At Rise and Play, we give voice to leaders, entrepreneurs, educators and influencers of the game industry who are here to make a change. We love games and want to make this industry last through healthy team cultures, awareness and education. Each episode will tackle a wide range of important topics such as leadership, team culture, self-management, conscious leadership, work-life balance, game education, ethics in business, equality, diversity and inclusion... brought by the different perspectives of our guests.
7 factors of success for game studiosDownload the full report, share with your team: DOWNLOAD REPORTGrab your FREE TRIAL with our partner PlaytestCloud: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseThanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.SubscribedThanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.In this episode, Sophie Vo welcomes Jen MacLean, former Xbox executive and now founder of Dragon Snack Games. Jen shares her personal and professional journey—from leaving a corporate role to founding her own studio—with deep reflections on purpose, family, and alignment. They dive into building a value-driven studio, the importance of intentional team culture, early-stage prototyping, and engaging a player community early in development. Jen discusses Dragon Snack's mission to create collaborative, player-driven experiences for Gen Z and Gen Alpha, while emphasizing the power of belonging and connection through games. A conversation packed with wisdom for founders, leaders, and anyone seeking to build meaningful, human-centered companies.Topics Discussed:* Why Jen left a high-powered job at Xbox to start her own studio.* The personal wake-up call: how family conversations revealed deeper misalignments.* Asking two critical questions: What's the worst that can happen? and What's holding you back?* Building Dragon Snack Games with intention: starting with values and principles, not just product ideas.* The importance of co-founder alignment, clear roles, and trust from the beginning.* Why Dragon Snack targets Gen Z/Alpha and focuses on social, collaborative game experiences: "We're building a neighborhood, not a metaverse."* Early prototyping and the belief in bringing players into the process far earlier than traditional models.* Fundraising challenges and staying true to the company's vision and community-first approach.* Designing for emotional needs: belonging, validation, and impact through gameplay.* The future of Dragon Snack Games and how listeners can follow or get involved.Resources Mentioned:* Book: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt (discussed around digital validation and Gen Z behaviors)* Learn more on Dragon Snack Games : dragonsnacksgames.com
What are the 7 key differences of successful studios leveraging player insights?Insight #4 Successful studios nailed their player profilesInsight #7 Successful studios playtest their competitor's games…
See why 80% of the top-grossing game studios rely on the Player Insights Platform™ to ensure a game's success (before it's even released).We are proud to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in 2025 and offer a FREE TRIAL here: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseIn this episode, host Sophie Vo Vo and Odile Limpach cover entrepreneurship in the gaming industry. Odile shares her journey from being a managing director at Ubisoft to co-founding SpielFabrique, a video game catalyst company. She discusses how after 16 years in the gaming industry, particularly at Ubisoft where she helped grow the company from 500 to over 10,000 employees, she decided to start her own venture. Odile emphasizes the importance of having financial stability, a strong network, and the right personality to handle uncertainty when starting a business.The discussion delves into SpielFabrique evolution over 10 years, growing to a team of seven people and running several programs including EVA (European Video Games Accelerator) which receives around 100 applications from 15 European countries annually. Odile highlights their expansion into Africa and cross-industry initiatives involving books, cinema, and music in gaming.A significant portion focuses on the challenges faced by indie game developers, particularly the balance between creativity and business acumen. Odile stresses the importance of early business planning and understanding one's purpose in starting a game company.Learn more about SpielFrabique's programs for indie developers: https://spielfabrique.eu/Thunderfox/Thanks for listening to Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive updates and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
See why 80% of the top-grossing game studios rely on the Player Insights Platform™ to ensure a game's success (before it's even released).We are proud to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in 2025 and offer a FREE TRIAL here: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseIn this episode, host Sophie Vo welcomes Brett Nowak, founder and CEO of Liquid and Grit, a leading product research and consultancy firm specializing in mobile gaming. Brett shares his entrepreneurial journey, leadership philosophies, and insights on building a sustainable, independent business. He discusses his motivations for bootstrapping his company, the importance of autonomy, and how he built a unique company culture by questioning traditional business norms.What we cover in this episode:
See why 80% of the top-grossing game studios rely on the Player Insights Platform™ to ensure a game's success (before it's even released).We are proud to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in 2025 and offer a FREE TRIAL here: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseIn this new episode host Sophie Vo sits down with Sigurlína (Lína) Ingvarsdóttir, a veteran of the gaming industry and founding partner at Behold Ventures. Lína shares her incredible journey from working on AAA franchises like Star Wars Battlefront and FIFA to transitioning into venture capital and founding Behold VC. She discusses the importance of resilience in game development, the evolving investment landscape in gaming, and what she looks for when funding early-stage game studios.This episode covers insights for game developers, entrepreneurs, and anyone who wants to learn more about the intersection of creativity, business, and investment in games.Resilience and Passion Still Matter in Gaming Startups:* Investors are drawn to teams that demonstrate long-term commitment, adaptability, and passion, even when facing challenges like funding difficulties.The Role of Intuition vs. Data in Investments:* While investment decisions often involve commercial potential and market trends, a strong emotional connection to a project can also drive successful funding.The Nordic Region's Game Development Strength:* The Nordic region continues to be a powerhouse for game innovation, producing both AAA and indie successes. Behold Ventures focuses on early-stage investments in this space.The Journey Transitioning from Game Operator to Investor:* Lina's transition from game development to venture capital was fueled by her strategic mindset, experience in production, and desire to shape the industry's future.
See why 80% of the top-grossing game studios rely on the Player Insights Platform™ to ensure a game's success (before it's even released).We are proud to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in 2025 and offer a FREE TRIAL here: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseIn this episode, co-host Nina Kim interviews Alicia Fortier, lead game designer at SpryFox. Alicia discusses the differences between AAA and indie game development, the importance of having mentors, and fostering a supportive work environment. She emphasizes self-belief, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the crucial role of leaders in nurturing team dynamics. Alicia provides valuable advice on maintaining a sustainable career, finding motivation, and how understanding oneself can guide professional growth, whether you are growing to a leadership position or keep growing your leadership skills.02:42 Meet Alicia Fortier: Lead Game Designer03:24 Early Signs and University Days06:57 AAA vs Indie: Team Dynamics10:21 Mentorship and Personal Growth13:35 Advocating for a Healthy Work Environment18:50 Navigating Feedback and Community Support26:34 The Importance of Mentorship and Advocacy42:56 Finding Motivation and Leadership Values47:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThanks for listening to Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
We are proud to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in 2025 and offer a FREE TRIAL for our listeners here: https://start.playtestcloud.com/riseIn this episode, host Sophie Vo is joined by Bibbi Wikman, Head of Brand and Business at Aurora Punks and Founder of PlayCap, the first angel network for women in the gaming industry. Together, they dive into Bibbi's leadership journey, her motivations for creating PlayCap, and the unique opportunities the network provides to elevate women in the games industry as investors and game changers.What we cover in this episode:* The Journey to PlayCap: Bibbi shares her inspiration behind PlayCap, the challenges of launching a women-centered investment network, and the powerful response it received from industry leaders.* Why PlayCap Matters: Exploring the gaps PlayCap fills in the investment ecosystem, from creating a safe space for women to learn about investments to fostering a power network of experienced professionals.* Playcap Today: Insights into the network's rapid growth, the diversity of its members, and its collaborative approach to investments.* Knowledge Sharing and Collaboration: The importance of PlayCap's active knowledge-sharing sessions and its impact on both new and seasoned investors.* Future of PlayCap: Sneak peeks into the exciting possibilities for expanding Playcap's influence in the industry.How PlayCap differs from traditional angel syndicates:* Investment is about more than capital; it's about knowledge, collaboration, and fostering diversity.* PlayCap empowers women to confidently enter the investment space with support and resources tailored to their needs.* The gaming industry benefits from diverse voices in investment and on the cap table, shaping a more inclusive and dynamic future.Join the Movement
In this episode, host Sophie Vo Vo engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Allan Cudicio, an Italo Ghanaian game developer, about his journey of founding Twin Drums in 2019 and eventually closing it in 2024, as the studio behind The Wagadu Chronicles. Allan provides an intimate look at the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial venture, discussing the challenges of raising funds as an indie and innovative IP studio, the importance of diverse cultural representation in gaming, and the emotional toll of shutting down his company. We delve into the difficulties and learnings from innovating with a niche and culturally rich IP, and the broader implications for underrepresented founders in the gaming industry. The episode also highlights the essential role of mentors, the inevitability of failure as a part of growth, and the ongoing quest to bridge cultural stories with modern technology.Closing a studio marks the end of a business, but it doesn't have to signify the end of the movement to bring more cultural representation into games. There is a growing demand among the gaming audience to discover such content and stories. If you'd like to explore this further, get in touch with Allan.01:40 Meet Allan Cudicio: From Berlin to Ghana02:01 The Birth of Twin Drums and Wagadu Chronicles03:42 Challenges and Learnings as an Entrepreneur12:46 The Importance of Representation in Gaming21:44 Building and Scaling a Remote Team24:38 Testing and Early Feedback25:08 Navigating Market Changes and Innovation Challenges27:17 Financial Struggles and Fundraising Hurdles28:32 The Emotional Toll of Shutting Down30:06 Reflecting on the Entrepreneurial Journey34:18 Embracing Failure and Looking Forward39:13 Cultural Heritage and Future Aspirations43:50 Final Thoughts and Advice for EntrepreneursWe are thrilled to be working with PlaytestCloud as our key partner in expanding Rise and Play's impact in 2025! Greetings from Berlin from Sophie and Dana
We are back in 2025! In this episode, new host Tiffany Keller interviews Emily Yim, the co-founder and CEO of Superbloom, a studio dedicated to developing lifestyle games that empower women and have successfully launched their first home decor game, Venue. Her career spans 15 years across mobile gaming at Dots and Glu, where she helped scale hit games that resonate with millions worldwide. At Superbloom, Emily is driving a new wave of gaming experiences that blend creativity, connection, and inclusivity to redefine entertainment for women.Since coming on the podcast as one of our first guests two years ago, her mission as a first time founder uncovered some surprising revelations about motherhood mixing with executive management. She doles out lessons in leadership on the startup rollercoaster, straight from the startup playbook no one teaches you.Emily divulges her secret to remaining authentic in how she designs games for women, by women. Her studio is majority femme staffed, more than doubling the average for the industry despite not screening for women, just those equipped to best serve the female gaming market.Her go to market strategy approaches from a different angle, bridging the gap between digital and real world designer goods. While Roblox have changed the gaming landscape with their Shopify integration and creator economy, it remains tough for standalone mobile games to venture into white labelling or merchandise big ticket items such as furniture. Leveraging well known brands within your investors' network is fair game however, as she conveys the value of the Chainsmokers' collaboration to her launch of Venue.Download Venue today and put your home decor skills to the test at: https://www.venuegame.co/Get your 2025 guide to hybrid monetization strategy born from new research done by Tiffany with AdInMo in the Hybrid Monetization 2024 Trends Report and with Appsflyer in the 2024 State of App Monetization Report!Thanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work.We are thrilled to announce PlaytestCloud as our key partner in expanding Rise and Play's impact in 2025! Stay tuned for future events and insights ✨ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this new episode, host Sophie Vo interviews Nicola Mizon, co-founder of VIZTA DGTL, who dives into her journey from game design to becoming a startup founder in the gaming industry.Nicola shares insights on the challenges of raising pre-seed funding, the importance of adapting your pitch to your audience, and the significance of innovation in the fashion gaming space. She emphasizes the need for more female founders in the industry and encourages women to be brave and execute their ideas. Throughout the conversation, Nicola discusses the integration of fashion and gaming, the evolving market, and VIZTA DGTL ambitions for the future with Kutur Runway, the NextGen Fashion game.01:38 Introducing Nicola Vizon and Vizta Digital03:06 Nicola's Journey in the Gaming Industry05:42 The Inspiration Behind Fashion Games Leading To Kutur Runway16:47 Founding Vizta Digital and Overcoming Market Challenges24:17 Innovating in the Fashion Gaming Space26:30 Fundraising State and Future Plans40:24 Encouraging More Female Founders To Break Entrepreneurial Barriers42:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLearn more about Kutur Runway and join their BETA list here: https://www.kuturrunway.com/Thanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this new episode, Sophie Vo Vo interviews Ludovic Bodin, a serial entrepreneur, investor, and author of the book 'Atomic Scaling.' Ludovic shares his journey from starting his first tech company in France at age 20 to becoming an influential figure in the gaming industry and a successful investor. He emphasizes a shift from traditional blitzscaling to a model he calls Atomic Scaling, which focuses on keeping teams small, leveraging AI and automation, and maintaining a strong sense of community and user-centric approach. Ludovic also reflects on his personal motivations evolving from seeking entrepreneurial success (i.e. becoming a billionaire) to prioritizing freedom, impact, and supporting the rise of women in leadership roles. This intimate conversation offers insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of aligning with one's values, and a vision for a more inclusive and community-focused business world, instead of profit-focused.To learn more, order the book Atomic Scaling: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Scaling-Small-Create-Growth/dp/154454499501:36 Meet Ludovic Bodin: Serial Entrepreneur and Investor03:15 Ludovic's Early Entrepreneurial Journey06:54 Venturing Abroad and New Beginnings09:28 The Shift to Gaming and Building CMUNE15:42 Investment Journey and New Goals17:40 Redefining Success and Freedom19:46 The Concept of Atomic Scaling21:05 Writing the Book: Atomic Scaling22:38 Entrepreneurial Struggles and Advice23:28 Implementing the Supercell Model24:47 COVID-19 and Investment Strategies25:34 Writing Atomic Scaling27:52 Publishing Journey and Book Launch30:02 Key Concepts from Atomic Scaling33:13 Navigating Business with Atomic Scaling42:32 Empowering Women in Entrepreneurship46:54 Final Thoughts and Future VisionThanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this episode, host Sophie Vo is joined by Derk, former CEO and co-founder of Paladin Studio, and co-host Tiffany Keller , a product leader with extensive experience in the gaming industry, to discuss the powerful impact of leadership retreats. They share personal stories and insights on the value of retreats, ranging from medicinal ceremonies in Colombia to silent meditation retreats in Peru, exploring different practices and their benefits. Whatever type of retreat resonates with you, the conversation emphasizes the necessity of taking intentional breaks to reconnect with oneself, manage stress, and foster personal growth. Accessible recommendations are provided for those new to the concept, including yoga, meditation, and breathwork.Tune in this special episode, which will broaden your perspectives on self-care and take a step back with retreats.01:21 Personal Experiences with Retreats04:01 The Impact of Retreats on Personal and Professional Life07:49 Defining and Understanding Retreats09:35 Triggers and Motivations for Intense Retreats16:55 The Process and Benefits of Medicinal Retreats29:36 Accessible Practices for Everyday Life30:21 Introduction to Self-Reflection Techniques30:45 Exploring Physical Activities for Stress Relief31:20 The Power of Ecstatic Dance32:21 Diverse Spiritual Practices35:05 Personal Meditation Practices35:58 The Importance of Retreats41:24 Challenges in the Gaming Industry49:35 The Value of Self-Awareness55:59 Conclusion and Future PlansThanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this episode, we reconnect with gaming industry veteran Steve Cuss to discuss his journey from traditional to liberated leadership, starting The GamePlan Consultancy and publishing his first book, Liberated Leadership. Steve shares his insights on the challenges and rewards of fostering a more inclusive and authentic workplace, exploring the significance of authenticity, vulnerability, and emotional intelligence for creative leaders.Steve emphasises the importance of self-awareness for leaders and the opportunities for self-transformation through retreats and personal inner work. We delve into the significance of creating psychological safety, balancing control with autonomy, and aligning personal and organisational values to find a deeper purpose in leadership.01:46 Steve Cuss's Journey Over the Past Year04:05 Challenges and Insights in Leadership Training09:34 The Evolution of Leadership in the Gaming Industry10:51 The Concept of Liberated Leadership15:12 Personal Growth and Authenticity in Leadership26:45 The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership27:40 The Importance of Deliberate Pauses29:09 Creating Psychological Safety30:10 The Need for Feedback in Leadership31:39 Integrating Values and Purpose38:22 Challenges in Leadership and Gender Differences43:20 The Business Case for Emotional Intelligence48:21 Practical Steps for LeadersThis conversation is a follow-up to a discussion we had with Steve a year ago, introducing the concept of Liberated Leadership, and its genesis. You can listen to that episode here:You can buy the book “Liberated Leadership” here: https://amzn.eu/d/6lHxbAW Thanks for listening to Rise and Play! Subscribe to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this episode, host Sophie Vo interviews Eric Tan, a highly experienced executive with 17 years in the entertainment and music industries. Eric shares his journey from being a business executive to embracing his role as a creative executive, his experiences and struggles in the gaming and music industries, and his insights on the importance of music partnerships in gaming. They discuss Eric's career highlights, including his roles at Riot Games, Sony Music, and his own company, Fifth Journey Limited. Eric also shares his vision for the future of music in games and offers advice for entrepreneurs navigating similar paths.Interested in exploring a music partnership? Reach out to Eric here: https://calendly.com/erictanhk/call-with-eric 01:34 Introducing Eric Tan: A Music and Gaming Executive03:55 Eric's Journey into Music and Gaming05:38 The Evolution of Music in Games07:41 Music Marketing Strategies in Gaming10:38 Challenges and Opportunities in Music Partnerships20:04 Reflecting on Fifth Journey Limited24:21 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward31:17 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThanks for listening to Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this episode hosted by Nina Kim, we delve into the leadership journey of Amy Graves, an experienced marketing strategy specialist who has led social media marketing for game studios such as Natural Motion, Epic Games, the Irregular Corporation and Square Enix. Amy discusses her transition from film to games, her journey from a behind-the-scenes role to taking on significant leadership responsibilities, the lessons she learnt on taking new roles, and her career transitions. Amy shares powerful stories on how she has built a culture of constructive feedback in her teams, adapted leadership styles across different cultures, and embraced leading with effective empathy.01:41 Meet the Guest: Amy Graves02:34 Amy's Journey from Film to Games08:06 Challenges and Learnings in Leadership15:05 Adapting Leadership Styles28:41 The Importance of Feedback39:58 Values and Future Aspirations43:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThanks for listening to Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support our work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
⭐️ Exclusive partnership promotion: Get DevGAMM tickets 15% off with the promo code: devgamm15 ⭐️In this episode, Sophie welcomes Maria Chyrvona, the CEO of DevGAMM, to discuss the evolution of the gaming conference since its inception in Ukraine in 2008. They dive into the personal and professional experiences that shaped DevGAMM, including navigating the challenges of COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. Maria shares insights into the organization of events, their business model, and the unique values that make DevGAMM's events feel like a community and personalized experience. Don't miss out on the upcoming DevGAMM Lisbon event on November 14-15, notable speakers including John Romero, and an exciting indie developer contest with cash prizes of $100,000! For more info, check the DevGAMM Awards 2024 info and how to submit your game.00:37 Guest Introduction: Maria from DevGAMM01:49 The Origins of DevGAMM07:59 Challenges and Resilience During the War In Ukraine17:26 Business Model and Event Organization24:42 Creating a Unique And Personalized Event Experience37:28 Upcoming DevGAMM Lisbon Event in November and Indie Game Awards Prize. Get event tickets 15% off with the promo code: devgamm15 44:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts⭐️ Exclusive partnership promotion: Get DevGAMM tickets 15% off with the promo code: devgamm15 ⭐️Thanks for reading Rise and Play! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
What is the impact of coaching and what should you expect when you receive coaching?Some even ask: What is the ROI of coaching?In this special coaching episode, host Sophie Vo sits down with Hannah Mattil, the Senior Team Lead for Research Operations at PlaytestCloud. They reflect on Hannah's personal and professional growth over six months of leadership coaching.Hannah shares her journey from initial skepticism about coaching to the valuable lessons and self-awareness she gained. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, receiving and acting on feedback, and setting clear goals. Hannah emphasizes how the coaching experience has helped her develop confidence, composure, and a deeper understanding of her strengths and weaknesses.This episode is a testament to the transformative power of coaching and its impact on leadership and personal development. Sophie Vo openly shares her unique approach and process to coaching, with her 16 years of leadership in games.For people considering coaching, this episode will highlight what to expect, and when is the right time to invest in yourself.Coaching is a process that needs full readiness from the coachee for the most optimal outcome.01:37 Special Episode: Hannah's Leadership Journey03:33 Hannah's Background and Entry into Gaming05:08 The Coaching Journey Begins10:33 Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence13:01 Reflecting on the Coaching Experience26:34 Applying Coaching Lessons in Real Life29:49 Final Thoughts and Advice on Coaching35:30 Conclusion and Call to Action⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ If you enjoyed today's episode make sure to rate it and leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit riseandplay.substack.com
In this new episode, we sit down with Charlotte Gailledreau, a French game studio founder, narrative RPG enthusiast, and ex-Game Lead at the Oh Bi Bi and Gumi studios. Charlotte shares the story of founding her game studio, Sunny Lab, in 2022 alongside her associate Hugo Sahuquet. They discuss their journey from mobile to console & PC gaming, the significance of storytelling in their projects, and the trials of fundraising and team building. Charlotte opens up about the emotional and practical challenges of being a first-time CEO, emphasizing resilience, community support, and the importance of maintaining a balanced life. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of the unspoken difficulties in the gaming industry in 2024 and offers valuable insights into the personal and professional aspects of leading a game studio.Be sure to check the upcoming launch of their new game The Witch's Bakery
This story serves as an inspiring example for all independent studios considering their funding options in 2024, reminding us that collective willpower and fearlessness can be as powerful as more seniority and money. In this episode of Rise and Play, guest host Shelby Moledina returns. Shelby is a Game Director and Film Director with 30+ titles shipped, and 20+ years of experience at large and small companies (WB Games, DeNA, Double Loop Games, and more). This week, she speaks with Ayla Derrick, the founder of Cave Bear Games, an all-volunteer studio that went unexpectedly viral earlier this year.Ayla, a newcomer to the game industry with a background in education, shares how and why she started Cave Bear Games in 2024, which has been a historically apocalyptic year in the games industry. Ayla discusses how she harnessed CBG's viral success to build the studio, and to spread the wealth far beyond CBG by creating a strong volunteer and junior game dev community. We cover essential topics such as the importance of trusting your instincts to find your own way to solve problems, networking with genuine passion, and fostering a positive studio culture. Ayla and Cave Bear's journey make it clear that there's real power in taking fate into your own hands.02:19 Starting an All-Volunteer Studio, for Junior Devs20:25 Growing the Team AND a Dev Community...at the Same Time33:04 Using a Newcomer's POV to Tackle Business Challenges in Novel Ways37:36 The Importance of Communication, Genuine Outreach, and Passion47:22 Like PB&J: ADHD and Game Development54:18 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In this inspiring episode, we switch roles with Shelby Moledina, as our new co-host on the show who interviews Sophie Vo to share her journey of breaking barriers within the gaming industry, focusing on building inclusive and conscious game companies and studios.Sophie discusses her experiences in establishing key projects like Rise and Play, her role as CEO and co-founder of Kylan, a new game studio in Vietnam, and transitioning from corporate structures to startup environments. She highlights the importance of leadership, pitching, fundraising, and above all alignment within co-founder teams.Shelby and Sophie discuss the challenges and learnings from their entrepreneurial ventures (Shelby was the co-founder of the studio Double Loop Games which closed in 2023), underscoring the significance of personal growth, connections, and embracing changes in the pursuit of their missions. Sophie also introduces her upcoming project, Olivya, aimed at innovating at the intersection of coaching, technology, and games.01:30 Special Co-host: Shelby Moledina02:26 The Birth of the Podcast Rise and Play04:30 Navigating Leadership and Consciousness In Business08:19 Fundraising and Building a New Studio in 2024 (Kylan)14:07 Personal Growth and Overcoming Fears16:11 Lessons from the Co-Founders Journey25:37 Discovering Sophie's ‘Why' out of games33:09 Continuing the leadership journey with Olivya
Share your opinion on the future of game monetization in their market research survey with a chance to win Gamesforum tickets!In this episode of Rise and Play, new cohost Tiffany Keller joins the podcast. Tiffany has spent the past decade in product management across several billion dollars plus earning franchises at three of Gaming's top five acquisitions and the most downloaded games of the decade. She sits down with Joanne Lacey, COO and Board Director at Adinmo, a privacy-first in-game monetization platform working with free-to-play mobile game publishers and developers. They dive into her path to the executive suite in multiple ad ecosystem roles that span the Board Director of the trading body defining GDPR, COO managing the Player X acquisition into Unity, and the Board of Trustees for a cancer charity. Jo shares her leadership philosophy as a “Defender” to foster team cohesion in remote working, even during instability such as the Ukraine conflict. Jo shares how Adinmo is shaping the evolving relationship between the gaming and advertising industries- highlighting the importance of understanding the intersection of player behavior and brand values to create valuable ad experiences in games.For those experiencing layoffs or wanting a change, Jo advises how your career could branch out into adjacent game ecosystem roles.Take their survey now for a chance to win Gamesforum tickets: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RGKZDK302:46 Introducing Joanne and Adinmo07:21 Jo's Career Journey17:58 Leadership and Company Culture22:04 Navigating the Gaming and Advertising Ecosystem26:15 Product Market Fit and Industry Trends34:31 Career Insights and Opportunities37:51 Conclusion- Take their market research survey now!
We're excited to have on this episode a new podcast host at Rise and Play: Nina Kim. Nina is a Senior game designer who previously worked on games like Merge Dragons, Cozy Grove, and Sea of Thieves. With a deep interest in wholesome mechanics and approaches to well-being, Nina strives to contribute to nurturing creative teams within the industry. Let's give her a warm welcome on the show
In this new episode, we interview Charlotte Lavergne, who shares her journey co-founding Supercosi Games in 2020, a mobile studio focused on evergreen games. Charlotte shares the context of bootstrapping the company in 2020 until they raised 2M€ in 2022. She also discusses the challenges of raising seed/Series A funding through VCs in 2024, despite having healthy financial results. She explains her strategic process focusing on evergreen games and the multiple iterations that led their team to find their 'hit' title in 2023: Word Search Puzzle Challenge, and how they keep scaling the game in 2024. This episode is an open-hearted testimonial about the ups and downs of being a game entrepreneur, reminding all founders that whatever you are going through this year, you are not alone. We do the best with what we have and can control, and try to survive the wave(s)
In this episode, we delve into an inspiring conversation with Emma Delage, CEO of Studio Camelia. Emma shares her journey from working at Ubisoft Paris to founding her own independent game studio based in Montpellier, France. We cover the challenges and wins of starting a new game company, focusing on JRPGs, and navigating the complexities of fundraising and Kickstarter campaigns. Emma's story exemplifies resilience, conviction, and the importance of staying true to one's vision, offering invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and independent game developers, when plans A, B, C and D fall apart. Congratulations to Studio Camelia for closing their Kickstarter Campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/studiocamelia/seed-a-vibrant-tribute-to-jrpg-classics Follow their JRPG Alzara: https://studio-camelia.com/ 02:28 Meet Emma Delage: CEO of Studio Camellia 03:46 Emma's Journey Before Studio Camellia 05:36 The Birth of Studio Camelia and JRPG Passion 09:50 Building the Team and Early Challenges 13:47 Funding the Dream: From Surveys to Investors 19:33 Kickstarter Success and Community Support 29:18 Values and Vision: Creating a Unique Studio Culture 32:31 Reflections and Future Aspirations
How to combine games and education, and is there a case for it? We interview Melissa Cash, co-founder and CEO of PokPok, a company creating educational and engaging digital content for children. They discuss the challenges and strategies of developing non-addictive, educational content for young children, focusing on the importance of designing tools that integrate seamlessly with a parent's daily life. Melissa shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey, balancing professional and personal life, and highlights the critical role of networking as a CEO. We also touch on PokPok's unique approach to early childhood education and the importance of community and collaboration in achieving success. Pok Pok, raised $3 million in seed funding in 2022. The company was founded in 2019 after it spun out of Snowman, the small studio behind award-winning iOS games Alto's Adventure, Alto's Odyssey, Skate City and others. Pok Pok is a great example of how games can be taken beyond the gaming industry to consumer and educational apps. Learn more about Pok Pok: https://playpokpok.com/ 03:02 Melissa's Journey to Pok Pok 12:08 Building the Product 16:09 Marketing and Business Model 19:15 Challenges and Parental Concerns 23:20 Balancing Toddler Activities and Screen Time 24:03 The Healthy Screen Time Debate 24:40 Understanding Pok Pok's Unique Value 26:15 Challenges and Differentiation in the Market 30:36 Team Composition and Educational Approach 33:18 Reflections on Entrepreneurship 39:02 Balancing Family and Business 41:34 Future Plans and Excitement 43:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, we interview Olya Caliujnaia, the CEO and co-founder at Sanlo.io, on a mission to help game businesses thrive revenues. Olya shares her entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in a family of resilient entrepreneurs, to eventually founding her own company in the gaming industry. Before Sanlo, Olya managed product and growth at Playfish, EA, Getty Images, SigFig, Wells Fargo and worked with early-stage companies as an entrepreneur-in-residence at XYZ Venture Capital. Olya shares her process, trial and error of finding the right co-founder, the early stages of customer discovery, and the importance of building a committed and complementary co-founder team. Olya also talks about the products Sanlo offers, including web shops and capital financing for gaming companies, and emphasizes the importance of financial health and sustainable monetization, as vital components of a game business. More on Sanlo.io: https://www.sanlo.io/ 01:33 CEO Olya Caliujnaia's Journey: From Product Leader to Gaming Entrepreneur 02:12 The Entrepreneurial Path: Olya's Journey to Founding Sanlo.io 09:41 The Co-Founder Search: Lessons Learned and Finding the Right Match 12:40 Customer Discovery and Product Development Insights, Pivoting to PMF 18:01 Building a Team and Overcoming Challenges in the Gaming Startup World 24:36 SanloToday: Products, Vision, and the Future 29:08 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions
We continue our short series on fundraising in games in 2024, following the journey of Sophie Vo, founder of Rise and Play and CEO of Kylan, a new studio created in 2024. In this episode hosted by Clair Rozain, Sophie shares what she wishes she had known before fundraising and how she would approach it a second time with all she has learned: start by bootstrapping instead of relying solely on VC/fundraising, have a founding team who can build the product, and be critical about your business like an investor. A hard self-reflection question: If you had to invest your own money in your business, would you do it? If the answer is no, then how can you expect other investors to invest in you too? What do you need to change or pivot to make it investable for yourself? This episode will provide insights on mistakes to avoid before fundraising with VCs. 00:19 Launching a New Game Company: Insights and Challenges 01:16 Deep Dive into Pitching and Fundraising in 2024 10:06 Understanding the Venture Capital Landscape 22:32 Empowering Women in Gaming and Entrepreneurship 27:41 Reflecting on the Pitching Experience and Looking Ahead 30:21 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions
In this episode focused on fundraising, we hear the stories of three powerful women and founders who raised with VCs in seed and round A between 2015 and 2023. All you need to know while you are fundraising with VCs in 2024, and asking yourself, is this the right path for you? Julia Palatovska, Dorian Games, $19M raised. Aurora Klæboe Berg, Megacool and Medal TV, $60M raised. Ioana Hreninciuc, Runware (PicFinder), $3M raised. Host, Sophie Vo alongside founders Julia Palatovska, Aurora Klæboe Berg, and Ioanna Hreninciuc, share their firsthand experiences and lessons learned from fundraising with VCs, including the importance of iteration on the pitch, building a strong team of co-founders, and the journey from concept to securing investments, as a major responsibility of a CEO role. We cover the different fundraising rounds, the impact of investors' feedback, and strategies for creating a compelling pitch. Additionally, the episode covers the dynamics of working with co-founders, the realities versus expectations of fundraising, and practical advice for other founders navigating their fundraising efforts in 2024 and beyond. 01:37 The Realities of VC Fundraising: Stories from the Front Lines 07:32 Hope vs. Reality: The Fundraising Experience 21:38 Navigating Feedback and holding Vision in Fundraising 30:10 FOMO, Fundraising Matchmaking 38:05 Advice for Future Fundraisers in 2024 Episode available on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Sig-w3_2aYo Learn more about Aurora's journey: Our Roller Coaster $1.6m Seed Fundraise
It takes courage to build a game company. It takes courage to decide to close a company. It takes double courage to talk about it and share the learnings. In this episode, we follow the journey of Shelby Moledina, co-founder of Double Loop Games, from the aspiring start in 2019 to the difficult decision to close the company in 2023. Shelby shares the story of founding Double Loop Games, focusing on creating mobile games for underserved audiences, particularly women, and the process of building the company from prototyping to fundraising. Despite the eventual closure of Double Loop Games due to market pressures and funding challenges, Shelby's story is one of resilience, strategic pivoting, and commitment to her team until the last day of closing the company. This episode sheds light on the importance of community support as a founder, self-reflection, and the courage to make tough decisions for the team's well-being and personal integrity. Double Loop Games raised a seed round of $2.5M in 2020 and $8M in Series A in 2021: https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/double-loop-games-raises-8-million-to-create-meaningfully-charming-mobile-games 02:42 The Founding Story of Double Loop Games 03:12 From Corporate to Co-Founder: Shelby's Transition 15:13 The Early Days of Double Loop: Prototyping and Team Building 20:05 Navigating the Fundraising Landscape: Seed to Series A 28:45 Adapting to a Changing Investment Environment in 2024 32:29 The Evolution of Game Development Strategies 32:30 Insights from Soft Launch Experiences 33:26 Reflecting on the Final Months and Decision to Close 33:42 Pivoting to a New Game Concept 36:11 Exploring the Merge Game Market and Strategy Development 38:56 The Emotional Journey of Shutting Down and Moving Forward 53:20 New Beginnings: From Game Development to Filmmaking 58:57 Reflections and Future Directions
Is that a crazy idea to start a new game company in 2024?! We are resuming the podcast in May, tackling the multiple challenges of building a new company/studio and surviving in 2024. We kick off this new season, with the journey of Sophie Vo, founder of Rise and Play and first-time CEO of a game company. Sophie shares her process of becoming a CEO, the challenges of fundraising and pitching, applying the learnings from 100+ entrepreneurs she interviewed in the podcast, building a company like a studio/product, and the importance of digging into co-founders' team dynamics and trust. Co-host Claire Rozain interviews Sophie, exploring topics from the necessity of curiosity and learning in leadership roles to practical advice for new founders. The discussion covers the strategies used by Sophie to navigate her company through difficult times, turning constraints into creative opportunities and not being afraid of making the hard call in times of business crisis. 04:04 Sophie Vo's Leap into Entrepreneurship: Building a Game Company in 2024, why??? 09:46 Facing Skepticism and Embracing the Challenge 16:23 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Curiosity 19:50 From Solopreneur to Co-Founder: The Decision to Collaborate 20:09 The Solopreneur Journey and Team Dynamics 21:35 Building an Aligned Founding Team and the Role of a CEO 24:47 Effective Leadership and Role Clarity With Mission Cards 28:02 Building Trust and Embracing Challenges 33:47 Adapting to Market Constraints and Embracing Innovation 36:13 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs in 2024
In this special episode, Sophie Vo shares a heartfelt thank you to the community for their loyalty and support over the past three years, and reveals a major personal update: the start of her new game company, Kylan. This new venture will lead to a short break in podcast content, but we assure listeners that this is just a brief hiatus! We are onboarding new co-hosts so if you're interested in giving it a try, contact us at sophie@riseandplay.io Workshop and 1-1 coaching inquiry at sophie@riseandplay.io Next networking event in Berlin on April 25th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rise-and-play-x-starberry-x-metacore-networking-brunch-tickets-861332878827?aff=oddtdtcreator We're back in May! In the meantime, enjoy the evergreen top content from the previous episodes: 91. Founder Jens Begemann's Retrospective on Running Wooga For Over A Decade 90. Solving the Team Culture Map Puzzle with Jen Donahoe 77. Master Emotionally Charged Conversation 59. How to Plan and Nurture Your Career in Games with Miska Katkoff and Sophie Vo 52. Running your 1:1 in a modern workplace (remote) - with Marko Kecman 43. Coaching episode: Tamara Rose Morales, On Examining Your Life Script 32. What You Did Not Know About UX- with Devon Wyland, Head of UX at Solsten
In this episode, we interview Jamie Smith, a principal game designer at People Can Fly, about the challenges and insights into design leadership for AAA development. While agile development with quick feedback loop is common for mobile games, it is not for AAA! So how do you combine the mindset of agility and traditionally long and siloed AAA game development? Jamie Smith, with over 13 years of experience working on AAA titles like Tom Clancy's The Division, FIFA, and Call of Duty, discusses his career journey, the transition from production roles to a leadership position, and the importance of team autonomy, cross-discipline collaboration, and decision-making structures in delivering successful game projects. The conversation sheds light on the balance between creative direction and the multitude of factors influencing game design, including technical limitations, publisher expectations, and market comparison, aiming to provide valuable insights for improving management skills and understanding the complexity and legacy of AAA game development. More about Jamie's work and open AAA design learnings: https://youtu.be/q250xvbn9hg?si=kOEbYofqAGMJzVeH 02:42 The Evolution of a Game Designer, from IC to Leader 12:01 Leading Teams and Defining Quality in AAA Game Design 17:00 Navigating Conflicts and Priorities in Game Development 23:35 Adopting a Holistic Approach to Game Design 29:57 Reflecting on 13 Years in AAA Game Development
In this episode, we deconstruct the success of Beatstar, from the lens of design and company culture at Space Ape Games, with our special guest Charmie Kim, Game lead at Space Ape Games. We explore the evolution of game development from first-mover advantages beginnings to the complex, research-driven approach necessary in today's competitive market. Through Charmie's journey from working on Samurai Siege Live Ops to leading the highly successful music game Beatstar, we uncover insights on how to innovate within various game genres, and the importance of research, marketing, and adapting to the market. Beatstar has grossed over $125m and has attracted over 60m players since its launch in September 2021. Key takeaways: the significance of direct player engagement, the strategic necessity of market research before genre selection, and the pivotal role of diverse team adaptability in meeting contemporary gaming demands. 01:35 Charmie Kim: A Trailblazer in Game Design and Leadership 06:00 Tracing Charmie Kim's Journey from Fashion to Game Design 15:47 The Strategic Shift at Space Ape Games: Exploring New Genres 20:32 Innovating in the Music Game Genre with BeatStar 32:06 The Importance of Market Research in Modern Game Development 37:13 Concluding Thoughts and the Future of Game Development
We interview Derk De Geus, co-CEO and Co-Founder of Paladin Studio to explore leadership lessons learned over two decades in the gaming industry. The episode covers the genesis of Paladin Studio, its transition from a service company to a game development studio, and how it navigated challenges and growth without external investment. Bootstrapping successfully a studio is a rare story we hear of these days! Derk shares insights on the importance of self-awareness, empathetic communication, and aligning one's core being with their professional roles. The discussion delves into the pitfalls of rapid scaling, the benefits of retreats for personal and leadership development, and the significance of creating a supportive and creative company culture. 01:37 The Genesis of Paladin Studio: A 20-Year Journey 03:50 Navigating the Early Days and the Shift to Entertainment Games 09:20 The Evolution of Leadership and Business Strategy 16:14 The CEO's Dilemma: Balancing Creativity and Business and Finding Balance 23:20 Embracing Creativity Beyond Work 24:11 The Synergy of Creative and Business Minds 26:13 The CEO Role Reimagined: Co-CEO for Creative Freedom 26:25 Navigating Operational and Strategic Challenges 28:33 The Transformative Power of Retreats 35:26 Leadership as a Journey of Self-Discovery 39:59 Cultivating a Culture of Shared Values
Different teams make different games, for different audiences, In this episode, we interview the duo Caroline Marchal and Charu Desodt, respectively CEO and Studio Director at Interior Night, to share their journey building an innovative AAA studio from scratch. Interior Night is an independent game studio formed by Quantic Dream and Sony veterans based in London, dedicated to creating innovative interactive stories for a broad and mature audience. They are the crreators of the original interactive drama As Dusk Falls , a new take on narrative games which received unanimous reviews (9/10 IGN, 9/10 GameSpot, 9/10 Steam). We cover the evolution of the AAA industry, the growth of representation of women in gaming, the journey of starting a new AAA studio and the significance of having a clear vision and being persistent with it. Caroline had a strong vision of a new kind of AAA narrative games she wanted to make for a mature audience (mothers, non gamers, spouses), and supported by a highly experienced diverse team, she materialized that vision successfully with their first title As Dusk Falls. 01:16 Interior Night Studio: A Female-Led Game Development Studio 02:21 The Journey of the Studio Founders: From Game Designers to Studio Leaders 06:26 The Birth of Interior Night: A Leap of Faith into Entrepreneurship 09:44 The Making of 'As Dust Falls': A Unique Interactive Narrative Experience 18:54 The Impact of 'As Dust Falls' on Players: A New Approach to Gaming 22:01 The Journey of Funding and Building a Game Studio 30:38 Reflections on Leadership and the Future of the Gaming Industry
In this episode, we follow the journey of Laura Carter, CEO and co-founder of TreesPlease Games, with the mission to bring a positive impact on the planet, through games. After a stellar career at companies such as Natural Motion, Square Enix, The Walt Disney Company and PlayStation Studios, Laura decided in 2019 to take a leap and bring her passion for the planet and business together and found TreesPlease Games. TreesPlease Games raised $8M in seed funding in 2023: https://mobilegamer.biz/treesplease-games-gets-8m-in-seed-funding-reveals-debut-game-longleaf-valley/ Laura shares about the process of navigating the challenges of starting a company as an initial solo founder, raising funds, assembling a team, making a game that aligns with the company's environmental mission, and managing the operational demands of achieving the company's goals. The team at Trees Please is proud to have planted nearly a million trees through their gaming activity and first casual puzzle title Longleaf Valley. Despite various challenges, TreesPlease aims to continue creating environmentally-themed casual puzzle games, with plans to launch more in 2024. Learn more about TreesPlease reforestation project: https://www.treespleasegames.com/real-tree-planting https://www.edenprojects.org/ 01:03 Laura's Journey into Entrepreneurship 03:34 The Birth of TreesPlease Games 05:23 Challenges and Triumphs of Starting a Company 06:57 The Importance of a Supportive Network 07:32 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 10:01 Building the Founding Team 10:26 Securing Initial Funding 12:23 The Journey of Building Longleaf Valley 17:35 The Impact of Longleaf Valley, planting 1,000,000 trees 36:51 The Future of TreesPlease Studio
The podcast features Kim Nordström, a gaming industry veteran from Paradox Interactive and King, and the author of 'Up, Down, Up', a book about the life cycle phases of gaming startups. We delve into Kim's analytical approach exploring startup successes and failures, identifying key patterns across companies. Over two years of research, Kim interviewed over a hundred gaming founders, CEOs, and leaders. Relevant topics ranging from the necessity of creative tension and disciplined decision-making in leadership, the four critical phases of development for startup companies as compared to a human life cycle, and the importance of knowing one's purpose in their role as founders or CEOs, and at the different growth and decline phases. Many practical and philosophical insights from the book are highlighted. 02:00 The Author's Gaming and Entrepreneurial Journey 05:28 The Process of Writing the Book 06:31 The Value of the Book 07:04 The Process of Interviewing Companies 08:43 The Structure and Purpose of the Book 14:48 The Importance of Discipline in Success 25:47 The Role of a CEO in a Gaming Company 29:47 Solutions and Challenges in Leadership 30:40 The Role of a CEO and the Importance of Support 33:40 The Struggles of Leadership and the Need for Self-Care 36:04 The Dynamics of Co-Founders and Team Composition 38:32 The Importance of Conflict and Challenge in Team Building 51:12 The Role of a CEO in Different Phases of a Company 54:48 Understanding Your Purpose As a CEO or Founder Get your copy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/UP-DOWN-companies-succeed-others-ebook/dp/B0CR4D417V
In 2023, there were 11.89% female CEOs and 8.95% co-founders (reported from 7 different funds) from approximately 400 companies and 1000 founders. It is progress but there is still a long way to go before we see more women accessing positions of CEOs, especially when they are not founding their own company. In this episode, we interview Veronica Rojas, who climbed the ranks in her career from product marketing at Gameloft to Head of Studio, ultimately becoming the co-CEO at Uken Games. How does someone become a co-CEO/CEO? What does this role imply, and what should one consider before taking on those responsibilities? The role of co-CEO has emerged more and more in the gaming industry as we recognize that the demands of a CEO role might become overwhelming as the company scales. 04:01 Veronica's Journey into the Gaming Industry 07:34 The Challenges of Starting a Gaming Startup With No Funding and Experience 15:32 Transitioning from Startup to Corporate 24:03 The Role of Product Marketing in Gaming 25:46 Joining UKEN and Rising to Co-CEO 37:05 The Challenges of Being a Co-CEO
As the gaming industry is maturing, we become aware of the importance of diversity in audience, teams, and leadership. But what about the investment side? In this episode, we interview Kelly Wallick, the former founder of Indie Megabooth and now a partner at 1Up Ventures, founded in 2019 by Ed Fries (Former Microsoft Vice President). Their mission is to build a diverse and inclusive community of the most talented, experienced, and creative independent game developers in the world. Their portfolio includes noteworthy emerging studios such as Lightforge Games, Superbloom, and Gardens. We discuss the importance of diversity in the gaming industry, how a team that reflects its audience increases the potential for success, and the role of founders' community building in nurturing success. Wallick shares her gaming journey leading her to the investment side, the vision for 1Up Venture, and the unique community-centered approach they bring to venture capitalism. 02:19 Kelly's Journey into the Gaming Industry 04:37 The Birth and Growth of Indie Megabooth 06:42 Transitioning to 1Up Venture 10:30 Investment Decision-Making at 1Up 20:45 Betting on Diverse Teams 21:27 Investment Structure and Strategy 22:14 Building a Founders Community within the Gaming Industry 27:16 Challenges and Successes in Community Building from a Venture Side 39:31 How to connect with 1Up
"What if I build my own company? What if I have more money? Then, I will be happier!" In this episode, Sophie interviews Miska Katkoff, founder of Deconstructor of Fun and former CEO of Savage Games, to reflect on the journey post-acquisition from PlayStation Studios in 2022. We discuss the definition of success and the common pressures individuals face in attaining it. Miska shares his personal experience navigating his sense of achievement, dealing with external validation, and the value he places on self-reliance. He discusses the importance of understanding personal values and setting personal goals instead of adopting those prescribed by others. He also encourages listeners to seek therapy as a tool for understanding oneself and promoting mental health. We also touch on the role money plays in their definitions of success. Link to the MindJournal mentioned in the episode. 00:47 Discussing the Concept of Success 01:38 External Success vs Internal Success 06:24 The Role of Comparison in Success 07:47 The Importance of Setting Personal Goals 11:05 The Role of Money in Defining Success 21:18 The Impact of Material Possessions on Happiness 24:27 The Importance of Therapy in Stressful Times 24:55 The Role of Therapy in Personal Growth 25:54 The Impact of Stress on Personal Relationships 27:13 The Struggles of Startup Life 28:17 The Power of Normalizing Therapy 28:38 Overcoming Prejudices and Resistance to Therapy 29:31 The Importance of Mental Training 30:56 The Journey of Self-Discovery through Therapy 31:24 The Role of Coaching in Personal Development 34:48 The Impact of Upbringing on Success Drive 37:34 The Importance of Self-Realization and Serving Others 44:18 The Power of Journaling and Self-Reflection 45:33 The Persistence of Internal Issues Despite Success
With thousands of people being laid off in the gaming industry over the past few months, what does it look like to create your own job rather than waiting for the job market to recover? Matej Lancaric, known for his prominent role in UA in Games, shares his journey as a solopreneur on the podcast. We cover Matej's transition from a corporate career to UA consultancy, his unique approach to providing value to the audience, the evolution of his content creation, and his definition of success. He emphasizes being true to oneself, maintaining authenticity, and cherishing the flexibility provided by being a solopreneur. If you need help marketing your game, you should reach out to Matej: https://lancaric.me/ Follow his podcast on UA: two-and-a-half gamers. 00:35 Guest Introduction: Matej Lancaric 00:59 Matej's Journey in the Gaming Industry 03:35 Transition to Solopreneurship 05:10 The Power of Authenticity 05:50 The Leap into the Unknown 05:59 The Challenges of Going Solo 06:46 The Importance of Being Yourself 08:13 The Journey of Starting a Newsletter 08:41 The Reality of Launching Games 10:54 The Value of Sharing Knowledge 13:13 The Struggles of Being Criticized 19:50 The Evolution of Content Sharing 22:29 The Importance of Feedback in Solo Work 22:55 Building a Unique and Playful Brand 23:51 The Birth of the Dancing Unicorn and Two and a Half Gamers 24:59 The Evolution of Content Creation and Branding 27:05 The Role of Happiness and Authenticity in Personal Branding 32:46 The Challenges and Rewards of Being a Solopreneur 33:32 Defining Success as a Solopreneur 39:43 The Art of Time Management and Content Creation 41:42 Reflections on the Journey and Future Aspirations
In this episode, Mika Tammenkoski, the CEO and co-founder of Metacore shared the evolution of his gaming company since its inception in 2020. From a small team prototyping smartwatch games to novel merge mechanics, the company has grown to 190+ members. The studio's first global hit game Merge Mansion already has over 50 million players. Metacore is one of the fastest growing game companies in Europe, with EUR 129 million in revenue in 2022 and a team of 190 professionals. The company has raised EUR 180 million in funding from Supercell and is one of their portfolio companies. Mika talks about the company's early meetings and experiences, his personal journey into the gaming industry, and the decision to shift focus from new technologies to more established gaming markets. He also sheds light on the company's culture and the vital importance of a robust talent acquisition strategy. Furthermore, Mika provides insights on Metacore's expansion plans, with a new studio in Berlin and operations extending to other games. 00:00 Introduction and Background of Metacore 00:31 Interview with Mika, CEO and Co-founder of Metacore 01:48 Mika's Journey into the Gaming Industry 04:47 Mika's Experience at Digital Chocolate 08:08 Founding of Everywear Games and Transition to Metacore 10:28 Challenges and Learnings from Previous Ventures 17:06 The Birth of Merge Mansion 18:49 The Testing and Iteration Process of Merge Mansion 23:55 Reflections on the Development Process 27:10 The Journey of Game Development and Company Growth 28:06 Challenges and Learnings from Global Launch 28:43 Understanding the Role of Story and Advertising in Gaming 29:37 The Evolution of Company Culture 30:37 Influence of Other Cultures and the Importance of Adaptability 32:40 The Importance of Talent Acquisition and Internal Growth 34:33 Reflections on Company Growth and Expansion 34:59 The Importance of Defining and Evolving Company Culture 43:18 Looking Forward: Future Aspirations and Expansion Plans for Metacore 47:33 Challenges and Strategies in Scaling Skills and Leadership 48:03 The Role of Community in the Gaming Industry 53:50 Closing Thoughts: The Importance of Inspiration and Continuous Learning
What would happen if someone leaked their company's full compensation information to the entire company? That's how you can evaluate your readiness to move your company toward an open salaries policy, or not. In the future of work, where more and more employees will prioritize transparency and equality, open salaries are poised to become a standard for Gen Z in Western cultures. If you want to remain competitive in the long term and hiring talents, you may want to consider embracing open salaries. In this episode, Matt Schembari, CEO at Lightforge Games, shares the research on open salaries and the current state of the open salary movement and provides concrete benefits and challenges from Lightforge's experience practicing open salaries over the past three years. You can find additional resources from Matt's GDC 2023 talk here. As a recognition for their effort in pioneering a better culture for the game industry, Lightforge Games received the 2024 Game Changers Awards by Lightspeed and Gamesbeat. Topics covered: Why open salaries make sense in specific contexts and how to determine if it applies to your situation. Steps to initiate open salary practices if you haven't already. Establishing a company with open salaries from the ground up. Exploring the pros and cons of open salaries, including potential pitfalls. Embracing a coaching culture for leaders and employees.
This episode is about the inspiring journey of a resilient young entrepreneur, who is committed to cracking the puzzle of fitness to mobile games for GenZ. In this episode, we interview Jenny Xu, the CEO of Talofa Games, to discuss her journey in the gaming industry and the creation of their unique fitness RPG game, Run Legends. Jenny shares her background in the industry, including her previous solo-founded company, JC Soft Inc., and being part of the Niantic Kickstarter Program leading to the creation of Talofa Games. We dive into the details of Run Legends, a co-op fitness RPG game that combines modern gaming with fitness, aiming to surpass existing fitness gaming options. Learn more about the fitness habits and preferences of Gen Z, and what it takes to create a game experience for GenZ.
In this captivating episode, we dive into the revolutionary game publishing model of Kepler Interactive. Join our conversation with Catherine Chew, Senior Director of Investments and Business at Kepler, to uncover the secrets behind their unique co-ownership model. In 2021, Kepler has raised $120 million from NetEase in a financing round as part of its launch. At Kepler, studio founders become co-owners with a say in the decision-making process of the collective and are able to utilize the benefits that a model like this can provide. Marketing, operations, finance, publishing, technology and even team expertise: the combination of resources enables each studio to achieve their goals, all while maintaining creative freedom. Among the founding studios at Kepler: A44, Alpha Channel, Awaceb, Ebb Software, Shapefarm, Sloclap and Timberline. The company's executive team is led by the founders of independent video game fund Kowloon Nights. A co-ownership model sounds great on paper, but how does it work in practice? Join us for an insightful conversation that will change the way you think about game development and publishing! Topics Discussed: - Kepler Interactive's co-ownership model and its impact on game publishing - Cat's journey from consulting to joining Kepler Interactive - The origins of the disruptive publishing model created by the founders of Kepler - How Kepler strives for alignment and collaboration among studios - The criteria Kepler looks for when considering new studios to join the collective - The power of collaboration and synergy among studios within Kepler - Kepler's commitment to sustainable growth and organic expansion - The trade-off between rapid scaling and long-term sustainability in the gaming industry - Kepler's vision for the future and their commitment to unique gaming experiences
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