83. Fanatics Fest Pressure? The 2025 National Fires Back HARD!

In this episode of Global Card Collectors, Will sits down with our old friend Justin to unpack his experience at the 2025 National Sports Card Collectors Convention in Chicago - and what an experience it was!They kick things off with Justin comparing this year’s show to last year’s, highlighting the major step up in scale, energy, and execution. With Fanatics Fest fresh in the minds of collectors, the National’s organizers clearly brought their A-game- and it showed. From massive crowds to multi-million dollar deals, the hobby today is hotter than ever.Justin shares a deep dive into his two-day adventure at the National, including:-Scoring some grail-level cards 🔥-Hanging out with friends from the vintage boxing collecting community-And finding hidden gems at incredible vintage boxing vendors 🥊But this isn’t just a recap — it’s a masterclass in how to do the National right. Justin drops valuable tips on:-Pre- and post-show strategy: eBay might be your best friend before and after the show-Time management at the event: how to avoid burnout and maximize opportunity-Chasing smart: Go after the rare stuff at the National — the common cards will still be there online (and likely cheaper)So whether you're a seasoned collector or planning to attend your first National, this conversation is packed with insights, strategy, and stories that every hobbyist will appreciate.