Episodes

  • 5,000 Hot Wheels & Matchbox Designs Later - The Epic Career of Artist Michael Heralda

    5,000 Hot Wheels & Matchbox Designs Later - The Epic Career of Artist Michael Heralda
    May 19 2024
    Mike Heralda may have tecnically "retired" as a designer for Hot Wheels and Matchbox, but he's far from finished using his design to influence diecast cars around the world. He joins us to discuss his life in the design and production process of diecast cars. Mike shares his experience of setting up a digital library for design files and the resistance he faced from outside vendors. He also talks about the constraints and limitations in design, such as the number of tampos and paint treatments allowed on a car. Mike emphasizes the importance of enhancing the shape of the car and creating engagement for the end consumer. Michael Heralda discusses his inspiration file and the extensive digital archive he maintains for reference. He shares how he incorporates textures and patterns from various sources into his designs, including vintage wallpaper. Heralda also talks about the Mexican influence in diecast designs and the cultural connection between Mexican heritage and cars. He highlights the importance of listening to collectors and catering to their preferences. The conversation touches on the differences between Hot Wheels and Matchbox, and Heralda's role in rebranding Matchbox to focus on realism. The gathering in Albuquerque, hosted by Jim Gallegos, is mentioned as a significant event for collectors. In this conversation, Michael Heralda shares his experiences and insights as a designer for Matchbox. He discusses the process of creating diecast cars, the challenges and joys of the job, and the impact his designs have had on collectors. Michael also talks about his retirement series, rare and one-off models, and his collaborations with other artists and designers. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with collectors and the sense of community within the diecast hobby.
    Follow Michael Heralda here: https://www.instagram.com/michaelheralda/
    and here: https://www.instagram.com/adlar58_design/
    Small Channel Shout-out: @ricobobe
    Takeaways
    •Setting up a digital library for design files can streamline the design process and improve efficiency.
    •Resistance to change is common, but adapting to new technologies and processes is necessary for growth and improvement.
    •Designers often face constraints and limitations in terms of the number of tampos and paint treatments allowed on a car.
    •Enhancing the shape of the car and creating engagement for the end consumer are important aspects of diecast car design.
    •Maintaining an inspiration file or digital archive can provide a valuable resource for designers.
    •Textures and patterns from various sources can be incorporated into designs to add depth and interest.
    •Listening to collectors and catering to their preferences is important for the success of a brand.
    •Designing diecast cars involves a complex process that includes research, sketching, 3D modeling, and collaboration with engineers and manufacturers.
    •Collaborations with other artists and designers allow for unique and creative designs that may not be possible within the constraints of a larger company.
    •Connecting with collectors and hearing their stories is a rewarding aspect of being a diecast designer.
    •The diecast hobby fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among collectors and designers.
    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • What's it like Running a Diecast Retail Store with Mike Bowman

    What's it like Running a Diecast Retail Store with Mike Bowman
    May 12 2024
    We're joined by Mike Bowman from RDDC Diecast Collectibles. They discuss the origins of RDDC, the challenges of running a diecast store, and the impact of online platforms like Whatnot. Mike shares his experience of transitioning from selling at shows to opening a brick-and-mortar store in a mall. He emphasizes the importance of staying on top of new releases and managing inventory. The conversation also touches on the reactions of customers who discover the wide range of diecast cars available at RDDC. The conversation covers various themes related to diecast collecting, including the popularity of Fast and Furious cars, the trend of wide body kits, the importance of dioramas and accessories, and the brands that are excelling in the premium diecast arena. The hosts also discuss the challenges and surprises of running a diecast store, the possibility of opening a second location, and the host's personal collection of BMW diecast cars. In this conversation, RDDC Diecast Collectibles shares his passion for diecast collecting and running a diecast store. He emphasizes the importance of collecting what you're passionate about and being responsible with your spending. The conversation also touches on the decline of NASCAR diecast and the rise of premium brands like Mini GT. RDDC Diecast Collectibles shares his experience as a diecast store owner and the challenges he faced in transitioning from his previous career. The hosts also discuss the importance of doing research and managing expectations in the hobby.
    Find RDDC Here: https://www.rddcmarket.com/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rddc_official/
    Small Channel Shout-Out: @DiecastOrDie
    Takeaways
    •Opening a diecast store in a mall can attract both walk-in customers and diehard collectors.
    •Staying on top of new releases and managing inventory is crucial for a diecast store.
    •Online platforms like Whatnot provide opportunities to reach a wider customer base.
    •Customer reactions to the variety and quality of diecast cars at RDDC are often positive and surprising. Fast and Furious cars are highly popular and continue to be hot sellers
    •Wide body kits are a major trend in the diecast community
    •Dioramas and accessories are in high demand, with diorama sales going through the roof
    •Time Micro and GCD are considered the best upcoming brands in the premium diecast market
    •Running a diecast store comes with challenges, including high employee wages
    •The possibility of opening a second diecast store is being considered
    •The host has a personal collection of rare BMW diecast cars Collect what you're passionate about and be responsible with your spending.
    •Do your research and manage your expectations in the hobby.
    •NASCAR diecast has declined in popularity, while premium brands like •Mini GT are gaining traction.
    •Running a diecast store can be challenging and requires careful financial management.

    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
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    54 mins
  • Honoring and Documenting the Greatest Model Cars and Builders of All Time with Ron Ruelle

    Honoring and Documenting the Greatest Model Cars and Builders of All Time with Ron Ruelle
    May 5 2024
    Ron Ruelle, Creative Director of the Model Car Hall of Fame, joins Diecast Breakdown to discuss the history and mission of the organization. The Model Car Hall of Fame honors and documents the greatness of model cars, including diecast, toy cars, and model kits. They aim to document the history of model cars and highlight the latest and greatest in the industry. Ron shares his background in car culture and his passion for model cars. The conversation also touches on topics such as 3D printing in the collector market and the impact of movies like Cars on the hobby. The conversation with Ron Ruelle from Model Car Hall of Fame covered various topics related to the world of model cars and diecast collecting. Ron shared his passion for writing about cars and toys, as well as his background as a cartoonist. He discussed the process of inducting cars into the Model Car Hall of Fame and the importance of preserving the history of diecast cars. Ron also talked about his own collection and the joy of driving small, sporty cars. Overall, the conversation highlighted the fun and nostalgia associated with model cars and the community that surrounds them.
    Follow Ron Here: https://www.ronruelle.com/
    Visit the Model Car Hall of Fame Here: https://www.modelcarhall.com/
    Small Channel Shout Out: @madeyeminiatures8787
    Takeaways
    •The Model Car Hall of Fame honors and documents the greatness of model cars, including diecast, toy cars, and model kits.
    •The organization aims to document the history of model cars and highlight the latest and greatest in the industry.
    •Ron Ruel shares his background in car culture and his passion for model cars.
    •The conversation also touches on topics such as 3D printing in the collector market and the impact of movies like Cars on the hobby. Model Car Hall of Fame is a virtual platform that celebrates the history and artistry of model cars and diecast collecting.
    •Ron Ruelle, the guest, is a passionate writer, cartoonist, and collector who enjoys exploring the world of model cars.
    •The process of inducting cars into the Model Car Hall of Fame involves nominations, a selection committee, and public voting.
    •Preserving the history of diecast cars is important, as many details and stories can be lost over time.

    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
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    46 mins
  • Building a Better Hot Wheels Custom with "The Card Guy"

    Building a Better Hot Wheels Custom with "The Card Guy"
    Apr 29 2024
    We're going to be talking Hot Wheels and Diecast Customs with one of the best in the business. You my know Raymond as @TheCardGuyHW on Instagram. His work is famous among the most discerning of custom Hot Wheels collectors. Join us as we chat LIVE with him about his Hot Wheels hobby and what it takes to make a world-class custom Hot Wheels car.
    Follow Raymond here: https://www.instagram.com/thecardguyhw/
    Small Channel Shoutout: @ScaleDude78
    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • This Museum Gift Shop is a Must-Visit Diecast Destination with Chris Nicholson

    This Museum Gift Shop is a Must-Visit Diecast Destination with Chris Nicholson
    Apr 21 2024
    We talk diecast with Chris Nicholson of Lane Motor Museum, and the unique collection of vehicles, including the largest collection of European cars in the US and the largest collection of cars that were never sold or marketed in the US. Chris shares his journey to Lane Motor Museum and how he ended up working in the gift shop. They also talk about Chris's affinity for JDM cars and the video game car exhibit at the museum. Chris from Lane Motor Museum discusses the quality products and work ethic behind the museum's collection. He shares some of the wildest things he has witnessed while working in the auto museum, including unusual vehicles and famous visitors. Chris also talks about the challenges of licensing and the limited availability of certain diecast models. The conversation concludes with information about the museum and its exhibits.
    Learn more about Lane Motor Museum here: https://www.lanemotormuseum.org/
    Follow Chris here: https://www.instagram.com/chris_from_lmm/?hl=en
    Small Channel Shoutout: @TheDiecastDad
    Takeaways
    Lane Motor Museum has the largest collection of European cars in the US.
    The museum also has the largest collection of cars that were never sold or marketed in the US.
    Chris Nicholson started as a volunteer at Lane Motor Museum and eventually became a paid staff member.
    The museum's gift shop offers a wide selection of premium diecast models, including Tamika Limited Vintage. Lane Motor Museum is known for its collection of quality products and the work ethic behind them.
    The museum has witnessed many unusual vehicles and famous visitors over the years.
    Licensing issues can limit the availability of certain diecast models.
    Lane Motor Museum offers a variety of exhibits and is a must-visit for car enthusiasts.
    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
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    58 mins
  • Why HobbyDB is so much more than a database with Christian Braun

    Why HobbyDB is so much more than a database with Christian Braun
    Apr 14 2024
    We chat with Christian Braun, the "Collector of Collectors" for HobbyDB. HobbyDB is a comprehensive online database for collectors, covering a wide range of collectibles such as diecast cars, toys, and memorabilia. Christian explains that HobbyDB is like an extension of Wikipedia, providing detailed information on various collectibles, including product details, estimated values, and historical context. He demonstrates the features of HobbyDB, including the ability to sort and search for specific items. Christian also discusses the importance of preserving collectibles and the challenges of maintaining accurate information in the digital age. He shares his personal collecting interests and the motivation behind creating HobbyDB. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the HobbyDB app and future plans for the platform, as well as the role of volunteers in expanding the database. HobbyDB is a comprehensive collectibles database that relies on volunteers to contribute and curate information. Volunteers start as rookies and can progress to different roles, such as contributors, creators, curators, and champions. The database has strict rules to ensure accuracy and prevent scams and spam. HobbyDB allows users to create showcases of their collections and share them with others. The site also offers the opportunity for individuals to invest in the company. The search functionality is powerful, allowing users to drill down and find specific items. HobbyDB aims to connect buyers and sellers, providing a platform for transactions within the collectibles community. In this conversation, Christian Braun and Chuck Ellis discuss the rich experience of HobbyDB, the future of the platform and the role of AI, and the importance of exploring HobbyDB further. They also talk about joining the HobbyDB community, the Model Car Hall of Fame, and the challenges of collecting rare and unique items. The conversation touches on preserving and renewing collectibles, the value of incomplete information, and the role of insurance for collectibles. They also discuss becoming a contributor on HobbyDB, the importance of adding value, and the future of collectible insurance. The conversation concludes with personal stories and connections made through collecting.
    Find HobbyDB here: https://www.hobbydb.com/
    Become an owner of HobbyDB here: https://wefunder.com/hobbydb
    Small Channel Shoutout: @automotivehistorythrudiecast
    Takeaways
    HobbyDB is a comprehensive online database for collectors, providing detailed information on various collectibles.
    The database covers a wide range of collectibles, including diecast cars, toys, and memorabilia.
    HobbyDB allows collectors to search for specific items, view product details, and estimate the value of their collectibles.
    Preserving collectibles and documenting their history is an important aspect of the hobby, and HobbyDB aims to provide a platform for this purpose. HobbyDB offers a rich experience for collectors, although it may take some time to navigate due to the wide range of items and features available.
    The future of HobbyDB involves leveraging AI to improve the user experience and enhance the documentation and recognition of collectibles.
    Exploring HobbyDB further can lead to the discovery of rare and unique collectibles, as well as variants and unusual items.
    Joining the HobbyDB community allows collectors to contribute their knowledge and add value to the platform.

    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
    #hotwheels #diecast #diecastcollection
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Hot Wheels Collector Nationals 24 Recap LIVE from Atlanta

    Hot Wheels Collector Nationals 24 Recap LIVE from Atlanta
    Apr 7 2024
    We're talking all the latest Hot Wheels drops LIVE from the show floor of the Hot Wheels Collector Nationals. Our take on our first show, the new Premiums, RLCs, Silver Line, and much more while we're also trying to sell cars. What could go wrong?
    Small Channel Shout-Out: Gaslands Nor Cal
    🏁🏎️Help us collect 24,000 cars for kids in need. Learn more at https://www.drivendreams.org/
    🚘🎥 Support Diecast Media Network, buy merch, and more!: http://diecastmedianetwork.com/
    💰Save 15% on all orders from SK75 Works with code "DMN." https://www.sk75works.co.uk/
    🎨 Get some amazing automotive art here: https://fireballtimgarage.art/

    🌐Diecast Media Network is:
    🚗 Mark Driven Dreams Org: @drivendreamsorg
    🚙 David TWYCE Diecast: @twycediecast
    💁‍♀️ Kimber: https://www.instagram.com/_kimberw/
    🎨 Jepeg Designs - https://www.teepublic.com/user/jepegdesign
    🛠️ Chuck: https://www.chuckellis.com
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Friday's Live Update from Hot Wheels Collector National '24

    Friday's Live Update from Hot Wheels Collector National '24
    Apr 7 2024
    Chuck and David are live from the Hot Wheels Collector Nationals talking about all the diecast collecting action that's happing on all 15 floors of the Crown Plaza Hotel in Atlanta, GA.
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    1 hr and 2 mins