In this episode of The Collector’s Compass, we continue our conversation with Chris “HOJ” McGill—co-founder of Card Ladder and one of the most respected voices in the sports card hobby.
In Part I, Chris shared his collecting journey, the origins of House of Jordans, and how Card Ladder was built on data and transparency. In Part II, we go deeper into the culture, language, and future of the hobby.
Chris shares openly about:
-The newly announced Collectors MD × Card Ladder affiliate partnership—and what it means for intentional collecting.
-Why the National has become a metaphor for today’s hobby—where spectacle often drowns out substance.
-The difference between investing and speculating in sports cards—and why precise language matters for kids and newcomers.
-How partnerships and “natural allies” like COMC and Burbank help foster healthier ecosystems.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a data-driven hobbyist, or someone trying to cut through the noise, this episode is a reminder that the future of the hobby won’t be defined by hype alone. It will be shaped by balance, ethics, and 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: info@collectorsmd.com
Instagram: @collectorsmd
Follow Chris & Card Ladder:
YouTube: @chris_hoj | @CardLadder
Instagram: @chris_hoj | @cardladder
#CollectorsMD | #RipResponsibly | #CollectResponsibly
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.