Hobby Nonsense

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray start with one of the most honest conversations in the hobby: why collectors still chase sticker autos and box hits—even when better, guaranteed options exist. That leads into a broader discussion about collector psychology, risk vs certainty, and why the thrill of the chase continues to drive the market. From there: Deadpool Chrome is already surging, with box prices climbing as demand spikes A heated Sports Boi’s Bugga Boos segment tackles whether breakers are making too much money—or if buyers are responsible for their own decisions WWE Chrome returns as a flagship release, but does back-to-back WWE product risk cannibalizing itself? Disney Neon enters as a lower-cost product with strong upside and under-the-radar potential The guys also revisit the 1966 Donruss Marvel set, which has been climbing rapidly since recent spotlight attention, and break down which cards are seeing the most movement. Ray shares a speculative play on a Nintendo character he’s buying heavily, as conversations grow around potential expansion into a Marvel-style cinematic universe. And to close: Which Pokémon sets are going out of print And what collectors should be targeting before prices move A packed episode blending psychology, market trends, and real collector strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disney is winning the hobby right now — and this episode explains why. Jesse and Ray are joined in-studio by Matt Hathorn of Funcle Cards for a deep dive into how Disney 100 (2023) and Disney Chrome (2024) have separated themselves as the most dominant non-sport products in the modern era. They break down everything collectors want to know: Why comps don’t always matter for Disney cards Which parallels actually hold value Where to grade (and why it matters) The hierarchy of Disney characters and what collectors prioritize How Disney stacks up against Pokémon and other TCGs The conversation also explores a fascinating niche: Cards from the junk wax era of the 80s and 90s. While many were massively produced, surprisingly few exist in high grade — creating opportunities for collectors who know where to look. Matt even shares how he’s turning dollar-bin finds into cards worth hundreds. Also in this episode: McDonald’s K-Pop Demon Hunter adult Happy Meal cards New releases including Topps Chrome Deadpool and WWE Exalted And a friendly competition to see who pulls the biggest card Plus, Matt brings 3 Disney cards to give away to listeners. If you’ve been wondering why Disney cards keep climbing — or how to approach them as a collector or investor — this is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray kick things off by recapping Jesse’s first singles show experience and what it revealed about the current state of the non-sport market. From there, they dive into Star Wars: Smugglers Outpost, breaking down why it may be one of the best collector-focused releases in years and what it’s doing right compared to other modern products. Next, the conversation turns to 2026 Leaf Pop Century. While the product still delivers strong celebrity appeal, a closer look at resale data raises an important question: are values trending downward even as box prices continue to rise? They also cover: The long-awaited Jurassic Park trading card set, featuring autographs from Sam Neill, Jeff Goldblum, and Samuel L. Jackson A new Cardsmiths mini-set tied to the hit film Hail Mary, and whether it could hold long-term value Celebrities entering the hobby through TCG, including Benji Madden investing in One Piece and Timothée Chalamet spotted at a Yu-Gi-Oh event Target expanding its card footprint, potentially creating in-store experiences that resemble local card shops The episode wraps with a debate on Ray’s Pokémon buying strategy, leaving Jesse asking the ultimate collector question: “Is the juice worth the squeeze?” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray start the show by discussing the Whatnot lawsuit currently making waves across the hobby, including Whatnot’s response to the allegations and what it could mean for collectors and sellers going forward. They then follow up on last week’s Topps Disney Neon story with updates on newly revealed IP and signers. The set will feature characters from Gargoyles and Phineas and Ferb, along with exciting new autograph signers — including Owen Wilson signing as Lightning McQueen. Next, Jesse shares a tip on how collectors have been managing to secure Topps presale products early and how others might be able to take advantage of the same strategy. The guys also revisit Leaf Photographic, after a Kobe Bryant autograph unexpectedly sold for $31,000, despite earlier skepticism about the product. The second half of the show features an interview with Grant Sandground of Upper Deck, who walks through everything collectors should know about the new Batman: The Animated Series trading card set. With extremely low print numbers and many retailers already sold out, collectors are starting to feel the FOMO. To close the show: Ray highlights new celebrity interest in Pokémon cards, including Kim Kardashian entering the market And shares valuable tips on what collectors should avoid buying when hunting for Pokémon cards. A packed episode covering controversy, nostalgia, market surprises, and practical collecting advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dive into one of the busiest weeks in the non-sport hobby. They kick things off by recapping their 12-hour break of WWE Universe, sharing their thoughts on the product and some of the highlights from the marathon rip. They also preview the upcoming Topps Chrome WWE First Day Release arriving this Friday and explain how collectors can get access. Next up are several upcoming releases and hobby updates: Topps Disney Neon, a lower-cost Disney product aimed at fans of classic animated characters Upper Deck Batman: The Animated Series, featuring some unique inserts including a full collectible playing card deck with major characters and Wild Jokers A new tool collectors can use to track which non-sport 1/1 cards have already been pulled from modern products The conversation then shifts to the broader market with insights from Funcle Cards, including why Disney 100 may already be the GOAT of modern non-sport sets and why a vintage Batman product is starting to gain momentum. Things take a wild turn when Jesse and Ray discuss the Hong Kong-based company MemeStrategy, which announced plans to acquire 25% of the PSA 10 Felt Hat Pikachu population—a move that has pushed the card’s market cap higher than the Michael Jordan rookie card. They wrap up the show with a look at where Pokémon 151 prices may be headed and why 151 Charizard and Felt Hat Pikachu are starting to show some surprising similarities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse is back from Europe 🇮🇪🇬🇧 — and there’s a lot to unpack. They kick things off with insights from the Dublin and London card shows, breaking down what the European hobby scene is doing well, where it still needs improvement, and what Jesse bought overseas — and why. Next up is the rise of TCG Rush of Ikorr, including an upcoming Championship featuring a $100,000 prize purse 💰, signaling that competitive TCG is heating up. Then they’re joined by Adam Gellman to talk WWE cards and why WWE Universe is hitting on the right buttons for collectors. They preview upcoming releases including: WWE Royalty WWE Exalted Topps Chrome WWE Adam also shares which undervalued up-and-comers 📈 collectors may be sleeping on. After the interview, Jesse and Ray react to several major record-breaking non-sport sales — including the highest-selling Pixar, Iron Man, Simpsons, and Labubu cards ever recorded — and what those results mean for the broader market 🔥 They close with a breakdown of three upcoming Marvel releases from Topps: Topps Chrome Deadpool (comics + movie focus) Topps Brooklyn Collection – Captain America Topps Finest Fantastic Four And before signing off, Jesse and Ray debate the big question: 👉 Is the hobby healthy right now — and how should collectors be navigating it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ray is out this week as Jesse travels across England visiting card shops and shows to see firsthand how the hobby is growing overseas. Stopping in at 3rd Down Trading Cards, Jesse sits down with owner Ben Reynard and podcast host Jordan to talk about the realities of running one of the few local card shops in the UK and why the future of the European hobby looks incredibly promising. The crew also breaks down two exciting upcoming Topps releases — Disneyland 70th Anniversary, featuring park-used relics, Cosmic inserts, sketches, and major chase potential, and Star Wars Smuggler’s Outpost, which is delivering an on-card autograph in every box. Plus, thoughts from the London Card Show, the rise of young collectors in the UK, and why the international hobby boom feels very familiar. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray turn the entire episode over to YOU with a full MAILBAG special, answering listener questions, hot takes, and hobby debates. Topics include: 🎨 Are sketch cards everywhere now… and is that hurting demand? 📈 Why does Leaf’s Pop Century sometimes outsell Topps Marvel Studios 20-to-1? 🤔 Are celebrity autograph products priced and structured differently for a reason? 🪀 Could Pogs actually make a comeback in today’s collectible world? 💰 And the big one… what are Jesse and Ray buying right now? From product strategy to market trends to collector psychology, this episode is packed with honest opinions, speculation, and actionable insight for anyone trying to navigate the non-sport hobby in 2026. If you’ve ever wondered what’s hype, what’s value, and what’s actually worth your money — this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's episode of Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray start with the newly announced Jerry Seinfeld autograph cards, breaking down why collectors are excited… and why some aren’t convinced. From there, they spotlight a sleeper TCG release that flew under the radar at the end of 2025: League of Legends: Riftbound. Could it quietly become the next breakout product like One Piece? The conversation naturally leads into Dragon Ball Z cards and what other franchises might be poised for a comeback. Ray then shares highlights from Nashville Celebrity Comic Con, including meeting childhood favorites and landing Back to the Future and WWE autographs. The second half of the show features a full interview with Gary Vaynerchuk, where they discuss: His new Spectacular Super Sticker release The overlooked value of fictional character rookie cards What he’s personally buying And his vision for where non-sports collecting is headed A wide-ranging episode packed with hobby insight, nostalgia, and one of the biggest voices in collecting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray come out firing with one of the wildest episodes yet. They kick things off in the WWE universe, breaking down upcoming releases including Topps WWE Royalty, featuring a Jelly Roll debut patch and some of the most insane relics we’ve ever seen—yes, including pieces of The Undertaker’s casket. From there, the conversation takes a sharp turn into the competitive world of professional darts, where one player is demanding prices far above his peers as he cements himself as the GOAT of the sport. Next up: Upper Deck’s DC x NHL crossover: Fortress of Solitude, placing NHL stars inside Superman’s iconic hideout Marvel “The Collector”, Topps’ most premium Marvel product ever with only 3 cards per box, ultra-high-end sketches, an Infinity Gauntlet chase, and elite autograph talent The surprisingly strong demand for 2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary Things escalate quickly when Jesse and Ray revisit the One Piece college promo story, as news breaks that roughly $2 million worth of cards were stolen from Rutgers University with no signs of forced entry—leading many to believe it was an inside job. The episode wraps with Pokémon talk, including: A rumored 30th Anniversary Pokémon card featuring a fan-favorite character Ray’s breakdown of the top chase cards in Pokémon Ascended Heroes and their pull rates A must-listen episode covering spectacle, scandal, and some of the biggest releases shaping the hobby right now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dig out from an ice storm that rocked Middle Tennessee, but still deliver a packed episode for non-sport collectors. They kick things off with Logan Paul’s latest Pokémon break, where packs sold for an astonishing $1.4 million—far exceeding his previous break of the same product. Jesse and Ray discuss what made this break different and whether this signals a new trend where celebrity involvement encourages overpaying. Next, they explore whether Panini may have found a loophole around Topps’ exclusive Marvel license, and what that could mean for future non-sport releases. Then they’re joined by Josh Copeland of Poke Master Center for an in-depth conversation on card restoration—one of the most polarizing topics in the hobby. Josh explains what restoration actually involves, how it can impact grading outcomes, why some collectors embrace it, others reject it, and why the topic has sparked extreme reactions. Along the way, they even take a nostalgic detour into their favorite childhood video game systems. After the interview, Jesse and Ray react to the record-setting $500,000 sale of the Leaf Pop Century Donald Trump 1/1, and close the episode with a look at Target being sued over an alleged bait-and-switch involving Prismatic and Pokémon 151 ETBs. A wide-ranging episode covering money, ethics, legality, and the evolving future of the hobby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray tackle one of the most serious and wide-ranging episodes yet. They open with a discussion on the robbery of the Pokémon store PokéCourt, along with several other recent break-ins, raising real concerns about security, vigilance, and safety for both shop owners and collectors as the hobby continues to grow. From there, they cover a new Disney bounty now sitting at $30,000, followed by chaos surrounding Marvel Studios Sapphire, where the biggest card in the product was publicly pulled before most local card shops and breakers even received allocation. The conversation shifts to Tiger Woods, who partnered with Upper Deck and DC Comics to create a custom card given exclusively to guests at his 50th birthday — a fascinating example of where premium collectibles are heading. Next, Logan Paul enters the discussion once again as he prepares to break a 1st Edition Pokémon box. While his involvement continues to push prices higher, Jesse and Ray question whether his influence is ultimately good or bad for the hobby. They then tease an upcoming Jurassic Park card set that could be one of the most nostalgic releases of the year, before diving into One Piece OP-14, which already has raw cards selling for over $2,000. They then share insight from the seller of the $20,000 Red Manga Luffy from OP-13, who believes auction manipulation played a role in the final price. The episode also covers Fanatics’ joint venture with OBB Media, and how it could open the door to more celebrity autographs in future products. They close with an update on LEGO Pokémon, where the end of presales has already resulted in rising prices on the secondary market. A packed episode covering safety, speculation, record sales, and the evolving direction of the hobby. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dive into one of the most unpredictable and conversation-starting episodes yet. They kick things off with the release of LEGO Pokémon, debating where the real value in the set lies. Jesse is all in, while Ray remains far more skeptical about its long-term collectability. Next, they explore one of the most under-the-radar trends in the hobby: TCG sketch cards. Custom, artist-drawn Pokémon and Lorcana sketches created directly on cards are now selling for over $10,000, despite very few collectors even knowing this market exists. Then Logan Paul is back in the spotlight, this time introducing a controversial auction tactic known as irrevocable bidding tied to his Pikachu Illustrator card. Jesse and Ray break down how it works and ask the bigger question—is Logan Paul actually good for the hobby? The discussion continues with: Live bounties in Star Wars and Disney products Updates on Topps WWE Universe delays and Marvel Studios Sapphire A price check on wild Labubu comps They also react to GameStop announcing the closure of over 400 stores while simultaneously approving a large stock compensation package for its CEO, raising serious questions about optics and leadership. Jesse then shares a jaw-dropping personal experience meeting a young breaker who, after just 11 months in the hobby, is breaking hundred’s of thousands of dollars worth of product for 1,000+ viewers, all without ANY allocation! Before wrapping up, the guys discuss the newly announced Rittenhouse Star Trek Connections, a product that could be the best Star Trek release in decades based on early details. The episode closes with two head-turning stories: A new One Piece x College Basketball promo being handed out at games And mystery Pokémon cards surfacing at a North Carolina card show—located suspiciously close to a Pokémon printing facility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dive into a wave of new releases—some expected, some complete surprises—that have collectors buzzing. They kick things off with Pixar Gold, releasing this week — including the huge announcement of the first-ever Toy Story dual autograph featuring Tom Hanks and Tim Allen as Woody and Buzz, instantly becoming one of the most anticipated chases in the product. Next, they preview Upper Deck’s upcoming Grateful Dead set, which looks like a fun and unique rip for Dead Heads and music collectors alike. Then comes a true surprise: Topps Marvel “The Collector”, a low–print run, high-end product spotlighting some of the biggest names in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Jesse and Ray break down the signers, box format, and just how rare this release might be. From there, the conversation shifts to the TCG market, covering record-setting sales in both One Piece and Pokémon. Ray then dives into Pokémon Ascended Heroes, which will be the largest Pokémon set ever at 295 cards, and explains why — with the 30th Anniversary and two new video games coming — this could be the biggest year Pokémon has ever had. The episode wraps with a look outside of cards, discussing LEGO’s new Smart Play System, which was just announced at CES and could become one of the company’s most exciting innovations yet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the final episode of the year, Jesse and Ray wrap up 2025 in true Hobby Nonsense fashion. The show kicks off with the big reveal of the inaugural Poppy Awards winners, celebrating the best pop culture, entertainment, and non-sport cards of the year—voted on by the community. From there, the conversation turns to Logan Paul selling his $5 million Pikachu Illustrator card, and why questions about ownership could complicate the story. Jesse then shares a memorable trip to Texas involving sharks, hippies, and Star Wars cards, before the guys break down the newly revealed McDonald’s 30th Anniversary Pokémon set and debate whether it’s a future hit or just another Happy Meal promo. Ray recaps a recent local card show, noting a surprising contrast between the sports and non-sports sides of the room, and the discussion shifts to whether Yu-Gi-Oh could be the next breakout, following One Piece’s rise. The episode closes on a more personal note, as Jesse and Ray reflect on balancing money vs. collecting, what they’ve loved about their first year of Hobby Nonsense, and what they’re excited to build heading into 2026. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray kick off a packed episode by officially launching the Poppy Awards, celebrating the best in non-sport cards, products, and ideas of 2025. Voting is now open, and the winners will be revealed on the December 31st episode. Next, they tackle the growing controversy surrounding Collectors’ acquisition of Beckett, including a Congressional FTC letter questioning potential monopolistic practices. Ray gives his unfiltered take as Jesse addresses accusations of being a “shill.” The guys then break down new releases including Topps Universe WWE, Marvel Studios, and Star Wars Hyperspace, with WWE Universe standing out at just $169 per box and delivering 2 autos plus a relic. They also discuss the new Pokémon printing facility in South Carolina—could it finally end the card shortage, or will increased supply hurt long-term values? Finally, the episode closes with one of the most entertaining segments yet: collectors sharing the wildest things they’ve ever traded cards for—from baby formula to cars, weapons, and even kitchens—raising the question: have trading cards officially become a real commodity? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray kick things off with breaking hobby news as PSAs’ parent company acquires Beckett Grading Services. After receiving a few details from PSA President Ryan Hoge, they share insight into why they’re making this move and what it could mean for grading going forward. From there, they dive into new product releases and reviews, starting with Topps Labubu and WWE BAPE. BAPE quickly proves to be a surprise hit — and pulling one of the biggest 1/1 autographs from the very first box certainly doesn’t hurt! Labubu may be more niche, but its premium packaging and massive fan base could make it a sleeper long-term hold. Next, Jesse and Ray finally put the rumors to rest and give a definitive answer on whether a Topps x Pokémon collaboration is actually happening. They’re then joined by Jerry Ellis of ELZ Cardz to break down the One Piece TCG — including the most chased characters, hottest sets, and whether there’s still room for new investors given soaring prices and demand. Later, they discuss early reactions to Star Wars Galaxy, share an update on how and where Hobby Nonsense will be breaking, and highlight record-breaking sales in both the Batman and Pokémon markets. The episode closes with the introduction of the Poppy Awards — Hobby Nonsense’s new end-of-year awards celebrating the best of the best in non-sport cards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray open the show by addressing concerns surrounding PSA’s buyback system and whether the issues collectors are seeing are simply flaws — or signs of something more intentional. Then they’re joined by Tory Hermens of DCSports87 for a deep discussion on what truly drives the value of a sketch card: the artist, the character, or the quality of the piece itself. They also debate whether non-sport products should include less popular characters, and which direction the collector migration is moving — are sports collectors entering non-sports, or are non-sport collectors shifting into sports? Tory also breaks down the release of Topps Star Wars Galaxy, explaining what sets this year’s product apart — and reveals a huge announcement: 👉 DCSports87 will be offering a special 95% payout on all Star Wars Galaxy cards consigned to them. A massive incentive for Star Wars collectors looking to move big hits. After the interview, Jesse and Ray discuss a new WWII product from Historic Autographs that takes a very unusual approach to Nazi-related cards. They also touch on the upcoming Leaf Red Carpet release — the most expensive non-sport product ever at $10,000 a box — and whether any box at that price could truly offer a return. The show closes with the wild Kabuto King Pokémon story, and a warning: while the viral moment has positive aspects, many collectors are paying 100x the value of the card and could be left holding the bag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dive into one of the biggest release cycles the hobby has seen in months. The episode starts with Jesse breaking down his viral post about clues suggesting a possible Topps x Pokémon 30th Anniversary collaboration set next year — a theory that took off online, even though Ray isn’t convinced it has anything to do with Pokémon (and he might be right). From there, the guys cover a long list of major upcoming releases: ✨ Pixar Gold — gaining more hype than expected, but everything depends on the final checklist. 🌌 Star Wars Galaxy 2025 — celebrating 20 years of Revenge of the Sith with new original art and sketches from Lucasfilm animators. 🚀 Star Wars Hyperspace 2025 — already outselling last year’s product before release. 🎬 Topps Marvel Studios — featuring MCU characters, art, and massive autographs including the huge chase: a dual Ryan Reynolds / Hugh Jackman auto from Deadpool & Wolverine. ⛏️ 2025 Panini Minecraft — surprisingly underwhelming and lacking the creativity of last year’s release. 🏆 2025 Topps Allen & Ginter — stacked with monster cut autos like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and John Quincy Adams, plus real prizes including Mitchell & Ness apparel and gift cards. To wrap things up, they issue an important warning for Pokémon buyers on StockX, as reports show authenticated products arriving repackaged and not as described. A packed episode full of speculation, massive releases, hobby insights, and a must-hear consumer alert. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Hobby Nonsense, Jesse and Ray dive into the world of LEGO collecting — and trust us, it’s way deeper (and more valuable) than most collectors realize. They’re joined by Samuel, the creator behind Rarest Lego Minifigure on Instagram, who has built a million-dollar LEGO collection filled with rare, vintage, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Samuel shares how he started collecting as a kid and never walked away, how LEGO exploded in popularity after COVID, and why conventions like BrickWorld Chicago have become massive events, drawing thousands of fans and some of the most unbelievable builds you’ll ever see. He breaks down: • Why vendors price higher at conventions • How community drives the LEGO hobby • Why some of the most valuable LEGO items are true one-of-ones • How Star Wars saved LEGO and reshaped the brand • The challenges of grading LEGO and why the market is still behind • The rarest and most historic pieces in his collection If you’ve ever wondered how deep LEGO collecting goes — or how a minifigure can be worth thousands — this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices