One of the many things that changed around video games is their role in kids’ lives. Initially, video games were seen as alienating, isolating, and addictive flashing lights that kept the children in front of the screen for hours. Today, and since the massive use of online games, video games are much more than just games; kids use them to socialize, make friends, learn teamwork, and many other things. 

Gaming became, in many ways, an enriching experience, and we will discuss that with our guest, Keith Vinson.  

Keith Vinson is the Vice President of Operations at the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas and former executive director of Greater Charlotte’s YMCA. Keith has over 20 years of leadership experience, building effective teams, highly productive, and immersed in a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. 

In this episode, we talk about the role of video games in people’s lives, the career opportunities they offer, and the evolution of the relationship between parents and gaming. Keith shares part s of his journey to YMCA, his experiences with video games as a kid, and his reaction to having a gamer son. We also talk about YMCA’s innumerous inclusive programs, Keith’s relationship with parents at YMCA, and much more. 

Visit the YMCA Dallas website: https://www.ymcadallas.org/

or connect with Keith at LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithvinson/

Full Episode Breakdown:

3:30 – Dr. Marc introduces today’s guest, Keith Vinson.

4:43 – Keith talks about his journey into YMCA Dallas.

6:47 – Keith explains what kind of work they do at YMCA and how they serve the community.

10:03 – The Mattel games. Dr. Marc and Keith remember the games they used to play and compare them with nowadays video games. 

14:48 – Keith explains the YMCA’s Women’s ERG programs and why they are so important.

17:06 – Keith talks about what they do at YMCA Dallas to fight against toxic behavior online and in real life.

21:48 – Keith shares his thoughts on the privilege of working with gaming in Dallas, the Silicon Valley of gaming and esports, and about how important it is for him and the institution to be surrounded by big names.