In this interview with Dan Zehner, the visionary behind Bear Cavalry Paints, we discuss how Dan is revolutionizing the miniature wargaming industry with eco-friendly paints that don't compromise on quality. Dan is passionate about sustainability and works on finding that balance between a day job while building a business. In our talk, Dan shares insights on how to use your day-job skills to enhance your nerdy business the hurdles of creating an eco-friendly sustainable product ways you can engage with your community and create partnerships how sustainability fits into the mess of modern business Whether you're a hobbyist or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom and jokes. Tune in to explore the colorful world of Bear Cavalry Paints and learn how you can turn your nerdy passion into a thriving venture. To get the extended interview with Dan from Bear Cavalry Paints, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur
In this episode of Nerdpreneur, we dive into the creative world of Justin Hillgrove, a full-time artist known for his whimsical and imaginative art under the brand Imps and Monsters. With over 20 years of experience, Justin shares: His journey from graphic design to becoming a successful artist, Creating everything from comic book covers to murals for major companies like Facebook, How to balance his passion for art with the business side, and unique ways to connect with his audience. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a fan of nerdy entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Justin's story and his dedication to doing what he loves. To get the extended interview with Justin from Imps and Monsters, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this episode of Nerdpreneur, hosts Chris Saunders and Frank chat with Rick Heinz, co-founder of Storytellers Forge, a long-time writer and game designer, about turning a nerdy passion into a thriving business. Rick shares his unique approach to game design, heavily influenced by metal music and coffee, and how he creates immersive tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) that blend storytelling with diverse multimedia elements. He also delves into the realities of crowdfunding and the strategies behind building a successful creative studio in the TTRPG industry. This interview offers a fascinating look into the dedication and innovative thinking required to transform a personal passion into a professional enterprise. The unexpected origins of a successful TTRPG studio. Integrating music and other media for enhanced player immersion. Key considerations for effective crowdfunding campaigns in the gaming world. The evolving landscape of audience engagement and community building for creative projects. To get the extended interview with Rick from Storytellers Forge, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Back in March of 2024, hundreds of angry nerds came after our growing podcast because of someone we interviewed and we were nearly canceled. In part 2, we take a closer look at the macro level events around these events. Rick Heinz graciously reached out during these events and brought context for the industry as a whole. ----- Here is the first part of our 2-part interview with Satine Phoenix: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4hGak3xi9REIwQjp4ebMuB?si=c480d8149a0b4658 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/satine-phoenix-controversy-cancel-culture-and/id1613873191?i=1000649048772 This is a link to the twitter post that blew up: https://x.com/Nerdpreneurpod/status/1767987839214776744 And this was our response on twitter the day after the explosion: https://x.com/Nerdpreneurpod/status/1773805681487098203 ----- To get part 2 right now, along with loads of uncut interviews, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this interview we spoke with Ryan, co-owner of Hexwood Forge. He runs the business with his wife Kess, who started the operation years before it came to be known as Hexwood Forge. Hexwood Forge is a small business that makes tabletop accessories. It's run by just the two of them out of their garage with several laser machines, their hands, and creative minds. They started to really ramp things up during the pandemic and since then have scaled up to running two booths during PAX West. And that's no small feat! We talked with Ryan about a lot of topics, including: Challenges of running a goods-based business out of their garage Effective elements for creating an inviting booth at shows Product ideation and testing and collaborating with other nerdy entrepreneurs to share lessons learned. To get the extended interview with Ryan from Hexwood Forge, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Back in March of 2024, hundreds of angry nerds came after our growing podcast because of someone we interviewed and we were nearly canceled. In this two-part exploration, we explore the micro and macro level events that contributed to making these people so mad. - Did we deserve it? - Are we what they called us: "Godless Couch F*cks"? - Or did these hundreds of voices have other motives? ----- Here is the first part of our 2-part interview with Satine Phoenix: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4hGak3xi9REIwQjp4ebMuB?si=c480d8149a0b4658 Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/satine-phoenix-controversy-cancel-culture-and/id1613873191?i=1000649048772 This is a link to the twitter post that blew up: https://x.com/Nerdpreneurpod/status/1767987839214776744 And this was our response on twitter the day after the explosion: https://x.com/Nerdpreneurpod/status/1773805681487098203 ----- To get part 2 right now, along with loads of uncut interviews, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this conversation, Chris Marshall, co-owner of Tinker House Games, shares his journey from a childhood passion for building and creating to establishing a successful business in the tabletop gaming industry. He discusses the unique aspects of their pre-printed flat-pack terrain for RPGs, lessons in the manufacturing industry, and reflects on his early experiences that led him to this nerdy business. Here's just some of what we discussed: How to understand your audience for product success The benefits of live events Utilizing the power of Kickstarter Navigating the manufacturing process To get the extended interview with Chris from TinkerHouse Games, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Our guest, Patrick Rami from Lethal Shadows Premium Miniatures, talks about his journey in the miniature gaming industry. Patrick shares his passion for creating high-quality miniatures, the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he turned his hobby into a successful business. We covered a lot of ground, but some of the topics were: the importance of quality in manufacturing, the leap into entrepreneurship, managing fear and uncertainty, the significance of investing in oneself and planning for success. To get the extended interview with Patrick from Lethal Shadows, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this Talking Nerdy discussion, we explore the nuances of communication skills, emphasizing the importance of active listening, engagement techniques, and the art of storytelling. We discuss how communication has evolved in the digital age, the significance of asking the right questions, and understanding core values in interactions. Nerdpreneur Blog For the FULL VERSION of all our Interviews, Talking Nerdy's, plus lots of other bonuses, Click here to join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpreneur Loot Bag (newsletter) you'll get... Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Access to our live event pre-sales Exclusive discounts and offers on cool nerd products Nothing that sucks! PEEK IN THE LOOT BAG Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @nerdpreneurpod / @nerdpreneurpodcast @professorepicproductions @frankbaileyiv Original Music by Professor Epic and produced by Wyshmaster Beats. Beat names are Talk Down, Bad Seedz, and Mehicana
In this engaging conversation, Marc Alan Fishman from Un-Shaven Comics shares insights into the world of independent comic book publishing. He discusses the importance of collaboration among partners, the challenges of starting a comic book company, and the strategies that have led to their success at conventions. The conversation also highlights the significance of effective sales techniques and the necessity of believing in one's product to successfully ask for the sale. In this conversation, Marc Alan Fishman shares insights from his experiences at Comic-Con, discussing the evolution of selling comics, the importance of understanding business metrics, and the strategies for navigating conventions successfully. He emphasizes the need for product diversity and the exciting future of Unshaven Comics, including their upcoming video game venture. The discussion highlights the challenges and triumphs of being an independent comic creator in a competitive market. In this engaging conversation, Marc Alan Fishman shares insights on role-playing games, character development, and the unique flavors of life as reflected through ice cream. He discusses the narrative of life as a comic book, cultural references to Canadian brands, and participates in a fun rapid-fire question segment. The episode concludes with valuable advice for aspiring nerdpreneurs, emphasizing the importance of passion, research, and networking. Key Topics: Independent comic book publishing viability Collaboration among partners The impact of sales strategies, especially at conventions How to ask for the sale Why you should track sales data Quality of the comic is important, but marketing can make a difference Building a strong pitch to capture attention quickly Trust among partners allows for healthy creative feedback And more! To get the extended interview with Marc from Unshaven Comics, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this conversation, Chris and Frank discuss the essential principles of communication that every business owner should understand, drawing insights from Dale Carnegie's classic book, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People.' They explore the significance of avoiding criticism, the power of sincere appreciation, and how effective communication can lead to personal growth and improved relationships in both business and personal life. In this conversation, Chris and Frank explore the importance of appreciation in team dynamics, the impact of recognizing contributions, and how to extend that appreciation to clients and collaborators. They discuss strategies for understanding and fulfilling the wants of others, emphasizing the need for unselfish service in business relationships. The dialogue highlights practical examples and insights from their experiences, providing valuable takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their professional interactions and foster a positive work culture. Nerdpreneur Blog For the FULL VERSION all our Interviews, Talking Nerdy's, plus lots of other bonuses, Click here to join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpreneur Loot Bag (newsletter) you'll get... Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Access to our live event pre-sales Exclusive discounts and offers on cool nerd products Nothing that sucks! PEEK IN THE LOOT BAG Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @nerdpreneurpod / @nerdpreneurpodcast @professorepicproductions @frankbaileyiv Original Music by Professor Epic and produced by Wyshmaster Beats. Beat names are Talk Down, Bad Seedz, and Mehicana
In this episode of Nerdpreneur, host Chris Saunders and co-host Frank welcome artist Jenny Johnson (@jennyjohnsonart), who shares her journey from food service to becoming a full-time artist with a passion for Star Trek. Jenny discusses the impact of conventions on her art business, the challenges of pricing and marketing her work, and the importance of community engagement. She also delves into the nuances of navigating IP issues in fan art, the significance of diversifying revenue streams, and her experiences with social media virality. Throughout the conversation, Jenny emphasizes the importance of taking action to overcome creative paralysis and shares her insights on balancing the artistic and entrepreneurial aspects of her career. In this engaging conversation, Jenny discusses her journey as an artist, the challenges of color printing, and the importance of quality control in her work. She shares insights on delegation, the balance between personal touch and efficiency, and the legalities of selling art at conventions. The discussion also touches on networking opportunities, the impact of AI on the art world, and the joys of pursuing one's passion as a nerdpreneur. Jenny emphasizes the significance of building connections and the fulfillment that comes from creating art that resonates with her audience. To get the extended interview with Jenny, along with loads of uncut episodes, sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
In this episode, we speak with Sienna, a scientific artist, who shares her unique art form called numberism, where she uses data and equations to create intricate, meaningful pieces She discusses how her journey through challenges in math and science, combined with her love for learning, shaped her artistic approach. Sienna opens up about blending art and science, her creative process, and the importance of self-care for artists. The episode is a deep dive into her insights on navigating the art world, building a supportive team, and fostering community, making this a fascinating listen for anyone interested in the intersection of art, science, and personal growth. If you aspire to be a professional artist or are interested in her process you'll find this interview fascinating. Check out Sienna's Art and her Prints on her website https://siennaartstudios.com/ Join her Patreon community https://www.patreon.com/Numberism/ To get the extended interview with Sienna and WATCH the interview, along with loads of bonus Talking Nerdy Episodes sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Chris and Frank reflect on their time at PAX West, if it's great for nerdy businesses, and discuss what they learned speaking with Nerdy Entrepreneurs. This episode has a collection of wisdoms pooled from the different nerdpreneurs we met and the businesses they created. As well as tips for nerdpreneurs going to PAX. Nerdpreneur Blog For the FULL VERSION Emeka's interviews plus lots of other bonuses, Click here to join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpreneur Loot Bag (newsletter) you'll get... Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Access to our live event pre-sales Exclusive discounts and offers on cool nerd products Nothing that sucks! PEEK IN THE LOOT BAG Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @nerdpreneurpod / @nerdpreneurpodcast @professorepicproductions @frankbaileyiv Original Music by Professor Epic and produced by Wyshmaster Beats. Beat names are Talk Down, Bad Seedz, and Mehicana
In this episode of Nerdpreneur. We sit down with the co-founders of Pocket Bard, an innovative app that's transforming the way tabletop RPG players experience music and sound during their sessions. We chat with Alex Berner, Chase Harris, and Jason Kowalski as they take us through their journey from being college roommates with a passion for video game audio to building a cutting-edge tool that enhances immersive storytelling. They open up about the philosophy behind creating interactive audio, their experiences in the gaming and audio industries, and the challenges of launching a startup aimed at the nerd community. Whether you're a DM looking to bring your sessions to life or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights, business lessons, and a behind-the-scenes look at creating an app for tabletop enthusiasts. Download the Pocket Bard App: https://www.pocketbard.app/ The Pocket Bard app currently has a 4.45 rating based on 1,623 reviews on the Google Play Store and on the Apple App Store, it boasts an even higher rating of 4.8 from 40 reviews! Key Discussion Points: Pocket Bard's Origins: How Alex, Chase, and Jason transitioned from video game audio to developing interactive audio for tabletop RPGs. The App Explained: What makes Pocket Bard unique, including its adaptive music system, easy-to-use interface, and streamlined design for Dungeon Masters (DMs). The User Experience: The team shares their process for designing an intuitive app that enhances the storytelling experience without breaking immersion. Business Insights: The challenges of bootstrapping a tech startup, managing dynamic equity, and their decision to adopt a freemium model with a subscription service. Lessons Learned: Balancing creative roles with business responsibilities, the importance of limiting work in progress, and the value of a strong team dynamic. Future Plans: Teasers for upcoming features and content packs, including a new Tavern music pack and upgrades to the free fantasy essentials content. Quotable Moments: "We wanted to create an experience where Dungeon Masters could focus on their story, not the music. One button-click, and you're back in the game." — Chase Harris "It's all about saving time and attention for the DM so they can deliver the best experience to their players." — Alex Berner "When you download our app, you get a full experience for free, and we're committed to making it the best it can be without any sneaky paywalls." — Jason Kowalski Connect with Pocket Bard: Website: PocketBard.com Instagram: @PocketBardApp Twitter: @PocketBardApp To get the extended interview with Pocket Bard and bonus Talking Nerdy Episodes sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Next Episode Preview: Don't miss next episode where Chris and Frank will talk to Sienna Art Studios a Scientific artist based out of Portland. Hit follow so you don't miss it! Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur To connect with the hosts follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Tony landed a 6 figure deal before walking off the stage at Comic Con. And he hadn't even made one piece of clothing yet. In this episode of Nerdpreneur, Chris and Frank sit down with Tony B. Kim, the founder of Hero Within, a company that designs and sells sophisticated nerd wear. From his deep love of Star Trek and Marvel to the journey of launching Hero Within, Tony shares his inspirational story of turning his nerdy passions into a successful business. Order Clothes from Tony at https://herowithinstore.com/ Instagram: Hero Within Quotes: "Let's make sure that history never forgets the name Enterprise." "A hesitant trapeze artist is a dead trapeze artist." - Tony B. Kim quoting Seth Godin Connect with Nerdpreneur: Website Twitter Instagram To get the extended interview with Tony and bonus Talking Nerdy Episodes sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Next Episode Preview: Don't miss next episode where Chris and Frank will talk to Pocket Bard! They are a start-up that's revolutionizing the world of Music for your D&D game. Hit follow so you don't miss it! Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur Follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Chris and Frank reflect on their interview with Emeka Ossai, his success in Kindle Direct Publishing, and his ability to think with the CEO Mindset. Emeka is known as the BlackNES guy in the world of Kindle Direct Publishing and My Self Publishing Blueprint on YouTube. Listen to the original interview Nerdpreneur Blog For the FULL VERSION Emeka's interviews plus lots of other bonuses, Click here to join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpreneur Loot Bag (newsletter) you'll get... Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Access to our live event pre-sales Exclusive discounts and offers on cool nerd products Nothing that sucks! PEEK IN THE LOOT BAG Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @nerdpreneurpod / @nerdpreneurpodcast @professorepicproductions @frankbaileyiv Original Music by Professor Epic and produced by Wyshmaster Beats. Beat names are Talk Down, Bad Seedz, and Mehicana
In this episode of Nerdpreneur, hosts Chris Saunders and Frank sit down with JJ, the founder and CEO of Mythical City Games, an indie video game studio that's made half a dozen VR games. JJ shares his journey from working in the film industry to founding a video game development studio in Vancouver, Canada. The conversation dives into the intricacies of game development, particularly in the realm of virtual reality (VR), and explores the challenges and rewards of turning a nerdy passion into a successful business. Episode Links: Mythical City Games Follow JJ on Twitter Key Takeaways: Transitioning Careers: JJ transitioned from film production to game development due to a lack of creative fulfillment in his film career. The skills and processes from film production, such as pre-production, production, and post-production, translated well into game development. Starting Mythical City Games: JJ founded Mythical City Games in Vancouver after moving from the United States. The studio focuses on VR games, but also develops PC and mobile games. VR Game Development: VR offers a unique, immersive experience where players use their bodies as controllers. JJ highlighted the accessibility of VR, making it easier for non-gamers to engage with games. The Importance of Feedback: Getting early feedback from testers is crucial, even if the game is not yet polished. Understanding and parsing feedback helps improve the game and cater to the target audience. Funding and Industry Insights: Various funding options include publishers, investors, grants, and crowdfunding. The VR industry is stable but needs more big AAA titles to drive headset sales and user engagement. Innovations and Challenges in VR: Form factor and motion sickness remain significant challenges in VR. JJ emphasized the importance of VR experiences and the potential for business applications. Connect with Nerdpreneur: Website Twitter Instagram To get the extended interview with JJ and bonus Talking Nerdy Episodes sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Next Episode Preview: Don't miss next episode where Chris and Frank will talk to Pocket Bard! They are a start up that's revolutionizing the world of Music for your D&D game. Hit follow so you don't miss it! Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur Follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Episode Summary: In this Nerdpreneur episode, hosts Frank and Chris talk nerdy about the latest news from Critical Role, deconstructing their new membership service, Beacon TV. We break down the offer strategy behind Critical Role's announcement and how other Nerdpreneurs could do it for their own business. This episode is packed with lessons that aspiring Nerdpreneurs can take away from Critical Role's approach to monetizing their audience while providing amazing value! To watch the full Critical Role offer that Chris and Frank are deconstructing go HERE Key Topics: Frank doesn't like Critical Role but neither does Chris Who is Critical Role? Their story from playing Dungeons & Dragons to #1 Twitch stream, to creating their own game system, Daggerheart. Their growth into a full production company and acquisition of other shows. The strategic positioning of Critical Role as a community-centric brand. Critical Role's Beacon TV Offer and Monetization Strategy We breakdown of the Beacon offer and how they follow the structure of a great offer while remaining authentic to their voice and their audience expectations The importance of providing value and creating a direct line of support from fans to creators. Discussion on the psychology behind membership pricing and value stacking. Positioning and Community in the Offer We analyze of Critical Role's marketing and positioning in the market The use of empathy and community-focused messaging in offers The importance of understanding and catering to your audience's needs and desires Lessons for Nerdpreneurs Building a dedicated community by providing continuous value. Creating offers that resonate with your audience. The benefits of starting a side hustle and gradually building it into a full-time business. Great Quotes: Chris: "When you make an offer to your audience, you are asking them to take action, to do something differently in their life. And often, especially for people who are very comfortable and like things the way they are, people don't want to change." Frank: "Having a side hustle is an important contingency plan because right now we're in an employee market where if you're unhappy, you don't have to say anything. You can just quit and you'll get a new job. But I would expect that we're probably going to hit a depression like a great depression level in the next five to seven years." Chris: "You don't have to be the Devin who goes to venture partner investors and gets hundreds of thousands of dollars to start playing games. You just have to start doing it." To get the extended interviews and BONUS Talking Nerdy Episodes sign up to be a member of the "AWESOME Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/nerdpreneur New interviews with Nerdy entrepreneurs every month turning their unique passion into full-time income. Next Episode Preview: Don't miss next episode where Chris and Frank talk with Pocket Bard founders team on how they created the #1 D&D Music app in the world! Hit follow so you don't miss it! Don't want to spend money to be an AWESOME Board Member? You can become a Free Board Member with just your email. Board Members receive… Monthly "Loot" we think is epic, useful, or just cool! Episode updates (including upcoming guests) Occasional articles written by Chris or Frank on Nerdy Business subjects Nothing that sucks! Become a FREE Board Member HERE Follow us on Instagram @Nerdpreneurpod, Twitter @Nerdpreneurpod, and TikTok @nerdpreneur Follow Chris @professorepicproductions and Frank @frankrbaileyiv
Mr Mongoose
Moving from movies to games is a logical path, especially when technology allows you to change the way you interact with content. Today, the boundaries between genres are blurring: VR platforms offer cinematic quality combined with interactivity. One of the interesting examples of this trend is https://braindancevr.com/ , where scenes are created in which the viewer becomes a participant, not just an observer.