Episodes

  • Ep. 229 Toys on Tap w/ Hints and Spices: Shane’s Global Toy Art Journey
    Jun 23 2025
    In this episode of Toys on Tap, we dive deep with Shane, the creative force behind “Hints and Spices,” a name born from a university project that now defines his hidden-detail, genre-blending toy design ethos. From glow-in-the-dark surprises to cultural nods in resin and vinyl, Shane takes us on a journey from Adelaide’s meat pies to Japan’s Wonderfest. Hear how anime like Evangelion and Kaiju toys transformed his tastes and led him to create toys like Wani Fant and the uniquely local Frog Cake figure.We explore Shane’s transition from retail to industrial design, the mentorships that shaped him, and the challenges of the Australian art toy scene. Whether it’s landing a Tokyo grant or opening his own Character Works Club, Shane balances creativity, culture, and career in a way that’s both inspiring and grounded.Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories of fast-tracked toy production, international exhibitions, and what it really takes to blend art and indie toy manufacturing across continents.On Instagram: @hintsandspicesThis Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they’ve got everything you need to make your toys shine. 🛒 Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join! Want to become a sponsor? Email: toysontappodcast@gmail.comSupport the Show on Patreon Unlock exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes content: patreon.com/toysontapThanks to Our Supporters: @dketoys | @massiveminihorse | @dimensionxtoys @bootlegtoyco | @pocket_salsa | @dirtyyetti @dan_overdorff_art | @zimotco | @barbarian_rage @mannycartoonstudios | @pickmansvinyls Shaun C. Downey | @richiemanic | @recollectiontoys @rubbercitytoys | @acid9toys | @teneki_toys @angryhedgehogRate & Review the Show! Leave a rating and review wherever you listen it's the best way to help Toys on Tap grow!
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Bonus Episode: Summer Slime: The Backyard Toy Show That Became a Movement
    Jun 23 2025

    Summer Slime is back and we’re diving into its roots, growth, and the community that makes it one of the most beloved events in the indie toy scene. In this episode, we sit down with Quang of Creature Bazaar to unpack the origin story of Summer Slime, originally started by legendary artist Paul Kaiju, and how it evolved into the vibrant, backyard-style toy gathering it is today.

    Quang shares how Creature Bazaar stepped in to host the show after it lost its original venue, and how they’ve turned it into more than just a toy drop, think tacos, artist-designed tees, a curated crowd, and a vibe that feels like family. From pandemic phone calls with Bawana, Paul, and John Rampage to organizing full-scale toy events like Creature Vision, Quang gives us a glimpse into what it takes to build lasting connections in the toy community.

    Whether you're a long-time collector or a first-timer, this episode will get you hyped for the August 2nd event in Santa Ana and show you why Summer Slime isn’t just a show, it’s a movement.

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    34 mins
  • Ep. 228 Toys on Tap w/ Tolzar Toys: Ink & Vinyl: Michael Bogle’s Journey from Skin to Sofubi
    Jun 16 2025

    On this episode of Toys on Tap, we dive deep with Michael Bogle, the tattoo artist-turned-toy designer behind Tolsar Toys. Based in New Orleans and inspired by dark fantasy and gothic aesthetics, Michael shares how 18 years in tattooing led him to create ambitious, large-scale kaiju figures that push the boundaries of indie toy design.

    We explore:

    • How New Orleans culture and ‘90s media shaped his spooky, metal-infused style
    • The evolution of his original character Kraju and its growing universe
    • His hands-on, detail-first approach to toy design and storytelling
    • Balancing creative ambition with personal life
    • What’s next: Aruk the Immortal, graphic novels, and limited-edition skateboard merch

    Michael’s work is a blend of rebellion, lore, and artistic precision proving that creative risk is always worth it.

    💥 This Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they’ve got everything you need to make your toys shine. 🛒 Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. 🔥 Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join!

    📬 Want to become a sponsor? Email: toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    🔥 Support the Show on Patreon Unlock exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes content: 👉 patreon.com/toysontap

    🙏 Thanks to Our Supporters: @dketoys | @massiveminihorse | @dimensionxtoys @bootlegtoyco | @pocket_salsa | @dirtyyetti @dan_overdorff_art | @zimotco | @barbarian_rage @mannycartoonstudios | @pickmansvinyls Shaun C. Downey | @richiemanic | @recollectiontoys @rubbercitytoys | @acid9toys | @teneki_toys @angryhedgehog

    ⭐️ Rate & Review the Show! Leave a rating and review wherever you listen it's the best way to help Toys on Tap grow!

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    58 mins
  • Ep. 227 Toys on Tap w/ MumBot
    Jun 9 2025

    In this episode of Toys on Tap, we sit down with the multidisciplinary artist behind MumBot, founder of Ghost Club creative community, and creator of the MumBot World brand. From felt plush to vinyl toys and blockchain-based art, Mumbot takes us through her evolution as an artist and toy designer, shaped by personal experiences.

    We dive into:

    • Her transition from handmade toys to Web3 and immersive installations
    • The importance of educating others about the value of creative work
    • Her unique approach to toy production and character-building
    • The impact of tariffs on indie creators and the future of small-scale manufacturing
    • Exciting projects including space-launched toys, upcoming exhibitions, and collaborations

    This episode is a deep look at resilience, adaptation, and the power of building your own creative universe.

    Tune in now to hearMumbot's full story on Toys on Tap!

    On instagram

    @mumbot

    Commercials brought to you by Chicken Burger Disco

    On instagram @chickenburgerdisco

    Sponsors:

    Empire Blisters

    Are you looking for blisters? Look no further than Empire Blisters! For all of your blister needs, they've got you covered. With over 19 different types of blisters and bundle deals you can't go wrong! Use code: TOYSONTAP10 to get 10% off. If you are apart of the Patreon you are able to get 20% off!

    If you want to become a sponsor of Toys on Tap Podcast send an email to toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    Patreon:

    To support the show you can join the Toys on Tap Patreon. Go to patreon.com/toysontap

    Thank you to our supporters:

    DKE Toys @dketoys

    Eric Nichols @massiveminihorse

    Dimension X Toys @dimensionxtoys

    Bootleg Toy Co @bootlegtoyco

    Pocket Salsa @pocket_salsa

    Dirty Yetti @dirtyyetti

    Dan Overdorff @dan_overdorff_art

    Zimot Co @zimotco

    Barbarian Rage @Barbarian_rage

    Manny Cartoon Studios @Mannycartoonstudios

    Pickmans Vinyls @pickmansvinyls

    Shaun C Downey

    Richie Manic @richiemanic

    Recollection Toys @recollectiontoys

    Rubber City Toys @rubbercitytoys

    Daniel Antill @Acid9toys

    teneki toys @teneki_toys

    Sam Costidell @angryhedgehog

    Rate and Review:

    The best way to support the podcast is to rate and review

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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • Ep. 226 Toys on Tap w/Prawn Mouse & Moss Dolls
    Jun 2 2025

    The dynamic duo, prawn mouse and moss dolls comes on the podcast to talk about their long journey with toys! The ups and the downs, from losing sculpts in packages to not being able to make things work. After all of that, they pushed through and made some amazing work come to life! You can hear all about it this week on toys on tap!

    On instagram

    @prawnmouse

    @mossdolls

    Commercials brought to you by Chicken Burger Disco

    On instagram @chickenburgerdisco

    Toys:

    KMB: was a huge success and that can only be because of this community! Thank you for all of the support!

    Barfy: if you'd like to grab one of these radioactive lizards, click here

    Sponsors:

    Empire Blisters

    Are you looking for blisters? Look no further than Empire Blisters! For all of your blister needs, they've got you covered. With over 19 different types of blisters and bundle deals you can't go wrong! Use code: TOYSONTAP10 to get 10% off. If you are apart of the Patreon you are able to get 20% off!

    If you want to become a sponsor of Toys on Tap Podcast send an email to toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    Patreon:

    To support the show you can join the Toys on Tap Patreon. Go to patreon.com/toysontap

    Thank you to our supporters:

    DKE Toys @dketoys

    Eric Nichols @massiveminihorse

    Dimension X Toys @dimensionxtoys

    Bootleg Toy Co @bootlegtoyco

    Pocket Salsa @pocket_salsa

    Dirty Yetti @dirtyyetti

    Dan Overdorff @dan_overdorff_art

    Zimot Co @zimotco

    Barbarian Rage @Barbarian_rage

    Manny Cartoon Studios @Mannycartoonstudios

    Pickmans Vinyls @pickmansvinyls

    Shaun C Downey

    Richie Manic @richiemanic

    Recollection Toys @recollectiontoys

    Rubber City Toys @rubbercitytoys

    Daniel Antill @Acid9toys

    teneki toys @teneki_toys

    Sam Costidell @angryhedgehog

    Rate and Review:

    The best way to support the podcast is to rate and review

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Ep. 225 Toys on Tap w/Bleeding Edges
    May 26 2025

    From music to graphic design to toy making and sofubi, to future blind box making, Bleeding Edges has done so many things in art and is about to keep this party going with a potential blind box coming! Listen in to hear all about being a professional artist for a company why making your own toy dreams come to life!

    On instagram

    @bleedingedges

    Commercials brought to you by Chicken Burger Disco

    On instagram @chickenburgerdisco

    Toys:

    KMB: was a huge success and that can only be because of this community! Thank you for all of the support!

    Barfy: if you'd like to grab one of these radioactive lizards, click here

    Sponsors:

    Empire Blisters

    Are you looking for blisters? Look no further than Empire Blisters! For all of your blister needs, they've got you covered. With over 19 different types of blisters and bundle deals you can't go wrong! Use code: TOYSONTAP10 to get 10% off. If you are apart of the Patreon you are able to get 20% off!

    If you want to become a sponsor of Toys on Tap Podcast send an email to toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    Patreon:

    To support the show you can join the Toys on Tap Patreon. Go to patreon.com/toysontap

    Thank you to our supporters:

    DKE Toys @dketoys

    Eric Nichols @massiveminihorse

    Dimension X Toys @dimensionxtoys

    Bootleg Toy Co @bootlegtoyco

    Pocket Salsa @pocket_salsa

    Dirty Yetti @dirtyyetti

    Dan Overdorff @dan_overdorff_art

    Zimot Co @zimotco

    Barbarian Rage @Barbarian_rage

    Manny Cartoon Studios @Mannycartoonstudios

    Pickmans Vinyls @pickmansvinyls

    Shaun C Downey

    Richie Manic @richiemanic

    Recollection Toys @recollectiontoys

    Rubber City Toys @rubbercitytoys

    Daniel Antill @Acid9toys

    teneki toys @teneki_toys

    Sam Costidell @angryhedgehog

    Rate and Review:

    The best way to support the podcast is to rate and review

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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Ep. 224 Toys on Tap w/Clutter Magazine/ Five Points Fest/ Toy Pizza
    May 19 2025

    This week, not only do we bring on Josh, Miranda, and Jesse to talk through clutter, but we also get to hear about the new changes coming for Five Points Fest! If you saw the passion that I got to see in their eyes, you would absolutely be pumped about the event coming up! Listen up!!

    On instagram

    @fivepointsfest

    @cluttermagazine

    Commercials brought to you by Chicken Burger Disco

    On instagram @chickenburgerdisco

    Toys:

    KMB: was a huge success and that can only be because of this community! Thank you for all of the support!

    Barfy: if you'd like to grab one of these radioactive lizards, click here

    Sponsors:

    Empire Blisters

    Are you looking for blisters? Look no further than Empire Blisters! For all of your blister needs, they've got you covered. With over 19 different types of blisters and bundle deals you can't go wrong! Use code: TOYSONTAP10 to get 10% off. If you are apart of the Patreon you are able to get 20% off!

    If you want to become a sponsor of Toys on Tap Podcast send an email to toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    Patreon:

    To support the show you can join the Toys on Tap Patreon. Go to patreon.com/toysontap

    Thank you to our supporters:

    DKE Toys @dketoys

    Eric Nichols @massiveminihorse

    Dimension X Toys @dimensionxtoys

    Bootleg Toy Co @bootlegtoyco

    Pocket Salsa @pocket_salsa

    Dirty Yetti @dirtyyetti

    Dan Overdorff @dan_overdorff_art

    Zimot Co @zimotco

    Barbarian Rage @Barbarian_rage

    Manny Cartoon Studios @Mannycartoonstudios

    Pickmans Vinyls @pickmansvinyls

    Shaun C Downey

    Richie Manic @richiemanic

    Recollection Toys @recollectiontoys

    Rubber City Toys @rubbercitytoys

    Daniel Antill @Acid9toys

    teneki toys @teneki_toys

    Sam Costidell @angryhedgehog

    Rate and Review:

    The best way to support the podcast is to rate and review

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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Ep. 223 Toys on Tap w/Bull Airs
    May 12 2025

    This week is not your typical episode about toys! We bring on Thom from Bull Airs to talk all things shoes and shoe design. He has been making custom shoes and they are absolutely killer! When you see these shoes you know they are Bull Airs! Listen up to this week's episode!!!

    On instagram @bull_airs_official

    Commercials brought to you by Chicken Burger Disco

    On instagram @chickenburgerdisco

    Toys:

    KMB: was a huge success and that can only be because of this community! Thank you for all of the support!

    Barfy: if you'd like to grab one of these radioactive lizards, click here

    Sponsors:

    Empire Blisters

    Are you looking for blisters? Look no further than Empire Blisters! For all of your blister needs, they've got you covered. With over 19 different types of blisters and bundle deals you can't go wrong! Use code: TOYSONTAP10 to get 10% off. If you are apart of the Patreon you are able to get 20% off!

    If you want to become a sponsor of Toys on Tap Podcast send an email to toysontappodcast@gmail.com

    Patreon:

    To support the show you can join the Toys on Tap Patreon. Go to patreon.com/toysontap

    Thank you to our supporters:

    DKE Toys @dketoys

    Eric Nichols @massiveminihorse

    Dimension X Toys @dimensionxtoys

    Bootleg Toy Co @bootlegtoyco

    Pocket Salsa @pocket_salsa

    Dirty Yetti @dirtyyetti

    Dan Overdorff @dan_overdorff_art

    Zimot Co @zimotco

    Barbarian Rage @Barbarian_rage

    Manny Cartoon Studios @Mannycartoonstudios

    Pickmans Vinyls @pickmansvinyls

    Shaun C Downey

    Richie Manic @richiemanic

    Recollection Toys @recollectiontoys

    Rubber City Toys @rubbercitytoys

    Daniel Antill @Acid9toys

    teneki toys @teneki_toys

    Sam Costidell @angryhedgehog

    Rate and Review:

    The best way to support the podcast is to rate and review

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min