Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Silliman.
Hi Jake, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Albatross (formerly Sports Cards KC) at the beginning of 2018 out of an interest for sports cards and a passion for people.
Previously, I worked for the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City as an Analyst for two years right out of college. It was during that time that I got back into the hobby and began investing in certain players to see if I could make money flipping cards. After a successful year of doing this, I made the decision to open up my own card shop – a dream that I had since I was a little kid.
In late 2022, I expanded my business in to disc golf products as I had recently gotten back into the sport and my first shop location in Gladstone, MO was right across the street from a disc golf course, Hobby Hill. I host a winter putting league in my shop space and have areas in the space for people to putt and to test their arm speed.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think all small business owners can relate when I say that there are highs and lows to owning and running your own business. I think the one thing that I maybe didn’t anticipate being as prevalent of a factor how is anxiety. Especially in the first few years, I can’t count how many nights I stared at the ceiling wondering if I’m mentally strong enough to endure this endeavor or worrying about if I can keep growth sustainable. I’m fortunate enough to say that I have a great support system in my life with my wife, kids, parents, and friends, so leaning into them and having them encourage and love me has made the journey a lot more manageable.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I tell people all the time that all I do is buy and sell pieces of cardboard and plastic. It sounds funny, but from a high-level view, that’s basically what I do.
I would say what I specialize in, and what sets me apart from others, is my emphasis on building relationships. While I love buying and selling things, what I’m passionate about is making connections with others. When people come in my shop, I know we already have something in common. I have the privilege of being able to talk about things people actually enjoy talking about. Often times, discussions can be “how’s work going,” “how’s the family doing,” “how’s the dog,” etc., and while those things are good, it sometimes feels like you’re going through the motions. I’m in the position to be an outlet or escape from the responsibilities of life and, from there, can enter into those areas of life that are outside sports cards or disc golf.
It is my genuine hope that people feel seen and have a sense of community when they come to the shop.
What does success mean to you?
Success is when you can utilize your passions to add value to someone else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kcalbatross.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcalbatross
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcalbatross
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kcalbatross
- Other: https://www.whatnot.com/user/albatrosskc
