Venture Lab Visiting Expert: Michael Rinzler; Toy Expert, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist

March 04, 2025 at 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Tangen Hall 342; Tuesday, March 4th
Pokemon, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Disney Princess, Squishmallows & Hot Wheels - come learn about Michael's journey with these brands!
Register Here for a 1:1meeting: https://go.oncehub.com/MichaelRinzler

Michael Rinzler is a kid at heart and toy industry expert who has created an impact on some of the most iconic and beloved play and entertainment brands in the industry, including Pokémon, Cabbage Patch Kids, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Disney Princess, Squishmallows and Hot Wheels, to name a few. Michael launched his career in the toy business in 1993, holding leadership positions with some of the toy industry’s leading companies, including MGA Entertainment, Mattel, Playmates, and JAKKS Pacific.

In 2012, Michael founded Wicked Cool Toys, which grew to become a major industry player in only a few years. The company was widely regarded for its innovation and modern marketing tactics. It served as master toy partners for Pokémon and Cabbage Patch Kids, along with launching successful products such as the “Toy of the Year® Award” winning Teddy Ruxpin relaunch and nominated Girl Scouts Cookie Oven and Blinger hair decorating tool.

In 2019, he and his partners sold Wicked Cool Toys to Alleghany Capital/Jazwares. Michael served as Executive Vice President and Partner at Jazwares for three years before departing the company after a second exit upon the sale of Jazwares to Berkshire Hathaway.

Michael is currently active in philanthropy and entrepreneurship. He and his wife Zyta, along with daughter Zoe, are Founders Society members at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Michael also serves on The Toy Foundation’s Board of Trustees Executive Committee and as Chair of the Development & Fundraising Committee. He is also an active member of EO (Entrepreneurs Organization) and is an Advisor to the Huizenga Business Innovation Academy at NSU. His newest venture, Pre Game Mouthwash, launches later this year and will be a disruptor to what has traditionally been a boring product category.

Michael has a B.A. from Washington University and an M.B.A. from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.