Born to License

David Born
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Unlock the secrets of the $350 billion licensing industry with David Born, CEO of Born Licensing & Born to License. Whether you’re a business owner, brand enthusiast, or curious about how your favorite characters and brands make their way onto products, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the world of licensing. Join David as he shares insider stories, practical tips, and real-world examples, helping you navigate the exciting intersection of creativity, commerce, and collaboration. From product development to pitching, licensing terminology to success stories—get ready to discover the untapped potential of this dynamic industry. New episodes every two weeks.

  1. Backrooms vs Star Wars: What It Really Means for Licensing

    4d ago

    Backrooms vs Star Wars: What It Really Means for Licensing

    In this episode of Born to License, we break down one of the biggest conversations in Hollywood right now — and why the licensing perspective tells a completely different story. Two low-budget films created by YouTube-native directors have shocked the industry, outperforming expectations and even competing with major franchises like Star Wars at the box office. But here’s the real question: 👉 Does box office success actually translate into licensing success? 🎬 In this episode, we cover: Why viral films and breakout hits don’t always become licensing giantsThe difference between audience hype and generational IPWhat makes brands like Star Wars and Toy Story dominate consumer productsThe hidden limitations of certain genres (like horror) in licensingHow new IP like Backrooms could evolve into a licensing opportunityAmazon’s new AI-generated content strategy — and what it means for the future of IPWhy Taylor Swift’s involvement in Toy Story 5 matters (even beyond the film)🧠 Key Insight: Licensing isn’t just about how big a film is today — it’s about cultural longevity, emotional connection, and multi-generational relevance. 🚀 Also in this episode: Behind-the-scenes updates from the Born to License teamA standout campaign with Sesame Street’s Count for digital safetyNew licensing launches with major brands like John DeereReal-world retail insights from inside Walmart (including a moment that got us kicked out…)📈 If you're in licensing, brand building, or entertainment: This episode will change how you think about IP, content success, and long-term value. 🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    19 min
  2. What I Learned at Licensing Expo 2026 (Costs, Trends & $389B Industry Insights)

    Jun 1

    What I Learned at Licensing Expo 2026 (Costs, Trends & $389B Industry Insights)

    What really happens at Licensing Expo? After 13 years attending - and exhibiting for the first time - this is the honest breakdown of Licensing Expo 2026 in Las Vegas. No highlight reel. Just real insights, real numbers, real costs - and what actually matters if you're in (or entering) the licensing industry. This year’s event confirmed one thing: licensing is booming. With the industry now valued at $389.8 billion, the opportunity is massive - but so is the gap in understanding how it actually works. 🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn: The real numbers behind Licensing Expo 2026Why licensing is now a $400B global industryWhat first-time exhibitors reveal about the future of IPThe true cost of exhibiting (and what people underestimate)ROI insights from exhibiting vs attendingWhy many people still don’t understand licensing fundamentalsThe rise of new brands, AI tools, and faster IP creationKey trends: fandom, food brands, sports licensing & global growthWhy physical products and “offline play” are making a comeback💡 The big takeaway: The licensing industry is growing fast—but knowledge, relationships, and execution are still what separate success from noise. 🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    14 min
  3. Licensing Expo 2026 Wrap Up: AI, Deals & What’s Next in Licensing

    May 25

    Licensing Expo 2026 Wrap Up: AI, Deals & What’s Next in Licensing

    What really happens at Licensing Expo? In this episode of Born to License, David Born shares a behind-the-scenes look at Licensing Expo 2026 in Las Vegas - from speaking about AI in licensing, to insights from his team on the ground, to conversations with exhibitors building the next wave of IP. This isn’t just a highlight reel. It’s a real-time look at where the licensing industry is heading. 🎙️ In This Episode: David’s talk on AI in the licensing industryWhy trust and relationships still matter more than everHow AI is already being used across licensing workflowsKey risks of AI (including confidentiality & entry-level roles)Insights from the Born team live on the show floorConversations with first-time exhibitors & global IP ownersWhat it’s actually like to exhibit at Licensing Expo🧠 Key Takeaways on AI & Licensing: AI can increase efficiency across the licensing lifecycleIt helps with IP discovery, content, and productivityBut it cannot replace relationships or deal-makingThe industry must protect entry-level opportunitiesConfidentiality is critical when using AI tools🌍 About Licensing Expo: Licensing Expo is the world’s largest event for the brand licensing industry, bringing together: Global licensors & licenseesRetailers, manufacturers & agentsThe biggest brands in entertainment, lifestyle & moreIt’s where deals are made—and where the future of licensing takes shape. 🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    25 min
  4. Licensing Expo 2026: Predictions, Trends & Insider Advice from the Born Team

    May 18

    Licensing Expo 2026: Predictions, Trends & Insider Advice from the Born Team

    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 2026Why K-Pop Demon Hunters, Shrek, Bluey, and Pokémon are dominating conversationsInsider tips for first-time attendees (that most people miss)How to prepare, network, and make the most of the eventWhat 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 IPMajor upcoming tentpoles like Shrek 5 and Toy StoryThe 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 advanceBe open to unexpected networking opportunitiesDon’t miss panels, activations, and experiencesWear 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 watchWhere to focus if your meetings are already lockedHow to get value from networking spaces and panelsHis 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 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    10 min
  5. What Licensing Expo Means to Me | From First Visit to Exhibitor: My Licensing Expo Journey

    May 11

    What Licensing Expo Means to Me | From First Visit to Exhibitor: My Licensing Expo Journey

    What is Licensing Expo really like? In this episode of Born to License, David takes you inside Licensing Expo Las Vegas - the biggest and most important event in the global licensing industry. From his very first visit in 2013 with Warner Bros. to now exhibiting with his own team, this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how the licensing world comes together to create partnerships, deals, and billion-dollar brands. 🎢 What You’ll Learn in This Episode What Licensing Expo is and why it mattersHow major brands like Disney, Netflix, and Mattel operate at the eventWhat happens behind closed doors in licensing summitsHow deals are made in fast-paced 30-minute meetingsWhy Licensing Expo is the most exciting trade show in the worldThe journey from attendee to exhibitor🌍 Inside Licensing Expo Licensing Expo brings together over 12,000 professionals from 70+ countries, including: LicensorsRetailersManufacturersAgents & agenciesGlobal entertainment brandsIt’s where the future of licensing is revealed — from upcoming films and franchises to major brand collaborations. 🎤 A Personal Journey David shares his personal story: His first trip to Las Vegas and Licensing ExpoWorking with Warner Bros. Consumer ProductsBuilding his own licensing agencyBringing a team of 13 to the eventExhibiting for the very first time🎬 Beyond the Show Floor Licensing Expo isn’t just business — it’s an experience: Iconic Las Vegas shows and performancesIndustry awards (the “Oscars of licensing”)Team traditions and celebrationsThe energy of one of the most unique cities in the world🚀 Join Us at Licensing Expo We’ll be recording live from the show floor this year. 📍 Booth: T236  📩 Want to be on the podcast? Email: hello@borntolicense.com 🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    7 min
  6. Star Wars' Big Moment

    May 4

    Star Wars' Big Moment

    How did Star Wars become one of the most powerful licensing machines in history? On Star Wars Day, we’re breaking down the origin story of modern licensing — and how a single deal in 1977 changed the industry forever. From a bold negotiation by George Lucas to billions in merchandise sales, this episode explores how Star Wars became a $30B+ licensing empire. 🚀 What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🎬 The Deal That Changed Everything Why George Lucas took a pay cut for merchandising rightsHow that decision reshaped the licensing industryThe real value of owning IP🧸 The Toy Boom That Shocked the Industry How Kenner turned Star Wars into a retail phenomenonThe famous “empty box” Christmas strategy$100M in sales from a $100K deal💼 Owning the Rights = Owning the Future How Lucas regained full merchandising controlBuilding an empire through LucasfilmWhy merchandise outperformed the films💰 The Disney Acquisition The $4.05B deal that changed entertainmentWhy Star Wars remains one of the most valuable IPs ever🌍 Evergreen Licensing in Action Why kids love Star Wars without watching the filmsHow characters like Grogu drive product demandWhat “cultural IP” really looks like🛍️ Real-World Licensing Example How Hippo Blu brought Star Wars into personalized productsFrom kids’ backpacks to adult collectiblesA masterclass in understanding your audience📺 Iconic Brand Collaboration The legendary Volkswagen Super Bowl adHow Star Wars helped create one of the most viral ads everWhy great licensing extends beyond products🧠 Key Licensing Insight The most powerful IP doesn’t live on screen — it lives in culture. Star Wars isn’t just a film franchise. It’s a brand that exists across: RetailContentExperiencesEveryday lifeThat’s what makes it one of the greatest licensing success stories of all time. 🎯 Who This Is For Licensing professionals & brand managersIP owners & entertainment executivesRetail & consumer product teamsAnyone interested in brand strategy, merchandising, and licensing🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    7 min
  7. Big Licensing Moves You Need to Know | What You Missed in Licensing (While I Was Offline)

    Apr 27

    Big Licensing Moves You Need to Know | What You Missed in Licensing (While I Was Offline)

    What happened in licensing this week? Here are 5 major moves you need to know. Fresh back from trekking to the base camp of Mount Everest in Nepal, David breaks down the biggest licensing news, brand partnerships, and IP strategies shaping 2026. From global entertainment giants to fast-moving consumer brands, this episode covers the latest trends in licensing, merchandising, and brand collaborations — and what they mean for businesses, marketers, and IP owners. 🚀 Key Licensing Stories Covered 🧱 LEGO x Shrek First-ever LEGO Shrek sets after 25 yearsHow evergreen IP creates long-term licensing valueWhy timing matters (anniversaries + upcoming releases)💼 Warner Bros. Discovery x Paramount The $111B merger reshaping the licensing landscapeWhat IP consolidation means for licenseesWhy relationships are more important than ever☕ Starbucks x The Devil Wears Prada 2 Turning cultural moments into brand partnershipsWhy the best licensing collaborations feel authenticActivating 20+ years of brand association📺 Netflix x Stranger Things Extending IP beyond the end of a seriesNew formats, new audiences, new product linesHow to maximize long-term franchise value🎨 Peppa Pig x Canva Meeting audiences where they already areLeveraging built-in demand (1.4M+ searches)Why this is a “dream” licensing partnership🧠 Key Licensing Insight The future of licensing is omnipresence. The strongest brands and IPs are no longer limited to one channel — they’re showing up across retail, digital platforms, experiences, and global partnerships. 🎯 Who This Is For Licensing professionals & brand managersRetail & product teamsMarketing and partnerships leadersAnyone interested in IP, brand strategy, and consumer products🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    5 min
  8. I’m at Everest Base Camp… Here’s What to Listen To

    Apr 20

    I’m at Everest Base Camp… Here’s What to Listen To

    No new episode this week… but for a good reason. Right now, David is in Nepal, trekking to the base camp of Mount Everest — an adventure that’s been a long time in the making. So while there’s no full episode of Born to License this week, this is the perfect time to catch up on everything you might have missed. 🎧 What to explore: 🚀 Conversations with industry experts Licensors, licensees, and agentsLicensing lawyers and thought leadersBehind-the-scenes insights from the Born team📈 Deep dives into major topics The Warner Bros. Discovery story and what it means for licensingThe licensing strategy behind The Super Mario Bros. MovieTrends shaping the future of IP and brand partnerships💡 Practical insights you can apply How licensing works in the real worldWhat makes partnerships succeedLessons from real case studiesWe’ll be back next week with a brand new episode.       In the meantime, this is your chance to dive into the archive and level up your understanding of licensing. 🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born 🔹 Sign up for Learn to License  🔹 Learn More about Born to License 🔹 Learn More about Born Licensing 🔹 Follow David on LinkedIn 🔹 Follow David on Instagram 🔹 Check out thedavidborn.com 🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense 👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode! 📩 Contact: hello@borntolicense.com 🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

    1 min
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About

Unlock the secrets of the $350 billion licensing industry with David Born, CEO of Born Licensing & Born to License. Whether you’re a business owner, brand enthusiast, or curious about how your favorite characters and brands make their way onto products, this podcast is your ultimate guide to the world of licensing. Join David as he shares insider stories, practical tips, and real-world examples, helping you navigate the exciting intersection of creativity, commerce, and collaboration. From product development to pitching, licensing terminology to success stories—get ready to discover the untapped potential of this dynamic industry. New episodes every two weeks.

Information

  • Creator
    David Born
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Born to License
  • Show Website
    Born to License

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