The What Sold Podcast

What Sold Podcast

The story of items bought and sold by a modern day treasure hunter

  1. 10/08/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 103 - Adapting Strategies: From eBay Challenges to Whatnot Success

    In this episode of the What Sold Podcast, hosts Matt and Brandon discuss the significant shifts in their business approach, highlighting Matt's transition from eBay to Whatnot due to eBay's increasingly restrictive policies. They explore the importance of adaptability in business, especially during economic downturns. Matt shares detailed insights into his new methods for sourcing and selling jewelry, the diversification of sales platforms, and the emotional and practical challenges of maintaining a small business in a fluctuating market. They also touch on the community aspect of their work, emphasizing the educational and entertaining value of their content. The hosts conclude by encouraging listeners to subscribe and participate in their upcoming auctions and episodes.   00:00 Welcome to the What's Old Podcast   01:19 Types of Podcasts: Generalist vs. Niche   02:31 Building and Maintaining a Small Business   04:40 Challenges with eBay and Diversification   12:10 Success on Whatnot and Sourcing Strategies   21:47 The Long Game in Thrift Store Jewelry   22:14 Navigating Antique Stores and Thrift Shops   23:03 The Role of Thrift Store Employees   25:10 Adapting to Market Changes   26:12 Transitioning to New Platforms   27:24 Impact of Economic Downturn on Sales   30:59 Adjusting Sourcing Strategies   32:34 Balancing Work and Family   34:12 Expanding Business Opportunities   37:58 Optimizing Live Sales   38:58 Conclusion and Future Plans   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #whatnot #auctions #sellingonwhatnot #ebayrestrictions #ebay #consignment #sourcingantiques

    40 min
  2. 10/01/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 102 - What The What (Not)?!?!?

    In this episode of the 'What Sold' podcast, the Brandon and Matt discuss their current transition phase, focusing on shifting from eBay to the Whatnot platform for online auctions. Matt shares his positive experiences selling on Whatnot, along with the challenges faced, and the technology and strategies he uses for efficient auctions. They also touch upon eBay's shifting landscape and its impact on sellers. Additionally, they briefly discuss the broader themes of business flexibility and the constant need to adapt to changing environments. The episode concludes with Matt showcasing several unique items he recently sold on Whatnot.com, including a vintage magnifying glass, a brass door knocker, an antique photo album, and a vintage soda sign.   00:00 Introduction and Podcast Transition   01:07 Matt's Experience with Online Auctions   01:57 Setting Up and Running Whatnot Shows   05:46 Challenges and Strategies in Live Auctions   13:33 Integrating YouTube and Whatnot   15:02 Adapting to Market Changes   20:46 Navigating eBay's Payment Policies   21:06 Testing New Selling Platforms   21:36 Challenges with Consignment Sales   23:30 Exploring Whatnot for Sales   23:57 Learning from Different Categories   25:20 Marketing Strategies and Buyer Engagement   27:24 Dealing with Multiple Selling Platforms   28:00 Connecting with Potential Business Opportunities   30:51 Showcasing Recent Sales on Whatnot   34:31 Efficient Order Fulfillment on Whatnot   37:38 Future Plans and Scheduling Auctions   37:57 Conclusion and Next Steps   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #whatnot #auctions #sellingonwhatnot   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    38 min
  3. 09/17/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 101 - From eBay Woes to New Horizons: Auctions on What Not

    In the new and improved What Sold podcast, hosts Matt, aka Cousin Rusty, and his co-host discuss the challenges and frustrations Matt has faced with eBay, particularly focusing on recent account restrictions that have made it difficult for him as a full-time reseller. Matt explains the changes in eBay's policies that have significantly impacted his business, leading to delayed payments and lack of transparency. In response, Matt has decided to explore new avenues, notably the Whatnot platform, which combines live auction elements with e-commerce. This episode includes a detailed discussion about the Whatnot platform's features, benefits, and how Matt plans to pivot his business to be less reliant on eBay, thereby ensuring faster transactions and better control over his sales.   00:00 Introduction to Thrift Store Treasures 00:31 Welcome to the New What's Sold Podcast   01:03 eBay Gripe: The Dark Overlord Strikes Again   01:35 Matt's eBay Woes: A Week in Review   03:23 eBay's New Restrictions: A Seller's Nightmare   16:33 Exploring Alternatives: Whatnot and Beyond   20:55 Preparing for the First Whatnot Auction   31:05 Conclusion and Future Plans   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #whatnot #auctions #sellingonwhatnot   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    33 min
  4. 09/10/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 100 - Podcast Milestone: Reselling Lessons and Future Plans

    In episode 100 of the What Sold podcast, hosts Matt and Brandon celebrate their milestone amidst technical difficulties. They reflect on their podcast journey, discuss the practicalities of running a small business, and share insights on market research, legal requirements, inventory management, pricing strategies, and customer service. They also delve into the importance of using data analytics, marketing effectively, and the debate over scaling one's business. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes learning, adaptation, and the balance between growth and sustainability. The hosts also hint at upcoming changes in their content strategy, emphasizing a greater focus on their YouTube presence. 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties   01:19 Reflecting on 100 Episodes   02:23 The Shift to YouTube   03:25 Monetization and Audience Engagement   06:01 Podcasting Realities and Future Plans   11:25 Reselling Tips from ChatGPT   22:24 Researching Comparative Sales   22:41 Managing eBay Listings   23:25 Pricing Strategies and Valuing Your Work   25:28 Building an Inventory Management System   27:15 Marketing and Promoting Your Store   31:09 Providing Great Customer Service   33:50 Monitoring Analytics and Sales Data   37:26 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Scaling   41:54 Episode 100 Finale   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #100thepisode #anniversaryepisode   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA   Music: Anniversery March, OP.527 - Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra

    44 min
  5. 09/03/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 99 - The Sweet Swing: Rick Doble on Golf, eBay, and Reselling

    In this episode of 'What Sold Podcast,' Brandon and Matt introduce a special guest, Rick, Brandon's older brother, who shares his journey into ecommerce and golf resale. Rick dives into his retirement transition, turning his passion for golf into an eBay business focused on used golf equipment and apparel. He discusses his buying strategies, the learning curve in understanding the resale market, and the importance of conducting thorough research. The conversation highlights practical tips for maximizing sales, optimizing eBay listings, and the value of building relationships in the reseller community. Rick also shares personal anecdotes, including a humorous story about finding unexpected treasures in golf bags and his approach to customer service. The trio wraps up by encouraging aspiring resellers with valuable advice on managing inventory, understanding market dynamics, and leveraging niche interests to drive business success. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement   01:54 Rick's Journey into Golf and Reselling   04:43 Starting an eBay Store   09:02 Building Relationships and Sourcing Strategies   16:34 Packaging and Shipping Tips   19:08 Finding New Old Stock (NOS) Products   19:48 Challenges and Benefits of Thrift Shopping   20:41 Goodwill Controversy and Personal Experiences   23:32 Heartwarming Stories and Learning Curves   24:52 Golf Equipment Buying Tips   26:35 Personal Golf Stories and Family Connections   27:41 Starting a Resale Business: Tips and Challenges   31:06 Supporting Junior Golfers and Marketing Strategies   33:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   Sweet Swing Golf eBay Store   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #golf #golfreselling #secondhandgold #sweetswinggolf #preparinganebaybusiness #golfapparel    Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    38 min
  6. 08/27/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 98 - If Matt Had 100k He Swears He Could Turn It Into A Million In Three Years: Business Strategies in an Uncertain Economy

    In this episode of the What Sold podcast, hosts Brandon and Matt discuss Matt's recent trip to Branson, Missouri, and delve into the realities of running a business in a fluctuating economy. They talk about Matt's experience managing inventory, particularly antiques and jewelry, amidst economic slowdowns. The discussion touches on the importance of adapting business strategies, the potential for consignment business growth, and the significance of understanding market trends. They also provide insights into the challenges of maintaining cash flow and the benefits of seeking local selling avenues. The episode concludes with practical advice for sellers and the importance of preparation in uncertain economic times. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome   00:43 Branson, Missouri Adventures   02:12 Summer Heat and Theme Parks   03:18 Back to School and Fly Infestation   04:51 Challenges of Running a Business   08:43 Economic Impact on Sales   17:07 Consignment Business Insights   19:40 Navigating Market Uncertainty   20:33 Consignment Business Strategy   21:05 Estate Liquidation Services   23:52 Challenges of Cash Flow   25:30 Scaling the Business   27:52 Selling Jewelry and Precious Metals   33:29 Exploring Costume Jewelry   35:36 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Plans   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #sellinggold #sellingsilver #badeconomyselling #preciousmetals   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    38 min
  7. 08/20/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 97 - Fake Coins and Counterfeits - Be Careful Out There!

    In this episode of the What Sold Podcast the Matt and Brandon celebrate their nearing 100th episode milestone and discuss the surprisingly low lifespan of most podcasts. They delve into the proliferation of online scam-themed podcasts, reflecting on the rarity of their show’s unique niche. The conversation shifts to a light-hearted discussion about Matt’s upcoming vacation to Branson, Missouri, comparing it to various tourist spots like Pigeon Forge and Dollywood. The bulk of the episode is dedicated to an insightful exploration of coin collecting, highlighted by Matt’s revelation about receiving a batch of counterfeit coins. They discuss the importance of not cleaning coins, understanding the value through resources like the Red Book and PCGS, and the nuances of identifying real versus fake coins. Listeners get practical tips on how to start in niche hobbies and the importance of thorough research in avoiding costly mistakes. The episode wraps up with a teaser for an upcoming guest appearance and a note of appreciation for their growing audience.   00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration   00:46 Podcasting Trends and Challenges   01:56 Vacation Plans and Branson, Missouri   02:35 Exploring Branson and Pigeon Forge   08:10 Sourcing Antiques and Yard Sales   09:32 Antiquing Adventures and Market Trends   13:58 Coin Collection Mystery   18:06 Discovering Valuable Coins   18:37 The Importance of Not Cleaning Coins   20:08 Identifying Cleaned Coins   22:16 Research and Community Involvement   24:09 The Counterfeit Coin Discovery   25:47 Dealing with Counterfeit Coins   28:22 The Nuances of Coin Collecting   33:00 Final Thoughts and Advice   37:45 Closing Remarks and Future Plans   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay #fakecoins #counterfeitcoins #coincollecting #branson #dollywood    Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    40 min
  8. 08/13/2025

    The What Sold Podcast - Episode 96 - In the Cocoon: Developing Sustainable Business Growth - Is Consignment a Gold Mine?

    In this episode of the What Sold Podcast, Brandon and Matt discuss the evolution of business strategies, with a focus on Matt's shift towards higher-value consignment items. They explore the challenges of selling on platforms like eBay, where the system heavily protects buyers, and share insights on making the business more sustainable. Matt recounts a successful day refining his consignment process, securing high-value gold jewelry and collectibles, and emphasizes the importance of focusing on niches and refining inventory. The episode is packed with real-life stories and valuable advice for anyone in the resale and consignment business.   00:00 Introduction and Catching Up   01:31 Challenges of Selling on eBay   02:20 Matt's eBay Experience and Insights   04:35 Exploring Alternative Platforms   07:03 Balancing Business and Passion   09:01 Strategizing for Business Growth   17:41 Implementing New Business Strategies   22:23 A Neighborhood Encounter   23:09 Expanding Business Horizons   23:57 Building Connections and Opportunities   26:04 The Value of Flexibility   26:53 Targeted Marketing Strategies   28:51 Evaluating and Selling Collectibles   32:15 Transitioning Business Focus   36:11 Rapid Fire Sales Highlights   38:18 Engage with Us   whatsoldpodcast@gmail.com The What Sold Podcast Subreddit   #brickandmortar #consignmentselling #businessstrategies #changingyourfocusinbusiness #whatsoldpodcast #rustythereseller #whatsold #reselling #ebaystore #sellingonebay   Rusty the reseller: https://www.youtube.com/@RustyTheReseller   What Sold: https://www.youtube.com/@whatsold   Postcard Planet: https://www.youtube.com/@postcardplanet   What Sold Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc513e2aPbloS20mTwuv8bA

    39 min
5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

The story of items bought and sold by a modern day treasure hunter