I've been collecting diecast cars for over 30 years. What started as a hobby just never stopped. It kept growing, kept pulling me in, and eventually turned into something I decided to build a business around.

Someone told me once that you can't make a living off a hobby. I decided to find out for myself.

I started Diecastman's Shop in Kent, Ohio and I haven't looked back. The buying, the selling, and the trading is the fun part, but if I'm being honest, the best part of this whole thing has always been the people. The collectors I've met, the conversations, helping someone track down a model they've been chasing for years. That's what keeps me going.

My own personal collection is mostly stuff that was given to me by friends I made through the hobby. I think that says a lot about the kind of community this is. These aren't just cars sitting on a shelf. They came with a story and a friendship attached. Those friendships mean more to me than anything I could put a price tag on.

If you ask me about brands, I'll point you toward Mini GT. The Kaido House stuff especially. The detail on those models is hard to beat. But I'm just as happy talking about whatever you're into.

My kids are my biggest accomplishment in life. My granddaughter is my heart. And part of why I work as hard as I do is because I want the people who believed in me to see this thing succeed. That motivation doesn't go away.

The goal with the shop has always been simple: create a place where collectors of all ages feel welcome. Especially younger collectors. The hobby only survives if the next generation gets excited about it, and I take that seriously. I want this to be somewhere a kid can walk in and leave hooked.

I run a family-friendly shop. No attitude, no gatekeeping. Just people who love the same thing you do.

I like to say I've got the biggest used car lot in Northeast Ohio. Come check it out and tell me I'm wrong.