Why are they called Teddy Bears?

Why are they called Teddy Bears?

From Forever Ago by Brains On Universe

March 18, 2026 · 25 min · Season 8 · Episode 2

About this episode

Joy and Luke explore the origins of the Teddy Bear and discuss a lesser-known stuffed possum toy.

Do you have a favorite stuffed animal? Maybe it’s a unicorn, or an axolotl, or a classic stuffed bear. Whatever it is, you can thank a former U.S. President for helping make stuffies a thing. Join Joy and co-host Luke as they learn about the origins of the Teddy Bear and find out about a stuffed possum that should’ve been the next big toy craze, but never caught on. Plus another round of First Things First.Click here to read a transcript of this episode. Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episodes or donate! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Joy

Topics covered

  • Teddy Bears
  • stuffed animals
  • history of toys

Keywords

  • stuffed animal
  • toy craze
  • U.S. President

Mentioned in this episode

Products: the Teddy Bear, Smarty Pass, Teddy Bear, stuffed possum

Books & works: First Things First

Places: U.S.

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