Pop Cycle has been part of Tucson’s Fourth Avenue scene since 2008. What started as a small studio and storefront for a few local makers has grown into a shop featuring work from more than 100 Tucson artists.

In this episode, Libby Tobey shares the story behind Pop Cycle — how the store first opened, why supporting local artists became central to the business, and what it actually takes to run an independent retail shop in a historic part of the city.

The conversation explores the early days of the store, the realities of managing relationships with dozens of artists, and the unexpected challenges that come with operating a creative retail space.

Libby also talks about surviving major disruptions like COVID, the shift to online sales, and why physical shops that feature handmade goods still matter in an era dominated by large online marketplaces.

For anyone interested in Tucson’s creative economy, small business resilience, and the people working behind the scenes to keep local retail alive, this episode offers a rare look inside one of Fourth Avenue’s most recognizable independent shops.

Full episode here: https://www.desertskieslocalseo.com/episode-5-season-2-libby-tobey.html