Podcasts about toy fair

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we have Matt Teale'o back; to guide us through his recent epic journey in the Shit Box Rally! Kicking off from the 2nd May to 10th May (9 Days)! From buying a Second Hand Car; to actually channeling the Wacky Racers theme not only through the Car itself, but also going that extra mile, & actually wearing a Dick Dastardly & Muttley costume! Chris & Matt take the roads less travelled from Canberra to Townsville (via Silverton), as they trek an impressive 3500 - 4000km's using as many Tennis Balls & tricks as they can muster! Then we change gears & guide the chat towards another round of The Team! This time being based around the Trio of Good-Guys Properties that centre around Land, Sky & Water - Thundercats, Silverhawks & Tigersharks! This was a lot of fun, & clearly there is a stand-out M.V.P. Character! Do you Agree, or would you have done things differently? To find out more about Trent's new Book; including how to secure a copy for yourself; be sure to check out: https://thedarkepoch.org/ To follow Matt Tealeo's Toy Collecting Journey: Check out his Instagram page: @tealeos_toyboxSupport the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 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!

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we have so much to get through, we bring on local Aussie Matt Teale'o to assist! Kicking off the News, we must first go back in time; to unearth some unknown prototypes from the 80's Battle Beasts Toyline! Then we hit the artic cold in the latest HasLab funded project from G.I. Joe; the Snow C.A.T. A teaser pic of the MOTU Origins Fright Zone, gives us all an insight into which direction the property might be heading. Jurassic Park SDCC Exclusive set, looks like so much fun & is Scott & T-Bob really worth $100extra? More Masters news with a cross-over of Shredder & Skeletor, plus Man-E-Faces gets the Mondo treatment; and the Mythic Legions - Horror Of Einsamall wave looks absolutely incredible!! We then review the last few episodes of Lego Masters: Grand Masters Of The Galaxy - including the Final Episode! Radical Rewind Presents: Independence Day - an overview of the fun & excitement. Then rounding out the ep Trent unveils a project he has been working on for a number of years: a Book - The Dark Epoch! Finally published & available now! All this & more! To find out more about Trent's new Book; including how to secure a copy for yourself; be sure to check out: https://thedarkepoch.org/ To follow Matt Tealeo's Toy Collecting Journey: Check out his Instagram page: @tealeos_toyboxSupport the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we seem to have Gremlins in both our Run Sheet; as well as our Recording Gear too...!!! Because things certainly don't go as planned! But please bear with us as we attempt to record another fun filled episode! First major upset, is the obvious fact, Trent was unable to join us for this episode. "The Show Must Go On"; so we bring you the Latest News, including Super7 ThunderCats & Boxed M.A.S.K. excitement from Loyal Subjects. Jaws Celebrating it's 50th Anniversary with an equally impressive reveal from Mondo!! Superman Fights Godzilla & Ghostbusters goes all in on the Ecto-Glow theme! Plus a fan created: Real Ghostbusters Book, that has been years in the making! Switching gears in the Wasteland; we cover the awesome event that was: Radical Rewind Presents Mad Max 2 - Road Warrior!! Plus we recap the past three episodes of Trent's journey on Lego Masters: Grand Masters of the Galaxy - in the lead-up to the Finals!! In addition; we want to thank EVERYONE for the awesome interaction & support on our Milestone 400th episode! Thankyou all!! Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we recap our attendance at the Adelaide Mega Toy Fair event. This annual event promotes itself for its long running campaign; but with new organisers this year, how did it actually go? We chat towards what we spotted, what we think needs to be improved & what we scored!! Spoiler alert: Pub Lunch & making a day of it with great friends, is always the overall highlight!! Then Trent does an awesome Toyline Retrospective on the early 80's franchise that was: Blackstar! With a Filmation Cartoon airing first in 1981; then a corresponding Toyline from Galoob in 1983! Featuring the fight between our Hero: John Blackstar against the Evil Ruler: Overlord on the Planet Sagar. This Toyline & franchise actually has more ties to Masters Of The Universe than one may think.... There are some EPIC Beasts, questionable modes of transport & the incredibly sort after Ice Castle Playset - this Franchise really tried hard & its interesting to think in a sliding doors parallel reality - could this have been a more popular franchise than Masters Of The Universe?! Then rounding out the episode, we squeeze a quick round table, around some of our Latest Scores! Also, as mentioned in this ep; be sure to checkout the incredibly comprehensive website from Avon Fox - around all the Vintage style Transforming Robots that aren't Hasbro branded! - www.the-liberator.netSupport the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; Trent does a quick recap of the first three episodes of the Lego Masters - Grand Masters Of The Galaxy, with some behind the scenes insight & over-all fun from those episodes. Then both Frank & Trent speak to another TV show they are both present on: Cards & Collectables TV - now with a June 22nd air release date! Then its straight into the News - & wow, we have a lot to cover indeed! New Transformers Lego announcements, Megatron controversy, MASK doing awesome Mask things; plus another sub-category to the Four Horsemen's awesome Toyline, in the form of Infinite Legions!! Neca dropping the ball on the Wednesday sculpts, but great things are happening in the Predator Universe! Biker Mice From Mars are kicking butt & eating Hot Dogs; plus Marvel Legends ports the ol' Marvel Vs Capcom Games into plastic! Fantastic 4 Movie Figures & Popcorn Buckets, Sherella - with origin story, but kind of overshadowed by Mondo's 200X HeMan fig! Some confusion around Beastman & lots of Joy for more TMNT. SDCC exclusive announcements from TMNT & Street Fighter too. Shoutouts becomes its own segment & we finally have a date for our Milestone Episode 400 - Sat June 21st - so mark those calendars for a LIVE Video Recording! Enjoy!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we have another segment of The Team! This round pitting not one; not two, but THREE different Villain Sub-Groups against each other in a plight to crown the perfect Character that lines up with the A-Team Format. BUT, there are some ground rules! We must pick ensure a Villain is represented from each sub-group! Who are these Sub-groups you ask?!? Well its the Thundercats, Silverhawks & TigerSharks - representing Land, Air & Sea respectively. A really fun discussion that has some quite diverse choices indeed!! Then we pivot across to another Galaxy, Far, Far Away. Andor Season 2 has wrapped, & we have a fairly healthy discussion about what made this series so enjoyable. All this & more, Enjoy!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if your toy's price point was the only thing standing between you and a “yes” from a major retailer? You've got the product, the mission, and maybe even a booth at Toy Fair but if buyers are walking by without placing orders, it might not be your toy that's the problem… it might be the price.In this episode, you'll hear how one Toy Creators Academy alum adjusted her pricing to better meet buyer expectations and how that decision opened the door to more retailer interest and shelf space.I'm sharing a powerful conversation I had at Toy Fair with Samantha Ong, founder of Joey Dolls — the World's Most Diverse Asian Doll brand. Before launching her toy line, Samantha was a professional photographer, and now she's built a brand that's not only beautiful, but mission-driven and retail-ready. You'll hear how she made her debut in the toy space through the Toy Creators Academy Showcase, and how she's now taking Joey Dolls to a whole new level, earning serious interest from retailers.You'll learn how to use trade shows to gather feedback that helps refine your pricing and packaging strategy, the exact price point that helped Samantha grow her product line, and which packaging details buyers actually care about. We'll also get into how working with reps and consultants can seriously boost your visibility at trade shows and Samantha opens up about the lessons she learned and what she really wishes she knew before setting up her very first Toy Fair booth.Hit play and find out how a smart pricing pivot and trade show prep made all the difference for this toy creator.Listen for these Important Moments:[00:07:26] -  Find out how a $19.99 price point helped Samantha make her dolls more appealing to retailers and budget-conscious families so you can rethink your own pricing.[00:08:16] - Learn what buyers said about boxed vs. unboxed toys and how you can choose packaging that fits your audience and your margins.[00:13:01] - One buyer needed the product before Q4—proof that not all retailers follow the same calendar. Understanding this could help you close more deals.[00:14:03] - Discover how working with reps helped Samantha bring traffic to her booth so you're not standing there hoping buyers just wander in.[00:16:02] - Learn how the right booth location could mean more foot traffic and exposure for you.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!Support the showPopular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy IdeasYour Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

Before we dive into one of the most creative plush lines I've ever seen, we need to talk about something serious — TARIFFS.In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I'm kicking things off with an urgent update about the current U.S.–China tariff situation and how it could affect your toy business. I'm sharing what I would do right now if I were launching a toy brand from scratch and why diversifying your manufacturing isn't optional anymore, it's essential.Then, I take you inside my exclusive Toy Fair interview with Lisa Doiron, VP of Global Brand Marketing at Basic Fun. Lisa introduced me to ThreadZ, a limited-edition plush line that taps into Gen Alpha's love of individuality and that “get-it-before-it's-gone” energy. ThreadZ is made with excess fabrics, which means each drop is limited-run and totally unique. Designed to feel fashion-forward and one-of-a-kind, this plush line taps perfectly into Gen Alpha's craving for self-expression. It's also a brilliant example of how big brands like Basic Fun can rethink traditional production models in smart, sustainable, and trend-savvy ways.You'll hear why it's time to rethink your manufacturing game, how to make your toy line tariff-proof and flexible, what Gen Alpha really wants, and how you can steal a genius small-batch strategy from a big brand and make it your own.If you're ready to future-proof your toy biz and get inspired by one of the freshest plush concepts on the market, this episode is for you! Hit play now and get inspired by a big-brand strategy you can actually use!Listen for these Important Moments![00:01:16] -  Tariffs are shifting fast—and they could hit your bottom line hard. I'm breaking down what's changing and how to protect your business with smart sourcing moves.[00:04:52] - Think scrap fabric can't make magic? Think again. I'm showing you how leftovers can fuel a unique product line—and even lower your costs.[00:07:16] - Step inside Toy Fair with me as Lisa Doiron reveals ThreadZ, Basic Fun's limited-edition plush line built for Gen Alpha's need for self-expression and FOMO.[00:10:39] - This isn't your average plush. ThreadZ offers exclusive drops, unique personalities, and three price points—showing small-batch vibes can scale.[00:13:07] - Lisa shares her toy journey—from Disney hits at Hasbro to launching bold new ideas at Basic Fun—and why making kids smile keeps her going.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!Support the showPopular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy IdeasYour Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we shine light on quite an old property; that is The Shadow! From its origins in Pulp Comic Format to the Hollywood Film in 1994 staring Alec Baldwin. That Film was classified big enough to spawn a corresponding Toyline from Kenner. Trent unpacks what was great, and what was left in the dark, around this neat property. Then we switch gears, and have a FULL-ON Spoiler lead discussion around the new Marvel Film that is: Thunderbolts - or New Avengers?!? We run though how each character played their part; the tone of the film & what we all overall thought of it too. Keen to hear from your thoughts on this Film too!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

JOIN US NEXT WEEK, YOU NERDS. 7PM PST. :) Live on Twitch Wednesdays! http://www.twitch.tv/TheUglyMugs https://discord.gg/RvE6TVANRF http://bit.ly/UglyMugsGlasses https://www.humblebundle.com/ Email us stuff! Uglymugspodcast@gmail.com Joint Twitter: @TheRealUglyMugs https://www.heroforge.com/tap/?ref=uglymugs Justin Twitter: @CliffxThurst Tiktok: @cliffxthurst Quincey Threads: https://www.threads.net/@quinceyroberson?invite=0 Tiktok: @qballscollectables Socky: @sockysquidrings Twitch: @sockysquid

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we welcome back Nick Greenslade; to assist us to break-down all things Star Wars related. Kicking things off, with his opinion of who he would have chosen as the candidates for the SW Villains side of things on: The Team.... Then without missing a beat; we take the next challenge of carefully selecting another round of The Team for the Star Wars Heroes campaign - keeping them tightly contained to the Original Kenner releases as our choices. Leader, Muscle, Specialist, Wheelman & an Iconic Vehicle. Then continuing the Star Wars themed banter, we discuss more of the visual announcements coming from SW Celebration & what the future of Star Wars might be... A fun healthy round table chat with fantastic knowledge & true passion from Nick! This Is The Way!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can 3D printing really replace traditional toy manufacturing? One founder says “absolutely” and she's got the award to prove it.In this episode, I'm chatting with the amazing Courtney Peebles, founder of Solobo Toys, about how she won a TOTY Award for her hit plush toy, Emotional Baggage, and how rising manufacturing challenges pushed her to transform her business using 3D printed toys.Courtney gets real about the challenges she faced with manufacturing overseas, and how jumping into 3D printed toys helped her reduce costs, improve margins, and take back control of her production. Even better? She did it all while staying true to her brand's mission: creating inclusive toys that help kids express their emotions and feel seen.We'll talk about how 3D printing can help small toy brands build profitable direct-to-consumer businesses, the exact steps Courtney took to pass essential safety testing, and why sustainable manufacturing with 3D printers is more accessible than you might think. You'll also hear how winning a TOTY Award for her plush toy, Emotional Baggage, boosted both her visibility and sales and what it really takes to scale a toy business with limited resources.If you've ever dreamed about taking your toy idea from sketch to shelf without a big factory or warehouse, you need to hear this one! Listen now and let Courtney's story inspire your next step in the toy industry.Listen for these Imporant Moments! [00:03:27] - Courtney shares the emotional moment her plush toy, Emotional Baggage, won a TOTY Award, beating major brands like Disney and Miss Rachel. She never expected it—and it changed her business overnight.[00:07:46] - A simple post about her award win triggered a wave of direct-to-consumer orders. She had to leave Toy Fair early just to keep up with the shipping![00:13:18] - With rising tariffs and time pressure, Courtney stopped manufacturing overseas and leaned into 3D printed toys to take back control of her production process.[00:15:32] - Courtney walks us through how she passed all the required safety testing for her 3D printed toys using small-batch manufacturing guidelines—no shortcuts, just smart strategy.[00:24:57] - Starting with one $600 printer, Courtney's now scaling up to 41. She explains how Solobo Toys is growing quickly—without the stress of massive factory MOQs.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail! Support the showPopular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy IdeasYour Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

While there are some cool cool news items to talk too, there's also a certain Celebration taking place in Japan right now... As such we bring on a Star Wars expert Nick G who takes us through all latest Black Series and TVC goodness. Closer to home, we recap our local (and the best) Adelaide Comic and Toy Fair with it's April 2025 edition. Huge thanks as always to Brett and Sarah for their amazing work! Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Geek Dudes are back and Have A LOT of Toy Fair thoughts.They also open gifts from the very generous Colin Betts and "Big Saxy" Ben Sache from The Toy Power Podcast and then talk Daredevil and get way too political (again).Brace yourselves...Join Fresh, Dirty? Uncle Mitch and Jonsey as they talk toys, love, life and geeky things.Not safe for anywhere!You can find us at:Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/geekdudes.bsky.socialwww.facebook.com/geekdudesInstagram: @geekdudes

From Science Kits to Strategy Games: The Story Behind Thames & Cosmos with Andy Quartin and Ted McGuire Ted McGuire (President) and Andy Quartin (CEO) of Thames and Kosmos What if playing games could make you smarter, more creative, and a better collaborator? In this special Toy Fair 2025 episode, I sit down with Andy Quartin and Ted McGuire from Thames & Kosmos to explore how board games do more than entertain—they teach critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience. We discuss what makes a game truly great, how the industry is evolving, and why games like John Cooper and Kory Heath's The Gang are changing the way we think about strategy and cooperation. Whether you're a game designer, a lifelong player, or just curious about the creative magic behind the scenes, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tune in for a fascinating look at the power of play! https://www.thamesandkosmos.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-quartin-65a79975/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/thames-&-kosmos/posts/?feedView=all https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-mcguire-5026954/   Connect with Izolda Website: https://IzoldaT.com BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/izoldat.bsky.social. Book Your Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/izoldat/discovery-call New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/users/90481/izolda-trakhtenberg Submit a Play to the Your Creative Table Read Podcast Series One Minute Movies A Close Shave Career Suicide Diz Wit   Flip Your Inner Script to Stop Negative Thoughts From Ruining Your Day.   This episode is brought to you by Brain.fm. I love and use brain.fm! It combines music and neuroscience to help me focus, meditate, and even sleep! Because you listen to this show, you can get a free trial and 20% off with this exclusive coupon code: innovativemindset. (affiliate link) URL: https://brain.fm/innovativemindset It's also brought to you by my podcast host, Podbean! I love how simple Podbean is to use. If you've been thinking of starting your own podcast, Podbean is the way to go!** Are you getting anything out of the show? I'd love it if you would buy me a coffee.   Listen on These Channels Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Podbean | MyTuner | iHeart Radio | TuneIn | Deezer | Overcast | PodChaser | Listen Notes | Player FM | Podcast Addict | Podcast Republic |      

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we are once again missing Master Frank; but have Special Guest: Chris Canini back in the studio with the usual "Get To Know You Questions". A great insight into what Chris's passions are! Then, without missing a beat,he as brought in a fantastic assortment of Figures, to promote just how awesome the new Jada Street Fighter Toys are!! From M. Bison to Dhalsim (and many more), we annalise just what this Toyline is doing, what it may do in the future & how it compares to older versions of the same figures. Then we move over to latest scores; including more amazing gems from Jada; (courtesy of Chris again); this time in the form of Mega-Man! Another in hand assortment of toys for us all to review on the show. We continue to promote around the room, who has recently scored what, & believe me, there are some exciting items we cover!! For more on Chris Canini, be sure to check out his Instagram pages: @DarkLightCollector @DarkLightTurtleLairSupport the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode Bryan, Carl, & Dwayne talk about the stuff announced at this years Toy Fair.

Is it time to stop manufacturing overseas? Or are these tariffs just temporary chaos?In this episode we're talking about the massive new tariffs shaking up the toy industry and what they mean for your bottom line. With import costs from China jumping up to 54% April 2nd, and a potential 104% threat looming over the horizon, toy creators everywhere are wondering what to do next. Should you absorb the cost? Raise prices? Cancel a launch? Shift production? I'll walk you through what's really happening, what's coming next, and how to make a smart move without panicking.On April 4th, I held a Tariff Toy Talk for Toy & Game Creators where we could get together and discuss what to do in light of the Trump administration's tariffs that are decimating our economy, and threatening the life of the toy industry. Since so many of you reached out wanting to hear the recording, I thought it would be best to make this talk readily available on this podcast.Tune in to hear from other toy people just like you—creators, inventors, and business owners—who joined me to share their questions, insights, and real-life experiences going through this rollercoaster. From surprise $9K tariff bills to last-minute Kickstarter cancellations and creative shipping workarounds, you'll get insights from the front lines.Listen For These Important Moments![00:01:16] — A quick look back at how the 2025 tariff news hit the toy industry starting right after Toy Fair wrapped. [00:04:27] — Several indie toy brands start to feel the heat. From canceled Kickstarters to massive clearance sales, the early ripple effects are real and painful.[00:08:11] — A few creators share the gut-punch of getting charged thousands of dollars on orders they thought were already squared away.[00:28:03] — Innovative responses begin to surface. 3D printing, fulfillment shifts, and DTC models come up as small brands brainstorm ways to stay afloat.[00:43:20] — The big manufacturing question gets unpacked. Can U.S. factories really step up for toy makers or is that just a hopeful dream for now?Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!Support the showPopular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy IdeasYour Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

This week on the Toy Power Podcast; we are missing Frank in the studio; but have Special Guest: Chris Canini join us to help us breakdown a mountain of News & Announcements; mainly from the WonderCon Event! With a little bit of house-keeping aside, its impossible for us to ignore the recent Tariffs that is going to affect our Collecting passions. Mondo are up first with a beautiful array of Soft Vinyl items; 1/6th & 1/12th figures that has us drooling! McFarlane seem to have laid all their cards on the table; in an absolutely enormous slide-show of up-coming releases, in many different formats & sub-categories! Jada continuing to impress, not only with their awesome Street Fighter line; but their Mega-Man offers too! A heap of Marvel Legends that span across Movies, TV shows & Comicbooks too! Then rounding out, we shout out our wish-list of items we will be hunting for, at the upcoming Adelaide Comic & Toy Fair on the following weekend!! For more on Chris Canini, be sure to check out his Instagram pages: @DarkLightCollector @DarkLightTurtleLairSupport the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have I ever told you that I'm allergic to cats? Well, lucky for me I recently met Katharine Burke, the creator of PurryFuls, a purring plush cat that is designed for on demand comfort that only a purring cat can provide.Katharine left a high-stress tech job to build Purryfuls, and in today's episode she shares exactly how she went from zero toy product experience to debuting her brand at New York Toy Fair and getting featured in Forbes!In this episode we go into detail about the skills that Katharine had to develop to create her first prototype, and why those skills likely saved her thousands of dollars. If you're interested in hearing a case study of a fellow startup toy entrepreneur taking a leap of faith on their toy product, give this episode a listen.Listen for These Important Moments:[02:23] – Burned out from a high-pressure tech job, Katharine made a bold decision that completely changed her life. She walked away to follow her toy dream.[05:21] – When she couldn't find a plush that mimicked a cat's purr, she realized something big: this product didn't exist yet… and she was going to make it.[07:02] – No sewing skills? No problem. Katharine taught herself everything from scratch (including coding) to bring her purring plush to life.[17:15] – Just one day into Toy Fair, her brand was already featured in Forbes. This unexpected media moment changed everything.[22:51] – Instead of diving straight into retail, Katharine took a smarter path that gave her more control, and it's one you might want to follow too.Send The Toy Coach Fan Mail!Support the showPopular Masterclass! How To Make & Sell Your Toy IdeasYour Low-Stress, Start-To-Finish Playful Product Launch In 5 Steps >> https://learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

This week on the Toy Power Podcast, we take a look at a Galaxy Far, Far Away; and select the most wretched hive of scum & villainy - in order for another installment of The Team! Yes, this round is focused on the Villains from the Original Kenner Star Wars Toyline Universe. Leader, Muscle, Specialist, Wheelman and an Iconic Vehicle; are all needed to be voted on, and then locked in! Then we turn the tide, one quarter way through the year already!..... We take a look at what Movies are slated to be released at the Box Office this year! What has us excited, what are we staying clear of, and how good does the Toxic Crusaders Trailer look!! All this and more; enjoy!!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 69 - The boys talk Toy Tariffs, Toy Fair, and TV Things. Brent has a special deep dive into the lives of vintage Fashion Dolls. We get more news and much more! Welcome to the Dollhouse, Welcome to Where the Toys Are! WHERE THE TOYS ARE THE PODCASThttps://linktr.ee/WTTAPodcast

Yes, there is news to talk too - some of it huge. Like a certain huge dragon. Huge fundraisers. Huge SDCC ecto-glow announcement. Two huge properties join forces (gotta build 'em all). One huge Shredder (bro lifts). But bigger than ALL of those, is the unexpected parcel of absolute joy sent by our favourite Canadian, the one and only Colin Betts. This has to be seen (heard?) to be believed. In spite of some truely awful postage costs, comes so many gifts filled with attention to detail, insight, humor and most importantly, love. Colin - a huge thank you!Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

The Seibertron.com Twincast / Podcast is here to discuss the recent Toyfair 2025 reveals. Discussion starts with Age of the Primes Onyx Prime and Alchemist Prime before Vortex rounds out the mass retail releases. Studio Series is up next with reveals of Ramhorn with Perceptor and Ratbat. Devastation troop builders and Walmart exclusives conclude the Generations chat, then Cyberworld gets the crew talking about upcoming kid friendly toys. Forthcoming Hot Wheels Collaborative releases are up next for inspection to finish up the Toy Fair impressions. Missing Link Arcee and a listener question about Combiners are up next before Bragging Rights brings the show to a close.

Something I would have snatched up in a second in the olden days is the Classified SDCC Cold Slither set. It comes from my favorite media, the cartoons, and is super goofy. It's an easy pass nowadays. With all the Transformers stuff shown, my favorite thing is an actual toy, not a collectible. I'm excited to see the Cyberworld Scorponok in person. Masters came out guns blazing. While I should love the Fright Zone, I just don't. I'm more drawn to the New Eternia Terror Claws Skeletor. Not surprisingly, Star Wars was the least exciting. At least we're getting new unproduced vintage figures.

We are a couple of members down today so yes, it's a Lisa episode. Scot and Frank take the wheel to look at a new Origins reveal, some Latest Scores (where Scot goes BIG) but mainly wax on/off about the finale of Cobra Kai. Did they stick the landing or sweep the leg? How was Anthony Mackie's first solo run as Captain America? Hoe tough is it to integrate two cats into the same space? All these un-expected questions and more await! Support the show: http://patreon.com/toypowerpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.