#241: What This Bold Merger Means for the People of Play Innovation Conference with Greg Ahearn and Mary Couzin
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