Born to License

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 EverythingWhy 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 IndustryHow 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 FutureHow Lucas regained full merchandising controlBuilding an empire through LucasfilmWhy merchandise outperformed the films💰 The Disney AcquisitionThe $4.05B deal that changed entertainmentWhy Star Wars remains one of the most valuable IPs ever🌍 Evergreen Licensing in ActionWhy kids love Star Wars without watching the filmsHow characters like Grogu drive product demandWhat “cultural IP” really looks like🛍️ Real-World Licensing ExampleHow Hippo Blu brought Star Wars into personalized productsFrom kids’ backpacks to adult collectiblesA masterclass in understanding your audience📺 Iconic Brand CollaborationThe legendary Volkswagen Super Bowl adHow Star Wars helped create one of the most viral ads everWhy great licensing extends beyond products🧠 Key Licensing InsightThe 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 ForLicensing 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

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 ShrekFirst-ever LEGO Shrek sets after 25 yearsHow evergreen IP creates long-term licensing valueWhy timing matters (anniversaries + upcoming releases)💼 Warner Bros. Discovery x ParamountThe $111B merger reshaping the licensing landscapeWhat IP consolidation means for licenseesWhy relationships are more important than ever☕ Starbucks x The Devil Wears Prada 2Turning cultural moments into brand partnershipsWhy the best licensing collaborations feel authenticActivating 20+ years of brand association📺 Netflix x Stranger ThingsExtending IP beyond the end of a seriesNew formats, new audiences, new product linesHow to maximize long-term franchise value🎨 Peppa Pig x CanvaMeeting audiences where they already areLeveraging built-in demand (1.4M+ searches)Why this is a “dream” licensing partnership🧠 Key Licensing InsightThe 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 ForLicensing 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

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 expertsLicensors, licensees, and agentsLicensing lawyers and thought leadersBehind-the-scenes insights from the Born team📈 Deep dives into major topicsThe 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 applyHow 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Everyone wants to license with the biggest brands in the world… but that’s exactly where most people go wrong.In this episode of Born to License, David shares a powerful snippet from his conversation on the It’s No Fluke podcast with Jeff Barrett — breaking down the smart way to get started in licensing.Because while brands like Disney or Bluey are incredibly appealing, they’re also the hardest to access — especially if you’re new to licensing.Instead, the real opportunity lies in building momentum step by step.In this episode:🚀 Why you shouldn’t start with the biggest licensesThe reality of working with top-tier brandsWhy new licensees often get rejectedThinking long-term (3–4 year strategy)🎯 The smarter way to enter licensingStarting with “hungry” brands open to new partnersBuilding credibility before going after A-list IPCreating a clear pathway to bigger deals📈 Real case study: from first deal to major successWorking with Care Bears (via CloudCo) as a first خطوةScaling into a major opportunity with WickedHow collectability doubled customer spend💡 Key insight: licensing is a journeyWhy momentum matters more than starting bigHow smart brand selection drives long-term successTurning one deal into manyThe key takeaway: Don’t start at the top — build your way there.The most successful licensing strategies aren’t built on one big deal… they’re built on smart, strategic progression.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What does it really take to prepare for the biggest event in the licensing industry?In this episode of Born to License, David shares a behind-the-scenes look at gearing up for Licensing Expo in Las Vegas — and why this year is different.After more than a decade attending, the Born team is stepping onto the show floor as an exhibitor for the very first time. From booth design and team logistics to back-to-back meetings and live podcast recordings, this episode breaks down what actually goes into showing up at Expo the right way.But before that, a personal twist: after six months of marathon training, an unexpected injury changes everything — opening the door to a completely different challenge: a trek to Everest Base Camp.In this episode:🏃‍♂️ From marathon to mountainThe reality of long-term preparation and setbacksWhy a cancelled race led to a new adventureEverest Base Camp: the next big challenge🎯 Licensing Expo: behind the scenesWhat changes when you go from attendee to exhibitorThe complexity of building a boothWhy preparation is everything🤝 What really happens at ExpoHundreds of meetings, events, and opportunitiesWhy schedules fill up faster than you thinkThe importance of planning ahead🎙 What’s new this yearLive Born to License podcast recordings from the show floorSpeaking on AI and licensingThe Born Summit in LA bringing the global team together🎬 A quick take on original IP & licensingWhy films like Project Hail Mary face challenges in licensingThe risk vs reward of backing new IPWhy the industry still leans toward established franchisesThe key takeaway: Licensing Expo isn’t just an event — it’s a moment.And like marathon training, the results you get come down to how well you prepare.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What if the real marketing for a blockbuster film isn’t ads… but products?In this episode of Born to License, David breaks down the Super Mario Galaxy licensing rollout — and why it’s one of the most impressive examples of licensing as a marketing engine.From toys and food partnerships to theatrical collectibles and global promotions, this is a full-scale, multi-category licensing strategy designed to do two things at once: sell products and sell movie tickets.And the key insight? Super Mario doesn’t need a movie to succeed — but the movie gives the entire licensing ecosystem a moment to explode.In this episode:🎯 Licensing as marketingWhy licensed products aren’t just revenue — they drive awarenessHow retail visibility turns into box office successWhy films create a “permission moment” for brands and retailers🧸 The toy strategy breakdownJAKKS Pacific as master toy partnerWhy timing (6 weeks before release) mattersThe importance of proven retail performance👶 Long-term brand buildingFisher-Price Little People introducing Mario to new generationsWhy this is “long game” licensing at its best🍔 Massive promotional partnershipsMcDonald’s global Happy Meal rolloutGeneral Mills activating across 100+ productsPepsiCo’s Bubly campaign with collectible mechanicsHow food licensing creates real consumer interaction🌍 A truly global campaignRegional activations from Brazil to JapanWhy global scale is critical for modern IP🍿 The rise of theatrical collectiblesThe record-breaking Super Mario popcorn bucketWhy collectibles have become a marketing channelHow products generate organic social media buzzThe key takeaway:Great licensing doesn’t just support a film — it amplifies it.Super Mario is a perfect example of how an evergreen brand can use a theatrical release to concentrate attention, activate partners, and dominate culture across every touchpoint.If you work in licensing, retail, marketing, or brand strategy, this episode is a masterclass in how to do it right.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

How do you build a brand that people don’t just buy… but obsess over?In this episode of Born to License, David sits down with Davie Fogarty, Founder of The Oodie - one of the fastest-growing consumer brands to come out of Australia in recent years.From a simple product idea to a global phenomenon, The Oodie has built a loyal fanbase, dominated social media, and expanded into multiple markets - all without relying on traditional licensing strategies.But what happens next?In this episode:🚀 The Oodie growth storyHow a simple idea became a global brandThe role of performance marketing and social mediaBuilding a product people genuinely love🧠 Brand building vs licensingWhy The Oodie succeeded without licensed IPWhen licensing could become a growth leverThe opportunities (and risks) of expanding into collaborations📈 Scaling a modern consumer brandProduct expansion and category growthWhat it takes to maintain momentumLessons for founders, marketers, and brand builders🎯 What’s next for The OodieFuture growth opportunitiesThe potential role of partnerships and licensingHow the brand can evolve beyond its core productThis episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in brand building, e-commerce, licensing, 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Why do some ads become unforgettable… while others disappear instantly?In this episode of Born to License, David breaks down one of the most powerful tools in modern advertising: licensed characters.Using the latest Twix campaign as a starting point, this episode explores why brands are increasingly turning to iconic characters — from Rick and Morty to Wallace and Gromit — to create instant recognition, emotional connection, and cultural impact.Because when you use a character people already love, you’re not starting from zero — you’re tapping into decades of built-in awareness.In this episode:🎯 Why licensed characters work so well in advertisingInstant recognition and emotional connectionBorrowing decades of audience familiarityWhy brands don’t need to “build” awareness from scratch🔥 Real campaign case studiesTwix’s “iconic duos” campaignBuddy the Elf and the UK’s #1 ad of 2022He-Man & Skeletor going viral for MoneySuperMarketDirect Line’s use of Transformers, RoboCop & Ninja TurtlesSainsbury’s and The BFG as a long-term brand asset📈 What the data provesHigher brand recall and emotional engagementMassive increases in social reach and cultural conversationMeasurable impact on sales and market share🧠 The key takeaway It’s not about choosing the biggest character — it’s about choosing the right one.When licensing is done right, it’s not just a creative add-on. It becomes the engine behind the entire campaign.If you work in marketing, licensing, brand strategy, or advertising, this episode will change how you think about using IP.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

How does a brand like The Oodie go from a simple product to a global success story - and what role does licensing play in that journey?In this episode of Born to License, we sit down with Rebecca Palmer to explore how The Oodie built a powerful brand through product, positioning, and smart growth decisions - and how licensing can become a key lever for scaling brands like this even further.While The Oodie is known for its rapid growth in e-commerce, this conversation goes deeper into the strategic opportunities around licensing, brand expansion, and long-term value creation.In this episode, we cover:The origin and growth of The Oodie brandWhat makes a product scalable in today’s marketHow strong branding creates licensing potentialWhen a brand should consider entering licensingThe role of partnerships in expanding beyond core productsThis episode is essential for anyone interested in licensing strategy, brand growth, retail expansion, and building scalable IP.If you’re a founder, brand owner, or licensing professional, this is a real-world case study of how modern brands are built - and how licensing fits into that future.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Why do some Oscar-winning films generate huge licensing businesses while others create almost none?In this episode of Born to License, David looks at Hollywood’s biggest night through a licensing lens. While the world focuses on Best Picture, the licensing industry should be paying attention to a very different category: Best Animated Feature.From Shrek to Frozen, animated films have consistently created billion-dollar licensing ecosystems that shape retail for years after their release. Meanwhile, many Best Picture winners - despite their cultural impact - generate little to no consumer products business.David breaks down why animation continues to dominate licensing, what this year’s nominees tell us about the future of consumer products, and which upcoming franchises could become the next major licensing opportunities.In this episode:Why Best Picture rarely translates into a major licensing programThe licensing power of animated franchises like Shrek, Frozen, and Toy StoryWhy Best Animated Feature is the category that really matters for licensingThe growing momentum behind K-Pop Demon HuntersWhy upcoming releases like Toy Story 5 could become major licensing momentsThe importance of original IP in building long-term consumer products businessesIf you work in licensing, retail, or brand strategy, this is the Oscars category you should be watching.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

He's just wrapped up a week at the Melbourne Toy Fair - and it was absolutely worth the trip.In this episode of Born to License, David shares his biggest takeaways from Australia’s largest toy and licensing trade event, attended by thousands of industry professionals and hundreds of brands shaping the next wave of licensed products.Recorded just before leaving Australia, this episode is a true from-the-field debrief, covering the standout brands, emerging trends, and key conversations happening across the licensing industry.In this episode:🎯 The properties everyone was talking aboutWhy K-Pop Demon Hunters became the surprise breakout licensing propertyThe continued dominance of Bluey in its home marketNostalgia brands like Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, and Hello Kitty continuing to drive retail demand🔍 Industry conversations shaping the futureWhat the potential Paramount / Warner Bros Discovery deal could mean for licensingWhy “direct-to-retail” licensing strategies are becoming a major tension point in the industry🧠 Behind-the-scenes momentsA secret preview of the upcoming Masters of the Universe toy lineThe relationships that power the global licensing businessWhy this industry is smaller — and more connected — than you might thinkDavid also shares a personal moment from the trip: balancing Toy Fair meetings with marathon training — including a 4:30am run through rainy Melbourne while preparing for the Rotterdam Marathon.And the episode closes with a surprisingly perfect licensing story:Why Daddy Pig from Peppa Pig running the London Marathon is actually a brilliant example of how storytelling keeps evergreen brands culturally relevant.Because the best licensed brands don’t just sell products — they build emotional connections with audiences.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Few brands in history have achieved what Pokémon has achieved.With over $103.6 billion in licensed retail sales and $12 billion generated in 2024 alone, Pokémon stands as the highest-grossing media franchise of all time — built not on a portfolio of brands, but on one singular IP.In this episode of Born to License, we unpack the strategy behind that dominance.We explore:How Pokémon leverages generational loyaltyThe role of scarcity in driving collectible demandWhy collaborations like Oreo and the Van Gogh Museum became cultural momentsThe record-breaking $5M+ Pikachu card sale and what it signalsHow Pokémon continues to evolve while protecting its core identityThis episode is more than a celebration of Pokémon — it’s a blueprint for building an evergreen, emotionally resonant, and commercially powerful brand.If you work in licensing, retail, entertainment, or brand strategy, this is essential listening.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Netflix has walked away from its $82.7 billion deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery - and Paramount looks set to create a $22 billion licensing powerhouse. In this emergency episode of Born to License, David Born breaks down exactly what this seismic shift means for the licensing industry.In this episode:🌍 The licensing landscape just changed overnightParamount (#12) + Warner Bros. Discovery (#6) = the 4th largest licensor on the planetCombined estimated retail sales of $22 billion, surpassing NBCUniversal and MattelThe closest thing to a true Disney rival the industry has ever seen🎯 What this means for licenseesA portfolio deal that could combine SpongeBob, PAW Patrol and Yellowstone with Looney Tunes, DC Comics, Scooby-Doo, Harry Potter and White LotusHow the streaming landscape shifts - and what it means if Netflix loses access to all Paramount and WBD content📊 The market reactionNetflix up ~10% in after-hours trading — their shareholders never wanted thisNetflix walks away with a $2.8 billion breakup feeWhy Paramount's share price will be one to watch⚠️ This is NOT a done dealWBD shareholder approval still requiredRegulatory clearance needed across the US and multiple territoriesThe California AG and Senator Adam Schiff are already raising red flagsNBCUniversal could still make a move — we're realistically a year away from completion💭 David's honest take: the human and brand cost of consolidationWhat happens to Beavis and Butt-Head, Ren & Stimpy, Yogi Bear and The Jetsons when two massive licensing teams merge?The brilliant people at Paramount and WBD who will be impacted by inevitable redundanciesWhy streaming success and licensing success are two very different things — and what Netflix does nextIf you work in licensing, retail, toys, or brand strategy, this is the episode you need to hear right now.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

I’m back in Melbourne — and for the first time in nearly a decade, Melbourne Toy Fair is officially back on my international event calendar.In this episode of Born to License, David Born previews what to expect from the Australian Toy Hobby and Licensing Fair, the largest trade event of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.With around 200 exhibitors and 4,000 trade attendees, this isn’t a public fan event — it’s where buyers, licensors, agents, and brand owners look ahead at the next 24 months of product and IP strategy.In this episode:🎯 Why Melbourne Toy Fair matters for licensingClosed-door showcases from major studios and brandsEarly previews of upcoming films, anniversaries, and new IP launchesForward-looking intelligence you won’t see publicly🔥 What’s likely to dominate the floorK-Pop Demon Hunters momentum after London and New York Toy FairThe continued strength of Spider-ManWhy Bluey is an unstoppable force in Australia🛍️ Smart category expansion in actionPaw Patrol moving into premium homewares via Adairs KidsWhat that says about long-term IP positioning👟 The Crocs × LEGO drop strategy breakdownA $150 brick-shaped clogSold out in hoursDebuted at Paris Fashion WeekWhy hype, attention, and cultural conversation matter more than wearabilityDavid also shares why he’s prioritizing Australia more strategically this year — and what he’ll be looking for on the show floor to gauge where the licensing industry is headed in 2026 and beyond.If you work in licensing, retail, toys, or brand strategy, this episode is your insider preview before the doors even open.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

This week on Born to License, David is reporting from Australia — but the episode spans three continents and three very different licensing stories.From dining inside Bikini Bottom at the world’s first official SpongeBob SquarePants restaurant in São Paulo, to going behind the scenes at one of Australia’s fastest-growing licensed product businesses, to analyzing whether we’ve reached “Peak Labubu” — this episode explores what makes licensing succeed (or stall).In this episode:🍔 Experiential Licensing Done RightDavid visits the world’s first standalone SpongeBob restaurant — a fully immersive, permanent location that proves licensing isn’t just about products… it’s about memories.Why experiential IP is booming — and what brands must get right to protect long-term value.🏭 Behind the Scenes at Courtney Brands (Hippo Blue)An inside look at how licensed products from Disney, Warner Bros., and Paramount are brought to life — from design to compliance to production.Including the numbers that matter:400% increase in customer acquisition after launching Disney ranges30% year-on-year business growthWhat this case study teaches about doing licensing properly — and respectfully.📈 Have We Reached Peak Labubu?After explosive 700% growth and a $420M breakout year, resale prices are falling and production is scaling.David shares his insights (featured in Campaign Asia) on whether Labubu becomes the next Hello Kitty… or the next Beanie Babies.Key questions:Can Pop Mart build long-term storytelling?Will selective licensing protect the brand?Is this a multichannel IP in the making?Across all three stories, one message is clear:Great licensing isn’t about slapping a character on a product.It’s about respect for the IP, strategic partnerships, and quality execution at every touchpoint.If you work in licensing, retail, brand strategy, entertainment, or collectibles — this episode is packed with practical insights.Campaign Asia "Have we reached peak Labubu?: https://www.campaignasia.com/article/has-labubu-already-peaked-charting-the-rise-and-fall-of-the-ugly-cute-viral-toySpongeBob SquarePants restaurant visit: https://youtu.be/8kkjJjoOBJU🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What really happens when a growing brand enters the world of licensing?In this episode of Born to License, we go deep with the founder of Hippo Blue to unpack a real-world licensing journey — from early design roots and manufacturing challenges to partnering with Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and beyond.In this conversation, you’ll learn:How Hippo Blue transitioned from trends to evergreen IPWhy licensing unlocked credibility and customer trustThe real numbers behind licensing growth (including 400% increase in acquisition)How personalization became a competitive advantageWhat brands must get right before approaching licensorsThis episode is essential viewing for founders, brand owners, and anyone considering licensing as a growth strategy.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

For many people, the Super Bowl isn’t about the game - it’s about the ads.In this episode of Born to License, David Born breaks down why character and IP licensing has become one of the most powerful tools in Super Bowl advertising, especially now that a 30-second spot costs up to $8 million.From Bill Murray reliving Groundhog Day for Jeep to Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul returning as Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, David explains how brands use nostalgia, iconic characters, and cultural moments to cut through the noise — and why licensing is often the secret weapon behind the most memorable commercials.In this episode, David covers:Why licensed characters outperform celebrities in Super Bowl adsHow nostalgia creates instant emotional connection at scaleDifferent ways brands license IP — from recreating iconic scenes to bespoke animationBehind-the-scenes licensing challenges most viewers never think aboutStandout Super Bowl campaigns from the past decade, including:Facebook × RockyJeep × Groundhog DayMountain Dew × The ShiningPringles × Rick and MortyDoorDash × Sesame StreetCadillac × Edward ScissorhandsBooking.com × The MuppetsEarly looks at 2026 Super Bowl licensed ads, including:Xfinity × Jurassic ParkExpedia × Ken from BarbieDavid also explains why modern Super Bowl licensing isn’t just about quick nostalgia hits — it’s about long-term partnerships, brand alignment, and cultural relevance.If you work in licensing, marketing, brand strategy, or entertainment, or you simply love breaking down iconic ads, this episode will completely change how you watch the Super Bowl.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

AI is moving fast — and the licensing industry can’t afford to ignore it.In this episode of Born to License, David Born breaks down what artificial intelligence really means for licensing, brand owners, licensees, and consumer products teams — beyond the hype and headlines.From creative development and approvals to brand protection and scalability, AI has the potential to reshape how licensing businesses operate. But it also raises serious questions around IP ownership, authenticity, quality control, and trust.This episode explores where AI can add real value — and where human judgment, creativity, and brand guardianship remain irreplaceable.In this episode, you’ll learn:How AI is already being used across licensing and consumer productsWhere AI can improve efficiency (and where it creates new risks)What AI means for brand protection and IP controlWhy approvals, governance, and brand standards matter more than everThe opportunities for licensors and licensees who adopt AI thoughtfullyWhat the licensing industry needs to get right as AI continues to evolveWhether you’re a licensor, licensee, agent, creative, or brand strategist, this episode will help you understand how AI fits into the future of licensing — and how to approach it responsibly.🎧 Next episodes: More practical insights on licensing strategy, industry trends, and how to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Licensing Expo may be in May - but if you’re not preparing right now, you’re already behind.In this episode of Born to License, David Born shares exactly how he and his team prepare for Licensing Expo 2026, the world’s biggest licensing event, attracting over 12,000 attendees and 5,000 brands from more than 70 countries.From booking meetings months in advance to surviving long days on the show floor, this episode is a practical, no-fluff guide to making the most of your time in Las Vegas - whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Licensing Expo preparation starts months before MayHow to build a smart target list and secure meetings earlyWhy licensor showcases are strategic goldmines (and how to get invited)How to plan meetings realistically inside a massive venueWhere to stay — and how to save thousands on accommodationWhat to bring (and what not to bring) to the show floorHow to manage food, hydration, and energy during long daysWhy Thursdays can be your secret weapon for last-minute meetingsDavid also shares real-world tips from attending Licensing Expo year after year — including mistakes to avoid, how to move around efficiently, and how to stay sharp through three intense days of dealmaking.If you’re attending Licensing Expo 2026 — or thinking about it — this episode will help you arrive prepared, focused, and ahead of the pack.🎧 Next episode: The rise of AI in licensing — and what it means for brands, licensors, and licensees.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Every year, studios release dozens of blockbuster films — but only a handful actually become licensing powerhouses.In this episode of Born to License, David Born shares his hot take on the 2026 theatrical slate and answers the question every licensee, licensor, and retailer should be asking right now: which movies will really drive consumer products sales?Drawing on real industry experience, David rates the licensing potential of major 2026 releases and explains why some box office hits fail at retail — while others dominate shelves worldwide.In this episode, you’ll hear:The biggest licensing lesson from 2025’s surprise hit K-Pop Demon HuntersWhy licensing success requires betting on properties before audiences doDavid’s licensing score (out of 10) for 2026’s biggest films, including:Toy Story 5Spider-Man: Brand New DayAvengers: DoomsdayThe Mandalorian & GroguMinions 3Super Mario GalaxyMoana (Live Action)Supergirl: Woman of TomorrowWhich studio David believes will win the licensing battle in 2026Why evergreen IP often outperforms tentpole-driven franchisesIf you work in licensing, retail, brand strategy, or entertainment, this episode will change how you look at theatrical releases — and what actually matters when it comes to consumer products.🎧 Next episode: Why you need to start preparing now for Licensing Expo — and the biggest mistakes brands make every year.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Sony’s $450M acquisition of Peanuts shocked a lot of people — but for those who understand licensing, the $1.1B valuation makes perfect sense.In this episode of Born to License, David Born breaks down why Peanuts is worth over a billion dollars, what that valuation really means inside the licensing industry, and how evergreen IP is built, protected, and monetized at scale.Using real-world examples — from Snoopy T-shirts to small businesses like Plum Deluxe — this episode pulls back the curtain on licensing approvals, brand protection, and why the systems behind billion-dollar IP exist for a reason.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Sony’s Peanuts acquisition validates the power of evergreen IPWhat a $1.1B valuation actually means operationally in licensingHow Peanuts generates $3.2B in retail sales across 1,200+ licensesWhy licensing approvals take time — and why that’s a good thingHow small brands can successfully license billion-dollar IPWhy Peanuts continues to resonate with Gen Z without blockbuster filmsThis episode is essential listening for anyone curious about brand equity, licensing strategy, IP protection, or how iconic brands like Peanuts stay culturally relevant for over 75 years.🎧 Next episode: David shares his movie predictions for 2026 — and which theatrical releases will (and won’t) drive licensed product sales.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

2026 could be the most transformative year in licensing history. From the potential Netflix-Warner Bros. mega-merger to one of the most stacked theatrical lineups we've seen in years, the licensing landscape is about to change dramatically.In this episode, David Born breaks down everything you need to watch in 2026: the consolidation dominating headlines, the exodus of licensing talent reshaping the competitive landscape, and the massive theatrical releases that will drive consumer products - from Super Mario Galaxy and Toy Story 5 to Avengers Doomsday and Narnia.Plus, David explores the trends that will define the year ahead: AI's impact on licensing, the explosion of characters in advertising, retailers desperate for differentiation, and the continued power of nostalgia brands. Whether you're a licensor, licensee, or retailer, this episode gives you the strategic insights you need to navigate 2026 successfully.Key Topics:Netflix-Warner Bros. Discovery deal and consolidation ripple effectsThe biggest theatrical releases of 2026 and their licensing implicationsWhere displaced licensing talent will land—and how it will reshape the industryAI, digital licensing, and emerging trends you can't ignorePublic domain chaos, dynamic royalty models, and emerging marketsMajor licensing events and why you need to be thereMentioned in this episode: Super Mario, Pixar's Hoppers, The Devil Wears Prada 2, The Mandalorian & Grogu, Masters of the Universe, Toy Story 5, Supergirl, Moana (live-action), Spider-Man, Narnia, Avengers Doomsday, and more.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

We're wrapping up 2025 with our best bits from the year. The moments that made us think differently about licensing, the stories we're still talking about, and the insights you need heading into 2026.This year, we sat down with some of the industry's most influential voices. From Lucy Salisbury explaining how Funko sifts through thousands of licensing pitches when "everyone says it's the next biggest movie," to Charlotte Payne revealing how Care Bears has stayed relevant for 45 years, to Michelle Ahern sharing what it's really like to manage the hottest preschool brand on the planet - these are the conversations that define what great licensing looks like.Here's what you'll hear in this compilation:Lucy Salisbury (Funko) - How Funko uses Google Trends, TikTok searches, and Amazon data to cut through the noise when every licensor promises "the next big thing."Julia Kamoda (Hasbro) - Why McDonald's Monopoly has succeeded for 30+ years and how iconic IP like Peppa Pig cuts through crowded retail aisles.Simon Kay (AT New Media) - The urgent warning about digital licensing's future: UGC, Web3, reverse merchandising, and why "you've got no time—don't wait anymore."Jenna Chalkley (Product Development) - Why product development professionals aren't celebrated enough and how the industry shifted from "just slapping brands on products" to valuing creativity.Michelle Ahern (The Wiggles) - Managing the hottest kids brand with licensing agents as the "first line of defense" and why "what's in it for the kids?" drove every decision.Charlotte Payne (Care Bears) - The 45-year formula: staying "relevant for today" while honoring nostalgia, with surprise collaborations like Hello Kitty, Barbie, and Wicked.David Schnider (Legal) - Contract traps that cost hundreds of thousands and the auditor who in 25 years never found less than 5% discrepancy in licensing audits.Sharon Weisman (Future Trends) - Why wellness is hitting 115 billion by 2028 and personalization is the next frontier in licensed merchandise.Annabel Rochfort (Location-Based Entertainment) - The LBE hotspots: competitive socializing and resort destinations, plus why location matters more than brand strength alone.Jasmine & Vincent (Fira X Wear) - Why being fans of the IP you're licensing is "of the utmost importance" and how authenticity shows in every product.Caleb (The Collab King) - The biggest brand mistakes: fearing the secondary market and overproduction killing hype—the Beanie Baby effect.Whether you're negotiating your first license or your five-hundredth, whether you're launching a product line or a theme park - these are the moments that will make you better at what you do.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Disney just invested $1 billion in OpenAI, opening up Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar for AI-generated fan content on Disney+. The twist? Months ago, Disney was suing AI companies for IP infringement. This pivot from litigation to integration changes everything for licensing.In this episode David Born breaks down why Disney's move gives the entire industry permission to embrace AI, how Warner Bros., Hasbro, and other IP owners will likely respond, and what this means for licensing operations moving forward. When the 800-pound gorilla moves, everyone follows - and Disney just went all-in on AI.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Just 3 days after Netflix's historic offer, Paramount launched a stunning $108.4B hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery—bypassing the board and going directly to shareholders. David Born breaks down the all-cash offer, the political implications, and what this means for the licensing industry.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

After 11 years in business, 2025 became Born's most successful year ever. In this special year-end episode, the entire Born team comes together to share the untold stories behind the record-breaking achievements.Featured Team Insights:Born Licensing Team (Amber & Alberto):- The Garfield groundbreaking billboard campaign- Google Pixel's first Christmas campaign (2-month turnaround!)- BFG returning to Sainsbury's for year two- Candy Crush Solitaire's first-ever licensing partnershipBorn to License Team (Alyssa G, Alyssa C, Jenna, Brinna):- How Keepsake's 600-card Invincible collection came together- The Disney personalization revolution with Hippo Blue- Plum Deluxe x Peanuts selling out before Christmas- Steven Singer's Wicked jewelry success story- Managing 500+ submissionsBorn to License Business Development (Michelle & Matt):- Why companies from 40+ countries are reaching out- The surprising industries entering licensing (museums to video games)- What Licensors really want in 2026Media & Education (Eduardo, Juliana, Vini):- Creating 20+ podcast episodes and cinematic trailers- Launching the Born in Action vlog- Building Learn to License education platformPlus: Major 2026 Announcement David introduces Born Legal with sister Emma, expanding into promotional law and marketing compliance.Whether you're a brand owner, licensing professional, or industry observer, this episode provides an authentic behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a global licensing agency at scale.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

EMERGENCY EPISODE: Netflix has just won the bidding war to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming platforms and legendary IP portfolio in an $82.7 billion deal - but what does this mean for the licensing industry?In this urgent episode, host David Born breaks down the deal that's sending shockwaves through Hollywood and explains why no one is talking about the biggest question for the licensing industry: What happens to billion-dollar evergreen brands like Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, and DC Super Heroes when they're handed to a company with less experience managing year-round licensing programs?David opens with a story from his time at Warner Bros. that perfectly captures why licensing is always the "little monkey on the big gorilla's back" - an afterthought in major entertainment decisions. He then walks through:How we got here: The timeline from Skydance's Paramount acquisition to Netflix's winning $82.7B bidThe three scenarios: Why Netflix is the best option compared to Paramount or NBCUniversal (and why it's still risky)What's at stake: The massive Warner Bros. portfolio - from Harry Potter to Friends to The FlintstonesNetflix's track record: Why they're brilliant at tentpole licensing (Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters) but untested with evergreensThe consolidation concern: Job losses, reduced resources, and what it means for our industryThe big questions: Theatrical releases, retailer impact, and whether Skydance will disrupt the dealThis is a 12-18 month regulatory process, and anything can happen. But one thing's certain: the licensing landscape is about to change in a massive way.Full disclosure: David's business works with several companies discussed in this episode. All information shared is based on public knowledge and personal analysis - no confidential information is disclosed.Don't miss Monday's holiday wrap-up episode featuring the Born to License team!🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

2025 was our best year EVER after 11 years in business.In this special wrap-up trailer, get a sneak peek at our record-breaking achievements, groundbreaking campaigns, and what's coming in 2026 for Born Licensing, Born to License and Learn to License.Full episode drops December 12th and features the entire Born team sharing untold stories from the year.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

🎬 BIG Announcement: Born in Action Vlog Series Is Here!Exciting news for the Born to License community! We're launching a brand-new vlog series called Born in Action that takes you behind the scenes of running a global licensing agency.Want to see what licensing looks like in the real world? Not just theory and interviews - but actual deals, industry events, remote team management, and even glimpses into my personal life (like marathon training).Episode 1 is live RIGHT NOW on the Born to License YouTube channel. Episode 2 drops soon.No scripts. No filters. Just authentic, day-to-day reality.👉 Watch Episode 1: https://youtu.be/k1gR28qDT3Q 👉 Subscribe so you don't miss future episodes 👉 Comment and let me know what you want to see next!This is licensing like you've never seen it before. Let's go behind the curtain together.#BornInAction #LicensingIndustry #BehindTheScenes #Vlog #Entrepreneurship"🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Simon Kay has spent 30 years at the forefront of digital licensing, watching it evolve from simple console games to today's complex ecosystem of Roblox, Fortnite, Web3, and beyond.In this comprehensive conversation, Simon reveals:The Evolution Journey:- How he became one of the first to focus on gaming licensing 30 years ago- The progression from full game development to content integrations- Why mobile gaming changed everything for IP ownersCurrent Opportunities:- Platform breakdown: Roblox, Fortnite, Minecraft, and emerging spaces- The gambling gaming goldmine (and its jurisdictional challenges)- Telegram gaming and micro-content opportunities- How brands are making millions without developing gamesStrategic Insights:- Why IP recognition drives 3X more downloads- The difference between promotional vs. paid licensing models- How to navigate cross-territorial licensing complexities- Building authentic gaming partnerships vs. forced integrationsFuture Predictions:- The UGC and Web3 revolution in licensing- How AI will transform IP management- The "reverse merchandising" opportunity- Why waiting means missing out entirelySimon shares candid insights about working with major studios, the mistakes brands make entering gaming, and why the next 5 years will be more transformative than the last 30.Essential listening for brand managers, licensing professionals, game developers, and anyone interested in the intersection of IP and interactive entertainment.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

One statistic is reshaping the entire gaming industry: Players are 3X more likely to download games with IP they recognize.In this trailer, licensing expert Simon Kay (30 years of experience) reveals how this single fact is driving billions in revenue and creating massive opportunities for brands and developers.🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation⏰ Full episode: 12/01/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

In this episode of Born to License, David Born sits down with Charlotte Payne, Head of International Licensing for Care Bears, for a deep dive into one of the world’s most beloved and enduring brands.Charlotte shares how Care Bears transformed from an 80s classic into a multi-generational force — appealing to kids, parents, collectors, and Gen Z fans across the globe. She reveals how nostalgia, cultural relevance, and bold licensing strategies are driving the brand’s worldwide growth.You’ll learn:- Why nostalgic brands are dominating today’s licensing landscape- How Care Bears balances classic heritage with modern reinvention- The strategy behind collaborations with Barbie, Hello Kitty, Roblox, and more- How global markets like Asia are reshaping the brand- What licensors look for when evaluating new partnerships- The importance of local agents and cultural adaptation- A sneak peek into the brand’s 45th anniversary and future experiencesIf you want a masterclass in brand longevity, cultural relevance, and global licensing, this episode is essential listening.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Nostalgia is powerful - and for millions of people, Care Bears shaped their childhood. In this emotional episode trailer, Charlotte Payne, Head of International for Care Bears at Cloudco, shares why these iconic characters are not just surviving… but thriving across generations.Charlotte opens up about her own childhood bedroom filled with Care Bears, how nostalgia is driving a global cultural shift, and why the brand is experiencing one of its strongest moments in decades. From millennial parents passing the magic down to their kids, to Gen Z rediscovering the brand on TikTok, Care Bears continue to inspire joy, comfort, and emotional connection.Get a glimpse of what’s behind the brand’s resurgence, how younger audiences are embracing the bears, and why the future of Care Bears is more exciting than ever.👉 Watch the full episode for a deep dive into brand strategy, collaborations, retail trends, and what’s coming next for Care Bears.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

In this episode of Born to License, David Born sits down with Annabel Rochfort, one of the most influential voices in location-based entertainment (LBE).From her first trip to Disneyland to leading major projects for Cartoon Network, Warner Bros., and Ferrari, Annabel has built a career turning intellectual properties into immersive, real-world experiences.You’ll learn:- How licensing and location-based entertainment intersect- What it takes to translate a brand like Ferrari or Ben 10 into a physical space- The biggest opportunities (and risks) in LBE today- Why passion and partnership are key to every successful activationNow running her own consultancy, Annabel shares lessons from two decades of creating global brand destinations — and where she sees the next wave of innovation coming from.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Sometimes one childhood moment can shape an entire career. For Annabel Rochfort, it began with a single trip to Disneyland Paris — a spark that ignited a lifelong passion for bringing brands to life.In this Born to License episode trailer, Annabel shares the emotional story of how her love for theme parks evolved into a 20-year career leading licensing and location-based entertainment for some of the world’s most iconic brands — including Warner Bros., Cartoon Network, and Ferrari.Get ready for an inspiring preview that reminds us that passion, when paired with persistence, can turn childhood dreams into global impact.🎧 Watch the full episode to hear how Annabel built a world-class career in licensing and how she’s helping brands today create unforgettable experiences.🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Think you can launch licensed products in 2 months? Think again.Join product development expert Jenna as she reveals why licensed products take 9-18 months from concept to shelf. With nearly two decades of experience from Disney to Cartoon Network, Jenna breaks down the three-stage approval process that every licensee must navigate.In this episode, discover:- The three approval stages that make or break products- Why mixing Ben 10 with Shrek's Donkey was a disaster- The 10-working-day reset that kills timelines- How Chinese New Year can derail your launch- The Wicked URL mistake that went viral- Why 1000+ submissions create approval bottlenecks- The real cost of providing 120 product samplesFrom her first Disney pin meltdown to managing Fort Knox of samples at Cartoon Network, Jenna shares the victories and disasters that shaped her career.🎯 Planning templates discussed📦 Sample requirements explained💡 First-timer mistakes to avoid🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Get an exclusive preview of our conversation with product development expert Jenna, who's handled 1000+ submissions at once. Discover why your 2-month timeline is impossible and what really happens behind the scenes of every licensed product.In this preview: ✓ The Ben 10 riding Donkey disaster ✓ Why approvals reset every 10 days ✓ The first Disney pin that changed everythingFull episode reveals: Complete approval process, Chinese New Year delays, and the Wicked mistake breakdown!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation⏰ Full episode: 11/10/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Think licensing is just about paying royalties? Think again.David Schnider, licensing attorney at Nolan Heimann, reveals the legal minefields hidden in every licensing contract. From his journey licensing Top Gun costumes to negotiating Disney deals, David exposes the costly mistakes that can destroy licensing partnerships before they begin.In this episode, learn:- The three financial elements that make or break deals- Why "net sales" definitions can cost you thousands- Transfer fees that eat 25% of your company sale- How audits find "mistakes" 95% of the time- The approval trap that turns revenue into penalties- Insurance requirements that surprise every licensee- Why "inspired by" products kill licensing careersFrom selling outside territories to the Steamboat Willie trademark trap, David shares real client stories and hard-won wisdom from thousands of contracts reviewed.⚖️ Contact David: nolanheimann.com📧 Email: [email protected]🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Preview our conversation with David Schnider, the licensing attorney who's seen it all. From Top Gun's million-dollar success to Disney audit disasters, discover the legal landmines hiding in every licensing contract.In this preview:✓ The $100,000 transfer fee surprise✓ Why selling before approval costs everything✓ The "inspired by" career killerFull episode reveals: Complete contract breakdown, audit survival tactics, and Steamboat Willie trademark secrets!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation⏰ Full episode: 11/03/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What will licensing look like in 2035? Sharon Weisman has the answers.As US CEO of Portman Street and former executive at License Global and Licensing International, Sharon reveals how AI, dynamic royalty structures, and responsive IP ecosystems will revolutionize our industry. From virtual influencers making $2.6M monthly to AI clones that could teach licensing, this conversation explores the dramatic shifts ahead.In this episode, discover:Why fixed royalties will become dynamic and performance-basedHow virtual influencers are making millions (but won't last)The truth about NFTs and secondary market royaltiesWhy "ugly is the new cute" in licensing trendsHow AI will eliminate guesswork in product designThe wellness and education white spaces worth billionsWhy private companies win at sustainabilityFrom predicting anime's trajectory to explaining why Gen Alpha doesn't know what they want yet, Sharon challenges everything we think we know about licensing's future.🔮 Connect with Sharon: LinkedIn @Sharon Weisman 🏢 Learn more: PortmanStreet.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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Get an exclusive preview of Sharon Weisman's bold predictions for licensing's future. From AI that eliminates guesswork to virtual influencers earning millions, discover why everything you know about licensing is about to change dramatically.In this preview: ✓ Dynamic royalties that adjust to performance ✓ Why Gen Alpha doesn't know what they want ✓ The $100B wellness opportunityFull episode reveals: AI clones, secondary market royalties, and the end of logo slapping!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation ⏰ Full episode: 27/10/2025#LicensingFuture #Trailer #ComingSoon #BornToLicense🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What happens when a cosplayer with 2M followers decides to create premium licensed fashion?Meet Jasmine and Vincent, the couple behind Fira x Wear who transformed a pandemic park conversation into a thriving fashion brand. From their first My Hero Academia collection to navigating anime approvals, they reveal what it really takes to build a premium licensed fashion brand from scratch.In this episode, discover:Why they refused to "logo slap" despite industry pressureThe approval process surprises that nearly derailed their launchHow 2 million followers helped launch without paid adsWhy ethical manufacturing matters in licensed fashionThe challenges of being business AND life partnersHow they sold out styles in their first collectionTheir transition from licensee to potential licensorFrom custom hardware to ethical manufacturing, Jasmine and Vincent prove that fans deserve better than cheap licensed merch - and they're willing to pay for quality.🎨 Follow Jasmine: @CutiepieSensei 👕 Shop Fira x Wear: https://firaxwear.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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Preview the incredible journey of Jasmine (2M+ followers) and Vincent, who turned a pandemic idea into Fira x Wear - a premium licensed fashion brand that sold out on launch. See how they navigated their first anime license and changed the game for fan fashion.In this preview: ✓ The pandemic park walk that started it all ✓ Why anime approvals almost broke them ✓ The "designer quality" review that changed everythingFull episode reveals: Complete My Hero Academia journey, influencer marketing secrets, and their plans to become Licensors!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation ⏰ Full episode: 10/20/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

The fan who became the voice of anime collaborations speaks out.Meet Caleb, the "Collab King" whose content on licensing and IP collaborations reaches millions. From predicting which anime partnerships will explode to calling out lazy logo slapping, he reveals what fans REALLY think about your licensing deals.In this episode, discover:Why limited editions matter more than brands thinkThe red flags that kill collaborations before launchHow secondary markets actually help your brandWhy Fantastic Four's licensing was genius (and sustainable)The $10 Old Navy shirt that beats $50 collabsHow to get brands to send you products before launchWhy overproduction is the new "Beanie Baby" killerFrom getting leaked warehouse photos to opening a collectibles store, Caleb shares the fan perspective every licensing professional needs to hear.🎯 Follow Caleb: @CalebXSwag🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Get a first look at our conversation with Caleb, the content creator who's become the unofficial voice of anime collaborations. With millions of views dissecting every licensing deal, he knows exactly why fans love or hate your products.In this preview: ✓ The "stinkiest fanbase" story that went viral ✓ Why logo slapping is killing brands ✓ The secondary market truth brands fearFull episode reveals: How to get free products, why Carhartt needs anime, and the Beanie Baby warning for today's brands!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation ⏰ Full episode: 10/13/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

What's it like managing licensing for the world's hottest preschool brand?Michelle Ahern shares her extraordinary journey from answering a newspaper ad ("Brand Manager Wanted - Call Mike") to managing licensing for The Wiggles at their global peak—55 US licensees, sold-out Madison Square Garden shows, and theme parks across multiple continents.In this episode, discover:- How to filter endless licensing requests when everyone wants your brand- Why The Wiggles refused ALL confectionery deals (and still dominated)- Managing approvals as a one-person licensing team- The strategic partnerships that opened new markets- Creating Wigglesworld theme parks from scratch- Why the UK rejected what the US embraced- Lessons for landing today's hottest licenses (Bluey, Peppa Pig)From fan mail puzzles (yes, really) to negotiating with Six Flags about hot dogs, Michelle reveals what it truly takes to manage a global phenomenon while staying true to brand values.📚 Want to work with hot properties? Listen to Michelle's advice for standing out 🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Preview Michelle Ahern's incredible story of managing The Wiggles at their absolute peak! From a newspaper ad to Madison Square Garden sellouts, discover what it's really like when EVERYONE wants your brand.In this preview: ✓ The "Call Mike" story that started it all ✓ Why they rejected every sugar deal ✓ Fan mail you won't believeFull episode reveals: Theme park negotiations, one-person approval marathons, and how to pitch today's hottest brands!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation ⏰ Full episode: 10/06/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

McDonald's Monopoly. Peppa Pig yogurts. That's promotional licensing—and it's everywhere.Join David Born for an eye-opening conversation with Julia Kamoda from Hasbro, who manages promotional partnerships across 1900 brands including Monopoly, Peppa Pig, Transformers, and more. Discover how these short-term campaigns drive billions in sales and create cultural moments that traditional licensing can't touch.In this episode, you'll learn:- The difference between promotional and traditional licensing- How McDonald's Monopoly became a 20-year phenomenon- Why board games are promotional gold (time, choice, consequence)- The 28 billion impressions from Baby Evie's announcement- How to break world records with Twister and Mentos- White space opportunities: from swimming schools to pregnancy tests- Why "free exposure" isn't a business modelFrom 3-month campaigns to global rollouts across 70 markets, Julia reveals the strategy behind promotions that actually work—and why 70-80% of pitches never happen.💡 Ready to explore promotional licensing? Connect with Julia on LinkedIn 🎲 What brand collaboration would YOU love to see with Hasbro?🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

Get a first look at our conversation with Julia Kamoda from Hasbro! Preview how promotional licensing drives billions in sales through McDonald's Monopoly, world record Twister games, and unexpected partnerships like Peppa Pig pregnancy announcements.In this preview:✓ Why promotions is different to traditional licensing✓ The 28 billion impression campaign✓ Managing 1900 brands globallyFull episode reveals: Complete strategies, white space opportunities, and how to pitch Hasbro!🔔 Subscribe for the full conversation⏰ Full episode: 09/29/2025🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!

How does Funko predict the next pop culture obsession before it even happens?Join us for an exclusive conversation with Lucy Salisbury, who orchestrates one of the most complex licensing portfolios on the planet at Funko. With over 1000 active licenses spanning Disney, Warner Bros, anime, sports, and more, Lucy reveals the strategy behind pop culture's most successful merchandising empire.In this episode, you'll discover:- How Funko decides which of 1000+ licenses to pursue- The real negotiations behind massive entertainment deals-Why anime exploded from niche to mainstream (and what's next)- How to break into licensing with zero experience- The secret to managing Disney, DC, and Marvel simultaneously- What makes a product sell out vs. sit on shelvesFrom predicting the next Grogu phenomenon to creating "geeky Gucci" with Loungefly, Lucy shares two decades of licensing wisdom that shaped brands from Ministry of Sound to Saban's Power Rangers.Ready to understand the business behind your favorite collectibles? Hit subscribe for more insider licensing conversations!#Funko #Licensing #PopCulture #BusinessStrategy #Disney #Collectibles🎙 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🔹 Join the Licensing Conversation: #BornToLicense #LicensingIndustry #BrandPartnerships #LearntoLicense👉 Have a question about licensing? Send it in for our upcoming Q&A episode!📩 Contact: [email protected]🎧 Subscribe & Follow for new episodes on licensing and the business of IP!