Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach
Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach
Azhelle Wade
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Great industry insights!
I’ve been in the toy industry for more than 20 years, and even so I get insights out of each episode of this podcast. It’s great to hear deeper conversations with so many of the Toy people that I know and love, and to learn more about aspects of our ever-changing “business of play”. Keep up the great work Azhelle!
Ryan L Hamilton
Almost every episode leaves me with action-items ✨
I have listened to so many episodes of the Toy Coach podcast, and I almost always come away with action items or things to research. My favourite episodes have been the MESH episode with Rachele Harmuth and the toy store owner episode with Theresa Duncan. As an entrepreneur in the educational product space, I really enjoyed hearing about games that foster well-being and resilience in children. And as someone who is looking to gain retail placements, hearing about the toy store business from the owner of a toy store was really helpful. Azhelle approaches the industry from so many different angles, and I appreciate her insights. Thank you for bringing on such a variety of guests to your show. ✨
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MindMine Education
Practical and so useful!
I am really finding this podcast so helpful in learning about the industry and how to get going. Such a great resource for anyone wanting to learn about the toy invention and industry.
Momoyyggfefhi
Inspiring & so Informative
I recently signed up for TCA and then discovered this amazing podcast! I’ve had a lot of windshield time this past week and was able to binge listen. I will definitely be listening to some episodes again so I can take notes. I just got home from my road trip to find my Toy Creator Academy workbook has been delivered… can’t wait to dive in and bring Howl the Owl®️ to the next level!!!
BC Owl
Just👏So👏Good👏
Obsessed with all that the good information. Azhelle is such a joyful deep well of information and so fresh with how she communicates it. You will not be disappointed if you tune in.
Britt J Wesley
The one stop shop to get you ready for the Toy Biz!
Azhelle's show captures the attention from beginning to end; "every episode." I personally have wanted to jump into the toy business for over a decade and knew it was time, but I didn't know where to start. While looking up about the industry Azhelle's Instagram started popping up and caught my attention enough for me to dive into what she was saying. I listened to the latest episode at the time which connected with me on every level. So, I listened to more and more episodes as if it was a Netflix show that I couldn't get enough of. Thank whatever creator you believe in for creating P.O.D. (Podcast On Demand). The great thing to note is I just attended my first Toy Fair and thanks to listening to the episodes I had a succesful show because I knew what to expect and how to plan for that success! I even bumped into Azhelle at Toy Fair and she is ever bit of charming, talented, and knowledgable of the industry as presented on the show. Looking forward to more episodes and for seeing the success that not only she creates but of the great success others achieve because of her. Azhelle for President! Adventure on, Todd McClain owner of Captain Tall Tale,LLC.
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bored212
Fun and Factual
So glad I came across Azheele’s podcast! It is an amazing resource for any entrepreneur interested in getting into the toy industry, or someone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at how our favorite toys and games come to life. The guests are great and Azheele brings a wealth of knowledge and energy of her own. Highly recommend!
girldadnation
A great listen!
This podcast provides an enlightening peek into the world of toy creation and marketing. Without getting overly technical, the episodes offer solid insights and useful tips that make the podcast an engaging listen for anyone interested in the toy industry or creative business in general. From Bona and Team Capsho :)
Bona and Team Capsho
Wealth of information!
I am so grateful I came across The Toy Coach, each episode always provides me with amazing insight into the industry and helps me plot the path of my own toy journey. I cant recommend this podcast enough to anyone else looking to create a game or toy.
Brandon_Braswell
Best podcast on the toy industry out there
I’m so grateful to have Azhelle’s podcast as my companion in my journey to enter the toy industry. Azhelle is SO generous with her content and advice, she knows exactly what are our challenges and works systematically to support us tackle those challenges. I’m inspired every time I get to listen to her podcast on my drives. Thank you Azhelle. You’ve created an amazing community and helped so many! Keep being awesome!
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natalievu
The Toy Coach episode 164
This episode is one of favorites because of the new learning and the future of how the toy industry can help kids in their challenges today. MESH acronym hopefully will be more widely known in a year from now. The guest Rachele Harmuth is very passionate about the skills kids and parents need to develop together.
Toyrick
Great Insights into the Game Industry
Really appreciate Azhelle’s perspective in the toy game industry which like many industries is an underrepresented industry. As a Black woman who is new to the industry, it’s so important to hear the perspective of anothet Black woman who is not only thriving but also leading within this space. I really appreciate the quick summaries at the beginning of each episode that give you a glimpse into what the episode will be about. I also love the tangible action items and takeaways at the end of every episode. This entire podcast is so well curated and thoughtfully produced!
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Lizz Rene
What a Gift!
This podcast is such a gift. Anyone who is interested in creating…anything could benefit from listening. Each show is not only value-packed, but also very inspiring.
Evolved Teacher
Necessary
This podcast is a must listen to every single one trying to start their journey in toys, or even if you are already a toy inventor or entrepreneur. Each episode carry so much knowledge and the guests bring in so much insight is insane. It was an honor to me being a guest on this show, not only once, but twice now.
MJ Spitalnik
Excellent Advice for those in the Toy Industry
I’ve been listening to every episode, taking notes and following her guests on social media because the information is so valuable. From how to design toys to finding a factory to sharing on social media, you’ll find a wealth of experiences on this podcast.
pltrfew
Azhelle is a GIFT to the World!
Azhelle Wade is not only an expert in the toy industry, but is an inspiration with all that she shares with the world. Her podcast discusses important topics in the toy industry and I have learned so much from listening to her and the amazing guests she features. And full disclosure, I was also a student in her Toy Creators Academy and what she delivers exceeded all of my expectations in the best way possible. If you are thinking of jumping into the toy space, I can’t recommend connecting with, and learning from Azhelle enough. She is truly a leader in this field and I am so grateful to have her as both a mentor, and a friend.
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MistyP75
Great Podcast Not just for Toy Makers
I just discovered this podcast a week ago and has been listening from episode 1. The host Azhelle is amazing. The advices she gives for coming up with ideas, planning and keeping things organized , how to approach and talk to people, how to handle failures etc are all top notch and can apply to anyone in any businesses. The way she talks and her positive energy just shine through and clearly show how smart, genuine and talented she is. It’s a great listen for anyone who wants to start their own business or communicate better in an entrepreneurial environment. And if you have a toy idea this is a must, I’ve learned so much just listening to the first 10 episodes.
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Hueyl77
Interview with Tanya Thompson - AMAZING
Azhelle goes out of her way to get big name people to talk on her podcasts for us inventors with AMAZING and CRUCIAL info to know and have when pitching our ideas to big companies like Hasbro. Appreciate you so much Azhelle 🙏🏻❤️
cheyenneraker24
Goldmine contents to get into the toy industry
I absolutely recommend this podcast for anyone looking to license or bring to market a toy or game. Azhelle covers all the parts of the process in an entertaining way. She is a wealth of experience and is most generous sharing her knowledge and important lessons to listeners. She also bring in the best experts to round out her experience and offer all perspectives to her audience. Azhelle has a great mentor vibe and makes listeners feel like she truly cares about their success. This podcast is s as goldmine and Azhelle is a treasure, recognized by the best on the industry.
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quewouine
What an amazing show
I have been seeking help and insight for my product for some time. This podcast has given me a clear next steps for my prototype. Thank you!
Tmomma15
Joanna Paul, Whatsitsface, LLC CEO
Azhelle Wade is incredibly experienced, knowledgeable and a pleasure to learn from. If you have a great idea for a toy, this podcast is invaluable. So is her Toy Academy program which offers in-depth training on every aspect of toy development from ideation to launching your product. I have learned so much and feel better equipped to pursue my ideas, thanks to Azhelle!
Joanna-Paul
Azhelle is AMAZING
Azhelle has such passion and knowledge of the field of toy design. Every episode brings useful nuggets of information and important lessons to get into the toy industry. I highly recommend!
connieberd
A Must-Listen for Anyone in The Toy Biz
It’s difficult to put into words how much I’ve learned and how much I’ve been inspired by Azhelle and her guests. As a product developer/inventor who aspires to create and license my toy ideas, the podcast is filled with supportive ideas and people who are either where I’d like to be, or who regularly work with inventors. That has made the whole process less intimidating and more fun. I also respect Azhelle for putting many important topics on the table related to the toy industry, including gender and race issues. And I totally agree with the following quote Azhelle mentioned that her mom would often say to her: “People can only grow as far as they know.” I even joined Azhelle’s Toy Creator’s Academy in large part due to the podcast. Thank you Azhelle for all you do!
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AndrewDarlow
#90
Cutting-edge information, thank you!
AliBlue17
An Essential Resource for all Toy Creators
Sometimes you don’t realize you need something until it’s in front of you. That’s exactly how I felt about the Toy Coach podcast when I discovered it. All topics and guests provide important discussions and insights into the toy industry that I didn’t know or knew enough of! Thank you Toy Coach!
Nansay
Loaded with golden nuggets
Azhelle has a wealth of knowledge about the toy industry. I learn so much every time I listen. She and her expert guests offer insightful advice and information that is helpful to anyone wanting to learn more about the industry!
shaneyg7
A Must-Listen for Creative Entrepreneurs!
This podcast is a treasure trove of insider insights from the hard-to-crack toy industry, AND practical, up-to-date lessons that are valuable to any creative entrepreneur. Azhelle combines a wealth of experience in her field with a relentless drive to bring value to her audience; it’s inspiring to see her build her own business with such energy, passion, and adaptability, and having that voice in my ear makes me want to level up my own brand-building efforts. I so wish The Toy Coach had existed when I was first starting out, but even a couple years into my little toy business, I am learning SO much from Azhelle and her interview guests. Grateful that this amazing resource exists - thank you, Azhelle!!
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Ajh221g
My favorite podcast
Azhelle is simply the best. This podcast is truly a gift- Azhelle is so thorough, thoughtful, and passionate and each episode is so informative while also being very fun to listen to. The scope of the podcast is really quite amazing (Azhelle is so knowledgeable!!!), which I am really appreciative of as someone who is very new to the toy industry. I feel so inspired and motivated after each episode- I feel like I grow each time I listen! Very grateful for this podcast, much love. -Olivia
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zestychild
New Opportunities
I have been listening to this podcast with one idea of a product in mind. As I continue to listen and get insight my products ideas have expand. Azhelle has truly open up my eyes to the possibilities in this industry. I enjoy her style of teaching and her vast knowledge in this industry. Looking forward to learning more and working with her in the future.
Chanel McCullough
Toy Brainstorming Excellence
These episodes are THE most thought provoking, exciting and thorough tools to develop, refine, target, manufacture, pitch and more for a driven newbie to the toy world. I’m so grateful for the organized, easily understood delivery, approach and homework given. Watch out world because here I come!
Daisy the Clown
Episode 74 was what I needed!!!!
It’s funny how the lawyer on the show took the path that I am currently on! I have had this forever dream to write a children’s book on my real-life heroine, but I felt like the book needed a doll and accessories to go along with it, as well as activity kits and projects. Just like the lawyer, I found myself extremely miserable in my job where all my waking moments and dreams were consumed w my book and toy idea. I loved how Azhelle asked ALL the important questions that I wanted answered! Thank you, so much Azhelle, for following your dreams so we may follow ours!!❤️
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Cindy0616
Azhelle Is a Wonderful Toy Coach
Thank you Azhelle for becoming a huge force in my life. I love your Podcast and listen every morning. I will see you when my amazing book gets published. See you at the top. Also a huge shout out to Marie Forleo for introducing us.
MarieHekuba
Very good
Started listening as a parent looking for good informative material for my kids in college with aspirations of making it in the toy industry. The podcast offers good reason and insight, you don’t have to knee deep within the industry to follow along. Love the variety of speakers and range of topics. As a parent with Afro-American girls this podcast resonates .
42Wesley
Not just for those in the toy industry
Azhelle you are providing such useful information that is applicable to anyone who is doing their business virtually. In 2021 I would just say that’s about 75% of all businesses. You are much more than a toy coach so from now on I am going to refer to you as just the “Coach” Great advice, great podcast.
Kjujubee
Proud
The beginning immediately caught my attention because it is so true. From here on our virtual and in person will be the new “norm” as she stated. I had to listen to the rest of what she said and I can just say this interview is great and insightful.
JrWestbrooke
Azhelle is the toy couch you need
She knows everything you need to know to take your ideas and make them a reality. She communicates her message effectively. And most importantly, her energy is infectious. She will motivate you to achieve your goals in the toy industry through her genuine excitement and passion for your ideas! She weaves her inspiring personal story and thorough understanding of the toy world to create a highly educational podcast worth your listen! Thanks, Azhelle.
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Sugarfreesweetp
#69 The Toy Coach
Azhelle is the real deal when it comes to being a toy coach. Not only does she give her students 120 per cent of herself, she knows the industry inside and out. If you are looking to make it in the toy industry, tune in to what she has to say. She’s amazing!
cheekycootoys
Look no more!!
I really can’t say anymore about this podcast other than it is EXACTLY what we need as potential toy creators. I follow the Toy Coach on IG & listen to all her episodes and am so inspired. She helps me feel like I can do THIS! My 4 year old daughter & I have started our own handmade heirloom dolls of diversity brand and listening to this podcast has helped us to pitch for mini-grants and really make this dream come true. Thank you so much Azhelle we cannot wait to meet you one day in person & say thanks in real life!
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colehill
Inspiring and engaging
Great podcast. Azhelle is optimistic, combined with a playful mindset. Awesome combination. Well done.
bb23Cal
Great Insight
The Toy Coach Podcast has great insight into creating a new business within the toys industry. The Podcast covers a wide verity of topics in the industry which is helpful gives how layered the industry is. It’s also great to get a fresh opinion based on Azhelle’s unique experience creating and developing new product.
A C 316
The Best Podcast Ever!
I am so happy to have found this podcast. Azhelle is really making a difference in the toy industry with this podcast. Her knowledge, format, and range of guest speakers is so very necessary. Her podcast is a valued source for those in the market and for those just entering this market. Not only is Azhelle quite knowledgeable about this industry, she has such a pleasant and wonderful vibe. She’s not just taking up space with this podcast. It is the real deal.
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ToyMaker16
Objectively Vetting Your Amazing Toy Ideas
Azhelle, who has developed The Toy Coach Podcast, is every toy inventor dream come true. She gives so much valuable information to help anyone, at any level in the toy industry. Speaking from my personal experience. Azhelle, podcasts have helped me understand a little more about the toy industry and encouraged me to continue this journey as a toy inventor. Not sure where it may lead, but I’m willing to try. 🙂
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Leenie2021
A close look inside the minds of toy industry professionals!
Azhelle is informative and insightful about all things toy. She is so very generous to share this amazing content. She really gets inside the heads of toy industry professionals. I just finished episode #67 and loved the insightful content on what to keep in mind when pitching new ideas to toy manufactures and what they are looking for. Can’t wait for the next episode!
Swirligirl
Amazing Resource for Exploring the Toy Industry
Azhelle is an amazing resource for starting or continuing a career in the toy industry! This podcast provides so much knowledge about the art of play getting in on the evergrowing world of toys. I find myself listening every week for inspiration and direction for what comes next in my journey in the toy industry! The guests are always engaging and you can tell everyone involved has fun making this show!
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Cheezmo95
If you want to break into the toy industry - listen to this podcast!
Azhelle has industry knowledge and knows how to share this knowledge in easy to understand advice and guidance. Super fun to listen to and you'll learn a lot!
Travel mom 007
So Much Information!!!
The Toy Coach is sharing is a wealth of information! Not only is this information setting you up for success as a Toy Inventor, anyone even wondering about the ‘how to’ of toys will learn a lot! Definitely an Inspiring Influencer & Total Game Changer for the Toy Industry!
Coach Coy
Great Content!
Azhelle is a wealth of knowledge on the toy industry, she invites great and diverse guests to speak on all aspects of the toy industry. This podcast is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about toys or start working in toys!
lilduck1996
Can’t wait for more!
I had so much fun listening to the Toy Coach. Azhelle has an incredible wealth of knowledge about the toy industry and she presents the information in such an approachable way. I’m looking forward to more episodes and what else is to come from the Toy Coach. Bravo!
SaIso88
Inspiring Podcast!
I am in the toy industry and this Podcast is helpful, inspring and fun!! If you are in the toy or related industry (even if you are not), I highly recommand this Podcast!
Freesia91
Amazing podcast!
So many gems on this podcast. Very inspiring ! Definitely recommend if you’re trying to navigate the toy industry. Great job Azhelle!
Unii_o
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