Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

Pawn Expo Speakers

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Rachael Goldman

Earning Interest – “Celebrating Pawn & Embracing Its Value”
Tuesday, 9:00 am - 9:50 am

Rachael Goldman has worked full-time in the pawn industry for twenty years and is the fifth generation of her family to own and manage Goldman’s Pawn Shop in Evansville, IN. She is an active member in her community and has served on numerous boards and committees for local nonprofit organizations including the Evansville Museum of Arts and Sciences, Temple Adath B’nai Israel, Alhambra Theatre, Inc. and the Women’s Fund of Vanderburgh County. Rachael also has a background in stand-up comedy and comedy writing and was a staff writer for the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom radio show. She was the keynote speaker for the 2023 Midwest Pawnbrokers Convention in Indianapolis, IN.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT SPEAKERS

John Bocker

NSSF

What FFLs Should Expect from Trump's ATF and Inspection Updates for 2025
MONDAY, JULY 22RD 9:30am - 10:20 am

John “JB” Bocker is an independent consultant for the National Shooting Sports Foundation and the Managing Director of FFL Consultants. JB provides expert guidance to firearms dealers around the country on various topics including ATF & state firearms compliance, physical security, internal operations and employee training. FFL Consultants specializes in keeping their clients “ATF Inspection-Ready Everyday”. JB has more than 25 years of retail risk management, operations and regulatory compliance and regularly serves as an FFL subject matter expert, speaker and author at SHOT Show and FFL training events nationwide.

Roberto Doering

Eyeson

AI Solutions and Strategies for Pawnshop Security and Operations
monday, july 22nd
1:00 pm - 1:50 pm

Roberto Doering, CEO of Eyeson Digital, has 35 years of experience in technology applied to business management and electronic security. He has developed fully integrated electronic security and centralized monitoring projects for hundreds of clients in high-risk industries including medical marijuana, jewelry, pawnbroker, high-end retail, hospitality, logistics and manufacturing. He has worked with clients of all sizes from single store owners to large chains throughout the Americas. Roberto provides expert advice in the use of security technology to create homogeneous security and operational management throughout organizations with multiple facilities. He speaks to how to reach your security goals by cultivating a culture of safety and continued performance optimization within your business. Roberto is  fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese, and holds a degree in International Business from Florida International University and a degree in Electronics from Fundação Instituto Tecnológico de Osasco, Brazil.

Jonathan Gibbon

Armslist

Using Armslist.com to drive foot traffic into your store
Monday, July 22nd
3:20 pm - 4:10 pm

This session will focus on the features of Armslist.com and how Pawn Brokers can use the site to get rearm as well as non rearm clients into the store. Many recently added features to the site such as advertising your Transfer Price, Range hours, and many more will help you connect with customers who may just be casually browsing the site but don’t know about your store. Advanced users may want to connect their e-commerce platforms to Armslist and generate more sales to customers that may not necessarily show up in person.

Ritchie Grammp

Bluestone Trading Company, Inc.

Jewelry Industry Updates and the Resurgence of Natural Diamond
Monday, July 22nd
1:00 pm - 1:50 pm

Experienced business leader with a demonstrated history of working in the luxury goods, diamond wholesale and estate jewelry industry. Ritchie is a second generation buyer and seller of diamonds, modern and estate jewelry from all eras, as well as family estates. As a top graduate from him class at the Gemological Institute of America, He learned to put my skills to use and grow the company. Bluestone Trading was founded in 1978 as primarily being a diamond importer. Over the years Ritchie transitioned the company into being a major contender of buying second hand goods from auctions, store closing sales, and family estates/trusts.

Peyton Gwaltney

Strive Marketing Studio

Growing Your Pawn Shop with Compliant Marketing.
Monday, july 22nd
2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

Peyton started Strive Marketing Studio in 2018 and was quickly introduced to the pawn industry by Jeff Wilhelm and National Pawn. Upon learning of the issues faced by pawn shops that try to advertise themselves with modern marketing practices, he decided to dedicate himself to helping them compliantly utilize these services. Peyton has developed a passion for pawn and prides himself as an advocate for the industry constantly working to improve the treatment of pawn shops by Google, Meta, and other large advertising platforms.

Oliver Horner

The Watch Register

Trends in International Watch Crime and How to Protect Your Business and Reputation
Monday, july 22nd
12:30 pm - 1:20 pm

Oliver has a background in pawnbroking and auction houses in the UK. His main objectives at The Watch Register are to help protect businesses and individuals from unknowingly transacting on lost, stolen or fake watches. To assist the victims or theft, law enforcement and the insurance industry in recovering stolen watches.

Larry Johnson

Box Brokers group

How To Increase Jewelry Sales Through Better Display Techniques
monday, july 22nd
2:10 pm - 3:00 pm

Larry Johnson is the CEO of Larry Johnson Consulting Services, a visual merchandising advisory firm based in Colleyville, Texas. His firm works with independent retailers around the world to increase profits by improving the presentation of their merchandise. The firm has consulted with scores of retail jewelry stores around the world since its inception in 2014. Larry is the author of “The complete guide to effective jewelry display” the most widely known book on jewelry merchandising in existence. His book was used as the primary textbook in the GIA visual merchandising classes. He has written years of monthly columns for INSTORE, Retail Jeweler and Canadian Jeweller magazines. He holds 3 US patents for display applications. He is a frequent speaker on the subject of visual merchandising at industry events around the world. In the past, Larry served as CEO of Chippenhook and Coastal Display Group. He was a Senior VP at International Packaging and Pacific Northern.

George Prout

SmartGrown Diamonds, LLC

Understanding a Diamonds Value
MONDAY, JULY 22RD 2:40 PM - 3:30 PM ​

George Prout brings over 45 years of experience in the jewelry business to play in his role as President of JB Bhanderi, the world’s largest Lab Grown Diamond Grower, but he’s also known as a contributing editor for Southern Jewelry News and Mid-America Jeweler where he’s written the popular Applied Marketing 101 column for the past fifteen years.

A graduate of Brown University, George began his jewelry career in retail working for Kay Jewelers while a college student. After a decade on the road working as a salesman for the largest North American fine jewelry supplier, his career then transitioned into Senior Executive management, in which he has led several organizations to the top spot in sales to Independent Jewelers. And now, as President of the world’s largest lab grown diamond Grower, he is a leader in what has become the largest disruption in the history of the diamond business.
George’s unique perspective combines a comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior with detailed insights into marketing and merchandising initiatives in the Diamond Industry, and he now brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Pawn Jewelry Vertical through the Smartgrown Diamond Initiative, the world’s first LGD brand produced exclusively for Pawn.

Steve Stallcup

President - Stallcup Group

EXIT STRATEGY CONSULTING
MONDAY, JULY 22RD 3:20 PM - 4:10 PM ​

Steve Stallcup discovered his talent for valuing businesses early, buying and selling a grocery store at 17. He spent 23 years at Cash America, the world’s largest pawn shop operator, advancing from loan counter to senior-level buyer. There, he gained deep insight into mergers, acquisitions, and negotiation strategies. Recognizing how buyers exploited sellers’ weaknesses, he decided to advocate for pawn shop owners. In 2009, he founded Stallcup Group to help entrepreneurs secure fair deals and protect their legacies.

Howard Stone

JM Insurance

The Evolution of Asset Protection
Monday, july 22nd
3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Howard Stone joined Jewelers Mutual Group in January 2024 with over 30 years of progressive loss prevention experience. He has held leadership roles at Macy’s, Old Navy, Anchor Blue Stores and The Wet Seal. Most recently, Howard was the Director, Loss Prevention & Operations at Amazon in Seattle. In this role, Howard was responsible for leading Amazon’s Loss Prevention team of over 2,000 associates who were responsible for theft investigations, risk analytics, physical security, auditing and awareness. Howard graduated from St. Thomas University in Miami with a BA in Communication Arts. Mitigating risk, preventing loss and providing consultation are central to Jewelers Mutual’s dedication to its customers and the jewelry industry. Howard and his team are redefining the company’s risk services offerings, including loss prevention, to create a best-in-class approach for protecting our industry.

Jerry Whitehead

Pawnshop Consulting Group

What it takes to run the finest in Premier Pawn Operations in the world today.
Monday, july 22nd
3:30 pm - 4:20 pm

Jerry Whitehead is the founder of the Pawnshop Consulting Group (PCG), established in 2001. A second-generation pawnbroker, he began his career in the 1960s, growing up in a family business that expanded to 12 stores by 1990. Jerry played key roles in modernizing operations and later helped facilitate the sale of the family chain to Cash America in 1992.

With decades of experience, Jerry has been involved in the acquisition and sale of over 250 pawn stores and has served on multiple industry boards, including the National Pawnbrokers Association for 18 years. His expertise led to the rapid expansion and eventual sale of Doc Holliday’s, then the largest privately held pawn chain in the Americas.

Through PCG, Jerry has consulted for over 600 clients in 40+ countries, pioneering global pawn consulting. PCG has developed industry-first initiatives, including the Pawn Peer Focus Group, international symposiums, and high-level management training programs. His extensive network and expertise make PCG the premier resource for pawn industry consulting, specializing in multi-unit operations, training, acquisitions, marketing, and technology.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS SPEAKERS

Cliff Andrews

CapCity Advocates

Cliff Andrews has 20 years of experience serving as a chief advocate and advisor to association clients on public policy, public relations, and mission-focused association management in an ever-changing political and economic landscape.  Cliff works in a bipartisan manner before Congress, regulators, and private sector stakeholder groups on a variety of policy issues, including small-dollar lending regulation. Cliff works tirelessly to make sure that key lawmakers are educated on the vital role pawn plays in the communities of America. His work is key to shaping the perception of pawn at the highest levels. Throughout his career, one of Cliff’s greatest strengths has been his ability to engage constructively with diverse people in building productive, lasting relationships. Paramount to his success is a focus on accountability, diplomacy, consistently demonstrating competency on pertinent issues, and establishing trust. He is a true “Washingtonian,” born and raised in the nation’s capital. Cliff lives in Northern Virginia with his wife, daughter, son, and Alaskan Malamute.  

 

Bill Dawson

GRC Chairman, LDPM, INC

As CEO of LDPM, Inc, Bill developed the Picasso Pawn brand consolidating 10 individually named pawn stores and seven different companies into one cohesive unit. He started in the pawn business almost 30 years ago as something to do “in between opportunities” and never left. Bill and his wife, Heidi, love to travel and a have a cat named Kiki. Bill is a graduate of East Carolina University and the GIA Diamonds and Diamond Grading program. He is also an avid Carolina Hurricanes fan. In his free time, Bill can be found either on the golf course or practicing his game.

 

BREAKOUT SESSIONS SPEAKERS

Steve Adsit

How to Educate Your Local Police
(Training the Trainers)

tuesday 11:00AM-11:50Am

Steven Adsit has bee a pawnbroker for 20 years.  He is the owner of Mister Money Greeley, Co. He has been an NPA member for 10 Year NPA  and is the Colorado State President.

Adam Anundi

Managing After a catastrophe

Tuesday 2:00PM-3:30PM

Adam Anundi is the owner and operator of Capital Pawn, established in 2011 in Salem, Oregon, which has since expanded to 5 locations across the Willamette Valley.  Prior to founding Capital Pawn, Adam worked in construction and later became a mortgage broker in 2001 and enjoyed buying and selling homes in the real estate industry.  His passion for assisting others led him to the pawn industry, where he combines his financial expertise with a commitment to customer service. Outside of his professional life, Adam enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, and he values spending quality time with his family and traveling with his wife Beth as much as she can drag him away.  

Robert Barnett

Breakout: Panel – Firearms

Tuesday 3:30PM-4:30PM

Robert is the owner of Elk River Trading Company in Tennessee and specializes in firearms, jewelry, and pre-owned luxury handbags. He is a second-generation pawnbroker who has worked in the industry for nearly 30 years. Robert is a past president of the Alabama Pawnbrokers Association and currently serves as Vice President of the Tennessee Pawnbrokers Association. Robert is a General Class Amateur Radio Operator and lives with three senior rescue dachshunds in Huntsville, Alabama.

Chelsea Dunbar Burnette

Superior Pawn

Firearms Panel

Tuesday, 3:30pm - 4:30PM

Chelsea Dunbar Burnette is a member of the pawn industry with over a decade of experience, having begun her career in 2013. Throughout her tenure, Chelsea has cultivated a deep understanding of the intricacies of the pawn business ranging from customer relations and regulatory compliance to market trends.

Chelsea is a passionate advocate for the positive impact of the pawn industry in local communities. She actively promotes how pawnshops provide accessible financial services and support to individuals in need, highlighting their role in local economies and community development.

Chelsea regularly participates in the NPA Legislative conference, Pawn Expo, in addition to industry focus groups. Continuing education in the pawn industry is a top priority for her and her team.

Chad Carter

Breakout: Panel – Managing after a Catastrophe

Chad’s Pawn Shop, Lake Charles, LA

Tuesday 2:00PM-3:00PM

Chad is the owner of Chad’s Pawn Shop, with six locations in southwest Louisiana. He has been in the industry for 37 years and previously served as President of the Louisiana Pawnbrokers Association. Chad also served on the NPA Board of Directors and served in the role of Treasurer.

Nathan Dichairo

How to Educate Your Local Police
(Training the Trainers)

tuesday 11:00PM-11:50PM

Nathan began in 2000 as a part time pawnbroker while still in High School. For 13 years he worked for Mister Money, where he was promoted to Manager. When Mister Money changed ownership to First Cash, he was again promoted to District Manger where he oversaw 6 pawn shops in Colorado and Wyoming. Less than a year later, in 2013, he opened Daily Pawn with his family in Fort Collins Co. He expanded to a second store in 2021. He am passionate about the pawn industry and a lifetime learner.  

He has 4 children ages 9-20, and he and his wife celebrated their 20th anniversary last summer. To stay active as a family we all do Taekwondo. Last spring he and his oldest son received their 4th degree black belt.  He loves to play and collect video games, especially anything Nintendo. Nathan finds that the pawn industry is very rewarding and he can’t imagine doing anything else! 

 

Carli Karlson

Breakout Session: Buying Your First Store – Lessons Learned


tuesday 11:00AM-11:50Am

Carli Karlson is a third-generation pawnbroker from Spokane, Washington, continuing her family’s long-standing tradition in the industry. Growing up in her grandfather’s and father’s shop, she learned that pawnbroking is more than just buying and selling—it’s about helping people in times of need with fairness and integrity. Passionate about her work, Carli has embraced both tradition and innovation, modernizing the shop while upholding the values passed down through generations. She enjoys the ever-changing nature of the business, from discovering unique items to connecting with customers. Engaging with fellow pawnbrokers at industry events keeps her inspired and continually learning.

Jennifer Kanistras

Best Practices in Inventory Management and Financial Benefits


tuesday 3:30PM-4:30PM

After graduating from Western Kentucky University Jennifer began her professional career with Cash America in the Internal Audit Department. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, she has demonstrated leadership as a consultant in both retail and pawn skilled in Budgeting, Management, Acquisitions, Sales, Retail, and Strategic Planning.   Jennifer has served in leadership roles as a Director for Value Pawn and Jewelry, as well as Smart Financial serving as the Director of Internal Audit and Loss Prevention.  Currently Jennifer oversees SMG’s Legal, Licensing and Internal Audit department.

Bob McCullough

Breakout Session: How To Get More for Your Melee

PawnPlus, Inc.

tuesday 10:00AM-10:50AM

Bob McCullough has been in the pawn industry for over 23 years. He has attended every NPA Expo and participated in countless legislative conferences throughout his career. Bob’s diverse career includes photography, gold buying, aircraft manufacturing, jewelry, and TV production. After facing setbacks and starting over, he became a self-taught bench jeweler and owned a retail jewelry store before entering the pawn business. With experience spanning 102 businesses since age 13, Bob brings a wealth of knowledge to the pawn industry.
 

Abigail Mielcarek

Breakout Session: Buying Your First Store – Lessons Learned

Owner, Abby's Pawnshop

tuesday 11:00AM-11:50Am

Abigail Mielcarek began her journey in Pawn in 2016 at the counter, working her way up the ladder to VP of operations for a 3 store chain in 2018. Abigail oversaw all operations of those stores for 4 years, including the purchase, renovation, and moving of a location into a new space. In 2022 Abigail was ready to move on to her own endeavors, partnering up with another industry veteran, and opened a solo store in Santa Rosa CA, called Abby’s Pawn & Coin. Abby’s Pawn & Coin has a focus on luxury goods and has filled a much needed gap in the area for loans & secondhand goods. Abby’s continues to rapidly grow and is fast becoming the most well known & highly regarded pawnshop in Sonoma County. 

 
 
 

Pierce Rainey

Bayou Pawn & Jewelry

Firearms Panel

Tuesday, 3:30pm - 4:30PM

Pierce Rainey is a 3rd generation pawnbroker growing up working his Father‘s business with his brother.  Bayou Pawn & Jewelry is a family owned business with five locations in South Louisiana and has been in business for 37 years. Currently he is the Manager of one of the locations and is an integral part of running the family business. As a graduate of Southeastern Louisiana University in 2020, Pierce entered in the industry with a Bachelors of Art in Business with a specialty in Human Resources. Currently Pierce serves as a member of the NPA Young Professional Committee, and the Pawn Expo Committee. He has aspirations of holding office in the local Louisiana Pawnbrokers Association and the NPA. As an avid outdoorsman, Pierce loves to hunt and fish and has a strong interest in gaming technology.

Trevor Rivett

Owner, Evergreen Traders

Breakout Session: Employee Development

tuesday 3:30PM-4:30PM

Trevor was introduced to the retail business while working at his father’s Radio Shack store in the late 80’s. Corporate required all owners to attend regular skills training, which his father hated, so he sent Trevor in his place. Trevor quickly learned he loved sales and decided that’s what he wanted to do after attending the university. Trevor already had a glimpse into the pawn world as the gentleman who sold his father his Radio Shack store used the money to open a pawn shop.

 

Trevor’s original concept was to buy and sell only digital media with the idea that digital content doesn’t wear out, so a used one is every bit as good as a new one. Almost right away, customers started bringing in other items, so soon the store was selling a wide variety of products. From the start, Trevor knew he wanted everything to be computerized (rare for small retail back in 1994), so he purchased point-of-sale software called “Pawn Power”. One day a customer said they didn’t want to sell their item; they just wanted a loan. The software was capable, the local government didn’t have license requirements, so voila, Trevor became a pawnbroker!

Christopher Shumaker

Breakout Session: Adapting to Change – Growth in the Modern Economy

Tuesday 11:00AM-11:50AM

Christopher started in the industry at his family’s pawn shop in 1994. After 15 years in family-owned establishments and 2 years in corporate pawn shops, Christopher bought his first store in 2011. He currently owns and operates 2 locations in Iowa with an eye towards further expansion. 

Johnny Whiteside

Kendale Pawn Shop, Sanford, NC
Breakout: Panel – Managing after a Catastrophe

Tuesday 2:00PM-3:00PM

Johnny and his wife, Tara, own and operate Kendale Pawn Shop in Sanford, NC. The store was opened by Tara’s father, Jimmy Johnson, in 1980, and Johnny has been running the store full time since 1986. A member of the North Carolina Pawnbroker Association for many years, he has served on the board in many capacities, including President multiple times. Johnny and Tara have been married for 33 years and have twin daughters, Rebecca and Katie, and five grandchildren.