Side Hustle School Ep. 3126 - STORY: Nerdy Kickstarter Campaign Raises $1 Million
Jul 23, 2025
An Ohio man turns his passion for board games into a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign, raising over $1 million. His inspiring journey showcases how creativity and nostalgia can fuel innovative game designs. Listeners also get strategic tips on launching their own Kickstarter projects, emphasizing the importance of timing and marketing. This tale blends personal stories with practical advice, encouraging others to pursue their creative ideas.
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Travis's Board Game Journey
- Travis Hancock loved board games since childhood and made games with family and friends.
- He launched a Kickstarter for his game Salem expecting $6,000 but raised over $100,000 and continued creating more games.
Family Games Spark Innovation
- Travis's family would play Mafia, a USSR board game, often at family gatherings.
- His brother gifted him a customized Harry Potter version, sparking his initial published game experience.
Expanding Game Series
- Travis and Holly expanded their game series with three thematic games: Salem, Tortuga, and Deadwood.
- Their company continues to produce new games and operates remotely, embracing home work culture.