At Collectors MD, we believe that collecting should be a deeply personal, intentional, and fulfilling experience. Our Collector Spotlight series is a monthly feature that shines a light on collectors who truly embody our mission—collecting with intention.
Each month, we highlight a passionate collector within our community, showcasing their unique collection, sharing their story, and celebrating the way they approach the hobby. These aren’t just collectors chasing the latest hits or highest values—they’re individuals who build collections with purpose, meaning, and a personal connection.
By sharing these stories, we hope to inspire others to rethink their approach to collecting and embrace a mindset that values connection, creativity, and authenticity.
December 2025 | Alex B, @alexbridgeforth
This month, we’re proud to feature Alex B (@alexbridgeforth) in our Collector Spotlight—an Army veteran, devoted father of four young boys, and the anchor of a Chargers-loving family.
Alex has become a vocal and consistent presence within the Collectors MD community, actively participating in the Intention group chat, our Discord, and weekly peer-support meetings where he openly shares progress, reflections, and stories from his and his boys’ shared collecting journey. For Alex, the hobby isn’t about hits, hype, or resale—it’s about connection. It’s a shared language between a father and his sons, rooted in joy, curiosity, and love for the game.
That mindset shows up clearly in how Alex engages with the hobby. The only time he’ll ever participate in a break is for a reasonable football PYT (Pick Your Team)—and it’s always the Chargers. Even then, it has to be affordable and well within his budget. There’s no chasing, no stretching, no rationalizing. If it doesn’t align, he walks away without hesitation.
What makes Alex such a powerful example of intentional collecting is that resale value and aftermarket comps are completely arbitrary to him and his boys. Their collection has purpose. It has meaning. Every card represents a moment, a memory, or a shared experience—not a price point. Through this, Alex is actively teaching his children the art of responsible spending and collecting with intention, clarity, and purpose.
He brings his boys to card shows and Chargers games. They spend several nights a week sorting their collection together, opening affordable boxes like Score or Donruss Football, talking football, laughing, and enjoying the hobby side by side. There’s no glitz. No glamor. Just presence, passion, and time spent together.
This is the beauty of what collecting can look like when we strip away the manufactured hype and revenue-driven noise that’s been embedded into the hobby. This is the foundation of the #RipResponsibly campaign. And Alex lives it—not just for himself, but for the next generation of collectors he’s raising.
THIS is what Collectors MD is all about.
Below is a glimpse into Alex’s collecting world. Be sure to show him some love—the hobby is better because of collectors like him.
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
November 2025 | Ambre L, @mznapalm_most.hated
This month, we’re proud to feature Ambre L (@mznapalm_most.hated) in our Collector Spotlight. Many in the community know her as the partner of Travis L (@montananorseman), but Ambre’s own collecting story—and her honesty about it—have deeply resonated within the Collectors MD community. Her Daily Reflection, “A Shift in Perspective”, delivered a powerful line: “Not everything that sparkles is truly valuable”.
Ambre learned that lesson firsthand after losing money and even compromising her health chasing expensive statues and anime figures. When the thrill became a burden, she stepped back and redefined what collecting meant to her.
Today, her collection reflects that evolution. Her “Murder Shelf” spotlights controversial athletes and “bad boys” across sports—not to glorify them, but to explore consequence, redemption, and human complexity. Her “Personal Shelf” holds sentimental pieces like “Imperfect Perfection”, a custom art card of her family gifted by Travis, alongside joyful favorites like Jaylen Waddle cards, an autographed Bulbasaur Funko Pop, a Kobe Bryant refractor, rookie autographs of Steve McNair and Nikita Kucherov, a 1952 Stan Musial slab, and, yes—an O.J. Simpson card, which sits at the center of her “Murder Shelf”.
Ambre’s story also came to life in Episode #14 of The Collector’s Compass: “Wife Of A Collector, Support & Perspective”. In that conversation, she opened up about finding balance, supporting a partner in recovery, and rebuilding joy together. Her humor, blunt honesty, and empathy offered a rare look at what it means to love—and live with—a collector and disabled veteran.
For Ambre, collecting with intention means peace, authenticity, and creating something she can one day share with her daughter—proof that every shelf tells a story worth understanding.
Below is a glimpse of Ambre’s collection. Be sure to check out her page and give her a follow!
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
October 2025 | Mikey Dabb, @thecamp0ut
This month, we’re proud to feature a name that’s been woven into the fabric of the sneaker community for years—Mikey Dabb aka @thecamp0ut.
Mikey’s nickname “thecamp0ut” comes from his early days lining up outside NYC boutiques like KITH, Cncpts, Extra Butter, and Supreme—back when ‘camping out’ was a defining part of sneaker culture.That passion carried forward and grew into a voice of integrity and authenticity that’s widely respected by industry leaders and fellow collectors alike.
Mikey’s collection spans far beyond sneakers—hats, clothing, accessories, and even branded thecamp0ut collaborations. He’s produced content on YouTube and social media, hosted and appeared on sneaker podcasts, collaborated with countless “shoetubers”, and spoken on live panels to share his perspective. Through all of this, Mikey has consistently been a bridge between community, culture, and collecting.
What makes Mikey stand out is his philosophy. He doesn’t chase hype, inflated prices, or the hottest resell items on StockX, Stadium Goods, or Flight Club. Instead, he builds his collection on his own terms—choosing silhouettes and color palettes that resonate with him personally through authentic storytelling. It’s not about what’s trending; it’s about what feels true.
That approach is exactly what we at Collectors MD call “collecting with intention”. Mikey reminds us that collecting isn’t about outspending others—it’s about curating what inspires you and staying grounded in why you started in the first place.
Most importantly, Mikey is simply a good dude. Genuine, approachable, and passionate about the culture, he’s someone we’re proud to have as part of the Collectors MD community.
Below are a few highlights from his collection and work. Be sure to check out his page and give him a follow!
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
September 2025 | Brandon H, @collectcharles
This month, we’re proud to feature Brandon H (@collectcharles) in our Collector Spotlight. Brandon first joined Collectors MD earlier this year and quickly became one of the most active members of our community. He’s been a consistent presence at our weekly peer-support meetings, engages regularly in our group chat, and has even started contributing to our Daily Reflection series—including a piece we published last week, Pack It Up: Why Modern Card Collecting Is A Mirage.
Brandon describes himself as a cautionary tale: “On one end, I’m as happy as I’ve ever been, but on the other hand, I’ve been irresponsible financially. Chasing big hits through buying lots of cards and into card breaks has gotten out of control.” He’s experienced the highs of hitting on chases, but he also knows those moments can be deceptive—“rewarding” in the moment, but dangerous over time.
Despite the challenges, Brandon has embraced Collectors MD as a preemptive strike—choosing accountability and community support so his collection doesn’t become something he’s forced to sell. He’s living proof that intentionality makes a difference, even when temptation runs high.
Brandon’s collection is both wide-ranging and personal. It includes 90s slabs of NBA legends like Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Penny Hardaway, and Kobe Bryant; a strong lineup of current Cubs players; 49ers icons such as Brock Purdy and Joe Montana; an eclectic lot of cards from the Bob Ross x Topps set; tribute displays for Hulk Hogan and Cubs greats like Mark Grace, Ryne Sandberg, and Ernie Banks; and unique treasures like an Eric “Butterbean” Esch autograph.
When we asked Brandon what “collecting with intention” means to him, he put it simply: “Collecting with intent is fun”. That joy is reflected in the way he curates his PC—not for show, but for personal meaning.
Brandon, thank you for your honesty, your contributions, and the heart you bring to this community. Your willingness to share your journey reminds us all that collecting is about more than cards—it’s about accountability, connection, and purpose.
Below is a glimpse of Brandon’s collection. Be sure to check out his page and give him a follow!
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
August 2025 | Travis L, @montananorseman
This month, we’re proud to feature Travis (@montananorseman)—a true embodiment of what it means to collect with intention. Travis first joined us after being one of two winners in our Collector Appreciation Giveaway #2, but it didn’t take long for him to become a cornerstone member of the Collectors MD community.
He’s been a tremendous supporter, showing up for our weekly peer-support meetings without fail, engaging daily in our group chat, and generously sharing his perspective and encouragement with others. Next month, he’ll also be joining us as a guest on The Collector’s Compass.
Travis’s collection is deeply personal—each piece tied to a story, a memory, or someone he loves. From a Tom Selleck card honoring the time he spent watching Quigley Down Under with his grandfather who raised him, to a Cecil Travis card in tribute to his own U.S. Army service and a growing military-themed collection. His ongoing pursuit of the Michael Ray Richardson set is a nod to his Montana roots, while his collection of C.J. Fiedorowicz cards reflects a shared experience of having to step away from a passion due to injury.
Some moments in his collection are once-in-a-lifetime—meeting Matt Hughes, winning a C.J. Stroud signed football from Fanatics and speaking with him live. Others are deeply emotional—like the Messi/Ronaldo and Adam Driver cards he now collects in honor of his best friend, a Marine who took his own life. That collection will one day be passed down to his youngest daughter, so she will always carry a piece of her uncle’s memory.
When we asked Travis what “collecting with intention” means to him, his answer captured our mission perfectly:
“For me, collecting is getting cards that I like and that make me feel happy. They do not need to be expensive, just expressive. They also do not need to impress others as my collection is what makes me feel good, not the world.”
Travis reminds us that collecting at its best is personal, grounded, and meaningful—and that a small act of kindness can have an impact far beyond what we imagine. We’re honored to have him as part of the Collectors MD family.
Below is a glimpse at a few pieces from Travis’s personal collection. Be sure to check out his page and give him a follow!
Travis, thank you for the energy, heart, and perspective you bring to this community—this is what collecting with intention is all about.
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
July 2025 | Jonathan, @theclemsonkidcards
This month, we’re proud to feature a collector who embodies so much of what Collectors MD stands for—Jonathan (@theclemsonkidcards). Jonathan’s feed is a refreshing reminder that collecting doesn’t have to revolve around hype, high-end hits, or dollar signs. His posts aren’t just about what’s valuable—they’re about what’s meaningful.
In a recent post, Jonathan shared an unlicensed Paul Skenes second-year card from Donruss Baseball, writing:
“These aren’t worth even $10, but I really, really like the short print foil version of the ‘Unleashed’. If the hobby wants to continue to exist, these financially accessible products need to be available for kids, and those who don’t have the money to spend $500+ a box.”
That alone says everything. His passion is genuine, and his voice is thoughtful—raising awareness around the importance of accessible collecting for younger hobbyists and those without unlimited budgets.
That perspective runs through everything Jonathan shares. Whether it’s advocating for affordable entry points, appreciating design and storytelling over brand licensing, or adding a personal twist to his PC, his voice brings balance to a space often overrun by profit-driven hype.
Take Jonathan’s approach to aesthetics—like the Bobby Witt Jr. blue refractor /75 from Topps Chrome Black Baseball—noting that he’s considering SGC’s black tuxedo slab for display purposes even if it means giving up a little PSA value. Why? Because it simply looks better. That’s collecting with intention.
Even his display setup reflects this approach. Tired of hiding his collection in a drawer, he installed inexpensive, simple floating shelves to display his favorite cards. It’s a small gesture—but one that reclaims joy, visibility, and presence in the hobby.
In another post, Jonathan shared a creative patch swap on a Steven Kwan on-card auto—demonstrating how to elevate a card for the PC, without obsessing over resale value. It’s a personal touch for a PC card—but it’s also an example of how collectors can re-engage with their cards in creative, non-commercial ways. That kind of creativity and thoughtfulness is rare.
Jonathan isn’t chasing clout or status. He’s curating a collection with clarity, personality, and perspective. His feed reminds us that collecting doesn’t need to be expensive to be meaningful. It can be joyful, approachable, and deeply personal without breaking the bank or burning yourself out mentally and emotionally.
Below are a few of his recent posts. Check out his page and give him a follow!
Thank you for what you’re adding to this space, Jonathan. This is the heart of collecting with intention.
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
June 2025 | Tyler M, @arab_lincoln
This month, we’re proud to feature Tyler (@arab_lincoln), a collector and visual storyteller whose work brings a rare sense of intentionality to the hobby.
Known for his high-touch, deeply considered photography, Tyler’s posts aren’t just images of sneakers—they’re moments. Carefully composed, visually striking, and rooted in meaning, each photo offers a quiet pause in a feed often dominated by hype. His approach reflects what we at Collectors MD believe in: slowing down, appreciating what you have, and collecting with purpose.
But Tyler’s work goes beyond his Instagram account. As recently profiled in GQ Middle East, he’s made a name for himself in the sneaker world—known for curating pieces with emotional weight, cultural history, and a story worth telling. That same thoughtful energy translates directly into the way he approaches collecting.
He’s not chasing the loudest releases. He’s not driven by resale value or trends. He’s building something slower, more deliberate—and honestly, more meaningful.
Below are a few of his recent posts from Instagram. Be sure to check out his page and give him a follow.
Thank you for the work you’re doing, Tyler. This is exactly the kind of energy the world of collecting needs.
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
May 2025 | Mya G, @bullseye_breaks
This month, we’re proud to feature Mya (@bullseye_breaks), who’s built an incredible collection centered around players like Bobby Witt Jr., Shota Imanaga, and Seiya Suzuki. But what truly sets Mya apart is the way she curates and captures her collection.
Her focus isn’t on chasing the highest-value cards or the flashiest hits. Instead, she collects cards that genuinely mean something to her—cards with stories, connections, and personal significance. And through her stunning photography, she brings her collection to life, showing the true beauty of collecting with purpose.
This is what collecting should be—passionate, personal, and meaningful.
Below are a few of her latest posts from her Instagram page. Feel free to check out her page and give her a follow! Thank you for your support, Mya!
#CollectorsMD
Collect With Intention. Not Compulsion.
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