E31 How to Keep an Open Mind During Difficult Times with Joseph Kim

Building Better Games

Choose any issue, and you'll find people with differing perspectives. This is inevitable but yet, in the gaming industry, having an opinion that's not in line with current workplace trends is condemned. But why can there only be one way to do things?

Discussing this topic with us today is Joseph Kim, a longtime gamemaker and leader with a resume that includes Sega and Leila Games. He shares his philosophy surrounding the nuances in game development, including modern working methods, work-life balance vs. integration, the perceived class war between management and workers, and more.

They discuss why we’re struggling to have tough conversations, the effects it’s having on gaming culture and innovation, plus how leaders can avoid the trap of zero sum thinking.

Before you get into the minutiae of your career goals, spend some time thinking about meaning and what’s important to you. This episode will help you get started!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why so many are against differing views
• The rise of a self-centered work ethic
• Evolution of workplace culture in the US tech/gaming industry
• The perceived class war between management and workers
• Joseph’s disappointment with leaders
• How feelings play into the workplace environment
• Differences between working at a startup vs. established company
• Potential consequences and the effect on innovation
• Stability vs. impact
• Joseph’s advice to leaders

Sign up for Joseph's newsletter, The GameMakers Letter: gamemakers.substack.com

Connect with Joseph's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jokim/

Learn more about Lila Games: https://lilagames.com/

If you’ve enjoyed this episode and wonder if we could help your studio or company out, email us at [e-mail] to set up a free 90-minute call!

For more episodes, head to the Building Better Games Podlink https://pod.link/1559448378

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This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique http://podcastboutique.com

Content Producer: Ben Chadfield