Explore the fascinating history of TOPS trading cards and the legendary baseball icon, Mickey Mantle, with hosts Ben Rippin, Kevin Rips, and Jake (M46 Rippin). Discover how TOPS evolved from a small gum company to a cornerstone of sports card collecting, while Mantle’s legacy shines through his remarkable career and the iconic 1952 Topps card. Through rare insights and anecdotes, uncover why this cardboard collectible is cherished by aficionados and learn about Mantle's impact on baseball and American culture. Dive into the captivating world where sports and memorabilia intertwine.

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Connect with the Rippin' Crew

@benripping - @kevinripscards - @m46rippin - @bobsrippin

Part of the Rippin' Podcast Network

Explore the iconic legacy of Ken Griffey Jr.'s 1989 Upper Deck rookie card with Ben Ripping, Kevin Rips, and Bobs Rippn'. Dive into Upper Deck's groundbreaking journey that revolutionized the sports card industry with premium designs and innovation, setting a new standard. Uncover the card's allure, myths, and cultural impact on collectors and fans alike, while reminiscing about Griffey’s influence on baseball. This episode unravels how Upper Deck's risks paid off, redefining the hobby and highlighting the story behind Griffey’s lasting legacy in the world of sports collectibles.

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Part of the Rippin' Podcast Network

In this episode of "Cardboard Wars," hosts Ben Rippin' and Kevin Rips jump into the extraordinary journey of Tom Brady, a legend who emerged from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest NFL quarterbacks of all time. Through the lens of Brady's 2000 Bowman rookie card, they explore the symbiotic relationship between athletic achievement and collectible card value, capturing the evolution of Bowman as a brand and its lasting impact on the sports card industry.

The episode unravels the fascinating backstory of the 2000 Bowman set, where the seemingly typical card of an unassuming draft pick became one of the most coveted collectibles in history. This episode is both a tribute to Brady's unmatched career and a reflection on how perseverance, talent, and the cultural zeitgeist can elevate an undervalued piece of cardboard to legendary status.

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Connect with Ben or Kevin on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/benripping/
https://www.instagram.com/kevinripscards/

Part of the Rippin' Podcast Network

In the inaugural episode of "Cardboard Wars," hosts Ben Rippin' and Kevin Rips dive into the fascinating journey of Fleer, the company that transformed from a humble gum manufacturer to a powerhouse in the sports card industry. Through rich storytelling, they examine the rise of Fleer with the iconic 1986 Michael Jordan basketball card at its heart. This episode emphasizes the combination of grit, risk, and serendipity involved in creating something as enduring as the Fleer brand and the legendary Michael Jordan rookie card.

Connect with Ben or Kevin on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/benripping/
https://www.instagram.com/kevinripscards/

Part of the Rippin' Podcast Network