Immersive simulations and war games are transforming how organizations make complex decisions and understand human behavior, with artificial intelligence now making these powerful tools more accessible than ever. By putting participants in realistic scenarios with emotional stakes, these games reveal blind spots in thinking, challenge assumptions, and build cognitive empathy across divides. 

This episode features Daveed Gartenstein-Ross and Eleanor Ross of Valens Games, who discuss their work creating sophisticated political and national security simulations. They share insights on using AI to democratize game design, the importance of incorporating humor and humanity into serious scenarios, and how simulations can help bridge social divisions by encouraging participants to see issues from multiple perspectives. The conversation touches on applications ranging from academic teaching to corporate decision-making, highlighting how games create safe spaces for practicing high-consequence choices. 

Resources 

Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore https://a.co/d/5IJOIdS    

War Game (Documentary) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26681810/   

Providence (Platform) http://providence.valensgames.com/

Acceleration (Game) https://valensglobal.com/what-we-do/simulations-hub/wargames-simulations/  

Our Guests 

Daveed Gartenstein-Ross is the founder and CEO of Valens Games, pioneering the use of immersive simulations and AI-powered game design in national security, politics, and organizational decision-making. A counterterrorism expert who previously led the drafting of the Department of Homeland Security's 2019 counterterrorism strategy, Gartenstein-Ross transitioned from teaching at Georgetown University's Security Studies Program to developing innovative educational gaming experiences that help participants challenge assumptions and think differently about complex challenges. 

Eleanor Ross joined Valens Games after first experiencing their work as a student at Duke University, where she participated in and then team-led national security simulations. With a research background and plans to enter government service, Ross was drawn to Valens Games' unique approach to learning and now helps develop immersive exercises that build cognitive empathy and critical thinking skills. She specializes in creating engaging narratives and characters that make complex scenarios more approachable and meaningful for participants. 

Your Host 

Farrah Bostic is the founder and Head of Research & Strategy at The Difference Engine, a strategic insights consultancy. With over 20 years of experience turning audience insights into effective strategies for B2B and B2C companies, Farrah helps business leaders make big decisions across various industries. Learn more at thedifferenceengine.co and connect with Farrah on LinkedIn.

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