Contact & About US
About The program
The Tabletop Mentorship Program was founded in May 2019 to provide a platform for experts in the tabletop industry to share their knowledge, resources, experience, and guidance with other members of the community. The goal of the mentorship program is to grow the collective knowledge, skills, and experiences of the tabletop industry. In 2024, we became a part of Unpub, the Unpublished Game Network.
who we Are
Mike Belsole (he/him), Founder, Co-Organizer
As a game designer and member of the tabletop industry, I wouldn't be where I am today without the support and guidance of my mentors. They have had such a positive impact on me and my experiences, and I can't ever repay that kindness. I started this program because I wanted to make it easy to give that opportunity and experience to others. I wanted to pay forward what was given to me so freely and generously. This is a passion project, and the plan is to run it indefinitely as long as there is interest.
Grace Kendall (they/them), Co-Organizer
Grace is the designer of Celestial Stories (part of the Dice & Ink anthology), and co-designer of Trick or Treat: The Aftermath and Smug Owls. You'll often find Grace teaching games as booth staff at conventions. They have been co-organizing the Tabletop Mentorship Program since its second session.
What we stand for and against
The Tabletop Mentorship Program stands firmly with the people and organizations that fight for equality in all its forms. We believe that Black Lives Matter, trans rights are human rights, reproductive rights are human rights, no person is illegal, and representation matters. We stand against white supremacy, homophobia, racism, sexism, and any kind of discrimination against those who are not in positions of power in their society. If your values are not consistent with ours, then this organization and its programs are not for you.
Our Code of conduct
Code of Conduct (Google Doc)
In the media
Mike and Grace discuss the program with Mark on the Game Designers of North Carolina podcast.
Sen hosted Friday Night Forum video discussions with members of the 2021 program: Xoe and Femi, Alyx, Paco, Jamie and Steven, and Austin, Kevin, and Andy.
Mike, Grace, and Carman talk about mentorship on the Meeple Syrup Show with Sen and Erica.
Geek Native did a text interview with Grace and Mike
Iain, Adam, Mike and Grace discuss the program on Brainwaves
Grace and Mike discuss the program with Sophie on Finding Games.
Contact us
If you have any questions, comments, or are looking for ways to contribute, please contact us.
Mentorship Email: TabletopMentorshipProgram@gmail.com
Twitter: @TabletopMentor