Why does every trend from the 2000s keep coming back? In this episode of The Shopping Podcast, Olivia and Stephanie break down the psychology of "nostalgia baiting" and "vintage repurchasing"—from early holiday shopping pushes (Toys R Us is back?!) to why brands like Target, Zara, and Old Navy are relying on Y2K pop culture to capture your "adult money."

We also debate whether modern reissues can ever replace authentic vintage, discuss the comeback of nostalgic tech, and play a game of Keep, Toss, or Time Capsule with iconically questionable 2000s trends (looking at you, low-rise jeans and statement necklaces). If you love retail trends, pop culture history, or just missing your childhood tech, hit Follow to subscribe.

Welcome to The Shopping Podcast. A podcast all about modern spending culture. Why did buying generic alternatives go from embarrassing to an absolute flex? In this episode, we explore the rise of dupe culture, smart shopping trends, and how social media influencers changed consumer behavior.

RetailMeNot’s Olivia Henn (Content Creator and Shopping Expert) and Stephanie Carls (Principal Retail Insights Expert) break down the shift from pre-2020 luxury label flexing to post-2020 bargain hunting, the impact of affiliate marketing programs, and the psychological trap of overconsumption—asking if buying multiple cheap alternatives actually saves money or if you should invest in one quality piece. We also react to hot takes on drugstore makeup dupes and high-end brand perspectives, including Charlotte Tilbury’s famous comment on brand dupes.