Jeremy and Leighton open Part 2 by tackling the “priced out” question head-on before Mike Zier jumps in with a candid collector’s perspective from the trenches, selling down, shifting to singles, and finding peace without chasing every comp. We get real about wax FOMO vs. expected value, what “being in the hobby” actually means, how to cope when prices outpace budgets, and why it’s okay to love cards without loving the market. Leighton bows out midway; Jeremy and Mike keep it rolling with practical strategies regular collectors can use right now.

Highlights

“Adapt or get out?” unpacked: what staying looks like when wax is $500–$800

Singles over wax: maximizing joy and minimizing regret

The dopamine problem: ripping vs. actually getting the cards you want

Feeling underappreciated as a long-timer, and moving forward anyway

Tracking every cent vs. ignoring the ticker: two healthy mindsets

Using eBay solds as simple comps (and when to skip comps entirely)

If you enjoy honest talk about budgets, wax vs. singles, and collecting for joy (not just headlines), this episode is for you. And don’t forget, watch Sports Cards Live most Saturday nights on YouTube for live, interactive conversations with collectors, dealers, and industry voices.

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