Published Jun 19, 2023

Spikeball: Chris Ruder

Chris Ruder shares his journey of reviving Spikeball from obscurity to global sensation, detailing strategic branding efforts and overcoming business challenges, while his unexpected media exposure on "Shark Tank" provided an incredible boost that transformed a simple game into an aspiring Olympic sport.

Episode Highlights

Topics covered

Episode Highlights

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Dexa/Guy Raz

Spikeball: Chris Ruder

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Love and Spikeball

Grassroots Marketing Success

Breaking into Retail

Branding Roundnet

Luck and Serendipity

Niche Communities Unite

Reviving a Classic

From Basement to Success

Growth and Strategy

Overcoming Self-Doubt

Securing Spikeball's Future

Reviving a Classic Game

Reviving Spikeball

Fundraising for Spikeball

Episode Highlights

Product and Branding

Media Exposure Impact

Business Challenges

Related Episodes

Advice Line with Chris Ruder of Spikeball

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On athletic shoes: Olivier Bernhard and Caspar Coppetti

Logic: Logic & Chris Zarou

Shopify: Tobias Lütke

Kickstarter: Perry Chen

Pitchfork: Ryan Schreiber

Riot Games: Bonus Episode

Kickstarter: Perry Chen (2018)

HIBT Lab! Colin and Samir: Colin Rosenblum and Samir Chaudry

reCAPTCHA and Duolingo: Luis von Ahn

CrunchLabs: Mark Rober

Spikeball: Chris Ruder

Topics covered

Popular Clips

Episode Highlights

Product and BrandingChris Ruder's revival of Spikeball transformed it from a forgotten game into a global phenomenon. His strategic branding and product development efforts have positioned Spikeball as a competitive sport with Olympic aspirations.

Product and Branding

Media Exposure ImpactChris Ruder's appearance on "Shark Tank" played a crucial role in shaping Spikeball's trajectory, despite a deal falling through. The exposure led to unexpected benefits, including a surge in sales and interest from major retailers.

Media Exposure Impact

Business ChallengesChris Ruder embarked on a journey to revive Spikeball, transforming it from a nostalgic childhood game into a global phenomenon. His story is one of overcoming cash flow challenges, achieving unexpected retail success, and turning a side project into a thriving business.

Business Challenges

Related Episodes