Episode 12: Happy Birthday Pokémon! ft. Zardo Cards

In this episode, PokéMoney hosts Tony Dee and Steve celebrate Pokémon's Birthday (Pokémon Day) and 30th Anniversary, starting things off by reviewing the 1996 Japanese No Rarity Charizard currently up for sale at Goldin Auctions. They move forward by discussing the last 30 years of dominance Pokémon has demonstrated including where it all began, economic cycles related to the hobby, and generational shifts over the last 3 decades. Additionally, the hosts discuss the emotional attachment people feel towards Pokémon and how the anime, video games, and Pokémon GO have shaped the current and future landscape of the franchise. Tony and Steve dive into the cylical nature of the hobby and the different eras that collectors have endured since it's inception in 1996. For the first time on PokéMoney, the podcast showcases a special guest feature in welcoming Xavier from Zardo Cards to the show, discussing where he began in the hobby, his outlook on the current state of the hobby, and his beliefs on where things are headed for Pokémon in the future. The episode continues on by discussing what the 30th Anniversary means for collectors and how nostalgia-driven products, special promos, and premium releases are likely to highlight the year. The hosts make their prediction on what the next 30 years will look like for the hobby as well as provide their signature closing segment "Final Evolution" where they share one last warning or piece of advice for listeners. TakeawaysCelebrating 30 Years of PokémonThe Charizard PhenomenonEconomic Cycles in PokémonNostalgia and the Pokémon ExperienceThe Pokémon Go ResurgenceThe Future of Pokémon and Its EcosystemInterview with Xavier from Zardo CardsThe Impact of Pokémon's 30th AnniversaryThe Future of Pokémon: 30 Years AheadFinal Evolution: Hard Work in the Hobby