Discover
Stacking Slabs

Stacking Slabs
Author: Brett McGrath
Subscribed: 73Played: 9,323Subscribe
Share
© Stacking Slabs
Description
Welcome to the Stacking Slabs, a podcast for sports cards collectors. There's been a tremendous amount of change to our Hobby over the last few years and the one constant has been the passion from the collecting community. Stacking Slabs is built by the collector and lives to tell stories for the collector.
749 Episodes
Reverse
In the final Cards in Hand episode from The National, brought to you by eBay, I sit down with Joe (@low_pop_papi) to talk Panini era inserts.We get into why inserts from this time deserve more attention, how parallels like gold vinyls and one-of-ones add depth, and what makes Steph Curry’s catalog stand out.Joe shares why Optic inserts might be overlooked, how Prizm Deca brought back old designs in new ways, and why insert collectors should take a second look at Panini’s work.If you collect inserts or want to think differently about what matters in the Panini era, this conversation will give you plenty to consider.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Joe | Instagram
Collecting is full of choices. What you chase, when you chase it, and how much you’re willing to give up along the way. In this episode, Brett breaks down the importance of prioritization and why it matters for your long-term happiness in the hobby. He shares personal stories about cards he passed on, cards he went after, and the lessons he’s learned about balancing desire with discipline. If you’ve ever felt pulled in too many directions with your collection, this conversation will help you take a step back and refocus on what matters most.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeStart your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
In Episode 8 of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory dig into what it means to collect in a bull market. From Daniel Jones speculation to Josh Allen’s rising profile, they look at how player performance shapes demand and where timing matters most. They cover Bowman Chrome’s overlap with playoff baseball, Satchel Paige vintage sales, and why Yamal continues to drive conversation in soccer. Tory also shares behind-the-scenes data from dcsports87 that highlights true market health, separating perception from reality. Whether you’re chasing prospects, buying vintage, or selling through eBay, this conversation offers perspective on how to stay grounded and not get over your skis in today’s hobby.A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
On this episode of Passion to Profession presented by eBay, Brett sits down with Mike Phillips, EVP of Sales and Marketing at Upper Deck.Mike has spent 25 years shaping one of the most iconic brands in the hobby. From his early days managing a card shop to creating some of the most legendary parallels at Fleer Skybox, Mike brings a rare perspective on innovation, competition, and building products that stand the test of time.He shares stories behind sets like Essential Credentials and Fleer Brilliants, reflects on the launch of Exquisite, and talks about what keeps him motivated after a lifetime in the industry.If you’ve ever opened an Upper Deck pack, chased a parallel, or wondered how the best products get made, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Mike: | LinkedIn | Upper Deck
Katelyn (@coldlunchcards) and Brett sit down for episode 11 of season 2 to talk about one of the most thought-provoking ideas in collecting: the one-card PC. What happens when a single card represents everything you want from a player?They share personal examples, debate “Would You Rather” matchups featuring iconic WNBA cards, and reflect on how intentionality shapes their collecting styles. You’ll also hear about recent pickups, a spotlight on a dedicated collector, and bold predictions for the next six-figure WNBA card.If you’ve ever wondered whether one card can be enough, this episode is for you.Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide!Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkCheck out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram
We’re back for Season Two of The Football Card Podcast, and this one is loaded. John and Brett fire up fresh segments with new sponsors Card Ladder and Heystack, break down the final Panini Donruss Football release, and talk about what rookies could define the product.The guys dream up their perfect one-of-one Downtowns, answer listener mailbag questions, and share new pickups—including John's long-awaited 2012 Prizm Jay Cutler Black Finite 1/1.From underrated sets like Totally Certified to market moves around defensive monsters and Brady’s Mosaic Refractor, this episode is all about the chase, the stories, and why collecting football cards keeps us coming back.Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsVisit Heystack to explore their partner breaks. No more waiting. No more blurry screenshots. Just clear, instant access to what you hit.Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram
In this episode of Vaulted presented by PSA, I sit down with Nat Turner, CEO of Collectors, to break down his Top 100 cards graded at The National. Nat shares why he put this list together, what stood out to him, and how these cards connect to the broader story of collecting. We talk through the mix of vintage, modern, and everything in between that made this list so compelling. If you’re a collector who loves history, rarity, and the stories behind big cards, this conversation is for you.See Nat's Complete Top 100 Items Graded at The National '25LEARN MORE ABOUT PSA VAULTLEARN MORE ABOUT PSA CONSIGNMENTA special thank you to PSA for sponsoring Vaulted. PSA is the official grading, authentication, and vault provider of Stacking Slabs.Get exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
This week’s flagship is all about the long game in collecting. Too often the hobby gets swept up in hype cycles, record sales, and FOMO. But the collectors who stick around for years don’t chase the herd. They think independently, focus on discovery, and build collections that reflect who they are.In this episode, I share the story of an unexpected Marvin Harrison 1/1 pickup that reminded me why curiosity and exploration matter. We’ll talk about resisting comparison, finding joy in the hidden corners of the hobby, and why turning left when others go right might be the most satisfying path you can take as a collector.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeStart your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
In this episode of The Staging Area presented by dcsports87, Brett and Tory tackle one of the most controversial topics in the hobby: shill bidding. Tory shares how dcsports87 identifies it, why it hurts everyone involved, and what steps they take when they catch it.The conversation also digs into how football season drives submissions week to week, why certain players see spikes after a single game, and how collectors react when things go south.They close by looking at the numbers behind the bull run the hobby is experiencing and what’s fueling the growth. This one’s loaded with perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.A special thank you to dcsports87 for supporting this series. Check out dcsports87 for your eBay consignment needs and visit the dcsports87 eBay store to find great cards ending every night.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow dcsports87: | Website | eBay | Instagram | Twitter Follow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
In this episode of Passion to Profession, brought to you by eBay, I sit down with Mikey Osborn, Director of Growth Marketing and Technology at Collectors.Mikey shares how a love for Randy Moss and nostalgia-driven collecting eventually intersected with his career in technology, leading him to join one of the most important companies in the hobby. We cover his time at Salesforce, the bold DM to Nat Turner that opened the door, and what it’s like to build digital experiences for PSA and Collectors.We also talk about:Why spending 50 hours a week on eBay shaped his knowledge baseThe challenge of building tech for a stubborn but passionate collector baseHow AI, content, and community will shape the next phase of the hobbyAdvice for anyone looking to turn their love for cards into a careerThis is a conversation about taking the leap, blending professional skills with personal passion, and what the future of the hobby looks like from someone on the inside.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Mikey: | Instagram
It’s playoff time, and we’re bringing the heat on Season 2, Episode 10 of The WNBA Card Podcast.Katelyn and Brett dig into the psychology behind collecting WNBA cards—why we buy, what drives us, and how the passion in this niche hobby looks different from other categories.We cover:The perception gap between men’s and women’s sports cardsThe role of representation, nostalgia, discovery, and community in WNBA collectingCaitlin Clark’s recent market dip and what it teaches us about hype cyclesWhy veterans like A’ja Wilson, Maya Moore, and Tamika Catchings remain the foundation of the categoryThis one’s about more than values and comps. It’s about connection, intention, and collecting for yourself.Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide!Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkCheck out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram
Football is back, and so is The Football Card Podcast. In Episode 12, Pack Nicholson and Brett break down week one without overreacting, but with plenty of collector energy. From Joe Namath’s cultural impact to Andrew Luck jerseys still popping up in Indy, they explore the legacy of the number 12.They share their thoughts on the Colts’ long-awaited week one win, the Bears’ ongoing struggles, and the chaos of Monday Night Football. The guys also dig into hot hobby topics like the ethics of flipping one-of-ones, navigating negativity in the space, and the latest market-shaking sales—from a Clay Matthews Prizm Finite to a Jerry Rice Rubies.They close with personal pickups, reflections on collector identity, and a call for listeners to show off their favorite retired player cards.Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkCheck out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram
Recorded live at The National and brought to you by eBay, this episode of Cards in Hand features my good friend Drake (@drakes_pc), one of the most passionate Peyton Manning collectors in the hobby. We talk about his 1998 SkyBox E-X2001 Essential Credentials Future /7—a true ghost card in the Manning catalog. Drake shares the story of landing this card at last year’s National, the sacrifices he made to fund it, and why it now sits at the very top of his collection. We cover the evolution of his Manning journey, the challenge of chasing rare and scarce 90s parallels, and what it feels like to own a card that still gives him chills every time he pulls it out of the case.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Drake | Instagram
What separates the long game collectors from everyone else in the hobby?In this episode, Brett breaks down the DNA of the long-term player:Passion over profitDeep understanding of a nichePatience and perspectiveCommunity and relationshipsA mindset that keeps collecting fun for decadesThis conversation was sparked by a student question during Brett’s recent talk at DePauw University: How do you differentiate your content so the right people keep coming back?The answer ties directly into what it means to be a long game collector. Whether you’re early in your collecting journey or well on your way, this episode gives you perspective on how to build something meaningful that lastsGet your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeStart your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
The market is red hot. Cards are moving at record speed, headlines are popping up every day, and collectors everywhere are feeling the pull of FOMO.In this episode of Card Ladder Confidential, I sit down with Chris and Josh from Card Ladder to talk about what it’s really like to navigate a raging market.We cover:The most annoying parts of a bull marketCollector identity and the temptation to chase cards outside your laneThe psychology of buying discipline in a season of rising pricesThe $421M month in online card sales and what it really means for the hobbyStories of wins, losses, and the role trades play in reshaping collectionsIf you’ve been wrestling with how to collect in today’s market, this one will give you a lot to think about.Check out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Josh: | InstagramFollow Chris: | InstagramFollow Card Ladder: | Instagram | YouTube | WebsiteFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
On this episode of Passion to Profession sponsored by eBay, I’m joined by Scott Lock, CEO and Co-founder of InfernoRed Technology. Scott shares how a side business selling cards with his son on eBay turned into a $250,000 operation, and how that same passion for collecting led to building technology solutions for some of the biggest companies in the hobby.We talk about:What he learned building a business with his son through sports cardsHow InfernoRed became the go-to tech partner for leading hobby businessesWhy understanding collectors matters when creating solutions for the spaceThe current state of hobby technology and where innovation is headingIf you want to hear how passion connects with profession and why technology plays such an important role in the growth of the hobby, this is an episode you’ll want to hear.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Passion to Profession. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Scott: | InfernoRed Technology | LinkedIn
With the playoff race heating up, Katelyn and Brett explore what really drives interest in WNBA cards. Is it all about winning, or are other forces shaping collector behavior?They break down:Why winning doesn’t always lead to hobby heatHow moments, storylines, scarcity, and cultural impact influence card valuesPlayer-to-watch picks from all 9 playoff contendersThe growing importance of Paige, Phee, and A'ja in the hobbyHow new fans are discovering the W and what it means for collectingPlus, they spotlight a standout collector and take your questions in the mailbag.Whether you're watching games or scrolling reels, this episode helps you think differently about what makes players collectible.Shout out to our good friends at Great Lakes Trading Cards for supporting The WNBA Card Podcast and WNBA collectors worldwide!Follow the WNBA Card Podcast on Instagram Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkCheck out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Katelyn: | Instagram
Week 1 is here and so is Episode 11 of The Football Card Podcast with Pack Nicholson and Brett. This week we’re leaning into the season kickoff energy and tackling the topics you, the collectors, sent our way.We start by talking number 11s—Bad Jeff George memories, Larry Fitzgerald’s playoff run, and Julio’s touchdown paradox. Then we dive into listener questions about:The cards that got away and what we learned from those dealsThe balance between chasing hype and staying loyal to your collecting focusThe market outlook for quarterbacks sitting on the Hall of Fame bubble like Eli, Stafford, Rivers, and RyanWe also break down big sales in the football market, including the Barry Sanders PMG Green.This week’s Card Callout is all about the present: show us your favorite current player card you’re most excited to watch this season. Football is back, and football cards are thriving.Follow The Football Card Podcast on Instagram for memes and stuff.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkCheck out Card Ladder the official data partner of Stacking SlabsFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Pack: | Instagram
Recorded live at The National and brought to you by eBay, this episode of Cards in Hand features Tony (@southerncollector14) sharing one of the most meaningful cards in his collection: a 1954 Topps Jackie Robinson signed in Dodger blue ballpoint pen, graded Auto 10 by PSA. Tony talks about what it means to hold a card Jackie himself once held, the rarity of signed vintage Robinsons, and how collecting autographed Jackie cards deepens his connection to the hobby. We discuss the emotional weight of this piece, Jackie’s enduring legacy, and why cards like this are more than cardboard—they carry history, memory, and meaning.A special thank you to eBay for sponsoring Cards in Hand. The biggest and best marketplace to buy your next favorite trading card.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeGet exclusive content, promote your cards, and connect with other collectors who listen to the pod today by joining the Patreon: Join Stacking Slabs Podcast Patreon[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | TiktokFollow Tony | Instagram
What makes a player a true hobby GOAT? And why do sets sometimes matter as much as the athletes on the cardboard?In this episode, Brett explores the recipe behind collecting greatness. He breaks down why only a select few players reach GOAT status, the role of cultural impact and iconic moments, and why certain sets, brands, and parallels hold long-term value.You’ll hear stories about Jordan, Ruth, Jackie, Brady, Kobe, Serena, and others who transcend their sports, plus insights into how products like 2003 Exquisite, 2012 Prizm, and 1952 Topps shape the hobby.Whether you’re chasing legends or building around iconic sets, this episode is a guide for thinking long-term, adding stability to your collection, and enjoying the stories behind the cards we all love.Get your free copy of Collecting For Keeps: Finding Meaning In A Hobby Built On HypeStart your 7 day free trial of Stacking Slabs Patreon Today[Distributed on Sunday] Sign up for the Stacking Slabs Weekly Rip Newsletter using this linkFollow Stacking Slabs: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok