You have to be an adult to start your own business and make your toy ideas real, right? Today’s guest proves that completely wrong. At just 7 years old she recognized an important gap in the toy industry and, with the help of her mom, created a line of toys to empower young black and brown girls. Now 10, today’s guest offers toy industry experts and newbies some sage advice.

At 7 years old, Zoe Oli’s mom bought her a black doll. There was just one problem. The doll had straight hair. Zoe wanted to see dolls that had hair just like hers: curly, and sometimes braided. So, her mom helped her to create the brand Beautiful Curly Me. Zoe has written two books: Beautiful Curly Me and Say It, Show It - Gratitude and Kindness Journal. They also have a line of dolls with different skin tones and natural hair styles including braids and afros. Beautiful Curly Me also sells hair care products including a matching bonnet set for kids and their dolls. The dolls have been featured on Oprah’s favorite thing, and Zoe has even made an appearance on the Kelly Clarkson Show. Clearly, this girl is going places.

In this episode, you’ll learn the history behind the brand and the process of creating a business as a 7 year old. You’ll also find out some wise advice that applies to anyone in the toy industry, young or old.




EPISODE CLIFF NOTES

• Learn the struggles that led Zoe to want to create something to help raise black and brown girls’ self-esteem. [00:02:40]
• Find out why toy creators could consider kids' perspectives when making their products. [00:03:18]
• Learn the first thing Zoe and her mom did once they decided to start a business. [00:04:54]
• Find out how Zoe felt when she saw the first sample of her product. [00:05:58]
• Learn how Zoe’s mom helped her stay balanced as a kidpreneur. [00:06:54]
• Find out the hardest part of creating a business as a kid. [00:06:16]
• Learn why it was so easy for Zoe to find other kids that related to her product. [00:07:04]
• Find out how Zoe and her mom got the word out about their dolls. [00:07:34]
• Learn about Zoe’s biggest TV and social media appearances. [00:07:52]
• Find out Zoe’s advice for both kid and adult entrepreneurs. [00:10:03]

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

For the links and resources mentioned in this episode, head over to the episode page at www.thetoycoach.com/142

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