Meet David | Pokemon Podcast Host

We had the good fortune of connecting with David and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to be a content creator, but I didn’t come from a traditional creative background. I couldn’t draw or play an instrument, none of the usual routes felt like mine. When I discovered podcasting, it was the first time content creation felt truly accessible. It allowed me to tell stories in a way that felt real, both for myself and for the community around me.

That’s when the idea hit me, what if we told people’s stories through the lens of Pokémon? Not just the content creators or influencers, but the everyday players, the organizers, the quiet leaders, the ones building community on the ground. I didn’t see anyone doing Pokémon interviews as content when I started, so it gave me space to explore and figure things out. There was risk in focusing on the “unsung heroes,” because most people follow big names. But to me, the people running tournaments, creating safe spaces, and giving others a reason to show up, they’re the glue holding the Pokémon world together.

Over time, As The Pokéball Turns became more than a podcast. It became a platform to reflect the invisible work so many do in our community, especially in places like DFW. I’ve collaborated with local event hosts, attended grassroots gatherings, and kept showing up, not just to record stories, but to help shape them.

One of the moments that stays with me is an episode called “TRAINER’S EYE #40: Creating Accessibility in Pokémon GO.” It featured three Trainers who built a PokéStop for a child with no limbs who used a stylus to play. That’s why I do this. Because without platforms like mine, stories like that might disappear.

Podcasting isn’t easy. It takes time, emotional energy, and commitment. I had to push through undiagnosed anxiety and imposter syndrome. But when someone came up to me in New York and told me they loved the show, it was the first time I thought I belonged here.

In the end, I just want people to remember a story that felt like their story. I hope they see Pokémon not just as a game, but as a way to navigate life, connect with others, and feel a little less invisible.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At its heart, As The Pokéball Turns is an interview podcast but what sets it apart is what I’m asking for. I’m not chasing trends or headlines. I’m asking people, “How has Pokémon given your life meaning that wasn’t found elsewhere?” I’m not just asking about favorite Pokémon, I’m trying to tell the story behind the bond.

That’s what sets this podcast apart. I’m committed to the craft. I study interviewers like Larry King, Howard Stern, and Sean Evans, not just for their style, but for their emotional presence. When a guest says, “You do your homework,” that’s when I know I’ve done my job. I treat every interview like it matters, because it does.

I’m proud of many episodes, but one that stands out is TRAINER’S EYE #62: Overcoming Substance Abuse With Pokémon. It began with a Reddit comment and led to one of the most powerful stories I’ve ever recorded. I don’t shy away from heavy topics. I embrace them because those moments show us how much strength Pokémon can give us when life feels overwhelming.

It wasn’t easy getting here. I used to script every question out of fear trying to control everything. I was living with undiagnosed anxiety and battling imposter syndrome. Counseling helped. Trial and error helped. And being ghosted by big-name guests? That taught me the most. I realized I was trying to prove my worth to people who didn’t see it. Now, I focus on those who do. The ones who show up ready to share, ready to connect.

My dad used to say, “I may get my ass kicked, but you’re gonna know you were in a fight.” And my old basketball coach said, “If your man goes to the restroom, hand him tissue.” That’s the energy I bring. I work hard. I show up. I follow through.

If there’s one thing I want people to know, it’s that there’s always a story beyond just your favorite Pokémon. You might see a Charmander. I see loyalty and determination sitting alone in the rain. That’s what As The Pokéball Turns is about. It’s about helping people feel seen. And every time someone listens and says, “That felt like my story,” I know I’m right where I’m supposed to be.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, I’d make sure they left knowing exactly why Dallas has a vibe of its own.

We’d start with Snuffer’s cheese fries, which I honestly don’t even consider food, they’re an experience. Then we’d hit up Seapot in Plano, hands-down the best Korean BBQ spot in the area. It’s a bit of a drive and wait, but absolutely worth it. For fried chicken, I’d take them to Mike’s Chicken in Uptown, and when it comes to burgers, it’s a toss-up between Twisted Root and Maple & Motor. For tacos, I’d start with La Salsa Verde and keep Torchy’s in the back pocket as a dependable second stop. And if we’re capping off the night? A slice from House of Pies never disappoints or perhaps a snowcone at Lyn’s Tasty Sno in Carrollton.

For places to hang out, I’d take them to Vitruvian Park, it’s one of my favorite spots. Most people talk about Addison Circle, but to me, Vitruvian has the better park experience, especially if we’re doing a picnic or just walking around. We’d definitely visit the Dallas Museum of Art, which I think is massively underrated. You could go three times and still not take it all in. And for something fun and a little offbeat, the Palace of Wax in Grand Prairie always makes for a memorable stop.

The vibe would be a mix of chill, nostalgic, and full of good food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If I had to dedicate this shoutout to anyone, it would start with my friend PureLighter. He was one of my earliest guests, but more than that, he was someone who believed in As The Pokéball Turns before there was any audience to speak of. His encouragement helped me push through moments of doubt and even after his episode aired, he kept messaging me about how much he loved the stories. That kind of support sticks with you.

I also owe a lot to my first few guests from the DFW Pokémon GO scene. They were local community leaders who said yes when it really counted. Behind every episode you see, there are countless no’s or no-responses, but those first few yeses are the reason my podcast got off the ground. I didn’t have clout or connections. I just had an idea and their trust made it real.

I also want to recognize JRE47, a well-known figure in the Pokémon GO PvP world, who took a chance on me early. That gave me the courage to keep reaching out to people I once thought were out of reach. Sometimes I still get surprised by who says yes.

Outside the podcast, I’d give a shoutout to ACFB, the Addison/Carrollton/Farmers Branch Pokémon GO community. It’s been amazing to watch them rebuild and thrive after the pandemic. Their leadership reminds me that passion is contagious. No one handed me a title, I just showed up and got to work. That’s what leadership is to me. Not a role, but a responsibility.

And lastly, I want to give credit to my counselor. I was dealing with undiagnosed anxiety and imposter syndrome when I first started. Getting help changed everything. It’s why I’m such a huge advocate for men to seek counseling. We bottle up so much to our own detriment, and it doesn’t have to be that way.

This podcast was built on people trusting me with their stories. I never forget that. I show up for every interview, whether it’s a small guest or someone well-known, because I know what it means to be seen. That’s the kind of reverence I bring to this, like wrestlers who always respect the crowd, even on the slow nights. Whether there are ten listeners or ten thousand, I’m here to tell the story.

Website: https://www.asthepokeballturns.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asthepokeballturns/

Twitter: https://x.com/ATPTPodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsThePokeballTurns/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AsThePokeballTurns