Best Fit Toy Design Podcasts (2024)

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#236: The Toy Coach and The Toy Queen Discuss The Best Toys For Early Childhood Development 35:21

2d ago35:21

35:21

What Can a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Teach Us About Toys? In Episode 236 of "Making It in the Toy Industry," host Azhelle Wade chats with pediatric occupational therapist, Keri Wilmot, who has a treasure trove of insights from her nearly 25 years in the field. Keri uses toys to help children improve fine motor skills, coordination, and overa…

1
Episode 311 - More 2024 Gaming Gems Still to Release 1:09:04

6d ago1:09:04

1:09:04

Floppy runs throug some more gaming gems scheduled for release in 2024.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#235: How to Use Consent-Based Email Marketing To Sell More Toys 40:48

9d ago40:48

40:48

Is Your Email Marketing Consent-Compliant, or Are You Just Spamming? In digital marketing circles, consent in email marketing has never been a hotter topic. Before the toy industry gets left in the dust on what constitutes as "consent" in email marketing, you NEED this episode. Today on Making It in the Toy Industry, The Toy Coach shares a conversa…

1
Episode 310 - Creative Game Difficulty Designs 59:40

14d ago59:40

59:40

The full Dino team is here! After beating Dark Souls one and two with no upgrades, Anto talks about how different games create theri difficulty levels.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#234: Avoid These 3 Common Mistakes When Working with a Toy Factory 29:33

16d ago29:33

29:33

Time for a little tough love toy-coaching: If you're struggling to develop a pre-production sample of your toy that you're proud of, the problem might be you! This week on the podcast, you'll learn 3 common mistakes that new toy creators make when working with overseas factories. This episode includes insights from my full time work in the toy indu…

1
Episode 309 - Toys to Life - Were They Actually Good? 58:16

21d ago58:16

58:16

Toys to life came and went over the course of a few years. Looking back, were they any good or just a way to steal your money?By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#233: How Plush Toy Brands Are Going Viral with Experiential Glow-Ups 28:11

23d ago28:11

28:11

Forget just selling products—it's time to create immersive shopping experiences for your customers, in person and online. The sensory retail revolution is here, driven by consumers who are tightening their purse strings yet still craving a deeper connection with the brands they invest in. In today’s episode, we’ll dive into three powerful ways plus…

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Episode 308 - Good Game or Just Nostalgia? 1:12:51

28d ago1:12:51

1:12:51

Floppy, Brayden and Ben wonder if their favourite childhood games were actually good, or is it nostalgia they are craving?By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#232: The Underconsumption Core TikTok Trend is Shaping the Future of Toys 31:04

30d ago31:04

31:04

What is the "Underconsumption Core" TikTok trend and how might it effect the toy industry? From "Loud Budgeting" to "Underconsumption Core" Gen Z and Millennials are leading an era of saving over spending, and they aren't keeping quiet about it. As the cost of living skyrockets while wages remain stagnant, the U.S. is bracing for a financial downtu…

1
Episode 307 - Getting Fit with Games 1:16:51

1M ago1:16:51

1:16:51

Anto is on a fitness journey and using video games to do it!By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#231: Art Made Easy: How Project Joy Studios Is Breaking Into The Toy Industry 50:25

1M ago50:25

50:25

What if I told you that you can easily create museum-quality art? This week, the Making It In The Toy Industry podcast hit the road for an in-person interview with Jessica Joy London at her studio space. Jessica is the founder of Project Joy Studios, and she's on a mission to make art accessible to everyone. Joy’s story shatters the myth that only …

1
Episode 306 - Resellers - Why all the Hate? 56:57

1M ago56:57

56:57

Ben, Anto and Brayden discuss why people who buy retro games and resell them are given a hard time, and is it justified?By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#230: How She Invented A Plush Toy and Licensed The Idea For Passive Income 44:44

1M ago44:44

44:44

Have you ever wondered if it were possible to sell your toy idea instead of the finished product? Today’s podcast episode follows one creator, who does just that. Today’s guest Joanna Paul, shares her journey of developing Moodles (formerly known as "What's Its Face?"), a patentable plush invention designed to help children understand and express t…

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Episode 305 - Ranking Video Game Characters 1:18:44

2M ago1:18:44

1:18:44

Ben, Brayden and Floppy give you the official ranking of the best video game characters. Officially.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#229: How Brand Experiences Can Increase Your Sales and Brand Loyalty 34:32

2M ago34:32

34:32

Branded Giveaways Are Dead! 😵 It's time to ditch the tired swag bags and discover the magic of themed experiences that truly connect with your audience. In this episode, our toy industry insiders reveal how to skyrocket your brand loyalty and sales through unforgettable brand experiences. Branded giveaways at trade shows are passé. Instead, themed …

1
Episode 304 (reuploaded) - Should DLC be Game of the Year? 59:14

2M ago59:14

59:14

Should DLC be considered for Game of the Year? The team has dissenting thoughts.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
Episode 303 - Best Sega Mega Drive Games 54:29

2M ago54:29

54:29

Floppy has a Sega Mega Drive 2. He has chosen some games that looked appealing, and wants to know if he should buy them. PLUS - an important announcement on the future of Hack The Dino.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#228: Why You're Not Hearing Back from Top Toy Companies and What To Do Instead 29:30

2M ago29:30

29:30

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 yo…

1
Episode 302 - 2024 Game of the Year (so far) 1:05:34

2M ago1:05:34

1:05:34

The full core team is together to talk about the best games released this year, and what we think is in the lead to take the title at the end of 2024.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#227: Kelly’s Journey From Educator to Toy Creator with TCA 29:29

2M ago29:29

29:29

Transforming Math Test Prep With Educational Play Can studying math be as fun as playing a game? In this episode of Making it in the Toy Industry, Kelly Clement shows us that it CAN be. With her innovative product, Watermelon Math, Kelly turns the tedious task of studying into an engaging experience. Her journey from a middle school teacher to a su…

1
Episode 301 - The Rest of 2024 Games Looks AWESOME! 1:01:36

3M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

Zak is back to talk with the Dinos about all the rad games coming out in the second half of 2024.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
#226: This Toy Delivers Real Mail Every Week To Kids Across The Globe with Wendy Lattimore 25:54

3M ago25:54

25:54

Can Snail Mail Still Captivate Today's Tech-Savvy Kids? Are today's digital-native children still charmed by the simple pleasure of receiving a physical letter? In Episode 226 of the "Making It in the Toy Industry" podcast, Virginia Lette engages with Wendy Lattimore, a successful graduate of the Toy Creators Academy (TCA), to explore this fascinat…

1
Episode 300 - Surprises and Announcements 1:05:00

3M ago1:05:00

1:05:00

Ben, Floppy and Brayden are joined once again by Zak Sabbath to bring your our 300th episode! In the spirit of celebration Ben has both an announcement and a surprise for the other Dinos.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#225: The Secrets of A Successful Toy Licensing Deal with Lee Allentuck 47:35

3M ago47:35

47:35

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 lic…

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#224: This ONE Media Event Could Make Your Toy Brand Go Viral 📈 21:35

3M ago21:35

21:35

Toy trade shows are NOT the only way to get your brand noticed. Your toy brand could go viral after attending a toy industry media event. In this episode of "Making It in the Toy Industry," Azhelle Wade shares the juicy details behind influencer events and media showcases like Sweet Suite and Holiday of Play. These industry gatherings are hidden ge…

1
#223: Unlock Your Game Design Potential with April Mitchell 46:11

3M ago46:11

46:11

Have you EVER had an idea for a game? This episode is for you. 🫵 Well, don't miss this Part 2 continuation from episode 221, an interview with April Mitchell! April, a licensed game inventor and co-creator of the Tabletop Game Design Masterclass shares her journey from toy industry newbie to a game design expert. Get ready to giggle along as April …

1
Episode 299 - Worst Movie Tie-In Games 1:12:42

3M ago1:12:42

1:12:42

Floppy lists his top ten worst film tie-in games. Ben and Braden were there too.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
#222: Licensing Expo 2024 Recap: Reasons to Mark Your Calendar for Next Year 39:42

4M ago39:42

39:42

Curious about how to make the most out of your trade show experience? In this episode, The Toy Coach shares her experience and reason for attending the Las Vegas Licensing Expo even though she didn’t have anything to license. By the end of this episode, you’ll know if you should attend the Las Vegas Licensing Expo next year, and how you can make th…

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Episode 298 - Biggest Bastards in Video Games 54:47

4M ago54:47

54:47

Floppy, Ben and Brayden are back to tell you who the biggest bastard in video games really are.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
#221: Should You Partner With Another Toy or Game Inventor? 42:13

4M ago42:13

42:13

Are you thinking about teaming up with a partner for your toy or game invention? But what if it isn’t the right move for you? Tune into this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," where Azhelle Wade chats with April Mitchell about the ins and outs of partnering up in the world of invention. April is a licensed inventor and the co-creator of th…

1
Episode 297 - Is Game Pass stil Worth the Money? 52:27

4M ago52:27

52:27

Zak is back with half the Dinos to convince Ben that Game Pass is still worth the monthly fee - even when the price rises.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
#220: Ensure Your Toys Meet Legal Safety Standards or It Can Cost You 31:27

4M ago31:27

31:27

Did you know that even if you're selling a toy product on Etsy, you are required to have it safety tested and certified? In this episode, dive deep into the crucial topic of toy safety and compliance. The first half of the episode focuses on the legal requirements set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the US. Gain an understanding…

1
Episode 296 - Calm Down Nintendo 1:03:46

4M ago1:03:46

1:03:46

Zak Sabbath is BACK bringing all the talent and charisma you've been missing.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#219: Why He Went From Mattel to TCA and Launched His Plush Toy 28:34

4M ago28:34

28:34

Q: Could TCA be valuable to you if you already have corporate toy industry experience? A: YES! Perhaps you think that having professional toy industry experience guarantees success in your entrepreneurial ventures. But this episode turns that notion on its head, featuring Gerardo, a former toy industry professional turned toy entrepreneur, charting…

1
Episode 295 - Fixing Xbox's Fallout Problem 1:06:12

4M ago1:06:12

1:06:12

The whole team is still here, and we're talking Fallout.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#218: Safe Social Media? The World's Largest Social Network For Kids with Ashley Mady 35:57

4M ago35:57

35:57

Ever wondered if there's a social network tailored just for kids where fun meets learning in a safe environment? Yes, you heard that right, and it's called Zigazoo. What if there was a platform where kids could engage, learn, and interact without the usual worries of social media? Or, if there was a social media platform dedicated to connecting you…

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Episode 294 - Toy Fair Pickups! 1:05:06

5M ago1:05:06

1:05:06

The FULL Dino team are back on deck! Check out the radsome stuff they got at the largest Toy Fair in Australia!By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#217: How To Make Your Toy Brand Climate Friendly with Helen Townsend 41:42

5M ago41:42

41:42

In the face of a looming climate crisis, can the toy industry lead the charge towards a sustainable future? Well today’s interview guest believes the toy industry has a responsibility to address the environmental impact of our industry. Helen Townsend, co-founder of the B Corp certified toy company Sustained Fun, dives into the critical role that t…

1
Episode 293 - Would you Play These Weird Games? 1:10:46

5M ago1:10:46

1:10:46

Angie is here to talk some weird games - one of them broke BenBy Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#216: The Hidden Challenges and Opportunities in Toy Licensing with Anita Castellar 1:00:21

5M ago1:00:21

1:00:21

Ever wondered why brands like Barbie have products in unexpected categories? Or, why licensed products often come with a premium price tag? Well, you might just be intrigued by the lesser-known complications and exhilarating opportunities that lie within the licensing labyrinth. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade in…

1
Episode 292 - Video Game Remakes Coming in 2024 1:11:20

5M ago1:11:20

1:11:20

Ben, Floppy and Brayden are joined by the Weird Games Wizard Angie to have a look at some of the remakes that are releasing in 2024.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

1
#215: How He Launched an Action Figure Line from Ideation, Marketing, to Retail Placement 32:42

5M ago32:42

32:42

Ever wondered how a simple idea can transform into a toy that's flying off the shelves? Perhaps you've been toying around with a concept, but the thought of kickstarting it into production leaves you feeling majorly overwhelmed. Well, then today’s episode is the perfect fit for you. Brandon Braswell, founder of 9 to 5 Warriors is sharing the ups an…

1
Episode 291 - Game Remakes we ACTUALLY Want 1:18:29

5M ago1:18:29

1:18:29

Floppy, Ben and Brayden give their picks for games that people actually want to see remade.By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#214: Everything You Need To Know About MESH Accreditation For Your Toy 44:33

5M ago44:33

44:33

Is your latest toy design capable of teaching kids valuable life skills? Creating a toy that's both a blast to play with and packs a punch in the personal growth department isn't child's play. So, how do you shake things up and make a toy that's not just another shiny object in the toy box but a true game-changer in a kid's development? Get ready t…

1
Episode 290 - Video Game Eater Eggs we STILL Haven't Discovered 1:01:18

6M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

Let's look at some crazy video game Easter Eggs that have yet to be discoveredBy Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#213: From Empath to Entrepreneur with Jana Hallam of Wonderwell Toy Company 27:51

6M ago27:51

27:51

Kids today are facing a kindness crisis. From the playground to the classroom, loneliness and bullying run rampant. But there's hope on the horizon, thanks to one toy designer's mission to spark empathy through play. Meet Jana Hallam, TCA alumni and the visionary founder of Wonderwell Toy Co. In this inspiring episode, Jana opens up to guest host V…

1
Episode 289 - Welcome to the Game Club! 1:09:40

6M ago1:09:40

1:09:40

Floppy is back with a new segment - The Game Club! Find out what it is exactly in this week's episode!By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#212: Why Your Toy Package Deserves More Than Matte with Anchor Creative 20:18

6M ago20:18

20:18

Are you giving your toy's package the attention and budget it deserves? If your answer isn't an immediate "Heck yes Azhelle, ALWAYS." then it's time to listen to part 2 of of Ivan and Brittany's interview on this podcast. At the top of the episode, Ivan and Brittany share their secret on staying up to date with trends and spotting what's exciting i…

1
Episode 288 - AAA Games are Dead - Long Live AA Games 1:03:21

6M ago1:03:21

1:03:21

Ben, Brayden and some other dude are back for more video game nonsense. Does anybody every read these descriptions?By Hack The Dino Gamingcast: Video Games Podcast

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#211: How To Efficiently Communicate Your Toy's Value Through Packaging with Anchor Creative 30:34

6M ago30:34

30:34

Your toy package should be the 24/7 salesman for your toy product. Is your packaging putting in the work? If you have ever wondered how to make your packaging communicate the value of your product, I’ve got a new episode that you just can't miss. As one of our guests today will attest, often toy packaging is an afterthought, but what if I told you …

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