In this solo episode, I slow things down and explore a question that sits at the center of how many of us collect:

I talk about price as a signal, price as validation, and why using value as a scoreboard can quietly shape our preferences without us realizing it. I also dig into the difference between owning a one-of-one and owning a card that others own too, and why shared ownership can sometimes be more fulfilling than absolute uniqueness.

This episode touches on collecting as a social experience, the role of community and connection, and why owning the same card as someone else can create a sense of belonging that price alone can’t explain. From card bros to family bonding, collecting together adds a layer of meaning that doesn’t show up on a price chart.

This isn’t about right or wrong ways to collect. It’s about asking better questions and understanding why certain cards matter to us when they do.

If this kind of thinking resonates with you, these are the same themes explored more deeply in my upcoming book Pops and Comps, available mid-February.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Agree or disagree, feel free to reach out directly at [email protected].

Join us live on Saturday, February 21st, and we’ll be back to the regular podcast format shortly after that. If you enjoy the show, please consider telling a friend, leaving a rating, or sharing the episode.

Thanks for listening.

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