In this inspiring episode, we switch roles with Shelby Moledina, as our new co-host on the show who interviews Sophie Vo to share her journey of breaking barriers within the gaming industry, focusing on building inclusive and conscious game companies and studios.

Sophie discusses her experiences in establishing key projects like Rise and Play, her role as CEO and co-founder of Kylan, a new game studio in Vietnam, and transitioning from corporate structures to startup environments. She highlights the importance of leadership, pitching, fundraising, and above all alignment within co-founder teams.

Shelby and Sophie discuss the challenges and learnings from their entrepreneurial ventures (Shelby was the co-founder of the studio Double Loop Games which closed in 2023), underscoring the significance of personal growth, connections, and embracing changes in the pursuit of their missions. Sophie also introduces her upcoming project, Olivya, aimed at innovating at the intersection of coaching, technology, and games.

01:30 Special Co-host: Shelby Moledina

02:26 The Birth of the Podcast Rise and Play

04:30 Navigating Leadership and Consciousness In Business

08:19 Fundraising and Building a New Studio in 2024 (Kylan)

14:07 Personal Growth and Overcoming Fears

16:11 Lessons from the Co-Founders Journey

25:37 Discovering Sophie’s ‘Why’ out of games

33:09 Continuing the leadership journey with Olivya

💡 Get more leadership resources on: riseandplay.io

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