Nerdpreneur

Crowdfunding & Creativity with TTRPG Mogul Rick Heinz - Interview 35

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 ...

We Were Almost Canceled - Part 2

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 -...

From Garage to Convention, with Ryan at Hexwood Forge - Interview 34

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...

We Were Almost Canceled - Part 1

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/...

Making Board Games with Chris from TinkerHouse Games - Interview 33

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...

Tiny Products and Big Lessons with Patrick from Lethal Shadows - Interview 32

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 onesel...

Level Up Your Communication Skills - Part 2 - Talking Nerdy 37

Level Up Your Communication Skills - Part 1 - Talking Nerdy 36

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!" *epi...

The Art of Independent Comic Book Publishing with Unshaven Comics - Interview 31

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, ...

Dale Carnegie for Nerdy Entrepreneurs - Talking Nerdy 35

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 ...

Nerdy Oil Painter Jenny Johnson Art - Interview 30

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...

The Business of Scientific Art with Sienna Art Studios - Interview 29

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...

Is PAX West Great for Nerdy Businesses? - Talking Nerdy 34

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 mont...

How Three Friends Created Pocket Bard, a Game Changing RPG Audio App - Interview 28

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, ...

Comic Con & Enterprising Nerdy Street Wear: Tony from Hero Within Clothing - Interview 27

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://her...

"The CEO Mindset" Reflections on BlackNES guy - Talking Nerdy 33

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 ...

From Film to VR Games: JJ from Mythical City Games - Interview 26

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 s...

Monetize like Critical Role: the Beacon TV strategy - Talking Nerdy 32

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 Critic...

Emerald City Comic Con: Is it worth it? - Talking Nerdy 31

Episode Summary: In this episode of "Nerdpreneur," Frank and Chris dive deep into their experience at the Emerald City Comic Con in Seattle. They explore a range of topics, from the effectiveness of different sales tactics to the overall atmosphere of the convention and how awesome Dune 2 was. The episode offers insights into the business side of attending cons, including booth costs and strategies for engaging potential customers. To learn more about Emerald City Comic Con check out https://www...

Multi-Platinum Producer, Wyshmaster - Interview 25

In this episode, hosts Chris and Frank dive into a riveting conversation with the Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum record producer Wyshmaster, known as "Wysh." This episode explores Wysh's journey from the early days of online beat selling to achieving mainstream success and navigating the challenges of the music industry. You can find him on social media as @wyshmasterbeats or on his website www.wyshmasterbeats.com the #1 place for buying beats online! Key Topics Discussed The Origins of a Musi...

Living the Dream (Create a list of 100+ dreams!) - Talking Nerdy 30

In this inspiring episode, Chris Saunders and Frank embark on a profound exploration of dreams and aspirations. They delve into the significance of not just dreaming, but actively pursuing those dreams with clarity and intention. Highlighting the transformative power of dreams, the conversation covers various categories, from personal to professional aspirations, emphasizing the importance of setting actionable goals and embracing growth. The episode is underpinned by the powerful message that t...

Satine Phoenix, The Reinvention of a Nerdpreneur - Interview 24 (Part 2)

In Part 2 hosts Chris and Frank continue their conversation with Satine Phoenix! They dive into her reinvention as a transformational life coach after her cancellation from the D&D community. This conversation explores the power of coaching and Satine shares her insights on personal transformation, leveraging gaming mechanics in real life, and her approach to overcoming adversity. We also get her answer to a bunch of Random Rolls and Rapid fire questions! This episode was super fun and you c...

Satine Phoenix Controversy, Cancel Culture, and Starting Over - Interview 24 (Part 1)

Episode Overview: In Part 1 of this 2-part interview, Satine Phoenix breaks her silence for the first time since her public cancellation from the D&D community. Hosts Chris and Frank guide us through an inspiring exploration of Satine’s story, from turning her nerdy D&D passions into a fulfilling career to the art of self-optimization, and explore the courage it takes to redefine oneself amidst the whirlwinds of public scrutiny. This powerful episode is as much an adventure as it is a he...

Shakespeare, Performance, and Mastering the Art of Focus - Talking Nerdy 29

Shakespeare, Performance, and Mastering the Art of Focus" In this captivating segment, Chris Saunders and Frank dive deep into their experiences with Shakespeare, reflecting on how these experiences shaped their understanding of theater and performance. They further explore the importance of focus, not just in the context of acting but as a crucial skill in navigating life's myriad distractions. Key Points: Journey with Shakespeare: Starting with their early impressions, both hosts share a journ...

Slaying Your Dragon - Talking Nerdy 28

In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Chris Saunders and Frank dive deep into the philosophical and practical implications of Joseph Campbell's seminal work, *The Hero with a Thousand Faces*, and how its concept of the hero's journey applies not just to storytelling but to personal growth, business, and overcoming life's challenges. Campbell's exploration of myth and its role in human experience serves as a foundation for a rich discussion that spans psychology, entrepreneurship, and personal...

Starting a Pottery Studio and Building a Community During the Pandemic - Interview 23

Meet Nerdpreneur Andres from Mudlab. in Vancouver BC. He started a pottery studio and built a community during the pandemic. His bold move turned into a success and is offering classes, workshops and memberships for pottery enthusiasts, experts and people who are brand new to the hobby. #getmuddy Check out Mudlab. HERE To hear an extra 30 mins with Andres (and other extended interviews) sign up to be a member of the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *Ominous Thunderclap* by going to www.Patreon.com/n...

Dune Part 2, Tee Makes Fairy Wings, & Snoop Dogg Marketing Stunt Backfires - Talking Nerdy 27

Chris and Frank make predictions on the release of Dune Part 2, revisit what Tee Makes Fairy Wings is up to and reflect on a Snoop Dogg Marketing Stunt that Backfired. Tee's Fairywing business @Teepimentel Snoop Dogg marketing stunt For the FULL VERSION of all Nerdpreneur interviews and Talking Nerdys 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 ...

Taylor Swift & other Universal Music artists pulled from TikTok - Talking Nerdy 26

Chris and Frank Talk Nerdy about the implications of Universal Music Group pulling all their artists from TikTok For the FULL VERSION of all Nerdpreneur interviews and Talking Nerdys 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 produ...

Time Management Part 2 - Talking Nerdy 25

Chris and Frank share breakdown the ins and out of being productive and utilizing time in an effective way for Nerdpreneurs. We reference the following books/articles. For Time Management Part 1: Spotify Apple 8x8x8 Article Off Balance by Matthew Kelly Ultimate Sales Machine by Chet Holmes The ONE Thing by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan For the FULL VERSION of all Nerdpreneur interviews and Talking Nerdys join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpr...

Time Management Part 1 - Talking Nerdy 24

Chris and Frank share breakdown the ins and out of being productive and utilizing time in an effective way for Nerdpreneurs. We reference the following books/articles. 8x8x8 Article Off Balance by Matthew Kelly Ultimate Sales Machine by Chet Holmes The ONE Thing by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan For the FULL VERSION of all Nerdpreneur interviews and Talking Nerdys join the "Awesome Nerdpreneur Board!" *epic thunderclap* on Patreon! Join the monthly Nerdpreneur Loot Bag (newsletter) you'll get... ...