How I Built This with Guy Raz Advice Line with Isaac Larian of MGA Entertainment
12 snips
Jul 31, 2025 
Isaac Larian, founder and CEO of MGA Entertainment, shares invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. He tackles the complex effects of tariffs on the toy industry and offers advice to three unique callers. Meghan learns about targeting the right audience for her educational toys, while Libie seeks strategies to expand her orthopedic cork insole brand. Robin discovers what makes a lasting first impression for her kid-focused outdoor apparel. Larian emphasizes innovation, community engagement, and the realities of building a brand in a competitive market.
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Embrace Failure and Adapt Marketing
- Embrace failure as a critical part of entrepreneurial success and keep trying until you hit a winner.
- Be adaptable in marketing strategies by following trends across platforms like Nickelodeon, YouTube, and TikTok.
Price Right and Target Grandparents
- Raise your prices slightly to increase marketing budget and improve brand perception.
- Target grandparents as key customers instead of just parents; they have more disposable income and gift-giving power.
Grow Self-Funded Until Strategic Raise
- Sustain organic growth and cash flow as long as possible before raising capital.
- When raising funds, partner with investors who bring operations, retail, or distribution experience, especially for mass retailers like Target.