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PAWN EXPO 2025 SESSIONS

Sessions to help you stay ahead of the curve.

A Focus on Education

Attending Pawn Expo’s sessions offers you the unique opportunity to gain valuable insights, expand your professional network, and stay ahead of industry trends. With pawn expert-led talks, interactive panel discussions, and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, our sessions are designed to inspire, educate, and empower you. Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, explore new innovations, or share experiences, these sessions provide a dynamic environment for growth and collaboration. Don’t miss the chance to engage directly with thought leaders and industry pioneers who are shaping the future!

And don’t forget – we always plan lots of FUN events!

MONDAY, JULY 23

9:30 am – 10:20 am

Industry Insights: Sell more jewelry at higher prices with these FREE 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 and Inspection Updates for 2025 

Speakers:  John Bocker, NSSF

 

Navigating Trump’s new ATF and Department of Justice requirements is still a challenge for firearms dealers. Attend this session to hear John’s 2025 update for what FFLs need to understand and prepare for before your next ATF inspection.
 
JB will share his real-life professional audit experiences, advice and training secrets for ensuring you and your staff pass your next ATF inspection with integrity and confidence!
 

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: TBD Pawn One Trading

12:30 am – 1:20 am

Industry Insights: TBD

Speaker: TBD  Armslist

12:30 am – 1:20 am

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 Actually Works

Speaker: Bravo

 

What do millions of pawn transactions tell us about today’s customers? We’ve crunched the numbers to uncover exactly who’s using pawn services and how to reach them effectively.
 
 
In this practical session, we’ll share:
– The distinct types of modern pawn customers and their actual behaviors
– Which marketing messages resonate with each customer group
– The best social media and digital channels to reach your ideal customers
– How to use free AI tools to create compelling ads and craft messaging that speaks directly to each customer type
 
 
No theory – just actionable insights backed by real data from millions of transactions. You’ll leave knowing exactly who your customers are and how to use free, accessible tools to create marketing that connects with them. Perfect for pawn shop owners and marketers who want to modernize their approach and get better results from their marketing efforts, without breaking the bank.

1:30 pm – 2:20 pm

Industry Insights: TBD

Speaker: Jerry Whitehead, Pawnshop Consulting Group, Inc.

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 got 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.

2:40 pm – 3:30 pm

Industry Insights: TBD

Speaker: GemLightbox

2:40 pm – 3:30 pm

Industry Insights: TBD

Speaker: LegitGrails

2:40 pm – 3:30 pm

Industry Insights: TBD

Speaker: SmartGrown Diamonds, LLC

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: 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.

 

TUESDAY, JULY 22

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: Panel – Managing after a Catastrophe 

Speakers:  Johnny Whiteside, Chad Carter, Jay Dunbar, 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. 

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 and 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. 

3:10 pm – 4:00 pm

Breakout: Firearms Panel

3:10 pm – 4:00 pm

Breakout: Best Practices in Inventory Management and Financial Benefits 

Speaker: Jennifer Kanistras 

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.

3:10 pm – 4:00 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. 

THURSDAY, JULY 24

9:00 am – 11:00 am

Table Talks

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

Diamond Sponsor

JM INSURANCE AGENCY PARTNERS, INC

Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon Sponsor

MARSHALL & STERLING

GENERAL SESSION WITH KEYNOTE SPEAKER

DLIGHT MATERIALS SPECIALIST

GRAND OPENING WELCOME RECEPTION SPONSORS

RUBY SPONSORS

EMERALD SPONSORS