Crowdfunding Nerds: Kickstarter Marketing For Board Games & Beyond!

Hey, Crowdfunding enthusiasts! In episode 177 of Crowdfunding Nerds, your host Andrew, joins forces with the savvy Jack Dunbar from New Kingdom Gaming. Wondering how to smash your second crowdfunding campaign? Jack spills the beans on the lessons he learned from his first Kickstarter triumph with New Kingdom Gardeners. But that's just the start! We're diving deep into the transformation from game designer to business mogul, the art of juggling time and resources as a small business owner, and the strategic move to publish games by other talented designers. Ever faced the heat of public criticism or struggled to define your customer avatar? Jack shares his insights on handling feedback on religious-themed games and tailoring marketing strategies to specific audiences. Plus, we'll explore the tricky concept of sunk costs and the crucial role of Kickstarter referral metrics. Join us as we navigate the personal highs and lows of being creators, from managing negative feedback to the emotional rollercoaster of launching your passion projects. Tune in to episode 177 for a treasure trove of crowdfunding wisdom! Don't forget to check out these links! Jack's website - https://newkingdomgaming.com New Kingdom: Sowers on Kickstarter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/newkingdomgaming/new-kingdom-sowers Andrew's Deliverance Feedback Form - https://forms.gle/zDKYTcZEsFM9AX7U9

Hey there, fellow nerds! Are you ready to dive into the emotional rollercoaster of game creation? In episode 176 of Crowdfunding Nerds, your hosts Andrew and Sean are getting real about the highs and lows that come with the territory. Ever wondered how it feels to have your game baby critiqued, or what it's like to juggle the spotlight with your personal life? We're kicking things off with a "Bilbo Baggins" twist on criticism – it's not always what you'd expect! Hear Andrew's tales from the trenches of Deliverance's development and the sharp feedback that could pierce a creator's armor. Plus, we've got stories of phantom fans with ghost emails that'll make you chuckle and cringe. But wait, there's more! We're peeling back the curtain on the board game world's brand of fame. From Sean's brush with celebrity to Andrew's grocery store escapades, we're exploring the peculiar spotlight that shines on game designers. And, we'll cap it off with a heart-to-heart on why your self-worth shouldn't be a Kickstarter stretch goal. Tune in, level up your emotional intelligence, and remember – humility is your secret weapon in the game of fame. Don't miss this episode of Crowdfunding Nerds; it's one for the books... or should we say, the boards! Don't forget to show your support and vote for Deliverance on Boardgame Geeks site! Vote for Deliverance here: https://boardgamegeek.com/geekawards/boardgame

Hey there, game enthusiasts and crowdfund wizards! Are you ready to debunk some myths and level up your crowdfunding knowledge? In episode 175 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast, your favorite hosts Andrew and Sean are about to drop some serious truth bombs. Think launching a Kickstarter is a guaranteed jackpot? Or that crowdfunding is the new kid on the block? Think again! We're tackling six of the biggest misconceptions in the game, from the "build it and they will come" fallacy to the real sacrifices behind a campaign. Plus, we'll guide you through the marketing maze - no false promises, just solid advice. And hey, we're now on Board Game Geek! Show us some love in the Golden Geek Awards for Best Podcast. Ready to join our table? Shuffle your deck and press play on episode 175 – it's game time! All the links you need! Board Game Geek - Vote for us! Republic.com Invest angel

Hey there, fellow crowdfunding aficionados! Get ready to tune into episode 174 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast! Ever wondered how to turn your crowdfunding dreams into a resounding success? Well, ponder no more! I'm your host Andrew, and in this episode, we're diving deep with the brilliant minds of Austin Harrison founder of IV Studios and Corey Tomlinson, Editor-In-Chief of Grimmsteel Games. Are you ready to unlock the secrets behind crafting a campaign that not only meets but shatters its goals? Are Kickstarter stretch goals the smart way to go? Want to know what it takes to engage a community that's as passionate about your project as you are? Then you can't afford to miss this episode! We’re unpacking the strategies, the do's and don'ts, and the electrifying stories from Austin and Corey's own crowdfunding journeys. Grab your notepad, and let’s get nerdy! Tune in, and let's transform your crowdfunding game from good to epic! Check out Austin and Corey's sites here: IV Studios Grimsteel Games

Hey, board game enthusiasts! Ever wondered how to maximize your direct sales and get your game into the hands of eager players? In episode 173 of "Crowdfunding Nerds," I, Andrew, and my co-host Sean, dive deep into the world of e-commerce for board games. Should you choose WooCommerce or Shopify to launch your online store? We'll unravel the mysteries of Meta ads for marketing your games and share why direct sales might just be your golden ticket over distribution. Plus, we'll chat about the crucial mistakes to avoid when planning to sell those games gathering dust in your warehouse. But wait, there's more! Discover the art of minimizing checkout clicks, why a Facebook shop could be your next best move, and how to price your games to entice and upsell. We'll also give you a peek into the success stories of Chip Theory Games and Stonemaier Games, and why running ads might just catch a retailer's eye. Don't miss out on these insider tips and strategies to future-proof your company and skyrocket those profit margins. Tune in to "Crowdfunding Nerds" Episode 173 – your game's success story starts here!

Hey there, fellow crowdfunding enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into the world of board game creation with a sprinkle of deception and a dash of strategy? In episode 172 of Crowdfunding Nerds, I, Andrew, alongside my co-host Sean, sit down with the incredible Juli Bierwirth from Distant Rabbit Games! Ever wondered how a nutrition expert turns into a board game wizard? Juli spills the beans on her transition from the food industry to designing the deviously delightful game, Mantis Falls. But how does one go from crafting meals to crafting game mechanics? And what makes a two-player hidden traitor game stand out in a sea of tabletop titans? We'll also get the inside scoop on marketing must-dos, the art of the perfect pitch, and the secret sauce behind scaling from Kickstarter success to retail readiness. Plus, Juli's generous spirit shines through as she offers to mentor the next generation of game creators. Join us for this insightful journey from game night frustration to crowdfunding sensation, and discover how being a positive force in the community can lead to incredible success. Don't miss out on this episode, and remember, you can always reach out to Juli at info@distantrabbitgames.com or visit mantisfalls.com for a closer look at the game that's taking the board game community by storm! Ready to level up your crowdfunding game? Tune in to Episode 172 of Crowdfunding Nerds and let's roll the dice on your next big project! Check out these links: The Ultimate Kickstarter Marketing Course For Games Mantis Falls Game Distant Rabbit Games

Tune in to episode 171 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast, where your favorite hosts, Andrew and Sean, take you behind the scenes of the Deliverance expansion and reprint strategy. Ever wondered how alternative reality games can boost your campaign at conventions? We're diving deep into the nitty-gritty of pre-marketing magic, from leveraging YouTube hype to strategizing for retail success post-Kickstarter. Andrew's eyeing that $1 million goal—not just for the glory, but to solidify Deliverance's retail reputation. We're talking big dreams, realistic expectations, and the power of a hardcore fan base. Plus, don't miss out on hearing about Andrew's epic role as a raid boss at Strong Tower Con! So, whether you're a seasoned backer or a curious creator, join us for this insightful journey and learn how to level up your crowdfunding game. It's time to strategize, captivate, and conquer. Ready to roll the dice? Let's get nerdy! Links: https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode50/

Are you ready to blast off into the cosmos of crowdfunding success? In episode 170 of Crowdfunding Nerds, your favorite hosts Andrew and Sean sit down with the stellar minds behind Kinson Key Games—T.K. King, Koltin Thompson, and Dennis Northcott—to navigate the universe of their Kickstarter triumph with "Galactic Cruise." From Tennessee tunes to tabletop triumphs, T.K. reveals how he swapped music production for game design during the pandemic. Koltin, a wordsmith and fourth-grade teacher, shares why patience is a virtue in game design, and Dennis, our Canadian game Dev veteran, unpacks the technical side of creating a board game that's light-years ahead of the competition. Discover the secrets behind their $12,000 advertising odyssey, the strategic avoidance of stretch goals, and why a play testing guild might just be your ticket to intergalactic acclaim. Join us for this cosmic conversation and learn how to keep your campaign cruising smoothly towards success. For more interstellar insights, connect with the Kinson Key Games crew through their website, Facebook group, and Discord channel. All systems go for launch in 3... 2... 1... Check out their Kickstarter for Galactic Cruise here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kinsonkeygames/galactic-cruise

Hey, Crowdfunding Nerds! Ready for a deep dive into the gaming world? In episode 169, I, your host Andrew, along with Sean, chat with the brilliant Chris Skaggs from Soma Games. Ever wondered how to keep a game development team motivated or what it takes to pivot from contractors to full-time employees? Chris spills the beans on these topics and more, including the wild ride of securing investors and the shift from console to mobile gaming that revolutionized the industry. Chris doesn't hold back on the challenges and triumphs of running a game studio, the financial jigsaw of project-based income, and his vision for creating content that keeps the cash flowing. Plus, get the scoop on Soma Games' exciting projects like "Legends of Redwall" and "Wisdom of the Rain." Don't miss this chance to level up your knowledge—join us for episode 169 of Crowdfunding Nerds, where we turn the page on interactive fiction and explore the future of gaming! Check out Soma Games at www.somagames.com and their latest projects at www.legendsofredwall.com and www.wisdomoftherain.com. Star Wars Title Sequence: https://www.artofthetitle.com/title/star-wars/ Let's press play!

Are you ready to crack the code on making your crowdfunding campaign a retailer's dream? In episode 168 of Crowdfunding Nerds, I, your host Andrew, alongside my trusty co-host Sean, team up with the savvy Will Schultz from Knight and Day Games to unlock the secrets of retailer-friendly campaigns. Will spills the beans on what retailers really want, from the allure of deluxe editions to the nitty-gritty of campaign presentation. Tune in as we dive into the world of retailer pledges, the magic number of copies that make retailers' eyes sparkle, and why communication is king in the land of crowdfunding. Don't miss out on these golden nuggets of wisdom that could elevate your campaign from good to great! Check out Knight and Day Games' online haven at knightanddaygames.com, and join the conversation on their Facebook page and Discord community. Get ready to take notes – this is one episode you'll want to bookmark!

Hey there, fellow entrepreneurs and crowdfunding aficionados! Are you ready to dive deep into the art of running a business not just for the day-to-day but with a grand finale in mind? In episode 167 of Crowdfunding Nerds, I, your host Andrew, alongside my trusty co-host Sean, am thrilled to bring you insights from the business brokerage world with our esteemed guest, Bryan Gonzales. Ever wonder what happens when the entrepreneurial flame starts to flicker? Do you have a game plan for when it's time to pass the torch? Bryan, armed with an MBA and a wealth of experience, joins us to talk about growth, goals, and the golden goodbye of selling your business. We'll explore the emotional rollercoaster of letting go, the strategic moves behind a sale, and why sometimes, refusing an offer isn't the smart play. We're also getting into the nitty-gritty of business valuation, the role of a broker, and why asset sales might just be your new best friend. Plus, Bryan's got some killer analogies between board games and music that could change the way you think about your IP. And if you're hesitant about opening your books to a broker, Bryan's here to put your mind at ease. Ready to level up your exit strategy? Tune in to episode 167, and don't forget to reach out to Bryan for a complimentary business evaluation at bg@verdadfirm.com and check out his website here: https://verdadfirm.com/ And remember, your questions could star in our next episode – just hit up our website at Crowdfunding Nerds. Let's make your business exit as epic as its inception!

Are you ready to level up your crowdfunding game? Welcome back, Nerd Nation, to episode 166 of Crowdfunding Nerds! I'm your host, Andrew, joined by my co-host Sean, and today we've got a special treat for you. Ever found yourself tangled in the web of pledge managers, wishing for a superhero to swoop in and streamline the chaos? Enter Konstantinos Manos, co-founder of Vesuvius Media and the brains behind hive interactive, the pledge manager platform that's more than just a tool—it's a game-changer. Konstantinos joins us to share the rollercoaster ride of crowdfunding, the birth of hive, and how it's revolutionizing the way creators manage campaigns, from customer support to warehouse logistics. But wait, there's more! We're diving deep into the Kickstarter vs. Gamefound debate, and I'll be sharing why I'm sticking with Kickstarter for our Deliverance expansion. Plus, get the scoop on hive's philosophy and why they see clients as businesses, not just projects. Don't miss out on this insightful episode packed with insider tips and a special offer just for our listeners. Head over to crowdfundingnerds.com/hive to learn more, and connect with the hive team to discover how they can supercharge your next campaign! Tune in, get nerdy with us, and let's make your crowdfunding dreams a reality! Hive Interactive Pledge Manager - https://crowdfundingnerds.com/hive Vesuvius Media - https://www.vesuviusmedia.com/

Are you ready to supercharge your energy levels and make better decisions in your crowdfunding ventures? Do you wonder how small habits can lead to big wins in both health and business? Tune in to episode 165 of Crowdfunding Nerds where your host Andrew and co-host Sean, along with nutrition coach Julie Litchfield from AdvoCare, unpack the secrets to a vibrant lifestyle that fuels success! Julie, with her roots deep in farming and nutrition, shares the importance of knowing what fuels your body and how to keep learning about the foods we eat. We'll explore why making your bed could be the first step to a productive day, and how acknowledging our weaknesses can actually strengthen our leadership. But wait, there's more! Ever caught yourself procrastinating and wondered if your brain is just on a creative break? Andrew gets personal about his own struggles and we dive into how our subconscious works wonders. From canning food to the individuality of nutrition, and the scoop on water intake to the real deal on intermittent fasting, this episode is packed with actionable insights. And yes, we even talk about navigating the fast-food menu healthily! Don't miss out on Julie's wisdom on dieting without the mental battles and how to indulge sensibly. For all this plus Julie's relaxation secrets and how to get her personalized coaching, plug in to episode 165 and let's get energized! Links to check out: https://www.advocare.com/home/?D=04033735 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YNmNd2ncw0 https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode123/ Like

Are you tired of sifting through a sea of so-called Kickstarter gurus and marketing gimmicks? Want to know how to spot the real deal? In episode 164 of Crowdfunding Nerds, your trusty hosts Andrew and Sean are on a mission to debunk the fakes! We're diving deep into the world of self-proclaimed experts and teaching you how to separate fact from fiction. Ever wondered why being number one on YouTube doesn't always mean you're getting the best advice? We've got the inside scoop on algorithms and user intent that you won't want to miss. With our combined expertise from Next Level Web and Lowen Games, we're giving you the lowdown on why building a community trumps quick-fix marketing ploys every time. Plus, hear our take on why pre-pledge incentives might just be a one-way ticket to losing your audience's trust. Join us as we explore the essentials of crafting a crowdfunding campaign that's built on integrity, transparency, and real relationships. Say goodbye to empty promises and hello to long-term success. Tune in to Crowdfunding Nerds episode 164 for a no-nonsense guide to navigating the crowdfunding cosmos!

Hey there, fellow crowdfunding aficionados! Are you ready to unlock the secret sauce to turning those clicks into cash? In episode 163 of the *Crowdfunding Nerds* podcast, your host Andrew, with the brilliant minds of Sean and Jacob, dives deep into the mysterious world of perceived value. Ever wonder why that top-notch product isn't flying off the virtual shelves? We're peeling back the layers on a real-life conundrum where a $99 gem just isn't dazzling the masses. Spoiler alert: It's not about the price tag; it's about the sparkle—or lack thereof—in your customer's eyes. We're talking the nitty-gritty of price elasticity, true value vs. perceived value, and the marketing magic that can transform browsers into buyers. From the power of playthrough videos to the art of the perfect bundle deal, get ready for a treasure trove of strategies to skyrocket that perceived value and make your product the belle of the crowdfunding ball. Tune in to episode 163, grab your notepad, and let's turn that "meh" into "must-have" together! #CrowdfundingNerds #PerceivedValue #MarketingMagic Links to check out: https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode61/ https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode62/

Welcome to "Crowdfunding Nerds" episode 162! Ever wondered about the difference between marketing and advertising? Or how to avoid being "that" sleazy salesperson? Join hosts Andrew and Sean as they delve into these intriguing topics. This episode is a treasure trove of marketing insights, from understanding customer behavior to crafting targeted messaging and recognizing a marketing agency's limitations. We also tackle the delicate balance between expanding client base while maintaining service quality. We pull back the curtain on some of the less savory aspects of our industry, but don't worry, we're here to illuminate these shadowy corners with honesty and transparency. We wrap up with advice on ethical sales practices, emphasizing the importance of having the customers' best interests at heart. So, ready for a deep dive into the world of marketing? Tune in and let's get started! Episode Timestamps: 00:01 - Introduction 00:35 - Meet the Hosts 01:00 - Advertising vs Marketing 02:44 - Case Study: Old Marketing vs New Agency 06:54 - Benefits of Specialization in Marketing 10:01 - Implementation Before Marketing 15:01 - Targeted Marketing & Customer Demographic Analysis 24:27 - Customized Marketing Messages 31:18 - Capacity vs Quality of Service 35:01 - Evading the Sleaziness Stereotype in Marketing 40:01 - Distinguishing Advertising and Marketing 49:01 - Genuine Advice & Avoiding Forced Sales 1:00:01 - Maintaining Ethical Sales Practices 1:01:13 - Importance of Sincerity in Sales.

Welcome to Crowdfunding Nerds Episode 161! Ever wondered about the art of setting and achieving realistic goals? Your hosts, Andrew and Sean, are here to delve deep into this topic. We'll discuss why goal setting is crucial, how it enhances productivity, and its role in improving the quality of life. You'll hear personal stories about setting meaningful goals, overcoming challenges, and even dealing with failures. Learn how to make your goals specific and measurable, and how they can bring value to your life. Hear Andrew's personal journey of setting goals to improve his family life and how he learned to forgive himself for any setbacks. Finally, we'll explore the concept of time-bound goals and micro goals, with Andrew sharing his experience developing a board game. Ready to become a master goal-setter? Tune in now! Links to check out: Choking on aspirations - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLCQ-5uJ78g Kickstarter Mental Health: What You Need To Know & How To Prepare - https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode9/ The Ultimate Crowdfunding Reading List – Part 1 - https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode57/ Chapters: 00:01 Introduction to goal setting 02:26 Importance of goal setting, personal experiences 03:29 Approach towards failure in achieving goals 07:03 Making goals specific and measurable with examples 16:26 Andrew's journey in goal setting: the need for self-forgiveness 39:26 The concept of time-bound goals and micro goals: Andrew's board game experience. ------------------ Goal Identifier List 3 of the most meaningful things you have learnt since last year: 1. 2. 3. Think of 3 things you are really good at. If you were to become the best in the world at these three things what would they be? 1. 2. 3. List your top 6 values, i.e the reasons behind your life choices: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. List 6 things you would do if you had $10 million in your bank account: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Setting 6 month goals Your goals must have three essential elements. They must be: 1. Specific 2. Achievable 3. Have Time Limits You will now define your 6 month goals. List 6 goals you hope to achieve in the next 6 months: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Now list 3 goals for the next 90 days. These must be associated with the goals previously listed: 1. 2. 3. Month #1 List 3 things you are going to focus on for the first month to achieve these goals: 1. 2. 3. Month #2 What 3 things would you then focus on in the second month? 1. 2. 3. Month #3 Now list 3 more things you would focus on for the third and last month: 1. 2. 3. What are your top 6 reasons for achieving these goals? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Now pick 3 of these reasons that mean the most to you: 1. 2. 3. The three goals above are your 6 month goals

Welcome to Crowdfunding Nerds, episode 160! This is Andrew, your host, and joining me today is Sean. Ever wondered how to optimize your productivity while staying sane? Well, we're here to discuss just that – the importance of taking breaks for peak productivity. We're not just talking about work, but also the power of intentional rest. We'll share our personal experiences and strategies on how to make the most of your time. Listen as I discuss the value of play and purposeful rest, while Sean emphasizes the need for discipline and setting boundaries. We'll also delve into how breaks can reboot your productivity and how to return to work with renewed focus. Discover how clear goal-setting, regular reviews, and mindful time management can boost your productivity. Struggling with tech distractions? We'll share strategies to manage your time better, like scheduled breaks, digital curfews, and task-focused work hours. Plus, learn about the benefits of accountability partners and community support. So, get ready to balance work and rest for an optimal crowdfunding journey! Links to check out: Episode 159 (Setting goals among other things): https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode159/ Episode 150 (Embracing change): https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode150 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:30 The Power of Taking Breaks 10:20 Play and Intentional Rest 16:40 Discipline and Setting Boundaries 23:10 Breaks for a Productivity Reboot 28:00 Goal-Setting and Time Management 33:20 Managing Tech Distractions 37:30 Strategies for Better Time Management 44:00 The Role of Accountability Partners and Community Support 52:20 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Welcome, fellow crowdfunding enthusiasts! Are you ready to tackle complacency? In episode 159 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Andrew and Sean are back to help you stay ahead of the game. We start with some casual banter, then dive into the dangers of complacency in Kickstarter campaigns. We also share our New Year's resolutions and discuss how to avoid the pitfalls of complacency. We share personal stories of overcoming complacency, emphasize the importance of gratitude, and warn about the illusion of eternal success. Learn about the importance of innovation, goal setting, and contingency planning. We highlight the dangers of underestimating customer engagement, overstretching yourself, and unhealthy comparisons. We underline the power of communication and the necessity of seeking audience feedback. We remind you that no company is too big to fail and that each Kickstarter campaign should be treated uniquely. Finally, we discuss the importance of continuous learning and wrap up with some valuable resources. Join us, let's overcome complacency together! Show Chapters: 00:01 - Banter Beginnings 00:15 - Complacency in Kickstarter Games 01:35 - New Year's Resolutions Discussion 08:07 - Tackling Complacency in Crowdfunding 13:25 - Personal Anti-Complacency Stories 17:28 - Importance of Gratitude 18:19 - Illusions of Indefinite Success 19:28 - Emphasizing Innovation and Adaptation 25:46 - Forms of Complacency in Business 28:47 - Dangers of Overexpansion 31:20 - The Peril of Comparison 33:55 - The Power of Communication 34:16 - Audience Feedback and Game Innovation 45:56 - No Company is Too Big to Fail 46:15 - Treating Each Kickstarter Campaign Uniquely 49:38 - The Power of Continuous Learning 51:18 - Episode Wrap-up and Resource Sharing

Welcome, fellow Crowdfunding Nerds, to a crystal-ball-gazing session in Episode 158! Your hosts, Andrew and Sean, along with guest Rick, delve into the future of board games and crowdfunding. We jest, debate, and ponder on everything from China's manufacturing scenario to the rising costs for creators. Yet, we remain hopeful as we foresee an increase in backer numbers. We envision a future where games are compact, streamlined, and focused on solo play. We also predict the rise of Game Found, potentially overtaking Kickstarter. The AI debate gets heated as Andrew and Rick share contrasting views. We also touch upon Kickstarter's fee changes, the surge in religious-themed board games, and the use of Twitch for promotions. Reflecting on 2023, we express gratitude for the success of Deliverance and the birth of Andrew's son. We invite your feedback and look forward to another successful year in crowdfunding. Join us in this exciting journey! Links to check out: https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode104/ https://www.augmentedarcana.com/ https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode102/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction 12:32 China's Manufacturing and Costs for Creators 22:04 Game Design and Solo Play Trend 36:19 Game Found Vs Kickstarter 48:38 AI in Board Games 1:22:22 Kickstarter's fee changes, religious-themed board games, Twitch promotion 1:44:46 Reflection on 2023 and Conclusion