Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe

Episode 6: PSA Grading - Past & Future

In this episode of Sports Cards and a Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis dives deep into the history and future of PSA grading. Joe shares his personal journey with grading, starting from the early days in the 90s, when he initially doubted the need for PSA grading but soon learned its importance through hands-on experience.
He discusses how PSA became an industry leader over time, with its role in the rise of eBay and its importance in the hobby's growth. Joe also reflects on his learning curve, particularly with card conditions like centering and corner quality, and how crucial grading became as card altering practices, such as trimming and recoloring, started to surface in the industry.
The episode touches on the evolution of the grading process, including the emergence of new grading companies and technologies like AI. Joe highlights how AI can assist in improving grading accuracy, especially with centering and card identification. However, he expresses his preference for experienced human graders, who can spot nuances that technology might miss, like print blots or surface issues on specific cards.
This episode concludes with Joe looking to the future, where grading continues to play a vital role in preserving and authenticating sports cards, ensuring liquidity for collectors. He emphasizes how grading can enhance the value and marketability of cards, making them more accessible for future generations.
For more information on PSA grading and consignments, visit GotBaseballCards.com!

Episode 5: Show Business (Part 2)

In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe continues the discussion on show business, focusing on the dealer's side of things. Drawing from decades of experience, he shares insights on how to be more effective at trade shows around the country. This episode, he emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared, staying organized, and presenting your booth in a professional way. while also discussing the value of pricing your items clearly, maintaining a positive attitude, and being ready for anything that might come up during a show. With personal stories and tips on building relationships with buyers, this episode serves as a guide for dealers looking to enhance their presence and success! 

Episode 4: Show Business (Part 1)

It’s Episode 4 and Joe takes listeners on a journey through the world of sports card shows. Reflecting on his first show experience in 1982, Joe shares valuable tips for buyers on how to successfully navigate these events. From preparing a budget and researching prices to the importance of bringing cash and wearing comfortable shoes, Joe covers all the essentials for making the most out of your show experience.
He also emphasizes the fun of connecting with fellow collectors, building relationships, and learning from others in the hobby. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, Joe’s advice will help you enjoy the show, stay focused, and avoid common mistakes.
Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the show business, and don’t miss part two, where Joe dives into the seller's side of the equation!

Episode 3: Closed Windows, Open Doors

In this episode, Joe shares two powerful stories from his sports card journey that illustrate his own take on the well known saying: "When God closes a door, He always opens a window." He recounts the challenging process of purchasing his company's building in 2018 after months of dead-end searches, and a recent consignment experience where a disappointing client cancellation led to an unexpected massive collection opportunity. Through patience, perseverance, and watching God do what He does, Joe demonstrates how setbacks can transform into unexpected blessings in the sports card industry. The episode is a testament to staying hopeful and trusting that better opportunities are always around the corner. 

Episode 2: You Might Be A Card Collector If…

This episode features stories about Joe's early experiences as a passionate sports card collector. He recounts trying to convince his mom to buy him multiple boxes of Hostess Snack Cake baseball cards as a child to complete the set, for the cards, not the cakes. As a teenager, he continued his collecting habits, buying large quantities of 1987 Classic Bo Jackson cards packaged in board games during a family vacation. In college, his collecting passion intensified, including buying discounted 1988 Fleer basketball cards in bulk. Joe emphasizes his lifelong love of sports card collecting and how it has evolved into a career as a dealer, attending shows and acquiring large collections.

Episode 1: Collecting, Dealing, and Giving Back - An Introduction to Sports Cards and a Cup of Joe

Joe Davis, a lifelong collector and dealer of sports cards, shares his journey from starting to collect in 1976 to opening his own business, GotBaseballCards, with 11,000 square feet and 20 team members. He plans to use his podcast to educate and inspire collectors and dealers, offering insights into business and life principles. Joe discusses his passion for vintage autographs, non-sports sets, and various collectibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding the hobby from both collector and dealer perspectives. He invites listeners to engage with him and share their interests, aiming to provide valuable content and avoid common pitfalls in the industry. So, come along for the ride. With Joe's expertise and heart, it's sure to be a good time!