Curious about what happens when major toy industry players team up?

In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, host Azhelle Wade cracks open the toy box on the epic merger between The Toy Association and People of Play. You’ll hear straight from the toy legends — Mary Couzin and Greg Ahearn—as they give us backstage passes on their big plans for events like POP Week and ChiTAG, and how this merger is shaking things up for the toy industry. The guests shared what sparked this merger and the opportunities that await toy creators, inventors, and enthusiasts in the long run.

You’ll also get to hear solid tips on how to make the most of toy fairs and events like pitching, networking, and thriving in an industry that's always leveling up. Whether you're a toy biz vet or just starting to dip your toes in the toy industry, LISTEN to this episode because it is packed with everything you need to level up your toy game!

Listen For These Important Moments

• 01:36 The Major Merger: The Toy Association and People of Play
• 08:27 Maintaining the Spirit of POP
• 13:11 Immediate Changes and Future Plans
• 20:00 Nostalgic Toys and Their Comebacks
• 21:35 ChiTAG and POP Week: Coming this November 2024!
• 24:15 Young Inventor Challenge and Industry Opportunities
• 25:57 Networking Tips for New Inventors
• 29:52 How to Make the Most of ChiTAG and POP Week
• 32:55 Encouraging New Toy Inventors

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