Playing At Business - toy & game business podcast with Steve Reece

Steve Reece
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Podcast about the toy & games business, hosted by leading toy business expert Steve Reece of www.KidsBrandInsight.com. Steve takes a look at different trends in the toy & game biz, and speaks to interesting people from across the business. © 2018 RG Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. 10/21/2025

    Episode 113 - 5 Years On: 5 Ways Covid Permanently Changed The Toy & Game Biz

    In this episode, host Steve Reece takes a deep dive into the long-term impact of the Covid pandemic on the Toy & Game industry. Five years since the first global lockdowns, the dust has settled—and the changes are here to stay. From pricing shifts and supply chain diversification to the evolution of trade shows and the rise of direct-to-consumer strategies, this episode explores how one black swan event reshaped the business forever. Whether you're a brand owner, distributor, retailer, or industry observer, this episode offers actionable insights and strategic takeaways. Plus, Steve shares updates on his LinkedIn newsletters, the REECE REPORT, and the launch of ToyRecruitment.com—a specialist recruitment service built by insiders for the Toy & Game biz. Tune in to understand what's changed, what's working, and what the future might hold.   More information on our leading Toy & Game business Consultancy here: www.KidsBrandInsight.com  Ifyou are a Toy or Game company seeking to hire the right people: www.ToyRecruitment.com

    19 min
  2. EP 112 - 8 Characteristics Of Toy Companies That Stand The Test Of Time

    06/17/2025

    EP 112 - 8 Characteristics Of Toy Companies That Stand The Test Of Time

    What makes a toy company last for generations? In this episode, we break down the eight essential characteristics that separate fleeting fads from industry legends. From unwavering brand identity to innovation that evolves with consumer trends, we uncover the secrets behind long-term success. Expect insights into adaptability, quality, nostalgia, and the magic of emotional connection. Whether you're a toy industry veteran or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode delivers practical wisdom for building a business that stands the test of time.

    20 min
  3. Ep 111 - Tariff Tribulations

    06/13/2025

    Ep 111 - Tariff Tribulations

    It's been a wild start to 2025 with tariff tribulations abounding.  From supply chain disruptions to retail price rises, these developments have produced a complex landscape for Toy & Game companies to try to navigate. Join us as we unpack the challenges, explore strategic responses and offer some tips to help you navigate the current situation.

    20 min
  4. EP 110 - So You Invented A Board Game, Now What? How To Commercially Launch Your Game

    09/25/2024

    EP 110 - So You Invented A Board Game, Now What? How To Commercially Launch Your Game

    In this episode, board games business expert Steve Reece of www.KidsBrandInsight.com runs through the steps in completing a commercial launch of a board game (also includes a card game or other cardboard based Games).  If you are wondering what you need to do next after you came up with the idea of a Game and made a Gameplay mechanic, then this episode is for you.

    23 min
  5. EP 109 - TOY & GAME STARTUPS: 10 TIPS

    08/27/2024

    EP 109 - TOY & GAME STARTUPS: 10 TIPS

    Over the last decade and a half or so, we have advised 200+ Toy startups and Game startups. There have been a number of recurring Tips and bits of advice we have given. This podcast covers those Top Ten Tips for startups in this whacky world of Toys & Games.   This is a definite must listen for new entrants to the business of Play!

    41 min
  6. Ep 108, Toy Biz India Trade Show Review

    07/15/2024

    Ep 108, Toy Biz India Trade Show Review

    This episode reviews the Toy Biz trade show event in Delhi. This time round more than 400 exhibitors were at the show. Host Steve Reece runs through his experience at the event, and discusses the many opportunities for Toy & Game companies in India.

    19 min
  7. Ep 107 - Which Toy & Game Trade Shows Should You Attend?

    05/31/2024

    Ep 107 - Which Toy & Game Trade Shows Should You Attend?

    This is the question we get most often. There are a number of key trade shows in the Toy business, and historically there has been a commom complaint that we have too many of these shows and that the schedule is inefficient. The pandemic gave us a good opportunity to consider our show schedules and to reassess what makes most sense for our businesses. In this episode we run through the main shows and talk about how to decide which shows to participate in.

    36 min
  8. Ep 106 - Board Games: 10 Key Success Factors AKA What I learnt Working On The Best & Worst Selling Games Of All Time

    02/22/2024

    Ep 106 - Board Games: 10 Key Success Factors AKA What I learnt Working On The Best & Worst Selling Games Of All Time

    In this latest episode host Steve Reece shares 10 Key Success Factors for Board Games based on decades working with and on some of the most iconic Games of all times, including Hasbro's stable of Family Games such as Monopoly. Clue/do, Risk, Game of Life and many more.  Unusually Steve also acknowledges working on the worst selling board game of all time, as well as the best. If you are in the business of Games this is a must listen episode.   Sign up for our free email newsletter on the Toy & Games industry here: www.ToyIndustryJournal.com

    24 min
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Podcast about the toy & games business, hosted by leading toy business expert Steve Reece of www.KidsBrandInsight.com. Steve takes a look at different trends in the toy & game biz, and speaks to interesting people from across the business. © 2018 RG Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved.

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