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Episode 13

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Published on:

8th Oct 2025

The Power of Games in Cybersecurity with Peadar

In this episode of the Security by Default podcast, host Joe Carson engages with game designer Peadar, Gamification Lecturer at Tallinn University to explore the intersection of game design and cybersecurity training. Peadar shares his journey from teaching to game design, emphasizing the importance of using games to facilitate learning in complex subjects like cybersecurity. The conversation delves into the fundamental elements of games, the challenges of creating effective training games, and the need for conceptual transfer games that bridge the gap between technical and non-technical audiences. Peadar also discusses the future of cybersecurity training, the significance of soft skills, and the different player types in game design. The episode concludes with recommended resources for those interested in game design and cybersecurity.

Peadar Callaghan, Gamification Lecturer at Tallinn University, Digital Learning Games Lab, Digital Technologies Institute, Tallinn University.

Lecturer in Gamification, Learning Game Design, and Fundamentals of Game Design in the Digital Learning Games Master's program.

Key Takeaways

  • Games can help people understand complex subjects.
  • Cybersecurity is a business problem, not just an IT problem.
  • Effective training requires engaging and simple game mechanics.
  • Checkbox training is ineffective for real learning.
  • Conceptual transfer games are essential for non-technical audiences.
  • The average age of gamers is increasing, indicating a shift in demographics.
  • Soft skills are crucial for effective communication in cybersecurity.
  • Games can create a safe space for learning from failure.
  • Understanding player types can enhance game design for training.
  • The future of cybersecurity training lies in small-scale, experiential games.


Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Game Design
  • 02:45 The Role of Games in Learning and Cybersecurity
  • 05:52 Fundamental Elements of Game Design
  • 09:00 Applying Game Mechanics to Cybersecurity Training
  • 11:46 Challenges in Cybersecurity Training Games
  • 14:38 Conceptual Transfer Games for Non-Technical Audiences
  • 17:44 The Future of Cybersecurity Training
  • 20:52 Understanding Player Types in Game Design
  • 23:47 The Importance of Soft Skills in Cybersecurity
  • 26:28 Recommended Resources for Game Design and Cybersecurity
  • 29:24 Conclusion and Future Directions


Resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/peadar-callaghan-a218721a/

https://www.linkedin.com/school/tallinn-university/

https://www.tlu.ee/

Book - Reality Is Broken: Why Games Make Us Better and How They Can Change the World - https://a.co/d/hzvwYtf

Book - Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Approach to Creating Innovative Games by Tracey Fullerton- https://a.co/d/5jnbDg6

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About the Podcast

Security by Default
Security by Default is a cybersecurity podcast hosted by Joseph Carson, a renowned ethical hacker and security expert. Each episode dives into the latest security trends.
Security by Default is a cybersecurity podcast hosted by Joseph Carson, a renowned ethical hacker and security expert. Each episode dives into the latest security trends, real-world threats, and practical advice for staying safe in the digital world. With insightful interviews and clear explanations, Joseph makes complex topics accessible for both IT professionals and curious listeners alike.

About your host

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Joseph Carson

I am a distinguished cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience in enterprise security and infrastructure.

Throughout my career, I have been an active contributor to the cybersecurity community, serving as an educator, ethical hacker, and speaker at global conferences. I hold both the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certifications as well as advise various governments, critical infrastructure organizations, and industries such as finance and transportation on cybersecurity matters.
I am the author of "Cybersecurity for Dummies," a book that has gained global recognition for helping companies integrate people, processes, and technology to strengthen their defense against cyberattacks. The book has over 50,000 readers worldwide and provides a straightforward approach to understanding cybersecurity.

In addition to my writing, I have authored numerous articles and research papers, contributing to publications such as The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Dark Reading, and CSO Magazine. I also host the bi-weekly podcast "Security by Default" which offers insights from leading cybersecurity experts and discusses best practices for navigating security challenges.
I am dedicated to educating the next generation of cybersecurity leaders and his commitment to building a safer internet have made him a respected figure in the cybersecurity community.