Episodes
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Have you ever wondered what it takes to successfully launch on a crowdfunding platform?
Many creators go to the world of crowdfunding believing it's simply about having a great idea and posting it online. However, there's far more strategy involved than we realize. The process requires meticulous planning, audience engagement, and a strong narrative to capture backers' hearts and minds.
In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade talks with Lisa Ferland, a seasoned crowdfund consultant who has helped raise over $1 million for creators on platforms such as Kickstarter, BackerKit, and Indiegogo. Lisa shares tips on everything from evaluating if crowdfunding is right for you, to understanding the importance of community, and the critical role of storytelling in the toy industry. Discover why the pre-launch phase is crucial and learn specific strategies to keep backers engaged throughout your campaign. Listen to the full episode to absorb these insights and more—perfect for both seasoned and aspiring creators!
Listen For These Important Moments
05:25 Lisa’s Journey: From Editing Stories to Crowdfunding Consulting11:22 The First Steps for a Successful Kickstarter Launch18:47 Indicators That Crowdfunding Might Be Right for You24:30 The Importance of Building an Audience for Crowdfunding Success30:56 Engaging and Maintaining a Community of Backers36:45 The Role of Visuals and Multimedia in Kickstarter Success41:03 The Significance of the Pre-Launch Phase in Crowdfunding49:20 Understanding and Navigating the U-Shaped Curve of Campaigns55:12 Key Elements of Post-Launch Engagement for Repeat BackersSend The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Ever wondered how to truly captivate buyers in the toy industry? Or why do some sales pitches fall flat even when the product is amazing?
In today’s episode, we will talk about the magic of storytelling in the toy industry! We’ll cover how sales reps and vendors approach things differently, plus the secrets to crafting pitches that go beyond a quick sale and build lasting customer relationships. Discover how storytelling can be the key to success in this highly competitive toy market.
Join us in this storytelling showdown with our guests, Tres Patton and Rachel Jones! Tres reveals techniques for crafting a compelling brand story, while Rachel discusses the importance of seeing through a child's eyes and building long-term relationships. Learn the art of maintaining passion, educating retail partners, and ensuring your product stands out. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in toy sales who’s ready to level up through the art of storytelling!
02:26 The Storytelling Face-Off Begins05:49 Defining Storytelling in Sales06:53 Building Trust Through Product Experience14:30 Adapting Storytelling for Tough Sales18:26 Understanding the Roles: Vendor vs. Sales Rep25:38 Rediscovering Passion in Sales26:08 Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Sales26:50 Balancing Work and Personal Life28:42 The Importance of Flexibility in Sales31:32 Building Relationships Through Storytelling36:26 When Storytelling Falls Flat41:32 Favorite Toys of Tres and Rachel
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Episodes manquant?
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Want to know how to ‘wow’ your way into the competitive toy industry?
In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade looks into Richard North's life, sharing how he went from a determined 19-year-old to a multi-award-winning entrepreneur and the founder of Wow! Stuff. You will learn about his career’s turning points, such as being featured in Channel 4's Secret Millionaire TV Show, including the emotional inspirations behind the creation of Wow! Stuff and groundbreaking ideas that keep the company pushing forward.
Find out the importance of mentorship, early business ventures, and how innovation can stem from unexpected places like the novelty 'Butt Face' towel. Get ready to be inspired by Richard’s stories from personal heartbreaks to meeting scientists, forging a path toward tech-infused toys and revolutionary 'puppetronics.' Listen to this episode for expert insights and fascinating anecdotes that captivate and educate aspiring toy creators like you!Listen For These Important Moments
01:17 Early Challenges in the Toy Industry04:01 Building a Resilient Team07:35 The Importance of Recruitment09:40 Richard's Entrepreneurial Journey21:20 The Psychology of Consumer Behavior27:04 Why Richard Started Wow! Stuff33:53 From Novelties to Toys36:17 Innovating with Wow! Stuff39:36 Collaborations and Future Plans49:20 A Heartfelt Business Story52:44 Childhood Toys and Final ThoughtsSend The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Curious about what happens when major toy industry players team up?
In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade cracks open the toy box on the epic merger between The Toy Association and People of Play. You’ll hear straight from the toy legends — Mary Couzin and Greg Ahearn—as they give us backstage passes on their big plans for events like POP Week and ChiTAG, and how this merger is shaking things up for the toy industry. The guests shared what sparked this merger and the opportunities that await toy creators, inventors, and enthusiasts in the long run.You’ll also get to hear solid tips on how to make the most of toy fairs and events like pitching, networking, and thriving in an industry that's always leveling up. Whether you're a toy biz vet or just starting to dip your toes in the toy industry, LISTEN to this episode because it is packed with everything you need to level up your toy game!
Listen For These Important Moments
01:36 The Major Merger: The Toy Association and People of Play08:27 Maintaining the Spirit of POP13:11 Immediate Changes and Future Plans20:00 Nostalgic Toys and Their Comebacks21:35 ChiTAG and POP Week: Coming this November 2024!24:15 Young Inventor Challenge and Industry Opportunities25:57 Networking Tips for New Inventors29:52 How to Make the Most of ChiTAG and POP Week32:55 Encouraging New Toy InventorsSend The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Ever wondered how a toy brand can also serve as a wellness tool? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade interviews Marina Khidekel, the founder of Hugimals World. Discover how Marina transitioned from a successful health journalist to a toy entrepreneur on a mission to address anxiety and stress with weighted plush toys. Marina shares personal life experiences that inspired the creation of Hugimals, which has been featured in prominent media outlets such as, Time Magazine, Parents Magazine, Good Housekeeping’s Best Toys, and the Today Show’s It List. During this chat you’ll learn a bit about product development and distribution, the brand's marketing strategies (plus how to make them your own), and the power of thoughtful media engagement.
Marina Khidekel details her unexpected journey into the toy industry, highlighting the importance of aesthetic appeal and emotional connectivity in product design. Walk through the challenges and triumphs of launching a plush line, and creating a whole new category in the toy industry.Marina shares her experience working with experts to ensure product efficacy, and how grassroots efforts led to media success. If you are considering launching a toy line in a newish category that may not be getting a lot of love right now, this episode is a must listen.
02:51 Marina’s Journey: From Journalism to Toymaking04:49 Creating a New Toy Category During the Pandemic05:55 Aesthetic and Design Story of Hugimals08:12 Hugimal’s Recognition in Big Publications12:19 Role of Pilot Programs in Product Validation25:46 Leveraging Media Expertise for Brand Success29:55 Changes in the Media Industry35:27 New Products from Hugimals World38:49 Importance of Experts & Research in Toy Development49:37 Marina’s Favorite Toy as a Kid
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Have you ever thought about switching careers and diving into a completely new industry? In this episode of 'Making It in the Toy Industry,' student host Virginia takes the reins to interview Chrissy Fagerholt, a former floral designer turned toy entrepreneur. As one of the first graduates of the Toy Creators Academy (TCA), Chrissy shares her incredible journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs she experienced while getting her products licensed by heavyweights like Mattel and Goliath. From her initial licensed game, Friend or Faux, to her newest hit, Girls in Bar Bathrooms, Chrissy provides a backstage look into what it takes to succeed in the toy industry.
In this episode, listeners will gain valuable insights into the nuances of the toy business including the critical role of industry education, the financial realities of self-funding, and the power of social media marketing. Chrissy also gives an honest account of balancing creativity with business management and what aspiring inventors can expect if they choose to follow in her footsteps. Whether you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or someone with a keen interest in the toy industry, this episode offers a treasure trove of insider tips and inspirational stories.
02:03 Chrissy's Journey to Toy Creation03:09 The Toy Creators Academy Experience03:43 From Licensed Products to Self-Publishing08:52 Chrissy's Success Stories10:03 The Story Behind 'Girls in Bar Bathrooms'14:08 Chrissy's Social Media Presence16:01 Discussing Business Structure and Origins17:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life19:15 Financial Realities of Running a Business21:24 Navigating Business Challenges and Growth24:10 Inventor vs. Entrepreneur: A Personal Reflection26:20 Exploring the Game 'Girls in Bar Bathrooms'30:24 The Joy and Value of Games
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Want to learn secrets to growing your toy brand online? In episode 238 of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade revisits an extended interview with her mentor, Amy Porterfield, a multi-million dollar online business owner and expert in email marketing. During the podcast, Amy shares her journey from corporate life to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of list building and personal storytelling in email marketing. Azhelle and Amy discuss the evolution of Amy's business, the significance of clear partnership expectations, and tips for creating effective lead magnets for building email lists. The conversation offers valuable insights for toy industry entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses through digital marketing strategies.
00:33 On the Road: Astra Board Meeting01:04 Introducing Amy Porterfield04:13 Amy's Journey to Entrepreneurship17:48 The Value of Partnerships20:21 The Importance of Affiliate Partnerships21:08 Lessons from a Business Partnership25:17 The Power of Email Marketing33:10 Creating Effective Lead Magnets38:20 Childhood Inspirations and Final Thoughts
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Ever wondered how to turn your toy idea into a fully-funded product without breaking the bank?
In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade sits down with two crowdfunding experts from BackerKit, Lafia and Maddie, to spill all the secrets behind running a successful crowdfunding campaign.They dive into how BackerKit helps creators manage backers, collect pledges, and fulfill rewards (without losing their minds in spreadsheets). You’ll also hear about "Topias"—group launches where multiple creators team up to support each other’s campaigns—and how to build an audience that will help you hit your funding goals in no time. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your toy product to the next level, Lafia and Maddie share real success stories, smart strategies, and tips for growing your email list and marketing your campaign like a pro.
If you’ve got a big idea and want to learn how to make it happen with crowdfunding, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!
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What Can a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Teach Us About Toys?
Learn the secret to using household items for enhancing your child's fine motor skills. (Timestamp: 10:15)Find out how AI can creatively assist parents in developing engaging activities for their kids. (Timestamp: 15:45)Find out the unique toy recommendations Kerri shares for developing fine motor skills, and how you might already have these items in your kitchen. (Timestamp: 18:42)Hear expert insights on the impact of sensory regulation and how to improve your child's focus through play. (Timestamp: 22:30]Hear Keri Wilmot’s personal stories about memorable toys from her childhood. (Timestamp: 30:05)
In Episode 236 of "Making It in the Toy Industry," host Azhelle Wade chats with pediatric occupational therapist, Keri Wilmot, who has a treasure trove of insights from her nearly 25 years in the field.
Keri uses toys to help children improve fine motor skills, coordination, and overall performance in self-care tasks. Her work with kids facing ADHD, autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy is testament to the transformative power of play.
Want to help your child master the art of tying shoelaces? Kerri’s got a tip for that—use toy tools like tweezers to build up the necessary hand strength. Is your kid's sensory processing a roadblock to engaging in play? Keri’s got that covered too in her book “Wired Differently.” And if you’re worried about how tech has sidelined physical activities, her new book “Fine Motor Foundations” addresses this head-on with practical advice.
Episode Cliff Notes:
Mentioned In This Episode:For the links mentioned in this episode visit www.thetoycoach.com/236
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Is Your Email Marketing Consent-Compliant, or Are You Just Spamming? In digital marketing circles, consent in email marketing has never been a hotter topic. Before the toy industry gets left in the dust on what constitutes as "consent" in email marketing, you NEED this episode.
Want to keep your subscribers happy? Find out how informed consent can transform your email game. [08:23].Learn the secret to avoiding legal issues and ensuring high email deliverability by understanding the power of genuinely informed consent.Ever thought a toy company email could be... fun? Tarzan rewrites one with a killer opening line using non-linear storytelling. [15:07].Azhelle Wade and Tarzan Kay ideate email marketing strategies specific for the toy industry, such as humanized brand representation [18:00].One simple trick to reduce your unsubscribe rates and improve the subscriber experience—don’t miss it. [23:45].
Today on Making It in the Toy Industry, The Toy Coach shares a conversation with email marketer Tarzan Kay to break down why getting clear, informed, and revocable consent is more important than ever. With the rise of regulations in email marketing it's essential to ensure that your email list is not only compliant, but engaged.
How many times have you come back from a toy show only to be bombarded by random newsletters you never signed up for? Not only is this an annoying reality, but it’s a surefire way to tank your reputation, deliverability, and those all-important open rates.
Tarzan joins the show to get real about to build a valid email list—whether it’s with lead magnets, trade show contacts, or discount codes. In this episode learn tips on how to keep your list engaged, rather than running for the unsubscribe button.
💡 EPISODE CLIFF NOTES:For the links mentioned in this episode visit: www.thetoycoach.com/235
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Time for a little tough love toy-coaching: If you're struggling to develop a pre-production sample of your toy that you're proud of, the problem might be you! This week on the podcast, you'll learn 3 common mistakes that new toy creators make when working with overseas factories. This episode includes insights from my full time work in the toy industry and my 1:1 client work. When applied correctly, the 3 lessons taught in this episode will save you time and money in the toy development process.
Why You Should Be Pantone Obsessed
Being Pantone-obsessed can make or break your toy design. In this episode, I’ll break down the magic of Pantone color matching and why having a Pantone booklet in your toolkit is non-negotiable.Get Specific or Get Ready to Pay Another Sample Fee
Vague instructions are the kryptonite of successful toy production. I’m sharing a personal story of how such nonspecific language led to a production disaster.Slow Down On Pre-Production Approvals
Pre-production samples should be approved SLOWLY and with care. In this episode, I’ll tell you why. This episode will transform your view of pre-production samples to avoid production mistakes.Episode Cliff Notes:
Discover how a universal color standard can save you time and money in your toy production. [00:01:44]The major pitfall of using vague language in your product development requests. Learn how to be specific and clear to ensure your toy comes out exactly as you envisioned, without unnecessary delays. [00:14:09]Why it’s crucial to always review a physical pre-production sample, rather than relying on photos or videos, to catch any overlooked issues and ensure your final product is flawless. [00:21:24]
After this episode you'll be aware of the top 3 mistakes most new creators make when working with a factory and how to avoid them.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Forget just selling products—it's time to create immersive shopping experiences for your customers, in person and online. The sensory retail revolution is here, driven by consumers who are tightening their purse strings yet still craving a deeper connection with the brands they invest in. In today’s episode, we’ll dive into three powerful ways plush brands—from high-end labels to indie creators—are building these connections and turning them into tens of thousands of social media likes, comments, and shares.
Take a closer look at the strategies behind savvy brands like Jelly Cat, Ragmop and Goose, and Sad Nuggie, and learn how you can put your own unique spin on consumer engagement in the digital age.
Pop-Up Perfection: Jelly Cat’s whimsical diner setups and pet-themed series aren’t just Instagrammable—they’re unforgettable.Unboxing, Reinvented: Ragmop and Goose transform packaging into a share-worthy event, complete with puppets and surprises.Storytelling FTW: Sad Nugget shows how to weave a compelling narrative around your products, making them feel exclusive without the hefty price tag.
Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll hear:When you’re ready to get creative with your marketing budget, hit play on this episode, grab a notepad, and prepare to change how your customers not only see your brand but how they feel about it.
Combining physical products with emotional and tactile experiences can enhance customer engagement and drive sales, even in a frugal market. Discover how experiential retail is making waves in the plush toy industry and beyond. [00:02:00]Learn how brands like Jelly Cat and Ragmop & Goose use social media to create unforgettable boxing and storytelling experiences that captivate consumers and generate buzz. These strategies can offer a high return on investment for your brand! [00:02:00]You don’t need a big budget to create a memorable customer experience. Learn how storytelling through packaging and personalized selection processes can make your product launch unique and engaging without breaking the bank. [00:11:27]
Episode Cliff Notes:
For the links mentioned in this episode visit: www.thetoycoach.com/233Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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What is the "Underconsumption Core" TikTok trend and how might it effect the toy industry? From "Loud Budgeting" to "Underconsumption Core" Gen Z and Millennials are leading an era of saving over spending, and they aren't keeping quiet about it. As the cost of living skyrockets while wages remain stagnant, the U.S. is bracing for a financial downturn. But this time, consumers are anticipating, preparing, and talking about how they're cutting back, all over social media.
If you haven't yet explored the implications of this trend on the toy industry, now is the time. In this episode of the Making It In The Toy Industry Podcast, we dive deep into the potential impact of "Underconsumption Core," drawing parallels to the 2008 recession and its influence on toy sales. We'll examine the toy categories that thrived during that financial crisis and discuss how today's focus on mindful spending might shape the toys we develop and how we market them.
Key Takeaways:
Resilient Categories: Arts and crafts, building sets, and games and puzzles weathered the 2008 financial storm, suggesting these could be strong contenders for future toy releases.
The "Underconsumption Core" Trend: Driven by a focus on budgeting, a desire for lasting value, and the challenges of a high cost of living, this trend may lead to a demand for durable, multi-use toys and an "Underconsumption Core" aesthetic.
Low-Price Novelty Success: During economic downturns, low-price novelty items and arts and crafts products often appeal to both high-income and budget-conscious consumers, offering a potential strategy for future product development.
Tune in to gain valuable insights on how the Underconsumption Core trend may impact the toy industry's pricing strategies, revenue growth, and overall consumer behavior. Don't miss out on the opportunity to adapt your toy business or career to align with the changing consumer landscape.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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What if I told you that you can easily create museum-quality art? This week, the Making It In The Toy Industry podcast hit the road for an in-person interview with Jessica Joy London at her studio space. Jessica is the founder of Project Joy Studios, and she's on a mission to make art accessible to everyone.
Joy’s story shatters the myth that only a select few are born with artistic talent. She proves that with the right tools, thoughtful techniques, and an open mind, anyone—yes, ANYONE—can create beautiful art.
Throughout this podcast Joy takes us through the evolution of her consumer-facing art kits, from the initial Daily Joy concept to the more affordable and user-friendly Weekend Joy version. She reveals how simplifying the product and reducing the price point led to a surge in sales during the holiday season, cementing her belief in the power of art to bring happiness to people's lives.
As Joy shares her experiences with playtesting and selling her products at local events, she highlights the importance of gathering feedback and understanding your target audience. Her success story is a testament to the value of perseverance and adaptability in the face of challenges, as she navigated the art scenes in Michigan and Philadelphia while juggling motherhood and personal health issues.Watch this Interview On YouTube: https://youtu.be/o3mwThcFj7w
Key Moments:
Learn how Project Joy Studios is making the creative process accessible to everyone. [13:45]Discover the inspiration behind Joy London's unique art kit that encourages daily creativity and reduces stress. [7:15]Find out how a challenging personal experience led Joy London to develop a successful business helping others create joy-filled lives through art. [27:30]For links mentioned in this episode visit thetoycoach.com/231 and scroll down to the mentioned in this episode section.
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Have you ever wondered if it were possible to sell your toy idea instead of the finished product? Today’s podcast episode follows one creator, who does just that.
The importance of understanding your strengths and weaknesses as an inventor and entrepreneurNavigating the complexities of patenting and licensing to protect your intellectual propertyAdapting your product based on feedback from buyers and embracing changes for marketabilityThe emotional rollercoaster of pitching, rejection, and ultimately seeing your toy on store shelves
Today’s guest Joanna Paul, shares her journey of developing Moodles (formerly known as "What's Its Face?"), a patentable plush invention designed to help children understand and express their emotions. From the initial concept inspired by her own experiences as a mom to the challenges of patenting and licensing, Joanna's toy story is a testament to the power of persistence and adaptability in the toy industry.
Throughout the episode, Joanna discusses key aspects of her success, including:Joanna's background in branding and design, combined with her personal experiences as a parent, have shaped her approach to toy invention. Her creation, Moodles, not only serves as a fun and engaging toy but also has the potential to make a fundamental impact on childhood development by promoting emotional learning, imagination, and problem-solving skills.
Learn how one mom's experience in the suburbs inspired her to create an emotional learning plush toy. [05:10]Discover how a toy with six different facial expressions can help kids learn about emotions and express themselves without electronics. [03:38]Find out how persistence and facing legal challenges led to the success of Moodles, a toy that became particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic when childhood mental health problems were on the rise. [09:54]
Hit play on this episode to listen in on Joanna’s early days of prototyping and pitching to the exciting moment of finally seeing Moodles available at major retailers like Walmart, Kohl's, and on Amazon.
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Branded Giveaways Are Dead! 😵 It's time to ditch the tired swag bags and discover the magic of themed experiences that truly connect with your audience. In this episode, our toy industry insiders reveal how to skyrocket your brand loyalty and sales through unforgettable brand experiences.
Branded giveaways at trade shows are passé. Instead, themed giveaways tailored to your brand’s identity or your consumer’s persona create a more lasting impression. In this week’s podcast, The Toy Coach explores why this shift is crucial and how you can transform your approach.
Diving into the specifics, Azhelle takes you on a journey through her experience at the Hasbro Game Room in New Jersey—a spectacular activation reimagining classic games like Connect Four and Twister at an oversized scale. This isn’t just about big games; it’s about big emotions and deeper connections to unforgettable brand experiences.
To bring these insights down to earth, the episode breaks down actionable steps, from visiting dynamic pop-up museums to meticulously planning trade show experiences that resonate emotionally with consumers. You’ll learn how swapping outdated photo ops for video moments can amplify your reach.
By the end of this episode, you’ll be ready to rethink how you use trade shows and events to create more compelling, emotionally resonant brand experiences.
Episode Cliff Notes:
[Timestamp: 5:24] Learn how to make your brand giveaways unforgettable! Find out why Azhelle Wade considers traditional branded giveaways at trade shows dead and discover her strategy for turning themed giveaways into memorable brand experiences.
[Timestamp: 15:47] Find out what makes a video op more engaging than a photo op! Azhelle Wade breaks down why video opportunities are now the go-to for social media engagement and how to use them to your brand’s advantage.*
[Timestamp: 22:13] Discover the secret to successful brand tagging on social media! Learn why Azhelle Wade believes asking people to tag your brand is ineffective and how inviting them as a collaborator on your next IG Reel can 5x the results on your trade show marketing strategy.
For episode links, visit thetoycoach.com/229Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Tired 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 responseHow to access toy company wish lists (yes, they exist, and they're game-changers!)But that's not all! I'm also sharing:
The different submission methods toy inventors can use (because options are power, right?)A serious backup plan for when you're ready to take control of your journey as a toy inventorHere's the thing: becoming a successful toy inventor isn't just about having great ideas. It's about knowing how to navigate the industry, and that's exactly what we're covering today.
Stop waiting for toy companies to discover you in a pile of submissions—hit play and learn how to stand out.
[00:04:01]: Discover the various submission methods toy companies use to review inventor ideas. From email etiquette to online portals, learn practical tips to get your foot in the door and present your innovative concepts effectively.[00:11:22]: Are you targeting the right companies with your invention? Learn how crucial market research can elevate your pitch and improve your chances of getting noticed by aligning your ideas with the right companies' product offerings. [00:24:32]: If traditional approaches aren't yielding results, it might be time to consider entrepreneurship. Learn about effective crowdfunding strategies and how launching your toy idea independently could turn your dream into reality, even attracting attention from larger companies down the line.
Cliff Notes:Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!
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Transforming 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 unique journey into the toy industry. Combining her background in education with her passion for making learning enjoyable, Kelly designed a set of flashcards that make math study surprisingly sweet. This episode dives deep into her process, challenges, and successes, providing invaluable lessons for anyone aiming to make it in the toy business.Revolutionizing Test Prep
From Educator to Toy Creator: Discover how Kelly transitioned from teaching middle school to developing a product that’s winning awards and kids’ hearts alike.The Concept of Watermelon Math: Learn why Kelly chose the theme of Watermelon Math and how it helps make studying less intimidating for children.Challenges in Product Development: Kelly discusses the hurdles she faced in developing a high-quality product, from finding the right illustrator to ensuring the tactile and visual appeal of the flashcards.Achieving Recognition: Hear about the process Kelly followed to enter and win industry awards, and how these recognitions have bolstered the credibility of Watermelon Math.Expanding a Business: Understand Kelly’s approach to growing her offerings while managing her educational services and her strategies for distributing her product effectively.
Kelly Clement, founder of Watermelon Math, takes us through her career transformation and the inception of her innovative educational product. Using her extensive background as an educator, Kelly designed cheerful and effective flashcards to help children prepare for standardized tests. Her journey offers invaluable insights for educators and toy creators alike.
Key Points Covered In This Episode:For the links mentioned in today's episode, visit thetoycoach.com/227
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Can 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 methods.From Executive Assistant to Innovative Toy Creator
Meet Wendy Lattimore, an executive assistant and innovative toy entrepreneur. Her journey began with her son's reluctance to engage in reading, which sparked the innovative idea of mailed letters from his beloved stuffed animals. This led to the creation of "Sunny the Mail Snail" and "Mailbox Mutts," engaging children with weekly personalized letters that spark joy and imagination.Key Insights for Aspiring Toy Entrepreneurs
Necessity is the Mother of Invention: Wendy creatively used letters to engage her son, proving that necessity can drive the most innovative solutions.Validation through Community: Wendy stresses the significance of mentorship and peer validation for bolstering confidence and refining one’s product.Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Her mantra, inspired by her character Sunny, is all about focusing on quality and taking thoughtful steps rather than rushing to the market.
This episode dives into Wendy’s transition into entrepreneurship, detailing her initial challenges and creative breakthroughs. Listen to her firsthand experiences and learn how she balanced a full-time job with her startup aspirations, leveraging her TCA education to navigate the complexities of the toy industry. Wendy’s story is a blueprint for anyone dreaming of turning a simple idea into a thriving business in today’s competitive toy market.
3 Key Takeaways From This Episode:For the links mentioned in today's episode, visit thetoycoach.com/226
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Is 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.
Discover the Secrets to a Successful Licensing Deal [Timestamp: 15:42] Find out the keys to negotiating a winning licensing agreement for your toy inventions! Lee Allentuck shares invaluable insights on being realistic about product value, ensuring fairness in negotiations, and protecting intellectual property.Learn About the Essential Connection Between STEM Toys and Creative Development [Timestamp: 21:30] Learn how working with Blue Marble's STEM-focused products has influenced innovative toy development and discover Lee Allentuck's personal passion for STEM education, which fuels his professional journey.Unlock the Professional Approach to Pitching Toy Ideas [Timestamp: 10:56] Learn the importance of a brief self-introduction and professional presentation in the toy industry's pitch process. Lee Allentuck compares it to a job interview, emphasizing marketing, experience, and credibility to stand out, just like top stars in the entertainment industry.
What are the secrets to a successful toy pitch?
Episode 225 zeroes in on the nuanced relationship-building in the pitch process. Learn how showcasing your background, even outside the toy industry, can play a critical role in catching a company's eye. Lee Allentuck likens the pitch process to job interviews and emphasizes the necessity of a brief yet impactful self-introduction.
Stop playing with your toy idea, and learn to create a seriously impactful pitch in this episode. Tune in, take notes, and prepare to conquer the toy industry.
3 Key Takeaways:For the links mentioned in today's episode, visit thetoycoach.com/225
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Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas
Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps
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