Episodes

We begin with sharing thoughts on soccer as a collectable sport and its potential to rise in popularity. We dissect the concept of a 'flagship' brand using Panini Prism as an example and discuss the importance of base sets in a flagship product, espe...

We delve into the concept of odds and probability, particularly in the realm of sports card investments. As a trained statistician, Dr. Beckett emphasizes that the notion of probability is seldom a coin flip, direct 50-50 scenario.  He cautions again...

Details of the 2023 Goodwin Champions Hobby Box by Upper Deck. The product includes a mix of different sports cards, establishing an eclectic appeal, and each pack of 18 cards is configured with the middle card usually the best. The set is suitable f...

We ponder the question: What truly defines a sports card? We analyze a range of factors like material composition, size variations, and unique shapes that challenge the traditional notion of what constitutes a card. We question whether items like new...

Dr. Beckett engages during Hobby Hotline with Danny Black and Rich Klein about the concept of 10X-ing the hobby, specifically in relation to sports cards. They explore the recent news of Panini losing the UFC license to Fanatics and Tops, discussing ...

A detailed discussion about the Baseball Hall of Fame and its unique significance compared to other sports hall of fames. The history of the Baseball Hall of Fame, noting its early establishment and the time advantage it had over other sports. The no...

Dr. James Beckett engages with Danny Black and Mike Moynihan, discussing a conversation about the importance of grading in the sports card industry and the compensation of card graders. Dr. Beckett emphasizes the need for a skilled wage for graders, ...

A detailed discussion about the relationship between celebrities, sports cards, and the collecting hobby. It begins with a mention of Taylor Swift and how her presence has elevated the demand for certain sports cards, specifically Travis Kelce, Jason...

A review of two different Panini football card boxes: 2023 Phoenix and 2023 Absolute. I share my experience opening and examining these boxes, offering insights into their contents, prices, and overall value.  As a statistician, Dr. Beckett addresses...

Mike had an agenda for our time together - a good agenda!  So easy to talk about the hobby we love with kindred spirits - thanks Mike - feed the Beast!

The first class of ten cards were elected last year - the 45 cards under consideration this year are also outstanding - outstanding players and outstanding cards - see how I voted - and be sure to vote for yourself before February 6th - search for fo...

Mike Moynihan asked me to guest on his Golden Age of Cardboard and YouTube channels - we obvious share a love of vintage - he asked me some great questions!  Thanks Mike.  If you love vintage, subscribe to whatever Mike puts out!

Recapping the last eight weeks of podcasts covering the holiday seasons of Christmas and New Year's and much more - lots of content in case you missed some - thanks!

John has never been to Cleveland - he is in for a treat - he's driving and will take in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when he comes for the National this summer.  Great baseball town too with lots of serious collectors!

This Hobby Hotline quarterbacked by Adam Palmer and also featuring Rich Klein and myself was fast moving covering many topics quickly as is the nature of that show - you should subscribe!

John Newman interviewed me for his Sports Card Nation podcast and he delved into my inner workings and approaches for COMC as a power seller - thanks John!

I grouped some listener questions that all had to do with some aspect of card shows - a popular topic - keep your questions coming to doctorjamesbeckett@gmail.com and thanks!

I bought three different 2003-04 basketball hobby boxes at the latest Huggins and Scott Auction - and I opened them and was shocked - this is the audio of the before and after, but I have YouTube videos posted to show it live visually.

Martin Luther King Jr. is being celebrated today in America with a holiday - how might this matter in our hobby? - here's my take on the welcomed increased diversity in our sports card hobby.

The final installment of our extended conversation about rookie cards, before Victor completes his long-awaited book, which I encourage you to get.

A year ago my parents were doing pretty well - as I look at this year coming - I want full enjoyment of this hobby I love (even as I age slowly and hopefully hold off obvious sensory decline). Optimism!

Victor and I have been talking about rookie cards for a long time - it is a subject near and dear to both of our hearts - the fact that not everyone agrees on everything is just that, a fact.

Can't wait for Victor's book on Rookie Cards to come out - a lot of work went into it and he is almost done.  I think it's important that RC's be well-defined.  Thanks Victor.

I have five sports card hobby/industry predictions for this coming year - I don't claim to be clairvoyant, but I do sense some macro trends - enjoy and Happy New Year!