Among other things we talk about the upcoming inaugural International Trading Card Day from Topps/Fanatics. This is one way the hobby can dynamically grow with increased worldwide exposure - thanks Topps and Fanatics!
We were on for almost an hour, here's the last edited portion that I thought was worth sharing - thanks Mike and Ty for contributing again to collaborative hobby content.
Bench Clear Media's annual HobbyPalooza involved a special edition of Hobby Hotline, essentially simulcast, and with a lively, expanded roster of co-hosts.
Kunal and I had an extended conversation, with then and now considerations. Looking forward to his imprint on my old company. He is in the process of moving to Dallas, so we will hear more from Kunal later.
I had the pleasure of hearing Kunal's exciting plans for my old company - truly an exciting time for him to come into this industry with his strong tech leadership background - welcome Kunal!
Roger is one of the very few who can say he pulled Mantle(s) straight from the pack back in the day. He wishes he still had them, yes multiples, don't we all wish we had held!
I thought I had some interesting "what if" questions for the Schulte's - son Ryan was fearless and Ray was the voice of experience after so many years of deep involvement with major hobby events and organizations
Jordan and I have been on each other's shows, but I had never met Bob until now - glad I did - father/son dynamics are powerful - it was great to hear their respective questions and answers. Thanks Hagedorn's!
Lots of great questions from and for the Gotcher family - mainly about card store retailing and how they run their successful card shop in New Buffalo, MI together.
After several years of spending significant time at their National booth, I was sure they had some good questions, and they did - thanks!
Roger is an old friend and veteran vintage sports card dealer who has helped many a collector complete their sets - along with some great stories - thanks Roger!
Around the horn with questions coming in age order - really enjoyed my time with Joe and his son Josh - and will see them in person at the upcoming National!
I break down a box of 2021 SP Authentic Golf - literally and figuratively - got the best result in terms of autos that I have ever experienced - thanks Upper Deck!
Jordan "For the Hobby" is actually "For the Bobby" as his dad Bob is dealing with colorectal cancer - thanks Bob for sharing your story and how you have positively impacted your son Jordan and his new card shop.
Last year was Ryan first immersion experience at the National following in his father Ray's footsteps. At 12, Ryan has a bright future under his father's mentorship and experience as a brand advisor for many hobby and sports clients.
The Gotcher's are faithful supporters of the hobby and Hobby Hotline - I thought it would be great to hear from them Father's Day week as to their family's sports card shop in New Buffalo, MI.
The first booth I shopped at the National for the past several years has been the Bachman's - great selection with fair prices and personable service.
Joe and Josh discuss their father-son hobby dynamic now separated by 2000 miles - but I expect to see them both together at the National this year - here's their story.
Another four weeks of daily episodes for your review in case you missed some - your episode ideas please send to doctorjamesbeckett@gmail.com and thanks!
Lots of ways to get to Atlantic City - but where to stay is the question - some "what if" creative approaches to lodging and transportation at the National.
John Newman (Sports Card Nation) and Corey Donovan (YamWax) were my co-hosts on Saturday morning's Hobby Hotline and this was our first major topic of discussion.
Rob Veres suggested Southern California as the epicenter of the sports card hobby but he was shouted down and out-voted by the many Texans in the room.
Too many slabs are emerging of some high supply and low demand cards and players - how will the market handle this equilibrium with grading fees increasing across the board?
Rich asked me to take a second deeper look at the hesitation I had before starting BGS back in 1999 - yes, I wish we had jumped in faster in hindsight!