The Collector's Compass

The Collector's Compass
Podcast Description
The Collector’s Compass is the official podcast and video series of Collectors MD, where we explore the stories, struggles, and solutions within the world of collecting. Hosted by Collectors MD, each episode dives into real conversations with collectors, industry experts, counselors, and those directly impacted by compulsive collecting behaviors.From the psychology behind compulsive spending to strategies for finding balance and joy in your hobby, The Collector’s Compass is your guide to navigating the fine line between passion and compulsion. Whether you’re into sports cards, TCGs, memorabilia, sneakers, watches, comics, NFTs, or any other collectibles, this podcast offers insights, inspiration, and support for collectors at all stages.Make sure to also check out our other video series, Behind The Breaks, streaming on all platforms.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast encompasses themes such as mental health, compulsive collecting behaviors, and personal stories within the collecting community. Episodes like 'Finding Light In A Dark Hobby Space' highlight the healing aspects of collecting, while 'From Burnout To Balance In The Hobby' discusses the emotional toll of hobbies and the importance of setting personal boundaries. The show also addresses broader issues like gambling addiction within collecting.

The Collector’s Compass is the official podcast and video series of Collectors MD, where we explore the stories, struggles, and solutions within the world of collecting. Hosted by Alyx Effron, Founder of Collectors MD, each episode dives into real conversations with collectors, industry experts, counselors, and those directly impacted by compulsive collecting behaviors.
From the psychology behind compulsive spending to strategies for finding balance and joy in your hobby, The Collector’s Compass is your guide to navigating the fine line between passion and compulsion. Whether you’re into sports cards, TCGs, memorabilia, sneakers, watches, comics, NFTs, or any other collectibles, this podcast offers insights, inspiration, and support for collectors at all stages.
Watch all episodes of The Collector’s Compass on YouTube.
Make sure to also check out our other video series, Behind The Breaks & Collectors MD Features, streaming on all platforms.
In this episode of The Collector’s Compass, we sit down with Tyler Santiago—owner of Santiago Sports and one of the most recognizable voices in the New Jersey card scene.
As the owner of a thriving LCS in Matawan, NJ, Tyler has built Santiago Sports into both a local hub and a respected name nationally. From brick-and-mortar to Instagram sales, card shows to community building, Tyler has carved out a path that balances tradition with modern presence—without relying on the heavy push of platforms like Whatnot or Fanatics Live.
Tyler provides perspective on:
-Building Santiago Sports from its roots into a trusted shop and brand.
-How an LCS can thrive in today’s fast-paced, break-driven hobby.
-Why reputation, relationships, and community matter as much as product.
-The challenges and opportunities shop owners face in an evolving marketplace.
-His philosophy on collecting, breaking, and what it means to stay authentic in the hobby.
Whether you’re a local shop loyalist, an online buyer, or someone curious about how the business side of the hobby works, this episode is a reminder that community and credibility are the cornerstones of collecting with intention.
Subscribe, comment, and join the movement. And remember to collect with intention, not compulsion.
Learn More & Join The Movement:
Website: https://www.collectorsmd.com
Socials: https://www.hopp.bio/collectorsmd
Weekly Meeting Sign-Up: https://bit.ly/45koiMX
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: @collectorsmd
Follow Tyler & Santiago Sports:
Website: https://santiagosportsnj.com/
YouTube: @santiago_sports_
Instagram: @santiago_sports_ | @tyler_santiago_

Disclaimer
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