The Weekly Rip 5.4.25 [the buy]
We explore the process of buying and why sometimes it's not because of long term holds
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The Weekly Rip
Your Stacking Slabs Sunday Update
May 4, 2025
Every collector has a reason.
Some of us buy because a card speaks to us.
Some of us buy because we see value.
Some of us buy because we know it’ll help get us one step closer to something bigger.
None of those reasons are wrong.
All of them can be part of building a meaningful collection.
This week, I’ve been thinking a lot about the phrase always buying.
We see it at shows. We see it in bios.
But what does it actually mean for the collector—not the dealer or shop—but the person trying to build something personal?
We talk a lot about what we buy.
Not enough about why.
Buying with purpose isn’t always about adding to your forever PC.
Sometimes it’s spotting a card underpriced by $200.
Sometimes it’s knowing what the market wants before the market figures it out.
Sometimes it’s flipping something you don’t love so you can afford something you do.
It’s not a gimmick.
It’s a strategy.
And it doesn’t make you less of a collector.
We’ve created this weird pressure in the hobby where every card you show needs to have a deep, emotional story behind it.
But a lot of us buy cards we plan to sell.
And there’s nothing wrong with that.
Buying with purpose means knowing your lane.
It means putting in the hours.
It means being honest with yourself about what matters and what’s temporary.
And it means not letting someone else’s label define how you collect.
You can be someone who buys, sells, and trades with intention.
You can love your PC and still run a smart operation behind the scenes.
You can post a card without pretending it’s a grail.
Next week’s flagship episode digs deeper into this idea.
Opportunity.
Identity.
Intention.
Until then, think about the last card you bought.
What was your reason?
That answer says more about your journey than any label ever will.
Thanks for being here.
Stacking Slabs + PSA = W
I’m pumped to be partnering back up with PSA on the Vaulted series. The first episode was released this week. You’ll learn how I’ve gone from zero vault usage to a hybrid approach and the reasons why. Make sure you check out the episode. For further information learn more about the PSA Vault and PSA Consignment.
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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
This week in the Stacking Slabs Patreon I brought Prizm Talk back into the fold. I couldn’t help, but notice Panini’s presence at the NFL Draft and consider what it meant as we near the inevitable transfer of licenses to Topps. You can check out new and exclusive content in the Patreon group every day.
A Collector to Follow
Although I don’t collect vintage baseball I always enjoy learning about it. There’s no better place than Tony’s (@tj.isonline) page. He’s consistently sharing his cards and information that makes me a more informed collector. I’m excited to host Tony on the podcast this week.
I appreciate your support for Stacking Slabs. Tell a damn friend.
Take care,
Brett