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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 because he's also a husband, father, and regular guy who really seems to "get" the whole jewelry thing.
Here is Pat's IMDB link: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0278156/
We're going to discuss his own experience of buying an engagement ring, how he was clueless about the whole process, and how sometimes you just have to trust the experts. He called me a "Sherpa," in this episode, and you know what? I kinda liked it.
His company is Improv+Ability: https://www.improv-ability.com/ GoFundMe for the Finn Family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-finn-family-through-pats-fight
If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at [email protected]. I'm happy to personally help you find the right jewelry for your special occasion, or put you in touch with a jewelry pro that's closer to home.
Or, you can shop online at my jewelry store right here: https://www.koehnjewelry.com/
Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
You survived the first round—now it's time for the next level of buying her a ring. In Part II, Andy and Carter Eve dive into the stuff most guys never ask: setting a real budget (without three-months-salary BS), the truth about lab-grown vs. natural diamonds, and why having a trusted jeweler is your secret weapon.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to set a budget you won't regret (and why it's nobody's business but yours)
The pros and cons of lab-grown vs. natural diamonds—what actually matters, and what's just hype
How to redesign family rings without losing the sentimental value
Why "character" and human touch beat perfection every time
The real value of having a jeweler you trust—someone you can text, call, and rely on for life
"Never go into debt for an engagement ring. You can always upgrade down the road."
"Lab-grown diamonds let you get the look you want for less—if that's what matters to you."
"Imperfect isn't bad. That's character. That's what makes it yours."
"Having a 'jewelry guy' (or girl) means you've always got someone in your corner."
Why This Episode Matters for Guys Buying Rings:If you want to avoid rookie mistakes, overspending, or getting lost in the lab vs. natural debate, this episode gives you the real-world answers:
How to make heirlooms work for your fiancée's style (without pissing off the family)
How to get the best value—no matter your budget
Why independent jewelers still matter in a world of big brands and online shopping
Don't let anyone pressure you—take your time and ask questions
Admit what you don't know and get educated
Trust your gut: if you click with your jeweler, you're in the right place
Carter Eve is a custom jeweler and goldsmith known for heirloom redesigns, value-driven sourcing, and a straight-shooter approach. She helps guys get the ring right—no hype, no pressure.
Resources Mentioned:Carter Eve's Instagram & email: @carterevejewelry and [email protected]
Andy's book: The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring available on Amazon
Connect with Buy Like A Guy: Need real, honest help finding a ring or a jeweler you can trust? Email Andy at [email protected] Website: buylikeaguy.com Instagram: @buylikeaguyMusic credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
Ever feel like buying an engagement ring is a minefield? You're not alone. In this episode, Andy talks with Carter—a custom jeweler who's helped hundreds of guys get it right—about the biggest mistakes men make, how to actually get her the ring she wants, and why the "surprise" isn't what you think it is.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:"The most common mistake guys make is thinking they know what she wants, instead of actually checking with her—or her mom, sister, or best friend."
"Jewelry is personal. If it's not her style, she won't wear it, even if you love it."
"Don't let anyone pressure you. Take your time, ask questions, and get educated."
Why This Episode Matters for Guys Buying Rings:If you're worried about blowing it, or just want to get it right the first time, this episode gives you the real-world playbook:
Carter Eve is a custom jeweler, trained goldsmith, and owner of Carter Eve Jewelry, known for heirloom redesigns, value-driven sourcing, and an authentic approach to jewelry design. She helps guys get the ring right—without the hype or pressure, which makes her a perfect guest for the show.
Resources Mentioned:Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
Ever wonder how a diamond actually gets from deep in the earth… to a jeweler's case… to her hand?
Part II of Andy's conversation with Ari Jain from House of Diamonds uncovers the real, behind-the-scenes process of how natural diamonds are mined, cut, graded, and selected — long before a consumer ever sees them.
If you've ever held a diamond and thought, "Why does this tiny thing cost so much?" This episode gives you an honest, insider explanation.
Ari's eight-generation lineage, starting in Jaipur's royal courts, brings a rare perspective on craftsmanship, authenticity, and what truly determines a diamond's value.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:How a natural diamond gets to the showcase: The full journey — mining, sorting, rough planning, cutting, polishing, grading, and wholesale — and why each step matters for quality and value.
Why two diamonds with the same certificate can be totally different: The human decisions, artistry, and limitations of grading systems that make every stone unique.
What "value" in a diamond really means: How to look beyond price and paper to find a stone worth owning.
The role of independent jewelers: Why reputable independents reject most stones they see, and how that benefits you as a buyer.
How reputation drives the diamond industry: From miners to cutters to retailers, the best people only work with those they trust.
Why a diamond should be personal, not perfect: Meaning, story, and character matter more than flawless specs.
"The consumer only sees the final diamond in the case. They never see the hundreds of hours and decisions that came before it."
"A lower-color stone or a stone with visible inclusions can actually be more beautiful. It gives the diamond identity."
"Reputation is the most valuable currency in the diamond industry."
"When you buy from an independent jeweler, you're getting accountability — and someone who actually cares."
"Jewelry isn't just financial. It centers you. It makes you feel something. That's worth paying for."
Why This Episode Matters for Engagement Ring Buyers:If you're shopping for an engagement ring — or weighing natural vs. lab-grown — this episode will help you avoid:
Understanding the journey of a natural diamond will help you appreciate what you're really buying — and why no two stones are ever the same.
Who Is Ari Jain?Ari is part of an eight-generation jewelry legacy originating in Jaipur's royal courts. Today, he's a key member of House of Diamonds, a New York–based natural diamond firm focused on authenticity, transparency, and ethical sourcing. He represents a new generation blending heritage with modern insight.
Resources Mentioned:House of Diamonds: https://www.hod.live/ Contact Ari: [email protected] Andy's book: The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring, available on Amazon
Connect with Andy: Need help finding a trusted jeweler? Email Andy at [email protected] and I'll point you in the right direction. Andy's Jewelry Store: Koehn & Koehn Jewelers Instagram: @buylikeaguy, @koehnjewelers, @andykoehnMusic credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
House of Diamonds: https://www.hod.live/ Contact Ari: [email protected]
Want Personal Help? Email Andy directly: [email protected] Read the book: The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring - available on Amazon. Subscribe to Buy Like A Guy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
When a guy decides he wants a real watch — something with meaning, quality, and story — he walks straight into a jungle of hype, counterfeits, and confusion.
In this two-part conversation, Andy Koehn talks with Christian Bruhn, founder of The Art of Time and former member of the 75th Ranger Regiment, about the world of luxury watches, collecting with intention, and buying your first Rolex or high-end timepiece the right way.
They cover everything from building trust in a world full of fakes to spotting real value, avoiding ghost listings, and understanding what makes a watch worth collecting.
Whether you're deep into watch collecting or just curious how to start, this episode will help you see timepieces as art — not commodities.
Guests: Christian Bruhn — Founder, The Art of Time Host: Andy Koehn — Author of The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring and creator of Buy Like a Guy
If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at [email protected] and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.
Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with original songs that get stuck in your head. They're awesome.
Listen To Preacher Man on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7ImcaJKIk0ZVtPzuUVV4vc?si=80581c74a9be4987
Episode Overview
Andy takes on the YouTube critics and industry cynics head-on, delivering a family legacy perspective on why dismissing diamonds as "bad investments" completely misses the fucking point. From his grandfather's 1919 start in the business to today's lab-grown revolution, this episode cuts through the financial advisor bullshit to reveal what diamonds are really worth.
Key Takeaways
The Investment Reality Check:
Historical Truth Bomb:
The Hidden Logic:
Natural vs. Lab-Grown Investment Reality:
The Artistry Factor:
Value Beyond Balance Sheets:
Memorable Quote
"Some things in life aren't meant to be measured on a balance sheet. When you're 90 years old, you won't be calculating compound interest you missed out on - you'll be remembering the moment you proposed and all the years that followed."
The Bottom Line
When you're 90, that diamond will still be sparkling, still carrying the weight of your shared history. Whatever you paid will seem like the bargain of a lifetime because some investments pay dividends that can't be measured in dollars.
What's Next
Lab-grown diamonds: The new kid on the block - time to clear up what they actually are and if they're right for you.
Contact Andy Email: [email protected] For personal jewelry and diamond consultation
About the Book "The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" is available on Amazon. Andy is creating an audio version while keeping the podcast going by reading chapters on the show.
Warning: Contains raw language, unfiltered advice, and the kind of talk you'd get from your most honest friend after a few drinks.
Next Episode Chapter 4 coming soon - Lab-grown diamonds: The new kid on the block.
Connect with Buy Like A Guy:
Show notes compiled from episode transcript
Andy finishes the Four C's conversation with Clarity and Carat Weight, delivers his legendary Diamond-to-Steak conversion chart, and cuts through the industry's microscopic bullshit to give you what actually matters when you're standing in that jewelry store.
Key TakeawaysThe Clarity Reality Check:
Carat Weight - Size vs. Reality:
The Money-Saving Secret:
The Quick Decision Guide:
The Diamond-to-Steak Conversion Chart:
"A good diamond will be good forever. A bad diamond will be bad forever." - Andy's reminder that this decision has permanent consequences.
What's NextThe "investment value" of diamonds - and dear Lord, they've got it so wrong.
Contact AndyEmail: [email protected] For personal jewelry and diamond consultation
About the Book"The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" is available on Amazon. Andy is creating an audio version while keeping the podcast going by reading chapters on the show.
Warning: Contains raw language, unfiltered advice, and the kind of talk you'd get from your most honest friend after a few drinks.
Next EpisodeChapter 3 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches.
Connect with Buy Like A Guy:Show notes compiled from episode transcript
Andy breaks down the diamond industry's "sacred scripture" - the Four C's - but cuts through the BS to give you what you actually need to know. This is part one of a two-part deep dive into diamond grading, focusing on Cut and Color.
Key TakeawaysThe Bottom Line on Diamond Education:
Why the Four C's Exist:
Cut - The King of the Four C's:
Color Demystified:
The Reality Check:
"I'll know." - The client who taught Andy that sometimes it's not about what others can see, it's about personal satisfaction.
What's NextPart 2 will cover Clarity and Carat Weight - the remaining two C's that complete the diamond grading system.
Contact AndyEmail: [email protected] For personal jewelry and diamond consultation
About the Book"The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" is available on Amazon. Andy is creating an audio version while keeping the podcast going by reading chapters on the show.
Warning: Contains raw language, unfiltered advice, and the kind of talk you'd get from your most honest friend after a few drinks.
Next EpisodeChapter 2-Part 2 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches.
Connect with Buy Like A Guy:Show notes compiled from episode transcript
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