Do you want to know what it’s like to own a nerd store, or do you want to own your own someday? We’ll be joined by Drew Schwab, owner of Anime Kat, the oldest anime and gaming store on the Olympic Peninsula. Drew will share his industry knowledge and upstart advice, as well as (some of) the secrets behind his long-term success. He'll gladly answer your questions no matter how serious or silly. This panel is perfect for those interested in running their own store or for those curious about what it looks like behind the scenes.

This panel will be held in the upstairs dining room of Smuggler’s Landing Restaurant. Your $10 ticket includes a fountain soda or small cup of coffee/tea. Additional food is available for purchase after the panel. Space is limited; click here to reserve your seat.

DREW SCHWAB

After graduating high school in 2003, Drew moved from Ohio to be closer to his Coast Guard father and stepmother in Port Angeles. He studied at Peninsula College for a number of years earning a AAS in Marketing, a BAS in Applied Management, and a number of business focused certificates. At the same time, he worked to become a manger at one of the local fast food restaurants. In 2009, he married his wife and best friend, Robynn (pictured together left). In 2010, they opened Anime Kat with Drew taking on the day to day operations. In 12 years, Drew has grown Anime Kat into the oldest and largest anime/gaming store on the Olympic Peninsula. When he's not playing video games or Dungeons & Dragons, Drew serves on the Port Angeles Planning Commission and the Port Angeles Public Safety Advisory Board.