In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy and Elesa chat with Andy Koehn, the third-generation owner of Koehn & Koehn Jewelers in West Bend, Wisconsin, for a conversation that challenges the traditional mold of the jewelry industry. Andy isn't your typical jeweler—he proudly calls himself the "lead singer" of his store and has built a thriving business by doing what many retailers hesitate to do: being completely and unapologetically himself.

Andy shares the inspiring story of how he transformed his family's century-old jewelry business from a traditional, cookie-cutter store into a vibrant and personality-driven destination. Faced with the challenge of standing out in a competitive industry filled with luxury showcases, Andy leaned into his passion for music. By decorating the store with guitars and creating an energetic, authentic atmosphere, he built a space that reflects who he truly is—something that quickly resonated with customers and the local community.

During the conversation, Andy opens up about the pivotal moment he stopped trying to meet industry expectations and instead chose authenticity. That bold decision revitalized the business and helped him build a loyal following of what he calls "mega fans."

Andy also discusses the realities of succession planning within a family business, his unique approach to hiring team members who match the store's culture and energy, and the unexpected success of his bestselling book, The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring. Originally created as an internal sales manual, the book has become a powerful resource for jewelers nationwide, offering honest, straightforward advice that helps customers confidently navigate one of life's most meaningful purchases.

Listen in as Andy, alongside hosts Guy and Elesa, shares his pearls of wisdom on leading with authenticity and making decisions from the heart. This inspiring conversation offers valuable insights for retailers and consumers alike—proving that sometimes the best business strategy is simply being yourself.

Brought to you by:

Southern Jewelry News: https://southernjewelrynews.com/

Jewelry Store Marketers: https://jewelrystoremarketers.com/

Learn more about the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast

https://southernjewelrynews.com/podcast

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In this uplifting episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy with Southern Jewelry News sits down with Laura Foster of Worthmore Jewelers to celebrate her inspiring journey in the jewelry industry and her recognition as the 2025 Robert Foreman Memorial Scholarship recipient.

Laura's story begins at just six years old with a Christmas bead kit that sparked a lifelong passion for jewelry. From selling handmade pieces as a teenager to earning her BFA in jewelry and metalsmithing from University of Georgia, she built her path through creativity, resilience, and determination. Even early setbacks—like not being accepted into a competitive honors program—became pivotal turning points that led her directly into a professional jewelry career.

After college, Laura quickly advanced from bench jeweler to leadership roles before finding her home at Worthmore Jewelers, where she has spent nearly 12 years designing custom pieces, guiding clients through life's biggest milestones, and building lasting community relationships. Supported by Worthmore's visionary leadership, Harris, Jerry, and the team. Laura has flourished in a culture that values authenticity, craftsmanship, and integrity.

The scholarship award not only validates her dedication but also fuels her next goal: continuing her education through GIA courses to further strengthen her credentials and customer confidence. From managing complex custom projects to navigating price comparisons and modern consumer expectations, Laura shares the realities, challenges, and rewards of today's retail jewelry landscape.

Her journey proves that preparation meets opportunity in powerful ways. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, humor, and heartfelt gratitude—and discover why Laura Foster's story is one you don't want to miss.

Brought to you by:

Southern Jewelry News: https://southernjewelrynews.com/

Jewelry Store Marketers: https://jewelrystoremarketers.com/

Learn more about the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast

https://southernjewelrynews.com/podcast

Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform:

• Apple Podcast = https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my.-..

• Amazon Music/Audible = https://www.audible.com/pd/Pearls-of.-..

• iHeartRadio = https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-pe...

• Spotify = https://open.spotify.com/show/6IU1OHw...

• Google Podcast = https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0...

In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, we're joined by Sebastian "SEBAS" Velasquez, Brand Manager of INOX Men's Jewelry, for a high-energy, insight-packed conversation on how men's jewelry can thrive at retail when story, training, and lifestyle align.

INOX has built a reputation as the brand for "men who don't like jewelry," delivering bold designs, approachable price points, and immersive storytelling that resonates with a traditionally overlooked customer. From their iconic Man Cave displays to their industrial aesthetic and bro-friendly brand voice, INOX has redefined how men engage with jewelry in-store.

Sebastian dives into one of the industry's biggest challenges: the breakdown of enthusiasm between trade shows, store owners, and frontline sales staff. To solve this, INOX is making a major investment in retailer success with the launch of School of Hard INOX, a comprehensive video training series created in partnership with Jewelry Sales Academy. These short, engaging modules go beyond specs and materials, teaching sales teams how to communicate stories, emotion, and identity—because stories sell, and facts just tell.

The episode also highlights INOX's expanded 2026 support program, including ready-to-use social media campaigns, event-driven marketing assets, and teaser tools that help retailers build hype before new collections even arrive. Listeners will hear about upcoming product drops, including dozens of new styles, and how INOX aligns with meaningful causes like Movember to connect authentically with today's consumer.

If you're a retailer looking to energize your men's jewelry category—or a brand seeking inspiration for full-circle support—this conversation delivers real-world insight, humor, and actionable takeaways. Tune in, get inspired, and discover why INOX continues to stand out in the jewelry industry. Don't miss this episode!

Sponsored By:

INOX Men's Jewelry

- https://www.inox-us.com/

- https://www.instagram.com/inoxjewelry/?hl=en

- https://www.facebook.com/inoxmensjewelry/