10K Card Journey: Sports Card Collecting and Investing Podcast

In this episode, I walk through the major milestones that have defined my return to the hobby—buying cards, navigating eBay sales and shipping, experiencing my first card show, and even sending in cards for grading. I’ll share stories, surprises, and the lessons I learned with each “first,” offering honest reflections for fellow collectors and anyone considering getting back in the game. Whether y...

Over the last six months, my sports card collecting journey has been packed with highs, surprises, and a few lessons learned the hard way. In this episode, I’m excited to share the top five cards I’ve added to my collection—what they mean to me and why I chased them. Plus, I break down the five most important lessons I’ve learned, from buying & selling to saving money & taking notes. Wheth...

Carlos Alcaraz is electrifying tennis, and his 2022 NetPro autographed rookie cards have become grails for some collectors. In this episode, I dive deep into my own quest to add an Alcaraz auto to my collection, sharing the details behind my plan to secure not one, but four copies, and why the deal crashed thanks to eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee. Hear about: What makes the 2022 NetPro Carlos Alcar...

In this episode, I dive into my first-ever card show experience—from the moment I bought my ticket to the last handshake of the day. You'll hear about: What it’s actually like walking into a card show for the first time Meeting dealers, collectors, and everyone in between Learning the art (and nerves!) of negotiating for a card My process for selling cards and what I learned along the way The...

Thinking of selling your sports cards on eBay but want to know what really goes into the process—and how much you actually earn after fees and supplies? In this episode, I walk you through my recent experience selling a 2005 Dwight Howard autograph: from accepting the offer and shipping to the buyer, to a transparent profit breakdown. I reveal every fee and packing cost, share what I learned, and...

In this episode, I share why vintage card collectors should trust their own eyes sometimes rather than relying solely on grading labels. Using my recent purchase of a 1955 Topps Sandy Koufax SGC 1 as an example, I explain how eye appeal—centering, image quality, and condition nuances—can make a huge difference in value and enjoyment. Pick vintage cards that truly speak to you even beyond the grade...

In this episode, I dive into the elevated 6% cash back offer on the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card and why it may be a fit for sports card collectors—especially those buying on eBay. I break down how the bonus works, the real-world upside for collectors, and why this no-annual-fee card is now my go-to for hobby purchases. If you want to maximize rewards and stretch your collecting bu...

In this episode, I break down my unexpected success selling a Francisco Alvarez/Mike Piazza dual auto /5 on Veriswap. I share my initial expectations, the comps I used to price the card, and how the platform’s low fees and trading focus made for a smooth and rewarding experience. If you’re curious about selling raw cards or looking for alternatives to eBay, this is a must-listen.

In this episode, I walk through my journey selling a Paige Bueckers 1st Bowman card. What looked like a small profit turned into a loss after factoring in shipping and selling fees. Tune in for a real-world look at the true costs of selling cards in today’s market.

In this episode, I share my honest experience ripping two Arena Club slab packs—an Emerald and a Gold. From the thrill of chasing grail cards to the reality of pack odds, buyback options, and value, I break down what worked, what didn’t, and whether slab packs are worth it for collectors.

In this episode, I dive into the explosion of overproduction in today’s sports card market. Using Jayden Daniels, Paul Skenes, and Victor Wembanyama as examples, I compare the staggering number of graded rookie cards for today’s stars to historical players. We’ll discuss what this means for scarcity, value, and the future of collecting.

In this episode, I share my honest thoughts on Arena Club after exploring its five core features: grading, vaulting, trading, selling, and slab packs. I break down what I like-especially the vaulting, trading, and selling options-and what I think could be improved, including their grading process and the slab pack experience. Whether you’re curious about Arena Club or considering trying it yoursel...

In this episode, I break down the four major grading factors-centering, corners, edges, and surface-and explain which matter most when it comes to vintage cards. Learn why centering and surface often drive eye appeal and value, how grading standards can vary, and why two cards with the same grade can look (and sell) very differently. Whether you’re new to vintage or looking to sharpen your eye, th...

In this episode, I break down my personal collecting philosophy and explain why I choose to focus exclusively on rookie cards, graded cards, and star players. I discuss the benefits of this approach, how it shapes my collection, and why it helps me avoid common pitfalls in the hobby. Whether you’re new to collecting or looking to refine your strategy, tune in for insights on building a focused and...

In this episode, I share my honest review of joining a card break on Fanatics Live-an experience I tried only because of a $125 credit from the PSA Collectors Club. I break down the auction process, the odds of hitting, what I actually received, and why I wouldn’t spend real money on breaks. If you’re curious about Fanatics Live or card breaks in general, tune in for a firsthand look at the pros,...

In this episode, I share my firsthand experience using COMC’s auction service-from buying a Victor Wembanyama rookie to selling it at auction and breaking down the final numbers. Hear what went smoothly, the hidden costs and fees, and what I’d do differently next time. If you’re considering COMC for buying or selling sports cards, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest takeaways

In this episode, I break down how to maximize using credit cards when buying sports cards on eBay. I share some credit cards that earn good cash back, as well as introduce the concept of sign-up bonuses. Learn how the right cards can help you save and earn more with every purchase.

In this episode, I break down the pros & cons of buying sports cards online with a credit card versus a bank transfer. I compare eBay, Fanatics Collect, and Arena Club, explaining where you’ll pay extra fees and where you won’t, and share my recommendations for making your purchases smarter and more rewarding.

In this episode, I dig into the price gap between PSA and BGS graded cards, using my recent 2009 Topps Stephen Curry rookie purchase as a case study. I discuss why PSA slabs command higher prices, what drives collector preferences, and whether there’s a potential arbitrage opportunity for savvy buyers in today’s market.

In this debut episode, I share why I’m starting the 10K Card Journey Podcast, what listeners can expect in future episodes, and my personal journey back into sports card collecting. From my early experiences to my passion for the hobby, join me as I explore the world of sports cards.