Jodi Bondi Norgaard

Jodi Bondi Norgaard is an entrepreneur, author, feminist advocate, and keynote speaker recognized for her work in challenging gender stereotypes in the toy industry and beyond. Norgaard's commitment to gender equity began after shopping for a doll with her 9-year-old daughter and encountering a doll with revealing clothing and makeup, which prompted her to seek change in the industry. She founded Dream Big Toy Company and created the "Go! Go! Sports Girls" line of dolls, books, and apps, designed to encourage healthy and active play for girls rather than focusing on beauty and body image.

Norgaard introduced plush sports dolls modeled after real girls' bodies, addressing the lack of diversity and representation in toys. Despite initial resistance from industry leaders who believed fashion dolls were the only viable option for girls, Norgaard persisted. Her products were eventually sold in major retailers, and the "Go! Go! Sports Girls" brand was acquired by Jazwares, expanding its reach and impact. The brand has received multiple awards and has inspired young girls to pursue their interests beyond traditional gender roles.

Norgaard's influence extends into policy and media. She has participated in White House conferences on gender stereotypes in media and toys and served on the White House Gender Policy Council, contributing to policy discussions on children's toys, content, and publishing. Norgaard collaborated with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media on the report "Equal Play? Analyzing Gender Stereotypes, Diversity, and Inclusion in Advertising and Marketing of Toys." She also co-chaired the first Toy Association DEIB Committee, working to expand inclusivity in play, and advises Fortune 500 companies on gender issues and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) initiatives.

As an author, Norgaard wrote "More Than A Doll: How Creating a Sports Doll Turned into a Fight to End Gender Stereotypes," which explores the impact of sexualized dolls on girls' confidence and the broader implications for gender equity. She contributes to Ms. Magazine and was recognized by Women's Running as one of 20 Women Who Are Changing the Sport of Running and the World. Norgaard is a frequent public speaker, including TEDx events, and presents to corporations, women's groups, conferences, and universities. Her work has been featured on national media outlets including The Today Show, The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson, Forbes, Upworthy, Parents, Shape, Self, Runner's World, Advertising Age, Good Housekeeping, Chicago Tribune, New York Times, and Huffington Post.