Loading...
Loading...
0 / 10 episodes
No episodes yet
Tap + Later on any episode to add it here.
Brett sits down with James (@madcitycollector), creator of The Soccer Card Collective Podcast, to explore what happens when a collector ignores the spotlight and builds his own lane. James shares why he chose soccer cards over more crowded markets, how nostalgia shapes his decisions, and what he’s learned by studying overlooked players, sets, and eras. The conversation digs into: Why modern attention is narrow and where opportunity exists How to collect with intention instead of following hype The role of nostalgia, lineage, and discovery in building a collection What the soccer card community reveals about micro-markets and demand How disciplined spending and long-term thinking shape better collectors This is a conversation about awareness, patience, and choosing your path in a hobby driven by noise. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Collectors often believe they are building collections. This episode challenges that idea. In this flagship conversation, Brett explores the concept that every collection is a reflection of the person behind it. Drawing from consumer psychology research and personal collecting experience, he breaks down how buying decisions reveal deeper signals around identity, control, risk, patience, and validation. Through real examples and practical questions, this episode pushes collectors to think beyond surface-level decisions and examine why they acquire what they do. Key themes include: • buying certainty vs. buying conviction• the role of status and social comparison• how structure in collecting creates a sense of control• why two collectors with the same resources build entirely different outcomes This is not an episode about what to buy. It is about understanding what your collection says about you. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Topps Chrome Football is back. But this time it stands alone. No competing brand. No second option. No alternative lane. That changes how you collect. In this episode, I’m not breaking down the checklist or the hits. You can find that anywhere. I’m focused on what this moment reveals about you as a collector. For years, your decisions were shaped by comparison. The question shifts from what do you like more to do you participate at all. That is a different game. We talk about: • why no competition creates pressure on your decisions• how concentrated demand can look like real demand• the difference between collecting and compliance• why this release is a mirror for your conviction• how to slow down and make better decisions in a loud market This is one of the most important shifts in football cards in a long time. Not because of the product. Because of what it reveals about the people buying it. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Ryan Johnson didn’t set out to build a 35-person company. He wanted to open cards.Share what he was buying.Be the resource he never had. Then the business grew. In this conversation, Ryan walks through the shift from collector and content creator to operator responsible for people, systems, and outcomes. We talk about: The moment decisions started impacting other people Letting go of control and building a real team Why communication breaks when you scale How cash becomes a tool for speed and growth The hardest lesson he learned about hiring and culture Balancing being a collector while running a business Why his “why” for collecting has changed This is a conversation about growth. Not the highlight reel. The real stuff that happens when the hobby turns into a business. If you’re building something in this space, this one will hit. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Katelyn sits down with Ryan (@reservoirsportscards), a UConn collector who went all in on Paige Bueckers before the market caught up. This is a conversation about conviction. Ryan didn’t start as a collector. He started flipping cards. Watching markets. Chasing value. Then Paige changed everything. What started as an idea turned into a strategy.Then a PC.Then an obsession. We get into: The moment Paige became “the one” Turning a $19K purchase into a record-breaking sale Why Bowman Chrome changed WNBA collecting The shift from flipping to collecting with purpose How prospecting in women’s basketball is changing the hobby This isn’t about hype. It’s about what happens when you believe early… and act on it. If you’ve ever thought about going all in on a player, this episode will make you think twice about how you do it. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This is one of the biggest weeks wrestling cards has seen in years. Adam and Ryan break down everything happening right now. Topps Chrome WWE is live. Prices are high. Demand is higher. The product feels like a turning point. Ryan shares what he saw firsthand at the Topps Industry Conference. What matters. What doesn’t. And what collectors should be paying attention to. They get into: • Why Chrome feels different this year• What the future of Fanatics’ ecosystem looks like• How premium products like Royalty and Dynasty will reshape the market• What’s happening behind the scenes with dealers, breakers, and distribution Then it all builds to a major announcement. Booked to Last is bringing the wrestling card community together at The National. If you care about where this hobby is going, this episode matters. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Topps Chrome Football returns and the hobby is already moving fast. In this episode, we break down what this release really means for collectors. Where the hype is coming from.Why positioning matters more than ever.And how to avoid getting caught chasing the wrong things. We also get into: • The reality of breakers dominating early supply• Why “first year” narratives need to be questioned• How to think about parallels when nothing has history yet• The tension between chasing new vs staying focused on your lane Plus: A deep dive into undervalued legends like Ronnie LottA conversation on junk slabs vs real scarcityAnd why some of the best opportunities are still being ignored If you’re thinking about buying Chrome next week…You need to hear this first. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby isn’t one market. It’s many. But we still act like everything should live under one roof. In this episode, I push on a simple idea. The hobby gets stronger when we get more focused. Not bigger. Narrower. When everything sits in one place, collectors get lost. They default to the loudest voices and the most visible cards. Depth disappears. When you shrink the sea, something changes. Collectors find their lane.They find people who collect like them.They build identity, trust, and connection. That’s where real collecting starts. I break down why micro-markets matter, how structure creates engagement, and what happens when you build around a specific category instead of chasing the whole hobby. We talk about: Why more options leads to less action How niche communities drive retention The role of curated auctions, content, and events What operators, creators, and collectors should do next If you’ve ever felt like the hobby doesn’t speak to you, this episode will help you understand why. And what to do about it. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
There is more money, more cards, and more noise in the hobby than ever before.Over $605M in monthly sales. Every platform is built to keep you moving.Scrolling. Watching. Bidding. Buying. So where does patience fit? In this episode, I slow things down and challenge a hard question. Can patience survive in a system designed to push you to act fast? I break down the forces working against you.Why urgency feels real.Why auctions pull you in.Why losing a card makes you want to buy another. Then I walk through a different way to operate. Not waiting.Not resisting. Building a system. We talk about: How to separate collecting from stimulationWhy patience is not willpowerHow to design rules that protect your decisionsWhat it looks like to collect with intention, not reaction If you feel like the hobby is speeding up around you, this is for you. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett and Tory break down a record-setting moment in the hobby. Card Ladder reports $605M in monthly sales.dcsports87 hits its biggest month ever.And a Shohei Ohtani All Aces PSA 10 sells for over $15K. This conversation goes deeper than headlines. You’ll hear what happens when content drives brand growth.Why niche categories like wrestling and TCG are heating up.How scarcity, demand, and perception collide in today’s market.And what Ohtani is doing to rewrite the rules collectors have followed for years. They also unpack the real decision behind selling a card at peak hype. Hold or sell?First to market or long-term bet? If you’re trying to understand where the hobby is going next, this is the conversation. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What happens when a single moment turns into a career? Ethan from Tombstone Collectibles joins Passion to Profession to break down how one pull opened the door… and what it actually takes to build a modern hobby business at scale. This is not a conversation about ripping packs. This is about building infrastructure, managing talent, and operating in a market that moves fast. We get into: Why most breakers fail before they ever get started The importance of relationships in live selling How Tombstone scaled from one stream to a multi-location operation What it takes to manage inventory, shipping, and customer experience at volume Why talent is the hardest problem in the breaking business The real opportunity in international markets and where growth is heading Ethan shares what’s working, what broke along the way, and what collectors don’t see behind the scenes. If you’ve ever thought about turning your passion into a business… this is a conversation you need to hear. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Adam and Ryan are back and the timing couldn’t be bigger. With Topps Chrome around the corner, the wrestling card calendar is about to hit hard. Exalted is here. Chrome is next. Then more follows. The question isn’t what’s coming.It’s how you’re going to handle it. In this episode, they break down: Why Exalted feels mistimed in the current release cycle The overwhelming momentum building behind Chrome What collectors are missing when they look at wrestling market data How private deals are shaping the hobby behind the scenes A real strategy for navigating multiple releases without blowing your budget They also react to major sales, early product reactions, and what the next 60 days might look like for wrestling cards. If you collect wrestling cards, this is a checkpoint episode. Because the hobby is about to speed up.And you need a plan before it does. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
You feel it every time you log in. Everything is moving fast.Listings. Prices. Decisions. The hobby wants you to act now. In this episode, Brett and Pack slow it down and ask a harder question: Can you stay patient when everything around you pushes speed? They get into: How collectors lose control when money moves too fastWhy auctions feel better than direct dealsThe hidden cost of selling your own cardsShipping mistakes that create risk for everyoneWhat “fair value” really looks like in today’s marketThere’s also a conversation about what’s broken. Sticker autos.Fake patches.Repack culture. And what happens when accountability disappears. If you’ve ever felt pressure to move faster than you should, this one is for you. Because the best collectors don’t rush. They understand the environment.Then they operate inside it. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What does it look like to go all in on cards and make it work? In this conversation, Brett sits down with Max (@Cardsmax), a full-time dealer who has built his business in the open. He shares how he went from ripping packs as a kid to running a national buying and selling operation driven by shows, eBay, and content. Max breaks down the reality of life as a dealer. The travel. The shipping pressure. The constant decisions around where to deploy capital. He explains why understanding your buyer matters more than chasing the next card. They also get into content. Why documenting your process works. Why polished content often falls flat. And how transparency builds trust in a space that lacks it. You’ll hear how Max thinks about: Buying with intent and knowing your exit before you enter The balance between liquidity and scarcity Why storytelling and positioning move cards The difference between dealer shows and collector shows How content compounds into relationships and revenue This is a conversation about operating in the hobby at a high level. Not theory. Real decisions. Real risk. Real reps. If you’ve ever thought about turning cards into more than a hobby, this one will challenge how you think. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Discovery doesn’t end when you find the card. That’s where most collectors stop. That’s where most collectors miss. In this flagship episode, I take the next step from last week and break down what really drives better collecting. It’s not being early. It’s not guessing right. It’s finding the people who already know what you’re chasing. I share a message that stopped me in my tracks and forced me to rethink discovery. Then we get into how community shapes your edge. You’ll hear: • Why “being first” is the wrong goal• How niche collectors hold the real information• Why your network determines what you see and what you miss• The role of trust, pricing, and access inside small communities• A simple system to find your people and build real relationships Discovery is not a solo act. It’s a shared process. And when you find the right people, everything about your collecting changes. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The market is running. Prices are climbing. Headlines are everywhere. And yet… the smartest collectors aren’t chasing. In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, I sit down with Card Ladder team members Chris McGill and Josh Johnson to break down what’s really happening right now. We start with the data.February recorded $481M in online card sales. An all-time high. But numbers don’t tell the full story. We get into: Why rising prices without clear reasoning should make you pause How new collectors are entering fast and burning out faster Why patience is the edge no one talks about What experienced collectors are doing instead of chasing How to think about “zagging” when everyone else is piling in The strategy behind buying non-rookies, obscure 1/1s, and overlooked sets This isn’t a hype conversation. It’s a reality check. If you’re feeling the pressure to keep up, this episode will help you slow down and make better decisions. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession, Brett sits down with Bryan Thiessenhusen, CEO of Black Gold Sports Cards. Bryan didn’t start with an advantage. He started with tubs of cards, a full-time accounting job, and a willingness to take risk. What followed was a fast build. He turned grading prep into revenue.Turned live streaming into scale.Turned a side hustle into a 30+ person operation. In this conversation, Bryan breaks down: How he used his accounting background to build systems and track every dollar Why being early and doing what others avoid created momentum The role of content in driving growth and attention What most people get wrong about risk, work ethic, and scaling in the hobby How culture and trust became the foundation of Black Gold This is a conversation about building something real. If you’re collecting, operating, or thinking about turning your passion into a business, this one will make you think. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
With Ryan out this week, Adam Gellman is joined by Jamison Long of Port City Sports Collectibles to talk wrestling cards from a different angle. Jamison has built one of the fastest growing card shops in the country. He also collects at a high level. That combination creates a different lens on the hobby. They cover: • What changes when you go from collector to shop owner• Why most collectors misunderstand wax pricing• The importance of community inside a card shop• WWE Chrome debut patches and why they matter• Big recent sales and what they signal about the market The conversation also hits WWE storylines, prospecting, and how new stars like Oba Femi are impacting collector behavior. This episode is a reminder that the hobby is not only about big cards. It is about how you show up, what you chase, and how long you can stay in it. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett open Episode 40 with a real-time hobby mystery. A stolen 2025 Prizm Gold Lance Briggs resurfaces across state lines. The hunt is on. Questions start stacking. How many cards disappear before they ever hit public data? From there, the conversation shifts to what collectors are feeling right now. The pressure.The speed.The constant sense of missing out. They break down why the hobby feels like a sprint even when everyone says it’s a marathon. The episode also covers: • The gap between data and decision-making• Why social media is distorting collector behavior• When to sell and how to think about consolidation• Big recent sales including a $31K Gronk Prizm Gold and a $90K Brady They close with a reminder most collectors need to hear: You don’t need every card.You need the right ones. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Collectors think in comps. Operators think in systems. That gap is where mistakes happen. In this episode, I break down what I learned from 12 hobby operators and how it applies to your decisions as a collector. We cover: • Why trust is the product• Why reacting leads to regret• How operators actually view comps• The role of systems and communication The hobby is growing. But the rules are not evenly distributed. If you understand how operators think, you put yourself in a better position to win and avoid mistakes. Ask yourself one question. Do the people you buy from reduce uncertainty or create it? Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
When was the last time you found a card before the hobby told you it mattered? Not after the sale.Not after the post.Not after everyone started chasing it. Before. This episode is about discovery and why it is one of the most powerful advantages you can build as a collector. We are living in a headline-driven hobby.Attention dictates demand.Most collectors are choosing from the same small list of cards. That creates competition.It creates pressure.It turns collecting into reaction. Discovery changes that. In this episode, I break down: Why discovery gives you control over your collecting decisions The psychology behind why discovery feels so rewarding How attention drives prices and compresses opportunity The exact system I use to identify cards before the crowd A real example of how discovery led to one of my favorite recent pickups This is not about being early.This is not about guessing. This is about building a process that helps you collect with intention. If you want your collection to feel like yours, this one matters. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Opening Day is here. Energy is high. Attention is shifting. And the hobby is reacting in real time. Tory and I dig into what just happened with the World Baseball Classic and what it actually means for you as a collector. Not the surface-level hype. The real takeaway. We talk about: Why moments like WBC create short windows of opportunityWhat happens when demand spikes and how to act on itA Kobe Atomic sale that says more about the market than you thinkWhy Topps Dynasty prices aren’t as crazy as they lookThe psychology behind live selling, breaking, and chasingThen we go deeper. We address the Whatnot situation head on. Gambling. Responsibility. And where the line actually is. This is a conversation about awareness. About knowing your tendencies. About deciding what kind of collector you want to be before the moment hits. Because the moment always comes. The question is what you do when it does. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What happens when you walk away from stability to bet on cards? Michael and Mikaela did it. Both were CPAs. Both were on a clear path. Then COVID hit. Breaking started. Demand showed up fast. And within months, everything changed. They built Rated Rips from late-night breaks into a full-scale consignment business. They hired 15 people in a year. They shifted from taking money out of the hobby to putting money back into collectors’ hands. In this conversation, we get into what it really looks like to build a business in the hobby. The risk.The trust.The systems.The people. We also talk about: – Leaving a stable career to bet on yourself– Why most collectors run businesses like hobbies– How process and data drive their decisions– The shift from breaking to consignment– Hiring, delegation, and buying back your time– Building trust with collectors at scale If you’ve ever thought about turning your passion into something more, this one will hit. Brought to you by eBay. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode is about a moment that changed everything. Katelyn sits down with Kyle (@kyle_collects) to break down the shift from 2019 Donruss to 2020 Prizm and why that stretch still shapes how collectors approach WNBA cards today. They talk through what it felt like to discover WNBA cards before the spotlight. Ripping boxes no one wanted. Finding cards that never made it to showcases. Learning the players one card at a time. Then everything changed. Prizm arrived. Sabrina entered the hobby. The world shut down. People started paying attention. This conversation connects the dots between timing, access, and belief. It explains why certain cards feel different. Why some sets get locked away. Why this era still matters. If you collect WNBA cards or are thinking about it, this episode will help you understand where the foundation was built and how to approach it today. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Adam and Ryan sit down with Steve(@s.a.m_wwe) , one of the most focused Rhea Ripley collectors in the hobby. The conversation starts with a simple moment. A blaster box in 2022. That moment turns into chasing rainbows, building sets, and eventually acquiring 1/1 cards. This episode is about how that happens. Steve shares how he built his collection from scratch. Why he chose Rhea Ripley. And how relationships helped him land cards most collectors never even see. They also break down what’s happening right now in wrestling cards. Prices are rising. Access is getting harder. More people are paying attention. If you’re collecting today, you need to understand how to move. This conversation gives you a real look at: • How collectors evolve from ripping to targeting• Why scarcity changes your entire approach• What separates casual collectors from serious ones• How relationships unlock cards you can’t find online If you’ve ever thought about building something meaningful in the hobby, this episode will hit. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett open the episode by unpacking the reaction to a viral take about football collectors and why people struggle when opinions get stated in absolutes. They explore a bigger question beneath the noise.Who is actually collecting versus who is investing? The conversation moves into how money enters the hobby.Million dollar sales.Investor behavior.And why volume of collectors matters more than headline prices. From there, they dig into: Why scarcity does not always mean more valueThe difference between meaning and rarity in cardsPMGs and Rubies versus modern 1/1sWhy some players like Tyreek Hill feel under-collectedSelect vs Prizm vs Optic debates through a collector lensThe episode closes with a breakdown of recent sales, including a $161K Tom Brady that raises more questions than answers about the football card market. This is a conversation about how collectors think.And what actually drives demand in the hobby. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most collectors spend their time watching big sales. Few spend time learning how to find great cards. That gap matters. In this conversation with Max (@putnamcards), creator of Hoops Collectors, we talk about what actually creates an edge in the hobby. Not headlines.Not hype.Not million dollar cards. We get into: Why most content focuses on cards no one can affordHow research leads to better collecting decisionsWhy overlooked sets and inserts hold real opportunityThe role nostalgia plays in what you chaseWhat happens when you stop following the crowdMax shares how he approaches discovery. How he uses tools like checklists and daily sales to uncover cards others ignore. And why some of the best cards in the hobby are still sitting in plain sight. If you want to build a collection that reflects your taste and not the algorithm, this one will hit. Check out the Hoops Collectors Podcast on YouTube, Apple, or Spotify. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this flagship episode of Stacking Slabs, Brett shares a tough experience that every collector fears. A highly anticipated card arrives… but the package is empty. Instead of sitting in frustration, Brett breaks down what happened, what he learned, and what he would do differently moving forward. From shipping decisions to platform protection, this episode focuses on how collectors can reduce risk in a hobby where more value is moving through the mail than ever before. This conversation goes beyond one missing card. It’s about trust, responsibility, and how collectors can protect what matters most to them. If you’ve ever made a deal, waited on a package, or worried about something going wrong, this one will hit home. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Over the past 18 months, Brett has spent time talking with owners, builders, and operators across the sports card industry. More than 60 conversations. Shop owners.Tech founders.Marketplace operators.Auction leaders. A pattern kept showing up. The hobby is growing fast. Online card sales tracked by Card Ladder reached $481M in a single month. Companies are expanding.Infrastructure is growing.New businesses are launching. But the knowledge required to build a business in this space remains scattered. Much of it lives in private conversations.Phone calls.Text threads.Direct messages between operators. There is no central place where industry knowledge, jobs, and operator insight live. That realization led Brett to create Hobby Jobs. In this episode of Stacking Slabs, Brett explains the thinking behind the launch and why the sports card industry is ready for a new kind of resource. The conversation covers: • Lessons from 60+ conversations with hobby operators• Why trust and relationships drive successful hobby businesses• The growing infrastructure behind the sports card industry• How Hobby Jobs will surface industry roles and business insight• Why the next generation of hobby operators will shape the future of the hobby Stacking Slabs will always serve collectors. But collectors power the hobby while operators build the infrastructure that supports it. Hobby Jobs is Brett’s first step toward documenting the business side of the hobby and creating a place where operators can learn from each other. Sign up for Hobby Jobs and The Weekly Rip for free Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Many collectors think running a card business starts with inventory. Matt from 941 Sports Cards will tell you it starts with people. In this episode of Passion to Profession, Brett sits down with Matt to talk about how a hobby side project turned into a growing sports card operation built on live breaking, community, and relationships. Matt shares how he moved from ripping boxes in a small room at home to running multiple streaming channels and building a storefront designed to bring collectors together. Along the way he talks about the hard lessons that came with scaling too fast, trusting the wrong people, and trying to operate across multiple states. You will hear how Matt thinks about: • Building trust with collectors through consistent service • Managing allocation and inventory as a breaker • Hiring breakers who represent your brand the right way • Balancing online live streams with the in-store experience • Why mentorship and outside perspective matter for operators Matt also shares why community is the real goal behind his next step: a 4,800 square foot card shop designed to host collectors, events, watch parties, and live breaks under one roof. If you care about the future of hobby shops, breakers, and collector communities, this conversation delivers a clear look at what it takes to build something real in the hobby today. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What does it mean to collect a franchise player? In this episode of The WNBA Card Podcast, Katelyn sits down with Mike (@mikeksportscards) to talk about building a collection around greatness. The conversation centers on A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart. Two players who define the present era of the WNBA. Two players whose dominance shapes how collectors think about cards. Mike shares how he began collecting A’ja Wilson after watching the league in 2021. What started as curiosity turned into conviction. He walks through the mindset behind building a focused player collection and why he aims for cards that represent peak moments. The discussion explores the difference between prospecting and collecting established players. The role of championships and MVP seasons in creating cards that collectors hold long term. And why the best collections often come from patience and intention. They also examine how products like 2020 Prizm helped establish the modern WNBA card market. Which cards from this era carry long term significance. And how collectors can identify the cards that matter before everyone else does. Mike also shares some of the centerpieces of his A’ja Wilson collection and explains the thinking behind each card. This episode is a conversation about dominance. Dominance on the court. Dominance in collecting. And the discipline required to build a collection that reflects both. If you collect the WNBA or want to understand how serious collectors approach franchise players, this episode will give you a clear framework for how to think about the cards you pursue Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Adam and Ryan open Episode 10 with a week that flipped expectations heading into WrestleMania. Cody Rhodes walks away with the championship after a result that few fans expected. The hosts break down the booking decision and what it means for collectors who track championship momentum and long term hobby demand tied to top WWE stars. The conversation then shifts to one of the biggest hobby announcements of the week. Topps revealed that the first ever WWE Topps Chrome First Day Issue release will be sold through a Dutch auction. Adam and Ryan talk through what this format means for collectors, how they plan to approach buying, and why demand for the product will likely be strong. They also spend time discussing the Topps Now dual autograph featuring John Cena and Shohei Ohtani. The hosts explain why crossover cards like this matter and how a card like this could become one of the most important wrestling card sales of the year. Later in the episode they welcome Chad Weldon of Sports Card Junction to the show. Chad shares what he is seeing on the ground from the shop side of the hobby. The conversation covers collector demand for wrestling cards, how modern wrestling products perform at the shop level, and what products collectors are asking for most right now. Topics in this episode include WrestleMania storylines and their hobby impactCody Rhodes and championship driven demandTopps Chrome First Day Issue auction strategyThe John Cena and Shohei Ohtani dual autograph cardWrestling card sales moving the marketA shop owner perspective with Chad Weldon of Sports Card JunctionCheck out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Free agency opened the floodgates across the NFL and collectors felt it immediately. On Episode 38 of The Football Card Podcast, Pack and Brett break down how roster moves ripple through the football card market. From Travis Kelce returning to Kansas City to quarterback movement across the league, they explore what actually moves collector demand and why hype often follows opportunity. They also tackle a debate circulating across the hobby. No football card has crossed the one-million-dollar mark since the Tom Brady Contenders Championship Ticket sale in 2023. Does that mean collectors have lost interest in football cards? Or does it reveal something deeper about how the high-end market works across sports? Other topics in this episode include: Ranking every year of Panini Prizm football from 2012 to 2025The free agency moves that matter most to collectorsWhy some collectors sell their player cards when the player leaves their teamThe psychology behind keeping cards tied to memories, not jerseysMarket sales including Randy Moss, Caleb Williams, and Barry SandersThis episode blends the NFL offseason with real hobby insight. If you collect football cards, free agency season tells you one thing. Opportunity creates demand. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Card Ladder tracked $481 million in online card sales in one month. Most collectors see the cards. This episode looks at the system behind the number. Brett reverse engineers the $481M month by examining the infrastructure that allows collectors to transact at scale. Marketplaces, pricing data, grading, and vaults all play a role in building the trust required for buyers and sellers to complete transactions online. Collectors chase cards. Operators build the rails. Both rely on trust. This episode explores the infrastructure powering the modern hobby and what it reveals about the future of the market. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Every collector has a card that got away. In this episode, Brett shares the story of a card that came back around. Earlier this year he lost the 2020 Crown Royale Crystal Platinum Tyrese Haliburton 1/1 at auction after spending hours researching it and building conviction around the card. Then the card appeared again. A second chance. Brett breaks down what happened next and explores the psychology behind second chances in collecting. Why missed grails stay with us, how auctions influence decision making, and how reference prices shape the way collectors experience wins and losses. The first time the card sold for over $1200.The second time Brett set a max bid of $1701.The auction closed at $775. Sometimes the hobby gives collectors another opportunity. The real question is what that second chance reveals about the collector. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In Episode 20 of The Staging Area, Brett McGrath and Tory from dcsports87 discuss the current state of the consignment market. The conversation starts with several notable sales across the hobby. A 1954 Bowman Mickey Mantle PSA 8 set an all-time high at $23,700. A 2013 BBM Shohei Ohtani promo PSA 9 jumped from $3,500 to nearly $20,000. An Aaron Judge Bowman Draft Chrome Auto PSA 10 sold for $7,500 as baseball season approaches. The episode then shifts to a topic many collectors experience but rarely discuss openly. Non-paying buyers. Brett and Tory break down what happens when auctions end and buyers fail to pay, how often this occurs, and what steps platforms and consignors are taking to reduce the problem. The episode closes with a look at the scale of the current market, with dcsports87 moving $14M in January and $17M in February. For collectors who buy, sell, or consign cards, this conversation offers a clear look at how the system works behind the scenes. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Tommy Lasorda didn’t inherit a card business. He got fired during the pandemic and decided to bet on himself. In this episode of Passion to Profession, sponsored by eBay, Tommy shares how he went from working as a breaker in someone else’s shop to launching Lasorda’s Card House in March 2025 We talk about: Why he walked away from allocation and buys only what his customers wantHow repacks, done right, protect value and trustWhy football became the focusThe Gold Kaboom Mahomes moment that accelerated growth Why customer care matters more than short-term marginIf you care about trust, reputation, and playing the long game in this hobby, this one is for you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Season 4 reaches its midpoint with a solo episode from Katelyn (@coldlunchcards). The topic is nostalgia and how it shapes the way collectors approach WNBA cards. Many collectors chase rookie cards. That is a bet on the future. Many collectors chase early legends. That is a connection to the past. But the WNBA sits in a different position than most leagues. The league began in 1997. Many collectors building WNBA collections today did not grow up watching those early seasons. So what creates nostalgia when the memory is not personal? Katelyn explores two forces that drive collecting behavior. Individual nostalgiaThe cards tied to your own life and memory. Collective nostalgiaThe stories a community builds together over time. In a league and card market still under thirty years old, collectors are not only preserving history. They are helping define it. This episode explores how cards connect generations of players, collectors, and moments. And why the present moment in the hobby might be the most important one of all. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
WrestleMania season changes everything. On this episode of Booked to Last, Adam and Ryan break down the full impact of Elimination Chamber and the release of 2025 WWE Universe. They dig into: Why Randy Orton and Rhea Ripley winning matters for collectorsThe real hobby impact of WrestleMania storylinesWhether WWE Universe is a true win or just hypeWhy event-worn relics change the long-term value conversationWhat rising wax prices mean for youThis is not surface-level talk. It is a real conversation about how moments on TV turn into momentum in the market. If you collect wrestling cards, this episode will sharpen how you think about: Prospecting young talentChasing event-worn gearNavigating breakers vs ripping waxIdentifying what actually holds valueUniverse is not perfect. But it might be one of the most important wrestling releases in years. Let’s talk about why. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of The Football Card Podcast, Pack and Brett open Season 4 with momentum. Since their last recording, the hobby has seen 54 six-figure sales and two multi-million dollar sales. Only three were football cards. That gap sparks a bigger conversation.They break down massive 1997 Metal Universe PMG Green sales, including Brett Favre, Jerry Rice, and Dan Marino, and what those numbers mean for football long term. They debate Topps Chrome Football and whether it will match Prizm in price and popularity. They discuss what basketball’s return to Chrome reveals about photography, scarcity, and the power of the Superfractor. They tackle a listener question about market fatigue. Are collectors chasing gold, Finite, and Kaboom because they love them—or because the market tells them to? They also spotlight recent Finite and Gold Vinyl sales, share updates on their personal collecting projects, and introduce a new Season 4 Card Call Out challenge. If you care about scarcity, psychology, and what really drives the football card market, this one hits. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What happens to your collection when your player goes down? In this Collector Conversation, I sit down with Rodney (@enjoycards_ig) to talk about what it’s really like to collect Tyrese Haliburton during a lost season. We revisit the Game 7 injury. The shock. The numbness. The reality of a gap year. Then we dig into the cards. Does an injury change your conviction?Do you slow down or lean in?Are lower prices an opportunity or a warning sign? We talk about market data. We talk about emotion. We talk about why we collect in the first place. Haliburton’s index is down while the broader basketball market is up. Sales volume is shifting. Speculators fade. Core collectors stay. This conversation is about risk, loyalty, patience, and perspective. If you’ve ever collected an active player through an injury, this one will hit home. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Why do some cards stick with you while others fade? It is not the chrome.It is not the serial number.It is not even the grade. It is the story. In this flagship episode, I break down one core thesis. The card is the object. The story is the asset. We talk about: Why narrative shapes attention, memory, and beliefHow peak moments and ending moments drive remembered valueWhy provenance carries a premiumHow viral sales create availability trapsThe difference between meaningful storytelling and manipulationFrom the T206 Wagner to the 1952 Topps Mantle. From the 1989 Upper Deck Griffey to the Jordan and Kobe Logoman. We look at how narrative turns cardboard into cultural artifacts. But this is not hype.This is a call to think. To separate fact from interpretation.To question scarcity claims.To stress test your own stories. If you collect, you are already living inside narrative. The question is whether you control it or it controls you. Tell a damn friend. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Signal vs Substance. What really holds this hobby together? In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, Brett is joined by Kristina and Josh from Card Ladder to talk about what’s driving collecting right now and what actually lasts. They unpack the West Coast Card Show and why a sports-only format changed the energy in the room. They talk about why the Card Ladder booth has become a landing spot for collectors. And they dig into what happens when price stops leading. You’ll hear: Why moments like Jack Hughes’ gold medal can move markets overnightHow Josh thinks about 1/1 football cards and why scarcity still winsHow Kristina builds her Luka and Maxi PCs with checklists and disciplineWhy research still matters in a scroll economy built on speedReal examples of how Card Ladder data helped land a dealThis is a conversation about patience, conviction, and building a collection that reflects you. Not the feed. Not the hype. You. If you care about long-term thinking in a short-term world, this one is for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Ryan Bannister has been in cards for more than three decades. He opened RBICru7 in 2012 with borrowed money, a small space, and a willingness to grind seven days a week. Fourteen years later, he owns the building his shop sits in and has built one of the most respected brands in the hobby. In this episode of Passion to Profession, Ryan shares: Why character is a business advantageThe sacrifices he made early to keep the doors openHow relationships opened doors he never could have forcedWhat COVID taught him about adaptabilityHow he used LeBron autos to fund real estateWhy community beats competition in the long runIf you’ve ever thought about turning your side hustle into your full-time work, this is a masterclass in what it really takes. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of The WNBA Card Podcast, Katelyn is joined by Joy (@herasportscards) to break down the second half of the Rittenhouse era from 2010 to 2018. This was a collector’s market. Most years had print runs of 500 cards.One year had only 225 rookie base cards.On-card autos. Limited supply. Minimal hype. Joy shares her journey back into the hobby, how community shaped her collecting, and why Rittenhouse cards were bought by people who never planned to sell. They dig into: What the league looked like during this stretch and how that shaped demandWhy Stewie’s rookie and Maya’s jersey auto still matterThe A’ja Wilson Platinum /25 and whether the hobby is undervaluing itRookie vs. star psychology then versus nowWhat collectors today can learn from a true collector-driven eraIf you care about context, scarcity, and long-term thinking in WNBA cards, this episode will sharpen your perspective. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This week on Booked to Last, Adam Gellman and Ryan from RBICru7 unpack one of the biggest moments in wrestling card history. Randy Orton walked into RBICru7 for Rip Night and stayed for over two hours. He signed for every fan. He answered every question. He took selfies. He even studied Ryan’s personal collection and talked comps. What does it mean when your GOAT shows up at your shop and delivers? The guys break down the full experience and why this wasn’t just an appearance. It was validation for collectors. Then Tim Trout, Product Director for WWE at Topps, joins the show to talk: WWE UniverseEvent-worn relicsWrestleMania patch 1/1sInscriptions and on-card autosWhat’s coming in 2025 and 2026If you collect wrestling cards, this episode matters. This isn’t hype.It’s context.And the game is changing. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The Football Card Podcast is back for the Season 3 finale and this one hits every layer of the hobby. Brett and Pack unpack the $26,400 Josh Rosen Green Kaboom sale and why the reaction misses the point. They break down why football cards are up 33 percent over the last two years according to Card Ladder and what is really driving that growth. They debate Caleb Williams versus Jackson Dart at 48K and why moments matter more than raw stats. They revisit 1994 Joe Montana Sega nostalgia and what 90s scarcity teaches us about today’s market. They call out hobby practices that help and hurt the experience. They dig into PMGs, rookie golds, and why collecting priorities shift with the season. If you collect football cards, this episode will make you think harder about what you are chasing and why. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
AI is moving fast. Most hobby businesses are not. In Episode 6 of Built for the Hobby, Brett sits down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-Founder of InfernoRed Technology, to talk about what AI means for hobby operators in 2026. This is not hype. This is practical. Scott breaks down: Why most businesses are underusing AIWhere small hobby shops can remove friction todayHow automation can protect your marginsWhy waiting is the riskiest strategyHow to think about AI without chasing shiny objectsIf you run a $500K shop or a $5M operation, this conversation is about you. AI will not replace your business. But someone who learns how to use it might. If you are AI-curious but stuck using ChatGPT like Google, this episode gives you a clear next step. Built for the Hobby is about one thing: helping operators think better and build smarter. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
A $16.5M headline sale grabs attention. It sparks conversations.It shifts emotion.It makes you question what your cards mean now. In this flagship episode, Brett breaks down a hard truth most collectors ignore. The hobby is not one market.It is many micro-markets operating at the same time. Different financial tiers.Different buyer pools.Different motivations. Using the recent PSA 10 Pikachu Illustrator sale as context, Brett explores how infrastructure, transparency, and intent-driven collecting are reshaping the environment. He explains why record prices distort perception, how narrative spreads across segments, and why you must identify the lane you’re actually in before reacting to a headline. If you’ve ever looked at a big sale and thought, “What does this mean for me?” This episode will help you answer that question with clarity and control. Because the collectors who understand their market move with confidence.The ones who don’t move with emotion. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
You don’t plan to consign. Then a card pops up that you can’t ignore. In this episode of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory talk through the real decisions collectors make when opportunity hits. What moves from the PC pile to the sell pile. Why “being responsible” sometimes means shipping a big box to consignment. They unpack: The Super Bowl eBay Live activation in San FranciscoWhat brand exposure really means when you’re building for the long termHow volume forces companies like PSA and dcsports87 to make tough operational decisionsThe Drake Maye hype cycle and what the data shows after the lossWhy infrastructure today feels different than 2021And whether release consistency even exists anymoreThis is a conversation about scaling, adaptability, and playing the long game in a hobby that moves fast. If you’re trying to make better decisions with your cards and your capital, this one is for you. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Anthony Loparo did not set out to build a multi-service card business. He started where many of you did.In his dad’s convenience store.Ripping packs.Falling in love with the process. In this episode, Anthony walks through the real path behind Top Notch Sports Club: Opening cards on YouTube in 2007 when payments came through the mailGrinding two years on Excel spreadsheets, copying and pasting payouts line by lineTaking the leap during COVID and quitting his jobScaling breaking, grading, and consignment under one roofBuilding a website that syncs live with eBayHiring four employees and learning to let goWe talk about: Why speed to list is his competitive advantageWhy he is not afraid of competitionHow he thinks about investing in product and technologyThe role eBay plays in his infrastructureThe mental shift from side hustle to real businessIf you’ve ever thought about turning your passion into your profession, this one is for you. Anthony’s story is a reminder that scale is built on obsession, systems, and trust. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of the WNBA Card Podcast, Katelyn sits down with Garrett of WNBACards.com to unpack one of the most important chapters in WNBA collecting history: the Rittenhouse era from 2005–2010 This was the low print run era. Five thousand boxes became five hundred. On-card autos were everywhere. And some of the most important rookie cards in the hobby were born. We break down: Why the 2008 Candace Parker rookie still anchors the eraHow on-card autos from 2005–2007 became cornerstones for collectorsWhat Rittenhouse got right — and what they completely missedWhy culture and marketing matter as much as scarcityHow today’s collectors can approach this era with intentionGarrett shares how he went from chasing Zion to building a seven-figure WNBA card business and launching a database with 60,000+ cards and 77,000+ sales comps. If you care about scarcity, print runs, culture shifts, and long-term significance, this episode will reframe how you think about the middle chapter of WNBA collecting. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Booked to Last welcomes its first official guest. Stephanie Garcia of Mama Breaks joins Adam and Ryan for a real conversation about wrestling, collecting, and building community through breaking. Stephanie shares how her love for WWE started with Chyna and Thursday Night SmackDown. How she transitioned from teacher to full-time breaker. And why passion matters when you’re ripping wrestling product. The group dives into: WWE’s current storylines heading into Elimination Chamber and WrestleManiaThe Logan Paul $16.5M Pokémon sale and what it means for the hobbyThe rise of Pick Your Wrestler breaksWhy WWE cards are no longer nicheThe upcoming WWE Universe and Royalty releasesIf you care about wrestling cards, breaking culture, or the long-term growth of WWE in the hobby — this episode is for you. This one is about community. And why every pull tells a story. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The $16.5M Pikachu Illustrator sale shook the hobby. So John and Brett asked a serious question: Could a football card ever reach that number? And if it could… what card would it be? In this episode, they break down: What made the Pikachu sale possibleWhy football cards operate under a different ceilingThe importance of myth, scarcity, and global reachWhy the 2012 Tom Brady Black Finite keeps entering the conversationThey also unpack real-time negotiation strategy around a Tyler Warren Gold Vinyl. How far do you stretch for a card you want? When do you send the note? How do you balance conviction with discipline? Plus, they cover: Pat Tillman 2020 Optic Downtown PSA 10 at $16,800AJ Green 2012 Topps Chrome Superfractor raw at $5,1182002 Finest Gold Drew Brees PSA 10 climbing in valueThe challenge of consolidation as collections become more focusedThis episode blends psychology, market perspective, and real collector decisions in real time. If you care about football cards at a high level, this one delivers. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Are you collecting to impress or to connect? In this episode, I sit down with Michael, known as @glenrice_90scards, to talk about what it really means to collect 90s cards in 2026. We cover: Growing up in Chicago during the Bulls eraDiscovering Glen Rice in the 1989 NCAA TournamentLiving through the rise of serial-numbered cards in real timeThe stress and relief of landing a 1997 Metal Universe PMG GreenWhy some of the best 90s cards aren’t PMGs or CredentialsThe reality of competing with deep-pocketed set buildersHow to approach one-of-ones in the 90sWhy patience still wins in this categoryMichael shares stories behind: 1998 Metal Universe Ryan Sandberg PMG1997 Metal Universe Glen Rice PMG Green1997 Flair Showcase Legacy Masterpiece 1/11997 Skybox EX2001 Michael Jordan Jambalaya1997-98 Upper Deck Game JerseysIf you’ve ever felt priced out of the 90s.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re chasing status or chasing meaning.If you’ve ever sent a message that said “Do you need this card?” This one is for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby talks about buying.It talks about selling.It celebrates flips, upgrades, and big auction results. It rarely talks about holding. In this flagship episode of Stacking Slabs, Brett explores the power of keeping the right cards in a market that rewards motion. He breaks down why holding is underserved in a culture built on velocity and why conviction matters more than constant movement. Drawing from his own collecting journey, Brett outlines the three buckets he uses before buying any card and the only three reasons he will sell. The conversation moves into the psychology of ownership, the tension between attachment and arbitrage, and why not every 1/1 deserves long term status. At the center of the episode is one grounding question: If the market shut down for five years, which cards would you still be proud to own? This episode challenges collectors to define their lanes, clarify their rules, and build alignment between their purchases and their purpose. Buy with intention.Sell with discipline.Hold with conviction. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode, Brett examines a product that rarely gets treated like a true origin story. 2016 Donruss Optic was the first Optic.The first Gold Vinyl 1/1 in the brand.The first time Donruss moved to chrome stock. Yet it does not carry the same cultural weight as 2012 Prizm or 2013 Select. After spending time with his own Andrew Luck Gold Vinyl 1/1 run, Brett started asking a bigger question. Why doesn’t 2016 Optic get debut chrome respect? He breaks down: • Why Panini launched Optic in 2016 • How Optic fit into the product portfolio next to Prizm • The parallel hierarchy in football vs basketball • Why Gold Vinyl became hobby language • Why the market prices players first and sets second in this release He also pulls real sales data from Card Ladder to frame the conversation. Stephen Curry Gold Vinyl 1/1 sold for $25,000.LeBron James Gold Vinyl PSA 10 once sold for $4,495. Are those numbers reflecting origin status? Or is perception lagging behind structure? If you care about first year anything.If you chase Gold Vinyl.If you value context over comps. This conversation matters. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok2016 Donruss Optic: The Underrated Debut That Started Gold Vinyl ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What does it look like when a lifelong collector turns obsession into a career? In this episode of Passion to Profession, sponsored by eBay, I sit down with Dave Amerman, Head of Revenue at Goldin. We cover: The Logan Paul Illustrator sale and what this moment means for the hobby How Goldin scaled from $25M a year to nearly $500MWhat changed inside the hobby after the pandemic boomWhy understanding how to sell is the key to learning how to buyThe risk Dave took leaving a stable finance career to start overDave shares stories from: Buying collections in college for cashStarting his own auction house in his early 20sTurning a few hundred thousand dollar auction business into an $8M operationJoining Goldin before the Netflix spotlight and helping fuel its growthWe also talk about sustainability in this market. The 86 Fleer Jordan PSA 10 ride.The flood of supply after peak hype. The difference between pop 2 and pop 300. If you collect.If you flip. If you dream about working in the hobby. This conversation will hit. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
We’re on the road to WrestleMania. Elimination Chamber is set. Bron Breakker is injured. And wrestling card singles are moving in a way we haven’t seen in a long time. Adam and Ryan break down: What Bron Breakker’s injury means for his long-term marketWhy Oba Femi might be the next major riserThe real impact of WrestleMania season on singles demandA wild $4,100 John Cena Baby Milo 1/1 saleWhy Roman Reigns’ first FCW card still matters in any gradeThey also answer listener questions, talk tough deal stories, and Ryan cuts a promo that you did not see coming. If you collect wrestling cards, this is the time of year that tests your discipline. Are you buying smart?Or are you chasing noise? Let’s talk about it. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of The Football Card Podcast, Pack Nicholson and Brett McGrath break down one of the most fascinating football card weeks of the year. They start with Ricky Williams. The hype. The trade. The suspension. The comeback. And the uncomfortable truth that his top card sales still lag behind other running backs from his era despite 12,000+ scrimmage yards and 74 touchdowns. From there, they dive into market shock. A verified $70,000 Bryce Young Gold Vinyl Downtown.A $31K Matthew Stafford Superfractor rookie.A Derrick Henry 1/1 Select PSA 10 that raises serious Prizm vs Select questions. They also revisit the Legion of Boom, debate who becomes the face of quarterback liquidity in 2026, and examine what it really means to time a card sale on Super Bowl night. If you care about context over hype and understanding why certain players move markets while others stall, this episode delivers. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What is really happening in the '90s category right now? Josh Adams from 90s Auctions joins me to break it down. We talk about healthy growth, why some grails spike and then cool off, and what collectors misunderstand when they look at big comps in isolation. We unpack the recent 1998 Metal Universe Peyton Manning PMG sale and why the PSA 8 brought $24K while BGS copies trailed far behind. Is it a PSA premium? Timing? Platform? Or something deeper about collector cards versus commodity cards? Josh shares how he thinks about patience, consolidation, and why he stops checking comps once a card hits his PC. We also walk through key pieces from his collection, including a 1998 PMG Frank Thomas, 1997 Diamond Dimensions Jordan, and a 1997 Essential Credentials Future Jordan he consolidated heavily to land. If you care about scarcity, availability, and building a collection that lasts, this one is for you. Check out PSA Vault's Spotlight AuctionFollow Andy (@byebyebabycards)Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Scarcity in sports cards is not a print run problem. It is an ownership problem. In this flagship episode, I break down why some cards feel impossible to find while others never stop circulating. The difference is not how many exist. The difference is who owns them and whether they sell. Using real examples from modern, 90s, and vintage cards, Brett walks through how ownership concentration, churn, and collector behavior shape what scarcity feels like in the market. If you want to slow down, stop overpaying for hype, and build a collection with intention, this episode gives you a new lens. One that helps you ask better questions before you spend your money and chase the next card. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
January set a record. $445M in online sales across the hobby. Tory from dcsports87 felt it firsthand with $14M in sales in one month and no slowdown in sight. This episode lives at the intersection of data, demand, and decision making. We break down what record volume looks like inside one of the largest eBay sellers in the world, why first public sales still shape collector behavior, and how a Tiger Woods party exclusive card became a $27,600 moment of cultural debate. We also get into live selling at the Super Bowl, why starting a $40K card at $1 works when the audience is right, and what it means for collectors when platforms like eBay push live formats to the front of the app. This is a look at the hobby from The Staging Area before the action hits the field. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Trust is not a marketing tactic. It is the foundation. In this episode of Passion to Profession, I sit down with Sharon of BlackJadedWolf to talk about what it takes to build a hobby business that lasts. We get into what she’s seeing in the market right now. Repacks. Comps that don’t tell the full story. Where liquidity is real and where it is fragile. Sharon shares how she thinks about responsibility when customers hand her cards that carry real value. Sometimes financial. Sometimes emotional. We talk about why data is a starting point and not a decision-maker. Why research still matters. Why relationships matter more. This is a conversation about independence. About accountability. About playing the long game in a hobby that often rewards short-term thinking. This episode is sponsored by eBay. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode moves the WNBA Card Podcast into the early 2000s, when Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi reshaped how fans connected to the league and how collectors thought about WNBA cards. It was a time defined by team-first collecting, limited media coverage, and cards that reflected presence and performance rather than profit. Katelyn is joined by Elodie (@egintz5), a collector from France whose Sue Bird collection is built on commitment and distance. They talk through early card design choices that still matter today, including first game jersey cards, rookie redemptions, and on-card autos from an era before overproduction. The conversation widens to international collecting and the reality of building a collection without local card shops. Long shipping timelines, US mailboxes, and community built through trust. It is a reminder that WNBA cards travel far beyond the league’s borders and that players like Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi became anchors for collectors who stayed for the love of the game. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Royal Rumble season is the moment when wrestling and collecting collide. Storylines sharpen. Careers tilt. And the card market reacts in real time. What happens in the ring doesn’t stay there. It shows up in sales, demand, and how collectors rethink their positions. In this episode, Adam and Ryan break down the 2026 Royal Rumble through a collector’s lens. They talk about why Liv Morgan’s win mattered beyond the pop, how Roman Reigns winning wasn’t about surprise but certainty, and why WrestleMania season rewards collectors who understand momentum before it becomes obvious. They also dig into AJ Styles’ legacy moment and what consistency looks like in both wrestling and collecting. Not every reaction needs to be a flip. Not every spike needs to be chased. The episode walks through how seasoned collectors separate noise from signal when the spotlight gets brighter. This conversation is about staying grounded when the market heats up. About knowing when to act, when to hold, and when to ignore the crowd. If you collect with intention and want your decisions to match what you actually value, this episode will resonate. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode is about how collectors actually think when the noise gets loud. Pack and Brett work through the week that sits right on top of the Super Bowl and right in the middle of a Prizm release. The market is moving. Opinions are flying. Prices are changing in real time. They break down what cultural impact means for players like Shedeur Sanders and why performance alone no longer tells the full story. They look at Prizm in hand and how design, feel, and timing change perception. They dig into post playing day cards and why rigid rules often fall apart once a card hits your search results. You’ll hear why some collectors chase liquidity while others chase conviction. Why Kabooms command attention. Why certain golds feel overpriced until they don’t. And why patience keeps showing up as the hardest skill to learn. This is a conversation for collectors who trust their taste more than the comment section and want to build collections they can stand behind five years from now. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This is a two-part episode about conviction in a hobby that rarely slows down. I start with Justin Wickizer, Director of Marketplace at PSA, to unpack the thinking behind the PSA Vault Spotlight Auction. We talk about why PSA is leaning into curated auctions, how attention and storytelling shape outcomes, and what it means when high-end cards meet the reach of eBay. This part of the conversation pulls back the curtain on how institutions think about trust, visibility, and collector behavior in today’s market. Then the episode shifts from infrastructure to instinct. I’m joined by Andy to talk about building a 90s collection right now. Not from a hype angle, but from a place of intent. Andy shares how he approaches rarity, why research matters more than speed, and how patience and refinement have reshaped his collection over time. Together, these conversations explore the same question from two angles. How do you collect with confidence when everything around you is loud? Check out PSA Vault's Spotlight Auction Follow Andy (@byebyebabycards) Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby is in the middle of a real transition. Licenses are moving. Logos are changing. Timelines feel unclear. And a lot of collectors feel uneasy without knowing why. This episode is not about what to buy next. It is about how to think while something big shifts around you. Panini to Topps. Fanatics stepping in. New marketing. New noise. Same collector sitting at home asking one quiet question. What does this mean for the way I collect? We talk mindset. Identity. Anxiety. Hype cycles. First year and last year traps. Why urgency feels loud right now. And how to slow down without falling behind. This episode is for collectors who want clarity, agency, and confidence while the ground feels like it is moving. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
We are standing at a turning point in the hobby. Before we rush into what comes next, this episode slows things down and looks back at the Panini era. Not to praise it. Not to tear it down. To understand it. Panini did more than release products. It reshaped how collecting looks, feels, and moves. From Prizm changing modern card design, to product ladders, chase mechanics, and a release calendar that never stopped, this era trained collectors in ways many of us did not notice in real time. This episode breaks down what actually happened during the Panini run. How the hobby expanded. How attention replaced intention. How rarity, desire, and visibility became tangled. And why understanding this era gives you more control as we head into the next one. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Trust does not come from volume. It comes from choices made over time. In this episode of Passion to Profession, I sit down with Mike from MC Sports Cards to talk about how reputation became the foundation of his business. We get into why he chose quality over scale, how referrals built a powerful network effect, and what it really takes to earn trust when handling five and six figure cards. We also break down high-end cards on eBay, the impact of Authenticity Guarantee, MC Mondays, and why sometimes the best way to build trust is to say no to business. If you care about long-term relationships in the hobby, this one is for you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Before parallels.Before hype cycles.Before anyone talked about value. This episode goes back to where WNBA card collecting began. Katelyn sits down with Anne Marie of Women on Topps to unpack the late 1990s and early 2000s. A period when the league and the cards were being built at the same time. No rules. No roadmap. No expectations. They walk through the first licensed sets, cards that came in cans, early autographs, die cuts, shoe relics, and redemptions. More important, they talk about how collectors showed up back then. Team focused. Set driven. Community first. This conversation is about history.It’s about why this era still matters.And it’s about what modern collectors can learn from a time when collecting felt closer to fandom than finance. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Royal Rumble week always brings noise. This one brings signal. Adam and Ryan are joined by Brett for a wide-ranging conversation that sits right at the intersection of wrestling storytelling and wrestling cards. Sami Zayn. AJ Styles. Logan Paul. Bron Breakker. Bianca Belair. Liv Morgan. If it matters this weekend, it’s on the table. They break down Royal Rumble predictions, surprise entrants, and what major story beats mean for the card market right now. From Black Finite Prizm cards to Cactus Jack Chrome, from Panini nostalgia to what Topps is doing next, this episode looks at how collectors react when moments, scarcity, and emotion collide. They also dig into how collectors actually buy today. eBay. Private deals. Group chats. Facebook. Even digital repacks. What works. What doesn’t. And why relationships still matter more than any platform. If you collect wrestling cards with intention, this episode will feel familiar.If you don’t, it might change how you look at the hobby. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of The Football Card Podcast, Pack Nicholson and Brett McGrath start with the story no one predicted but everyone is now reacting to — Super Sam Darnold. They talk through what Darnold’s rise says about patience, belief, and what happens when a player finally lands in the right situation. It becomes a broader conversation about why collectors who hold conviction often win long after the market moves on. From there, the episode expands into Prizm Iron Men and why checklist longevity matters more than surface-level accolades. They debate who truly deserves the title of King of Prizm and what sustained relevance across product cycles actually signals. They close by breaking down recent market sales across Prizm, Flawless, Rubies, and Superfractors, touching on record defensive card sales, undervalued legends like Marshall Faulk, modern bets like Caleb Williams, and why collecting with belief beats collecting with consensus every time. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Built for the Hobby, Brett sits down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-founder of InfernoRed Technology, for an unscripted conversation on AI and its impact on the sports card hobby. There was no outline. No talking points. Just a real discussion on what AI means right now for collectors and hobby businesses. This is not an episode about hype or fear. Scott breaks down AI as a tool, where it is already showing up in the hobby, and why waiting for things to go back to how they were is not realistic. The conversation touches on speed, trust, human judgment, and why AI works best when it supports people instead of replacing them. If you collect cards, run a hobby business, or want to understand what is changing beneath the surface, this episode will help you think more clearly about what comes next and how to approach AI with intention instead of resistance. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Over the last two decades, the average human attention span dropped from two and a half minutes to forty seconds. That reality is reshaping how collectors think, buy, and build. In this flagship episode of Stacking Slabs, Brett examines how shrinking attention impacts collecting decisions, long term satisfaction, and the ability to stay focused in a hobby that never stops moving. The episode explores shiny object syndrome, abandoned collecting lanes, and the constant pressure created by product drops, social feeds, auctions, and hobby content. It also outlines practical ways collectors can take control of their attention. Clarifying priorities. Filtering noise. Creating space to collect with intention. This episode is about protecting focus so a collection reflects personal values rather than momentary hype. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of The Staging Area, presented by dcsports87, I’m back with Tory to break down what’s really happening in the market right now. We start with the $45,100 Victor Wembanyama White Geometric Auto sale and use it as a lens to talk about something bigger than one card. Are these prices realWho is actually buyingWhy Topps Chrome basketball keeps commanding attentionAnd what liquidity really means in 2026 If you collect modern cards, sell singles, or think about timing and pricing, this conversation will challenge how you look at the market and your own collection. This episode is about clarity, not predictions. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Trust decides who stays and who leaves in this hobby. In this episode of Passion to Profession, Brett sits down with Josh from PC Sportscards to talk about what it takes to build a business collectors trust with their cards, their money, and their time. Josh walks through how PC Sportscards scaled during a period of growth while keeping transparency front and center. From fixed price listings that outperform auctions to grading workflows built around over communication, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how real trust gets built. You will hear why mistakes are not the risk. Hiding them is.Why customers for life matter more than fast transactions.And why technology, process, and empathy all work together. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Before the WNBA existed, women were already playing.Competing. Traveling. Winning. In this episode of the WNBA Card Podcast, Katelyn sits down with Cindy Dick (@giantlegends_, founder of On Her Mark and one of the most respected voices in vintage women’s sports cards. They explore women’s basketball cards from the 1920s through the early 1990s. Chocolate cards. Employer league teams. College sets. International releases. Cards that existed when opportunity was limited and visibility was rare. This conversation connects the dots between history, representation, and collecting.Why these cards matter.What they tell us about the game before the league.And why understanding this era changes how you look at modern WNBA cards. If you collect women’s basketball, this episode gives you context you cannot skip. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The road to the Royal Rumble always brings noise. Storylines shift. Favorites emerge. Markets react. Adam Gellman and Ryan from RBICru7 break down what actually matters right now in wrestling cards. They talk through potential Royal Rumble outcomes and what those results mean for card values. They compare hype versus reality for names like Sami Zayn, Bron Breakker, Liv Morgan, Tiffany Stratton, and Rhea Ripley. They explain why some wrestlers move markets while others never do. They also dig into real data. Card Ladder trends. GemRate numbers. What the data says. What it misses. And why wrestling cards don’t behave like other categories. This episode closes with honest advice for collectors. How to start a PC. How to avoid chasing noise. And how to build something that still matters years from now. If you collect wrestling cards, this one helps you slow down and make better decisions. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Somewhere between those two truths is where football card collecting lives. This episode moves through the chaos of championship football and the chaos of the hobby. Big moments. Bigger emotions. We talk about hype cycles in real time. How collectors react when prices move fast. Why some cards feel right even when the data feels wrong. From modern quarterbacks carrying the future of the market to forgotten defenders with stories that never leave This is a conversation about how collectors think when the season is ending and the pressure is rising. If you collect football cards with your head and your heart this episode speaks your language. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most of the hobby never shows up on your feed. This episode focuses on the part of collecting that lives outside social media, marketplaces, and public sales. The cards that stay locked in personal collections. The collectors who never post. The demand that never shows itself online. Brett shares why relying only on what you see can shape your decisions in the wrong direction. He walks through my own chase for Andrew Luck cards that never appeared for sale and how relationships, patience, and asking questions led to access. This conversation is about learning how to collect with clarity when supply looks thin, prices feel unclear, and hype moves fast. It is about building conviction without needing validation from a screen. If you want to think deeper about scarcity, demand, and what matters in your collection, this episode is for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This flagship episode of Stacking Slabs explores why community plays such a critical role in card collecting. The episode opens with a personal moment involving a missed opportunity on a 2013 Reggie Wayne Gold Prizm /10, the final card needed to complete a long-term collecting run. What follows is not a story about price or timing, but about a fellow collector who stepped in, prioritized the relationship, and helped make the moment possible. That experience becomes the foundation for a broader conversation about how trust, reputation, and shared purpose shape outcomes in the hobby. Throughout the episode, Brett examines how collecting in community leads to better experiences and better results. He breaks down how relationships help surface cards that never hit the open market, why generosity often creates access, and how long-term collectors benefit from giving before they need something in return. The discussion challenges the idea that collecting is a solo pursuit and reframes community as a form of leverage that compounds over time. This episode is not about what to buy or when to buy. It is about how collectors show up for one another, how trust is built through repeated actions, and why the strongest collections are often backed by strong relationships. For anyone who collects with intention, this episode offers a reminder that the real value in the hobby often comes from the people behind the cards. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Card Ladder Confidential is back for 2026 with a conversation built for collectors who care about signal over noise. Brett sits down with Chris and Josh to pressure test what growth in the hobby means right now. They unpack real data from Card Ladder, including price indexes and transaction volume, and ask the hard question. Is the hobby growing or getting louder. The discussion moves into research as a collector edge, why price is only the opinion of two people, how types of cards earn long term demand, and where private deals fit when comps fail. This episode is for you if you want to collect with intent, build conviction, and understand what actually lasts when attention shifts. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession, presented by eBay, Brett sits down with Aaron and Curt from BBC Emporium for a real conversation about trust in the hobby. They pull back the curtain on what it really looks like to buy entire collections.Not the edited version.The real one. You hear how engineering backgrounds shape their operation.Why transparency matters when someone hands you their life’s collection.How paying strong creates leverage years later.And why reputation still beats short term margins. This episode is for you if you’ve ever thought about selling a collection. Or buying one. Or building a business that lasts in the hobby. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Season four of the WNBA Card Podcast starts with intent. This episode sets the foundation for everything that follows. Katelyn and Brett reintroduce themselves as collectors and explain why this season takes a different path. Instead of chasing weekly trends or short-term noise, this season focuses on how WNBA cards came to be and why that history matters today. They walk through the philosophy behind season four, the idea of staying power, and why understanding past eras gives you an edge as a collector. From early scarcity and limited representation to the modern acceleration driven by Prizm, Caitlin Clark, and new collector demand, this episode frames the roadmap for the season ahead. If you collect WNBA cards or want to understand them beyond surface-level hype, this episode gives you the context to collect with clarity and confidence. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Wrestling cards are changing. Fast. In Episode 2 of Booked to Last, Adam Gellman and Ryan Bannister break down what actually matters right now in the wrestling card market. Drew McIntyre’s title run sparks a real conversation about hobby respect, pricing, and why some stars still feel mispriced. The guys dig into prospecting the WWE and NXT roster, giving honest star ratings on names like Trick Williams, Jordynne Grace, Oba Femi, and more. They also hit the biggest card stories of the week, including Prizm Black one-of-ones, Kaboom sales, Topps Universe inscriptions, and why certain modern wrestling cards are starting to behave like legacy assets. This episode is about understanding momentum, knowing what you’re buying, and collecting with intention instead of chasing noise. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | InstagramFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett open the episode inside the emotion of playoff football and what those moments do to collectors. Bears wins. Caleb Williams belief. The kind of games that change how you see your cards forever. From there, the conversation shifts to the hobby. Justin Herbert’s seven-figure sales with zero playoff wins. What that tells you about timing, hype, and risk. Why some parallels age with grace while others fade fast. And how one Patrick Mahomes game-used Shield reframes scarcity in real time. They close with real sales, real numbers, and a reminder every collector needs to hear. Relationships matter. Community matters. The cards you remember most are tied to moments you felt, not comps you chased. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most conversations about collectability happen after prices move. This episode takes the opposite approach by exploring what makes something collectible before hype and money show up. It breaks down the fundamentals that tend to endure across cycles, including scarcity, demand, cultural relevance, story, and trust. Using examples from different eras of the hobby, the episode examines why some cards maintain long term interest while others fade once attention shifts. The conversation also explores the psychology behind collecting, including nostalgia, the thrill of the hunt, identity, and community. It looks at how emotional connection and shared belief shape what collectors value over time. The episode offers a clear framework for thinking about collectability with intention, helping collectors evaluate what they own and what they pursue beyond short term trends. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby does not slow down. It expands. More releases, more parallels, more noise telling you what you should care about next. Without a filter, it is easy to collect reactions instead of building something that matters. In this flagship episode, I revisit one of the most important ideas in my collecting journey. Shrinking the Sea. This is about narrowing your focus so your collection reflects what you value, not what the market or your feed is pushing. I share personal stories from stepping back from wrestling cards during manufacturer chaos and refining my football collection by focusing on type, consistency, and card attributes that resonate with me. We talk about why chasing everything leads to burnout, how patience changes decision making, and how to build a simple framework for evaluating cards before FOMO shows up. You do not need every card. When you shrink the sea, the hobby becomes calmer, more intentional, and more rewarding. This episode is for collectors who want clarity, confidence, and a collection built around what matters most. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Hype drives the hobby. It always has. The question is what you do when it shows up. Brett sits down with Tory from dcsports87 to break down how hype actually works in real time. They talk Topps Chrome Basketball, Cooper Flagg prices, Jordan autos, McDavid Young Guns, and why some hype creates opportunity while other hype burns collectors. This is a grounded conversation about timing, liquidity, regret, and sustainability. If you collect, buy, sell, or break cards, this episode helps you slow the moment down and make decisions that still make sense when the noise fades. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In an unregulated hobby, trust fills the gaps where rules do not exist. In this episode of Passion to Profession, Brett McGrath sits down with Michael Osacky, Founder of Baseball in the Attic and PSA’s lead appraiser, to talk about what really protects collectors and businesses today. They unpack why reputation functions as currency, how bad actors thrive in gray areas, and why most collectors assume protection exists when it does not. Michael shares hard-earned lessons from decades in the hobby, including why 95 percent of his business comes from referrals, how he handles emotionally charged conversations, and why playing the long game beats chasing quick wins every time. This conversation is about ethics, consistency, and doing the work when nobody is watching. It is also a blueprint for collectors and hobby businesses who want to build something that lasts in a space that moves fast and remembers everything. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Michael | Instagram | Baseball in the Attic ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Season three closes with reflection and a clear look forward. Brett and Katelyn talk through what changed this year, what surprised them, and why this season felt different. More restraint. More conviction. Less chasing. More meaning. They also pull the curtain back on what comes next. Season four becomes a collector narrated oral history of WNBA cards. Eras over hype. Stories over prices. Community over noise. This episode sets the foundation for where the show is going and why it matters if you care about women’s basketball and the cards that tell its story. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The wrestling card hobby is not built like the rest of the card world. It never has been. In the debut episode of Booked to Last, Adam Gellman and Ryan Bannister sit down to explain why wrestling card collectors move differently, think differently, and collect with a level of loyalty that rarely exists elsewhere in the hobby. They share their personal collecting journeys, how wrestling cards pulled them back into the hobby, and why relationships matter more than transactions in this space. The conversation spans the Road to WrestleMania, prospecting wrestlers like Bron Breakker, the impact of Topps releases, historic relics, and what recent high-end sales reveal about where wrestling cards are headed. This episode sets the foundation for the show.Who they are.Why wrestling cards matter.And why this corner of the hobby isn’t going anywhere. Check out RbiCru7 for all your wrestling and sports card needs! Join Adam's Main Event Wrestling Cards group for free Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon Follow Ryan: | Instagram | Website | YouTubeFollow Adam: | X | Instagram Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Episode 29 moves fast and covers a lot of ground, the way real collecting conversations unfold. Pack and Brett open with jersey number 29 legends before shifting into a deeper discussion on defensive players, why they remain undercollected, and how limited card catalogs can create opportunity for collectors paying attention. The conversation then turns to hobby resolutions, slowing down, researching more, and pushing back on the pressure to chase every release as it hits the market. The episode spends significant time on 2025 Prizm, including reactions to the design, checklist decisions, and the tension between excitement and obligation for longtime Prism collectors. From there, the discussion moves into playoff storylines, quarterback legacy questions, and how Super Bowl outcomes continue to shape the football card market. The episode closes with notable recent sales, vintage football cards gaining traction, and what value looks like when hype starts to cool. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The sports card space keeps growing. Prices rise. Products multiply. New companies enter every month. Some collectors say the hobby is gone. Replaced by an industry. In this episode, Brett argues it can be both. And explains why the difference matters more than ever in 2026. He shares why 2025 was his best year collecting. Why research is the strongest edge collectors have. Why niche content strengthens the hobby. Why not all one of ones are equal. And why the top of the funnel for new collectors is failing. This is a collector-first perspective on what needs to be protected, what needs to change, and what needs to be built if this hobby is going to last. If you care about cards. If you care about staying power. If you care about doing this the right way. This episode is for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In the first flagship episode of 2026, Stacking Slabs explores how curiosity shapes conviction in collecting. The episode centers on a missed card. A 2020 Crown Royale Tyrese Haliburton Crystal Platinum 1/1. The loss was not about price. It was about timing and understanding. As the research deepened, interest turned into attachment. Learning changed how the card was viewed and why it mattered. This episode examines the difference between hype and conviction. Borrowed excitement versus earned belief. It challenges the idea that desire starts with price or scarcity. Instead, it argues that understanding creates confidence. The conversation invites collectors to slow down.To research with intention. And to build collections that reflect who they are, not what is trending. If a card has ever meant more after its story was understood, this episode speaks directly to that experience. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession, presented by eBay, I’m joined by Drew Hester, Chief Operating Officer at Greg Morris Cards. We talk about what it takes to run a high-volume operation without losing the human side of the hobby. Why trust beats transactions. Why vintage behaves differently than modern. And why consistency and communication still win, even as the hobby moves faster than ever. Drew shares his path from entrepreneur to operator, what he’s learned studying collector behavior up close, and why Greg Morris Cards has stayed relevant by playing the long game. If you care about relationships, stability, and building something that lasts in the hobby, this conversation is for you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Episode 28 brings perspective to a loud football card market. We break down Jonathan Taylor’s real shot at a rushing Triple Crown, what the data says about running backs right now, and how collectors can stay patient as prices rise. We dig into 1998 Fleer Brilliance 24 Karat Golds and why awareness changed the ceiling on one of football’s most important parallels. Then we step back into the Kaboom Room. Mahomes. Drake Maye. One of ones. Big money. Bigger marketing forces. We close with Market Watch, PC updates, and a new community prompt around heal cards Cards you own even when the player makes you cringe. If you collect football cards, this episode gives you context without the noise. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
2025 was not a random spike. It was a convergence. In this episode, Brett steps back from individual card sales and looks at the forces that pushed the hobby into a true bull market. Online sales hit record highs. Platforms evolved. Corporations moved in. New collectors showed up. The center of gravity shifted. This is a collector-first breakdown of what drove the growth in 2025 and why it matters when you buy, sell, and hold cards. Topics covered include • Why $422M in online sales in a month matters more than any single card • How Fanatics, Topps, eBay, and live commerce reshaped demand • The rise of breakers, repacks, and platform-driven velocity • What corporate money changes for collectors on the ground • Signals to watch as the market moves into 2026 This episode is about context. Because better context leads to better decisions. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode is a reflection on Brett’s five favorite pick ups of the year. Not the most expensive cards. Not the cards that performed the best. The cards that earned their place. Each one forced a decision. Each one required sacrifice. Each one shifted the direction of his collection. Brett breaks down why he wanted each card, what he ignored, what he said no to, and what owning it changed. The conversation focuses on timing, relationships, negotiation, and why one of ones continue to matter at this stage of his collecting journey. This episode is about collecting with intention. Fewer cards. Stronger conviction. For collectors who care about why they buy, not only what they buy. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This is the final episode of The Staging Area for 2025, presented by dcsports87. Brett and Tory break down ten cards that sold through dcsports87 this year and use them as a lens to read the market. Not as predictions. As signals. The conversation spans multiple sports and eras, from early Prizm basketball and vintage baseball to modern football, soccer, hockey, and NIL cards. Along the way, Brett and Tory discuss what these sales reveal about collector behavior, shifting demand, and where attention is quietly moving. They also dive into the launch of Topps Chrome Basketball, how wax pricing often leads singles performance, and why some products sustain momentum while others fade. The episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on patience, risk, and common mistakes collectors make when they move too fast. If you want context instead of noise heading into the next year, this episode is for you. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Jayne Peressini returns to Passion to Profession for a second conversation. She works on product inside eBay Collectibles and lives this market every day. This episode focuses on signals that shape the hobby beyond headline sales. We talk about Supply and how to read it without emotionLiquidity and time to cashVelocity and why turnover mattersWhy comps lag realityHow collectors build strategy with limited budgetsWhat demand looks like when you zoom outThis is a collector conversation grounded in product reality.If you buy, sell, or plan your collection with intent, this episode will change how you look at the market. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
2025 gave WNBA collectors plenty to react to. New products. Bigger prices. Louder noise. In this episode, Katelyn and Brett slow it down and reflect on what the year actually taught them as collectors. They walk through five lessons shaped by real decisions. Cards they chased. Cards they missed. Teams they rode with. Moments that stuck. You’ll hear why patience is not passive. Why one card can outweigh ten. Why losses can matter more than wins. Why community keeps this space grounded. And why your lane as a collector belongs to you. If you’re thinking about how you want to collect in 2026, this episode gives you a framework to do it with intention. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of The Football Card Podcast, Pack and Brett step back and look at the category as a whole. They dig into recent rookie quarterback classes and what they actually mean long term. They compare Prizm and Topps Chrome and why one still anchors football collecting. They unpack why Kabooms live in their own lane. This conversation is about context, restraint, and conviction. If you collect football cards and want to feel more confident about what you buy and why, this episode is for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this flagship episode of Stacking Slabs, Brett reflects on how his relationship with collecting shifted over the past year. The change was not driven by bigger cards, higher prices, or chasing status. It came from slowing down, buying fewer cards, and spending more time with the ones that stayed. He shares why he stopped explaining cards through history or market logic and started focusing on what they meant to him personally. The episode explores restraint, patience, and learning to trust internal signals instead of outside validation. Brett talks openly about the cards he did not buy, the auctions he walked away from, and the trade offs that sharpened his direction as a collector. This conversation is for collectors who feel overwhelmed by volume, noise, or pressure to keep chasing. It is about building in instead of building up, gaining clarity through honesty, and allowing a collection to reflect how you think today rather than how you used to think. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Trust is the foundation of the hobby. In this episode of Built for the Hobby, I sit down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-founder of InfernoRed Technology, to break down what the Snype shutdown revealed about hobby tech. We talk about what happens when platforms ship too fast. How security gets missed when no one owns it. And why protecting collector data is a responsibility, not a feature. If you use hobby tech or build it, this conversation matters. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Mike Nett, GM of Trading Cards and Memorabilia at eBay, joins Passion to Profession to share his path from childhood collecting to running the largest trading card marketplace in the world. We talk about how his experiences at Pepsi, Amazon, and PSA shaped the way he thinks about collectors, sellers, and trust at scale. Mike pulls back the curtain on how eBay makes product decisions, why sellers are the engine of the hobby, what 2025 data revealed about collector behavior, and how small experience changes can have massive impact. This conversation is about growth, perspective, and building for collectors without losing the human side of the hobby. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The first year of a premium product always carries weight. This week, Brett and Katelyn sit with that moment. WNBA Impeccable is here.High price.Low card count.On card autos.Timeless Moments. But the real question is not whether it looks good. It is what a first like this asks of you as a collector. We talk through primacy and why firsts matter. The risk of buying without comps. The opportunity created when context does not exist yet. And how collectors decide when to sit out or step in. This is a collector conversation.Not a hype cycle. Not a checklist read. If you care about meaning, patience, and conviction in your collection, this episode is for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of The Football Card Podcast, Pack Nicholson and Brett dig into one of the hardest questions in the hobby. Who is the GOAT when it comes to defensive players and their cards? They break down real sales data, look at names like Aaron Donald, Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Lawrence Taylor, and Reggie White, and explain why defensive players still lag behind quarterbacks in the market. You also hear a deep conversation on spending time with your collection, why connecting cards matters, and how meaning forms when cards stop living in cases and start living together. The guys react to recent sales including a 2012 Ray Lewis Gold Prizm, Ed Reed 2002 Finest X-Factor, Jordan Love Contenders Cracked Ice, and a shockingly cheap Philip Rivers Prizm Gold. If you collect football cards with intention, this one hits home. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Card Ladder Confidential is back. This episode sits at the intersection of data, taste, and decision making. Chris and Josh break down recent football card sales that stopped them in their tracks and explain why some prices make sense while others raise real questions. You hear how defensive players stack up from a card market view. Why scarcity and set context matter more than hype. This conversation is not about chasing headlines. It is about understanding the signal inside the noise. If you use data to guide your collecting but still trust your instincts, this episode is for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most collectors chase what other people want. Hot players. Fast flips. Short term noise This episode pushes back. When you narrow your focus and collect for yourself, value follows. Not because you chased it. Because you built with intent. In this flagship episode, Brett walks through why focus changes outcomes in collecting. You will hear about • Why buying fewer cards often leads to better results• How personal interest sharpens decision making• The link between patience, restraint, and long term value• Why end collectors matter more than speculators• How focused collections earn respect over time This is not anti profit. This is about alignment. When your collection reflects who you are, the experience improves and the results follow. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode is a look back at the year through the lens of volume, behavior, and decision making. Tory from dcsports87 joins the show to break down what actually mattered this year and what sellers should pay attention to heading into next year. We talk through • Why volume changed the business • How technology shaped the consignment experience • What repackers changed in buyer behavior • Where demand showed up across sports and non-sports • Why certain cards still anchor value across cycles • What sellers misunderstand about growth and scale This is not a hype recap. It is a signal check from someone who sees thousands of transactions a day. If you sell cards, consign cards, or track the market closely, this episode gives you clarity on what moved the needle and why it matters going forward A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this solo edition of Passion to Profession, Brett shares the full story of how Stacking Slabs moved from a passion project to his profession. He takes listeners back to his earliest days as a collector, walks through the moment he lost his job, and explains why the search for purpose pushed him to go all in on the hobby. He breaks down how fifteen years of professional experience shaped the way he built the brand, the challenges of year one, and the lessons that helped him stay aligned with what matters. This episode gives collectors and creators a clear view of what happens when someone follows the work that gives them energy and commits to it with intention. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This week’s episode centers on one card.A card that took time, sacrifice, and a lot of reflection to land. Katelyn walks through her journey to the 2019 Donruss Optic Gold Napheesa Collier Rookie out of 10.We talk through the delay, the negotiation, the sacrifices she made, and why the moment the card hit her mailbox everything felt worth it. This conversation goes deep into intention, focus, and the reality of chasing a player you believe in.We explore why collectors lose their way when distractions take over and how the right card can bring you back home. We also cover the Edna Campbell masterpiece one of one sale, break down a group of college players and how their games might translate to the league, and spotlight a collector with wild focus. A full episode built around passion, purpose, and the mindset behind a meaningful pickup. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett kick off season three with real talk about the hobby and the season. They break down the Brady Superfractor sale, the Mahomes Gold Vinyl run, and why collectors are giving more attention to early parallels. They talk through the Colts chaos, the Philip Rivers shockwave, and what it means when a whole fan base goes through it at the same time. They close with market trends, personal pickups, and this season’s first Card Call Out. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett shares the story behind picking up his biggest card of the year. The 2012 Prizm Reggie Wayne Black Finite 1/1. He walks through the moment the card surfaced, the nerves, the patience, the conversations, the resources, and the sacrifice that follows higher end deals. This is a look at what happens when a card forces you to make a decision about where your collection is headed and what needs to leave to bring something in. This is not a playbook. This is one collector talking through a rare moment when preparation and opportunity meet. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett opens up about the part of collecting that most of us skip. We spend money. We chase. We watch auctions. We plan budgets. We negotiate. We talk about cards all day.We never sit with the cards we already own. This episode breaks down why that gap matters and why your collecting experience shifts the moment you slow down and spend real time with your collection. Brett shares a Saturday night story, the science behind flow states, and the emotional and mental benefits that surface when you sit with your cards on the floor and reconnect with what you built. If you feel stuck or pulled by the pace of the hobby, this one helps you reset your compass. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett introduces a new format built to help you slow down the week and add context to the moments that shape your collecting. He walks through the record sale of the 2005 Finest Tom Brady Superfractor, shares why a run of Panini One and One golds pulled him deeper into the product, and talks through the tension between hobby marketing and collector retention. This episode gives you space to think about what matters and why.If you want more collector focused content, this format tests a new way to deliver it. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Adam from AMT Memorabilia returns to Passion to Profession for a real look at what it takes to grow a consignment and breaking business on eBay. We talk about the value of domain knowledge, hiring people who know cards, and why trust inside this space matters more than anything. Adam shares why TCG is exploding, why soccer has been a surprise category, and why the vintage segment holds steady. We also walk through real sales from AMT including Messi, Curry, Judge, Mickey Mantle, and even three cases of Flawless Basketball. He breaks down why he built a new consignment portal, the role his personal collection plays in funding growth, and why low numbered cards get locked away faster than ever. If you want to understand what scale looks like in the hobby and what it takes to serve collectors the right way, this episode gives you that view. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
New releases are stacking up, and collectors feel the pull. In this episode, Brett and Katelyn break down how the WNBA release cycle shapes excitement, FOMO, and collecting identity. They talk through the pressure of new products, the challenge of staying grounded, the role of restraint, and the moments that push a collector toward cards that hold real meaning. A focused look at how new releases help, distract, and deepen the collecting experience. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett close season two with the type of episode that reminds you why football cards pull you in the way they do. They talk the weight of number twenty four, the players who shaped our fandom, and the cards that changed how they think about collecting. They get into the PMGs, the Crusades, the modern parallels, and why shine matters more than most collectors admit. They walk through the Stafford Superfractor drop, the Gibbs Gold Vinyl run, the Elway PMG Red sale, and the Dickerson rookie that feels stronger every year. They talk why this league pulls out every emotion and why the hobby reflects that same energy. The season closes with a collecting challenge. It opens with gratitude for you. Season three is coming. Thanks for being here. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
You respond to certain cards without thinking. A pattern hits your eye. A refractor shines a certain way.A texture pulls you in. Why? In this episode, we talk about the power of familiarity in your collecting. We explore why your brain gives extra credit to designs you already know and why nostalgia plays a bigger role in your buying than you might admit. From PMG Championship to Scope, from Superfractor to Gold Vinyl, from Atomic to Cracked Ice. These visuals tie generations of collectors together.Brett walks through the psychology, the science, and the moments in your own journey that shaped how you collect today. You hear why brands keep returning to familiar cues and why those cues build trust faster than anything new. This episode aims to help you understand why some cards feel right the second you see them and why the past still shapes the future of collecting. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett breaks down the shifts that shaped his collecting in 2025. He talks about moving from player focused to product focused. He shares why Colts Prizm parallels took over his attention. He walks through the questions that helped him sell cards that no longer fit. He talks about the power of clarity, intention, and purpose as a collector. He explains how this focus brought more joy, more energy, and more direction to his hobby life. If you want to think deeper about your own collecting decisions, this episode gives you a clear place to start. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett chats with Tory from dcsports87 to walk through the long road to becoming eBay’s highest volume sports card seller. They talk about the early days, the decisions that shaped the business, and why serving every type of collector opened the door for explosive growth. You’ll hear stories about scaling from kitchen-table sorting to a 50-person operation, building internal tools before hiring, and how dcsports87 built a model that works across every price point. Tory shares insight on staffing, technology, the rise in high-end consignment, and the 2025 plans that will shape the next era of the business. A detailed look at how consistency, trust, and an obsession with serving collectors built one of the most important operations in the hobby. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, Brett sits down with Nick Pivovarnik, Head of Consignment at QuickConsign. Nick brings a clear view of what growth looks like when more cards, more collectors, and more categories hit the market at the same time. They talk about the surge in TCG, the strength of WNBA, the value of speed on new releases, and why collectors want ease above everything else. Nick shares how QuickConsign keeps scaling without losing sight of accuracy, payouts, or customer experience. They also walk through some of the biggest cards sold this year and what those sales say about where the hobby is going next. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett and Katelyn take on the biggest question in the WNBA card space right now. What belongs in the WNBA hobby canon and who gets to decide it? They walk through the Panini license news, the early 2025 Prizm signs, the new Mercury branding, the draft lottery shake-up, and then dig into the cards, players, and moments that shape the foundation of WNBA collecting. Katelyn lays out what she thinks belongs in the early canon and why certain cards stand the test of time.Card Ladder data, collector behavior, player impact, and product history all play a role. They close with pickups, collector spotlight, and a strong round of co-host questions. A collector-driven episode that helps you think about where the WNBA hobby has been and where it’s heading. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett break down episode 23 with new releases, market movement, PC updates, and real NFL talk. They cover surprise listings, big hobby sales, and the dealers who keep cards flowing. Brett shares the story behind landing a new PC pick up. Pack talks through the reality of team collecting and why it leads you to players you never planned to buy. They also hit on Colts and Bears storylines, the schedules ahead, and what the league looks like right now. A full run for football card collectors. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Vote for Heystack for Innovation of the Year Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett shares the ten things he is thankful for in the hobby this year. He talks about the collectors who show up every week, the partners who support the mission, and the growth of Stacking Slabs as a platform. He explains why audio matters, why Instagram still plays a role, and why Prism Football will always mean something to him. He reflects on communication, content, cards, diversity, independent thought, and kindness. This episode is a pause from the noise. A moment to look around and recognize the people, products, and experiences that keep the hobby meaningful. A reminder of why collectors stay connected to this space. Support the show and get 25% off at Shinesty I’m testing a fun partnership with Shinesty. They make underwear, loungewear, pajamas, and other comfortable gear. If you want to check them out, use this link for 25% off your order: https://www.shinesty.com/?ref=stackingslabs Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Completeness sits at the center of why collectors stay engaged. That final card slotted into a binder or case delivers a feeling that pushes the hobby forward. In this episode Brett explores why the pursuit of complete holds so much power. He breaks down the psychology behind the chase, including data from a University of Arizona study that shows motivation increases as collectors move closer to finishing a project. He explains how completeness brings structure to a chaotic hobby, why it raises the value of certain cards, and how it shapes long term decision making for every type of collector. Brett shares real stories from collectors who chase sets, player runs, rainbows, and team projects. He highlights how each collector defines complete on their own terms and why that freedom is the true foundation of meaningful collecting. If you want to bring intention, focus, and purpose to your collecting, this conversation gives you clarity on what completeness means and why it matters. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Built for the Hobby, I sit down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-Founder at InfernoRed Technology, and Ed Snider, Lead Architect and long-time collector. We get into what it feels like to build hobby tech in real time.The day to day. The decisions. The process. The moments when a collector’s instinct adjusts the roadmap. Ed shares what it’s like to build while collecting. Scott talks about why having real collectors in the room changes the outcomes. We walk through discovery, client conversations, pivots, and the influence of AI on how fast ideas become real. If you’ve ever wondered how a hobby idea moves from a conversation to code, this episode gives you a look behind the curtain. If you're building something or thinking about building something, this one speaks your language. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, I sit back down with Tait, the owner of Hoody’s Collectibles. Our last chat happened in February, and a lot has changed since then. We cover what it takes to run a real sports card business in 2025, why some products fly and others stall, and how Tait navigates the swings of the market while managing stores, consignment, and a nonstop flow of collections. We also walk through several standout cards that moved through Hoody’s this year, from Griffey Superfractors to Jordan inserts to vintage Mantle. If you want an honest look at how a shop owner stays sharp, stays connected, and stays growing, this one will hit you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett sit down and talk about the type of collecting that happens when you stop fearing price tags and start trusting your instincts. We get into the mindset shift that lets you land cards you once thought were out of reach. We talk Derrick Henry, early Superfractors, cracked ice autos, Phoenix parallels, and why certain cards feel timeless. We cover auctions, comps, and what these sales say about the football card market right now. We break down why collectors hit turning points when they learn how to maneuver, trade, and sell to chase the right cards. We close by sharing how our collections have evolved this year and what that says about focus, identity, and what you want your box to say back to you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Vote for Heystack for Innovation of the Year Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
You run into a lot of noise when you collect without intention. Safe searches tell you what to buy.Auctions pull you into impulse mode. Random mail days fill the void. This episode is about going on offense. It’s about taking control of your operation and building a collection that feels like you. I break down the difference between accumulation and curation. I share why curation brings clarity, restraint, meaning, pride, and long term happiness. I highlight some collector examples to explain why their pages carry so much weight. If you want to build something you want to keep, this is the episode. Support the show and get 25% off at Shinesty I’m testing a fun partnership with Shinesty. They make underwear, loungewear, pajamas, and other comfortable gear. If you want to check them out, use this link for 25% off your order: https://www.shinesty.com/?ref=stackingslabs Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This episode closes out the Collecting for Keeps series by focusing on trust, legacy, and the future of your collecting journey. I break down what it means to control what you can control, why responsibility matters in every interaction, and how trust shapes your experience in the hobby. We talk about long term thinking, the value of community, and the story your collection tells about you. If you’re looking to reset, refocus, and move with more confidence in the hobby, this episode will help you step forward with clarity and purpose. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett and Tory sit down to talk about shill bidding, trust, and the state of auctions in the hobby. Tory breaks down what DC Sports 87 sees every day, how shill bidding really works, and why defensive shill bidding is not real. This episode gives you the perspective of a seller who runs more auctions than anyone on eBay and cares about protecting the marketplace. If you buy or sell cards, this is a conversation you need to hear. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, Mike Brown from 4 Sharp Corners joins the show to take you inside one of the most trusted operations in the hobby. We sit down to talk about growth, decision making, and why the right processes build trust. Mike shares how he moved from finance into cards, what he learned from working alongside Stan and Roger, and why focus keeps their business moving in the right direction. You’ll hear how they built their consignment division from the ground up, the impact of Probstein leaving eBay, and why their select showcases have changed how collectors think about selling big cards. If you want a better view of where the hobby is headed and how top sellers think, this episode gives you an honest look under the hood. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this week’s episode of the WNBA Card Podcast, Brett and Katelyn dig into the changing WNBA ecosystem and what it means for you as a collector. They break down the rise of new leagues like Unrivaled and Project B, what Paige Bueckers’ dual deals signal for the card world, why design matters more than ever, and how collectors decide what belongs in the canon. You’ll hear honest talk about trust, continuity, player movement, CBA uncertainty, and how new opportunities shape the cards we chase. They close the episode with market talk, a spotlight on a great collector in the community, a few strong questions from the audience, and some fun new pickups. It’s a thoughtful conversation about where this category is heading and how you can stay grounded as the roads expand. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett sit down and talk through the week in collecting and the week in football. They open with family updates and Colts and Bears storylines, then move into Mosaic Football and why the design hits for some collectors and misses for others. They break down borders, true one of ones, and the mindset behind chasing second-year cards of a quarterback who’s starting to figure it out.The conversation shifts to Card Ladder sales as they highlight vintage, Select Gold, and a wild Drake Maye result that raised eyebrows across the hobby. They close with what makes a grail feel like a grail, why the word gets thrown around so often, and why defensive bidding has no place in the hobby. For collectors who love football and want a conversation that meets them where they are, this episode fits the moment. Vote for Heystack for Innovation of the Year Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, Brett sits down with Chris and Josh from Card Ladder for a collector’s conversation that hits every corner of the hobby. They start with what they’re thankful for, move into Josh’s viral post about keeping the hobby about cards—not crypto or stocks—and unpack why financial talk often drowns out what makes collecting meaningful. The group explores the long-term health of the hobby, the fine line between investing and collecting, and the growing influence of gambling culture in cards. Chris shares his framework for what helps and hurts the hobby, while Josh calls out the risks of gamification and how it impacts the average collector. They also go deep on one-of-ones, rarity systems, and why the first year matters—using examples like the 1997–98 Flair Showcase Legacy Collection Kobe Bryant 1/1 and the 2012 Prizm Black Finite DeMarco Murray. The episode closes with talk about protecting your collecting mindset from negativity online and a few exciting new pickups, including a Jonathan Taylor 1/1 that ties everything together. If you care about the future of collecting and the fundamentals that keep it fun, this one’s for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
When prices rise and excitement fills the air, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing out. But real collecting isn’t about chasing hype — it’s about making smart moves that stand the test of time. In this flagship episode, Brett breaks down his personal playbook for collecting with purpose in a bull market. He shares how strategy, execution, and adaptation shape long-term success and help collectors stay grounded when things heat up. You’ll hear about: How to think strategically when the market feels chaoticThe difference between emotional and data-driven buyingWhy execution and timing matter more than everHow to read different types of sellers and negotiate the right wayThe importance of adapting while staying true to your collecting purposeThis one’s for anyone trying to make better moves and collect with intention in a time when everyone seems to be running toward the next big thing. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession, presented by eBay, Brett reconnects with Dave, owner of Sport Card Auctions, who turned his side hustle into a thriving full-time business. Dave shares what it’s like to go all in on the hobby after selling his pizza shop, how he’s navigating a booming 2025 market, and why staying small and remote has helped him grow fast without losing control. They cover everything from eBay’s impact on consignment to why collectors are flocking to Jordan rookies, how AI tools like ChatGPT are helping streamline the work, and why doing the right thing is still the best business strategy in the hobby. If you’ve ever thought about turning your passion into your profession, this one’s for you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What would happen if collectors were in charge of Panini? In this episode, Katelyn and Brett put on their CEO hats and share what they’d change to elevate the WNBA card hobby. From transparency in release schedules to better product balance and stronger marketing, they lay out a collector-first roadmap for the future. They talk wins (lean product cycles, legitimacy, stars at the forefront) and misses (timing, pricing, missed opportunities). They also draft their ideal product lineup, reimagine case hits, and question why Panini isn’t using Caitlin Clark to drive the brand. This is the kind of hobby talk you won’t hear anywhere else—direct, collector-driven, and rooted in love for the game. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett sit down with Chris McGill, cofounder of Card Ladder, to talk about the connection between data, emotion, and the collector’s mindset. They break down: The $93,000 Tom Brady Certified rookie sale and what it means for collectorsWhy some cards gain cultural significance while others stay hiddenThe market for Mahomes, NT shields, and why player-worn still mattersThe role of social media in shaping how we collectChris’ McCaffrey Finite chase and how collectors balance logic and obsessionThis one’s packed with insights from one of the hobby’s sharpest minds. Whether you track the numbers or collect from the heart, this episode will hit home. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Vote for Heystack for Innovation of the Year Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode, Brett shares ten lessons that shaped his perspective on collecting this past month. From emotional connection and nostalgia to the psychology of chasing, filtering noise in a booming market, and why integrity still matters most, this one covers it all. Brett reflects on how personal meaning drives collecting decisions, why dopamine hits from the chase can be both thrilling and dangerous, and how adopting a CEO mindset helps collectors build with intention. He also digs into design, aesthetics, and the power of trust in a growing, often chaotic hobby. Whether you're building your PC, creating content, or trying to stay grounded amid hype, this episode offers clarity for every collector. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Community sits at the center of collecting. It shapes what we chase, who we connect with, and how we grow. In this episode, Brett explores how relationships define our hobby journey. From DM threads to parking lot deals, he shares stories that show how collectors help each other find meaning and momentum. You’ll hear why trust, communication, and shared passion always win, and how the right people can reignite your love for collecting when motivation runs low. This one’s for every collector who’s ever found friendship through a shared card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Most collectors aren’t dropping five figures on a single card. In this episode of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory dig into the heart of the hobby — the middle class. They break down what defines the $1–$500 range, why these cards often get overlooked, and how collectors can thrive in this segment. They also cover: The rise of athlete integration in the hobbyEarly takeaways from Topps Basketball and Bowman UniversitySurging goat prices and what’s driving themWhy product pricing is disconnected from singles performanceThis is a grounded look at how most of us collect — smart, intentional, and focused on what truly matters.A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, Brett sits down with Tim Getsch Founder and Chief Product Officer at COMC, to explore how the platform became the home for the $5 card market and what that means for collectors today. Tim shares why COMC’s mission has always been about optimizing joy for collectors, not chasing speculators. He breaks down what’s really happening in the $5 card economy, how COMC is evolving to handle growing demand, and why he believes the future of the hobby depends on collectors—not investors—taking cards off the market. This conversation covers the psychology of collecting, the growth of graded and TCG cards, and how COMC is adapting its infrastructure to serve the next wave of hobby participation. It’s a grounded and insightful look at building in the hobby for the long haul from one of the most consistent operators in the space. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Bowman Chrome University is back, and this time we’re asking a big question—what would need to be true for women’s Bowman Chrome U cards to mirror Bowman Baseball’s success? Katelyn (@coldlunchcards) and Brett dive deep into the rise of college card collecting, the impact of NIL, and how the Bowman “first” tag is changing the women’s basketball market. From Caitlin Clark’s $78,000 Superfractor sale to Juju Watkins’ latest gold refractor, we explore how college fans are turning into collectors, and what this means for the future of the hobby. We close with listener mailbag questions on Paige Bueckers’ rookie status, college vs. pro card value, and collecting lessons learned along the way. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack Nicholson and Brett McGrath are joined by Josh Johnson from Cardboard Chronicles for a packed conversation that covers every corner of the football card hobby. The trio dives into Bowman University Football and the future of college cards in the NIL era, breaks down their collecting updates (including a Bijan 1/1 and a Tyquan Lewis Black Finite), and debates the biggest “what ifs” in NFL history—from Drew Brees’ near-miss with Miami to Andrew Luck’s early retirement. They wrap with a deep market watch featuring 2012 Gold Prizms, 2014 Bowman Chrome Superfractors, and a $40,000 Barry Sanders sale that happened on a casual Wednesday morning on eBay. If you collect, this one will hit close to home. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Vote for Heystack for Innovation of the Year Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the story of Prizm from every angle — its rise, its impact, and its meaning to collectors. In this final episode of the trilogy, Brett brings it all home. He talks about the psychology behind why we chase, the ritual of collecting, and how Prizm became more than a product — it became culture. From the early Silvers and Golds to Black Finites and Gold Vinyl, this conversation is about legacy, community, and the connection that keeps collectors coming back long after the boxes are gone. Prizm might be changing hands, but what it built still lives on every time we flip a card under the light. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Growth in collecting isn’t only about what you add. It’s also about what you let go of. In this episode, Brett explores the psychology behind selling cards, detaching from pieces you once loved, and how that process shapes the evolution of your collection. You’ll hear how emotional bias, fear of regret, and market conditions can influence your decisions — and why letting go can be the most freeing move a collector can make. If you’ve been wrestling with a card you’re unsure about selling, this episode gives you the clarity and permission to act with confidence. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Built for the Hobby, Brett sits down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-Founder of InfernoRed Technology, to talk about how technology can make collecting more personal, not less. They discuss why automation doesn’t have to feel cold, how platforms like eBay Live and dcsports87 are using tech to build real relationships, and why human-centered design should guide every decision hobby businesses make. Scott shares stories from inside InfernoRed’s work with hobby brands, lessons on balancing authenticity and automation, and how simple features—like messaging in an app—can build trust. If you care about where tech fits in the future of collecting, this is a conversation you’ll want to hear. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Mike from MC Sports Cards is back on Passion to Profession, presented by eBay. In this episode, Mike breaks down how the current bull market feels different from 2021 and why focusing on quality over quantity continues to separate his business. He shares his perspective from the front lines of the hobby—running high-end consignments, navigating collector psychology, and adapting to the demands of a growing market. We also talk about the evolution of MC’s business model, the rise of case hits and repacks, why scarcity matters now more than ever, and the mindset it takes to stay consistent through waves of hobby growth. This one’s a masterclass in staying focused when everything around you feels hot. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Donruss is back in the WNBA for the first time since 2019, and collectors are buzzing. In this episode, Brett and Katelyn talk about what this release means for the WNBA card market, how it lands in the middle of a historic rookie class, and what it teaches us about how collectors approach new products. They discuss Paige Bueckers, Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and how timing shapes collector behavior. If you’ve been thinking about how to handle new releases—or what this moment means for the long game of WNBA collecting—this one’s for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett are back for Episode 18 — the Peyton Manning episode. They kick things off with a trip down memory lane, reliving the Sheriff’s impact on football and collecting. Then it’s time to enter the Kaboom Room to unpack updates to 2025 Absolute Football, including new Super Bowl Kabooms, golds, greens, and the new purple parallel. The guys talk about the staying power of Kabooms, the psychology of collecting, and what happens when collectors start thinking about trimming their PCs to focus on what they love most. They close with NFL talk, hobby hypotheticals, and a market watch featuring some standout football cards from Card Ladder data. If you love football cards, this one’s packed front to back with insight, nostalgia, and collector perspective. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Prizm went from an unknown product in 2012 to the defining set of an entire era. In this episode, Brett breaks down the data, psychology, and collector behavior that fueled Prizm’s rise from underdog to hobby standard. Using insights from Card Ladder, collector conversations, and his own experiences, Brett explores how consistency, accessibility, and collector emotion built one of the most powerful brands in modern collecting. He also looks ahead to what happens next as Fanatics takes over, and why the legacy of Prizm will continue to live on long after the licenses change. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This week on Stacking Slabs, Brett dives into one of his favorite ideas: You’re the CEO of your PC. In this flagship episode, he explores what it means to build your collection with intention—especially in a bull market full of distractions. From defining a vision and setting strategy to creating personal frameworks that guide your pickups, Brett walks through how to move from reactionary collecting to purposeful collecting. He shares personal stories from his Colts and Pacers projects, lessons from the current hobby climate, and how to apply a CEO mindset to make better collecting decisions. If you’ve been questioning what you’re building with your collection, this episode will help you find clarity and direction. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby’s never had more data, tools, or transparency. But are we losing something in the process? In this episode, Brett and Tory dig into the launch of the new dcsports87 app and how it’s changing communication between consignors and collectors. Then they explore a bigger question — what happens when the market becomes too efficient? From the $8K LeBron Downtown PSA 10 to the $7,877 1953 Topps Mantle and the timing of that Jackson Dart XRC Gold sale, the guys break down how data, emotion, and timing all intersect in today’s market. You’ll walk away thinking differently about comps, liquidity, and how technology continues to shape the collector experience. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, I’m joined by Mike and Cameron from Leahi. Mike’s been on the show before, and this time he’s bringing Cameron to share how their team is shaping the way we think about timelessness, supply and demand, and the next generation of collectors. We talk about: The rise of Modern Marvels and why they created the showHow timeless cards outperform hype cyclesThe Ohtani market and what real collector value looks likeWhat history teaches us about sustainability in this current boomHow Leahi’s mindset helps collectors focus on the long gameIf you’re serious about collecting with intention and understanding the market beneath the surface, this one’s for you. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Season 3 kicks off with a big question: is A’ja Wilson the undisputed GOAT of the WNBA? Brett and Katelyn break down her three championships, four MVPs, and two Finals MVPs—and ask why her card market still trails her greatness. Using fresh Card Ladder data, they unpack the real story behind A'ja's market growth, supply challenges, and what it means for WNBA cards moving forward. They also explore: How Wilson’s rookie era with Rittenhouse affects long-term valueWhat collectors can learn from Mahomes’ market trajectoryHow the Aces’ dynasty parallels the Warriors’ riseWhy scarcity and history still drive collector opportunityIt’s the start of another collector-driven, data-backed season of the WNBA Card Podcast. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of The WNBA Card Podcast Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett are back to talk about the $45,000 Marshawn Lynch 2012 Prizm Black Finite sale that set the hobby on fire. The guys dig into why collectors get so caught up in prices, what makes a card “worth it,” and why emotion still drives this entire thing. They also react to 2024 Eminence Football returning with a cut auto checklist featuring Queen Elizabeth II and Eminem, discuss whether they'd trade their entire collections for a Super Bowl win, and share current hobby projects (including Brett’s Daniel Jones Prizm Gold /10 pickup). If you love football cards, this one’s for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, Brett sits down with Chris and Josh from Card Ladder to unpack a year of major shifts in collecting and the market. The trio kick things off with a Mount Rushmore of Panini athletes before diving deep into the emotional and analytical sides of collecting. Chris shares how his approach to collecting Michael Jordan one-of-ones has completely changed his perspective, while Josh talks about why he’s gone all-in on one-of-one football cards. They also break down new data on high-end auctions, explore what the same names at the top really mean for the hobby, and discuss what comes next as Fanatics and Topps take over basketball and football licensing. This one’s loaded with perspective, data, and honest reflection from three people who care deeply about where the hobby is headed. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The hobby is louder than ever. Record sales, endless opinions, and constant new content make it hard to know what really matters. In this flagship episode, Brett explores how collectors can separate the signal from the noise and make sense of the hobby in real time. He revisits ideas from Collecting for Keeps through the lens of today’s booming market, sharing frameworks for identifying what’s meaningful and filtering out the hype. You’ll hear Brett break down: How to identify true signals in the marketWhy hype will always exist, and how to stay groundedThe role of experience, instinct, data, and community in collectingHis personal three-question filter: connection, curiosity, and sacrificeIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the volume of information in the hobby, this one’s for yo Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Josh Johnson has been a fixture in the hobby for years—from his early Cardboard Chronicles interviews to co-founding one of the most trusted tech tools in collecting, Card Ladder. In this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, Josh shares how a collector’s curiosity turned into a full-time career. He talks about rediscovering cards through Pokémon, building software that serves every type of collector, and why letting collectors lead is at the heart of Card Ladder’s DNA. Josh also opens up about the early days of building alongside Chris and Kristina, what makes their team different, and how he balances being both a collector and builder in the same space. This is a story about patience, purpose, and finding meaning in the work you love. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this special bonus episode, Brett and Katelyn close out Season 2 by getting personal about their own collecting psychology. From Napheesa Collier’s leadership moment to lessons from another emotional WNBA Finals, the two reflect on fandom, team heartbreak, and the cards that keep them connected. Katelyn shares a framework she built to map her PC—breaking down why she collects certain players, how she organizes her cards, and what gaps she’s trying to fill. Brett brings perspective on how collectors can use structure and self-awareness to build collections that truly mean something. This one’s for anyone who’s ever stopped to ask, Why do I collect the players and cards I do? Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack Nicholson and Brett are back breaking down another week in football and collecting. They start with a conversation on staying up late for games, reality TV in the early 2000s, and what makes sports the ultimate drama. Then they get into the big topic of the week — 2025 Impeccable Football — why it’s an underappreciated product, what makes it unique, and how it’s quietly built a ten-year legacy. They also answer collector questions on how long to go between card purchases, when to sell rare pieces, the nostalgia of old NFL gear, and why college cards might finally get their hobby moment. From vintage legends like Concrete Charlie to the final run of Panini Prizm, this episode covers collecting psychology, market trends, and why timing is everything in the hobby. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Brett pays tribute to the brand that defined the modern era of collecting: Prizm. Before the all of the licenses change hands, he reflects on the rise of Prizm from an underdog in 2012 to the flagship product that shaped collector behavior, inspired projects, and connected us across sports. From the first time he chased a Colts Gold Prizm to the moments of reflection on what these cards represent, Brett explores why Prizm grabbed both the heads and hearts of collectors — and why its legacy will outlive the logo on the box. If you’ve ever ripped a pack, chased a color match, or built a gold run, this one’s for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Every collector knows the rush of the chase. That pounding heartbeat. The late-night scrolling. The gut pull that logic can’t explain. In this flagship episode, Brett explores The Art of Chasing—a look into the psychology of desire and motivation in collecting. He breaks down why some cards hit harder than others, the difference between surface and core motivation, and how to channel the thrill of the chase with intention. If you’ve ever lost sleep over a card or felt the sting of a missed auction, this one will hit home. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Tory from dcsports87 returns to The Staging Area for a wide-ranging conversation on everything happening right now in the hobby. We kick off with baseball talk and dive deep into Shohei Ohtani’s market—how it reached this level, what still drives it, and which of his cards Tory finds most compelling as a collector. Then we unpack the live-selling wave. Tory shares lessons from DC’s first eBay Live event, what worked, what didn’t, and how he thinks live selling fits into the broader ecosystem. We close with a look at eBay’s authentication delays, the Disney Chrome craze, and what dcsports87's app launch means for collectors. If you’re serious about understanding where the market is heading and how high-volume sellers think, this is one you’ll want to hear. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, I sit down with my friend Josh from PC Sports Cards to talk about scaling a business during one of the hottest stretches the hobby has seen. We cover: Why the entry-level market is the base that supports the entire hobbyHow grading low-end cards can snowball into bigger opportunitiesWhat it takes to hire, scale, and build trust with customers in a fast-moving marketThe opportunities most sellers are overlooking right nowJosh has built one of the most trusted operations in the space. This conversation will give you insight into how to think about growth, customer relationships, and long-term opportunity in the hobby. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett are back with another episode of The Football Card Podcast. This week, they cover a lot of ground: The debut of Flawless Football 2024 and where it stacks up in Panini’s high-end historyThe ongoing debate around buying and selling—why it’s a natural part of collecting and why collectors need to stop worrying about what others do with their cardsBuilding trust when buying, selling, and trading on InstagramNFL rookie check-ins, hobby questions from listeners, and key sales shaping the football card marketWhether you’re chasing gold prizms, figuring out how to handle a deal on Instagram, or sweating out your team’s QB situation, this episode is for you. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Built for the Hobby is a new series on Stacking Slabs where we explore the intersection of technology and sports cards. In the debut episode, Brett sits down with Scott Lock, CEO and Co-Founder of InfernoRed Technology, to discuss why tech matters in the hobby right now. Scott and his team have built software for some of the biggest names in the space including Upper Deck, Collectors, COMC, and dcsports87. In this conversation, they talk about: How the hobby compares to other industries when it comes to tech adoptionWhy innovation has accelerated over the past few yearsCase studies like dcsports87 and the role technology plays in improving collector experiencesThe future of AI, marketplaces, and live selling in cardsWhy pairing domain expertise with technical know-how is a winning formulaIf you’ve ever wondered where technology fits in the sports card hobby and how it might shape your collecting experience, this is the episode to start with. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Why do you collect? In this flagship episode presented by InfernoRed Technology, Brett breaks down the inner forces that keep us coming back to the hobby, even when the market is loud and prices are flying. Connection. Escape. Expression. These three forces separate collecting with meaning from collecting until burnout. Brett shares personal stories, market observations, and feedback from other collectors to explore why these drivers matter more than ever during today’s bull market. If your cards bring you closer to your fandom, give you an escape, or reflect who you are, then you’re collecting for keeps. Check out the awesome software that InfernoRed Technology can build for you. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this edition of Vaulted, Brett sits down with PSA President Ryan Hoge to cover ten key topics shaping PSA and the hobby right now. From turnaround times and submission demand, to PSA’s Vault growth, the eBay partnership, global expansion, offers, repacks, and more—this episode gives collectors a direct line into how PSA is thinking about the future. A special thank you to PSA for sponsoring Vaulted. PSA is the official grading, authentication, and vault provider of Stacking Slabs. LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA 10/10 Day | LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA VAULT | LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA CONSIGNMENT Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, I sit down with my good friend Kevin Randall (@dacaptain37). Kevin went from teaching in the classroom to becoming one of the most trusted full-time dealers in the hobby. We talk about his roots as a collector, the decision to leave teaching, building a business plan, the role of specialization, and why trust is everything when dealing cards. Kevin’s story is one of preparation, community, and betting on yourself. If you’ve ever thought about turning your side hustle into your profession, this conversation will give you plenty to think about. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Kevin: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
It’s the season 2 finale of The WNBA Card Podcast. We’re diving deep into the WNBA playoffs, what championships mean for player collectibility, and how stars like A'ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, Alyssa Thomas, and Kelsey Mitchell are shaping the future of the hobby. We talk through the Panini era of WNBA cards, what makes collecting in this moment different, and why long-time collectors are sitting on hidden gems. Plus, we spotlight a dedicated Tamika Catchings collector and close with a collector mailbag that stretches the imagination of what WNBA cards could be. Season two has been about community, consistency, and momentum. Thank you for being part of it. Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Pack and Brett dive into the collector’s side of football. They cover how injuries shape collecting projects, why Jerry Rice stands alone at the wide receiver spot, and the strange case of 2008 Topps Chrome football vs. basketball. You’ll also hear a 'lil vintage talk with Jim Brown, market updates on Peyton Manning and Tom Brady, and why smashing BINs sometimes feels like the only move. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In the final Cards in Hand episode from The National, brought to you by eBay, I sit down with Joe (@low_pop_papi) to talk Panini era inserts.We get into why inserts from this time deserve more attention, how parallels like gold vinyls and one-of-ones add depth, and what makes Steph Curry’s catalog stand out. Joe shares why Optic inserts might be overlooked, how Prizm Deca brought back old designs in new ways, and why insert collectors should take a second look at Panini’s work. If you collect inserts or want to think differently about what matters in the Panini era, this conversation will give you plenty to consider. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Joe | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Collecting is full of choices. What you chase, when you chase it, and how much you’re willing to give up along the way. In this episode, Brett breaks down the importance of prioritization and why it matters for your long-term happiness in the hobby. He shares personal stories about cards he passed on, cards he went after, and the lessons he’s learned about balancing desire with discipline. If you’ve ever felt pulled in too many directions with your collection, this conversation will help you take a step back and refocus on what matters most. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In Episode 8 of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory dig into what it means to collect in a bull market. From Daniel Jones speculation to Josh Allen’s rising profile, they look at how player performance shapes demand and where timing matters most. They cover Bowman Chrome’s overlap with playoff baseball, Satchel Paige vintage sales, and why Yamal continues to drive conversation in soccer. Tory also shares behind-the-scenes data from dcsports87 that highlights true market health, separating perception from reality. Whether you’re chasing prospects, buying vintage, or selling through eBay, this conversation offers perspective on how to stay grounded and not get over your skis in today’s hobby. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, Brett sits down with Mike Phillips, EVP of Sales and Marketing at Upper Deck. Mike has spent 25 years shaping one of the most iconic brands in the hobby. From his early days managing a card shop to creating some of the most legendary parallels at Fleer Skybox, Mike brings a rare perspective on innovation, competition, and building products that stand the test of time. He shares stories behind sets like Essential Credentials and Fleer Brilliants, reflects on the launch of Exquisite, and talks about what keeps him motivated after a lifetime in the industry. If you’ve ever opened an Upper Deck pack, chased a parallel, or wondered how the best products get made, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Mike: | LinkedIn | Upper Deck ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Katelyn (@coldlunchcards) and Brett sit down for episode 11 of season 2 to talk about one of the most thought-provoking ideas in collecting: the one-card PC. What happens when a single card represents everything you want from a player? They share personal examples, debate “Would You Rather” matchups featuring iconic WNBA cards, and reflect on how intentionality shapes their collecting styles. You’ll also hear about recent pickups, a spotlight on a dedicated collector, and bold predictions for the next six-figure WNBA card. If you’ve ever wondered whether one card can be enough, this episode is for you. Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
We’re back for Season Two of The Football Card Podcast, and this one is loaded. John and Brett fire up fresh segments with new sponsors Card Ladder and Heystack, break down the final Panini Donruss Football release, and talk about what rookies could define the product. The guys dream up their perfect one-of-one Downtowns, answer listener mailbag questions, and share new pickups—including John's long-awaited 2012 Prizm Jay Cutler Black Finite 1/1. From underrated sets like Totally Certified to market moves around defensive monsters and Brady’s Mosaic Refractor, this episode is all about the chase, the stories, and why collecting football cards keeps us coming back. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Visit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Vaulted presented by PSA, I sit down with Nat Turner, CEO of Collectors, to break down his Top 100 cards graded at The National. Nat shares why he put this list together, what stood out to him, and how these cards connect to the broader story of collecting. We talk through the mix of vintage, modern, and everything in between that made this list so compelling. If you’re a collector who loves history, rarity, and the stories behind big cards, this conversation is for you. See Nat's Complete Top 100 Items Graded at The National '25 LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA VAULT LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA CONSIGNMENT A special thank you to PSA for sponsoring Vaulted. PSA is the official grading, authentication, and vault provider of Stacking Slabs. Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
This week’s flagship is all about the long game in collecting. Too often the hobby gets swept up in hype cycles, record sales, and FOMO. But the collectors who stick around for years don’t chase the herd. They think independently, focus on discovery, and build collections that reflect who they are. In this episode, I share the story of an unexpected Marvin Harrison 1/1 pickup that reminded me why curiosity and exploration matter. We’ll talk about resisting comparison, finding joy in the hidden corners of the hobby, and why turning left when others go right might be the most satisfying path you can take as a collector. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory tackle one of the most controversial topics in the hobby: shill bidding. Tory shares how dcsports87 identifies it, why it hurts everyone involved, and what steps they take when they catch it. The conversation also digs into how football season drives submissions week to week, why certain players see spikes after a single game, and how collectors react when things go south. They close by looking at the numbers behind the bull run the hobby is experiencing and what’s fueling the growth. This one’s loaded with perspective you won’t hear anywhere else. A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
In this episode of Passion to Profession, brought to you by eBay, I sit down with Mikey Osborn, Director of Growth Marketing and Technology at Collectors. Mikey shares how a love for Randy Moss and nostalgia-driven collecting eventually intersected with his career in technology, leading him to join one of the most important companies in the hobby. We cover his time at Salesforce, the bold DM to Nat Turner that opened the door, and what it’s like to build digital experiences for PSA and Collectors. We also talk about: Why spending 50 hours a week on eBay shaped his knowledge baseThe challenge of building tech for a stubborn but passionate collector baseHow AI, content, and community will shape the next phase of the hobbyAdvice for anyone looking to turn their love for cards into a careerThis is a conversation about taking the leap, blending professional skills with personal passion, and what the future of the hobby looks like from someone on the inside. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Mikey: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
It’s playoff time, and we’re bringing the heat on Season 2, Episode 10 of The WNBA Card Podcast. Katelyn and Brett dig into the psychology behind collecting WNBA cards—why we buy, what drives us, and how the passion in this niche hobby looks different from other categories. We cover: The perception gap between men’s and women’s sports cardsThe role of representation, nostalgia, discovery, and community in WNBA collectingCaitlin Clark’s recent market dip and what it teaches us about hype cyclesWhy veterans like A’ja Wilson, Maya Moore, and Tamika Catchings remain the foundation of the categoryThis one’s about more than values and comps. It’s about connection, intention, and collecting for yourself. Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Football is back, and so is The Football Card Podcast. In Episode 12, Pack Nicholson and Brett break down week one without overreacting, but with plenty of collector energy. From Joe Namath’s cultural impact to Andrew Luck jerseys still popping up in Indy, they explore the legacy of the number 12. They share their thoughts on the Colts’ long-awaited week one win, the Bears’ ongoing struggles, and the chaos of Monday Night Football. The guys also dig into hot hobby topics like the ethics of flipping one-of-ones, navigating negativity in the space, and the latest market-shaking sales—from a Clay Matthews Prizm Finite to a Jerry Rice Rubies. They close with personal pickups, reflections on collector identity, and a call for listeners to show off their favorite retired player cards. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Recorded live at The National and brought to you by eBay, this episode of Cards in Hand features my good friend Drake (@drakes_pc), one of the most passionate Peyton Manning collectors in the hobby. We talk about his 1998 SkyBox E-X2001 Essential Credentials Future /7—a true ghost card in the Manning catalog. Drake shares the story of landing this card at last year’s National, the sacrifices he made to fund it, and why it now sits at the very top of his collection. We cover the evolution of his Manning journey, the challenge of chasing rare and scarce 90s parallels, and what it feels like to own a card that still gives him chills every time he pulls it out of the case. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Drake | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What separates the long game collectors from everyone else in the hobby? In this episode, Brett breaks down the DNA of the long-term player: Passion over profitDeep understanding of a nichePatience and perspectiveCommunity and relationshipsA mindset that keeps collecting fun for decadesThis conversation was sparked by a student question during Brett’s recent talk at DePauw University: How do you differentiate your content so the right people keep coming back? The answer ties directly into what it means to be a long game collector. Whether you’re early in your collecting journey or well on your way, this episode gives you perspective on how to build something meaningful that lasts Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
The market is red hot. Cards are moving at record speed, headlines are popping up every day, and collectors everywhere are feeling the pull of FOMO. In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, I sit down with Chris and Josh from Card Ladder to talk about what it’s really like to navigate a raging market. We cover: The most annoying parts of a bull marketCollector identity and the temptation to chase cards outside your laneThe psychology of buying discipline in a season of rising pricesThe $421M month in online card sales and what it really means for the hobbyStories of wins, losses, and the role trades play in reshaping collectionsIf you’ve been wrestling with how to collect in today’s market, this one will give you a lot to think about. Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
On this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, I’m joined by Scott Lock, CEO and Co-founder of InfernoRed Technology. Scott shares how a side business selling cards with his son on eBay turned into a $250,000 operation, and how that same passion for collecting led to building technology solutions for some of the biggest companies in the hobby. We talk about: What he learned building a business with his son through sports cardsHow InfernoRed became the go-to tech partner for leading hobby businessesWhy understanding collectors matters when creating solutions for the spaceThe current state of hobby technology and where innovation is headingIf you want to hear how passion connects with profession and why technology plays such an important role in the growth of the hobby, this is an episode you’ll want to hear. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Scott: | InfernoRed Technology | LinkedIn ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
With the playoff race heating up, Katelyn and Brett explore what really drives interest in WNBA cards. Is it all about winning, or are other forces shaping collector behavior? They break down: Why winning doesn’t always lead to hobby heatHow moments, storylines, scarcity, and cultural impact influence card valuesPlayer-to-watch picks from all 9 playoff contendersThe growing importance of Paige, Phee, and A'ja in the hobbyHow new fans are discovering the W and what it means for collectingPlus, they spotlight a standout collector and take your questions in the mailbag. Whether you're watching games or scrolling reels, this episode helps you think differently about what makes players collectible. Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide! Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Week 1 is here and so is Episode 11 of The Football Card Podcast with Pack Nicholson and Brett. This week we’re leaning into the season kickoff energy and tackling the topics you, the collectors, sent our way. We start by talking number 11s—Bad Jeff George memories, Larry Fitzgerald’s playoff run, and Julio’s touchdown paradox. Then we dive into listener questions about: The cards that got away and what we learned from those dealsThe balance between chasing hype and staying loyal to your collecting focusThe market outlook for quarterbacks sitting on the Hall of Fame bubble like Eli, Stafford, Rivers, and RyanWe also break down big sales in the football market, including the Barry Sanders PMG Green. This week’s Card Callout is all about the present: show us your favorite current player card you’re most excited to watch this season. Football is back, and football cards are thriving. Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking Slabs Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
Recorded live at The National and brought to you by eBay, this episode of Cards in Hand features Tony (@southerncollector14) sharing one of the most meaningful cards in his collection: a 1954 Topps Jackie Robinson signed in Dodger blue ballpoint pen, graded Auto 10 by PSA. Tony talks about what it means to hold a card Jackie himself once held, the rarity of signed vintage Robinsons, and how collecting autographed Jackie cards deepens his connection to the hobby. We discuss the emotional weight of this piece, Jackie’s enduring legacy, and why cards like this are more than cardboard—they carry history, memory, and meaning. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Tony | Instagram ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What makes a player a true hobby GOAT? And why do sets sometimes matter as much as the athletes on the cardboard? In this episode, Brett explores the recipe behind collecting greatness. He breaks down why only a select few players reach GOAT status, the role of cultural impact and iconic moments, and why certain sets, brands, and parallels hold long-term value. You’ll hear stories about Jordan, Ruth, Jackie, Brady, Kobe, Serena, and others who transcend their sports, plus insights into how products like 2003 Exquisite, 2012 Prizm, and 1952 Topps shape the hobby. Whether you’re chasing legends or building around iconic sets, this episode is a guide for thinking long-term, adding stability to your collection, and enjoying the stories behind the cards we all love. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Start your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
What does it really take to build a business in the hobby? On this episode of Passion to Profession, I sit down with my good friend Chris McGill, CEO and Co-Founder of Card Ladder. You’ve heard Chris on Stacking Slabs more than anyone else, but this time we go deeper into the business side of his story. We talk about: The decision to walk away from law and go all-in on the hobbyHow content became the backbone of Card Ladder’s growthThe role of trust, community, and timing when building in a niche marketWhy the line between product and content in the hobby is thinner than most people thinkThe importance of surrounding yourself with the right teamIf you’ve ever thought about turning your passion for collecting into something bigger, this conversation will resonate. A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card. Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On Hype Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon [Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this link Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★