The biggest week in licensing is here.

In this special episode of Born to License, we’re on the ground in Los Angeles just days before Licensing Expo 2026 — and for the first time ever, the entire Born team is together.

Before the show floor opens, David sits down with the team to answer three key questions:

 👉 What IP will dominate the show?

 👉 What advice would you give first-time attendees?

 👉 What are you most excited about this year?

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The most talked-about IPs heading into Licensing Expo 2026
• Why K-Pop Demon Hunters, Shrek, Bluey, and Pokémon are dominating conversations
• Insider tips for first-time attendees (that most people miss)
• How to prepare, network, and make the most of the event
• What really matters beyond the meetings and show floor

🎯 Top Licensing Expo 2026 Predictions

The Born team shares their insights on what will shape the show, including:

• The rise of new breakout IP
• Major upcoming tentpoles like Shrek 5 and Toy Story
• The long-term impact of future-facing planning (2028–2029)
• How global trends like Olympics 2028 influence licensing

💡 Advice for First-Time Attendees

If you're attending Licensing Expo for the first time, this episode is packed with practical advice:

• Plan your schedule well in advance
• Be open to unexpected networking opportunities
• Don’t miss panels, activations, and experiences
• Wear comfortable shoes (seriously)
• Talk to everyone — your next deal could be anywhere

🚀 From the Host: What to Expect This Year

David shares his own perspective:

• Why K-Pop Demon Hunters is the IP to watch
• Where to focus if your meetings are already locked
• How to get value from networking spaces and panels
• His session at Licensing Expo (AI in licensing)

📍 Catch David live:

 “Brand Licensing Meets AI: The Fundamentals You Need to Know”

 🗓️ Wednesday | 3PM | Networking Hub

📍 Meet Us at Licensing Expo

For the first time ever, Born to License has its own booth!

📍 Booth: T236

 🎙️ Come say hello — you might even be featured on the podcast

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense

👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!

📩 Contact: [email protected]

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