How can the world of esports and gaming continue to evolve, allow for a bigger vision, and provide a path for growth? This is what Kim Meltzer discusses with John in this week’s episode of The DLC Drop Podcast.

Kim Meltzer, CEO of Destination Esports, has an extensive background in esports and gaming, and she shares some of the stories of how she received the nickname “Cod Mom”, how this industry has evolved over the years, but what’s still on the table of things that need to be done. Plus they discuss the important factors that any brand needs to know before spending any money in the world of esports.

To connect with Kim on LinkedIn, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeltzer/

To learn more about Destination Esports: https://destinationesports.com/

To follow John on Twitter: https://twitter.com/J0hnDavids0n

Full Episode Breakdown:

1:49 – Kim and John discuss their relationship

2:54 – Kim discusses her history in the world of esports, and show she got involved in it, and where the name Cod Mom came from.

7:39 – How she focused on really helping the players thrive, and how her role really morphed, and who it was she worked with.

11:05 – How the hospitality world fits with esports, and how it has grown within the industry.

14:11 – Why understanding what makes esports so different is so important before putting money into it.

15:01 – Kim tells some of her favorite stories from working in esports.

21:37 – Why we will see a rise in women in gaming, and helping those to truly find a path doing what they love. Plus the term ‘creative structure’, and what it means to her.

27:54 – Kim talks about what it was like working in the hospitality industry and how she evolved into the world of hospitality.

32:10 – Why brands need to listen to the community in order to succeed with any marketing campaigns.

37:20 – More details about why the industry is so leery of brands because they’ve seen them leave once they get from what they need out of the community. (And why consistency over time is key.)

40:30 – Why creating a path of people of finances has truly paid off for Kim.

45:01 – Why remembering that every relationship is long term can pay dividends in the world of esports and gaming.

52:11 – Kim’s prediction of what the next big thing is coming in the world of esports and gaming.