Business idea · Marketplace
Grading Game
Grading Game is a new grading service for trading cards that offers a low-cost alternative to existing services, integrating a gamified element where users can receive random graded cards from a pool. It was pitched on Koerner Office, hosted by Chris Koerner, in the episode "6 Simple Side Hustles You Can Start With Zero Experience⏐Ep. #266" (aired January 15, 2026).
At a glance
| Podcast | Koerner Office |
|---|---|
| Hosted by | Chris Koerner |
| Episode | 6 Simple Side Hustles You Can Start With Zero Experience⏐Ep. #266 |
| Aired | January 15, 2026 |
| Category | Marketplace |
| Real companies on the episode | Kabuto King, Beehive, TCG Player, Velofix, Mobile Bike Wash, Phone Restore |
The problem it solves
Current grading services are expensive and slow, leading to user frustration. This new service provides a faster, cheaper option with an element of chance to engage users.
How it makes money
Freemium model with a base fee for grading services and additional fees for premium features, such as expedited grading or special packaging.
Skills you need
Understanding of grading standards, e-commerce logistics, app development, and marketing.
The market, and why this works now
The rise of online trading card communities, such as those on Reddit, provides a direct channel for initial marketing and user acquisition. Utilizing blockchain technology for authenticity verification can streamline the grading process, ensuring transparency and trust in the service. However, the venture faces a risk in capital requirements for technology development and inventory management, which may strain initial cash flow before achieving profitability.
Our analysis, written after the episode. Not a quote from the show.
Real companies discussed on this episode
- Kabuto King
An anonymous individual on Twitter who started buying every first edition Kabuto Pokemon card to influence their value.
- Beehive
A newsletter platform that allows creators to grow their email lists and monetize their content without platform fees.
- TCG Player
An online marketplace for buying and selling trading cards, particularly popular among Pokemon card collectors.
- Velofix
A mobile bike repair service that comes to the customer's location for bike maintenance and repairs.
- Mobile Bike Wash
A mobile bike washing service that provides quick and convenient cleaning for cyclists at trailheads and bike parks.
- Phone Restore
An iPhone repair store that initially struggled but turned around through innovative marketing strategies.
Where this idea came from
Podcast: Koerner Office, hosted by Chris Koerner
Episode: 6 Simple Side Hustles You Can Start With Zero Experience⏐Ep. #266
Aired:
Summarized from the episode transcript. The show does not say which speaker raised each idea, so we credit the show, not a person.