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What if a doll could tell the truth about who we are? We sit down with Dr. Eric Dupree—author of Dolls Beyond Play, cultural anthropologist, and lifelong collector—to uncover how dolls carry stories of identity, memory, and belonging across centuries. From nineteenth-century French fashion dolls that globalized taste to handmade folk pieces stitched from scraps, we trace how design choices around skin tone, features, and body shape both reflect and reshape culture.

Beneath it all is a call to honor folk traditions. Shaker, Amish, African American, and Appalachian dolls hold untold histories of resourcefulness and love, made from what was available to mirror what was desired. These pieces are not merely “mixed media figurative objects” but intimate records of families and communities. When we recognize that the doll most directly reflects its maker, we grant overdue dignity to the hands and lives behind them. Whether you collect for memory, create for meaning, or study for insight, treating dolls as cultural texts opens a fuller view of who we are—and how we want to be seen.

If you care about representation, creative entrepreneurship, or the lived meaning of objects, this conversation reframes dolls as cultural texts worth serious attention. Listen to learn how collectors buy from memory, how makers market with story, and how a small figure can carry a world of human experience. 

Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find the Dollpreneur Podcast.

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Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

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Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

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Sometimes, art doesn’t just reflect us — it reaches for the parts of us we’ve hidden, forgotten, or been told to shrink.

In this conversation with, Zimbabwean artist Tina Vincent she shares how her plus-size paper mâché dolls became more than sculptures — they became mirrors of beauty, courage, and wholeness.

These captivating figures celebrate women of color with unapologetic confidence, showcasing diverse body types, skin tones, and attitudes that challenge conventional beauty standards. Rooted in tradition and wrapped in intention, Tina’s faceless figures speak to every woman who’s ever longed to be seen. Their curves tell stories. Their silence holds space. And their presence reminds us: you deserve to take up space — joyfully, fully, and without apology.

Vincent's artistic evolution unfolds beautifully as she shares how she overcame her initial reluctance toward three-dimensional work. What began as preparation for teaching high school sculpture blossomed into a profound artistic expression that resonates with women everywhere. Her deliberate choice to create faceless figures—inspired by Caribbean doll traditions—allows viewers to see themselves reflected in her work, creating an immediate emotional connection that transcends specific identities.

Join us as we talk about art, body love, and why it's perfectly okay to still be obsessed with dolls.

PS:  Dollpreneurs (and creatives like us!) need wellness too!  Because your art, your ideas, and your business deserve the energy to flow — not the burnout to stop you.  Explore Dynamic Wellness — collagen, coffee, and clean supplements that fuel your glow, your health, and your hustle: dynamicwellness.vip

This podcast is sponsored by Vital Health Global and Dynamic Wellness 

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

www.thedollpreneurpodcast.com 

When her granddaughter wished she could hear bedtime stories every night, Annette Bentley-Smith turned that heartfelt moment into Storytime Plush Tales. On this episode, Annette shares how she created Kobe—a cuddly, tech-enabled companion that lets loved ones record stories, songs, and messages to comfort children from afar.

From helping her mother during a cancer battle to connecting families facing deployment or illness, Kobe is more than a toy—it’s a bridge across distance and time. Throughout our conversation, Annette also opens up about her journey as a solopreneur, the challenges of bringing an innovative product to market - from manufacturing setbacks and funding constraints to the persistent belief in her vision. 

Her mother's wisdom "persistence beats resistance" carries her forward as she continues expanding the Kobe universe with new designs, features, and applications.

Discover how one grandmother’s love sparked an invention bringing families closer—one story at a time.

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

www.thedollpreneurpodcast.com

What if the dolls children play with could empower them with confidence and self-esteem? Join us as we explore the heartfelt journey of Kia and Ricky Davis, the inspiring duo behind Early Affirmation Dolls. 

This episode shares their mission to combat societal challenges like bullying and body shaming through the innovative Kyya doll, which is designed to encourage young girls, particularly Black girls, with positive affirmations. Kiya opens up about the simple yet profound practice that started it all—affirmations shared with their daughter, Kyla, inspired by her close relationship with her grandmother. 

Rickey delves into their shared vision of creating a world where children see themselves reflected in their toys, empowering them to dream big.

Crafting dolls that genuinely represent diverse skin tones and hair types is a formidable task, yet Kia and Ricky have tackled it head-on with determination and creativity shining a light on their collaboration with manufacturers to ensure every doll they create is a true reflection of diversity. 

Kia and Ricky’s story is not just about dolls; it's about inspiring the next generation to pursue their dreams with fervor. 

Join us as we celebrate their passion and dedication, and learn how you can stay connected with the Dollpreneur community for more stories that inspire and empower.

#earlyaffirmationdolls #affirmations #dolls #thedollpreneurpodcast #dollpreneurpodcast #kiadavis #rickeydavis #dollpodcasts #dollpreneur #thedollpreneur

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

www.thedollprenuerpodcast.com 

How did a chance viewing of a documentary transform Dr. Lisa Williams from a successful academic into a pioneering entrepreneur in the doll industry? We sit down for an informative and wonderful conversation with Dr. Lisa, the visionary CEO and founder of Positively Perfect, The Fresh Dolls and The Fresh Squad to explore how one moment of awakening ignited her drive to champion diversity and representation in children's toys. Her mission—to create dolls that reflect the beauty and diversity of real-world cultures—is reshaping the toy industry and fostering self-esteem and aspirations among young children who finally see themselves represented.

Our conversation takes you through Dr. Lisa's courageous journey to revolutionize doll design, where authenticity reigns supreme. Despite having no initial connections or funding, her determination led her to China in pursuit of manufacturers willing to embrace unique and authentic features in dolls. Her story underscores not only the power of resilience and purpose but also the importance of community and teamwork in overcoming obstacles. From authentic sculpts to inclusive designs, Dr. Lisa's dedication to diversity is creating ripples throughout the toy industry and beyond.

Beyond the world of dolls, Dr. Lisa shares how prioritizing passion and family led her to a balanced life, where self-care and professional fulfillment coexist. As she embarks on new ventures, including a skincare line and a podcast for those over 35 pursuing their passions, her story is a testament to the strength of purpose and the impact of leaving a legacy. Join us as we explore how Dr. Lisa’s work continues to empower future generations, inspiring them to embrace their uniqueness and realize their dreams.

#drlisawilliams #thefreshdolls #postivelyperfect #thefreshsquad #representation #dolls #blackdolls #animation #thedollprenuerpodcast #dollprenuerpodcast #podcasts

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

www.thedollpreneurpodcast.com 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Beth Nance, the co-founder and executive director of the North Carolina Museum of Dolls, Toys, and Miniatures. Beth shares the emotional journey that led to the creation of the museum, deeply rooted in the memory of her late sister, Amy, who lived with spinal muscular atrophy and had a profound love for dolls, especially Barbie. Discover how this personal connection blossomed into a cherished community space in Spencer, North Carolina.

Through Beth's heartfelt narrative, we'll delve into the joys and challenges of building a museum from the ground up, fueled by her family's entrepreneurial spirit and the unwavering support of their small town. Amy's legacy lives on through the museum, inspiring and uniting visitors while celebrating the endless possibilities that dolls represent.

Step into a world where toys and miniatures serve as powerful storytellers, bridging the past and present. Explore the museum's captivating collection, from World War II-era children's tea sets to toy soldiers that enlighten young minds about the French Revolution as well as how interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, fostering a space where learning and imagination flourish.

We'll also explore how Amy's experiences with spinal muscular atrophy have driven important advancements in accessibility, positioning the museum as a beacon of inclusivity. As we look to the future, see how the museum serves as a hub of empowerment, honoring past creators and sparking discussions that transcend time.

To learn more about the Museum visit NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures – Spencer, NC

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

www.thedollprenuerpodcast.com
 
What if a heartfelt gift could ignite a groundbreaking entrepreneurial journey? In this episode of The Dollpreneur™ Podcast, we’re joined by Brooke Hart-Jones, the visionary founder of HBCYou Dolls. Brooke’s journey began with a deeply personal mission: to find the perfect birthday gift for her best friend’s daughter. Her friend, a proud HBCU soror, inspired Brooke to create a gift that would honor their shared cultural heritage and celebrate the legacy of historically Black colleges and universities. When Brooke couldn’t find what she was looking for, she took matters into her own hands—giving rise to HBCYou Dolls.  

We also dive into the unexpected opportunities that arose during the pandemic, which allowed Brooke to expand her vision and create personalized HBCU-themed dolls that resonated with so many. As Brooke shares her incredible story of transforming an idea for a gift into a thriving business, we also discover how her background as a buyer and her collaboration with Purpose Toys became key drivers of her success, and hear her advice on resilience and adaptability in the ever-changing retail landscape.

Her work underscores the vital importance of representation in children’s toys and the broader impact it has on shaping identity and inspiring future generations.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a supporter of cultural heritage, Brooke’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the importance of community support for diverse doll makers. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about turning passion into purpose and sparking meaningful dialogues about education and identity—one doll at a time.  To learn more about HBCYou Dolls, please visit HBCYou – Purpose Toys

Send us a text

Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring a beloved story to life, while also honoring the superhero in your own life?

Join us on the Dollpreneur™  Podcast for an enlightening conversation with CJ Charles, the visionary mind behind the bilingual children's brand "My Mother is a Superhero."

CJ's journey from a passionate storyteller to an esteemed author is nothing short of inspiring. Born of a deep love for superheroes and motivated by her own mother's legacy, CJ's heartfelt book not only celebrates her mother but also connects with mothers worldwide, especially those who often feel unseen. By crafting her book in both English and Spanish, she has created an educational resource that transcends linguistic barriers and fosters community connections.

Delve into the intricate art of doll creation as CJ shares the fascinating challenges and triumphs she encountered along the way. From collaborating with artisans across the globe to the invaluable guidance of Azhelle, from the Toy Creators Academy, CJ's journey through the toy industry is a testament to perseverance and innovation.

The conversation touches upon the financial investments and societal stereotypes she navigated, especially around black dolls. Through her experiences, CJ emphasizes the power of universal appeal and the critical need for diversity in the toy market as we head towards 2024.

Our discussion culminates in the powerful theme of representation in dolls and books, highlighting CJ's dual journey as a teacher and a creator of African-American dolls. This episode explores the joy and challenges she faces, striving to provide children with relatable dolls that resonate with their heritage.

CJ's story is a vibrant tapestry of love, gratitude, and human connection, honoring parents as heroes and leaving a legacy that bridges generations. As she looks to expand her doll line with new characters and a book-plush combo, CJ continues to inspire creativity and motivation in children and families everywhere.

To learn more about her book, My Mother is a Supero Hero and plush please visit www.mymotherisasuperhero.com 

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Support the show

Thanks for joining us on The Dollpreneur™ Podcast! We hope you enjoyed the episode and feel inspired by our amazing guests and learn something new about the creative people within the doll community.

We would love for you to stay connected so please subscribe to us on Instagram, FB & our Youtube Channel all @thedollpreneurpodcast

You can also subcribe to The Dollpreneur™ Podcast newsletter by visiting our website The Dollpreneur™ Podcast to subscribe.

Until next time, have a Dollpreneur™ Fabulous Day!