We are thrilled to have such a diverse team of writers from so many different fields in the toy/play industries. Our writers team continues to grow as we bring you more news from the world of play.
Chris Byrne
Editor in Chief
The Toy Guy
Chris currently serves as the editor in chief at Global Toy News, bringing nearly four decades of expertise as an independent toy analyst, researcher, and consultant. His deep knowledge of the toy industry, culture, education, and child development uniquely positions him to lead in this influential role.
He began his career working on major toy brands in marketing and operations, helping build successful products for brands like Gabriel, Child Guidance, Creative Playthings, and Ideal. He was instrumental in making the game Pictionary a classic favorite. In 1988, Chris founded Byrne Communications to consult across toy, children’s entertainment, and consumer products industries, assisting companies of all sizes and advising analysts and investors internationally.
Chris co-founded and produced The Playground Podcast with the late Richard Gottlieb, delivering weekly insights into the toy industry and its challenges. He is a widely published author and media expert, featured in Netflix’s The Toys That Made Us and a forthcoming National Geographic series.
His books include Toy Time, An Introduction to the U.S. Toy Industry: Serious Fun, and Funny Business, along with Toys and They Came to Play for the Toy Association.
Chris frequently appears on national TV shows such as Live! With Kelly & Mark, Oprah, The Today Show, and Good Morning America. His media reach exceeded 200 million consumers within three months in 2023. He is a sought-after speaker and expert witness at conferences and trials worldwide.
He is a sought-after speaker for conferences on topics ranging from play to the toy industry, and has often been an expert witness in trials in the U.S. and internationally.
Todd Coopee
Guest Writer
Toy Tales
Todd Coopee is a toy historian, award-winning author, and entrepreneur.
As founder and editor-in-chief of ToyTales.ca, he brings audiences stories, news, expert interviews, and insights about formative toys and games past and present. Todd has a special interest in toy nostalgia—the objects that inspired curiosity, thought, and experimentation during the formative years of popular culture in North America, as well as their ongoing role in the present day.
A natural collector with a curious mind, Todd has researched, curated, and written about comic books and vintage toys for many years.
Website: Toy Tales
Email: todd@toytales.ca
The Strong Museum Writers
Various Guest Writers
The Strong National Museum of Play
The Strong is one of the largest history museums in the United States and one of the leading museums serving families with highly interactive exhibits and programs. The Strong houses the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of historical materials related to play.
Website: The Strong National Museum of Play
LinkedIn Business Page
Harold Chizick
Guest Writer
ChizSix Media
Harold Chizick, a passionate and fun-loving kid at heart, is the founder and CEO of ChizSix Media & Marketing and has over 20 years of marketing experience. Founded in 2022, ChizSix is a fully integrated marketing and media agency specializing in the lifestyle, entertainment, toy and gaming spaces.
Prior to being bit by the entrepreneurial bug, Harold honed his skills as a senior level executive and has 14 years of industry experience at top tier organizations. Harold held the role of Vice President of Marketing Services at Spin Master Ltd. and Vice President of Marketing at MEGA Brands. Harold’s vast marketing knowledge and solid communications capabilities have shaped him into an inspirational leader and accomplished business owner. With an extensive background in strategic PR, digital marketing, promotions, events and product launches, Harold’s boisterous and inventive approach allows him to share the excitement with staff, partners and clients while simultaneously developing out of the box marketing communication strategies.
Harold has served on a number of Toy Industry Association committees in addition to having spent six years as the Official Spokesperson for the Canadian Toy Association. As a busy father of 4, Harold is never too tied up to stop and play with his kids Brandon, Eric, Matthew and Nicole as they bring joy and provide inspiration each and every day.
Website: ChizSix
Miguel Ortuno
Creative Director of Global Toy News & Writer
Blue Bot Advertising
Miguel Ortuno is where creativity meets curiosity—and a splash of playful rebellion. As the Creative Director of Global Toy News and CEO of Blue Bot Advertising, he brings bold ideas and sharp design instincts to everything he touches.
At Global Toy News, Miguel dives into the art and strategy of toy design, branding, and innovation, contributing articles that shine a light on how great design can turn simple play into pure magic. He’s passionate about exploring what makes toys tick—how color, shape, and storytelling come together to spark imagination and connection.
Through Blue Bot Advertising, Miguel helps brands find their voice and stand out in a crowded market, crafting campaigns that are as smart as they are striking. With his signature blend of wit, visual flair, and heart, he continues to champion creativity across the toy world—one inspired idea at a time.
Website: Blue Bot Advertising
Email: miguel@bluebotadvertising.com
LinkedIn Profile
Justin Discoe
Guest Writer
OpenArt
Justin Discoe is co-owner of OnepartART, a Colorado-based design consultancy specializing in fractional toy industry consulting. With more than 25 years of experience, he has created hundreds of consumer products across preschool toys, games, and sporting goods. A 2010 Toy of the Year award winner in the Specialty category, Justin is recognized for blending imaginative storytelling with technical expertise. His career includes senior design roles at Mattel and Radica Games, where he contributed to globally recognized product lines, as well as entrepreneurial ventures—most notably co-founding Sprig Toys, known for its eco-friendly designs and battery-free electronics. Holding a BFA in Industrial Design and an M.Ed. in Leadership, Justin combines creative vision with strategic insight to help companies build innovative product lines and brands that resonate with retailers, licensors, and consumers worldwide.
Website: One Part Art
LinkedIn Profile
Marlene Sharp & Vadim Govorov
Guest Writer
Neurodivergent Voices in Play Toy Reviews
Rubber Ninja
Pink Poodle Productions
A dynamic team of creativity and insight, Vadim “Rubber Ninja” Govorov and Marlene “Pink Poodle” Sharp bring a one-of-a-kind blend of artistry, humor, and heart to GLOBAL TOY NEWS. Together, they merge their diverse talents and shared passion for inclusive play to deliver a monthly feature that’s as thoughtful as it is entertaining.
Vadim is a commercial diver, graphic artist, sculptor, and stop-motion animator whose imagination thrives both underwater and in the studio. Marlene, a media producer, writer, and creative executive, is known for her sharp wit, storytelling savvy, and dedication to amplifying diverse voices in entertainment.
Each month, the pair teams up with an individual on the autism spectrum to present a detailed toy review that shines a light on play through multiple perspectives. Their reviews go beyond surface-level fun—celebrating how toys spark creativity, foster connection, and resonate with both neurodivergent children and neurotypical kids-at-heart alike.
Website: Rubber Ninja
LinkedIn: Rubber Ninja
Website: Pink Poodle Productions
LinkedIn: Pink Poodle Productions