Shows
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#299: How Swift Clicks Heishi Bracelet Maker Became A Creative Toy Of The Year Finalist with Gena LavalleeBefore Swift Clicks ever hit the shelves, the team at Make It Real was staring down the brutal math of the craft aisle: rising costs, shrinking margins, and kids who expect faster, cooler results than ever. So how did her team turn that pressure into a Creative Toy of the Year finalist bracelet maker that Swifties can’t stop talking about?In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I sit down with Gena Lavallee, VP of Global Brands at Make It Real, to reveal the story behind Swift Clicks, the Make It Real Heishi Br...
2025-12-3133 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#294: Why the TOTY Awards Are the Oscars of the Toy IndustryYou’ve heard of the Emmys, the Oscars, and the Grammys... but what about the TOTYs?In this episode, we’re going to dive into the TOTY (Toy of the Year) Awards and why they’re a huge deal if you're in the toy industry. I’m breaking down exactly how to get nominated, how to time your launch for max award potential, and how a TOTY nod can boost your sales, get you press, and even give your SEO a serious lift.You'll also hear about the glamorous TOTY Gala held during New York Toy Fair...
2025-11-2010 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#276: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Joanna of Fren ForestIf you've ever wished you could sit in on a real coaching call inside Toy Creators Academy, today’s your lucky day. This episode is part of a special behind-the-scenes series where I bring you inside the TCA Accelerator for a one-on-one strategy session with Joanna, the creator of Fren Forest.Joanna is a sculptural artist with a love for cozy characters, whimsical storytelling, and dreamy desk décor. She went from quietly crafting mini clay creatures in her studio to fully funding a collectible toy on Kickstarter and this episode walks you through exactly how she mad...
2025-07-0943 min
The Playful Den Podcast24. HOW TOYS GET MADE WITH AZHELLE WADEThis episode is all about toys! What's the latest in the toy industry? Are today's toys increasing imagination or fuelling more and more mindless consumerism? Emma dives into these questions and more with Azhelle Wade aka the Toy Coach, a toy industry veteran who now helps inventors take their new ideas to market. This episode is sponsored by Whirli toys the UK's revolutionary toy swap service that challenges the way we purchase toys and sustainable consumerism. Azhelle Wade Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thetoycoach/?hl=en This is a public episode. If you would...
2025-01-101h 08
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#253: 4 Key Lessons to Launch and Scale Your Toy Business While Juggling a 9-to-5Building your dream toy business while working a 9-to-5 might be overwhelming, but with the right mindset and a dash of creativity, you can take small, actionable steps to turn your big ideas into reality! It’s all about getting scrappy, seeking unfiltered feedback, and spotting opportunities to stand out from the crowd.In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade shares the four key lessons inspired by her previous interview with Ron Weizman, the co-founder of South Beach Bubbles, that will help you launch and scale your toy business—even if you’...
2025-01-0826 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#251: Write Click-Worthy Email Subject Lines For Your Next Toy Pitch: ExtendedStruggling to get your toy pitch noticed? 🚀In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade reveals the secrets to crafting email subject lines that grab attention and boost your chances of success. Learn the powerful 'Four U’s' formula—Urgent, Useful, Unique, Ultra-Specific—and discover proven tips to make your emails stand out in crowded inboxes.From real-life examples of high-converting subject lines to bonus tips on emojis and formatting, this episode is packed with actionable advice to level up your email game. Tune in and learn how to write toy pitch...
2024-12-2532 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#250: The Art Of Toy Photography with Mitchel Wu: ExtendedEver wondered how toys come to life through photography? 🎨✨Mitchel Wu, an acclaimed toy photographer known for his brilliant use of motion and emotion in toy imagery, joins Azhelle Wade in this episode to unravel the magic behind his spectacular work with major clients like Marvel, Disney, and Hasbro. Learn how he transitioned from a mundane consumer products career to mastering the niche of toy photography, and get insights on making your own products come alive through powerful visuals. Tune in to hear Mitchel’s tips on creating engaging toy stories, using practical effects, and carving...
2024-12-1847 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#249: 7 Tips To Improve Your Virtual Toy Pitch: ExtendedReady to turn your toy ideas into marketable products but feeling lost in the world of virtual pitching? 🚀 Don’t worry, this episode is definitely for you! In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade drops all the tips you need to nail your next virtual toy pitch.Discover why energy is your secret weapon, how to create an unforgettable sizzle video, and why personalizing your pitch can set you apart. Plus, we’ll discuss common mistakes to avoid, from outdated visuals to poor storytelling, and show you how to create a polishe...
2024-12-1146 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#248: Breaking Through Barriers in Children’s Book Publishing with Charles George Esperanza: Extended CutEver wonder how a kid from the South Bronx grew up to be a superstar children's book author and illustrator? 🚀In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, join host Azhelle Wade as she chats with Charles George Esperanza, the creative mind behind Boogie Boogie Y’all! 🎨📚 From dreaming of drawing comics to becoming a HarperCollins author, Charles shares his journey full of ups, downs, and plenty of surprises.He shares how he turned "no" into motivation, why his vibrant oil-painted illustrations are changing how we see graffiti, and his creative tricks for making big...
2024-12-0452 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#247: How to Fix What’s Not Working in Your Toy Business with Tyler TurkHow do you pivot your toy business when your current model isn’t working?In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade chats with Tyler Turk, founder of Crated with Love, about his journey from subscription box entrepreneur to retail board game powerhouse. When Tyler’s subscription box business skyrocketed during the pandemic, it seemed like a dream come true—until the workload became unsustainable. That’s when he made a bold decision to pivot to selling one-off products, a shift that transformed his business into a retail success story.Tyler shares h...
2024-11-2737 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#246: How AI is Making Toy Innovation and Pitching Easier Than Ever Before with Azhelle WadeAre you skeptical about integrating AI into your toy business?In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade, also known as The Toy Coach, shares her AI expertise from this year's People of Play Innovation Conference and ChiTAG - Toy and Game Fair in Chicago, where she presented her talk on 'How AI is Making Toy Innovation and Pitching Easier Than Ever Before.' You’ll see firsthand how AI can significantly 10x your toy development process with a custom GPT solution. Azhelle talked about identifying bottlenecks, researching AI tools, and...
2024-11-2037 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#245: Crazy Aaron’s Secret Formula for Perfect Putty with Aaron MuderickHave you ever wondered how a simple office toy evolved into a toy phenomenon? In this episode of 'Making It In The Toy Industry', host Azhelle Wade sits down with Aaron Muderick, the creative mind behind Crazy Aaron's Thinking Putty. From a child's love for tinkering to creating a renowned brand, Aaron's journey is a testament to innovation, persistence, and passion. He discusses the importance of staying connected to your audience, maintaining product quality, and the critical lessons learned in balancing growth and focus. Learn about the unique steps of toy design, the challenges of in...
2024-11-1348 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#244: Choosing The Right Crowdfunding Platform For Your Launch with Lisa FerlandHave you ever wondered what it takes to successfully launch on a crowdfunding platform? Many creators go to the world of crowdfunding believing it's simply about having a great idea and posting it online. However, there's far more strategy involved than we realize. The process requires meticulous planning, audience engagement, and a strong narrative to capture backers' hearts and minds.In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade talks with Lisa Ferland, a seasoned crowdfund consultant who has helped raise over $1 million for creators on platforms such as Kickstarter, BackerKit, a...
2024-11-0641 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#242: How Wow Moments Became The Foundation Of This Toy Business with Richard NorthWant to know how to ‘wow’ your way into the competitive toy industry? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade looks into Richard North's life, sharing how he went from a determined 19-year-old to a multi-award-winning entrepreneur and the founder of Wow! Stuff. You will learn about his career’s turning points, such as being featured in Channel 4's Secret Millionaire TV Show, including the emotional inspirations behind the creation of Wow! Stuff and groundbreaking ideas that keep the company pushing forward.Find out the importance of mentorship, early busine...
2024-10-2356 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#241: What This Bold Merger Means for the People of Play Innovation Conference with Greg Ahearn and Mary CouzinCurious about what happens when major toy industry players team up?In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade cracks open the toy box on the epic merger between The Toy Association and People of Play. You’ll hear straight from the toy legends — Mary Couzin and Greg Ahearn—as they give us backstage passes on their big plans for events like POP Week and ChiTAG, and how this merger is shaking things up for the toy industry. The guests shared what sparked this merger and the opportunities that await toy creators, invent...
2024-10-1639 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#240: Getting Media Attention For Your Plush Brand with Hugimals Founder Marina KhidekelEver wondered how a toy brand can also serve as a wellness tool? In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade interviews Marina Khidekel, the founder of Hugimals World. Discover how Marina transitioned from a successful health journalist to a toy entrepreneur on a mission to address anxiety and stress with weighted plush toys. Marina shares personal life experiences that inspired the creation of Hugimals, which has been featured in prominent media outlets such as, Time Magazine, Parents Magazine, Good Housekeeping’s Best Toys, and the Today Show’s It List. During this chat you’ll lea...
2024-10-0953 min
The Profitable Play Podcast307: Are Your Retail Items And Vendors Compliant With Safety Standards? Find Out Now With The Toy Coach Azhelle Wade.In this episode of the Profitable Play Podcast, we dive into the crucial steps every indoor playground owner must take to ensure a safe and profitable holiday season. With the gifting season fast approaching, it’s essential to not only curate an appealing retail inventory but also to vet your vendors thoroughly. Your reputation is on the line, and selling unsafe or non-compliant products can have serious consequences.We welcome back a fan-favorite guest, Azhelle Wade, AKA The Toy Coach, to guide you through th...
2024-10-0746 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#238: Starting and Growing An Online Business with Amy Porterfield: Extended CutWant to learn secrets to growing your toy brand online? In episode 238 of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade revisits an extended interview with her mentor, Amy Porterfield, a multi-million dollar online business owner and expert in email marketing. During the podcast, Amy shares her journey from corporate life to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of list building and personal storytelling in email marketing. Azhelle and Amy discuss the evolution of Amy's business, the significance of clear partnership expectations, and tips for creating effective lead magnets for building email lists. The conversation offers valuable insights...
2024-09-2541 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#237: Crowdfunding Your Idea Just Got Easier with BackerKitEver wondered how to turn your toy idea into a fully-funded product without breaking the bank? In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade sits down with two crowdfunding experts from BackerKit, Lafia and Maddie, to spill all the secrets behind running a successful crowdfunding campaign.They dive into how BackerKit helps creators manage backers, collect pledges, and fulfill rewards (without losing their minds in spreadsheets). You’ll also hear about "Topias"—group launches where multiple creators team up to support each other’s campaigns—and how to build an audie...
2024-09-1934 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#236: The Toy Coach and The Toy Queen Discuss The Best Toys For Early Childhood DevelopmentWhat Can a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Teach Us About Toys?In Episode 236 of "Making It in the Toy Industry," host Azhelle Wade chats with pediatric occupational therapist, Keri Wilmot, who has a treasure trove of insights from her nearly 25 years in the field.Keri uses toys to help children improve fine motor skills, coordination, and overall performance in self-care tasks. Her work with kids facing ADHD, autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy is testament to the transformative power of play. Want to help your child master the art of tying shoelaces? Kerri’s go...
2024-09-1134 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#235: How to Use Consent-Based Email Marketing To Sell More ToysIs Your Email Marketing Consent-Compliant, or Are You Just Spamming? In digital marketing circles, consent in email marketing has never been a hotter topic. Before the toy industry gets left in the dust on what constitutes as "consent" in email marketing, you NEED this episode.Today on Making It in the Toy Industry, The Toy Coach shares a conversation with email marketer Tarzan Kay to break down why getting clear, informed, and revocable consent is more important than ever. With the rise of regulations in email marketing it's essential to ensure that your email list is not...
2024-09-0439 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#229: How Brand Experiences Can Increase Your Sales and Brand LoyaltyBranded Giveaways Are Dead! 😵 It's time to ditch the tired swag bags and discover the magic of themed experiences that truly connect with your audience. In this episode, our toy industry insiders reveal how to skyrocket your brand loyalty and sales through unforgettable brand experiences.Branded giveaways at trade shows are passé. Instead, themed giveaways tailored to your brand’s identity or your consumer’s persona create a more lasting impression. In this week’s podcast, The Toy Coach explores why this shift is crucial and how you can transform your approach.Diving into the specifics...
2024-07-2433 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#225: The Secrets of A Successful Toy Licensing Deal with Lee AllentuckIs Your Pitch Ready For The Toy Industry? Pitching your innovative toy idea to industry giants can be as daunting as a job interview. In this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," hosts Azhelle Wade and Lee Allentuck demystify the art and science of pitching, with insider tips that will revolutionize your approach to securing those golden licensing deals. Whether you're a seasoned inventor or a newbie in the toy world, there's a nugget of wisdom here for everyone.What are the secrets to a successful toy pitch?Episode 225 zeroes in on the nuanced...
2024-06-1946 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#224: This ONE Media Event Could Make Your Toy Brand Go Viral 📈Toy trade shows are NOT the only way to get your brand noticed. Your toy brand could go viral after attending a toy industry media event. In this episode of "Making It in the Toy Industry," Azhelle Wade shares the juicy details behind influencer events and media showcases like Sweet Suite and Holiday of Play. These industry gatherings are hidden gems for toy and game creators looking to snag media attention and make lasting impressions without the hustle and bustle of traditional trade shows. Already planning to attend Sweet Suite? Hit play on this episode to learn how to...
2024-06-1221 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#223: Unlock Your Game Design Potential with April MitchellHave you EVER had an idea for a game? This episode is for you. 🫵 Well, don't miss this Part 2 continuation from episode 221, an interview with April Mitchell! April, a licensed game inventor and co-creator of the Tabletop Game Design Masterclass shares her journey from toy industry newbie to a game design expert. Get ready to giggle along as April shares the story of finding her pitch theme song and why she plays that song before every pitch to this day.April dives into the game design process, emphasizing the importance of having a minimum viable pla...
2024-06-0545 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#221: Should You Partner With Another Toy or Game Inventor?Are you thinking about teaming up with a partner for your toy or game invention? But what if it isn’t the right move for you? Tune into this episode of "Making it in the Toy Industry," where Azhelle Wade chats with April Mitchell about the ins and outs of partnering up in the world of invention. April is a licensed inventor and the co-creator of the Tabletop Game Design Masterclass. In this episode, she shares key considerations you should keep in mind when choosing a partner for your next big idea.April Mitchell, an experienced inventor an...
2024-05-2241 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#216: The Hidden Challenges and Opportunities in Toy Licensing with Anita CastellarEver wondered why brands like Barbie have products in unexpected categories? Or, why licensed products often come with a premium price tag? Well, you might just be intrigued by the lesser-known complications and exhilarating opportunities that lie within the licensing labyrinth. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade interviews Anita Castellar to unveil the complex dance of toy licensing, where every step—from initial outreach to the final signature—matters immensely. More often than not, it's not just about the big names or flashy trademarks, but also about sustainable strategies and the ever-evolving consu...
2024-04-1759 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#213: From Empath to Entrepreneur with Jana Hallam of Wonderwell Toy CompanyKids today are facing a kindness crisis. From the playground to the classroom, loneliness and bullying run rampant. But there's hope on the horizon, thanks to one toy designer's mission to spark empathy through play. Meet Jana Hallam, TCA alumni and the visionary founder of Wonderwell Toy Co.In this inspiring episode, Jana opens up to guest host Virginia Lette, about her journey from an emotionally attuned child to a kindness crusader for the modern age. You'll discover how a frustrating Christmas tradition kickstarted her quest to create The Kindness Mouse - an engaging plush toy, storybook...
2024-03-2727 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#212: Why Your Toy Package Deserves More Than Matte with Anchor CreativeAre you giving your toy's package the attention and budget it deserves? If your answer isn't an immediate "Heck yes Azhelle, ALWAYS." then it's time to listen to part 2 of of Ivan and Brittany's interview on this podcast.At the top of the episode, Ivan and Brittany share their secret on staying up to date with trends and spotting what's exciting in packaging. They remind us to step out of our comfort zones and to explore everything from boutique shelves to big-box stores to uncover what really makes packaging pop.In the second...
2024-03-2020 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#209: How Women in the Toy Industry Are Building Dreams and Connections with Ehi Oviasu-KahnRight now you might feel like an outsider in the toy industry. But it’s important to remember that we ALL started out that way. The goal of today’s podcast episode is to show you how you can go from zero connections in the world of toys, to thousands! Yep, thousands.To teach that lesson, I’m bringing you part two of my interview with Ehi Oviasu-Kahn, where you’ll hear how she went from the spark of an idea in her kitchen, to becoming a pivotal figure at Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entertainment (WiT). Ehi's na...
2024-02-2818 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#207: The Secrets To Networking in The Toy IndustryAre you struggling to crack the networking code in the toy industry? Tune in to episode #207 of The Toy Coach Podcast: Making It In The Toy Industry as Azhelle Wade, unveils the secrets behind successful networking. Spoiler? It's easier than you think. The host debunks myths surrounding industry connections and shares invaluable tips for building meaningful relationships that drive professional growth.When you listen to this episode, you'll discover how genuine connections can open doors to unexpected opportunities. Azhelle shares firsthand experiences and insights gleaned from her three-year journey in The Toy Coach. Learn the importance of authenticity...
2024-02-1533 min
Making It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#206: How “No” Led This Game Creator To Unexpected OpportunityIn this special edition of "Making It In The Toy Industry," we follow the journey of Catherine Tenaglia, co-founder of Race to Stupid, as she shares insights into her entrepreneurial venture and the impact of TCA on her business strategy.Catherine reflects on her TCA experience, highlighting the invaluable guidance provided by the founder of The Toy Coach. She emphasizes how Azhelle’s expertise and structured approach helped her navigate the complexities of the toy industry with confidence. Throughout the interview, Catherine discusses the transformative impact of TCA on her understanding of industry terminology and essential business pr...
2024-02-0729 min
SideHustlePro384: How To Make It In The Toy Industry W/ Azhelle WadeThis episode we’re getting a masterclass from The Toy Coach herself, Azhelle Wade. At first second-guessing herself, Azhelle eventually found confidence in her talent, leading to her working for big toy companies like Mattel and Toys R Us. She's climbed up and across the ladder in the toy world, starting out as a designer, later gaining 3 toy patents, and eventually becoming a VP at a toy company. Her online course, Toy Creators Academy empowers newbies in the toy industry with step-by-step guidance, downloadable worksheets, and group coaching. In this episode she shares about: Choosing between the corporate path vs inv...
2023-12-271h 00
Side Hustle Pro384: How To Make It In The Toy Industry W/ Azhelle WadeThis episode we’re getting a masterclass from The Toy Coach herself, Azhelle Wade. At first second-guessing herself, Azhelle eventually found confidence in her talent, leading to her working for big toy companies like Mattel and Toys R Us. She's climbed up and across the ladder in the toy world, starting out as a designer, later gaining 3 toy patents, and eventually becoming a VP at a toy company. Her online course, Toy Creators Academy empowers newbies in the toy industry with step-by-step guidance, downloadable worksheets, and group coaching. In this episode she shares about: Choosing bet...
2023-12-2758 minThe Profitable Play Podcast259: How To Bring a TOY Product To Market AND Work With Independent Toy Creators As a Play Space Owner With Azhelle WadeIn this episode, Azhelle Wade AKA "The Toy Coach" is bringing us her step-by-step system for launching a toy product as an independent business or as a revenue stream for your play space! She will also discuss her industry insight regarding how we as play space owners can curate an intentional retail section with a focus on independent toy creators to both increase sales and better our customer experience.
Azhelle's Website: https://www.thetoycoach.com
Azhelle's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheToyCoach
Azhelle's Podcast: https://www.thetoycoach.com/podcast
2023-12-2046 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#200: Virginia Lette Interviews Azhelle Wade The Toy CoachTo celebrate Episode 200 of Making It in The Toy Industry, something special is underway. Joining The Toy Coach, also known as Azhelle Wade, is Virginia Lette, an accomplished Australian radio and television presenter. She is renowned for co-hosting Eclipse Music TV for three years and serving as a Weekend News and Sport Presenter for WIN News Tasmania. Virginia has also hosted over 500 episodes of the Morning Kids Podcast. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a dedicated mother, entrepreneur, and an aspiring toy creator.Azhelle Wade is thrilled to have her on the show, picking up where the 100...
2023-12-2049 min
In The Doll World™, doll podcast and YouTube channelAzhelle Wade: The Toy Coach, Guiding and Empowering Others in the World of Toys.www.inthedollworld.com In this wonderful episode of In The Doll World, I am joined by Azhelle Wade, the Toy Coach. Her journey to a key figure in the toy industry is an incredible testament to the power of passion and commitment and her love of teaching and being creative.Embark on Azelle's journey as she shares her reasons for leaving corporate life to pursue her dreams. Explore the challenges and misconceptions of entering the toy industry, enriched by Azhelle's valuable insights. Discover the Toy Creators Academy, a platform designed by Azelle to support and guide emerging to...
2023-12-1339 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#197: How Get Your Products In Stores With A Pitch That Stands Out with Rick DerrIn Q4 some toy entrepreneurs are feeling FOMO, wishing that they made a bigger push to get into retail for this season. But don’t worry, your next big opportunity for sales is just around the corner. This week's episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone struggling to get their toy or game products noticed by retailers. If you've been tirelessly pitching with little to no response, this episode is a turning point.Discover the secrets of creating a standout pitch that captures the attention of toy store owners. This episode is especially timely as we...
2023-11-2924 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#196: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 2 of 2Listen in as The Toy Coach conducts several mini interviews for a deep dive into the heart of toy innovation at CHITAG, part of the People of Play Week and Innovation Conference. Episode 196 offers a unique blend of playful interviews and insightful discussions with industry innovators.In this episode, we feature a dynamic duo, Michael and Melissa Giles, founders of Chiki Chaka, who reveal the secrets behind creating a game that's as simple as it is engaging, proving that the essence of play lies in joy, not complexity. They share their journey of starting a t...
2023-11-2237 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#195: Instant Insights Into The Toy Industry Uncovered at ChiTag Part 1 of 2Are you passionate about toy design and eager to learn from the best in the toy industry? This episode of Making It In The Toy Industry takes you inside the Chicago Toy and Game Fair (ChiTag), a hub of innovation and creativity in the toy and game industry. Learn tips from show attendees who specialize in toy marketing, toy sales, and game innovation. Whether you're an aspiring toy inventor, a game design enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the world of toys, this episode includes 3 mini and action packed interviews.Listen in as Azhelle challenges her guests to...
2023-11-1632 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#194: How To Pick A Toy Brand Name That Doesn't Suck with Alexandra C WatkinsIn this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, you'll hear an insightful conversation with our guest Alexandra C. Watkins, the creative genius behind naming consultancy Eat My Words and the innovator of iconic names like Wendy's Baconator.Watkins shares her expertise on creating memorable and appealing names for toys and toy companies. She's learned firsthand how the power of a catchy name can drive your sales, save you money, and even turn your customers into ambassadors for your products and discusses the importance of familiarity and imagery in making a name memorable, as well as...
2023-11-0851 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#191: Game-Changing Connections for Toy Inventors at People of Play WeekAre you "toying" around with an idea for a toy or game that you want to license? Don’t miss the chance to pitch and playtest that idea in 2023 at POP Week. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach, highlights a beloved toy industry event that is designed to create opportunities for toy inventors and entrepreneurs like you. Act fast because registration for this once a year in-person event is STILL OPEN.Pop in your earbuds and listen as Azhelle explains what to expect from the 2023 People of Pl...
2023-10-1824 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#187: Making Change Through Play with TOTY Nominated Dr. Zabina BahsinDr. Zabina Bhasin began her journey of understanding the powerful role toys play in shaping a child's identity. As a child psychiatrist, she used her expertise to observe that children were naturally drawn towards toys, books, and crafts. Yet, as a mother, she noticed a distinct gap in the market - there were no multicultural or ethnic studies toys. This realization sparked an idea, a vision to create a space where children could learn about various cultures and traditions, and feel a sense of belonging. This was the birth of In KidZ, a company that was much more than...
2023-08-3033 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#181: Unveiling the Ultimate Barbie Movie Marketing Tactics: Unique Strategies for Viral Success!Are you dreaming about Barbie yet? This week we do a deep dive into the marketing that has continually been going viral since April of this year. We explore how the iconic doll brand also became a digital marketing icon by creating trends and making marketing moves that will go down in toy history. Get ready to dive into the world of Barbie and her groundbreaking marketing team for the highly anticipated live-action film, releasing on July 21st, 2023.Over the past five years, marketing strategies across all industries have shifted to social media platforms, leading big brands...
2023-07-1935 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#175: The Impact of Toy Guns: A Tough ConversationIn this thought-provoking episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade and returning guest Marjorie Spitalnik dive into a sensitive but crucial topic - the impact of toy guns on children and the potential connection to real-life gun violence. Given the alarming statistics of gun violence in the U.S., they explore the responsibility of toy makers and the toy industry as a whole in shaping children's perceptions of violence and gun use.Marjorie, founder of Little Rebels, shares compelling anecdotes from parents about the positive influence of her Plush Doll Line. Yet, this...
2023-05-1739 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#174: Market Research Strategies for Developing Good Toys Kids Will Love with Dr. Amanda GummerIn this episode, Azhelle Wade aka The Toy Coach interviews Dr. Amanda Gummer, psychologist and founder of Good Play Guide, a service that provides independent evaluations and accreditations for children's toys and games. Dr. Gummer talks about the importance of evaluating toys for children's development and shares details about Good Play Guide's accreditation program. She also discusses recent winners of the Good Play Guide and how they help the industry create better products for children.The conversation talks about the Toy Associations new STEAM accreditation, established in 2021 and details how it follows the same principles...
2023-05-0341 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#171: Toy Path QUIZ: Are You a Toy Inventor, Entrepreneur, or Executive?There are many paths you can take in the toy industry, but the 3 most common paths that most new creators fall into are Inventor, Entrepreneur, and Executive! In today's episode, The Toy Coach is back to explain the differences between the two and point out why you might be both. Azhelle walks you through the meaning of each toy path, what you can expect, and how you could benefit from even switching your toy path.In today’s toy podcast, you will learn what aspects of being a Toy Entrepreneur, Toy Inventor, and Toy Executive are the sa...
2023-04-1223 min
Big Fun ContentWhat Makes A Great Teacher with Azhelle WadeYou might think with the release of Steal This Course that I'm a hater when it comes to online courses. That couldn't be further from the truth. I just want to make sure that you're buying courses you really need, and that you're choosing teachers who actually care about your success!
Today I'm talking with Azhelle Wade (aka The Toy Coach) all about what makes a great teacher in the online business space.
Azhelle and I chat about:
Her course Toy Creators Academy
How she’s adding value to...
2023-04-1031 min
Michelle Barone - REDThe Toy Coach - Azhelle WadeAzhelle Wade is having way too much fun in the toy industry since 2010 working for companies like Toys R Us, Party City, and Madame Alexander, just to name a few! She's climbed up and across the ladder in the toy world, starting out as a designer, later gaining 3 toy patents, and eventually becoming a VP at a toy company. She's developed and grown multi-million dollar product lines and talented creative teams. She specialize in implementing product design and development tactics to increase profit margin and sell-through.Today Azhelle is known industry-wide as The Toy Coach. She joyfully works as a...
2023-02-1427 min
Michelle Barone - REDThe Toy Coach - Azhelle WadeAzhelle Wade is having way too much fun in the toy industry since 2010 working for companies like Toys R Us, Party City, and Madame Alexander, just to name a few! She's climbed up and across the ladder in the toy world, starting out as a designer, later gaining 3 toy patents, and eventually becoming a VP at a toy company. She's developed and grown multi-million dollar product lines and talented creative teams. She specialize in implementing product design and development tactics to increase profit margin and sell-through.Today Azhelle is known industry-wide as The Toy Coach. She joyfully...
2023-02-1427 min
The Leaders LabFind Your Passion And Make A Career Out Of It with Azhelle Wade“Hey there, toy people!”In this episode, we are reminded that you can indeed chase your passion and make a fulfilling life out of it. We grow up with people leading us to believe that following your passion is overrated. My guest this week, “The Toy Coach”, reminds us that that simply is not the case, that you can in fact create a lucrative career from something you enjoy as long as you stay true to your path. She and I talk about pursuing dreams - for her in particula...
2023-02-0740 min
The Artist APPEALS: The 7 Step System to Make Money with Your ArtDesigning Toys That Make $ MILLIONS w/ Azhelle Wade As promised, for this week’s episode, we’re joined by the esteemed toy designer and artist, Azhelle Wade, who will share her journey with us.
Make it toyetic! That’s what Azhelle’s mantra is to her followers.
For over ten years, Azhelle has been making her mark on the toy industry. She has worked with some of the finest toy companies in the world, like Toys R Us, Party City, and Madame Alexander, to name a few. And her toy designs have made MILLIONS of dollars!
But even wi...
2022-09-231h 13
Bundle Buzz PodcastEpisode 2 - Azhelle WadeWhat could be more fun than playing a game of Bundle with everyone’s favorite toy coach? Join us as we chat with Azhelle Wade Castro about her toy wedding, Mario Lopez’s dimples, and how to spark creativity.
Azhelle Wade
Instagram: @thetoycoach @toycreatorsacademy
Website: https://www.thetoycoach.com
The Toy Coach Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-toy-coach-podcast-making-it-in-the-toy-industry/id1495609502
Bundle
Instagram: @thebundlegame
Website : www.thebundlegame.com
2022-09-0638 minBundle Buzz PodcastAzhelle WadeWhat could be more fun than playing a game of Bundle with everyone’s favorite toy coach? Join us as we chat with Azhelle Wade Castro about her toy wedding, Mario Lopez’s dimples, and how to spark creativity.
Azhelle Wade
Instagram: @thetoycoach @toycreatorsacademy
Website: https://www.thetoycoach.com
The Toy Coach Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-toy-coach-podcast-making-it-in-the-toy-industry/id1495609502
Bundle
Instagram: @thebundlegame
Website : www.thebundlegame.com
2022-09-0638 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#135: When Your Brand Goes Viral with Danielle Murrell Cox of Zuri and DreWhat happens after you go viral? How do you go viral in the first place? There is no perfect formula to make something go viral on social media, but there are things you can do to make it more likely. Today’s guest had a viral post on social media that opened up opportunities for a book deal and a line of plush toys.Today’s guest is Danielle Murrell Cox. She self-published an uplifting coloring book called Black Queens & Kings. She then went viral on social media which led to a publishing deal with Harper Collins for...
2022-07-2045 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#130: Unlocking Creativity at Science Museum Oklahoma with Azhelle WadeAt the beginning of June, The Toy Coach was invited to give a keynote speech at the Science Museum Oklahoma’s Inspire and Be Inspired Event. This 2nd annual Convening of Makers and Educators is presented by Oklahoma EPSCoR. This weekend provided STEAM educators, artists, and makers an opportunity to inspire and be inspired as they connected to share ideas and resources. The creative community learned, laughed, and explored great ideas together. The museum is over 390K square feet of creative exhibitions and experiences for kids and parents alike.This year the keynote address was delivered by in...
2022-06-1536 min
The Bubbles EffectBubbles and Biz with Azhelle WadeMy guest this week is Azhelle Wade (AKA The Toy Coach) and we have so much fun chatting about toys! 🧸
She shares 5 steps on the creative process, the favorite toy she designed in her corporate toy days, her favorite marketing strategies and SO much more! Grab a glass and let's chat! 🥂
Connect with Azhelle here: https://www.thetoycoach.com/
2022-06-0836 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#127: Toy Lessons Learned From My First Fashion Company Part 2The Toy Coach’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t start in toys, but instead it started in fashion. In 2012 Azhelle Wade, aka The Toy Coach created a fashion brand called Costumize Me. What started as a made to order costume company, evolved into a convertible event wear brand with the tag line 1 dress 100 ways to wear. The story of Azhelle building a brand in an industry she knew nothing about is one that she is excited to share with you on the podcast today, because it’s one that you can probably relate to as a new-ish toy creator. Listen to how...
2022-05-2529 minMaking It in The Toy Industry | Start A Toy Business#126: Toy Lessons Learned From My First Fashion Company Part 1The Toy Coach’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t start in toys, but instead it started in fashion. In 2012 Azhelle Wade, aka The Toy Coach created a fashion brand called Costumize Me. What started as a made to order costume company, evolved into a convertible event wear brand with the tag line 1 dress 100 ways to wear. The story of Azhelle building a brand in an industry she knew nothing about is one that she is excited to share with you on the podcast today, because it’s one that you can probably relate to as a new-ish toy creator. Listen to how...
2022-05-1837 min
Creativity SchoolFinding your Unique Creative Magic with Azhelle WadeHow can you find your unique creative magic and create a career that aligns with everything you love to do? Our guest this week is Azhelle Wade, a talented toy inventor. (What a cool job, right?) Azhelle worked in the toy industry for 10 years at companies like Toys R Us and Madame Alexander, eventually becoming a VP at a toy company. She’s now the host of the Toy Coach Podcast and the founder of Toy Creators Academy, a program that teaches people with no knowledge of the toy industry how to get their own toy and ga...
2022-05-1754 min