The Lag Files is where I document both sides of my work as a gaming journalist: writing about games and writing through the process of becoming one. Here you’ll find articles on gaming topics, thoughtful takes on industry news, occasional interviews, and reflections on my journey through a Master’s program and my growth as a journalist.
Gaming Communities and Veteran Mental Health
Many veterans feel alone and face mental health challenges after leaving the military, no matter their role. Increasingly, they are finding real support through video games and the communities that form around them. Chris Franz spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy. He has combat PTSD and lost his brother in Iraq, making him a…
Another Month of Stuff I Learned
This month in Legal Aspects of Media at Full Sail University, I gained essential tools for navigating the complex legal landscape that every communications professional must understand. As I work toward my Mastery goal of building a sustainable career in gaming media and content creation, this course exceeded my expectations by moving beyond theoretical concepts…
Hello World! This is a test.
This is a test of my new site for my blog. While I do have a website in the works already I hope this will become something equally impressive as I journey along.
The First Steps
The First Thought, Well, Second Thought After the First When I signed up for my Master’s program at Full Sail, I discovered that I would need to create a blog or website to journal my progress in the program. I also thought it was a good idea to get ahead of the curve because my…
My Mastery Journey
Building a Sustainable Career in Games Journalism For a long time, I believed progress came from waiting. Waiting for the right job, the right connection, or the right moment. Over time, I learned that progress happens long before opportunity appears. It comes from preparation, focus, and committing to the work even when the outcome is…
Finding My Way
How I’m Building My Path Into the Gaming Industry Introduction It’s not enough to just earn and learn for me. I wholeheartedly felt accomplished when I received my degree in Digital Marketing. Sadly, when I didn’t see that translate into a career in the industry I wanted to get into—let alone any marketing job for…
The To-Do List
I’ve created so many lists in my life — grocery lists, gift lists, music lists, chore lists, and even content-creation lists. I make to-do lists for one reason: to get things done in a systematic way. And now, as I begin my newest educational journey, making a to-do list is no different. At first, I…