Tom Kalinske - Mattel, Sega, Leap Frog

Few events in video game history are more legendary than the Console War between Sega and Nintendo.  Our guest today was one of the generals of that war, the head of Sega of America, Tom Kalinske.

Tom's story is not just a story of Sega though, he started out in advertising, helping create the still iconic Flintstone's vitamins, he redefined Barbie's image, helped save Mattel from bankruptcy after the video game crash and lead one of the most important educational tech companies of our time, Leap Frog.

Tom's insight into the world of toys, games and education over a career spanning 6 decades is a wild and fascinating ride.

Recorded: July 2025

Video version: https://www.patreon.com/posts/tom-kalinske-141140563

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