The Iconic Dollcast

This week on Iconic Dollcast, I’m joined by Sam (@samanthajeanv on TikTok) for a deep dive into all things American Girl (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0)—from nostalgic childhood memories to the brand’s modern evolution.

We explore how our adult interests in history and storytelling connect back to the dolls and books we grew up with, and why those iconic American Girl catalogs (that every grandma somehow had lying around) made such a lasting impact.

We also get into some very real character debates—like why Samantha Parkington (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=1) might be one of the most misunderstood dolls in the lineup… and why Molly McIntire (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=2) might actually deserve the “brat” title instead 👀

Plus, we dive into:
    •    How the American Girl brand has shifted over the years—and what we think about where it is today
    •    The importance of the original historical books vs. the newer adaptations
    •    A spoiler-filled discussion on Raquel Reyes (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=3) and why she feels like a step in the right direction
    •    The brand’s approach to rereleases and the interesting choices they make to keep the historical line alive
    •    Our picks for the most underrated and overrated dolls

It’s nostalgic, a little controversial, and full of love for the stories and dolls that shaped us.
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This week on The Iconic Dollcast, I’m joined by Bobby (@blytheandfriendz) for a deep dive into the whimsical, collectible world of Blythe dolls.

Bobby shares his personal doll journey—including what it was like growing up with a passion that wasn’t always understood—and how he found his place within the doll community. Together, we explore the fascinating history of Blythe, from their original 1972 release by Kenner to their unexpected resurgence as a global collector favorite.

I’ll be learning right alongside you as Bobby breaks down what makes Blythe dolls so unique—from their signature look to the artistry of customization and the passionate community behind them. We also get into the different companies that have taken on Blythe over the years, how to spot an authentic doll vs. a knockoff, and why getting your hands on a real Blythe today can be a bit more complicated than you might expect.

Plus, we talk about Blythe’s surprising impact on pop culture, and why these dolls continue to captivate collectors around the world.

If you’ve ever been curious about Blythe—or just love hearing about the deeper stories behind doll collecting—this episode is for you.
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This week on The Iconic Dollcast, I’m joined by fellow Colorado doll collector Chrissy—born and raised in Boulder, just like me—for a conversation that celebrates everything we love about Barbie and the magic of collecting.From the joy, whimsey, and pure FUN that dolls bring into our lives, to the deeper meaning behind collecting as a form of creative expression (and even resistance to conformity), this episode dives into why Barbie continues to matter—now more than ever.We talk all things creativity—from styling and photography to crafting and bargain hunting—and how curiosity and community keep this hobby alive and thriving. Chrissy and I also reflect on the impact of iconic dolls like 80s favorite Day to Night Barbie, the brilliance of the Superstar era, and the many positive aspects of Barbie that don’t always get the recognition they deserve.Plus, we chat about our personal collector spaces, where to find the best doll deals, and what it’s like gearing up for the big annual doll show right here in Denver.Whether you’re a lifelong collector or just rediscovering your love for dolls, this episode is all about holding onto your inner child—and celebrating it.
Follow Chrissy on Instagram: @mtn.barbie.girl ✨In this episode:• Barbie as creativity, joy, and self-expression• The power of whimsey and staying connected to your inner child• Styling, photography & crafting in the doll world• The legacy of Day to Night Barbie & the Superstar era• The importance of the collector community• Doll shows & preparing for Denver’s annual event• Our collector spaces & where to find the best deals
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This week on the Iconic Dollcast, I’m joined by author and designer Kenneth King for an inspiring conversation about his journey in the world of dolls and fashion. We dive into his latest release, Doll Couture: Red Carpet Edition, the newest installment in his incredible book series celebrating creative story telling and high-fashion doll design.

Kenneth shares how he discovered his passion for fashion and dolls and also shares his experience as a professor at FIT, and the story behind how his Doll Couture books came to life. From artistry to education to pure doll passion — this is a must-listen for collectors, creators, and fashion lovers alike.

Follow Kenneth on Instagram
Pick up your copy of "Doll Couture: Red Carpet Edition"
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On this week’s episode of the Iconic Dollcast, I’m joined by fellow collector Andrew ( @andrewstoyscollection on Instagram ) for a fun and honest conversation about what it really means to be a lifelong doll collector.

Andrew shares what it was like growing up collecting dolls with supportive parents, how collectors deal with judgment from others, and the surprisingly real challenges of dating when you’re passionate about dolls.

We also dive into the business side of collecting and why dolls can actually be a lucrative investment but also a financial stressor. From vintage porcelain dolls and Disney collectibles to Barbie, Monster High, horror-themed dolls, plushies, and more, Andrew truly collects a little bit of everything.

Of course, we also talk about the thrill of the hunt—thrift store finds, the best places to track down rare dolls, and why searching for that next treasure is half the fun of collecting.

Plus we get into social media in the doll world, grail dolls we’re still searching for, and even joke about why some collectors think they’re “too cool” to come on the podcast.

If you love dolls, toy collecting, and honest conversations about the hobby we all love, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Follow Andrew on Instagram: @andrewstoyscollection

🎧 Listen to 100+ episodes of the Iconic Dollcast wherever you get your podcasts.

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Have a doll line that you think you could talk hours about?! Reach out to me at [email protected] and you could be featured on this podcast!