Unboxed: A Board Game Industry Discussion https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com Board Game industry veterans Jen Graham-Macht (@jgrahammy / Keymaster Games) and Danni Loe (@dannibelow / ACD Distribution) put their heads together to discuss industry conundrums and strategies for the biggest challenges we face as a board game community.

If you would like to support our podcast, please send us a Ko-fi!
https://ko-fi.com/unboxedmarketingpodcast

]]> Thu, 11 Jun 2026 08:43:54 -0400 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2022 All rights reserved. Business 1440 episodic Board Game industry veterans Jen Graham-Macht (Keymaster Games) and Danni Loe (Hachette Boardgames) put their heads together to discuss industry conundrums and strategies for the biggest challenges we face as a board game community. Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe No false https://feed.podbean.com/unboxedboardgamepodcast/feed.xml https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14911622/square_p5iit5.png Unboxed: A Board Game Industry Discussion https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com 144 144 S3E7: The Blockbuster Marketing Strategy S3E7: The Blockbuster Marketing Strategy https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e7-the-blockbuster-marketing-strategy/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e7-the-blockbuster-marketing-strategy/#comments Thu, 11 Jun 2026 08:43:54 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/2ff9a183-5eb3-350b-9b20-c7fa4750a6c9 Ever wonder what it would be like to market your board game like a blockbuster movie? Us too! So we read a book about it. Welcome to bookclub.

Danni and Jen think through what a Blockbuster Strategy for a tabletop release could look like using the tools shared in Harvard professor Anita Elberse's book Blockbusters. The truth is, the strategy may be within reach already.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Ever wonder what it would be like to market your board game like a blockbuster movie? Us too! So we read a book about it. Welcome to bookclub.

Danni and Jen think through what a Blockbuster Strategy for a tabletop release could look like using the tools shared in Harvard professor Anita Elberse's book Blockbusters. The truth is, the strategy may be within reach already.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2049 3 7 full S3E6: Breaking Through the Noise with Deirdre Cross S3E6: Breaking Through the Noise with Deirdre Cross https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e6-breaking-through-the-noise-with-deirdre-cross/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e6-breaking-through-the-noise-with-deirdre-cross/#comments Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:30:07 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/4c02a322-1f44-3a0a-a24c-2430e7fb99ee How do you reach your audience amidst an onslaught of distractions, from life, from brands, from your own actions? Deirdre Cross shares her experience in leadership roles at mass market-focused companies: what works and what doesn't for breaking through the noise, and where we go from here.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> How do you reach your audience amidst an onslaught of distractions, from life, from brands, from your own actions? Deirdre Cross shares her experience in leadership roles at mass market-focused companies: what works and what doesn't for breaking through the noise, and where we go from here.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2761 25 full S3E5: Continued Learning with Kathleen Mercury S3E5: Continued Learning with Kathleen Mercury https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e5-continued-learning-with-kathleen-mercury/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e5-continued-learning-with-kathleen-mercury/#comments Sun, 01 Mar 2026 06:52:42 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/ec412f6a-6554-3302-900d-f2833a36996f Kathleen Mercury is arguably the greatest champion of continued learning in the tabletop game industry. A lifelong learner, teacher, and advocate for creating spaces to pass on knowledge, she shares her inspirations for all of the above from a unique designer-forward perspective, with parallel benefits across several roles.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Kathleen Mercury is arguably the greatest champion of continued learning in the tabletop game industry. A lifelong learner, teacher, and advocate for creating spaces to pass on knowledge, she shares her inspirations for all of the above from a unique designer-forward perspective, with parallel benefits across several roles.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2847 24 full S3E4: The Pursuit of Play with Rachele Harmuth S3E4: The Pursuit of Play with Rachele Harmuth https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e4-the-pursuit-of-play-with-rachele-harmuth/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e4-the-pursuit-of-play-with-rachele-harmuth/#comments Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:11:33 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/28a6c4d1-7392-322d-8a15-4e0d7092794f Creating the best play experiences has never been as important as it is today. We are joined by Rachele Harmuth, Chief Product Officer at Crunchlabs and Founder of MESH, to discuss how harnessing the power of play impacts the emotional and mental health of all generations.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Creating the best play experiences has never been as important as it is today. We are joined by Rachele Harmuth, Chief Product Officer at Crunchlabs and Founder of MESH, to discuss how harnessing the power of play impacts the emotional and mental health of all generations.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3314 23 full S3E3: The Job Hunt with Ross Thompson S3E3: The Job Hunt with Ross Thompson https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e3-the-job-hunt-with-ross-thompson/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e3-the-job-hunt-with-ross-thompson/#comments Thu, 16 Oct 2025 10:39:20 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/5088ee1b-ee12-3af3-8671-7fe347a1fe40 Getting a job in the tabletop games industry is a dream come true! Knowing where to start your search though, can be a very daunting task. In this episode we're joined by Ross Thompson, industry veteran and steward of Tabletop Game Jobs Facebook Group, who sheds light on the job search journey in tabletop. He also shares trends and best practices for both applicants and employers looking to hire as well. Let's dive in.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Getting a job in the tabletop games industry is a dream come true! Knowing where to start your search though, can be a very daunting task. In this episode we're joined by Ross Thompson, industry veteran and steward of Tabletop Game Jobs Facebook Group, who sheds light on the job search journey in tabletop. He also shares trends and best practices for both applicants and employers looking to hire as well. Let's dive in.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2360 22 full S3E2: Catalog Sidelines with Andrew Loreman S3E2: Catalog Sidelines with Andrew Loreman https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e2-catalog-sidelines-with-andrew-loreman/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s3e2-catalog-sidelines-with-andrew-loreman/#comments Thu, 25 Sep 2025 08:37:19 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/6aee14fc-5d1e-37ad-a46a-8e2fde3b26d8 Sidelines can be an awesome addition to your brand's catalog or a money sink that takes away from your core product focus. They're tough to get right, so we connected with Andrew Loremen, CEO of Many Worlds Tavern, a brand whose merch consistently catches our eyes, to help build a roadmap for sideline success.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Sidelines can be an awesome addition to your brand's catalog or a money sink that takes away from your core product focus. They're tough to get right, so we connected with Andrew Loremen, CEO of Many Worlds Tavern, a brand whose merch consistently catches our eyes, to help build a roadmap for sideline success.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2352 3 2 full Bonus Round: Building Trust at Events with Bridgett Jeffries Bonus Round: Building Trust at Events with Bridgett Jeffries https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-supporting-great-events-with-bridgett-jeffries/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-supporting-great-events-with-bridgett-jeffries/#comments Thu, 11 Sep 2025 12:19:02 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/d82709ee-8c50-3fec-9eb2-fb0e7f280f28 Today we’re joined by Bridgett Jeffries, who shares expert advice for hosting intentional and safe spaces for our tabletop community to join and celebrate their favorite hobby.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Today we’re joined by Bridgett Jeffries, who shares expert advice for hosting intentional and safe spaces for our tabletop community to join and celebrate their favorite hobby.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 553 21 full S3E1: Making with a Message with Tory Brown S3E1: Making with a Message with Tory Brown https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s03e01-making-with-a-message-with-tory-brown/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s03e01-making-with-a-message-with-tory-brown/#comments Thu, 21 Aug 2025 08:44:29 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/182c8ee0-610d-372d-86e6-185fed0214ad Gaming, like most hobbies, can be an escape for the player. So in today's society, does that mean certain themes are off limits? Tory Brown, designer of Votes for Women, doesn't think so. She tackles discourse head on, balancing the harsh realities of history and making a product with a message.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Gaming, like most hobbies, can be an escape for the player. So in today's society, does that mean certain themes are off limits? Tory Brown, designer of Votes for Women, doesn't think so. She tackles discourse head on, balancing the harsh realities of history and making a product with a message.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas. Graphic design by Seth Nickerson.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2885 3 1 full S2E8: Flip 7 with David Blanchard S2E8: Flip 7 with David Blanchard https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e08-flip-7-with-david-blanchard/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e08-flip-7-with-david-blanchard/#comments Thu, 26 Jun 2025 08:50:29 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/aeb6c814-7cef-391c-b843-88c4cd85c1ed There's been a game taking the industry by storm! Maybe you've seen advertising for Flip 7 on BoardGameGeek, a viral video popping off, or noticed it as Game of the Month at Walmart. Or maybe you've seen it on your table because your friends keep asking to play it!

We had to hear the details about this dynamite release, so we went straight to the source. David Blanchard, Director of Party and Family Games at The Op Games, joins us to share the story and strategy behind our new favorite card game.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> There's been a game taking the industry by storm! Maybe you've seen advertising for Flip 7 on BoardGameGeek, a viral video popping off, or noticed it as Game of the Month at Walmart. Or maybe you've seen it on your table because your friends keep asking to play it!

We had to hear the details about this dynamite release, so we went straight to the source. David Blanchard, Director of Party and Family Games at The Op Games, joins us to share the story and strategy behind our new favorite card game.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2356 2 8 full Bonus Round: Activation Planning with Ben Green Bonus Round: Activation Planning with Ben Green https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-major-marketing-events-with-ben-green/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-major-marketing-events-with-ben-green/#comments Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:32:51 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/1abba5ba-83f0-38f6-b0d9-13f997249d90 Planning an activation to promote an upcoming release or fan favorite title? Hear from Ben Green, who's no stranger to event planning and maximizing the effort involved - whether that's with local game stores or a worldwide jamboree.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Planning an activation to promote an upcoming release or fan favorite title? Hear from Ben Green, who's no stranger to event planning and maximizing the effort involved - whether that's with local game stores or a worldwide jamboree.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 464 20 full S2E7: Graphic Design with Matt Paquette S2E7: Graphic Design with Matt Paquette https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e7-great-graphic-design-with-matt-paquette/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e7-great-graphic-design-with-matt-paquette/#comments Thu, 08 May 2025 09:27:53 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/1b820466-dbe1-3504-896d-2be4da5450d4 Good graphic design can make or break a game experience. Whether from completing the theme to improving UX, it's impossible to create a product without incorporating graphic design.

We invited industry expert Matt Paquette to dive into his design philosophies and share key experiences from his robust career.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Good graphic design can make or break a game experience. Whether from completing the theme to improving UX, it's impossible to create a product without incorporating graphic design.

We invited industry expert Matt Paquette to dive into his design philosophies and share key experiences from his robust career.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2793 2 7 full Bonus Round: Cosplay with Monica Paprocki Bonus Round: Cosplay with Monica Paprocki https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-cosplay-with-monica-paprocki/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-cosplay-with-monica-paprocki/#comments Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:20:58 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/58ceed57-cf27-3cb5-968a-eb503ad455d7 Everyone wants to meet their favorite character some day! And cosplayers get to make that dream a reality every day. Monica Paprocki joins Unboxed to share the impact of pulling talent into your in-person and online activations. She highlights what makes these partnerships exciting, and how to ensure they have the highest impact.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Everyone wants to meet their favorite character some day! And cosplayers get to make that dream a reality every day. Monica Paprocki joins Unboxed to share the impact of pulling talent into your in-person and online activations. She highlights what makes these partnerships exciting, and how to ensure they have the highest impact.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 429 19 full S2:E6 Content Collabs with Danielle Standring S2:E6 Content Collabs with Danielle Standring https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e6-content-collabs-with-danielle-standring/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e6-content-collabs-with-danielle-standring/#comments Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:33:20 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/866db059-bd06-3e34-9bfb-292742d6bdca Partnering with content creators is a core part of most marketing strategies, whether you're launching a new product or support a catalog classic. Creators serve a vital function: meeting customers where they are at, and navigating the ever-changing tide of social media platforms. How do we get the most out of these partnerships?

Danielle Standring joins Unboxed to talk about a vital part of these relationships - collaboration. Hear from a creator whose voice gets through the algorithm noise and serves a huge variety of brands, in addition to her audience.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Partnering with content creators is a core part of most marketing strategies, whether you're launching a new product or support a catalog classic. Creators serve a vital function: meeting customers where they are at, and navigating the ever-changing tide of social media platforms. How do we get the most out of these partnerships?

Danielle Standring joins Unboxed to talk about a vital part of these relationships - collaboration. Hear from a creator whose voice gets through the algorithm noise and serves a huge variety of brands, in addition to her audience.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3205 18 full Bonus Round: Product Photography with Ross Connell Bonus Round: Product Photography with Ross Connell https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-ross-connell/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-ross-connell/#comments Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:25:59 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/78ed0431-4bb7-386b-b6e0-346ccbddca26 For Ross Connell, photography isn't just a passion—it's a medium that expresses the impact of a game has on the lives of new and existing fans. Ross shares the constraints he puts on his own work to make sure he's maximizing all the important details a photo should communicate to the viewer, especially as we live in a world of limited attention.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> For Ross Connell, photography isn't just a passion—it's a medium that expresses the impact of a game has on the lives of new and existing fans. Ross shares the constraints he puts on his own work to make sure he's maximizing all the important details a photo should communicate to the viewer, especially as we live in a world of limited attention.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 541 17 full S2:E5 Get Ye More Hobbies! S2:E5 Get Ye More Hobbies! https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e5-get-ye-a-hobby/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e5-get-ye-a-hobby/#comments Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:34:10 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/823bf476-a9e5-3d49-b613-406c3345bba9 This must be scientifically proven by now: Hobbies clearly make us better at our jobs. A giggly pair of Danni and Jen share some of their personal experiences with hobbies (mainly Woobles) and reflect on how those joys impact their work.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> This must be scientifically proven by now: Hobbies clearly make us better at our jobs. A giggly pair of Danni and Jen share some of their personal experiences with hobbies (mainly Woobles) and reflect on how those joys impact their work.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 1948 2 5 full Bonus Round: Combining Design and Strategy with Zac Dixon Bonus Round: Combining Design and Strategy with Zac Dixon https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-zac-dixon/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-zac-dixon/#comments Thu, 13 Feb 2025 09:17:23 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/72ce55be-cb6e-351a-8f76-1ca0d7659011 When marketing is in your DNA, you can't help but inject it into every creative project. Zac Dixon from IV Studio shares how thinking about marketing and community building from a product's inception has helped them land hit after hit on crowdfunding and your tables.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

Graphic Design by Seth Nickerson.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> When marketing is in your DNA, you can't help but inject it into every creative project. Zac Dixon from IV Studio shares how thinking about marketing and community building from a product's inception has helped them land hit after hit on crowdfunding and your tables.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

Graphic Design by Seth Nickerson.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 523 16 full S2:E4 The Cosmere with Johnny O'Neal S2:E4 The Cosmere with Johnny O'Neal https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e4-the-cosmere-with-johnny-oneal/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e4-the-cosmere-with-johnny-oneal/#comments Thu, 23 Jan 2025 11:22:02 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/2d0275a4-8c87-3039-9018-e45585b2f05f Running the largest-grossing tabletop gaming Kickstarter campaign of all time can be a daunting feat, but Johnny O'Neal and the team at Brotherwise Games are a passionate, dedicated group. He reflects on their 12-year journey from launching the Boss Monster board game, and how they find themselves as a leader in licensed gaming.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

  • Johnny O'Neal
  • Brotherwise Games

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Running the largest-grossing tabletop gaming Kickstarter campaign of all time can be a daunting feat, but Johnny O'Neal and the team at Brotherwise Games are a passionate, dedicated group. He reflects on their 12-year journey from launching the Boss Monster board game, and how they find themselves as a leader in licensed gaming.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

  • Johnny O'Neal
  • Brotherwise Games

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2618 2 4 full Bonus Round: Project Management for Designers with Banana Chan Bonus Round: Project Management for Designers with Banana Chan https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-banana-chan/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-banana-chan/#comments Thu, 09 Jan 2025 09:33:33 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/2fcd65f3-b5b1-3694-846e-8d5870a1cea2 It doesn't matter if you're a creative nut or like having ten spreadsheets open at a time, planning is a crucial step of any project. But don't take our word for it! We brought in an expert. Banana Chan is not only an award-winning game designer, they are a sought-after collaborator due, in part, to the efforts they put into project planning. They share some of the tools they use to unlock the time for creative freedom in game design.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

Graphic Design by Seth Nickerson.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> It doesn't matter if you're a creative nut or like having ten spreadsheets open at a time, planning is a crucial step of any project. But don't take our word for it! We brought in an expert. Banana Chan is not only an award-winning game designer, they are a sought-after collaborator due, in part, to the efforts they put into project planning. They share some of the tools they use to unlock the time for creative freedom in game design.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

Graphic Design by Seth Nickerson.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 649 15 full S2:E3 Toyetic Games S2:E3 Toyetic Games https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e3-toyetic-games/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e3-toyetic-games/#comments Thu, 19 Dec 2024 09:09:37 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/b75865bb-98e0-3808-a5f0-30301c778e54 The ultimate crossover - when tabletop games are made with toy-like components. Danni and Jen turn the nostalgia dial up to 1,000 on this episode, remembering the toys of their childhood and reflecting on how games are turning the best memories into the catchiest gameplay.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> The ultimate crossover - when tabletop games are made with toy-like components. Danni and Jen turn the nostalgia dial up to 1,000 on this episode, remembering the toys of their childhood and reflecting on how games are turning the best memories into the catchiest gameplay.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2458 2 3 full Bonus Round: Benefits of Co-designing with Sen-Foong Lim Bonus Round: Benefits of Co-designing with Sen-Foong Lim https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-sen-foong-lim/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-sen-foong-lim/#comments Fri, 15 Nov 2024 09:08:44 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/2aa6a0c6-cd15-3534-956e-ea0cb5453849 There's no understating it. Co-designed board games are making for some of the best new products to hit the market. We asked co-design wizard Sen-Foong Lim to share why he enjoys the co-design process and how that's helped him and his co-designers maximize their efforts.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> There's no understating it. Co-designed board games are making for some of the best new products to hit the market. We asked co-design wizard Sen-Foong Lim to share why he enjoys the co-design process and how that's helped him and his co-designers maximize their efforts.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 555 bonus S2:E2 Cozy Games with Lysa Penrose S2:E2 Cozy Games with Lysa Penrose https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e2-cozy-games-with-lysa-penrose/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e2-cozy-games-with-lysa-penrose/#comments Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:36:49 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/b5c8a1d0-99ec-3d23-9bd9-80a6f4c1f8bf Is there a cozy game bubble? And if so, is it about to pop? We sure hope not! Jen and Danni are joined by Lysa Penrose, Head of New Games Marketing at Ravensburger, to dive into these questions.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Is there a cozy game bubble? And if so, is it about to pop? We sure hope not! Jen and Danni are joined by Lysa Penrose, Head of New Games Marketing at Ravensburger, to dive into these questions.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2635 2 2 full Bonus Round: Short Form Videos with Ray Billings Bonus Round: Short Form Videos with Ray Billings https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-ray-billings/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-ray-billings/#comments Thu, 10 Oct 2024 12:03:38 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/f285ed78-c2a1-307f-bdde-eb8700d4a35d Asking yourself the age-old question of how to balance information and entertainment in short form video content? Us too! So we asked social video content guru Ray Billings, Digital Content Coordinator at The Op, to share how her approach to maximizing the seconds on TikToks and Reels to support their growing audience on both platforms.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Asking yourself the age-old question of how to balance information and entertainment in short form video content? Us too! So we asked social video content guru Ray Billings, Digital Content Coordinator at The Op, to share how her approach to maximizing the seconds on TikToks and Reels to support their growing audience on both platforms.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 529 2 bonus S2:E1 Celebrating Industry Roles S2:E1 Celebrating Industry Roles https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e1-celebrating-industry-roles/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/s2e1-celebrating-industry-roles/#comments Thu, 12 Sep 2024 09:36:56 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/6181d3ac-950c-3e25-ae23-d847122e2c32 There is a lot of diverse talent required to make a game! Join Danni and Jen as they discuss how to highlight and celebrate all the different types of work being done in the industry, and why that's a good thing for your game.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> There is a lot of diverse talent required to make a game! Join Danni and Jen as they discuss how to highlight and celebrate all the different types of work being done in the industry, and why that's a good thing for your game.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2025 2 1 full S1:E14 Connecting with Your Fans S1:E14 Connecting with Your Fans https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-14-community-building/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-14-community-building/#comments Thu, 27 Jun 2024 09:10:25 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/b0887a2b-0e41-3f5f-8371-2d45b43274d4 How do you start building a new community - and where? AJ Porifio, founder of Van Ryder Games, joins Danni and Jen to share his innovative ways of building, broadening, and enriching Van Ryder's community of fans.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> How do you start building a new community - and where? AJ Porifio, founder of Van Ryder Games, joins Danni and Jen to share his innovative ways of building, broadening, and enriching Van Ryder's community of fans.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2425 1 14 full Bonus Round: Impact of Rulebooks with Rodney Smith Bonus Round: Impact of Rulebooks with Rodney Smith https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-rodney-smith/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-rodney-smith/#comments Thu, 23 May 2024 08:00:00 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/f25a59ee-4dff-3fce-98c2-89015f52df3b How does a positive learning experience impact support of a product? Expert Rodney Smith, founder of Watch It Played, reflects on what success looks like while teaching a game, and how publishers and industry members can step up players’ learning experiences.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> How does a positive learning experience impact support of a product? Expert Rodney Smith, founder of Watch It Played, reflects on what success looks like while teaching a game, and how publishers and industry members can step up players’ learning experiences.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 584 1 bonus S1:E13 Board Game Art Form Versus Function S1:E13 Board Game Art Form Versus Function https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-13-form-versus-function/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-13-form-versus-function/#comments Thu, 02 May 2024 13:47:32 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/aa6f6837-1765-3156-96ee-2c5d9bb730ed The board game industry is the Wild West when it comes to visual standards in our products. We’re a far cry from the mid-century Milton Bradley graphic design template that graces the nostalgic place we have in our hearts for the games that got us into gaming. But is that to the benefit of our products and players? Jen and Danni debate the future of art in modern board game product design!

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> The board game industry is the Wild West when it comes to visual standards in our products. We’re a far cry from the mid-century Milton Bradley graphic design template that graces the nostalgic place we have in our hearts for the games that got us into gaming. But is that to the benefit of our products and players? Jen and Danni debate the future of art in modern board game product design!

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2099 1 13 full Bonus Round: Publisher Collaborations with Jillian Ross Bonus Round: Publisher Collaborations with Jillian Ross https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-jillian-ross/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-jillian-ross/#comments Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:20:33 -0400 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/c66f5c2a-4411-3b78-9d61-6a496fc99638 Do rising tides really raise all ships? Brotherwise Games thought so when they created a free, fan-focused, publisher-driven magazine called Turn Order for Gen Con 2023. Danni and Jen ask Brotherwise Marketing Designer, Jillian Ross, to share their lessons learned from this creative marketing endeavor.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Do rising tides really raise all ships? Brotherwise Games thought so when they created a free, fan-focused, publisher-driven magazine called Turn Order for Gen Con 2023. Danni and Jen ask Brotherwise Marketing Designer, Jillian Ross, to share their lessons learned from this creative marketing endeavor.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 470 1 bonus S1:E12 Omnichannel Sales & Marketing S1:E12 Omnichannel Sales & Marketing https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-12-omnichannel-sales-marketing/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-12-omnichannel-sales-marketing/#comments Thu, 29 Feb 2024 09:09:07 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/6210f222-a573-3bfb-b0e8-1f789eb46c2b Your game is designed, manufactured, and shipped. Now it's time to sell it, but where?! Matt Aiken, co-owner of Keymaster Games, joins Danni and Jen to share his experience diving into the world of omnichannel sales & marketing (OSM). Is omnichannel strategy right for you? Matt parses through the opportunities and challenges of selling your product across multiple platforms.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Your game is designed, manufactured, and shipped. Now it's time to sell it, but where?! Matt Aiken, co-owner of Keymaster Games, joins Danni and Jen to share his experience diving into the world of omnichannel sales & marketing (OSM). Is omnichannel strategy right for you? Matt parses through the opportunities and challenges of selling your product across multiple platforms.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3189 1 12 full Bonus Round: Consistent Box Sizes with Joe Wiggins Bonus Round: Consistent Box Sizes with Joe Wiggins https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-joe-wiggins/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/bonus-round-with-joe-wiggins/#comments Thu, 15 Feb 2024 09:45:25 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/920e2dea-b33a-3e47-ba9e-92979259eece Box sizes: Who knew they could have such a powerful impact on product and sales strategy? The team at Allplay sure does! Danni and Jen tap Allplay COO, Joe Wiggins' knowledge bank about limiting the Allplay board game product catalog to two box sizes and the impact this decision has had on development and their relationship with customers.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Box sizes: Who knew they could have such a powerful impact on product and sales strategy? The team at Allplay sure does! Danni and Jen tap Allplay COO, Joe Wiggins' knowledge bank about limiting the Allplay board game product catalog to two box sizes and the impact this decision has had on development and their relationship with customers.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 640 1 bonus S1:E11 So You Wanna Start a Cult? S1:E11 So You Wanna Start a Cult? https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/so-you-wanna-start-a-cult/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/so-you-wanna-start-a-cult/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:00:00 -0500 unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/dee94dc3-5174-3bb7-bdf3-80b41f9225b3 Community building shares a common foundation with starting a cult. At least, that's what Danni and Jen think. They share insights on how to build a sustainable community around your games and brand by reflecting on your mission, onboarding new members, organizing outreach, establishing boundaries, and having a consistent schedule.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Audio transcription available here!

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Experience at Tabletop Network
  • 7:33 - Remember the M.O.O.N.S.
  • 12:25 - M = Mission
  • 19:04 - O = Onboard
  • 24:10 - O = Outreach
  • 32:38 - N = No-Gos
  • 38:14 - S = Schedule

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Community building shares a common foundation with starting a cult. At least, that's what Danni and Jen think. They share insights on how to build a sustainable community around your games and brand by reflecting on your mission, onboarding new members, organizing outreach, establishing boundaries, and having a consistent schedule.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Audio transcription available here!

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Experience at Tabletop Network
  • 7:33 - Remember the M.O.O.N.S.
  • 12:25 - M = Mission
  • 19:04 - O = Onboard
  • 24:10 - O = Outreach
  • 32:38 - N = No-Gos
  • 38:14 - S = Schedule

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3102 1 11 full S1:E10 Create Lasting Media Partnerships S1:E10 Create Lasting Media Partnerships https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-10-invest-in-lasting-partnerships-with-media/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-10-invest-in-lasting-partnerships-with-media/#comments Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:44:19 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/fd90b85c-31d5-3865-ade6-96c35e677545 When was the last time you evaluated how your publisher/media relationships are going? Danni and Jen connect with some of their longest running media partnerships to see what's working, and how we can continue to grow those relationships long into the future. Investment here is about way more than money!

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Suzanne Sheldon

Danielle Standring

Grant Lyons

Audio transcription available here!

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Publisher-creator relationships in the board game industry
  • 5:31 - Media categories and their roles
  • 14:57 - Publisher goals for successful game marketing
  • 19:37 - Content creator goals and approaches
  • 27:30 - Best practices for publishers and creators

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> When was the last time you evaluated how your publisher/media relationships are going? Danni and Jen connect with some of their longest running media partnerships to see what's working, and how we can continue to grow those relationships long into the future. Investment here is about way more than money!

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Suzanne Sheldon

Danielle Standring

Grant Lyons

Audio transcription available here!

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Publisher-creator relationships in the board game industry
  • 5:31 - Media categories and their roles
  • 14:57 - Publisher goals for successful game marketing
  • 19:37 - Content creator goals and approaches
  • 27:30 - Best practices for publishers and creators

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2700 1 10 full S1:E9 Build Content to Drive Demand S1:E9 Build Content to Drive Demand https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-9-build-content-to-drive-demand/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-9-build-content-to-drive-demand/#comments Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:36:33 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/957ce510-beb2-388f-b2bb-ae7a233d36c1 How do we effectively use content to drive demand for our products? Danni and Jen share some observations from major campaigns both outside and inside the board game industry to inspire your own content marketing strategies.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Van Ryder Games

Wyrmwood Gaming

Audio transcription available here.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> How do we effectively use content to drive demand for our products? Danni and Jen share some observations from major campaigns both outside and inside the board game industry to inspire your own content marketing strategies.

Special thanks to our episode contributors:

Van Ryder Games

Wyrmwood Gaming

Audio transcription available here.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2377 1 9 full S1:E8 Marketing Green S1:E8 Marketing Green https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-8-marketing-green/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-8-marketing-green/#comments Thu, 15 Jun 2023 11:50:30 -0400 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/2e293f8a-7b4e-3d89-ae55-0e887c5661df How do we work greener in gaming? Guest T. Caires joins Danni and Jen to talk about the Green Games Guide and the future of making and marketing games greener.

Audio transcription available here. Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - Introducing T. Caires
  • 1:41 - What is the Green Games Guide
  • 3:23 - What does it mean to be green?
  • 7:49 - How to be more green in your life?
  • 12:38 - Thoughtful and intentional production
  • 17:52 - Hidden costs of replacements
  • 21:53 - Is paper marketing green?
  • 30:00 - Small changes to existing products
  • 33:16 - Think like the end-user

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> How do we work greener in gaming? Guest T. Caires joins Danni and Jen to talk about the Green Games Guide and the future of making and marketing games greener.

Audio transcription available here.
Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - Introducing T. Caires
  • 1:41 - What is the Green Games Guide
  • 3:23 - What does it mean to be green?
  • 7:49 - How to be more green in your life?
  • 12:38 - Thoughtful and intentional production
  • 17:52 - Hidden costs of replacements
  • 21:53 - Is paper marketing green?
  • 30:00 - Small changes to existing products
  • 33:16 - Think like the end-user

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2206 1 8 full S1:E7 Is Crowdfunding Right For You? S1:E7 Is Crowdfunding Right For You? https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-7-deciding-if-kickstarter-is-right-for-you/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-7-deciding-if-kickstarter-is-right-for-you/#comments Thu, 23 Mar 2023 13:28:10 -0400 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/afdfe344-405c-3989-bcbd-ef3b281b2311 Danni and Jen discuss three essential questions that have helped them find success in crowdfunding games. 

Audio transcription available here. Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - What is the threshold you need to hit in order for a product to have long-term success?
  • 13:18 - How crowdfunding is not the end all, be all
  • 18:38 - Crowdfunding is like a floating holiday
  • 23:33 - When you have a crowdfunding campaign, you’re creating instant gratification
  • 29:41 - The importance of making it as easy as possible for backers
  • 35:30 - Kickstarter campaigns as a marketing tool for games
  • 40:06 - Launch dates are a powerful day of marketing

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Danni and Jen discuss three essential questions that have helped them find success in crowdfunding games. 

Audio transcription available here.
Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - What is the threshold you need to hit in order for a product to have long-term success?
  • 13:18 - How crowdfunding is not the end all, be all
  • 18:38 - Crowdfunding is like a floating holiday
  • 23:33 - When you have a crowdfunding campaign, you’re creating instant gratification
  • 29:41 - The importance of making it as easy as possible for backers
  • 35:30 - Kickstarter campaigns as a marketing tool for games
  • 40:06 - Launch dates are a powerful day of marketing

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2678 1 7 full S1:E6 Lifestyle Photography & Videography S1:E6 Lifestyle Photography & Videography https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-6-lifestyle-photography-videography/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-6-lifestyle-photography-videography/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2023 08:32:22 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/61ba1dbd-1c4d-321b-bfe6-0a2a0d263915 available here.   Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on January 26, 2023. Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - Why do we take lifestyle photos and videos?
  • 4:24 - What types of video content can you create?
  • 8:33 - Deciding on and asking for aspect ratio ahead of time..
  • 14:04 - How do lifestyle visuals play a role on Amazon?
  • 17:01 - What to consider when you’re asking for that content.
  • 21:19 - How storyboards are used with specific types of video.
  • 25:12 - Turing white photos into transparent assets.
  • 31:25 - Pricing and packaging considerations.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> available here.   Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on January 26, 2023.

Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - Why do we take lifestyle photos and videos?
  • 4:24 - What types of video content can you create?
  • 8:33 - Deciding on and asking for aspect ratio ahead of time..
  • 14:04 - How do lifestyle visuals play a role on Amazon?
  • 17:01 - What to consider when you’re asking for that content.
  • 21:19 - How storyboards are used with specific types of video.
  • 25:12 - Turing white photos into transparent assets.
  • 31:25 - Pricing and packaging considerations.

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 2299 1 6 full S1:E5 2022 Holiday Trends S1:E5 2022 Holiday Trends https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode5/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode5/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:56:33 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/6d21c4de-e15e-3b4a-9674-ecf6e6461aa2 available here.   Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on December 6, 2022. Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - When did you start seeing holiday messaging this year?
  • 13:08 - How to segment your audience?
  • 18:15 - Gift Guides
  • 21:42 - Importance of consistency in sales
  • 32:14 - Using social media during holiday
  • 36:16 - Following trends and changes
  • 40:22 - Environmental giving and charity
  • 50:00 - How to inspire confidence and increase sales

I

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> available here.   Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on December 6, 2022.

Episode timestamps:
  • 0:00 - When did you start seeing holiday messaging this year?
  • 13:08 - How to segment your audience?
  • 18:15 - Gift Guides
  • 21:42 - Importance of consistency in sales
  • 32:14 - Using social media during holiday
  • 36:16 - Following trends and changes
  • 40:22 - Environmental giving and charity
  • 50:00 - How to inspire confidence and increase sales

I

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3476 1 5 full S1:E4 Product Announcement Day Deep Dive S1:E4 Product Announcement Day Deep Dive https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-4-product-announcement-deep-dive/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-4-product-announcement-deep-dive/#comments Tue, 20 Dec 2022 14:45:19 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/a8f0ed4c-8406-3046-b6e6-2c6fd4c2d3f4 Danni and Jen zoom in on strategies for announcement day for a new product. Who builds the hype train best, and the differences between digital announcements and in-person event opportunities.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on August 25, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - What is a product announcement?
  • 7:38 - What are some key ways to announce a new product?
  • 12:0 - How do you quantify success?
  • 17:29 - Importance of tone in marketing
  • 24:53 - What's happening at Gen Con
  • 33:27 - Expectations with convention announcements
  • 45:35 - Frosthaven's "big scoop" moment
  • 54:12 - How to leverage conventions

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Danni and Jen zoom in on strategies for announcement day for a new product. Who builds the hype train best, and the differences between digital announcements and in-person event opportunities.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on August 25, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - What is a product announcement?
  • 7:38 - What are some key ways to announce a new product?
  • 12:0 - How do you quantify success?
  • 17:29 - Importance of tone in marketing
  • 24:53 - What's happening at Gen Con
  • 33:27 - Expectations with convention announcements
  • 45:35 - Frosthaven's "big scoop" moment
  • 54:12 - How to leverage conventions

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3626 1 4 full S1:E3 Let’s Talk about Email & SMS S1:E3 Let’s Talk about Email & SMS https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-3-let-s-talk-about-email-sms/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-3-let-s-talk-about-email-sms/#comments Tue, 13 Dec 2022 11:48:33 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/c21a7f56-06ea-3eb6-aff5-f8a742a6a937 Danni and Jen discuss D2C communication through email, learned best practices on email platforms like Mailchimp and Klaviyo, and how we can and should start building communication strategies with SMS.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on June 30, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Newsletters in the board game industry
  • 8:53 - Importance of driving traffic to your site
  • 23:58 - Best days to send emails
  • 34:11 - Using email to connect with audience
  • 47:22 - Using tag functions
  • 52:50 - Cleaning your list
  • 57:31 - The future of SMS marketing

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Danni and Jen discuss D2C communication through email, learned best practices on email platforms like Mailchimp and Klaviyo, and how we can and should start building communication strategies with SMS.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on June 30, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Newsletters in the board game industry
  • 8:53 - Importance of driving traffic to your site
  • 23:58 - Best days to send emails
  • 34:11 - Using email to connect with audience
  • 47:22 - Using tag functions
  • 52:50 - Cleaning your list
  • 57:31 - The future of SMS marketing

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3853 1 3 full S1:E2 Three Month Plan for Announcing a New Game S1:E2 Three Month Plan for Announcing a New Game https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-2-pre-orders-to-release-communication/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode-2-pre-orders-to-release-communication/#comments Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:02:56 -0500 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/f727cf77-6888-3f3f-97b4-3188440b7d6f Danni and Jen discuss how to plan your communications surrounding pre-order launch all the up to (and after) release of your product in a three month time period.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on May 20, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Different audiences to consider for your messaging
  • 14:40 - Three primary communication channels they use
  • 19:47 - Using conventions as launching point
  • 23:34 - Difference between shotgun versus drip-feed of info
  • 33:25 - Preparing for six week countdown to announcement
  • 42:36 - How fans use social media to engage with product
  • 48:28 - Promos with pre-orders

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Danni and Jen discuss how to plan your communications surrounding pre-order launch all the up to (and after) release of your product in a three month time period.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on May 20, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - Different audiences to consider for your messaging
  • 14:40 - Three primary communication channels they use
  • 19:47 - Using conventions as launching point
  • 23:34 - Difference between shotgun versus drip-feed of info
  • 33:25 - Preparing for six week countdown to announcement
  • 42:36 - How fans use social media to engage with product
  • 48:28 - Promos with pre-orders

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3496 1 2 full S1:E1 Convention Strategies S1:E1 Convention Strategies https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode1/ https://unboxedboardgamepodcast.podbean.com/e/episode1/#comments Wed, 24 Aug 2022 21:56:06 -0400 unboxedmarketingpodcast.podbean.com/e486c639-56dc-3396-b8f3-6de45f4fb944 Danni and Jen discuss how to choose which conventions to exhibit at, the benefits of exhibiting, sponsorship options, and even digital conventions -- all through the lens of board game marketing.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on April 22, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - The convention calendar
  • 12:23 - How conventions impact game releases
  • 15:22 - Using promotional items
  • 23:21 - Deciding what to do at cons
  • 32:55 - Sending newsletters around cons
  • 36:23 - Marketing before the con
  • 40:10 - Sponsorship options
  • 47:09 - How to market multiple brands at once
  • 49:47 - Value of digital conventions

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> Danni and Jen discuss how to choose which conventions to exhibit at, the benefits of exhibiting, sponsorship options, and even digital conventions -- all through the lens of board game marketing.

Audio transcription available here.

Originally aired on Twitter Spaces on April 22, 2022.

Episode timestamps:

  • 0:00 - The convention calendar
  • 12:23 - How conventions impact game releases
  • 15:22 - Using promotional items
  • 23:21 - Deciding what to do at cons
  • 32:55 - Sending newsletters around cons
  • 36:23 - Marketing before the con
  • 40:10 - Sponsorship options
  • 47:09 - How to market multiple brands at once
  • 49:47 - Value of digital conventions

Episode written and produced by Danni Loe & Jennifer Graham-Macht.

Beats by Lukas Michas.

If you liked this episode, support us further by treating us to a Ko-fi and following us on Bluesky and Threads!

]]> We discuss how to choose which conventions to exhibit at, the benefits of exhibiting, sponsorship options, and even digital conventions -- all through the lens of board game marketing. Jen Graham-Macht & Danni Loe false No 3472 1 1 full