In this episode, host JC Granger sits down with John Cheng, founder and CEO of PlayAbly — a gamification platform that’s redefining the online shopping experience through personalized, shoppable games powered by AI.

Born from a team of ex-Unity veterans, PlayAbly blends behavioral science, AI personalization, and interactive design to help e-commerce brands boost engagement, loyalty, and sales — all without relying on discounts. From swipe-to-shop denim quizzes to leaderboard-driven product discovery, PlayAbly transforms static storefronts into playful, memory-making brand destinations.

John shares how he went from Wall Street to the gaming industry — and ultimately launched PlayAbly as a way to rescue beloved brands struggling to compete in a crowded, transactional retail landscape. The conversation explores the psychology behind gamified commerce, the challenge of educating a market on an entirely new approach, and how PlayAbly’s model is helping brands thrive in a world where attention is scarce and loyalty is everything.

If you’re curious about the future of e-commerce, customer engagement, or how gaming mechanics can drive real-world business results — this episode delivers a fresh, founder-led take on the intersection of play and purchase.