Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach
271 episodes - English - Latest episode: 2 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
10 Things You Need to Know Before Developing Your Toy Idea
July 17, 2024 14:00 - 1 minute - 1.01 MBIn this week's episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, we're taking a brief pause from our regular programming. Our host, recently out of the hospital after a minor procedure, needs a bit of recovery time to ensure the quality of future episodes. But don't worry, your toy education and inspiration fix isn't far away. Head over to learn.thetoycoach.com/playlist to download a comprehensive guide featuring the top 10 things you need to know before developing your toy or game idea. This guide...
#228: Why You're Not Hearing Back from Top Toy Companies and What To Do Instead
July 10, 2024 07:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBTired of Toy Companies Ghosting you? You're not alone! You know the toy industry needs fresh ideas, and you're confident you've got the next big thing. But here's the truth: your amazing concept is only as powerful as your network and pitch skills. So in this episode, we're breaking down: The real reasons toy companies might not be responding to your submissions (and it's not what you think!) Step-by-step strategies to finally get noticed and get a response How to access toy company wi...
#227: Kelly’s Journey From Educator to Toy Creator with TCA
July 03, 2024 23:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBTransforming Math Test Prep With Educational Play Can studying math be as fun as playing a game? In this episode of Making it in the Toy Industry, Kelly Clement shows us that it CAN be. With her innovative product, Watermelon Math, Kelly turns the tedious task of studying into an engaging experience. Her journey from a middle school teacher to a successful toy creator offers an inspiring look into the world of educational toys. Kelly Clement, the creator of Watermelon Math, shares her uniqu...
#226: This Toy Delivers Real Mail Every Week To Kids Across The Globe
June 26, 2024 04:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MBCan Snail Mail Still Captivate Today's Tech-Savvy Kids? Are today's digital-native children still charmed by the simple pleasure of receiving a physical letter? In Episode 226 of the "Making It in the Toy Industry" podcast, Virginia Lette engages with Wendy Lattimore, a successful graduate of the Toy Creators Academy (TCA), to explore this fascinating topic. Wendy's inspiring journey from traditional mail to innovative toy creation will challenge your perceptions of outdated communication m...
#226: This Toy Delivers Real Mail Every Week To Kids Across The Globe with Wendy Lattimore
June 26, 2024 04:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBCan Snail Mail Still Captivate Today's Tech-Savvy Kids? Are today's digital-native children still charmed by the simple pleasure of receiving a physical letter? In Episode 226 of the "Making It in the Toy Industry" podcast, Virginia Lette engages with Wendy Lattimore, a successful graduate of the Toy Creators Academy (TCA), to explore this fascinating topic. Wendy's inspiring journey from traditional mail to innovative toy creation will challenge your perceptions of outdated communication m...
#225: The Secrets of A Successful Toy Licensing Deal with Lee Allentuck
June 19, 2024 12:00 - 46 minutes - 32.2 MBIs Your Pitch Ready For The Toy Industry? Pitching your innovative toy idea to industry giants can be as daunting as a job interview. In this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," hosts Azhelle Wade and Lee Allentuck demystify the art and science of pitching, with insider tips that will revolutionize your approach to securing those golden licensing deals. Whether you're a seasoned inventor or a newbie in the toy world, there's a nugget of wisdom here for everyone. What are the secrets...
#224: This ONE Media Event Could Make Your Toy Brand Go Viral 📈
June 12, 2024 21:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MBToy trade shows are NOT the only way to get your brand noticed. Your toy brand could go viral after attending a toy industry media event. In this episode of "Making It in the Toy Industry," Azhelle Wade shares the juicy details behind influencer events and media showcases like Sweet Suite and Holiday of Play. These industry gatherings are hidden gems for toy and game creators looking to snag media attention and make lasting impressions without the hustle and bustle of traditional trade shows...
#223: Unlock Your Game Design Potential with April Mitchell
June 05, 2024 04:00 - 45 minutes - 31.2 MBHave you EVER had an idea for a game? This episode is for you. 🫵 Well, don't miss this Part 2 continuation from episode 221, an interview with April Mitchell! April, a licensed game inventor and co-creator of the Tabletop Game Design Masterclass shares her journey from toy industry newbie to a game design expert. Get ready to giggle along as April shares the story of finding her pitch theme song and why she plays that song before every pitch to this day. April dives into the game design p...
#222: Licensing Expo 2024 Recap: Reasons to Mark Your Calendar for Next Year
May 29, 2024 04:00 - 38 minutes - 26.8 MBCurious about how to make the most out of your trade show experience? In this episode, The Toy Coach shares her experience and reason for attending the Las Vegas Licensing Expo even though she didn’t have anything to license. By the end of this episode, you’ll know if you should attend the Las Vegas Licensing Expo next year, and how you can make the most of it. Learn how to save $$ on lodging, network with class, manage your time, and stay comfortable while walking 10,000 steps a day. Stick...
#221: Should You Partner With Another Toy or Game Inventor?
May 22, 2024 04:00 - 41 minutes - 28.5 MBAre you thinking about teaming up with a partner for your toy or game invention? But what if it isn’t the right move for you? Tune into this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," where Azhelle Wade chats with April Mitchell about the ins and outs of partnering up in the world of invention. April is a licensed inventor and the co-creator of the Tabletop Game Design Masterclass. In this episode, she shares key considerations you should keep in mind when choosing a partner for your next b...
#220: Ensure Your Toys Meet Legal Safety Standards or It Can Cost You
May 15, 2024 14:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MBDid you know that even if you're selling a toy product on Etsy, you are required to have it safety tested and certified? In this episode, dive deep into the crucial topic of toy safety and compliance. The first half of the episode focuses on the legal requirements set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the US. Gain an understanding of critical standards like ASTM F963 and ASTM D4236. Learn the potential financial consequences of non-compliance with real-life examples. With ...
#219: Why He Went From Mattel to TCA and Launched His Plush Toy
May 08, 2024 12:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBQ: Could TCA be valuable to you if you already have corporate toy industry experience? A: YES! Perhaps you think that having professional toy industry experience guarantees success in your entrepreneurial ventures. But this episode turns that notion on its head, featuring Gerardo, a former toy industry professional turned toy entrepreneur, charting his own course through the toy market with a little help from the Toy Creators Academy. From his previous role managing commercial operations in...
#218: Safe Social Media? The World's Largest Social Network For Kids with Ashley Mady
May 02, 2024 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.2 MBEver wondered if there's a social network tailored just for kids where fun meets learning in a safe environment? Yes, you heard that right, and it's called Zigazoo. What if there was a platform where kids could engage, learn, and interact without the usual worries of social media? Or, if there was a social media platform dedicated to connecting your brand directly with its target market? Well if either of those possibilities pique your interest, then our latest podcast episode is a must-li...
#217: How To Make Your Toy Brand Climate Friendly with Helen Townsend
April 24, 2024 14:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MBIn the face of a looming climate crisis, can the toy industry lead the charge towards a sustainable future? Well today’s interview guest believes the toy industry has a responsibility to address the environmental impact of our industry. Helen Townsend, co-founder of the B Corp certified toy company Sustained Fun, dives into the critical role that toy companies can play in reducing emissions and increasing environmental education. Even if your toy company isn’t an eco-first brand, this epis...
#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
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 ...
#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 ...
#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 - 19.4 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
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 - 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...
#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...
#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 ...
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 ...
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...
#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...
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...