Programming note: This is a mid-week programming interruption ahead of The Sport Card Expo. We’re inserting special Wednesday and Thursday BoothMates episodes so you can pre-game for the show. Sports Cards Live resumes on Friday, and there will be no episodes next week on Wednesday/Thursday/Friday.

We’re gearing up for The Expo—travel plans, booth setup, and the “home show” feeling even when you have to fly in. We talk what we’re bringing (and how much), how we buy at shows (sometimes ignoring COMPs altogether), why Expo is still the best room for hockey while staying strong across sports, and how recent playoff buzz could bring new/returning fans through the doors. A show organizer even pops in near the end to add some on-the-ground context.

Highlights

Where to find us: Booth 1707 right off the entry

What’s on the tables: late-90s/early-2000s inserts, patches, jerseys, numbered cards, plus autos/patch-autos

Buying approach for the weekend: feel first, then price—when ignoring COMPs actually works

Why the Toronto show still feels like “home” and how the community keeps expanding

Hockey-heavy floor (and why that matters), with plenty of baseball/basketball/football/soccer in the mix

Playoff afterglow → more casual fans walking in, what they’ll likely be hunting, and how that helps the hobby

Main-stage autograph interviews preview (timing/guests permitting)

Quick Strongsville crossover talk and why operational polish makes shows better for everyone

If you’re coming, swing by Booth 1707—say hi, flip through the binders, and bring your wants/trade box. Subscribe/follow so you don’t miss Part 2 tomorrow.

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