The Sports Card CEO Podcast

Eric Mandelkern, Gary "Bubba" Wilson, Matt Ham (Host)

The Sports Card CEO Podcast is your ultimate destination for everything sports cards! Whether you're a seasoned collector, an investor seeking market insights, or just starting your journey in the hobby, we've got you covered. Each episode, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the sports card world, offering expert tips, insider strategies, and captivating stories from industry pros. From grading and authentication to flipping tactics and long-term investment advice, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed in this exciting space.

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 32, S2: A Deep Dive with Brent Weyer | Sports Cards, Client Strategies, and Hobby Mindset

    The CEO's sit down with Brent Weyer, Deep Value Investor on Instagram and owner of https://www.weyersports.com/, and share insights on collecting strategies, market trends, and how to identify valuable cards across different eras. They discuss the importance of set significance, risk diversification, and the evolving landscape of sports card investing. Brent Weyer also shares insights on finding undervalued assets, the importance of authentication, and long-term strategies for collectors and investors. Chapters 00:00 Introductions 03:24 Personal Updates and Life Changes 06:13 Sports Card Market Insights 09:01 Building a Sports Card Advisory Business 11:46 Client Strategies and Market Trends 17:18 Transitioning from Basketball to Baseball Collecting 20:17 Modern Football Card Market Discussion 25:31 Prospecting in Sports Cards 31:35 Collectibility vs. Value 42:17 The Authenticity Debate in High-End Cards 45:36 A Wild Sports Card Story 51:56 Subjectivity in Card Value 54:26 Long-Term Value and Collectibility 56:59 The Fun of Collecting vs. Investing _____________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    1h 5m
  2. May 27

    Episode 31, S2: Stay in Your Lane | The High Stakes of Card Collecting

    In this episode, host Matthew Ham and Eric Mandelkern break down the current sports card market — from defining what a “bubble” really is to smarter collecting strategies. They share real insights, personal experiences (including losses), and practical tips to help collectors navigate hype cycles and avoid costly mistakes. Chapters 00:00 Weekly Round Table 06:13 Matt's Journey to a Million 08:42 Navigating Emotional Attachments in Card Collecting 11:48 Understanding the Concept of a Bubble 14:11 Defining a Bubble in the Card Market 16:56 Strategies to Insulate Against Market Bubbles 19:53 The Importance of Staying in Your Lane 21:38 The High Stakes of Card Collecting 25:41 Navigating the Market: Strategies for Success 29:10 Collecting with Passion: The Emotional Side of Cards 32:40 Final Thoughts on Market Dynamics and Future Trends ______________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    44 min
  3. May 20

    Episode 30, S2: Fatigue in the Hobby | Cards, Grading & Prospect Value

    Join the CEOs as they explore the latest trends in sports cards, market dynamics, grading fatigue, and innovative tools for collectors. They share insights on hype cycles, perceived value, and the future of grading services, all while keeping it real about the hobby's current state. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 08:07 The Launch of the Prospect Club App 10:51 Bowman Release and Market Dynamics 16:18 The Influence of Market Players 18:53 Performance vs. Perceived Value 27:50 Understanding Prospect Value and Hype Cycles 30:12 Grading Fatigue and Perceived Value 34:55 Shipping and Handling High-Value Cards 41:18 Navigating the Market with Fresh Grading Standards 46:53 Youthful Passion and Innovative Ideas in the Hobby ______________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    51 min
  4. May 13

    Episode 29, S2: 2026 Bowman Release Breakdown | Special Guest Aram Leighton of Just Baseball

    In this episode, special guest Aram Leighton of Just Baseball joins the CEO’s to break down the 2026 Bowman Baseball release and what it means for collectors and investors alike. From top prospects and breakout names to smart investment strategies, we dive deep into player valuations, evolving market trends, and the key indicators driving the hobby right now. Chapters 00:00 Introductions 02:09 Aram's Recent Trading Experience 05:12 The Importance of Timing in Card Sales 09:00 Evaluating Player Prospects and Card Values 12:14 Navigating the Current Baseball Market 14:48 Evaluating Top Prospects: Ethan Holiday 19:40 Florentino: A Unique Talent in the Making 25:10 Emerging Stars: Gonzalez, Arquette, and More 27:56 Underrated Prospects: Hartman and Brito 31:00 Market Trends: The Case of Jojo Parker 35:05 Emerging Talents in Baseball 40:23 Spotlight on Underrated Players ______________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    43 min
  5. May 6

    Episode 28, S2: Emerging Stars in the MLB | Player Performance and Market Value in Sports Cards

    This episode delivers a high-level breakdown of the current baseball landscape and its direct impact on the sports card market. The CEO’s dive into emerging prospects, shifting market trends, and the value dynamics surrounding stars like Yordan Alvarez, Elly De La Cruz, and Mike Trout. From prospecting strategies to timing the market, the hosts share how they evaluate talent, capitalize on hype cycles, and navigate an ever-evolving hobby—giving collectors the edge to think and operate like true CEOs of their portfolios. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Roundtable Kickoff 05:54 Business Success in Sports Cards 11:11 Diving into MLB and Player Performances 16:51 Spotlight on Emerging Players 22:09 Elly De La Cruz and Market Trends 36:34 Emerging Talents: Kevin McGonigle 40:26 Mike Trout: The Comeback Story 45:00 The Value of Timing in Card Investments 47:45 The Future of Baseball: Rising Stars 55:47 Prospect Rankings and Predictions ____________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    59 min
  6. Apr 29

    Episode 27, S2: How Scarcity & Hype Drive Card Values | Prospecting and Market Trends

    Join the CEO’s as they break down the current sports card market at a high level—from emerging trends and prospecting strategies to the real drivers behind value. We unpack how scarcity, hype cycles, and player performance impact pricing, with sharp, unfiltered insights from seasoned collectors and industry experts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:38 Personal Updates and Life Balance 06:41 Card Collecting Highlights and Business Success 15:07 Investing in Babe Ruth Cards 17:54 Launching the Sports Card CEO Website 21:07 Listener Questions and Insights on Bowman Cards 26:34 The Value of Baseball Cards: Bowman vs. Topps Chrome 34:02 Rising Stars: Analyzing Upcoming Players 43:34 Market Trends: The Impact of Scarcity and Hype 55:45 Future of the Hobby: Anticipating the Next Big Release ______________________________________________________________________ Visit our website: https://thesportscardceo.com/ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    58 min
  7. Apr 22

    Episode 26, S2: Navigate the Stagnant Sports Card Market | How To Identify Opportunities

    Join the CEO's as they break down today’s stagnant sports card market, uncovering smart investment strategies, hidden opportunities, and ways to manage risk in a volatile hobby landscape. We also dive into how social media, technology, and shifting collector behavior are reshaping the market—featuring valuable insights from industry veterans on how to stay ahead. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 06:26 Personal Experiences and Family Moments 20:01 Navigating the Stagnant Market 29:17 Investing Strategies and Income-Producing Assets 33:45 Investment Strategies: Finding Value in Oversold Cards 40:31 The Wax Market: Opportunities and Risks 42:21 The Role of Breaking and Repack in the Hobby 47:35 Gambling Culture: The Impact on New Collectors 52:03 Mindfulness in Collecting: Finding Balance and Purpose ______________________________________________________________________ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    59 min
  8. Apr 15

    Episode 25, S2: Special Guest Mat Sposta, CEO of CHCK.AI & Trove | The Future of Collectibles

    In this episode, Mat Sposta, CEO of CHCK.AI and Trove, dives into the evolution of the sports card market—from corporate influence to cutting-edge AI grading. He breaks down how storytelling, shifting market dynamics, and new technology are redefining the future of collectibles. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 07:25 Welcoming Mat Sposta: Background and Connections 09:57 Mat's Journey in the Hobby and Business Ventures 12:51 Corporate Involvement in the Hobby 13:55 Evolution of Trove and Content Strategy 16:04 Highlighting Collector Stories and Community Impact 18:37 The Balance of Positivity and Negativity in the Hobby 22:29 Market Dynamics and Collectibility 26:59 The Shift Towards Scarcity and Rarity in Collectibles 30:44 Diversity in Collecting: Different Approaches 40:05 Innovations in Grading: The Role of AI 52:02 Challenges in the Card Market: Data and Pricing ______________________________________________________________________ Email us your questions! thesportscardceo@gmail.com Listen and Subscribe to the pod! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sports-card-ceo-podcast/id1793644263 Spotify: http: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TVcjeAz2nG0BswCNSR9ZY?si=4177b30b6f264b61 Follow Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesportscardceo X: https://x.com/SportscardCeo https://www.instagram.com/hamhousesports https://www.instagram.com/thebowmanfarmer https://www.instagram.com/kernscards Subscribe to our other YouTube channels! Just Baseball: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballMedia The Call Up: https://www.youtube.com/@TheCallUpPod Just Baseball Originals: https://www.youtube.com/@JustBaseballOriginals Just Gridiron Fans: https://www.youtube.com/@JustGridironFans #baseball #sportscards #collectables

    59 min
5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

The Sports Card CEO Podcast is your ultimate destination for everything sports cards! Whether you're a seasoned collector, an investor seeking market insights, or just starting your journey in the hobby, we've got you covered. Each episode, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the sports card world, offering expert tips, insider strategies, and captivating stories from industry pros. From grading and authentication to flipping tactics and long-term investment advice, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed in this exciting space.

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