Monday Aug 11, 2025
Co-Design: Challenges & Strengths
Crowdfunding Nerds: Kickstarter Marketing, Business, & Beyond!
Since 2019, Crowdfunding Nerds has helped over 200 crowdfunding creators raise over $30M on Kickstarter and Gamefound. In addition to that, we have generated over $100M in ecommerce sales and had clients featured on Shark Tank, ”As Seen On TV,” and more. We work with IP’s like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Star Trek, Mass Effect, Dune, and more... But we have also helped a TON of first-time creators fund on day 1, too! Our podcast exists to help you with your journey before, during, and after crowdfunding using real-world examples from our clients. We share what’s working and what is not in today’s market. We build pre-launch e-mail lists, get backers during live campaigns, and drive pre-orders and e-commerce sales after your campaign ends! If you’re DIY marketing (doing it yourself), we created the Crowdfunding Nerds Academy to help, which has specialized courses designed to make sure you’re doing it right! Buckle up; it’s about to get nerdy.
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Episodes
Episodes
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Monday Aug 04, 2025
Ever wondered how to navigate the choppy waters of crowdfunding with finesse? In Episode 243 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Sean and Donnie are joined by Robin Stokkel, the mastermind behind the card game River Rats. Robin takes us on a riveting journey through his Kickstarter campaign, sharing the secrets behind his marketing magic and the lessons learned along the way.Why is Reddit both a goldmine and a minefield for marketers? How do you turn a simple newsletter into a powerful marketing tool? Robin spills the beans on these topics and more, revealing how he crafted content that captivated communities and leveraged platforms like Substack and Facebook ads to boost his campaign.From pre-launch strategies to post-campaign reflections, this episode is packed with insights that will empower creators to conquer their own crowdfunding quests. Tune in for a treasure trove of tips and tales that highlight the art of strategic planning and community engagement in the world of crowdfunding.
Links to check out!Marketing River Rats Kickstarter Campaign by Robin Stokkel - https://robinstokkel.com/riverrats-marketing/River Rats - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stokkel/river-ratsThank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Monday Jul 28, 2025
Ever wondered how to turn a canceled pledge into a success story? Join us for Episode 241 of Crowdfunding Nerds, where Sean chats with Chris Loizou from SBG Editions about the art of running a successful crowdfunding campaign. Dive into Chris's experience with his project, Ascendia, and discover how personal outreach can recapture those elusive canceled pledges with a whopping 90% success rate!Why did Chris choose GameFound over Kickstarter? Tune in to uncover the strategic advantages of language-specific pages and targeted ads. Learn how transparency and direct communication overcame the hurdles of high shipping costs and tariffs.We also explore GameFound's unique features, like front-page updates and the "Endgame" feature, and discuss the platform's preference for polished, miniature-heavy projects. Plus, Chris shares tips on leveraging gaming conventions to boost sales and presence. Don't miss these invaluable insights for your next crowdfunding venture!
Links to check out!Ascendia - https://gamefound.com/projects/chris-loizou/ascendia---seasons-of-thargos?refcode=yyKRMP1bGkKK15gmSR1KSASBG Editions - https://www.sbgeditions.com/Thank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Monday Jul 21, 2025
Ever wondered how trading card games (TCGs) are evolving in 2025? In episode 244 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Sean dives deep into the world of TCGs with guests Donnie Chase and Jacob Cecil. We tackle the hot issues of scalping, grading, and distribution, and explore how intellectual properties and marketing strategies are reshaping the industry.Jacob shares his journey from engaging high school students with Magic: The Gathering to managing a game store bustling with Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Pokémon events. Meanwhile, Donnie takes us through his evolution from collecting sports cards to enjoying TCGs with his kids.We discuss the challenges posed by Pokémon's nostalgia-driven demand spikes and Magic: The Gathering's innovative collector packs. Could crowdfunding be the key to overcoming these hurdles? Tune in to find out how preorders and digital platforms might just revolutionize the TCG landscape. Don't miss this insightful episode!
Links to check out!Final Fantasy is the DEATH of Magic the Gathering - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zlrTqgAnMIQ&Thank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Monday Jul 14, 2025
Ever wondered how a DVD cover could revolutionize your ad copy? In this episode of Crowdfunding Nerds, Andrew and Sean dive into the art of crafting compelling ads, drawing inspiration from the unexpected world of DVD and Blu-ray covers. Discover how these tiny marketing masterpieces can teach us to captivate audiences with concise, engaging text.Join us as we reminisce about Blockbuster Video's influence on consumer behavior and explore why relying solely on AI for content might not be the best strategy. We discuss the importance of authenticity, the magic of consistent storytelling, and the pitfalls of disjointed art styles in ad campaigns.Plus, learn how to create seamless transitions from ads to landing pages, and the crucial role of pricing and shipping in maintaining customer interest. Tune in for insights that could transform your crowdfunding campaign into an irresistible, immersive experience!
Links to check out!Monstrous creatures, deadly whirlpools, and a mutinous pirate crew are the least of your worries in Rapscallion the tabletop roleplaying game!The law be fast on your heels and there be cursed treasure to track before your swashbuckling rivals get their rickety hands on your gold!Are ye ready to set sail amidst The Great Sea, laddie?Rapscallion TTRPG: https://magpiegames.com/collections/rapscallionThank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
Are you cultivating "true fans" or just collecting complainers? Join Andrew and Sean as they unravel the complex relationships between investors, consumers, true fans, and complainers, and how each group can make or break your business.
Ever wondered how to distinguish genuine supporters from those who might harm your community? We dive into Seth Godin’s intriguing email about "generous stans" versus "cranky fans" and explore the delicate balance of engaging with your audience as partners, not just consumers.
We also take a look at Blizzard Entertainment’s journey with World of Warcraft, illustrating the power of community feedback and adaptation. Plus, Andrew shares personal insights from involving fans in the development of his board game, Deliverance.
Tune in to discover how to foster a thriving fanbase that supports your mission and propels your brand to new heights!
Links to check out!
Seth's Blog 1,000 fans (which sort?) - https://seths.blog/2025/05/user-interaction-design-drives-outcomes/
20 Years of World of Warcraft Meeting Players Where They Are - Ion Hazzikostas, Blizzard- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8f223_Km7qc
Thank you to our sponsors!
HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101
BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!
CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jun 30, 2025
Monday Jun 30, 2025
How does sound transform your tabletop RPG experience? In Episode 238 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Andrew and Sean are joined by Niki Wegscheider from TableTone, an app revolutionizing gaming audio. Dive into the world of adaptive audio that syncs with in-game events, creating a richer, more immersive experience. Discover how TableTone's dynamic soundscapes, crafted with a blend of organic sounds, elevate your game by connecting visuals and emotions.
But that's not all! We explore the art of cross-promotion and influencer marketing. Learn how partnerships, like the one with Bob the Worldbuilder, can skyrocket your app downloads and subscriptions. We also tackle the challenges of modern marketing in a privacy-focused world, emphasizing the power of a multi-channel strategy.
Join us for insights on TableTone's future plans, including integration with virtual tabletop systems, and discover how you can collaborate to amplify your game’s audio experience. Tune in now!
Links to check out!TableTone website - https://www.tabletone.app/TableTone Discord - https://discord.com/invite/UwMy2vtwv9Fallen London Cross Promo - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/magpiegames/fallen-london-the-roleplaying-game/posts/4336615Green Lobster Studios - https://greenlobster.at/Thank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jun 23, 2025
Monday Jun 23, 2025
What happens when Kickstarter’s Head of Games steps into the Crowdfunding Nerds community for an AMA? Episode 237 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast is here to spill the beans! Join your hosts, Andrew and Sean, as they dissect the lively discussion with Asher McClinahan, exploring the 79 comments and 35 to 50 questions that kept the community buzzing.
We dive deep into the art of pre-launch strategies, the magic of email captures, and why sharing your game development journey can turn casual observers into loyal backers. Asher’s top tips for first-time creators are a treasure trove of wisdom, from budgeting for surprises to leveraging playtester insights for marketing.
Curious about Kickstarter's new late pledge system or how to handle multiple unfulfilled projects? We’ve got you covered. Plus, we explore the potential of a rating system for creators and the nuances of Kickstarter's
algorithm. So, tune in and discover how to level up your crowdfunding game with us! Join the conversation and become a part of our vibrant community today!
Links to check out!AMA in the Crowdfunding Nerds Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/crowdfundingnerdsKickstarter Games: Projects We Love Submissions - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfotKk3RdmGOzKDeD4Px97N4pYfaif0HKozWnz0_NebH4NOlA/viewformThank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Ever wondered how the crowdfunding giants stack up against each other? In episode 236 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast, Andrew and Sean dive into the competitive dynamics of Kickstarter, GameFound, and BackerKit. How is Kickstarter's community engagement evolving under Asher McClanahan's leadership? And what does BackerKit's million-dollar equity crowdfunding move mean for the industry?We also explore the intriguing world of organic search traffic with Ahrefs, comparing Kickstarter’s vast reach with GameFound’s niche focus. Could Kickstarter's traffic surge from India be a sign of bot activity? We unravel this mystery and emphasize why creators must build their own audiences.Plus, we tackle the controversial use of AI-generated art in Kickstarter projects. Is it a shortcut to success or a credibility killer? Join us as we connect these insights to the philosophical themes of AI from Metal Gear Solid 2. Tune in for a deep dive into the strategic choices that could make or break your crowdfunding campaign!
Links to check out!Backerkit Equity Crowdfunding - https://wefunder.com/backerkitAhref Crowdfunding Platform Breakdown - https://www.facebook.com/100000937035637/videos/pcb.1396911901577254/1236032491410128MGS2 Codec Call - Raiden Warned About AI Censorship - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gGLvg0n-uYThank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Monday Jun 09, 2025
Ever wondered what it takes to launch a successful game on Kickstarter? In Episode 235 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Andrew and Sean sit down with Asher McClennahan, Kickstarter's head of games, to unravel the secrets behind a winning crowdfunding campaign. What are the "hygiene factors" you must nail on your campaign page? How can you leverage Kickstarter’s organic traffic to skyrocket your project’s visibility? Asher shares his journey from tech to gaming, underscoring the power of community and shared knowledge. We dive deep into mastering the art of clear communication, avoiding the pitfalls of too many stretch goals, and the crucial role of pre-launch marketing. Plus, get a grip on tracking campaign performance and understanding Kickstarter's algorithm. Whether you're a seasoned creator or a newbie, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in and supercharge your crowdfunding game!
Links to check out!Kickstarter Connects: The Secrets to Funding Your Game Campaign - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5fmC5zJAR0Interview with Kickstarter’s New Head of Games - https://stonemaiergames.com/interview-with-kickstarters-new-head-of-games/What Matters Most To Backers On Your Kickstarter Page With Jeremy Howard - https://crowdfundingnerds.com/episode10/Crowdfunding Nerds Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/crowdfundingnerdsThank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Monday Jun 02, 2025
Ever wondered what it takes to create iconic games like Crash Bandicoot or Jak and Daxter? How about founding your own game studio from scratch? Join us in Episode 233 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast as Andrew and Sean sit down with the legendary Bob Rafei, the creative mind behind Big Red Button Entertainment and former art director at Naughty Dog.Bob shares his fascinating journey from shaping the gaming world at Naughty Dog to launching his own studio. We dive into the creative process behind game development, the importance of a "creative north star," and the art of world-building. Bob also reveals the challenges of pitching games, the evolution of game tutorials, and the entrepreneurial spirit needed to thrive in the gaming industry.Ready to level up your understanding of game creation? Tune in for an episode packed with insights, inspiration, and the secrets behind some of the most beloved games. Links to check out!Bob Rafei's Personal Website - https://www.bobrafei.com/Big Red Butten Entertainment - https://brbent.com/Bloodlines Concept - https://www.bobrafei.com/bloodlines-concept/
Thank you to our sponsors!HeroTime1.com - Get a 3% discount off your Hero Time Manufacturing order using code: CrowdfundingNerds101BridgeDist.com - We recommend Bridge Distribution & Fulfillment for US fulfillment and Amazon fulfillment. We use them for our own projects, too!CrowdfundingNerds.com/Academy - If you are looking to DIY your crowdfunding, we have highly impactful courses that teach you how to build, excite, and prepare a crowd to fund you on Launch Day!Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!