Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast

Hosted by Guy Pineda

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Episodes

124

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Oct 2026

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About the show

Welcome to the pearls of wisdom podcast where we talk about the jewelry industry, running a jewelry store, being successful, and everything in between. We interview amazing guests that drop tons of valuable knowledge to help you run your jewelry business.

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October 30, 2026Episode 12426 min

Why His Jewelry Store Added a Coffee Shop and the Marketing Genius Behind It!

What happens when a jewelry business owner combines fine craftsmanship, hospitality, and a cup of coffee? For Mitch Prejbeanu of Paul's Jewelers and Jost Jewelers in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the answer is a fresh approach to jewelry retail that brings the community together! In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda and Elesa Dillon, sit down with Mitch to explore his unconventional journey into the jewelry industry. With a background in hospitality and a passion for opening a café, Mitch entered the jewelry business nearly a decade ago when he and his partner took over Jost Jewelers, a long-established jewelry repair and manufacturing shop that was facing closure as its owner prepared to retire. Rather than following traditional industry practices, Mitch brought a fresh perspective to the business. In 2022, he took over Paul's Jewelers, creating an opportunity to showcase the craftsmanship of his manufacturing and repair operation. With eight goldsmiths, the business serves other jewelers while delivering quality repairs and custom work with impressive turnaround times. But Mitch's most unexpected move? Opening Seven Seas Cafe inside Paul's Jewelers! Inspired by the connection between hospitality and jewelry retail, he created a welcoming space where customers can enjoy coffee, cookies, and conversation without feeling pressured to buy. His strategy is designed to attract younger customers today and build relationships that could turn into future jewelry sales. Mitch also shares how his team trains aspiring goldsmiths, including apprentices from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee metalsmithing program, and its accredited apprenticeship program through the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA). He discusses workforce challenges, employee referrals, community involvement, and fundraising for the Humane Society through its Dog Days of Summer event. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves you don't have to follow the traditional path to succeed. Discover Mitch's unique pearls of wisdom and learn how a little hospitality, creative thinking, and genuine community connection can help your jewelry business shine! 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...

October 22, 2026Episode 12330 min

She Lost 26% of Her Revenue Overnight. Here's How She Survived

What does it take to keep a family jewelry business thriving for nearly six decades? In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda of Southern Jewelry News sits down with Sue Parker of Nyman Jewelers in Escanaba, Michigan, to explore her remarkable journey in the jewelry industry, the importance of family traditions, and the lessons that have shaped her career. Founded by Sue's parents in 1968, Nyman Jewelers has been part of Sue's life since she was just three years old. From cleaning countertops and making gift bows to learning jewelry repairs and soldering gold chains, Sue grew up immersed in the family business. Today, she continues that legacy while working alongside her 93-year-old father, who still visits the store regularly and shares his passion for watches. Sue opens up about the challenges of running a jewelry store, including a major downtown construction project that temporarily blocked street access to her business and contributed to a 26% decline in sales. Rather than giving up, she adapted, established a temporary entrance, prepared financially, and found ways to keep serving customers. Her experience demonstrates the importance of resilience, flexibility, and community support. One of Sue's most valuable lessons centers on honesty and accountability. She shares real stories about jewelry repair mistakes, explaining why owning up to problems, communicating openly with customers, and finding solutions are essential to building trust and maintaining a strong reputation. Sue also highlights her involvement with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), emphasizing how community engagement, volunteering, and local relationships can strengthen a jewelry business. She encourages jewelers to become the voice of their businesses through initiatives such as radio advertising and personal connections with customers. Whether you are a seasoned jewelry retailer, a family-business owner, or an aspiring entrepreneur, Sue's experiences offer practical insights into leadership, customer service, and business longevity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with real-world lessons, family memories, and valuable pearls of wisdom. Discover how integrity, adaptability, and community involvement can help your business overcome challenges and thrive for generations to come! 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...

October 2, 2026Episode 12222 min

Can Botswana Change the Diamond Story? Ada Thela's Diamond Mission

Ada Thela, CEO of Zoe Diamonds in Botswana, joins the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast for an inspiring conversation about diamonds, entrepreneurship, provenance, and the future of Botswana's natural diamond industry. Ada's journey began after university when she discovered the Okavango Diamond Company Youth Entrepreneurship Program, a seven-month program that introduced her to the entire diamond value chain, from mining to jewelry retail. After completing the program and an apprenticeship with WDM Botswana, she spent years learning the diamond cutting and polishing trade before launching Zoe Diamonds in April 2023. Since then, Ada has faced the realities of building a young diamond manufacturing business, including volatile rough diamond prices and changing market conditions. Zoe Diamonds grew from two diamond polishers to nine at its peak and continues working to create jobs while expanding its customer base and international reach. One of its early U.S. clients was J.R. Dunn, helping open opportunities for additional international relationships. Ada also discusses the importance of diamond provenance and traceability, explaining how technology can document a diamond's journey from mine to polish and ultimately to the jeweler. For U.S. jewelry retailers, this creates an opportunity to tell customers a deeper story about where their natural diamonds came from and the people behind them. The conversation goes beyond diamonds to explore job creation, skills development, responsible luxury, women in business, and Botswana's goal of capturing more value within its own diamond industry. Ada shares her vision for growing Zoe Diamonds from an SME into a larger corporation while creating dignified opportunities for her team. Discover Ada Thela's remarkable journey and learn why the story behind a diamond can be just as valuable as the stone itself. Tune in, get inspired, and discover the future of Botswana's diamonds with Zoe Diamonds! 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...

September 30, 2026Episode 12133 min

50+ Years. One Team. Zero Regrets: How Eric Loch Built a Jewelry Business

What does it take to build a successful jewelry business, develop a team you can trust, and finally step away from the day-to-day grind? In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy sits down with Eric Loch of Eric J. Loch Diamond Jewelers in the Allentown, Pennsylvania area for a conversation about over 50 years in the jewelry business. Eric shares the story of opening his store in 1984, growing from a small-town location into a freestanding showroom, and learning some difficult lessons along the way. One of his biggest challenges was building the right team. Eric explains how the wrong hires led to years of long hours, slower growth, and pressure and how it took more than a decade to develop the team and leadership approach that changed the business. The conversation explores Eric's incentive-based compensation model, sales training, employee coaching, and his philosophy of empowering team members to earn more through performance. He also discusses the value of education through Jewelry Sales Academy, ARMS Software, and the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO), including how networking with other independent jewelers has contributed to his growth. Eric also shares the story behind his passion for diamonds, including his focus on brilliant natural diamonds and the success of Facets of Fire. He discusses how his store approaches lab-grown diamonds, emotional selling, and meeting customers where their budgets are. From learning to delegate goldsmith work to creating a business that can operate without him, Eric's story is ultimately about leadership, adaptability, and building a sustainable business. He offers practical wisdom for jewelers facing staffing, sales, training, and work-life balance challenges. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with lessons, leadership advice, and encouragement to take charge of your business, build the right team, and create a future that works for you. 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...

September 18, 2026Episode 12033 min

What's the Secret to 100 Years?: David Douglas Diamonds' Legacy

What does it take to build a jewelry business that lasts for generations while creating the freedom to explore the world and make a difference along the way? In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda and Elesa Dillon welcome back Doug Meadows of David Douglas Diamonds in Marietta, Georgia, for an inspiring conversation about family, business, succession, entrepreneurship, and giving back. Doug returns to the podcast nearly three years after his first appearance, sharing how business at David Douglas Diamonds has continued to thrive and how his family's remarkable jewelry legacy is approaching 100 years. His grandfather started in Detroit in 1926 as a diamond setter and manufacturer before adapting the business through changing economic times. Today, Doug is not only focused on growing his jewelry business but also on creating opportunities for others. His travels throughout Africa have led to meaningful projects, including mentoring entrepreneurs in Uganda, supporting women in Zambia who create jewelry from recycled copper, and visiting the diamond fields of Kono, Sierra Leone, with Rapaport. Doug explains why he believes sustainable opportunity, education, and employment can have a greater impact than simply providing financial assistance. Doug also opens up about one of the biggest challenges facing longtime jewelry store owners: succession planning. With his son Joseph gradually taking over the business and his daughter finding her niche managing inventory, Doug shares practical advice on delegation, documenting processes, developing employees, and using technology and AI to build systems that allow owners to step away from the day-to-day operation. The conversation also touches on GemVision, BIG (Buyer's Intelligence Group), IJO, virtual assistants, and Doug's own "Century of Luxury and Legacy" podcast. This episode is packed with wisdom about building a lasting business, empowering people, embracing change, and creating a meaningful legacy. Tune in, get inspired, and discover how success in jewelry can go far beyond the sale, it can create freedom, opportunity, and positive impact. Check out the full episode and enjoy another inspiring Pearl of Wisdom! 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...

September 7, 2026Episode 11937 min

From Teacher to Top Jeweler: Lorraine Hoffman's Brilliant Success Story

In this inspiring episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda sits down with Lorraine Hoffman, owner of Brillante Jeweler in Hixson, Tennessee, to explore her transformation from educator to award-winning jewelry store owner. Lorraine shares how her jewelry journey began during COVID after her education position was eliminated. With guidance from a jewelry professional, she took her first steps into the industry, attending JCK and the Atlanta Jewelry Show and building relationships with vendors and jewelers. What started as an e-commerce idea eventually grew into a brick-and-mortar store, opening in May 2022. The road was not without challenges. Lorraine had to learn the jewelry business, from diamonds, gemstones, gold, and repairs to store design, operations, and financial management. She also transformed a former hair salon into a welcoming jewelry space with a design table, event area, kitchen, and her signature "Wall of Love." Her story highlights the importance of building a trusted team, researching, and staying true to your vision. A major part of Brillante Jeweler's success has been its relationship-driven approach. Lorraine built her business around love and service, creating connections with customers who trust her with engagement rings, family heirlooms, redesigns, repairs, and personal stories. Her commitment recently earned Brillante Jeweler the top spot in Chattanooga's Best of the Best jewelry store category. Lorraine also discusses the influence of IJO, the Atlanta Jewelry Show, JCK, Chattanooga Times Free Press, Google, customer reviews, and word-of-mouth reputation. Looking ahead, she is mentoring her daughter to help carry the Brillante culture forward while developing her own colored gemstone jewelry collection. This episode is a reminder that authenticity, relationships, community, and purpose can turn a new beginning into lasting success. Tune in for Lorraine's inspiring journey and discover why building a business around love can make all the difference. 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...

September 1, 2026Episode 11935 min

From Stagnant Inventory to Jewelry Rentals: Marisanne Cofer's Bold Vision

What happens when a jewelry industry professional sees a problem and decides to build an entirely new solution? In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda and Elesa Dillon sit down with Marisanne Cofer, founder of Borrow Luxury, to explore her winding journey through the jewelry industry and the bold vision behind her growing jewelry rental platform. Marisanne shares how her career began with Signet, continued through an independent family-owned jewelry store, and eventually led her to help build a brick-and-mortar jewelry store from the ground up in Chattanooga. She opens up about the challenges of launching a store, including staffing, delayed deliveries, construction issues, and managing inventory. She also explains how more than 50% of the store's inventory eventually consisted of jewelry she designed herself. The conversation then turns to Borrow Luxury, a jewelry rental platform designed to help retailers generate cash flow from overstock and aged inventory. Marisanne explains how the platform connects retailers with consumers looking for jewelry for weddings, pageants, charity events, and other special occasions. The business has already helped partner stores generate more than $40,000 from stagnant inventory, while brides have produced an impressive 32% rental-to-purchase conversion rate. Marisanne also discusses Borrow Luxury's future plans, including fundraising, expanding into other luxury categories, and launching a jewelry rental subscription box for younger consumers. She shares valuable lessons about building systems, embracing mistakes, seeking mentorship, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: keep moving, stay accountable, and never give up. From industry challenges to entrepreneurial courage, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration. Tune in, get energized by Marisanne's fearless journey, and discover why sometimes the biggest opportunities come from solving the problems others overlook. Don't miss this inspiring conversation, subscribe, listen, and keep moving forward! 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...

August 18, 2026Episode 11735 min

Walton's Jewelry: Modernizing a 3rd-Generation Legacy Without Losing Its Roots

What does it take to modernize a family jewelry business while preserving the values that made it successful for generations? In this episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda and Elesa Dillon sit down with Julie Walton Garland, third-generation owner of Walton's Jewelry in Franklin, Tennessee, to explore the evolution of a beloved family business. Walton's Jewelry was founded in 1974 by Julie's grandmother, Melba Walton, who started by selling jewelry at flea markets before opening the family's brick-and-mortar store. Julie joined the business in 2012 and spent the next decade transforming many of its traditional systems, from handwritten tickets and inventory records to digital processes, a modern website, and a stronger online presence. Julie shares the challenges of introducing new technology while respecting the traditions and customer experience that built the Walton's name. She discusses implementing The Edge for inventory, repairs, and point-of-sale operations, launching the online store in 2017, and renovating the historic 1888 building in downtown Franklin while preserving its original charm. The conversation also highlights Walton's commitment to customer relationships, community, and its team. Julie explains how treating employees well, providing strong benefits, encouraging ideas, and creating a positive workplace helped build a passionate and dedicated team. She also shares how Walton's connects with neighboring businesses like Red Pony and Stable Reserve to create memorable customer experiences. Looking ahead, Julie plans to continue growing Walton's online presence through its website, social media, texting, and in-house content while maintaining a consistent brand and focusing on quality over quantity. This episode is packed with practical lessons on succession, technology, leadership, customer service, team building, and staying true to your roots. Tune in for Julie's pearls of wisdom and discover how thoughtful change, consistency, and genuine relationships can help a jewelry business thrive for generations. 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...

August 7, 2026Episode 11525 min

From Sales Rep to Store Owner: Cole Rowland's Jewelry Business Journey

What does it really take to go from working the trade show floor to owning a successful jewelry store? In this inspiring episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, Guy Pineda sits down with Cole Rowland, owner of Ware's Jewelers in Bradenton, Florida, to discuss the exciting and challenging journey of purchasing a long-established family jewelry business. Cole shares how he and his wife, Makayla, transitioned from the vendor side of the jewelry industry at Inox Jewelry to becoming business owners after acquiring Ware's Jewelers from its second-generation owner. Their story highlights the importance of preparation, communication, financial planning, and having the right mentors when navigating a business acquisition. Throughout the conversation, Cole opens up about the realities of ownership, from negotiating the purchase, managing a team, building a strong company culture, and handling the unexpected responsibilities that come with running a retail jewelry store. He also explains why clear communication between buyers, sellers, families, lawyers, and accountants is essential to making a successful transition. The episode also highlights the invaluable support of organizations and industry leaders, including IJO (Independent Jewelers Organization), Stephen Barnes, Edge Retail Academy, Punchmark, and Cole's experience with Inox Jewelry, all of which helped shape his entrepreneurial journey. Their guidance demonstrates the power of mentorship and industry collaboration in building long-term success. Whether you're a jewelry store owner, sales representative, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone dreaming of owning your own business, Cole's honest insights on overcoming challenges, embracing opportunity, and working hard offer valuable lessons for every stage of your career. Don't miss this motivating conversation filled with practical advice, real-world experiences, and encouragement to chase your ambitions. Be sure to watch the full episode, subscribe to the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, and discover why the next great opportunity may be closer than you think! 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...

August 5, 2026Episode 11522 min

From Mine to Market: Botswana's Diamond Story That's Changing Jewelry Forever

In this exciting episode of the Pearls of Wisdom Jewelry Podcast, host Guy Pineda sits down with Kaushal Shah of Veer Diamonds to discuss an inspiring initiative that is reshaping the future of the natural diamond industry. Together, they explore the upcoming Diamond & Delta Tours, an exclusive educational experience created in partnership with the House of Botswana, giving independent jewelry retailers an unprecedented opportunity to witness the complete journey of a natural diamond, from the mines of Botswana to the showcase of a jewelry store. Kaushal shares how Botswana is transforming the industry by keeping more of the diamond value chain within the country, creating opportunities for local artisans, manufacturers, and communities while promoting transparency and ethical sourcing. The conversation highlights how storytelling has become one of the industry's greatest strengths, especially as retailers navigate the growing presence of lab-grown diamonds and help consumers understand the lasting value and emotional significance of natural diamonds. The discussion also features innovative technology like Tracr, a blockchain-based platform adopted by GIA, allowing retailers and consumers to trace a diamond's journey from the moment it is mined. Guy and Kaushal explain how provenance, authenticity, and education are becoming essential tools for independent jewelers looking to create memorable customer experiences. They also recognize the efforts of the House of Botswana, the Botswana government, and the country's mining and diamond organizations in bringing greater visibility to the natural diamond story while strengthening the industry's future. Whether you're a jeweler, supplier, or simply fascinated by the world of diamonds, this episode offers valuable insights into the people, technology, and partnerships driving positive change across the global jewelry industry. Don't miss this inspiring conversation and discover why Botswana's story may become the next great chapter in natural diamonds. Be sure to watch the full episode and join us as we continue sharing the stories that shape our industry. 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...