What makes a toy go viral
Planet Money
- Published
- July 31, 2026
- Duration
- 25:35
- Summary source
- description
- Last updated
- Sep 6, 2026
Discusses Squishy, slimy, fidgety toys are having a moment. But it’s more than just an anxiety-soothing, socia…
Summary
Squishy, slimy, fidgety toys are having a moment. But it’s more than just an anxiety-soothing, social-media fueled trend – these toys are reshaping how toys get made.Today on the show, we have the story of the once-humble squishy dumpling and what it teaches us about how to make a viral hit and how to manufacture it, without getting left holding the bag. …
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Show notes
Squishy, slimy, fidgety toys are having a moment. But it’s more than just an anxiety-soothing, social-media fueled trend – these toys are reshaping how toys get made.Today on the show, we have the story of the once-humble squishy dumpling and what it teaches us about how to make a viral hit and how to manufacture it, without getting left holding the bag. Hear it all firsthand from the creator of this trendy toy. Read: Our book: Planet Money: A Guide to the Economic Forces That Shape Your Life Ou