Crowdfunding Academy

In this podcast episode we're talking to Frank Carlson, the founder of Pawly AI Cat Door. Frank shares his journey from conceptualizing an AI-enabled cat door that prevents cats from bringing prey into the house, to raising over $250,000 from almost 700 backers in his first crowdfunding campaign. Despite facing shipping delays and learning on the go, particularly in marketing and public relations, Frank and his team have successfully navigated the challenges of bringing a new product to market. The episode delves into the specifics of crowdfunding preparation, the importance of pre-campaign efforts, and the product's unique appeal, primarily in Europe -- and why it perhaps doesn't do so well in the US. It's an insightful look at the challenges and triumphs of launching a startup product, with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Find Pawly's website here, their latest Kickstarter here and want to order one yourself? Find their Indiegogo InDemand here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Tim Chuon, a specialized board game photographer and videographer known for creating stunning visual content for popular games such as Scythe, Mythwind, Frosthaven, and Call of Duty, explains his journey into this niche field, detailing the process of making crowdfunding trailers and marketing assets for board games. He provides insights into the importance of high-quality visuals in crowdfunding campaigns and offers practical tips for creators on a budget. Listen and find out more about the transformation of crowdfunding campaigns, the significance of professional visuals, and advice for board game creators looking to enhance their marketing efforts. Find Tim's website here, his YouTube channel here, and Tim's $40 lights here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Today's podcast features Rich Loxam, former teacher turned CEO and co-founder of Steamforged Games. Rich shares the remarkable journey of his company, from its humble beginnings with a successful Kickstarter campaign for Guild Ball to becoming a major player in the gaming industry with over 170,000 backers and $30 million raised across 19 projects. Rich discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating crowdfunding, the transition from being an impassioned hobbyist to a business-minded CEO, and Steamforged Games' strategic moves, including an exclusivity deal with Kickstarter and future plans. The podcast serves as an inspiring story of entrepreneurial success, innovative business strategies, and the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. Check out Steamforged Games' latest Kickstarter project here and their website here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

On today's episode, we're talking to Bryant Garvin, the head of marketing at Ozlo Sleep. He discusses Ozlo's journey of launching a successful product on both Kickstarter and Indiegogo, which raised over $3.5 million combined. Bryant shares insights on the importance of a unique product, strategic marketing, and leveraging crowdfunding platforms for building community and gaining momentum. He details the origins of the sleep buds, initially a Bose product, and the transition to forming a new venture focused on improving and scaling the product. Bryant also covers the aspects of venture backing, the significance of pre-launch operations, and the role of 'performance branding' in scaling businesses. Moreover, he highlights the utility of advertising on different platforms, engaging with the audience, and the importance of a well-defined value proposition. The podcast concludes with Bryant emphasizing product differentiation as crucial for crowdfunding success and the challenges and solutions in utilizing platforms like Indiegogo. Find Ozlo's website here, their Kickstarter campaign here and their Indiegogo campaign here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this podcast episode, George interviews AJ Porfirio, the founder of Van Ryder Games, who shares his journey from starting with a Kickstarter campaign in 2011 that raised $10,000 to building a multi-million dollar gaming business. AJ talks about the lessons learned from bootstrapping his way to success, generating over $6.5 million from crowdfunding, and now mentoring others through his Power Publishing Program. AJ delves into the importance of critical thinking in game pricing, strategic financial planning, and the significance of creating unique, standout products. The discussion also covers AJ's venture into publishing graphic novel adventures, the financial intricacies of Kickstarter campaigns, and the approach to creating evergreen game titles. AJ emphasizes the necessity of innovation and the potential pitfalls of mismanagement in the board game industry, providing insights for aspiring game creators and entrepreneurs. Check out his website here, his latest Kickstarter here, and more about his Power Publishing Program here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Jack Neville, the founder of Split Stone Games and creator of the board game 'Mycelia,' shares how he went from a graphic designer to a revered game publisher, raising over $550,000 on Kickstarter. He discusses his tried-and-true strategies, including building a responsive mailing list, utilising resources like Reddit for feedback, convention appearances for awareness, cost-effective solutions (thank you Chip & Kitty), and why you should always create a premium version of your product. Jack also reveals his plans for potential expansion of 'Mycelia' and the development of a new game with a nature theme (spoiler alert: not Rocks). Check out Jack's website here, his Kickstarter page here and late pledge here. Check out our YouTube channel for the accompanying video. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

This episode is a conversation with Viktor Peter, the founder of Mindclash Games. He discusses his journey in the crowdfunding industry, starting from his first campaign to the current one, Perseverance Castaway Chronicles. He touches upon topics such as the decision to quit his job, the importance of having the right product and target audience, and the switch from Kickstarter to Gamefound. Viktor also talks about the game design process, the significance of theme and visual appeal, and the challenges of running a business in the crowdfunding and retail spaces. Check out his website here and his latest Gamefound campaign here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

This is the story of how Tiny Epic turned Michael Coe’s fortune around. While waiting tables, Michael Coe and his wife took out a loan against their car to go all-in on their tabletop venture and ended up creating one of the most successful franchises in crowdfunding history. He discusses crowdfunding strategies, the evolution of his business model, the impact of creative elements like a 'spinner' in games, and the importance of pre-launch marketing for Kickstarter projects. Michael also stresses the significance of delivering on promises, maintaining a small but tight-knit team, and continually pushing the envelope in small box gaming. Check out Gamelyn's website here and his most recent Kickstarter here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Listen to the Story of Battle Systems. Colin Young, the founder and main designer of Battle Systems, shares his journey from creating terrain for war games to launching a successful Kickstarter campaign, raising over $2.5 million across eight crowdfunding campaigns. He discusses the challenges of running a business, the importance of community and mentorship, and the future plans for Battle Systems. This podcast provides insight into the world of independent game creation and the passion behind bringing imaginative and immersive experiences to tabletop gaming enthusiasts. Check out the video on our website and check our Battle System's website & his latest Kickstarter. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

This episode features Andrew and Jeff from R2i Games, who uncover the intricacies of Kickstarter campaigns, board game design, and the evolving dynamics of community engagement. Discover why a French cheese-themed game stirred a particular reaction and how strategic planning can be a game-changer months before a Kickstarter launch. If you've ever been intrigued by the behind-the-scenes world of board game development or the hidden nuances of crowdfunding, this conversation will offer valuable insights. This is R2i Games's website and check out their latest Kickstarter campaign here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

George sits down with Kevin, the spokesperson and trade show manager from Bezier Games -- who are the brilliant minds behind the wildly entertaining game, "Colossal Cat in the Box" & "Castles of Mad King Ludwig." Together, they unpack the secrets to hosting a successful and budget-friendly trade show experience. From cost-effective booth strategies, like using rented U-Hauls, to the magic of Amazon for last-minute supplies, Kevin highlights the art of making an impression without breaking the bank. They also touch on the nuances of the game industry and share fascinating insights on efficient reward strategies to ensure smooth fulfillment. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the quirky world of game designing, with tales of cat trees and plushies. Whether you're a gaming enthusiast or just someone looking for expert trade show hacks, this episode promises a delightful blend of entertainment and practical advice. Join George and Kevin as they discuss the mechanics of making a memorable mark in the industry, and remember, simplicity is key. Find Bezier Games's latest Kickstarter here, watch the video of the podcast here. Both George & Kevin will attend Spiel Essen this year. Find George at booth 4F119 and Kevin at booth 2D156. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this episode, George sits down with Rita Orlov, the creative force behind games like The Emerald Flame, The Light in the Mist, and Threads of Fate. She's also the founder of her own board game and puzzle publishing house PostCurious. Rita recounts her journey from simply loving puzzles to becoming a game designer, sharing candid insights from her crowdfunding experiences and the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey. They delve into the practical challenges of Facebook ads and the pros and cons of collaborating with various marketing agencies. Rita also gives listeners a sneak peek into her next game, The Morrison Game Factory, and reflects on the growth of her business and her aspirations for the future. Join in for an insightful chat with a true creative chameleon. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this episode, George sits down for a chat with Peter, part of the marketing team behind Bird Buddy, the innovative smart bird feeder. Their two projects have raised over $11 million on Kickstarter. The conversation dives deep into the world of digital marketing, from the unpredictable virality of TikTok to the reliable reach of platforms like Facebook and Google. But it's not all about metrics and numbers. At its core, Bird Buddy thrives on its vibrant community, with dedicated Facebook groups and passionate members providing invaluable feedback. Peter also sheds light on the realities of crowdfunding, offering some hard-earned wisdom for anyone considering the same route. Tune in for an engaging talk about community insights and the unexpected twists and turns of digital marketing in the world of innovative products. Watch the video here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Join us as gaming industry veteran Ronnie Renton shares his rich history in the world of tabletop gaming, the ins and outs of acquiring licenses, and the secrets to Kickstarter success. From Mantic Games’ origins to acquiring popular licenses like "The Walking Dead," Ronnie delves into the complex relationships between creators, licensors, and the community. In this enlightening conversation, Ronnie offers sage advice on crowdfunding, emphasizing the importance of engaging with your backers as more than just a source of funding. Plus, get a sneak peek into Mantic’s upcoming project: a thrilling board game adaptation of the classic video game "Worms." Whether you’re an aspiring game creator, a seasoned entrepreneur, or a gaming enthusiast, this podcast is a treasure trove of industry insights. *this episode contains a discussion of Ronnie's latest Kickstarter page for Worms. Please check out our video for the accompanying visuals. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Matthew Meeple shares his extensive approach to the preparation for his long awaited Kickstarter campaign for his board game Ascendancy. From organizing playtesting sessions to learning all about Facebook ads, Matthew takes you on his personal journey towards his Kickstarter launch, which had been five years in the making. He launched his campaign on Kickstarter this week and is finally able to share all his hard work with the rest of us. At the heart of his strategy, Matthew emphasizes the sheer importance of always providing content that resonates with the audience—be it a captivating visual, an intriguing mini, or a freshly-crafted illustration. He shares his highs and lows and provides a comprehensive view of the complexities of designing and launching a board game. Check out his Kickstarter here, his website here and his discord here. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

Žiga and Samo, the creators of the Eldfall Chronicles universe, talk about their impressive miniature gaming experience that has been taking the gaming community by storm. They discuss the meticulous attention to detail and quality they've invested into their products, carving out their unique niche in the highly competitive miniature wargaming market. The duo talks about the business side of things, revealing how they navigated the challenges of their first campaign, eventually growing their business to a point where they could all work full time on their passion. They discuss their marketing strategies, such as the use of pledge managers, social media, and their website to increase engagement and profitability. Žiga and Samo also explain why they started with WooCommerce for their online store, but are considering a move to Shopify for an optimized user experience. Follow their latest developments on their Kickstarter campaign, Instagram, Facebook, Discord or check out their website. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this episode, George interviews Teddy Giard, the founder of Teddy Giard Studios, who shares his expertise in successful crowdfunding campaigns. Teddy discusses his experience with launching Moon Walkers' AI-powered shoes on Kickstarter and securing a deal on Shark Tank while still a student. He reveals the strategies he used to generate organic reach and PR for the Moon Walkers campaign, including a content strategy based on SEO and key search terms. Teddy emphasizes the importance of building a company or marketing campaign around Google search terms and effectively communicating the problem being solved. He also highlights the value of having an audience and a communication strategy to directly speak to potential customers. Teddy's insights highlight the power of effective marketing strategies and their impact on crowdfunding campaigns. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this episode, George interviews Brendan McCaskell, the studio head at Open Owl Studios, who has successfully launched multiple board games through crowdfunding campaigns. Brendan shares his journey from a modest $28,000 campaign to raising over $3 million combined for his games, including Stars of Akarios, Mythwind, and Stonesaga. Brendan explains that his passion for board games and the crowdfunding model led him to venture into the space. He emphasizes his entrepreneurial mindset and the direct connection with the community that crowdfunding offers. The conversation delves into the factors that contributed to Brendan's increasingly successful campaigns. Two significant aspects stand out: partnerships and market targeting. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

If you're involved in crowdfunding, you've probably heard of Jamey Stegmaier, the founder of Stonemaier Games, who has raised millions of dollars with successful campaigns on Kickstarter. But did you know that he's now stopped using Kickstarter for his projects? In this episode, we delve into Stegmaier's early beginnings in crowdfunding, how he learned from his mistakes and built a blog that became mandatory reading for creators in the tabletop space. And most importantly, why he decided to stop using Kickstarter after his biggest campaign and turn to trusted fulfillment centers and retailers instead. Listen in to learn from Jamey and get insights on where the crowdfunding industry is heading in the years to come. Check out his website or follow him on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.

In this inspiring episode, we're diving into the remarkable journey of Dragori Games, a Brazilian team of eclectic professionals who dared to follow their passion and disrupt the gaming industry. Among them, a pediatrician, a lawyer, and other professionals, exemplify the power of self-study, resilience, and the willingness to learn on the go. Their leap of faith into the unknown world of game design and crowdfunding has not only created a game that has drawn a wave of positive reviews but also revolutionized their professional paths. Despite lacking game design and marketing experience, they managed to raise an impressive $6 million for their game series. This episode was brought to you by George from YG Crowdfunding.