Toy Business Unboxed

Most parents struggle to find sensory toys that are safe, engaging, and truly helpful for their child's development especially with the limited options in markets like India. Khushboo Saraf reveals how her personal journey from corporate engineer to founder of Lattooland transformed a simple need into a mission-driven business that’s impacting thousands across the US and India. In this episode, Khushboo shares her inspiring story of identifying a critical market gap: safe, non-electronic, open-ended sensory toys that help children regulate emotions and stimulate brain development. You’ll discover how her background in tech and motherhood converged to create unique, taste-safe products designed for continuous engagement proving that sensory play can be a mainstream, essential part of childhood. We break down her approach to building a team remotely, managing supply chain challenges amid tariffs, and maintaining a brand committed to safety and inclusivity. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Most board games kill their potential before they even leave the prototype stage. Alex, founder of Librarium Games, reveals the behind-the-scenes journey from a handmade prototype inspired by folklore to a thriving publishing company. His story uncovers how strategic scaling, innovative manufacturing solutions, and testing in unexpected venues like Renaissance Fairs transformed a small idea into a business that has captured dedicated communities and even surprised industry giants. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode you'll discover how Matt spots trends before they explode from fidget spinners to collectible coins and holiday novelties and how quick experimentation on platforms like AliExpress guides his product decisions without heavy upfront commitments. His approach to testing demand by listing samples first, then scaling if they sell well, keeps risks low and agility high. Plus, you'll learn how he navigates complex regulations like international tariffs and battery safety laws, ensuring compliance without sacrificing speed to market. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode, you'll discover how Colin reimagined the classic brick system with multi-angle joining pieces that excite kids and frustrate Lego lawyers. We break down the secrets behind creating more engaging, versatile builds and how to protect your innovations in a complex global market. Colin shares the crucial lessons learned from nearly bankrupting inventions, patent disputes, and costly legal battles — insights every startup must hear to avoid the same pitfalls. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode, you'll discover how Molly transformed her passion into a thriving business with a small yet powerful team, and why she emphasizes relationship-building over traditional marketing tactics. She shares firsthand insights on how visiting hundreds of stores, demoing games with speed and sincerity, and cultivating real friendships with retailers create unstoppable sales momentum. Plus, learn why quirky, niche themes like Jewish culture or bizarre resource cards can carve out loyal audiences in a saturated market. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us as we explore the journey of George Nebesnik, who transformed his passion for game design into a thriving business. Discover the challenges and triumphs of indie publishing, from refining his game Hastilude through years of playtesting to navigating the complexities of marketing and capital. Perfect for aspiring game designers and entrepreneurs, this episode offers insights into turning creative dreams into reality. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us as Dina Ramse, a crowdfunding expert, shares her insights on navigating the indie game crowdfunding landscape. Discover the secrets to building trust, engaging communities, and choosing the right platform for your campaign. Learn from common pitfalls and explore emerging trends to ensure your crowdfunding success. Perfect for creators ready to turn their passion into profit. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode we interview the three co-founders of Pektis, an innovative board game studio founded in 2020, as they share how their backgrounds in architecture, visual communication/design, and education shape their approach to board game creation. They explain how the trio came together through work and a shared passion for playing and designing games, then discuss their three pillars for a successful board game: game design and visual communication, community/marketing, and publishing logistics including legal, production, and distribution.  The conversation compares self-publishing versus licensing, noting their initial choice to self-publish via crowdfunding to learn the full process and retain creative control, while acknowledging licensing challenges for newcomers and the tradeoffs of publisher demands. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode, we welcome Scott Jochim, an industry veteran known as Mr. Squishy, to discuss his journey within the toy and game industry. Scott talks about his early work in virtual and augmented reality, and how it influenced his transition to toys. He emphasizes the evolution from digital to physical play patterns and his success with the Squishland brand, including its unique approach to the vending machine market. Scott also shares his collaboration with Gary Vee on the Vee Friends toy line, highlighting the melding of physical and digital worlds. He offers insights into marketing strategies, handling industry challenges, and gives advice to new entrepreneurs in the toy industry. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode we welcome Calli, a pediatric occupational therapist and consultant specializing in integrating OT principles into toy design. We delves into Calli's journey from camp counselor to OT, and how her expertise benefits child development through play. The discussion includes the importance of simplicity in toys, creating sensory-friendly toys, and balancing fun with therapeutic benefits. Calli shares insights on adapting toys for motor and sensory development and offers valuable tips for toy companies. The episode highlights the significance of OT-driven design in creating inclusive and supportive toys for all children. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Welcome to Toy Business Unboxed, your go-to source for insights into the toy industry. We share strategies, inspirations, and key mistakes to avoid for a successful Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Learn how to optimize your digital marketing efforts from creating compelling offers, optimizing your website for speed, and leveraging social proof to boost holiday season sales. Our host Jason Hsieh, emphasizes the importance of early planning, knowing your audience, and maintaining momentum even after the holiday season. Stay tuned for actionable tips and real-life examples designed to help you finish Q4 strong and maximize your toy business's potential. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we delve into the fascinating journey of creating the hit dice game, Tenzi, with its inventors Kevin and Steve. From their initial serendipitous meeting to conquering the toy market, Kevin and Steve share invaluable insights about game development, including the critical moments that shaped their success. Discover the importance of passion, the benefits of partnering up, and how unconventional strategies like in-store sampling and engaging booth tactics at trade shows propelled their game to stardom. Plus, gain expert tips on navigating retail versus digital marketing within the toy industry. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we sit down with Loren, the founder and CEO of Catalyst Game Labs. With a strong presence in the hobby game industry, Loren shares his fascinating journey from being a Navy veteran and novelist to managing iconic game properties like BattleTech and Shadowrun. He delves into how his love for storytelling keeps these classic games relevant, the challenges and strategies behind launching successful Kickstarter campaigns, and his unique perspective as both a publisher and retailer. From the intricacies of licensing to tips for newcomers in the toy and game industry, there's a wealth of insights packed into this engaging conversation. Tune in to learn how passion and persistence can lead to incredible success in the world of toys and games. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this webinar, we dive deep into holiday prep, specifically for Q4, the most competitive quarter of the year. While our focus is the toys and games industry, these digital marketing strategies are applicable to any category. We're here to equip you with a clear roadmap, practical strategies, and actionable steps to ensure a successful Q4. From multi-channel marketing on and off Amazon to social media ads, emails, and logistics prep, we cover it all. We also share insights from the toys and games industry, including the seasonal spikes in sales and consumer behaviors. Our journey began in 2013 motivated by personal reasons and has grown to managing 35 brands. Conversion optimization, profit optimization, and ongoing adjustments are key to our strategy. Discover why early planning is crucial, and gain insights into Amazon’s seasonal keywords, social media, email, and SMS marketing campaigns tailored for the holiday season. We discuss leveraging influencers and PR outreaches, optimizing inventory and logistics, and creating engaging holiday campaigns. Finally, get a sneak peek into our specific Q4 strategy and advertisements on Amazon, and learn how to manage influencers effectively. Our ultimate goal is to help you maximize your holiday success and build brand loyalty beyond Q4. Enjoy the session and prepare to thrive this holiday season! -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode of Toy Business Unbox, we are joined by Neil, the founder of NRP Games and a visionary board game designer. Neil shares his journey from storytelling to game design, detailing how personal experiences and strategic insights shaped his creations. He reflects on the pivotal moment when simplifying his game design led to broader appeal and discusses his unique approach to self-publishing. Neil offers a behind-the-scenes look at organizing board game tournaments, from building a loyal community to handling the complexities of gameplay and scoring. He shares valuable tips for aspiring game designers and provides a candid look at the challenges and rewards of being a solo publisher. Join us to learn more about Neil’s innovative strategies and get inspired to bring your own game ideas to life. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we delve into the incredible journey of Paola, the founder of Dr. Zigs. Paola shares how her passion for bubbles, inspired by her son Ziggy, led her to create a sustainable toy company. From a small kitchen experiment to a global brand, Dr. Zigs is now recognized for its eco-friendly, innovative bubbles. Paola discusses the importance of sustainability in the toy industry, the unique plant-based and biodegradable formula of her bubble mix, and how her products even aid in pollination. We also explore her impactful initiative 'Bubbles Not Bombs,' which brings joy to children in crisis zones. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the power of play, creativity, and responsibility towards our planet. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we welcome Steve and Tessa, the creators of Taji Toys. Their unique 3D toy, inspired by the yin and yang symbol, encourages free play, creativity, and skill development for kids and adults alike. Steve shares the long journey from a sketch in his college notebook to a vibrant, multicolored collection now produced in Texas. Learn how Taji Toys promote social and physical growth through open play and the innovative marketing strategies being used to introduce this novel product to the world. Don't miss out on insights about the importance of balance, determination, and passion in the toy industry. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us as we explore how toys and music can harmonize to create a brighter educational future! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating fusion of toys and musical education with Michael John Wiley, a world-renowned composer, musician, and educator. Michael shares his inspiring journey from an engineering background to creating the 'Musical Color' system—a unique method that uses color to teach music and inspire creativity. We explore how this innovative system helps everyone from children to special needs learners grasp music theory in a fun, engaging way. We also discuss his vision for revolutionizing music education and hear about his experiences teaching in China. Whether you’re a toy enthusiast, educator, or a music lover, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

In our episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we interviews Andres, the innovative creator of HexPath, a board game that's redefining creativity and gameplay. Andres shares his journey from a passion for technical drafting and civil engineering to the invention of HexPath. Inspired initially by patterns observed in tiles and later by his pet ferret Ted, Andres transformed his early experiments into an award-winning game. The discussion delves into his challenges in bringing the game to life, including difficulties with fabrication and the evolution from wooden tiles to plastic 3D-printed parts. Andres emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in the toy industry. Listeners will also learn about HexPath's unique features, such as rotating tiles, and the game’s success in achieving MESH accreditation for promoting mental, emotional, and social health. The podcast concludes with Andres’s advice for aspiring toy and game creators, highlighting the necessity of continuous innovation and resilience. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us in our episode of Toy Business Unboxed, where we delves into the toy industry with Adam, the visionary behind Adam's Apple Games. Discover the journey from hobbyist to game designer and publisher, as Adam shares insights on creativity, crowdfunding challenges, and balancing gameplay. Learn about his inspirations, the creation of Bruin USA, and the shift from digital apps to tabletop games. Explore the nuances of marketing, Amazon strategies, localization, and the crucial role of play testing in creating balanced, engaging games. Whether you're a budding game designer or a toy enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable tips and inspiring stories. -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy