About this episode
Tune in to Toy Federation with Ryan, Andy, and Travis as they delve into the nostalgic topic of their favorite toy stores growing up and examine how the toy collecting experience has changed from the 1980s through the 2020s. This episode is essential for anyone interested in vintage toys and retail history, as the hosts vividly recall the massive, floor-to-ceiling stock at legendary locations like Toys R Us and Child World, contrasted with the unique appeal of regional stores such as Lionel Play World, Kmart, and department stores like Sears. They discuss the glory days of seeing endless walls of Star Wars and GI Joe figures and lament the modern reality of limited stock, peg warmers, and scalping when searching for contemporary action figures like Marvel Legends at Target. Furthermore, the conversation explores unusual toy-buying spots—like drugstores and grocery stores—and provides insight into the shift towards toy investment and speculation, from comics to Beanie Babies, offering a comprehensive look at the world of toy retail.#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