Crowdfunding Nerds: Kickstarter Marketing, Business, & Beyond!

Crowdfunding Nerds is a practical, behind-the-scenes podcast for creators looking to launch and scale successful crowdfunding campaigns. Since 2019, the Crowdfunding Nerds team has helped creators raise over $40M on Kickstarter and Gamefound while generating more than $100M in ecommerce sales.
From pre-launch strategy to post-campaign growth, the show delivers real-world marketing insights, campaign breakdowns, and lessons from both first-time creators and major IPs like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Fallout, Dune, and Star Trek.
Whether you're preparing for your first Kickstarter or optimizing your next launch, this podcast helps you do it smarter.
Crowdfunding Nerds is a practical, behind-the-scenes podcast for creators looking to launch and scale successful crowdfunding campaigns. Since 2019, the Crowdfunding Nerds team has helped creators raise over $40M on Kickstarter and Gamefound while generating more than $100M in ecommerce sales.
From pre-launch strategy to post-campaign growth, the show delivers real-world marketing insights, campaign breakdowns, and lessons from both first-time creators and major IPs like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Fallout, Dune, and Star Trek.
Whether you're preparing for your first Kickstarter or optimizing your next launch, this podcast helps you do it smarter.
Episodes
Episodes



Monday Oct 07, 2024
Kickstarter Success: Evolving Strategies
Monday Oct 07, 2024
Monday Oct 07, 2024
Ever wondered what it takes to launch a successful Kickstarter campaign in today's ever-changing economic climate? Join us on the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast as Andrew and Sean dive deep into the evolution of their Deliverance board game campaigns. From dissecting the differences between their original and current campaigns to leveraging Kickstarter's platform advancements, we explore how to adapt to economic shifts and convert followers into backers.
Discover the power of a well-crafted pre-launch page and how engaging potential backers early can set your campaign up for success. Plus, we share our secrets to a dynamic launch day, including live streaming as a real-time FAQ and celebration hub. Cross-promotion takes center stage as we reveal our strategic collaborations and the importance of genuine relationships in maximizing campaign reach.
Tune in for insights on navigating paid advertising challenges and adapting product offerings to meet economic demands. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for crowdfunding success!
Links to check out:
Table Top Analytics: tabletopanalytics.com
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Sep 30, 2024
Kickstarting Standalone Games Vs. Expansions
Monday Sep 30, 2024
Monday Sep 30, 2024
Have you ever wondered whether to launch an expansion or a standalone game on Kickstarter? How can bundling products maximize your campaign's success? Join us in Episode 199 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast, where Andrew dives into these questions with Chip Cole, the mastermind behind Squatchy Games and Deliverance.
We kick off by breaking down the crucial differences between expansions and standalone games. Chip and I explore the DNA and theme of products, revealing how these elements shape our decisions. We share strategies from the Deliverance campaign, including fascinating stats like how 23% of backers opting for bundles contributed to 37% of the total funds raised!
Chip also opens up about balancing his bustling family life with his career in game design and freelance graphic work. Plus, we discuss the power of Kickstarter’s new advanced analytics and how understanding backer behavior can refine your marketing efforts.
Don't miss out on these invaluable insights—tune in now!
Contact Information:
- Chip Cole Email: chip@chipthe designer.com
- Chip Cole Website: chipcolecreative.com
- Squatchy Games: https://squatchygames.com/
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Sep 23, 2024
Navigating the Calm Before the Kickstarter Storm
Monday Sep 23, 2024
Monday Sep 23, 2024
Ever wondered how to juggle work, family, and a looming Kickstarter launch without losing your sanity? Or how to make your campaign stand out in the crowded crowdfunding space? In Episode 198 of Crowdfunding Nerds, Andrew and Sean dive deep into these questions and more as they prepare for the launch of the Deliverance expansion.Join us as Andrew shares his personal journey, from setting boundaries with family to sneaky burpee penalties for phone checks. We also uncover essential Kickstarter strategies, like leveraging your audience, crafting the perfect press kit, and setting realistic monetary goals. Plus, Andrew's heartfelt reflections on success and personal worth will leave you inspired.Don't miss out on this treasure trove of insights and practical tips. Tune in now and get ready to crush your next Kickstarter campaign!
Check out these links:
- Crowdfunding Nerds episode 123
- Crowdfunding Nerds episode 165
- Crowdfunding Nerds episode 101
- Crowdfunding Nerds episode 102
- Crowdfunding Nerds episode 05
- PlayDeliverance.com
- Support the Deliverance Kickstarter
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Sep 16, 2024
Power Creep & Expanding Into Board Game Arena with Kneight Reinagel
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Monday Sep 16, 2024
Ever wondered how board games make their way onto digital platforms like Board Game Arena (BGA)? Or what it takes to balance new game content without making the old stuff obsolete? This week, Andrew and Sean sit down with web developer and board game aficionado, Kneight Reinagel, to dive deep into the world of BGA development!
In this episode, we explore Kneight’s journey from self-taught programmer to game developer. The complexities and costs of developing games for BGA and why Deliverance might be the most intricate game on BGA. We look at the phenomenon of power creep and its impact on games and ethical considerations and practical solutions for game balance.
Kneight also shares his insights on creating games that resonate with both secular and faith-based audiences, and teases exciting updates for Deliverance. Tune in for a fascinating discussion that’s sure to level up your crowdfunding and game development knowledge!
Contact Kneight Reinagel:
- Discord: Kogogarog
- Email: kneight@kogogarage.com
- Website: kogogarage.com
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Sep 09, 2024
Are You Ready to Launch on Kickstarter?
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
Hey Nerds! Ever wondered when the perfect time to launch your Kickstarter campaign is? Or how to grow your audience before diving into crowdfunding? In this episode, Sean and Donnie tackle these burning questions and more!
With Andrew tied up in other commitments, Sean kicks off the episode by sharing insights from his recent client consultations. Together with Donnie, they explore the pros and cons of Kickstarter versus direct pre-orders, especially for creators with smaller, word-of-mouth-driven audiences.
We dive deep into the importance of taking measured steps in your crowdfunding journey to avoid financial pitfalls. Plus, don't miss out on Donnie's intriguing story about how AI tools helped troubleshoot a tricky Facebook ad issue—it's a game-changer!
From the nuances of different crowdfunding platforms to leveraging data for informed decisions, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Tune in for practical tips on engaging your audience and striking the right balance between hardcore fans and broader appeal.
Join us for an episode that's sure to level up your crowdfunding game!
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Sep 02, 2024
Talking To Noobs, The Stock Market, and You 💰
Monday Sep 02, 2024
Monday Sep 02, 2024
What happens when crowdfunding meets savvy financial planning? Can you really fund a project without diving into debt or giving up equity? In this episode, we’re joined by financial whiz Khoa Hoang to unravel these mysteries and more!
With over 14 years of experience, Khoa dives into the fascinating world of investments, retirement planning, and the often-overlooked synergy between crowdfunding and traditional financial strategies. We kick things off by exploring how Andrew raised $314,375 for his project, Deliverance, through Kickstarter, and why Khoa believes crowdfunding is democratizing creative funding.
We then navigate through diverse investment options like money markets and Buffer ETFs, and even touch on the disruptive potential of AI in finance. Sean shares timeless wisdom on cautious investing, while Khoa emphasizes the importance of starting early and staying consistent.
Tune in for a riveting discussion that bridges the gap between innovative funding and smart investing!
Contact Khoa Hoang:
- Email: khoang@kingsview.com
- Phone: 760-688-0200
Don't miss out on this financial deep dive!
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Aug 26, 2024
Monday Aug 26, 2024
Are you ready to take your crowdfunding campaign to the next level? In Episode 194 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast, we dive deep into the art of spending big on advertising. How do you avoid the "black hole" of wasted ad spend? What’s the secret to making every dollar count?
Join us as Sean kicks off with the pitfalls of advertising and the elusive impression fallacy. We break down budget strategies, from $4,000 to six-figure spends, and share real-world insights from Andrew’s own board game campaign, Deliverance. Discover why Facebook might be your best bet for smaller budgets and how to set clear, achievable goals for your ads.
We also explore the power of cross-promotion, both paid and unpaid, and why building genuine relationships with other creators can be your secret weapon. Plus, we venture into experimental platforms like Twitter and TikTok—are they worth your time?
Don’t miss our comprehensive strategy for leveraging Board Game Geek, and learn why integrating generator and exposure-based marketing campaigns is crucial for crowdfunding success.
Tune in now and transform your advertising approach!
Links to check out:
Steam Community:
https://steamcommunity.com/groups/steamworks/announcements/detail/4201376568915048836
Deliverance: https://playdeliverance.com/cotf/
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Aug 19, 2024
Why They Won’t Back Your Kickstarter… & How To Change Their Mind!
Monday Aug 19, 2024
Monday Aug 19, 2024
Have you ever wondered why some board game enthusiasts hesitate to back Kickstarter projects? Or how financial constraints and delayed gratification play into their decision-making? Join Sean and Jacob in Episode 193 of the Crowdfunding Nerds podcast as they dive deep into these questions with special guest Brent, the mastermind behind the YouTube channel "Cloudy with a Chance of Meeples" and the "Ideas" podcast.
In this episode, Brent shares his fascinating journey into the world of board gaming and content creation. We explore his hesitancy to back many Kickstarters, citing reasons like financial constraints, retail vs. Kickstarter pricing, and the long wait times for project fulfillment. Brent also offers alternative strategies for managing Kickstarter costs and provides insight into how his role as a content creator influences his gaming habits.
Don't miss this engaging discussion that sheds light on the complexities of backing Kickstarters and offers valuable advice for both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike. Tune in now!
Links to Checkout:
Brent's YouTube Channel: Cloudy with a Chance of Meeples
Brent's Podcast: Ideas
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Aug 12, 2024
Navigating the Mid-Campaign Wasteland with Mike Ibeji
Monday Aug 12, 2024
Monday Aug 12, 2024
Ever wondered how to keep backers engaged during the dreaded mid-campaign slump? Or how to handle the heartbreak of canceled pledges? Join us on this episode of Crowdfunding Nerds as we chat with Mike Ibeji of Gun Tower Games about the rollercoaster ride of crowdfunding his game, Pandora Celeste.Mike dives into the creation of Gun Tower Games and the innovative design of Pandora Celeste, a sci-fi monster movie-inspired board game with a unique 3D board. Discover how Mike leveraged grassroots marketing to build a passionate following and why he chose Gamefound over Kickstarter.We also explore the psychological strategies behind setting realistic funding goals, the impact of community engagement, and the lessons learned from dealing with canceled pledges. Whether you're a first-time creator or a crowdfunding veteran, Mike's insights on pre-campaign marketing, platform selection, and maintaining backer trust are invaluable.Tune in for an episode packed with practical advice and real-world experiences that can help you navigate your own crowdfunding journey!Links to check out:
- Game Tower Games: https://www.guntowergames.com/
- Pandora Celeste on Gamefound: https://gamefound.com/en/projects/guntower-mike/pandora-celeste
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay Nerdy!



Monday Aug 05, 2024
The Latest Crowdfunding Data: Trends & Analysis
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Monday Aug 05, 2024
Why do people back crowdfunding campaigns? How do different regions impact crowdfunding success? And what’s the secret to building a thriving community?
In episode 191 of the Crowdfunding Nerds, your hosts Andrew and Sean are joined by Casper Ohlson, a university student from Sweden diving deep into the world of crowdfunding for his bachelor’s thesis. Casper shares his research journey, exploring why people back campaigns, the differences between equity and reward-based crowdfunding, and the importance of localization.
We also delve into the demographics of backers, with a special focus on the US and the European Union. Andrew and Sean reveal their secrets to building a community that keeps backers engaged—think Discord, Facebook groups, and even niche platforms like Lulu. Plus, we discuss market trends and the growing competition among crowdfunding platforms.
Don’t miss out on this research-driven episode that blends academic insight with real-world expertise. Join our community on Facebook and submit your questions for future episodes!
Links Mentioned:
- Submit Questions:http://crowdfundingnerds.com/question
- Gamefound: https://gamefound.com/en/blog/post/welcome-to-2024
- Tabletop revenues declined for second year on Kickstarter, Tabletop Analytics report shows: https://www.polygon.com/24054381/kickstarter-top-10-biggest-most-backed-board-games-campaigns-2023
- Table Top Analytics: https://www.tabletopanalytics.com/
- Ulule: https://fr.ulule.com/
Check out our website at crowdfundingnerds.com and join our bustling community on Facebook.
Stay nerdy!










