Toy Federation Podcast
Ryan Bonavia takes toy enthusiasts behind the scenes of his shop Toy Federation (Greer, SC) and discusses the challenges of a modern day toy dealer, the current state of collecting, starting his own conventions, and pop culture topics in general with his cohosts Travis and Andy.
3d ago
Are you interested in vintage toy lines from the 1980s and 1990s that failed to hold their value for collectors? This podcast episode dives into specific lines that are considered "worthless" not because they are poorly made, but strictly from the standpoint that they do not sell. We provide expert analysis on numerous movie tie-in toys that tanked, such as figures from Stargate, where a pristine carded figure might only yield $20, along with disappointing lines for Congo and Water World. The discussion also covers cartoon and video game lines like the poorly articulated G.I. Joe Extreme, Double Dragon, and the heavily reused Robin Hood movie figures. Whether you are a dealer or a YouTube toy collector hunting for knowledge on forgotten lines like Cadillacs and Dinosaurs, Spiral Zone, or Superhuman Samurai Cyber Squad, tune in to understand why these highly publicized lines ultimately did not succeed in the secondary market.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Horror Convention September 11-13, 2026: Retro-Horrorcon.com*Our Toy Convention November 20-22, 2026: Retro-Toycon.comTOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Dec 12
Welcome back to the Toy Federation podcast! Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy as they break down the events from this year's Retro-Toy Con from their shop in Greer, South Carolina. This episode is a must-listen for toy collectors interested in vintage toys and modern action figures, covering how this vintage toy show achieved record attendance, particularly on the Friday preview night, and generated high-impact sales. Learn about the incredible vendor success stories selling highly sought-after items like carded G.I. Joe, Star Wars, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, emphasizing that heavy hitters save up specifically for this event. The hosts also share behind-the-scenes stories, including the logistical mishaps involving celebrity guests who dealt with cancelled flights and lost luggage, the unique Thundercats VIP dinner, and the "insanity" of the after-hours elements like the lobby swap and room trading. Discover why this event is considered one of the best shows by vendors, offering an affordable, community-focused experience where friendships are made.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/TOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Dec 5
Dive deep into 1980s animation history with the Toy Federation Podcast, recorded live at Retro-Toy Con, featuring legendary voice actor Larry Kenney (Thundercats, Silverhawks, Tigersharks) and renowned Filmation/Hanna-Barbera animator Tom Cook (He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo, Bravestarr, Super Friends, Ghostbusters) in their first ever interview together. A must-watch episode for fans of cartoons, animating, and voice acting, Cook shares fascinating insider details about the pioneering animation techniques used for He-Man, while Kenney details the collaborative process of recording lines for shows like Thundercats and Silverhawks.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/TOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Nov 28
is special podcast episode, recorded live from the Retro-Toy Convention, is your deep dive into the passionate world of vintage and modern toy collecting. Join Ryan, Travis, Andy, and Devin as they discuss this "toy paradise" dedicated to nostalgic games, comics, and characters. The conversation is tailored for collectors interested in toys spanning four decades, featuring heavy discussion on classic toys from the 1980s and 1990s—including G.I. Joe, He-Man, Star Wars, and Transformers—as well as newer items. The hosts provide an insider look at the show’s success, emphasizing the focus on quality vendors who bring their "best stuff" and unique guests from classic cartoons, all while sharing the intense effort required to organize a show that fosters lifelong friendships and creates emotional moments for the toy community. Whether discussing finding "the one that got away" or the mission to sell complete items that rekindle childhood memories, this podcast delivers an insightful look into the heart of the ultimate toy show experience. #toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials! *Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation *Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop *Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/ TOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT: *Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv *Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf *Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccj WATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST! https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36 BUY Toy Federation MERCH! http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federation COME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650 Monday 10 AM–7 PM Tuesday 10 AM–7 PM Wednesday 10 AM–7 PM Thursday 10 AM–7 PM Friday 10 AM–7 PM Saturday 10 AM–8 PM Sunday Closed
Nov 21
It's the Toy Federation Podcast, and hosts Ryan, Travis, and Andy are diving deep into the world of vintage toys and action figures from the 1980s onward. This episode begs the question --- How did you play with your toys as a kid? Did you co-mingle toy lines like your He-Man warriors fighting along side your G.I. Joe figures or battle the Inhumanoids with M.A.S.K. vehicles? They share hilarious memories of imaginative play, discussing classic toys like Star Wars, Thundercats, Hot Wheels, Mego figures, along with Read Along Record books and bizarre toys for the bath that includes tie-in merchandise like Spider-Man foam mittens. Whether you are a dedicated toy collector or a fan of retro nostalgia, this podcast captures the essence of childhood fun and the lasting impact of toys.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.comTOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Nov 14
Welcome to the Toy Federation Podcast, where Ryan, Travis, and Andy tackle the ultimate challenge for vintage toy collectors: identifying the most common missing parts or frequently lost items across major collectible lines spanning the 1980s through the 2020s. This episode is essential viewing for anyone who loves toy hunting or thrifting, providing crucial knowledge on what rare toy accessories to look for to complete your figures, vehicles, or to flip to fund your hobby. We break down specific valuable parts for lines like G.I. Joe, Transformers, He-Man, and Star Wars. We also cover tough accessories from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and DC Super Powers, giving you the insider knowledge necessary to spot those small, high-value pieces that often determine a collectible’s completeness and price.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.comTOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Nov 7
Welcome back to the Toy Federation podcast with hosts Ryan, Travis, and Andy, where they dive into the dramatic and complex reality of buying and selling collectibles ranging from the 1980s to the 2020s. This episode explores several unbelievable stories encountered running a retail toy shop, including follow-ups on the highly-discussed episode featuring a collection from a "divorced lady," which included high-value G1 Transformers mixed with bootlegs, knockoffs, and modern repros. The hosts discuss the challenges of authenticating vintage toys and detecting sophisticated recards and reproduction inserts in lines like Star Wars and G.I. Joe, which often deceive even diligent researchers. Beyond complex collection sales, they share unbelievable tales involving relationship conflict where valuable items, such as a He-Man lot and NECA Turtles, were stolen or sold without permission due to hostile divorces, demonstrating the chaotic and often emotional side of dealing with massive toy collections. If you are a collector or YouTuber interested in the inner workings of the retro toy business, including recognizing scams, handling difficult trades, and tracking down genuine vintage finds amidst modern bootlegs, this essential toy podcast offers the candid, expert insight you need.#toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.comTOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed
Oct 31
Happy Halloween! The Toy Federation Podcast is LIVE from Toy Federation in Greer, SC! Join toy store owner Ryan Bonavia and his co-hosts Travis and Andy as they share their professional insight on all things toys while discussing the world of collecting, pop culture, and the toy industry itself. Through conversations focusing on hit toy lines as old as Masters of the Universe, Star Wars, G.I.Joe, Transformers and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to newer indie toy trendsetters, Toy Federation shares their experiences running a busy toy store and addresses the challenges of buying and selling toy collections from across the country and even the world. #toys #toycollector #toystore WATCH and SUBSCRIBE to Our Other Channels and Socials!*Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@toyfederation*Toy Federation Facebook: facebook.com/ToyFederationShop*Toy Federation Instagram: instagram.com/ToyFederationShop/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.comTOY FEDERATION PODCAST ALSO AVAILABLE AT:*Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/mwuw3mtv*Apple Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/3pnbsyzf*Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/2bxsvccjWATCH EVERY EPISODE of the Toy Federation Podcast in one convenient PLAYLIST!https://tinyurl.com/3ds8yr36BUY Toy Federation MERCH!http://www.teepublic.com/user/toy-federationCOME OUT and VISIT OUR SHOP in Person! 104 Middleton Way, Greer, SC 29650Monday 10 AM–7 PMTuesday 10 AM–7 PMWednesday 10 AM–7 PMThursday 10 AM–7 PMFriday 10 AM–7 PMSaturday 10 AM–8 PMSunday Closed