Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of articulation in action figures. From the simple swivel joints of vintage toys to the intricately engineered ball joints of modern collectibles, articulation plays a pivotal role in the evolution of action figure design. But articulation isn't just about functionality—it's also about storytelling. We…

From the nostalgia-inducing hues of classic toy designs to the dynamic and expressive palettes of animated counterparts, we explore the distinct visual languages that define beloved characters and franchises. Are you Team Toon, enchanted by the vivid and exaggerated colors of animated adaptations, or do you pledge allegiance to the authenticity of …

Imagine stepping into the shoes of a toy designer and constructing your own action figure persona. From head to toe, what parts would you choose to represent the essence of you? Would you opt for the rugged look of a battle-scarred warrior, or perhaps the sleek attire of a futuristic agent? We explore the possibilities of blending different toy lin…

In this episode, we're diving into the dynamic world of female action figures! Join us as we celebrate the empowering icons that have graced toy shelves over the years, from the fearless warriors to the cunning spies and everything in between. We're also going to talk about the toy store Play Like A Girl to see if we should go there someday. Listen…

Get ready to power up your nostalgia circuits as Cracktastic Plastic delves into the electrifying world of battery-powered toys and action figures! In this episode, we're flipping the switch on some of the most iconic and memorable toys that came to life with the help of batteries. We also talked about South Side Toys to see if we should go there s…

And in this episode, we will guide you through the ups and downs of QC nightmares, sharing personal experiences, and shedding light on some infamous blunders in the toy industry. From missing paint applications to wonky joints, our hosts leave no plastic stone unturned as they recount tales of flawed masterpieces that still hold a special place in …

Welcome to a monumental episode that's been over a year in the making! Elgn, your MotU-lovin host, is bursting with excitement as he finally gets his hands on the long-awaited masterpiece – the Masters of the Universe Eternia Playset from Mattel Creations! In this episode, Elgn is going to take you on an epic journey through the Eternia Playset, ex…

In this episode, we're tackling a dilemma that every collector faces – what to do with all those extra heads, hands, weapons, and accessories that come with our beloved action figures. Do you meticulously keep them in the original box, preserving their mint condition? Or perhaps you're the organized type, using baggies and labels to ensure easy acc…

In today's episode, we're pushing the boundaries and exploring the unexpected realm of toy lines derived from R-rated movies. Discover the ingenious ways toy companies navigated the delicate balance between authenticity and appropriateness, bringing beloved characters from R-rated classics straight to the toy shelf. We'll also talk about KnowWhere …

Join us as we dive headfirst into the fascinating world of gender-bent toys! In a society that is breaking down traditional barriers and embracing inclusivity, the playground is no exception. Prepare for an eye-opening exploration as we unravel the intriguing phenomenon of boys gravitating towards traditionally "girl" toys and vice versa. We'll als…

It's a brand new year, and you know what that means – time for a fresh start and some exciting new resolutions. But here on Cracktastic Plastic, we're not talking about hitting the gym or eating more veggies. No, no! We're setting our sights on something even more thrilling – our toy-collecting resolutions for the year ahead! We'll also talk about …

Today is a special episode because it's all about YOU, our fantastic listeners. We're thrilled to be tackling the questions that have been buzzing in our Cracktastic Plastic community. It's like a virtual toybox of curiosity, and we're ready to unpack it all. We're also going to talk about Total Nostalgia to see if we should go there someday. Liste…

Today, we're each counting down our personal top 5 toys of 2023. It's been a year packed with innovation, nostalgia, and just the right amount of quirky surprises. So, whether you're a seasoned collector, a parent looking for the perfect gift, or just a big kid at heart who appreciates the joy that comes in a box, this episode is for you! We're als…

Remember the thrill of opening that tiny box or bag, eagerly anticipating which miniature marvel would accompany your meal? From Happy Meals to Kids' Combos, these tiny treasures have been a source of joy for kids (and let's be honest, adults too!) for decades. So, whether you were team fries or team nuggets, grab a seat and get ready to unwrap the…

In this episode, we'll be delving into the jaw-dropping world of toy design, discussing the intricate details that make a head sculpt truly stand out. We'll explore what makes a good head sculpt and how it can elevate the entire figure. And yes, we'll also take a closer look at those head sculpts that might have missed the mark. We're also going to…

As the leaves begin to fall and the crisp autumn air fills our surroundings, we find ourselves on the brink of that enchanting night when ghouls and goblins roam the streets, and jack-o'-lanterns flicker in the darkness. Yes, it's that time of the year again—Halloween! And what better way to celebrate this hauntingly delightful holiday than by delv…

Whether you're into action figures, plush toys, or any other kind of collectible, there's a certain allure to having not just one, but many iterations of your favorite character. From the joy of discovering unique variations, the pleasure of tracking down rare editions, to the creative ways collectors display their beloved duplicates. Today we're d…

Plastic toys have been a beloved part of many of our lives, serving as the companions of countless adventures, battles, and imaginative escapades. However, as these toys age, they often undergo a transformation that leaves collectors and enthusiasts both perplexed and intrigued. What causes plastic toys to yellow or discolor, and how can we prevent…

Dioramas have been a source of fascination and creativity for generations, offering a unique way to encapsulate moments in time, stories, and dreams in a compact and visually stunning form. On this episode, we'll delve deep into the artistry, techniques, and history behind these miniature marvels, uncovering the secrets that bring these small-scale…

From vintage action figures to modern collectibles, eBay has transformed how we engage with our beloved toys. Today, we're going to dive deep into the digital aisles to uncover the gems and share stories that resonate with all of us who have ever scoured listings or set up shop on this platform. And we're also going to talk about Krypton Comics to …

Imagine stumbling upon that missing piece for your vintage action figure or finally being able to replace the worn-out stickers on your classic model car. Reproduction parts offer a way to revive the magic of our toys while preserving their historical significance. But, as with any topic, there's more than meets the eye. In this episode, we're goin…

Today, we're diving into a unique and controversial topic that has taken the toy industry by storm - windowless packaging of toys. Over the years, toy manufacturers have employed a variety of packaging strategies, but the decision to move away from traditional windowed boxes has sparked both fascination and debate. We'll explore the pros and cons o…

Pre-ordering has become an integral part of the toy-buying experience, allowing fans to secure their most coveted collectibles well in advance. But is it always the ideal choice? Today, we'll delve deep into the pros, cons, strategies, and personal experiences surrounding pre-ordering toys. We're also going to talk about Immortal Toys and Collectab…

Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, one thing that unites us all is our desire to keep our beloved toys in pristine condition. We all know that dust can be an unwelcome nemesis, silently sneaking into every nook and cranny, threatening to diminish the allure of our cherished treasures. But fear not! In this episode, we're goin…

On the evening of June 9th, after one year of planning, 6 handsome gentlemen climb into a Ford Econoline 350 XLT and drive off into the sunset. Well, the sun was setting anyway. We headed on a 5-hour tour (repeat) a 5-hour tour. All the way down to Bolivar, Missouri… a place where dreams come true… Peddler’s Post. Listen & subscribe wherever you ge…

Whether you've built towering skyscrapers, epic spaceships, or sprawling cityscapes, chances are you've encountered these versatile plastic bricks at some point in your life. Joining us on this exciting LEGO adventure is our special guest, Chris Maddison, a renowned LEGO enthusiast and collector. Chris will share his insights into the world of LEGO…

Join us on an exploration of the captivating world where playfulness and collectibles collide. In this podcast, we embark on a journey to uncover the question that has intrigued collectors, enthusiasts, and toy aficionados for ages: Is there truly a difference between toys and collectibles? We also talk about the store ELM st. Oddities & Collectibl…

In this captivating episode, we embark on a journey through time, delving into the cherished world of mail-away toys. From iconic franchises like Star Wars and G.I. Joe to lesser-known gems, we unravel the nostalgia and excitement associated with these beloved childhood treasures that once magically appeared in mailboxes across the globe. We also t…

On this episode with the help of the young lad Ethan, the boys learn all about an unfamiliar toy line, Fortnite toys. They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store Batcave Treasures & Toys to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe whereve…

On this episode, the boys reminisce on those catalogs we studied & drooled over when we were young. They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store Toys From the Past to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts …

On this episode, the boys reminisce on toy stores that have since closed their doors. They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store KC Toy World to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us a…

On this episode, the boys discuss Funko Pops and their personal levels of funk with the brand. They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store South Louisville Antique & Toy Mall to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get yo…

On this episode, the boys discuss an epidemic sweeping the nation... FOMO. The fear of missing out! They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store Actiontoyman to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or con…

On this episode, the boys take a look back at the not so well known 1985 classic, The Secret of the Sword! They will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store Rad Relics to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts o…

Turn off the lights and check out these glow in the dark toys! The gang will also describe what they have picked up lately in a segment they call "Thrill of the Hunt". Then, they will talk about the store Wayout Toys & Collectibles to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us at htt…

The gang looks inward and discuss their toy resolutions for the new year. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Broke Robot Toys to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us at …

The gang answers more of your burning questions. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Hasttel Toy and Collectibles to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us at http://crackt…

The gang lists their Top 5 toys of 2022 and they reflect on their second year of podcasting. Then, they will talk about the store Midwest Vintage Toys to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us at http://cracktasticplastic.com Like us on https://www.facebook.com/cracktasticplastic…

In this episode, the gang revisits the 1986 classic, Transformers: The Movie! They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Back In Time Collectibles to decide if they should go there someday. We're also joined by our pal Eddie Arreola. Listen & subscr…

In this episode, the gang discuss their feelings on blind bags & boxes! They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Beach Boy Toys to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us at http…

In this episode, the gang discuss and recap their adventures at TFcon Chicago 2022! They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Freaktoysz to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with us…

In this episode, the gang revisits the 1987 classic, Masters of the Universe! They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Toys of Our Youth to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or connect with u…

In this episode, the gang talks about an important part of toy collecting, pack in comics! They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Mike's Vintage Toys to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or…

In this episode, the gang talks about a fun part of toy collecting, army building. What does that mean? They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store I Had That to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcast…

In this episode, the crew talks about a hip new form of customizing toys called kitbashing. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store 1313 Mockingbird Lane to decide if they should go there again someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your po…

In this episode, joined by their pal Brandon Ellingson, the gang goes through the major toy IPs and can only choose one... if they would rather watch the cartoon or play with the toys. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Had That to decide if…

In this episode, the crew talks about what it's like to be toy collecting in their forties. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Hobbies Galore to decide if they should go there again someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts …

In their next episode, the crew talks about the 1987 classic, G. I. Joe: The Movie in all its action-packed glory. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Rebel Toys to decide if they should go there again someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you…

In their next episode, they each decide on the members of their very own Mt. Rushmore of toys. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Time Warp Toys to decide if they should go there again someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcas…

In their next episode, joined by local legend Jeremy Sample, they share stories of the toy that got away. They will also describe what they have recently acquired in the wild, in the "Thrill of the Hunt" segment. Then, they will talk about the store Big Fun to decide if they should go there someday. Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts…