In this episode, Ron McKeefery hosts Matt Hasson and RJ Watters from Behind The Breaks (www.BehindTheBreaks.com), share their unique journeys in the world of trading cards. They discuss the transition from casual collecting to a business venture, the emotional aspects of collecting, and the intricacies of breaking. The conversation delves into strategies for sourcing products, the importance of community, and the challenges faced in the breaking business. They also touch on personal collections, the significance of storytelling in the hobby, and the balance between passion and profit.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

01:03 The Journey from Hobby to Business

03:13 Diverse Perspectives on Collecting

06:28 The Business of Selling Cards

08:36 Discipline and Strategy in Collecting

12:05 Collecting Strategies and Personal Preferences

16:00 Reconciling Collecting with Business

20:58 Understanding the Breaking Business

22:07 Starting a Breaking Business

28:16 Authenticity in Breaking: The Key to Success

29:41 Understanding Profit Margins in Breaking

33:45 The Importance of Sourcing and Relationships

40:31 The Role of Transparency in the Hobby

41:19 Starting Behind the Breaks: Community and Connection

47:17 Networking Through Conversations: The Power of Podcasting

Takeaways

• The collector's journey often starts as a hobby before evolving into a business.

• Diverse perspectives in collecting can enhance the experience and knowledge.

• Building relationships is crucial for sourcing products and growing in the hobby.

• Discipline and strategy play significant roles in successful collecting and breaking.

• Emotional connections to cards can influence buying and selling decisions.

• Understanding the economics of breaking is essential for profitability.

• Sourcing products at a lower cost can improve profit margins.

• The trading card community is supportive and willing to help newcomers.

• Transparency in the business side of breaking fosters trust and engagement.

• Networking through podcasts can lead to valuable connections and friendships.

Keywords

#SportsCardPodcast, #tradingcards, #collecting, #breaking, #eBay, #sports, #community, #strategy, #business, #vintage