Best Making It In The Toy Industry Podcasts (2025)

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#274: Turn Your Hobby Into a Best-Selling Board Game with Elizabeth Hargrave 47:26

5d ago47:26

47:26

What are your hobbies? I personally enjoy dance, specifically latin dance and often I wonder, “What if I could translate salsa dancing into a toy or game?”. Well today, we’re going to explore that possibility. Today my guest shares how she turned her hobby into a best selling board game! In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m joined …

1
PR That Converts: How to Get Free Media Coverage for Your Store 30:43

24h ago30:43

30:43

Think PR is just for big brands? Think again. In this episode, we explore how organic PR can actually outperform social media, influencers, and even paid ads—especially for local retailers. Learn how to write press releases that land, earn high-quality backlinks, and pitch your story in a way that drives real foot traffic. You’ll also uncover the m…

1
163: A 1600-Day Streak 1:01:42

4d ago1:01:42

1:01:42

Brady and Tim discuss an office move, marble runs, a virtual ‘small world’ story, consecutive streaks, a spoon from the Northern Territory, and Michael Mosley. Today’s Request Room - https://www.patreon.com/posts/131826639 Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/unmadeFM Join the discussion of this episode on our subreddit - https://www.red…

1
How to Embrace Change and Lead Through Uncertainty 26:30

4d ago26:30

26:30

In this special episode, we take you inside the opening keynote from EVOLVE, where the spotlight is on navigating change in your retail business with strength and resilience. You’ll discover why your brain naturally resists change, how to reframe discomfort into growth, and even how to channel emotions like anger into purpose and momentum. From une…

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173: Stripper Wars: Chippendales’ Glamour, Greed & MURDER?! 56:54

5d ago56:54

56:54

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! For some reason, female nudity feels *way* more common than male nudity. In pop culture at least, we’re way more used to seeing women being naked and sexualized. Think how many times you see titties on tv. And then think about how everyone loses their minds when there’s a penis on HBO or White Lotus. It’s rare! Back in …

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Protect, Heal, Restore: Building a Purpose-Driven Brand with Natalie Gardner 34:14

8d ago34:14

34:14

What happens when a business is born out of mud runs, muscle pain, and a mission to help others heal? In this episode, we sit down with Natalie Gardner, co-owner of Dr. Doug’s Balms, to explore how a grassroots wellness brand scaled with heart, honesty, and a focus on progress—not perfection. From magnesium-infused balms to mindset shifts for overw…

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#273: The Tabletop Game Licensing Blueprint that Closed Major Deals with April Mitchell 27:48

12d ago27:48

27:48

Licensing a tabletop game doesn’t require years of experience or a perfectly polished prototype. What it really takes is a strong idea, a strategic approach, and the confidence to put yourself out there. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m sitting down with April Mitchell, motivational speaker, licensing expert, TCA Alumni, and fo…

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172: Earthquakes: From Human Sacrifice to Nuclear Disaster… Is the Big One Coming?? 1:03:42

12d ago1:03:42

1:03:42

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! Do you guys remember earthquake drills? I grew up in California… So earthquake drills were just part of my life growing up. It seemed like we did earthquake drills nonstop. And despite that, I can never seem to remember what to do during an earthquake. Like, do I go to a doorway? Do I hide under a desk? Do I stop, drop,…

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Life at Bryght: Tornadoes, Buttholes, and National TV // EP#11 SE:2025 32:23

12d ago32:23

32:23

Send us a text Episode #10 // Season 2025 Buckle up because this episode is a wild ride. The Bryght team spills the behind-the-scenes tea on life on the road: from Luba literally driving through a tornado en route to judge a butthole competition (yes, you read that right), to the anal bleach seminar in Dallas that drew lines so long they nearly shu…

1
Experience, Retention, and Loyalty 47:27

15d ago47:27

47:27

What do Disney-level customer experiences have to do with your bottom line? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, Vance Morris—a former Disney World executive turned customer experience strategist—reveals the secrets behind turning casual buyers into loyal fans. Drawing from years of real-world experience at one of the world’s most cust…

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Matt Brown: Making Great Play 35:22

18d ago35:22

35:22

Matt Brown is one of the coolest and most thoughtful guys inthe toy business. His dedication to play and kids is always inspiring. Over the years, since he entered our industry with Zoob,Matt and Chris have had many conversations about the role of play in children’s lives and why play is so critical to all of us. In this conversation, we talk about…

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Not Just Another Mastermind: What Makes IndERA So Powerful 42:47

18d ago42:47

42:47

What does it really mean to be part of a thriving business community that understands the retail grind? In this bonus episode, Crystal Vilkaitis reveals the perks members get when they join IndERA—and it’s so much more than just another business mastermind. From staying ahead in the ever-evolving retail landscape to unlocking exclusive access to to…

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#272: How Labubu Became The Most Wanted Plush in the World 36:08

19d ago36:08

36:08

It started with a fuzzy little monster, hiding in the pages of a picture book inspired by Nordic fairy tales. She wasn’t famous. She didn’t have a movie deal. But when one K-pop superstar hugged her on Instagram… everything changed. This week on Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m diving into the jaw-dropping rise of Labubu, the “ugly-cute” characte…

1
Community, Collaboration, and the Evolution of Independent Retail 42:20

22d ago42:20

42:20

What does it take to build a successful independent retail business—and keep it thriving for decades? Carol Schroeder, co-owner of Orange Tree Imports, joins us to share her journey as a retailer and local business leader. From launching a gift and gourmet shop to navigating the shift to e-commerce, Carol offers grounded insights on team leadership…

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162: Brad Pitt’s Girlfriends 46:53

25d ago46:53

46:53

Tim and Brady discuss a farewell service, medal progress, climbing a mountain for charity, the Viper Room, a celebrity-based calendar, a letter opener, and living in a small world. More fun in the Request Room - https://www.patreon.com/posts/130173810 Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/unmadeFM Join the discussion of this episode on ou…

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#271: Email Marketing Rules You Can’t Break 40:39

26d ago40:39

40:39

Are you sleeping on the money-making magic of your email list? If you've been pouring all your energy into TikToks, Reels, and likes… hold up. Because while social media might be where the buzz is, your email list is where the buying happens. It’s your direct line to superfans, curious retailers, and future customers who actually want to hear from …

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171: Walmart: From American dream to American NIGHTMARE 1:05:54

26d ago1:05:54

1:05:54

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! Do you guys remember that movie “Where the Heart Is?” It’s all about this girl who secretly moves into the store without anyone noticing, then she gives birth in the mattress department… and again, no one notices… It stars Natalie Portman, it’s great. When I was a kid and I saw this movie, it was 100% believable to me. …

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Retail Tariffs Inventory Strategy and Cash Flow Tips 49:40

29d ago49:40

49:40

How are tariffs shaping sourcing decisions and inventory management in retail? In this episode of Rooted in Retail, Nathan Sheth from Management-One breaks down the real impact of tariff changes on margins, supply chains, and operational efficiency. Discover how to build a resilient sourcing strategy, evaluate new vendor partnerships, and optimize …

1
Sue Warfield of ASTRA: Supporting Specialty 35:29

1M ago35:29

35:29

Sue Warfield is the president of ASTRA, and a good friend.She has been a passionate leader of her organization and an equally passionate proponent of play and its value in culture. In this episode, Chris talks with Sue about their shared perspectives on play and its role in child development, and the necessity of play in building healthy children. …

1
161: Medal Winners 50:28

1M ago50:28

50:28

Tim and Brady discuss a warm sweater, a dog’s tail, the Zeeman Medal, and recognition for Tim-ness and Brady-ness. Don’t miss the Request Room this week - it’s a classic - https://www.patreon.com/posts/129517651 Support us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/unmadeFM Join the discussion of this episode on our subreddit - https://www.reddit.com/r/U…

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#270: The Pricing Strategy That’s Getting Buyers to Say YES 19:53

1M ago19:53

19:53

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 A…

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170: The Shocking Truth About Dairy: Why are we really drinking milk? 1:02:02

1M ago1:02:02

1:02:02

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! As a country, America has always had a complicated relationship with dairy. One month we hate it, the next month, some weird cottage cheese recipe goes viral, and we’re all over it again. But here's something I thought was a little strange. You never hear about dairy farmers or the dairy industry going bankrupt. It made…

1
The Power of Packaging to Elevate Your Brand 43:37

1M ago43:37

43:37

What makes great packaging more than just a pretty box? Julie Rotuno—a self-proclaimed “packaging nerd” and retail expert—joins us to break down the overlooked power of thoughtful packaging. From low-budget strategies to major industry trends, Julie shares how packaging shapes brand perception, impacts sustainability, and elevates customer experien…

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#269: Thinking Differently About Toy Production with Lisa Doiron of Basic Fun 16:12

1M ago16:12

16:12

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…

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169: The Headlines called it “Justice,” In Reality it was a MASSACRE 41:11

1M ago41:11

41:11

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! You know, after living in Los Angeles for a few years, I’ve learned a lot. Like, for example, if you tell people you live in LA, the first thing they ask about is celebrities. Who have I seen? What were they like? Am I friends with Kris Jenner? It’s always the same question. LA is huge and a lot of people don’t realize …

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Branding Boldly: From Design School to Retail Influence 47:18

1M ago47:18

47:18

A strong brand is more than just a logo—it’s a feeling, a story, and sometimes… one powerful word. In this episode, we follow Lucy’s incredible journey from retail to design school and into the future of interior design. She shares her insights on how branding becomes unstoppable when people catch on fast, why setting “unreasonable” rules might jus…

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Things Just Got A Little Cheeky!🍑 EP#10 SE:2025 25:36

2M ago25:36

25:36

Send us a text Episode #10 // Season 2025 Our founder, Luba, has officially been crowned celebrity judge at the wildest contest in the Midwest—The Prettiest Butthole in Michigan at Deja Vu Lansing! 💥 Yes, you read that right. She’ll be front and center (with a headlamp, no less), helping crown the fairest peach of them all. Confidence, boldness, an…

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168: Britain's FIRST Female Serial Killer & A Gangster Mastermind??: DH of MOMSTERS 59:44

2M ago59:44

59:44

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! The other day I was watching Monster In Law - remember that movie? It starred J Lo, her character falls in love with this dream guy, they get engaged, and everything is perfect until… she meets her mother-in-law. The mother in law is played by Jane Fonda by the way, she’s so good in it. And the whole movie is essentiall…

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The Overlooked Power of Small Improvements - After the Show 12:02

2M ago12:02

12:02

Scaling isn’t the only path to growth—sometimes, the real magic lies in simply improving what’s already there. In this After the Show segment, we dive into the powerful mindset shift from obsessing over scale to focusing on refinement. From optimizing just one customer touchpoint to enhancing your existing systems, this episode will inspire you to …

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The Secret to Retail That Feels Personal (and Profitable) 29:31

2M ago29:31

29:31

There’s retail—and then there’s retail with heart. In this episode, we explore how one shop owner built a thriving business by listening closely, staying intentional, and showing up authentically both in-store and online. This is your go-to guide for making your brand not just seen, but felt. Ever walked into a store and felt the difference? That’s…

1
Retail, Resilience, and Remembrance 32:35

2M ago32:35

32:35

What happens when you lose a business partner who was also your closest collaborator and friend? In this powerful episode, Michelle shares her journey through the retail world, her deep partnership, and how she’s navigating growth and grief after losing her business partner. From building lasting rep-retailer relationships to finding strength in me…

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#268: The Truth Behind Being a Game Inventor with Jeremy Posner 44:53

2M ago44:53

44:53

Behind every “yes” in the toy industry, there’s a mountain of “no’s,” countless hours of hustle, and more trial and error than most people expect. At one point, he came close to walking away from it all—until a single line from an episode of Bluey reminded him that making games was exactly what he was meant to do. In this episode Making It In The T…

1
How One Connection Can Change Everything - After the Show 15:25

2M ago15:25

15:25

Running a retail business isn’t just about products—it’s about people. In this After the Show segment, we dive into why connections matter and how you can start building and working your network with intention. From asking for help to putting yourself out there, today’s conversation is all about turning relationships into opportunities. [1:30] How …

1
Ronna Medical: The Robotic System Transforming Neurosurgery 16:30

2M ago16:30

16:30

Ronna Medical is an advanced technology company revolutionizing neurosurgery with advanced robotic systems. These robots assist in making surgeries such as biopsies more accurate, safe and efficient. The RONNA (short for Robotic Neuro-Navigation) robotic arm is controlled remotely by the surgeon and is able to make the surgeries more cost-effective…

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Mother’s Day, Many Ways -- EP#09 SE:2025 16:02

2M ago16:02

16:02

Send us a text Episode #09 // Season 2025 In this thoughtful and deeply personal episode, Luba, Rachel, and Robyn dive into the many meanings of Mother’s Day—through their own lived experiences. Luba shares her perspective as someone living a child-free, single life by choice, and how that lens influences the way Bryght approaches emotionally charg…

1
160: Duck Cake 48:34

2M ago48:34

48:34

Tim and Brady discuss conclave, garage sales, colour names, Vegemite in Canada, birthday cakes, Tim’s 49th birthday, and a few other things. Support us on Patreon and access the Request Room (among other extras) - https://www.patreon.com/unmadeFM Today’s Request Room - https://www.patreon.com/posts/127497711 Join the discussion of this episode on o…

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How Red Boot Consulting Helps Brands Walk Boldly Into Retail 36:52

2M ago36:52

36:52

What does it take to build a brand that stands out in the wholesale space? In this episode, Robin Kramer of Red Boot Consulting shares how she went from retail beginnings to helping product-based businesses grow with clarity, confidence, and heart. She opens up about honoring your unique skillset, making the most of trade shows, and why nurturing r…

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#267: Winning a TOTY Award and Scaling a Toy Business Through 3D Printing with Solobo Toys 47:50

2M ago47:50

47:50

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 trans…

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167: Wendy & Britney: Hollywood Hostages? The DH of Conservatorships 50:54

2M ago50:54

50:54

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! I love Wendy Williams. She’s an icon, she’s a legend, and “she is the moment.” From 2008 to 2021 Wendy hosted over 2,000 episodes of her show, got an Emmy nomination for best host, and honestly gave us some of the best memes and clips of all time. Then, in 2021, Wendy kind of… Vanished. No one really said what was going…

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From Isolation to Inspiration: Building a Retail Tribe - After the Show 11:46

2M ago11:46

11:46

Running a retail business can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to be. In this After the Show segment, we’re talking about the power of community and why surrounding yourself with the right people is key to long-term success. Whether it’s finding local networking groups or connecting with other business owners who *get it*, this episode is packed …

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How Collaboration and Creativity Fueled a One-of-a-Kind Glass Line 41:39

2M ago41:39

41:39

What does it really take to turn a retail job into a thriving, creative business? In this episode, Ash spills the tea on her rise from retail employee to co-founder of a unique glassware brand. From meeting her business partner to navigating the ups and downs of launching a niche product, Ash shares hard-earned lessons on collaboration, creativity,…

1
Sticking the Landing: Josh Carman of Popdarts 26:42

2M ago26:42

26:42

He's created a sensation from his kitchen table. This is one of those wonderful, classic toy biz stories about a great idea that finds its way. With a combination of creativity, ingenuity, social media, and timing, Josh Carman has created a hit with Popdarts and along the way created a great family activity, a challenging game...and a new sport. Li…

1
Building a Team That Has Your Back 42:11

2M ago42:11

42:11

As a business owner, your team can either help you thrive—or hold you back. In this episode of Retail Therapy, retail entrepreneur Katie Dhuey joins Kareen Walsh to dive deep into what it really means to build a team that supports you, the business owner—not just the business. Katie shares what she’s learned managing Affordable Treasures, a success…

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166: The Shocking Sex Scandals Behind This Infamous Dictator 1:07:10

2M ago1:07:10

1:07:10

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! Julius Caesar...military genius, fashion icon, drama queen, and oh yeah—murdered by 60 of his coworkers. We've all heard the name before. Maybe you think of togas, Caesar salads (not from him btw), or that phrase "Beware the Ides of March." Whatever that means. But Caesar’s real story? Lemme tell you... way messier than…

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#266: NY Toy Fair 2025 Exclusive Interview with Sharon Price John 43:38

2M ago43:38

43:38

“There are no tired brands, just tired marketers.” That quote alone has been living rent-free in my head since this interview. It has challenged me to take a look at my own brand and ask, am I doing everything I can to keep it thriving? In this episode, Sharon Price John, President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop and Chairwoman of the Toy Associat…

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Why Boring is the Enemy of Modern Retail - After the Show 15:14

2M ago15:14

15:14

In today’s After the Show segment, we’re getting real about what it takes to thrive in modern retail. Spoiler alert: being dull won’t cut it anymore. From navigating setbacks to elevating your customer experience, this episode breaks down the mindset and strategy shifts you need to build a resilient and future-ready business. If you’re ready to lev…

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H55: The Spark Behind Sustainable Electric-Powered Flight 18:40

2M ago18:40

18:40

H55 is a Swiss company pioneering electric propulsion systems for aircraft, from energy storage to battery management. Founded in 2017, they operate across Switzerland, Canada, and France. With roots in the groundbreaking Solar Impulse project, H55’s technology promises to help to decarbonize air transport. H55’s vision is for a cleaner, quieter, m…

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Marketing with Meaning: Boldness, Awe & Evolving Consumers 43:48

2M ago43:48

43:48

What does it really take to stand out in today’s noisy, ever-changing digital landscape? Mark Schaefer—globally recognized author, keynote speaker, and marketing futurist—joins us to unpack the mindset, strategy, and subtle power moves behind meaningful marketing. In this episode, Mark shares why social media engagement might be overrated, how to p…

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The Club We Never Asked For — But Are Stronger In Together -- EP#08 SE:2025 30:58

2M ago30:58

30:58

Send us a text Episode #08 // Season 2025 In this special episode, Luba shares the story behind Bryght’s Strength and Courage model search — a celebration of resilience, beauty, and the fierce spirit of cancer warriors everywhere. Meet Michelle, the powerhouse woman selected as this year’s model, as she opens up about what the moment meant to her, …

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165: The Psychotic Actor & Assassin Who Killed America’s Favorite President 42:51

3M ago42:51

42:51

Hi friends, happy Wednesday! There are some things from history class that just stick in my brain. Mostly… the murders. I’m sure this isn’t surprising to anyone. Like JFK getting shot in his car. Or… Julius Caesar getting stabbed in the back. And, for some reason I always remembered that Abraham Lincoln was shot in a theater. I always thought, “wow…

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Making It In The Toy Industry Podcasts

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