Mentioned In Dispatches S16 E10 – Getting A Job in the Tabletop Industry

In this episode of 'Mentioned In Dispatches' Season 16, Episode 10, hosts from the Armchair Dragoons explore the multifaceted pathways to securing a job in the tabletop gaming industry, featuring insights from veteran industry figures Chris Pramus of Green Ronin and Ross Thompson, creator of the popular Facebook job board for tabletop gaming. The conversation traces personal journeys—from freelance gigs and volunteer roles at game stores to convention organizing and marketing positions—highlighting how serendipity, persistence, and networking often open doors. Chris recounts his early freelance work for Mayfair Games and his path through Wizards of the Coast and miniatures design, while Ross shares his rise from running local War Machine leagues to founding Kingdom Con and launching a thriving job-finding Facebook group now boasting 26,000 members. The episode underscores that full-time roles are rare, with most opportunities being part-time, freelance, or project-based. Key themes include the importance of knowing the games you want to work with, building a portfolio, leveraging social media and job boards, and embracing the DIY ethos through self-publishing and crowdfunding. The hosts emphasize that the industry is accessible to passionate individuals willing to start small, contribute value, and remain adaptable in a rapidly evolving landscape. The episode concludes with a powerful message: you don’t need a traditional career path—just initiative. Whether it’s volunteering at a convention booth, submitting to community content programs, or bootstrapping your own game through print-on-demand services like Blue Panther, the industry rewards those who take action. The story of Larry Pinkerton, a retired National Guard member who designed and published his Civil War wargame 'And the War Came' via Blue Panther, exemplifies how anyone can become a game designer with grit and determination. The hosts encourage listeners to stop waiting for permission and start building their presence—because in tabletop gaming, the next big thing might just come from someone like you.