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
#228: Why You're Not Hearing Back from Top Toy Companies and What To Do Instead
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 response
- How 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 inventor
Here'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.
Cliff Notes:
- [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.
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