#98: The Hidden Challenges of Importing Light-Up Toys

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