show episodes
 
A podcast for men about how to buy cool things like bourbon, beers, watches and more, from experts who know their sh*t. It's always good to "know a guy." BLAG is collection of interviews and solo podcasts that cover the important things in life, like bourbon, beer, watches, and how to knock your girl's pants off with killer gifts. Third generation jewelry store owner and diamond expert, Andy Koehn and his guests will take you from confusion to confidence by opening the playbooks of experts w ...
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The Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast provides a look into the global diamond industry with leading analyst Paul Zimnisky. Each episode features a full-length interview with a special guest to discuss the diamond industry and related topics while sharing interesting observations, thoughts and analysis. A wide range of guests from around the world have joined the show from all segments of the diamond supply chain and beyond, including: exploration geologists, jewelry designers, marketin ...
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In this episode, I'll discuss diamond fluorescence, a topic that is rarely talked about. I'll explain what fluorescence is in my own words, and how it affects the appearance and value of a diamond. I'll also address the question of whether fluorescence is a "good or bad" thing and per usual, how the ultimate answer to that question comes down to pe…
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In this episode Tim Jackson, founder of Independent in Time, continues our chat about the Independent Watch world, something most people know very little about. We'll talk more about the dedication, discipline, and expertise required to excel in this field. The craftsmanship, technology, and artistry behind mechanical timepieces is impressive to sa…
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It was a pleasure to welcome Tim Jackson on the show again! Tim is the founder and owner of Independent In Time, and a passionate supporter and dealer for Independent Watches and they people who make them. He shares his journey into this niche industry and the unique challenges faced by Independent Watchmakers. The discussion also explores the dedi…
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In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Anthony Tsang, CEO of The Future Rocks, returns. The conversation begins with Anthony giving an update on the company and the two discuss Chinese consumers’ acceptance of lab-grown diamonds. Paul and Anthony then discuss the background of the company’s proprietary “The Ring II,” a lab-…
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Me and Derek, our resident bourbon expert, explore more aspects of the bourbon world, including brand loyalty, the cost of collecting bourbon, and the emotional connection people have with their favorite brands. We talk about 'taters' (bourbon enthusiasts who wait in line for rare bottles and collect them without opening) as well as some other bour…
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[Look at me. I'm your expert now.] In this episode, I'm going to talk about the different materials used to make men's wedding rings. I'll cover the most popular options like gold, platinum, titanium, tungsten carbide, palladium, tantalum, and cobalt, and touch on additional materials you've heard of, and probably not heard of. (A ring made with br…
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In this 62nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Amish Shah returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Amish analyzing the current “tornado” of factors impacting the global diamond industry: supply hangover, Russian sanctions, LGDs and a possible sale of De Beers. Next, Amish explains the sentiment of…
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Tim Jackson and I continue our discussion about fine watches, and what makes them "tick." Tim is the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time, a company that deals in watches made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. We cover a lot of ground here, including different watch options, brands, and other things to consider when choosing the…
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In this episode we’re going to talk about watches with Tim Jackson, the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time. He deals in watches that are made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. When it comes to watches, he knows his sh*t. We talk about the basics of buying a "nice watch," the appeal of owning and collecting fine watches, the di…
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In this episode my guest, Leland Conway, provides valuable insights on buying a handgun for the uninitiated. He emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on friends' recommendations or the advice of gun store employees, as the choice of a handgun is a personal and individual decision. (There are exceptions, and he'll cover that as well.) Lela…
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Mystery novelist and JCK News Director Rob Bates returns to the show for a seventh time. The show begins with Paul analyzing whether the current diamond market softness is more cyclical or secular in nature. Next, Paul and Rob talk about how the retail segment of the trade is currently viewing lab-grown diamonds and whether a “pivot” back to natura…
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In this episode, Pat Finn and I continue our off-the-cuff exploration of the significance of fine jewelry, including a pretty sweet story about Pat's late friend, the legendary Chris Farley, and his love of gift-giving. We get a little sentimental, but it's cool, because that's one of the unexpected powers of jewelry: it can connect us to our past …
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Pat Finn is a well-known actor, comedian, and writer with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He's appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, including The Middle, Seinfeld, “It’s Complicated,” and the “I Am Chris Farley” documentary. He has an almost endless list of professional accomplishments, and I wanted him on the show b…
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David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), returns to the show for a third time. The conversation begins with David discussing the NDC’s recent marketing shoot in Canada’s Northwest Territories with actress Lily James. David then shares his cold-water plunge experience in minus 30-degree temperatures. Paul and David then go on to t…
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Bourbon continues to be a "go to" for guys who want to move away from cheap beer and fruity drinks, and I support it. It's a crazy big world of choices that are mind boggling, even to seasoned bourbon hunters. My guest today is definitely a guy who can help us traverse the multi-leveled landscape of the bourbon world. Derek works in the heart of Bo…
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This is an auspicious moment because in this episode, for the first time, I’m going to address "The Ladies." Specifically, I’m going to talk about what you, as a woman, should NOT do when you and your fella go to look for his wedding ring. When it’s time to pick out his wedding ring, he just might for your opinion. (Most likely he will!) And you sh…
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Customer involvement in designing jewelry is a growing trend in the jewelry business. Independent jewelry stores offer a range of options, from changing metals and gemstones to adding unique touches. However, there's a crucial balance between personalization and potentially compromising the integrity of the original design when people who don't kno…
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A lot of guys have no idea what a “push present” is. I have to confess that until there was a baby in my future, I never heard of it, nor did I know what it was. (And I'm in "the business!") So what is a push present? Is it something you should consider when there’s a baby on the way? First, a push present is a gift that you present to your wife or…
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In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, economic and financial market strategist Amelia Bourdeau joins the show to discuss an array of macro fundamental factors likely to impact the diamond trade. The conversation begins with Paul and Amelia discussing the Federal Reserve's impact on the U.S. economy and what this means for …
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"The times they are a changin'..." I'm changing up the show and taking the podcast in a different direction! Buy Like a Guy will be exploring topics beyond fine jewelry to include other areas of interest for men. But before I go, I'll talk about diamond reports, and reiterate once again the importance of seeking expert guidance when buying diamonds…
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In this episode of Buy Like a Guy, I revisit when the proverbial "right time" is to make your buying decisions, and the importance of having a Plan B. It's always best to buy important jewelry well before you're planning on giving it. Why? Because it's the best way to avoid undue anxiety about whether it's going to be done on time for your big reve…
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In Part 2 of my conversation with Shane Decker we discuss the role of jewelry in celebrating life's events and he shares the most important factors to consider when buying diamond jewelry. The conversation covers various aspects of buying an engagement ring and creating a memorable proposal. Shane emphasizes the importance of choosing the right dia…
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It seems like most, if not all, of the information and marketing messages coming out of the jewelry industry these days are geared toward women. It makes sense because oftentimes she is the driver when it comes to what sort of style she likes, and as men, we want to give her an engagement ring, or other fine jewelry that she will love. However, a l…
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In this episode I'm going to talk about something that resonates with both men and women: When you glance down at your brand new ring, and see those first few scratches and dings. It can be disheartening, and you may even be surprised you even care. Whether it's a minor scratch, a ding, or a chip, it happens to everyone. It's kind of like those tim…
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If you’re the kind of person that doesn’t give a whole lotta’ "you know what’s" about fine jewelry or diamonds, or where the prices come from, I’m here to tell you, that’s okay. In fact, I think it’s perfectly normal. If diamonds, gemstones, precious metals and fine jewelry don’t interest you…don’t learn about them. I believe this is true for prett…
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“So what’s the hardest year of marriage?” You may be surprised to hear that I've been asked that question more than once. (Unless you're married. Then you know it's not an uncommon question, especially when you're talking to young men who are about to get married.) I actually used to ask that same question as a young lad working behind the jewelry …
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As human beings we have an innate need to express ourselves to the rest of the world. Whether through our clothes, our time pieces, sharing our tastes in music, wearing our favorite team's merch…and of course, wearing a ring on the ring finger of our left hand, to tell others that, “Hey! Hands off. This girl or guy is spoken for.” But how did this …
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There are some fantastic pieces of jewelry that are beautiful and impactful, and they tend to cost a lot of money, and it's also the kind of jewelry that she won't wear "all the time." It begs the question, “Why would I spend a lot of money on something that she won’t wear that often? It's not 'practical.'" That makes some sense I suppose, and it c…
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In this episode I'm going to clue you in on something that I learned last week after talking with the girls here at the jewelry store. First time listeners, if you don’t already know, I get a wealth of information about women from Lindsay, Susan, Kristyn, Katie, Morgan, Ali and my wife, Jenn. (Yes, I’m the only guy here.) A guy came in to meet with…
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This the second half of a discussion I had with my friend and hero, Maarten de Witte, aka "The Diamond Wizard." He's a living legend in the diamond cutting world, and he decided to tackle the oft repeated (and crazy cynical) idea that "diamonds are a bad investment." Are they? Some people think there is no question that diamonds are a "bad" investm…
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So I ran across a video where the guy in the video said that engagement rings were a scam and a rip-off and I just had to address it. But rather then answer it myself I brought in an expert jeweler and former director of the American Institute of Diamond Cutting to discuss this in an exclusive two-part interview. Take a listen and let me know your …
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I wore a Rolex as I recorded this episode. Not to impress anyone, but because I had a certain memory, and a revelation a bit earlier in the week that is wrapped up in the Rolex brand, so I thought I would share it with you in today's podcast. Certain possessions in our lives, especially the ones we’ve earned, or that were given to us from people we…
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In this episode I'm going to address something that is rare, but it DOES happen, and if it happens to you, it can bring on a not-so-slight feeling of dread. And I don’t think I’m being overly dramatic when I use that word. I'm talking about a simple text from your girlfriend or significant other, and it’s a picture of a ring that she sends you, AFT…
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In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Canadian polished diamond wholesaler Mel Moss returns. Paul and Mel begin by discussing whether the current market downturn is more cyclical or secular in nature. The two then talk about the latest developments in man-made diamonds and Mel shares why he thinks LGDs will end up being so…
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In this episode I'll address another great question from a listener. He asked, “What are some best-sellers or guaranteed things I can get that fall in the range of a 'safe surprise gift'? I’m asked this question in one form or another all the time, and it sounds something like this, "What sort of jewelry should I get if I want to surprise her, and …
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Someone asked me to put together a Top 10 list of the things a guy (or girl) should know to make buying jewelry less painful, and maybe even fun. I personally believe buying jewelry should be fun. When I spend money I want it to feel good, and I'd guess you feel the same way. There is no pleasure in paying an electric bill or that speeding ticket, …
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This episode was originally published in December, 2022. Picking the "right" engagement ring or other fine jewelry can be unnerving as hell. Questions start flooding your head..."what if she doesn't like it?" "Is it the right color?" "Is it big enough?" Those kinds of things. A lot of guys fold at this point, and say something like, "I think I'll b…
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Recently, a question was sent to me by a listener named Taylor. He asked, "How far in advance should I plan the ring purchase before proposing?" It's not the easiest of questions I've ever been asked since there are a lot of moving parts, but let me offer some guidelines that will help. First things first, decide when you want to pop the question, …
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In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, world-renowned gemologist Guy Borenstein joins the show. The episode kicks off with Paul and Guy talking about how many undisclosed lab-diamonds are making their way through the natural diamond supply chain. The conversation then transitions to a discussion on future consumer demand fo…
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In this episode, I'm going to summarize a brilliant talk I heard "way back when," from a legend in our industry, Shane Decker. (I got his permission, and one day I'll have him on as a guest.) His profound love for diamonds and unwavering respect for the jewelry industry are truly remarkable. Shane's talk centered on the notion that diamonds, specif…
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Gentleman, in this episode I present the official "Buy Like a Guy Diamond to Steak Conversion Chart." It's a tool designed to help you relate the 4 C's of diamond quality to the final price you'll pay, using the analogy of a great steak as a reference point. It's a practical "walking around tool" that can help you navigate the world of diamonds. I …
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In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Amish Shah of ALTR Created Diamonds and J’evar returns to the show. The conversation begins with Amish explaining how he is marketing and distributing his new lab-diamond jewelry brand. Next, Paul and Amish discuss U.S. jewelers’ relative hesitancy to stock inventory for the upcoming h…
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In this episode, we're going to clue you in on a valuable lesson about knowing how much to involve your partner in decisions, especially when it comes to something as significant as fine jewelry. The story begins with a couple who wanted to design some rings at the behest of her fiance, and it starts off beautifully. He surprises her with colored g…
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Most men's day-to-day revolves around work, making money, hitting the gym, maybe managing fantasy football teams, getting ready for hunting season, or getting sweet tickets to the game. You know..."guy stuff." Jewelry rarely makes its way onto your radar, and why would it? It's expensive and is mostly for women, right? That is until someone special…
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In this episode I'm going to share something I learned first hand about what you should not do when you buy and give something as special as an engagement ring, an anniversary gift...hell...any gift for that matter. I get right to the point when I tell you, "Don't tell her how much it cost. Not even a hint." Telling her what you paid for something …
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We live in the age of fast fashion and convenience, where we can pretty much get everything we want with the click of a button. My guest would say that this is exactly the wrong way to buy something as important as an engagement ring or any jewelry for that matter. Italian born, Ilaria Lanzoni, or Ila as she likes to be called, is a world renowned …
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In this episode I discuss a listener's questions and concerns about buying a lab grown diamond online, among other things. He had already gone "ring lookin'" with his girlfriend and had a solid budget and preference for lab-grown diamonds. However, he was unsure about purchasing without physically seeing the diamonds and was concerned about the acc…
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Paul welcomes Rob Bates back to the show to discuss the release of his third book in the Diamond District Mystery Series, "Slay it With a Diamond." The conversation begins with Paul asking Rob if he gets a “serotonin boost” upon the completion of a book. Next, the two delve into the question of whether there will be a specific cataclysmic moment th…
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In this episode I'm going to talk about something that resonates with both men and women: When you glance down at your brand new ring, and see those first few scratches and dings. It can be disheartening, and you may even be surprised you even care. Whether it's a minor scratch, a ding, or a chip, it happens to everyone. It's kind of like those tim…
  continue reading
 
Customer involvement in designing jewelry is a growing trend in the jewelry business. Independent jewelry stores offer a range of options, from changing metals and gemstones to adding unique touches. However, there's a crucial balance between personalization and potentially compromising the integrity of the original design when people who don't kno…
  continue reading
 
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