How did you get started in pawn? 

I was introduced to the pawn industry by Morgan Jones, CEO of Pawn Superstore, and the stepfather of my best friend. Morgan offered me an opportunity to learn about the industry and to use my experience in accounting, sales and marketing to improve various aspects of the business. As a result, I’m blessed and fortunate to be part of the APJ Family. 

What is the number one pawn skill you have? 

The ability to relate to a wide variety of people and to appreciate their respective backgrounds.  

What pawn talent do you wish you had? 

I’m privileged to work with several pawn veterans with 10-20 years of experience. I wish I had their vast wealth of experience, but that only comes with time.  

What customer behavior aggravates you the most? 

The majority of pawn clients aren’t exactly excited about their need for a loan. As a team, we understand this and try our best to help where we can. We offer free online financial education courses by Dave Ramsey for those who are genuinely interested in learning more about debt. Despite trying our best, we’re sometimes not held in the best light by our clients, regulators and elected officials, which can be aggravating. 

What customer behavior brings you joy?  

Clients who bring their small children with them.  I love making them smile.  

What is the weirdest thing you have ever written a loan for?  

I’ve had a full set of gold teeth slide across the counter while the customer beamed an expectant look of “Come on, let’s make a deal.”

What career would you pick if you were not in pawn?  

It’s hard to say because of my current role’s uniqueness. I get the opportunity to meet officials at every level of government and conduct business at every level of our company, all while making lasting friendships. My position involves more than I anticipated, and I enjoy it. If I picked another career, it would have to be as exciting as what I’m doing now, which is hard to beat. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? 

Chasing children of my own around the store and at the office.  

Do you want your children to follow in your footsteps?  

I want my future children to use their God-given talents selflessly. Whether that means walking in my footsteps in the pawn industry or taking another path meant for them, either is absolutely fine with me.  

What college degree would be great to have to work in pawn?  

A college education doesn’t hurt, but with it, you’ll still have to invest time consistently in areas that require experience. From what I’ve seen in the pawn industry, the best brokers, with or without degrees, learn quickly what they’re good at and work diligently on what they’re not.  

What is the one piece of advice to anyone considering the pawn industry? 

From the clients who frequent your business to the personnel who take care of them, always show great appreciation for both.