Savepoint Stories

In this episode of Savepoint Stories, I’m joined by award-winning video game composer and technical music designer Chase Bethea for a deep dive into what makes game music unforgettable — and how it can react to the way we play.Chase shares the origin of his love for game soundtracks (including a classic “wait… there’s a whole soundtrack on this disc?!” moment), how he forged his path without traditional mentorship, and why he approaches every project as a player first, composer second. We also get into the craft behind dynamic music systems — where instrumentation, intensity, and themes shift based on your actions, your progress, and even how well you’re doing in a fight.If you’ve ever felt a game’s music guiding your emotions without you realizing it, this conversation is for you.Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of SavePoint Stories, host Kurosh Jozavi interviews Emily Gitelman, a senior producer and project manager in games and assistant manager of gaming at @GeekGirlCon They discuss the essence of GeekGirlCon, its mission to empower women and girls in gaming and technology, and the importance of community and inclusivity. Emily shares her experiences in convention planning, the challenges of funding and sustainability, and the unique moments that make GeekGirlCon special. The conversation also touches on balancing celebration with critical discussions on representation and the future aspirations for GeekGirlCon.All things GeekGirlCon - https://linktr.ee/GeekGirlConhttps://geekgirlcon.com/Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

I'm Me And It's This Game's Fault | San Diego Comic Con 2025 (Full Panel)The video game community jokes about this, but it’s true: some games don’t just leave an impression—they change us inside and out. Hosted by Savepoint Stories founder Kurosh Jozavi (video games correspondent), this panel is a celebration of identity, creativity, and the unexpected ways games help us grow into ourselves. Panelists Lisa Wallen (stand-up comedian & professional nerd), Ronell Crawford (co creator - 8-Bit Closed Fist), Hannah Hillam (cartoonist & author - Cat People), Thomas Craig (podcast host - Sick Burn Podcast), & Kaveh Taherian (writer, illustrator, & podcaster) share the titles that shaped their humor, values, style, or even career choices—from the chaotic energy of sandbox games to the quiet strength of narrative indies. It’s funny, it’s honest, and it’s full of moments that will have you saying “...same.”! Audience members will be encouraged to consider not just what they play, but why and how to use that insight to better understand themselves.0:00 Intro1:34 Panel Start2:23 Panelist Introductions6:55 Beginning of Discussion13:13 What Resonates about Games?20:02 Our Unhinged Sides26:07 Performance or Play?36:22 Connections with Communities43:15 Gaming for Comfort55:50 Games Pull on Memories and Emotion1:02:32 Final Thoughts & ClosingPanelistsRonell Crawford https://www.instagram.com/8bitclosedfist/Hannah Hillam https://www.instagram.com/hannahhillam/Kaveh Taherian https://www.instagram.com/permafriends/Thomas Craig https://www.instagram.com/thomascraigviii/Lisa Wallen https://www.instagram.com/wisalallen/

What does it take to make magic at Disney? In this bonus episode of Savepoint Stories, host Kurosh Jozavi sits down with Megan Friedenberg, a rendering engineer at Walt Disney Imagineering, to talk about the journey from gaming as a kid to shaping the future of immersive entertainment. Megan shares how Rollercoaster Tycoon 3, GameCube sessions, and Pixar shorts sparked a lifelong passion that led her through Unreal Engine programming, animation, and now, creating real-time magic for Disney parks. From digging into the “pixel mines” to bridging the gap between artists and engineers, Megan explains what it really means to turn imagination into reality. Whether you’re an aspiring developer, an industry pro, or just someone who’s ever asked “How did they build that?”, this episode is for you.Megan Friedenberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganfriedenberg/⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

Meet the gaming recruiter shaping the future of the gaming industry—Steve Meim isn’t just finding talent, he’s building the next generation of game studios. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Steve to talk about what makes a great hire, how studios think about recruitment, and what aspiring developers need to know to break into the business. Whether you’re an indie hopeful or aiming for AAA, Steve’s insight could be the difference between getting ghosted or getting hired. Learn how he became a trusted voice in the hiring process and what trends are driving today’s gaming jobs. This is a must-watch for anyone serious about working in games.Steve Meim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemeim/⁠⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

Few games capture the magic of open-world adventure like Skyrim. Hannah Hillam (500 Tabs/Author) joins Kurosh Jozavi to talk about the legendary RPG, from crafting bizarre characters to getting lost in side quests. They explore the game’s immersive world, hilarious glitches, and why Skyrim still draws players in years later.🔮 Fus Ro Dah your way into this episode!⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

It all started with 151 Pokémon and a choice between Charmander, Squirtle, or Bulbasaur. JPG (Intermyth) joins Kurosh Jozavi to reminisce about Pokémon Red & Blue, the franchise’s explosive beginnings, and how it became a lifelong phenomenon. From battling friends with link cables to the heartbreak of releasing your first Pokémon, we explore the game’s unforgettable impact.⚡ Choose your starter and let’s go!⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠⁠

Before we begin today's episode, we want to give a content warning for sensitive topics.This discussion includes themes related to pregnancy challenges, pregnancy loss, mental health struggles, and grief.We recognize these subjects can be difficult, and we encourage you to prioritize your well-being. If you need to skip this episode or come back to it at a later time, please do.These topics take place between 11min and 15min in the episodeA game that brought people together during uncertain times, Animal Crossing: New Horizons became more than just a cozy life sim—it was a virtual escape. Alix Galit (The Welcome Party) joins Kurosh Jozavi to reflect on how the game created connections, sparked creativity, and provided a sense of home when the world felt distant. From island designs to favorite villagers, we’re diving into everything ACNH.🐻✨ What’s your favorite island memory?⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠

Football and video games—few things are as deeply linked as Madden. Danreb Victorio (Smashpad) sits down with Kurosh Jozavi to talk about the game’s evolution, its role in sports gaming, and the memories he's made playing this series throughout his life. Whether you’re a die-hard Madden fan or a casual player, this episode dives into the game’s legacy and why it remains a sports gaming juggernaut.🏆 Game on! Who’s ready for some football?⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠⁠

Yoshi’s Island with Myles Obenza isn’t just a trip down memory lane—it’s a powerful look at how game design, creativity, and storytelling collide. In this special episode of Savepoint Stories, journalist and critic Myles Obenza joins us to dive deep into the charm, emotional resonance, and unexpected innovation of Yoshi’s Island.Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠

In this special bonus episode of Savepoint Stories, host Kurosh Jozavi sits down with Aslanta Chen, a game developer and UX designer, to explore how thoughtful design shapes how we connect with games. From menus and mechanics to emotion and accessibility, Aslanta shares insights on creating experiences that feel just right—even when players don’t consciously notice.We talk player psychology, UI pitfalls, and what it means to design with empathy. Whether you’re a developer, designer, or just someone who loves games, this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in for a thoughtful look behind the screens.⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠

Few games bring the energy like Marvel vs. Capcom 3! Ronell Crawford (8BitClosedFist) joins Kurosh Jozavi to talk about the thrills, heartbreaks, and legendary matchups that make MvC3 a game that he has strong memories with. From team composition to high-level tournament play, they break down the mechanics, community, and why this game holds such a strong place in Ronell's heart.💥 We are going to take you for a ride!⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠

Up, up, down, down… You know the rest! Kaveh Taherian (500 Tabs/Permafriends) joins Kurosh Jozavi to relive the brutal, fast-paced action of Contra. They talk about the game’s legacy, the thrill of co-op chaos, and how it shaped the run-and-gun genre. Plus, we dive into the impact of the Konami Code and why ‘80s arcade-style difficulty still has a place in gaming today.🚀 Lock and load—this one’s a wild ride!⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠

Strategy, storytelling, and political intrigue—Final Fantasy Tactics is a masterpiece of tactical RPGs. In this episode, Jay B. (Towel Cape Brigade) joins Kurosh Jozavi to discuss his connections and save points with the game and it's many themes. From job system favorites to unforgettable moments, we’re breaking down why one of the greatest tactical games of all time resonates so much with Jay.♟️ Ready your units and step onto the battlefield with us!⁠⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.⁠

What makes Majora’s Mask one of the most unique and haunting entries in the Legend of Zelda series? In this episode, Derick McDuff (Underrated Films) joins Kurosh Jozavi to talk about his connection with the game that means so much to him. They explore how Majora’s Mask left a lasting impression, influenced Derick’s appreciation for unconventional storytelling, and why it continues to stand out decades later.⏳ The moon is falling—don’t miss this deep dive into a Nintendo masterpiece!Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.Man vs Mask by Derick McDuff

In the debut episode of Savepoint Stories, host Kurosh Jozavi sits down with Joanna Leack (Here Comes The Nerd) to discuss the legendary RPG Final Fantasy 7. From its unforgettable story and iconic characters to its lasting impact on gaming culture, Joanna shares her experiences and connection with the characters and game. Grab your Buster Sword and join us for a journey through nostalgia, materia, and the power of games to inspire!Whether you’re Team Aerith or Team Tifa, this episode is a limit break of nostalgia!⁠Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HereComesTheNerd Shop for 20% off your first purchase.

"Where memories meet the games that shaped us." Host Kurosh Jozavi introduces Savepoint Stories, a podcast where guests revisit the games that shaped their lives. In this episode, Kurosh shares what inspired the show and what listeners can expect for season 1! His mission is to share heartfelt stories and personal connections to the games that left a lasting impression on our lives.Use code SAVEPOINT20 at HCTN Shop for 20% Off Your Purchase