Indie Insider Podcast - Black Shell Media

  A compilation of all of the best advice and ideas we’ve received from 50 episodes worth of amazing guests and industry icons. Topics discussed: How to get up and start something new Dealing with feedback and finding balance in your work Mastering the art of communication with collaborators Doing your research and putting in the work How to grow your network of colleagues and much more!   Hey Insiders, This week’s episode has been requested many times by listeners, so I’m finally making it happen – The Advice Episode! This week, I’ve compiled some of the best advice we’ve ever received on the show into one ultimate resource for you whenever you need inspiration, motivation, or guidance. If you’ve missed an episode, forgot something meaningful that a previous guest said, or you’re just joining us for the first time, this is the best place to start! I’ve always said that this podcast is only successful and only worthwhile because our guests make it so. The designers, artists, and professionals who come onto this show and openly share their experiences, their wisdom, and their advice are what make Indie Insider special, and this episode is a small vessel by which we get to continue to share their value with all of you. Of course, there’s no substitute for doing the work and making it happen. But if you’re looking for a place to start, a launchpad of insight and resources, then I can’t possibly think of a better place for your to start your next journey than right here, with all of us here at Indie Insider. All the best, -Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host  

  Guest: Larry Kuperman, Director of Business Development for Nightdive Studios, the team perhaps most notable for remaking games from the past, such as the System Shock franchise. Topics discussed: Larry’s story and how he went from a theatre education degree to being the Director of Business Development for Nightdive His advice for your developers and aspiring business professionals Why available tools and accessibility make this the golden age of gaming What the future has in store for video games, and where Larry is placing his bets Plus, a deep dive into DRM – what does it mean, why does it matter, and why you should be aware of how it affects your game and much more!   Hey Insiders, I’ve always found that the emails, articles, and podcasts I enjoy the most, the ones that stick with me, are the honest ones. The write-ups that tell a story and show vulnerability. The ones that help me connect with the person writing them. So that’s what I’m going to do here. I’ve been struggling for a bit with motivation recently. I’ve been finding it difficult to send emails, to reply to messages, to get up and do the work. Never enough that it would compromise my work (or anyone else’s), but just enough that it makes things hard. I’ve just been feeling uninspired lately. I think most of us go through that sometimes. But editing episodes with guests like Larry Kuperman helps. Larry comes from a similar background to me, and has lived an entire life outside of the video game industry. And yet, he’s found his passion now. He’s the guy who sent me a congratulatory email on an interview I conducted with someone he knew. He’s the one who instigated this entire interview with an inspired email on DRM and how it affects our industry. His interview is one that makes me smile, and makes me believe that I might be on the right path to where I’m meant to be. If I enjoy what I do and feel even half of the drive and passion that Larry does for his work, I’ll be happy. Larry’s interview is full of industry insight, inspiration, and advice on how to “up your game” professionally in the industry. But I hope, above and beyond all of that, you leave this week’s episode a bit inspired. Things will never be easy all the time. But it helps me to know that there are people out there, like Larry, who are willing to help and share however they can. If you’re ever struggling and would like someone to talk to or could use some guidance, shoot me an email: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Until next week. -Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host  

  Guest: Tobias Sjögren, CEO of White Wolf Entertainment, a sister company to Paradox Interactive. Topics discussed: Tobias’ story of taking over a company acquired by Paradox Interactive and nurturing the World of Darkness IP, as well as his humble beginnings with Battlefield and DICE Tobias’ tips and tricks to surviving E3 and other major conferences Learning not to finish projects through brute force, and working more effectively How to be a masterful team leader and project manager Exploring the business aspects and know-how of being an indie developer How becoming a father made Tobias consider Games for Girls, and how it’s still a young and promising aspect of the industry And much more!   Hey Insiders, Tobias Sjögren has had an impressive journey starting businesses, cultivating ideas, and moving up in the industry. He is currently the CEO of White Wolf Entertainment, a sister company to Paradox Interactive, working on the World of Darkness IP. At the end of the episode (as you’ll hear), he was thrilled to have the opportunity to share his advice: “[This is] an industry based on “What Goes Around, Comes Around.”…Share your experience and advice, and you will get it back.” It’s one of my favorite things about this industry as well. Everyone I’ve had the luck of speaking with has taught me something, and they are the foundation of any achievements I’ve had in the video game world. The only reason I get to share this letter and episode with you is because people chose to nurture me as a professional, as an interviewer, and as a producer. In return, it’s my immense pleasure to share with all of you the experience and advice of others to help you grow in your passions and endeavors. And, hopefully, you’ll choose to pass along your thoughts, your experiences, and your advice with others. I truly believe there’s no better way for us to grow as an industry. Plus, as Tobias puts it, “What Goes Around, Comes Around.” If you have advice or experiences you’d like to share with others, shoot me an email: logan@blackshellmedia.com. I’d love to talk with you about how I can help. Until next week, Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host  

  Guest: Zhenghua Yang, Game Developer and Founder of Serenity Forge, an indie video game publishing studio. Topics discussed: An in-depth exploration of the blood disorder that almost claimed Zhenghua’s life, and how video games saved him How Serenity Forge is sharing games that tell important stories Zhenghua’s advice to managing your own studio Breaking the mold by developing games for hospitals Utilizing life experiences to inspire your games Developing funnels that move everything toward your goals   Hey Insiders, I don’t know about you, but I wish I could be more like Zhenghua Yang, this week’s guest. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the success he has found, and we’re lucky to have leaders like him in the video game industry. He’s a giving and empathetic individual with a clear grasp on what matters in the grand scheme of things. Which brings me to his quote: “I think, as game developers, we are more responsible than any other group of people in our industry to make sure we are being ethical in how we make games.” It’s not something I’ve ever thought about, but this strikes me as something of profound importance. We, as game developers, have a platform by which to guide and influence (potentially) millions of gamers. This is a responsibility that we sometimes take for granted. Perhaps we get lost in trying to make ends meet, or we are so focused on mechanics that we lose sight of the story we’re telling. But at the end of the day, what are we leaving players with? Are we creating games that matter to someone? Anyone? The only person that can answer that question is you, but I’d encourage you to take a step back from your current project and ask the question: “What will players leave my game feeling/thinking/knowing/doing?” Remember – You are a creator, and a leader. Your work matters in more ways than you may realize. Enjoy this week’s episode with Zhenghua Yang, founder of Serenity Forge. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host   P.S. If you missed last week’s episode, we’re doing a HUGE giveaway in honor of hitting 50 episodes of the podcast. We’re giving away the Game Developer “Level Up!” Pack, which includes three books from previous guests of the show (two of them signed!), a service package from IndieGameU to help get your next game off of the ground, and I’ll even work with you to set up an interview with one of your idols on the podcast, which you can join me for! It’s a giveaway valued at almost $900, so we’re pretty excited about it! For more information on prizes and how you can win, click here: https://gleam.io/iJynD/the-indie-insider-50th-episode-giveaway  

  Guest: Nolan Bushnell, Founder of Atari and father of the video game industry. Nolan Bushnell has also co-founded companies such as Modal VR and Brainrush. Topics discussed: Things that shouldn’t hold you back, such as location or a college education Nolan Bushnell’s tips on delegating What the Founder of Atari thinks is the most exciting technology right now (Hint: It is sitting on my kitchen counter) How being a father changed Nolan’s outlook on his work Why we’re currently living in the golden age of game innovation Plus, some previous guests of the show stop by!   Hey Insiders, Before I get all nostalgic about 50 episodes of Indie Insider, let me give you the juicy giveaway details. In honor of 50 episodes, we’re giving away the Game Developer “Level Up!” Pack, which includes three books from previous guests of the show (two of them signed!), a service package from IndieGameU to help get your next game off of the ground, and I’ll even work with you to set up an interview with one of your idols on the podcast, which you can join me for! It’s a giveaway valued at almost $900, so we’re pretty excited about it! For more information on prizes and how you can win, click here: https://gleam.io/iJynD/the-indie-insider-50th-episode-giveaway There are many things that I still find difficult to believe. I find it difficult to believe that we’ve recorded 50 episodes of the Indie Insider Podcast, and that I’ve been working on this show for almost a year. I find it insane that I had the chance to go one-on-one with Nolan Bushnell, one of my idols. I still can’t believe that this show I’ve created, or the interviews I’ve conducted, are worthy of the listenership that is growing around this podcast. I still struggle with imposter syndrome. I feel inadequate compared to most of the amazing people who come on this show. There are definitely some times when I feel like I should just cut my losses and give up. But then someone like Nolan Bushnell comes along and shares his advice: “Go out and do it, but start on it right now.” If I don’t push through my fears and inadequacies now, I never will. I’ve learned by doing, and I’ll continue to do so. And I hope you all will bear with me for the next 50 episodes. I still find it difficult to believe, but I’m beginning to. And finally, I hope you all will do the same. You hear it often on this show, but that’s because it’s true: “Just do it.” You’re probably always going to struggle with fear, with feeling unworthy. But do it anyway, and learn by doing. Make your game now. Take that next step you’ve been thinking about now. And eventually, you’ll come to believe it. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host  

  Guest: Craig Morrison, Design Department Manager of the World of Warcraft franchise at Blizzard Entertainment. Topics discussed: How Craig approaches design as a philosophy and a discipline The immense importance of collaboration in this industry The values and philosophies that unify a team and guide the design of a game Craig’s tips and tricks to master networking in the video game industry How you overcome your biggest mistake in a 16-year career and much more!   Hey Insiders, Quick plug: Please join us for next week’s episode – it’s our 50th episode spectacular! We’ll be with special guest Nolan Bushnell, founder of Atari and father of the video game industry. We’ll also be holding a giveaway valued at hundreds of dollars, visiting with previous guests of the show, and much more! It’s going to be an awesome episode, and I hope you’ll support us. But this week, we’re talking with Craig Morrison of Blizzard Entertainment. I like to think that all of our interviews on the show have something useful or insightful to share, but some episodes are straight-up masterclasses from veterans of the industry. I assure you that Craig’s walk through of the lessons he’s learned throughout his successful and long career will have you inspired just like I was. I’ve been thinking a lot about Craig’s (and Blizzard’s) approach to values and philosophies. It’s the same idea as Fred Wester’s pillars from last week – these are the values that define your company, your team, and your projects. Two large and successful companies utilize them in every aspect of their projects. They help keep the teams unified and the projects focused on the things that matter most. But this isn’t always easy. Both Paradox Interactive and Blizzard Entertainment have their values/pillars physically placed somewhere on their campuses to try and keep them in mind. I plan on challenging myself and hanging something up near my desk with my pillars of value for the podcast on them. I’m also going to challenge Raghav, Daniel, and the team at Black Shell Media to do something similar. Finally, I’m going to challenge you. It’s not enough to just think about your pillars of value. Write them down. Hang them up. Share them with your team, your family, your friends. Hold yourself accountable, and always strive to meet these pillars. It’s clearly something that works for titans of the industry, and I’m willing to bet it might just work for you too. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host P.S. If you do write them down or hang them up, shoot me a picture! I’d love to see what you all are doing. Email: logan@blackshellmedia.com.  

  Guest: Fredrik Wester, the CEO of video game developer and publishing company Paradox Interactive. Topics discussed: What platform should you put your game on, and is console viable for indies? Fred’s advice to “taking a lot of s**t.” How to maximize your own productivity, as well as the productivity of your team The art of transparency with your audience, your partners, and others Creating pillars of priority and ideals that your game should be built around   Hey Insiders, We’re ramping up to our 50th episode special with some big name guests, and it is my extreme pleasure to share with you all my interview with Fredrik Wester this week. Fredrik Wester is the CEO of Paradox Interactive, a large and successful company behind games such as Cities: Skylines, Stellaris, Europa Universalis, and Hearts of Iron. Perhaps my favorite takeaway from this interview is Fred’s idea regarding pillars. He told me that Paradox has six pillars that all of their games must be built around in order to meet the Paradox standard. This helps keep games (and the teams working on them) guided and unified. It keeps scope in check as well – everything has to meet those pillars before making it into the game. It’s an idea I like quite a bit, and one you’ll hear again in next week’s episode with Craig, the Design Director of Blizzard Entertainment. This is something that I feel can be applied to any aspect of your life. I often find myself struggling with decisions, whether it’s regarding this podcast or my personal life. It can be difficult to decide what the right thing is to do, but having pillars of priority helps. Does this decision reflect my pillar of respect? Does this mechanic in my game reflect my pillar of accessible gameplay? Does this guest on the podcast reflect my pillar of quality? We still won’t get everything right, and it’s okay to make mistakes. But defining the pillars of priority that shape our lives can only help. If you end up coming up with some good pillars and feel like sharing, shoot them to me in an email: logan@blackshellmedia.com. And good luck! – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host P.S. Please join us in 2 weeks for our 50th episode special, featuring Nolan Bushnell, giveaways, and more! Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  Guests: Robert Canciello, Founder of Eos Interactive Jane Friedhoff and Andy Wallace, Developers and Art Makers Dan Butchko, CEO of Playcrafting Topics discussed: Robert’s thoughts on project and team management How a varied background (such as one in theatre) can influence you as a developer Why supplemental education can help you “get the job” Andy’s approach to processes and systems in games that create fun Working with someone who has a completely different approach than you How to make games that say something Jane’s advice for not living and dying based on your sales numbers Plus exclusive announcements from Dan Butchko of Playcrafting about what you can expect at Play NYC this weekend, as well as who some of our special guests will be as part of the Indie Insider 50th episode special!   Hey Insiders, It’s hard to believe, but this is the third and final week of the Road to Play NYC mini-series we’ve been producing. Play NYC is this weekend, and after talking with all of our incredible guests, I have no doubt that it’s going to be an experience to remember. Robert Canciello has convinced me that the convention is in good hands, and Jane and Andy are going to make sure that the games and pure art you’ll be seeing will make Play NYC unique and special. It’s important for me to remember why I decided to produce this series in the first place. Indie Insider exists because we wanted to help others with the desire to make games by sharing stories and advice from others. Playcrafting, and Play NYC, is striving to do something similar, and I couldn’t be more proud of what everyone is accomplishing. If you’re looking to make your first game, or you’re an experienced developer looking for something new, you’re definitely in the right place. Make sure you check out the episode and hear the exclusive announcements Dan has to share about this weekend. And make sure you join us next week as we begin our 50th episode celebration with Fredrik Wester, CEO of Paradox Interactive. You can hear exclusive announcements about our 50th episode celebration by checking out the episode as well. Finally, thank you all for joining us on this Road to Play NYC journey. It’s been a TON of work, but I couldn’t be happier about it all. If you enjoy the show, please rate us on iTunes or your favorite podcast service so we can keep doing amazing things like this with amazing people. Either way, thank you, and enjoy Play NYC this weekend! – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host P.S. If you don’t have your tickets yet, don’t forget to use code INDIEINSIDER for 20% off of your purchase. Buy tickets here! (Not an affiliate code. Just a treat for all of you!) Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  Guests: Joe Tringali, Director of Digital Continue Josh DeBonis, President of BunbleBear Games Zac Dixon, Creative Director of IV Studio Kati Nawrocki, Art Director of Computer Lunch Dan Butchko, CEO of Playcrafting   Topics discussed: Joe’s insight into starting companies and leading teams What it means to be catalyst for art and growth in the industry Josh’s approach to time management and life balance Tips on how to showcase your game in a public setting Zac’s pro-tips on animation in video games Overcoming the fear of starting out, even years into a career Kati’s approach to art direction and research A discussion on Women in Gaming Plus an expanded look at Play NYC, New York City’s first dedicated gaming convention, from Dan Butchko!   Hey Insiders, Perhaps what I’m most proud of this week is that each of the guests on Week 2 of the Road to Play NYC mini-series brought something to the table that I had never considered before. I’m honestly still considering my place as a catalyst in the industry, how I manage my time, and especially my role in the continued discussion that is women in gaming. There are some challenging ideas here that I think everyone can benefit from. That’s part of why I decided to produce this Road to Play NYC series. I’m not making any extra money off of this series. There’s no sponsorship. I chose to do this because I believe in the idea that when artists, creators, developers, and professionals come together, amazing things happen. And I believe that those types of events should happen in places like New York, and all over the world. If you don’t have tickets to Play NYC, get them now. You can enter the code INDIEINSIDER at checkout for an extra 20% off (again, not an affiliate link. Just something we wanted to provide for you). Go talk with some of these amazing people for yourself. I promise you that by surrounding yourself with people who inspire you and challenge you, you’ll always find some new way to grow. I know I have. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host P.S. – Do not miss next week’s episode! We’ll have tons of exclusive announcements about both Play NYC and Indie Insider’s upcoming 50th episode celebration, including some huge industry guests! Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  Guests: Nick Fortugno, CCO of Playmatics Rebecca Bennett, Marketing & Community Manager of Dreamsail Games Lawrence Mascia, Owner of Goodnight Games Ben Miller, Lead Designer of Fabraz Dan Butchko, CEO of Playcrafting Topics discussed: Nick’s guide to outstanding design and player guidance Thoughts on how indie developers will change the nature of art Rebecca’s thoughts on indie marketing, streaming, influencers, and VR How Lawrence quit his cozy job to learn coding in a Barnes and Noble Why it’s time to stop tweaking and finally ship your game Ben’s insight into console ports and finding ways to have fun while making games Plus an inside look at Play NYC, New York’s first dedicated gaming convention!   Hey Insiders,  So what is The Road to Play NYC? This is week one of a 3-week, limited run series we’re producing along with Playcrafting in the time leading up to Play NYC, New York’s first dedicated gaming convention. For the next three weeks, we’ll be talking with indie devs, experienced profesisonals, and companies who will all be attending the convention in the heart of Manhattan about their stories, their advice for others, and much more.  This week, previous guest Dan Butchko returns to the show to talk about Play NYC and why you should be there! Then, Nick Fortugno gives a crash course on game design and storytelling in interactive media, Rebecca shares some tips and insight into jumpstarting your indie marketing campaign, Lawrence gets weird on the show and talks about how your first game will almost certainly suck, and Ben shares his thoughts and insight as the lead designer for an acclaimed indie studio. It’s a jam-packed week, and we’re not stopping here. More guests will be stopping by over the next two weeks to share their stories, insight, and advice before they all meet up on August 19th and 20th for Play NYC, so stick with us. I’m having a blast talking to all of these intelligent and talented people, and I hope you will too. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell Media, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: John Master Lee, a veteran product and brand executive in the video game industry. Topics discussed: How the Lean Startup Methodology can help optimize your life and work Whether or not your geographical location impacts your ability to succeed Why it is that success comes to those who pursue their passions The pros and cons of founding your own startup or studio How companies such as Bethesda have grown over the last two decades Thoughts on honest and comedic marketing strategies …and much more! ? Hey Insiders, After my interview with John Master Lee, I immediately went and purchased The Lean Startup by Eric Reis. John warns that the book itself is padded with some “fluff,” but that the core information is actually quite beneficial and applicable to the video game industry. I’d have to agree. There are a lot of concepts in the methodology that apply directly to this industry (and to life in general), but John’s main takeaway was something like this: Prioritize the things that will make the most difference, and focus your energies there. In the journey to becoming a successful video game developer, it’s easy to become overwhelmed or lost in the flood of information. If you’re a fan of this show, then you know that every guest has different advice, different insight, and different lessons to share. How would you ever figure out where to start? How do you keep yourself from worrying about the little details? How do you keep from getting to far ahead of yourself? The answer is likely simpler than you fear – focus on the things that will make the most difference. If that’s just downloading some software and making something, then focus on that. If it’s reaching out to others and answering some emails because that will get you the farthest, then focus on that. Eliminate the other outside distractors that you don’t need to deal with until later. John took it a step farther and actually eliminated excess material possessions that he no longer needed. Find what works for you, and focus your energies there. And if you’re feeling stuck, reach out. My email: logan@blackshellmedia.com – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Anthony Palma, CEO of Jump, the upcoming on-demand video game subscription service! Topics discussed: Creating a Netflix-like subscription service focused on indie games The art of developing a business model and growth model The pros and cons of Jump’s revenue split model Tips to persevering when you’re aimless Finding the right name for your company or studio Anthony’s crash-course on investment, pitches, and indie publishers …and much more! ? Hey Insiders, You most likely heard about Jump the same way I did. This past week, news of the Netflix-like subscription service aimed at indie games spread like wildfire across major industry outlets such as IGN, Game Informer, PC Gamer, and many more. It’s understandable – we do live in the age of subscription services, and the technology behind Jump is promising. But after the media storm, many were left with questions such as whether Jump’s revenue model was financially worthwhile to developers, how the technology actually worked, and if the games on the platform were really going to be any good. I had the same questions, so I decided to find out for myself. Not only did I get the answers to those questions from Jump CEO Anthony Palma, but I also got a plethora of insight, advice, and actionable tips for game developers looking at the business side of video games. Anthony’s background at Core Labs Game Accelerator makes him uniquely equipped to give extensive advice on business models and funding for game developers and small studios, as well as personal advice on persevering when things aren’t going well – sometimes for an extended period of time. This week’s episode is jam-packed with insight and heart, so I won’t keep you any longer. But here’s one last thing for you, indie devs: If you’re in need of guidance or seeking insight on what to do next, both myself and the team at Jump would be happy to help. We’ll point you in the right direction and connect you with professionals who may be able to help you move forward with your project. After all, you’re insiders now. My email: logan@blackshellmedia.com Cade Peterson’s email: cade@playonjump.com – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Dan Butchko, CEO of Playcrafting, the organization providing in-person classes, courses, and events across America for both aspiring and established game developers! Topics discussed: Running a for-profit company with a non-profit mindset An inside look into Play NYC, Playcrafting’s upcoming convention! The future of conventions in the video game industry The art of managing and maintaining a large community The importance of continued and supplemental education …and much more! ? Hey everyone, Play NYC is Playcrafting’s huge indie video game convention coming this August. It’s an ambitious project: 2 days, 3 floors, over 100 developers, and an estimated 5000 attendees in the heart of New York City. If anyone else was attempting to put on such an event, I might have some concerns. But after my interview with Dan Butchko, the CEO of Playcrafting, I honestly can’t imagine anyone more suited for the job. Dan has grown Playcrafting into a community-based organization offering educational courses and events to over 25,000 developers across America, and his non-profit background shines through every inch of it. His story and his insight in this week’s episode is a brilliant reminder to me of why the work we do in this industry is important, and why giving back is meaningful. It even helped remind me why this very podcast matters. Hopefully you’re able to gain something meaningful from it as well. Play NYC is a promising first step into the future for Playcrafting and Dan Butchko, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Rocky Kev, founder of the Serious Game Devs Only community and creator of the Bytesized educational video series for game developers! Topics discussed: Tackling debt as an indie game developer Why periods of video game apathy can be a positive thing Making real art vs. appealing to the marketplace The constant struggle of learning from your mistakes The zone of proximal development and the struggles introverts face in the video game industry Mastering the art of time management …and much more! ? Hey everyone, First off, to all of our friends in the United States: Happy 4th of July! I’m on the road visiting family (as you might be able to tell by the introduction audio), but I’m enjoying the holiday and I hope all of you are as well! Even if this isn’t a holiday weekend for you, I hope you’re finding some time this summer to relax and recoup in your game development endeavors! But, if you’re like me and feel the constant need to learn more, then our guest this week has you covered. Rocky Kev created a community of aspiring game developers called Serious Game Devs Only, and his work has taken off ever since. Rocky shares some brilliant insight into tackling debt as an indie developer (something we probably all know a bit too much about), as well as how he dealt with a period of apathy towards video games and ways that he overcomes his introverted nature. Rocky is someone who’s story and insight will resonate with you, whether you’re in front of the computer or out under some fireworks. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Dirk Knemeyer, host of The Game Design Roundtable podcast and Creative Director of Artana, a tabletop game company! Topics discussed: How to bounce back when your company or idea crumbles around you Finding your personal alignment Dealing with negative collaborations When to decide it’s time to move on Reformatting your idea to provide consistency …and much more! ? Hey everyone, We’re lucky enough to get some amazing guests on the Indie Insider podcast, but this week’s guest was an extremely exciting one for me personally. Dirk Knemeyer is arguably best known as the host of the widely successful podcast, The Game Design Roundtable. His podcast is part of the reason why Indie Insider exists, and his work there inspires me and a lot of what happens on our show. If you haven’t stopped by to check out his show, I couldn’t recommend it more. Little did I know that my interview with Dirk would cover such a wide range of topics, from the collapse of his Silicon Valley software company and his struggles in the tabletop world to his views on personal alignment and his approach to positive and negative collaborations. Dirk provides an honest and vulnerable look into his life, his experiences, and his thoughts on “getting lucky,” and it makes for one of the most valuable episodes of Indie Insider we’ve had to date. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Dirk Knemeyer, host of The Game Design Roundtable podcast and Creative Director of Artana, a tabletop game company! Topics discussed: How to bounce back when your company or idea crumbles around you Finding your personal alignment Dealing with negative collaborations When to decide it’s time to move on Reformatting your idea to provide consistency …and much more! ? Hey everyone, We’re lucky enough to get some amazing guests on the Indie Insider podcast, but this week’s guest was an extremely exciting one for me personally. Dirk Knemeyer is arguably best known as the host of the widely successful podcast, The Game Design Roundtable. His podcast is part of the reason why Indie Insider exists, and his work there inspires me and a lot of what happens on our show. If you haven’t stopped by to check out his show, I couldn’t recommend it more. Little did I know that my interview with Dirk would cover such a wide range of topics, from the collapse of his Silicon Valley software company and his struggles in the tabletop world to his views on personal alignment and his approach to positive and negative collaborations. Dirk provides an honest and vulnerable look into his life, his experiences, and his thoughts on “getting lucky,” and it makes for one of the most valuable episodes of Indie Insider we’ve had to date. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Alex Nae and Alex Nechita, developers of The Underground King, perhaps most notable for being the final Steam Greenlight game. Topics discussed: What happens when your game receives publicity for something out of your control The nature and future of Steam as a marketplace How to respond when your development partner abandons you Tips for selecting your Kickstarter rewards The pros and cons of working remotely …and much more! ? Hey everyone, When Alex Nechita reached out to me about his new game, The Underground King, and coming on the show to talk about their Kickstarter campaign, it was a bit too interesting to pass up. I, like many others, have been keeping a close eye on the current changes to the Steam marketplace, so I was curious to hear the perspective of the developers behind the final Steam Greenlight game ever. Both Alex Nechita and Alex Nae share excellent advice and insight in this week’s episode, particularly when it comes to persevering. As we, as an industry, transition to Steam Direct and the future of the “indiepocalypse”, it’s important for us as developers and creators to continue to persevere. As Alex Nae says, “Fail as fast as you can, and try everything that seems impossible.” It’s only then that you’ll find success. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Rich Vreeland, AKA Disasterpeace, the composer of the music behind games such as Fez, Hyper Light Drifter, Mini Metro, and more! Topics discussed: Designing music for games such as Fez and Hyper Light Drifter The art of seizing an opportunity Maintaining motivation and inspiration in your work over time Negotiating pay as a contractor or freelancer …and much more! ? Hey everyone, Rich Vreeland, AKA Disasterpeace, is perhaps best known for composing the soundtracks to such games as Fez and Hyper Light Drifter. He’s successful, financially secure, and talented. Yet, though he has had a stunning career over the last decade in both video games and film, it’s difficult to find a more humble and self-reflective guy who’s willing to share what he’s learned with others. We talk about everything from finding passion in your work to paying the bills and managing your business. He’s seen a bit of everything, and I couldn’t be more pleased to share his insight with all of you. Perhaps my main takeaway from this interview is how Rich managed to seize opportunities. That game that made him wealthy and famous, Fez, came about because he was chatting with some guys at a concert. I’m hosting this very podcast because I sent Black Shell Media a completely unrelated email. If you’re open to seizing it, where will your next opportunity take you? – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Alexander Winn, founder of EdgeWorks Entertainment and creator of the hit app, TerraGenesis! Topics discussed: Developing 24 apps before finally hitting it big The constant grind of bug-fixes and audience response Developing and managing a community around your game The pros and cons of developing solo …and much more! ? Hey everyone, A couple of weeks ago, someone named Alexander Winn sent us an email asking if he could come onto Indie Insider to talk about his mobile game, TerraGenesis, which was apparently quite successful. I was impressed by his willingness to reach out, so I followed up with Alexander and we scheduled an interview. I couldn’t be more pleased that we got him on the show. Alexander’s story is one that is very much the rule, not the exception. Sometimes it takes 24 failed apps before you hit a home run, but his lesson is perseverance is one that everyone should hear. The most common piece of advice we receive from guests on this show to those interested in making games is “Just do it.” But less often, yet arguably more important, we hear the advice “Keep doing it.” That’s the story here. Take some time today and check out Alexander’s story. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.  

  This week’s guest: Timo Verschueren from Nevaly, a startup focused on connecting game developers and publishers with online and YouTube influencers! Topics discussed: The art of the cold email Why do people love YouTubers and Let’s Play videos How to utilize influencers to market your game How to get noticed in a sea of video games …and much more! ? Hey everyone, When Timo reached out to me about coming onto the podcast to talk about Nevaly, it didn’t take long for me to say yes. Not only is Timo an intelligent and thoughtful guy with excellent insight into influencer marketing, but Nevaly as a company has achieved some fantastic things in only a couple of years, and I have little doubt that the small start-up is going to continue to grow exponentially. And I wasn’t disappointed – this week’s interview features Timo dropping knowledge that everyone can benefit from: cold emails, designing a marketing campaign, who are the right people to partner with, remaining focus on long-term goals, etc. If you have even a passing curiosity in how to utilize online influencers and YouTubers to market projects, this is the episode for you. – Logan Schultz, Indie Insider Host Have thoughts or questions? Want to be on the show? Email us: logan@blackshellmedia.com. Indie Insider, presented by Black Shell M?edia, is the podcast that dives into the independent video game scene by speaking with indie developers, publishers, and industry professionals about their projects, stories, and thoughts on the hottest current topics! Indie Insider airs every Monday on BlackShellMedia.com and podcast hosting sites everywhere. Black Shell Media is a publishing? and marketing firm dedicated to helping independent video game developers reach massive audiences, publish financially successful titles, and turn game development into a career. It’s our mission to help game developers get more of what they want out of a rewarding opportunity in the game industry: more fans and sustainable revenue to keep them moving forward.