Tariff-Proof Business: Strategies & Solutions

In our episode of Toy Business Unboxed, we explores the profound impact of toy donations with Alyssa from Operation Christmas Child. Alyssa delves into the origins and mission of the project, which has delivered over 220 million shoeboxes filled with toys and essentials to children in need across 170 countries over the past 30 years. She highlights incredible stories of how these simple gifts can change lives, from an orphan in Russia finding a family to a child surviving genocide receiving hope and joy through a shoebox. The episode also discusses the logistics behind collecting and distributing 12 million shoeboxes annually and how companies can contribute surplus inventory to this heartwarming cause. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children worldwide. -------------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 our host Jason Hsieh, a toy entrepreneur since 2016, dives into the intricacies of Amazon advertising for toy and game brands. He covers the structure of Amazon advertising campaigns, keyword targeting, avoiding common mistakes, and case studies of successful brands. Jason emphasizes the importance of conversion and profit optimization, ongoing adjustments, and creative strategies to boost your brand's visibility and profitability. With practical tips on keyword research, competitor analysis, and ad types, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to scale their toy business on Amazon. -------------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 dive deep with Ryan, the creative force behind the family-friendly card game 'What's the Point?' Ryan shares his inspiring journey, from the game's inception during his college years, influenced by a hospital stay battling Crohn's disease, to achieving the milestone of selling 17,000 copies. Discover the challenges of self-funding, the unique artistic process inspired by budget constraints, and how essential feedback and tenacity turned his passion project into a commercial success. Learn about Ryan's play-testing adventures, his unexpected success on Amazon, and invaluable advice for aspiring toy and game creators. Don't miss this engaging conversation on creativity, determination, and bringing joy through games. -------------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, as we delves into the toy industry with guest experts Ethan and Mark from Marky Sparky. Discover how Mark began his company almost 30 years ago with the iconic California Chariot and how it evolved into the renowned Marky Sparky brand. Ethan discusses growing up under his dad's legacy and eventually taking a leading role in the company, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode covers the intricacies of toy design, overcoming challenges like competition and maintaining enthusiasm for innovation. You'll also hear about the complexities of selling on Amazon and their strategies for staying competitive. They emphasize the importance of creating products they are genuinely excited about and offers practical advice for budding toy entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of building trustworthy partnerships and being financially prudent. ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:45 Meet Ethan and Mark of Marky Sparky 01:17 The Origins of Marky Sparky 03:37 Ethan's Journey in the Family Business 05:14 Challenges of Growing Up in a Family Business 06:37 Ethan's Role and Contributions 10:50 The Competitive Toy Industry Landscape 13:59 Amazon's Impact on the Toy Business 19:13 Challenges of Selling on Amazon 20:20 Addressing Misconceptions About Chinese Factories 21:36 Innovative Toy Design Strategies 23:56 The Importance of Excitement in Product Development 24:01 Flipping Rings: A Case Study 28:06 Advice for Aspiring Toy Designers 33:22 Final Thoughts 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

Join us in this episode of Toy Business Unboxed as we talks with Barnes, an entrepreneur and parent who created the HandMoto Dry Erase Learning Board. Faced with his own struggles with dry eye disease and his son's addiction to screen time, Barnes developed an innovative product designed to re-engage children in creative, educational, and screen-free play. Discover the journey behind HandMoto, learn about its design and benefits, and hear about the challenges and rewards of bringing such a unique product to market. Tune in for valuable insights into combating screen addiction and fostering family-centered learning. ⭐ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 Meet Barnes: The Creator of HandMoto 01:13 Barnes' Personal Journey and Inspiration 02:43 Introducing the HandMoto Dry Erase Learning Board 03:34 Product Features and Benefits 05:12 Positive Feedback and Real-Life Stories 10:00 Addressing Screen Addiction and Its Risks 12:08 Marketing Challenges and Strategies 16:57 Future Plans and Advice for Entrepreneurs 20:16 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 our episode of Toy Business Unboxed, our host Jason Hsieh, a seasoned toy entrepreneur, shares insights on the toy industry, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance. Jason discusses the current issue of tariffs affecting toy manufacturing, particularly for those whose production is based in China. He offers strategies to mitigate these impacts, such as utilizing Amazon Global Logistics and Warehouse Distribution services to cut costs, considering new manufacturing regions, and re-negotiating freight and payment terms with suppliers. Additionally, he highlights the benefits of potential packaging adjustments and simplifying product designs to maintain profitability. The episode touches on the importance of conducting a tariff impact assessment and offers free consultations to help toy businesses navigate these challenges. ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:42 Challenges in the Toy Industry: Tariffs and Manufacturing 01:24 Strategies to Tariff-Proof Your Toy Business 03:28 Jason Hsieh's Background and Business Ventures 07:22 Amazon Programs for Cost Reduction 16:12 Diversifying Manufacturing and Packaging Optimization 21:25 Negotiating Better Terms with Manufacturers 30:47 Tariff Impact Assessment and Profitability Audit 34:02 Q&A Session and Closing Remarks -------------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 dive into the world of crowdfunding within the toys and game space with Victor, co-founder of LaunchBoom. Discover how Victor and his team have raised over $150 million in crowdfunding and developed a systematic approach to ensure the success of campaigns on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. Victor shares his journey from starting a digital marketing agency to becoming a powerhouse in crowdfunding, and how his unique method of pre-launch testing and paid ads can predict campaign success. Learn valuable insights on transitioning post-campaign into Amazon and other sales channels, and what key steps every entrepreneur should take to avoid common pitfalls. Don't miss Victor's advice on laying a solid groundwork before launching your crowdfunding campaign to increase your chances of making a significant impact. ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:45 Crowdfunding in the Toy Industry with Victor from LaunchBoom 01:36 Victor's Journey into Crowdfunding 03:15 The Evolution of LaunchBoom 08:27 Why Crowdfunding? 12:18 Pre-Launch Strategies for Crowdfunding Success 16:21 Predicting Campaign Success 27:02 Post-Crowdfunding Strategies 30:14 Final Advice and Resources -------------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 dive into an inspiring conversation with Valerie and Cortney from Large As Life. They share how their journeys inspired them to create life-size animal puzzles aimed at bringing families together. Learn how a quest for a perfect Yellowstone souvenir led to an innovative line of educational puzzles that encourage multi-generational bonding through trivia and unique design features. Discover the challenges they faced in launching their company, their intentional focus on sustainability, and their inclusive design approach that appeals to all ages. Lastly, get insights into what makes their brand stand out in the competitive toy market and their exciting future plans. Don’t miss their valuable advice for aspiring toy entrepreneurs! ⭐Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Toy Business Unboxed 00:46 Meet Valerie and Cortney from Large As Life 01:15 The Genesis of Large As Life 02:36 Current Product Line and Future Plans 03:16 Educational and Interactive Puzzle Design 13:32 Challenges and Marketing Strategies 21:12 Advice for Aspiring Toy Entrepreneurs 23:24 Conclusion and Contact Information -------------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, 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