Glitch & Glow

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.

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

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 

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 

• WithLove Aaliyah  

• Ashlinaa 

• Gamergirlgale 

• Ms Ash Rocks 

• Jawvibear 

• Cozywithronnie 

• Cozybyjoshy 

• Omnistruc

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

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

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:

1. https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/83242
2. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/mind-matters/202407/the-healing-power-of-pop-culture-communities
   

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/

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 

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.