The Atlas Obscura Podcast The Things We Collect
Sep 3, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of collectibles where nostalgia meets personal significance. From cherished Beanie Babies to an emotional journey through cutting boards, each item tells a story. Discover how soccer jerseys embody memories and beach shells symbolize letting go. The hosts explore the emotional ties people have with their collections, inviting listeners to share their own treasures and the experiences behind them. It's a heartfelt look at what we hold dear and why.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Collecting Reveals Market And Memory
- Dylan Thuras connects collectible crazes to market craziness and personal nostalgia.
- He highlights how collections range from trivial charms to items people pay massive sums for, showing cultural and economic signals.
Childhood Beanie Baby Collection
- Amanda McGowan collected Beanie Babies through the 1990s and remembered her first one, Bernie the Beagle.
- She and her sisters hoped the toys would gain value and still keep Bernie as a keepsake while others sold for modest prices online.
Travel Jerseys As Travel Mementos
- Will collects soccer jerseys from places he visits to anchor travel memories.
- He treasures rare finds like a Phuket FC jersey with his name, which he calls the collector's rush.