Hobby Nonsense

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?

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.

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.

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.

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 collectionIf you’ve ever wondered how deep LEGO collecting goes — or how a minifigure can be worth thousands — this episode is a must-listen.