episode 0019- the backyard game that is breaking the internet with tyler simmons

At a summer barbecue? Camping? Random Tuesday night? From Cornhole to Bocce Ball, backyard games always level up the fun. We all love a good backyard game. But how hard is it to invent a new one, and take it to market?

In this episode, we get an inside look at the creation of BucketGolf, a fun new outdoor party game that is "the excitement of golf mixed with the ease of yard games". Hear how founder Tyler Simmons nearly gave up several times, but persevered, took it to market, made necessary tweaks, found manufacturing, made the game go viral on social media, and now has a thriving product that you can find in stores like Dick's Sporting Goods and SCHEELS. On the outside looking in, and it may look like it was overnight success. But tune in to hear how his entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to press forward when it felt like a dead end.

Show Highlights:
1- The early idea and the early stages of BucketGolf. (6:25)
2- What are the rules / how do you play this game? (9:20)
3- What’s your background as an entrepreneur / did you have a clue what you were doing when you started? (14:50)
4- Since homemaking these games proved to be challenging and costly, how did you overcome that hurdle and find a better way to manufacture and cut costs? (16:20)
5- How did you find your first manufacturer, and how much money did you send them initially, hoping the product turned out okay? (20:50)
6- You almost gave up on the idea several times; what kept you going, and what was the turning point that has made it the success that it is today? (22:50)
7- Where is the best / coolest place to play this game? (28:45)
8- We discuss the notion that “done” is better than “perfect”, and tweaking it as you get feedback. (30:15)
9- How have sales grown since the product was released and revamped? (33:40)
10- Ideas are nothing until you get off the couch. (36:10)
11- Tyler’s book recommendations and business inspirations to help stay the course. (38:30)
12- Tyler discusses approaching retail stores to sell the game. (41:40)
13- How big is the team that works at BucketGolf? (44:40)
14- Listener question: When you have a new product and nobody knows you, how do you get discovered? Tyler also adds a few social media tips. (48:20)
15- Where can we find more of you and BucketGolf? (53:35)

Visit the BucketGolf Amazon Store!

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Follow BucketGolf on Instagram: @bucketgolfgame

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