In this episode of Cards and Memories, host Fred North takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through the world of sports cards, focusing on the 2025 Tops Series One Baseball Flagship Collection and the Aaron Judge oversized card. The episode culminates in a touching narrative about adoption, family, and the importance of being chosen and loved, drawing parallels between the stories behind the cards and the bonds we share with loved ones.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5DiK7BpNNFr85YMS148qxb?si=AX6R8o2USt2JF_MljPJ3VA

https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/cards-and-memories-a-journey-through-my-dads-collection/id1789015224?i=1000750144916

Summary:

In this episode of "Cards and Memories," host Fred North reflects on the journey of the podcast over its first season, emphasizing the deep connections between sports cards, personal stories, and the legacy of his father. He shares how the podcast evolved from a simple concept of discussing cards to incorporating interviews that capture the diverse experiences of others. Fred highlights the significance of the 2008 Upper Deck Montreal Canadiens Centennial Set, particularly card number 145 featuring Pierre Turgeon, as a representation of the nuanced history of the Canadiens and the memories tied to it. The episode also delves into the analytics of the podcast, revealing its reach across various countries and the emotional impact it has had on listeners, reinforcing the idea that sports culture is a shared experience that transcends borders.

As Fred recaps each episode from the season, he emphasizes the personal nature of his collection, which is built on memories rather than monetary value. He invites listeners to reflect on their own stories and connections to sports, encouraging them to engage with the podcast community. The episode concludes with a look ahead to season two, promising new stories and voices while maintaining the heartfelt essence that has defined the show from the beginning.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1h76N7lfuu3kDdpnBWSeVC

Card - 1991 Kayo Boxing - Azumah Nelson #110

In this episode of Cards and Memories, host Fred North explores the deep connections between sports cards and personal stories, particularly focusing on the 1991 KO Boxing Trading Card Set. He discusses the cultural significance of boxing cards, the importance of legacy, and highlights the career of Azuma Nelson, a legendary boxer. The episode also features an interview with Eric, who shares his personal memories of watching boxing with his father, emphasizing the emotional ties that sports and collectibles can create.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JZfiNSQroboHOvRbrQqoG

This episode explores the emergence and growth of BMX freestyle culture, highlighting the influence of magazines, the evolution of freestyle bikes, and the community that formed around this vibrant sport.

Fred shares a heartfelt story about his dad helping his 12-year-old self transform his bike into a GT-inspired freestyle ride. With unexpected twists along the way, this episode keeps you hooked right to the very end.

Card - 2010Upper Deck World of Sports Freestyle BMX – Mat Hoffman – Card #253

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3LqHhKCdiF68C7Vr2zpZDi

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