The Imagination Brickshop’s LEGO Brickcast

Ep. 85 - Your Bricklink Designer Series 8 Finalists

The official announcement for the Bricklink Designer Program Series 8 finalists is just around the corner—and before the internet explodes with opinions, hot takes, and broken “Buy Now” buttons, I figured it was time to throw my own brick-built hat into the ring.
In this episode, I’m diving into all 384 submissions and doing the impossible: narrowing them down to my Top 5 personal favorites. This is a totally subjective, moderately obsessive, and fully biased list of the sets I think deserve to be in the spotlight. From tiny, clever builds bursting with color and charm to 4000-piece monster models that practically shout “Display me immediately,” these are the designs that stopped me mid-scroll and made me say, “Yep, I need that.”
If you’re a fan of the Bricklink Designer Program—or if you just love unique LEGO creations that push the limits of what’s possible—this is absolutely a video you won’t want to miss. I’ll break down what makes each of my picks special, why they stand out from the crowd, and whether they’ve got what it takes to become the next big fan-funded set.
And of course, a huge congratulations in advance to all the designers out there. Narrowing this down was beyond tough, and I genuinely wish I could have picked them all. The creativity on display this round has been nothing short of incredible.
So if you’re wondering what sets to keep your eye on, or just want to see which builds made me gasp out loud in front of my computer, grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the countdown.
Music Credit: YouTube Music Library
#LEGO #BricklinkDesignerProgram #Series8 #LEGOReview #LEGOFanVote #AFOL #LEGO2025 #Top5LEGO #BricklinkSeries8 #LEGOCollectors

Ep. 84 - It's the Best of Times...It's the Worst of Times - 6/9/25 - News & Rumors

Buckle up, brickheads, because this week’s LEGO news roundup is PACKED with juicy rumors, big reveals, and at least one moment where I question all of reality. In this episode:
Bricklink Designer Program – Series 5 alert! Set your alarms, charge your devices, and maybe light a candle for good luck, because Series 5 goes live TOMORROW! But that’s not all—there are earthshattering whispers about the 30K set limit being tossed out the window. What’s replacing it? Nobody knows! Chaos? Glory? A new LEGO golden age? Or is it the start of my favorite new programs demise? We’ll dive into it.
LEGO One Piece Sets – Official images are HERE! There are 7 new sets, they look well…interesting, and while I personally know nothing about One Piece (don’t come for me), I’m 99% sure these are going to make anime fans lose their minds—in a good way, I hope.
How to Train Your WHAT Now? I stumbled upon what might be the weirdest LEGO set yet… and I have questions. So many questions.
August Star Wars Rumors – The hype is real (and expensive) Some of the rumored sets sound absolutely incredible—but if the price leaks are legit, you might need to sell a kidney, a few UCS sets, or both to get your hands on them.
This is your weekly dose of LEGO chaos, packed with laughs, rants, and maybe a sprinkle of helpful information to help you decide what to buy… or not buy… or preemptively hide from your wallet. Listen now and get caught up before the leaks become legends.
Music Credit: Youtube Music Library

Ep. 83 - This Set is More Than Meets the Eye - Optimus Prime Full Review

 AUTOBOTS, ROLL… OUT INTO LEGO? That’s right—LEGO Optimus Prime (Set 10302) is here, and yes, he actually transforms without disassembly. It’s real. It’s epic. It’s ICONS. And in this video, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about this brick-built Cybertronian leader before he rolls out into retirement.
Originally released in June 2022 as part of the LEGO ICONS line, this $180, 1508-piece set is STILL available—but probably not for long. So, if you’ve been on the fence, this is your moment to decide: Prime-time purchase or pass?
Plus, a quick rewind to LEGO history: Remember when Kre-O (yep, that South Korean brand) made Transformers sets back in 2011? Yeah, they disappeared faster than Starscream in a leadership meeting. But thanks to Hasbro teaming up with LEGO, we now have the Optimus we never thought we’d get—complete with printed parts, 10 bags, 5 stickers, and about a million nostalgia points.
And as a bonus tease… Soundwave is coming this summer, so if you're building a brick army of Autobots and Decepticons, it starts here. Whether you’re a LEGO fan, a Transformers die-hard, or just someone who likes watching a grown man geek out over plastic robots, this video is for you.
Hit play and find out if Optimus Prime deserves a spot on your shelf—or if he's just a very expensive truck with trust issues.
#LEGOTransformers #OptimusPrime #LEGO10302 #TransformersLEGO #AFOL #HasbroLEGO #Soundwave #LEGOReview #RollOut

Ep. 82 - The Coolest CMF Series Yet? - 6/2/25 - News & Rumors

This week, we’re diving headfirst into all the latest LEGO news and rumors, and trust me — there’s a lot to talk about. First up, we’re running through some of the big June 1st releases you might want to jump on... or maybe hold off on if your wallet is already crying. I’ll give you the quick hits, but the judgment is all yours.
Then we’ve got some brand-new set reveals fresh off the press — and I’m breaking down what I like, what I love, and what honestly just left me scratching my head. Let’s just say LEGO is getting creative... maybe too creative in a few cases?
And you know we couldn’t get through an episode without some good ol’ fashioned juicy rumors. This week’s is a big one. It involves your friendly neighborhood web-slinger — and this time, he’s not swinging solo. LEGO might be assembling an entire cast for something very interesting. But… why now? And where was this two years ago when we really wanted it? I’ve got thoughts.
It’s fast-paced, full of bricks, and one episode you definitely don’t want to miss.
Music Credit – YouTube Music Library

Ep. 81 - The UCS Darth Maul Bust - The Full Review

Brace yourself, brickheads—today we're diving face-first into one of the weirdest, wildest, and most unsettlingly enormous LEGO sets ever to menace a shelf. We’re talking about set 10018: the UCS Darth Maul Bust, a 2001 relic from a galaxy far, far away and one of the very first Ultimate Collector's Series sets LEGO ever unleashed on the world. Back then, this Sith sculpture would set you back a mere $150. Fast forward to now, and if you want a brand-new one, you'll need to cough up over $4000—or trade in a speeder and maybe a limb.
Why so much? Maybe it’s the 1,868 pieces. Maybe it’s the nostalgia. Or maybe it’s because this thing is massive, and staring into its dead red eyes feels like Maul himself is judging your life choices. It's part modern art, part nightmare fuel—and we’re breaking it all down in this episode.
We’ll talk size, price, history, and most importantly: why does this thing look like it might start whispering dark side secrets in the middle of the night? Click play, unless you’re afraid of giant LEGO Sith Lords watching you sleep...
Warning: prolonged exposure may result in spontaneous lightsaber duels.
Music Credit: YouTube Music Library

Ep. 80 - The Castle of My Dreams! - 5/26/25 - News & Rumors

Welcome back, brick fans! Get ready for another jam-packed, rumor-fueled rollercoaster of an episode, because this week’s LEGO news is coming in hotter than Mount Doom and sharper than a broadsword from the Black Falcons’ armory!
First up: the long-rumored, much-dreamed-about, “wait, is this actually happening?” Bravian Castle has finally stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight. That’s right—this medieval masterpiece, which has haunted AFOL Architecture wishlists for what feels like centuries, is officially getting the LEGO treatment. I’ve got all the juicy details you crave: estimated piece count, rumored price tag, possible release dates, Easter eggs hidden in the stonework. Whether you’re a knight in shining armor or just here for the goats, this is one drop you won’t want to miss.
Next up: clear some space on your bookshelf and maybe a second mortgage, because the Lord of the Rings Book Nook is real, it’s spectacular, and it’s heading to shelves soon. This miniature Middle-earth diorama slides right between your novels but packs a punch big enough to knock you into Mordor. We’re diving into the official images and answering the only question that matters: will a teeny-tiny Balrog be judging your reading habits from the shadows? ("You shall not pass… until you finish that TBR pile!")
But the party doesn’t stop in Middle-earth—Summer 2025 is shaping up to be a LEGO blockbuster. Expect adorable new Star Wars droids, chaotic Springfield additions for Simpsons fans, and a few LEGO Ideas projects flying under the radar that just might steal your heart—and your wallet. I’ll be ranking the leaks, highlighting the hidden gems, and giving you my honest take on which sets deserve your hard-earned LEGO budget (apologies in advance to your grocery bill).
Bottom line: if you want to be the one in your LEGO group chat dropping the latest rumors before they become news, this is the episode for you. So hit that play button, strap in, and let’s take a wild ride through the most exciting corners of the brick-built world.
Music Credit: YouTube Music Library

Ep. 79 - The Next Lego Ideas Set Will Be...The Full Breakdown

57 Dreams in a Brick-Shaped Bottle
Hold onto your minifig helmets, because we’re diving headfirst into the wild world of Lego Ideas 2025. That’s right—57 brand-new submissions, and I’m reviewing every single one of them in this mega-sized episode. I’m breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and whether each idea has a shot at becoming an official set—or if it’s destined for the digital dustbin.
Expect honest takes, bold predictions, and a few spicy opinions (spoiler: not everything needs to be modular or medieval). I’ll be rating each entry on my completely made-up but highly reliable Chance-o-Meter™, ranging from “absolutely no chance” to “shut up and take my money.”
Along the way, I’ll be sharing personal stories, weird Lego memories, and my own totally subjective preferences—because let’s be honest, we’ve all got our biases (mine involves clocks, bears who enjoy marmalade, and anything involving a certain neighbor named Totoro).
Yes, this episode is long. Like, brick-built Titanic long. But if you're a Lego Ideas junkie like me, it’s totally worth it. So buckle up, fire up your imagination, and let’s dig into the best—and strangest—Ideas sets the Lego community has cooked up this year.
Music Credit: YouTube Music Library

Ep. 78 - Do NOT Miss This Second Chance! - 5/19/25 - News & Rumors

First up, BrickLink Designer Program drama! Did you miss out on Series 1 and Series 2? If you’re in the U S or Canada, stop everything and listen—because I’ve got breaking intel on a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it chance to snag these ultra-limited sets before they vanish faster than a minifig head in the vacuum.
Also, have you ever had that bittersweet moment when a long-dreamed-of LEGO set finally becomes reality… only to show up looking like it forgot to read its own hype? Yeah, same. On this News & Rumors Monday we’re diving head-first into that heartbreak—and so much more.
GWP madness – I’ll reveal which shiny new Gift With Purchase is worth rearranging your cart for (and which one is basically a polybag wearing a trench coat).
LEGO Insiders Rewards – Points, perks, and a couple of seriously oddball digital goodies you never knew you needed.
Fresh LEGO Ideas approvals – The next fan-designed sensations barreling toward your wallet, complete with those oh-so-sought-after minifigures that’ll have collectors trading limbs—well, minifig limbs, anyway.
By the end you’ll know which rumors deserve a victory dance, which news might sting a little, and which sets to start clearing shelf space for right now.
So grab your favorite building snacks, crank up the volume, and prepare for a roller-coaster ride through the brick-built rumor mill. Thanks for tuning in—let’s get this stud-ded party started!
Music Credit: YouTube Music Library

Ep. 77 - A One of a Kind Set - The Hogwarts Icon Collectors Edition Review

Revisiting LEGO 76391: Hogwarts Icons – Collector’s Edition
In this episode, we’re heading back to 2021 — the year LEGO marked 20 magical years of Harry Potter sets with one of the most ambitious tributes they’ve ever released: Set 76391 – Hogwarts Icons: Collector’s Edition.
With over 3,000 pieces and a launch price of $249.99, this set was designed for serious fans and display shelf dominance. From Harry’s wand and glasses to potion bottles, textbooks, and a giant Hedwig that easily steals the show, it’s packed with iconic elements that even casual fans will recognize — or at least admire for their sheer scale and creativity.
But now that some time has passed, how does it hold up? In this episode, I’ll share my thoughts on the build experience, the display value, and whether this set still feels magical a few years later.
We’ll also talk about the subtle touches that make this set feel premium (hello, minimal sticker use) and whether the collector’s edition label really fits.
And here’s the kicker — it’s still available on shelves four years later, which might tell you something about how LEGO sees this one. Is it a future classic? Tune in and find out.
Music Credit: YouTube Audio Library

Ep. 76 - Is This the Perfect Lego Set? - 5/12/25 - News & Rumors

New LEGO Rumors, Wild GWPs, and 387 BrickLink Sets?!
Welcome back to the show, where this week’s LEGO news is absolutely packed. We're talking everything from surprise Mario promos to massive fan-designed voting frenzies. If you thought things were slowing down in the LEGO world, think again.
First up, there’s a phenomenal blue and spiky new Mario-themed Gift With Purchase making the rounds — and let’s just say it’s raising a few eyebrows. But the real GWP bombshell? Possibly the hottest one LEGO has ever done is coming in 2025, and it’s got collectors everywhere buzzing. It looks amazing, it’s exclusive, and it’s going to be very sought after.
Next we go Lego Ideas and Pixar, and I'll leave this thought right here: Have we found the perfectly designed set?
Then we’re diving into some brand-new, just-leaked info about upcoming How to Train Your Dragon sets. These are shaping up to be a dream come true for fans of the movies — and a big new IP for LEGO to flex their design muscles on.
We’ve also got our first look at the 2025 LEGO Icons vehicle, and it’s a beauty. The price tag is steep, but this one might just be worth the splurge. I’ll give you my honest take on whether this set earns its premium status.
On the BrickLink front, there’s a lot going on. We’ve got pricing revealed for the upcoming BrickLink Designer Series 5 sets — and yes, they’re looking sharp but might give your budget a workout. And here’s the big one: Voting is now open for BrickLink Designer Series 8, and there are a staggering 387 sets to browse through. These are all fan-designed, original builds — and your votes will directly influence which ones get made into real, purchasable sets. So go vote. Seriously. It’s fun, it’s easy, and it helps bring amazing MOCs to life for everyone.
This episode is full of reactions, speculation, and hopefully a few laughs along the way. If you’re a LEGO fan, a collector, or just someone who loves staying ahead of the brick-built curve, you don’t want to miss this one.
Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe and share the podcast with your fellow brickheads.
Music Credit: YouTube Audio Library.