In this episode, Ron McKeefery interviews Nick, known as MiniGraphs99 on TikTok, who shares his journey in autograph collecting and the sports card business. Nick discusses the origins of his passion for collecting autographs, the strategies he employs for authentication and selling, and the balance between his hobby and business. He provides valuable tips for aspiring collectors, insights into the impact of social media on his brand, and future opportunities in the hobby. The conversation highlights the importance of dedication, creativity, and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of sports collectibles.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to MiniGraphs99

01:57 The Journey of Autograph Collecting

06:06 Authentication and Selling Strategies

09:52 Tips for Collecting Autographs

12:02 Balancing Hobby and Business

15:47 Managing Collections and Storage

19:51 Strategies for Acquiring Collections

21:58 The Thrill of Card Shows

25:34 Essential Tools for Card Collecting

27:52 Leveraging Social Media for Growth

31:45 Opportunities in the Hobby Business

34:09 Building a Sustainable Card Business

35:15 Personal Favorites and Future Aspirations

Takeaways

• Nick started collecting autographs in high school, inspired by his early experiences at sporting events.

• He emphasizes the personal connection that comes with obtaining autographs from players.

• Nick has developed a unique business model that combines in-person autographs with online sales.

• He believes that authentication is not always necessary for personal collections, preferring raw items.

• Nick uses technology, like meta glasses, to document the signing process for authenticity.

• He advises collectors to manage expectations when meeting athletes, as experiences can vary widely.

• Preparation is key for autograph hunting; knowing where players will enter and exit is crucial.

• Nick has a personal collection of Hall of Fame autographs, which he tracks and shares online.

• He balances his hobby with business by setting spending limits and focusing on profitable items.

• Nick leverages social media to grow his brand and connect with the collecting community.

#autographcollecting, #sportscards, #TTM, #memorabilia, #socialmedia, #businessstrategies, #authentication, #collectingtips, #sportscollectibles, #eBayselling

In this engaging conversation, Ron McKeefery interviews LouRok TV, a passionate card collector and YouTuber, about his journey in the hobby. Lou shares his authentic approach to content creation, emphasizing the importance of connecting with fellow collectors. He discusses his shift towards vintage cards, the current landscape of card collecting, and the appeal of TTM autographs. The conversation also touches on maximizing the value of autographed cards and Lou's vision for his YouTube channel as a personal archive for his family.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to LouRok TV and Collecting Passion

03:06 Authenticity in Collecting and Content Creation

05:49 The Shift to Vintage Collecting

08:53 Navigating the Current Hobby Landscape

11:35 Collecting Hall of Famers on a Budget

14:27 The Appeal of Through The Mail (TTM) Autographs

21:31 Maximizing Value with Autographed Cards

29:29 Future of LouRok TV and Personal Reflections

Takeaways

• LouRok TV treats his YouTube videos like personal conversations with friends.

• Authenticity is key in both collecting and content creation.

• Collecting should be a source of joy, not stress.

• Vintage cards hold a special place in Lou's collection.

• Hall of Fame cards can be affordable if you know where to look.

• TTM autographs combine Lou's love for cards and signatures.

• Maximizing value in autographed cards often involves PSA DNA certification.

• Community support is vital in the card collecting hobby.

• Lou's YouTube channel serves as a family archive of memories.

• The joy of collecting transcends monetary value.

#LouRokTV, #cardcollecting, #vintagecards, #TTMautographs, #PSAgrading, #HallofFame, #sportsmemorabilia, #YouTubecollectors, #hobbycommunity, #collectingpassion

In this episode, Ron McKeefery interviews Alex Biggs, a passionate sports card collector and TikTok influencer. They discuss Alex's journey from childhood collecting to rediscovering his passion during the COVID pandemic. Alex shares his strategies for making money with sports cards, emphasizing the importance of buying singles over boxes. He also talks about his transition from selling on eBay to using Whatnot and the challenges of balancing his card business with a full-time job and family responsibilities. The conversation highlights the impact of social media on Alex's life and business, as well as his future plans for growth in the card industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Collector's Journey

01:05 Rediscovering the Passion for Collecting

06:38 Strategies for Making Money with Sports Cards

13:07 The Evolution of Selling: From eBay to Whatnot

19:16 Balancing Collecting and Business

25:28 Navigating Social Media and Content Creation

33:12 Future Plans and Growth in the Card Business

Takeaways

• Alex Biggs started collecting cards as a child and returned to it during COVID.

• He discovered the potential for profit in sports cards after selling some of his collection.

• Buying singles is a more effective strategy for making money than buying boxes.

• Alex transitioned from eBay to Whatnot for selling cards.

• He emphasizes the importance of sourcing cards from shows and value bins.

• Social media, particularly TikTok, has significantly impacted Alex's life and business.

• Alex aims to create content consistently while balancing his card business and personal life.

• He believes in documenting his journey to help others in the collecting community.

• Alex's goal is to eventually go full-time with his card business.

• He is exploring ways to diversify his social media presence beyond TikTok.

Keywords

#sportscards, #collecting, #TikTok, #eBay, #Whatnot, #cardbusiness, #strategies, #content #creation, #collectorjourney, #makingmoney

In this episode, Ron McKeefery interviews Chris Bing (@Allset24), a passionate card collector and entrepreneur. They discuss Chris's journey from a casual collector to a serious business owner in the sports card market. Chris shares his strategies for collecting, selling, and managing inventory, emphasizing the importance of systems and processes. He also highlights innovative selling strategies, niche marketing, and the significance of community in the hobby. The conversation concludes with insights into current trends and future outlooks in card collecting.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Hobby Journey

01:10 From Hobby to Business: Chris's Journey

06:32 Current Strategies and Goals in Card Collecting

12:00 The Importance of Systems and Processes

13:59 Creative Selling Strategies and Bulk Lots

19:28 Niche Marketing and Targeted Selling Strategies

22:02 Niche Branding in the Sports Card Market

29:00 The Power of Content Creation and Community

36:18 Trends and Insights in Card Collecting

39:51 Strategies for Increasing Card Value

Takeaways

• Chris started collecting cards in high school and returned to it during college.

• He learned to fund his hobby by trading low-value cards for team-specific cards.

• Chris's goal is to become the super collector of Stevie Johnson, aiming to own every unique card.

• He emphasizes the importance of using platforms like eBay for selling cards efficiently.

• Chris advocates for using a thermal printer to streamline shipping processes.

• He has developed relationships with bulk suppliers to acquire low-end cards.

• Chris has found success in selling pre-made dollar boxes and bulk lots on eBay.

• He is experimenting with niche marketing by branding a new eBay store focused on Chicago sports.

• Chris believes that the card collecting community is supportive and collaborative.

• He is excited about the increasing availability of low-end cards on eBay due to improved listing processes.

Keywords

#cardcollecting, #entrepreneurship, #eBayselling, #sportscards, #inventorymanagement, #nichemarketing, #communitybuilding, #TikTok, #contentcreation, #hobbytrends

In this episode, Ron McKeefery sits down with Dale Calvert – @CMGSportsCardInvestments – to talk about building repeatable systems in the sports card hobby. From buying lots and selling singles, to alternative grading strategies, to leveraging iconic cards that stop people in their tracks, Dale shares how to treat cards like a real business.They also dive into customer loyalty, documenting the journey for future generations, and why failing forward is the key to long-term success.If you’re ready to move beyond hype and build a sustainable sports card business, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen & Subscribe for more episodes of the 1000 Card Project Podcast!⸻📌 Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Sports Card Journey02:57 The Evolution of Sports Cards and Collectibles05:55 Strategies for Success in the Sports Card Market08:57 Building a Business Around Sports Cards11:45 Buying Lots and Selling Singles: A Profitable Strategy14:43 Creating Value and Customer Loyalty17:39 Balancing Passion and Profit in the Card Business20:56 Strategic Card Placement for Sales Success22:47 Building a Collector’s List23:55 Alternative Grading Strategies26:38 Documenting the Entrepreneurial Journey28:39 The Thousand Card Project30:00 Scaling Up Card Investments32:11 Identifying Iconic Cards for Investment34:36 Leveraging Market Trends36:38 Creating Educational Content and Courses⸻💡 Key Takeaways • Create repeatable systems for success in trading. • Building customer relationships is crucial for long-term growth. • Treat the card business like a real business. • Alternative grading opens new markets. • Buying lots & selling singles = steady profits. • Iconic cards drive sales and stop buyers in their tracks. • Documenting the journey helps others learn and grow.⸻🔑 Keywords#1000CardProject #SportsCards #CardCollecting #SportsCardPodcast #CardFlipping #BusinessSystems #Entrepreneurship #MarketTrends #GradingEbay Store: https://www.ebay.com/str/onethousandtruecardsCollX: Search - 1000 Card Project (@Admin1000CardProject)* Let me know when you join, I want to be your first customer. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1000CardProjectInstagram & TikTok: @1KCardProject Card Dealer Pro: https://v2-carddealerpro.cello.so/Jjhyy9arVzh* Joining with my code gets you an additional 500 scans and me as well. Mailing Supplies:Penny Sleeves - https://amzn.to/4ktWE63Top Loaders - https://amzn.to/3D8o3cD Card Savers - https://amzn.to/3Xj6E86Team Bags - https://amzn.to/4gWRts4Tape - https://amzn.to/4gT16IoTape Dispenser - https://amzn.to/4bgqDdbEnvelopes - https://amzn.to/3EVzRj2

In this engaging conversation, Ron McKeefery and Jason Heyl explore the evolving landscape of sports card collecting, particularly focusing on the integration of NFTs and blockchain technology. They discuss the emotional connections to collecting, the challenges and opportunities presented by digital collectibles, and the future of the hobby as it intersects with technology. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding NFTs, the potential for market growth, and the psychological aspects of collecting.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the NFT Card Revolution02:37 The Aha Moment: Discovering NFT Sports Cards11:15 Understanding NFTs: Key Concepts and Terminology20:36 The Future of Sports Cards: Digital vs. Physical30:51 The Psychology of Collecting: Risks and Rewards51:33 Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Future of CollectiblesTakeawaysNFTs are revolutionizing the way we collect sports cards.The emotional connection to collecting is significant.Understanding key NFT concepts is crucial for collectors.The market for digital collectibles is still in its infancy.Transparency and scarcity are enhanced with blockchain technology.Collectors should embrace the digital shift in the hobby.The psychology of collecting can lead to both joy and addiction.Investing in NFTs can be seen as a long-term strategy.The future of collectibles may blend physical and digital assets.Community and connection are vital in the collecting world.Keywords#NFTs, #sports cards, #blockchain, #collecting, #digitalcollectibles, #Panini, #transparency, #scarcity, #investment, #markettrendsEbay Store: https://www.ebay.com/str/onethousandtruecardsCollX: Search - 1000 Card Project (@Admin1000CardProject)* Let me know when you join, I want to be your first customer. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1000CardProjectInstagram: @1000CardProject Card Dealer Pro: https://v2-carddealerpro.cello.so/Jjhyy9arVzh* Joining with my code gets you an additional 500 scans and me as well. Mailing Supplies:Penny Sleeves - https://amzn.to/4ktWE63Top Loaders - https://amzn.to/3D8o3cDOr Card Savers - https://amzn.to/3Xj6E86Team Bags - https://amzn.to/4gWRts4Tape - https://amzn.to/4gT16IoTape Dispenser - https://amzn.to/4bgqDdbEnvelopes - https://amzn.to/3EVzRj2

TakeawaysJohn's initial goal was to make enough money to buy cards without guilt.Sourcing remains a challenge for John, but he focuses on negotiating lots.He emphasizes the importance of selling cards in the $3-$5 range for better profit margins.Maintaining a 100% feedback rating on eBay is crucial for trust.John uses his baseball knowledge to identify liquid players for investment.Prospecting is risky; he prefers established players with proven performance.OPS and OPS Plus are key metrics for evaluating player performance.He targets inserts and short prints for investment rather than base cards.Understanding short prints and their rarity is essential for value.Content creation helps build brand recognition and trust with customers.Keywordscard collecting, eBay selling, sports cards, card strategies, baseball knowledge, feedback, pricing strategies, NFTs, content creation, brandingEbay Store: https://www.ebay.com/str/onethousandtruecardsCollX: Search - 1000 Card Project (@Admin1000CardProject)* Let me know when you join, I want to be your first customer. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1000CardProjectInstagram: @1000CardProject Card Dealer Pro: https://v2-carddealerpro.cello.so/Jjhyy9arVzh* Joining with my code gets you an additional 500 scans and me as well. Mailing Supplies:Penny Sleeves - https://amzn.to/4ktWE63Top Loaders - https://amzn.to/3D8o3cDOr Card Savers - https://amzn.to/3Xj6E86Team Bags - https://amzn.to/4gWRts4Tape - https://amzn.to/4gT16IoTape Dispenser - https://amzn.to/4bgqDdbEnvelopes - https://amzn.to/3EVzRj2

In this conversation, Ron McKeefery interviews Jonny Petrucco, known as the sports card tax guy, discussing the intersection of sports card collecting and business. They explore the importance of understanding tax implications, the benefits of forming an LLC, and the necessity of proper bookkeeping. Jonny shares insights on how to track expenses, the significance of margins in profitability, and the current opportunities in the sports card market. The discussion also touches on Jonny's journey in the sports card space and his innovative approach to providing tax services for collectors.TakeawaysUnderstanding the IRS classification of hobby vs. business is crucial.Forming an LLC can provide legal protection and tax benefits.Tracking costs and expenses is essential for profitability.Using bookkeeping software can simplify financial tracking.Cash purchases require careful documentation to avoid issues with the IRS.Specializing in a niche can lead to better opportunities in the market.Margins are important to understand for successful card flipping.Non-sports cards present a unique opportunity for collectors.Personal financial habits impact business financial habits.Creating content can help establish authority in a niche market.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Sports Card Tax Guy01:09 Understanding Hobby vs. Business Tax Implications04:33 Tracking Purchases and Cost Basis07:35 Bookkeeping Tips for Card Collectors09:52 Cash Purchases and Audit Concerns13:03 The Journey into Sports Cards and YouTube18:03 Understanding Profit Margins in Card Flipping21:45 Opportunities in the Sports Card Market26:19 Strategies for Building a Profitable Card Business29:29 Engaging with the Community and Final ThoughtsKeywordssports cards, tax implications, bookkeeping, card flipping, LLC, accounting, hobby vs business, financial tracking, sports card market, personal collectionsEbay Store: https://www.ebay.com/str/onethousandtruecardsCollX: Search - 1000 Card Project (@Admin1000CardProject)* Let me know when you join, I want to be your first customer. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1000CardProjectInstagram: @1000CardProject Card Dealer Pro: https://v2-carddealerpro.cello.so/Jjhyy9arVzh* Joining with my code gets you an additional 500 scans and me as well. Mailing Supplies:Penny Sleeves - https://amzn.to/4ktWE63Top Loaders - https://amzn.to/3D8o3cDOr Card Savers - https://amzn.to/3Xj6E86Team Bags - https://amzn.to/4gWRts4Tape - https://amzn.to/4gT16IoTape Dispenser - https://amzn.to/4bgqDdbEnvelopes - https://amzn.to/3EVzRj2