Carving a Niche in Toy Design

Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, where we welcome Tyler Jefcoat, the founder of Seller Accountant and leader of the Seller Roundtable Mastermind Group. Tyler, with his extensive experience in e-commerce, shares insights on crucial topics like macroeconomic trends, the impact of interest rates on customer behavior, cash flow management, and building lasting customer relationships. Discover Tyler's journey from being an accountant to helping e-commerce businesses thrive. The conversation dives deep into managing cash flow, the significance of balance sheets, accrual versus cash-based accounting, and preparing for business exits. Tyler also offers valuable advice on ensuring higher value product selections and developing strong supplier relationships. This episode is packed with practical tips and strategies for both budding and seasoned e-commerce entrepreneurs. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:50 Tyler's Journey to Becoming Seller Accountant 02:15 E-commerce Trends and Macroeconomic Factors 05:24 Managing Cash Flow in E-commerce 08:14 Profit First and Financial Planning 15:33 Accrual vs. Cash-Based Accounting 18:52 Preparing for an Exit Strategy 27:06 Final Advice and Closing Remarks -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed as we dive into the secrets of the toy industry. In this March 2025 webinar, we'll explore the 'Five Pillars of Digital Marketing' specifically tailored for the toy and game business: content marketing, social media marketing, digital ads, email marketing, and SMS marketing. Learn practical tips, see real-life examples, and understand how to integrate these strategies to boost brand visibility, engage customers, and maximize sales. Jason also shares insights from his journey, challenges faced, and the importance of passion and perseverance in the toy industry. Don't miss the actionable advice on optimizing digital campaigns and measuring success. Tune in for a comprehensive guide on transforming your playtime ideas into profitable businesses. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 01:46 Jason Hsieh's Journey and Background 04:46 Overview of the Five Pillars of Digital Marketing 06:41 Content Marketing Strategies 13:23 Social Media Marketing Insights 19:02 Effective Digital Advertising Techniques 27:41 Maximizing Email Marketing 38:11 The Power of SMS Marketing 40:21 Integrating the Five Pillars for Success 41:24 Conclusion and Next Steps -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed as we welcome Paul, the owner and CEO of Burning Rubber Toy Company. Paul's inspiring journey in the toy industry began at the age of 15 and catapulted with his love for Hot Wheels. He shares how the die-cast market evolved, the importance of listening to your customer base, and his innovative approach to organizing inventory and managing a toy truck. Paul also discusses the role of eBay and Amazon in his business, the challenges of selling online, and his shift towards in-person events post-pandemic. Tune in to hear about Paul’s advice for new entrepreneurs and his passion for making a positive impact through toys. ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 Meet Paul: The Die-Cast Toy Expert 01:39 Paul's Early Journey in the Toy Industry 02:31 The Rise of Hot Wheels and Die-Cast Cars 04:07 Building a Business on eBay 07:23 Managing Massive Inventory 09:14 The Unique Toy Truck 13:09 Challenges with eBay Post-Pandemic 15:44 Challenges with eBay's Changing Policies 16:46 Exploring Alternatives: Amazon and Beyond 17:48 Building an Independent Online Presence 19:09 Excitement with Whatnot and Other Platforms 20:25 Adapting to Changes in the Toy Industry 24:23 Consulting and Improving Toy Manufacturing 27:32 Future Plans and Advice for Newcomers 30:34 Final Thoughts and Podcast Wrap-Up -------------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 sat down with Marty and Brett, the passionate co-founders of GoChuckle. Together, they share their inspiring journey of turning a love for baking competition shows into a successful board game company. The duo dives into the creation of their first game, Hasty Baker, and discuss the importance of playtesting, community engagement, and balancing creativity with business. They also touch upon the challenges of navigating Kickstarter, manufacturing logistics, and the complexities of selling on Amazon. Join us for valuable insights and heartfelt advice for aspiring toy entrepreneurs, all while exploring the joy of bringing families together through interactive games. ⭐ Highlights: 0:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 Meet the Guests: Marty and Brett from GoChuckle 01:30 The Inspiration Behind GoChuckle 02:41 Designing and Developing Hasty Baker 03:49 Game Rules and Mechanics Explained 05:53 Playtesting and Community Engagement 09:02 Challenges in Publishing and Manufacturing 10:18 Kickstarter Experience and Lessons Learned 15:48 Navigating Amazon and Retail 21:10 Future Plans and Advice for Aspiring Game Designers 26:06 Conclusion and Where to Find GoChuckle -------------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 chats with Kyle Mundy, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in product development, marketing, and e-commerce. Kyle shares his journey in the toy industry, from his early days at Intex to his experiences at companies like Pacific Cycle and Banzai. The discussion digs deep into the challenges of managing seasonal products, especially with the shift towards e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Kyle provides valuable insights into forecasting, inventory management, and the impact of online marketplaces. He also shares his thoughts on the evolving consumer behavior in the e-commerce landscape and the strategic decisions brands must make to thrive. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the dynamic world of seasonal toy products and essential advice for those entering the industry. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 Meet Kyle: A Toy Industry Veteran 01:24 Kyle's Journey in the Toy Industry 02:21 Challenges of Managing Seasonal Products 06:44 Impact of E-commerce on the Toy Industry 10:58 Navigating Amazon's Marketplace 22:10 Vendor Central vs. Seller Central 25:49 Final Thoughts and Advice for Toy Entrepreneur -------------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, join us as we unveil the secrets behind the 'Toy Launch Formula,' designed to help both new and existing toy brands thrive on Amazon. Throughout this February 2025 masterclass, we cover essential strategies such as inventory management, listing optimization, and impactful marketing. Learn from real-life case studies and get actionable tips on advertising, collecting reviews, and ensuring compliance with Amazon's guidelines. Whether you're launching a new toy or seeking to boost your existing product's performance, this episode is packed with invaluable advice to help you scale your brand on Amazon. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 February 2025 Masterclass Overview 01:16 Webinar Goals and Agenda 02:22 Jason Hsieh's Journey into the Toy Industry 04:25 Principles of Toys and Games Marketing 07:53 Amazon Product Launch Phases 10:31 Legal and Compliance for Toys and Games 13:30 Market and Competitor Analysis 17:03 Creating an Optimized Amazon Listing 27:06 Initial Review Strategy for Amazon 28:36 Understanding Profit Margins and Pricing 30:30 Advertising Strategies on Amazon 33:01 External Traffic and Promotional Plans 34:05 Inventory Management and Logistics 34:46 Q&A and Free Brand Audit Offer 35:41 Conclusion and Next Steps -------------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 Lauren, a freelance toy and game designer and founder of Wise Water Studio. Lauren shares her inspiring journey from aspiring architect to successful entrepreneur, working with top brands like Pokemon, Hatchimals, and Bluey. We dive into the importance of networking and community involvement in the toy industry, and Lauren offers valuable insights into balancing creative work with business management as a freelancer. From her educational background at Otis College of Art and Design to her experiences navigating the pandemic, Lauren's story is full of lessons for anyone looking to carve their own path in the industry. We also discuss her participation in events and organizations like Women in Toys, her strategies for client engagement, and her advice for newcomers. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with actionable tips and industry wisdom! ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:43 Meet Lauren: A Journey from Architecture to Toy Design 01:38 Discovering the Toy Design Program 06:58 Transitioning to Freelance Work 11:08 Challenges and Rewards of Freelancing 16:35 Networking and Community Involvement 20:54 Advice for Aspiring Toy Designers 27:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -------------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 dive into the fascinating world of tabletop board games with JT Smith, the mastermind behind Game Crafter and Component Studio. We discuss JT's journey from crafting board games at home to creating an innovative print-on-demand platform that helps aspiring game designers bring their ideas to life. JT shares insights on the importance of personal branding, marketing strategies, and the pros and cons of self-publishing versus working with a publisher. He also offers valuable advice on community involvement, lifelong learning, and navigating the challenges of the game design industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with the 'Willy Wonka of the tabletop game industry' and learn how to turn your game design dreams into reality. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:43 Meet JT Smith: Innovator in Tabletop Board Games 01:14 The Game Crafter: From Hobby Project to Success 02:55 How to Use The Game Crafter Platform 05:43 The Importance of Personal Branding for Game Designers 07:52 Common Pitfalls in Game Design and Marketing 11:53 Self-Publishing vs. Working with a Publisher 21:24 Success Stories and Trends in the Hobby Game Industry 28:01 Final Advice and Where to Find Us -------------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 Unbox, we welcomed a seasoned brand strategy expert from Liithos, an IP company at the forefront of the gaming world. Together, we delve into Liithos' innovative approach including the creation of the satirical character RantCPU by founder Michael Mumbauer. We explore Liithos' unique cross-industry collaborations, impressive background in licensing, and their multi-faceted strategy to introduce RantCPU through trading cards, comics, and video games. Tune in to discover insights on overcoming challenges with new IPs, exciting product concepts, and the bright future of RantCPU in the toy and collectible space. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:43 Meet the Expert: Jason Hsieh 01:44 Introducing Liithos and RantCPU 02:10 RantCPU: The Satirical AI 04:29 Collaborations and Product Launches 05:34 The Trading Card Industry Insight 06:27 Expanding RantCPU's Universe 11:09 Challenges and Strategies in Licensing 25:53 Future Prospects and Exciting Ventures 26:59 Conclusion and Farewell -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy

Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed, as we welcome Carol, the senior customer relations manager at Mom's Choice Award. Carol brings decades of experience in business development and over five years of expertise in the toy industry. This episode dives into the significance of incorporating awards like the Mom's Choice Award into your marketing strategy and how it benefits toy brands. Carol explains the selection and evaluation process for awarding toys, and how winning brands can leverage their awards through public relations, social media, and continuous engagement. Learn how to select the right products for submission, the role of comprehensive packaging, and staying updated with marketing trends. Carol also shares insights on working with influencers and avoiding common mistakes, ensuring you maximize the benefits of an award to boost your toy business's credibility and visibility. Don't miss tips for newcomers in the toy industry and the importance of knowing your audience. ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:47 Meet Carol from Mom's Choice Awards 02:14 The Importance of Awards in Toy Marketing 03:13 The Evaluation Process at Mom's Choice Awards 05:12 Leveraging Awards for Continued Success 11:14 Social Media Strategies for Toy Companies 17:30 Common Mistakes and Best Practices 22:53 Final Thoughts and Advice for Newcomers 25:08 Conclusion and Farewell -------------This episode is brought to you by www.toy-launch.comBook a call to discuss your toy business marketing strategy