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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.  This conversation first appeared as The Endcap after the interview with Gerrick Johnson.  The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and Chizcomm. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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.  The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and Chizcomm.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playbround Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy and Chizcomm.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. This week, we welcome new supporter Chizcomm, as well as ongoing support from Global Toy Experts and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

Join us for an insightful conversation as Richard and Chris talk about entrepreneurship and the growth of Crazy Aaron's Puttyworld. From an idle fiddling to a product, from the basement to a global enterprise, Aaron Muderick talks about how he's built  his business, the challenges of tariffs and Covid and how he supports his community. It's a lighthearted talk about building an empire on putty, but it's anything but silly. In The Endcap, Chris and Richard talk about Barbie and her evolution, and the forces of the market and innovation that drove the brand to a 29% increase in Q3 over last year. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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? The Playground Podcast is sponsored by Global Toy Experts and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

Join us for a lighthearted and informative conversation as Richard and Chris welcome back a favorite guest Chris Bensch of the Strong Museum in Rochester to talk about the Toy Hall of Fame. Get some backstage stories of the push to include toys, what toys make and what don't and the celebration of play that's at the center of everything the Strong Museum does. In the Endcap, Chris & Richard talk about the postponement of the Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair in 2021 and the larger issue of the emergence of Shenzhen as a toy destination and what that may mean for the industry in the future. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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.  The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playground Podcast is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

Richard and Chris catch up with the busy Richard North, one of the founders of Wow Stuff from his car on a busy London street and they talk about the growth of the company, the challenges and opportunities of working in the world of Covid...and the innovative product launching in October that's set to help the company make it through these challenging times. From a strategy that leverages hot properties to outrageously creative product, and a company that's pulling together, you'll be entertained and inspired by this conversation and Richard. The Playground Podcast is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

Join Richard and Chris as we continue our series on Upstarts and Innovators with a conversation with Alex Tongue, CEO and founder of Vango Toys. Hear how this 27-year-old entrepreneur took the tremendous risk to start a new toy company even in a pandemic and the success of his first product, The Upside Down Challenge. Richard, Chris and Alex talk about the power of social media, how it's upending promotion and driving sale, its  use and how to judge its effectiveness. Alex represents a new generation of toymaker, and we're excited to bring you his story and insights. In The Endcap, Richard and Chris discuss the current political state of Tik Tok and WeChat. It's a fluid situation with many implications for the toy business, and toy marketing. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playground Podcast is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, KidStuff Public Relations, and The Toy Guy.  --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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.  The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and Kidstuff Public Relations. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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.  In an extended Endcap, Chris & Richard discuss an incendiary article about the new TRU Kids and Amazon deal in U.S. from Forbes, Richard's response in Global Toy News, changing business environments that make make this worth the risk, and the dangers of the current move towards  "clickbait reporting."  The Playground is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations.  --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playground is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

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. The Playground Podcast is supported by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations.  --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

Chris and Richard speak with Dr. Lisa Williams PhD, founder of Fresh Dolls. Here the amazing story of this trailblazing professor, researcher and passionate toy designer on how she created her successful line of African American and multi-cultural dolls. Dr. Williams is insightful and inspiring as she talks about the need for authentic ethnic dolls, the opportunity for toymakers, and the importance of understanding diversity as an integral element of success in today's culture and marketplace. Listen in, and we're sure you'll be as delighted as we were. In The Endcap, Richard and Chris talk about Q2 numbers for Hasbro and Mattel, conditions that will influence the second half and Disney's release of Mulan direct to streaming.  The Playground Podcast is brought to you by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations.  --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

(33 minutes) Chris and Richard talk with Kimberly Mosely, president of ASTRA and board member, owner of Angelina's Toys Shop and education consultant Betty Burns about the state of the specialty toy business, and ASTRA Camp, the virtual show and educational program.  They talk about what makes ASTRA unique in the industry as well as their innovative approach to community building the specialty sector at this time. Find out more at astracamp.org. In The Endcap, Richard and Chris have a lighthearted chat about how toy folks really do live in the future... and how we're all eager to get there right about now. The Playground Podcast is brought to you by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support

(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. The Playground Podcast is sponsored by Global Toy Experts, The Toy Guy, and KidStuff Public Relations.  --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-playground-podcast/support