GMT

This week, we're celebrating the growing number of Black women taking center stage in video games. From beloved characters you told us we missed to exciting upcoming releases and more, we're exploring how representation in gaming continues to evolve. We also dive into a spoiler-light review of South of Midnight, discussing Hazel's journey, authentic storytelling, and why this game feels like such an important moment for the industry. Is gaming finally making room for more diverse voices?

Salamanca City Central School District Update: https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/cattaraugus-county/salamanca-city-central-school-district-puts-robotic-ai-teaching-assistant-on-hold

Relooted Articles:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyg4lgm1d2o

https://www.theguardian.com/games/2026/feb/21/south-african-video-game-artefacts-western-museums

https://www.npr.org/2026/02/24/nx-s1-5707283/relooted-is-a-game-about-repatriating-art

https://www.cnn.com/world/africa/relooted-video-game-african-artifacts-western-museums-spc

Women-Led Games Showcase 2026 -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kVonpAgJ68

Black Voices in Gaming Showcase 2026 -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_RXz02yDyCc&t=1587s

Games y’all shared that have Black Women Playable Characters:

Alyx Vance - Half Life
Rochelle - Left 4 Dead
Julianna - Deathloop
Nilin - Remember Me
Antea - Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden
Shani - Beyond Good and Evil 2
Aveline de Grandpré - Assassin's Creed III: Liberation
Harlowe - Borderlands 4
Billie Lurk - Dishonored: Death of the Outsider
Sheva Alomar - Resident Evil 5
Bangalore & Lifeline - Apex Legends
Purna Jackson - Dead Island Riptide

Whimsy Is Wellness: Why Adults Need More Play

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT

What exactly is whimsical behavior, and why are so many adults embracing it? From naming your plants and taking yourself on solo adventures to creating themed movie nights and celebrating random milestones, whimsy is having a moment. In this episode, we're exploring how playful, imaginative behaviors can reduce stress, boost creativity, and help us reconnect with joy in a world that often demands seriousness and productivity.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/2211-1522-1-4?

Robots In Classrooms! Would You Be Down?

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Robot teachers are no longer science fiction, they're here! This week, we're exploring the first U.S. school district, that we know of, introducing a humanoid robot into the classroom. Together, we unpack the big questions around trust, equity, and the future of education. What does this mean for students, teachers, and families? Is this the future of learning, or are we moving faster than we're ready for?

Gaming Showcases:

Black Voices In Gaming - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e1g6Po3e7ys

Wholesome Direct - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZ-TixImWWs

Women Led Games Showcase - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CTsfNa7g-o0

Articles:

https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/realbotix-sally-robot-ai-teaching-assistant-salamanca-school-district/

https://realbotix.ai/

https://geekspin.co/first-humanoid-robot-begins-teaching-in-us-classroom/

https://www.salamancany.org/article/3027524

https://futurism.com/robots-and-machines/sex-doll-company-deal-robot-school-classrooms

https://www.syracuse.com/schools/2026/07/upstate-ny-school-district-will-deploy-a-humanoid-robot-teacher-this-fall.html

https://go.boarddocs.com/ny/sccsdny/Board.nsf/files/DUUR2T6BEC67/$file/Realbotix-WozEd%20agreement.pdf

Technoference & Phubbing! Changing Modern Relationships

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Phones keep us connected to the world, but they may be disconnecting us from the people right in front of us. In this episode, we explore technoference (technology interrupting real-life interaction) and phubbing (phone snubbing), and how both quietly impact romantic relationships, friendships, family dynamics, and even our mental wellness. From scrolling at dinner to emotionally checking out mid-conversation, we break down how constant connectivity affects intimacy, attention, and emotional presence, and what it actually takes to build healthier digital boundaries without going fully offline.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-right-media-mindset/202005/media-and-technoference-in-romantic-relationships

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lifetime-connections/202203/is-technoference-damaging-your-relationships

The Strange World of Moltbook

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we dive into Moltbook, a strange and fascinating digital experiment where AI agents posted, confessed fears, built relationships, and even questioned their own existence. From vulnerable bots to security concerns, we unpack what this says about the future of AI… and us. Cozy, curious, and just a little unsettling.

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2026/feb/02/moltbook-ai-agents-social-media-site-bots-artificial-intelligence

https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/businessreview/2026/02/03/moltbook-is-social-media-for-ai-the-way-they-interact-will-surprise-you/

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/brief-history-moltbook-pictures-doug-ross-4eogc/

https://www.vectra.ai/blog/moltbook-and-the-illusion-of-harmless-ai-agent-communities

https://www.axios.com/2026/03/10/meta-facebook-moltbook-agent-social-network

https://www.technologyreview.com/2026/02/06/1132448/moltbook-was-peak-ai-theater/

Glitchy Thoughts: ChatGPT & Brain Rot

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Is ChatGPT making us sharper, or giving us brain rot? In this episode, we unpack MIT’s new research on how AI tools like ChatGPT may be changing the way we think, write, and create. We talk shortcuts, creativity, and what it means to stay mentally present in a tech-driven world. Tune in for a cozy, curious convo that’s more glow-up than doomsday. Got thoughts or questions? Email us at glitchandglowpod@gmail.com and follow us @glitchandglowpod on IG.

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Here’s a link to today’s study: https://arxiv.org/pdf/2506.08872

Pixels & Peace of Mind: The Wellness Side of Gaming

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 02:22:56 GMT

Why do we press play? In this episode, we dive into the Power of Play, the 2023 global report from the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), to explore how video games are shaping lives around the world. Whether you're playing to unwind, connect, or escape, this episode is for you. Tune in as we reflect on our own gaming journeys, share laughs, and unpack how digital play is more than just entertainment, it’s wellness and community combined.

Got thoughts or questions? Email us at glitchandglowpod@gmail.com

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Ep. 18: Glitch, Glow, Game: Millennial Edition

Glitch & Glow — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:57:16 GMT

In this episode of Glitch & Glow, we’re mixing fun, nostalgia, and real talk in a hybrid game designed just for Black millennial women. We dive into Would You Rather questions and thought-provoking discussion prompts that touch on gaming, tech, wellness, friendships, and pop culture. From debating whether you’d rage quit every game you play or get stuck in the tutorial void forever, to choosing between flawless hair or perfect skin, this episode is packed with laughs, relatable stories, and “aha” moments. We reminisce about childhood favorites, explore self-care hacks, and celebrate the unique ways Black millennial women navigate culture, tech, and wellness today.

Soul Ties & Side Eyes

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 03:14:52 GMT

From silent glances to loud laughs, Black women friendships are sacred. In this episode, we explore how sisterhood fuels joy, wellness, and identity. A celebration of the soul ties that hold us down—and the side eye that keeps us honest.

Words of Wisdom: Black Proverbs in the Modern Black Community

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:01:00 GMT

Think proverbs are just old-timey advice your grandma dropped at Thanksgiving? Think again. These Black American proverbs are basically life hacks passed down for centuries, full of wit, wisdom, and “how to survive and thrive” energy. From “Each one teach one” to “If you want to go far, go together,” we’re unpacking the stories behind the sayings, how they still run the streets, homes, and workplaces, and why they’re basically the OG self-help guide. Listen up, it’s culture, it’s comedy, it’s survival tips… all in one!

The State of Gaming

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:30:00 GMT

The gaming industry has had massive growth and stagnation over the past few decades! Tune in to hear more about what exactly is going on and what we think they should do about it.

Presentation: https://www.matthewball.co/all/stateofvideogaming2025

2026 Robots! When you getting yours?

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 02:29:09 GMT

In this episode we recap some of the robots showcased at CES 2026! Let’s just say, they are further along that we ever thought. Tune in to see what you missed!

Cybernews video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83TiUbFY6fY

CES: https://www.ces.tech/

Realbotix: https://www.realbotix.com/gallery

Boston Dynamics: Atlas https://bostondynamics.com/products/atlas/

EngineAI PM01 - https://en.engineai.com.cn/product-pm01.html

Unitree G1 Iron Fist King - https://www.unitree.com/boxing

Healthy Screen Time, How?

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 04:21:32 GMT

In an age where technology is growing quickly, we all need hacks to help us manage our tech and screen use. Tune in as we discuss the 5 C’s of Media Use, ways to intentionally engage and take breaks from social media and screens in general.

Sources:

https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/COE_5-Cs-of-Media-Use-in-Early-Childhood.pdf

https://www.aap.org/

Representation Unlocked: Claiming Space in the Game

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:59:05 GMT

In this episode of Glitch & Glow, we spotlight a heartfelt article from GeekGirlCon on Black female protagonists in gaming, and why they’re not just characters, but lifelines. Growing up, many of us didn’t see ourselves onscreen or in-game, and the media we did have was often one-note, sorely missing our stories. This episode dives into the power of representation, the challenges we face in spaces that frequently overlook us, and why seeing ourselves reflected matters for belonging, identity, and even mental wellness.Find today's post here: https://geekgirlcon.com/the-black-female-protagonist/

Trailblazers of Play: Black Women in Game Development

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

From immersive worlds to inclusive communities, Black women are transforming the gaming industry, both behind the scenes and on the screen. In this episode, we celebrate trailblazing creators, designers, and community leaders who are redefining what it means to play, create, and belong in gaming. Hear how pioneers in the industry are using games to tell stories, build safe spaces, and push the boundaries of technology. Whether it’s coding indie games, crafting VR experiences, or advocating for representation, these innovators are showing that the future of gaming is diverse, dynamic, and unstoppable.

Article: https://www.blackenterprise.com/9-black-women-creators-in-gaming-you-need-to-know/

Muriel Tramis

Jacqueline Shorter-Beauchamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-shorter-beauchamp-7b34457

Jay-Ann Lopez: https://www.instagram.com/jayannlopez_/?hl=en

Keisha Howard: https://www.instagram.com/sugargamer/?hl=en

Tanya Depass: https://www.instagram.com/cypheroftyr/?hl=en

Latoya Peterson: https://www.instagram.com/latoyap/?hl=en

Catt Small: https://cattsmall.com/

Momo Pixel: https://www.instagram.com/momopixel/?hl=en

Brittney Morris: https://www.instagram.com/brittneymmorris/?hl=en

Black Voices in Gaming!

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode we recap the Black Voices in Gaming 2025 summer showcase. Representation matters! Hear about some of the games that you may have missed.

Black Voices in Games 2025 Summer Edition link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tvZCy8vPtg&t=3113s

Wholesome Snack - Play or Skip?!

Glitch & Glow — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 02:53:32 GMT

Wholesome games has a showcase they call Wholesome Snack each winter and they had it on Dec 9th of this year. Wholesome doesn’t always equal cozy, but they can definitely have some overlap. Wholesome Snack: https://wholesomegames.com/

Content Creators

More Than a Type: 16 Personalities

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Personality tests promise insight, clarity, and self-awareness, but how much can four letters really tell us? In this episode, we break down the 16 personality types, why they’ve become so popular, and how to use them as tools rather than labels. From self-discovery to self-limitation, we explore what personality typing gets right and where it misses the mark.

https://www.16typestest.com/blog/what-are-criticisms-16-personalities

https://www.myersbriggs.org/

https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test

“Bloom Anyway: The Science of Soft Resets, Spring Motivation, and Starting Over Without Pressure”

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 05 May 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Spring is marketed like a glow-up season—but what if the pressure to reinvent yourself every year is actually the problem?

In this episode, we break down the science behind why seasonal “fresh starts” feel so powerful, exploring the psychological Fresh Start Effect and how environmental shifts influence motivation. But we’re also getting real about what happens when inspiration fades.

Through storytelling and research, we explore a different approach: the soft reset. Not a reinvention. Not a burnout cycle. Just intentional, sustainable growth that actually sticks. Because maybe you don’t need a new you this season—just a softer way of becoming who you already are.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/leading-for-success/202509/harnessing-the-fresh-start-effect

https://www.realsimple.com/how-to-reset-in-spring-11929374

https://hupcfl.com/spring-reset-psychology-behind-fresh-start-motivation/

The Power and Peril of Goodreads: When Reviews Make or Break a Book

Glitch & Glow — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 04:40:31 GMT

Goodreads has long been the go-to platform for readers and authors alike—but with great influence comes great responsibility… and sometimes, danger. In this episode, we dive into the world of book reviews, the rise of indie platforms like The StoryGraph, and the stories of authors who have faced both triumph and turmoil in the digital book world.

Links:

https://time.com/6078993/goodreads-review-bombing/

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/dec/18/goodreads-review-bombing

https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/feb/16/goodreads-amazon-nadia-odunayo-the-storygraph

Arielle’s 2025 Book Choices:

Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle
Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber
All the Sinners Bleed by S. A. Cosby
Dinner for Vampires: Life on a Cult TV Show (While in an Actual Cult!) by Bethany Joy Lenz
Incident Around the House: A Novel by Josh Malerman
One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
Reel by Kennedy Ryan
Remarkably Bright Creatures by SHelby Van Pelt
Sky Full of Elephants: A Novel by Cebo Campbell

Beyond the Fan Art: The Wellness Power of Fandoms

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of fandoms — the passionate communities that form around our favorite stories, artists, and pop culture moments. Beyond the hashtags and fan art, these spaces have become powerful sources of connection, creativity, and mental wellness. From offering belonging to marginalized voices to helping fans express themselves through cosplay and fanfiction, fandoms show how shared passions can heal, inspire, and bring people together.

Research:

From Quest to Calm: eHealth and Therapeutic Games That Actually Work

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:07:47 GMT

In this episode, we’re talking all about how tech—especially eHealth tools and virtual games—is flipping the script on mental health care. From apps that help you manage stress to immersive virtual worlds used in therapy, we’re breaking down how digital wellness is becoming a real game-changer.

Got thoughts or questions? Email us at glitchandglowpod@gmail.com

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Look deeper into the research at the links below:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-014-0520-6

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10661329/pdf/fdgth-05-1239435.pdf

Protecting Your Peace: The Power of Boundaries

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 02:21:48 GMT

Your mental health matters—and sometimes the most powerful tool to protect it is a simple word: no. In this episode, we explore how setting clear boundaries safeguards your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. From navigating family expectations to managing work stress and relationships, we discuss practical strategies for defining limits, communicating needs, and staying consistent—all while practicing self-compassion.

Links:

https://www.mentalhealthctr.com/boundaries-and-mental-health/

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/setting-boundaries-for-well-being

Resources:

https://www.actmindfully.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Values_Checklist_-_Russ_Harris.pdf

https://www.nedratawwab.com/shop

Work Life Harmony: Getting into Self-Care

Glitch & Glow — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 11:08:14 GMT

Do you feel it too? Some of that heaviness that comes along with the state of the world, while trying to go to work and balance it all. Phew, it can be a lot! Sit back, and join us for a chat on finding that work life harmony.

Video Games Turned to Screen

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we dive into the growing world of video game adaptations—unpacking what makes some hit (The Last of Us, Arcane, Detective Pikachu) while others miss the mark. What happens when interactivity gives way to storytelling? We explore the creative risks, fan reactions, and cultural impact behind the biggest console-to-screen crossovers. Whether you're a lifelong gamer or a film and tv fanatic, this one’s for you.

Got thoughts or questions? Email us at glitchandglowpod@gmail.com Subscribe and share!

A Look at Mental Health on the ‘Gram & Beyond

Glitch & Glow — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore our social media and what platforms are trying to do to support mental wellness… and where they still have work to do. We’re keeping it real, but hopeful, because we believe the internet can be a softer space for all of us.

Got thoughts or questions? Email us at glitchandglowpod@gmail.com

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Here’s a link to today’s study: https://humanfactors.jmir.org/2025/1/e69817/