Sports Cards Live

One of the deepest collector psychology discussions ever featured on Sports Cards Live. Jeremy, Chris McGill, Joe Poirot, David Chase, and Josh Adams continue unpacking the idea of “latent taste” and how collectors discover entirely new lanes over time. The panel explores: Why certain cards suddenly “click” years later How collectors evolve through exposure, research, and experience Whether discovering new collecting lanes is lateral movement or actual growth Why rabbit holes can permanently reshape collector identity The tension between focus and discovery Whether collectors ever truly “arrive” at a final form How collecting tastes mature over time Why some lanes stick while others fade away The conversation expands into philosophy, psychology, music, collecting behavior, and even the emotional architecture behind why collectors chase certain cards. Later in the episode, the panel pivots into another major hobby topic: Does collecting GOATs automatically equal safe collecting? They debate: Whether blue-chip GOAT cards truly protect collectors from risk If financially responsible collecting naturally gravitates toward legends The difference between collecting for enjoyment versus collecting for preservation of capital Why many collectors eventually pivot from prospects toward iconic players Whether “safe collecting” limits hobby excitement and discovery This episode blends hobby philosophy, collector psychology, financial thinking, and pure hobby passion in classic Sports Cards Live fashion.

Is the sports card world truly one unified hobby… or a collection of completely different micro markets, cultures, and collector mindsets? Joined by Joe Poirot, Jeremy and Brett McGrath explore the growing fragmentation of the hobby and why different collecting communities now operate almost like separate ecosystems. Topics include: Hobby vs industry Why broad “the hobby is doing this” narratives often fail Category-specific collector behavior The rise of niche content and niche collector communities Why different corners of the hobby value cards differently How market psychology changes across collector groups The conversation then shifts into the controversial world of card restoration, alteration, soaking, cleaning, and “card spas” after Jeremy shares a viral Instagram post criticizing restoration practices on vintage cards. They discuss: Whether collectors deserve full disclosure on altered cards Why grading companies struggle to detect certain restorations The ethical divide around card cleaning and restoration How restoration compares to comic book restoration and fine art restoration Whether PSA slabs create a false sense of security The growing tension between authenticity and aesthetics The episode closes with more discussion around hobby psychology, latent taste, finding your collecting lane, and how collectors discover entirely new passions through exposure and community interaction.

Jeremy Lee and Brett McGrath go deep into one of the most important hobby discussions happening today: Can collectors truly separate personal taste from social influence in a hobby driven by visibility, validation, and market attention? Using one of Brett's recent Stacking Slabs podcast questions as the foundation, the conversation explores: Whether social media is shaping collector identity How influencers, content creators, and algorithms impact buying behavior Why collectors often chase consensus without realizing it The difference between authentic taste and social validation Whether vintage collectors are less influence-driven than modern collectors Why “card bros” and collector communities can both inspire and distract How collector taste evolves over time The role manufacturers now play in shaping hobby demand Jeremy and Brett also discuss the psychology behind rabbit holes, discovery, social proof, and why some collectors spend years refining their collecting identity while others continue chasing trends. This is one of the most philosophical and psychologically driven hobby conversations in recent Sports Cards Live history.

Jeremy opens Episode 312 of Sports Cards Live with major news as he officially joins the Sports Card Clubhouse Network alongside Graig Miller, Adam Splendid Sports and Mike Junk Wax Hero. The crew discusses the vision behind the Clubhouse, the upcoming Sports Cards Live Hangover series, and what this new collaboration could mean for hobby content moving forward. Then Brett McGrath from the Stacking Slabs network joins the show for a deep conversation about hobby media, building niche podcast communities, scaling content platforms, and why category-specific collecting conversations matter more than ever. Brett also shares: The growth strategy behind the Stacking Slabs network Details on the upcoming Wrestling Card Takeover event at The National How niche communities create stronger engagement Lessons learned from launching multiple podcast formats Working with InfernoRed Technology on hobby tech initiatives The conversation also touches on hobby entrepreneurship, audience building, podcast consistency, and why focused collector communities continue to thrive.

The final conversation of Episode 311 turns into one of the most thoughtful hobby discussions Sports Cards Live has had in a long time. Chris McGill introduces a deceptively simple question: when is it okay for one collector to give another collector advice? That question opens the door to a deep conversation about hobby influence, responsibility, trust, collecting psychology, financial consequences, relationships, and how collectors actually learn over time. Jeremy, Joe Poirot, David Chase, and Josh Adams explore topics including: The difference between opinions and advice Why unsolicited advice can become dangerous Whether content creators bear responsibility for outcomes “Relationship liability” in the hobby Why some collectors hesitate to answer direct questions The risks of presenting opinions as facts How hobby trust is earned over years Financial advice versus collecting advice Whether mistakes are necessary for growth “Paying tuition” through hobby experience Learning through research versus jumping in immediately Why different collectors approach the hobby differently The tension between caution and opportunity The group also discusses: How collectors build confidence and knowledge Why some people prefer to learn by doing The importance of understanding a player or card “menu” The role of research, community, and experience Why collecting styles are deeply personal How hobby personalities shape collecting behavior Later in the episode: Jeremy previews a future Sports Cards Live episode focused on ticket collecting Discussion about the return of The Crossover Upcoming hobby shows, auctions, and National plans Final thoughts from the panel after another marathon Saturday night episode A reflective and surprisingly philosophical ending to one of the most unique Sports Cards Live episodes to date.

The final hour of Sports Cards Live turns into a wide-ranging hobby roundtable as Jeremy, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, David Chase, and Josh Adams react to the ancient coin discussion and dive into some of the biggest hobby topics currently shaping the sports card industry. The panel explores whether sports card grading companies like PSA could eventually introduce official eye appeal designations similar to the coin world, and what that might mean for collectors, grading culture, and aftermarket sticker services. Then the conversation shifts into the massive FIFA licensing news involving Fanatics, Topps, and Panini. Topics include: The future of FIFA and World Cup cards Debut patch cards for soccer Why Lamine Yamal World Cup patches could become historic cards Whether Fanatics could eventually acquire Panini The future of Panini's iconic brands like Prizm, National Treasures, and Flawless Whether hobby IP can lose prestige over time Why collectors may eventually become nostalgic for the Panini era How sports history constantly renews demand for sports cards Why sports cards differ from coins, stamps, and other collectibles How active athletes continually reshape hobby relevance and GOAT debates The episode also features: Discussion about the return of The Crossover Why sports card collecting moves faster than almost any other collectible category The relationship between cards, history, pop culture, and legacy The possibility that Fanatics could eventually target hockey licensing Concerns about monopolies, hobby consolidation, and brand dilution A thoughtful and entertaining closing segment that blends hobby philosophy, market discussion, licensing battles, and collector psychology into one long-form conversation.

The conversation with Dean Kinzer goes even deeper as Sports Cards Live explores the parallels between ancient coin collecting and modern sports card collecting through the lens of grading, eye appeal, originality, restoration, and authenticity. Jeremy and Dean compare the philosophies behind both hobbies and uncover just how similar collectors really are, despite collecting objects separated by nearly 2,000 years of history. Topics include: Eye appeal versus technical grade Why some lower-grade items look better than higher-grade examples Fine style designations and “star” eye appeal coins Whether grading companies should recognize eye appeal directly Toning, luster, strike quality, and surface preservation Cleaning and restoration controversies in both hobbies Why originality matters to collectors “Buy the coin, not the grade” versus “buy the card, not the grade” How grading legitimized cards and coins as tradable assets Cracking slabs and resubmitting for higher grades Population reports and grading consistency Why ancient coins can still surprise collectors with new discoveries The discussion also explores: Whether cards and coins should ever be restored Why some collectors prefer naturally aged items How grading companies influence hobby psychology Why eye appeal may eventually become part of mainstream sports card grading Later in the episode: Dean discusses rarity, scarcity, and historical demand The impact of movies like Gladiator on coin prices The similarities between modern hobby hype cycles and historical collectibles The challenge of attracting younger collectors into the coin hobby Why ancient coin collectors admire the energy of sports card shows

Dean Kinzer of Kinzer Coins joins Sports Cards Live for one of the most unique hobby conversations the show has ever had. Jeremy explores the parallels between ancient coin collecting and sports card collecting, asking how coin collectors think about rarity, condition, history, grading, aesthetics, themes, sets, and long-term collecting behavior. The result is a fascinating cross-hobby conversation that forces collectors to see sports cards through a completely different lens. Topics include: How ancient coin collectors build collections “Set collecting” in coins versus cards The Five Good Emperors and hobby parallels Why ancient coins were originally propaganda pieces How grading standards compare between coins and cards Strike quality, centering, surfaces, and eye appeal Why history matters so much in both hobbies The evolution of currency from 650 BC to modern times Similarities between NFTs and cryptocurrency versus coins and cards How collectors connect emotionally to historical artifacts Why ancient coins may be more approachable than people think The episode also features: Leighton Sheldon sharing a new PC pickup Discussion about buying inventory at card shows in today's market Secret Santa hobby ideas for The National Thoughts on dealer competition, relationships, and inventory turnover More discussion about the latest episode of Vintage Spotlight If you've ever wondered whether sports card collectors and coin collectors are really that different, this episode delivers a surprising answer.

Jeremy and David Chase kick off Episode 311 of Sports Cards Live with a full recap of the Sport Card Expo, including athlete interviews, stage appearances, late-night hobby hangs, and Jeremy's biggest pickup showcase yet. From Jackie Robinson game-used memorabilia to Mario Lemieux patches, Patrick Roy autos, Barry Sanders relics, Tiger Woods inserts, and vintage basketball, Jeremy shares the cards that followed him home from Toronto and explains why memorabilia cards have become a major focus of his collecting journey. Then Leighton Sheldon joins the show to explain why he missed Expo after getting pulled into a massive vintage collection deal featuring a complete 1964 Topps Baseball set built pack-by-pack in real time during the 1960s. The conversation turns into a hilarious debate over whether Leighton got “worked” by the seller, hobby priorities, old-school collectors, and the realities of chasing collections. The episode also features: Jeremy's Expo behind-the-scenes stories Hanging out with James Beckett in Toronto The impossible 1990 Pro Set Stanley Cup hologram pull David Chase launching his new show with Midlife Greg Thoughts on memorabilia cards, patches, and eye appeal The rise of hockey content creators and community podcasts Why certain vintage relic cards still feel undervalued

After more than five hours, the conversation reaches its natural conclusion—but not before landing on one of the most important themes of the entire episode: transparency. With David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams still engaged, the final stretch brings everything together. The focus shifts from “what is alteration?” to something more practical: What does a buyer actually have the right to know? Are sellers obligated to disclose prior submissions, failed sticker attempts, or past alterations? Or is it on the buyer to ask the right questions? There's also discussion around: The growing role of tracking systems and databases for submissions How uncertainty around “altered” designations creates confusion in the market The difference between innocent handling (like screw-down storage) and intentional modification One of the most grounded takeaways: intent matters—but so does disclosure. Alteration without transparency leads to distrust Transparency changes how the market values a card And in many cases, the issue isn't what was done—it's whether it's being hidden The segment also revisits: Why card collecting treats restoration differently than comics, art, or other collectibles How hobby standards have evolved—and may continue to evolve The importance of personal philosophy in how you collect, buy, and sell And ultimately, the episode ends where it began: with questions, not answers. A marathon session filled with debate, perspective, and real hobby discussion—exactly what Sports Cards Live is all about. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This segment pushes the conversation into some of the toughest questions in the hobby—where definitions break down and gray areas take over. With David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams still on the panel, the discussion circles back to eye appeal… but this time through the lens of alteration, intent, and ethics. It starts with a deceptively simple question: Should altered cards ever receive eye appeal stickers? From there, things get complicated quickly: If a card looks amazing but is altered, what are you actually rewarding? Does eye appeal exist independently from originality? Would stickers unintentionally encourage further alteration? Then comes one of the wildest scenarios: A collector intentionally damaging an 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card to create a PSA 1… because PSA 1s can be rarer and more valuable than mid-grade copies That opens up a deeper conversation: Is intentional damage a form of alteration? Does intent matter more than outcome? Where do we draw the line between natural wear and manufactured condition? The segment also digs into the core purpose of grading: Is grading really about condition… or about trust? Is authentication the most important function? How consistent are grading outcomes, really? And one of the strongest ideas to come out of the discussion:A lot of what we call “alteration” isn't just about the act—it's about whether or not it's disclosed. Would the market behave differently if full transparency existed? Is concealment the real issue, not the alteration itself? This is where the hobby gets uncomfortable—but also where it gets real. A fitting end to a marathon episode that challenged assumptions at every turn. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the marathon continues, the panel—David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams—shifts from theory into something more personal: how you actually define your collecting identity. The conversation introduces a powerful idea: your “lane statement.” How would you describe what you collect in one clear thought? Is it even possible when you collect across multiple lanes? Does defining it help you collect more intentionally? This ties directly into a noticeable shift in philosophy: Moving away from rookie card dependency Prioritizing eye appeal over technical grade Choosing cards based on connection, not checklist From there, the discussion takes a hard turn into one of the most controversial topics in the hobby: Is it ever okay to alter a card? And more specifically: What about hand-cut cards—can they be re-cut? If a card is already altered, does altering it further matter? Does intent change how we judge the action? Where does restoration end and manipulation begin? There's no clean answer—and that's the point. The group works through real scenarios, edge cases, and uncomfortable gray areas, exposing just how complicated this topic actually is when you strip away the easy “never do it” answer. This segment blends identity, evolution, and ethics into one of the most thought-provoking stretches of the entire show. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation continues to dig deeper as David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams take the idea of “taste” and push it to its limits. What starts as a simple definition quickly unravels into something much more complex: Is taste purely aesthetic… or does it include meaning, rarity, and intent? Can someone actually have “bad taste,” or is everything just subjective? Are we just saying “you have good taste” when someone likes what we like? The discussion introduces new layers: The difference between taste, style, and lane Whether being a “connoisseur” is about expertise… or perception How influence and exposure shape what we think is good There's also a more uncomfortable angle explored: Can two people buy the exact same card… and one be doing it “in good taste” and the other not? Is collecting purely for money a lack of taste? Or is that just another valid lane in the hobby? The panel also gets into real examples: Why some collectors admire off-the-radar cards more than iconic grails How discovery and originality can signal taste more than price The role of content creators in shaping what the hobby sees as desirable And one of the key takeaways that emerges: Taste isn't fixed. It evolves, it's influenced, and sometimes it's revealed only after you actually hold the card in your hands. This is one of the most philosophical segments of the entire show—and one that doesn't try to land on a final answer. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation movs into some unexpected territory as David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams explore the deeper and sometimes strange psychology behind collecting. It starts with a simple question that turns into something bigger: Would you collect cards of controversial or morally complex figures? That opens the door to discussions around: Separating history from behavior Why some collectors avoid certain players entirely How storytelling and mythology influence what we're drawn to Then comes one of the wildest hobby stories you'll hear: A one-of-one card dropped into a lake during a photo attempt. It sounds funny… until you realize it could happen to anyone. That leads into real talk about: Handling mistakes and damage in the hobby The emotional side of owning cards Why some moments stick with you more than the cards themselves From there, Chris introduces a deceptively simple question: What does “taste” actually mean in collecting? And that takes the conversation into a deeper layer: Is taste just liking what looks good to you? Is it about curation and how your collection comes together? Can someone collect without having taste at all? Or is taste just another way of saying identity? There's also a strong distinction made between: Your lane (what you collect) And your taste (how and why you collect it) Less about the cards themselves, and more about what they represent, how we relate to them, and what they say about us as collectors. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation rolls on with David Chase, Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams as the discussion shifts into one of the hobby's most foundational debates. Is it 1948 Leaf… or 1949 Leaf? What starts as a technical question quickly turns into something much bigger: Does the actual release year even matter anymore? What really defines a “rookie card”? If the label changed tomorrow, would collectors actually change how they value the card? The group explores how hobby consensus forms, how it evolves, and whether certain cards are simply too iconic to ever be redefined—regardless of what new research might uncover. From there, the discussion ties back into a deeper theme that runs through this entire segment: meaning in collecting. Do you value what the hobby tells you is important? Or what you discover and connect with yourself? Is finding something on your own more rewarding than being told why it matters? There are also great side discussions around: Player vs card importance (why Jackie outweighs scarcity debates) Why some historically important players were left out of early sets The difference between collecting cards… and understanding them This is one of those segments that reminds you the hobby isn't just about what something is worth—it's about what it means to you, and how you got there. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The crew is back together as David Chase rejoins alongside Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams for the final stretch of Part 3. This segment turns into a real, unfiltered hobby roundtable. We revisit the sticker debate from earlier in the show, but this time with opposing viewpoints in the room. Is it a useful signal of eye appeal… or just another way for companies to take a cut? The pushback is real, and the discussion gets honest quickly. From there, the conversation shifts into how the market actually works: Do collectors really pay premiums for better-looking cards? Are dealers setting comps… or chasing them? What's actually happening when dealers buy from each other and resell at higher prices? Is any of this new, or just more visible now? Then things take a turn into one of the most underrated parts of the hobby: research. Chris introduces a question that sparks stories from the group: What's something you only learned by doing your own research—and how did it change how you view a card? That leads to: Discoveries about vintage sets and production quirks Why certain cards carry more meaning after deeper digging The kind of knowledge that separates casual collectors from serious ones There's even a surprising nugget about the dating of the iconic 1948/49 Leaf set that opens up a whole new rabbit hole. This is one of those segments that feels like being at a table with experienced collectors just talking it out—no script, just real hobby perspective. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a one-on-one conversation with Jonathan Bernier, diving into one of the more interesting entrepreneurial stories in the hobby right now. Jonathan shares how his journey started as a kid in the hospital receiving donated cards, eventually building a collection of hundreds of thousands of cards… and then facing a problem most collectors and dealers know all too well: how do you actually move that inventory? That problem led to the creation of Kronozio. We go deep into: The origin story behind Kronozio and how it was built out of necessity Why listing cards manually is one of the biggest bottlenecks in the hobby How automation and AI are changing the way people sell cards online The reality of scaling a hobby business from the ground up Why staying lean matters when building something long term The danger of “dead inventory” and why so many collectors sit on value Jonathan also explains how Kronozio works at a practical level, from scanning to listing to shipping, and how it can turn what used to be a slow, manual process into something that operates at scale. Beyond the product, this is really a conversation about execution, adaptation, and what it takes to build something over 10+ years in the hobby. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off Episode 310 with a wide-ranging opening segment that sets the tone for a massive show. From an unexpected deep dive into Comic Con culture to a serious discussion about eye appeal, grading, and the growing influence of third-party stickers, this one covers a lot of ground. We get into the real question behind the sticker debate: are collectors paying for the label, or for what the label represents? The conversation moves beyond surface-level takes and into how eye appeal is being recognized, priced, and understood across the hobby right now. Then the focus shifts to the upcoming Sport Card Expo in Toronto, as Leighton Sheldon joins to talk vintage, market behavior, and how dealers think about premium cards in today's environment. Later, Mikey Singer and Johnny Amendola jump in to preview what's shaping up to be the biggest Expo yet, including the evolution of trade nights, community building, and the growing scale of the hobby in Canada. There's also discussion around: The difference between technical grade and eye appeal Why premium examples within the same grade are pulling away in value How new and experienced collectors approach buying decisions differently The role of community, events, and content creators in hobby growth This is Part 1 of a marathon live stream that's been split into multiple podcast episodes. Enjoy the show? Follow or subscribe on your podcast platform so you don't miss upcoming episodes. Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon to better understand the supply and demand forces driving the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment at HobbySpectrum.com to discover your collector profile, join the directory, and connect with collectors who think and collect like you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy, Joe, David, Darren, and Josh dig into whether you should keep your targets private or share them openly, and how that decision can impact outcomes. The conversation explores bidding strategies, including sniping versus early bidding, and how different approaches can influence both price and competition. They also break down the mindset behind these tactics, from discipline and patience to the emotional side of chasing cards. If you've ever wondered whether talking about a card hurts your chances of winning it… this episode will make you think twice. This episode is part 5 of a 5-part breakdown from the full Sports Cards Live stream. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Pick up a copy of Pops and Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation continues with a deeper dive into the role of stickers, eye appeal, and trust in the hobby. Jeremy, Joe, David, Darren, and Josh break down whether stickers are truly necessary or just another layer of information. The discussion centers around trusting your own eye versus relying on third-party opinions, and whether premiums should exist for cards that simply look better. The panel also explores real examples, including vintage pickups like the 1933 Sport Kings Jim Thorpe, and how scarcity, presentation, and timing all factor into decision-making. Plus, a fun Strongsville show recap video brings energy to the episode, highlighting the relationships, moments, and experiences that make the hobby more than just the cards themselves. This episode is part 4 of a 5-part breakdown from the full Sports Cards Live stream. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Pick up a copy of Pops and Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation zeroes in on a turning point that many collectors never fully explore… what happens when you start selling your cards and the results surprise you. Darren shares how shifting from saving cash to actively selling cards at auction changed everything. When cards start outperforming expectations, it forces a new way of thinking about value, timing, and how to build a collection more intentionally. Jeremy, David, and Darren dig into the realities of auction outcomes, the unpredictability of the market, and how selling can actually unlock opportunities rather than take away from the collecting experience. They also explore how this shift impacts decision-making, risk tolerance, and confidence in moving cards out in order to bring better ones in. This episode is part 3 of a 5-part breakdown from the full Sports Cards Live stream. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Pick up a copy of Pops and Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy, David, and Darren tackle the stigma around “flipping,” and challenge the idea that selling somehow makes you less of a collector. The reality? Every collector who evolves eventually faces this shift. Darren shares how his mindset has changed from a pure collector to a more balanced approach, even retaking the Hobby Spectrum assessment and seeing his identity move significantly. The discussion opens up around value, self-awareness, and the freedom that comes from collecting on your own terms. They also explore whether most collectors sell with a target in mind, the difference between planned buying and opportunistic pickups, and how consolidation plays a role in leveling up your collection. Plus, thoughts on grading, slabs, buying the card not the grade, and how collectors think about building their collections over time. This episode is part 2 of a 5-part breakdown from the full Sports Cards Live stream from April 18. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Pick up a copy of Pops and Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off Episode 309 with a deep and honest conversation about something every collector eventually faces… is your favorite card actually your most expensive one? Jeremy and David dive into the psychology behind big purchases, emotional attachment, and the reality that spending more doesn't always mean loving it more. The discussion centers around David's recent Jackie Robinson pickup and the internal conflict that comes with upgrading, comparing copies, and wondering if you truly got “the one.” We also explore how collectors define their favorite cards, how that can change over time, and why the story behind a card might matter more than the price tag. Plus, show announcements, upcoming events, Comic Con plans, Expo updates, and a loaded chat weighing in on the debate. If you're a collector who's ever questioned a big purchase… this one will hit home. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Pick up a copy of Pops and Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation reaches its deepest point as the panel explores what it really means for a card to be “iconic.” Definitions are challenged, assumptions are questioned, and multiple perspectives emerge around rarity, demand, storytelling, and cultural relevance. Topics include whether iconic status is driven by media exposure or long-term recognition, how rarity and accessibility factor into perception, and whether a card can be both rare and iconic at the same time. The group also examines the idea of “temporary iconic” moments versus lasting, generational significance. The episode closes with reflections on personal collecting identity, including whether chasing iconic cards aligns with individual goals or simply follows broader hobby influence. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating or review if you enjoy the show. Get your copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris McGill and Josh Adams join the show as the conversation shifts into a deeper analysis of hobby data, market visibility, and how we interpret the numbers. Using Card Ladder's reported $600 million month as a starting point, the discussion explores what is actually being tracked and, more importantly, what is not. The panel examines the gap between public sales data and private transactions, raising questions about how much of the hobby's true activity is happening off-platform. They also discuss how collectors, investors, and content creators rely on incomplete data to form opinions about market strength and direction. This episode dives into the limitations of hobby data, the unseen layers of the market, and why understanding both is critical to making informed decisions. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating or review if you enjoy the show. Get your copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Poirot joins the show as the Strongsville conversation continues, bringing fresh pickups and hobby momentum into the discussion. From trade night stories to major vintage acquisitions, the segment highlights the decisions collectors make when upgrading, selling, and refining their collections. The conversation then transitions into a deeper look at the hobby's scale and trajectory as Chris McGill and Josh Adams join. Topics include Card Ladder's reported $600 million month, what that number actually represents, and how much of the hobby's true transaction volume may exist beyond tracked platforms. This episode blends collector behavior, big card energy, and thoughtful discussion around the size, sustainability, and direction of the sports card market. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating or review if you enjoy the show. Get your copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leighton Sheldon joins the show live from the Strongsville card show to share the dealer perspective, including activity levels, market observations, and what he's seeing on the ground. Shortly after, David Chase jumps on from his hotel room to provide the attendee view, offering a well-rounded look at the show from both sides of the table. As the segment unfolds, several familiar voices from the hobby drop in, including Graig Miller (Midlife Cards), Tony Leebrick from Southern Collector, Mike Petty, and a rare appearance from Mookie Chilson. The result is an organic, free-flowing conversation filled with real-time reactions, show floor insights, and candid hobby discussion. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating or review if you enjoy the show. Get your copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy kicks off Episode 308 of Sports Cards Live with a solo segment covering his experience at the Edmonton Expo, including recent pickups, collector interactions, and overall show impressions. He shares several new additions to his collection, highlights meaningful hobby moments from the weekend, and reflects on what made the event special. The conversation then shifts into a bigger question Jeremy has been wrestling with for years: how to best share his collection with the hobby community. With ideas ranging from Instagram strategies to YouTube formats, he opens it up and asks the audience for input on how they want to see collections presented. This episode sets the stage for a broader discussion around collecting identity, content creation, and connection within the hobby. Subscribe to the podcast and leave a rating or review if you enjoy the show. Get your copy of Pops & Comps on Amazon. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment and join the directory at HobbySpectrum.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back with a special REA Spring 2026 Auction showcase as we walk through some of the most compelling items in the catalog alongside REA President Brian Dwyer. From iconic vintage cards to newly discovered hobby history, this episode covers a wide range of standout pieces, including a remarkable Babe Ruth find that had the hobby buzzing. We also dig into condition rarity, market dynamics, and what makes certain cards truly special beyond the label. Along the way, we explore everything from pre-war legends to modern grails, with perspective from both the auction house and the collector's seat. In this episode: A newly discovered Babe Ruth card and the story behind it High-grade vintage icons and condition scarcity Rare early baseball artifacts and hobby history Modern cards making waves in major auctions Collector insights on aesthetics, rarity, and desirability Behind-the-scenes perspective from REA If you enjoy the hobby at all levels, from vintage depth to modern relevance, this one has something for you. Take the Hobby Spectrum Assessment and join the directory:https://HobbySpectrum.com Pops and Comps is available now on Amazon:Search Pops and Comps by Jeremy Lee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, it's just me and the mic. I've been thinking a lot about how many lanes I'm collecting in right now… and whether there's actually a point where it becomes too much. Because I'm in a lot of lanes. And I'm enjoying it more than ever. But at the same time, it's made something surprisingly difficult… I don't know how to share my collection. Do I organize it? Post randomly? Break it into themes? Even share it at all? And it got me thinking… maybe the question isn't how many lanes you're in… it's something else entirely. Curious where you land on this. If you've ever questioned how you collect, or how to define your approach, check out the Hobby Spectrum at thehobbyspectrum.com. It's designed to help you understand your motivation, mindset, and behavior in the hobby, and you can build out your profile by adding your players, teams, sports, and links so others can see what you're all about. And if you want to better understand how value actually works in this hobby, check out Pops and Comps, available on Amazon or directly through me. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, we slow things down and get personal. After more than four decades in the hobby, I've come to a realization that honestly surprised me… rookie cards just don't drive my passion the way they used to. This isn't about tearing down rookie cards. Their history, significance, and place in the hobby are undeniable. But somewhere along the way, I started to feel like I was following a path that had already been laid out for me… chasing the same cards, the same checklist, the same “must-haves” as everyone else. And I got bored. So now, I'm doing something different. I'm shifting my focus toward non-rookie vintage cards… second-year, third-year, even later early-career pieces that offer something I feel like I've been missing: discovery, creativity, and a stronger personal connection to my collection. From moving iconic rookie cards like Payton, Rice, Jordan, and Jim Brown… to finding more joy in cards like a 1958 Johnny Unitas or a 1959 Bart Starr, this episode walks through how my mindset has changed and why I'm no longer interested in replacing the rookies I once chased for decades. We also touch on how this thinking connects back to modern cards, the issue with non game-used patch premiums, and why I now prioritize aesthetics, presence, and individuality over following the hobby's default script. If you've ever felt like you're just checking boxes instead of building something that truly reflects you… this one might hit. Let me know your thoughts DM me anytime on Instagram: @jlee_sportscardslive Pick up a copy of Pops & Comps Available now on Amazon. A deep dive into the numbers, psychology, and realities that drive the sports card market. Take the Hobby Spectrum assessment Discover your collecting identity and see where you fall across the spectrum of hobby approaches. Then complete your profile by adding your social links, and your favorite players, teams, and sports to be part of the directory and connect with other collectors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, we slow things down and dig into a simple question that turned out to be anything but simple… why do some cards resonate more than others? Jeremy breaks down his personal collecting preference for patch cards and autograph patch cards, while explaining why autograph-only cards have never fully connected with him. This isn't a critique of autographs or the collectors who love them. It's an exploration of what kind of connection we're actually looking for when we collect. Is it about the player… or the game itself? From early memories of game-used jersey cards in the 1990s to modern patch collecting and design, this episode explores the emotional, visual, and psychological reasons behind why certain cards feel more meaningful than others. Along the way, Jeremy introduces a powerful distinction: Autographs are proof the athlete touched the card Patches are proof the athlete touched the game That idea opens the door to a bigger conversation about identity in the hobby, what we value, and how our preferences shape the way we collect. Whether you love autographs, patches, or both, this episode will challenge you to think about what you're really chasing when you add a card to your collection.

Jeremy is joined by Joe Poirot, Josh Adams, and Chris McGill as the conversation turns to one of the most talked about moments in the hobby right now… and a bigger question underneath it all. Is this kind of attention actually good for the hobby… or does it risk taking it in the wrong direction? Using the recent Kevin O'Leary moment as a jumping off point, the group digs into the idea of spectacle versus substance, and whether the hobby needs that kind of exposure to grow… or if it already stands strong on its own. Different viewpoints come through clearly: Whether hype and visibility help bring in new collectors If staged moments create skepticism in a trust-based hobby The difference between showing a card… and turning it into a spectacle Who really represents the hobby to the outside world There's also a deeper layer to the discussion… around ownership, voice, and the idea that while anyone can participate in the hobby, the community still has the right to react, critique, and define what it stands for. This segment closes out the episode by tying together a central tension… exposure versus authenticity, and where each collector lands on that spectrum.

Jeremy is joined by Joe Poirot, with Josh Adams and Chris McGill joining the conversation as it opens up into a broader look at the hobby itself… and whether what we're seeing today is evolution, or something else entirely. Different perspectives start to surface around how the hobby has changed over time, with a clear tension between old school approaches and newer ways of collecting. Along the way, the group gets into: How newer collectors are entering and shaping the hobby Whether today's approach is more transactional or more intentional The role of nostalgia versus opportunity How different generations view collecting differently It becomes less about right or wrong… and more about understanding where you fit within it all. This segment zooms out to the bigger picture… the direction of the hobby, and how each collector navigates it in their own way.

The conversation continues as Chris from Missouri shares a powerful example of what it really means to collect on your own terms… choosing a card that looks right over one that grades higher, and keeping a significant amount of money in the process. That sparks a deeper discussion around eye appeal versus grade, and why more collectors are starting to question the weight we give to the number on the slab. Jeremy, along with David Chase and Joe Poirot, dig into the role of set collecting in today's hobby, including whether tools like the PSA Set Registry are actually driving it… or if collectors themselves are what keep it alive. The conversation also shifts into how collecting evolves over time: From sports fan to card collector From completion to intention From full sets to more focused approaches like flight collecting There's also a breakdown of what flight collecting really means, and how it offers a middle ground between chasing full sets and owning just a single example. This segment really gets into the philosophy of collecting… and what actually matters when you decide what stays in your collection.

Jeremy is joined by David Chase along with Orlando as the conversation shifts into a deeper question… Does your collection actually mean anything? This segment digs into the idea of collecting with purpose, and what it really looks like to build a collection that reflects who you are instead of just following trends, hype, or what everyone else is doing. It becomes a conversation about identity… turning your collection into something personal, intentional, and unique rather than just a group of cards that happen to sit in the same box. Along the way, the discussion explores: Why most collections lack a clear identity The difference between collecting and accumulating How to think about your collection as a personal museum The role of intention in shaping what you own This is where the bigger theme really takes shape… collecting in a way that tells your story.

Jeremy is joined by David Chase to start, before Orlando joins, and the conversation quickly gets into something every serious collector eventually faces… At what point do you stop holding onto cards you like… and start chasing the ones you truly love? That leads into a bold collection reset strategy, including the idea of upgrading by downgrading, and how moving down in grade can actually improve your collection while putting money back in your pocket. Jeremy also shares a handful of recent card show pickups, including cards that weren't even on the radar… but immediately felt right once seen in person. Along the way, the discussion touches on: Why some cards quietly outstay their welcome The difference between accumulation and intention Undervalued players hiding in plain sight A quick update on new Hobby Spectrum profile features This is where the episode starts building toward a bigger idea… making your collection a true reflection of who you are, not just what you've acquired.

Jeremy Lee is joined by Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams as the final segment brings the conversation full circle, digging into one of the most deceptively difficult exercises in the hobby: ranking your own cards. What starts as a simple question quickly unravels into a deeper discussion around whether “top cards” should be defined by market value, personal preference, nostalgia, or some combination of all three. The panel explores different approaches collectors are using, from value-based rankings to fully subjective lists, and the risks that come with each, including perception, bias, and even accusations of “pumping.” Joe introduces a structured framework with multiple categories including personal, value, nostalgic, and hybrid, while others question whether ranking is even possible when collections span multiple lanes, eras, and emotional connections. The conversation also touches on how comps are formed, why market value can sometimes be shaped by just a couple of transactions, and what it really means to “own” your own opinions in a hobby that leans so heavily on external validation. The episode closes with a mix of insight, humor, and live chat interaction, leaving listeners with a question that doesn't have a clean answer… and that's exactly the point. Subscribe to Sports Cards Live on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy the content, please leave a rating and review. Pick up a copy of POPs & COMPs: Truths, Insights & Psychology into the Numbers that Drive the Sports Card Market on Amazon. Explore the Hobby Spectrum and discover your collector profile at thehobbyspectrum.com. And as always, thank you for being part of the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Lee is joined by Joe Poirot, Chris McGill, and Josh Adams as the conversation zeroes in on one deceptively simple question that turns out to be anything but… what actually defines an advanced collector? What begins as a continuation of the earlier discussion quickly sharpens into a multi-layered debate, with input from the panel and the chat helping to shape the definition in real time. Is it knowledge? Experience? Research? Or some combination of all three? Chris introduces a compelling framework, suggesting that an advanced collector should be able to both deliver a concise “elevator pitch” on a card and go deep enough to build a full narrative around it, connecting it to the broader hobby landscape. From there, the group explores how collectors can be highly advanced in one niche while still learning in others, why understanding eye appeal and context matters, and how different eras of the hobby demand different types of expertise. The discussion also branches into how collectors evaluate their own cards, whether ranking by value is a shortcut or a practical tool, and why defining your own criteria might be more important than following anyone else's. This is one of those segments where the hobby turns inward and challenges how we define growth, expertise, and what it really means to “know” what you're collecting. Subscribe to Sports Cards Live on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy the content, please leave a rating and review. Pick up a copy of POPs & COMPS: Truths, Insights & Psychology into the Numbers that Drive the Sports Card Market on Amazon. Explore the Hobby Spectrum and discover your collector profile at thehobbyspectrum.com. And as always, thank you for being part of the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Lee is joined by David Chase, Jeremy “Texas Snowman” Donson, and Joe Poirot as the conversation takes a more philosophical turn before Chris McGill and Josh Adams join the panel. What starts as a continuation of the value discussion quickly evolves into a much deeper debate around how collectors should actually think about cards. Chris introduces a sharp perspective that flips the typical approach, arguing that value should be the result of understanding a card, not the starting point. That idea opens the door to a broader conversation about what it really means to be an advanced collector. Is it about budget, experience, or something else entirely? The group explores the importance of research, context, and understanding the full landscape of a player or set before making decisions, while also acknowledging that not every collector is at that stage. Along the way, concepts like “own appeal,” long-term holding, and the role of value as both a tool and a distraction are unpacked through multiple lenses. This is one of those segments where the hobby gets broken down at a higher level and forces you to reconsider how you approach collecting. Subscribe to Sports Cards Live on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy the content, please leave a rating and review. Pick up a copy of POPs & COMPs: Truths, Insights & Psychology into the Numbers that Drive the Sports Card Market on Amazon. Explore the Hobby Spectrum and discover your collector profile at sportscardslive.com. And as always, thank you for being part of the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Lee continues with David Chase and Jeremy “Texas Snowman” Donson of Collector Investor Auctions as the conversation moves beyond surface-level takes and into how collectors actually behave in real situations. Reacting to audience comments, the group challenges the idea that collectors can fully separate enjoyment from value, especially when meaningful dollars are involved. Jeremy Donson shares personal collecting experiences that highlight how relationships, timing, and backstory can become part of the card itself, adding a layer of meaning that goes beyond comps. The discussion also touches on how collectors justify purchases, how memory and attachment play into decision-making, and how the line between emotional and financial value is often much blurrier than people admit. This segment brings the collector mindset into focus in a way that feels real, not theoretical. Subscribe to Sports Cards Live on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy the content, please leave a rating and review. Pick up a copy of POPs & COMPs: Truths, Insights & Psychology into the Numbers that Drive the Sports Card Market on Amazon. Explore the Hobby Spectrum and discover your collector profile at thehobbyspectrum.com. And as always, thank you for being part of the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Lee is joined by David Chase to kick off the show, before welcoming Jeremy “Texas Snowman” Donson of Collector Investor Auctions. The episode begins with Jeremy sharing his experience traveling to New York City to broadcast live from the Fanatics Collect studio, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it was like operating in a completely different environment and how the show evolved in that setting. The conversation then shifts into one of the hobby's more polarizing topics right now… value. Is talking about card value a problem? Why does it trigger some collectors? And where should the balance really be between passion and price? With perspectives from both collector and dealer lenses, the discussion explores how different mindsets shape the way we buy, hold, and think about our cards, while also touching on auction dynamics, buying behavior, and the role value plays across the spectrum. Subscribe to Sports Cards Live on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform, and if you enjoy the content, please leave a rating and review. Check out POPs & COMPs for deeper insights into the numbers and psychology driving the hobby. Explore your collecting identity with the Collector Investor Spectrum and see where you fall within the hobby. And as always, thank you for being part of the community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jeremy Lee closes out Episode 305 with Joey Elmasri, David Chase, and Josh Adams by digging deeper into one of the biggest underlying questions in the hobby: what happens if card values take a major hit? The conversation explores how each collector might respond to a serious market drop, whether that would actually change their approach, and why unrealized losses only matter if you decide to sell. From there, the discussion expands into nostalgia, long term collecting behavior, and the difference between buying cards for value versus buying them for meaning, memory, and the simple joy of the chase. The group also talks about kids in the hobby, father and son collecting, the role nostalgia may play for today's younger participants down the road, and whether the next generation will eventually become true long term collectors. Along the way, the conversation touches on junk wax parallels, hobby cycles, modern overproduction, and the ongoing tension between hype, flipping, and real collecting. The episode closes on a fun but honest discussion about whether sports cards are actually cool, or whether collectors are just comfortable being cardboard nerds. It is a fitting ending to a wide ranging conversation about identity, passion, and what keeps people in the hobby beyond prices and headlines. If you enjoy hobby conversations that mix market reality, nostalgia, and collector perspective, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a fellow collector. You can also check out Jeremy's new book Pops and Comps and take the Hobby Spectrum assessment to discover your collector identity and connect with other hobbyists in the directory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jeremy Lee continues the conversation with Joey from Hoops Hobby Hangout, David Chase, and Josh Adams for a deeper discussion about what today's hobby is becoming and where it may be headed next. The episode begins with Joey sharing how Hoops Hobby Hangout came together, from early Instagram relationships and shared basketball card interests to building a group focused more on the cards than clout, value chasing, or social media status. It is a thoughtful look at how smaller hobby communities form and why collector-first spaces still matter. From there, the conversation opens up into a bigger debate around the changing nature of collecting itself. Are today's new entrants into the hobby mostly collectors, or are many of them entering through the lens of flipping, growth potential, and short term profit? The group explores how social media, breakers, card shows, and content culture have changed the way younger collectors view cards, and whether the hobby is doing enough to create real long term collectors instead of just feeding a cycle of quick transactions. Jeremy, David, Josh, and Joey also dig into what happens if the market cools in a major way. Would a big drop in card values hurt the hobby, or would true collectors simply keep collecting and see it as an opportunity? It is a wide ranging conversation about hobby cycles, risk tolerance, collector psychology, and the difference between owning cards because you love them versus owning them because you hope someone else will pay more later. If you enjoy hobby conversations that go beyond the surface and wrestle with where collecting is really headed, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a fellow collector. You can also check out Jeremy's new book Pops and Comps and take the Hobby Spectrum assessment to discover your collector identity and connect with other hobbyists in the directory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jeremy Lee continues the conversation with David Chase after the now infamous missed bid on a Jackie Robinson card and explores a side of the story that had not been fully addressed yet: what about the seller? If a valid high bid was blocked by eBay's internal safeguard system, did the seller lose out on thousands of dollars? Jeremy and David dig into the implications for major cards sold on eBay, the risks for consignors, and why this kind of issue could make sellers think twice about where they move high end material. The episode also includes more hobby discussion around vintage market strength, eye appeal, and the current state of shows and cards across the hobby. There is also a quick run through of the latest Collector Investor Auctions lineup, with Jeremy highlighting the eclectic mix of vintage, modern, sports, and non sports material in the sale. Later, Joey from Hoops Hobby Hangout joins the show to share his collecting background and the origin story behind his basketball focused content channel. The conversation covers his path from Yu Gi Oh and fantasy sports into Kings collecting, modern basketball cards, and eventually content creation inspired by the kinds of hobby conversations he wanted to see more of. It is a thoughtful look at how communities form, why people start creating content, and what it means to build something for the love of the hobby rather than for numbers. If you enjoy hobby conversation that mixes market issues, collector psychology, and community building, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a fellow collector. You can also check out Jeremy's new book Pops and Comps and take the Hobby Spectrum assessment to discover your collector identity and connect with other hobbyists in the directory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jeremy Lee is joined by Leighton Sheldon and David Chase for a conversation that moves from vintage hockey to a red hot show floor and then into one of the biggest modern card sales in hobby history. The episode opens with more discussion around the decision to break up a high grade 1966 Topps Hockey set card by card rather than sell it as a complete set. Along the way, the conversation branches into Bobby Orr versus Gordie Howe, hobby Mount Rushmore talk, vintage hockey card aesthetics, and what makes certain iconic cards feel larger than the players themselves. From there, Leighton shares a detailed report from the Philadelphia show, where the crowd, dealer activity, and overall momentum all pointed to a hobby that feels extremely strong right now. He talks about the competitive nature of buying on the floor, the challenge of acquiring great material even when you are ready to spend, and a standout pickup from the weekend: a 1949 Bowman Jackie Robinson that checked the eye appeal box in a big way. The conversation then shifts to the $5.2 million Aaron Judge Superfractor 1/1 sale, a result that made mainstream headlines well beyond the hobby. Jeremy, Leighton, and David discuss what a sale like that says about the state of the market, whether it signals strength or excess, and why media attention around major card sales continues to bring more awareness and energy into the space. If you enjoy hobby talk that blends vintage perspective, market insight, and real conversations from inside the show floor, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a fellow collector. Be sure to check out Jeremy's new book Pops and Comps and take the Hobby Spectrum assessment to discover your collector identity and connect with others in the directory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeremy Lee kicks off Episode 305 of Sports Cards Live with Joe Poirot by recapping a busy week that included Jeremy's Pops and Comps book signing at Burbank Sports Cards, a night at the Lakers game in Los Angeles, and some memorable moments meeting collectors and hobby friends in person. The conversation then turns to one of Jeremy's latest auction purchases: a Randy Moss Exquisite 1/1 patch card picked up during the Fanatics Weekly auction. Jeremy and Joe break down the appeal of Exquisite, why certain cards feel like opportunities when they appear, and the difference between buying for a personal collection versus buying because a card simply feels underpriced. The episode also dives into the story behind a complete 1966 Topps Hockey set that is now being broken up and sold card by card. The discussion explores what it takes to build a high quality vintage set over decades, the challenge of condition and centering in that issue, the iconic Bobby Orr rookie that anchors the set, and the emotional side of letting go of a long term collecting project. Along the way the conversation touches on hobby momentum, community, set building, and the stories that make vintage cards meaningful beyond their value. If you enjoy collector stories, hobby perspective, and conversations that go deeper than just prices and comps, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share this episode with a fellow collector. You can also check out Jeremy's new book Pops and Comps and take the Hobby Spectrum assessment to discover your collector identity and connect with other hobbyists in the directory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation closes with one of the most thoughtful topics of the night: are we now in the era of learning from other collectors? Inspired by earlier discussion around research, collecting curiosity, and content that teaches rather than just showcases, Chris McGill brings a topic that gets to the heart of what hobby content can be at its best. The panel digs into the value of collector-created knowledge, from Instagram captions that read like mini essays to YouTube videos, podcasts, databases, and personal research projects that help people better understand players, sets, eras, rarity, and collecting history. Jeremy, Joe, Josh, and Chris talk about the difference between simply consuming hobby content and actually learning from it, and why the best content often gives you not just facts, but a way of thinking. From there, the conversation turns to the balance between teaching and protecting an edge. If collectors are building knowledge, doing research, and uncovering overlooked areas of the hobby, should they share it openly or keep some of it close to the chest? The panel explores the push and pull between community-building, generosity, influence, and the natural fear that sharing too much can move markets or close off opportunities. The segment also touches on what separates meaningful hobby education from noise. Not every take deserves to be accepted at face value, and part of growing as a collector is learning how to filter information, test ideas, and think critically even when the source is someone you respect. That makes this a strong closing conversation about not just what we know, but how we learn, how we teach, and how we sharpen our own thinking through the hobby. The episode wraps with a few final hobby updates, including Jeremy's upcoming Burbank Sports Cards book signing, a Lakers game visit to see LeBron, Luka, and Anthony Edwards in person, and another quick look at the evolving Hobby Spectrum directory features. If you enjoy thoughtful hobby conversation, real collector perspective, and live stream energy carried over into podcast form, make sure to subscribe to Sports Cards Live across your podcast platform of choice, follow the show on YouTube, and share this episode with another collector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation begins with a deeper look at selling in the hobby and whether there is still a negative stigma around trying to maximize returns, flipping cards, or moving inventory strategically. Jeremy, Joe, Greg, and Jason talk through the difference between ethical selling and short-term opportunism, the role of dealers and flippers in the ecosystem, and why so many collectors still have conflicted feelings about money, pricing, and reputation in the hobby. From there, the show shifts as Jason exits and Josh Adams and Chris McGill join the conversation. Chris returns from the injured reserve list and immediately gets into the aftermath of the Michael Jordan 1 of 1 auction that had captured so much attention. Rather than just revisiting the final price, the group explores the bigger question: why didn't Chris buy the card, and what did he learn from going through that process so deeply? That leads into one of the most insightful parts of the segment, as Chris reflects on the value proposition, the research, the emotional pull of a grail, and the reality of deciding what cards would have to go in order to make room for one massive acquisition. Jeremy, Joe, and Josh all weigh in on consolidation, regret, collecting discipline, and the psychological cost of moving deliberate, carefully chosen cards out of a collection for one apex piece. The result is a thoughtful discussion on what it means to go all in, when it makes sense to tap out, and how collectors should think about major decisions when a once-in-a-lifetime card comes to market. The segment also touches on the difference between rooting for a grail pursuit and believing it is truly the right move. If you enjoy thoughtful hobby conversation, real collector perspective, and live stream energy carried over into podcast form, make sure to subscribe to Sports Cards Live across your podcast platform of choice, follow the show on YouTube, and share this episode with another collector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation continues around hobby exploration, with a deeper look at how collectors discover new eras, new card types, and new lanes through research, curiosity, and community. Jeremy, Greg, and Jason talk about the fun of learning before buying, the value of studying what matters within a category, and why participation in a new area of the hobby does not have to begin with spending money. Sometimes the real thrill is in the digging, the ranking, the spreadsheet building, and the process of figuring out what actually matters to you. The discussion also expands into hobby evolution on a bigger level. Just like collections change over time, so do channels, formats, and collecting identities. What you collect now may not be what you collect in five or ten years, and that uncertainty is part of what makes the hobby so interesting. Greg shares thoughts on how collectors grow into new passions, Jeremy reflects on how his own collecting lanes have changed, and Jason adds perspective on how both content and collections naturally evolve when you stay open. From there, the segment turns into a thoughtful discussion about card value, selling, and whether there is still a stigma around moving out of cards. Is selling part of refining a collection, or does it create tension with traditional collector identity? The conversation explores the idea that selling can be practical, healthy, and even necessary if it helps fund the next phase of your collecting journey. The segment also introduces one of the liveliest debates of the episode: the idea of a “coffin card.” Is it simply a card you plan to keep for life, or do some collectors truly mean they want to be buried with it? What starts as a funny concept turns into a real conversation about emotional attachment, legacy, collecting philosophy, and what it means to love a card enough to never let it go. If you enjoy thoughtful hobby conversation, real collector perspective, and live stream energy carried over into podcast form, make sure to subscribe to Sports Cards Live across your podcast platform of choice, follow the show on YouTube, and share this episode with another collector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conversation continues with Jason from Professor Sports Cards as we talk about live streaming, audience interaction, and why some hobby communities feel so alive. Jeremy and Jason get into the role of call-ins, chat participation, and the balancing act of running a live show while keeping the audience engaged in real time. From there, the discussion turns to shipping headaches, cross-border frustrations, and the kinds of real-world logistics collectors and creators deal with behind the scenes. That leads naturally into a broader market conversation, including whether now is a time to sell, how hobby cycles actually work, and why timing the market is often easier to talk about than to execute. Greg Miller then joins the show to talk about his newly released book, Midlife Card Collecting Stories, now available on Amazon. Greg shares what it feels like to finally have the book out in the world, why he wrote it, and how the hobby has helped carry him through meaningful moments in life. The result is a heartfelt conversation about collecting, storytelling, memory, and why this hobby can be far more than just cardboard. The segment then opens into one of the strongest themes of the episode: how collectors can accidentally limit themselves by over-identifying with a certain hobby lane. Greg talks about discovering new areas of the hobby through other creators, from non-sport and vintage autographs to 1990s refractors, and why passion is often more contagious than category. Jeremy and Jason add their own thoughts on influence, curiosity, distraction, and the value of staying open to new parts of the hobby that might unexpectedly connect with you. If you enjoy thoughtful hobby conversation, real collector perspective, and live stream energy carried over into podcast form, make sure to subscribe to Sports Cards Live across your podcast platform of choice, follow the show on YouTube, and share this episode with another collector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices