Here's the first true Tavern Post:
Yeah, I didn't quite know what direction
The Tavern was going to take 10 years ago. I certainly never dreamed it would still be around 10 years later, and no longer just a blog either.
The Tavern wouldn't be what it is without all of you.
I've been asked over the years to share the secret to
The Tavern's success. Sadly, I can't bottle the secret and sell it, but there are some things that I believe are certainly part of that success's foundation.
1 - Just do it. Seriously, if you want a successful blog, podcast, whatever you actually need to start that blog or podcast. Talking about it doesn't do anything. Find the time and do it.
2 - Be yourself. Sure, some popular and/or controversial personalities in our community are acts, but over time folks will appreciate knowing the real you. Besides, it much easier being you than somebody else.
3 - Be passionate. Don't blog or podcast about a subject because you think it with have a built-in audience. It might at first, but without that passion, you won't retain them. As if you couldn't guess, I'm passionate about tabletop gaming ;)
4 - Be persistent. Keep at it. Even if the early parts are rough, practice and persistence will allow you to hone your craft.
5 - Be patient. I've been blogging for over 10 years, involved in podcasting for over 5 years and have had my solo podcast for over a year. Success did not come quick or easy, and in truth, I can't pick out a moment where I realized that The Tavern was "a success", but I think its hit that spot.
6 - Listen. To both praise and criticism. An echo chamber is NOT to your benefit.
7 - You can't please everyone. This is a hard one to come to terms with. Some folks don't like change (the podcast) and others may feel intimidated or worse by any success you may achieve. Don't ignore that they have concerns, but understand that not all of their concerns are your's to correct.
8 - Remember your community. Successful blogs, podcasts, Facebook groups, Discord servers and the like often have communities that form around them. Any influence you might have is because THEY grant it to you. It is a responsibility and an honor to be granted such. Do not abuse it.
9 - Invest. Time is probably the biggest investment, but there is also money, emotion and so much more. Success requires some sacrifice. You must be willing to do so.
10 - Have fun. If at some point it no longer is fun for you, it's probably time to take a break. I'm blessed that I enjoy it all and I have an amazingly supportive community. I'll warn you all if I need a break ;P
Again, 10 years. Holy Shit. No longer just a blog,
The Tavern is a thriving
Facebook Group (with just under 2400 members), an active
Discord Server (with exactly 2000 members), the
Tavern Chat Podcast (379 episodes and more each day) and of course, the
Tenkar's Tavern Blog.
There are some huge plans for the blog-side and hopefully, I'll be able to get some of it in place this summer. New host, additional bloggers and more. No exact timeframe as I'm juggling multiple balls at the moment but I hope you'll enjoy the ride ;)
