The Weekly Rip 1.5.25 [Advantage]
We explore the simplicity of collecting when we were kids and the advantages that we've got in the current era of sports card collecting.
A big thank you to the Card Ladder team for being the official data sponsor of Stacking Slabs. Card Ladder makes me a better creator and collector. If you’re looking to make more data-driven collecting decisions make sure you give the app a spin.
The Weekly Rip
Your Stacking Slabs Sunday Update
January 5, 2025
The Advantage We Have Today as Collectors
This past week, I kicked off the year with a special conversation on Stacking Slabs. I sat down with my brother, the first person I ever collected sports cards with, to reflect on those early days of ripping packs, flipping through Beckett Magazine, and dreaming about the next big pull.
For many of us, those childhood moments are the foundation of our collecting journey. They’re filled with nostalgia: the buzz of the hobby shop, the frenzy over Michael Jordan and Shaq cards, and the simplicity of sharing the hobby with friends. But as my brother and I reminisced, one thing became crystal clear: the world of collecting we knew back then is nothing like the world we’re in today.
Think about it. In the 90s, our resources were limited.
We had hobby shops as our main source of information
Beckett Magazine was the bible for card prices, updated once a month
Insights came from friends or the occasional shop owner willing to share tips
And that was it. There wasn’t much else to guide us. The internet was barely in its infancy, let alone a tool for collectors. We were navigating the hobby in the dark, figuring things out as we went.
Now, fast forward to today. The resources we have at our fingertips are almost overwhelming when you compare them to where we started.
Connections: Social media platforms like Instagram and X have made the world smaller. You can send a direct message to a fellow collector, ask about a card, negotiate a deal, or simply connect over shared passions. The ability to build relationships and communities within the hobby has never been greater.
Data: Tools like Card Ladder have redefined how we buy, sell, and trade. Whether it’s tracking historical sales, understanding market trends, or evaluating your collection, the data at our disposal gives us confidence and clarity. It’s not just a “nice to have”; it’s a necessity in today’s hobby landscape.
Content: Podcasts, YouTube channels, and blogs provide more stories, insights, and analysis than ever. We’re surrounded by voices shaping the way we experience collecting, giving us the opportunity to learn from others while finding inspiration for our own journey.
This flood of resources is a gift, but it’s easy to take for granted. When my brother and I talked about our childhood experiences, we marveled at how much easier it is to collect today, but also how those early limitations taught us resilience, patience, and the joy of discovery.
That’s where the beauty lies. We get to balance the lessons of the past with the tools of the present to deepen our connection to this hobby. And that’s a privilege.
As we enter this new year, I want to leave you with two thoughts:
Use your resources wisely. Reflect on how these tools can enhance your collecting experience. Whether it’s forming connections, gaining insights, or simply enjoying content, lean into what makes the hobby richer for you.
Share what you know. Think about the collectors who might be where you once were: starting fresh, figuring things out. Your knowledge, insights, and passion could be the spark that helps someone else take their first step or find their lane.
This hobby thrives on connection, and we’re lucky to be living in an era where that connection has never been easier. So, let’s keep sharing, learning, and building a hobby that makes all of us proud to be a part of it.
SSP Exclusive Offers For You
I’m working with the PSA team to extend more offers to my audience. We’re kicking off the promotion by giving any first time PSA submitters a $25 discount on your first order. Take advantage of the promotion by using promo code SSP25 on your first submission today.
Joining the Stacking Slabs Patreon is The Best Way to Show Your Support
Collectors are joining Stacking Slabs Patreon to consume exclusive content, connect with other collectors, and promote their cards. I’m putting out new collector focused content in the group on a daily basis and it’s the hub for all of SSP’s video content. If you’re enjoying what I’m putting out on the main feeds check out what the group has to offer. I appreciate your attention and commitment to helping grow the damn brand. Join Today
My girls were asleep (finally) for their afternoon nap over the holiday. Instantly, I ran to my microphone to reflect on all of the collector conversations that I had on SSP in 2024. I create a lot of content. There’s a ton of information that gets shared by myself and other collectors that likely goes on the shelf shortly after it gets shared. It's the nature of content creation in this era, but I wanted to make sure I got the chance to talk about some of the key themes from the year. I’m always sharing new and exclusive content with the Patreon community. I’d love to have you on board if you are looking for more from SSP in 2025.
A Collector To Follow
What happens when you mix a Yankees collector with a Bills collector and finally with a Pope Francis card collector? You get Dan (@excellencior). I’ve been enjoying his completely unique and well curated collection and I think you will, too. Go give Dan a follow and check out his collection.
I appreciate your support and passion for Stacking Slabs.
Thanks for reading!
Take care,
Brett