Clyde: Jake, thank you for joining us. HobSpecial has gained a lot of attention as a hub for modeling enthusiasts. Can you share what inspired you to create this platform?

Jake Special: Thank you, Clyde. HobSpecial is truly a labor of love. My passion for modeling started in my youth, and it’s stayed with me throughout my life. It began as a way to connect with the world around me. Models—whether they’re cars, planes, or ships—are miniature representations of the real world. They let you explore complexity, beauty, and engineering in a way that feels approachable. But it’s more than just admiration for the technical side. What makes modeling so special for me, and I think for many others, is the stories these models carry. This is especially true for historical models. For instance, warships or military vehicles aren’t just engineering marvels; they represent specific moments in history. They embody the ingenuity of their time, the challenges faced, and the spirit of the people who created and operated them. That historical dimension adds a layer of meaning that makes these models even more fascinating.

Clyde: It sounds like history plays a big role in your appreciation for modeling. Can you expand on that?

Jake Special: Absolutely. History is one of the things that makes modeling so compelling. Take a model of a World War II battleship, for example. It’s not just a replica of a ship—it’s a symbol of an era. It represents the technological advancements of its time, the struggles of war, and the bravery of the people involved. When you hold a model like that, you’re not just appreciating its design or craftsmanship. You’re connecting with history in a tangible way. That’s why I’ve always been drawn to military models—tanks, fighter planes, warships, even submarines. They’re windows into the past, but they’re also masterpieces of engineering. The combination of those two aspects is something I’ve always found deeply inspiring.

Clyde: That’s such a unique perspective. What role does HobSpecial play in fostering this connection for collectors?

Jake Special: At HobSpecial, we aim to provide more than just products. We want to be a space where enthusiasts can immerse themselves in their passion. Whether it’s finding a model that resonates with their personal interests or discovering something new that sparks curiosity, our goal is to inspire. For example, our collection includes everything from 1:43 scale replicas of iconic sports cars to detailed military models and historical ships. We carefully curate our catalog to ensure that every piece reflects quality and authenticity. And because we understand the emotional and historical connection people have with these models, we strive to provide items that tell a story.

Clyde: Speaking of stories, you mentioned earlier the emotional connection you have to certain models. Can you share an example of that?

Jake Special: Of course. One deeply personal example involves my late uncle Stéphane, who was a passionate motorbike enthusiast. For me, motorbikes will always be associated with him. When he passed, we placed a small motorbike model on his coffin. It was a way to honor his passion and our connection. That experience taught me just how powerful models can be. They’re not just objects; they’re symbols of memories, relationships, and emotions. Whether it’s a car that reminds you of a road trip with a loved one or a warship that captures the spirit of an era, models have a unique ability to preserve and evoke feelings.

Clyde: Many of these models are clearly tied to personal or historical significance. What other aspects of modeling do you think draw people in?

Jake Special: Beyond the emotional and historical connections, there’s a creative aspect to modeling that’s deeply satisfying. Assembling a model, painting it, or even displaying it is a form of expression. It’s a chance to engage with the artistry and craftsmanship of these objects.

For some, it’s also about building something from scratch. There’s a meditative quality to working on a model, focusing on the details, and bringing a vision to life. It’s a way to escape the rush of daily life and immerse yourself in something meaningful.

Clyde: What kinds of models are particularly popular among your customers?

Jake Special: Our customers have diverse interests, but some categories stand out. Sports car replicas, especially at a 1:43 scale, are always popular. Brands like Bburago, Maisto, and CCA are known for their quality, and models like the Lamborghini Aventador, the BMW 3.0 CSL, and the Ford Mustang are favorites. Military models also have a strong following, especially tanks, fighter planes, and warships. These pieces resonate with collectors who appreciate both the engineering and the history behind them. And then there’s a growing interest in naval models, which I personally find fascinating. Warships, in particular, are a perfect blend of historical significance and technical ingenuity.

Clyde: With such a broad audience, how do you ensure HobSpecial stands out in the market?

Jake Special: We focus on quality and authenticity. Our audience consists of serious hobbyists—adults who see these models as more than just collectibles. These are people who value craftsmanship, detail, and the stories behind the models. But it’s not just about the products. At HobSpecial, we strive to create a sense of community. We want our customers to feel like they’re part of something bigger—a network of enthusiasts who share their passion. That’s why we offer resources like detailed product guides, tutorials, and insights into the world of modeling. We’re not just selling models; we’re celebrating the art and the stories they represent.

Clyde: What’s next for HobSpecial? What does the future hold?

Jake Special: The future is about growth and connection. We’re looking to expand our catalog to include even more niche categories, like highly detailed aviation models and historical replicas. We’re also exploring ways to enhance the customer experience. This could mean interactive content, like behind-the-scenes looks at how models are created, or collaborations with other enthusiasts to showcase their collections and stories. At the heart of it all is our commitment to inspiring and supporting the modeling community.

Clyde: Jake, this has been an incredible conversation. It’s clear that HobSpecial is built on a foundation of passion, emotion, and connection.

Jake Special: Thank you, Clyde. It’s been a pleasure to share this story. At HobSpecial, we believe that every model has a story to tell, and we’re honored to help our customers discover and celebrate those stories.