The podcast features Kim Nordström, a gaming industry veteran from Paradox Interactive and King, and the author of 'Up, Down, Up', a book about the life cycle phases of gaming startups.
We delve into Kim's analytical approach exploring startup successes and failures, identifying key patterns across companies. Over two years of research, Kim interviewed over a hundred gaming founders, CEOs, and leaders. Relevant topics ranging from the necessity of creative tension and disciplined decision-making in leadership, the four critical phases of development for startup companies as compared to a human life cycle, and the importance of knowing one's purpose in their role as founders or CEOs, and at the different growth and decline phases. Many practical and philosophical insights from the book are highlighted.
02:00 The Author's Gaming and Entrepreneurial Journey
05:28 The Process of Writing the Book
06:31 The Value of the Book
07:04 The Process of Interviewing Companies
08:43 The Structure and Purpose of the Book
14:48 The Importance of Discipline in Success
25:47 The Role of a CEO in a Gaming Company
29:47 Solutions and Challenges in Leadership
30:40 The Role of a CEO and the Importance of Support
33:40 The Struggles of Leadership and the Need for Self-Care
36:04 The Dynamics of Co-Founders and Team Composition
38:32 The Importance of Conflict and Challenge in Team Building
51:12 The Role of a CEO in Different Phases of a Company
54:48 Understanding Your Purpose As a CEO or Founder
Get your copy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/UP-DOWN-companies-succeed-others-ebook/dp/B0CR4D417V
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114. UP, DOWN, UP: Why Some Game Companies Succeed, While Others Fail