Mike Silva: Entrepreneur and Founder of Tailgate Game 'QB54'

Episode Summary

Mike Silva, founder of QB54, discussed the origins and success of his dual-purpose football game chair. Inspired by childhood games, he developed a prototype in 2015, which gained traction at local events and tailgates. QB54, which includes two folding chairs, goal posts, a football, and a carrying bag, has sold over 50,000 units. Silva emphasized the importance of perseverance, family involvement, and customer engagement. He highlighted recent international expansion, including partnerships in the UK and Germany. Silva also shared his entrepreneurial journey, stressing the value of taking risks and learning from failures.

Mike Silva's Introduction and Background

• Brad introduces the podcast and the guest, Mike Silva, founder of QB 54.
• Mike Silva joins the show, and they discuss his background and accent.
• Mike shares the origin of QB 54, starting with a childhood memory from 1983.
• He describes how he and his brother invented a makeshift football game using garbage cans and CB antennas.

Childhood Inspirations and Early Prototypes

• Mike recounts how he and his brother made up various games as kids, including a wiffle ball field in their basement.
• They refined their football game over the years, eventually using five-gallon buckets for touchdowns.
• In 2015, Mike's brother introduced the game to a neighbor who became interested and suggested they develop it further.
• Mike created a prototype and tested it at a little league baseball tournament, receiving positive feedback and sales.

Developing the QB 54 Game

• Mike explains the transition from using buckets to creating a chair-based game.
• He describes the process of modifying a chair to include a net for the game.
• The dual-purpose design of the QB 54 chair as both a game and a regular chair was a key innovation.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of making the game accessible and enjoyable for both kids and adults.

Marketing and Sales Strategies

• Mike discusses his marketing strategies, including setting up the game at tailgates and sporting events.
• He highlights the importance of making friends with security guards to gain access to these events.
• Mike shares anecdotes about selling the game directly to customers and the positive reception it received.
• The game's simplicity and dual purpose made it appealing to a wide audience, including families and tailgaters.

Challenges and Successes

• Mike talks about the challenges of starting a business and the importance of perseverance.
• He shares a story about taking out a home equity line of credit to invest in inventory during a critical period.
• The support of his family, especially his wife, was crucial in keeping the business afloat.
• Mike emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and the product, even when faced with skepticism.

Expanding the Business

• Mike mentions the potential for leagues and tournaments for QB 54, similar to cornhole and horseshoes.
• He discusses the success of the game in the UK and Germany, including partnerships with NFL commentators.
• The game's reach and popularity are growing, with plans to expand further into international markets.
• Mike expresses interest in collaborating with the podcast to promote QB 54 and reach a wider audience.

Entrepreneurial Advice and Personal Stories

• Mike advises entrepreneurs to take risks and not be afraid of failure, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes.
• He shares personal stories about involving his children in the business and the valuable lessons they learned.
• Mike highlights the importance of treating customers with respect and building personal connections.
• He reflects on the satisfaction of seeing people enjoy his game and the impact it has on bringing people together.

Future Plans and Final Thoughts

• Mike talks about future plans, including potential partnerships with Dick's Sporting Goods.
• He emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and innovation to stay ahead in the market.
• Mike expresses gratitude for the support and encouragement he has received from customers and the community.
• The conversation concludes with a discussion about the importance of entrepreneurship and the impact it can have on families and communities.