This episode of Toy Federation dives deep into the fascinating and often controversial world of toys based on R-rated movies from the 1980s, exploring how parental concerns and industry standards for what was considered "kid-friendly" have dramatically evolved. Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy as they reminisce about early, quickly canceled examples like the Alien and Freddy Krueger action figures and the challenges toy companies faced with public outcry from mothers. The discussion spans iconic R-rated properties such as Conan, Freddy Krueger from A Nightmare on Elm Street (including rare talking figures and the ill-fated Maxx Fx line that controversially launched with Freddy), and later successes like Predator and Aliens from Kenner. They also explore how popular cartoons paved the way for toy lines based on R-rated movies like Rambo and Police Academy, the disappointment of unreleased toy prototypes and figures (including Universal Monsters for Maxx Fx, Masters of the Universe characters, and Star Wars' Yak Face), and the unique charm of transforming toys such as Rock Lords and Computer Warriors. This podcast offers a nostalgic and insightful journey into the history of action figures, the nuances of toy collecting, and the broader pop culture landscape of the 1980s and 1990s.#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 5-7, 2025: Retro-Horrorcon.com*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

Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy from Toy Federation in Greer, SC as they dive deep into the fascinating world of vintage toy collecting, repair, and valuation! This episode uncovers the frustrating realities of restoring classic '80s and '90s toys like the Ewok Village (notoriously difficult to disassemble without breaking), G1 Transformer figures like Mirage (plagued by "gold plastic syndrome" and brittle blue plastic), and the fragile Power Rangers Mega Voyager Megazord. Learn about their practical approaches to identifying rare parts and understanding market trends, from utilizing vintage catalogs and specialized books to exploring the evolving capabilities of Google Lens for toy identification. They share expert insights on the challenges of completing sets for iconic lines such as G.I. Joe, Star Wars, and Transformers, often waiting years for crucial components, and navigating the complex toy market for sought-after items like He-Man, M.A.S.K., and more. Discover what it's truly like running a toy store, dealing with difficult repairs, and the constant hunt for that one missing piece.

#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 5-7, 2025: Retro-Horrorcon.com

*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.com

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

This episode of Toy Federation offers a nostalgic journey through 1980s and 1990s pop culture, making it a must-listen for YouTubers interested in vintage toys and retro collectibles! Hosts Ryan, Travis, and Andy dive deep into beloved icons, from Pee-wee Herman's memorable moments to the intriguing origins and lore of classic cartoons like Thundercats. Listeners will hear fascinating personal stories about collecting rare Star Wars memorabilia, such as the "Revenge of the Jedi" photos, and humorous tales of ordering items from comic book ads. Beyond the toys, the podcast discusses classic fashion trends like JNCO jeans and Members Only jackets, and shares anecdotes about the unmonitored childhood adventures of the era, from playing war in strangers' yards to elaborate fireworks displays. If you're a fan of '80s and '90s nostalgia, collecting, or simply enjoy a trip down memory lane discussing iconic characters and cultural shifts, this podcast provides an insightful and entertaining 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/BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!*Our Horror Convention September 5-7, 2025: Retro-Horrorcon.com*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

Join Ryan, Travis, and Andy from Toy Federation as they dive into the fascinating world of toy gimmicks! In this episode, they discuss everything from beloved classics like glow-in-the-dark figures, rocket-firing prototypes, and cap gun action features to less successful innovations such as pre-posed action figures, messy slime toys, and the obscure Tacky Stretchoid Warriors. They also share insights from running a toy store and organizing toy shows like Retro-Toy Con, covering the business of toys, collecting challenges, market trends, and the curious phenomenon of "speaking toys into existence". Whether you're a fan of He-Man, GI Joe, Ninja Turtles, Star Wars, or more niche lines like Starcom and M.A.S.K., this podcast offers an insightful and entertaining look at collectible toys and the toy industry that's perfect for any toy enthusiast!

#toys #toycollector #toystore

BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!

*Our Horror Convention September 5-7, 2025:Retro-Horrorcon.com

*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.com

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

Join Ryan, Andy, and Travis on the latest Toy Federation podcast, a must-listen for YouTubers interested in toys from the 1980s to the 2020s, offering a deep dive into toy collecting, nostalgia, and the current market. In this episode, the hosts recount the incredible success of their store's grand expansion, highlighting record sales and surprising insights into what vintage action figures and modern toys sold best. Discover their observations on popular lines like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Inhumanoids, Toxic Crusaders, Silverhawks, Master of the Universe, DC Superpowers, Battle Beasts, Transformers, Power Rangers, and Marvel Legends. They also discuss the unique challenges of the toy business, the changing landscape of toy advertising, and share engaging stories about collecting various Indiana Jones figures and vintage cereal premiums. This podcast is your ultimate source for comprehensive toy talk, market trends, and a healthy dose of shared collecting experiences across decades.

#toys #toycollector #toystore

BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!

*Our Horror Convention September 5-7, 2025:Retro-Horrorcon.com

*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.com

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

The Toy Federation Podcast is back, offering a blend of expert insight and conversational discussion about the world of toy collecting. Primarily focusing on action figures, the podcast dives into topics like navigating complex toy variations found in lines such as Star Wars and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles while examining the impact of major toy company license changes like those involving DC Comic properties and Power Rangers. The hosts share experiences from running a busy toy store, discussing the challenges of buying and selling toy collections from across the country and even the world, dealing with variations in packaging, and identifying retro figures versus originals. Tune in to learn about toy market trends and get an inside look at the toy industry!

#toys #toycollector #toystore

BUY TICKETS for our UPCOMING TOY FEDERATION CONVENTIONS!

*Our Horror Convention September 5-7, 2025: Retro-Horrorcon.com

*Our Toy Convention November 21-23, 2025: Retro-Toycon.com

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-fed...

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

In the world of vintage toy collecting, certain figures and sets from the biggest toy lines—Star Wars, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), G.I. Joe, Masters of the Universe (MOTU), Transformers, and Thundercats—stand out not only for their desirability but also for their rarity. These items are the Holy Grail for collectors and often the hardest for vintage toy stores to acquire.Star WarsArguably the most iconic toy line, vintage Star Wars figures, particularly from the original Kenner line (1977-1985), are highly coveted. Among the rarest are the:Vinyl Cape Jawa: Early production Jawas featured a vinyl cape before Kenner switched to a cloth version. The vinyl cape variant is now extremely rare.Blue Snaggletooth: Included exclusively in the 1978 Sears Cantina Adventure Set, this figure was later corrected to a shorter red version, making the blue variant a rare find.Double Telescoping Lightsaber Figures: Early Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Obi-Wan Kenobi figures had lightsabers that extended in two parts. These were soon replaced by a single telescoping version, making the double telescoping figures highly sought after.Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT)TMNT figures from the late 1980s and early 1990s by Playmates are nostalgic treasures. Some of the hardest to find include:Scratch the Cat: Released in 1993, this figure had a limited release and was not well distributed, making it one of the rarest and most expensive TMNT figures.Hot Spot: Another late release, this Dalmatian firefighter figure had a similarly limited distribution, adding to its rarity and value.Undercover Raphael: Part of the original line, this variant featuring Raphael in a trench coat and hat is a rare find, especially complete with accessories.G.I. JoeHasbro's G.I. Joe figures, particularly from the 1980s “Real American Hero” line, feature some exceptionally rare pieces:1982 Snake Eyes (Straight Arm): The first version of Snake Eyes with straight arms was quickly replaced with a swivel-arm version, making the original a rare collectible.1985 USS Flagg: This massive aircraft carrier playset is highly sought after, particularly complete and in good condition.1993 Gold Head Steel Brigade: A mail-away exclusive with a unique gold helmet, this figure is rare and highly prized among collectors.Masters of the Universe (MOTU)Mattel’s Masters of the Universe line from the 1980s includes several rare and desirable figures:1983 Wonder Bread He-Man: An elusive variant with dark brown hair and black belt, rumored to be a promotional figure, is one of the most mysterious and sought-after in the line.Laser Power He-Man and Laser Light Skeletor: Released only in Europe towards the end of the line, these figures are extremely rare and highly valued.Eternia Playset: The largest playset in the MOTU line, it is notoriously difficult to find complete due to its many parts and accessories.TransformersHasbro’s Transformers, particularly Generation 1 (1984-1990), are highly collectible:Fortress Maximus: The largest G1 Transformer, complete with all accessories, is a rare find.Megatron (Pre-Rub Sign): Early versions of Megatron without the rub sign are harder to find and more valuable.Blue Bluestreak: Although only seen in promotional materials and catalogs, the blue variant of Bluestreak has become a legendary rarity among collectors.ThundercatsLJN’s Thundercats line (1985-1987) features several hard-to-find figures:

Like and Subscribe!

Toy Federation Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ToyFederationShop/

Toy Federation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@toyfederation

Toy Federation Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ToyFederationPodcastchannel

Retro Toy Con: https://retro-toycon.com/

Retro Horror Con: https://www.facebook.com/RetroHorrorCon/

The Golden Age of Toy Hunting: The Thrill of the Chase at Walmart and Toys "R" UsIn the era before online shopping became the norm, toy hunting was a thrilling adventure that involved physically scouring the aisles of big-box stores like Walmart and Toys "R" Us. This golden age of toy hunting, spanning from the late 1970s through the 1990s and early 2000s, was characterized by the excitement of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the camaraderie among fellow collectors.The Quest for TreasuresDuring this time, toy collectors were on a constant quest for the latest and most coveted action figures, vehicles, and playsets. Popular lines like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, Transformers, He-Man, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles dominated the shelves, and finding that elusive figure was often a matter of being in the right place at the right time. The thrill of the chase was a significant part of the allure. Collectors would frequent their local Walmart and Toys "R" Us, knowing that restock days were their best bet for finding new and rare items.The Allure of Star WarsOne of the most sought-after lines during this golden age was Star Wars. From the original Kenner figures released in the late 1970s and 1980s to the Power of the Force series in the 1990s, Star Wars toys captured the imaginations of both young fans and adult collectors. The challenge of completing a collection, particularly with limited-run figures and exclusives, added to the excitement. The anticipation of finding a new Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, or the latest vehicle from a galaxy far, far away was a driving force behind many a toy hunt.The Role of Big-Box StoresWalmart and Toys "R" Us were the epicenters of this toy-hunting phenomenon. Walmart, with its ubiquitous presence, offered convenience and accessibility. Its toy aisles were always well-stocked with a wide range of action figures and playsets. Toys "R" Us, on the other hand, was a veritable wonderland for toy enthusiasts. With entire sections dedicated to various toy lines, it provided an immersive experience where collectors could lose themselves for hours. The sight of those long aisles filled with colorful packaging and the latest releases was nothing short of magical.The Thrill of the HuntWhat made this era truly special was the unpredictability and excitement of the hunt. Collectors would often form networks, sharing tips on when certain stores would restock or where a rare figure had been spotted. The camaraderie among collectors created a sense of community, with enthusiasts bonding over their shared passion. Flea markets, garage sales, and toy conventions also played a significant role, offering additional avenues for discovery and trade.Nostalgia and LegacyToday, the golden age of toy hunting is remembered with fond nostalgia. While online shopping has made acquiring toys more convenient, it lacks the tangible thrill of physically searching store shelves. The memories of rushing to Walmart or Toys "R" Us, hoping to find a new release or a hard-to-find figure, are cherished by those who experienced it. This era left an indelible mark on the toy-collecting hobby, shaping the way collectors appreciate and engage with their treasures.In conclusion, the golden age of toy hunting at Walmart and Toys "R" Us was a time of adventure, excitement, and community. It was an era when the journey was just as rewarding as the destination, and the joy of discovery created lasting memories for collectors of all ages.Like and Subscribe!

Toy Federation Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ToyFederationShop/

Toy Federation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@toyfederation

Toy Federation Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ToyFederationPodcastchannel

Retro Toy Con: https://retro-toycon.com/

Retro Horror Con: https://www.facebook.com/RetroHorrorCon/