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Discovering Grayslake: Unveiling the Stories and People That Make Our Town Unique
David Woll sits down with local resident known as "The Rock Father," to discuss his fascinating career in the toy, film, and music industries. Together, they celebrate Grayslake's vibrant community, favorite local events, and beloved businesses. James shares insights into the toy industry, his family's involvement in local arts, and his commitment to giving back through Avon Township. The episode highlights the importance of community connections, supporting local businesses, and fostering kindness, offering listeners a warm, hometown perspective on life in Grayslake. Certainly! Here's your revised text, keeping the same format, content, and context, but changing the name from Jameson to James: Discovering Grayslake: Lessons in Creativity, Community, and the Toy Industry with “The Rock Father” Welcome to another in-depth exploration of “Discovering Grayslake,” where host David Wohl sits down with local luminaries to uncover the stories that make Grayslake a vibrant hometown. In this episode, David welcomes James—better known as “The Rock Father”—whose journey from the film and music industries to the heart of the toy world offers a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and community engagement. Whether you're a local business owner, a creative professional, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice. Let's break down the main themes and tips from the conversation, offering you a comprehensive guide to building a meaningful career and community presence—right here in Grayslake or wherever you call home. Table of Contents The Power of Community Connections Building a Creative Career: Lessons from “The Rock Father” Navigating the Toy Industry: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities Balancing Digital and Physical Play for Kids Giving Back: Leveraging Your Platform for Community Good Celebrating Grayslake: Local Favorites and Family Life Actionable Takeaways for Listeners 1. The Power of Community Connections Key Insight: Even in a small town, it's easy to miss out on knowing everyone. But the magic of Grayslake lies in the connections you make—whether at the farmers market, a local restaurant, or through shared community projects. Actionable Advice: Attend Local Events:** James and David both highlight the importance of participating in community events like the farmers market, holiday tree lighting, and pride parade. These gatherings are not just fun—they're opportunities to meet neighbors, support local businesses, and build lasting relationships. Join Local Organizations:** Bill Mack's mention of the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce underscores the value of joining local groups. Membership offers networking, support, and a platform to amplify your business or cause. Support Local Businesses:** Frequenting spots like Cinco Hermanos, Bake Share, Tony's Butcher Shop, and Andy's Records not only enriches your own experience but strengthens the local economy. Expert Tip: If you're new to town or looking to expand your network, start by volunteering at community events or joining a committee. You'll quickly find your place in the fabric of Grayslake. 2. Building a Creative Career: Lessons from “The Rock Father” Key Insight: James's journey from a young writer in the Chicago suburbs to a leading voice in the toy industry is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to take risks. Actionable Advice: Embrace Your Passions Early:** James's first writing award in 1987 set the stage for a lifetime of storytelling. Don't underestimate the power of early interests—they can shape your career trajectory. Diversify Your Skills:** From cable access TV in high school to interviewing major bands and working in retail, James's varied experiences gave him a broad skill set. Be open to learning in unexpected places. Take Calculated Risks:** Leaving established companies to start his own platform was a leap of faith. While not every risk pays off, each one offers valuable lessons and new opportunities. Learn from Failure:** James is candid about setbacks, emphasizing that failures are stepping stones to growth. Reflect on what didn't work, adjust your approach, and keep moving forward. Expert Tip: Document your journey—whether through blogging, social media, or a personal journal. Not only does this help you track progress, but it can also inspire others and open doors to new collaborations. 3. Navigating the Toy Industry: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities Key Insight: The toy industry is a microcosm of global trends—shaped by manufacturing shifts, tariffs, technological innovation, and changing play patterns. Actionable Advice: Understand the Manufacturing Landscape:** Most iconic toys have always been made overseas (e.g., Barbie in Japan, G.I. Joe in Hong Kong/Vietnam, Hot Wheels in Malaysia). Offshoring since the 1970s means U.S. manufacturing infrastructure is limited; reshoring requires massive investment and time. Monitor Tariff Impacts:** Current tariffs on Chinese imports are around 30%, affecting prices for both businesses and consumers. Small business owners often absorb these costs, but ultimately, higher prices reach the end user. Stay Ahead of Technology:** AI and digital integration are reshaping toys (e.g., Mattel's partnership with OpenAI). Not all tech-enabled toys succeed—2023 saw several underperforming launches, showing the need for thoughtful innovation. Engage with Industry Resources:** Publications like The Toy Book (trade-focused) and The Toy Insider (consumer-focused) offer valuable insights, gift guides, and trend analysis. Expert Tip: If you're a business owner or creative in the toy space, attend trade shows (like Toy Fair or Comic-Con) to network, spot trends, and build relationships with industry leaders. 4. Balancing Digital and Physical Play for Kids Key Insight: Children's play is evolving, with digital experiences increasingly competing with traditional toys. The challenge—and opportunity—is to find a healthy balance. Actionable Advice: Encourage Hybrid Play:** Look for toys that merge physical and digital elements, such as those that interact with platforms like Roblox or offer augmented reality features. Be Mindful of Screen Time:** James advocates for a measured approach—introduce technology thoughtfully and ensure kids have plenty of hands-on, imaginative play. Evaluate Play Value:** When choosing toys, consider not just the initial excitement but the potential for long-term engagement and developmental benefits. Expert Tip: Use resources like The Toy Insider's website to filter toys by play duration and developmental focus, helping you make informed choices for your family. 5. Giving Back: Leveraging Your Platform for Community Good Key Insight: True community spirit means using your resources and connections to lift others up—especially those in need. Actionable Advice: Partner with Local Organizations:** James's work with Avon Township to provide holiday gifts for families in need is a model for impactful giving. Find local groups that align with your values and offer your support. Leverage Industry Connections:** If you have access to products, services, or expertise, consider how you can channel these to benefit local schools, community centers, or families. Be Proactive:** Don't wait for the holidays—needs exist year-round. Reach out to community leaders to identify ongoing opportunities to help. Expert Tip: If you're in Grayslake and need toys or support for a community project, don't hesitate to contact James or similar local advocates. Building a network of helpers multiplies your impact. 6. Celebrating Grayslake: Local Favorites and Family Life Key Insight: Grayslake's charm lies in its blend of small-town warmth, diverse events, and family-friendly amenities. Actionable Advice: Explore Local Events:** From the farmers market to Central Park concerts and the holiday tree lighting, there's always something happening. Make it a family tradition to attend together. Support Local Dining:** Favorites like First Draft, Sammy's, Cinco Hermanos, and Bake Share offer not just great food but a sense of belonging. Get Involved in the Arts:** With opportunities for kids in theater, dance, and music, Grayslake nurtures creativity at every age. Expert Tip: If you're new to town, ask neighbors or local business owners for their favorite spots and events. You'll quickly feel at home. 7. Actionable Takeaways for Listeners Network Locally:** Attend events, join organizations, and support local businesses to build meaningful connections. Pursue Your Passions:** Don't be afraid to take risks, diversify your skills, and learn from setbacks. Stay Informed:** Use industry resources to keep up with trends, especially if you're in a fast-changing field like toys or media. Balance Technology:** Encourage both digital and physical play for kids, and be mindful of screen time. Give Back:** Use your platform, however big or small, to support those in need in your community. Celebrate Your Hometown:** Embrace the unique events, businesses, and people that make your town special. Final Thoughts James's story is a reminder that every path—no matter how winding—can lead to fulfillment when rooted in passion, resilience, and community. Whether you're Let me know if you need the rest of the article or any further adjustments!
Tariffs, ever heard of em? The current US administration has released a number of reciprocal tariffs on just about every country the USA trades with, but what does that mean for US - more specifically - toy collectors. Joining us this week to discuss what impacts this has on collectors and what it means for the toys we love to buy, we welcome Toy Book Editor-in-Chief James Zahn! Follow James on Instagram @therockfather and visit https://toybook.com to subscribe and stay up-to-date with the toy world!Follow us @aic_podcast on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTubeStart creating a podcast today with Zencastr! Learn more.Intro and other voices by Joe Azzarihttps://www.instagram.com/voicesbyjoe/Theme Music is "Game Boy Horror" by the Zombie DandiesProudly part of the Non-Productive Network
In this episode James Zahn of Toy Book and Toy Insider, John Baulch of Toy World UK, and Chris talk about the show, the products, the toy biz, and the year ahead.It's the 7th time these three industry experts have sat down to have a conversation about the toys and the times.Listen in to the conversation.
Listen in to our sixth annual conversation about the year just past...and what may be brewing on the horizon. James Zahn of The Toy Book and Toy Insider and John Baulch of Toy World UK sit down with Chris for a wide ranging conversation about what's up in the toy biz. This is one of our most-listened-to episodes of the year, and we know you'll be engaged and entertained by the conversation. The Playground Podcast is support by Global Toy News, The Toy Guy, and Beacon Media Group. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-playground-podcast/support
2024 was another stellar year for investors, but a lot of money is piling into the same places in the U.S. and globally. (00:46) Bill Mann and Matt Argersinger discuss: - Why 2024 was such a good year for investors, and the concerns they have about valuations and market concentration as they look ahead to 2024. - The winners and losers of 2024 and the front-page stories you may have forgotten about – the Crowdstrike outage and Yen Carry Trade. (19:05) James Zahn, Editor in Chief at The Toy Book, talks through the toys at the top of wish lists this holiday season and how toymakers and retailers are trying bring value to cash-strapped shoppers - James Zahn's now-published article on Moxie: https://toybook.com/death-of-moxie-and-the-trouble-with-tech-toys/ (34:35) Bill and Matt break down two ideas on their radar: Nebius and Cambria Foreign Shareholder Yield Stocks discussed: NVDA, NBIS, FYLD Host: Dylan Lewis Guests: Tim Beyers, Mary Long, Ryan Henderson Engineers: Tim Sparks, Dan Boyd Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's here… our official list of the top 10 holiday toys! Sarah's done the research, created the spreadsheets, and compiled her list of the must-have toys for 2024. Agent Survival Guide Podcast Toy List 2024: Barbie Mini Barbieland Dolls, Playsets, Vehicles: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Bitzee Interactive Digital Pet: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Bluey 3-in-1 Airplane: Amazon | Official Site| Target | Walmart Hatchimals Alive Mystery Hatch: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Kanoodle Ultimate Champion: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Kinetic Sand Squish Motion Playset: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Little Tikes Story Dream Machine: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Magna Tiles: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Makery Freezy Cakez Playset: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Mr. Beast Lab Mutators: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Ms. Rachel Speak & Sing Doll: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Owala: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Play-Doh Pizza Scooter: Amazon | Official Site | Target | Walmart Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/ References: Gruber, Lauren. “15 Toys Worth Buying From Walmart's Top Toy List 2024.” Goodhousekeeping.Com, Good Housekeeping, 19 Sept. 2024, www.goodhousekeeping.com/childrens-products/g62135228/walmart-top-toys-2024/. Phillimore, Zoe. “18 Best Kids' Toys for Christmas 2024 – These Gifts Have Real Wow Factor.” The-Independent.Com, The Independent, 3 Oct. 2024, https://www.the-independent.com/extras/indybest/kids/toys-activities/best-kids-toys-b2621837.html. Handley, Sarah. “18 Top Christmas Toys 2024 - Including Lego, Tonies, Stitch and More.” Goodto.Com, Good to Know, 13 Sept. 2024, www.goodto.com/family/top-christmas-toys-boys-girls-400783. Hillman, Marisa. “25 Hottest Christmas Toys That'll Be Flying Off the Shelves in 2024.” Msn.Com, MSN, www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/25-hottest-christmas-toys-that-ll-be-flying-off-the-shelves-in-2024/ss-AA1oVAJ7. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. “25 Hottest Holiday Toys of 2024.” Farmandfleet.Com, Blain's Farm & Fleet, 14 Oct. 2024, www.farmandfleet.com/blog/hottest-holiday-toys/. Hillman, Marisa. “27 Gifts for Boys That Are Just as Cool as He Is.” Rd.Com, Reader's Digest, 24 Oct. 2024, www.rd.com/list/gifts-for-boys/. O'Connell, Rebecca. “35 Cool Gift Ideas for Kids That Santa May Want to Start Perusing *now*.” Buzzfeed.Com, BuzzFeed, 28 Oct. 2024, www.buzzfeed.com/bekoconnell/cool-gift-ideas-kids-trendy-2024. Bowen, Cat. “60 Best Christmas Gifts for Kids Your Little Ones Are Dreaming About This Year.” Bestproducts.Com, Best, 16 Oct. 2024, www.bestproducts.com/parenting/kids/g97/top-christmas-gifts-for-kids/. “Bring the Magic — Bullseye's Top Toys List Is Back and Better Than Ever.” Corporate.Target.Com, Target, 8 Oct. 2024, corporate.target.com/news-features/article/2024/10/bullseyes-top-toys-holiday-2024. Goertzen, Brenley. “Every Holiday Gift Guide From the Strategist.” Nymag.Com, New York Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024, nymag.com/strategist/article/best-christmas-gift-ideas.html. “Geoffrey's Hot Toy List.” Toysrus.Com, Toys “R” Us, www.toysrus.com/collections/hot-toy-list. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. “Kohl's Top Holiday Toys of 2024.” Kohls.Com, Kohl's, interactive.kohls.com/top-toys-holiday-2024/p/1. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. Lascala, Marisa. “Our Ultimate List of the Best Gifts for Kids of All Ages.” Goodhousekeeping.Com, Good Housekeeping, 25 Sept. 2024, www.goodhousekeeping.com/childrens-products/a61827377/best-gifts-for-kids/. Rosmarin, Remi. “The 40 Best Gifts for Kids of All Ages in 2024.” Edited by Lisa Sabatini, Businessinsider.Com, Business Insider, 21 Oct. 2024, www.businessinsider.com/guides/gifts/best-gifts-for-kids. Winder, Christine. “The 50 Best Gifts for Kids You Can Buy Online.” Realsimple.Com, Real Simple, 8 Oct. 2024, www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/gifts/cool-gifts-kids. Stessman, Emma. “The Hottest Holiday Toys of 2024, as Low as $5 — According to Walmart, Amazon and More.” TODAY.Com, TODAY, 24 Oct. 2024, www.today.com/shop/hot-holiday-toys-2024-rcna169970. Foley, Emily. “The Hottest Holiday Toys of 2023: Barbie, Gel Blasters, Throwbacks and More.” Retailmenot.Com, Retail Me Not, 4 Oct. 2024, www.retailmenot.com/blog/hot-holiday-toys-you-should-buy-now.html. Lascala, Marisa. “The Hottest Toys to Shop From Amazon's ‘Toys We Love' 2024 List.” Goodhousekeeping.Com, Good Housekeeping, 4 Oct. 2024, www.goodhousekeeping.com/childrens-products/toy-reviews/g62114364/best-amazon-holiday-toys-2024/. Keegan, Ashley. “The Top Holiday 2024 Toy Predictions — And Where to Buy Them Now.” Blackfriday.Com, BlackFriday.com, 2 Oct. 2024, blackfriday.com/news/toy-trends-predictions. “Toys We Love.” Amazon.Com, Amazon, www.amazon.com/gcx/Toys-we-love/gfhz/events?categoryId=toys-we-love. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. Zahn, James. “The Toy Insider Unwraps the Hottest Holiday Toys for 2024!” Toybook.Com, The Toy Book, 16 Sept. 2024, toybook.com/toy-insider-unwraps-the-hottest-holiday-toys-for-2024/. “Top Christmas Toys of 2024.” Scheels.Com, Scheels, www.scheels.com/e/post/top-christmas-toys/. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. “Walmart Unwraps the Holiday Season with 2024 Top Toys List and New, Exclusive Barbie World Collection.” Corporate.Walmart.Com, Walmart, corporate.walmart.com/news/2024/09/09/walmart-unwraps-the-holiday-season-with-2024-top-toys-list-and-new-exclusive-barbie-world-collection. Accessed 29 Oct. 2024. Schulz, Bailey. “What Are the Most Popular Toys of 2024? Put These on Your Christmas List Early.” Usatoday.Com, Gannett Satellite Information Network, 10 Sept. 2024, www.usatoday.com/story/money/shopping/2024/09/09/walmart-top-toys-list-2024/75101154007/. Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency.
In this fun episode, our guest Laurie Schacht, the President & Chief Toy Officer at Toy Insider, gives us an inside look into the toy industry and how she got her start. Laurie shares her unique story, from growing up rooted in the toy business to unexpectedly taking over her father's business, reestablishing The Toy Book and launching The Toy Insider. Laurie discusses the evolution of toys, key industry trends, and what to expect in the upcoming holiday season. Plus, she offers an exclusive sneak peek into what's hot for 2025.Key TakeawaysLaurie's Start in the Industry: Laurie grew up surrounded by the toy world, as her father started The Toy Book, a B2B magazine still thriving today, thanks to Laurie nd her team. Laurie took the reins of the company unexpectedly and rebuilt it with the help of her dedicated team.The Toy Insider: After restoring The Toy Book, Laurie launched The Toy Insider, offering a trusted, unbiased list of the hottest toys, a concept that has gained immense popularity.Changes in the Toy Industry: Laurie reflects on the consolidation of smaller toy companies and independent stores, the shift in gender dynamics, and the rise of women in leadership within the industry.The Role of Influencers: Laurie discusses how influencers, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have become a significant part of toy marketing, helping companies predict trends and drive consumer interest.Hot Toy Trends for 2024/2025: Laurie shared upcoming trends like AI integration in toys and a continued emphasis on “analog” playtime, with toys that engage kids without screens.Memorable Stories: A hilarious story involving Laurie and Al Roker during a segment on The Today Show and a Big Hugs Elmo toy!Links & Resources Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetoyinsider/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoyinsiderWebsite: The Toy InsiderLaurie Schacht LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-schacht-b3b5035/Want more from SheSpeaks?* Sign up for our podcast newsletter HERE! * Connect with us on Instagram, FB & Twitter @shespeaksup Contact us at podcast@shespeaks.com WATCH our podcast on YouTube @SheSpeaksTV
In our fifth annual year-end conversation, Chris is joined by James Zahn of The Toy Book, The Toy Insider and The Pop Insider and John Baulch managing director and publisher of Toy World UK. Zahn and Baulch are two of the leading industry observers, analysts, and thinkers about the business of play. Their insights are entertaining, thoughtful, and clear-eyed. Listen in as we talk about innovation, entertainment, inventory, and the year ahead. The Playgorund Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, managers of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-playground-podcast/support
It's our annual Thanksgiving special! We've got a look back at the year that's been, some things we've gotten right, some things we haven't, some tips for toys this holiday season and some things we're thankful for. (00:21) Bill Mann and Jason Moser discuss: - Why it doesn't feel like the market is up 18% YTD and their slices of humble pie this Thanksgiving. - The reasons they're thankful for Cadence Design Systems, CRISPR, and our podcast listeners around the globe. - The no-go topics at this year's dinner table – crypto and weight-loss drugs. (19:11) James Zahn, Editor in Chief at The Toy Book, shares the toys and brands to watch this holiday season. (32:48) Jason and Bill break down two stocks on their radar: Samsara and Domino's. Catch a picture of the new Domino's delivery oven bike here. Stocks discussed: CDNS, CRSP, IOT, DPZ Host: Dylan Lewis Guests: Bill Mann, Jason Moser, James Zahn, Mr. Gobbler Engineers: Dan Boyd, Rick Engdahl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We're talking about legendary toy stores and how they can compete today with comedian Gianmarco Soresi, who's in the new Netflix series "Verified Stand-Up" and editor-in-chief of The Toy Book, James Zahn. Plus which toys are made to become stars of the silver screen (did somebody say Barbie?) and which are destined to flop.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Wharton's Barbara Kahn and Dr. Americus Reed speak with James Zahn, AKA The Rock Father, Editor-in-Chief of The Toy Book about the top toy trends for the 2023 holiday shopping season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on the Underpowered Hour, we've got a lot of business to catch up on! First up, DriveTribe has done a video about our friend Julian Schoolheifer's restoration of the very first production Land Rover, JUE 477. If you haven't listened to our interview with Julien, be sure to go back a few episodes and check out our replay to get the whole story. Link below to the video we talk about. Next up, there's a unique Red Camel Trophy car up on Bring a Trailer; the guys recorded this a few hours before the auction closed, so Ike and Steve debate whether the fact that it is red helps or hinders the collectible nature of the vehicle. (Check out the BAT listing below, and click through the comments to find out what happened when the auction closed). And word on the street is that a new, mallet, all electric Defender has been confirmed for 2027. Will it be called Defender Sport? Why not, there's already a Range Rover Sport and a Discovery Sport. Seems fitting, even if Bronco has jumped on that bandwagon too. Then, we've got a favorite segment we call “Love It, Can't Have It”, and this time we're drooling over the German market Surf Defender in coveted Marine Blue. Consider this our official petition to make that color available in the rest of the world. Who knew that the luxury SUV market in Germany was synonymous with surfing?
YO JOE! We're back with Emily and Lenny from the G.I. Joe team at Hasbro for a roundtable discussion where Dave asks ONLY questions that were submitted by our followers on social media. Join us along with folks from the Toy Book, HISS Tank, and Gizmodo as we ask questions and get some answers!Follow Emily, Lenny, and Hasbro on Instagram @morphinomenally_emily, @weatherdominator and @hasbropulse and visit hasbropulse.com for the latest news across the brand!Ready to shop better hydration, use our special link https://zen.ai/aicpod20 to save 20% off anything you order.Save 12% at BlendJet - use our special link and the discount will be applied at checkout! zen.ai/aicpod12Follow us @aic_podcast on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTubeIntro and other voices by Joe Azzarihttps://www.instagram.com/voicesbyjoe/Theme Music is "Game Boy Horror" by the Zombie DandiesProudly part of the Non-Productive Network
Richard and Chris talk with John Baulch from Toy World UK and James Zahn from The Toy Book for our 4th Annual year-end conversation. From inventory levels to new challenges, to the potential for the revitalized Toys "R" Us, to, of course, the issue of Toy Fairs, the panel looks back at 2022 and ahead to 2023 and beyond. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, Beacon Media Group, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support
The Holiday Season is upon us and its predicted to be a big one. On this episode, Randi and her guests discuss trends that will shape the 2022 holiday gift shopping season, predictions, Black Friday, the hottest toys and ways in which people are shopping in the Metaverse. Guests include, Jason Moser, Senior Analyst with The Motley Fool, Michelle Crossan-Matos - Chief Marketing Officer, Samsung Electronics, James Zahn - Senior Editor of The Toy Insider and The Pop Insider, and serves as Editor-in-Chief of The Toy Book — the leading trade publication for the toy industry — and editor of The Toy Report, and Jason Yim - Founder & CEO of Trigger XR, the world's most experienced XR developer and creative agency.
Ann Rohmer has an exclusive and emotional conversation with former Toronto Police Chief Mark Saunders about the recent loss of 4 officers, the unique calling of those who choose policing and how officers react to such losses? Ann Rohmer speaks with Stephen LeDrew about the importance of the municipal vote. Tina Cortese introduces us to Apathy is Boring which is a non-partisan, charitable organization that supports and educates youth to be active and contributing citizens in Canada's democracy. The group has a program to encourage young people to vote. Glynn Perkins has a preview of Diwali - celebrated on Mon Oct 24. Diwali is the Indian “festival of lights”—a holiday that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. As Halloween creeps up, 86% of Canadians who celebrate Halloween plan to make either the same or more purchases compared to last year, says new research from the Retail Council of Canada. Shaliza Bacchus has the top treats this Halloween. Jim Lang looks into Toys R Us Top Toys. This year's Top Toy List includes items exclusive to Toys"R"Us, like the LiteHawk Highway Patrol Slot Car Set, the LEGO® City Freight Train, Rainbocorns Unicorn Rescue Surprise and Bluey's™ Ultimate Caravan Adventures Play Set. In addition to the 12 hero toys, there are tons of terrific gift ideas online and in the Toy Book to suit every budget.
Guest: James Zahn, deputy editor of The Toy Book
Canada to temporarily ban import of handguns: Good policy or just politics? Guest: Irvin Waller, Professor of Criminology at University of Ottawa & Author of The Science and Secrets of Ending Violent Crime Mattel's turnaround breathes new life into Barbie and Hot Wheels Guest: James Zahn, deputy editor of The Toy Book. Live music is back and so is anger over the way concert tickets are sold Guest: Pascal Courty, professor of economics, University of Victoria Employers struggle as unemployment rate remains at record low Guest: Mike Shekhtman, Regional Director, Robert Half Canada. The family of a 13-year old girl found dead in a Vancouver apartment one year after she went missing still searches for answers Guest: Olivia Louie, relative of Noelle O'Soup
The Toy Book presents a special episode of the “Power Kid Podcast,” in which host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes The Toy Foundation's Executive Director Pam Mastrota and Chairman of the Board Andy Weiner to the show. The Toy Foundation operates underneath the umbrella of The Toy Association to provide philanthropic support and vital play experiences to kids and families under stress and in dire situations around the world. Currently, the major focus is on providing toy industry support to the families suffering amid the Russia-Ukraine War. On the show, Albritton engages Mastrota and Weiner in a conversation that delves into the overall work of the Foundation, the importance of play, and the developmental benefits of play for kids. Then, the conversation highlights the state of current events and what the kids of Ukraine need right now. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/adventuremedia/message
Richard and Chris are joined by John Baulch of Toy World UK and James Zahn of The Toy Book to talk about the major issues of 2021: supply chain, consumer buying, inflation, toy fairs, and much more. In this lively conversation, four of the toy industry's top thought leaders share their perspectives and insights on one of the most challenging years the toy industry has face and their outlook for what's ahead in 2022. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and ChizComm. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support
It's the holiday shopping season, as if you needed to be reminded of that little stress bomb. If you need ideas for what to get the kids in your life, you can probably figure it out based on what they like to watch. Maybe they're into “The Mandalorian” or the “He-Man” reboot. Maybe they just want to watch the same episode of “PAW Patrol” over and over and over again. Marketplace’s Jed Kim speaks with Madeleine Buckley, who covers the industry for The Toy Book, and she says it's true that TV has always been fodder for selling toys to kids, but with streaming platforms shifting how we watch, the toy business model keeps evolving. New Investors Week: Your first donation to Marketplace goes TWICE as far with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Investors Challenge Fund! Give Now
It's the holiday shopping season, as if you needed to be reminded of that little stress bomb. If you need ideas for what to get the kids in your life, you can probably figure it out based on what they like to watch. Maybe they're into “The Mandalorian” or the “He-Man” reboot. Maybe they just want to watch the same episode of “PAW Patrol” over and over and over again. Marketplace’s Jed Kim speaks with Madeleine Buckley, who covers the industry for The Toy Book, and she says it's true that TV has always been fodder for selling toys to kids, but with streaming platforms shifting how we watch, the toy business model keeps evolving. New Investors Week: Your first donation to Marketplace goes TWICE as far with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Investors Challenge Fund! Give Now
It's the holiday shopping season, as if you needed to be reminded of that little stress bomb. If you need ideas for what to get the kids in your life, you can probably figure it out based on what they like to watch. Maybe they're into “The Mandalorian” or the “He-Man” reboot. Maybe they just want to watch the same episode of “PAW Patrol” over and over and over again. Marketplace’s Jed Kim speaks with Madeleine Buckley, who covers the industry for The Toy Book, and she says it's true that TV has always been fodder for selling toys to kids, but with streaming platforms shifting how we watch, the toy business model keeps evolving. New Investors Week: Your first donation to Marketplace goes TWICE as far with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Investors Challenge Fund! Give Now
According to Gallup research, the great resignation of 2021 found 48% of the American workforce actively looking to change jobs. Among the reasons to leave? Not seeing opportunities for growth, lack of community at work, and not feeling a sense of purpose or passion in their work. 2021 was a good year for the toy industry regarding sales, but how has it been regarding hiring?On today's podcast episode I invite two listeners of the podcast, on the podcast to share their toy career stories. These women just so happen to be Latina's and this episode is coming out at a perfect time, to celebrate their accomplishments at the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. Erica and Lilliana share how they found a home in the toy industry in their new roles, but also reflect on what it took to get there. Today's episode will leave you with advice for landing a toy job and building your toy network. But most importantly, you'll walk away feeling inspired, because you too can find a job in the toy industry. You just need to set your goals, focus on them, and be patient.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:For the links and resources mentioned in this episode, head over to the episode page at www.thetoycoach.com/90
The Smugglers Three are only two this week as Ken was wrestling a Gundark. Don’t worry, he’s fine. But Derrick and Mike are joined by James from the Pop Insider, Toy Insider, and the Toy Book who joins the episode to talk about The latest and coolest in Star Wars merchandise news.
Richard and Chris talk with James Zahn of The Toy Book and John Baulch of Toy World UK about the year just passed, implications for the toy business, product, entertainment and more. Listen in as they discuss the changes that have happened this year, what it means for the toy business and what changes may become permanent. Then, stay tuned for Part 2, in which the conversation turns to what's ahead in 2021. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and Chizcomm. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support
Richard and Chris continue the conversation with James Zahn of The Toy Book and John Baulch of Toy World UK as they look ahead at implications for the post-Covid world. From product categories to cultural changes to the seismic shifts in the entertainment and licensing businesses, they provide insights on topics that will affect the toy industry as it moves ahead into whatever the "new normal" may be. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and Chizcomm. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support
On this episode, we talk to James Zahn aka The Rock Father about the state of the Toy Industry. Given that James is also the Senior Editor of The Toy Book, The Pop Insider and The Toy Insider, you can bet he has the inside scoop. From Star Wars to Teddy Ruxpin to educational toys... The post S2E1 – The CuteMonster Show – The Rock Father talks Toys appeared first on CuteMonster.com.
This holiday season, eBay is following Amazons lead and releasing a holiday toy catalog. The online retailer is putting out a Toy Book with the hottest gifts this year, as well as listings for rare and retro playthings from your childhood. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/ecommerceminute/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ecommerceminute/support