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
#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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
#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 ...
#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...
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...
#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...
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...
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...
#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...
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...
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...
Unveiling the Ultimate Barbie Movie Marketing Tactics: Unique Strategies for Viral Success!
July 19, 2023 13:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 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...
#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...
#180: Trailblazing Toy Creators Share The Mission and Story Behind Their Brands [2 of 2]
July 05, 2023 13:00 - 35 minutes - 24.5 MBWhat happens when you’ve got a great idea for a toy, you have inventory, and you want to break into a major toy show or media event but you just simply don’t have the funds left to make it happen? Well, in the past there wasn’t an option, but now for NEW creators, there is The Toy Coach Showcase. Listen to this Part 2 Episode where we explain what The Toy Coach Showcase is and how you can get involved. This showcase has become an industry game-changer as it provides a more affordable entry p...
#179: Trailblazing Toy Creators Share The Mission and Story Behind Their Brands [1 of 2]
June 28, 2023 16:00 - 40 minutes - 28.1 MBAre you ready for an exciting episode filled with innovation, inspiration, and the untold stories of toy and game creators? Join us as we delve into The Toy Coach Showcase, an extraordinary platform creating a revolutionary entry point for newbies in the industry. Get ready to be inspired as you hear firsthand from the creators themselves as they engage in brief yet powerful interviews, about their journeys, motivation, and the overwhelming response they've received. As you listen, you'll ...
#178: Playfully Illustrating Polly Pocket Nostalgia with Amy Greenbank
June 14, 2023 09:00 - 32 minutes - 22 MBEver since my childhood fascination with Polly Pockets, I've been enamored with toys and video games that allowed me to build worlds of my own. When I came across an announcement of a Polly Pocket book on Instagram, I knew immediately I had to dig deeper and get to know the people behind the book. My first outreach was to Amy Greenbank, an accomplished artist, and illustrator with a distinct style that calls back to the colorful pop art of the eighties and nineties. During this episode, we e...
#177: Reinvigorating a Timeless Brand with Robert Pasin of Radio Flyer
June 07, 2023 09:00 - 37 minutes - 25.9 MBIf someone tells you to close your eyes and picture a red wagon...what's the first thing that pops into your mind? I bet it's probably the classic and iconic Radio Flyer red wagon. In this week’s episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Robert Pasin, the Chief Wagon Officer of Radio Flyer. We dove into the origin story and transformation of the iconic toy company. From nostalgic red wagons to innovative new products, Robert shares the challenges, le...
#176: How To Prepare For Your Next Specialty Toy Trade Show
May 24, 2023 15:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MBIf you want to get your toy or game product into toy stores, have you considered starting with specialty stores first? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, learn how you can start selling your toys in specialty retailers. If you don’t know what a specialty toy retailer is, don’t worry! This episode has got you covered. You’ll learn what specialty toy retailers are, how to connect with owners of specialty toy stores, and why you might want to start your journey as a toy entrepren...
#175: The Impact of Toy Guns: A Tough Conversation
May 17, 2023 09:00 - 39 minutes - 27 MBIn this thought-provoking episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade and returning guest Marjorie Spitalnik dive into a sensitive but crucial topic - the impact of toy guns on children and the potential connection to real-life gun violence. Given the alarming statistics of gun violence in the U.S., they explore the responsibility of toy makers and the toy industry as a whole in shaping children's perceptions of violence and gun use. Marjorie, founder of Little Rebels, share...
#174: Market Research Strategies for Developing Good Toys Kids Will Love with Dr. Amanda Gummer
May 03, 2023 09:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MBIn this episode, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach interviews Dr. Amanda Gummer, psychologist and founder of Good Play Guide, a service that provides independent evaluations and accreditations for children's toys and games. Dr. Gummer talks about the importance of evaluating toys for children's development and shares details about Good Play Guide's accreditation program. She also discusses recent winners of the Good Play Guide and how they help the industry create better products for children. ...
#173: AI-Powered Toy Design [Part 2 of 2] Building a Million-Dollar Toy Line with the Help of AI
April 26, 2023 11:00 - 26 minutes - 18.5 MBAre you curious about the potential of AI in the toy industry and how it can revolutionize the way we create and develop products? This eye-opening part 2 podcast episode delves into the power of AI, particularly the new AI called Auto GPT, and its capabilities to generate business plans, toy ideas, and game ideas. Discover how AI can lead the brainstorming, research, and business planning process, and learn how Gen Z is shaping the future of AI use in the workforce. In this episode, The To...
AI-Powered Toy Design [Part 1 of 2] Building a Million-Dollar Toy Line with the Help of AI
April 19, 2023 10:00 - 38 minutes - 26.3 MBAre you curious about how AI can revolutionize the toy industry? Do you want to know how AI can help in designing and marketing a toy product? If so, then this podcast episode is for you. Join The Toy Coach in this insightful episode as she explores the potential of AI in toy design and marketing. In this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry Podcast, The Toy Coach shares her experience in using an AI language model called Agent GPT to generate ideas for a toy product. From creating ...
#172: AI-Powered Toy Design [Part 1 of 2] Building a Million-Dollar Toy Line with the Help of AI
April 19, 2023 10:00 - 37 minutes - 25.6 MBAre you curious about how AI can revolutionize the toy industry? Do you want to know how AI can help in designing and marketing a toy product? If so, then this podcast episode is for you. Join The Toy Coach in this insightful episode as she explores the potential of AI in toy design and marketing. In this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry Podcast, The Toy Coach shares her experience in using an AI language model called Agent GPT to generate ideas for a toy product. From creating ...
#171: Toy Path QUIZ: Are You a Toy Inventor, Entrepreneur, or Executive?
April 12, 2023 15:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MBThere are many paths you can take in the toy industry, but the 3 most common paths that most new creators fall into are Inventor, Entrepreneur, and Executive! In today's episode, The Toy Coach is back to explain the differences between the two and point out why you might be both. Azhelle walks you through the meaning of each toy path, what you can expect, and how you could benefit from even switching your toy path. In today’s toy podcast, you will learn what aspects of being a Toy Entrepren...
#170: A Review of the Future Forecast Report From The Insights Family
March 29, 2023 14:00 - 21 minutes - 14.7 MBData is a precious thing. Data allows companies to make growth projections, develop products based on consumer needs, and write messages based on consumer desires. But where do you go to find precious data? Well, in the toy industry, there are several research and analytics companies that will gather that data all year long, offering trend reports and future cast predictions much like the one we’ll be reviewing in today’s podcast episode. In today’s podcast episode, I will review a 2023 futu...
#169: The Art and Science of Successful Toy Biz Email Campaigns
March 22, 2023 12:00 - 43 minutes - 30 MBAccording to Demand Sage, there are 4.37 billion email users in the world as of 2023. That number is expected to climb to 4.6 billion by 2025. Email marketing has a return on investment (ROI) of $36 for every $1 spent. If you are struggling to sell your toy or game product and you haven’t considered email marketing as a way to make it happen, then you’re likely leaving sales on the table…or in the inbox. During today’s podcast episode, you’ll learn about how you can use Connection Campaigns...
#168: See How the Bubbles Are Made: South Beach Bubbles Warehouse and Office Tour
March 15, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MBToday’s podcast episode is the first time we’ve done an interview at the manufacturer's office and warehouse to see how the toys are really being made! You will see how bubble magic is made at South Beach Bubbles and Toys. Plus, you’ll get to hear some amazing advice and tips from the company’s founders, Ron Weizman and Shooki Grasiani. You will see how the bubbles are mixed and packaged. Plus, you’ll learn some tips about how to find a great business partner, why the company uses their own ...
The GREAT Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp - Join Now!
March 08, 2023 09:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MBVisualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real this year with accountability and guidance from The Toy Coach team! Inside this Bootcamp, you’ll get step by step training and accountability to visualize and validate your toy or game idea FAST. We’ll spend 5-days in a private Facebook community, where I’ll teach you my streamlined 6-step concept development process over 3 LIVE trainings. In just 3 hours and 5 days you can completely change the way you approach toy development...
#167: The GREAT Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp - Join Now!
March 08, 2023 09:00 - 48 minutes - 33.5 MBVisualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real this year with accountability and guidance from The Toy Coach team! Inside this Bootcamp, you’ll get step by step training and accountability to visualize and validate your toy or game idea FAST. We’ll spend 5-days in a private Facebook community, where I’ll teach you my streamlined 6-step concept development process over 3 LIVE trainings. In just 3 hours and 5 days you can completely change the way you approach toy development...
#166: Tips For Creating Niche Products in the Toy Industry with April Hail
March 01, 2023 10:00 - 48 minutes - 33.2 MBDid you know that you can turn everyday experiences into great toy ideas? Today’s podcast guest noticed that her toddler loved to play with pretend food toys. However, she saw that the food toys on the market didn’t represent what was popular in Hawai’i, where she lives. So, she created a toy company that started with Hawai’ian food toy sets and has now branched out with toys that represent other cuisines found in Hawai’i like Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese. April Hail has lived in Hawai...
#165: A Toy Inventor Story of Faith and Determination with Angie Cella
February 22, 2023 10:00 - 58 minutes - 40 MBToday’s podcast episode touches on a subject we haven’t covered yet: faith. Today’s guest shares how her faith not only inspired her to create what became a popular product but also kept her going during challenging moments. My guest today believes that everyone has a God-given purpose and that finding that will help each person find the most fulfillment in life. Angie Cella is a mom of four children, a Christian author, and the inventor and chief dreamer of Blinger, an amazing tool for bot...
#164: MESH Toys For Mental, Emotional and Social Health with Rachele Harmuth
February 15, 2023 15:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MBMESH is NOT the new STEAM. MESH is a solution that utilizes toys as an answer to the mental health crisis among children and teens today. The development of MESH skills is important to help kids learn how to navigate strong emotions and difficult experiences. So what is MESH? MESH is an acronym for Mental, Emotional and Social Health. Developing MESH skills can help protect kids from the risky behaviors and self-harm that are too often the result of their mental distress. Today’s podcast ...
#163: Before You Present Your Product To Buyers Listen To THIS
February 08, 2023 10:00 - 39 minutes - 27.2 MBThis week on the Making It In The Toy Industry Podcast, learn the steps on how to create a Successful Buyer Presentation with help from expert Marie Nastasi. You’ll learn what buyers are looking for, how to research product categories and research your competition, and how to craft an amazing retail presentation. This episode is packed with valuable information for developing a successful buyer presentation. Learn the 5 Keys to a Successful Buyer Presentation as developed by today’s guest M...
#162: The Remarkable Journey of David Vonner: From Marvel Dreamer to Toy Legend
February 01, 2023 10:00 - 1 hour - 58.9 MBHow do you go from a dreamer with comic book aspirations to a toy industry legend and award-winning toy designer? Today’s guest shares his incredible journey as an artist, parent, and toy designer from the 1990s until now. His toy journey will inspire you to take a risk, put in your all, and go that extra mile. David Vonner’s original dream was to be an illustrator for Marvel Comics. However, his family and those surrounding him encouraged him to go down a path that would ensure a good care...
#161: Father-Daughter Duo Develops Handy Famm, Un-boring Tools For Kids
January 25, 2023 14:00 - 43 minutes - 29.9 MBThink of a time when you were shopping for a product and just thought to yourself, “Ugh, all of the options are boring, or not that cute, or they don’t work the way I need them to.” You’re creative, so you probably thought of a great way to improve that product at that moment. But, maybe you wondered if you could really do everything that goes into creating a successful product in the toy industry. Keep listening to learn the inspiring story of someone who did just that. Josh White is an a...
#160: Top Tips for Creating a Neighborhood Toy Store with Theresa Duncan
January 18, 2023 00:00 - 1 hour - 44.8 MBHave you ever dreamed of creating your own neighborhood toy store? Even if that’s not your toy industry dream, today’s episode is full of valuable tips for any toy industry entrepreneur. Today’s guest started a toy store in her local community with her dad, and turned into a successful family business over the eight years it has been open. Listen to the episode to find out about the differences between starting a digital business and a brick-and-mortar business and how a business plan can gi...
#159: How AI-Powered Chat GPT Can Generate Toy and Game Concepts
January 11, 2023 15:00 - 38 minutes - 26.5 MBWith AI-Powered Chat GPT, generating toy and game ideas has never been easier. If you are in the process of developing a toy or a game but are stuck in the concept phase, this week’s episode is one you cannot afford to miss. AI-Powered Chat GPT can generate “creative” toy & game ideas quickly and easily - and all you need to get started is a single sentence. Chat GPT was released in November of 2022, and is known for its ability to code, write stories, and even music. But today we’re giving ...
#158: AI-Assisted Toy Design: Revolutionizing The Toy And Game Industry
January 04, 2023 10:00 - 51 minutes - 35.2 MBI bet that YOU can generate a high resolution concept image of your toy idea for free, and in seconds. The use of AI art exploded in recent months, with the search term “AI art” spiking in the US this past December. The breakout AI tools have been Midjourney, Lensa, and DALL-E. Since then, there has been considerable and understandable backlash against AI art from real human artists across the globe. In this episode we explore three things, 1) how AI can help the development process of your ...
#157: In-Person Interviews with Entrepreneurs At Chicago Toy and Game Week [3 of 3]
December 28, 2022 11:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MBThe Toy Coach Team ventured out to the windy city to set up a live podcast recording booth at Chicago Toy and Game Week, also known as CHITAG by Mary Couzin and People of Play. This annual, public toy and game fair is where toy and game brands connect with the consumers who love their products, debut new lines, and marketing activations. During this 2 day fair, I interviewed 10 toy and game creators during this fair to learn about their toy journeys and ask them to share any toy biz wisdom ...
#156: In-Person Interviews with Entrepreneurs At Chicago Toy and Game Week [2 of 3]
December 21, 2022 14:00 - 40 minutes - 27.8 MBThe Toy Coach Team ventured out to the windy city to set up a live podcast recording booth at Chicago Toy and Game Week, also known as CHITAG by Mary Couzin and People of Play. This annual, public toy and game fair is where toy and game brands connect with the consumers who love their products, debut new lines, and marketing activations. During this 2 day fair, I interviewed 10 toy and game creators during this fair to learn about their toy journeys and ask them to share any toy biz wisdom ...
#155: In-Person Interviews with Entrepreneurs At Chicago Toy and Game Week [1 of 3]
December 14, 2022 21:00 - 1 hour - 46.5 MBIn December of 2022, The Toy Coach Team ventured out to the windy city to set up a live podcast recording booth at Chicago Toy and Game Week, also known as CHITAG by Mary Couzin and People of Play. This annual, public toy and game fair is where toy and game brands connect with the consumers who love their products, debut new lines, and marketing activations. During this 2 day fair, I interviewed 10 toy and game creators during this fair to learn about their toy journeys and ask them to shar...
#154: Growing and Licensing an Authentic Brand with April Showers
December 07, 2022 11:00 - 51 minutes - 35.7 MBHave you ever had an idea for a character that you could envision becoming a globally recognized brand? Today, one of the important ingredients to building a licensable brand is authenticity. Building an authentic toy and entertainment brand means that you’ve got to be crystal clear about the reason WHY you created that brand in the first place. You’ve got to dedicate your time and energy to growing AND supporting your community, and meanwhile you’ve got to make sure the whole world knows it...
#153: A Holiday Gift Guide Preview and What You Need To Get Featured In 2023
November 30, 2022 14:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MBFor the first time ever, The Toy Coach is releasing a holiday gift guide featuring her top toy picks for the holiday season. The focus of today’s episode is to share a preview of this gift guide AND to educate you on what you need to get featured in any toy gift guide in 2023. This episode begins with a countdown of the top 12 toys you should gift this holiday and ends with a mini toy lesson on the top 5 things you MUST submit to publications if you want your product featured in Holiday Gift...
#152: Why This Mission-Driven Doll Line Offers 100+ Custom Skin Tones with Dr. Lisa Williams
November 23, 2022 10:00 - 39 minutes - 26.9 MBIt is a myth that toys are shallow or don’t make an impact on kids. Today’s guest was inspired to leave a tenured position as the top professor in her field to create a meaningful line of dolls. Listen to today’s episode to discover what inspired her and how she made it happen. Dr. Lisa Williams started off her career as the first black person to receive a doctorate in logistics from The Ohio State University. She became the top professor in her field, had a tenured position, and even had ...
#151: Dealing With Mental Health As A Toy Entrepreneur With Marjorie Spitalnik
November 16, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 46.8 MBToday’s episode is special for two reasons. First, it is the first-ever live broadcast of an episode of Making it In the Toy Industry. Second, today’s guest gives a raw view into all the ups and downs of being a toy industry entrepreneur, how it can affect your mental health, and how to keep going with your ideas even when it seems like things haven’t gone your way. Marjorie Spitalnik is the founder and CEO of Little Rebels, a popular plush doll collection that seeks to educate kids about ...
#150: How the Power Pony Was Imagined By Kids For Kids with Mia Monzidelis
November 09, 2022 09:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MBOnly adults can make amazing toys right? Wrong! Kids play with a lot of toys so it only makes sense that they would come up with some incredible toy ideas. Today’s guest has come up with a sensational toy at only 11 years old. Well, she was actually 5 when she came up with the idea and started developing the product. Now she is bringing her insights as a seasoned kidpreneur to today’s episode of Making it in the Toy Industry. Mia Monzideliz came up with the idea for the Power Pony when she ...
#149: Back In Person! The People Of Play Innovation Conference
November 02, 2022 13:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MBFinally, this beloved toy and game innovation conference returns in person. The People of Play Innovation Conference is the largest global innovation conference in the toy and game world, welcoming over 50 companies from across 17 countries to review pitches from students, new inventors, and professional inventors. If you’re new to the toy industry and you’ve heard rumblings about POP week or the Innovation conference, and you weren’t quite sure what either were…then this episode is just wha...
#148: Answering Your Questions About Toy Creators Academy
October 26, 2022 12:00 - 22 minutes - 15.7 MBHave you been considering joining Toy Creators Academy to develop your toy or game idea? Do you still have a few questions about how the program works, when it starts, or what it covers? This episode is perfect for you! In today’s podcast episode, The Toy Coach addresses the most frequently asked questions about this 12 week group coaching program. If you have questions on whether this program is right for you, wondering when the class will reopen, or if you can take the program on your own...