In this episode of I'll Ask The Questions Around Here, Dr. Joseph Elisha sits down with Kim Meltzer, co-founder and CEO of Destination Esports, affectionately known in the gaming world as the "Esports Mom." From a childhood shaped by personal loss to trailblazing a hospitality-driven approach in the global gaming industry, Kim shares how nurturing others became her calling. They discuss the evolution of gaming culture, the mental health dynamics surrounding screen time, and how faith, motherhood, and perspective have guided her path. Kim also shares insights into planning major Esports events and her mission to reshape perceptions of the gaming community through her own podcast.

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[00:02:47] Kim Meltzer introduces her gamer tag origins and entry into the gaming industry.

[00:05:48] Her career pivot from hospitality to working with Activision’s Call of Duty launch.

[00:07:49] Becoming the “COD Mom” and her growing role in the global gaming scene.

[00:10:15] How grief and early life experiences shaped her nurturing nature and professional drive.

[00:13:45] Faith’s quiet but central role in her journey and mentorship style.

[00:18:06] Working at Focus on the Family and exploring spirituality across faith lines.

[00:21:48] What goes into planning a major Esports event from a logistics and care perspective.

[00:26:12] Addressing screen dependency and helping gamers find balance in real life.

[00:29:36] Transferable skills from gaming to careers in surgery, military, and engineering.

[00:31:02] How trust and communication play a critical role in mentoring gamers.

[00:33:10] Rocket League’s role in building community between players and families.

[00:35:37] The distinction between casual gaming and competitive Esports.

[00:36:54] The utility of AI in gaming and broader industries, including Esports development.

[00:40:19] The challenge of politics and profit-over-purpose in the gaming world.

[00:43:25] Starting the Esports Mom podcast to share behind-the-scenes stories and life lessons.

[00:45:50] Kim’s focus on shifting perspectives rather than changing the industry.

[00:48:27] Her five-year vision rooted in family, travel, and continued growth.

[00:52:23] Reflecting on life’s biggest lessons and learning from early struggles.

[00:55:04] The legacy Kim hopes to leave rooted in love, impact, and authentic living.

Links:

Kim Meltzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeltzer

Destination Esports: https://destinationesports.com/

Joseph Elisha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-elisha-m-d-a9b7aab