Making It in The Toy Industry
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!
Making It in The Toy Industry
#225: The Secrets of A Successful Toy Licensing Deal with Lee Allentuck
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.
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:
- 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.
For the links mentioned in today's episode, visit thetoycoach.com/225
About My NEW Podcast Art:
The podcast art for Season 6 of Making It In The Toy Industry features product illustrations of toys and games I helped guide in Toy Creators Academy and TCA Accelerator. Tap the brand name below to check them out!
Playcor by Courtney Smithee
9 to 5 Warriors by Brandon Braswell
Catoms by Kieche O'Connell
The Lunch Room by EAP Toys and Games founder, Chrissy Fagerholt