The Memory Mercantile

In this episode of The Memory Mercantile, Mark and Jan take a joyful stroll down memory lane, swapping stories about all the things kids today will never have to do—but kids in the ’70s and ’80s absolutely did. From typing school papers, using rotary phones, rewinding cassette tapes, and the dreaded empty shelves at the video store, they laugh, reminisce, and reflect on how those everyday experiences shaped a generation. It’s a warm, funny, and slightly mind-blowing comparison of then vs. now, packed with nostalgia, “remember when” moments, and plenty of wow, times have changed.

In this episode, Mark and Jan hit the open road (at least in spirit) as they swap stories about vacations past—especially those sometimes long, unforgettable car trips. From backseat boredom and roadside stops to the strange magic of being stuck in a car together for hours. It’s a nostalgic ride through family traditions, travel quirks, and the small moments that turned ordinary drives into lifelong memories.

In this first episode of Season 2 of The Memory Mercantile, Mark and Jan flip on the TV set of their childhood and settle in for a nostalgia-filled conversation about the shows that shaped their early years. Along the way, they reflect on how television wasn’t just entertainment — it was a shared cultural experience that sparked imagination, friendship, and a sense of togetherness. It’s a cozy, fun look back at the glow of the TV screen and a few stories that helped define a generation.

In this warm and witty episode, Mark and Jan roll the dice on nostalgia as they reminisce about their favorite board games from childhood. From the magic of Masterpiece to the thrill of Old Maid (lol), they share stories of family game nights, neighborhood battles of skill and luck, and the simple joy of gathering around the table. It’s a playful stroll down memory lane—where every card drawn and every spinner flick brings back the magic of being a kid.

Mark and Jan explore the charm of talking toys—from quirky, chattering character toys of their childhood to gadgets that incorporated tiny records, eight-track or cassette tapes, and then to more recent toys that keep the talking toy fun alive. They share memories of voices, musical charms, and imaginative play that felt so magical then and still spark smiles today.

Jan and Mark reminisce about the soundtrack of their childhood—those catchy songs, vinyl records, bands, and genres that shaped their early years. Their stories blend nostalgia, laughter, and the joy of discovering how music connected them then…and still connects them now.

Step back to the summer of 1986, when eight friends fresh out of Highland High in Salt Lake City, UT packed up two cars, tuned their ham radios, and hit the open road to Vancouver, British Columbia to visit the World’s Fair. In this nostalgic episode, The Memory Mercantile unpacks the unforgettable journey of “The Expo Eight” — Dan, Sean, Gary, Mark, Jan, Tina, Amy, and Sheri — as they travel hundreds of miles through laughter, roadside stories, and the magic of Expo ’86. Listeners relive the spirit of friendship, freedom, and youthful adventure that defined the decade. It’s a trip through time filled with music, memories, and the joy of discovery — a celebration of when the world felt wide open and everything was possible.

Step into the Mercantile for a Rap Session—where Jan and Mark create energy and interest as they share their thoughts, memories, and even some music! It’s an informal, magical session of The Memory Mercantile journey thus far. It’s upbeat, casual, direct, and free-flowing fun that has become The Memory Mercantile! 

In this episode of The Memory Mercantile, Jan and Mark dig through the dusty corners of thrift shops to uncover perspectives and tips on thrifting. From forgotten trinkets to vintage gems, they explore how thrifting transforms the old and overlooked into sparks of joy and memory.

Mark and Jan step into the glow of neighborhood streetlights to remember the thrill of childhood night games—stories of laughter, scraped knees, and the sense of freedom that came with summer evenings spent outside until the porch lights or mom called everyone home.

In this nostalgic episode, Mark and Jan reminisce about a time when childhood meant wide-open neighborhoods, unsupervised bike rides until the streetlights flickered on, and summer days spent exploring without a parent in sight. They grew up as free-range kids in the 1970s— learning independence in a world that felt both bigger and safer.

In the debut episode of The Memory Mercantile, Mark and Jan explore the theme of Friendship through vintage toys and games that brought kids together in the 70s and 80s—while sharing heartfelt (and hilarious) stories of their own childhood bonds in Salt Lake City. It's a nostalgic tribute to the pals who made growing up unforgettable.

In this cozy holiday episode of The Memory Mercantile, Jan and Mark unwrap their favorite Christmas memories from childhood—those small, magical moments that seemed to glow a little brighter back then. From the thrill of treasured toys, family traditions, and the unmistakable joys of the Holiday, they reflect on what made the season feel so full of wonder. It’s a warm, nostalgic conversation about anticipation, imagination, and the simple joys that still shape how the holidays feel today.