#219: Why He Went From Mattel to TCA and Launched His Plush Toy

Making It in The Toy Industry with The Toy Coach

Q: Could TCA be valuable to you if you already have corporate toy industry experience? A: YES! Perhaps you think that having professional toy industry experience guarantees success in your entrepreneurial ventures. But this episode turns that notion on its head, featuring Gerardo, a former toy industry professional turned toy entrepreneur, charting his own course through the toy market with a little help from the Toy Creators Academy.

From his previous role managing commercial operations in Latin America for Mattel to launching his own line of guardian angel plush dolls, Gerardo’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, he shares a critical lesson on the value of structured learning and mentorship in transforming his toy business concept into a reality, addressing essential aspects like packaging, marketing, and retail placement. He dives into the practical challenges he faced and how enrolling in the Toy Creators Academy reshaped his approach to business, helping him to overcome these hurdles effectively.
Today's guest host, Virginia Lette brilliantly guides a conversation that is packed with advice for launching and selling your own toy. The lessons from today's guest can change your approach to your toy business or startup. Hit play on this episode if you want to learn from someone who’s experienced both corporate and entrepreneurial paths in the toy industry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional considering a shift to independence or a newcomer trying to get your foot in the door, this episode has something special for you.
Listen in to this episode and find that spark or solution you’ve been searching for to finally make that toy idea you once had, into a real thing.
Episode Cliff Notes:

• Learn how Gerardo transitioned from working in sales at Mattel to launching his own toy brand, Angelitos Magicos.
• Find out how Toy Creators Academy helped Gerardo move from concept to retail shelves, even with his extensive background in the toy industry.
• Discover Gerardo's unique toy, Angelitos Magicos, which helps children deal with nightmares through comforting messages and guardian angels.
• Hear how Gerardo plans to expand his brand beyond Mexico and the challenges he anticipates with language and cultural adaptations.
• Learn the valuable lessons on packaging and online conversion improvements that Gerardo gained through his one-on-one sessions in Toy Creators Academy.
• Uncover the steps Gerardo is taking to get his products certified for the U.S. market and his strategy for introducing them to a new audience.
• Find out how the Toy Creators Academy community helped Gerardo stay motivated and navigate the lows of product development.

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