Jun 2, 2025
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What happens when
role-playing games become a leadership development
tool?
In this episode we interview Joe, founder of GameNamic Leadership, to explore how tabletop
RPGs can unlock transformational learning, reshape team dynamics,
and deliver lasting cultural change. From piloting immersive
retreats to coaching teams in real time, Joe shares how combining
leadership coaching with roleplay doesn't just gamify learning—it
changes how people show up at work.
Dr. Joe Lasley is an Assistant Professor of Leadership and
Organizational Studies at the University of Southern Maine and the
Founder of Gamenamic Leadership, where he merges academic rigor
with the imaginative power of tabletop role-playing games to
transform how individuals and teams learn to lead in the real
world. He is an International Coaching Federation certified
Leadership Coach, has a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies, and degrees
in Organizational Psychology, Higher Education Administration, and
Organizational Communication.
In academia, Joe designs and teaches courses on leadership
development, systems thinking, organizational and group
dynamics, with a focus on experiential and transformational
learning. He has published peer-reviewed aresearch on leadership
development through role-playing games, led action research
projects, and regularly presents at national and international
conferences including International Leadership Association,
National Communication Association, and North American Simulation
And Gaming Association.
As a consultant, Dr. Joe created LeadRPG, an innovative method that blends leadership development with tabletop role-playing games to build emotionally intelligent, adaptive leaders and creative teams. With the LeadRPG Team, he has developed immersive retreats, facilitated custom programs for mission-driven organizations and tech leaders, and produced game-based toolkits used for leadership coaching, team development, and reflective practice.
With expertise spanning group dynamics, adaptive leadership, and game-based learning, Dr. Joe is committed to helping people unlock their potential, co-design shared experiences, and navigate complexity with creativity, purpose, and play.
Rob is a host and consultant at Professor Game as well as an expert, international speaker and advocate for the use of gamification and games-based solutions, especially in education and learning. He's also a professor and workshop facilitator for the topics of the podcast and LEGO SERIOUS PLAY (LSP) for top higher education institutions that include EFMD, IE Business School and EBS among others in Europe, America and Asia.
Guest Links and Info
- Website: gamenamic.org
- Retreats: gamenamic.org/retreat
- LinkedIn: Joe Lasley
- LinkedIn: GameNamic Leadership
Links to episode mentions:
- Proposed guest: Gijs
- Recommended book: Playing and Reality by D.W. Winnicott
- Favorite game: Age of Wonders 4
Lets's do stuff together!