Collection of finance from backers—the "crowd"—to fund an initiative
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BGI 433 The One About Lots of Crowdfunding News Board Games Insider – Join our Guild on Board Game Geek Guild | Like us on FB Social media: Ignacy Trzewiczek / Portal Games: website | FB | Twitter | Youtube Corey Thompson / Above Board TV: website | Youtube Stephen Buonocore / “The Podfather Of Gaming”: website | FB | Twitter | Youtube Intro Music: Happy Rock – Bensound.com
Crowdfunding Wedding full 398 Tue, 25 Aug 2026 17:20:46 +0000 ADgY8JEFsxkeTHloa31FClfx6JV5iP0T comedy The Wake Up Call comedy Crowdfunding Wedding The Wake Up Call is a morning radio show based in Sacramento, California, and heard weekday mornings on 106.5 the End. Gavin, Katie, and Intern Kevin wake up every morning to have FUN and be FUNNY, while you start your day. This show has unbelievable chemistry and will keep you laughing all morning! 2024 © 2021 Audacy, Inc. Comedy https://player.amperwavepodcasting.com?feed-link=https%3A%2F%2Frss.amperwa
Jeff Mains sits down with Elie Bouzaglou, founder of Fish Tank, a video-first crowdfunding platform built for a generation that discovered entrepreneurship on their phone. Elie built an AI voice-call analysis tool as an internal sales tool at his web agency, only to have his team push him to bring it to market. After getting rejected by Republic, Wefunder, and every major crowdfunding platform, Elie didn't blame his product — he blamed the format. Pitch decks are boring, gatekept, and built for VCs, not consumers. His answer: a platform where founders pitch like content creators and everyday people can watch and actually invest, Shark Tank style. The conversation covers building in public, going "all in" on a risky content bet that proved his thesis before launch, why the next Mark Zuckerberg is more likely to be an ex-UGC creator than a programmer, and his "carefully reckless" framework for tackling the thing founders are most afraid of.Key Takeaways3:48 — How Elie's internal AI sales tool became a product because his team saw value he didn't.6:15 — Why the tool wasn't VC fundable, and the pivot toward crowdfunding.10:30 — The core insight: crowdfunding's real problem isn't quality, it's that discovery is boring.13:01 — Why people will binge-watch Shark Tank but can't invest in it — and how Fish Tank closes that gap.17:10 — The "pushing a car" metaphor: starting is the hardest part, momentum does the rest.19:46 — His trick for beating camera-shyness: film it and tell yourself you won't post it.28:54 — Why the next Zuckerberg probably won't be a programmer — it'll be an ex-UGC creator.36:42 — The "carefully reckless" framework: name the thing you're avoiding, write it down, do it.37:31 — The story of betting nearly his last dollar on a content shoot with a VC-turned-content-creator — and how it proved his thesis before launch.40:19 — Why investors are just people, and being seen with flaws beats not being seen at all.41:59 — On dealing with online hate: most of it comes from jealousy, not dislike.Tweetable Quotes"The worst possible case scenario is no one knows who you are. It's not bad PR — that's where you're at right now, and it can only get better." — Elie Bouzaglou"You have to be carefully reckless. What is the thing you are delaying the most? What is the thing you're most afraid of? And just do it." — Elie Bouzaglou"It's always easier to build than to start from zero." — Elie Bouzaglou"I believe the next Mark Zuckerberg will not be a programmer. He'll probably be an ex-UGC person." — Elie Bouzaglou"The greatest success is just on the other side of that fear." — Jeff Mains"When someone hates on you and takes time out of their day to comment, it's because they're jealous — not because they actually dislike what you're doing." — Elie BouzaglouSaaS Leadership LessonsShip it even if you don't see the value. Elie almost never brought his internal tool to market — his team had to convince him. Don't assume "anyone could build this" means no one wants it.Question the format, not just the product. When rejected by every platform, Elie didn't fix his pitch — he concluded the entire crowdfunding format was broken and built a new one.Momentum beats planning. His "pushing a car" philosophy: the hardest part is starting; perfect names, decks, and plans can wait.Break big fears into small, reversible actions. Film it without posting. Schedule it with the option to cancel. Small, low-stakes steps unlock big behavior changes.Distribution is a founder skill now, not a marketing afterthought. Building in public and mastering short-form content may matter more than technical pedigree for the next generation of founders.Bet asymmetrically on your scariest move. Spending nearly his last dollar on a content shoot was terrifying — but the asymmetric upside (VC access, proof of concept, investor DMs) made it the right kind of reckless.Guest Resourceselie@fishtank.vchttps://www.fishtank.vceliebouzaglou.comeliebouzaglou.com/linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elie-bouzaglo/https://www.instagram.com/ftnk.elieEpisode SponsorThe Futureproof Series - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfkXKUPZ5xuOqMPR7_gzGybncTtavyR1NThe Captain's KeysSmall Fish, Big Pond – https://smallfishbigpond.com/ Use the promo code ‘SaaSFuel'Champion Leadership Group – https://championleadership.com/https://jeffmains.com/books/SaaS Fuel ResourcesWebsite - https://championleadership.com/Jeff Mains on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkmains/Twitter - https://twitter.com/jeffkmainsFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesaasguy/Instagram - https://instagram.com/jeffkmains
Unterstützt uns auf Steady, damit es uns weiterhin gibt: https://steady.page/de/browserhistory/about Was haben das VR-Unternehmen Oculus Rift (heute Meta), die Serie Fleabag und ein Toaster mit dem Gesicht von Jesus gemeinsam? Sie alle haben ihre Anfänge im Crowdfunding. Was 1997 als spontane Rettungsaktion für eine Prog-Rock-Band begann, ist heute eine Milliarden-Industrie – mit einer erstaunlich künstlerischen DNA: Viele der großen Plattform-Gründer:innen kommen selbst aus der Kulturbranche, nicht aus dem Silicon-Valley-Baukasten. Wir erzählen, wie aus Basisdemokratie mit Kreditkarte eine globale Bewegung wurde – vom Sockel der Freiheitsstatue über eine Katzen-Leckbürste bis zu einem der dreistesten GoFundMe-Betrüge aller Zeiten. Und wir fragen: Wer entscheidet eigentlich, welche Sache spendenwürdig ist? Unsere wichtigsten Quellen: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331734192_Crowdfunding_industry-History_development_policies_and_potential_issues https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpPBmopDu4g https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/a-group-of-architects-want-to-build-minas-tirith-from-lord-of-the-rings-in-england-10452158.html https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/crowdfunding-market-report Marillion Tour-Fonds 1997: https://www.marillion.com/band/pressroom3.htm "No Good Deed" GoFundMe-Betrugsfall (Inquirer): https://www.inquirer.com/news/gofundme-hulu-documentary-johnny-bobbitt-20211216.html Kreyos Meteor Smartwatch-Katastrophe (Android Police): https://www.androidpolice.com/2014/08/20/utter-failure-of-kreyos-smartwatch-with-1-5-million-in-backing-shows-the-continued-perils-of-hardware-crowdfunding/ GoFundMe stoppt Zahlungen an Freedom Convoy (CBC): https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/gofundme-stops-payments-1.6340526 Gericht friert Freedom-Convoy-Spenden ein (CBC): https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/freedom-convoy-2022-donations-frozen-give-send-go-1.6347345 Browser History ist eine Produktion von Dennis Kogel und Magdalena Pulz in Zusammenarbeit mit Podimo. Folgt uns auch auf Instagram:
Tonight Dan is joined by Riddle and Ryan for our recap of our time at Gen Con AND Ryan's time at D23. We get back into some Crowdfunding, some TV movies and of course bunch of games and experiences in Indy during Gen Cin 2026. Thanks for listening!
Das fünfstöckige Wohnhaus wurde am 23. Juli als einsturzgefährdet eingestuft. Die Bewohner mussten ihre Wohnungen Hals über Kopf verlassen und stehen nun vor den Trümmern. Nach dem Teilabriss wurde der Schutt heute von der Holstenstraße zum Holstenquartier gefahren, wo die Bewohner die Überbleibsel durchsehen konnten. Und: Todesfall überschattet die Cyclassics
Crowdfunding: Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Ecommerce with CrowdCrux | Crowdfunding Demystified
Crowdfunding isn't just about raising money. It's about earning trust. In this episode of Crowdfunding Demystified, Salvador Briggman sits down with Charles Yeomans, CEO of Atombeam, to break down how his company has raised more than $12 million through equity crowdfunding while building one of the largest investor communities on StartEngine. You'll discover: How transparent communication builds long-term investor trust Why Atombeam raised $5 million in just over one week What founders should do between fundraising rounds How to grow an audience before asking for investment Why persistence is one of an entrepreneur's greatest assets If you're planning an equity crowdfunding campaign, this episode is packed with practical fundraising lessons you can apply immediately. Resources and Tools Mentioned: Book a coaching call Subscribe for Weekly Crowdfunding Tips Fulfillrite: Kickstarter and crowdfunding reward fulfillment services. They come highly recommended! Download their free shipping and fulfillment checklist Free Equity Crowdfunding Course Equity Crowdfunding Explained Atombeam on StartEngine Atombeam Tech Website Gambling Man: The Secret Story of the World's Greatest Disruptor, Masayoshi Son
Although we typically focus on the bright side of being independent cartoonists, a listener asks us to address the downside of webcomics. We'll talk about time management, burnout, financial insecurity, and reader interactions. Then we realize that all those drawbacks have one very important thing in common — and it's not what you'd expect! TODAY'S SHOW ComicLab gets someone engaged! The worst parts of being a webcartoonist. Creativity isn't always consistent. Success doesn't eliminate insecurity. The business work never disappears. Webcomics demand interaction. The drawbacks are the flip side of the benefits! Is the direct market disappearing? Grieve the comic-shop dream—and move forward. Getting outside your comfort zone. Comedy can strengthen dramatic storytelling. Beware the shiny object. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.
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How to Diligence a Crowdfunding Deal Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing. Angel investors are familiar with startups raising funding who come through their normal channels. Deals are often submitted on their software platform or referred by a trusted source. In the world of crowdfunding, startups come through a new compliance channel called Reg CF. The startup posts their deal on a software platform that allows anyone to invest using the Reg CF compliance rather than Reg D compliance. Investors see an overview of the investment, a video describing how it works, and some documents for diligence. The crowdfunding platform provides some diligence information. Here's how an angel investor should diligence that startup: First, the crowdfunding platform checked for compliance with the Reg CF requirements but has not necessarily performed the usual checks for investor diligence. For example, the financials are not audited, so the investor must verify the financials provided. Check the team to see how much experience they have and what role they currently play in the startup. The product may look like it's ready to go, but the investor should verify the current status. The deal has a valuation but is rarely stated in clear terms. The investor should check to see what the proposed valuation is and if it is market rate. Finally, the investor should check the terms of the offering to see what rights the investors have, if any. Consider these steps in diligencing a crowdfunding deal. Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding. Let's go startup something today. _________________________________________________________ For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group Please follow, share, and leave a review. Music courtesy of Bensound.
Die Busse waren's! Ja, vermutlich haben die Busse, die bei der Hitze vor ein paar Wochen über die Straßenbahngleise gefahren sind, die Fugenmasse rausgedrückt und für den Tram-Totalausfall gesorgt. Was die LVB jetzt daraus lernen und wie sich Städte wie Leipzig generell besser auf immer heißere Sommer vorbereiten müssen, hört ihr bei uns, Euren Hosts Daniel Heinze und Guido Corleone - in dieser neuen Folge von HELDENSTADT, dem Wohnzimmerpodcast der LVZ. Bei uns geht's alle 14 Tage montags um das, was Leipzig gerade bewegt. Zum Beispiel die Kupferdiebe im Freibad Kleinzschocher. Hier haben Unbekannte sogar das Mauerwerk zerhackt, um an die Kupferleitungen ranzukommen. Das hat jetzt Bau-Konsequenzen für alle Leipziger Sportbäder. Wer eine Dauerkarte für den Zoo kaufen will, kann zwischen einer mit Biometrie und einer ohne wählen. Face-Scan beim Zoobesuch? Wir reden drüber, wie wir das finden. Neues aus dem Polizeiticker: Frecher Fahrradklau in Gohlis. Und an der Ostsee feiern dreiste Hütchenspieler-Banden ein Comeback - lasst Euch nicht auf den letzten Urlaubsmetern übers Ohr hauen! Die Leipziger Buchkinder bitten um Hilfe. Durch unerwartete Fördermittelkürzungen fehlen der Kreativwerkstatt 100.000 Euro, die jetzt per Crowdfunding reinkommen sollen. Außerdem wird's zuckrig: Dank Reddit klären wir, wo es Leipzigs beste Franzbrötchen gibt. Be-Beat-and-Rhythm! In den HELDENSTADT-Tipps empfehlen wir diesmal die Konzerte von Dáfni Atlas und dem Duo Stiehler/Lucaciu, die FLINTA*-Open-Air-Lieder- und Lesebühne auf dem Grassigelände, das "Auf's Dach Open Air" auf der Moritzbastei und, jawoll, die Ü-90-Party mit DJ Ronni Chicago auf dem Richard-Wagner-Platz. So viel Leipzig zum Hören - viel Spaß mit dem Spazierclub unter den Leipzig-Podcasts: „HELDENSTADT. Der LVZ-Podcast aus Leipzig mit Daniel Heinze und Guido Corleone“, Folge vom 10. August 2026!
Diese Folge wird präsentiert von bettervest. Wir müssen über Geld sprechen. Denn es ist nicht nur so, dass wir für Geld arbeiten, sondern unser Geld arbeitet auch für uns – oder gegen uns, je nachdem, was wir damit machen und was wir uns wünschen, was unser Geld macht. Laut einer Umfrage des Verbands der privaten Bausparkassen sparen die meisten Deutschen auf ihrem Girokonto. Danach folgt auf Platz zwei das Sparbuch, dann länger nichts und mit 27 bzw. 28 Prozent folgen dann Tagesgeldkonto, Investmentfonds und Lebensversicherungen. Das alles sind Produkte, bei denen man gar nicht so genau durchblickt, was mit dem eigenen Geld passiert. Anders ist das beim Crowdinvesting. Das könnt ihr euch ein bisschen wie Crowdfunding vorstellen, nur dass es statt eines haptischen Dankeschöns das Geld zurück gibt – und zwar bestenfalls mit einer Rendite. So kann man sehr konkrete Projekte unterstützen, zum Beispiel den Bau eines Windparks. Diese Folge von Fairquatscht wird von bettervest präsentiert. Das ist eine Plattform für wirkungsorientiertes Investieren, auf der man als Crowd gemeinsam entscheiden kann, welches Projekt man möglich machen möchte, indem man sein Geld zur Verfügung stellt. Marilyn Heib hat bettervest 2012 mit gegründet, um einen Beitrag dazu zu leisten, dass Energieffizienzprojekte eine Finanzierung finden. Wie sich bettervest seitdem entwickelt hat und welche Risiken es gibt, das erzählt Marilyn im Interview. Wenn ihr Lust habt, euer Geld ganz konkret in Projekte mit Mehrwert bei bettervest zu investieren, dann nutzt gerne meinen Code FAIRQUATSCHT25. Damit erhaltet ihr 25 Euro Bonus auf euer erstes Investment: ihr investiert z.B. 100€, überweist 75€ und erhaltet Rückzahlung & Zinsen auf die vollen 100€ berechnet. Mehr Infos: https://www.bettervest.com/de?mtm_campaign=2026_Fairquatscht&mtm_source=Podcast Wichtiger Hinweis gemäß § 12 Abs. 2 Vermögensanlagengesetz: Der Erwerb dieser Vermögensanlagen ist mit erheblichen Risiken verbunden und kann zum vollständigen Verlust des eingesetzten Vermögens führen.
Send us Fan MailA dog needs a pacemaker, the estimate is five figures, and the family's last lifeline is a GoFundMe link. We wanted to know what happens next when veterinary teams suggest crowdfunding as a way to cover the cost of canine pacemaker implantation and whether it truly works often enough to be responsible advice.We sit down with cardiologist and researcher Dr. Mark Rishniw to break down what he found by mining publicly available GoFundMe campaigns for dog pacemakers. We talk about how “success” gets defined, why reaching 80% of a target can still be a huge gap, and the uncomfortable headline: only a small slice of campaigns come close, while many never reach even half of what they ask for and some raise nothing at all. We also explore a pattern that changes the timeline for decision-making, with most donations arriving early and then fading fast.From there, we widen the lens to the rising cost of advanced veterinary procedures, the reality that some interventions now rival the price of a car, and what that means for client conversations when the choices feel like treatment or euthanasia. We also discuss where pet insurance fits, why “friends and family” may be the true engine of most fundraising, and how to set expectations without taking hope away.If you've ever wondered what to tell a client considering veterinary crowdfunding, this one will give you data and language you can use. Subscribe, share this with your team, and leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.JAVMA article: https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.26.03.0160INTERESTED IN SUBMITTING YOUR MANUSCRIPT TO JAVMA ® OR AJVR ® ?JAVMA ® : https://avma.org/JAVMAAuthorsAJVR ® : https://avma.org/AJVRAuthorsFOLLOW US:JAVMA ® :Facebook: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association - JAVMA | FacebookInstagram: JAVMA (@avma_javma) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: JAVMA (@AVMAJAVMA) / Twitter AJVR ® : Facebook: American Journal of Veterinary Research - AJVR | FacebookInstagram: AJVR (@ajvroa) • Instagram photos and videosTwitter: AJVR (@AJVROA) / TwitterJAVMA ® and AJVR ® LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/avma-journals
Schon wieder ein Showbiz-Event: Mireille Matheiu wird am Tag der Aufnahme 80 und singt auch auf Finnisch, Japanisch und Russisch. Die drei Fragezeichen haben Hollywood und Geisterwelt im Visier, außerdem landen Werke von James Islington, Gene Roddenberry und Philip K. Dick in Jürgens Regal. Auf selbiges könnte er jetzt auch Justus Jonas aus Klemmbausteinen stellen. Was mit unseren Pink-Floyd-Dioramen passiert ist, probiert Roland noch während der Aufnahmen herauszubekommen – und bekommt prompt Antwort aus Italien. Darüber hinaus freut er sich, dass die neue C-64-Doku von Gracious Films alle Sonderziele beim Crowdfunding erreicht hat. Jürgen hat Blu-rays – immerhin! – von Marvel sowie der zwei „Total Recall“-Teile erstanden. Und baut, als kleine Vorgriff auf den Endspurt dieser Folge, ein Grafikadventure mit KI. Wo Jürgen den Platz für seine Computersammlung findet? Heute müssen die Bilder eines CPC 664 und eines CPC 464 reichen – beide mit Grünmonitor, alle Fotos im geheimen Patreon-Chat. Abteilung Reisegeschichten: Roland berichtet von 250 Jahren USA und Grillabenteuern jenseits der Golden Gate Bridge, Jürgen feiert den Geburtstag seiner Frau und fährt nach Holland. Wir geben ein vorerst letztes Update zur Fußball-WM, Roland tauscht um und kann die Haustür jetzt per Smartphone öffnen. Leider nicht mehr für Sam Neill und Joachim Kerzel, deren Leistungen zu Lebzeiten wir ebenso wie Spieldesign-Pensionär Glen Schofield würdigen. Apropos angekommen: „Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynched“ ging bei Roland verspätet vor Anker, Jürgen durfte pünktlich in See stechen. Zeit, unsere Logbücher zu vergleichen. (Aufgenommen am 22. Juli 2026)
AnnaLynne McCord is causing a stir online after revealing she’s crowdfunding her wedding. Is asking others to help pay for your big day totally fair… or totally tacky? Drew and Alexa weigh in before opening the phones to listeners. Plus: Parents are losing 48 nights of sleep over this… can you guess what it is? Foodie Friday is here! We put the viral Magnum Croissant to the test ASMR-style!
Artspeak Radio, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, 9am -10am CST, 90.1fm KKFI Kansas City Community Radio, streaming live audio www.kkfi.org Producer/host Maria Vasquez Boyd talks with educator Whitney Boyd and Luna, singer/songwriter Heath Church. Fact: Missouri ranks near the bottom nationwide for teacher pay, consistently appearing in the 49th or 50th position. American teachers are increasingly stepping away from their jobs because of the educational systems and structures that prevent them from engaging in good teaching, which involves professional judgment, attunement to students' multidimensional needs, and a connection to one's purpose and values. The barriers to good teaching include overwork and underpay, in a profession that is increasingly undervalued—but that is not the whole story. The results of a massive survey, America's Teachers on Teaching in an Era of Change, indicate a strong correlation between teachers' job satisfaction and feeling that their voices are heard. Ninety-eight percent of the 20,000 respondents believe that teaching is more than a profession; it is how they make a difference in the world. The survey also suggested that new teachers, in particular, have comparatively higher needs for both content and social support. A frequently cited challenge for teachers was finding time to collaborate with colleagues, and rural and small-town teachers feel significantly more isolated and in need of support, connection, and collaboration. While self-care strategies such as mindfulness, gratitude, and self-compassion have been shown to support individual well-being, they are insufficient to support teachers who believe that their institutions are not in alignment with their values. These educators need the support and connection of an authentic learning community to give meaning, purpose, and direction to their work. Such communities are of particular importance for reengaging those suffering from demoralization, helping them regain their self-efficacy, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and commitment to students and the profession. There is power and hope when we work together. (What Teachers Really Need to Thrive, Greater Good Magazine, July 15, 2024, Margaret Golden, Ed.D, www.greatergood.berkeley.edu) Margaret Golden, Ed.D., is the director of learning communities at the Greater Good Science Center. She is the coauthor of Teach Our Children Well: Essential Strategies for the Urban Classroom and editor of Teaching and Learning from the Inside Out: Revitalizing Ourselves and Our Institutions. Teacher funding comes from crowdfunding platforms, non-profit organizations, and state or federal grants. On average, U.S. educators spend roughly $895 annually out of pocket for classroom supplies, making external grants and community donation programs vital resources to offset these costs. Crowdfunding and Donation Platforms • DonorsChoose: Use the DonorsChoose platform to post specific project requests and connect with individual donors. • AdoptAClassroom.org: Register on AdoptAClassroom to secure flexible funds, corporate sponsorships, and supply packages for your room. • Community options: Most users on Reddit agree that sharing Amazon wishlists on social media, checking local Buy Nothing groups, and utilizing PTA resources are effective supplementary tactics. Local and Regional Grants • State catalogs: Search localized opportunities like The Grant Portal to find active funding listings specific to Missouri educators. • Union support: Check the Missouri NEA for regional tuition assistance, humanitarian aid, and small project grants. Professional and Federal Programs • Fellowships: Apply for self-designed professional development funding through Fund for Teachers when applications open. • Government grants: Look into federal opportunities such as the Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program via the U.S. Department of Education. HEATH CHURCH is a singer-songwriter from the Midwest whose music is best described as dreamy indie-folk. His inspirations range from folk music legends including Johnny Cash, Blaze Foley, and John Prine to more recent indie artists such as Elliott Smith, Odie Leigh, Eels, and The Japanese House. Warm acoustic guitar tracks with layered vocals and undeniably catchy lyrics are all part of Heath Church's signature sound which has been described as “Midwestern Heartbreak”. Since he first began his journey with songwriting over a decade ago, he has released multiple EPs & singles and has played over a hundred shows. Heath Church now shares his life experiences on stages across the country. When I play a song for you, I want to create an experience that sticks with you. I want to take you to a place in your mind where you feel accepted and understood in a unique way that you haven't before. That's what music does. It understands us. I think everyone needs a chance to feel understood. -Heath Church https://www.facebook.com/share/1BYd2k8NmE/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5THqQuSbp7IuOk5zQbnDeW...
Ancient relics. Supernatural power. A thirteen-issue epic years in the making.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with W. Frank Walk, creator of Hellstones, to discuss Hellstones #1: Into the Fray and the journey of building a long-form creator-owned comic series through Pigmacast Studio.From developing the mythology behind Hellstones to balancing the responsibilities of writer, creator, and colorist, Frank shares what it takes to produce an independent comic while building a world designed to tell a complete thirteen-issue story.The conversation also explores crowdfunding, earning long-term backer trust, comic book production, and the realities of independent publishing.Topics Covered• The creation of Hellstones• Expanding the world established in Hellstones #0• Writing, creating, and coloring an independent comic• Behind the scenes of comic book production• Building a planned thirteen-issue story• Crowdfunding and building backer trust• Independent publishing and creator-owned comics• The future of Pigmacast StudioLearn More
Düster, rückständig, frauenfeindlich – das Mittelalter hat einen schlechten Ruf. Völlig zu Unrecht. Vielmehr würden seine Wirtschafts- und Lebensformen den Weg in eine bessere, nachhaltigere, emanzipiertere Zukunft weisen, argumentiert Historikerin Annette Kehnel. Mittelaltermärkte boomen, Fantasy-Sagas werden zu Bestsellern und Streaming-Hits. Abgesehen davon wird jedoch mit Abscheu und Angst auf das sogenannte Mittelalter geblickt. Die Zeit zwischen 500 und 1500 n. Chr. gilt als verlorene Epoche der Stagnation, des Aberglaubens und der Unterdrückung. Schuld daran sei eine Mischung aus Unwissen und Überheblichkeit, argumentiert Historikerin und Sachbuchautorin Annette Kehnel. Tatsächlich offenbart ein Blick auf die vormoderne Geschichte wertvolle Anregungen für unsere Zukunft – jenseits von Gewinnstreben und Eigennutz. Baustoffrecycling, Crowdfunding, nachhaltige Fischerei, Secondhand-Märkte – das alles gab es schon einmal. Wie konnte dieses Wissen verloren gehen? Und wie wäre es neu fruchtbar zu machen? Im Gespräch mit Wolfram Eilenberger entwirft Annette Kehnel Wege in ein anderes Wirtschaften. Wiederholung vom 22. März 2026
Taking the Artist's Edition Index from print to the spoken word. This month I discuss shipping changes, Penguin Random House July 2026 Solicitations, Deal Alert July 2026, Dupuis September 2026 Solicitations, July 2026 Crowdfunding, Image Scene October 2026 Catalogue, Lunar August 2026 Catalogue, AE Format Out of Print Sales Q2 2026, and reviews of DC W.I.P.: Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow 1, George Pérez's The New Teen Titans Artist's Edition, ElfQuest: Hidden Years Gallery Edition, and John Dixon's Complete Air Hawk Dailies: Volume Six.
Düster, rückständig, frauenfeindlich – das Mittelalter hat einen schlechten Ruf. Völlig zu Unrecht. Vielmehr würden seine Wirtschafts- und Lebensformen den Weg in eine bessere, nachhaltigere, emanzipiertere Zukunft weisen, argumentiert Historikerin Annette Kehnel. Mittelaltermärkte boomen, Fantasy-Sagas werden zu Bestsellern und Streaming-Hits. Abgesehen davon wird jedoch mit Abscheu und Angst auf das sogenannte Mittelalter geblickt. Die Zeit zwischen 500 und 1500 n. Chr. gilt als verlorene Epoche der Stagnation, des Aberglaubens und der Unterdrückung. Schuld daran sei eine Mischung aus Unwissen und Überheblichkeit, argumentiert Historikerin und Sachbuchautorin Annette Kehnel. Tatsächlich offenbart ein Blick auf die vormoderne Geschichte wertvolle Anregungen für unsere Zukunft – jenseits von Gewinnstreben und Eigennutz. Baustoffrecycling, Crowdfunding, nachhaltige Fischerei, Secondhand-Märkte – das alles gab es schon einmal. Wie konnte dieses Wissen verloren gehen? Und wie wäre es neu fruchtbar zu machen? Im Gespräch mit Wolfram Eilenberger entwirft Annette Kehnel Wege in ein anderes Wirtschaften. Wiederholung vom 22. März 2026
Joe Kazmer and Jarrod Burris join The USDN Podcast to discuss Collision Force #2, an action-packed creator-owned comic that's been described as an "R-Rated G.I. Joe."From building an original comic universe to crowdfunding and cinematic storytelling, Joe and Jarrod share the story behind the series, how their creative partnership began, the transition from screenwriting to comics, lessons learned through Kickstarter, and why action comics still have an important place in today's independent comic industry.In This Episode The origins of Collision Force Building an "R-Rated G.I. Joe" for indie comics Creator-owned worldbuilding Screenwriting vs. comic writing Writing action for comics Crowdfunding lessons Why action comics still matter The future of Collision Force Learn More
Join host Adrian M. Gibson and guest authors Bryce O'Connor (CEO of Wraithmarked Creative), Ben Galley and J.D.L. Rosell for our final Indie Appreciation Month panel on Crowdfunding & Special Editions. During the panel, Bryce, Ben and Josiah discuss what crowdfunding and special editions are, crowdfunding platforms, increased demand for special editions, the collector's mindset, types of crowdfunding projects, the FOMO effect for authors and readers, whether or not authors should run a campaign, crowdfunding risks, product options, rewards and backer tiers, funding goals and budgeting your project, marketing your campaign, production and fulfillment, mentally preparing yourself for a campaign, campaign length, the mid-campaign plateau and more.OUR SPONSOR:TRANSFERENCE by Ian Patterson is a sci-fi dystopia that dissects what it means to be human in a city where diseases can be transferred.Purchase it here in eBook + paperback.SHOUTOUT TO THE 'SFF ADDICT' PATRONS:Thank you Ian Patterson, Emily Marie Wagner, David Hopkins, Luke F. Shepherd, Christopher R. DuBois and Luke A. Winch for supporting us on Patreon at $10+.SUPPORT THE SHOW:- Patreon- Rate and review SFF Addicts- Share us with your friendsEMAIL US WITH YOUR QUESTIONS & COMMENTS:sffaddictspod@gmail.comABOUT OUR GUESTS:Bryce O'Connor is the CEO of Wraithmarked Creative, as well as the author of the Warformed: Stormweaver series, The Wings of War series and more. Find Bryce on Instagram, Amazon and the Wraithmarked website.Ben Galley is the award-winning author of over 30 books, including the Emaneska series, The Chasing Graves Trilogy and more. Find Ben on Instagram, Amazon and his website.J.D.L. Rosell is the author of 20 books, including the Legend of Tal series, the Ranger of the Titan Wilds series and more. Find Josiah on Instagram, Amazon and his website.ABOUT OUR HOSTS:Adrian M. Gibson is the author of Mushroom Blues and A Murder Most Fungal. M.J. Kuhn is the author of Among Thieves, Thick as Thieves and Killswitch Protocol. Greta Kelly is the author of The Queen of Days, The Frozen Crown, The Seventh Queen and the upcoming The Throwaways.FOLLOW SFF ADDICTS:LinktreeMUSIC:Intro: "Into The Grid" by MellauSFXOutro: “Galactic Synthwave” by DivionAD ATTRIBUTION:Music: "Corporate Advertising Music" by SigmaMusicArt / "Synthetic Deception" by GioeleFazzeri
Today I'm going to talk about stupid, simple products. And I don't mean that the products are stupid. Simple is what sells. Launch Team - https://www.ScrewTheCommute.com/launchteam Please watch this short trailer to the end and leave a comment - https://www.facebook.com/AmericanEntrepreneurFilm/videos/558575401181955 AI Hacks - https://www.ScrewTheCommute.com/aihacks AI Hacks Video Masterclass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miJed0mCFHQ Professional Speaking Masterclass - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFLR1MLTnf0 Email Marketing Masterclass - https://youtu.be/_wlvw073xP0 Podcasting Masterclass - https://www.screwthecommute.com/pod Screw The Commute Podcast Show Notes Episode 1151 How To Automate Your Business - https://screwthecommute.com/automatefree/ Internet Marketing Training Center - https://imtcva.org/ Higher Education Webinar – https://screwthecommute.com/webinars See Tom's Stuff – https://linktr.ee/antionandassociates 00:23 Tom's introduction to Simple Products 02:19 Simple but not necessarily cheap 03:33 Crowdfunding, Kickstart Viral, Ultimate Guide to List Building 05:34 Ultimate Guide to Professional Speaking, Wake 'Em Up Business Presentations 08:23 Killing it in back-of-the-room sales 10:31 Start with inexpensive products Entrepreneurial Resources Mentioned in This Podcast Higher Education Webinar - https://screwthecommute.com/webinars Screw The Commute - https://screwthecommute.com/ Screw The Commute Podcast App - https://screwthecommute.com/app/ Screw The Commute Podcast Producer - https://screwthecommute.com/larryguerrera/ College Ripoff Quiz - https://imtcva.org/quiz Know a young person for our Youth Episode Series? Send an email to Tom! - orders@antion.com Have a Roku box? Find Tom's Public Speaking Channel there! - https://channelstore.roku.com/details/267358/the-public-speaking-channel How To Automate Your Business - https://screwthecommute.com/automatefree/ Internet Marketing Retreat and Joint Venture Program - https://greatinternetmarketingtraining.com/ This is the shopping cart system Tom uses! Kartra - https://screwthecommute.com/kartra/ Copywriting901 - https://copywriting901.com/ Become a Great Podcast Guest - https://screwthecommute.com/greatpodcastguest Training - https://screwthecommute.com/training Disabilities Page - https://imtcva.org/disabilities/ Tom's Patreon Page - https://screwthecommute.com/patreon/ Tom on TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@digitalmultimillionaire/ Email Tom: Tom@ScrewTheCommute.com Internet Marketing Training Center - https://imtcva.org/ Related Episodes Photo Management For Beginners - https://screwthecommute.com/1150/ More Entrepreneurial Resources for Home Based Business, Lifestyle Business, Passive Income, Professional Speaking and Online Business I discovered a great new headline / subject line / subheading generator that will actually analyze which headlines and subject lines are best for your market. I negotiated a deal with the developer of this revolutionary and inexpensive software. Oh, and it's good on Mac and PC. Go here: http://jvz1.com/c/41743/183906 The Wordpress Ecourse. Learn how to Make World Class Websites for $20 or less. https://screwthecommute.com/wordpressecourse/
This week, we talk about working with artists to fine-tune a story and/or concepts (6:30), and working through a new print with a tight deadline (13:30) before we discuss the highlights of a chock-filled email from comic creator Josh Pasquini (20:00), including the benefits of distribution versus crowdfunding (36:20), and flatting colors (47:50).
Dankbarkeit begegnet uns auf Kalenderblättern und Teebeuteletiketten, verkauft leere Hefte als ultimatives Selbstoptimierungstool und verspricht Wohlgefühl und "inneren Reichtum". Auf den ersten Blick ein undankbares Thema für unser streitbares Format! Doch ein Blick in die Geschichte zeigt, dass Dank sich früher weniger auf ein inneres Erleben bezog als auf die Verwaltung von Schuldigkeiten; von Opfergaben über Gegengaben bis hin zur Vergeltung. Wer Dank empfängt, steht in einer Verbindung zu jemandem, und diese Verbindung kann verpflichten. Wer erinnert sich nicht an das Unbehagen, sich als Kind bei der Tante für den Kratzpullover bedanken zu müssen oder fürchtet den Vorwurf, "undankbar" zu sein, wenn er sich nicht einer Autorität unterwirft? In dieser Folge sprechen Katrin und Alexandra über Dankbarkeit, Schuld und Gegenseitigkeit und den Unterschied zwischen echter Anerkennung und erzwungener Höflichkeit.Helft uns dabei, diesen Podcast zu produzierenAnekdotisch evident kostet im Moment mehr, als es über Crowdfunding einbringt – ihr könnt uns dabei helfen, das zu ändern. Damit es anekdotisch evident weiterhin gibt. Am besten direkt an hauseins (Verwendungszweck „anekdotisch evident“) oder mit einem Abo bei steady, dort bekommt ihr auch einen eigenen werbefreien Feed.Shownotes:Studie: Undervaluing Gratitude: Expressers Misunderstand the Consequences of Showing Appreciation Meta-Studie: The effects of gratitude interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis Dumont: Meg Josephson: Bist du sauer auf mich? Wie du aufhörst, anderen gefallen zu wollen, und endlich dein Leben lebst Wikipedia: Paideia RealClearDefense: USAID and the Erosion of U.S. Soft Power Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Que fait-on quand il reste 6 semaines pour trouver l'argent qui décidera du sort de son projet ? C'est la vraie question de cette leçon.Mon invitée aujourd'hui est Kèota Dengmanara, fondatrice et productrice de Mukda Production, une société de films d'animation dont les œuvres sont sur Disney+, sur France Télévisions et actuellement dans plus de 200 salles.Sa spécialité ? Réaliser les rêves des autres, y compris ceux que personne ne juge finançables.Il lui manque 45 000 euros pour tourner son prochain film en septembre. Comment lever cette somme quand la campagne participative plafonne et que l'été est déjà bien installé ? Comment approcher les bonnes personnes sans réseau, et à quel moment faut-il envisager un plan B ?On explore les alternatives concrètes au financement participatif, l'art de l'introduction bien faite, et on aborde ce que veut vraiment dire persévérer.Une leçon très concrète pour celles et ceux qui portent un projet sous contrainte de temps et d'argent.Bonne écoute ✨CHAPITRAGE 00:00 Introduction01:34 Kèota, productrice de cinéma d'animation02:36 45 000 euros à lever avant septembre06:59 Changer de braquet : les alternatives au crowdfunding13:48 Pourquoi vous y prenez-vous aussi tard ?17:44 Aller les rencontrer en vrai, même l'été23:06 Quand on n'a ni réseau ni notoriété26:29 Les films de Kèota et où les voirNotes et références de l'épisode Pour retrouver Kèota : Sur LinkedInSur InstagramSur son sitePour retrouver ses productions : Zoobox : diffusé sur France Télévisions Animo Rigolo Pour écouter l'épisode avec David Sinapian et Anne-Sophie Pic : Sur SpotifySur ApplePour écouter l'épisode avec Alain Thébault :Sur SpotifySur ApplePour retrouver Demian : Sur le site Demian.educationReprenez le contrôle de votre tempsPour retrouver Demian sur les réseaux :Sur InstagramSur LinkedInHébergé par Audiomeans. Visitez audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.
Shopify Masters | The ecommerce business and marketing podcast for ambitious entrepreneurs
When Andrew Blackmon couldn't find a rental tuxedo that actually fit, he didn't just start a company—he rebuilt the entire formalwear supply chain from scratch, turning a strip-mall industry into a nine-figure business with seven flagship stores and showrooms in more than 40 Nordstrom locations. For more on The Black Tux and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.
Watch the show on television by downloading the SuperCrowd.tv Channel app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV or e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or Amazon Fire TV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Bradley: There are so many bumps in the road... It's just so much easier to say, okay, let's quit or let's do something different. But that's not me.Graphene has the potential to revolutionize industries with its remarkable properties. A single layer of carbon atoms, graphene is lighter, stronger, and a better conductor of electricity and heat than any other material. Bradley Larschan, CEO of Avadain, Inc., explained, “When you reduce graphite, which is the mother material, to a single atomic layer, it behaves completely differently. It can be the strongest material ever discovered... the best conductor of electricity, the best conductor of heat... What that means is that we have the ability to transform thousands of products with this material.”Graphene's environmental potential is particularly exciting. By incorporating it into products like wind turbine blade coatings or electric vehicle batteries, waste and inefficiencies can be significantly reduced. Larschan shared, “We can replace critical minerals or enhance them through a clean, environmentally responsible process.” This allows for longer lasting and more efficient products, reducing the need for invasive mining practices and cutting carbon footprints across industries.Avadain's patented technology produces defect-free, high-quality graphene at scale, making it accessible for widespread adoption. With applications in construction, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics already realized, the possibilities for graphene appear endless.Avadain is currently raising capital via a crowdfunding campaign on NetCapital. As Larschan noted, “Through democratizing the fundraising, we've raised more than $15 million so far... It's exhilarating and uplifting to have this much support.”Graphene isn't just a breakthrough material—it's a tool for creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. The possibilities presented by this tiny, yet mighty discovery inspire individuals and industries alike.tl;dr:Graphene is revolutionizing industries, offering applications that range from EV batteries to sustainable construction.Avadain's patented graphene production process is clean, scalable, and supports a more sustainable future.Bradley Larschan's perseverance led to breakthroughs in graphene production despite massive scientific and logistical challenges.Crowdfunding on NetCapital has raised over $15 million, enabling the transformative efforts of Avadain.Bradley's resilience and tenacity serve as models for innovators seeking to tackle global challenges.How to Develop Perseverance As a SuperpowerBrad defines his superpower as perseverance: “Pushing the envelope of physics” and pursuing solutions with tenacity against all odds. He elaborated, “There are so many bumps in the road... It's just so much easier to say, okay, let's quit or let's do something different. But that's not me.” This perseverance has enabled Bradley to advance groundbreaking innovations, even in the face of countless challenges.Brad shared a key moment in Avadain's journey. In 2019, after years of painstaking research, they finally proved their graphene production technology worked as intended. What followed was another multi-year process of scaling up. Despite unexpected delays, including upscaling their reactors by 2,000 times, Bradley's commitment ensured the project stayed on course. In the upcoming year, he anticipates launching a pilot plant and achieving full production within two years—milestones made possible by his resilience.Tips for Developing Perseverance:Constantly evaluate your goals to ensure you're on the right path.Focus on the mission and remind yourself of its broader impact.Cultivate tenacity by viewing challenges as opportunities to innovate.Build a resilient team to weather obstacles together.Embrace step-by-step progress, even in the face of daunting timelines.By following Brad's example and advice, you can make perseverance a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileBradley Larschan (he/him):CEO, Avadain, Inc.About Avadain, Inc.: Avadain's large, thin, defect‑free (LTDF) graphene is a breakthrough nano-material engineered to unlock the full potential of graphene by delivering industrial‑scale flakes that are stronger, lighter, more conductive and more durable than anything previously available. By democratizing access to this high‑quality graphene through a capital light global licensing model, Avadain enables cleaner energy systems, lighter and more efficient transportation, stronger and longer‑lasting products, and next‑generation technologies that reduce waste, cut emissions, and accelerate innovation across more than 45 industries. In doing so, LTDF graphene supports a future that is cleaner, through reduced resource use and improved energy performance; healthier, through safer materials and advanced medical and environmental applications; and more prosperous, by revitalizing manufacturing, strengthening supply chains, and powering the next industrial revolution. Website: avadaingraphene.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/avadaingrapheneLinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/company/avadain-inc/Company Twitter Handle: @avadaingrapheneOther URL: netcapital.com/companies/avadainBiographical Information: Brad is an accomplished entrepreneur who specializes in create value around intellectual property. An international lawyer by training, he has 35-year experience leading start-up companies, including 15+ year experience leading two successful licensing companies. He has been working to solve the problem of scaling the production of ideal graphene since 2016. Brad has a BS from Boston University, an MA from The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and a JD from Boston College Law School. He is married and has twin daughters who are rising high school seniors. They live on a farm in western Tennessee.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/bradley-larschan-a7736175Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include PurposeBuilt100™ Winners and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on August 11th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.SuperCrowd26 Live Pitch: Apply to pitch at SuperCrowd26 if you now have and anticipate having a live Reg CF offering on August 26, 2026. This is a completely free opportunity to expose your offering to a large audience.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Frederick Littles joins The USDN Podcast to discuss Wise Acre Comics, Dark Sentinel: Origins #2, Magnus Jakuta, independent comic publishing, crowdfunding, comic production, and the realities of building a creator-owned publishing company.As the founder of Wise Acre Comics, Frederick has spent years developing original comic book properties while building a publishing company dedicated to producing creator-owned stories with long-term vision and lasting impact.From flagship titles like Dark Sentinel and Magnus Jakuta to expanding into action figures and collectibles, Wise Acre Comics is focused on creating an interconnected universe of original characters that extends beyond the comic book page.But building comics is only part of the story.During this conversation, Frederick shares the realities of independent publishing, managing creative teams, coordinating production schedules, running successful crowdfunding campaigns, earning the trust of backers, and balancing the creative and business sides of the comic book industry.Frederick also reflects on his military service, finding a second mission through comics, and the passion that continues to drive Wise Acre Comics forward.During this conversation, The Chairman and Frederick discuss his journey into comics, the founding of Wise Acre Comics, the origins of Dark Sentinel and Magnus Jakuta, creator-owned publishing, comic production, crowdfunding, expanding into collectibles, building original intellectual property, leadership, perseverance, and the future of Wise Acre Comics.TOPICS COVERED• Frederick Littles' journey into comics• The founding of Wise Acre Comics• Building a creator-owned comic publishing company• The origins of Dark Sentinel• Magnus Jakuta and expanding original IPs• Independent comic production and publishing• Managing creative teams and production schedules• Crowdfunding strategies and lessons learned• Building trust with Kickstarter backers• Expanding into action figures and collectibles• Leadership, perseverance, and long-term vision• Military service and finding a second mission• Building sustainable creator-owned intellectual property• The future of Wise Acre ComicsSUPPORT FREDERICK LITTLES & WISE ACRE COMICSWebsite:https://www.wiseacrecomics.com/Campaigns:https://www.wiseacrecomics.com/pages/kickstarter-zoopInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/wiseacrecomicsPROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIESShop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdnUse code USDN for 10% off your order.Affiliate Disclosure:USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you.FOLLOW THE USDN PODCASThttps://linktr.ee/USDN_PodcastCONTACT THE USDN PODCAST: thechairman@usdnpodcast.comFollow The USDN Podcast for more conversations with independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, and storytellers exploring indie comics, crowdfunding, creator-owned publishing, comic production, worldbuilding, and the realities of the independent comic book industry.The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.
They should make more Star Wars movies. And by “they”, I guess I mean “whoever the fuck feels like it”. Hey it can't be any worse than Rise of Skywalker, can it? Well, I thought that movie was decent. So it probably can be worse than that. Scary Movie was worse than it. So it stands to reason that other things could be as well. I'm guessing that being one of those guys who shows up to the ER saying he slipped and fell on a barbie doll in the shower and it went all the way up his ass and he can't get it out is worse than Episode 9, also, from what I have read in various journals and documents. Speaking of which, I have to go work on some documents right now! Ah, I'd love to talk more about this or anything else but I simply don't have the time. Documents await! Music for YKS is courtesy of Howell Dawdy, Craig Dickman, Mr. Baloney, and Mark Brendle. Additional research by Zeke Golvin. YKS is edited by Producer Dan. Social Media by Maddalena Alvarez.Executive Producer Tim Faust (@crulge)Want more YKS all up in ya? Sign up for YKS Premium today and get ALL The way into YKS Premium – our Exclusive VIP Experience. It's more episodes and it's ad-free, and it will help your hair and nails grow much stronger and faster. Follow us on Instagram: @YKSPod, TikTok: YourKickstarterSucks and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more video stuff!Wow, 2026 is gonna be lit!! Gift subscriptions to YKS Premium are now available at Patreon.com/yourkickstartersucks/giftSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Evan Dash is the CEO of StoreBound and Author of the best-selling book, A Dash of Good: How to Turn a Business Based on Values into a Valuable Business. Evan's journey took him from firefighter to business executive before becoming a household name in the kitchenware industry. Alongside his wife Rachel, they launched DASH, their namesake kitchenware brand. Under Dash's leadership, the company skyrocketed to success, achieving sales of over $1 billion in sales and becoming the world's largest producer of waffle makers, popcorn poppers, and egg cookers, with over 100 million units sold. Before its 10th anniversary, Dash negotiated a majority sale of his company to Groupe SEB, the $8 billion global leader in the housewares industry.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Entrepreneurial journey from firefighter to CEO of a billion-dollar kitchenware brand.Transition from corporate retail experience to founding a business.Importance of a retail-first strategy versus direct-to-consumer approaches.Challenges faced in retail, including inventory management and product-market fit.The significance of a caring company culture and hiring practices.Strategies for DTC brands entering the retail space.The role of AI in enhancing business operations and creativity.Partnership dynamics in business, particularly with a spouse.Lessons learned from early failures and successes in product launches.Emphasis on building trust and relationships with customers and retailers.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews Evan Dash, CEO of StoreBound and founder of Dash kitchenware. Evan shares his unconventional journey from firefighter to entrepreneur, building a brand that surpassed $1 billion in sales. He discusses leveraging brick-and-mortar retail expertise, the importance of a content-first strategy, and hiring people who genuinely care. Evan also highlights his partnership with his wife Rachel, strategies for DTC brands entering retail, and AI's growing role in business operations.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Start where you have an unfair advantage Leverage your existing expertise, network, or channel (retail, DTC, etc.) instead of blindly following trends. Validate demand before scaling Use tools like crowdfunding, small test runs, or pilot launches to confirm product-market fit and reduce inventory risk. Treat retail like a different business If entering brick-and-mortar, master pricing, margins, cash flow, and logistics—don't assume your DTC playbook will work.Timestamps:00:00:00 Introduction and Setting the StageEvan discusses generational shifts in kitchenware preferences and the initial marketing approach for Dash.00:00:22 Podcast IntroductionHost introduces the E-com Breakthrough Podcast and sets up the episode's focus.00:00:35 Guest Introduction: Evan Dash's BackgroundEvan's journey from firefighter to CEO, and the founding of Dash kitchenware.00:01:51 Personal Connection and Product RecognitionHost shares personal experience with Dash products and introduces the main interview.00:02:19 Evan's Entrepreneurial JourneyEvan recounts his unconventional path from firefighting to retail and business.00:04:01 Lessons from Retail and E-commerce EvolutionEvan discusses his retail background, the fall of legacy brands, and the rise of e-commerce.00:05:57 Transition from Corporate to EntrepreneurshipEvan explains how being fired led him to start his own business with his wife.00:07:45 Working with a Spouse: Partnership InsightsEvan and the host discuss the dynamics and benefits of building a business with their wives.00:10:02 Travel and Business Partnership BenefitsEvan shares the advantages of traveling and working closely with his spouse.00:11:21 Launching Dash: Retail-First StrategyEvan explains why Dash started with a retail-first approach and the challenges faced.00:12:11 Early Product Experiments and Brand NamingEvan describes initial product ideas, licensing, and the decision to use his last name for the brand.00:14:30 Content-Driven Brand BuildingDash's early focus on content creation, social media, and appealing to younger consumers.00:16:37 Retail Placement and Cash Flow ChallengesHow Dash leveraged retail relationships for credibility and managed cash flow pressures.00:17:47 Retail Flywheel and Industry FOMOThe impact of early retail success and how it led to more opportunities.00:18:35 Product Flops and Risk MitigationEvan discusses product failures, the importance of sell-through, and strategies to minimize risk.00:22:07 Crowdfunding and Retailer RelationshipsUsing Kickstarter/Indiegogo to test products and proactively managing retailer relationships.00:24:30 Advice for DTC Brands Entering RetailEvan's recommendations for DTC brands looking to expand into retail.00:25:08 Learning New Channels and Building ExpertiseThe importance of becoming an expert in new sales channels and hiring for knowledge gaps.00:27:02 Brokers vs. Direct Outreach in RetailPros and cons of using brokers versus direct outreach for retail expansion.00:28:14 Focus, Time Management, and Agency PitfallsThe risks of losing focus, the value of time, and challenges with agencies.00:29:37 Hiring Smart People and Building TeamsHow hiring smarter people and building strong teams drives business growth.00:30:36 Culture of Caring and Core ValuesEvan's approach to company culture, hiring for care, and building a values-driven organization.00:34:15 Defining “Care” in Company CultureWhat “care” means at Dash and how it's embedded in the company's DNA.00:35:16 Empowerment, Trust, and Winning HeartsPairing care with empowerment, trust, and a focus on winning hearts internally and externally.00:38:20 Culture as a Competitive AdvantageHow culture and core values translate to consumer experience and business success.00:39:16 AI in Business: Human vs. AutomationEvan's perspective on AI, its role in efficiency, and why humans remain central.00:40:17 AI as a Multiplier, Not a ReplacementHow Dash is adopting AI to boost productivity while maintaining a human-centric approach.00:41:28 Final Thoughts and Book RecommendationEvan recommends his book and offers to connect with listeners.00:41:49 Three Actionable TakeawaysHost summarizes key lessons: domain expertise, caring culture, and hiring smart people.00:45:08 Rapid-Fire Questions: Book, AI Tool, InspirationEvan shares his favorite book, AI tools, and sources of inspiration in CPG and fashion.00:48:34 Closing and Contact InformationHow to connect with Evan and Dash; episode wrap-up.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comTools and Websites"Kickstarter": "00:23:27""Indiegogo": "00:23:27""ChatGPT": "00:46:15"Books"
Most founders treat fundraising like a necessary evil — something to endure, survive, and move past so they can get back to building. Jason Fishman, founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency, has spent a decade proving that's exactly backwards.With over 500 deals under his belt and campaigns that have collectively generated hundreds of millions in revenue and capital raised, Jason breaks down how modern founders are using regulated investment crowdfunding (Reg CF, Reg A+, and Reg D) not just to fill their bank accounts, but to build armies of shareholders, brand advocates, and strategic partners. The real asset isn't the money — it's the 20,000 investors who now want you to win and will tell everyone they know.This episode is a masterclass in treating your capital raise as a full-blown marketing campaign.Key Takeaways4:14 — How Jason discovered fundraising is a marketing exercise. Working at a social gaming company in LA, he created 75 versions of a pitch deck and saw firsthand the inefficiencies — and the upside — of a well-executed raise.7:01 — Why the warm-intro VC mindset is outdated. The traditional approach limits founders to who they know. Reg CF and Reg A+ let you target anyone — including non-accredited investors — and build a shareholder base of tens of thousands.8:48 — The planning principle most founders ignore. If you need funds in a year, start today. Fundraising isn't a sprint — it requires seeding relationships and building infrastructure long before you launch.10:48 — The traffic math behind a successful Reg CF campaign. You need 50,000–100,000 visits to an offering page to generate ~1,000 investments. Understanding digital marketing metrics — not just dollars raised — is the real measure of momentum.14:37 — Reg D vs. Reg CF vs. Reg A+ — how to choose. A clear breakdown of all three exemptions: who can invest, minimum investment levels, filing complexity, timelines, and when each makes sense for your stage.22:05 — How crowdfunding creates negotiating leverage with VCs. A graphene-industry client hit their full $5M Reg CF raise in 43 days — then used that crowd as a "waiting list" to walk away from unfavorable VC terms.23:52 — Which industries work best for community-driven raises. It's not just consumer brands. B2B companies, biotech, modular homes, and AI companies are all succeeding — what matters is a compelling market narrative.28:34 — Storytelling is the real conversion lever. The 3-1-3 method: break your pitch into 3 sentences, compress to 1 sentence, then distill to 3 words. If someone can't repeat your idea at a coffee shop, they won't invest or refer.36:55 — The #1 mistake founders make when marketing a raise. Not starting early enough — and assuming the offering page will do the work. The top 10% of deals get the majority of investments; the bottom 50% do no marketing at all.40:28 — The right vs. wrong way to use AI in your raise marketing. AI slop is rampant. The rule: don't use it unless it's better than human. AI accelerates experts — it doesn't replace them.42:47 — The future of capital formation is large crowds, fast. Prediction markets, digital communities, and A-list endorsements point toward a world where raises fill overnight — whoever builds the audience first wins.Tweetable Quotes"Twenty thousand investors isn't twenty thousand line items on a cap table. It's twenty thousand people who now want you to win — and who will tell everyone they know." — Jason Fishman"The community, the audience, is actually the most valuable part. It is a marketing exercise well beyond the funds raised." — Jason Fishman"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Look at fundraising as already accomplished — then figure out the steps to get there." — Jason Fishman"The fewer words used, the better. People need to be able to understand what you do so well that they feel comfortable explaining it to someone else." — Jason Fishman"AI slop is far too prevalent. Don't use it unless it's better than human — for any software, any tool, any AI." — Jason Fishman"If I scroll your offering page and the headlines don't sell me, I'm gone. It could be the most amazing company ever — but the storytelling sold you short." — Jason Fishman"Raise money like you're building a following, not begging for a bailout." — Jeff MainsSaaS Leadership Lessons1. Your investors are your first growth channel — treat them that way. The companies winning with community raises aren't just collecting capital. They're recruiting advocates. Every shareholder is a potential referral source, customer, and word-of-mouth engine. Build your raise strategy like a customer acquisition funnel, not a one-time event.2. Plan your raise 12 months before you need the money. Fundraising has a long cycle — regulatory filings, audience warming, relationship seeding. Founders who wait until they need capital have already lost the game. Start building your investor community before your runway demands it.3. The offering page is your highest-stakes landing page. Optimize it like one. You need 50,000–100,000 visits to generate ~1,000 investments. Apply e-commerce conversion thinking: glance test, bold headlines, social proof above the fold, and clear immediacy (time-limited share prices, investment bonuses). If the headlines don't convert, the product never gets a chance.4. Simplicity isn't dumbing down — it's the highest form of clarity. Use the 3-1-3 method: 3 sentences → 1 sentence → 3 words. If your investor can explain your company at a dinner table, they will. If they can't, they won't invest — and they definitely won't refer anyone. Complexity kills conversion.5. Crowdfunding creates leverage — don't give it away too early. A crowd of investors is a negotiating asset. Founders with a demonstrated ability to raise from retail investors can walk away from unfavorable VC terms and return to the crowd. This only works if you've built the infrastructure before you need the leverage.6. Diversify your capital-raise strategy the same way you diversify your marketing stack. Don't put all your eggs in one basket — not in SEO, not in one broker-dealer, not in one VC relationship. The founders who succeed build multiple traffic sources, multiple audience touchpoints, and multiple investor pipelines working simultaneously. One channel is fragility. Multiple channels are momentum.Guest Resourcesjfishman@digitalnicheagency.comdigitalnicheagency.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jafishman/Episode SponsorThe Futureproof Series - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfkXKUPZ5xuOqMPR7_gzGybncTtavyR1NThe Captain's KeysSmall Fish, Big Pond – https://smallfishbigpond.com/ Use the promo code ‘SaaSFuel'Champion Leadership Group – https://championleadership.com/https://jeffmains.com/books/SaaS Fuel ResourcesWebsite - https://championleadership.com/Jeff Mains on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkmains/Twitter - https://twitter.com/jeffkmainsFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/thesaasguy/Instagram - https://instagram.com/jeffkmains
The Blasters & Blades PodcastToday, we are interviewing the stellar team of authors behind The Annals of the Auran Empire live on BackerKit! If you love classic, high-stakes epic fantasy, incredible worldbuilding, and supporting independent creators, this is the interview you've been waiting for. Tune in as the authors share exclusive story details, talk about the art of writing in a shared universe, and explain why this campaign is a must-back for fantasy lovers. Listen to the episode, head over to their BackerKit page, and claim your place in the Empire! Seriously, this was a fun interview, so go check it out. Co-Hosts:JR Handley (Author) (Grunt)Nick Garber (Comic Book Artist) (Super Grunt)Madam Stabby Stab (Uber Fan) (Horror Nerd)Jana S Brown (Author) (Chief Shenanigator)We work for free, so if you wanna throw a few pennies our way there is a linked Buy Me A Coffee site where you can do so. Just mention the podcast in the comments when you donate, and I'll keep the sacred bean water boiling!Support the Show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/AuthorJRHandley Our LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/blastersandbladespodcast Today's SponsorThe Annals of the Auran Empire Crowdfunding: https://www.backerkit.com/call_to_action/8b8be898-82a5-4dc9-868d-aa9a9b449f6e/landing Follow Alexander Macris on social mediaAlexander's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Alexander-Macris/author/B00O0I1S9AAlexander's Website: https://www.autarch.co/Alexander's Twitter: https://x.com/archonAlexander's Facebook: https://facebook.com/AutarchCo Alexander's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheArbiterOfWorldsAlexander's Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/AutarchAlexander's Substack: https://arbiterofworlds.substack.com/Alexander's Alternate Website: https://www.autarchemporium.com/Follow B.K. Gibson on social mediaGibson's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/bkgibsonwriterGibson's Website: https://www.bkgibson.com/Gibson's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589323534470Gibson's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@DirtbaggeryBookReviews/streamsFollow Sam Robb on social mediaSam's Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/samrobbSam's Website: https://www.samrobbwrites.com/Sam's Twitter: https://x.com/SamRobbWritesSam's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samrobbwritesSam's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samrobbwrites/Sam's Substack: https://samrobbwrites.substack.com/Sam's Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21563661.Sam_RobbFollow Zane Voss on social mediaZane's Amazon: www.amazon.com/stores/Zane-Voss/author/B087V3J7HJZane's Website: https://zanevoss.substack.com/Zane's Twitter: https://x.com/ZaneVoss#scifishenanigans #scifishenaniganspodcast #bbp #blastersandblades #blastersandbladespodcast #podcast #scifipodcast #fantasypodcast #scifi #fantasy #books #rpg #comics #fandom #literature #comedy #veteran #army #armyranger #ranger #scififan #redshirts #scifiworld #sciencefiction #scifidaily #scificoncept #podcastersofinstagram #scificons #podcastlife #podcastsofinstagram #scifibooks #awardwinningscifi #newepisode #podcastersofinstagram #podcastaddict #podcast #scifigeek #scifibook #sfv #scifivisionaries #firesidechat #chat #panel #fireside #religionquestion #coffee #tea #coffeeortea #CoffeeBrandCoffee #JRHandley #NickGarber #MadamStabby #JanaSBrown #JenaRey #OpalKingdomPress #AlexanderMacris #Archon #BKGibson #SamRobb #ZaneVoss #Backerkit #AnnalsOfTheAuranEmpire #Crowdfunding #elf #dwarves #halfling #Gnomes #HalfOrc #ogres #troll #minion #human #sword #LotR #LordOfTheRings #Tolkien #JRRTolkien #Andúril #FlameOfTheWest #Glamdring #Foe-hammer #HammerOfTheEnemy #Sting #Gúthwinë #Battle-friend #Herugrim #FierceSword #Orcrist #Goblin-cleaver #TheSilmarillion #Narsil #Anglachel #Gurthang #Ringil #Aranrúth #archer #bow #crossbow #LongBow #SwordAndShield #Sword&Shield #Sledgehammer #ChainSword #Warhammer40K #Axe #Battleaxe #Conan #ConanTheBarbarian #Barbarian #HALO
Shopify Masters | The ecommerce business and marketing podcast for ambitious entrepreneurs
Carmen Dianne and Kara Still launched Prosperity Market during the pandemic to bring fresh food and economic power to Black communities in Los Angeles—with no background in farming, no trailer, and no blueprint. Scrappy pop-ups in church parking lots grew into an 80-vendor operation, a Good Morning America segment, and an unexpected partnership with Dr. Dre. For more on Prosperity Market and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.
Look out, new stretch goal dropped! Untitled Arcade Project has just hit 97% funded so this week on the pod, the creative team behind this masterpiece joins us to talk about their project and make even more content for socials. Listen in for the inside scoop on the inspirations behind this project, why it’s so important to them, what it’s like creating a project like this from the ground up with your best friends, and the joys and challenges of shooting a movie about an arcade (our sound mixer is going to hate us). It’s such an honor to get to listen to these revolutionaries of movie making, pioneers of the new Hollywood, and dare I say creative geniuses, so pull up Kickstarter, choose your backer tier, and listen in! MERCH HERE! https://artistsonartistsonartistsonartists.com/shop This episode was filmed in the beautiful Dynasty Typewriter Theater, and tech-produced by Samuel Curtis. For live shows and events you can find more about them at dynastytypewriter.com. To learn more about the BTS of this episode and to find a world of challenges, games, inside scoop, and the Artists being themselves, subscribe to our Patreon! You won't be disappointed with what you find. Check out patreon.com/aoaoaoapod Artists on Artists on Artists on Artists is an improvised Hollywood roundtable podcast Created and Hosted by Kylie Brakeman, Jeremy Culhane, Angela Giarratana and Patrick McDonald. It is a production of Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players and iHeartMedia Podcasts. Executive Produced by Matt Apodaca and produced by Alexandra Dennis and Laservision Productions. Music By Gabriel Ponton and Edited by Conner McCabe. Thumbnails by Josh Fleury and logo design by Lucy Tomkiewicz. Hollywood's talking. Make sure you're listening. Subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Youtube! Please rate us five stars!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Big things are happening on the Swedetown Trails! This episode's guest is Dean Woodbeck, board member of the Swedetown Trails Club, the nonprofit behind the beloved Swedetown Trails in Calumet.This week marks a huge milestone for the trail system: the Swedetown Trails Club just launched its crowdfunding campaign, and the community is already showing up in a big way — over $26,000 raised in the first days alone!Here's the best part: if the campaign hits $50,000, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation will match it dollar-for-dollar with an additional $50,000. That's a shot at $100,000 in total support to help bring this project to life.Want to be part of it? Every donation counts and gets our community closer to that match.Donate now: patronicity.com/chalet Full campaign details are at the same link above.This is a defining moment for the Swedetown Trails — help push it over the finish line!
Amy MacIver speaks to Yanga Totyi about whether alternative funding models, including crowdfunding and public-private partnerships, could help ease pressure on NSFAS and expand access to higher education. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deep in the Maine woods, Justin and Nikki Triquet are doing something few people have ever seen before...farming chaga.In this episode, we sit down with Justin and Nikki of JustNiks MycoSilva, also known as The Chaga Farmers, to talk about how their journey began, what led them from other nature-based businesses into the world of fungi, and why chaga completely changed the direction of their lives.We discuss the world beneath the forest floor, birch trees, sustainable chaga cultivation, entrepreneurship, sacrifice, conservation, and what it means to build a life around the Maine woods.This conversation is about seeing the forest differently, not just as trees, but as a living, connected system and the relationships it fosters all around us.Enjoy!Check out the chaga farmers Justin and Nikki:https://justniksmycosilva.com*A Note from The Chaga Farmers:*"We wanted to personally share something important with you. Our Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for The Chaga Farmers has officially been set up and submitted for final review.This project has been years in the making. What began as a deep interest in chaga, forest farming, and responsible cultivation has grown into a Maine-based effort to help create a future supply of forest-cultivated chaga while protecting wild chaga from overharvesting.Our campaign is about helping us move into the next stage of the work: harvest preparation, field equipment, processing needs, packaging, storage, documentation, outreach, and getting The Chaga Farmers ready for the public.Crowdfunding is simple: people can support the project through the campaign page, but just as importantly, they can follow the campaign and share the link with others. Sharing truly helps us reach people we would never be able to reach on our own.We are not asking everyone to pledge. If you feel led to support the campaign financially, we are deeply grateful. But even if you are not able to pledge, following the campaign and sharing the link with people who care about Maine forests, mushrooms, herbal medicine, farming, small business, sustainability, or local food would mean a lot to us.Support or follow the campaign here:https://www.indiegogo.com/en/projects/the-chaga-farmers/the-chaga-farmers---americas-first-forest-cultivated-chaga-harvestCheck us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com
Voici la soirée de clôture du financement participatif de la saison 2026 de GoR,diffusée le 05/07/2026 en direct sur Twitch depuis le studio de Gozu à l'ancienne et retransmis ici en podcast.❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison jusqu'au 08 aout❗Une soirée animée par MisterMv, Fibre Tigre, Lâm, Lydia, Daz, mais également Victor et LaurèneUne production GozultingMontage du podcast par Zu====Ecoutez Game of Roles sur Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/fr/podcast/game…ic/id1350491357Ecoutez Game of Roles sur n'importe quelle app de podcasts: rss.acast.com/game-of-roles-magicRejoignez-nous :Sur le twitter de Qualiter : twitter.com/dequaliterSur la chaine Twitch de Qualiter: twitch.tv/dequaliter❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison ❗ Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.
Voici la soirée de clôture du financement participatif de la saison 2026 de GoR,diffusée le 05/07/2026 en direct sur Twitch depuis le studio de Gozu à l'ancienne et retransmis ici en podcast.❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison jusqu'au 08 aout❗Une soirée animée par MisterMv, Fibre Tigre, Lâm, Lydia, Daz, mais également Victor et LaurèneUne production GozultingMontage du podcast par Zu====Ecoutez Game of Roles sur Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/fr/podcast/game…ic/id1350491357Ecoutez Game of Roles sur n'importe quelle app de podcasts: rss.acast.com/game-of-roles-magicRejoignez-nous :Sur le twitter de Qualiter : twitter.com/dequaliterSur la chaine Twitch de Qualiter: twitch.tv/dequaliter❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison ❗ Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.
Voici la soirée de clôture du financement participatif de la saison 2026 de GoR,diffusée le 05/07/2026 en direct sur Twitch depuis le studio de Gozu à l'ancienne et retransmis ici en podcast.❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison jusqu'au 08 aout❗Une soirée animée par MisterMv, Fibre Tigre, Lâm, Lydia, Daz, mais également Victor et LaurèneUne production GozultingMontage du podcast par Zu====Ecoutez Game of Roles sur Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/fr/podcast/game…ic/id1350491357Ecoutez Game of Roles sur n'importe quelle app de podcasts: rss.acast.com/game-of-roles-magicRejoignez-nous :Sur le twitter de Qualiter : twitter.com/dequaliterSur la chaine Twitch de Qualiter: twitch.tv/dequaliter❗Participez au financement participatif sur ULULE pour la prochaine saison ❗ Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.
Crowdfunding: Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Ecommerce with CrowdCrux | Crowdfunding Demystified
Crowdfunding is filled with potential. You can even go from $30k to $300k! And, that's exactly what today's guest did. In this episode of Crowdfunding Demystified, Salvador Briggman speaks with Conrad Sayer, founder of Adventuremate, about how he transformed a small Kickstarter campaign into a $374,980 crowdfunding success with Adventuremate V3. In this episode, you'll discover: How a simple launch trick dramatically increased conversions Why this one thing matters more than just having a "great idea" Why this type of live campaign content kept backers engaged What Conrad learned after redesigning his product three different times The sneaky way that Kickstarter backers can help with your marketing If you want to build a real product brand through crowdfunding, this episode is loaded with practical insights. Resources and Tools Mentioned: Book a coaching call Subscribe for Weekly Crowdfunding Tips Fulfillrite: Kickstarter and crowdfunding reward fulfillment services. They come highly recommended! Download their free shipping and fulfillment checklist FREE Kickstarter Course Kickstarter Launch Formula Audiobook Adventure Mate V3 Adventure Mate
This week, Brad and Dave discuss one of the easiest traps for independent creators to fall into: Outsourcing important business or creative decisions to reader polls. Audience feedback can be useful, but when creators ask readers to steer decisions about Patreon tiers, Kickstarter rewards, publishing strategy, or creative direction, they often get noisy, contradictory advice that can lead them away from their own best judgment. Topics covered in this episode include: Why readers are experts in consumption, not creation The danger of asking your audience to make business decisions for you Brad's cautionary tale from his early days as a newspaper designer Why negative comments carry more psychological weight than positive ones The difference between listening to readers and asking readers to decide Why feedback should be treated as a compass, not a steering wheel How polling readers can create factions and resentment among backers Why creators should rely first on their own instincts, goals, and judgment The value of seeking advice from trusted peers and experienced professionals Why no single expert — including ComicLab — should be treated as the only authority Dave's hierarchy of advice: Heart and mind first, peers and pros second, passive reader feedback third Erika Moen's thoughtful counterpoint about social-media assistants How a social-media assistant can protect creators from harassment, criticism, and burnout The difference between a social-media assistant as a partner versus a replacement Plans and possibilities for future live ComicLab events Dave's San Diego Comic-Con appearance at Booth 1228, including free ComicLab pins for listeners A listener question about “boomer humor” and whether it should be taken as an insult The difference between old-fashioned joke structure and out-of-touch subject matter Why traditional setup-and-punchline comedy still works How Reddit comments often reflect meme culture more than thoughtful criticism When repeated criticism might be worth filtering for a useful grain of truth Why creators should protect their confidence while staying open to thoughtful feedback You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Joey: If somebody tells me that they're doing something, my mind goes in 20 different areas about how I can make a connection that will help them grow.Successful fundraising is only the beginning. For entrepreneurs, the real opportunity lies in activating their investor communities for support, guidance, and growth. Joey Hayes, founder of thru., believes that crowdfunding investors are untapped reservoirs of human capital that entrepreneurs often overlook.“Every single entrepreneur out there has a lot of human capital around them,” Joey said during this episode. “Equity crowdfunding ... is overly unoptimized.” He added, “Whenever I ask any entrepreneur, ‘Are you optimizing your network, your human capital?' They always think about it and they always say no.”Joey knows this story well. He recalled his own experiences as a crowdfunding investor and entrepreneur, when friction often prevented him from both giving and receiving support. Recognizing this challenge, Joey launched thru., the first “network activation platform” designed to make it easier for entrepreneurs to connect with and engage their crowdfunding investors.Thru. works by analyzing entrepreneurs' networks to identify how investors can help and simplifying the outreach process. “We're making it as easy as possible to understand who your investors are, how they can help, and what to say to them,” Joey said. The platform also incorporates tools for automated updates, ensuring regular and meaningful engagement between founders and their backers.This matters not only for operational efficiency but also for success. Joey noted that companies that actively engage their investors often perform better, sharing a vivid example of an investor who introduced a major partner. “It was the picture-perfect example of what you're talking about,” Devin reflected.Thru. also empowers founders to leverage their resources strategically. “You can't ask for things until you engage,” Joey explained, emphasizing the importance of maintaining two-way communication.Joey's initiative highlights an often-overlooked truth: crowdfunding is not just about raising money. It's about creating a community of allies who genuinely want to see entrepreneurs succeed. By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and investors, Joey helps transform dormant shareholder lists into engines of growth and innovation.If you're ready to optimize your crowdfunding journey, or if thru. is actively raising capital, now might be the moment to discover how Joey's vision can help you achieve your goals.tl;dr:Joey Hayes discusses thru., a platform helping entrepreneurs activate and engage their crowdfunding investor networks.Joey explains how friction often prevents investors and founders from collaborating effectively after raising funds.Thru. simplifies network outreach for entrepreneurs, transforming investor relationships into powerful growth engines.Joey shares the importance of active updates and engagement to unlock hidden value for businesses.Joey highlights his superpower of connecting, offering actionable advice for building relationships strategically.How to Develop Connecting As a SuperpowerJoey describes connecting as his superpower and channels it through the work he does with thru., a platform designed to help entrepreneurs engage their networks. “If somebody tells me that they're doing something, my mind goes in 20 different areas about how I can make a connection that will help them grow,” Joey explained during today's episode. This innate ability to create valuable connections is the foundation of his mission to “make getting help the easiest part of building a business.”Joey shared a story about how his knack for connecting created profound value. While attending a hotel technology conference for Booking.com, he serendipitously met a founder he had invested in. This chance encounter led to Joey facilitating a partnership between the company and Booking.com, saving the founder millions of dollars. Joey used this anecdote to illustrate how such serendipity could be manufactured systematically, which is exactly what thru. aims to do.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Make Helping Easy: When requesting introductions, write the message for the connector, ready to copy and paste.Keep It Low Pressure: Don't demand connections—ask politely and allow the other person space to say no.Think Strategically: Consider how your network's strengths align with the needs of others to forge meaningful connections.By following Joey's example and advice, you can make connecting a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJoey Hayes (he/him):Founder, thru.About thru.: Everyone talks about helping startups raise capital, but far less attention is paid to what happens after the raise. At thru., we believe the biggest untapped resource for entrepreneurs is their community: investors, advisors, operators, and supporters who are often willing to help, but rarely know how. The problem is not a lack of goodwill, but a lack of infrastructure.We help founders understand and segment the network behind their capital, identify the right people for specific business needs, create personalized asks, and track the outcomes. That could mean investor-powered referrals, customer introductions, reviews, hiring leads, partnerships, market expansion support, or future funding opportunities.thru. is building the first network activation infrastructure to make getting help the easiest part of building a business. We help founders better understand, communicate with, and activate their communities for growth; turning passive capital into active support.Website: comethru.coBiographical Information: Originally from New York and now based in Amsterdam, Joey Hayes brings 20 years of experience across hospitality and technology, including 11+ years at Booking.com across Global Accounts and Technology Partnerships. He has also studied at East Carolina University, New York University, and Cornell.In 2021, while working full-time, Joey opened his first business: a restaurant concept called Mac Shack. The business ultimately failed after two years, leaving him with a difficult but defining insight: one of the hardest parts of entrepreneurship is the cost of isolation.While looking for his next project, Joey noticed the same pattern across his 65+ portfolio companies. Fundraising created community, energy, and momentum, but once the raise ended, that support often faded. Founders were left with valuable human capital around them, but no easy way to understand, engage, or activate those relationships.That realization led Joey to work closely with startups, particularly in the equity crowdfunding space, on “network activation.” The potential was clear, but so was the friction: founders often have people willing to help yet asking for and organizing that help is still inefficient, awkward, and reactive.Now, Joey is building thru. to make getting help the easiest part of building a business — and to make the entrepreneurial journey less lonely, more supported, and more human.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/joeyhayes1Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/profile.php?id=22224287Instagram Handle: @joeyhayes1Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include High Desert Gear and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on July 14th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowdHour, July 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “How to Make a Splash With Your Campaign Launch.” Drawing on his extensive experience helping entrepreneurs and impact-driven founders succeed in investment crowdfunding, Devin will share proven strategies for creating momentum and attracting attention when launching a crowdfunding campaign. In this session, he'll explore how founders can prepare for a successful launch, build excitement before going live, engage their networks effectively, and generate the early traction that often determines long-term campaign success. Attendees will learn practical tactics for storytelling, outreach, media engagement, and community building, along with common mistakes that can limit visibility and investor interest. Whether you're preparing for your first crowdfunding raise or looking to improve the performance of a future campaign, this SuperCrowdHour will provide actionable insights to help you launch with confidence and maximize your campaign's impact from day one. Register now!SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Gabe Barrett runs Best With 1 Games, and over the last few years I've seen him adapt a really interesting strategy for creating and launching games. With their latest game, Stonefall, in its final days on Gamefound, Gabe was kind to take some time to answer questions about his methods. https://stonemaiergames.com/34671-2/
Amid the campaign for Aceblade #10, Danny and I have a candid conversation about making indie comics amid other community movements. Back the Campaign at http://comicsaredope.com/aceblade For More from Comics Are Dope:Get This Week in Comics, our weekly e-mail newsletter: http://thisweekincomics.comSubscribe on YouTube: http://youtube.com/@comicsaredopeJoin our online Discussion Communities:Facebook - http://bjkicks.link/communityDiscord - http://bjkicks.link/discord
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Deepti: The ability to rise after setbacks and turn challenges into opportunities.Billions of toothpaste tubes end up in landfills every year, creating an environmental burden that's hard to ignore. Recognizing this, Deepti Brambl, Founder of Kaylaan, developed an innovative alternative: toothpaste tablets. The eco-friendly product eliminates the need for plastic packaging while providing a healthier, more sustainable oral care solution.“Toothpaste tablets are not a new concept,” Deepti explained in today's episode, “but for me, it was important to come up with a solution that is not just plastic-friendly but also chemical-free. All of our products are natural, which ties back to how I was raised.”Kaylaan has also expanded into mouthwash tablets and patented bamboo electric toothbrushes, solidifying their commitment to green innovation. The toothbrushes, with recycled plastic handles to combat mold growth, are fully compostable striking the balance between sustainability and practicality.This eco-conscious ethos stems from Deepti's Nepalese heritage, where everything was reused. After moving to the U.S., she was struck by the plastic waste culture and wanted to create an alternative that redefined oral care. She started small, testing products on Etsy. Her toothpaste tablets stood out, quickly becoming a bestseller thanks to community feedback.The company's community-centered approach is evident in the evolution of their product line, including fluoride-based formulas, strawberry- and watermelon-flavored tablets for kids, and neem-based tablets. Customers' input continues to shape Kaylaan's innovations: “Whoever came to us with requests, we worked on it,” Deepti noted.In just a few years, Kaylaan has earned B Corp certification twice, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability. Revenue from crowdfunding has been instrumental in scaling operations. Deepti highlighted how funds from a $45,000 raise helped move the company into a new facility, upgrade machines, and achieve compliance with FDA and GMP protocols.Currently, Kaylaan is raising capital through regulated investment crowdfunding on Honeycomb Credit. This presents an exciting opportunity for sustainability-minded investors to support Deepti's vision of redefining oral care.Deepti's journey exemplifies the power of mission-driven innovation. By tackling environmental challenges head-on, Kaylaan is demonstrating how purpose and profitability can coexist in harmony.tl;dr:Kaylaan develops eco-friendly toothpaste tablets to reduce waste and promote sustainable dental care.Deepti Brambl draws inspiration from her Nepalese heritage to drive innovation at Kaylaan.Crowdfunding on Honeycomb Credit has empowered Kaylaan to scale operations and achieve regulatory compliance.Customer feedback has shaped Kaylaan's diverse products, including fluoride-based and neem-flavored options.Deepti's resilience and passion for sustainability have propelled Kaylaan's mission to new heights.How to Develop Resilience As a SuperpowerDeepti's superpower is resilience—the ability to rise after setbacks and turn challenges into opportunities. She explained, “You fall as many times as possible, because that's where real creativity, real strength, and real learning happen.” Her perseverance fuels Kaylaan, as Deepti embraces obstacles as steppingstones for growth, strength, and creativity.Deepti vividly recounted the 10-hour ordeal of relocating a 5,000-pound tablet-press machine to a new manufacturing facility. After renting a forklift that couldn't manage the task, she worked with a team of local professionals to resolve the situation. Despite setbacks, her persistence resulted in more efficient production and significant quality improvements for Kaylaan's products.Tips to Develop Resilience:View challenges as opportunities for creativity and growth.Accept failure as part of learning and keep moving forward.Build strong community and business relationships for support during tough circumstances.Prioritize preparation upfront to avoid costly mistakes later.Embrace the idea that obstacles are a pathway to innovation and strength.By following Deepti's example and advice, you can make resilience a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDeepti Brambl (she/her):Founder, KaylaanAbout Kaylaan: We make oral care better for people and the planet. Our toothpaste tablets eliminate plastic tube waste, reduce water consumption, and deliver clinically effective results — proof that a daily habit as simple as brushing your teeth can be part of a more sustainable world.Website: kaylaan.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/kaylaantoothpasteCompany Twitter Handle: @KaylaanTabsInstagram Handle: @kaylaantoothpasteOther URL: invest.honeycombcredit.com/campaigns/Kaylaan-2Biographical Information: Deepti Brambl, originally from the Himalayas, is the founder and lead engineer behind Kaylaan, a B Corp‑certified sustainable oral care company based in New York. Deepti has been featured in publications like Happi Magazine, Long Island Press, CanvasRebel, and on the “Founders, Unfiltered” podcast. On the Happi Podcast, she discussed Kaylaan's innovative approach to oral care and eco-packaging, positioning the brand at the intersection of sustainability and consumer convenience.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/deeptibramblSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include Fureelz, High Desert Gear, and Climatize. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.How to Score the Economic Health of Your Community: On Friday, June 26th at 9:00 AM Pacific Time, we'll share a recording of a brilliant webinar led by Michael Shuman, publisher of the Main Street Journal, hosted by Jen Risley of AMIBA. You can watch it when it plays on SuperCrowd.tv. Download and install the app to your Roku or Amazon Fire TV device in advance!Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on July 14th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowdHour, July 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “How to Make a Splash With Your Campaign Launch.” Drawing on his extensive experience helping entrepreneurs and impact-driven founders succeed in investment crowdfunding, Devin will share proven strategies for creating momentum and attracting attention when launching a crowdfunding campaign. In this session, he'll explore how founders can prepare for a successful launch, build excitement before going live, engage their networks effectively, and generate the early traction that often determines long-term campaign success. Attendees will learn practical tactics for storytelling, outreach, media engagement, and community building, along with common mistakes that can limit visibility and investor interest. Whether you're preparing for your first crowdfunding raise or looking to improve the performance of a future campaign, this SuperCrowdHour will provide actionable insights to help you launch with confidence and maximize your campaign's impact from day one. Register now!SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Darnell: Ability to transform overlooked and neglected things—whether it's a building, a community, or people—into valuable and thriving assets.When a retired Detroit Battalion Fire Chief sees an abandoned firehouse, they don't just see the past—they see the potential. That's exactly how Darnell Stewart approached the 126-year-old firehouse he has owned for decades, envisioning it as more than just a structure, but as a hub of life and community for Detroit.Darnell is bringing that vision to life by transforming the firehouse into a co-living community for first responders, traveling medical professionals, and other essential workers. He calls it The Firehouse Detroit. “We like the Firehouse Detroit to be a community hub for those individuals, whether or not they're visiting the city or here on training,” he explained during today's episode.This project is designed not just to honor the history of the old fire station but also to provide practical, modern functionality for a sector of workers who are vital to our communities. The vision integrates dormitory-style accommodation, training facilities, and spaces to relax and connect with others from similar fields. It's about creating a space where professionals who serve others can recharge and build camaraderie in an environment that feels like home.Turning this long-abandoned building into a thriving community hub hasn't been without challenges, however. Traditional financing wasn't an option for the project. “We've also been told that the firehouse is such a unique project that a lot of lenders don't feel comfortable,” Darnell shared. That's why he turned to the power of regulated crowdfunding through the Small Change platform.Crowdfunding has enabled him to turn obstacles into opportunities, inviting the community to be a part of his mission. “Small Change was an excellent option in order to allow other individuals to come onto the project,” he said.Darnell's efforts represent both a labor of love and a bold entrepreneurial move to preserve Detroit's history while addressing practical needs in the community. With the campaign underway, he's pushing forward, inviting all of us to share in the dream of transforming something abandoned into something vital.After decades of service to Detroit's Fire Department, Darnell isn't done giving back. Instead, he's just getting started.tl;dr:Darnell Stewart is turning a 126-year-old Detroit firehouse into a co-living hub for first responders.The Firehouse Detroit will include dormitory-style living, training areas, and spaces for community connection.Crowdfunding via Small Change is enabling community engagement and project funding despite traditional lending challenges.Darnell's superpower is seeing potential in neglected things and transforming them into valuable assets.Restoring properties has allowed Darnell to uplift neighborhoods, inspire change, and continue giving back to Detroit.How to Develop Seeing Potential As a SuperpowerDarnell's remarkable superpower is his ability to transform overlooked and neglected things—whether it's a building, a community, or people—into valuable and thriving assets. “Even being with the fire service for over 35 years, when things got messy, we were trained in order to keep things moving,” he explained. His belief that nothing is ever so broken that it can't be restored drives every project he takes on, from abandoned homes to forgotten firehouses.Darnell shared how he has spent decades restoring neglected residential properties in Detroit, a city that has seen both highs and lows. One project involved turning a particularly worn-down home into a “shining star” for its neighborhood. By investing in its restoration, Darnell not only transformed the property but also uplifted the entire street's morale, inspiring other residents to improve their neighboring homes. It's a small example of how his vision ignites bigger change.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Look beyond current flaws to identify the potential in people, projects, or places.Stay committed to restoration or improvement, even when faced with significant obstacles.Seek out role models and mentors who have overcome similar challenges to guide your efforts.Maintain a clear vision of the “end game” and trust that someone has solved similar problems before.By following Darnell's example and advice, you can make “seeing potential” a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDarnell Stewart (he/him):Owner/Developer, The Firehouse Detroit About The Firehouse Detroit: The Firehouse Detroit is a restored personally owned Detroit fire station being transformed into a unique shared-living and community hub for first responders, and public safety professionals. Designed around service and brotherhood we're excited for the opportunity to continue being a deacon to the city offering a gathering space for training, renewal, and practical lodging.Website: thefirehousedetroit.comOther URL: smallchange.co/projects/Fire-House-DetroitBiographical Information: Retired Detroit Fire Department Battalion Fire Chief with 35 years of service and a lifelong commitment to community, and public safety. Today, I'm a real estate developer with several residential units and owner of The Firehouse Detroit, a historic 124-year-old firehouse being transformed into a unique residential and community-centered space for co-living, meeting, AI training and cooking classes. Blending legacy, restoration, and purpose—preserving Detroit history while creating new opportunities for connection, housing, and impact.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/darnell-stewart-47b068128/Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include Fureelz, High Desert Gear, and CARFiling.com. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact Members(We're grateful for every one of these community champions who make this work possible.)Brian Christie, Brainsy | Cameron Neil, Lend For Good | Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | John Berlet, CORE Tax Deeds, LLC. | Justin Starbird, The Aebli Group | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Mike Babbit | Coledger Solutions | Mike Green, Envirosult | Nick Degnan, Unlimit Ventures | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Join the SuperCrowd Impact League! You can be recognized for making impact investments via Reg CF. See how your activity compares to your peers. It's free. Win valuable prizes. Start now!SuperCrowd Impact Member Networking Session: Impact (and, of course, Max-Impact) Members of the SuperCrowd are invited to a private networking session on July 14th at 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT. Mark your calendar. We'll send private emails to Impact Members with registration details. Upgrade to Impact Membership today!SuperCrowd26 featuring PurposeBuilt100™: This August 25–27, founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders will gather for a three-day, broadcast-quality global experience focused on disciplined capital formation, regulated investment crowdfunding, and purpose-driven growth. We're bringing together leading voices in impact investing, compliance, digital marketing, and circular economy innovation to deliver practical frameworks, real-world case studies, and actionable strategies. The event culminates in the PurposeBuilt100™ Showcase, recognizing 100 of the fastest-growing purpose-driven companies in the U.S. Register now to secure your seat and get all the details. August 25–27, streaming worldwide.Share the application for the PurposeBuilt100™: Purpose-driven founders deserve recognition. The PurposeBuilt100™ application window is now open—celebrating the fastest-growing companies building profit with purpose. If you know a founder creating real impact and real growth, please share this opportunity. Applications are free and confidential. Explore the program and apply today: PurposeBuilt100.com.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Register Now! October 20th and 21st will be the Crowdfunding Professional Association Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit for 2026. This is the event of the year for everyone in the crowdfunding ecosystem.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 10,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.Manage the volume of emails you receive from us by clicking here.We share educational information—not investment advice. Some links may generate compensation. See our full disclosure.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Crowdfunding: Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Ecommerce with CrowdCrux | Crowdfunding Demystified
Crowdfunding starts before Kickstarter. Long before launch. In this episode, Max Engle of Groundhog Audio reveals how he raised over $192,000 by validating his idea with rough prototypes, $500 in ads, and viral Instagram videos. You'll discover: How to test demand before manufacturing Why ugly prototypes generate better feedback How social media comments improved the product What it takes to fund in five minutes Resources and Tools Mentioned: Book a coaching call Subscribe for Weekly Crowdfunding Tips Fulfillrite: Kickstarter and crowdfunding reward fulfillment services. They come highly recommended! Download their free shipping and fulfillment checklist FREE Kickstarter Course Kickstarter Launch Formula Audiobook OnePedal™: The Tone-Matching Guitar Pedal on Kickstarter Groundhog Audio Website Groundhog Audio on Instagram
Should cartoonists hire a social-media manager? Brad and Dave discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing social media and ultimately argue that most creators should handle it themselves. They explain why social media is an extension of a creator's voice, how direct engagement provides invaluable feedback about audience-building and marketing, and why improving your promotional skills makes you a better cartoonist overall. Along the way, they discuss shyness, self-promotion, audience growth, and the dangers of trying to be everywhere at once online. Topics Covered • The ComicLab newsletter and the “Five to Grow On” feature • Whether cartoonists should hire a social-media manager • Why social media is part of a creator's artistic voice • The value of learning promotion instead of outsourcing it • Why creative people often resist marketing and business skills • How marketing skills can improve artistic skills • The dangers of trying to maintain every social-media platform at once • Brad's “2-2-1” approach to social media • Platform-specific posting strategies and why one-size-fits-all promotion fails • Social-media feedback as a tool for improving your work • Shyness and discomfort with self-promotion • The “lipstick on a pig” problem: when promotion can't compensate for weak work • Why making a great comic remains the most important marketing strategy • Dave's upcoming Reddit AMA and his Hugo Award nomination • Using award nominations as promotional opportunities • Hugo Awards promotional support versus other industry awards • BlueSky starter packs and audience growth • Why cartoonists should do more cross-promotion • Whether creators should put award nominations on book covers • How long to keep promoting a completed comic project • Managing inventory and promoting older books • Long-tail sales and evergreen products • Using older books as bonuses, stretch goals, and loss leaders • When it makes sense to retire promotional efforts • Whether different creative projects need separate Patreons, newsletters, Substacks, and social-media accounts • The benefits and drawbacks of splitting projects into separate brands • Cognitive load, burnout, and managing multiple audiences • Using separate platforms to measure the success of different projects • When creators should keep projects under one roof and when they should branch out You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.