toy coach

Dr. Zabina Bhasin began her journey of understanding the powerful role toys play in shaping a child's identity. As a child psychiatrist, she used her expertise to observe that children were naturally drawn towards toys, books, and crafts. Yet, as a mother, she noticed a distinct gap in the market - there were no multicultural or ethnic studies toys. This realization sparked an idea, a vision to create a space where children could learn about various cultures and traditions, and feel a sense of belonging. This was the birth of In KidZ, a company that was much more than just a toy manufacturer. It was a creator of connections, a builder of bridges between cultures, and a purveyor of inclusivity. No longer would children ask insensitive questions about one another's backgrounds. Instead, through play, they would learn to appreciate and respect the beautiful diversity of the world around them.

Awards and nominations not only serve as a form of recognition but also validation of an entrepreneur's efforts. They can be instrumental in boosting morale and signaling excellence within the industry. Acknowledgment of one's work can also raise public awareness about the mission or cause the entrepreneur is passionate about. Reflecting on her own nomination for the TOTY awards, Dr. Zabina Bhasin expresses her gratitude and sense of validation. It's evident that these recognitions mean the world to her as they support her aim to make an impact in the lives of children through her culturally diverse and inclusive toys. This testament reassures listeners about the commitment and dedication behind her work.

This award-nominated change maker will be at New York Toy Fair at booth #4821. Please reach out to azhelle@inkidzco.com if you want to stop by and few the latest in In KidZ product!

Episode Cliff Notes:

• Listen to Dr. Zee getting started in the toy industry [00:02:08]
• Learn about recognition in the toy industry [00:05:37]
• Discover Dr. Zee’s journey in finding cultural ambassadors [00:09:11]
• Learn about her nominations and awards [00:12:24]
• Understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in toys [00:15:26]
• Learn about the description of In KidZ large kits [00:16:34]
• Find out where to find In KidZ products [00:19:10]
• Discover Dr. Zee’s overcoming struggles in entrepreneurship [00:21:41]
• Listen to what Dr. Zee considers the most meaningful win [00:25:06]
• Learn about seeking mentors in the toy industry [00:29:03]
• Dr. Zee’s childhood toys and games [00:30:01]
• Find out how to connect with Dr. Zabina Bhasin [00:31:25]
• Listen to her nominations and congratulations [00:32:12]

🎓 5 Streamlined Steps To Your Next Playful Product Launch in 1 Interactive Masterclass: learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

💡 The Great Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp: Visualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real in just 5 days. Register here: learn.thetoycoach.com/bootcamp

As of today you might not be in the toy business. You might be in advertising, you might be a school teacher, or you might be a waiter, and the idea of being a toy inventor or a game inventor may have never crossed your mind until this very moment. Today's guest on Making It in The Toy Industry is Rob Angel, the creator of the highly popular family board game of quick draw, Pictionary. At age 21, Rob worked waiting tables in Seattle when he dreamed up the word guessing game now known as Pictionary. With focus and passion Rob raised capital, built a team and figured out how to market and sell his game all over Seattle, and eventually the world.
Rob chats with The Toy Coach about what it was like starting out all those years ago and that path to finding his Aardvark. Rob joins The Toy Coach in a valuable conversation about building a team around a dream, and the importance of staying focused on your vision. In this episode Rob Angel discusses the 3 biggest game changers on his path to building Pictionary and inspires MITTI listeners with his words of advice. If you want to hear exactly what Rob has to say, you'll have to pop your earbuds in and take a listen.


MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

For the links and resources mentioned in this episode, head over to the episode page at www.thetoycoach.com/19

🎓 5 Streamlined Steps To Your Next Playful Product Launch in 1 Interactive Masterclass: learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

💡 The Great Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp: Visualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real in just 5 days. Register here: learn.thetoycoach.com/bootcamp

In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, we focus on Manufacturing in the USA. Learn how to use an indispensable resource for American manufacturers. We'll outline key differences in working with a factory in China versus a factory in the USA.

We also cover 8 key topics and questions to discuss with the American factory you're considering partnering with. This quick start guide to finding your perfect factory is full of tips, tricks and actionable advice. Find the full transcript and episode links at the bottom of this description.


MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

For the links and resources mentioned in this episode, head over to the episode page at www.thetoycoach.com/4

🎓 5 Streamlined Steps To Your Next Playful Product Launch in 1 Interactive Masterclass: learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

💡 The Great Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp: Visualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real in just 5 days. Register here: learn.thetoycoach.com/bootcamp

Finally an answer to one of the biggest industry questions out there. How do I start manufacturing my own toy or game ideas with a factory in China? This podcast episode breaks down the easiest way to find, analyze, and communicate with the ideal overseas factory for YOU.

Learn how to determine quality and legitimacy of factories you find online, learn the best way to protect your ideas overseas (hint: it's not an NDA), and learn 8 key questions to ask any factory you're considering partnering with. This quick start guide to finding your perfect factory is full of tips, tricks and actionable advice. Find the full transcript and more at at thetoycoach.com.


MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

For the links and resources mentioned in this episode, head over to the episode page at www.thetoycoach.com/3

🎓 5 Streamlined Steps To Your Next Playful Product Launch in 1 Interactive Masterclass: learn.thetoycoach.com/masterclass

💡 The Great Toy and Game Idea Bootcamp: Visualize, Validate, and Vow to make your toy or game idea real in just 5 days. Register here: learn.thetoycoach.com/bootcamp