Physical + Digital Collectibles is Future of Fan Engagement with Tareq Nazlawy
SUMMARY
In this episode of "Trading Cards and Collectibles," host Ryan Alford interviews Tareq Nazlawy, CEO of Trace, about innovation in sports fandom. They discuss how Trace blends digital and physical collectibles to deepen fan engagement, using examples from tennis and Formula 1. Tareq Nazlawy explains how fans can collect digital “moments” as virtual ticket stubs, making remote participation meaningful. The conversation covers the challenges of innovation, the importance of user experience, and how brands can build lasting relationships with fans through data-driven engagement and authentic experiences. Listeners are encouraged to try Trace and share their feedback.
TAKEAWAYS
Innovation in sports fandom and collectibles
Integration of physical and digital collectibles
Evolution of fan engagement platforms
Challenges of innovation in established industries
Importance of user experience and reducing friction in adoption
Digital collectibles as virtual mementos for fans
Data-driven relationships between brands and fans
Examples of digital collectibles in sports, such as tennis and Formula 1
The role of authenticity in fan experiences
Opportunities for brands to engage with and understand their fan base
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36:57
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36:57
VeeFriends Comic + Trading Cards Market Update | Collectibles News You Need
SUMMARY
In this episode of the Trading Cards and Collectibles Podcast, Ryan Alford and Brian Ludden dive into the biggest headlines and hobby updates shaping the trading card market. The spotlight is on a major announcement: VeeFriends is teaming up with Walmart for exclusive comic releases, in-store events, and special collectibles drops. Andy Krainak, President of VeeFriends, joins the show to share insights on the brand’s mission of positivity, cultural relevance, and long-term impact on the hobby.
They also break down data-driven collecting trends, highlight which players and cards are heating up, and discuss how new releases are influencing scanning activity and market behavior. Listeners will also hear about upcoming giveaways, a brand-new card store project, and community-driven stories that reflect both the excitement and the challenges of collecting.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, this episode offers valuable insights, insider news, and interactive opportunities—making it a must-listen for trading card enthusiasts, sports card investors, and collectibles fans.
TAKEAWAYS
Breaking news and announcements in the trading card and collectibles hobby
Details on the VeeFriends x Walmart partnership and exclusive releases
The role of positive messaging in modern collectibles brands
Insights into trading card culture and market trends
How new releases are driving scanning activity and shaping demand
Discussion of hot players and their popularity among collectors
Interactive audience engagement with contests and giveaways
Real stories and challenges from the collecting community
Updates on new card store projects and upcoming hobby events
Encouragement for listeners to share their personal collecting journeys
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38:24
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38:24
Why Trading Cards Are Your Next Investment | Jeremy Aisenberg Interview
SUMMARY
In this episode of the "Trading Cards and Collectibles Podcast," host Ryan Alford interviews Jeremy Aisenberg, founder of Talent Brand Labs and lifelong sports card enthusiast. Jeremy shares his journey in the hobby, discusses the evolution of trading cards from the 1980s to today, and explores how collecting blends fandom, business, and innovation. The conversation covers industry changes, the impact of grading and digital trends, and Jeremy’s work launching SI.com Collectibles. Listeners gain insights into the hobby’s growth, community, and future, with stories highlighting collecting’s personal and cultural significance.
TAKEAWAYS
Evolution and growth of the trading card hobby
Personal journey of a longtime collector and sports marketing professional
Historical context of the trading card industry, particularly the 1990s
Impact of competition and licensing deals on innovation in the market
Importance of grading services for trust and transparency in collectibles
Intersection of physical and digital collecting
Role of sports cards in teaching business and e-commerce concepts
Development of dedicated platforms for collecting content, such as SI.com Collectibles
Innovative projects and partnerships expanding the hobby's reach
Community and unifying aspects of sports fandom and collecting
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37:25
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37:25
Building the Future of the Hobby, One Scan at a Time (Brian Ludden of Ludex)
SUMMARY
In this episode of the "Trading Cards and Collectibles" podcast on the Radcast Network, host Ryan Alford welcomes Brian Ludden, co-founder of Ludex, as his new co-host. They discuss the evolution of the trading card hobby, the impact of technology like the Ludex app, and the importance of community among collectors. Brian shares insights into market trends and the app’s features, while both hosts highlight how collecting connects people of all ages. The episode wraps up with an invitation for listeners to join the community and share their own collecting stories.
TAKEAWAYS
Evolution of the trading card hobby
Role of technology in enhancing the collecting experience
Community aspect of trading card collecting
Personal stories related to family involvement in the hobby
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on trading card interest
Development and features of the Ludex app
Data insights and market trends from Ludex scans
Importance of informed decision-making for collectors
Social interactions and relationship-building through trading cards
Future of trading cards and collectibles in relation to technology and community engagement
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31:23
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31:23
How Matty Rich is Transforming the Trading Card Hobby
SUMMARY
In this episode of the "Trading Cards and Collectibles Podcast," host Ryan Alford interviews Matty Rich, a respected trading card store owner and Topps dealer from South Carolina. They discuss Matty’s journey from online breaking to retail, the importance of creating a welcoming community for collectors—especially kids—and the evolving landscape of the hobby, including digital collectibles. Matty emphasizes treating every customer with respect and fostering positive experiences, while sharing insights on industry trends, challenges, and the enduring appeal of both physical and digital collecting.
TAKEAWAYS
The appeal and nostalgia of collecting trading cards.
Creating a welcoming and inclusive retail environment for collectors.
The diversity of collectors across different demographics.
The significance of Pokémon cards and their artistic value.
The experience and memories associated with opening packs of cards.
The concept and business model of "breaking" in the trading card industry.
The challenges of sourcing products and maintaining inventory in retail.
The contrast between physical and digital collectibles, including NFTs.
The importance of community and personal connections in the trading card hobby.
The long-term mindset and integrity required for success in the trading card business.
Trading Cards & Collectibles Podcast is your front-row seat to the stories, strategy, and live action across the entire collectibles universe as the home for the hobby on the Radcast Network. Cards, kicks, vintage, digital collectibles - if it has a story or a market, we cover it. Hosted by marketing disruptor and creator Ryan Alford, each episode blends real market news, on-air pack rips, honest product reviews, and conversations with athletes, investors, creators, and hobby influencers. We even take it live on eBay, selling what we pull so you can follow the journey from pack to purchase.
New episodes drop Tuesday and Friday.
Rate and review to help more collectors find the show, and tag us with your hits and hot takes so we can feature you on our Hits of the Week!
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