ToyCast

The GCRN kicks off its seventh Top 100 countdown, this time focused on toys—and it's only taken 14 years to get here. Hosts TFG1Mike, Steve (Megatron), and OptimusSolo set the stage by thanking the 21 contributors who submitted lists, breaking down how the countdown was compiled, and discussing what qualifies as a toy using a broad definition: anything a child could play with and enjoy. They share statistics on the 330+ toys that received votes, explore how they weighted their personal lists, and tease some surprising results—including how Hasbro ranks lower than expected and which decade has no representation in the final 100. Next episode: the countdown begins at #100.

James and Emily from FunEmployed and Random Hat Studio join the show to discuss their backgrounds in toy collecting. They share the stories behind their brand names, reminisce about their favorite childhood playthings, and reflect on the role of parents and finances in their formative experiences. The conversation covers the debate over action figures versus dolls, the importance of screen-accurate designs, and why they prioritize third-party manufacturers over mass-market retail options.

The team opens up the display case to discuss the 1993 Special Division of Ninja Force Zartan, an extremely neon G.I. Joe figure that reacts to UV light. They also review the Hasbro Dungeons & Dragons movie-line Beholder figure, highlighting its articulation and the inclusion of the character's pet goldfish, Sylgar. The conversation expands to include thoughts on Funko blacklight figures, current trends in toy collecting, and the appeal of third-party upgrade kits for Transformers.

The hosts open the display case to share stories and details behind three specific toys from their collections. Dave discusses his vintage 1993 Kenner Jurassic Park Tyrannosaurus Rex, while Josh details his 1995 Kenner Stone Armor Goliath figure from the Gargoyles series. The trio also covers the metallic chase version of the Duck Dodgers Funko Pop and shares thoughts on how these pieces fit into their broader collecting histories. Finally, they touch on the evolution of Jurassic Park toy lines, the unique challenges of Funko Pop collecting, and recent Mattel crowdfunding efforts.

The hosts break down the trailer for Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon, discussing its visual tropes, its potential as a 'Star Wars' alternative, and the broader trend of splitting films into multiple parts. They also dive into toy history by examining the commercial failure of 1967's Doctor Dolittle—and its iconic 'Push-Me-Pull-You' character—compared to the success of Star Wars merchandising. The conversation concludes with a look at Ahsoka Funko Pops and reflections on how personal nostalgia influences how they curate their own collections today.

Mike and Dave discuss their perspectives on action figure collecting, including the rise of retro-style figures, the shift toward six-inch scales, and their preferences for articulated versus static collectibles. They also touch on their personal history with Star Wars, the importance of detailed playsets, and the lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. The conversation closes with their thoughts on the current state of Marvel media and the Disney Plus Star Wars series.

John and Joanna Darling from Slapshot Pops join the show to discuss their journey as collectors of Funko and Lego. They talk about their earliest childhood toys, their approach to curating their massive collection, and the specific challenges of balancing building versus preserving sealed sets. The conversation also touches on their display methods, their most memorable purchases, and what keeps them motivated as collectors. They share insights into their specific strategies for attending conventions and how they decide which new items to add to their home.

Jason from the Cracktastic Plastic podcast joins the show to discuss his journey as a toy collector. He explores his early memories of Transformers, G.I. Joe, and He-Man, and reflects on why he is drawn to specific characters like Starscream. The conversation covers the debate between vintage and modern toys, the emotional connection of collecting, and his evolving perspective on keeping toys in their original packaging versus opening them for display.

Teresa Newell joins the show to discuss her journey as a long-time toy collector. She shares early memories of her Cabbage Patch Kids collection and the toy room built by her grandparents, while detailing her transition from playing with Barbies to collecting action figures as an adult. The conversation covers her current focus on Funko Pops and sodas, her experience visiting Funko HQ, and her thoughts on the hobby's community. Additionally, she reflects on her preferences for displaying toys, her stance on NFTs, and the specific items she considers the most valuable in her collection.

Jason Swoboda, director of marketing for Seven Bucks a Pop, joins the show to discuss his history with toy collecting. He shares stories about his childhood favorites like G.I. Joe and Transformers, his professional transition into the Funko community, and his views on toy packaging and display. The discussion covers his early experiences in toy stores, the evolution of his collection, and his personal preference for vintage over modern items. Additionally, the conversation touches on specific collectibles, from the Dreadnok Thunder Machine to his affinity for the original Dick Tracy Wacky Wobbler.