The Playground Podcast

Richard and Chris talk to Christian Ulrich from Spielwarenmesse about the upcoming Nuremberg Show. What’s new, what to expect, and the general excitement of gathering once again at the world’s largest Toy Fair.

Richard and Chris talk with Jim and Donna Pressman about their new book, A Century of American Toys & Games: The Story of Pressman. They talk about the  company's colorful history over the past century. It was a labor of love, and it's an important book for anyone who loves toys...the process all started with an elephant. 

Richard and Chris talk with Toy Industry Hall of Fame designer Jeffrey Breslow about his career, his time with Marvin Glass and associates, the inspirations and tragedies that shaped his career. "Brez," as he's known, entered the toy industry when he was hired by Glass on the spot and spent the next 41 years developing games, and ultimately leading the company. 

The conversation covers all that and more, as well as advice for young toy designers looking to enter the business. Breslow's book telling the full story A Gamemaker's Life will be out in August, and The Playground Podcast has an exclusive first look. Listen in!

Richard and Chris talk with Chad Gharring of Boley about the dramatic rise of the company as a private label, brand building company and as an innovator in sustainability--and increasingly hot and important topic in the toy industry. They also talk about the advantages of being a Chinese/American hybrid company. You'll want to know more about this big and competitive company that, till now, has largely flown under the radar. 

Richard and Chris talk to Kenny Davis, CEO of the start-up Action Face about the new platform that allows users to create avatars, action figures and much more using advanced scanning technology, right on the phone. They discuss the evolution of the concept, Kenny's background, and how managers can maximize the new virtual world of work. 

Richard and Chris talk with Aaron Muderick, executive chairman of the Toy Association, about Toy Fair in New York in 2023, Dallas in 2022, and related issues. They also talk about the Association's efforts on lobbying and challenges and opportunities for the industry as it moves into a new era. Muderick's thoughtful and insightful comments make this a must-hear interview for this dynamic industry. 

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about a recent survey about price increases in the toy industry and what that may mean for the rest of the year ahead.

CEO of Star Stable Entertainment Johan Sjöberg calls his game "World of Warcraft...for girls." The hugely successful game is now making its move into toys under a licensing agreement with Just Play. In this episode, Richard and Chris talk with Sjöberg about the development of the brand, how they engage with kids and the expansion onto iOS and Android platforms as well as the strategy that has made the game a hit in more than 180 countries.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard have a serious talk about animated characters...and have a bit of fun as well. 

Richard and Chris talk to Choon Ng, inventor of the Rainbow Loom and new CEO Chris Tidwell about the history of this phenomenon, how the company has grown, strategies for keeping kids engaged and the always-present challenge of fighting infringements and knock-offs. It's a great story, and Choon's management philosophy: "I want to have fun." is an inspiration for everyone. 

In The Endcap Chris and Richard talk about advertising to children. Though it comes under a lot of fire from consumer groups, there are benefits in teaching kids to be intelligent consumers in a consumer society. It's a lighthearted conversation with some memories of comic book purchases and much more. 

Richard and Chris talk to Andrew Yanofsky and Syndey Wiseman of WowWee, both second generation toy people. More than just a legacy, however, these dynamic professionals are at the forefront of product development, research, consumer knowledge and leveraging new media platforms to develop enthusiastic communities of consumers. Their great perspectives and insights and their passion for toys as a new generation of toy industry professionals make this a lively and informative conversation. You won't want to miss it.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the implications for the global toy industry from the ongoing war in Ukraine. Over and above the human tragedy of this war, which of course is the main story, businesses are facing challenges that will last for years. 

Producer Brian Volk-Weiss joins Richard and Chris for a second time. This time to talk  about the launch of his new toy company--Nacelle Toys. Brian is the producer of the successful Netflix series The Toys that Made Us and A Toy Store Near You, now entering its fourth season. In this lively conversation, Brian talks about the decision to roll out toys based on The Great Garloo, Robo Force and others...and the old schools "let's put on a show" passion that's driven this new venture. From trusting his gut to building a network of distributors, Brian is a classic toy impresario who's just going for it. Listen into this fun and fast-paced chat.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the implication for Russia deciding to suspend IP rights for properties such as Peppa Pig and others and what that means for the global IP and toy markets.  

In this special episode, Richard and Chris largely turn over the mic to Jay Foreman, chairman of the Toy Association Trade Show Committee. He lays out the case for the September Toy Fair in New York in light of the changing dynamics of the industry, the needs of manufacturers, buyers, and more, and the historic shift in the show that this move represents. 

Foreman makes compelling cases and digs into the the benefits to the industry from the date and the venue. He adds that the change has been many years in the making as production and purchasing schedules shift along with the role of the show in the industry. 

It's must-listening for people in the toy business.

This conversation about the recently announced move of New York Toy Fair to September 2023 looks at the challenges, opportunities and the industry-wide implications of this move. Richard and Chris talk about what it might mean for companies of all sizes and how the move reflects the dynamic toy business.  

Richard and Chris talk with Thomas Kaeppeler, president of Ravensburger North America about the puzzle business and hot it all fits together in this dynamic environment. From puzzler personas to the hit (non-puzzle) toy Gravitrax, Thomas provides insight, perspective and thoughts for the toy industry on the company's success.

In the Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the move of Toy Fair to September in 2023, what that means for the industry, the show, and companies of all sizes. 

Richard and Chris talk to Steve Markey, newly named VP Sales and Marketing for Hog Wild Toys about the return of a Toy Fair in London, and what it means for the business, the emergence of alternative channels of retail, and the challenges and opportunities ahead in 2022.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the ongoing issue of the fate of New York Toy Fair. Will it stay in NYC? When will it be? 

In the second of their conversations recorded last November at the Strong Museum of Play in Rochesters, NY, Richard and Chris talk with games curator Nicolas Ricketts. Listen in as they talk about the histories of some of the games in the collection. From great stories about how the games were acquired to their impact on the culture, this lively conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in game history.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard discuss the 13 percent increase in retail sales recently reported for 2021 by the NPD Group...and what that really means in the context of the industry and inflation overall. 

Richard and Chris talk with Christian Ulrich, one of the directors of the Spielwarenmesse, aka The Nuremberg Toy Fair, about the fair, what's ahead, what's new, outlook for attendance and, of course, safety protocols. 

In the Endcap, Chris has another One-Minute Toy Story. He tells how the classic game Twister almost didn't happen.

In this brief, special episode Richard and Chris remember Hasbro CEO Brian Goldner and discuss his impact on the toy industry, past, present and future. 

Richard and Chris talk with Deirdre Cross, VP Funko Games, about the growth of the company, game development, licensing, and much more. In this spirited conversation, Deirdre talks about the hits, the misses and life in a game studio, now a part of Funko. 

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard remember industry icon Reuben Klamer, all he contributed to the toy industry over the better part of a century, and a great story about his involvement with Star Trek from the earliest days. 

Richard and Chris talk to Jim Pressman about his career spanning multiple decades--and the family company begun by his father in 1922. This is essential oral history about the toy industry, about Jim and both his parents who were dedicated toy people as well as how the company evolved through its sale to Goliath. You won't want to miss Jim's great storytelling and the tales behind a 20th Century success story.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard keep the history going talking about the U.S. toy industry in the 1920s and how it grew and expanded. 

Richard and Chris talk with Rob Gardner, founder and CEO of Joovy about the growth of his business, trends in the infant category and the changing marketplace as Gen-Z parents emerge as an economic force. 

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about Just In Time inventory management and how implementation since the 1970s may have played a role in the current supply chain disruptions...and what might be ahead. 

Listen in to a frank conversation about the current status of the industry with Steve Pasierb, president and CEO of the Toy Association. Richard and Chris discuss the status of Toy Fairs in Dallas and New York (2022), as well as the growing importance of Los Angeles as a permanent and temporary location for the industry. Pasierb addresses the current shipping crisis, as well as current legal and political issues that are having, or could have, implications for the industry as a whole. Pasierb discusses the extent of the Association's efforts, as well as its effectiveness with issues that may "fly under the radar" for many in the toy business.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the Q4 holiday selling season and the challenges manufacturers of all sizes are facing as we confront another holiday season seriously impacted by the global pandemic. 

In the second part of our interview with Jeremey Padawer of Jazwares, Richard and Chris talk about his role and passion as a collector. Understanding collecting as an investment and an asset class, Padawer has become one of the leading collectors of Pokémon in the world. He talks about his analysis of what to collect, how to project long-term value, and how companies can effectively develop collectible segments as a means of generating value and long-term engagement with a brand.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard discuss the changes in the sales function within companies and what it means that sales forces are aging and that fewer people are looking to sales as a career.

Jeremy Padawer, a partner in Jazwares, talks with Richard and Chris about his stellar career that began in a kids' store when he was 16, progressed through Mattel and Jakks Pacific and later in Wicked Cool Toys, which was acquired by Jazwares. 

Padawer brings his unique sensibility and great personality to an insightful conversation that covers his career, the current market situation, and the Jazwares strategy for growth as the company aims to be a billion dollar toy powerhouse. From leveraging properties to strategic thinking, you'll want to hear this. 

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the conversation where Padawer will talk about the collectible business and his position as the world's largest Pokémon collector. 

Richard and Chris talk with Andy Weiner, of Toyn Around. Weiner is a 46-year veteran of the toy industry currently chairing the Toy Industry Foundation. They discuss the latest initiatives of the foundation, including diversity and outreach and talk about Andy's incredible career spanning four decades, the changes he's seen...and what he sees ahead.

In the Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about big changes at the Dollar Stores, what they mean for inflation, branding, and merchandising. 

Listen in as Richard and Chris talk to David Morgenstern, VP of Sales for Madame Alexander. Over his 25-year tenure with the company, Morgenstern has overseen the transformation of the company from a collectible business to a broad-based play doll company, which is what Madame herself intended when she started the company in 1923. Morgenstern recounts history of the company and how the new lines, designs and distribution channels reflects the needs of the Millennial mom.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about a new Axios study that ranks companies based on their reputations among consumers. Is this a meaningful data point, and what could it indicated about strategies for companies in a dynamic marketplace?

Listen as Richard and Chris talk to Chris Heatherly, one of the leading technology innovators in the toy business about what's ahead in the space. Heatherly was one of the guiding executives behind Club Penguin after the Disney acquisition, and he has continued innovating in kids' tech  developing and exploiting new platforms. He has powerful insight into what made Club Penguin the hit it was, its social impact, and how Roblox is picking up the engagement model. He also talks about the value and potential of NFTs and how entertainment and licensing will be impacted by all the current changes...and what lies ahead.

CORRECTION: During the interview, it's stated that creators don't share in revenue. According to Roblox, creators do share in revenue generated by their content.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard discuss the phenomenon of Dollar Stores and what those mean for toymakers and consumers. 

[Sponsored episode]

Richard and Chris talk with Drew Vernon of Tonies about the phenomenon of audio and the Tonies audio platform that's quickly becoming an international hit. From developing content, to marketing a high-end, "durable goods" toy, as Richard calls them, to the power of building a community, Drew, whose background includes a stint at LEGO and a passion for developing outstanding play experiences for kids, talks about the role the Tonies product plays in entertainment and education.

In the Endcap, we introduce a new feature: 1-Minute Toy Stories. If you've got a minute, you can get the history of Crayola Crayons. 

Join Richard and and Chris as they talk with Julian Noble, senior vice president of The Noble Collection about the impact and opportunities of fandom in the licensing business. From prop replicas to "toylectibles," Noble's trademarked terms, consumers of all ages are interacting in properties in significant ways to express their love for properties and build communities. Hear how The Noble Collection has grown to be a major player in this category.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about emerging product trends for 2021, after having reviewed numerous lines and spoken with industry leaders.

For their 94th episode, Richard and Chris take a quick look back at the podcast and the insights shared by people from all parts of the toy industry. Looking ahead, they draw on an attitudinal survey from Global Toy News to see what may be on the horizon as the industry emerges from the pandemic.

Richard and Chris chat with Zack Pentecost, senior e-commerce manager at Zuru about the company's successful track record of building global brands and their impressive growth. Zack also heads up inventor relations for Zuru and talks about the company's approach to the inventor community and what they're looking for as the company continues to expand.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard discuss the phenomenon of "social commerce," what it means and implications for retail going forward.

Richard and Chris talk with Just Play co-presidents Charlie Emby and Geoffrey Greenberg about the 10-year history of the company, the changing world of licensing and product strategy as well as how they've managed through the pandemic and what's ahead for the company 2021.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard discuss LEGO's move into China with new, brick-and-mortar, experiential stores, as well as changes in U.S. retailing. 

In the first episode of Season 3, Richard and Chris sit down with Cheyn Crangle of Margle Media, to talk about the white-hot topic of digital marketing in the current toy industry. From the evolution of his company to how he has crafted success and powerful ROI, Cheyn discusses the opportunities, strategies and investments that can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of campaigns.

One of the most dynamic, young marketing executives today, Cheyn provides insights and guidance that can help any marketer be more successful in their digital initiatives.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the lifelong value of toy brands, citing a WWD article featuring recent guest Richard Dickson, president and COO of Mattel on Mattel Creations and the evolution of brands. 

In this brief conversation, Richard and Chris talk about rising costs in China, how they'll affect the toy business, and what a new administration may mean for Chinese/American trade relations. What's causing the increases, and will manufacturers have to absorb them, or are we about to see toy prices go up?

In this brief conversation, Richard and Chris discuss the implications of a survey suggesting that as many as, 1,800 independent toy stores in the U.S. may struggle or fold as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. What does this mean for retail and toys? Listen in. 

Gerrick Johnson, Toy & Leisure Analyst for BMO Capital Markets, is one of the most insightful, accurate and knowledgeable analysts covering the toy industry today. He's also a lot of fun. A lover of the toy industry and the people in it, Gerrick talks with Richard and Chris about his role as an analyst, what he sees as the trends for 2020 and into 2021 and how he thinks this very unusual year will finish out. Listen in and get some inside scoop on a process that is a blend of art & science.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about a recent survey that indicates that many independent toy stores may struggle or even close as they deal with the fallout of the pandemic...and what that means for the toy industry as a whole. 

In an episode recorded back when we could still travel, Chris visited the Magic Workshop at JMP Creative in Irvine, California and spoke with president and CEO Jim McCafferty. The conversation ranged from invention to patents to creating dynamic partnerships with toy companies. Chris also found out why JMP has a spaceship in the offices.

In the Endcap, Chris is joined again by Richard and they talk about toy awards and hot toy lists, what they mean and how they support the toy industry. 

Listen in for a fun and fast-paced episode.

Listen in as David Norman, president of Goliath Games, talks with Richard and Chris about his career, Goliath Games and its history, and some very topical insights about 2020 and looking forward to 2021. From development of product to dealing with dynamic supply chain issues, David talks about it all. Currently in more than 75 countries, Goliath is the third largest game manufacturer in the U.S., and a powerhouse for making kids laugh.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about international changes from the implications of the new lockdowns in the UK and Europe to what the growth of the Shenzhen region may mean for the future, international toy business.

You'll want to listen to this lively discussion as Richard and Chris talk with Kim Culmone, SVP, Global Head of Design Barbie & Fashion Dolls at Mattel. In this wide-ranging conversation, they talk about Barbie as a style icon, the importance of doll play, fashion and history. if you love Barbie, or if you're curious how a brand has survived for 62 years through all kinds of ups and downs (but up 29% in Q3 2020), this is the episode for you.

In the Endcap, Chris andRichard discuss the various retailer toy lists issued every year, what they mean, and are they really predictive?

In the wake of the postponement of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, Chris and Richard discuss in this short conversation the implications for buying and the toy year, as well as what impact the rise of Shenzhen as an international trade show destination may have on the toy business. 

This segment first aired as the Endcap in our interview with Chris Bensch about the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. 

Chris & Richard talk about the implications for the toy business with the loss of word-of-mouth among kids in the schoolyard as education is increasingly remote.

This Conversation first aired as The Endcap in our interview with Richard Dickson of Mattel. 

Richard and Chris talk to Richard Dickson, President & COO of Mattel and get his unique, inspiring and informative take on toys, play and the opportunities and responsibilities for Mattel in this dynamic time. From tools for parents to an organizational commitment to diversity to the launch of Mattel Creations, Richard's enthusiasm, vision and commitment to leading the world's largest toy company is a must-listen for anyone who cares about kids, culture and play. 

In the Endcap, Chris & Richard talk about how the separation of kids and the lack of schoolyard influence may impact the toy industry this year.

Richard and Chris chat with Alan Dorfman about his career, how he became the biggest guy in miniature toys, and, of course, coping with the pandemic. Listen in for his insights on the power of creating and building a unique category in the toy biz over many years of success and the classic power of impulse toys for diverse audiences. He also talks about the revival of a 60s favorite Wacky Packages in a new format that's made a hit with kids in 2020.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the implications of of the postponement of Spielwarenmesse in Nuremberg and the ongoing topic of how to manage marketing and sales in Covid world.

Join Richard and Chris in an engaging and lively conversation with Mattel's Chief Design Officer, Chris Down as they discuss Mattel's evolution into an increasingly design-led company, strategies and practices for dealing with Coronavirus and a look at the future of content. Down's experience and passion are evident in this segment, and you'll want to listen in.

In the Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the many variables shaping the toy business in Q4, including the "Bah-Humbug Factor."  Find out what that is.

Richard and Chris talk to industry veteran Ken Lewis, CEO of 4Kidz, Inc. Ken is a second-generation toy executive who literally grew up in the business and shares his insights about how the business has changed, what the present situation represents, and how he's looking ahead. Get an inside look at a career characterized by innovation, market-responsiveness and a keen understanding of what makes good play. 

In the Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about what it means that New York Toy Fair has been postponed and what the implications are for the industry both historically and in responding to the current situations. 

Join Richard and Chris as they talk with Jo Hall, Chief Commercial Officer for Toys "R" Us Asia. Jo, a highly respected industry veteran, shares her insights on what's made TRU Asia such a success over so many years, their rapid response to the pandemic and perspectives on the international toy business. Hall, is dynamic and passionate personality whose love of the business is matched only by her strategic thinking, team building, and drive to serve kids and families. You won't want to miss this lively conversation. 

Richard and Chris speak with Sarah Jordan, the new CEO of Canada's Mastermind Toys. Taking the reins in January of 2020, Jordan has had to deal with a pandemic, as well as keeping the nearly 40-year-old iconic chain vital and vibrant in this time. Jordan talks about her customer-facing strategies, emphasis on employees and how their mantra, "Play is kids work," inspired by Maria Montessori, has allowed them to be more than competitive; it's empowered them to grow and continue to excel in the current marketplace. 

Jordan's enthusiasm and vision is inspiring, and if you'd like the inside story on how Mastermind continues to find the best toys,  maintain its loyal customer base, and continue expanding, you'll want to listen in.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about how remote work may be been a lifesaver in this time, but its long-term prospects may not be as often promoted.

Join Richard & Chris for a light hearted, but substantive conversation with Ronnie Frankowski, CMO of Moose Toys. Hear how the company has managed growth and expansion while maintaining its creative culture. From current promotional successes to leveraging toys as IP and entertainment, you'll want to hear Frankowski's take on where they've been, where they're going...and a positive outlook on the back half of the year.

(33 minutes)

(32 minutes)

In this special episode, Chris interviews senior executives at Zuru about how the international hit Rainbocorns evolved from a crazy idea to a sensation in more than 100 countries, with sales that grew nearly 240 percent in just under a year. Chris talks with the executives about how they developed the product, marketed it, and in less than two years on the market (after an August 2018 introduction), have introduced three series, hot spin offs and embarked on an international licensing program. Listen in to hear how they did it.

This is a classic toy industry tale of how a nimble, well-structured, forward thinking company seized an opportunity and ran with it.  But it's more than a "tale as old as toys," it's also the story of how a company has leveraged its very contemporary capabilities and insights to launch and sustain a hot property.

(32 minutes)

Chris talks with the inventors of the  hit product, The Eggmazing Egg Decorator. It's an amazing, funny story of a classic toy biz success: how an idea at a kitchen table turned into a million-dollar idea. The first in our Upstarts and Innovators series, Chris talks with entrepreneurs Curtis McGill and Scott Houdashell about how they came up with the idea, how they went for it, and what happened when they went on Shark Tank and teamed up with Shark/Investor Lori Grenier. 

The story of their company Hey Buddy Hey Pal, is a classic toy industry tale, full of trial-and-error, how to deal with a shipment of 10,000 units, and how a lucky (and unplanned) event catapulted them to huge popularity. You'll enjoy hearing how they went from two guys who were making it up as they went along, made this a huge hit, along with very cool line extensions that have made it a year-round hit and their ongoing work at giving back.

In The Endcap, Chris provides some historic perspective on challenges facing the toy industry, and while it won't change the current Coronavirus crisis, perhaps there's some comfort in the fact that the toy industry just keeps bouncing back...and it will again.

Richard is on vacation during this episode, and he'll be back next time.

(31 minutes)

Richard and Chris have a lively conversation with Bryan Stockton. The former CEO of Mattel has remained engaged with an industry he loves. Stockton shares his insights on current business topics, what's working and where he sees the business is going. The hosts also catch up with Bryan's current life as a professional photographer and musician.

You won't want to miss Bryan's insights based on a long career in senior management at Kraft and other companies that have made him a particularly thoughtful and insightful executive who understands both the challenges of management and the creative mandate to delight children.

In The Endcap, the hosts talk about the future of trade shows, and what may be ahead.

(44 minutes)

Richard and Chris talk to James Zahn, The Rock Father about issues in the toy industry, including Q4 outlooks, how to look at various statistics and what may be ahead. In the second part of the conversation, James,  Richard and Chris look into the recent confusion about LEGO's actions in suspending promotion for toys reflecting law enforcement heroes to respect the current political climate. The three talk about race and diversity in the toy industry and thoughts on how the industry can do better. 

(26 minutes)

In the second part of their conversation with Jay Foreman, CEO of Basic Fun, Chris and Richard continue the frank conversation about the state of the toy industry, including a lengthy conversation about the viability of toy fairs. Jay is also the Chairman of the Toy Association's Trade Show committee, and he has some valuable information about planning for upcoming events. Then, the conversation turns to the impact of streaming on licensing and consumption patterns and concludes with a clear-eyed assessment of the current situation in Hong Kong as it relates to the toy industry.

In The Endcap, Richard and Chris talk about the history of Toy Fair, why it was cancelled during World War II, but not during the pandemic of 1918. 

(23 minutes)

Chris and Richard welcome back Jay Foreman, CEO of Basic Fun for a frank and insightful conversation about the state of the toy industry, including the impact of Coronavirus on all aspects of sales, the supply chain and retail. Plus, a look ahead at some of the issues that will impact Q4. This is the first of a two-part conversation. You'll want to hear what Jay has to say, as one of the most informed and thoughtful senior executives in the toy industry. 

(26 minutes)

In this episode, Richard and Chris talk to Steve Totzke, Chief Commercial Officer of Mattel. In this lively conversation, the three discuss Mattel's response to the pandemic, changes in sales processes, the future of manufacturing in Asia, how technology is amplifying the sales process, and much more. Totzke, a Mattel and toy industry veteran, draws on his global experience, and his love of play in talking about these issues.

In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about the economic impact of COVID-19 on the culture, the toy industry and thoughts about life returning to "normal," whatever that may be.

(18 minutes, 30 seconds)

Chris and Richard chat with Josh Shriber, musician and creator of Jammin With You, a music school in Boston and New York. Listen in as they talk about the challenges of taking music instruction online during COVID-19, the value of music education as play and much more.