Making It In The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business podcast

#Entrepreneur #Business #Toy Industry #How To Design A Toy #How To Make A Toy #Toy Design #Fit Toy Design #Make My Own Dolls #Small Business #Making It In The Toy Industry #Society #Podcasting Education #Azhelle Wade | The Toy Coach

30:34

“That is no life for these birds and it is definitely not what the consumer is thinking or assuming. When they see these nice labels and they think, ‘oh, I'm paying so much more for this, that change must be going for the animals, right?’ No, it's lining the pockets and it's keeping that status quo of that factory farm going.” Amber Canavan Most of us want to make choices that are kinder—to animals, to the planet, to ourselves. But in today’s food system, kindness is often buried under labels like “cage free,” “humane certified,” or even “climate-friendly beef.” These terms are designed to make us feel good, but as PETA’s Amber Canavan reveals, they hide the same suffering and environmental destruction. For more than a decade, Amber has led campaigns that expose this “humane washing” and push companies—from Starbucks to Whole Foods—to do better. This conversation is about pulling back the curtain on the myths we’ve been sold, and about the power each of us has to choose differently. One of the simplest, most impactful ways to take action is with what’s on our plate. That’s why, this October, we’re inviting you to join Species Unite’s Plant-Powered Challenge—a 30-day adventure to try delicious, cruelty-free food, reduce your climate footprint, and stand with the animals. Because real change doesn’t come from labels. It comes from us.…

Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business

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How do I bring my toy ideas to life? How can I pitch my toy concept to top toy companies like Hasbro, Mattel, or Goliath Games? What does it cost to make a prototype, and where can I get one made? Are there toy manufacturing options outside of 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 or game idea.
Learn how to find the right factory, negotiate manufacturing costs, and use successful sales techniques to get your product noticed by major toy companies.
Meet Your Host
Azhelle Wade, aka The Toy Coach, has been in the toy industry since 2010. With 3 toy patents, multiple toy awards, and a track record of managing multi-million-dollar toy lines for companies like Toys R Us, Party City, Madame Alexander, and Creative Kids, Azhelle brings passionate and enthusiastic toy industry expertise to every episode.
Join thousands of toy creators and entrepreneurs who are making their toy dreams real with Making It In The Toy Industry!

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Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business

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1
#289: The TCA Journey Behind a Toy Empowering Kids to Choose Kindness with Jana Hallam 23:38

for 23 hours siden23:38

23:38

A toy doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to leave a lasting impact. The most meaningful ones teach kindness, spark empathy, and build something real in a child’s heart. That belief is what led today’s guest to create a toy that’s about so much more than play. In this special replay episode, we’re passing the mic to guest host Virginia Lette, who sits down with Jana Hallam, a Toy Creators Academy alum who felt the same way and turned that feeling into a mission-driven brand. After struggling to align with a well-known holiday tradition, Jana set out to create something that better reflected the values she wanted to teach her kids: empathy, emotional awareness, and the courage to be kind. Her solution? The Kindness Mouse, the debut product from Wonderwell Toy Company. It’s a magical, story-driven play experience featuring a plush mouse, storybook, and activity cards that inspire kindness in young children through social-emotional learning. You'll hear the origin story of The Kindness Mouse and why kids instantly connect with this unlikely hero. We dive into how empathy, SEL, and the idea of “wiring them young” became the foundation of Wonderwell Toy Co. Jana shares how trusting her gut (and even starting over) was key to moving forward, how Toy Creators Academy helped her navigate product safety, playtesting, and manufacturing, and why community is essential when you're building a brand from scratch. Whether you’re dreaming up your first product or knee-deep in development, this conversation will remind you that a strong why is the most powerful tool a toy creator can have. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#288: How an Industry Veteran Rebuilt His Toy Knowledge Through TCA with Gerardo Davila 27:25

for 8 dage siden27:25

27:25

Every once in a while, I meet a toypreneur whose journey reminds me why I started this podcast… and today’s guest is one of those people. In this episode, we’re bringing back the story of a Toy Creators Academy grad who went from leading sales at Mattel to launching a heartfelt plush brand that’s changing bedtime for kids everywhere. Meet Gerardo Davila, the creator of Angelitos Mágicos , a magical line of plush guardian angels that deliver encouraging messages to children overnight. What started as a way to comfort his own daughter turned into a product with purpose, backed by positive psychology and wrapped in cultural love. Even though Gerardo spent years in the toy industry, he still joined Toy Creators Academy to learn how to bring his vision to life. In this episode, he shares how the program helped him overcome the challenges of solo creation, especially in areas like packaging, retail strategy, and website optimization. Inside this episode: What sparked the idea for Angelitos Mágicos (hint: it involved childhood nightmares and a clever mom!) Why even toy industry veterans can benefit from structured learning and support How small changes to his website and packaging made a big impact What it takes to prep a brand for retail shelves, and future global expansion Feeling inspired to bring your own toy idea to life? Learn more about Toy Creators Academy at www.toycreatorsacademy.com . Listen for these Important Moments! [00:04:54] - Learn why even a seasoned Mattel exec realized he needed help navigating solo toy creation and how structured guidance can fast-track your launch. [00:08:03] - Get inspired by how a parenting moment turned into a toy brand that helps children feel safer and more confident. [00:10:56] - Discover how shifting from eCommerce to retail requires a whole new packaging strategy and what details matter most on-shelf. [00:13:41] - See what it really takes to go from selling online to getting your toy into stores. [00:16:47] - Planning to expand beyond your home country? Hear what Gerardo is doing to adapt his toy line for the U.S. and beyond. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#287: Looking Back at a TCA Alum’s Journey as a Game Designer with Chrissy Fagerholt 20:00

for 15 dage siden20:00

20:00

You know I love celebrating a toypreneur's full-circle moment and today’s episode is just that. We're revisiting the incredible journey of TCA alum Chrissy Fagerholt of EAP Toys and Games, from her very first appearance on this podcast to her latest game launch and ongoing success in self-publishing. This episode is a special highlight reel of Chrissy’s growth: from pitching her very first ideas at our Toy Creators Academy Virtual Pitch Event, to getting a game into Barnes & Noble, and even deciding to manufacture her own products. You’ll hear snippets from episodes 88, 131, and 239, packed with real-world insights to help you grow from creator to confident toypreneur. Chrissy’s journey is a reminder that growth in this industry doesn’t happen overnight but every pitch, every prototype, and every connection adds up. These highlights will leave you feeling inspired, energized, and ready to take your next step. If this episode sparked something in you, it might be time to explore your own path in the toy industry. Join us inside Toy Creators Academy and start building the skills, confidence, and connections you need to bring your toy ideas to life. Learn more at www.toycreatorsacademy.com Listen for these Important Moments! [01:49] - Get a behind-the-scenes peek at what real toy pitches look like and how you can gain the confidence to pitch before everything is perfect. [02:34] - Learn what it takes to move from concept to store shelf, and how to prepare your game for big retail opportunities. [11:34] - Discover how to spot weaknesses in your game design before showing it to others, saving time and costly mistakes. [16:03] - Understand the pros and cons of licensing vs. self-publishing so you can make the best decision for your toy business. [17:26] - Learn how to manage burnout and reignite your passion when business tasks start to dim your creative spark. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#286: 3 Surprising Ways To Use AI To Save Money In Your Toy Business 32:13

for 22 dage siden32:13

32:13

Toy people, I see you. You’re trying to run your business, deal with tariffs, build your brand, pitch your ideas, and maybe even answer customer questions at 3AM. But what if I told you that AI could actually help you make the most out of your time and money as you build your toy business? In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry , I’m breaking down 3 powerful and unexpected ways to use AI tools to save money, reclaim your time, and scale smarter even if you’re just getting started. Here’s what we’ll get into: How I’m using AI chatbots to help toypreneurs boost conversions (without hiring a 24/7 team) Why ChatGPT is officially my new Facebook Ads assistant, and how it cut my ad costs nearly in half The wildest one yet: AI playtesting. Yep. I asked ChatGPT to playtest a game… and what happened next blew my mind This episode will show you how AI can help you work smarter, stretch your dollars further, and keep your momentum going even when resources are tight. The truth is, we can’t afford to ignore these tools, not when costs are rising and expectations are higher than ever. And if you’re ready to bring your toy or game idea to life with the help of AI, join me for my upcoming bootcamp on September 23rd at learn.thetoycoach.com/bootcamp Listen for these Important Moments! [00:46] - Learn how AI tools can help you save time, reclaim profits, and compete in a rapidly changing industry. [04:43] - Discover how to set up a smart chatbot that handles customer questions 24/7 and recovers missed sales. [11:32] - Hear how I cut my ad costs in half and created better campaigns without hiring a pricey ads manager. [18:09] - Simulate real player feedback with AI and test gameplay changes before you invest in physical prototypes. [27:06] - Get inspired to take action with AI and learn how to validate and pitch your idea with confidence. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#285: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Michael Harring 1:03:09

for 29 dage siden1:03:09

1:03:09

Should you launch your toy on Kickstarter? That’s the question that we’re going to explore today. TCA alumni Michael Harring, launched Wayward Ghouls and his line of Squeaks toys on Kickstarter as what he says is “just a test.” With the goal of $49,000, Michael’s almost at 50% with a $19,000 pledge but he shared in our interview that for some reason, pledges have stalled. In this week’s episode, you’ll hear a real coaching call between Michael and myself, where we dig into what’s actually working, what might be holding things back, and how to make progress when your audience is small and your campaign starts to stall. I’ll share why embracing “done is better than perfect” can move your launch forward, how even a tiny list can lead to big results, and how to tweak your offer without losing your creative vision. Plus, you’ll get tips for building long-term IP loyalty, even on a budget. If you're planning to launch your toy on Kickstarter or wondering if you should , this is the episode you’ll want to hear before you hit publish. Learn more at www.toycreatorsacademy.com Listen for these Important Moments! [05:12] - Why testing your toy idea on Kickstarter is still worth it even with limited reach. [17:35] - How to assess your offer, pricing, and product mix when momentum slows down. [28:10] - Why perfection can hurt your progress and how to get feedback that leads to clarity. [41:20] - Simple strategies that turn tiny lists into powerful backer communities. [53:45] - How to think beyond the campaign and build lasting fan loyalty on any budget. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#284: What the End of De Minimis Means for Toy Creators 36:00

for 5 weeks siden36:00

36:00

For years, international toy sellers had a semi-secret shortcut to ship goods under $800 tariff free. That shortcut? Gone. And if you’re not prepared, your business could feel it fast . As of August 29th, the De Minimis Exemption was officially eliminated for many international shipments to the U.S. The change, quietly confirmed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, caused immediate disruption. Over 25 countries (including the UK, Germany, and Japan) paused shipments to reassess compliance. Platforms like Temu and Wish began overhauling logistics, while DTC creators abroad faced surprise duties, delays, and frustrated customers. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry , I’m breaking down what the end of the De Minimis Exemption actually means for creators like you. This change isn’t just about shipping fees and forms, it’s about who wins, who loses, and how you can thrive in a newly leveled playing field. Using a mind map, I’ll guide you through the four big areas impacted by this shift: the immediate chaos it’s caused, what strategies and tools are suddenly more valuable, what old tricks are now holding brands back, and who’s rising to the top as this new landscape takes shape. This episode is a wake-up call and a strategic roadmap, all in one. Listen for These Important Moments: [00:09:12] - Avoid tariffs and delays. Warehousing in the U.S. now gives you speed, savings, and a serious competitive edge. [00:11:53] - New customs rules are hitting Temu and Shein hard, giving legit brands room to shine and reclaim their sales. [00:21:00] - Stable SKUs and digital add-ons help offset costs and keep products flowing under new import rules. [00:25:50] - Solo sellers outside the U.S. now face bigger delays and thinner margins. Without a warehouse, you’re stuck. [00:29:54] - U.S.-based creators, brands with warehousing, and fulfillment partners are leading the pack. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#283: 3 Costly Mistakes That Toy Creators Make with Factories 27:35

for 6 weeks siden27:35

27:35

I’ll never forget the time I asked a factory to “just move the pen and scissors down a little” on a packaging layout. What came back? A sample where the entire arrangement was totally rearranged and the design I’d worked so hard on was completely off. Communicating with factories is one of the most exciting parts of the toy-making journey, but one vague email can lead to total toy-making mayhem. If you’re not specific, clear, and intentional with your feedback, even tiny comments can snowball into major delays, color mismatches, or products that completely miss the mark. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry , I’m breaking down the three most common mistakes new toy makers make when working with overseas factories and how to avoid them with confidence. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why vague feedback like “a little shorter” can lead to big problems (and what to say instead). The reason Pantone colors are your best friend in product development. How rushing to approve samples from photos or video can completely backfire. What a pre-production sample is and why it’s absolutely essential. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to say to a factory, how to give feedback, or when to say “go,” this episode is your crash course in clear communication and smart production practices. It’s packed with tips that will save you serious time (and money) as you scale your toy business. Listen for These Important Moments [00:01:05] - How using Pantone colors protects you from costly color mismatches and miscommunication with your factory. [00:09:52] - Discover why vague comments lead to bad samples and how to give clear, factory-friendly directions that save time and money. [00:14:37] - Hear my story of how one vague request wrecked an entire product layout and how you can avoid the same frustrating (and expensive) result. [00:16:55] - Find out why approving samples from photos or videos is a huge risk and what has to happen before you say “go” to production. [00:21:10] - Learn how hands-on sample reviews reveal hidden issues with materials, weight, or function and how this one step can prevent bad reviews, safety issues, and recalls. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#282: Why Toy Companies Are Switching to Manufacturing in India with Joshua Punin 49:03

for 7 weeks siden49:03

49:03

Even with the recent increased tariffs on India, many of my clients and students have been seeking out new factory partnerships in this country. For decades, China has been the go-to destination for toy production, and they are indisputably the best at producing high quality goods quickly, but what happens when rising costs, shipping delays, and shifting global policies force toy makers to look elsewhere? That’s the exact question that international toy expert and Source 4 India co-founder Joshua Punin has been exploring for the past 16+ years. With firsthand experience helping major brands expand across Asia and deep ties to India’s emerging toy manufacturing scene, Joshua has become a powerful voice advocating for alternative sourcing strategies. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry , Joshua and I cover: Why a shift in India’s import tariffs sparked a nationwide manufacturing movement. The surprising challenges and advantages of producing toys in India. What startup creators need to know before reaching out to Indian factories. Why sourcing outside of China isn’t about replacing, it’s about expanding your opportunities. How India’s skilled labor force, tax incentives, and infrastructure make it one to watch. If you’ve been curious about what it would really look like to source outside of China, or you’ve heard whispers about India but didn’t know where to start, this episode is your starting point. Hit play to discover new possibilities and learn what it really takes to make that shift. Listen For These Important Moments: [00:19:12] - Discover how policy changes and infrastructure improvements are creating real opportunities for both startups and established brands. [00:25:10] - Not every toy is a perfect fit, save time and money by understanding what India can (and can’t) do efficiently right now. [00:27:46] - Get clarity on production expectations so you can plan your launch and scale strategy with confidence. [00:28:44] - Shipping from India could be cheaper and faster than you think, especially if you're selling in Europe or the Middle East. [00:31:19] - Hear what Joshua looks for in potential clients and how to position your startup to be taken seriously by manufacturers. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#281: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Carrie Shaked 59:47

for 8 weeks siden59:47

59:47

Building forts is a rite of passage for most kids and often the bane of organized parents. I can still picture my mom, coming home late from running her business, to find chairs flipped sideways, blankets draped across them, boxes forming doorways, and my brother and I, tucked away inside playing. It was 100% an eyesore to my parents and 1000% a safety hazard. That universal problem is exactly what architect and TCA Accelerator student Carrie Shaked, founder of Design Laughter, set out to solve. Her buildable fort system transforms messy blanket chaos into stunning, structurally sound cardboard domes that are easy to assemble, customizable, and beautiful enough to live in your living room. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry , you’ll listen in on a real 1:1 coaching call with Carrie. We cover: How her architecture background inspired a toy unlike anything else on the market. Why families cried (in a good way!) during playtesting. Smart email collection strategies and social media tips for camera-shy founders. How today’s manufacturing climate might give small startups an edge. If you’ve ever looked at your child’s chaotic fort and thought, There’s gotta be a better way , this conversation will remind you that there’s room in the toy industry for your vision, too. Hit play on this episode to get inspired, and allow yourself to imagine bringing your unique idea to this industry. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#280: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Courtney Smithee 44:13

for 9 weeks siden44:13

44:13

Ever wondered why all baby toys are so bright and loud? all primary and neon colors? Aesthetic-focused moms are craving a change. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry , I’m bringing you a powerful coaching session that spotlights someone who's filling that market opportunity. Playcor is a brand on a mission to make toys that look as beautiful as the homes they live in. Courtney Smithee, an interior designer turned toy inventor and student of Toy Creators Academy, is the founder of Playcor , a line of high-end, neutral-colored silicone toys that blend beautifully into modern homes. These aren’t just kids’ toys in a different colorway, but they’re multifunctional age-appropriate playthings that double as home decor. Imagine a designer-quality scalloped bowl that doubles as a rattle, and decorative silicone balls that are both chic and safe for play. That’s Playcor. In this episode, you’ll hear how Courtney is managing product development, navigating international factory communications while pregnant, and finding clarity in the chaotic early stages of launching a toy brand. We dig into her most challenging SKU, how she’s simplifying her marketing strategy as a mom of three, and the major mindset shifts that helped her go from overwhelmed to intentional. We’ll also celebrate some BIG wins like the moment guests walked into her home, saw her toy prototypes on display, and didn’t even realize they were toys . So if you’ve got a creative idea and you’re wondering if it has a place in the toy world, let this episode be your sign. Tune in, get inspired, and imagine what you could create, maybe even inside Toy Creators Academy with me by your side. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#279: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Kieche O’Connell 52:36

for 10 weeks siden52:36

52:36

The most innovative toy ideas I’ve ever seen come from people outside the toy industry. When I met Dr. Kieche O’Connell, the creator of Catoms, I was completely blown away. She found a way to merge her love of science and the periodic table into a collectible plush toy line. Kieche’s deep understanding of chemistry and the unique traits of each element gave her the ability to create an expansive world of characters with complex personalities and traits that drive her brand’s storytelling forward. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m sitting down with Kieche, a PhD chemist turned toy creator, who reimagined the periodic table as a world of personality-packed cat characters called Catoms, each inspired by the traits of real chemical elements. During our coaching session, we talk through the highs and lows of product development, how her experience in Toy Creators Academy and in TCA Accelerator Program helped her move from concept to physical toy prototypes, and why Catoms has so much potential in today’s toy market. You’ll also hear about her Licensing Expo win, the mindset shift that helped her get over her fear of social media, and how authentic storytelling can transform the way you market educational toys to both kids and adults. Listen for these Important Moments! [00:00:30] – Learn how to turn a science or education background into a unique toy concept that stands out in the industry. [00:09:25] – Discover how early pitching (and winning at Licensing Expo) can give your toy idea real industry traction. [00:20:10] – Get a simple strategy for overcoming fear of social media and sharing your toy brand with confidence. [00:31:03] – Understand the full plush toy development process from pivoting your product to communicating with factories. [00:41:00] – Learn how to refine your brand, develop packaging, and shift your target audience for long-term growth. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#278: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Manish Punwani 53:25

for 11 weeks siden53:25

53:25

Ever feel like your toy or game idea is too niche or catch yourself wondering if you’ve really got what it takes to break into the industry? Maybe you’ve been sitting on a killer concept, or you’re already knee-deep in prototypes and second guesses. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m chatting with TCA alum and current Accelerator student Manish Punwani, who proves that with the right guidance and a whole lot of passion, even the most unexpected game themes can find their place in the market. Manish shares his journey from working in merchandising to launching Cricket or Nothing, a suspense-filled, strategy card game that turns the classic sport of cricket into a brainy, poker-like duel. You’ll hear why he walked away from his first concept and instead went all in on cricket. We talk about what it really takes to prepare for a Kickstarter campaign and how you can start laying the groundwork now. You’ll also hear why tapping into passionate cultural communities is a genius launch, and how TCA coaching helped Manish see both his idea and his audience in a brand new light. This episode gives you a glimpse of what it really looks like to build a game from the ground up while learning, pivoting, and connecting with the right people along the way. If you want to be a part of Toy Creators Academy and get the opportunity to join the Accelerator as a graduate, visit toycreatorsacademy.com today. Listen for these Important Moments! [00:06:08] - Find out why Manish scrapped his original game concept and how trusting feedback can lead to a better product fit. [00:11:11] - Discover how this game turns cricket into a mind-game-packed, poker-style showdown that grabs attention even from non-cricket fans. [00:09:19] - Hear how Manish realized licensing wasn’t the only option and why launching it himself became the smarter move. [00:20:19] - Learn why marketing to fans who already love your theme (like cricket) is the fastest way to build a loyal audience. [00:27:06] - Get practical tips on how to use low-cost ads and landing pages to grow a ready-to-buy audience for your launch. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#277: Game Pitching Tips From a Toy Industry Insider with Tanya Thompson 1:04:42

for 12 weeks siden1:04:42

1:04:42

Have you ever had a game idea pop into your head and thought, “This could be huge… but how do I even pitch it?” Or maybe you’ve been sitting on a finished prototype, wondering if it’s really “good enough” to get in front of a big toy company. If you’ve been dreaming of turning your game concept into a real product on shelves, this episode is made for you. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry , we’re bringing back an oldie but a goodie conversation that I had with Tanya Thompson, the Senior Director Inventor Relations and Innovation for Hasbro Gaming. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Tanya started out as a math teacher before making the leap into the toy biz, and now she’s the go-to gatekeeper for inventor-submitted game ideas at a major toy company. During our chat, Tanya breaks down exactly what it takes to pitch a winning game idea including what not to do. She shares what she looks for in a prototype, what your sizzle video must include, and how long it actually takes to get feedback once you pitch. You’ll also learn why being first matters, how many ideas they see each year (spoiler: it's a lot), and the number one mistake new inventors make when pitching. So if you’ve ever dreamed of getting your game licensed or just want to level up your pitch game, grab a notebook and hit play. This episode is packed with the kind of insider knowledge that could turn your idea into the next family game night hit! Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#276: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Joanna of Fren Forest 43:38

for 13 weeks siden43:38

43:38

If you've ever wished you could sit in on a real coaching call inside Toy Creators Academy, today’s your lucky day. This episode is part of a special behind-the-scenes series where I bring you inside the TCA Accelerator for a one-on-one strategy session with Joanna, the creator of Fren Forest . Joanna is a sculptural artist with a love for cozy characters, whimsical storytelling, and dreamy desk décor. She went from quietly crafting mini clay creatures in her studio to fully funding a collectible toy on Kickstarter and this episode walks you through exactly how she made that leap. You’ll hear how Joanna turned her hand-sculpted characters into a collectible toy brand without a business degree or a marketing team. We’ll break down the smart moves that helped her hit 50% of her Kickstarter goal on day one, why she scrapped flocking to stay lean, and the tiny design detail she refused to give up (toe beans!). Plus, we’ll chat about balancing creativity with business, exploring licensing, and using small media wins to build big brand momentum. Joanna’s journey is going to light a fire under your dreams and if you’ve been wondering whether Toy Creators Academy (or its Accelerator program!) can really help someone go from concept to collectible, this episode proves that with the right tools, guidance, and grit… your toy dream is possible. Listen for these Important Moments: [00:03:50] - Learn what it really takes to go from selling handmade art online to launching a mass-produced collectible toy without wasting years (or your savings) on trial and error. [00:08:30] - Got creative constraints? Hear how this artist built a clay-to-digital production workflow that worked with her medical needs and preserved the authenticity of her characters. [00:10:04] - Discover how cutting one costly feature saved her budget and timeline plus the one tiny detail she refused to compromise on because her fans adored it. [00:18:04] - Tired of juggling all the hats? This part of the episode explores how to shift from doing it all yourself to building a brand that licensing partners actually want. [00:37:17] - Joanna plans to open pre-orders after Kickstarter fulfillment. Azhelle shares how many artists sell in focused bursts to protect their energy and keep creativity flowing. Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the show Popular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy Ideas Your Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass <<…

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#275: 3 Unmissable Lessons to Turn Your Hobby Into a Hit Game 17:35

for 15 weeks siden17:35