In the latest episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Kevin Daniels, President and Co-Founder of Fun In Motion Toys to the show. Fun In Motion is the four-time Toy of the Year (TOTY) finalist behind mesmerizing toys including Shashibo, Spin Ball, and Wandini.

On the show, Daniels explains how an activity invented by the indigenous people of New Zealand became the inspiration for Fun In Motion Toys' first product. He and Albritton go on to discuss the success of Fun In Motion with independent retailers and the methods used to grab customers' attention. Following the backstory on Shashibo, Daniels shares insight into how the company is leveraging its existing items to break into new product categories.

In the latest episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Kyle Cosgrove, Territory Manager at Goliath Games to the show. A sales vet with experience at Crazy Aaron's and Monkey Fish Toys, Cosgrove is focused on expanding Goliath's footprint across independent toy and game stores.

On the show, he and Albritton discuss the skills learned in working toy retail and how those skills still apply today. Cosgrove shares his experiences in selling to kids in-store and how they think differently about product. Additionally, he shares some advice for young people starting out in the toy industry, the current state of games at specialty, and how independent retailers can set themselves up for sales success.

In this week’s episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Evan Katz and Josh Roberts of Very Special Games to the show.

On the show, Katz and Roberts deliver intel on the guerrilla warfare tactics required to self-produce games. They launched their first successful game, Charity Party, on Kickstarter in 2019 and have since built a catalog of games including Ransom Notes, Abducktion, and Puns of Anarchy.

Katz and Roberts unpack their first foray into the gaming world and what they learned early on. From there, Albritton asks them about the importance of involving Kickstarter backers in the process as a consumer sounding board, and how having great factory connections can streamline the manufacturing process.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Jason Mars, owner of Red Planet Group.

Red Planet Group is a premier distributor and marketer of toys throughout Canada. The company supports global toymakers by bringing toys such as Treasure X, Scruff-A-Lives, Little Live Pets, Wubble, and more to Canadian kids and families.

On the show, Albritton delves into Mars' origin story which includes working alongside his father with partners such as Toy Biz and Tiger Electronics. The duo then delves into the nuances of marketing to Canadian families and how they purchase toys. Finally, Mars shares details on the unique logistics and operational issues encountered in the Canadian market and shares some of the new toys that Red Planet Group is working to promote.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Brian Volk-Weiss, CEO of The Nacelle Co. and Comedy Dynamics.

Volk-Weiss is the creator and producer of Netflix's The Toys That Made Us and The Movies That Made Us, and has produced Grammy-nominated and Grammy-winning comedy albums for the likes of Weird Al Yankovic, Dave Chappelle, and Jerry Seinfeld, and has produced and directed dozens of comedy specials for talent including Tiffany Hadish, Kevin Hart, Jim Gaffigan, Ali Wong, and many more.

His latest project is the new series, A Toy Store Near You, which delves into the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on independent toy stores and collectibles retailers around the world. On the podcast, Albritton and Volk-Weiss discuss the similarities between the toy industry and the comedy world, the genesis of the new series, and why A Toy Store Near You is so important in shedding light on small businesses.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with "The Toy Coach" Azhelle Wade. For more than a decade, Wade has held roles at companies including Horizon Group and Blumenthal Lansing Co., and served as a global product development and design manager at Toys "R" Us and Babies "R" Us. She currently serves as vice president of brand and product at Creative Kids.

In today's show, Albritton and Wade discuss her early focus on serving and learning from kids, and how a cancer scare propelled her into several new ventures. Other topics include the ways that a  manufacturer can bring continuous value to its buyers and the unique aspects of working in the doll and craft categories. Finally, Wade shares the origin story of her 'Making it in the Toy Industry' podcast.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Joe and Jim Seymour of E-Blox.

On the show, the Seymours discuss the origin story of their Illinois-based family business that offers products that balance deep learning with big fun. Kids can use E-Blox sets to engineer fully functional creations, to add lights and sounds to existing block sets, and to tell stories with Story Blox sets. Between the Seymour brothers and their father, Art, the family holds more than 50 patents.

Albritton and the Seymours delve into the importance of getting kids involved and interested in STEAM skills early and what makes E-Blox unique in the competitive world of construction and learning.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Helen Thomas, chief marketing officer at DMAI, the company behind the Animal Island Learning Adventure (AILA) Sit & Play — an intelligent monitor and edutainment system geared toward families with toddlers

On the show, Albritton and Thomas discuss the importance of clearly communicating the benefits of a new technology product as it hits the market. Thomas, the founding CEO of LeapFrog China, explains the various aspects of artificial intelligence (AI) and the technology is integrated into AILA. Finally, Thomas explains how DMAI worked to address parental concerns that have been raised by the use of cloud-connected devices by kids and families.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Aaron Wade, director of public relations at CanspanBMG, a Toronto-based full service digital and social media marketing agency that has worked with brands including Treasure X and Little Live Pets (Moose Toys), Untamed (WowWee), Bunch O Balloons (ZURU), Elf on the Shelf, Laser X (NSI International), and many more.

On the show, Albritton and Wade discuss the subtle differences in toy buying trends between families in the U.S. and Canada while exploring the comparisons and contrasts in promoting brands such as Treasure X versus Elf on the Shelf. Additionally, Wade offers insight into how CanspanBMG's work with companies across sports, technology, education, and retail helps support its toy efforts. Finally, the conversation moves to how toy marketing is changing in light of the ever-changing FTC regulations and the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Christine Osborne, owner of  Wonder Works — an independent toy store with three locations in South Carolina.

Since 1990, Osborne has operated the award-winning store, and over the past three decades, she's seen changes in the market and learned how to adapt through evolving trends and crisis situations.  At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Osborne worked quickly to assemble several programs — including a virtual toy store — to ensure that she was putting toys in the hands of families at a time when play is needed most.

On the show, Osborne discusses how Wonder Works assists customers in finding just the right product, and shares details on what families are searching for right now. Additionally, Albritton and Osborne delve into the virtual toy store experience while serving up a road map for independent retailers across the country to replicate as specialty retail evolves.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Todd Rywolt, vice president of sales at marketing at Rollplay, a leader in innovative powered ride-on toys.

On the show, Albritton delves into Rywolt's origin story, which includes a 16 year run at Kenner and Hasbro where he worked to develop toy lines for fan-favorite franchise brands including Batman, Jurassic Park, and the relaunch of Star Wars in 1995. The conversation moves into present-day and the unique market in which Rollplay operates.  Rywolt offers insight into what retailers and consumers are looking for in a great ride-on toy, and how the company works in collaboration with top automakers — such as Mini and Porsche — to develop and design unforgettable products. Finally, Rywolt unpacks the details behind Rollplay's ultimate product strategy: Ride, Drive, Perform

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Goliath Games' Director of Marketing Mary Higbe.

As families spend more time together amid the COVID-19 pandemic, games are experiencing a huge boost in sales. Texas-based Goliath Games offers a wide range of titles for the entire family, with products available in more than 75 countries worldwide.

On the show, Albritton and Higbe discuss the family environment that makes Goliath unique as she shares her top picks for games for players of ages. The conversation delves into what's happening at Goliath right now and how the company is working to ensure that it can still get its games into the hands of families everywhere. Additionally, Higbe shares insight into the marketing of Virus, "the contagiously fun card game" that's growing in popularity as families avoid the coronavirus.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Jennifer Mines, vice president of Iscream, a company that provides its fans with fun lifestyle products created under a simple motto: to "make the ordinary a little more extraordinary."

Mines' career bridges high fashion and toys. Prior to entering the toy industry at Iscream, she worked with high-profile brands such as House & Garden, Calvin Klein, Barneys, and Vogue.

On the show, Albritton and Mines discuss the similarities in working with fashion and toys and what the toy industry can learn from the fashion industry. Mines offers insight into the challenges and opportunities in managing a massive product line such as Iscream's that ranges from plush to bedding to games, drinkware, apparel, and beyond. The team at Iscream are experts in allowing their customers to tell a design story through an evolving assortment of on-trend offerings.

In this week’s episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Lee Allentuck to the show.

Over the course of his career, Allentuck has done it all, from leading Global Gaming at Hasbro to serving as Licensing Market Lead for LEGO to founding Raising Nerd. He currently serves as an Innovation Scout for Blue Marble and Melissa and Doug (where he also works on Inventor Relations) and serves as Head of Content at The Last Gameboard. Allentuck also leads RN Branding & Licensing, a full-service brand strategy, licensing, and business development consultancy.

On the show, Allentuck tells Albritton about his early work in the cell phone business and how innovation can cross-pollinate multiple industries. From there, the conversation moves to Hasbro Gaming, The LEGO Group, and The Last Gameboard. Finally, the duo discusses best practices and advice for inventors looking to pitch their next toy or game idea.

The first-ever Invention Week comes to a close on the "Power Kid Podcast."

This week, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design is joined by Matt Nuccio of Design Edge for a four-part series of mini-episodes in which they delve into the various aspects of inventing including research, prototyping, presentation, and next steps. The series is designed to be an overview for newcomers to the toy industry while serving as a refresher for industry vets.

For the final installment, Albritton and Nuccio cover how manufacturers work internally to get new inventions ready for market, when money changes hands, and provide a general timeline on getting a new item onto shelves.

Here's the wind-up and the pitch as Invention Week continues on the "Power Kid Podcast."

This week, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design is joined by Matt Nuccio of Design Edge for a four-part series of mini-episodes in which they delve into the various aspects of inventing including research, prototyping, presentation, and next steps. The series is designed to be an overview for newcomers to the toy industry while serving as a refresher for industry vets.

Part 3 covers the various aspects of presenting a new idea to buyers. What is expected of the inventor during a pitch? How can you time your pitch to produce the best outcome? Are you focused enough on the manufacturer and their needs? In this episode, Albritton and Nuccio break it all down.

For the tinkerers, builders, and sometimes mad scientists, Invention Week continues on the "Power Kid Podcast."

This week, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design is joined by Matt Nuccio of Design Edge for a four-part series of mini-episodes in which they will delve into the various aspects of inventing including research, prototyping, presentation, and next steps. The series is designed to be an overview for newcomers to the toy industry while serving as a great refresher for industry vets.

Part 2 covers the various aspects of prototyping. A prototype can range in scale and complexity from simple paper models to heavily engineered electronic systems. Early on, inventors will need to decide the level of detail that will be built into a prototype to best demonstrate their product's "wow factor."

So much for social distancing — the "Power Kid Podcast" is coming in close for its first-ever Invention Week.

This week, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design is joined by Matt Nuccio of Design Edge, a toy and game development, marketing, manufacturing, invention, and consulting agency. In a four-part series of mini-episodes, Albritton and Nuccio will delve into the various aspects of inventing including research, prototyping, presentation and next steps. The series is designed to be an overview for newcomers to the toy industry while serving as a great refresher for industry vets.

Enjoy part 1, research!

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Joe Barron, founder of Gray Matter Games, a company dedicated to promoting community and fun while exercising the brain.

Barron has designed and published four games which are sold in more than 3000 stores across five countries. He was a 2019 Rising Star Innovator nominee for the Chicago Toy and Game Fair's (ChiTAG) Toy and Game Innovation Awards (TAGIEs) for The Game of Wolf, which was also a Mensa Mind Games finalist.

On the show, Albritton delves into Barron's origin story, which involves a family road trip that inspired his entrance into the game industry. Barron discusses the importance of shows like ChiTAG for meeting with the public, networking, and driving sales. Additionally, the duo discusses Barron's guiding belief that business should always be a force for good, and the work that Gray Matter Games does to support Alzheimer's research.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with author, inventor, and public speaker Deej Johnson about all things creative.

Johnson, who recently appeared at Toy Fair New York's Creative Factor, co-authored a new book entitled The Snakes & Ladders Of Creative Thinking: Have More Ideas For Board Games, Improve Them & Get Them Ready To Pitch with Mojo Nation co-founder Billy Langsworthy.

On the podcast, Albritton delves into Johnson's backstory, which includes a Rube Goldberg machine. The discussion includes insight into Johnson's work with brands and how he uses language to target the customers' needs and help sell product. Additionally, the duo discusses the nuances of writing game rules that are both thorough and concise.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Flexport's Chief Economist Phil Levy to discuss the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the toy industry.

During his career, Levy has served as an adjunct professor at the Kellogg School of Management, Darden School of Business, and Columbia University in addition to serving as an associate professor at Yale.

Levy also served as Senior Economist for Trade for President George W. Bush’s Council of Economic Advisors and was a member of Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s Policy Planning Staff. His research focus is on the political economy of trade agreements and U.S. economic relations with China.

On the show, Albritton and Levy delve into the impact that the coronavirus will have on toy manufacturing and the overall supply chain along with potential options for managing the interrupted logistics.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design gears up for Toy Fair New York with The Toy Association's Marian Bossard.

For over 20 years, Bossard has served as executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. On the show, Bossard discusses the customer service mentality that goes into every aspect of Toy Fair. Additionally, she and Albritton discuss how Toy Fair New York has changed over the years and what new and notable events attendees should be on the lookout for at this year's show.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with toy industry veteran Heidi Shrack, author of Lets Bake a Cake: A Buggie-Muggies Book.

For more than 20 years, Shrack has worked on visual merchandising, packaging, logo design, and photography for companies including Toys "R" Us, International Playthings, Crocs, and Radica, in addition to brands such as Calico Critters, Kinetic Sand, Stuff'n Mallows, Mad Matter, and more.

During the Podcast, Albritton and Shrack discuss the creation of cutting-edge tech product at Radica along with her role as a "candy conceptualizer" and how she helped the green M&Ms become popular. The duo also discusses the former Toys "R" Us Concept Lab where Shrack worked to develop innovative visual merchandising for Geoffrey and Co. in the early 2000s, including projects for the company's Times Square flagship. Finally, the conversation moves to the launch of the Buggie-Muggies.

In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves-up a second preview of Toy Fair New York with more early news that's broken ahead of the annual trade show taking place Feb. 22-25 at the Javtis Center. Zahn discusses the launch of Huge! Play; Modarri's monster trucks; Cepia's Cats Vs. Pickles;  Headstart; Far Out Toys; Smart Toys & Games; Make it Real; Blue Orange Games; Play Visions; Steiff; and previews the Toy Fair issues of The Toy Book and The Pop Insider. 

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In this week’s episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Jeanie Crone to the show.

Crone has a wealth of experience spanning toys, fashion, and education. She previously served as the senior manager of specialty at Schleich, sales manager at Ojo, and Chairman of the Board at the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA). She currently manages sales for Bimi Boo, a developer and manufacturer of learning toys, games, puzzles, and more.

On the show, Crone discusses the similarities between toys and fashion, pulling from her work at Tommy Hilfiger and Phillips-Van Heusen (PVH Corp.). While working at the Educational Development Corp., Crone was an early champion of selling books in specialty toy stores, and on the show, she explains to Albritton how she opened up that market. Finally, the conversation delves into the expansion of Bimi Boo and how the tech company broke into the toy business.

In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves-up a preview of Toy Fair New York with some early news that's broken ahead of the annual trade show taking place Feb. 22-25 at the Javtis Center. Zahn discusses the latest on the coronavirus, Schleich's 85th anniversary; Hornby Hobbies' 100th anniversary; the 16th Annual Wonder Women Awards presented by Women in Toys, Entertainment and Licensing; Le Toy Van; Kellytoy's Squishmallows; Blue Marble; and previews the Toy Fair issues of The Toy Book and The Pop Insider. Stay tuned for Part II of our Toy Fair preview!

Be sure to subscribe to the Adventure Media and Events Podcast Network on your favorite service for more great shows and episodes!

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Bob Wilke, president of HobbyTown.

Founded in 1980 with the purchase of the original HobbyTown store that had been operating since 1946 in downtown Lincoln, Nebraska, HobbyTown began franchising in 1986 and has grown to a chain with more than 100 stores across 39 states. Wilke started his career as a franchise owner, eventually rising through the ranks to become president of the company.

During the conversation, Albritton and Wilke discuss the evolution of brick and mortar retail and the shift to an omnichannel system. Wilke shares insight into how HobbyTown — with its expanded mix of products including RC vehicles, trains, rockets, models, toys, and games — helps to support its franchisees in their efforts to build and maintain relationships with customers through the heart of the business: the community-building activities that HobbyTown promotes.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Eric Poses, owner and president of All Things Equal.

Headquartered in Miami Beach, All Things Equal has sold over 2 million copies of its popular games including Loaded Questions, Loaded Answers, Awkward Family Photos, The My Weird School Game, and two new officially licensed titles based on the cult classic film The Big Lebowski. At All Things Equal, the focus is on creative, humor-based games.

Albritton delves into Poses' game industry origin story, the creation of Loaded Questions, and the importance of great licensing partners. Additionally, the duo discusses how All Things Equal keeps Loaded Questions fresh as it nears its 25th anniversary, and how game marketing has changed and how to adapt in a new retail landscape.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Tara Badie, director of marketing at Bandai America.

More than 82 million Tamagotchi virtual pets have been sold since the line first launched to massive success in 1996. Now, Tamagotchi is back on the scene with a retro line that taps into the '90s nostalgia wave and the all-new Tamagotchi On — an evolved new experience with a full-color screen and new ways to interact. On the show, Badie and Albritton discuss her work at both Bandai America and MGA Entertainment (MGAE), along with the relaunch of this iconic brand and why now is the right time for a refresh. Additionally, the duo takes a look into the future of Tamagotchi and how Bandai plans to keep it on the cutting edge of technological innovation.

The "Power Kid Podcast" goes upside down this week as a recent guest flips the script to put host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design in the hot seat.

Jeff Pinsker, president of Amigo Games North America is in the interviewer's chair to explore Albritton's origin story.

In the episode, Albritton discusses some of his earliest work in the toy industry, including the Original Funnoodle, the Bounce ‘Round — the first consumer accessible continuous air bounce house — and Bruce Lund’s sports ball line, The Luminator. The duo discusses the various challenges of inventing vs. developing, and the importance of packaging as a protector, teacher, and brand advocate. Albritton also shares tips for making the most out of your store visits and what to look for as you research the aisle. Finally, the duo explores trendspotting and discusses some of the biggest changes that Albritton has witnessed in the industry.

Happy 2020 Power Kids! It is an honor to start off this year with a conversation with Jeff Pinsker, the president of Amigo Games North America . Throughout his career Jeff has founded, managed and sold several businesses ranging from children’s television to educational products to toys and games. He was President of University Games, CEO of JP Kids, CEO of Infinitoy, President of Klutz, President of Pressman and General Manager at Cardinal. This year's first show is packed with great insight!

We discuss his early foray into business which includes practical jokes for pay and 7,000 trivia questions! Additionally, we discuss his work at the crossroads of children’s entertainment and toys and I ask him about his involvement in the relaunch of the amazing Zoob product line. He dives deep into the Amigo Credo and why it is so important (you will want to take notes!). Thank you for joining us! — Phil Albritton

https://www.amigo.games/

In this year's final episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Andy Wiseman, founder and CEO of Redwood Ventures.

Wiseman was recruited into the toy industry following a successful run at Pure Fishing, home to some of the most well-known brands in fishing tackle. At MGA Entertainment, Wiseman played a part in the expansion of the Bratz line, after which he joined Cepia to pioneer the U.S. launch of ZhuZhu Pets. In 2010, Wiseman founded Redwood Ventures, which has grown into a powerhouse known for speed and innovation with distribution of its toys across 65 countries.

In the episode, Albritton and Wiseman discuss how relocating to Bentonville, Arkansas — home to Walmart — opened many doors. Additionally, they discuss the challenges of creating and marketing the IDO3D 3D writing system, and Wiseman details his personal product philosophy: MBOS (Meaningful, Believable  Ownable, Sustainable).

Redwood Ventures' Foodie Surprise collection is a 2019 winner in the Toy Insider's Holiday Gift Guide in one of this year's top toy trend areas: Layers of Fun.

The next season of the 'Power Kid Podcast' begins in January 2020!

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Richard North, founder and CEO of Wow! Stuff.

Over the past few years, North has grown Wow! Stuff into an award-winning pop-culture toy and gift manufacturer. The company's Harry Potter Invisibility Cloak is a 2019 Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide Winner and is nominated for a Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award for Innovative Toy of the Year.

During their conversation, Albritton and North discuss Wow! Stuff's positioning statement of "Great Brands Brought to Life," and the importance of marketing unique products through the use of video displays and live demonstration artists. North also shares stories on how the company uses technology to create "magic," and how a strong relationship with Warner Bros. was forged to allow the company to become a trusted partner of the Harry Potter and Wizarding World brands.

In a special episode of the “Power Kid Podcast,” host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design shares interviews recorded live at the 2019 Chicago Toy & Game Fair (ChiTAG). Phil says: "ChiTAG 2019 was a huge success and I am happy to bring you this episode recorded live at the show! You will hear many toy industry voices including select winners of the 12th annual Toy and Game Innovation (TAGIE) Awards and winners of The Young Inventors Challenge. Additionally, you will hear conversations with Robert Victor of Kite & Rocket; James Zahn, Senior Editor of the Toy Book, the Toy Insider, and the Pop Insider; and Lifetime Achievement Honoree Award winner Ivan Moscovich."

"A huge thank you to Mary Couzin, Sheena Stephens and the whole team for creating this excellent event and celebrating innovation! Enjoy the show!"

https://www.chitag.com/

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Michael Goodman, founder, and head of licensing at the MLGPC Licensing Agency.

Goodman is an expert in prospecting new intellectual properties (IP) with undeniable mass-market appeal. Through MLGPC, he has identified, sold, and IP to industry leaders such as Spin Master, Nelvana, Super7, Saban Brands, Funko, Goliath Games, Scholastic, and many more.

Albritton discusses with Goodman his early days in the industry and the process of bringing back the classic Monchhichi property. Additionally, the duo discusses how vintage brands continue to fuel the retro trend that connects across multiple generations while Goodman offers behind-the-scenes insight on several new viral brands that he has been involved with.

In this week’s episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Project Genius CEO Brandi Pinsker to the show.

Project Genius is a Texas-based crew of "thinkers, tinkers, and inventors" that creates brainteasers and games. Pinsker previously served as a buyer at Go! Retail Group's Calendar Club and is an expert in games, puzzles, and gifts.

On the show, Albritton and Pinsker discuss the unique aspects of doing business in a mall and what drives sales in that environment. From there, the conversation delves into the benefits of brainteasers for kids and adults, and how Project Genius is supporting the Autism community.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Stacy Lellos, president of Klutz.

From Simon & Schuster and Scholastic to Toys R Us, Lellos's career has run the gamut between books and toys.  Now as the president of Klutz she gets to apply all of those experiences toward directing one of the most trusted brands for kids. In the podcast, Albritton and Lellos discuss the challenges of finding and delivering the “just right” book or toy for each kid, and the various challenges of book publishing versus toy manufacturing. Lellos also shares insight on her vision for Klutz Jr. and Klutz Maker Lab, and how to capture the tween market.

In this week's episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with screenwriter Jordan Gershowitz, author of the new book, Ignore the Trolls.

Gershowitz has written, developed, and/or produced content for nearly every major network. He's written episodes of The Tom and Jerry Show and Danger Mouse, and has written for Sesame Street Live! Recent TV credits include Nickelodeon's Welcome to the Wayne, Warner Bros. Bunnicula, RBUK (aka Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty), and Gigantosaurus, which airs daily on Disney Channel.

Jordan, the son of toy industry veteran Ed Gershowitz, discusses with Albritton the impact of growing up with close ties to the toy world, and also delves into the rumor that his dad served as the model for the rare Toys "R" Us exclusive G.I. Joe action figure known as Captain Claymore.

In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves an update on the latest happenings in toys, games, and family entertainment. This week's industry news includes updates on Hasbro's My Little Pony franchise, ZURU's 5 Surprise, the 2020 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards voting, NSI International's latest Wubble bubble balls, Distroller USA's latest Neonate Babies, a team-up between Netflix and Nickelodeon,  a big win for Activision's Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and more.

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In this week's episode of the Power Kid Podcast, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with The Last Gameboard co-founder Shail Mehta.

With the successful funding of Gameboard-1 on Kickstarter, The Last Gameboard looks to disrupt the gaming industry by merging tech and play into what's being called "the world's first arcade and board game console." Mehta tells her origin story and explains the development process that led to the company's patented Sense Screen technology. Additionally, we learn what partnerships are in place as Gameboard-1 integrates future titles into a platform that allows players to create their own games.

In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves an update on the latest happenings in toys, games, and family entertainment. This week's industry news includes updates from The Toy Association with a warning about counterfeit toys; American Girl's Holiday plans; the second annual Hot Wheels Legends Tour Winner; a big week on Sesame Street; and more!

Be sure to subscribe to the Adventure Media and Events Podcast Network on your favorite service for more great shows and episodes!

In this week's episode of the Power Kid Podcast, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Little Rebels creator Marjorie Spitalnik.

Spitalnik has been inspired to produce a line of plush that paves the way for little girls to learn about real-life female heroes. Albritton and Spitalnik discuss the initial idea that brought her into the toy industry and how she used her resources to build a grassroots toy company and lift up the women around her. She tells us about her experience with the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative and how it boosted her efforts in creating  Little Rebels — a line that contains plush versions of Malala Yousafzai, Amelia Earhart and Marie Curie.

Subscribe, leave a review and enjoy the show!

In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves an update on the latest happenings in toys, games, and family entertainment. Among the big stories this week, McDonald's celebrates 40 years of Happy Meals with surprise toys from the past; Funko Q3 earnings are a treat; Ryan's World rebrands; the Holiday Hess Toy Truck rolls out; LEGO drops a ton of news; and the Toy Industry Hall of Fame nominees are revealed! But that's not all! Get these stories and more right now!

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In this week's episode of the Power Kid Podcast, host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design speaks with Far Out Toys' founder and CEO Keith Meggs.

Far Out Toys was started in 2017 with a single mission — to create innovative toys. In just two years their vision was realized with a full line of products represented across Walmart, Target, and Amazon. One of those lines, Crash Racers, is a multi-million dollar business already. Meggs built the company specifically to navigate the new retail landscape. This includes a focus on full product development, including the creation of a nimble manufacturing and marketing network, and building licensing partnerships with top brands including NASCAR, pocket.watch for Ryan's World, and Disney for Marvel and Star Wars Pulp Heroes.

Meggs, whose family connections span three generations working at Mattel, discusses the origin of Far Out Toys and the unique proposition that they offer the market, including great brands such as Head Splat, Splash Out, and the aforementioned Pulp Heroes.

https://www.farouttoysinc.com/

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In this week's episode of the Power Kid Podcast, host Phil Albritton speaks with Bryan Sturtevant, who stops by to discuss all things blaster. Between blasting water and blasting darts Prime Time Toys has you covered. As the Creative Director Bryan has been a key part of Prime Time's steady growth.

Customers shopping for summer/ swim products are very different from the meticulous fans of dart blasters and we contrast them in this episode. We also discuss the tremendous success of the Max Liquidator. Bryan also unveils the Dart Zone Pro limited edition blaster that fires over 150ft with extreme accuracy.

https://www.primetimetoys.com/

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In this episode of The Toy Report, Toy Book Senior Editor James Zahn ("The Rock Father") serves an update on the latest happenings in toys, games, and family entertainment. Among the big stories this week, Schleich makes a big push at retail in the U.S. this holiday season with FAO Schwarz, Toys "R" Us Adventure, and more; Distroller USA debuts Cheekie Fairies; Barbie wraps the "Be Anything Tour"; L.O.L. Surprise Winter Disco gets a movie; and the Pop Insider looks at the booming collectibles market based on vehicles from TV and film. But that's not all! Get these stories and more right now!

Be sure to subscribe to the Adventure Media and Events Podcast Network on your favorite service for more great shows and episodes!

In this week’s episode of the "Power Kid Podcast," host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design welcomes Steve Wampold to the show.

In 2002, Wampold founded Big Mouth Inc. and grew the company to become a leader in the swim and inflatables space where it still enjoys much success today. A few years ago, after selling Big Mouth to a private equity firm, Wampold founded Good Banana, a brand that creates new toys and novelties in a variety of categories.

On the show, Wampold and Albritton discuss the differences between on-trend novelties and toys and how a "12-year-old sense of humor" helps inform the development of hit products. Additionally, Wampold shares insight on one of his other projects, Bouncyband — a company that makes products designed to help kids focus and concentrate.

In this week's episode of the Power Kid Podcast, host Phil Albritton meets with screenwriter Jeremy Adams, who has worked on animated series such as Justice League Action, DC Comics Super Heroes: The Flash, DC Super Hero Girls, Hot Wheels City, and the forthcoming LEGO Jurassic World: The Legend of Isla Nubar, in addition to penning the recent animated features, Scooby-Doo: Return to Zombie Island, Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans, and LEGO DC: Batman — Family Matters.

His love of pop culture and drive to create great stories has cemented him as one of the go-to animation writers in the industry. He also once held the title of Marvel Specialist!

Today we discuss the crossroads of toys and animation. He shares the challenges of working with established brands while at the same time giving the characters a unique twist. He tells the story of one of his favorite projects - the Supernatural episode “Scoobynatural”.

The Power Kid Podcast joins the Adventure Media and Events Podcast Network! Join host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design for in-depth interviews and conversations with some of the brightest stars in the toy, game, and family entertainment industries.

Related Links:

http://www.toybook.com https://www.powerkiddesign.com/ 

The Power Kid Podcast joins the Adventure Media and Events Podcast Network! Join host Phil Albritton of Power Kid Design for in-depth interviews and conversations with some of the brightest stars in the toy, game, and family entertainment industries.

Phil says: The CEO of Play Visions, Inc., Mark Chernick started the company in 1990 when he teamed up with two high school classmates. Their goal was to develop novelty and trend items that provided 'a little something extra.' Their line of products was an instant hit and Play Visions expanded quickly. Today Mark has a large stake in the popular compound and tactile category.

Join us today as Mark tells us his origin story - “Let’s make stickers”. He tells us about his product development philosophy and how a great material can lead to multiple successful items. He unpacks the culture of the compound creating chemists he works in Taiwan and China and walks us through the compound creation process.

Related Links:

http://www.toybook.com https://www.powerkiddesign.com/ https://www.playvisions.com

In the first-ever Pop Insider Podcast recorded LIVE from Booth No. 270 at New York Comic Con (NYCC), the Pop Insider Co-Editor-In-Chief Marissa Dibartolo and Senior Editor James Zahn discuss some of the happenings on the floor at the Javtis Center in New York City. In this episode, they talk about actor Alan Tudyk (who isn't on the show), Star Wars' Triple Force Friday; NEW Playmobil licenses including Back to the Future and Scooby-Doo; Chrome Hello Kitty by kidrobot; and the phenomenon of standing in lines to be in a line.

#FuelYourFandom at http://www.thepopinsider.com and check back soon for more unfiltered conversation from #NYCC!