Coffeez for Closers with Joe Shalaby
Episode: $30K in High School to Multi-Million Dollar Card Empire ft. Eric Michael
Release Date: August 8, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode of Coffeez for Closers, host Sam welcomes Eric Michael, the driving force behind Major League Profits (MLP), a thriving business dedicated to teaching individuals how to profit from sports and collectible cards. Eric shares his inspiring journey from earning $30K in high school to establishing a multi-million dollar empire in the collectibles industry.

2. Eric Michael's Journey: From High School to Card Empire

Eric opens up about his early disdain for corporate America. Reflecting on his initial aversion, he states:

"I would have rather sat and lived under a bridge than work in corporate America."
[00:00]

However, circumstances led him to experience corporate life briefly, which eventually fueled his entrepreneurial spirit:

"Now we are corporate. It's different because I'm the top. So I get to tell people what to do and I get to show up when I want."
[10:17]

3. The Role of Mentorship and Getting Started in Sports Cards

Eric recounts his introduction to the sports card market in August 2015, inspired by a high school friend's success:

"I buy and sell sports cards. And back then in 2015, you know, sports card is not like what it was today. It was still kind of big, but not nearly as big as today."
[01:42]

This mentorship with his friend Dylan was pivotal in sparking his interest and expertise in the field.

4. Mastering the Grading Process and Market Dynamics

A significant portion of Eric's success hinges on understanding the grading process of collectibles. He explains:

"There is no confidence. It's just, I've done this for five years. I know exactly how to do it. Like, it is as simple as, like, walking. Like, I do it."
[03:08]

Eric delves into the intricacies of grading, emphasizing the importance of high-quality graders like PSA, and how grading impacts the value and liquidity of cards.

5. Teaching and Building Major League Profits (MLP)

Transitioning from flipping cards, Eric and his business partner John founded Major League Profits, a program designed to educate others on making consistent income through card trading:

"I didn't have confidence. It was just, I know exactly what needs to be done. That's it."
[03:08]

MLP utilizes advanced AI software that analyzes platforms like eBay daily to identify the most profitable cards to purchase and grade, ensuring members can achieve steady returns.

6. The Pivot to Pokemon and Expanding into Other Collectibles

Recognizing the booming market in Pokemon cards, Eric expanded MLP's offerings:

"I'm 44 or 43. I have four kids... Pokemon is a way for me to relate to all my kids."
[05:22]

He highlights the exponential demand and profitability in the Pokemon sector, urging members to allocate a portion of their investments there due to its super liquidity and high returns.

7. Business Operations: Building a Team and Company Culture

Eric discusses the operational strategies that set MLP apart, including a regimented work culture and close-knit team dynamics:

"We run it like military. It's very regimented... you are working nine hours a day from 10 to 7 of the sales team's hours."
[17:34]

Living and working alongside his team in Miami fosters a mastermind environment, driving continuous innovation and efficiency.

8. Impact on Families and Teaching Kids Entrepreneurship

One of the unexpected byproducts of MLP's success is its positive impact on families. Eric shares:

"25% of the people would mention about how they're doing it with their kid, doing with their young son."
[11:27]

MLP not only serves as a business venture but also as a platform for parents to bond with their children over entrepreneurship and shared interests in collectibles.

9. Building a Personal Brand and Handling Publicity

As MLP grew, Eric became a recognizable figure in the sports card community. He reflects on the challenges and responsibilities of this visibility:

"I don't like being stopped in my tracks... the best ones are... people saying my free content has actually made them a profit."
[24:04]

Eric embraces his role as a mentor and influencer, using his platform to provide free valuable content that uplifts others while driving business growth.

10. Overcoming Doubts and Maintaining Resilience

Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Eric faced skepticism and doubts, particularly from those within the sports card community:

"People in the sports card world... they're very sensitive about it."
[21:21]

Despite receiving hate comments and initial setbacks, Eric's unwavering belief in his methods and resilience led MLP to eventual success.

11. Future Goals and Aspirations

Looking ahead, Eric envisions MLP evolving into a comprehensive hub for all things collectible:

"Turning major league profits into like this huge like collectible siding come university type of deal... Maybe turning into like an actual college for collectibles."
[29:07]

His ambitious plans include expanding into various collectible markets and establishing an educational institution dedicated to collectibles entrepreneurship.

12. Conclusion and How to Connect with Eric

As the episode wraps up, Eric emphasizes his dedication to helping others and expanding his brand:

"Hit me up with a message if you're curious."
[31:57]

Listeners interested in diving into the sports card industry or teaching their children about entrepreneurship can connect with Eric through his YouTube channel, Instagram, or by visiting the MLP website.

Key Takeaways:

• Mentorship is Crucial: Eric's success was significantly influenced by his mentor, illustrating the importance of guidance in entrepreneurial ventures.

• Leveraging Technology: Utilizing AI to analyze market trends has been instrumental in MLP's ability to teach members how to make informed investments.

• Community and Culture: A strong, regimented company culture and close-knit team dynamics have propelled MLP's growth and operational efficiency.

• Positive Social Impact: Beyond profits, MLP serves as a platform for families to bond and for individuals to learn valuable business skills.

• Resilience Pays Off: Overcoming skepticism and maintaining consistency are key factors in achieving long-term success.

For those looking to embark on their own journey in the sports card or collectibles market, Eric Michael's insights and MLP's proven strategies offer a beacon of guidance and opportunity.