
IndieGameBusiness®
Candid conversations with veterans of all aspects of the business side of games. We firmly believe that great games from all developers need the support they deserve to succeed. This podcast exists to provide that support.
IndieGameBusiness® is produced by The Powell Group, a video game consulting firm specializing in business development, marketing, and licensing. Our CEO has been in the industry for 20 years and closed countless publishing and licensing deals. The Powell Group monitors over 3,500 game developers and 750+ publishers.
Latest episodes

Sep 8, 2023 • 1h 2min
Publishing Your Indie Game and Your Mental Health
Welcome to another insightful episode of IndieGameBusiness! Today, we have a very special guest, Leo Zullo, Co-founder & Managing Director of Wired Productions, and Co-founder and Chair of Safe In Our World.
In this episode, we will explore the world of indie game publishing, covering aspects like being developer-friendly, the current state of the market, and addressing the phenomenon of "publisher bashing." We will dive deep into these topics and discuss anything else that comes to mind.
Additionally, Leo will share insights into the critically important issue of mental health in the gaming industry, and how Safe In Our World is working towards promoting mental health awareness and support.
Stay connected with Leo Zullo on Twitter and LinkedIn to follow his valuable insights:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Leo_Zullo
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leozullo/
#IndieGameBusiness #IndieGamePublishing #MentalHealth #SafeInOurWorld #GameDevelopment #IndieGames #MarketTrends #DeveloperFriendly #LeoZullo #GamingIndustry #NotForProfits

Sep 1, 2023 • 1h 48min
What Video Game Publishers are Looking For
Today on IndieGameBusiness, we are thrilled to have Joshua Garrity, the Head Game Scout at Secret Mode, join us to explore "What Publishers are Looking For."
In this episode, Joshua will guide us through the intricacies of game scouting, pitching, and business development. He will share insights on crafting the ideal pitch and help us identify red flags that can hinder your pitch's success. Join us as we uncover the critical aspects that publishers are seeking and learn how to present information that gives you a competitive edge.
Connect with Joshua Garrity on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to stay updated with his insights and experiences
Twitter: twitter.com/combinehunter
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-garrity-261a6148
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jgcombinehunter
#GameScouting #GamePitching #BusinessDevelopment #IndieGamePublishing #PublisherInsights #GameIndustry #SecretMode #JoshuaGarrity #GameDevelopment #GamingScout

Aug 18, 2023 • 1h 4min
Unlocking Success: Indie Game Publishing's Promising Future
Welcome to another enlightening episode of Indie Game Business! Today, we have a distinguished guest, Ben Kvalo, the Founder and CEO of a confidential and as of yet unannounced video game publisher. Join us as we dive into the topic of "Unlocking Success: Indie Game Publishing's Promising Future."
In this conversation, Ben will provide insights into the shifting landscape of the game industry and identify emerging opportunities. We'll explore why Ben chose the Midwest as a strategic location and the factors that led him to transition from a role at Netflix to game publishing. A key question we will address is the relevance of a publisher in an era where self-publishing is increasingly viable.
Drawing from his experiences in the AAA space, Ben will share valuable learnings that indie developers can leverage. We'll also delve into the motivations behind Ben's bet on indie developers and the unique insights he brings to the industry.
Our main topic will focus on the evolving video game publishing landscape and the potential for transformative change.
Stay connected with Ben Kvalo on LinkedIn for more insights and updates:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benkvalo/
#IndieGamePublishing #GameIndustryShift #Opportunities #GameDevelopment #VideoGamePublishing #IndieDevelopers #Confidential #BenQvalo #GamingFuture #AAAExperience

Aug 11, 2023 • 1h 18min
The 9 Most Common Mistakes That Game IP's and Brands Make
Join Christian Fonnesbech, Head of IP Development at Leverage, as he shares valuable insights from his highly successful talk in Europe.
In this enlightening video, Christian reveals the 9 most common mistakes in game IP and brand development.
From underestimating the long-term value and focusing on things instead of characters, to the importance of uniqueness, relatability, and integrating IP with gameplay, Christian covers essential aspects of creating successful game IPs.
He emphasizes the significance of storytelling, the universe, managing writers, and starting brand conversations early.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an industry expert.
Stay connected with Christian Fonnesbech on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cfonnes and LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christianfonnesbech.
Hashtags: #GameIPs #BrandDevelopment #GameDesign #Storytelling #GameIndustryInsights #LeverageGames

Jul 24, 2023 • 1h 15min
Navigating your indie game's social media, community, and networking with social anxiety
Join Steph Briles, Owner of Oak City Indie Games, as they share valuable insights on networking with social anxiety and provides tips for breaking into the industry from scratch.
In this informative video, Steph discusses the importance of social media, highlights great places for networking, emphasizes the significance of local communities, and addresses the anxieties associated with leaving a AAA studio.
They also share exciting updates about the upcoming Oak City Indie Games event.
If you're interested in learning how to navigate the gaming industry while dealing with social anxiety, this video is a must-watch.
Stay connected with Steph Briles on Twitter twitter.com/briledozer and LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/steph-briles-17a675161
Follow Oak City Indie Games on Facebook (facebook.com/OakCityIndie)
#SocialAnxietyGaming #NetworkingTips #IndieGameIndustry #SocialMediaManagement #LocalGamingCommunity #OakCityIndieGames #indiegamebusiness #indiegamedev #gamedev

Jul 14, 2023 • 1h 9min
Understanding Your Indie Game's Competition
Join Mason Moreau, Digital Marketing Coordinator at Tripwire Interactive, as he delves into the crucial process of evaluating a game's efficacy as a competitive product in the marketplace.
In this insightful video, Mason answers important questions like when to conduct this evaluation, why it's a vital step in a game's go-to-market plan, and how to remain realistic about your game's Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and potential challenges.
He also provides practical tips for determining a USP and shares valuable insights on performing a SWOT analysis.
If you're a game developer or enthusiast looking to understand your game's competition, identify USPs, and navigate challenges in the marketplace, this video is a must-watch.
Don't miss out on gaining a competitive edge in the gaming industry!
Follow Mason Moreau on Twitter https://twitter.com/thegingereffect and connect with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mason-moreau-23a4ba89/ to stay updated on the latest trends.
#GameAnalysis #CompetitiveGaming #GameEvaluation #UniqueSellingProposition #GamingIndustryInsights #MarketplaceChallenges #indiegamedev #gamedev

Jun 21, 2023 • 60min
Bringing the Fun Back with SPLACE
In this exciting episode, we have Chris Byatte, the Co-Founder of SPLACE, joining us to discuss "Bringing the Fun Back with SPLACE."
During our conversation, we will explore various intriguing aspects of SPLACE and its unique approach to social media and community platforms. Chris will share insights into the motivation behind entering this area and highlight what sets SPLACE apart from other platforms. We will also delve into the concept of "bringing the fun back" and discuss how SPLACE aims to create an enjoyable and engaging experience for its users.
While SPLACE has its roots in the gaming industry, we will explore whether it is exclusively for gamers or caters to a wider audience. Chris will also provide insights into the future of SPLACE, including the Splace SDK and an exciting 1 million stock option giveaway.
Connect with Chris Byatte and stay updated with SPLACE by visiting the following links:
Website: www.splace.world
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chrisbyatte
Twitter: twitter.com/splace_world
#SPLACE #SocialMedia #CommunityPlatform #FunExperience #GamingIndustry #DiscordAlternative #SplaceSDK #StockOptionGiveaway #ChrisByatte #TechInnovation #EngagingCommunity

Jun 12, 2023 • 1h 5min
Video Games: The Art of Transformation
Welcome to our captivating episode! Today, we have a very special guest, Jonathan Hill, who will take us on a journey exploring "Video Games: The Art of Transformation."
During our conversation, we will delve into various thought-provoking topics, including mental health, self-acceptance, creativity, and the transformative power of video games as a form of art. Jonathan will also share his insights on helping indie studios, addressing toxicity in the industry, and overcoming the fear of change.
Jonathan's company, 1minus1, has transitioned to exclusively working for the games industry. We will discuss the reasons behind this switch and how it has allowed Jonathan to rediscover what he had lost. Additionally, we will explore the impact of the pandemic on 1minus1 and the state of indie games marketing in 2023.
Connect with Jonathan Hill on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to stay informed about his endeavors:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/1minus1limited
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1min...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1minus1
#VideoGames #ArtOfTransformation #MentalHealth #IndieStudios #GameMarketing #IndieGames #Creativity #Toxicity #1minus1

Jun 5, 2023 • 1h 5min
What it's Like to be a Project Manager on AAA vs. Indie
Welcome to our show! In this episode, we have a special guest, Masao Kobayashi, who will shed light on "What it's Like to be a Project Manager on AAA vs. Indie."
During our conversation, Masao will compare and contrast project management in a 500-person team versus a smaller indie team of 10 members. We will explore the differences in risk management approaches and discuss the unique challenges and problem-solving strategies involved in each setting.
Join us as Masao shares his insights into the world of project management, addressing both invented problems and real problems faced in the industry.
Connect with Masao Kobayashi on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay updated with his expertise and experiences:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/megamasao
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/masao-kobayashi/
#ProjectManagement #AAA #IndieGames #TeamManagement #RiskManagement #GameDevelopment #GameIndustry #MasaoKobayashi #InventedProblems #RealProblems

May 21, 2023 • 1h 5min
Developing and Launching a Game with Subsequent Updates
Welcome to another exciting episode of our show! Today, we have Bobby White as our special guest. Join us as we delve into the topic of "Developing and Launching a Game with Subsequent Updates."
During this episode, we will explore various aspects of game development and launching, including the dynamics of international teams, the incorporation of language learning aids within games, and the potential of gamifying education. Bobby will also share insights on launching a game to a mid-reaction and the importance of pivoting based on player feedback.
We will dive into the fascinating world of Terra Alia, the game Bobby has been involved in developing. Additionally, we will touch upon the future of indie game production with the integration of AI and VR technologies.
Stay connected with Bobby White and learn more about Terra Alia by following these social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/terra_alia
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terraaliagame/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terraalia.game
#GameDevelopment #IndieGames #GameLaunch #LanguageLearning #Gameification #PlayerFeedback #LQA #TerraAlia #AIinGames #VRinGames
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.