I’m with John on the auto’s, but that came to me over time. I value the experience more than anything. When I was able to go to spring training where players are much more accessible I opted for pictures with the players instead of autographs. A couple months ago I was able to meet my childhood hero Ozzie Smith. I brought my Ozzie collection to nerd out and get my picture with him and the collection. It was a no auto meet and greet, so the workers told me several times no autographs. They were relieved when I told them I didn’t want an autograph and that I just wanted a picture.
What a change over the years at the National. I had no problem getting autographs early on, lines were short , and you could talk to the athlete. Little by little it became harder and harder with incredible lines and the last couple of Nationals I skipped the autographs and gave my freebies away. I remember in the 90s in local shows in Denver getting a Jim Brown autograph for $.30 , Whitey Ford $20, Eddie Mathews $20 Yogi Berra $20 and short or no lines. Too expensive these days and not a great experience.
Interesting conversation. I like the dynamics. Both of you seem welcoming guys to a fault. But I think that is a good thing. The National is such a large event. And there's lots of people. You never really know who might appreciate and, even need the conversation. Whether it's about cards and the hobby, or just everyday life. Great video.
Hey guys. I am looking forward to going to the National. I'm hoping to go to the RU-vid get together and meeting you both. I enjoyed the conversation between you both.
Great episode. Also, good call on your guys look being the norm. I don’t even know if Mike was at the Burbank show last summer, but I almost said hi to him like 40 times but realized those guys weren’t him just in time.
Did John just describe the practice of "Motivational Interviewing?" Awesome. Anyway, your discussion made me go look at the prices for autos. Rickey Henderson is one of my favorite players of all time and I have had this jersey I wanted to get signed. I hyperventilated when I saw the price. I am one that wants the experience and the short interaction. May need to rethink this. Fun discussion fellas.
Booked my hotel yesterday for the national. Hopefully, it will be an upgrade from Strongsville . Can't wait to be overwhelmed for my 1st national. I'll wear a nametag at the get-together 😆
Autographs are fun to get, treasures of the ones you’ve met. Nowadays I prefer selfies. I have a selfie of me and Kobe. He asked me if it was good before he left. I don’t need a Kobe autograph that was certified by a corporation. I like my Nolan Ryan autograph that I got in 1973. It was a great one on one interaction. It’s not even certified.