Tech Girl Talks: Recent Episodes
Tech Girl Talks
Welcome to Tech Girl Talks. A Just Chatting stream and podcast that jumps into topics of interest around esports and gaming. The show is scripted, hosted, and created by Sam Wright who is an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. Sam has hosted numerous esports competitions in South Africa and internationally. These include the big ones like desk hosting and interviewing for PUBG Europe League 2019, Hosting Nintendo Splatoon 2, and Super Smash Bro Ul.
Complexity wins the whole damn thing. Du Preeh pops off for Falcons. The Aurora manager shouts insults at ELiGE... @Darfmike and I have got together to chat about all the best bits of ESL Challenger Jönköping 2024 and to see how our predictions panned out from the BEFORE video we did. We'd love to hear if your predictions panned out as well so be sure to let us know in the comments. 0:00 Introduction02:19 Behind the Scenes at ESL Challenger & broadcast team dynamics04:02 Complexity's victory and the significance of the win for the team06:26 Bravado Gaming & Project Destiny 2.0 13:20 The ENCE surprise and Podi's performance16:46 Let's talk about Team Falcons20:45 Falcons line up changes?22:38 Sam embarrasses herself in front of Snappi29:50 What happened to the Mongolz?35:14 Is Yalla an S Tier tournament?35:42 Aurora gets to the semi finals38:52 The problems in Aurora40:32 Aurora Manager shouting insults at ELiGE42:51 Best parts of the eventFollow Mike on X: www.x.com/darfmikeFind me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA My gear: - Canon EOS M50 Mark ii- My PC: Z590-GUNDAM (Wi-Fi) Motherboard, ROG Strix RTX3080 Graphics Card, PSU ROG Strix 850G GUNDAM edition, Intel Core i7-10700 Processor & ROG Strix Helios GUNDAM edition case. - ROG Strix XG27AQV Gaming Monitor- TUF Gaming VG27VH1B
At the end of May 2024 Valve announced some changes to the qualification and regional slot distribution for the Shanghai Major being hosted by Perfect World at the end of the year. The trolls were not impressed with the European, North American and South American open qualifiers for the RMRs being done away with... but it made little sense because the changes seemed... positive maybe? Complexity's CS General Manager & well known scene figure messioso joins @Thooorin & myself to chat about the changes. We share the good, the bad, the ugly and to speculate why folks got so damn tilted about all of this. Find Thorin on X:http://www.x.com/thorinFind messioso on X:http://www.x.com/messioso0:00 Introductions from Yalla in Abu Dhabi01:42 Old Major Qualification Format and RMR open qualifiers06:29 New Major Format Qualification Format explained09:12 Pros & Cons of the new format14:38 The impact of the changes on top teams and the schedule21:37 The need for regional specific considerations24:26 The future of the qualifiers and ensuring fairness27:24 The Importance of the RMRs for regions with limited domestic play30:12 The distribution of slots for the Major33:01 Flaws in the previous system and the need for improvement37:37 The need for more communication from Valve43:45 Striking a balance between circuit ranking and the RMRs Find me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA My gear: - Canon EOS M50 Mark ii- My PC: Z590-GUNDAM (Wi-Fi) Motherboard, ROG Strix RTX3080 Graphics Card, PSU ROG Strix 850G GUNDAM edition, Intel Core i7-10700 Processor & ROG Strix Helios GUNDAM edition case. - ROG Strix XG27AQV Gaming Monitor- TUF Gaming VG27VH1B
This is a new Counter-Strike series called CHALLENGED. DarfMike and I realised we work the same events but never get to work together, so we made a thing so we could. CHALLENGED is a series focused around the ESL Challenger Events for 2024. We’ll do a pre and post event video showcasing what to expect from the teams competing and then what we got wrong about those expectations. The first episode is ESL Challenger Jönköping Part 1. In it we share some war… we mean work, stories and give our opinions on the teams you’re going to see compete at Dreamhack Summer.0:00 Introduction to our new show CHALLENGED02:23 Mike’s fun GeT_RiGhT story from IEM Dallas03:50 Sam’s Jonkoping Travel nightmare06:25 ESL Challenger Jonkoping, last chance for Team Falcons?10:26 Complexity’s chances12:16 The question marks around hallzerk14:40 Party Astronauts and the American dream16:45 ESL Challenger format 19:35 ENCE’s new line up and what to expect from sdy & podi22:17 The MongolZ - back to back LAN winners25:01 Last Challenger’s winners MiBR26:44 Sam doesn’t have faith in Aurora29:20 Sweden’s home town rep is Alliance31:10 Final Predictions25:51 Some more on potential Complexity roster changesFollow DarfMike on X:https://x.com/DarfMikeFind me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA My gear: - Canon EOS M50 Mark ii- My PC: Z590-GUNDAM (Wi-Fi) Motherboard, ROG Strix RTX3080 Graphics Card, PSU ROG Strix 850G GUNDAM edition, Intel Core i7-10700 Processor & ROG Strix Helios GUNDAM edition case. - ROG Strix XG27AQV Gaming Monitor- TUF Gaming VG27VH1B
After months of question marks concerning their performance, G2 beat Vitality in the finals of IEM Dallas 2024, with a stand in. HooXi is attending his sister’s wedding, Major winner Stewie2K who hasn’t competed in ages, stands in. The final is arguably the best CS2 final of the year. So where to go for G2 now? Were the pundits like Kassad who called for HooXi’s head correct? Should the IGL be removed from the lineup? Is Niko’s career about to shift towards IGLing much like Dev1ce? Can m0NESY continue to dominate on the server for the remainder of 2024? There are so many questions around this team and their future. So Moses joins @Thooorin and myself to try to answer all of them and guess future moves for the team.0:00 Introduction01:19 HooXi’s sister announced MVP09:38 Do G2 play better when the pressure is removed?13:09 HooXi as a coach or analyst versus player15:06 NiKo as IGL19:20 No quick fix for G2 21:01 m0NESY fan club24:18 Should G2 build a roster around m0NESY29:14 Will we see G2 make roster changes soon?38:02 HooXi, TaZ and Nexa need to prove everyone wrong40:04 Here’s a random chat about Donna & Launders to break up this discussion41:16 TaZ as a coach46:11 HooXi deserves more credit as an IGL48:40 Can this team do something as the roster stands53:00 Can G2 win the Perfect World Shanghai Major? Find Thorin on X:http://www.x.com/thorinFind Moses on X:http://www.x.com/mosesggFind me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - / techgirlza Twitter - / techgirlza Facebook - / techgirlza Twitch - / techgirlza Discord - / discord TikTok - / techgirlza My gear: - Canon EOS M50 Mark ii- My PC: Z590-GUNDAM (Wi-Fi) Motherboard, ROG Strix RTX3080 Graphics Card, PSU ROG Strix 850G GUNDAM edition, Intel Core i7-10700 Processor & ROG Strix Helios GUNDAM edition case. - ROG Strix XG27AQV Gaming Monitor- TUF Gaming VG27VH1B
Team Falcons was meant to be the incredible Counter-Strike super team. Rumours flowed as Falcons was touted as the Saudi Arabian CS2 team with deep pockets and a list of legendary players were linked with signing to the organisation after they announced Major winning coach Zonic had agreed to move to Falcons from Team Vitality. However, the lineup never materialised and now the team consisting of Snappi, Magisk, maden, du Preeh and Sunpayus appears to be struggling. So what is wrong with Team Falcons? Kassad joins @Thooorin and myself to discuss what went wrong for the (not so) super team. 0:00 Kassad & Thorin the grumpy men of Counter-Strike01:10 What is a Super Team? Kassad's answer03:08 What is a Super Team? Thorin's answer06:20 What was Team Falcons supposed to look like09:20 Kassad "the decision makers at Falcons did everything wrong"14:59 Did Team Falcons damage the Counter-Strike scene?19:55 Why does this current lineup not work?23:07 Falcons vs. HenryG's Cloud929:08 Too much hype and too much money?32:30 Kassad fires everyone36:30 Learning from the past on how to succeed38:31 Let's discuss Zonic45:50 Kassad reveals industry buy-outs and salaries50:00 When unlimited money demands results55:30 What would your super team look like?59:00 We like the players in Team FalconsFind Kassad on x:http://www.x.com/kassadFind Thorin on x:http://www.x.com/Thorin Find me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA
The Heroic Astralis drama that dominated social media and HLTV forums started a soap opera in competitive counter-strike. Stavn and Jabbi joined Astralis to create a “super team” which never got off the starting line. Recently, the Danish move was to drop IGL BlameF and announced that multiple Major winning MVP dev1ce would take up IGL duties. The announcement was met with shock and concern by the CS trolls. However, a few top tournaments in the small sample size would point towards this… working? On this episode of Feed The Trolls I’m joined by @Thooorin & SPUNJ (yeah, these two reunited again, old school analyst desk vibes) to weigh in on dev1ce as an IGL. How did Astralis get to this point, could it work and what are the potential pitfalls?While we’re here we also weigh in on the recent rumours that ex-Heroic IGL Cadian may be getting the ex from Team Liquid and where he might go. From the role of the IGL in and out the server, the origins story of dev1ce and BlameF’s exit from Astralis to focusing on what the future looks like for competitive Counter-Strike as a whole - there is a lot to sink your teeth into with this episode. Follow Thorin on X: http://www.x.com/thorinFollow SPUNJ on X: http://www.x.com/spunj0:00 Intro and why we think dev1ce is great06:05 The dev1ce origins story11:45 the fall of BlameF25:36 Addressing the negative response to dev1ce being announced as Astralis IGL30:51 Do we buy into the dev1ce as IGL?32:08 Taking a look at the Astralis team roles now34:11 Potential downfalls of dev1ce as IGL 38:44 What does Cadian do now? Where to from here?40:59 Are the Astralis players with dev1ce good enough?48:53 Will we ever see another dominant counter-strike run like the Astralis of old?58:28 Ruggah as Astralis coach Find me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA
This is a special short series dissecting the Business of Gaming and Esports in South Africa. Hosted by Sam “Tech Girl” Wright, an esports broadcaster and desk host who was raised in South Africa but now works primarily in Europe on Counter-Strike events, the series targets agencies and business people looking to enter the gaming and esports space in South Africa. It is a unique and developing market littered with potholes - which Sam attempts to showcase and also help your business avoid.
Meet Jonathan Bandli, the Creative Director at Bad Weather Productions. Jonathan discusses the intersection of entertainment and esports in South Africa. He emphasises the importance of caring about the success of the event and creating tools which enhance the viewer experience. He also highlights the need for authenticity and research when entering the gaming and esports space. Jonathan suggests focusing on building the gaming community and creating inclusive events to attract new gamers. He believes success in esports broadcasts is measured by engagement and entertainment value. He also discusses the challenges of managing client expectations and production costs.
This is a special short series dissecting the Business of Gaming and Esports in South Africa. Hosted by Sam “Tech Girl” Wright, an esports broadcaster and desk host who was raised in South Africa but now works primarily in Europe on Counter-Strike events, the series targets agencies and business people looking to enter the gaming and esports space in South Africa. It is a unique and developing market littered with potholes - which Sam attempts to showcase and also help your business avoid.
This episode’s guest is South African gaming creator and streamer, Thea Booysen, who discusses her journey in the industry and the differences she has noticed between the local and international scenes. She emphasises the importance of making international connections and knowing one’s worth as a creator. Thea also talks about her involvement with Nixuh, an esports organisation, and her goal to empower South African creators and ensure they’re properly compensated. She highlights the need for better education and understanding among local brands and agencies and suggests creating more opportunities and resources for South African gaming creators.
This is a special short series dissecting the Business of Gaming and Esports in South Africa. Hosted by Sam “Tech Girl” Wright, an esports broadcaster and desk host who was raised in South Africa but now works primarily in Europe on Counter-Strike events, the series targets agencies and business people looking to enter the gaming and esports space in South Africa. It is a unique and developing market littered with potholes - which Sam attempts to showcase and also help your business avoid.
In this episode, Nick Holden, one of the founders of ACGL.gg, discusses the evolution of the ACGL esports platform and the growth of the esports community in South Africa. The ACGL platform allows gamers from South Africa and other African countries to set up profiles and play with one another in competitive events. The platform caters to both professional and casual gamers, providing opportunities for all skill levels. ACGL runs around 20 to 25 tournaments a week, with regular cash prize pools. The South African esports community in South Africa faces challenges because of distance, communication and cultural differences but ACGL aims to make esports more accessible and engaging for all players. Nick discusses why building a strong long esports community and focusing on regular play and engagement will lead to growth. He also chats about the high school and university esports space in the country. The episode highlights how important it is to understand the culture of esports and engage with the community in a meaningful way - with a strong focus on brands which support and celebrate the interests and experiences of competitive gamers.
This is a special short series dissecting the Business of Gaming and Esports in South Africa. Hosted by Sam “Tech Girl” Wright, an esports broadcaster and desk host who was raised in South Africa but now works primarily in Europe on Counter-Strike events, the series targets agencies and business people looking to enter the gaming and esports space in South Africa. It is a unique and developing market littered with potholes - which Sam attempts to showcase and also help your business avoid.
Episode 2’s guest is Kamza Mbatha. Kamza is a seasoned traditional broadcast professional. He started as a television host at a young age and has continued to work in the broadcasting industry on a host of shows. He is also a long standing MC and stage host for various gaming and esports events throughout South Africa. In this conversation, Sam and Kamza discuss the landscape of gaming and esports in South Africa. They touch on topics such as the history of gaming in the country, the challenges of online gaming because of data costs, the lack of diversity in the gaming industry, and the need for a more localised approach to gaming in South Africa. They also discuss the importance of cultivating a strong gaming community and the role of sponsors and brands in supporting the growth of the industry.
This is a special short series dissecting the Business of Gaming and Esports in South Africa. Hosted by Sam “Tech Girl” Wright, an esports broadcaster and desk host who was raised in South Africa but now works primarily in Europe on Counter-Strike events, the series targets agencies and business people looking to enter the gaming and esports space in South Africa. It is a unique and developing market littered with potholes - which Sam attempts to showcase and also help your business avoid.
For episode 1, Sam chats to Barry Louzada, Managing Director at Mettlestate - which labels itself a “premium esports and gaming authority that offers consulting, activations and live events in South Africa.” In this episode the pair talk about the challenges and opportunities for brands looking to enter the gaming space, emphasising the need for authenticity and understanding of the gaming audience. Barry shares his insights on how brands can engage with gamers and highlights the importance of commitment and proper execution. The episode also discusses the growing mobile gaming market in South Africa and concludes with advice for non-endemic brands looking to tap into the gaming space.
There was once a time when FURIA’s Counter-Strike team was the best of the best when it came to Brazilian CS. But since the transition to CS2 it has been a bit of a hot mess. The benching of IGL arT led to a tell all live stream spilling tea on the general operations and management without the team and FURIA co-owner Akkari has been adding his own voice to discussions around the team and what is going on, doing an interview on Gaules stream and suggesting the idea of an international coach. From the online antics to the roster moves: Spending a small fortune on FalleN, bringing over chelo and adding kye from the academy team… a lot of these moves have big question marks around them. The biggest question mark of all - how has FURIA held onto superstar KSCERATO as their form continues to falter. @Mauisnake joins myself, Sam, and @Thooorin to explore the internal issues of the team, the management decisions and to debate whether or not FURIA, as the CS2 team currently stands, can be saved. 0:00 Intro00:54 But does Maui hate Brazilian CS?03:08 Maui’s take on the current state of FURIA07:50 Is there a management problem in FURIA?13:29 Why did KSCERATO choose to stay?18:10 Did FURIA spend all their money on FalleN?21:10 FURIA’s recent roster moves28:25 Tech Girl fan girls over FalleN.. Sort of29:54 What role does FalleN fill in the team?35:06 Should FalleN move to a coaching role?38:10 What should FURIA do next?44:34 the future of KSCERATO48:43 Did COVID lockdowns kill the FURIA dream53:17 Can FURIA be saved?Find Mauisnake on X: http://www.twitter.com/mauisnakeFind Thorin on X: http://www.twitter.com/thorin Find me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaTwitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA
Valve announced that Dust2 is now back in the competitive map pool for CS2 with Overpass being removed. @STYKO joins @Thooorin & Sam to hate on Vertigo (lies, he's positive the whole way through) and discuss the impact Dust2 will have on pro level CS2 moving forward. 0:00 Intro00:51 Dust2 & powdered eggs02:18 STYKO's reaction to Dust2 inclusion in the map pool03:14 Thorin's take on Dust2's return06:55 Why would Valve drop Overpass?11:54 Will Dust2 bring more viewers to competitive CS2?16:06 What can we expect from the pro players on Dust2?19:44 Will Dust2 make it boring to watch competitive CS2?21:43 Scout players boosted on Dust228:10 Which pro teams will struggle with the removal of Overpass?30:33 Is this the worst map pool of all time?34:01 Community Map Building36:44 Do the CS2 developers care about competitive play?41:31 Why we'd remove Vertigo43:25 Dust2 spawn points46:55 Some more Vertigo hate49:06 We broke STYKO50:24 Check out STYKO's YouTube ChannelSeriously @STYKO YouTube channel. Check it out. And follow him on x:http://www.twitter.com/STYKOcsYou can follow Thorin on X as well:http://www.twitter.com/Thorin
On the second episode of Feed The Trolls @launders joins @Thooorin and myself to get to the bottom of the m0NESY vs donk debate. m0NESY is arguably one of the best players in Counter-Strike but donk's rookie performance at IEM Katowice 2024 was exceptional and he has the potential to be one of the greatest riflers in Counter-Strike history. Both players face pressure and high expectations and we discuss their potential to become the best in the world as well as their roles as AWPer and entry fragger respectively. 0:00 Intro0:34 laundersLAN01:42 m0NESY is so good04:19 donk the entry fragger06:26 donk’s Rookie Season10:51 Can you even compare m0NESY vs donk14:51 G2 vs Spirit CS teams13:58 donk didn’t choke at the PGL Copenhagen Major25:10 How long does m0NESY stay at G2?33:58 donk’s big match temperament42:45 Which player are we talking about at the end of 2024?50:20 Which other CS player can join this conversation?54:48 Why we celebrate these CS2 playersFind Thorin on X:http://www.twitter.com/thorinFind launders on X:http://www.twitter.com/laundersFind me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaX - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA
On this episode of Feed The Trolls, Sam & @Thooorin are joined by HLTV's NER0 to discuss whether HooXi is the right IGL for G2. G2's consistent playoff appearances are not enough for this team and a lot of the internet likes to blame HooXi as IGL. Will replacing HooXi solve G2's problems? And if he remains what needs to change in the team? 00:00 Feed The Trolls01:05 G2's current performance06:10 What makes a good IGL?12:24 Good vibes13:56 Who are you replacing HooXi with?22:04 What does HooXi need to do as IGL to win trophies? 28:26 Why don't the G2 players support HooXi publicly?45:08 Would we have this conversation if G2 hadn't kicked JKS? Follow Thorin on X:http://www.twitter.com/thorinFollow NER0 on X:http://www.twitter.com/NER0csFind me on the socials:Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.comInstagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlzaX - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlzaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlzaTwitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlzaDiscord - https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4TikTok - http://www.tiktok.com/@TechGirlZA
I had a chance to interview esports organisation NAVI's Performance Coach Urszula "Xirreth" Kimczak about the organisation's Counter-Strike team's win at the first ever CS2 Major. Talking points include:01:46 The moment NAVI won 01:46 the feeling in the moment that NAVI won the Major - reactions from the team & backroom staff.03:30 not being the favourites for the Major. Was it easier or harder on the team?07:11 jL's social media personality and how it impacts his game as well as how AleksiB handled so much online criticism and question marks around his IGL style. 11:37 W0nderful having to replace S1mple and having S1mple watching him in the arena. 16:05 Is B1ad3 one of the best coaches of all time and how does his style work with a performance coach?21:23 Insight into the conversation that happened amongst the team between Map 2 and Map 3 of the PGL Copenhagen Major final between FaZe and NAVI. 26:51 Was NAVI winning the Major a fluke?
NAVI on X
Xirreth on X
Sam "Tech Girl" Wright on X
Sam "Tech Girl" Wright on Instagram
Azin Alikhani was born and raised in Iran. She has gone on to become the Country Head for Africa for ASUS Open Platform Business Group and is also the ASUS Regional Marketing Director for the Middle East and Africa region. The tenacity and drive it takes for a woman to rise up the corporate ranks in an IT company is something impressive but more so when you consider the country of Azin’s birth. In this episode we chat a bit about the corporate nature of her job, her love for gaming and esports and what it takes to do what she does. We also discuss the role women have to play in showing other women the paths available to them and touch on the current women led revolution in Iran.
I really wanted to have Niklas on the podcast this season because not only is he able to give some valuable insight into work behind the cameras for esports broadcasts, but he has also built a successful esports business from the ground up. Black Molly Entertainment is a Swedish and European esports staple and has had a hand in some incredible broadcasts. I wanted him to share his knowledge not only about the inner workings of esports productions but also what it takes to build a scalable and successful business in the esports space.
Follow Black Molly Entertainment on X www.twitter.com/bmeproductions
What exactly is a talent manager? I speak to freelance talent manager Mosawer Tokhi, better known as Mo, to find out what exactly is required when it comes to looking after and assisting esports broadcast talent. Mo breaks down what his job looks like, how he explains it to his friends and what a normal day on broadcast looks like for the talent manager, who has to ensure the broadcast team you see on camera is able to give you the best possible show if you’re watching your favourite esports at home or in a live setting.
If you’d like to find out more about talent management you can find Mo on X @StacksMo
When you watch the Grand Finals of your favourite esports event, what you’ll see whether in the stadium or watching at home - is an incredible showcase of the best players. It isn’t only a competitive game but a show that celebrates the beauty of the game we’ve all loved. In order to make sure that show looks the way it needs to, someone needs to be in charge of the moving parts that ensure people, players and broadcast talent are where they need to be at any given time. Which is where Oliver ERbe comes in. As a stage manager he has had a hand in directing some of the most epic Counter-Strike events of our generation. He chats to me to explain what goes into his job and how he is able to manage all the moving parts.
You can find Oli on Twitter @VersumOli
As an esports player, organisation, tournament operator or broadcast talent do you need a specialised esports lawyer? In this episode I chat to Nick Williams, a barrister who represents a host of esports players and broadcast talent while also heading up esports and gaming talent agency DotX Talent. He chats about the specific legal needs in the esports industry. It’s a really insightful chat about legal representation as a whole and how it pertains to esports specifically.
You can find Nick on Twitter at @nickwbarrister or head on over to dotxtalent.com
Photography is art. Esports Photography is art with a bunch of hurdles thrown into the mix. You need to try to deal with various lighting headaches, understand the complexities of the game because emotional moments are limited and make someone sitting in front of a computer or console playing video games competitively interesting enough to catch attention. One of the best esports photographers in the world is Stephanie “Vexanie” Lindgren. She explains what her job entails, how she didn’t really like photography to begin with and some of the complexities of photographing iconic esports moments.
You can find Stephanie on Twitter and Instagram with the username @vexanie or visit her website https://www.vexanie.com/
Being an analyst for an esports title is not nearly as simple as you might think. It takes a level of knowledge and game understanding that comes from hundreds of hours poured into the server. It also requires a presentability and knack for broadcast. Alex “Mauisnake” Ellenberg has risen up to be one of the top tier analysts for Counter-Strike. In this episode we discuss the nuances of the broadcast role he has chosen as well as how he tries to set himself apart from other broadcast talent in the industry.
You can find Mauisnake on all social media platforms under the username @Mauisnake
Wilton “Zews” Prado is a living legend in the competitive Counter-Strike community. However, the Brazilian esports coach should be recorded as a legend within the esports industry as a whole. His story is the one they write movies about: how a band of brothers left Brazil to try to take on the best in the world… before becoming one of the greatest CSGO teams the world has ever seen. A multiple major winning coach with a resume longer than your arm, Zews has a plethora of insight around coaching esports teams, the industry as a whole and the world of Counter-Strike. He shares his personal journey in this episode with golden nuggets of knowledge littered throughout.
To find out more about Zews, you can follow him on Twitter, his handle is @Zews. Alternatively find him on Instagram at @WiltonZews. His YouTube channel is: https://www.youtube.com/@WiltonZews and he is on TikTok at: https://www.tiktok.com/@wiltonzewsprado
The concept of a performance coach for an esports team or player seems somewhat odd. Surely esports players just sit and play games all day? WHY would they need a performance coach? Urszula Klimczak is an esports performance coach currently working with the ENCE Counter-Strike team. In this episode she breaks down the nuances of competitive gaming and how it compares to traditional sports as well as the fundamental differences between competitive play and casual gaming. She dives into the inner workings of esports teams and some of the struggles faced by competitive esports players. Her insights also offer guidance to those interested in the psychology of professional gaming.
To find out more about what Urszula does, you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram. Her handle is @Xirreth on both platforms.
In the new season of Tech Girl Talks, Sam chats to friends and colleagues in the esports industry about their specific jobs, how they found themselves in esports and what they do. It’s a deep dive into the esports jobs many people don’t know exist and showcases the diverse nature of the industry. In episode 1, Sam decides to explain what it is she does as an esports broadcaster, desk hosting various events, focusing in on Counter-Strike and discussing a bit more about her esports content creation and this podcast.
To find out more about Sam you can follow her on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and threads. Her handle is @TechGirlZA on all platforms.
Love him or hate him, there is no denying that Duncan “Thorin” Shields has had a global impact on esports both as a content creator and broadcast talent. He has amassed a following across multiple platforms and regularly makes Counter-Strike content that starts conversations (and debates). It seemed only fitting to end Season 3 with an icon of CSGO. Expect some bangers in this one, it is a plethora for soundbites.
You can find Thorin on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/thorin
You can watch him on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@Thooorin
The Pro Player - Maikil "golden" Selim
Golden is an extremely talented Counter-Strike Global Offensive player who has played for Fnatic, Cloud9 and did a brief stint with Ninjas in Pajamas at a CS Major. He has a wealth of experience and knows what the pressure is like when being part of one of the best CS teams in the world. As an IGL he also has an interesting view on what it takes to lead a team. I wanted to pick his brain to really understand what it takes to be a professional Counter-Strike player and how young talent can be spotted.
You can find golden on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/goldenmajk
SapphiRe began as a competitive Counter-Strike player before moving into a host of different roles. The one I desperately wanted to chat to her about was that of Observer. I believe observers are the most important role in any esports broadcast. Without them, the magic of the game can easily be lost. Yet, they’re the unsung heroes of many CSGO events. I wanted to find out what led sapphiRe to carving out a space as an observer and what it takes to work on some of the biggest events in the world, including the 2022 Rio Major, which she is currently working on.
You can find sapphiRe on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/sapphiReGG
Matthew “Sadokist” Trivett is, in my opinion, one of the best Counter-Strike commentators in the world. His voice is linked to a host of legendary moments in CSGO history. His life has also become somewhat public fodder. I wanted to chat to him to find out what it is like to be at the top of your game - from constantly pushing yourself professionally to dealing with a social media world shrouded in “cancel culture”.
You can find Sadokist on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Sadokist
You can also find him on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/Sadokist
The conversation around female Counter-Strike has been a heated one for some time. I wanted to add to it and thought there was no one better to contribute than Hege “Hedje” Botnen. Hedje is a competitive Norwegian CSGO player who competed at a host of international events in an all women line up. She has since retired from competitive play and now works as an analyst on a host of esports broadcasts. She gave some insight into the women’s leagues currently being run and shared her own experiences as a woman in esports and Counter-Strike.
Follow Hedje on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Hedjee
Follow Hedje on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hedjecsgo/
What does it take to become a shoutcaster in one of the most popular games in the world? In this episode of Tech Girl Talks, I chat to Adam “Dinko” Hawthorne, a Counter-Strike commentator who has casted a host of S-Tier events. Dinko’s story is an interesting one as he is one of the few shoutcasters on the scene working at high level events who does not have a dedicated casting partner. He explains how that works and how he navigates the CS:GO scene.
Follow Dinko on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dinkotv
Bleh has cemented himself as one of the leading analysts in the Counter-Strike broadcast space in recent years. An impressive feat on its own but even more so when you consider that he lives in India, one of the regions not as popular on the global CS map. For this episode of the Tech Girl Talks podcast I chatted to Bleh about how he was able to crack international competition and how he was able to grow in a career that is far tougher than it might look to the rest of the world.
Follow Bleh on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/officialBleh
Follow Bleh on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/officialbleh
In this episode of the Tech Girl Talks Podcast, we chat to Tiaan "Tc" Coertzen. Tc is the head
coach of Complexity Gaming's Counter-Strike team. His story is an interesting one - from
competing in CS: GO in South Africa, to making history with a South African lineup called
Bravado Gaming that moved to America - he has great insight into competing at the top
level but also happens to be a qualified medical doctor! He shares how he balanced
studying medicine with competitive gaming and how his parents handled him giving that up
to pursue esports.
Follow Tc on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrTcCs
Find Tc on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiaanc_za/
Tech Girl Talks, hosted by Sam Wright, was nominated for the Podcast of the Year in the 2022 DSTV content creator awards, and is back with a bang for Season 3. In this season, Sam chats to well known names in the industry to bring their stories to a new platform. Season 3 streaming soon.
In the Season finale of Tech Girl Talks, Narrative Writer for Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, Simon Ducharme, adds development team insight into the discussion around Representation in Video Games - with a focus on how character stories are scripted as well as the process around developing characters for your favourite video games.
Rainbow Six Siege is a popular First Person Tactical Shooter published by Ubisoft.
Focal points include:
Understanding the game development process
How character development takes place
Discussing the term "box ticking"
Ensuring accurate representation in video games
In the final episode of Season 2, Sam discusses representation in video games. A somewhat controversial topic but an important one. Robin Gray, founder of Gayming magazine adds insight around the changing landscape of video games as an entertainment medium and artform as well as why conversations around diversity and representation in games have become louder. Dissecting some of the AAA game titles that have incorporated more representation into their story telling in the last few years.
Focus points:
Why representation in video games is needed
Games that do it right
Are developers "box ticking"?
Discussing the back lash and negative feedback that occurs
You can follow Robin Gray on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/ThatRobinGray
Find out more about Gayming Magazine here: https://twitter.com/gaymingmag
Nick "Ashes" Ridgeway, Complexity Gaming's Assistant General Manager, joins in on a discussion on what you need to know about Esports Organisations. Adding insight from his time with one of the oldest and most successful gaming organisations in the world.
Focal points include: What Esports Organisations offer players, Complexity's unique offering, How Esports Organisations make money, Content Creators and Esports Organisations, What questions to ask when looking to sign to an Esports Organisation.
You can follow Nick on twitter here: https://twitter.com/thyAshes
Find out more about Complexity here: https://complexity.gg/
The new dream job is to be a gaming youtuber or Twitch Streamer. But the reality is, it's not about sitting around all day playing video games. For this episode we take a look at what it really takes to make it big as a gaming content creator globally. Special insight is supplied by the incredible Clare Siobhán, and with more than a million subs on YouTube she definitely has knowledge to share.
You can find Clare's YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/claresiobhan
Focal points include: How long it takes to "make it", how to make money from being a gaming content creator, bits about the job no one discusses.
For the second part of this episode we move from looking at the brand perspective on esports sponsorship to understanding how the best tournament organisers and event producers in the game are able to attract partners and, most importantly, keep them coming back for more.
Special Guest, Farrell Sweeney, Director of Partner Management at ESL, adds insight into better understanding the relationship between partners and esports offerings.
Focal points include: Esports events and the marketing benefits for big brands, Nurturing partnerships in the esports space, understanding the importance of innovation
What is the secret sauce to get your esports tournament or team sponsored? Ever wondered what sponsors really expect in return for their products and cash?
In this special two part episode I'll chat to one of the most successful tournament organisers in the world AND one of the biggest gaming brands, to figure out what works and what doesn't.
Part 1 features insights from Tim Ashton, Global Esports Account Manager at gaming peripheral brand Steel Series.
Focal points include: Why would a brand sponsor esports, Getting your sponsorship pitch right, What ROI actually looks like for a brand, Reporting metrics and what needs to change
It sounds like the dream job - playing video games full time, competitively and winning heaps of cash. You've probably read a glitzzy interview with a multimillionaire esports player and thought, hey I can do that.
But there is a lot that isn't discussed or shared. Turning competitive esports into a full time gig is no easy task. In this episode we give you the information you won't find in those PR pieces.
Featuring two of the world's top FIFA players, Mohamand "KingCJ" Diop and Julio "Beast" Bianchi.
Focal points include: Established versus developing regions and the competitive offerings available to players, how much money can you really make from being a full time esports player, the day in the life of a top esports player and the importance of education.
Producing an esports live broadcast is far more intricate then most realise. In this episode one of the world's best esports producers, Jason Baker, breaks down what happens behind the camera before you see your live games on the screen.
Jason Baker has more than 17 years of esports experience and has worked on some of the biggest shows in the world, creating how games are viewed to the rules that govern million dollar tournaments.
Focal points include: The real cost of esports production, the traditional sports vs esports debate and the importance of observers who are often times overlooked.
Sam deep dives into gaming addictions and speaks to experts about some of the misconceptions around it and some practical advice to avoid being addicted to your game.
Focal points include: How kids game, why do we get addicted to our screen, and what steps can we take to game healthy.
Despite the flashy numbers bandied about in PowerPoints selling esports, many broadcasts and esports-focused content are just not seeing the eyeballs expected. But why?
Sam deep dives into esports content and some of the fibs being told by esports experts. Esports Hall of Fame inductee and an icon in the global space, Richard Lewis, join in on the discussion to add his own insight.
Focal points include: Esports content, creating value, measuring successfully, and reaching the casual gamer.
The success of season one saw us reaching over 50 countries and spanning over 10K downloads and an active listenership weekly. Sam Wright is back with new topics, discussions, and Q&As. We will no longer be premiering the episodes on Youtube so this season is exclusive and will feature fresh new content never heard before.
When recorded no executives had stepped down from Activision Blizzard following the allegations the state of California leveled against them. That has since changed. The conversation focuses on how sexism continues to run rampant in the industry and how we address it.
04:28 TheGamer breaks down Activision Blizzard https://youtu.be/UZWSM5eWcrM
08:01 Esports Talk explains Riot sexism allegations https://youtu.be/_g0PL_G1IoM 10:01
France 24 English reports on Ubisoft allegations https://youtu.be/Wl5AJ1Y-R3c
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
In this special episode, we are rewinding the clock to revisit the first-ever episode that brought Tech Girl Talks to life.
Sam shares personal stories about how she led down the path of shoutcaster and gives you practical advice to apply in your life.
If you have topics you want me to discuss or would like to join the conversation then feel free to comment on this video OR you can join my discord to chat directly with me here: https://discord.gg/SKvCd82nv4
I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win! Find me on the socials: Blog - http://www.techgirlblog.com
Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/techgirlza
Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/techgirlza
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/techgirlza
Twitch - http://www.twitch.tv/techgirlza
This is the VOD of the talk show and podcast where we discuss topical issues relating to gaming and esports. For Episode 6 of Tech Girl Talks we focus on the death of the gaming journalist - looking at how smaller regional gaming publications (traditional and digital) are closing their doors or losing staff... and we ask why?
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
From the Hot Tub Meta to ASMR "ear" licking in suggestive poses. In Episode 5 of Tech Girl Talks we discuss how Twitch dealt with streamers pushing the lines of terms and service and, if the Hot Tub Meta and ASMR ear licking should be allowed.
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
This is episode 5 of the Tech Girl Talks series, where I do a live esports discussion on my Twitch channel every Wednesday at 1 pm SAST. Why do we experience so much toxicity in gaming? I asked for insight from studying psychologist, gamer, and mental coach for Goliath Gaming, Stephen Vermaas.
08:07 Why is there so much toxicity in gaming?
22:56 Are you toxic?
36:19 support for victims of toxicity
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
For Episode 3, because it was Pride Month, we discussed the LGBTQ Community in Esports. A huge thank you to Marco, the editor of GLITCHED for sharing his story. You can visit GLITCHED at www.glitched.online Demonik for contributing. Follow in on Twitch at www.twitch.tv/demoniksa Finally thank you to @nicholasvanj for spending so much time chatting to me and helping me with this live talk.
16:13 Sonic Fox acceptance speech at the Game Awards
26:41 Demonik's experience in esports 33:18 Marco's personal experience with the esports community
40:06 Marco on how to be a better ally to the LGBTQ community
43:04 Demonik on how to be a better ally in esports
48:16 an incredible summary from Nicholasvanj
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
In this episode, I was asked to investigate the divide in the Fighting Games Community. A nice broad topic which I tried to do justice too. I hope you enjoy the show! Also if you have any comments I love feedback.
04:52 @sigmaG19 gives a history on South African fighting games
https://youtu.be/BRQMnY0GOM4 12:07 introducing you to UGCZA
https://youtu.be/hglwYesDsqw 13:09 JabhiM at Red Bull Kumite
https://www.redbull.com/za-en/videos/...
23:51 More on Red Bull Hit the Streets courtesy of @HobbyGamer https://youtu.be/6QjGVsWgmv4
23:51 @Button Check explains bad blood
https://youtu.be/TexKWiWSkz4 33:13 the cake analogy
58:07 Questions and Answers
In this episode, I speak about good and bad sponsorships in esports as well as how to spot a scam sponsorship opportunity. I break the conversation down into sponsorships for esports teams, esports events, and then esports players. Any feedback is always welcome!
06:00 Team Sponsorships
06:24 Bravado Gaming & Alienware example
18:06 Event Sponsorship
18:29 Toyota Esports Challenge
31:26 Player Sponsorship
32:00 Red Bull x Thabo "YvngSavage" Moloi
39:11 Bad Sponsorships
46:10 Questions and Answers
I'm an international esports shoutcaster and gaming/tech content creator based in South Africa. I'm partnered with Logitech G - we play to win!
My gear: - Logitech Brio Webcam - Blue Yeti microphone - Logitech G Pro X Wireless Headset - Logitech G PRO wireless mouse - Logitech G G915 keyboard
This is Tech Girl Talks. A Just Chatting stream & podcast that jumps into topics of interest around esports and gaming every week.
Sam Wright is your host, creator, and writer of this show.
Sam was the brains and the hands that made Acer for Gaming and the 2017 Valkyrie Challenge possible. She has hosted numerous esports competitions in South Africa and internationally. These include the big ones like desk hosting and interviewing for PUBG Europe League 2019, Hosting Nintendo Splatoon 2 and Super Smash Bro Ultimate European Championships, hosting an ESL stage at Gamescom 2017, Overwatch Contenders Europe, the Samsung Galaxy CSGO Championship and even the 2017 Crossfire Grand Finals in China. Sam gets to travel the world sharing her love for esports with you on this podcast.
A Playlyst Original.