Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach
256 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 32 ratingsHow do I bring my great toy ideas to life? How do I get my concepts in front of BIG toy companies like Hasbro, Mattel, and Goliath Games? Where should I go to create my own prototypes and how much should they cost? Is my only manufacturing option in China? These are just a few of the questions that will be answered on this weekly podcast, Making It In The Toy Industry. In addition to mini toy masterclasses, and step-by-step guides, each episode is designed to help you take immediate action toward developing, presenting, licensing, and producing your next big toy idea. Learn the invaluable how-to’s like, finding a factory for production, negotiating costs, and industry-proven sales techniques so that you can turn your toy dreams into a reality. | Brought to you by thetoycoach.com |
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Episodes
#216: The Hidden Challenges and Opportunities in Toy Licensing with Anita Castellar
April 17, 2024 15:00 - 59 minutes - 40.9 MBEver wondered why brands like Barbie have products in unexpected categories? Or, why licensed products often come with a premium price tag? Well, you might just be intrigued by the lesser-known complications and exhilarating opportunities that lie within the licensing labyrinth. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade interviews Anita Castellar to unveil the complex dance of toy licensing, where every step—from initial outreach to the final signature—matters imme...
#215: How He Launched an Action Figure Line from Ideation, Marketing, to Retail Placement
April 10, 2024 13:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MBEver wondered how a simple idea can transform into a toy that's flying off the shelves? Perhaps you've been toying around with a concept, but the thought of kickstarting it into production leaves you feeling majorly overwhelmed. Well, then today’s episode is the perfect fit for you. Brandon Braswell, founder of 9 to 5 Warriors is sharing the ups and downs of developing and producing his own action figure line. In this episode, our guest host Virginia Lette welcomes back Brandon on his secon...
#214: Everything You Need To Know About MESH Accreditation For Your Toy
April 03, 2024 07:00 - 43 minutes - 30.1 MBIs your latest toy design capable of teaching kids valuable life skills? Creating a toy that's both a blast to play with and packs a punch in the personal growth department isn't child's play. So, how do you shake things up and make a toy that's not just another shiny object in the toy box but a true game-changer in a kid's development? Get ready to level up your toy-creating game with some insider knowledge from this must-listen episode. Welcome Rachele Harmuth, Head of ThinkFun who is bac...
#213: From Empath to Entrepreneur with Jana Hallam of Wonderwell Toy Company
March 27, 2024 06:00 - 27 minutes - 18.6 MBKids today are facing a kindness crisis. From the playground to the classroom, loneliness and bullying run rampant. But there's hope on the horizon, thanks to one toy designer's mission to spark empathy through play. Meet Jana Hallam, TCA alumni and the visionary founder of Wonderwell Toy Co. In this inspiring episode, Jana opens up to guest host Virginia Lette, about her journey from an emotionally attuned child to a kindness crusader for the modern age. You'll discover how a frustrating C...
#212: Why Your Toy Package Deserves More Than Matte with Anchor Creative
March 20, 2024 06:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBAre you giving your toy's package the attention and budget it deserves? If your answer isn't an immediate "Heck yes Azhelle, ALWAYS." then it's time to listen to part 2 of of Ivan and Brittany's interview on this podcast. At the top of the episode, Ivan and Brittany share their secret on staying up to date with trends and spotting what's exciting in packaging. They remind us to step out of our comfort zones and to explore everything from boutique shelves to big-box stores to uncover what re...
#211: How To Efficiently Communicate Your Toy's Value Through Packaging with Anchor Creative
March 13, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MBYour toy package should be the 24/7 salesman for your toy product. Is your packaging putting in the work? If you have ever wondered how to make your packaging communicate the value of your product, I’ve got a new episode that you just can't miss. As one of our guests today will attest, often toy packaging is an afterthought, but what if I told you it's one of your most powerful communication tools? In this episode, I had the privilege of diving deep into the art of communication in packagin...
#210: An Insider Look at A National Toy Trade Show in Las Vegas
March 06, 2024 18:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBHave you heard about the Toy Trade Show that happened in Las Vegas? It’s called Toy Fest and I just dropped an episode all about it in case you missed it! In this episode I’m sharing quotes from the diverse range of attendees, breaking down emerging trends and highlighting innovations showcased on the floor and in the showrooms. Discover why Toy Fest should be at the top of your list if you're considering bringing a new toy line to market. With insights from exhibitors, buyers, and seasoned...
#209: How Women in the Toy Industry Are Building Dreams and Connections with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn
February 28, 2024 16:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MBRight now you might feel like an outsider in the toy industry. But it’s important to remember that we ALL started out that way. The goal of today’s podcast episode is to show you how you can go from zero connections in the world of toys, to thousands! Yep, thousands. To teach that lesson, I’m bringing you part two of my interview with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, where you’ll hear how she went from the spark of an idea in her kitchen, to becoming a pivotal figure at Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entert...
#208: When Motherhood Inspires Toy Invention with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn Part 1 of 2
February 21, 2024 12:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBHave you ever wondered what drives the passion behind toy inventors? In this compelling episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, we dive deep with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, the dynamic chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Women in Toys Licensing and Entertainment, and the creative mind behind Little Art. Discover how the quest to entertain and educate her daughter during the pandemic led to the birth of a new toy company. Ehi shares her journey from attorney to toy inventor, driven by the desire ...
#208: When Motherhood Inspires Toy Invention with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn
February 21, 2024 12:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MBHave you ever wondered what drives the passion behind toy inventors? In this compelling episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, we dive deep with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, the dynamic chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Women in Toys Licensing and Entertainment, and the creative mind behind Little Art. Discover how the quest to entertain and educate her daughter during the pandemic led to the birth of a new toy company. Ehi shares her journey from attorney to toy inventor, driven by the desire ...
#207: The Secrets To Networking in The Toy Industry
February 15, 2024 21:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MBAre you struggling to crack the networking code in the toy industry? Tune in to episode #207 of The Toy Coach Podcast: Making It In The Toy Industry as Azhelle Wade, unveils the secrets behind successful networking. Spoiler? It's easier than you think. The host debunks myths surrounding industry connections and shares invaluable tips for building meaningful relationships that drive professional growth. When you listen to this episode, you'll discover how genuine connections can open doors t...
#206: How “No” Led This Game Creator To Unexpected Opportunity
February 07, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MBIn this special edition of "Making It In The Toy Industry," we follow the journey of Catherine Tenaglia, co-founder of Race to Stupid, as she shares insights into her entrepreneurial venture and the impact of TCA on her business strategy. Catherine reflects on her TCA experience, highlighting the invaluable guidance provided by the founder of The Toy Coach. She emphasizes how Azhelle’s expertise and structured approach helped her navigate the complexities of the toy industry with confidence...
#205: Turning Ideas into Top Sellers with Robert Yusim
January 31, 2024 13:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MBIn this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, we delve into the world of consumer product marketing and licensing with special guest Robert Yusim. We open with a captivating discussion on the value of ideas versus inventions and the crucial steps needed to turn an idea into a marketable product. Robert shares his journey into the toy industry and how he's helped launch numerous successful consumer products, including the iconic Thighmaster, Pixicade, and more. Discover the magic behind ...
#204: Exploring the Secrets, Surprises, and History of Polly Pocket with Maude Campbell
January 24, 2024 16:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MBDo you remember the original tiny world of Polly Pocket? In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the history, secrets, and surprises behind this iconic toy with Maude Campbell, author of the upcoming book The Legacy of Polly Pocket: Mattel's Micro Moneymaker. Join us as we explore how a simple button inspired inventor Chris Wiggs to fashion an iconic toy out of a makeup compact. Learn about the transition from Bluebird to Mattel, the ups and downs of Polly's size changes, and the enduring ...
#203: How CJ Charles Turned Her Children's Book into a Plush Doll
January 17, 2024 14:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBEver wondered how a beloved character from a children's book can leap off the pages and become a real toy? This episode of "Making It in the Toy Industry" reveals the transformative journey of a TCA Alumni who turned a character from their storybook into a cherished 12-inch plush toy. Join Virginia Lette as the host of this new series in a conversation with CJ Charles, the author and toy creator behind My Mother Is A Superhero. Hear the story of how CJ successfully turned her book's protago...
#202: Gender Neutral Toy Sections Are Now Law In California
January 10, 2024 10:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MBHow does the recent California law mandating gender-neutral toy sections in large retail stores impact the toy industry? This episode takes a deep dive into the nuances of this legislative change and its potential ripple effects on manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. The episode revisits a critical discussion from October 2021, examining the intricate details and recent amendments of the bill turned into law. We explore the initial intentions of the bill, which aimed to encompass child...
#201: 12 SMART Goals To Launch Your Toy Idea in 2024
January 03, 2024 20:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MBAre you ready to transform your toy idea into a market-ready product by the end of 2024 but unsure where to start? Then you’ve chosen the perfect episode to dive into! In just 26 minutes, get a month-by-month blueprint, detailing 12 SMART goals to lead you into a soft launch of your toy or game by Q4 of 2024. With guidance from The Toy Coach, you'll discover the critical importance of understanding the toy market and setting specific, achievable goals. Learn the acronym for SMART goals and...
#200: Virginia Lette Interviews Azhelle Wade The Toy Coach
December 20, 2023 10:00 - 49 minutes - 33.9 MBTo celebrate Episode 200 of Making It in The Toy Industry, something special is underway. Joining The Toy Coach, also known as Azhelle Wade, is Virginia Lette, an accomplished Australian radio and television presenter. She is renowned for co-hosting Eclipse Music TV for three years and serving as a Weekend News and Sport Presenter for WIN News Tasmania. Virginia has also hosted over 500 episodes of the Morning Kids Podcast. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a dedicated mother, ent...
#199: Speed Up Your Toy or Game Promotion Process With AI
December 13, 2023 14:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBHow is AI reshaping the toy industry? In this eye-opening episode, we delve into the world of AI and its transformative impact on toy design and creation. Discover how tools like Adobe Firefly, Canva, and Amazon are integrating AI to enhance their services and change the game for how consumers experience products and how professional toy creators promote them. In episode 199, The Toy Coach explores the practical applications of AI in the toy industry, from speeding up the toy invention proc...
#198: Speed Up Your Toy or Game Invention Process With AI - Part 1
December 06, 2023 19:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MBHave you ever wondered how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the toy industry? From speeding up the toy invention process to comparing traditional and AI-assisted methods, AI is transforming how we create and innovate. Dive into this engaging exploration of AI’s role in the toy industry. In this episode, join The Toy Coach as she shares insights from her talk at the People of Play Innovation Conference. Discover how AI can enhance market research, ideation, product visualizati...
#198: Speed Up Your Toy or Game Invention Process With AI
December 06, 2023 19:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MBHave you ever wondered how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the toy industry? From speeding up the toy invention process to comparing traditional and AI-assisted methods, AI is transforming how we create and innovate. Dive into this engaging exploration of AI’s role in the toy industry. In this episode, join The Toy Coach as she shares insights from her talk at the People of Play Innovation Conference. Discover how AI can enhance market research, ideation, product visualizati...
#197: How Get Your Products In Stores With A Pitch That Stands Out with Rick Derr
November 29, 2023 16:00 - 24 minutes - 16.6 MBIn Q4 some toy entrepreneurs are feeling FOMO, wishing that they made a bigger push to get into retail for this season. But don’t worry, your next big opportunity for sales is just around the corner. This week's episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone struggling to get their toy or game products noticed by retailers. If you've been tirelessly pitching with little to no response, this episode is a turning point. Discover the secrets of creating a standout pitch that captures the ...
#196: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 2 of 2
November 22, 2023 16:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MBListen in as The Toy Coach conducts several mini interviews for a deep dive into the heart of toy innovation at CHITAG, part of the People of Play Week and Innovation Conference. Episode 196 offers a unique blend of playful interviews and insightful discussions with industry innovators. In this episode, we feature a dynamic duo, Michael and Melissa Giles, founders of Chiki Chaka, who reveal the secrets behind creating a game that's as simple as it is engaging, proving that the essence of p...
#195: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 1 of 2
November 16, 2023 22:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MBAre you passionate about toy design and eager to learn from the best in the toy industry? This episode of Making It In The Toy Industry takes you inside the Chicago Toy and Game Fair (ChiTag), a hub of innovation and creativity in the toy and game industry. Learn tips from show attendees who specialize in toy marketing, toy sales, and game innovation. Whether you're an aspiring toy inventor, a game design enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the world of toys, this episode includes 3 mini and...
#194: How To Pick A Toy Brand Name That Doesn't Suck with Alexandra C Watkins
November 08, 2023 07:00 - 51 minutes - 35.4 MBIn this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, you'll hear an insightful conversation with our guest Alexandra C. Watkins, the creative genius behind naming consultancy Eat My Words and the innovator of iconic names like Wendy's Baconator. Watkins shares her expertise on creating memorable and appealing names for toys and toy companies. She's learned firsthand how the power of a catchy name can drive your sales, save you money, and even turn your customers into ambassadors for your produ...
#193: 3 Last-Minute Black Friday Promo Ideas To Increase Q4 Sales
November 01, 2023 06:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBIt's that time of year again, and Black Friday is just around the corner. If you're still finalizing your Black Friday promotions, or you haven’t even started thinking about them yet, stress less! This podcast episode has got you covered with 3 easy to implement, last-minute ideas to boost your holiday sales at this important time of the year. To kick off this episode you’ll get an overview of a 2022 holiday sales report provided by Adobe Analytics and compare and contrast that report to pr...
#192: The Secret To Mastering 1:1 Email in Your Toy Business
October 25, 2023 16:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MBAre you drowning in emails, struggling to keep up with crucial communications for your toy business? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, we're about to unveil the secret to conquering your email overload and saving sales and opportunities that are sitting unread in your inbox right now! In this episode, The Toy Coach dives deep into a game-changing tool that will revolutionize the way you handle your inbox. Get an in depth introduction to the must-have email plugin designed to...
The Secret To Mastering 1:1 Email in Your Toy Business
October 25, 2023 16:00 - 31 minutes - 21.4 MBAre you drowning in emails, struggling to keep up with crucial communications for your toy business? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, we're about to unveil the secret to conquering your email overload and saving sales and opportunities that are sitting unread in your inbox right now! In this episode, The Toy Coach dives deep into a game-changing tool that will revolutionize the way you handle your inbox. Get an in depth introduction to the must-have email plugin designed to...
Game-Changing Connections for Toy Inventors at People of Play Week
October 18, 2023 20:00 - 26 minutes - 17.9 MBAre you "toying" around with an idea for a toy or game that you want to license? Don’t miss the chance to pitch and playtest that idea in 2023 at POP Week. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach, highlights a beloved toy industry event that is designed to create opportunities for toy inventors and entrepreneurs like you. Act fast because registration for this once a year in-person event is STILL OPEN. Pop in your earbuds and listen as Azhelle explai...
#191: Game-Changing Connections for Toy Inventors at People of Play Week
October 18, 2023 20:00 - 24 minutes - 17 MBAre you "toying" around with an idea for a toy or game that you want to license? Don’t miss the chance to pitch and playtest that idea in 2023 at POP Week. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach, highlights a beloved toy industry event that is designed to create opportunities for toy inventors and entrepreneurs like you. Act fast because registration for this once a year in-person event is STILL OPEN. Pop in your earbuds and listen as Azhelle explai...
The Best and Worst of Toy Fair and Why You Should Attend The LAST Toy Fair in New York
October 11, 2023 17:00 - 46 minutes - 32.3 MBWant a play by play of what worked at Toy Fair New York, and what didn’t? In this new podcast episode, The Toy Coach breaks down every day of the trade show, including setup days, and provides tips and insights to make your next show experience better. Also, if you haven’t already read it on The Toy Coach Blog, you’ll hear in this episode that New York Toy Fair is relocating to New Orleans! Dive deep into the whirlwind experience of Toy Fair, its changes and evolution. If you’re planning to ...
#190: The Best and Worst of Toy Fair and Why You Should Attend The LAST Toy Fair in New York
October 11, 2023 17:00 - 45 minutes - 31.4 MBWant a play by play of what worked at Toy Fair New York, and what didn’t? In this new podcast episode, The Toy Coach breaks down every day of the trade show, including setup days, and provides tips and insights to make your next show experience better. Also, if you haven’t already read it on The Toy Coach Blog, you’ll hear in this episode that New York Toy Fair is relocating to New Orleans! Dive deep into the whirlwind experience of Toy Fair, its changes and evolution. If you’re planning to ...
How To Pitch With Pizzazz at New York Toy Fair with Barry and Jason
September 20, 2023 13:00 - 49 minutes - 34.1 MBMaya Angelou once said, “At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” So tell me this, at your last pitch meeting, how did you make your guest feel? In today’s podcast episode I sat down for a hilarious and informative chat with Barry and Jason. During this call, Barry and Jason share their journey inventing and ultimately licensing the TOTY nominated, Game Night In A Can. In between jokes and chuckles you’ll get invaluable ti...
#189: How To Pitch With Pizzazz at New York Toy Fair with Barry and Jason
September 20, 2023 13:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MBMaya Angelou once said, “At the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” So tell me this, at your last pitch meeting, how did you make your guest feel? In today’s podcast episode I sat down for a hilarious and informative chat with Barry and Jason. During this call, Barry and Jason share their journey inventing and ultimately licensing the TOTY nominated, Game Night In A Can. In between jokes and chuckles you’ll get invaluable ti...
You're Invited To Hasbro's FIRST Ever Women Innovators of Play Event with Tanya Thompson
September 06, 2023 17:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MBThe biggest game company in the world is walking the talk with their first ever Women Innovators of Play Event, and YOU are invited. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, The Toy Coach sit's down to chat with Tanya Thompson, the Senior Director of Inventor Relations and External Innovation for Hasbro Gaming. With over 16 years of experience in the toy and game industry, Tanya is a true luminary, having received the prestigious 2023 IDIOT (International Designer and Inventor of To...
#188: You're Invited To Hasbro's FIRST Ever Women Innovators of Play Event with Tanya Thompson
September 06, 2023 17:00 - 24 minutes - 17.1 MBThe biggest game company in the world is walking the talk with their first ever Women Innovators of Play Event, and YOU are invited. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, The Toy Coach sit's down to chat with Tanya Thompson, the Senior Director of Inventor Relations and External Innovation for Hasbro Gaming. With over 16 years of experience in the toy and game industry, Tanya is a true luminary, having received the prestigious 2023 IDIOT (International Designer and Inventor of To...
Making Change Through Play with TOTY Nominated Dr. Zabina Bahsin
August 30, 2023 09:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MBDr. Zabina Bhasin began her journey of understanding the powerful role toys play in shaping a child's identity. As a child psychiatrist, she used her expertise to observe that children were naturally drawn towards toys, books, and crafts. Yet, as a mother, she noticed a distinct gap in the market - there were no multicultural or ethnic studies toys. This realization sparked an idea, a vision to create a space where children could learn about various cultures and traditions, and feel a sense ...
#187: Making Change Through Play with TOTY Nominated Dr. Zabina Bahsin
August 30, 2023 09:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MBDr. Zabina Bhasin began her journey of understanding the powerful role toys play in shaping a child's identity. As a child psychiatrist, she used her expertise to observe that children were naturally drawn towards toys, books, and crafts. Yet, as a mother, she noticed a distinct gap in the market - there were no multicultural or ethnic studies toys. This realization sparked an idea, a vision to create a space where children could learn about various cultures and traditions, and feel a sense ...
#186: When A Game You Developed Gets Nominated For a Toy Of The Year Award with Christian Castro
August 23, 2023 12:00 - 19 minutes - 13.8 MBCalling all game people! In this week’s episode, we delve into the captivating world of game development with Christian Castro, Director of Product Development at Relatable. Christian's conversation highlights the story behind "Search Party Chaos at the Park," a first-of-its-kind 3D board game that's been nominated for the prestigious Toy of the Year Award. The game, a family-friendly cooperative experience, introduces a unique blend of storytelling, search-and-find gameplay, and stunning ...
When A Game You Developed Gets Nominated For a Toy Of The Year Award with Christian Castro
August 23, 2023 12:00 - 19 minutes - 13.6 MBCalling all game people! In this week’s episode, we delve into the captivating world of game development with Christian Castro, Director of Product Development at Relatable. Christian's conversation highlights the story behind "Search Party Chaos at the Park," a first-of-its-kind 3D board game that's been nominated for the prestigious Toy of the Year Award. The game, a family-friendly cooperative experience, introduces a unique blend of storytelling, search-and-find gameplay, and stunning ...
Dolls That Celebrate Asian Diversity with Samantha Ong
August 16, 2023 10:00 - 52 minutes - 35.8 MBIn this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry, Samantha Ong shares her journey in launching Joeydolls and highlights the importance of representation in the toy industry. Samantha's passion for creating culturally diverse dolls stems from her desire to combat the lack of representation and stereotypes faced by Asian children. By spreading joy and empowering children to feel proud of their heritage, Samantha aims to make a meaningful impact. Listeners will gain valuable insights into S...
#185: Dolls That Celebrate Asian Diversity with Samantha Ong
August 16, 2023 10:00 - 51 minutes - 35.7 MBIn this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry, Samantha Ong shares her journey in launching Joeydolls and highlights the importance of representation in the toy industry. Samantha's passion for creating culturally diverse dolls stems from her desire to combat the lack of representation and stereotypes faced by Asian children. By spreading joy and empowering children to feel proud of their heritage, Samantha aims to make a meaningful impact. Listeners will gain valuable insights into S...
From Fandom to Fun: The Power of Collaboration in Funko Games' Development Process with Deirdre Cross
August 09, 2023 13:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MBIf you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because your games aren't resonating with fans and delivering the powerful and rewarding experiences you envisioned, then you are not alone! You may be investing countless hours in game development, pouring your creativity into every detail, but still not capturing the essence of the fandom. Instead of the desired result, you might be facing lukewarm reactions from players who fail to connect deeply with your games. We are delighted to introduce...
#184: From Fandom to Fun: The Power of Collaboration in Funko Games' Development Process with Deirdre Cross
August 09, 2023 13:00 - 40 minutes - 27.8 MBIf you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because your games aren't resonating with fans and delivering the powerful and rewarding experiences you envisioned, then you are not alone! You may be investing countless hours in game development, pouring your creativity into every detail, but still not capturing the essence of the fandom. Instead of the desired result, you might be facing lukewarm reactions from players who fail to connect deeply with your games. We are delighted to introduce...
START HERE: Welcome Future Toy Person!
August 07, 2023 18:00 - 2 minutes - 1.61 MBAre you ready to dive into the business of toys? Since 2010, I've been in the thick of the toy industry, and now I'm sharing my wisdom and connections with you, right here on the Making It In The Toy Industry podcast. Every week you'll get a mini masterclass on the world of toys by learning about gameplay, connecting with publishers, building a community, and so much more. So, if you've got an idea that you want to bring to life or need a helping hand to find the right manufacturer or indust...
How To Pitch A Show Idea To Hasbro in 2023 with Brandon Braswell
August 02, 2023 19:00 - 1 hour - 42 MB9 to 5 Warriors, and it's a nineties-inspired toy line that aims to recapture the magic of the Saturday morning cartoon era. The founder o 9 to 5 Warriors, Brandon Braswell, is sharing his experience pitching a show idea and toy line at the TCA Virtual Pitch Event, we'll discuss what he's done with the brand so far, he'll share his pitch video, and share tips for making your best IP pitch yet. Have you ever dreamed of seeing your show idea turned into a hit animated series or action figure l...
#183: How To Pitch A Show Idea To Hasbro in 2023 with Brandon Braswell
August 02, 2023 19:00 - 59 minutes - 41.1 MB9 to 5 Warriors, and it's a nineties-inspired toy line that aims to recapture the magic of the Saturday morning cartoon era. The founder o 9 to 5 Warriors, Brandon Braswell, is sharing his experience pitching a show idea and toy line at the TCA Virtual Pitch Event, we'll discuss what he's done with the brand so far, he'll share his pitch video, and share tips for making your best IP pitch yet. Have you ever dreamed of seeing your show idea turned into a hit animated series or action figure l...
The Captivating Timeline Of Barbie: From Ruth Handler To Rebirth (1959-2023)
July 26, 2023 15:00 - 21 minutes - 14.6 MBHave you ever wondered about the captivating history of Barbie, the world's most iconic doll? Get ready to traverse the captivating timeline of Barbie, the world's most iconic doll. Discover the story behind this revolutionary toy, from the innovative mind of Ruth Handler to its evolution, significance, and controversies. Listen as The Toy Coach discusses Ruth's battle to persuade an all-male design team to develop Barbie, the struggles and triumphs of representation, the controversies aroun...
#182: The Captivating Timeline Of Barbie: From Ruth Handler To Rebirth (1959-2023)
July 26, 2023 15:00 - 20 minutes - 14.1 MBHave you ever wondered about the captivating history of Barbie, the world's most iconic doll? Get ready to traverse the captivating timeline of Barbie, the world's most iconic doll. Discover the story behind this revolutionary toy, from the innovative mind of Ruth Handler to its evolution, significance, and controversies. Listen as The Toy Coach discusses Ruth's battle to persuade an all-male design team to develop Barbie, the struggles and triumphs of representation, the controversies aroun...
#181: Unveiling the Ultimate Barbie Movie Marketing Tactics: Unique Strategies for Viral Success!
July 19, 2023 13:00 - 35 minutes - 24.5 MBAre you dreaming about Barbie yet? This week we do a deep dive into the marketing that has continually been going viral since April of this year. We explore how the iconic doll brand also became a digital marketing icon by creating trends and making marketing moves that will go down in toy history. Get ready to dive into the world of Barbie and her groundbreaking marketing team for the highly anticipated live-action film, releasing on July 21st, 2023. Over the past five years, marketing str...