Crush Crowdfunding Podcast

In today’s episode, Nalin talks about everything that you can do with a Facebook group during pre-launch to build a community feeling and create excitement for your project launching on crowdfunding. Facebook groups are proven ways to engage and get to know people interested in your idea. Don’t miss it! [0:24]: Why do you want a pre-launch Facebook group? Pre-launch is not only for paid promotion but also to build a real community of real people excited about your project. Facebook groups are a great way to do just that.  [3:50]: What questions should you ask? If you set up your group as private, not only will it give it a sense of exclusivity, but it will also be an opportunity to ask important questions to collect data from your audience. [7:25]: Tell people what to expect People want to know what they’ll get from being part of your group. Be explicit and make sure you share content and interact constantly so people know that you’re there. [10:20]: Friends and family  If you want to get the ball rolling, your friends and family are a great asset to increase the engagement when you first start your group. [13:29]: Share benefits and features People don’t buy anything without knowing what it’ll do for them. Make sure to use the group to share all of the benefits and features of your product, and how it can help your audience. [13:41]: Group activities Create scheduled moments where people can do activities together and interact with you and with each other. A Livestream on Fridays, a “share where you’re working from” post on Wednesdays, or a “what game are you playing right now” Thursdays. Anything that speaks to your audience and makes them want to engage. Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review

In today’s episode, Nalin talks about all things advertisements! She goes over what kind of ads you can do, how to do them in the most effective way for your project, and so much more. Marketing works when it's the right message to the right people at the right time in the right channel - advertisements can help achieve this today we’re going to tell you how.  [0:52]: Why Are Ads Important? You have probably heard Nalin say that your audience is one of the most important parts of your campaign. Well, ads are a huge part of this that you just can’t miss out on.   [2:57]: What Does It Mean To Do A/B Testing For Ads? A/B testing is very important for your product and advertisements, but there is a right and wrong way to do it as well as a right time and a wrong time to do it. [7:17]: The Importance of “Cost Per Lead”  What is the cost per lead and how does it relate to your advertisements? Here is a hint: your email list may play a role. [9:03]: Ad-Fatigue  What it is. What it does. How to avoid it. [10:29]: The Danger of Having Only One Audience  Often times we don’t know which audience is going to work when we start launching a project. However, that doesn’t mean you need to target everyone. Here is how to narrow down how to target the right audience for your project. [13:41]: Landing Pages For Each Audience  Don’t do it!! People like to have different landing pages for each audience type and we’re here to tell you NOT to do that!  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review

Nalin gets an abundance of crowdfunding questions all the time. In this episode, she goes through some of the most commonly asked questions and answers them. If you’re someone in the crowdfunding space or just getting started, these questions are sure to have crossed your mind at some point and if they haven’t yet, they probably will in the future. No matter where you are in your crowdfunding journey, you’re going to want to take a listen! [1:18]: #1: How Do I Market My Project? Marketing is all about attention. You should be making sure that your product has that attention and from the right people. Let’s discuss who to get attention from, where to go to get the attention, and how to go about getting it. [7:11]: Paying For Attention Sometimes you have to pay for people to notice you and that’s not “wrong.” So many companies do it and maybe you should too. [9:32]: Earning Attention The best way to earn attention is through organic marketing and relationship building. It takes time and there is a right way to do it. Make sure you’re doing it correctly! [13:57]: #2: How Do You Get Your Community? Your community is like an upside down triangle. It’s those people at the bottom who you want to foster and care for. However, you will, inevitably, lose people along the way. Don’t panic. That’s normal. [19:23]: #3: Does This Actually Work Or Am I Wasting My Time? Does crowdfunding really work? If you are having this thought, stop what you’re doing and listen to this right now. Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review  

Have you ever felt overwhelmed with the task of getting people to back your project or idea? If so, you’re not alone and there is probably a very clear answer to solving your problems. In this episode, Nalin explains the importance of goal setting early on and how to do it so that you aren’t feeling overwhelmed and lost mid-way through your campaign.  [0:40]: Feeling The Frustration of Marketing  Do you ever get bogged down with the overwhelming to-dos of marketing? Do you feel like it will never end? There is typically one major thing people are doing wrong if they’re feeling this way. [2:36]: What To Do When You’ve Veered Off Your Path  If you’re feeling overwhelmed it’s probably because you veered off your path. Here’s how to get back on track!  [4:52]: Where Every Crowdfunder Should Start  No matter what you are creating, there is one simple first step that every single entrepreneur should take. It’s not hard and incredibly important.  [6:10]: How To Figure Out How Many People You Need To Back You For Success  Believe it or not, there is a very easy way to figure out exactly how many people you need to back your project for success. [7:54]: How Utilizing Friends and Family Helps Your Ultimate Backer Number  Chances are you have more people in your corner than you think. Use them! [10:34]: The Main Take-Away And Actionable Steps To Take Today  How to take tangible steps to guarantee crowdfunding success.  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

You have probably heard of a landing page, but do you truly know the in’s and out’s of it and how it relates to your crowdfunding success? In this episode, Nalin goes over what a landing page is, how to properly build one, what should be on it, and how to make it impactful for your launch and your product.  [1:07]: How Impactful Can A Landing Page Actually Be? Let’s just say a company Nalin worked with raised $25,000 in the first 10 minutes of their project going live and we’re not saying it was all because of a landing page but...we’re not it wasn’t either.  [2:36]: How To “Permission Build” You have to ask permission to your potential buyers but once you’ve done so the floodgates are open and you just may guarantee yourself an future buyer. [4:23]: What Is A Landing Page? For people to buy into a product that isn’t even made yet takes a lot of risk. Your landing page is extremely influential in lowering that barrier to entry for your potential buyers. [7:20]: How To Build A Landing Page Here are four things you can do today to start launching a successful landing page. [9:30]: What Should Be On A Landing Page A lot of people don’t know what should actually go on a landing page to actually get people to convert. We tell you what you need to know. [12:06]: The Importance Of A “Hero Section” On Your Landing Page Most people don’t scroll all the way down a landing page which is why this “hero section” is so critical. [19:46]: The Influence Of Mobile Devices And How That Impacts Your Landing Page Most people make this one mistake when it comes to thier landing pages. Thinking about the differences of the landing page on a desktop versus a mobile device is something that’s pretty important.  Relevant Resources:   Crush Crowdfunding Starter Kit Crush Crowdfunding Swipe File  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review

Absolutely no one does crowdfunding alone. There are usually many people behind the scenes that help make a project come to fruition. In this episode, Nalin goes in-depth on two types of “teammates” that could assist you in your crowdfunding journey: an agency or a consultant. You will learn the benefits of both and the essential questions to ask to find out which one would be best for you and your project. [1:10]: The Number One Thing To Stay Away From When Starting To Crowdfund  Chances are you’ve been reached out to and told this line. Don’t fall for it!!  [4:08]: The Pre-Launch  There are a few options for pre-launch. You can go at it alone or you can get help. Let’s explore all those options. [5:34]: The First Question To Ask An Agency For Crowdfunding Help  This is the number one question you need to be asking if you plan to go down the agency route. It will save you a lot of potentially wasted time by asking this one simple question.  [7:23]: The Second Question To Ask An Agency For Crowdfunding Help   There are two different types of people in the crowdfunding world. Luckily, there are also two different types of agencies. You should know what kind you need to best suit your needs and set you up for success. [10:00]: No One Does This Alone No one does this alone. Even the companies that make millions have a ton of people behind them. You shouldn’t be doing this alone. You should have help. [12:49]: The Basic Rule Of Thumb That’s Tried And True  The basic rule of thumb is quite simple but oh so important! It will make or break your experience.  [14:22]: What About If You’re Looking For A Consultant?  There are quite a few questions to ask when looking into a consultant to make sure it’s the right fit for you.  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

Organic marketing has the potential to really be a huge asset in your crowdfunding marketing. In this episode, Nalin explains what organic marketing is and how it relates especially well to Facebook groups. She does this by explaining how organic marketing has worked in her newest business venture and gives you the behind-the-scenes look at what organic marketing can do for you, too. [0:54]: What Is Organic Marketing?  This is a great question. Here we talk about what it is and how you can use it. [2:47]: Organic Marketing and Facebook  How utilizing Facebook can actually be more beneficial for your business than it is for taking up your free time. [4:27]: How Do You Market Without A Budget?  Sure you understand organic marketing and you are full of these grand ideas but what if you don’t have much money to spend initially?  [6:01]: Nalin’s Newest Entrepreneurial Endeavor  Nalin is always up to something. Her newest adventure is not only one we can learn from but also pretty dang cool! [8:24]: How To Do Facebook Right When It Comes To Groups  You may know about Facebook groups, but are you utilizing them the best way possible and in your best interest for your project?  [11:40]: What Does All This Facebook Group Talk Mean For You?  This is can all be applicable for you when launching on crowdfunding. It just depends on what your product is and who your main avatar is for your particular product. [14:57]: What To Start Posting About First  Now that you have the tools and know the importance of Facebook groups - here is what you should post first. Visit the Meeple Marketing Facebook Group: meeplemarketing.com/group Subscribe to get Crush Crowdfunding Tips: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/subscribe/  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

Are you crowdfunding right now? Do you consider yourself an entrepreneur? Well, you are, whether you like it or not. In this episode, Nalin goes into what it takes to be an entrepreneur. By sharing a current project of her own and the stories of other very famous entrepreneurs, she discusses why it’s so important to trust your gut, be ok with failure, and act on your feelings!    After listening to this episode, you’ll be feeling ready and inspired to go out and crush your crowdfunding! [0:39]: How Crowdfunding Makes You Automatically an Entrepreneur Ever had the thought of “I could never be an entrepreneur?” Well, as it turns out, you may just be one and didn’t know it. [2:10]: Nalin’s Newest Goal/Project As An Entrepreneur  Nalin has been busy with a new project as of late. Here’s what it is! [5:24]: That Funny Feeling You Get When You Know You’re Taking On Too Much Ever know you’re doing too much? Ever not trust what you’re doing? Ever not know where to turn to next? Ever get overwhelmed with how much there is to do that you don’t know how to do? Yeah, us too! [10:14]: The Issue Of Your Ego And How It’s Ruining You Our ego has been shaped by society and we’ve been taught to think of ourselves as “less than.” This is, quite obviously, a huge issue with entrepreneurship.  [11:37]: The Curse of Entrepreneurship  The curse that affects us all at some point of our entrepreneurial journey. We can’t escape it. It’s inevitable BUT we must do everything in our power to push against it. [17:38]: Some Of The Biggest Names In Society And Their Failures Ever heard of Elong Musk? Jeff Besos? Tony Ma? Guess what? They failed and they failed BIG.   [18:36]: What To Do When You Fail There is no doubt you will fail. Here’s what to take from your failures. Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

Are you just starting your crowdfunding journey? Are you overwhelmed with the amount of information out there? If so, you’re not the only one. It turns out that many people in the crowdfunding world feel this way.    In today’s episode, Nalin helps break down how not to be so overwhelmed when beginning your crowdfunding campaign. She will tell you exactly what to look for and what to do to ensure you don’t feel overwhelmed and can start getting the answers you want and need. [0:39]: The Big Question Nalin Received At 2 AM That Sparked This Podcast It’s a question that all people have when starting out during their launch. Could you have it too? [4:53]: Figure Out Who You Want To Follow  It’s important to figure out who you want to listen to your mind as you continually work through your launch. It just might save you from feeling overwhelmed with all the information out there. [7:19]: Everyone Has Potential To Up-Level  You can up-level and have guaranteed success if you only do this ONE key thing. [11:53]: Grand Picture Tasks Defining your goal, finding your audience, lead magnets… All these and more are critical. Let’s talk about what you need to do about them.  [12:47]: Fill In The Gaps  What are the gaps that need filling and how can you fill them? Let’s talk assets. [16:01]: What To Do  Ok...so after following people, figuring out your grand picture tasks, and filling in the gaps - what’s next? What do you do? We’ll tell you - you DO IT! [17:22]: What Nalin Learned From Being Let-go  The famous saying “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is true. Learn how Nalin’s experience of being let-go has actually catapulted her knowledge and helped get her to where she is today. Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

You have, most likely, heard of the importance of email as a driving force behind funding. While that is incredibly true, that’s not all there is. In today’s episode, Nalin discusses the importance of social media and how you can use it to cultivate different aspects of your brand, company, and product.     Main Takeaways   [1:32]: The Different Channels of Social Media Every platform is different. You need to understand this to know what will work best for your product. [4:28]: Not Every Platform Will Work For Your Brand Each platform has its own agenda and can be quite different. Also, you may just not like using one platform. That’s ok! There are ways to work around it.  [7:24]: Impact of a Reach Social Media  Your reach on social media is one of the most impactful aspects of social. Let’s talk about what it is, how you can utilize it, and why it’s so important. [8:57]: The Influence of the Hashtag Did you know that you can utilize hashtags to generate more reach? By using them in the right way you can make sure your product is automatically getting categorized with similar products to ensure the right types of people are seeing you. [11:34]: Relationship Building Via Social Media One of the most important aspects of launching a product is relationships. What if we said that social media is one of the best ways to do that? With relationships comes trust and with trust comes backers.  [15:54]: How Social Media Can Help So, just how can social media help you? What is the point of it all and what will you get out of it? [17:48]: The Benefits And Importance Of A Call To Action (CTA) Sometimes people just need to be told what to do. Let’s discuss what to tell them.   Resources From This Episode   “Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” by Gary Vaynerchuk “Indistractable” by Nir Eyal Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

Ever wonder how to make content that your backers are sure to love? In this episode, Nalin goes over the most effective ways to create engaging content during the pre-launch phase. The good news is that there is not just one right way to do it. In fact, there are quite a lot. There are so many different ways to repurpose what you do depending on what you're comfortable with. After listening to this episode you are sure to walk away with a plan that will work best for you and your project. Main Takeaways   [0:40]: The Most Common Content Question  Most creators have, in general, this one common question when it comes to content creation for pre-launch. [2:29]: Content Idea #1: You Working On Your Project Actions speak louder than words so show them your actions. Here are a few examples of what you could show... [4:50]: Content Idea #2: Blogging  Writing out your day-to-day, ideas, or creation process is a great way to let people know and trust you and your process. However, if blogging isn’t your thing, we have lots of other options for you that are just as great. [11:24]: Why Telling The Ugly Truth Will Get You Better Backers Of course, we want to show all the happy things, however, maybe showing the ugly side of things and those really bad days are what people want. [12:35]: Content Idea #3: Testimonials People are herd animals. They are relationally minded herd animals which could work well in your favor if you get them saying the right things. [14:31]: Content Idea #4: Press Content People will want to hear your story. It’s up to you to get it out there! Here is how to do that... [16:55]: What To Expect When You Start Releasing Content If you follow all or some of these rules, here is what you can expect to have happened.   Resources From This Episode   Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

In today’s episode, Nalin discusses the differences between a pre-launch page and a landing page. There are not only different ways you can build a landing page, but there are also different types of pages you need to know about for your crowdfunding campaign. We go in-depth on the landing page, pre-launch page, and all the tools and tips you need for each. With this knowledge, your campaign is sure to be a success.     Main Takeaways   [1:38]: The Importance Of A Landing Page  You’ve probably heard of a “landing page” and a “pre-launch page,” but what is the difference? Is one better than the other? [3:12]: The Landing Page What you need to know about it, the platforms that could assist you in it, and what it means for your launch. [4:55]: All The Tools You Could Use To Build Your Landing Page  The good news is you don’t have to go into a landing page blind. There are so many tools out there to help you along the process. We give you a solid five options off the top of our head. [7:04]: The Benefits of Indiegogo Indiegogo is doing the most to assist you in your landing pages. Here is what you need to know about what Indiegogo’s landing pages can do for you and your campaign. [11:37]: Kickstarter What you think of like a landing page on Kickstarter - they call it something completely different and don’t actually treat it like a landing page. Here is what you need to know. [14:30]: The Main Goal For Pre-Launch There is an unfortunate truth about pre-launch that you need to know and we are going to break it all down for you. [17:21]: Why This Is All SO Important The whole reason Nalin took an entire podcast to discuss a landing page and what you need to take away from it.  [21:08]: Recap We discussed a lot, here’s a brief reminder of the main points.   Resources From This Episode   Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

Have you heard the saying “work smarter not harder?” Well, that is exactly what Nalin is going to teach you in regards to crowdfunding in this episode.    From page structure to landing page to fulfilling your product for your backers - learn the most important tips and tricks for how to evaluate others in your industry to ensure maximum success for your project or product.   [1:56]: How The Coke v. Pepsi Debate Relates To Your Crowdfunding  If someone else is doing something that works...shouldn’t you do the same? [7:38]: The Importance of Page Structure How are others laying their page our and building their campaigns? What can you do with this information? [9:24]: Benefits of Rewards  What more are my competitors giving that will put them ahead in the market?  [11:31]: A Landing Page The benefits of a good landing page and what you should do to yours for maximum funding. [18:06: How Are You Going To Actually Fulfill Your Orders To Backers? After all the marketing, networking, creating, and building you have to actually get the product to people. That can be as intimidating as the other parts of the process. Here is what you need to know.  [21:45]: Big Picture: How Not To Reinvent The Wheel So what exactly do you need to know as not to waste your time reinventing the wheel? Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

Is crowdfunding really for you? Entrepreneurs have many options on how they can launch their projects to the world, and crowdfunding certainly is a popular one. But it’s definitely not for everyone. You’ll need a special set of skills and mindset in order to be successful in this world. Backers are very passionate people, and you’ll need to be just as passionate and confident in your idea to make it happen. Check out what else can you do to know if crowdfunding is the path for you. Main Takeaways   [2:30]: Be interested in the process, not only in the final goal  Crowdfunding is very personal. You’ll need to be invested in the process and want to know the people who will be your backers. If you’re not invested, the people helping you with it, won’t be either. [7:05]: If you’re not passionate about crowdfunding, don’t do it If talking to your fans, creating communities and rallying people are not things that excite you, then you need to find other way of launching.  [8:31]: Agencies and Coaches are different things A lot of entrepreneurs don’t know that crowdfunding is hard work. When perhaps an agency will do everything for you, a coach is willing to work with you, not for you, and you must put in the work.  [11:30]: Creators are passionate Successful crowdfunding creators are people who believe in their project and sacrifice different things to make their project come true. [13:02]: Creators who understand backers, where backers once To start understanding crowdfunding, is a good idea to be a backer for someone else. Understanding the mindset of the backer, the passion and the anticipation. [15:05]: Research research research Have you read about crowdfunding? Do you know what community building is? Do you know what everyone else has done?  [17:30]: You need a certain mindset You want to prepare yourself for the mindset you’ll need to succeed. Is it right for you? Resources From This Episode   Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

Picture this - your campaign is live and it is going pretty well, but it’s not quite fully funded. It’s in these moments that you can start to panic and look for any and all ways to grab people’s attention. In this episode, Nalin discusses proactive things you can do to get to the finish line. She breaks down those myths of algorithms and paid ads; how those tools are helpful but how important it is not to rely on them too much. Main Takeaways   [5:41]: The BIG QUESTION  Does this work? Is it legit? [7:03]: Legitimacy Do these companies have lists of people who fit the profile of a backer or who have backed other campaigns before? Yes! But this does not necessarily translate to them automatically backing your campaign. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. [14.48]: What are Super Backers? These legitimate agencies have created a following of enthusiast backers or super backers. People who have supported dozens of campaigns. For these backers to support your campaign, you need to be prepared, doing well and funded early on. [16:08]: Super Backers trust their platforms Legitimate promotion platforms will endorse good, reliable and successful campaigns in front of their following of backers.  [17:02]: People are social beings You want to understand the psychological effect of crowdfunding. People want to fund campaigns that are prepared. [18:15]: Not every promotional channel will fit every offer And not every offer will fit every promotional channel. If you’re launching a gadget, you won’t be featured in a board game platform.  [20:21]: How to make promotional channels work?  Bringing your own successes first. These platforms are multipliers of your effort. Resources From This Episode   Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review   

If Nalin has said it once, she’s said it one hundred times - when it comes to crowdfunding your audience is KEY! In this episode, Nalin sets aside time to go in-depth as to why your audience is so critical to your success and shares clear guidelines on how to strategize building a crowd and getting that ideal audience to back your projects.   Main Takeaways   [2:05]: The BIG QUESTION  This is the biggest question across all industries when it comes to crowdfunding. [3:24]: Audience Building Let's talk about getting people who are going to love your product and love what you do because - isn’t that ultimately what we want!? [7:13]: How Do I Build My Audience & Who Are They? Who wants your product? Who loves your product? Who will be willing to pay? We can’t stress enough how important it is to find your audience.  [9:21]: Nalin’s Recommendation Of What To Do First Before  What it is what you should be writing down about your audience.  [14:30]: Identifying Your Groups There are thousands of groups you could get into on online platforms to figure out your audience. Don’t waste your time. Nalin’s tips will save you time and money. [15:43]: Why Facebook Will Be Your Best Asset How to utilize Facebook groups to find the best audience for your product.  [19:45]: The Strategy For Finding Your Audience  If you can figure out and implement this strategy you can go anywhere in the world and find your people.   [21:10]: How You Can Learn From The Mistakes Of A Board Game Designer  How a game designer marketed to the wrong group and what you can take away from his failure to be successful in your crowdfunding.   Resources From This Episode   Nalin’s Website for Board Game Marketing Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

AUDRIC SeaBorne 500 M is a rugged and elegant Swiss Made watch. The team built a fanbase of watch enthusiasts to raise $142,775 for their idea. In this episode, I sit down with Akshay Solomon to dive deep into the step-by-step process of creating a product to fill a market gap, building a crowd, leveraging influencers, and the importance of a killer crowdfunding video. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - AUDRIC Kickstarter Campaign

The Alpha Series jacket from Graphene-X is an all-around graphene-based 3-layer jacket. In their first foray into crowdfunding, the team behind Graphene-X created a much-needed product and found a passionate audience to raise $466,659. In this episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Jorge Barros who is one of the Co-Founders of Graphene-X. We sit down to discuss diving into the unknown of creating a new product, partnering with experts, and the importance of open and authentic communication with your audience. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - Graphene-X Campaign

If you’ve ever done crowdfunding for a project you may know what we talk about when we say the “crowdfunding valley of death.” For those of you who are in the pre-launch or in the middle of your crowdfunding- you will, inevitably, experience this “valley of death.” It’s inescapable and so very normal!    There is always that lull after the initial launch where not much is happening and it is very easy to get down or discouraged because of it. However, Nalin believes that there is so much good to be done during this phase. Instead of freaking out, you just need to look at this particular time with a new set of glasses.   In this episode, Nalin gives you those new glasses as well as the tools you need to best utilize your time in the “valley of death.” [0:42]: The Crowdfunding Valley of Death  It’s what every entrepreneur, creator, and project will go through during their crowdfunding so let’s talk about what it is and how you can best utilize it. [4:02]: Cycles Cycles. Ebbs and flows. Ups and downs. Every company, niche, and project has them.  [7:39]: Have A Marketing Plan Bigger Than Launch Day  It’s not enough to have marketing plans for day one. Let’s talk about what that full plan looks like and how to implement it. [9:10]: Reach Out To New Potential Users Who better to tell you about your product then previous backers? They hold the key to a lot of your potential future success. [13:30]: Have Additional Marketing Content At The Ready Don’t leave people hanging. Let them know what their money is being spent on.  [16:30]: Getting The Second Yes It’s a lot easier to get people who have said “yes” once to do it again.  [18:55]: Introduce Stretch Goals To take your product to the next level you can utilize this idle time and your current backers to create something even more exciting. Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

MANNKITCHEN MK9 is a large chef knife. In this episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Cleve Oines. He started on his crowdfunding journey the same way others have started - with a strong passion for a product, a burning drive to get it into the hands of people around the world, and an enthusiasm for how crowdfunding can help. We talk about the importance of building a product that solves problems, launching when you’re ready, dealing with internet trolls, and putting together a campaign on a shoestring budget. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - MANNKITCHEN Kickstarter Campaign

Gino is a personal air sanitizer. The team behind Gino rallied their connections and supporters to raise $69,093 for their idea. In this episode, I sit down with Caleb Storkey to talk about how a B2B business can use crowdfunding to break into B2C, quickly pivoting when things go wrong, methods to build an engaged fanbase for launch, and using Kickstarter to drum up hype for post-campaign successes. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - Gino Kickstarter Campaign ^ link the words here are the links: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/resources/ https://crushcrowdfunding.com/product/crush-crowdfunding-blog-book/ https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/smartseparations/gino-the-personal-air-sanitiser/description

Imagine if you could know exactly what does and doesn’t work when it comes to the industry you’re trying to launch your product or project into? Imagine if you could get the inside scoop so you knew exactly what your audience responds positively and negatively to!    Well, lucky for you - you don’t have to imagine it because it’s a true possibility! In this episode, Nalin will tell you about a method called “funnel hacking” and how that will be one of your greatest tools for a successful crowdfunding campaign.   Main Takeaways   [2;31]: What Is Funnel Hacking? Funnel hacking has to do with following those who came before you and an upside-down pyramid. Confused? We’ll break it down for you. [4:36]: Screen Shooting Others Campaigns See an ad that catches your attention? Save it for later so you know what works for promoting your project or product. [7:11]: Fall For The Click Bait Of Other Campaigns   Usually, we try not to fall victim to click-bait but this time we say - click away! [8:52]: Get On Their Email List  The best way to see what people are doing is to literally be apart of their team. By getting on other campaign email lists you are basically getting the first-hand experience on what works and what doesn’t for your own campaign.  [10:25]: Follow Other’s Launch Watch a launch from the very start to the very end. By doing this you will learn more about successful crowdfunding than you ever thought possible. [14:54]: Recap Of Why Following Other’s Leads Is The Best Thing You Can Do As Nalin says - “Success leaves clues.”   Resources From This Episode   Learn More About What Nalin Has To Say About Landing Pages Here Crowdfunding Starter Kit  Kickbooster Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review   

Lounge Wagon is an all-terrain utility wagon. They quickly reached their goal and ended up raising $103,724 for their second campaign. In this episode, I had the opportunity to chat with Phil Kelly who is a second-time Kickstarter creator. We sit down to discuss using crowdfunding as a way to test the market, the iterative process of developing a product, and building the business after crowdfunding. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - Lounge Wagon Kickstarter Campaign ^ link the words here are the links: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/resources/ https://crushcrowdfunding.com/product/crush-crowdfunding-blog-book/ https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/iamphilkelly/the-lounge-wagon

Do you have thousands of followers on various social media channels? Are you relying on those numbers to reassure you that you’ll have enough backers on launch day? Well, guess what!? That’s not entirely true. In fact, that couldn’t be farther from the truth.    Do you know what is actually influential in predicting the success of your campaign? Your email list. That’s right! Email is the number one way that people make decisions when it comes to supporting campaigns. Needless to say, it’s something every entrepreneur should take the time to seriously understand.    In this episode, Nalin focuses on the importance of emails and how you can actually use your emails to achieve your goals with your launch. Main Takeaways   [3:07]: Social Media Is NOT A Sales Channel  Thousands of followers on any social media channel doesn’t necessarily equal backers.  [4:24]: Difference Between Traffic Others Own And Traffic YOU Own The difference between the two is really critical for your launch and for everything else that you do for your product and for building your business in the long run.  [8:47]: Long-Term Effects of Collecting Emails Early On  Imagine the repercussions of having potential backer’s contact information when it comes to launching a new product. [12:06]: Using Email To Get Ambassadors  People buy products from people they know, love, and trust. [12:38]: Using Email To Get Reviews Tap into that readily accessible source to get shearable feedback. [13:35]: Using Email For A Referral Program Rewarding people for sharing your product is sure to have your product take off in no time. [16:03]: Emails Is Cake Just like mining for gold, emails aren’t the easiest to come by.   Resources From This Episode   Episode Two: Social Media Is Not A Sales Channel Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

Move is an online supermarket. Within the first day, they doubled their goal and surged upwards to $420,835 from 3,659 backers. In our conversation, we talk about how to find the most attentive fans, the benefits and pitfalls of Kickstarter as a launch platform, and building a business after crowdfunding. Links From The Episode: - Crowdfunding Resources - Crush Crowdfunding Blog Book - Move Kickstarter Campaign

One question Nalin often gets is- “How do you get complete strangers on the internet to back your project and give you money?” To that we say- great question!   It’s one thing to get people who know and love you to back your projects, but getting complete strangers from the internet? That’s a totally different thing altogether. What’s even stranger is that somehow it’s those people who we don’t even know that we want to win over more than those we are closest to.    In this episode, we go over four different reasons why internet strangers will choose to support your campaign. By knowing these four reasons you will be able to set yourself up with a campaign that will have people believing in you as a business and entrepreneur.    Main Takeaways   [0:40]: Why Strangers Are Better Than Family  How is it that we get more satisfaction from complete strangers backing our projects then our own friends and family?  [2:11]: 1- Social Proof How social proof can make someone rationalize why your project isn’t worth their time. [8:31]: 2- Reach Your Goal Early Everyone wants to support a winner. So, let’s talk about what that looks like. [11:16]: 3- Get Badges Of Honor  Visual representations of your trustworthiness and legitimacy will go a long way in your crowdfunding success.  [15:11]: 4- Testimonials Who better to tell you about a product then someone you trust and whose opinion you value!? [16:43]: Recap of 4 Ways To Win Over Those Internet Strangers  Recap of four reasons internet strangers will support your campaign.    Resources From This Episode   Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

There are a lot of things people do right when it comes to Crowdfunding. Conversely, there are a lot of things people do wrong. Luckily for you, Nalin has broken down some of the biggest mistakes people have made in the past so that you can go out and crush your crowdfunding campaign with more success in the future.    In this episode you will learn 4 of the most common reasons crowdfunding campaigns fail, as well as, learn how you can avoid them.    And, be sure to check out the blog post that inspired this episode - “10 Ways to Fail at Crowdfunding” to get more insight on what has the potential to hurt your campaign.   Main Takeaways   [1:27]: 1- Making Things Too Complicated  Many people make crowdfunding way too complicated when, in actuality, it’s quite simple. Let’s talk about just how simple it really is. [2:34]: K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Stupid  Although very straightforward at the outset, a lot of entrepreneurs have trouble making sure this actually happens. [3:02]: The 4-Step Sequence Follow this 4 step sequence and you’ll be sure to set yourself up for success. [7:14]: 2- Not Having A Defined Audience  Who wants your product? Who loves your product? Who will be willing to pay? We can’t stress enough how important it is to find your audience.  [8:48]: The Importance of a Niche The issue of saying this is for “everyone.”  [11:45]: 3- Setting Unrealistic Funding Goals Sure you want to make the big bucks but - (1) Do you really need them? And (2) Are you setting yourself up to actually make them?  [16:08]: 4- Having Unattractive Rewards Backers want something valuable in return for spending their time and money to help you bring your project to life. Let’s talk about the impact a good reward can have and how to do it right. [18:09]: Recap of 4 Reasons Your Campaign Could Fail  Recap of four reasons your crowdfunding campaign could fail.    Resources From This Episode   Previous Blog on the 10 Ways to Fail at Crowdfunding Podcast on Knowing Your Audience Crush Crowdfunding Website Connect with Nalin Leave a Review 

Do you ever get so overwhelmed and just want to ask someone for help? If so, that’s actually a good sign. To run a successful business you should be getting lots of help from many different places. As they say - it takes a village. And, a village, indeed, is what it takes to run a business, launch a product, and make an idea come to life! Especially when it comes to crowdfunding.    Did you know that there are actually agencies designed specifically for aiding people in crowdfunding? In this episode, Nalin goes over the positive effects an agency can have on your crowdfunding campaign and three key tips to keep in mind when looking at moving forward to potentially hiring one.    Main Takeaways   [0:40]: The Myth of the Entrepreneur  What is the “myth of the entrepreneur” and how it negatively affects your campaign. [1:08]: It’s OK To Ask For Help Ever feel like asking for help? You’re not alone. [4:01]: So, Why An Agency? Exactly what an agency can do for you and your crowdfunding campaign.  [8:13]: 1- Know The Types Of Projects The Agency Works With  Why being involved with an agency that handles your type of niche/category is pivotal to your agency/crowdfunding success. [11:05]: 2- What Will Communication Look Like In Your Working Relationship? The weight that communication has on the partnership between crowdfunding and an agency and what to look for to ensure it’s the best it can be. [14:27]: 3- What Happens When Goals Aren’t Met? The importance of knowing how an agency responds to goals not being met and the questions to ask to predict it. [18:04]: Recap of 3 Things To Look Into Before Picking An Agency  Recap of the three recommendations to pay attention to when looking for a potential agency to work with. Resources From This Episode   Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127

Sometimes launching a project can feel a bit uncertain. It can feel like you’re throwing your idea against the wall and hoping it sticks. But, what if we told you it doesn’t have to be that way? What if we told you there is actually one aspect of crowdfunding that, after mastering you’ll be able to have a pretty good handle on how things are going to turn out?    Well, lucky for you, Nalin does just that in this week’s episode. The topic: your audience. By knowing the in’s and out’s of who your project was made for, you will be able to crush your crowdfunding campaign and have better success.    Main Takeaways   [0:34]: Encouragement for Those in the Trenches   Why Nalin does what she does.   [2:40]: How Nalin’s Previous Life As A Product Marketing Manager Relates to Crowdfunding Being a project marketing manager at an after-market car solution company taught Nalin some very important crowdfunding lessons that she shares with us all.   [4:22]: What Is “Product Market Fit” Anyway?  Let’s compare a cooking pan and a smart trash can to explain this one.   [8:27]: What Product Does Your Audience Like? You have to know your “why” to know your audience. If you can’t pin down exactly who your audience is - go back to the drawing board of why you created your product in the first place.   [10:22]: The Potatoe Peeler Example How does a potato peeler have anything to do with your audience? A lot actually!    [16:17]: Picking Your Audience Helps You Pick Their Influencers  People trust influencers, reviewers, or anyone who has sway in a certain industry. Knowing your audience will allow you to know who will have more success in selling your product to them for you.   [17:49]: How To Predict People’s Response To Your Product What if you could know how people are going to react to your project before it launches? Well, you can!  Resources From This Episode   Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127

Time plays a HUGE role in everyone’s lives. That means it’s kind of a super important tactic to think about and research before starting a crowdfunding campaign. For example, did you know one day of the week is better to launch than others? Or, that there is actually a prime time to send out your initial launch email? By asking Nalin’s four questions, you will set yourself up for the utmost potential of success in your launch.    If you are about to launch your product this episode is a must-listen in order to know how to pick the perfect launch time and date.    Main Takeaways    [0:32]: The Importance of “WHEN” In Your Life  All of our lives revolve around time. Because of that, it’s one of the most important things to think about when launching your product. So, let’s discuss why and how it’s important to your crowdfunding campaign. [2:51]: Determine What Days People Are Checking Their Emails Do you know the best day to launch? Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday?  [5:21]: Know What Time People Are Checking Their Emails  There is actually an ideal time to post for almost all crowdfunding projects no matter what your niche.  [7:32]: Know Upcoming Holidays and Events Is it better or worse to launch around a holiday season? We’ll tell you! [10:21]: The BIG Question Are you ready to launch? No…really!  [12:46]: The Four Questions To Ask Before Launching Recapped  Let’s go over those four key elements for how to pick the perfect launch date and time once more.   Resources From This Episode   Websites Mentioned by Nalin in the Podcast: Biggercake.com and Kicktraq.com Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127

Does the thought of doing market research get you super excited?! If you answered “no,” you’re not alone. Market research isn’t the most enticing part of launching a product. In fact, it’s pretty dry. However! Market research is one of, if not the, most important aspects of a product launch. It’s not only the tool that will bring you the most potential for success, but it will also steer you away from wasting your money on crowdfunding ideas that have already been done and proven not to work.    In this episode, Nalin expounds on all the reasons market research should be on the top of your priority list by explaining her four core aspects of market research.    Keep scrolling for a further breakdown of the podcast and helpful links. [2:05]: How Sun Tzu Relates to Marketing Research  “....If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle...” [3:57]: Competitors and Market Research  Market research gives you an inside scoop on your competitors and gives you the insight you need to know what they did right and learn from what they did wrong. [6:57]: Why Nalin is Passionate About Market Research  Research gives you all the information you need to succeed by telling you what to do and what not to do. [7:50]: #1: Market Trends Looking at competitor's trends, market trends, seasonal trends, and more. Why all these things will lead you to your maximum potential.  [10:32]: #2: Positioning Yourself in the Market  This is how you label your product in the world and how your product sits in the mind of the backer.  [14:10]: #3: Pricing Your Product Adequately  Are you pricing in the right range for the product you’re offering?  [16:25]: #4: Marketing Visuals Visuals make or break a campaign due to the trust and credibility they bring to a product and its founder.   Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

Before you even begin asking people to back your campaign, you need to dive into understanding why people would choose to do so. Why would people give money to someone they don’t know for a product that may not even exist yet?! You need to get in the mind of the people who are going to, inevitably, help you achieve your dreams before you start asking things of them.   In this episode, Nalin explains five potential reasons why people choose to back projects. If you’re an entrepreneur you can’t afford not to listen to this one!    Keep scrolling for a further breakdown of the podcast and helpful links.   [1:39]: The “What” and “Why” This Podcast is Critical to Your Crowdfunding Campaign: The ability to see things from the perspective of the backer gives you leverage in your campaign to be seen as credible and increases the likelihood of people supporting you and your product.  [3:45]: WHY #1: The Excitement of a Cool, New Product: Some people are just excited to see cool, new, and awesome products on crowdfunding.  [8:13]: WHY #2: A Better Solution to the Problem: Maybe your product solves an existing problem better than another product already in the market.  [10:56]:  WHY #3: Friends & Family Support System: Some people back projects because a friend or family member is the one who created the product and they simply want to support them.   [14:29]:  WHY #4: The Art of Gift Giving: People love to give and receive gifts. Backing a new product and giving that as a gift not only helps a campaign but is also cool to give/receive in the future.  [16:12]: WHY #5: Being A Part of Something Bigger Than Themselves: Everyone wants to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Sometimes it’s that simple desire that makes people back on crowdfunding. The idea of being behind the start of something like Peloton or Oculus would be really amazing, wouldn’t it? That’s enough of a reason to drive people to campaigns sometimes. [17:17]:  The Importance of Sharing Your Entrepreneurial Story: The easiest thing you, the entrepreneur, can do is share your story. The rewards you reap from doing so is huge. This allows potential backers to connect with you and create a bond that makes them want to invest in your story. [18:06]: Recap: The Five Categories: Going over the five reasons people back crowdfunding one last time.    Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

“Free Shipping” - It’s something you’ve probably seen advertised on a product before. You’ve probably even been the recipient of it. But, if you’re in the beginning phases of launching a product into the market is it really something you can feasibly offer? Maybe you’re wondering if it’s something you should offer?    Luckily, there is no right or wrong answer and you do have options! In this episode, Nalin goes in-depth about three different ways you can charge shipping during your campaign and discusses the pros and cons of each.    Keep scrolling for a further breakdown of the podcast and helpful links. [1:10]: What’s Up With Shipping?  Getting the conversation started on whether or not “free shipping” is really doable. [3:24]: ONE: Integrate the Shipping Cost to the Entire Cost of Production Add on the shipping cost after you look at all the production costs for making the actual product. That way the price of the product already includes the shipping cost. [5:58]: TWO: Subsidize Part of the Shipping  You decide to take money out of your own pocket to cover a certain amount of the shipping and the buyer pays the rest.  [7:29]: THREE: Make Backers Pay the Full Price of Shipping Have backers pay the full price of the shipping.  [9:15]: Additional Information to Take Into Account There are other things to think about: right custom taxes, duties, VAT, etc.  [10:05]: How to Inform the Backer of Shipping Costs Being upfront with your backers about the price of shipping is the best route you can take. It allows them to know exactly what they’re signing up for and, in turn, leads them to trust you because of your vulnerability.  [11:46]: Recap: Your Three Options Do you want to integrate the shipping cost into your entire product cost? Do you want to subsidize part of the shipping cost? Do you want your backers to pay the full shipping price?  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127  

As Nalin was standing in line for a coffee one day, someone asked her the following question: "Is it easier to raise crowdfunding money/funds for a product with a high price point or a low price point?" It was such a good question that she has dedicated an entire episode to answering it. In this podcast, we will answer that question by going in-depth on the importance of defining your main unit number and educating your potential backers. We will also discuss both the benefits and potential weaknesses of both pricing methods. Keep scrolling for a further breakdown of the podcast and helpful links. [0:39]: The Big Question Is it easier to raise money for a product with a high price point or a low price point? Which one is better or does better on crowdfunding?  [1:39]: The Importance Behind the Number The amount of money you raise during crowdfunding is made up of two things: the first is the number of units actually sold. To find out the price at which you should set your product you must think about the number of products you want to produce. [2:22]: The Initial Difference Between a Low Price Point and a High Price Point This main difference between a low or high price point boils down to the number of units that you are going to need to produce. A higher price point means fewer backers. A lower price point means many backers.  [3:05]: Importance of Building your Community You can set your price at whatever you want, but you must take into consideration how many people are going to need to back you at that particular price point. It is of the utmost importance to calculate how many backers you are going to need and start building that community.  [3:21]: Example of a Low Price Point With a goal of $100,000 at $10 per unit - you will need 10,000 backers. [4:17]: Example of a High Price Point With a goal of $100,000 at $500 per unit - you will need 200 backers.  [4:50]: Comparing the Two Pricing Options  Low price product means spending more time and effort to get people into your community (because you need a lot more of them). However, they may convert quicker because the cost doesn't set them back too much. Whereas, high price product means you don't have to get as many backers but you may have to work harder because that initial investment is pretty substantial. No matter what price point you're at - you need to show the value of your product and clearly explain why people should want to back you. [7:42]: Importance of Educating Your Audience  The second thing that affects the amount of money you raise on crowdfunding is educating your audience and building that community. This plays a part in explaining the value your product can have on people's lives and is crucial in getting their money to back you. [8:03]: The Answer to the Question I'd tell you but then where's the fun in that?! Listen to the podcast and find out! Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127

Creating a product can stretch you in many ways. It reveals your potential and your passions but it can also expose you to some of your weaknesses. What if we told you it’s that entire process that will draw people to you and have them backing your product quicker than you anticipated?  In this podcast, Nalin goes over five topics that you can utilize as marketing content for your product during pre-launch. She dives into how you can use what you already have as the content to get you started in connecting with your audience and future product-backers.    Keep scrolling for a further breakdown of the podcast and helpful links. [1:11 Why Being Online is Critical During Pre-Launch Let’s be honest - you can’t be knocking on people’s doors every single day and hope that translates to them going online to back you. Everything is online! Your product will, most likely, be marketed online. Therefore, you MUST be online. [3:04]: Be Open. Be Transparent. Be Authentic. People who follow crowdfunding are potential early adopters. They are the ones who are going to go on the journey with you, whether it be a few months to a few years. They want to invest in the company (that’s YOU) as much as the product. They want to see the good, the bad, and the ugly so you need to let them see it. [8:25 Content Idea #1 - Information About Your Product  What are the features of your product? What are the benefits? What does it do? Do you have a habit journal? What does that look like and entail? All these things and more are shareable content that allows your potential backers to connect themselves to your product.   [9:15]: Content Idea #2- User-Generated Content One of the best things to do with your product in the pre-launch phase is to beta test it. AKA- letting people play around with it. Getting your product into the hands of potential buyers will not only allow you to see areas of improvement or things you’ve done well but, will also be phenomenal content to share via quotes and video reactions.   [10:49]: Content Idea #3- Behind-The-Scenes Content  This is content you have already generated you only need to format it on social media platforms for others to see. This includes things such as prototypes, early drawings, or what your Wednesday afternoon in the office looks like. [11:52]: Content Idea #4- Founder’s Journey Another piece of content that you can share with your audience is simply - your journey! By getting out there and telling people of your story it allows them to want to root for you, cheer you on, and encourages them to want to help you get to your goal and cross that finish line. [13:22]: Content Idea #5- Related Content  Having original content from your own process is wonderful. Having content within your niche that supports why your product is something others need is the cherry on top. By showing people that your product is something that they could use in their life through other related topics that they resonate with will help them relate more to your project and want to back you even more.  [15:06]: Recapping What We’ve Discussed Now that we’ve gone in-depth of five different marketing content pre-launch, let’s recap it all.  Visit the Crush Crowdfunding Website: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/ Connect with Nalin: https://crushcrowdfunding.com/contact/ Leave a Review: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crush-crowdfunding-podcast/id1500732127

In this episode, host Nalin talks about the the process in the marketing. She breaks down an example of a large company and how they successfully overcame a marketing launch failure to turn it into a huge success.   She discusses:   -[1:10] Are you afraid of campaigning?   -[5:30] Breaking down the Tesla cyber truck launch -8:35] Tesla turned their failure into success with over 150,000 pre-orders -[12:29] People love your story, they love your wins, your fails -[13:52] The more honest you are with your audience, the more they will love you and want to buy from you   Thanks for listening! Now go crush that campaign! You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com  

In this episode, host Nalin talks about the top two things you must have to succeed in crowdfunding. She shares her explanation of what distinguishes a big campaign from a small campaign.    She discusses:    -[1:43] What is the product? Lots of people have really great ideas, but what sets it apart?  -[5:09] Who else has this problem that the product can solve?  -[6:28] Core values, core pain, core needs. The reason you made this product will lead you to the group of people who want this product. -[7:41] Real life examples including a potato peeler and a mug.    Thanks for listening! Now go crush that campaign! You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how to bring attention to your campaign. She shares her tips to get that attention to crush your crowdfunding launched on Kickstarter and Indiegogo.   She discusses:   -          [0:48] Attention is especially important for any campaign success. -          [2:38] There are two avenues you can take to bring attention to your campaign. These are paid or non-paid. -          [3:45] People take the paid route by buying things like campaigns on Facebook etc. -          [5:33] Another way to get paid attention is to invest your budget in partnerships. -          [7:48] The third way to pay for attention for your campaign is to put yourself in front of crowdfunding specific audiences. -          [11:30] A non paying way to get attention to your campaign is to start adding value. -          [12:06] You should do things like, liking their comments, commenting back etc. Just something to contribute to the community. -          [13:31] This is not an overnight success kind of thing; you have to work for it and don’t give up!   Thanks for listening! Now go crush that campaign! You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about topics to post about during pre-launch. She shares her 3 topics you should be posting and how to crush your crowdfunding launch!   She discusses: -          [1:42] People are interested and excited about your product, there’s so many things that you can say on your launch channel. -          [2:19] The first thing you should post is information about your product. -          [5:55] The second thing you should post about during your pre-launch is behind the scenes. -          [9:35] The third thing you can talk about is the “founders’ journey.” Share what your product means to you, share its value, and share just some nitty gritty details. -          [13:34] These things will help people be more close to you as an entrepreneur that they are going to beg you to take their money so they can help you create this product. -          [14:09] There’s so many things you can say and show people to build that trust, and credibility. Thanks for listening! Now go crush that pre-launch!    You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about 5 types of people that you need for your crowdfunding team. She shares her tips to having a successful dream team for your crowdfunding launch!     She discusses: -          [3:47] When it comes to crowdfunding you have two options. You can bring on an agency to help you or you can do it yourself and bring on people as you need them. -          [3:50] With your crowdfunding you can find five types of people to help you. Five people with different expertise that can create a huge impact and help you crush your crowdfunding launch. -          [3:58] The first type of expert you should look for is your words expert in your campaign. They are the ones that will do the copywriting and more! -          [4:30] The second type of expert is a digital expert. Someone who can help with social media posts, landing pages etc. -          [5:00] The third type of expert is a visual expert. For example, you should find a photographer to help with your visual aspect of your crowdfunding. -          [6:45] The fourth type of expert is someone who has the experience in online communities. Someone who can build your community and following. -          [8:00] The last person you need to help make that dream team is a crowdfunding expert. Someone who knows all the kinks and ways to help you reach your goals! There are so many experts out there ready to help you! Thanks for listening! Now get out there and find your dream team!   You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com  

In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode,‌ ‌host‌ ‌Nalin‌ ‌talks‌ ‌about‌ ‌what‌ ‌to‌ ‌do‌ ‌when‌ ‌things‌ ‌don’t‌ ‌go‌ ‌according‌ ‌to‌ ‌plan?‌ ‌She‌ ‌ shares‌ ‌her‌ ‌tips‌ ‌to‌ ‌keep‌ ‌moving‌ ‌forward‌ ‌and‌ ‌having‌ ‌that‌ ‌successful‌ ‌launch!‌ ‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ She‌ ‌discusses:‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[7:29]‌ ‌A‌ ‌lot‌ ‌of‌ ‌plans‌ ‌we‌ ‌have‌ ‌in‌ ‌life‌ ‌will‌ ‌have‌ ‌obstacles‌ ‌and‌ ‌curveballs‌ ‌that‌ ‌will‌ ‌stop‌ ‌us‌ ‌in‌ ‌our‌ ‌ tracks.‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[07:36]‌ ‌When‌ ‌things‌ ‌don’t‌ ‌go‌ ‌the‌ ‌way‌ ‌we‌ ‌are‌ ‌expecting‌ ‌we‌ ‌have‌ ‌two‌ ‌choices.‌ ‌We‌ ‌can‌ ‌ either‌ ‌grumble‌ ‌and‌ ‌drag‌ ‌our‌ ‌feet‌ ‌or‌ ‌we‌ ‌can‌ ‌take‌ ‌it‌ ‌with‌ ‌life‌ ‌and‌ ‌move‌ ‌forward.‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[7:45]‌ ‌Crowdfunding‌ ‌is‌ ‌a‌ ‌platform‌ ‌to‌ ‌launch‌ ‌products‌ ‌to‌ ‌market‌ ‌and‌ ‌then‌ ‌after‌ ‌you‌ ‌will‌ ‌grow‌ ‌ your‌ ‌business.‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[9:00]‌ ‌With‌ ‌crowdfunding‌ ‌nothing‌ ‌will‌ ‌go‌ ‌as‌ ‌planned‌ ‌but‌ ‌you‌ ‌just‌ ‌have‌ ‌to‌ ‌keep‌ ‌moving‌ ‌ forward‌ ‌and‌ ‌trying.‌ ‌Crowdfunding‌ ‌is‌ ‌a‌ ‌series‌ ‌of‌ ‌trial‌ ‌and‌ ‌error.‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[10:16]‌ ‌Your‌ ‌second‌ ‌and‌ ‌best‌ ‌choice‌ ‌is‌ ‌to‌ ‌just‌ ‌sit‌ ‌down,‌ ‌breathe‌ ‌and‌ ‌figure‌ ‌it‌ ‌out.‌ ‌ -‌‌ ‌‌[12:45]‌ ‌From‌ ‌your‌ ‌crowdfunding‌ ‌campaign‌ ‌you‌ ‌will‌ ‌be‌ ‌probably‌ ‌starting‌ ‌a‌ ‌company,‌ ‌ business,‌ ‌or‌ ‌making‌ ‌an‌ ‌income.‌ ‌You‌ ‌are‌ ‌the‌ ‌one‌ ‌that‌ ‌controls‌ ‌your‌ ‌destiny!‌ ‌  ‌ ‌ Thanks‌ ‌for‌ ‌listening!‌ ‌And‌ ‌just‌ ‌remember‌ ‌to‌ ‌always‌ ‌choose‌ ‌that‌ ‌second‌ ‌option‌ ‌and‌ ‌keep‌ ‌moving‌ ‌ forward,‌ ‌you‌ ‌got‌ ‌this!‌ ‌ You‌ ‌can‌ ‌listen‌ ‌to‌ ‌The‌ ‌Crush‌ ‌Crowdfunding‌ ‌Podcast‌ ‌at‌ ‌crushcrowdfunding.com‌ ‌  

In this episode, host Nalin talks about the mistakes you may be making during the pre-launch phase of your crowdfunding project. She shares her four tips on the mistakes you should look out for prior to launching your campaign.    She discusses:    [5:15] - Why being aware of what’s already on the market, successful or not successful, will only help your campaign to be stronger.    [7:22] - The importance of creating a landing page for your product prior to launching your campaign.    [9:25] - Creating an up-to-date website that is visually stimulating and mobile friendly.   [10:40] - Asking your friends and family to donate money during your first 24-hours of your launch.    [13:46] - Why those first 24-hours of donations are so important and will help crowdfunding sites to organically advertise your product over others.    [15:30] - Altering your audience of the upcoming launch and getting them excited about the upcoming campaign.    Thanks for listening! Now go out there and figure out what the best way is to launch a project and if it’s right for crowdfunding! Tune in next week when I drop some more information!     You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com  

In this episode, host Nalin talks about if your project is right for crowdfunding and how to decide if your project is right for crowdfunding. She shares her tips to determine if your project is right for crowdfunding!   She discusses: -          [01:14] Crowdfunding is one model to get your product to market, but it’s not really suited for everything out there. -          [2:30] You must first decide which crowdfunding you’re looking to launch on. Is it rewards based? Is it a personal expense type of crowdfunding? Etc. -          [3:46] Another thing you need to consider determining if your product is right for crowdfunding, is what the main demographic is for your audience. -          [7:50] People who come to crowdfunding are early adopters. They are looking for things that are new and novel. They want things that help solve their problems and pain points. -          [9:50] Usually when someone orders online they expect to receive their product soon, with crowdfunding people are bringing their disposable income to buy things before they even exist. -          [12:01] You must also consider that people are usually expecting to get a tangible reward from your crowdfunding project. -          [13:35] The last thing you must consider is if your goal is realistic in the constraints that you are working on. -          [14:50] Just remember, crowdfunding is really tailored towards the individual customer not businesses. Thanks for listening! Now go out there and figure out what the best way is to launch a project and if it’s right for crowdfunding! Tune in next week when I drop some more information!   You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how it’s okay to be scared to launch. She shares tips and examples of how to overcome that fear for a successful launch!    She discusses: -          [2:17] People are scared to be truly transparent and themselves. -          [4:41] With crowdfunding the process is all in your marketing and showing your backers the behind the scenes. -          [8:34] The cool thing about crowdfunding is people are excited to see the real you, see your obstacles, see you on your real mission. -          [13:18] Being natural and being authentic is showing up, being there, and being yourself. Be yourself whether it's good or bad, be sure to show your everyday life with the good and the bad. -          [14:31] It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to be afraid to present yourself, it’s okay to be frightened to show your prototype. It’s okay. -          [15:10] The more you’re able to show yourself, be there, be present, showcase every obstacle etc., the more your fans are going to love you. -          [17:31] I encourage you to get out there, be open, be authentic, be transparent and be vulnerable! Thanks for listening to the Crush Crowdfunding Podcast, now go out there and BE YOU!   You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com  

In this episode, host Nalin talks about what crowdfunding success means to you. She shares tips and examples of crowdfunding success.     She discusses:  [4:12] Knowing how you want to be successful and what your goals are will help you better approach your campaign.  [6:29] Crowdfunding success is ultimately getting to that goal and doing whatever it takes to reach that goal to fund that initial production of your idea.  [7:34] Another way to meet crowdfunding success is to ensure you are reaching the minimum required amount to produce your idea and to get it in with suppliers.  [9:49] A way to approach success is to understand and master the process of crowdfunding.  [12:14] Your success in crowdfunding can come from getting those early adopters, early beta testers and early super fans that will help you carry your campaign.  [13:53] Everyone has a different crowdfunding success and what you define as success.   [15:53] The only way to really think about what success means to you is, to sit down, think about it and ask yourself what do I want to accomplish?    Thanks for listening to the Crush Crowdfunding Podcast, go out and put all these tips into action!    You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com 

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how to crush the last 48 hours of your campaign. Nalin shares tips on how to crush it to end your campaign strong and successfully!   She discusses: -          [1:17] The last 48 hours of your campaign are the most crucial part. -          [5:23] Basically the best way to crush your last 48 hours of your campaign, is to tackle it with the same amount of intensity as your initial launch. -          [6:13] Make sure to tell your social media channels and keep them updated. -          [8:07] Tell and update your email list on your launch. -          [10:07] Tell your backers to bring in their friends and families for your referral program. -          [11:36] Bring your own friends and family into your campaign. -          [15:53] Be available and be responsive to your campaign. -          [17:17] Work with third party backer sites.   Thanks for listening to the Crush Crowdfunding Podcast, go out and put all these tips into action!   You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how to have a project manager mindset for your launch. Nalin shares tips on how to be successful with your project manager mindset!   She discusses: -          [1:50] You can’t enjoy both of two desirable but mutually exclusive alternatives. -          [2:24] There are trades off that you have to sometimes take in life. -          [4:22] The main trade-off in crowdfunding is when you are looking at your project as a project manager mindset. -          [5:38] You can’t take charge of all aspects of your project at once, they all won’t go the way you planned and that is the trade-off. -          [8:45] Crowdfunding is all about the scope, budget and time. -          [8:57] Your scope is what you are looking to raise for your particular project. -          [10:18] When it comes to time, how much time are you going to give yourself to meet this scope? -          [11:40]  When it comes to budget, how much money do you have to invest? -          [12:13] Everyone’s scope is pretty constant, but time and budget range all over the place. -          [14:11] You have to think to yourself and figure out if you want to focus more on your time or budget with realistic expectations. Thanks for listening to the Crush Crowdfunding Podcast, go out and crush it guys!    You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how to create a successful Kickstarter and Indiegogo campaign. Nalin shares steps that you can follow to create your successful campaign.   Nalin discusses: -          [1:03] A lot of people think that because they have an incredible idea, put a nice crowdfunding page together and just launched their campaign, people will automatically come to their page and it will raise millions. That’s a huge myth. -          [3:02] It all starts with a good product, something that people want, and people actually need. -          [3:26] You can make sure you have a good product by doing market research, pricing research and good competitor research. -          [5:22] Next for a successful campaign, you need good assets. Good assets will take your product very far. -          [5:31] Everything that people see about your products all comes down to what pictures and videos you take of your product, little snippets you’ve taken of assets you have. -          [7:25] You have to find people who want to talk about your product. These can be people like bloggers, vloggers, or anyone else who has an audience. -          [8:36] You need to find your own audience, make your own connections. -          [9:35] Finding an audience and finding the right people for your product is hugely important. -          [11:05] You can find your audience by going to friends and family. Or by going on forums, talking to people and sharing your product. -          [11:38] The main way people find their audience is by going to Facebook and running advertising to a group of people who they think will be interested in their product. -          [12:12] Warm up your audience for your pre-launch by following up and “nurturing” your relationship with them. -          [14:55] Stretch your reach by doing a live session and answer questions directly. -          [15:10] Directly message people who have backed you or haven’t and find out why to make changes on your product. -          [16:52] Crowdfunding takes a ton of preparation, time, energy, and work. -          [17:56] It is not a complex process, it's how good you execute it and how much you follow these steps!   

In this episode, host Nalin talks about how Social Media is NOT a sales channel. Nalin shares a 3 step process on how to bring in your crowdfunding!   She discusses: -          [1:11] People say they have gone through the preparation phase and they go to launch their campaign but not being successful. -          [2:21] The main reason it isn’t working is because Social Media isn’t a sales channel. -          [4:05] Email definitely is king around here when it comes to crowdfunding. -          [5:05] There is a 3 step process or formula to building your crowdfunding! -          [5:39] The first step is, you want to build a list with individuals that are of buying intent. -          [6:49] Buying Intent is someone who actually signs up for an email to find out where they can actually purchase the product. -          [8:12] The second step is, to conduct a pre-launch warm up with friends, family, followers and fans. -          [8:45] Just tell the people on your list, friends, family and followers how they show support for you and your project. -          [10:50] The third step is, to build value and urgency in your emails. -          [11:02] By building value is when someone comes to your page and sees that reward, feels like they are getting a lot for the price. -          [13:06] By creating urgency, you want to show that there are a limited amount of spaces or different reward tiers within your campaign. -          [14:45] But the best news is that this blueprint and step process can work for every category out there. Get out there, start collecting emails and start implementing that 3 step process!  

In this episode, host Nalin talks about crowdfunding and if it’s right for you. Nalin shares what crowdfunding is and ways to know if it is right for you!  She discusses: -          [0:53] Reward-based crowdfunding is the exchange of value between you the person who is going to come up with the words and strangers on the internet who will. -          [1:59] There are people on the internet looking to pay for something they think looks interesting before it's available to make sure they get their hands on it first before it hits the market. -          [2:40] There are a few ways to know if crowdfunding is right for you. -          [3:33] You must ensure your project fits the crowdfunding model. -          [3:46] You must have something that provides value in order to get the funding in return. -          [6:17]  Make sure you want your idea out in the world before you start crowdfunding. -          [7:25] With crowdfunding you have to be public and vulnerable. -          [8:18] Make sure your project solves a problem. -          [8:35] The ones that really take off are the ones that make an impact in one way or another. -          [10:18] Ask yourself, will people care about my project? -          [12:29] Put yourself out there and find out if people would be interested in your project. -          [13:26] You have to be ready to work hard when you are crowdfunding. -          [14:15] It is a lot of hard work, a lot of planning and executing a successful campaign. -          [15:42] Listen to podcasts and research crowdfunding. There are a lot of strategies, tactics, and ideas to help guide you with your crowdfunding. -          [16:00] Make sure that you are able to successfully launch and able to successfully get your idea funded, if you put your mind to it you have the ability to get the idea launched! -          [16:24] If you bring value, you’re going to be able to find people out there who want your project and the value that you are offering.  You can listen to The Crush Crowdfunding Podcast at crushcrowdfunding.com