Diamond Sponsor
JM INSURANCE AGENCY PARTNERS, INC
Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds
Master Emerging Trends, Streamline Operations, Boost Profitability
Attending educational sessions offers you the unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, expand your professional network, and stay ahead of industry trends. Learn from top pawn experts, engage in dynamic panels, and connect with industry leaders shaping the future of pawn.
8:00 am – 9:30 am
GIA® Session: Overview of Laboratory-Grown Diamonds
Laboratory-grown diamonds generate both excitement and confusion as their presence in the gem and jewelry market expands. Many customers and dealers alike have questions about these gems including how they compare to natural diamonds, how they are manufactured, and what steps can be taken to identify them outside the laboratory. Join GIA Sr. Subject Specialist, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, as she answers these common questions, reviews the regulations set by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and explores GIA Laboratory Reports and the GIA iD100TM gem testing device. Participants will be able to view laboratory-grown diamonds under magnification and use the GIA iD100TM gem testing device.
9:30 am – 10:20 am
Industry Insights: Sell More Jewelry at Higher Prices with Display Ideas and Secrets Speaker: Larry Johnson, Box Broker Group
Learn the best way to display the jewelry in your shop from Larry Johnson, Jewelry merchandising expert and the author of “The complete guide to effective jewelry display.” He’ll show you how to sell the pieces you want most to sell at full price by displaying them using good merchandising principles. His ideas have grown his pawn clients jewelry sales by 25% and can be accomplished at no or very little expense.
9:30 am – 10:20 am
Industry Insights: What FFLs Should Expect from Trump’s ATF & Inspection Updates
Speakers: John Bocker, NSSF
9:30 am – 10:20 am
Industry Insights
Speakers: Yehuda
10:00 am – 11:30 am
GIA Session: Advanced Laboratory-Grown Diamond
The process of identifying laboratory-grown diamonds in a laboratory setting differs greatly than methods used outside of the laboratory. Identification relies on an in-depth understanding of diamond formation and the optical defects found within the diamond’s crystal lattice. Join GIA Sr. Subject Specialist, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, as she explores the techniques behind creating laboratory-grown diamonds, the optical defects they may exhibit, and how spectroscopy plays a crucial role in identifying these materials. Participants will be able to view laboratory-grown diamonds under fluorescence and use the GIA iD100TM gem testing device.
10:30 am – 11:20 am
Industry Insights: Jewelry Industry Updates and the Resurgence of Natural Diamonds
Speaker: Ritchie Grampp, Bluestone Trading Company, Inc.
Ritchie Grampp, CEO of Bluestone Trading, will provide essential jewelry industry updates and insights necessary for elevating your pawnshop. Gain knowledge on the latest market trends directly from an expert in this engaging one-hour presentation. The discussion will cover current market pricing, lab-grown diamonds, and the resurgence of natural diamonds.
We’ll also take the conversation global; addressing tariffs, other diamond markets, and how they impact the jewelry & pawn industry here in the U.S.A. During uncertain times, it is vital to have open communication and be well informed with market conditions.
10:30 am – 11:20 am
Industry Insights: TBD
Speaker: Pawn One Trading
10:30 pm – 11:20 pm
Industry Insights: TBD
Speaker: Shergo Systems
12:30 pm – 1:20 pm
Industry Insights: Heat Up Your Firearms Sales: Strategies for Type 02 FFL Holders to Boost Summer Business
Speaker: Armslist
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
GIA Session: Technologies Used for Diamond Screening Devices
As laboratory-grown diamond production rises in the market, various screening devices have been developed to efficiently distinguish them from their natural counterparts. Join GIA Sr. Subject Specialist, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, as she delves into the importance of these screening tools and explains the science that drives their effectiveness. Participants will be able to use the GIA iD100TM gem testing device.
12:30 pm – 1:20 pm
Industry Insights: Growing Your Pawn Shop with Compliant Marketing
Speakers: Peyton Gwaltney, Strive Marketing Studio
Learn how your shop can take advantage of compliant advertising strategies to drive new customers to your shops.
12:30 pm – 1:20 pm
Industry Insights: Trends in International Watch Crime and How to Protect Your Buisness and Reputation
Speaker: Oliver Horner, The Watch Register
This session will provide an overview of the major trends in luxury watch theft, highlighting the international nature of this market. It will feature case studies of successful recovery efforts in recent years and showcase how we have safeguarded our major pawnbroking clients. Additionally, we will outline practical steps you can take to protect your business from inadvertently dealing with problematic watches. Finally, the session will detail the range of services we offer to help clients address and combat this significant issue effectively.
1:30 pm – 2:20 pm
Industry Insights: Modern Pawn Customers Revealed – Data-Driven Marketing That Works
Speaker: Bravo
1:30 pm – 2:20 pm
Industry Insights: What It Takes To Run The Finest In Premier Pawn Operations In The World Today
Speaker: Jerry Whitehead, Pawnshop Consulting Group, Inc.
This dynamic session will explore the key strategies and best practices that drive success in the pawn industry, from single-store operations to multi-unit enterprises. Attendees will gain insights into the most effective techniques used by top-performing pawnshops worldwide to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and maximize profitability.
Through a step-by-step analysis of industry-leading businesses, we will identify actionable processes that can be applied at any scale—whether you run one store or a chain of hundreds. This highly interactive session will include open Q&A, allowing participants to engage in real-time discussions and gain practical solutions tailored to their needs.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from real-world examples and refine your approach to achieving excellence in pawnshop operations!
1:30 pm – 2:20 pm
Industry Insights: Ai Solutions and Strategies for Pawnshop Security and Operations
Speaker: Roberto Doering, Eyeson Digital
Fast-paced advancements in Ai technology has everyone on the edge of their seats. While this uncertain technology can be exciting, it’s creating anxiety for business owners who are focused on ensuring the safety of their stores. Pawnshop owners must learn how to surf this technology tsunami towards prosperity beach without drowning in uncertainty, mistakes, and unplanned investments in new and expensive tech toys. This session will teach you about technology that makes sense for your pawnshop, and introduce you to methods that will optimize your businesses security and performance.
2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
GIA Session: Understanding a Diamond’s Value
Diamond color, clarity, cut and carat weight are collectively termed the “4Cs” – the factors that, when combined, define a diamond’s quality and ultimately influence its value. Join GIA Sr. Subject Specialist, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, as she details the 4Cs and how they are used to evaluate a diamond’s quality in an over-the-counter setting. Participants will be able to examine diamonds under magnification to build their knowledge and confidence to be better prepared when making their next diamond jewelry purchase.
2:40 pm – 3:30 pm
Industry Insights: TBD
Speaker: GemLightbox
2:40 pm – 3:30 pm
Industry Insights: TBD
Speaker: Marshall & Sterling
2:40 pm – 3:30 pm
Industry Insights: Understanding a Diamonds Value
Speaker: SmartGrown Diamonds, LLC
We’ll review the current state of the global LGD market, how Lab is impacting the American jewelry vertical, and how you can take advantage of the opportunity for sales, profitability, and market share expansion that Lab provides the Pawn Community.
3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Industry Insights: TBD
Speaker: Shergo Systems
3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Industry Insights: Exit Strategy Discussions
Speaker: Steve Stallcup, Stallcup Group
This session will explore strategies for maximizing pawn shop company acquisitions through expert negotiation techniques and in-depth industry knowledge. Attendees will learn how to craft detailed business profiles, analyze competitor data, and highlight appealing business traits to attract potential buyers effectively.
3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Industry Insights: The Evolution of Asset Protection
Speaker: Howard Stone, JM Insurance
As the crime environment in the United States and abroad becomes more complex, JM Insurance Agency Partners and Jewelers Mutual invite you to learn how to protect your business and inventory with new crime prevention approaches. You will walk away with actionable guidance and tactics to enhance physical security to help protect your assets and prevent your business from falling victim to crime.
10:00 am – 10:50 am
Breakout: How To Get More for Your Melee
Speaker: Bob McCullough
Over the past 20 years, Bob has developed a highly effective process for sorting and shopping melee that has consistently proven profitable for myself and others who have adopted it. This presentation will cover the entire process, from removing diamonds from mountings to selecting the most efficient techniques to save on labor. We’ll dive into methods for frosting diamonds, whether done in-store or through your refiner, and discuss how to separate diamonds by size using the best plate sizes for optimal results. Bob will walk through his sorting process and demonstrate how to maximize returns at every step.
Additionally, he’ll showcase the Excel spreadsheet he uses for shopping melee and explain how to leverage it effectively. Attendees will also receive access to the digital file as part of the session. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the process, this presentation offers actionable insights to enhance your profitability.
10:00 am – 10:50 am
Breakout: Ai 101 for Pawnbrokers
Speaker: TBD
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, and pawnbroking is no exception. In this introductory session, you’ll learn how AI can be a game-changer for your business, helping to streamline operations, improve customer service, and boost profitability.
We’ll cover the basics of AI, demystify its concepts, and explore practical applications tailored specifically for pawnbrokers. From pricing tools and inventory management to fraud detection and marketing automation, this session will highlight how AI-powered tools can simplify daily tasks and enhance decision-making.
Whether you’re tech-savvy or new to the idea of AI, this session provides actionable insights and resources to help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving pawn industry. Join us to discover how AI can work for you!
11:00 am – 11:50 am
Breakout: Adapting to Change – Growth in the Modern Economy
Speaker: Christopher Shumaker
The pawnbroking industry is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, shifting consumer trends, and the need to build stronger community connections. This session explores how modern pawnbrokers can adapt to these changes to foster growth and remain competitive in today’s economy.
We’ll discuss the latest technology transforming the industry, emerging market trends, and innovative strategies for improving customer experiences. You’ll also learn how to build a loyal community of customers and partners by embracing transparency, trust, and personalized service.
Whether you’re navigating new challenges or looking to future-proof your business, this session will provide actionable insights to help you thrive in a modernized marketplace.
11:00 am – 11:50 am
Breakout: Employee Development
Speaker: Trevor Rivett
Gain personal freedom and grow your business by building an engaged, trustworthy team. This session addresses common challenges, like struggling with trust or feeling like nothing gets done right without your presence, and offers actionable solutions. Learn how to recruit the right people, train them effectively, and develop a culture of growth and appreciation. Discover strategies to reward employees fairly and meaningfully while fostering a team that delivers profits and freedom. Transform your employees into your greatest assets and create a thriving business—even when you’re not there!
11:00 am – 11:50 am
Breakout: Buying Your First Pawn Shop – Lessons from the Front Lines
Speakers: Abigail Mielcarek & Carli Karlson
Join two first-time pawnbrokers as they share their journey of purchasing their first pawn shop. Learn about the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and the strategies that helped them succeed. Whether you’re considering buying your own store or just curious about the process, this session offers valuable insights and practical advice straight from those who’ve recently taken the leap.
2:00 pm – 3:20 pm
Breakout: Panel – Managing after a Catastrophe
Speakers: Johnny Whiteside, Chad Carter, Chelsea Dunbar Burnette, Adam Anundi
When disaster strikes—whether it’s a hurricane, fire, or burglary—pawnshop owners face unique challenges in rebuilding their businesses and supporting their communities. In this session, a panel of experienced pawnshop owners will share firsthand stories of resilience and recovery after facing catastrophic events.
You’ll hear about the immediate steps they took to stabilize their operations, navigate insurance claims, and safeguard their employees and inventory. They’ll also discuss strategies for preparing ahead of time, lessons learned from their experiences, and the importance of community engagement during difficult times.
This session is a must-attend for anyone looking to fortify their business against the unexpected and learn from those who’ve been through it all. Join us for an insightful and inspiring conversation on overcoming adversity and emerging stronger.
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Breakout: Firearms Panel
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Breakout: How to Educate Your Local Police (Training the Trainers)
Speaker: Nathan Dechairo
Session Description:
Learn how to effectively educate local law enforcement about the pawnbroking industry. This session will guide pawnbrokers on volunteering their time to speak at police seminars or small meetings, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. Discover strategies for helping officers understand your rights as a pawnbroker while emphasizing shared goals: recovering stolen items for victims, convicting criminals, and recognizing pawnbrokers as legitimate businesses with rights. Build stronger relationships with law enforcement and create a foundation of trust and cooperation in your community.
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Breakout: Best Practices in Inventory Management and Financial Benefits
Speaker: Jennifer Kanistras
Session Description:
Efficient inventory management boosts cash flow by turning idle stock into actionable capital. High turnover prevents aging inventory, reduces shrinkage risks, and keeps merchandise fresh, with strategies like data-driven pricing and bundling improving performance. Proper handling of damaged items and accurate loan counter practices ensure inventory accuracy and customer trust.
Lessons from store acquisitions highlight the importance of addressing stale inventory and training staff on best practices. Empowering store managers with financial insights and data-driven decision-making enhances profitability and operational efficiency.
9:00 am – 11:00 am
Don’t Miss Out: The Best Conversations Happen at Table Talks!
The final day of the conference isn’t goodbye—it’s your chance to dive deeper, make meaningful connections, and have the conversations that truly matter. Stay, engage, and leave inspired. The best takeaways happen when the conference winds down—don’t miss it! (Topics of Discussion TBA)
JM INSURANCE AGENCY PARTNERS, INC
MARSHALL & STERLING
DLIGHT MATERIALS SPECIALIST
