Episode 13: Building an Inclusive Gaming World: What Can We Learn from Trago's Games? | Carolina Acosta x Lucia Diaz

"The Art of Representation Podcast" hosted by Lucia Diaz features an inspiring conversation with Carolina Acosta, the founder and CEO of Tragos Games LLC. In a world where launching a product-based business without a tangible product may seem audacious, Carolina's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Armed with her design expertise, she embarked on the ambitious task of creating a website for a game that was still in the conceptual stages.

Her gamble paid off handsomely as this self-funded venture, initially starting with a modest 200 pre-orders, skyrocketed to an impressive $2 million in just two years. Carolina's story of entrepreneurship is one characterized by vision, perseverance, and a deep understanding of her target audience.

The genesis of Tragos can be traced back to a heritage trip to Colombia, where Carolina connected with her now-business associate, John Lim. Their shared passion for cultural exploration led to the inception of an Asian party game, Azn Flush. Carolina's background in Communication Design from Parsons, The New School, allowed her to craft the game's captivating packaging. However, she soon realized the need to create a product specifically tailored for Latinx consumers, a community close to her heart.

The game's popularity surged when a Tragos-related post went viral, propelling daily orders from a mere 10 to a staggering 5,000 in just one week. Carolina, determined and honest in her approach, expanded her operations to meet the demand. Her customers appreciated her transparency and were willing to wait for a cultural product that resonated deeply with them.

Carolina's achievements were further recognized when she was named one of Forbes' 30 Under 30. She not only leads Tragos' product development but also spearheads partnership initiatives. Today, the game boasts expansion packs and a family-friendly version called Get Loud, catering to a broader audience without the need for alcoholic beverages.

Carolina remains grounded, viewing Tragos as a small business and remaining agile to pivot when needed. While the game initially launched on Shopify and now thrives on Amazon, she aspires to see it on retail shelves in the future. Simultaneously, she continues to explore diverse revenue models, including events, collaborations, and speaking engagements.

For Carolina, Tragos is not merely a drinking game but a medium to connect with cultural touchstones. Her customers attest to the game's significance, and she envisions even greater things ahead, all while remaining deeply attuned to her culture and her customers' needs.

As a recently reluctant CEO, Carolina's transformation into a passionate leader is a testament to the rewards of entrepreneurship. She now leads an all-female, Latinx remote team, including some friends, challenging the notion that business and friendship shouldn't mix. Carolina believes in surrounding herself with individuals whose strengths complement her own, a strategy that has fueled her business growth.

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