So I’m relatively new to Mantel but want to start diving into this community to intentionally share my love, experiences, and knowledge in this hobby more.

A new chapter begins.

Over the few years, this hobby has given me more than I ever imagined — lifelong friends, unforgettable moments, and a community that’s as passionate as it is generous. But now, it’s time to take that connection to the next level.

Starting this month, I’ll be hitting the road full-time — traveling coast to coast to meet collectors, visit shops, and authentically connect with the heartbeat of the hobby in person. Every story. Every pull. Every conversation.

Along the way, I’ll also be joining the growing community over on OnMantel, a platform built for collectors who value community over competition — and I couldn’t think of a better time to dive in.

This is just the beginning.

Stay tuned for where the road leads next. 🚐✨

#OnMantel #isawsasquatch #HobbyLife #CollectorCommunity #RoadTrip

My travels now and moving forward in this new chapter of my collectors journey can be found on IG @isawsasquatch I’m pumped to connect with more people more often. I fucking love this hobby!!

Deuces,

Ryan

In this episode of Cards and Memories, host Fred North takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through his experiences with sports cards and the memories they evoke, particularly focusing on Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs. He shares personal stories about his father, the significance of the 1998 Upper Deck baseball set, and the emotional impact of attending a Cubs game for the first time. The episode emphasizes the connection between sports, family, and legacy, culminating in a poignant reflection on how memories continue to shape our lives even after loved ones are gone.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/54Hfu4ta0EyfgKEnAZ45K3?si=_CKzA6o8TR69R2F82BbS2Q

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/cards-and-memories-a-journey-through-my-dads-collection/id1789015224?i=1000729817321

Fred reaches out back to his Dad’s hometown for his nextguest…

In this episode of Cards and Memories, host Fred North shares heartfelt stories about his father and the sport of curling, highlighting the significance of personal connections and memories. The episode features an interview with Eugene Hritzuk, a notable curler, and explores the legacy of curling through trading cards and personal anecdotes.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2UOJdnUocKCVkjOKYKCaNJ?si=OnOhUrRNQSaR1UFy9sY3oQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/cards-and-memories-a-journey-through-my-dads-collection/id1789015224?i=1000725430236

In this podcast episode, Seb shares the remarkable story of his grandfather, Frank Lennon, a photographer for the Toronto Star who captured one of the most iconic moments in Canadian hockey history during the 1972 Canada-Russia series. Seb recounts the significance of the photograph, the cultural impact it had on Canada, and the legacy left behind by his grandfather. The conversation delves into personal reflections on family, and the lessons learned from a life dedicated to capturing moments. Seb's storytelling highlights the importance of humor, humility, and the joy of life that his grandfather embodied.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4zRc6jLdeyg8tlGKyRUBjq?si=6HE3uUwIRN6TCwQcxDbYSQ

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/cards-and-memories-a-journey-through-my-dads-collection/id1789015224?i=1000720676166

Who are a few of the more “philosophical” folks in the hobby? Here on Mantel, particularly, but also YouTube and other places. Not limited to the investors, breakers, rippers or streamers per se, unless they have a “deeper” view on collecting as a whole. I’m looking to get into some more in depth conversations about the “soul” of collecting, if this makes any sense.

An autographed portrait of Barbara Eden to help make my “wish” come true 😂😂😂