There's No Boss in the Hobby: Consensus, Comps, and Collecting Your Way

Consensus is fading—and that’s okay. We dig into why today’s hobby thrives without a single authority, how to think for yourself on rookie designations and comp use, and when it’s smart to pay ahead for a true keeper. We also hit BIN vs. auction dynamics, social media’s role in fragmenting opinion, and practical deal safety (escrow, in-person, and why G&S isn’t a force field). Quick Expo talk to close it out. Highlights “No boss in the hobby”: more voices, fewer absolutes, better collecting Comps as guidance, not gospel—especially for non-fungible copies and 1/1s BIN patience vs. auction urgency: timing, visibility, and outcome gaps Rookie debates (e.g., dating/labeling issues) and why consensus shifts Buyer mindset: pay now vs. pay more later for rare, eye-appeal pieces Safer transactions: escrow for big deals, in-person meets, and G&S limits Support the show Enjoying Sports Cards Live? Follow and rate the podcast, share this episode with a hobby friend, and turn on notifications so you never miss a new segment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices