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Have you ever wondered who's looking out for the rent-to-own industry in Washington DC? In this eye-opening conversation, host Pete Shau sits down with APRO CEO Charles Smitherman to pull back the curtain on LegCon, the annual legislative conference that forms the front line defense for the $12 billion rent-to-own industry.
 
 Charles shares how this 31-year tradition continues to evolve, with attendance growing to 88 participants this year as industry professionals converge on Capitol Hill to educate lawmakers about the unique nature of rent-to-own transactions. You'll discover the meticulous planning that goes into organizing effective legislative visits, with teams carefully matched to relevant representatives and schedules optimized to prevent unnecessary treks across the massive Capitol campus (though many still clocked an impressive 16,000 steps!).
 
 The conversation takes a fascinating turn when discussing the Fellows Program, an innovative initiative bringing first-time attendees into the advocacy fold. By sponsoring newcomers and pairing them with experienced advocates like industry veterans Larry Carrico and Michael Wall, APRO is cultivating the next generation of industry defenders. The results are impressive – half of last year's inaugural class returned independently this year.
 
 Perhaps most compelling is the emphasis on storytelling as the cornerstone of effective advocacy. As Charles explains, while data matters, it's the personal narratives about providing "cold milk, not just refrigerators" and "good night's sleep, not just mattresses" that truly resonate with legislators. These stories highlight how rent-to-own serves communities and creates opportunities for both customers and employees.
 
 Whether you're a seasoned RTO professional or just curious about how industries protect themselves from regulatory overreach, this episode offers rare insight into the proactive approach that keeps rent-to-own accessible for the one in thirty American families who rely on it. Ready to add your voice to this important conversation? Learn how you can participate in LegCon 2026 and help shape the future of an industry that touches millions of lives.

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Ed Wynn, the legendary legal architect behind rent-to-own's regulatory framework, shares his extraordinary four-decade journey protecting an industry that many lawmakers never fully understood. Fresh into retirement after serving as APRO's legal counsel since its inception, Wynn offers unprecedented insights into how a collection of rental dealers transformed into a sophisticated national organization.

The conversation reveals fascinating origin stories, including how APRO literally began in Wynn's law office with just one secretary. We explore the delicate dance of state-level legislation where, in exchange for accepting regulation and disclosure requirements, the industry secured crucial protection from being recharacterized as credit sales. Wynn walks us through multiple attempts to establish federal legislation—coming tantalizingly close in both 1983 and 2001—while explaining why many Republican lawmakers surprisingly cautioned against federal oversight.

Perhaps most compelling is Wynn's candid discussion of rental theft prosecution, where he shares unconventional but effective strategies for working with reluctant district attorneys. "Go to the DA's website," Wynn advises, "find the law firm that made the largest contributions to his last election, hire somebody from that firm, and get a meeting." This pragmatic approach to political realities perfectly illustrates how Wynn navigated complex challenges throughout his career.

As virtual rent-to-own emerges as the industry's growth frontier, Wynn provides critical context about recent legal victories that affirm the "no obligation" foundation of these transactions. His assessment of today's legal climate and thoughts on the incoming administration offer valuable perspective for anyone connected to rental businesses.

Whether you're a rental operator seeking to understand your industry's legal foundations or simply fascinated by how specialized industries navigate regulatory challenges, this conversation offers rare wisdom from someone who truly shaped an entire business sector. Subscribe now to hear more industry insights from leaders who've been in the trenches!

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The journey from a small-time rental operation to transforming an entire industry doesn't happen by accident. Ken Butler, with nearly five decades of experience in rent-to-own, pulls back the curtain on how he helped grow Aaron's from a modest 12-store operation to over 2,000 locations nationwide.

Ken reveals the revolutionary thinking that changed how the entire industry operates. Moving from weekly to monthly payments, extending ownership timelines, creating distribution centers, and manufacturing their own furniture through Woodhaven – these weren't just business decisions, they were industry-altering innovations. Perhaps most fascinating is how Ken transformed the terminology from "rent-to-own" to "lease ownership," recognizing that consumers wanted the product but not the stigma.

The magic behind Ken's approach wasn't just operational brilliance but his focus on building genuine human connections. "This is a personal relationship business," he emphasizes throughout our conversation. From creating closing rooms for private customer discussions to implementing unique culture-building initiatives like the Lucky Dog mascot, Ken understood that success came from treating both employees and customers with respect.

What truly sets this conversation apart are Ken's candid reflections on leadership. He shares how he identified competitive people who could drive growth, empowered managers to make decisions, and created incentive programs that turned store managers into entrepreneurs. The Diamond Club recognizing million-dollar stores became a powerful motivator that transformed performance across the entire organization.

Whether you're a rental industry veteran, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply fascinated by the inner workings of successful businesses, Ken's wisdom about time management, creating company culture, and maintaining work-life balance provides invaluable lessons you can apply immediately. What will you take from this legend's playbook?

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Enjoy the world of quality rugs in the rent-to-own industry as Heath Perkins of Daylan Rug Company shares the remarkable journey of bringing fashion-forward floor coverings to a market once dominated by afterthought accessories.

When Daylan first approached the rent-to-own sector over a decade ago, they encountered a surprising reality: most stores were content with basic, low-quality rugs that did little to enhance their showrooms. "Fashion was not even in the conversation," Heath recalls, describing how some dealers would simply request "12 rugs" without any concern for style, color, or quality. What followed was an education campaign that would revolutionize how rental dealers approach accessories.

The secret to Daylan's success has been convincing rental operators that their customers desire the same quality and style found in mainstream furniture retailers. By investing just $20-25 more per rug, stores can access products that dramatically improve showroom aesthetics, boost furniture sales, and—crucially for the rental model—withstand multiple rental cycles. These aren't just pretty accessories; they're strategic sales tools that highlight furniture and create cohesive room designs that customers can envision in their homes.

Perhaps most exciting is Daylan's embrace of truly washable rugs, now the most searched rug-related term online. Using special backing technology, these innovative products can be machine-washed or simply hosed down in a driveway with dish soap, making them ideal for the rental market where reconditioning returned items is essential. As Heath demonstrates, a quick clean leaves them looking "brand new" and ready for the next customer.

Looking to elevate your showroom experience and offer customers the quality they deserve? Contact Heath directly at [email protected] to connect with your local sales representative and discover how Daylan's extensive collection of 1,500+ designs can transform your rental business.

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This episode offers a fascinating exploration into the workings of the rent-to-own sector, featuring a conversation with Michael Kays, the Vice President of Rental Operations at Ashley Furniture. As a leading name in the industry for over 75 years, Ashley has enabled countless families to turn houses into homes, emphasizing not just consumer transactions but building lasting relationships. Michael discusses the importance of gratitude and giving during the holiday season, illustrating that this ethos extends beyond mere transactions and is foundational to the company's culture.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the innovative approaches Ashley employs to ensure superior quality and efficient logistics in their operations. Michael sheds light on how Ashley has successfully navigated challenges during economic fluctuations and changing consumer behaviors, highlighting their commitment to community engagement through sustainability initiatives and scholarships aimed at promoting STEM education. These efforts demonstrate that Ashley is diligent about not just making profit, but also making a positive impact on society.

Dive deeper into this episode to uncover the strategies that drive Ashley Furniture's success in the rent-to-own sector, while discovering how they continue to adapt and thrive in a competitive market. Whether you are a seasoned dealer, a consumer interested in furniture solutions, or simply curious about the industry's evolution, this episode equips you with knowledge and inspiration. Join us in celebrating the synergy between quality service, community support, and innovative strategies that contribute to an enriching customer experience. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

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Step into the world of NAV-AIR, a transformative force in the rent-to-own streaming industry, as we explore their journey and innovative approach. This episode of the RTO Show features a dynamic discussion with the leadership team, highlighting their military backgrounds and how these experiences shape their mission to provide unparalleled service and build lasting relationships in the RTO community. 

Discover how NAV-AIR works to disrupt the market by offering unique streaming solutions while overcoming initial challenges such as bootstrapping logistics and restoring dealer trust after previous negative experiences in the industry. With customer service and integrity at the forefront, NAVAIR is committed to creating a seamless rental experience where products are paired with reliable support.

We also take a peek at the exciting future lined up for NAV-AIR, from the unveiling of new consumer electronics to advanced features designed to enhance usability and engage customers. Whether through voice-controlled devices or multi-screen viewing options, NAV-AIR aims to meet modern consumer expectations while maintaining their core values of integrity, service, and excellence. 

Tune in to gain insight into the ever-evolving rent-to-own market, the challenges it presents, and how NAV-AIR aims to lead the way in shaping its future. Don't miss out on discovering the innovations they have in store and how they plan to revolutionize the industry. Join us on this journey toward a new standard in streaming services and customer engagement, and be part of the conversation about the next big developments in the rent-to-own space! Be sure to subscribe, share, and leave your thoughts on what this means for the future of streaming in the RTO industry.

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Master the power of AI marketing strategies and transform your approach to connecting with local communities. Join me, Pete SHau, and my esteemed guest, Daniel Hajduk from Vox Populi, as we navigate the exciting intersection of AI and local business marketing, with a focus on the rent-to-own industry. Together, we promise to unravel how AI can break through traditional marketing barriers, allowing businesses to customize their campaigns in line with local events and unique community needs. We illuminate the path to creating vibrant, community-centric marketing strategies that foster growth and deeper customer connections.

Discover how AI can turn social media into a powerhouse of personalized marketing. Daniel Hajduk and I explore actionable insights for synchronizing your sales strategies with customer milestones like birthdays and anniversaries, ensuring your promotions resonate personally and seasonally. Imagine crafting campaigns months in advance, fueled by AI-driven content creation that keeps your messaging fresh and engaging. We delve into the blend of AI insights and human experience, which together create a more efficient and compelling approach to customer engagement.

Dive into the world of data optimization and learn how it can revolutionize your marketing game. We discuss the benefits of understanding customer behavior through data analysis, from predicting shopping trends to tailoring marketing tactics for different demographics. The conversation also highlights the significance of adapting marketing strategies over time, especially for businesses operating with limited budgets. As we embrace AI's role in shaping the future of marketing, we also explore the potential of organic brand-building methods and the exciting innovations presented at events like CES. Join us for a journey into the incredible potential of AI to redefine the rent-to-own industry's marketing landscape.

Sponsored BY APRO, Vox-Pop-Uli, Jeraud Marketing

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Mastering inventory management and optimizing your business operations with the power of AI. Join us as we engage with Daniel Hajduk from Vox Pop uli, who shares his hands-on experience in transforming apparel inventory management using AI. Learn how AI analyzes order patterns, anticipates trends, and optimizes stock levels to streamline processes and boost profitability. By harnessing historical data, businesses can predict seasonal demands and ensure they are prepared for any market shift, enhancing operational efficiency in the process.

Discover how structured planning and effective training play a vital role in maximizing AI's potential in business. We explore the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and how they can streamline task management, improve scheduling, and enhance service delivery. The discussion highlights the use of AI as a task manager, simplifying daily operations, and ensuring essential activities like inventory checks and sales follow-ups are completed timely. We emphasize the balance of leveraging technology for organization while maintaining human interaction for a well-rounded approach to business effectiveness.

Ponder the future as we examine AI's growing significance in personal and professional landscapes. From revolutionizing customer service with predictive analytics to sparking creativity with personalized content generation, AI's impact is undeniable. We reflect on how AI is reshaping cultural norms, encouraging a shift from overwork to prioritizing mental health and efficient work practices. As AI continues to integrate seamlessly into daily life, it promises to transform industries, making technology an indispensable tool for enhancing productivity and fostering personal growth.

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Revolutionize your customer growth strategy with AI and make your rent-to-own business stand out in a crowded market. Join me, Pete Shau, and special guest Daniel Hajduk from Vox-Pop-uli as we uncover how AI can transform traditional customer service approaches that often fall flat with repetitive patterns and high costs. We dive into the power of community-based activities and discuss how local events and industry trends can be leveraged for personalized campaigns. By engaging with local chambers of commerce and tapping into regional nuances like Atlanta’s booming movie industry, you can craft marketing efforts that are both relevant and remarkable. 

We also explore the art of personalized birthday marketing and how to turn special occasions into meaningful customer engagement opportunities. Imagine crafting themed offers that align seamlessly with seasonal buying behaviors, making each interaction with your brand memorable. Daniel and I delve into the potential of integrating these special dates into a comprehensive marketing plan that is both creative and impactful. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer looking to innovate or just beginning your journey, this episode promises practical insights and strategies to elevate your marketing game and truly connect with your audience.

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Discover how to revolutionize your rent-to-own business using the cutting-edge power of AI! Join me, Pete Shau, along with AI expert Daniel Hajduk, as we guide you through the latest strategies to supercharge your sales efforts. This episode holds the key to mastering AI-driven sales scripts and overcoming customer objections, empowering even the most novice salespeople to thrive. Learn how AI tools like Synthesia and SundaySky can transform your training materials with lifelike avatars, making your sales team more adaptable and effective than ever before.

You'll also get an inside look at how major brands are navigating the AI frontier. Plus, meet Moxie, Vox's groundbreaking AI-powered mascot, symbolizing a bold new era in marketing. Understand the delicate balance between AI integration and the irreplaceable human touch, ensuring your business stays ahead without losing the personal connection. Whether it's streamlining event planning or optimizing sales schedules, AI is shaping the future, and we’re sharing the secrets to harness its full potential.

Finally, we explore how AI is reshaping the landscape beyond sales, enhancing efficiency in everything from route planning to CRM tasks. Daniel and I reflect on the practical applications in real-time scenarios, offering insights into planning for Q1 of 2025 with AI as a strategic partner. This episode is packed with actionable insights and personal anecdotes, arming you with the knowledge to innovate and excel in the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered business. Don't miss out on the chance to stay ahead in the RTO industry!

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