Hasn’t this week felt like one that has zoomed by in a flash? Fortunately, we’ve had plenty of podcasts to keep us entertained and this week, we’re shining a spotlight on one incredible series in particular.
LevelUp with Verta Maloney is, as you may have expected from the name alone, a show that focuses on the gaming industry, delving into topics that others only brush the surface of.
These include conversations surrounding mental health in video games and the business; what it’s like to be a woman in the male-dominated field; and how everybody can group together and take part in making sure the world of gaming is a better one for those who make their way into it in the future.
Eagle-eyed readers will have already spotted who we have on hosting duties - the incomparable Verta Maloney!
We caught up with her to ask about her time hosting the show so far, and why it’s been such an important job to take on.
She explained: “LevelUp was born out of a desire to know and connect with the *gameHERs community. I believe that when we connect and share our stories with each other, we are better able to impact our worlds in meaningful ways. I guess for me, that's the essence of 'levelling up'.
"Its also important for me to share that as a young Black girl, I did not grow up seeing women who looked like me on the screen. With LevelUp, I hope to add a little bit of my quirky Black Girl Magic to the space in ways that are authentically me and that will uplift and inspire others, especially young Black gamers.
"Also, you get to watch me suck at playing games... I'm getting better every week though - I promise!"
Tackling topics that others may find difficult to talk about, with humour, style and grace, Maloney is undoubtedly one of the most talented and instantly-likeable podcast hosts around.
Plus, it’s a joy to watch her gaming and see her face completely light up when she gets that W!
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