Uniting rigorous research with approachable science communication.

For more than 15 years, Rachel Kowert, Ph.D has been leading data-driven efforts at the intersection of mental health, trust and safety, and digital games, partnering with non-profit, governmental, and international agencies to shape research-informed policy and practice. A research psychologist and award-winning author, she has shared her expertise with audiences around the world, including the United Nations, the U.S. Congress, and the Department of Homeland Security. As the founder of Psychgeist®, Rachel’s mission is to make science about games accessible and engaging through multimedia storytelling, spanning the Psychgeist YouTube channel, the Most Recent Save podcast, and The Psychgeist of Pop Culture book series published by Play Story Press, all of which are designed to translate complex research into meaningful, mainstream conversations that connect culture with psychological insights.

Who Rachel Helps:

• Policy makers & industry leaders: Delivering evidence-based guidance on digital media policy and design, including trust, safety, mental health, and gaming extremism, through research partnerships
• Public audiences: Parents, gamers, and curious individuals get accessible insights on topics often mired in academic jargon like escapism, moral panic, or gaming disorder.
• Game developers: Translating research into practical tools and design strategies for promoting digital well-being and safer digital playgrounds

How Rachel Helps: Rachel brings together her expertise as a researcher, communicator, and strategist to create meaningful impact across mental health, trust, and safety in digital spaces. She designs and leads large-scale research initiatives, translates complex findings into accessible content that resonates with broad audiences, and shapes global conversations by reframing sensationalized narratives into constructive, empathy-driven dialogue. As an editor and advocate, she curates and amplifies critical discussions about media and psychology, ensuring they remain thoughtful, inclusive, and actionable.

Engagement Tools:

• Accessible Storytelling: Translating complex research into clear, engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Applying evidence-based insights to guide policy, design, and community strategies for meaningful, measurable impact.
• Deep-Dive Analysis: Exploring cultural and scientific phenomena with nuance, providing context and insight that spark meaningful reflection.
• Pop Culture Lenses: Using familiar media and stories as entry points to make psychological concepts relatable and memorable.
• Multi-Format Communication: Delivering insights across written, audio, and visual mediums to reach people where they are.

Key Clients & Partners:

• United Nations
• US Congress
• Department of Homeland Security
• Public Safety Canada
• Roblox
• Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB)
• Nurture Academy
• Games for Change
• University of Cambridge