Published June 10, 2025 | By Alyx E, Founder of Collectors MD

The world of collecting is passionate—but it’s also divided. Everyone has an opinion. Everyone has a platform. And putting yourself out there—especially when your message challenges the status quo? That takes courage.

When I first launched Collectors MD, I was hesitant to even show my face. I worried what people might say. Would they judge me for still carrying debt in the hobby? Would they call me a hypocrite for leading something rooted in recovery, while I was still healing myself?

Imposter syndrome was real. And trust me—it still creeps in. But I’ve learned something valuable: the mission doesn’t wait for you to feel ready.

This movement isn’t about having it all together. It’s about honesty. It’s about showing up—flawed, growing, and still standing for something that matters.

Being online in this hobby space means evolving in the public eye. It means taking hits, being misunderstood, and resisting the urge to water down your message just to stay likable. It means missing the mark sometimes—but always getting back up with more clarity and conviction.

Because that’s what real accountability looks like. It’s not polished or curated. It’s persistent.

So if you’re out here trying to build something—anything—with heart and purpose, and you feel misunderstood, or unsure, or like you don’t belong, know this—
Your voice still matters.
Your story still matters.

You don’t have to be perfect to speak truth. You just have to be real.

Collectors MD isn’t about pretending we’ve figured it all out. It’s about learning out loud.
It’s about building a better hobby, one conversation at a time.

And this? This is just the beginning.

Collect with intention, not compulsion. Join the movement.

#CollectorsMD
We're not here to be perfect. We're here to be real.

—
Follow us on Instagram: @collectorsmd
Subscribe to our Newsletter & Support Group
Join The Conversation On Mantel
Read More Daily Reflections

@denny_cards