In Memoriam: Frank Fritz (with Mike Wolfe)

A look back at our 2014 interview with the former “American Pickers” co-host, who passed away on September 30, 2024.

Video Content: Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz (2014)

In a new version of their 2014 interview with American Pickers co-hosts Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, they discussed their lifelong passion for collecting, from childhood to their hit TV show. Wolfe and Fritz, who have known each other since eighth grade, shared their journey of pitching the show for five years before it aired. They highlighted their favorite regions for picking, such as the West Coast, and recounted memorable finds, including items from an American expedition to Alaska. The conversation also touched on their music preferences, the impact of the show on their business, and advice for aspiring antiquers, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and bartering skills.

Interview in-depth

The interview began with the host, Cindy Rhodes, welcoming Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, the co-hosts of the hit TV series, “American Pickers.” She highlighted their motto “one man’s trash is another man’s rusty gold” and their reputation for finding valuable antiques and collectibles. The discussion then turned to the origins of their interest in antiques and collecting. Both Mike and Frank shared that they had been collecting since childhood – Frank started at age 10 with items like beer cans, stamps, coins, and razor blades, while Mike began at age 4 when he found an old bicycle on the curb on his way to kindergarten. Frank’s mother even accommodated his collecting habit by letting him use the garage for storage.

The hosts then asked how the “American Pickers” TV series came about. Mike explained that he had pitched the show idea for 5 years before it was finally picked up. He started filming himself and Frank, and got help from friends in Nashville to refine the pitch and sizzle reel. Despite skepticism from people back home in Iowa, the show was eventually greenlit. The conversation then covered some of their most successful finds, like paintings and literature from an early American expedition to Alaska that Mike was able to sell to a museum. However, they noted that the big, valuable scores are relatively rare, and they more commonly make a living buying items for $20 and reselling them for $50-$70.

When Cindy mentioned the strong fan response on social media, the discussion turned to concepts like “bundle mania” that Frank had coined, where he would bundle multiple items together to make a sale. Mike joked about trademarking the term, comparing it to Larry the Cable Guy’s catchphrase.

Other topics included the types of music they listen to on the road (80s hair bands and country), and whether the TV show’s success has changed their business (more leads, but item values remain the same). Finally, they provided advice for aspiring antique collectors – emphasizing the importance of educating yourself on the products you’re buying so you can be a smart negotiator.

Overall, the interview provided an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the origins and experiences of the American Pickers hosts, as well as their insights for fellow collectors and pickers.

Frank Fritz passed away on September 30, 2024.