Shows
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast097: Community Management & Running a Production Studio with Kay of Chaotic Wholesome PresentsIn this episode, we chat with Kay Purcell, co-founder of Chaotic Wholesome Presents, a TTRPG production studio known for creating engaging stories and actual play content. We discuss Kay's work in community management, the processes behind running a TTRPG production studio, and tips for navigating social media. The conversation covers the evolution of Chaotic Wholesome Presents from its inception with the God Plane campaign to its current focus on telling diverse stories and charity work. Lazlo's Cubed CryptFind Kay & Chaotic Wholesome PresentsThe CWP website Free auto-updating group lines and veils do...
2025-04-2954 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast096: Making a Map Puzzle Cube with Nathan of Attention Deficit & DragonsIn this episode, we sit down with Nathan Doyle, the game designer behind 'Attention Deficit and Dragons'. Nathan discusses his early gaming experiences, from playing Super Mario Bros. and Candyland to discovering tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons. He shares his journey from being a player to a game designer, detailing his contributions to the DMs Guild and the evolution of his projects. We dive deep into his upcoming project, 'Laszlo's Cubed Crypt', a unique adventure featuring a puzzle cube, discussing its development process, challenges, and future plans. Nathan also highlights the joys and difficulties of working on collaborative projects...
2025-04-1548 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast095: Celebrating 4 years of RPG & exploring the intricacies of content creation with Fondue of Dice & EasyIt's the four-year anniversary of Roll Play Grow! Thank y'all so much for being here.This episode features an interview with Fondue, the creator behind Dice & Easy. We discuss topics ranging from the intricacies of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) to the challenges and joys of content creation. Fondue shares his experiences transitioning into community management at Remedy Entertainment, his brief stint with professional DMing, streaming on Twitch, and creating videos for YouTube. The conversation also touches upon Foundry Virtual Tabletop, the evolving landscape of TTRPGs, and practical tips for budding content creators. Friday Afternoon TeaGr...
2025-01-0158 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast094: Why picking a theme word for 2025 will help you focus in your life & careerPicking a theme word is an important step in helping you shape your year to come. When you struggle to decide what to work on next, you can look to that word and ask yourself, which of these options will help me emulate this word? Which task helps you return to my overall goal for the year?In today's episode, Courtney explains what a theme word is, how to pick one, and how her word for 2025 will help her work towards making this next year better than the last.Support the show...
2024-12-2409 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast093: Bringing historical magic to game development with Andrew of Shewstone PublishingIn this episode of Roll Play Grow, Courtney chats with Andrew Gronosky, the creative director of Shewstone Publishing, about his historical research for the game Magonomia, and the upcoming Kickstarter for his monthly publication, Drinterra. They delve into the importance of lore and world-building in game development and discuss Andrew's gaming background and his influences from Call of Cthulhu and Ars Magica. Andrew also provides insights into starting and funding a TTRPG project, including selecting a game system, crowdfunding, and building a diverse design team.Find Andrew:Drintera KickstarterWebsiteMagonomiaSupport the show
2024-12-1753 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast092: Finding a team for your gaming projectIn today's episode, we continue the discussion on starting with your own TTRPG project. Once you've figured out what roles you need to fill on your project, how do you go about finding your team?Make sure you listen to today's episode to find out the exact steps you need to take to pick out your project team.Want to work with Courtney one-on-one? Start here.Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a...
2024-12-1011 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast091: Launching a TTRPG magazine with Hannah Rose & Clara Daly of Wildmage PressIn this episode of Roll Play Grow, we delve into entrepreneurial journeys within the tabletop role-playing game industry. Your host, Courtney, interviews Hannah Rose and Clara Daly, co-founders of Wildmage Press, discussing their backgrounds, the inception of their new magazine 'Horizons,' and their experiences starting a TTRPG business. They highlight the magazine's unique offerings, efforts in playtesting, and the challenges and rewards of managing a new business. The episode provides insights into their collaborative process, marketing strategies, and future aspirations for Wildmage Press.Find Wildmage Press atWebsitePatreonHannah's Blue SkyClara's Blue Sky
2024-11-2659 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast090: How to plan your TTRPG design projectAre you designing a new TTRPG or supplement and feeling overwhelmed? You've got the idea down; you feel confident in writing it, but you don't know what to do next. Start here! In today's episode, your host, Courtney, describes the very first steps you should take to get your project ready. We're going over high level categories like art, layout, and marketing, and helping you get a grasp on how to get started with your new TTRPG project.Want to work with Courtney one-on-one? Start here.Support the showFind Roll Play...
2024-11-1915 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast089: Leveraging Kickstarter for fulltime game design with Chris of Evil Pigeon GamingHave you dreamed of becoming a full-time ttrpg designer? That's exactly what today's guest, Chris Craven, did--all with the help of Kickstarter. In today's episode, we dive into his strategies to drop 10 Kickstarter campaigns a year.Find Evil Pigeon Gaming at:LinkTreeServants of the Mimic Queen KickstarterFriday Afternoon TeaGrab a cup of tea with blends based on your favorite nerdy series. Use lightheartadv for 10% offDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you....
2024-11-1247 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast088: Learn alongside me as I pursue multiple business ventures!We've heard from so many passionate creators over the past few years about how they're turning a love for ttrpgs into a career. It's time to put their tips into action! I am starting a new mini-series of shorter episodes in between interviews to focus on specific things we've learned from our guests as I launch into multiple ventures of my own. In this kick-off episode, I go over all the different avenues I'm pursuing in growing my own business. Is it too much at once? We'll find out! Let's learn together to find out what works and doesn't...
2024-11-0521 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast087: Growing Hatchlings Games & starting a TTRPG Consultancy Business with Rich OxenhamIn this comprehensive episode of Roll Play Grow, we revisit Rich Oxenham of Hatchlings Games, originally featured in 2021. Rich provides an enlightening look into the significant growth of Hatchlings Games, highlighting successful crowdfunding initiatives and the development of projects like Inspirisles, Overisles, and solo journaling games such as Dragon Dowser. Rich shares his exploration of incorporating accessibility through sign language, the importance of nostalgia in game design, and his transition to forming a crowdfunding consultancy, Tattered Bear. Listeners will gain insights into the educational benefits of solo journaling games, the evolving strategies for successful crowdfunding, and the crucial role...
2024-10-2954 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast086: Producing & Painting Miniatures with JD WikerIn this engaging episode, Courtney interviews JD Wiker, a seasoned RPG producer and miniature painting aficionado. JD recounts his journey from discovering Dungeons & Dragons in the late 1970s to his professional milestones with Wizards of the Coast, WizKids, and other notable RPG companies. He shares his experiences in creating RPGs like Ars Magica and Dark Matter, as well as designing Star Wars rulebooks. Beyond gaming, JD delves into his evolution as a miniature painter, offering practical tips for beginners and discussing his commission work. From early struggles with painting techniques to becoming a recognized artist, JD's story is inspiring...
2024-10-2255 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast085: Crafting Stories Through Board & Card Games with Emma LarkinsEmma Larkins, celebrated creator of "Abandon All Artichokes" and the eagerly awaited "Epilogue," takes us inside the vibrant world of board game design, discussing the pivotal role of community and collaboration in her design journey. We explore the evolution of games from simple card concepts to intricate storytelling experiences, underscoring the importance of prototyping and the creative freedom it provides. Emma shares invaluable insights for aspiring game designers, highlighting the significance of networking and how engaging with playtest communities led to her first board game creation.Discover the magic behind storytelling games as Emma discusses her latest...
2024-10-1558 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast084: From Video Games to Tabletop Games: A Look at Margaret Krohn's Journey in GamingToday we're learning from the dynamic Margaret Krohn, who shares her fascinating journey from being an avid gamer to holding pivotal roles such as Director of Communications at Intrepid Games and the CMO for Roll4It. We discuss her evolution into a content creator, lifestyle adjustments, and the paths she wishes she had discovered earlier in her career.Ever wondered what goes into creating a successful broadcast studio or an RPG show? Hear it from the expert herself, as Margaret peels back the curtain on what it takes to organize large groups, pinpoint the right cast, and...
2024-10-0854 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast083: Making dice boxes that look tasty enough to eat with Andrew of DodecadonutsGet ready to roll the dice and hit the sweet spot with our guest, Andrew Davis, the genius behind Dodecadonuts - a successful venture blending the world of tabletop gaming with deliciously whimsical doughnut-shaped dice boxes. Andy reveals his journey, from his long-standing passion for gaming to the creation of a business that's as entertaining as it is tasty. He takes us on a tour of his experiences at gaming conventions like PAX West and the reactions of the gaming community to his unique confections.Then, Andy tells us about the behind-the-scenes action - from the initial...
2024-10-0159 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business PodcastGuess Who's Back! (Podcast & Life Update)HELLO!!!Y'all, I have missed you so much. I am so excited for Roll Play Grow to officially return next week. Here's an episode to chat about what's been going on lately, and what you can look forward to in the future.Love ya, my friends!Support the showFind Roll Play Grow: Show Page Patreon Discord Lightheart Adventures Website Lightheart Twitter Lightheart Instagram
2024-09-2409 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast082: Elevate Your TTRPG Projects with Effective Project Management ToolsEver feel overwhelmed by managing your tabletop role-play game project? We've been there, and we've got your back! We spent this episode of Roll Play Grow diving deep into the world of project management tools. We shed light on how tools like Asana, Wrike, Notion, and Trello can help simplify your task organization, role assignment, note-taking, and deadline setting. Whether you're drawn to the free version of Asana, the extensive database capabilities of Notion, or the beginner-friendly interface of Trello, we've got the insights you need.Let's not stop there, though. We also tackled the planning and...
2023-10-0331 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast081: A Deep Dive into the World of Sensitivity Consulting with Noordin Ali KadirAre you aware of the power of words and how they can subtly infiltrate a game? Noordin Ali Kadir unearths this concealed beast in today's episode, throwing light on how bias can have a profound impact on players. You'll discover how sensitivity consulting can prevent unintended consequences, ensuring a balanced and fair game design. We discuss his consulting experience and how he combats racial and cultural stereotypes in all of his projects.Additionally, we dive into the importance of collaboration in editing and how consulting can save game developers time and prevent errors. Noordin stresses the need...
2023-09-181h 06Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast080: Maximizing Your TTRPG Creation Efforts through Effective Project ManagementReady to up your game in the TTRPG space? Ever wondered how project management skills could change your trajectory as a creator? We dive into the nitty-gritty of project management, starting with the basics - what a project is, who a project manager is, and the phases within a project. We've got your back on each step of this journey, demystifying processes and sharing relatable examples to bring clarity. And we're not stopping at the theory, our next episode promises to unlock the world of project management tools for you. But that's not all. A project isn't j...
2023-09-1236 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast079: Designing Vagrantsong & two expansions with Kyle Rowan of Wyrd GamesToday, we take an exclusive tour of board game development behind the scenes with the imaginative Kyle Rowan, Design Lead at Wyrd Games. Kyle delves into his personal trajectory from gamer to game designer, detailing the evolution of his role at Wyrd Games and the life of the board game Vagrantsong.Kyle reflects on the spark that ignited Vagrantsong and the journey of developing the game and its expansions. He provides deeper insights into the mechanics and philosophy behind each expansion. We also touch upon the local legend of Slagpile Annie, a friendly Pittsburgh ghost, making her s...
2023-09-0550 minRoll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast078: Building an Online Community part 3: Strategies, Pitfalls, and SuccessesReady to build a thriving community in the tabletop role-play gaming space? Then you're in for a treat. Today, we're delving into the nitty-gritty of how to make your community members feel seen, heard, and appreciated. We're talking about highlighting community members, featuring their posts, and applauding their contributions. But more than that, we're exploring the importance of nurturing relationships within your community - because, at the end of the day, it's those relationships that keep people coming back for more.We've also got some wisdom to share on common pitfalls when growing your social media community – an...
2023-08-2937 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast077: Challenging Stereotypes in Fantasy Game Design with Ella WattsEver wonder what goes into designing a Tabletop Role-Playing Game (TTRPG)? In our latest chat with Ella Watts, an accomplished director, writer, and producer, we get to unravel the process behind the creation of her TTRPG, Upriver, Downriver. From her first game session, to her daunting journey of game design, Ella's story is as captivating as her game. Ella doesn't shy away from the gritty side of game development. She takes us through the challenges she faced as a disabled and chronically ill person, shedding light on the real struggles behind the scenes. The conversation takes a...
2023-08-221h 02Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast076: Building an Online Community part 2: Strategically building engagementReady to transform your social media presence and build a thriving online community? Our latest episode is your ultimate guide to this dynamic digital landscape. We're here to help you carve out your unique space and captivate your audience by consistently delivering content that resonates.Harness the power of community engagement with practical strategies shared in this episode. Recognize your audience, build genuine relationships, and show them they are valued. We'll explore interactive sessions like games, Q&As, AMAs, and live chats to educate and build rapport with your audience. We'll also talk about the power of...
2023-08-1530 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast075: From Herbalist's Primer to Geologist's Primer with Anna of Geologist's PrimerJoin me as we step into the fascinating world of Double Proficiency, guided by none other than its co-founder, Anna. Prepare to be enthralled as we journey from the humble beginnings of her first book, Herbalist Primer, through its successful Kickstarter campaign, to its current status as a beloved gem in the TTRPG community. Anna candidly shares her experiences, from triumphs to struggles, while also giving us a glimpse into her work with the sequel, Geoglist's Primer.Get ready to understand the grind of research, balancing work with life, and the critical role of a science editor...
2023-08-0850 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast074: Introducing a new co-host! & How to Build an Online Community Part 1Ready to stop aimlessly scrolling through social media and start building a thriving online community? This episode is for you! I am joined by my engaging new co-host, Matt Joro, and we're ready to tackle the dynamic world of social media. We'll share insights on the unpredictable algorithms, increasing ad costs, and if those age-old Twitter tactics are worth a second look. As we navigate the challenging digital terrain, we'll discuss the importance of staying ahead of the curve and predicting the next big platform.What if you could tap into the secret of creating magnetic content...
2023-08-0133 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast073: Leading a touring Actual Play with Russell E Welch III of D20 TalesYou won't want to miss this jam-packed episode as we're rolling the dice again with Russell E Welch III, the mastermind DM and CEO behind D20 Tales. Russell returns to chat about how D20 Tales has grown and changed over the last year, including the added complexities of going on tour. As we pull back the curtain on the world of live touring, we candidly discuss the unique challenges it entails. But it's not all chaos and stress - the excitement of audience interaction is certainly worth it. We also dive into the complexities of casting, tackling b...
2023-07-251h 00
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast072: Running a game store with Andrew of Lost Star Gaming OutfittersHow many of you have thought about starting a friendly local gaming store? Well, I have a special treat for you today, because I got to chat with Andrew Youngchild, the co-founder of Lost Star Tabletop Gaming Outfitter in Gig Harbor, Washington. He and his sister, Charlie, opened up this very cool store in the heart of Gig Harbor’s shopping district, a year into Covid. We dig into how the store came to be, how things have changed over the years, and Andrew’s hopes for the future. Andrew really dives into a lot of the decisions they had...
2023-05-0250 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast071: Jay & Grub talk Yazeba's B&B and growing Possum Creek GamesJay & Grub from Possum Creek Games are back! I’m super stoked to have my first repeat guests on the show from all the way back in episode 13. If you are not familiar with Possum Creek Games, then you might have heard of a little game called Wanderhome that Kickstarted during the height of Covid. I interviewed Jay & Grub both on my blog and on this show about Wanderhome, and now, today, we are talking about their latest game, Yazeba’s Bed & Breakfast. Yazaeba’s just came out on pdf and with their super cool virtual tabletop, One More Multiv...
2023-04-2058 min
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast070 - Writing a book about Proactive Roleplaying with The Quest BrothersJonah and Tristan Fishel are two brothers writing a book together. Tristan started publishing on DM’s Guild and as a freelancer about a year ago, and they decided to write a book about proactive roleplaying. The book is called The Game Master’s Handbook of Proactive Roleplaying, and we talk about what proactive roleplaying means, their journey of writing this book and finding a publisher, and what it’s like to work on a project like this together.Find The Quest BrothersWebsitePreorder their bookTwitterFind Roll Play Grow:Show...
2023-04-041h 00
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast069: DungeonGlitch makes music, talks D&D, designs merch & moreMatt Joro, also known as DungeonGlitch is one of those cool creators who does so many things. Matt is a DnD Influencer, Professional DM, Artist, Author, and Composer, and I wish I’d had several more hours to talk to him. We dive into how Matt has grown in the ttrpg space over the last 3 years, how he became connected with Wizards of the Coast, marketing tips, getting into Lo-Fi music composition, and DM’s Guild. Like I said–Matt does a lot, and I hope you enjoy getting to hear from him!If this is your first...
2023-03-211h 04
Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast068: BeththeBard is writing spooky stories & launching businessesBeth the Bard is a writer, designer, streamer, and professional dungeon master. I first learned about Beth when she published She is the Ancient, an amazing genderbent version of Curse of Strahd, and it’s been a joy to follow her work ever since. Beth currently has a Kickstarter going for Daughters of Frankenstein, a super spooky 5e supplement that is inspired by all your favorite classic horror stories. I’m pretty excited for it, and it was a pleasure to get to chat with Beth about both this supplement, her journey, and the plans to launch a publishing comp...
2023-03-071h 04