Episodes
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We've heard from so many passionate creators over the past few years about how they're turning a love for ttrpgs into a career. It's time to put their tips into action! I am starting a new mini-series of shorter episodes in between interviews to focus on specific things we've learned from our guests as I launch into multiple ventures of my own. In this kick-off episode, I go over all the different avenues I'm pursuing in growing my own business. Is it too much at once? We'll find out! Let's learn together to find out what works and doesn't work in today's economy.
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In this comprehensive episode of Roll Play Grow, we revisit Rich Oxenham of Hatchlings Games, originally featured in 2021. Rich provides an enlightening look into the significant growth of Hatchlings Games, highlighting successful crowdfunding initiatives and the development of projects like Inspirisles, Overisles, and solo journaling games such as Dragon Dowser. Rich shares his exploration of incorporating accessibility through sign language, the importance of nostalgia in game design, and his transition to forming a crowdfunding consultancy, Tattered Bear. Listeners will gain insights into the educational benefits of solo journaling games, the evolving strategies for successful crowdfunding, and the crucial role of expert guidance and efficient fund management in the indie game development landscape. Rich also discusses upcoming projects slated for 2025 and emphasizes the importance of representation, meticulous planning, and strategic partnerships in expanding Hatchlings Games’ reach.
WebsiteArgo-0 KickstarterInspirisles Facebook PageHatchlings Games Facebook GroupDice Envy
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In this engaging episode, Courtney interviews JD Wiker, a seasoned RPG producer and miniature painting aficionado. JD recounts his journey from discovering Dungeons & Dragons in the late 1970s to his professional milestones with Wizards of the Coast, WizKids, and other notable RPG companies. He shares his experiences in creating RPGs like Ars Magica and Dark Matter, as well as designing Star Wars rulebooks. Beyond gaming, JD delves into his evolution as a miniature painter, offering practical tips for beginners and discussing his commission work. From early struggles with painting techniques to becoming a recognized artist, JD's story is inspiring and loaded with valuable insights. Tune in to explore JD's multifaceted career and his dedication to the art of TTRPGs and miniature painting.
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Emma Larkins, celebrated creator of "Abandon All Artichokes" and the eagerly awaited "Epilogue," takes us inside the vibrant world of board game design, discussing the pivotal role of community and collaboration in her design journey. We explore the evolution of games from simple card concepts to intricate storytelling experiences, underscoring the importance of prototyping and the creative freedom it provides. Emma shares invaluable insights for aspiring game designers, highlighting the significance of networking and how engaging with playtest communities led to her first board game creation.
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Discover the magic behind storytelling games as Emma discusses her latest project, "Epilogue," a cooperative narrative game designed to make every player a storyteller. We explore the mechanics of word fragment assembly and how digital tools have adapted game design. Learn about maintaining creative control and the importance of strong relationships with publishers as Emma emphasizes staying true to one's values amidst industry challenges.
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Today we're learning from the dynamic Margaret Krohn, who shares her fascinating journey from being an avid gamer to holding pivotal roles such as Director of Communications at Intrepid Games and the CMO for Roll4It. We discuss her evolution into a content creator, lifestyle adjustments, and the paths she wishes she had discovered earlier in her career.
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Ever wondered what goes into creating a successful broadcast studio or an RPG show? Hear it from the expert herself, as Margaret peels back the curtain on what it takes to organize large groups, pinpoint the right cast, and create quality content. She also lets us in on casting processes, establishing a brand identity, and the role of dice rolls in the storyline progression of tabletop RPGs. Get a sneak peek into her favorite character, Layla the Vampire, and why this show holds a special place in her heart.
As we tie up our engaging chat, Margaret shares the hurdles faced by broadcast studios in the wake of the pandemic, dealing with budget cuts, and the indescribable exhilaration of community building.
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Get ready to roll the dice and hit the sweet spot with our guest, Andrew Davis, the genius behind Dodecadonuts - a successful venture blending the world of tabletop gaming with deliciously whimsical doughnut-shaped dice boxes. Andy reveals his journey, from his long-standing passion for gaming to the creation of a business that's as entertaining as it is tasty. He takes us on a tour of his experiences at gaming conventions like PAX West and the reactions of the gaming community to his unique confections.
WebsiteThe Dadvantage Podcast
Then, Andy tells us about the behind-the-scenes action - from the initial days of managing his hobby business on Etsy to the strategic transition to Shopify. You'll learn what goes into setting up an online shop, optimizing it to minimize fees, and his future plans to take his business to a whole new level. But it's not all business - Andrew also discusses the fun and intricate details of doughnut production. From hand injecting urethane to 3D printing, he shares his experimental journey with different materials and methods, and the importance of safety measures in his craft.
Finally, Andrew gets real about the entrepreneurial side of Dodecadonuts. He talks candidly about the hurdles of marketing a unique product and his savvy use of platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to reach his target audience. He also discusses how he builds relationships with his customers at events like PAX and GenCon, proving just how much he values his gaming community. With a story as unique as his product, Andrew imparts the thrill of turning a love for gaming into a successful and downright delicious business venture.
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HELLO!!!
Y'all, I have missed you so much. I am so excited for Roll Play Grow to officially return next week. Here's an episode to chat about what's been going on lately, and what you can look forward to in the future.
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Ever feel overwhelmed by managing your tabletop role-play game project? We've been there, and we've got your back! We spent this episode of Roll Play Grow diving deep into the world of project management tools. We shed light on how tools like Asana, Wrike, Notion, and Trello can help simplify your task organization, role assignment, note-taking, and deadline setting. Whether you're drawn to the free version of Asana, the extensive database capabilities of Notion, or the beginner-friendly interface of Trello, we've got the insights you need.
Let's not stop there, though. We also tackled the planning and execution of a Monster Manual. We broke down how to create effective timelines, manage revision cycles, and implement communication strategies to get everyone on the same page. Communication is the key to keeping your team motivated, and we provided tips on building those essential relationships with your team members. We also discussed spotting signs of dwindling motivation and adjusting accordingly. We believe in celebrating every success, big or small because they all contribute to the bigger picture. So, tune in, gather some crucial pointers, and level up your game project management skills!Support the show
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Are you aware of the power of words and how they can subtly infiltrate a game? Noordin Ali Kadir unearths this concealed beast in today's episode, throwing light on how bias can have a profound impact on players. You'll discover how sensitivity consulting can prevent unintended consequences, ensuring a balanced and fair game design. We discuss his consulting experience and how he combats racial and cultural stereotypes in all of his projects.
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Additionally, we dive into the importance of collaboration in editing and how consulting can save game developers time and prevent errors. Noordin stresses the need to choose the right words to fit the narrative, instead of merely filling up the page. Wouldn't it be fantastic to prevent potential headaches down the line? Noordin insists on the significance of consulting from the start of a project, which not only brings to life a better product but also saves time, money, and heartache. Tune in, as Noordin Ali Kadir takes us on an exciting journey through the world of tabletop gaming, consulting, and career success.
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Ready to up your game in the TTRPG space? Ever wondered how project management skills could change your trajectory as a creator? We dive into the nitty-gritty of project management, starting with the basics - what a project is, who a project manager is, and the phases within a project. We've got your back on each step of this journey, demystifying processes and sharing relatable examples to bring clarity. And we're not stopping at the theory, our next episode promises to unlock the world of project management tools for you.
But that's not all. A project isn't just about the process; it's about people too. We unpack the art of managing your team and resources, from project initiation to dealing with setbacks. We delve into the significance of project planning and risk management, guiding you to set up budgets and team agreements effectively. We also talk about working with artists, creating an environment that respects their creativity and time. As we explore the role of a project manager, we emphasize the importance of monitoring progress and ensuring the quality of life for your team. So, whether you're a solo creator or part of a team, these insights are here to make your TTRPG journey smoother.Support the show
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Today, we take an exclusive tour of board game development behind the scenes with the imaginative Kyle Rowan, Design Lead at Wyrd Games. Kyle delves into his personal trajectory from gamer to game designer, detailing the evolution of his role at Wyrd Games and the life of the board game Vagrantsong.
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Kyle reflects on the spark that ignited Vagrantsong and the journey of developing the game and its expansions. He provides deeper insights into the mechanics and philosophy behind each expansion. We also touch upon the local legend of Slagpile Annie, a friendly Pittsburgh ghost, making her spectral debut in the game.
We also delve into the anticipation surrounding the upcoming Kickstarter and the reception of the game since its release. Kyle gives us an honest glimpse into the rollercoaster ride of the game industry, the highs, the lows and everything in between. He offers pearls of wisdom for those aspiring to make their mark in the gaming world. So, buckle up and enjoy this enlightening conversation with a true gaming wizard.
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Ready to build a thriving community in the tabletop role-play gaming space? Then you're in for a treat. Today, we're delving into the nitty-gritty of how to make your community members feel seen, heard, and appreciated. We're talking about highlighting community members, featuring their posts, and applauding their contributions. But more than that, we're exploring the importance of nurturing relationships within your community - because, at the end of the day, it's those relationships that keep people coming back for more.
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We've also got some wisdom to share on common pitfalls when growing your social media community – and how to avoid them. Whether it's setting clear goals, staying consistent, taking feedback, or setting realistic expectations, we've got you covered. And we'll show you how to leverage your community for business success. We'll share our thoughts on gathering product feedback, encouraging user-generated content, harnessing the power of word-of-mouth marketing, and increasing brand loyalty. So tune in, take notes, and let's build a community that's meaningful, vibrant, and thriving.
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Ever wonder what goes into designing a Tabletop Role-Playing Game (TTRPG)? In our latest chat with Ella Watts, an accomplished director, writer, and producer, we get to unravel the process behind the creation of her TTRPG, Upriver, Downriver. From her first game session, to her daunting journey of game design, Ella's story is as captivating as her game.
Buy Upriver, DownriverUpriver, Downriver SoundtrackUpriver, Downriver actual play by Girls Run These WorldsCamlan TwitterElla Twitter
Ella doesn't shy away from the gritty side of game development. She takes us through the challenges she faced as a disabled and chronically ill person, shedding light on the real struggles behind the scenes. The conversation takes a deeper turn as we tackle the controversial decision to eliminate dwarves from the game—a decision rooted in the problematic representation of dwarfism in fantasy literature and games. Ella's perspective challenges us to rethink our assumptions and consider the real-life impact of our creative choices.
The conversation doesn't stop there. She shares the emotional roller coaster of her crowdfunding journey and the joy of finally seeing players enjoy her game. If you've ever wondered how to navigate the challenges of game design or grappled with the responsibility of representation in your work, this chat with Ella Watts offers a wealth of lessons learned.
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Ready to transform your social media presence and build a thriving online community? Our latest episode is your ultimate guide to this dynamic digital landscape. We're here to help you carve out your unique space and captivate your audience by consistently delivering content that resonates.
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Harness the power of community engagement with practical strategies shared in this episode. Recognize your audience, build genuine relationships, and show them they are valued. We'll explore interactive sessions like games, Q&As, AMAs, and live chats to educate and build rapport with your audience. We'll also talk about the power of collaboration, reaching out to influencers to enhance exposure, and the vitality of seeking feedback, suggestions, and mutual growth.
We also delve into the art of standing out in a crowded market. Learn how to use hashtags, groups, and polls to pique interest and encourage interaction, making your content shine. We'll discuss the significance of analyzing engagement metrics, maintaining consistency via scheduling tools, and the art of pitching yourself. Plus, we'll highlight the importance of promoting podcast subscriptions and engagements, appreciating your audience, and the magic of collaborations. Join us and watch your social media community grow and thrive!
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Join me as we step into the fascinating world of Double Proficiency, guided by none other than its co-founder, Anna. Prepare to be enthralled as we journey from the humble beginnings of her first book, Herbalist Primer, through its successful Kickstarter campaign, to its current status as a beloved gem in the TTRPG community. Anna candidly shares her experiences, from triumphs to struggles, while also giving us a glimpse into her work with the sequel, Geoglist's Primer.
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Get ready to understand the grind of research, balancing work with life, and the critical role of a science editor in her work. A sneak peek into her organized approach and personal growth will surely leave you inspired.
We wrap up our chat by digging into the collaborations and adventures of Double Proficiency. Anna gives us a taste of Jakub's upcoming adventure and their decision to switch gears with a new publisher, Hunter's Entertainment. With the promise of an exciting announcement and talks of future projects, this episode is just the right blend of intrigue, inspiration, and excitement. So, let's celebrate the victories, learn from the challenges, and peek into what lies ahead for Double Proficiency.
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Ready to stop aimlessly scrolling through social media and start building a thriving online community? This episode is for you! I am joined by my engaging new co-host, Matt Joro, and we're ready to tackle the dynamic world of social media. We'll share insights on the unpredictable algorithms, increasing ad costs, and if those age-old Twitter tactics are worth a second look. As we navigate the challenging digital terrain, we'll discuss the importance of staying ahead of the curve and predicting the next big platform.
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What if you could tap into the secret of creating magnetic content that turns casual followers into engaged community members? We'll break down how to identify your audience, understand their interests and behaviors, and locate their digital hangouts. From determining the right type of content to the perfect posting frequency, we'll guide you on enticing user-generated content and striking a balance between educational, inspirational, and entertaining content.
This episode is about more than just gaining followers; it's about building a community. Join us on this exciting journey!
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You won't want to miss this jam-packed episode as we're rolling the dice again with Russell E Welch III, the mastermind DM and CEO behind D20 Tales. Russell returns to chat about how D20 Tales has grown and changed over the last year, including the added complexities of going on tour.
TwitterD20Tales TwitterD20Tales WebsiteDice Envy
As we pull back the curtain on the world of live touring, we candidly discuss the unique challenges it entails. But it's not all chaos and stress - the excitement of audience interaction is certainly worth it. We also dive into the complexities of casting, tackling budget constraints, and maintaining quality despite these hurdles. The passion and dedication of the D20 Tales cast and crew is nothing short of inspiring, making this discussion a must-listen for every D&D enthusiast out there. So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and enjoy this epic journey into the world of D20 Tales!
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Dice Envy creates beautiful dice in a variety of materials, including resin, metal, wood, and more
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How many of you have thought about starting a friendly local gaming store? Well, I have a special treat for you today, because I got to chat with Andrew Youngchild, the co-founder of Lost Star Tabletop Gaming Outfitter in Gig Harbor, Washington. He and his sister, Charlie, opened up this very cool store in the heart of Gig Harbor’s shopping district, a year into Covid. We dig into how the store came to be, how things have changed over the years, and Andrew’s hopes for the future. Andrew really dives into a lot of the decisions they had to make, and I really appreciated this genuine look at opening and running a gaming store.
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Before we dive in, I’d like to welcome anyone who is new to the show. This podcast is a part of Lightheart Adventures, which is a small company I co-founded with my husband. We also do blogs, one-shots, and maps that you’ll find over on our website, lightheartadventures.com. This show allows me to chat with so many amazing folks about business, marketing, hardships, lessons learned and how to guides across a wide spectrum of industries within the TTRPG scene. If that sounds like a show for you, then be sure to subscribe to Roll Play Grow on your favorite podcast player.
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Jay & Grub from Possum Creek Games are back! I’m super stoked to have my first repeat guests on the show from all the way back in episode 13. If you are not familiar with Possum Creek Games, then you might have heard of a little game called Wanderhome that Kickstarted during the height of Covid. I interviewed Jay & Grub both on my blog and on this show about Wanderhome, and now, today, we are talking about their latest game, Yazeba’s Bed & Breakfast. Yazaeba’s just came out on pdf and with their super cool virtual tabletop, One More Multiverse, so it was pretty fitting to bring them back on to talk about how the last two years have gone. If you’ve been with the show for a while, you know that I love these two so much and have had a lot of guests from Possum Creek over the last two years.
WebsiteYazeba's OnlineWanderhomePossum Creek TwitterJay TwitterRuby TwitterPossum Creek Patreon
This episode was edited by Sam Atkinson.
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Jonah and Tristan Fishel are two brothers writing a book together. Tristan started publishing on DM’s Guild and as a freelancer about a year ago, and they decided to write a book about proactive roleplaying. The book is called The Game Master’s Handbook of Proactive Roleplaying, and we talk about what proactive roleplaying means, their journey of writing this book and finding a publisher, and what it’s like to work on a project like this together.
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