Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe

Step inside the fast-moving world of sports cards with longtime shop owner and industry insider Joe Davis. In this behind-the-counter episode, Joe pulls back the curtain on what a “typical” week really looks like, from road-tripping to evaluate vintage collections, to navigating frantic in-store Saturdays, surprise Holy Grail walk-ins, grading-room drama, and the endless balancing act of running a modern hobby business. It’s part storytelling, part hobby education, and part unexpected adventure (yes, there’s a Flintstones ceiling fan involved). Whether you’re a collector, dealer, shop owner, or just hobby-curious, this episode delivers a dose of reality, a few laughs, and a look at the heart of a thriving sports card operation. Tune in and experience the side of the hobby most collectors never get to see.

Big moves, bold questions, and insider perspective from the hobby’s front lines. In this special first-ever video episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis welcomes longtime collector and pre-war expert Cleve Bosher for a wide-ranging conversation that digs into the most talked-about developments in card grading today. From newly revealed plans at Collectors Holdings to what the future may hold for PSA, SGC, and Beckett, this episode explores how recent decisions could reshape turnaround times, population reports, brand identities, and collector confidence. Along the way, Joe and Cleve blend industry insight with real-world collecting experience, discussing grading strategy, market perception, and why some overlooked slabs and segments of the hobby may be more interesting than they appear. The episode wraps with a fun, nostalgia-driven look at vintage non-sport and cartoon cards that highlight the passion behind collecting beyond pure dollar value. Whether you’re a seasoned hobbyist, a grader-watch enthusiast, or just curious about where the sports card world is heading next, this episode offers context, clarity, and conversation you won’t want to miss.  

Inside the World of Counterfeit Trading Cards This week, Joe explores the fast-growing world of counterfeit sports and trading cards, and why the problem is bigger than most collectors realize. Learn which iconic cards are being faked, how counterfeits slip through grading channels, and what red flags to watch for before you buy or submit. Packed with firsthand stories and market insight, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who collects, invests, or submits cards for grading. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay ahead of the scammers.

In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis dives into the fascinating world of vintage sports cards, why they matter, how to maximize value in large collections, and what most collectors overlook. Joe pulls back the curtain on a massive 8,500-card vintage haul spanning the late ’40s through the ’50s, sharing real-world strategy on grading, selling, and navigating the tricky “what now?” moment after the big stars are gone. Whether you’re a collector, reseller, shop owner, or just curious about the vintage side of the hobby, this episode offers insider perspective you won’t get at modern-focused shows. From high-number series and hidden gems to the art of turn-key resale strategies, Joe breaks down the process with decades of experience and plenty of hobby stories along the way. Vintage is alive, opportunity is everywhere, and Joe’s here to show you where to look.  

January is here and the hobby isn’t slowing down.  In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, we kick off the new year with a full breakdown of January’s most anticipated trading card releases across football, baseball, basketball, soccer, wrestling, racing, and beyond. From ultra-high-end drops to perennial collector favorites, there’s something coming for every type of hobbyist. Joe shares what’s worth watching closely, which products could shape the market long-term, and why certain releases continue to defy expectations despite all the noise about overproduction. We also dig into the bigger picture-how demand is evolving, what’s happening behind the scenes with major manufacturers, and why the hobby may be healthier than many realize. If you’re planning your next rip, deciding what to stash, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this episode sets the table for the month ahead, without spoiling the chase. Plus, a tease of an incredible collection pickup and some vintage insights you won’t want to miss in an upcoming episode. Grab a cup of coffee and settle in, January’s just getting started.

A New Year, A New Vision for the Hobby Joe Davis is back and he’s pulling back the curtain. In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe steps away from the usual card talk to share a candid, behind-the-scenes look at where the hobby is heading and how his company plans to navigate a faster, more competitive landscape. From rethinking the retail experience and unlocking decades of hidden inventory, to doubling down on relationships, service, and community, Joe lays out the philosophy driving some big changes in 2026. You’ll hear why “what’s old is new again,” how the singles market is evolving, and why service,not just product, is the real edge in today’s hobby. Joe also teases expanded events, major show appearances, a return to live streaming, and ambitious plans for new audio and video content, all built around one core mission: helping collectors do this the right way. If you’ve ever wondered what really goes on behind the counter, how long-term hobby businesses think, or where opportunities are emerging right now, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Joe Davis is back just in time for a Christmas-edition episode packed with gratitude, breaking hobby headlines, and unfiltered insight into where the sports card world is headed. From a heartfelt holiday recap and a powerful charitable moment to major industry developments involving grading giants, this episode covers a lot of ground without losing its personal touch. Joe breaks down the biggest stories shaking the hobby right now, including consolidation at the top of card grading, a surprising congressional request for federal scrutiny, and a headline-making PSA decision involving a legendary Wilt Chamberlain rookie. He also shares behind-the-scenes conversations with some of the hobby’s most influential retailers, updates on grading drop-off changes, and his honest take on how corporatization could reshape local card shops in the years ahead. Add in thoughts on college football, the current sports landscape, and a reminder of why, despite the noise, this is still the greatest hobby on earth, and you’ve got an episode that feels like sitting down with a trusted voice in the hobby over a cup of coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just trying to keep up with what’s changing, this one will give you plenty to think about—and plenty of reasons to come back for the next episode.

Breaking News Shakes the Hobby. This special, must-listen episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe dives headfirst into one of the most seismic moves the sports card industry has seen in decades: Collectors Holdings, the parent company of PSA and SGC, has officially acquired Beckett. Joe drops everything to break down what this means in real time. Is this a turning point for BGS? A massive win for collectors holding Beckett slabs? Or the latest step toward industry consolidation that has everyone buzzing? Drawing on nearly three decades of firsthand experience, deep industry relationships, and historical context, Joe unpacks the deal, the motivations behind it, and the ripple effects it could have across grading, authentication, and the hobby as a whole. From cautious optimism to tough questions about competition, branding, and the future of grading, this episode offers insight you won’t get from headlines alone, without spoiling where things may ultimately land. If you care about PSA, BGS, SGC, or the future of the hobby itself, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in and be part of the conversation.

NBA GOATs, Hidden Gems & the Next Wave of Legends The GOAT debate never gets old and in this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, we dive headfirst into it. From Jordan vs. LeBron to the legends who shaped the league, Joe shares his personal Top 12 NBA Greats of All Time, blending history, impact, championships, and legacy into one must-hear conversation. But this isn’t just a rankings episode. Once the list is set, the real value kicks in. Joe breaks down what truly matters for collectors and investors and why stats alone don’t tell the whole story. Hear how championships and perception shape long-term value, and which all-time legends still have surprisingly affordable rookie cards hiding in plain sight. You’ll also hear a forward-looking take on the league’s future: Which current stars are already building Hall of Fame résumés? Who has a real shot at cracking GOAT territory? And which young players could redefine the game if everything breaks right? From overlooked legends to modern icons and rising superstars, this episode connects the dots between greatness on the court and opportunity in the hobby—without giving away all the answers. If you love NBA history, the thrill of collecting, and smart conversations about where the game (and the market) is headed, this one’s for you.

What does one man’s courage have to do with the history of baseball and that cards collectors cherish most? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe reflects on the legacy of Jackie Robinson, inspired by revisiting Ken Burns’ legendary Baseball documentary. From the brutal reality of breaking the color barrier to the ripple effect that changed the game forever, Joe explores why Jackie Robinson’s impact reaches far beyond stats and box scores. Along the way, he weaves in unforgettable stories, overlooked pioneers who followed Jackie into the majors, and why Robinson remains one of the most important, and desirable, figures in the vintage sports card hobby. This episode blends history, hobby insight, and personal reflection, making a compelling case for why Jackie Robinson matters as much today as he did in 1947. Whether you’re a lifelong collector, a baseball history buff, or simply someone who appreciates stories of resilience and leadership, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Pour a cup of coffee, settle in, and join Joe for a conversation about courage, legacy, and the card that every serious collector should own.

The College Football Playoff bracket is finally here and Joe Davis has thoughts. Lots of them. On this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe breaks down the new 12-team playoff, fires off his round-by-round predictions, and doesn’t shy away from controversy (yes, there’s bias… and yes, Georgia fans will love it). From potential upsets to heavyweight matchups, Joe gives you the fan’s-eye view of what’s coming and why this playoff might be the most wide-open we’ve seen yet. Then it’s time to rip into the hobby side of college football. Joe dives deep into two of the hottest releases on the market, Bowman Best University Football and Bowman University Chrome Football, highlighting breakout players, jaw-dropping autograph sales, and even some surprisingly valuable mascot cards. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just playoff-curious, there’s plenty here to get you fired up about college football cards. Finish it off with hobby insight, behind-the-scenes updates from GotBaseballCards, and Joe’s trademark passion for the game, the cards, and the community. Predictions. Products. Playoff vibes. Tune in—you might just hear your future championship pick (or next big card chase) before anyone else.

The ’80s are back and hotter than ever. In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis dives into a surprising shift in the hobby: iconic cards from the so-called junk-wax era are suddenly soaring. From Jordan’s legendary Fleer rookie to Griffey Jr.’s Upper Deck debut, the once-overlooked Mattingly and Henderson classics, prices are climbing, demand is exploding, and collectors are rediscovering the cards that defined their childhoods. Joe breaks down why this surge is happening, what it means for today’s buyers, and how weekend warriors, show-goers, and bargain hunters can capitalize on the trend. Whether you’re chasing nostalgia, searching for undervalued gems, or just love the thrill of the hunt, this episode will change the way you look at ’80s collections—and might even reshape your buying strategy. Tune in for market insights, real numbers, a few great stories, and a reminder of why this hobby keeps bringing us back. Grab your coffee, grab your cards, and let’s dig in.

December is stacked — are you ready? On this week’s episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis kicks off a brand-new month with a collector’s roadmap to one of the biggest release slates of the year. From vintage-inspired favorites to high-end chases and one long-awaited return to the hobby, December is absolutely loaded. Joe breaks down the key products hitting the shelves—including Topps Allen & Ginter, Chrome Update, Archives, Cosmic Chrome, multiple National Treasures releases, Merlin Chrome Soccer, and one insanely anticipated return to the hobby. Whether you’re planning your budget, your breaks, or your next big PC hit, this episode gives you the inside track on what’s coming and when. Plus, hear which products Joe is personally itching to rip, why some boxes may never make it online, and how you can get your questions featured in future episodes. If you’re a collector, investor, or just hobby-curious, this is your must-listen guide to navigating a jam-packed December release calendar. Grab your coffee, pull up your checklist, and tune in. There’s a lot to look forward to.  

Holiday shopping for a sports card collector just got a whole lot easier. On this Black Friday episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe breaks down the ultimate gift guide for the collector in your life. Whether you're hunting for the perfect box for someone to rip on Christmas morning, searching for unique singles of their favorite players, or trying to figure out the best supplies to gift, Joe can help. He shares insider tips from decades in the hobby, including can’t miss products, budget-friendly ideas, creative options for player superfans, and the underrated essentials every collector secretly hopes to unwrap. He also dives into this season’s hottest holiday releases, smart strategies for choosing the right gifts, and a few special deals happening at GotBaseballCards that might save you time and money during the busiest shopping month of the year. If you’re buying for a collector (or you are the collector trying to drop hints) this episode is packed with practical inspiration, heartfelt holiday encouragement, and the signature Joe Davis hobby wisdom listeners love. Tune in and get ready to make this the most exciting card-collecting Christmas yet.

In this special Thanksgiving-week episode, Joe takes a heartfelt pause from hobby news and market trends to reflect on gratitude, both in life and in the world of sports cards. From the people who shaped his 35-year journey in the industry to the unexpected competitors, innovators, and partners who’ve made the hobby stronger. Joe shares stories that will surprise, encourage, and maybe even inspire you to look at your own collection, and the sports card community, a little differently. Whether you’re a longtime listener or brand new to the show, this episode is a warm reminder of why the hobby matters and why the people behind it matter even more. Pour your coffee, enjoy the holiday season, and tune in for a Thanksgiving message rooted in appreciation, passion, and the love of collecting.

Grading chaos. Vintage monsters. Slabs everywhere. In this week’s episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis dives into one of the wildest stretches the grading world has seen in years and the ripple effects are hitting collectors, dealers, and the entire hobby. Joe breaks down surprising new data from GemRate, why certain iconic cards from the ’80s and ’90s are flooding grading rooms again, and how even Beckett is tapping the brakes to catch up. With PSA pushing nearly 2 million cards in 30 days, the hobby is drowning in slabs… and that means unexpected buying opportunities most collectors are overlooking. You’ll hear: • The shockers from last month’s most-graded cards (including a few that make zero sense) • Why vintage Hall of Famers are suddenly spiking the charts • What this grading surge means for long-term card values • A simple eBay strategy Joe swears can help you score steals while everyone else sleeps on them • And why now might be the perfect moment to rethink how — and what — you buy Whether you're a collector, investor, or just love the hobby, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Pour your coffee, grab your slabs, and tune in “Grading Gone Wild” is one of Joe’s most eye-opening episodes yet.

Business is booming in the hobby and host Joe Davis is right in the middle of the action. From vintage gems like Namath and Gretzky rookies to stacks of modern inserts piling up in collectors’ closets, there’s never been a better, or busier, time for sports cards. In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe kicks off a brand-new series: Tools You Can Use. First up is a platform many collectors have heard of, but few truly understand-COMC. Joe breaks down how this under-the-radar marketplace can become a game-changer for buyers, sellers, flippers, and anyone drowning in $3–$10 cards they never quite get around to listing. Discover how COMC can: • Turn your leftover inserts into low-effort profit • Let you “day trade” cards without ever touching a scanner • Save you a fortune in shipping while expanding your buying power • Help you read real-time market trends on widely traded cards Whether you’re sitting on a gold mine of vintage cardboard or just want a smarter way to flip and collect, this deep dive will open your eyes to a powerful tool hiding in plain sight. Tune in, learn something new, and level up your hobby hustle—one cup of Joe at a time!

Wax On, Wax Off: The Hidden Power of Vintage Wax In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe takes a nostalgic detour from the dojo to the card shop starting with a true (and slightly embarrassing) karate story before kicking things into high gear with an inside look at today’s booming vintage wax market. From certified unopened boxes to factory sets straight out of sealed cases, Joe breaks down real recent sales, why collectors are paying record prices, and what makes unopened wax one of the most fascinating (and fastest-shrinking) sectors in the hobby. Whether you’re sitting on old boxes, hunting garage sale treasures, or just love hearing how an ’80 Topps box now commands over $100 per pack, this episode packs both education and entertainment. Tune in and discover why “wax on, wax off” means something very different in the sports-card world today. 

This week on Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe takes us on a nostalgic journey through the heart of the hobby... the lost art of set collecting. From the joy of building complete sets by hand to the lessons it teaches about patience, focus, and even math, Joe reminds us why the base cards still matter. But before diving into cardboard, Joe kicks off with a powerful Veterans Day tribute, honoring athletes who served, from Ted Williams to Pat Tillman, and reflecting on the freedom their sacrifices protect. Whether you’re a lifelong collector or just opening your first pack, this episode will rekindle your love for the hobby, inspire you to dust off those base cards, and maybe even start that set you’ve been putting off. Tune in, get inspired, and remember - collecting is about more than the hits.

This week on Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe takes you on a journey beyond the usual packs and PSA slabs and into the wide world of collectibles that stretch far past the sports card aisles. From unopened vintage boxes and rare ticket stubs to graded magazines, comics, coins, and even cereal boxes (yes, really), Joe breaks down where hidden gems and untapped opportunities might still be waiting for collectors and resellers alike. Hear stories from decades in the hobby, lessons on supply and demand (sorry, Pokémon fans), and a few hilarious memories from the early days of collecting. Whether you’re deep into grading or just love the thrill of the hunt, this episode will remind you why there’s always something new to discover, even beyond sports cards.