From Tamagotchi to Labubu: The Comeback of Cute Capitalism episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 9, 2025 · 1H 11M

From Tamagotchi to Labubu: The Comeback of Cute Capitalism

from StirredUp · host StirredUp

If you BEGGED your parents for a Tamagotchi then you probably have at least one Labubu. Remember when government agencies banned Furbi in the building because they feared AI-style espionage? In this episode, we unpack the rise, fall, and rebrand of cute capitalism — from Beanie Babies and Polly Pocket to Squishmallows and Pop Mart’s Labubu craze. We’re talking nostalgia as currency, the psychology behind collecting, and how brands keep cashing in on our need to feel something fuzzy (literally). Grab your emotional support toy — this one hits home and the wallet.     Support the Show by Shopping with our Sponsors:  💼 Get 10% Off Google Workspace + Gemini AI Work smarter, not harder. With Google Workspace you’ll have Gmail, Drive, Docs, Calendar—and now premium AI features with Gemini included. 👉 Use our link to get 10% off your first year: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/oL83    🔥 The best hoodies and loungewear, hands down. Once you try Comfrt.com, you’ll literally never want to wear anything else. ✨ Grab 15% off your order with our link: http://comfrt.com/stirreduppod   🌟 Ready to step into the leader you’re meant to be? Whether you’re moving into a bigger role, shifting from execution to strategy, or just feeling stuck, coaching can change everything. 💼 Work with certified coach Lisa Tarkington, trusted by thousands of leaders. Book your free consultation today at lisatarkington.com/coaching  and mention this podcast for a special discount

If you BEGGED your parents for a Tamagotchi then you probably have at least one Labubu. Remember when government agencies banned Furbi in the building because they feared AI-style espionage? In this episode, we unpack the rise, fall, and rebrand of cute capitalism — from Beanie Babies and Polly Pocket to Squishmallows and Pop Mart’s Labubu craze. We’re talking nostalgia as currency, the psychology behind collecting, and how brands keep cashing in on our need to feel something fuzzy (literally). Grab your emotional support toy — this one hits home and the wallet.     Support the Show by Shopping with our Sponsors:  💼 Get 10% Off Google Workspace + Gemini AI Work smarter, not harder. With Google Workspace you’ll have Gmail, Drive, Docs, Calendar—and now premium AI features with Gemini included. 👉 Use our link to get 10% off your first year: https://referworkspace.app.goo.gl/oL83    🔥 The best hoodies and loungewear, hands down. Once you try Comfrt.com, you’ll literally never want to wear anything else. ✨ Grab 15% off your order with our link: http://comfrt.com/stirreduppod   🌟 Ready to step into the leader you’re meant to be? Whether you’re moving into a bigger role, shifting from execution to strategy, or just feeling stuck, coaching can change everything. 💼 Work with certified coach Lisa Tarkington, trusted by thousands of leaders. Book your free consultation today at lisatarkington.com/coaching  and mention this podcast for a special discount

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From Tamagotchi to Labubu: The Comeback of Cute Capitalism

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This episode was published on October 9, 2025.

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If you BEGGED your parents for a Tamagotchi then you probably have at least one Labubu. Remember when government agencies banned Furbi in the building because they feared AI-style espionage? In this episode, we unpack the rise, fall, and rebrand of...

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