Why I No Longer Rush Through Board Games
How slowing down helps you enjoy games, people, and moments more

Do you ever finish a board game night feeling like you played a lot of games—but didn't really experience them?

In this episode of Mindful Games Lab, Clay shares why he stopped rushing through board games and what changed when he slowed down. From game backlogs and constant rule learning to treating turns like tasks, this episode explores how speed can shrink wonder—and how presence can bring it back.

You'll hear reflections on playing fewer games with deeper intention, building connection at the table, and rediscovering immersion. Clay also recommends games that naturally reward slowing down.

If you've ever felt burned out or disconnected from game night, this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and enjoy games more fully.

Sign up for mindful reflections and game prompts at mindfulgameslab.com.

What does Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game teach us about power, restraint, and focus?

In this episode of Mindful Games Lab, Clay dives into Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game from Brotherwise Games, exploring beginner-friendly strategy, when it's actually worth flaring your metals, which characters feel strongest at the table, and the ongoing tension between dealing damage and racing up the mission tracks. Along the way, he shares gentle, mindful prompts that invite you to notice not just how you play, but how you decide, react, and commit.

Whether you're new to Mistborn, curious about deckbuilding strategy, or interested in more intentional, reflective play, this episode offers insights you can bring to your next game night—and beyond. https://www.mindfulgameslab.com

In Nature from North Star Game Studio, survival isn't about brute strength—it's about clever adaptation. Join Clay from Mindful Games Lab as he dives into this fast-paced, beautifully illustrated board game where every round is an evolutionary arms race.

Discover the game's origin story, learn the best traits to dominate your ecosystem, and explore the high-stakes choice every player faces: to hunt, or not to hunt. You'll get beginner strategies, insider tips, and a breakdown of the game's replay value—plus a few laugh-out-loud moments from Clay's own plays.

Whether you're a wildlife lover, a strategy gamer, or just curious about the most gorgeous snow leopard in board gaming, this episode will help you win your very first game of Nature.

In this episode, Clay dives deep into Almoravid, the second entry in Volko Ruhnke's celebrated Levy & Campaign series from GMT Games. Set in the gritty landscape of 11th-century Iberia during the Spanish Reconquista, Almoravid is a game of feudal logistics, political tension, and brutal siege warfare.

We unpack the game's most compelling systems:
How you command lords—not armies—and what it means to manage medieval loyalty
The dual-role of El Cid, the legendary knight who might fight for either side
The tactical weight behind every card, siege attempt, and ravage action
Why Almoravid isn't just a game—it's a historical narrative waiting to unfold

Whether you're a veteran of Nevsky or just curious about asymmetric wargames, this episode will guide you through what makes Almoravid a must-play for fans of immersive, strategy-heavy tabletop experiences.

🔗 Plus, grab our custom capability player aid at MindfulGamesLab.com!

🎧 Tune in, sharpen your blades, and prepare to outwit the past.