The Mentors Radio

Where Remarkable CEOs Challenge Your Thinking about Life and Work

A Career in Making Toys with guest Ken Strottman

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In this episode, The Mentors Host Ric Brutoco talks with Ken Strottman, Chairman and Founder of Strottman International, an innovative toy and branding company that prides itself on being passionate about making toys! In 35+ years the Strottman team has created more than 3.5 BILLION toys for retail and for some of the largest U.S. brands, all with a flawless safety record. Clients include Chevron (remember those adorable Chevron toy cars?!), Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Kroger, Red Robbin, Lowe’s, LeapFrog and many more brands. So, how did Ken Strottman find his way into the toy business… and into becoming an iconic brand name in creating toys for big brand promotions? His is a journey that could almost be called failing his way to success… Absolutely inspiring and a living testimony to staying true to your core life principles and perseverance… and a good sense of humor! Find Show Notes here. Listen below to the radio podcast after the first airing Saturday morning… Even better, sign up for the FREE radio podcast and never miss an episode!!

3 thoughts on “A Career in Making Toys with guest Ken Strottman

  1. Pingback: Guest Ken Strottman with host Ric Brutocao – Show Notes | The Mentors Radio

  2. Great interview of Ken. In high school Ken was the 400 yard freestyle swimmer for our team. He mentioned that he never was in any physical conflicts, for two reasons. He was pretty strong with stamina, and relatively bigger than most. He was never adverse to anyone, and was more apt to walk away quietly from a ‘developing situation’ than verbally dump on anyone in return. He had a way of diffusing tense situations or confrontations. But, like his interview disclosed, he always had a positive attitude toward getting the job done. Swimming 400 yards in a race took a lot of strength and stamina. From my perspective of those high school days, Ken reminds me of his father most. A lot of the same mannerisms and approach to life. He’s the same now as he was back then as far as not wanting to publicly be “the focus,” but goes about doing what he did well as best he could as a matter of fact. A good honest interview. One thing I remember most is how often we (and three other friends) would be listening to 45 records at his home in the basement back when songs were real music (1963-67), and literally devouring bags full of White Castle hamburgers.

    • Dennis, just posted your comment… what a GREAT testimony of a GREAT person & friend! p.s. White Castle burgers!!! 🙂

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