Meet the Speakers: RTO World™ Education
Get ready for an action-packed day of learning and networking at RTO World! All education sessions will take place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, featuring an exciting lineup of industry experts and thought leaders. Explore the education sessions below to plan your day, and be sure to check out the Keynote and Super Session speakers. Stay tuned, as more session details will be released soon!
JUMP TO: 8:00 AM | 8:30 AM | 9:00 AM | 10:30 AM | 1:15 PM | 2:15 PM | 3:15 PM
*NEW* Pre-Convention Events
To learn more about our new pre-convention events – held on Monday, August 5, 2024 – click the links below.Protecting the Transaction Summit | Women’s Forum
Early Morning Insights from Our Titanium Sponsors @ 8:00 AM
Vox-Pop-Uli Marketing Is A Verb!
Bio: Andrew is CEO of Voxpopuli, a marketing production agency based out of Atlanta, that he started in 1996. His Rent to Own journey began in 2001 with Aaron’s. Over the years, Vox has grown and now works with over 25 of the BEST brands in RTO, representing nearly 100 companies and thousands of stores. He is actively involved in the industry, currently serving on the APRO Vendor Advisory Council, and participates in national and state rental dealer association events. Vox also works with some of the leading national specialty retailers including Mattress Firm and AT&T. Vox has become a family business with Cindy (wife), Megan (daughter), and Daniel (son) all working alongside in the company. His youngest, Steven, is currently serving in the US Navy in California. Andrew enjoys running, grilling, traveling to Metallica concerts, and spending time with his family and his dogs.
Early Morning Insights from Our Titanium Sponsors @ 8:30 AM
Ashley Furniture New customers, New product, New supply chains!
Bio: As VP of Rental Sales for Ashley Furniture Industries, Mike spent the last 12 years working with RTO industry veterans helping to build Ashley into the largest RTO dealer/network supplier. In this new role, he is expanding this reach to support all suppliers to RTO to ensure everyone has a fair shake and decisions are made in our best interests. Timing, access to the buyers, and visibility are core to the industry’s continued success and future growth. Michael can leverage a wide breadth of relationships and influence, intimate knowledge of trends in the market, and unique knowledge of what RTO dealers need from a supplier to be successful. The saying goes that a high tide raises all boats, and he’d like to leverage everything in his power to drive the continued growth of the RTO industry and all the suppliers.
Keynote @ 9:00 AM
Opening Session Keynote: Service is a Superpower! Lessons Learned in a Magic Kingdom
Breakout Sessions @ 10:30 AM
Super Session! How to Motivate and Engage Your Teams in an Ever-Changing Marketplace
Session Description: Ever thought you made the perfect hire only to have the employee leave within the first year? Ever wonder why employees leave your company for a little bit more pay? Ever have a disengaged coworker and no idea why? Join Donavon Corliss, Vice President of Human Resources for Rent A Center, as he shares his twenty years of HR experience answering these questions and many more.
Bio: Donavon began his career in 1998 working for various staffing firms, managing large accounts for IBM, Xerox and Blue Cross, Blue Shield. During this time Donavon developed and executed strategic recruiting and workforce planning strategies in an ever-changing landscape. Donavon received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ferris state University in Northern Michigan. In addition, he partners with various professional HR organizations through speaking engagements and round table discussions. Donavon met his wife in college and has been happily married for 25 years. They reside outside of Dallas, TX. The couple has two sons and two dogs.
Customer Service Deep Dive
Session Description: You heard him at the keynote and still want more? We got you! Join Louie for a more intimate session where you can dig deep into his transformational customer service techniques. He'll show you how to see your efforts through the customer’s eye and achieve real results.
Bio: Louie Gravance is often referred to as “the guy that can make the Disney service concepts work outside of Disney.” From 1987 to 2014 Louie enjoyed a distinguished career with Disney theme parks, designing everything from live-entertainment experiences to customer service training programs through the Disney Institute in Orlando Florida. Following his hugely effective tenure in Orlando, Gravance left Disney to pursue other opportunities and soon amassed even more success working as a consultant, customer service speaker and corporate culture guru. Louie has designed multi-million-dollar service campaigns for companies such as ING Financial, Choice Hotels, Microbac Technologies, Nikon and The American Council of Independent Laboratories.Gravance has been credited with “literally changing the consciousness of business in America” through his service campaigns and initiatives that have included Bank of America’s “The Bank of America Spirit” campaign - deemed the most successful customer service training initiative in the company’s history.Gravance is the recipient of the Disney Partners in Excellence Award and the Spirit of Disney Award and has been recognized internationally as a Disney keynote speaker, having begun his professional speaking engagements on behalf of Disney in 1998. Through his company Louie Gravance Creative Content, based in Orlando, Florida, Louie continues to offer clients unique training programs with incorporated themes such as “Great Service Serves the Server First!” and powerful initiatives including “Service is a Superpower!”.
A Strategic Look at Leasing, Buying, and Protecting Your Store Locations
Session Description: Larry and Steven Carrico will share how, over the past 30+ years, their team has created over 750,000 square feet of rental assets throughout the Midwest. It all started with a fire in 1996 and nowhere to go. The Carrico’s will discuss how to:
- Negotiate a lease versus a property purchase and avoid the ‘gotchas’
- Create a competitive advantage that banks want to see when working with real estate
- Calculate a CAP rate to help understand one of your most prominent assets
- Learn how to avoid personal guarantees, lower NNN, and create long-term renewals
- Protect your core RTO business assets while enhancing your balance sheet with properties as the leverage
These and many other questions can help you win with real estate. Let’s talk strategy!
Bio: Native Missourian Larry Carrico began in rent-to-own in 1981 as a $4-an-hour manager-in-training for Crista Rentals. Just four years later, Carrico got the opportunity to launch his own business; today, Rent One is one of America’s largest independently owned RTO companies, and Carrico also leads the extremely successful RNR Tires Midwest.
Carrico has been involved in APRO since 1990, served as a board member for 14 years – including two terms as APRO President – and has been awarded APRO’s President’s Award, Rental Dealer of the Year Award, and Lifetime Achievement Award. But it was initially his involvement in the Illinois Rental Dealers Association that led Carrico to APRO.
An IRDA member since the late 1980s, Carrico has served for many years as the group’s President or Treasurer. He has played an especially key role in cultivating relationships between rental dealers and elected officials, spearheading many IRDA Legislative Days in the state capital of Springfield and ensuring IRDA member participation at the APRO Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. In fact, Carrico was instrumental in organizing the first IRDA Legislative Day and participating in the first APRO Legislative Conference in the past four years.
Larry and his wife, Sharon, recently wrote a memoir – Own Your Life – of their four-plus decades together, building a strong family and a successful family business. When they’re not authoring, the couple loves spending time with their grown children Steven, Nicki, and Kelly, especially their five grandchildren.
Client Retention and Creating a Culture of Ownership
Session Description: Do you know the difference between a client and a customer? Is your customer just another $20.00 payment to you? How to create a culture of getting clients to ownership. Creative techniques to win back customers you may have lost.
Bio: Frank Rotert is the Vice President of Operations and Partner at Ace Rent To Own, with 30 years in the rent-to-own industry. With his help, the company has grown to 24 locations. A former Navy Petty Officer, Frank brings discipline, process, and resilience to his professional life. He currently serves as a board member of the Iowa-Nebraska Rental Dealers Association and has held both Vice President and President positions. Frank was honored with the RTO World 2021 Steve Kruse Award. Married to Tiffaney and a father of three sons, Frank likes to golf and maintains a positive outlook, often joking about never having a bad day on the golf course despite many bad scores. He also enjoys wake surfing and scuba diving, with shark diving being a thrilling highlight.
Breakout Sessions @ 1:15 PM
Super Session! RTO and All the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Session Description: A deep dive into all the metrics that impact a high volume RTO store. Sales, collections, inventory, and all the numbers that drive all the right things and stop us from doing wrong things.
Bio: Mike Tissot grew up in the rent-to-own business under the tutelage of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. Mike’s innovative thought leadership over the past almost-quarter-century has helped not only grow the family business to 40 stores throughout Ohio and Kentucky, but also guide the industry as a whole. He served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association for years, served as an APRO board member and as APRO Treasurer, served on the TRIB board as Treasurer and currently as the Vice President and has received the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and been named APRO Rental Dealer of the Year. When he is not renting, collecting, or innovating in RTO, Mike enjoys any time he can get with his girlfriend Angela Strong McCool at their lake house or Orange Beach, Alabama. He is a rabid Reds fan and watches or listens to as many games as he can with his parents. He also uses any excuse possible to get to Arizona to see his daughter who is currently attending Arizona State University.
Sharpen Your Leadership
Session Description: In RTO, as with many businesses, the success of the business, the success of the store comes down to one thing…the team. The more successful the team, the greater the results. In sports the championship goes to the best team. Every successful team has great leadership. Grow and sharpen your leadership, you will grow your team. Grow your team, and you will grow your business. In this session, we will delve into sharpening our leadership skills to grow our team.
Bio: Randy Lewis is the Co-Owner of Eagle Rental Purchase, a regional rent-to-own company comprised of 15 stores throughout Northeastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania employing 85 staff. Randy joined the company 17 years ago and since then has grown it alongside Founder and Co-Owner Joe Fischer from just one store into a regional presence.
In his role at Eagle, Randy not only shares in the day-to-day management of the stores, he is also responsible for the company’s finances, marketing and technology.
Randy’s 40-year career in the rent-to-own industry also includes roles at Rent-A-Center, Crown Leasing, and Rainbow Rentals, where he worked his way up to Regional Manager for the multi-state company and managed 15 stores within his region during his 18-year tenure with the company.
Prior to that he was a member of the United States Navy, where he served for six years including deployments overseas. Randy is a native of Boardman, Ohio where Eagle Rental is headquartered.
Money Ball - How to Fill the Holes in Your Inventory Lineup
Session Description: Managing inventory is an ongoing challenge, especially when it comes to filling the gaps left by products that no longer perform as well as they once did. This task requires a creative and strategic approach, much like the principles seen in the movie "Moneyball," where unconventional thinking led to groundbreaking success in baseball. Joe will explore how buyers can think outside the box to find new and innovative products to replace top-performing items. Through examples and strategic insights, Joe will demonstrate how to tackle these challenges effectively.
Bio: Joe Fischer has been in the Rent to Own industry for 38 years, building a distinguished career with roles in multiple prominent companies. Starting as an account manager for Rainbow Rental, and currently serves as part owner of Eagle Rental Purchase. At Eagle Rental Purchase, Joe is involved in both the daily operations and the back-office functions of the business, particularly in purchasing and inventory management. His extensive experience and commitment have been instrumental in the success and growth of the company.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Joe is an active board member for several industry organizations including TRIB, ORDA, and PARD, where he leverages his extensive experience to contribute to the strategic direction and governance of these entities.
On a personal note, Joe has been married to his wife Sharon for 36 years. They have three grown children and one grandchild. Joe's passion for sports is evident in his avid support for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Michigan Wolverines. His personal and professional life reflects his dedication, hard work, and passion.
Insights from Multi-Unit Supervisors
Session Description: Listen in as a panel of Multi-Unit Leaders share their top tips for managing profitable locations across multiple markets!
Facilitator Bio: Chris founded Happy’s Home Centers in 2010 alongside two seasoned industry veterans, his uncle and father. Today, he oversees the day-to-day operations of 12 Happy’s Home Centers locations based in Tampa, Florida. He currently serves as a board member for TRIB Group and the Florida Rental Dealers Association. Chris is a University of Florida alumnus – Go Gators! He enjoys attending Buccaneer games and hitting the beach with his wife Katey and their three wonderful children.
Panelist Bio: Rachel Casey has spent over 10 years in the industry at Rent-2-Own. Rachel is passionate and has used that passion in many positions from operations to human resources. She has spent the last year and a half in her current role as Vice President, Divisional Director where she trains, leads, and shares ideas. Rachel enjoys spending time and traveling with her husband Chris, enjoying their family, and loving their many animals. As an avid animal lover, she vows to save as many as she can!
Panelist Bio: Candice is a Director with RNR Tire Express Rental Concepts LLC since January 2008. Candice has held many positions including inventory control, auditor, regional, director of operations, person that makes up policies and procedures and now, just a director. Before this, I was in management in banking and had zero experience in RTO when David persuaded me to come on board. 2008 was a tough year but hard times were the best teacher, and Candice was forced me to learn and question everything, much to the dismay of her father, David Harrison. They changed the business to fit the new world they found themselves in and jokes that she is the most qualified, unqualified person to give advice! She has been married to the most amazing man for 25 years after meeting in high school. He is the best and follows me into every crazy thing I think up! Candice loves her large family of all ages and currently has 6 children and 5 grandchildren! She lives in central Arkansas where she plays the flute, piccolo and the bass flute with a local orchestra and a flute ensemble during her spare time.
Panelist Bio: Mike Simoncini is currently the Chief Operating Officer for Majik Rent to Own. He has been with Majik for 8 years and started his career with Majik as a District Manager. Prior to working for Majik he worked in the grocery retail industry as Multi Unit Manager. He currently is serving his second term as President of the Pennsylvania Association of Rental Dealers. In his free time, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 sons, boating, playing guitar and golfing. He also serves as a coach for local youth baseball and football teams.
Panelist Bio: After starting in Rent to Own while attending college, Williams has experience in every position from Part Time Delivery Driver up to District Manager. He has been with his high school sweetheart for 20 years, married for 14 of those years, and together they have 4 wonderful children. He received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Central Florida in 2010 where he placed 4th in the heavyweight division in Judo for the Florida State Championship. Williams is an avid fan of anything Japanese and has been following sumo wrestling for nearly 15 years.
Breakout Sessions @ 2:15 PM
Super Session! No Magic Bullets: Driving Sales Through Facebook, Radio, and Trust
Session Description: Need to gain market share quickly on a shoestring budget? Come and learn from Chad's real-world experience in promoting Premier on Facebook from 0 to 6,100, roughly 25% of the population in the market! He is using Facebook as the primary driver of sales alongside radio, which works but you might be doing it wrong! Coupling these strategies and actually delivering on promises made through media and you've created a tough team to beat. Magic bullets in marketing don't exist but planned growth on Facebook will result in couches on the streets!
Bio: After finding his calling in the RTO industry and working his way through the ranks from 2005 thru 2014, Chad Fosdick opened his first franchise Premier location in North Platte, NE. After a successful opening, Fosdick expanded locally with the opening of his second franchise business, Mr. Appliance. When not working to grow two new businesses, Fosdick enjoys spending time with his family and giving back to his community. He and his wife, Rhonda, have two children, Gage and Tehya.
Somehow Finds A Way: 1-4 Store Operator Roundtable
Session Description: Join your fellow 1-4 store operators in this old-fashioned roundtable as we explore the challenges of being a small operator. Join us and share the ways we struggle, ways we currently operate, and the ways that we have found to overcome.
“Things never work. When they don’t, that is the time to make them work. Then, if you do, they work.” - Dr. Henry Cloud
Bio: Kit started in the family business in 1977 as a kid coming in and checking tubes in TVs on Saturday. When the company started RTO in 1986, Kit worked his way through college as a part-time salesperson and delivery driver. Kit worked as a manager of two stores, but took the opportunity to join a CPA firm when it presented itself. Kit stayed involved in the company as a Board member and as their CPA. In 1997, he came back full-time to the company to be the trainer and financial officer for the company as they worked to expand. Kit has been the owner of Central Rent to Own in Idaho and Oregon for the last 10 years. He has served 7 years on the TRIB board and over 12 years on various committees for TRIB. When not working, Kit enjoys spending time with wife, Julie and two sons Dawson, Derek, and his black lab Tucker.
Bio: Jeff is an RTO veteran with 20 years of experience in the industry dating all the way back to 2000 when he started as an Account Manager for House of Television. In the years since, he worked his way up to store manager and then served as IT Manager for House of TV for eight years before becoming an owner/operator himself. In the past three years, his partner Matt and he have grown the company from one store to four. Jeff is a member of the Software/Finance Committee for TRIB and the president of the NY Rental Dealers Association. Mr. Smith is currently expanding his business and is set to open a Mr. Appliance franchise before the year is out.
The Collections Cycle
Bio: Trent Agin is the President of St Louis-based Rent One. Rent One operates more than 100 locations in 8 states. Beginning his career with Rent One over 30 years ago, Trent has been a part of the company’s growth and development on its journey from 5 stores. Trent has held positions in various state associations, served on committees with the TRIB group and currently serves on the Executive Committee for the APRO board of directors. Trent fosters an environment of growth and learning in the company’s culture and a progressive approach to innovative ideas and opportunities.
From Problem-Fixer to Solution-Finder
- How to properly plan, execute, and follow up
- How to go from weekly taskwork to monthly planning
- How to build a bench to keep pushing for top performers
Bio: Kelly Martin is currently the Chief Operating Officer at Rent One and she brings a wealth of experience to this position as a Regional Manager/Director for 3 years, Director of Training for 2 years, Director of Marketing for 2 years, and VP of Culture and Strategy for 5 years. Kelly earned a BSBA in Business with a concentration in Leadership and Change Management from Saint Louis University and an MBA from McKendree University in 2022. For fun, she spends time watching all 3 of her kids play ice hockey and field hockey -- Axel 7, Andi 5, and Evie 4.
Breakout Sessions @ 3:15 PM
Super Session! Insights from Experienced Owners
Session Description: Three of the most experienced and successful operators in our industry will answer hard-hitting questions about their success, their methods, and the future of RTO.
Facilitator Bio: Mike Tissot grew up in the rent-to-own business under the tutelage of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. Mike’s innovative thought leadership over the past almost-quarter-century has helped not only grow the family business to 40 stores throughout Ohio and Kentucky, but also guide the industry as a whole. He has served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association for years, served as an APRO board member and as APRO Treasurer, served on the TRIB board as Treasurer and currently as the Vice President and has received the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and been named APRO Rental Dealer of the Year. When he is not renting, collecting, or innovating in RTO, Mike enjoys any time he can get with his girlfriend Angela Strong McCool at their lake house or Orange Beach, Alabama. He is a rabid Reds fan and watches or listens to as many games as he can with his parents. He also uses any excuse possible to get to Arizona to see his daughter who is currently attending Arizona State University.
Panelist Bio: Chris began his career path as a 15-year-old teenager working at a local Harley Davidson dealership as an apprentice mechanic, quickly learning his role. At age 21, he was inspired to join the Clarksville, Tennessee Police Department where he worked for seven years as a patrolman, motorcycle officer, and investigator. In 1991, Chris joined Alrenco/Home Choice /RentWay, where he worked for 11 years and learned most of the operational skills that inspired him to open his own business, Bolin Rental Purchase. In 2003, Bolin Rental Purchase was opened in Chris' hometown of Clarksville, Tennessee. The company continues its growth thanks to a great management team and employees. Chris enjoys his service as a TRIB Board member and has served as the treasurer, vice president and president. Chris is currently president of the Tennessee Rental Dealers Association. Chris is a former APRO board member serving as treasurer and second vice president. Chris appreciates the customers, employees and the industry that has supported him and his family for the past 33 years.
Panelist Bio: Gary Ferriman is the founder and president of Ohio’s Showplace, Inc. He currently operates 15 stores in North Central Ohio with his son Keith. He began in 1981 selling reconditioned TVs on his front porch. An APRO member since 1989 and TRIB member since 1992, he has served on these Boards multiple times. He was recognized by TRIB with the Norm Slatton Presidents Award in 2004. Gary led APRO as president for two terms and was recognized as the Chuck Sims Rental Dealer of the Year in 2017. Gary’s hobbies include motorcycling, boating, and cooking. He resides between Ohio and Tennessee with his wife Mary Ann and two Boxers, Ruby, and Suzie Q.
Panelist Bio: Lyn opened his first store in 1982 and has grown to 24 stores over the 31 years he has been in business with 20 in Nebraska and 4 in Iowa. He is a former APRO and TRIB President. He has received the Dealer of the Year Award, President’s Award of Excellence, and Ernie Talley Lifetime Achievement Award from APRO, and the James B Baber Vendor’s Choice Award, and Norman W, “Slats” Slatton, Sr. President’s Award from TRIB. He has served as President of the Lincoln Community Playhouse, and The Roughriders Motorcycle Group, during which he received the Lincoln Rotary Club’s Golden Wheel Award. He loves to ride motorcycles, golf and perform on the stages of local theaters. He and his wife Natalie have two children, Mindy, who lives in Tennessee and Ben, who is working with Lyn. When he is not busy with these other things, he loves spending time with his English Cream Golden Retriever named Apollo.
You're Doing What? Roles of Franchisors and Franchisees
Session Description: Join us for an insightful session dedicated to exploring the best practices that drive success in the Rent-to-Own (RTO) franchisor/franchisee landscape. Let's learn about how franchisors are structured, the benefits of operating as a franchisee, and any potential restrictions within the industry. Let's get clear together on the role of franchisors and franchisees as one RTO family.
Facilitator Bio: After finding his calling in the RTO industry and working his way through the ranks from 2005 thru 2014, Chad Fosdick opened his first franchise Premier location in North Platte, NE. After a successful opening, Fosdick expanded locally with the opening of his second franchise business, Mr. Appliance. When not working to grow two new businesses, Fosdick enjoys spending time with his family and giving back to his community. He and his wife, Rhonda, have two children, Gage and Tehya.
Panelist Bio: Michael Bennett brings 30 years of experience in the RTO industry encompassing both franchise and corporate operations. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer for Buddy’s Newco, LLC, dba Buddy’s Home Furnishings, and Buddy’s Franchise and Licensing. Prior to joining Buddy’s, he held some titles for several rent-to-own companies and divisions such as Regional Director for Acceptance Now in Plano Texas, Vice President of Great Lakes Operations for Aaron’s Inc. while also serving on its National Advertising Advisory and Strategic Budgeting Committees, Director of Operations and minority equity partner of Rosey Rentals LP, dba Aaron’s Inc., Divisional Vice President and Regional Manager of RentWay Inc., and he began his career as Regional Manager at Rent-A-Center. Bennett currently serves as the APRO board president and has been fortunate to have served on the boards of the Illinois Rental Dealers Association and the Florida Rental Dealers Association. He graduated cum laude and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Webber College.
Panelist Bio: Native Virginian, Trooper Earle, is a career rent-to-own man who has found his success in contributing to the success of others. Earle began in furniture at ColorTyme, then partnered with two others to run five ColorTyme stores, then bought out his partners – and within eight months, had grown the business to become ColorTyme’s third-largest rental dealer nationwide. In 1996, Earle bought Premier Rental-Purchase and began building what has become one of RTO’s largest franchisors. The intent behind this new company was to help long-term industry managers become successful store owners, by helping them launch and supporting their growth with services that are available but not required. Earle, who has been an active and supportive APRO member for more than 20 years, knows the value of a strong trade association and requires all Premier rental dealers to be APRO members as well.
Panelist Bio: Vince Ficarrotta serves as the Vice President of Franchising at RNR Tire Express. His career in the Rent-to-Own (RTO) industry began over 40 years ago as a delivery driver for Larry Sutton at Champion TV & Appliance Rentals. Vince rapidly ascended through the ranks, occupying nearly every role at the store level and in middle management until the company's acquisition as part of a public roll-up. Reuniting with Larry Sutton in 2002 at Rent-N-Roll Custom Wheel & Tires, Vince was instrumental in launching the franchise model in 2003, starting from just three stores. Now, RNR Tire Express boasts nearly 200 stores across 30 states. Over the past two decades, Vince has played a pivotal role in helping franchisees reach their goals and changing lives.
A proud Tampa native, Vince loves the Tampa Bay Rays, Bucs, and Lightning. He also partakes in Tampa’s renowned pirate festival, Gasparilla, where he dons his “Captain Jack Spare” persona for RNR. Committed to staying fit, Vince engages in weight training and yoga, and has recently taken up pickleball.
Expert Marketing Panel Discussion
Session Description: Social media? Website? Direct Mail? Tv/Radio? Find out what actually works in present-day RTO. Hear from our "on the ground" experts in this moderated and informative discussion!
Facilitator Bio: Macy Mitchell is the Chief Operations Officer at All-American Home Rental & Sales, a family business for 37 years. With 16 years in the role, Macy also serves as the Event Planner and Director of Communications for the Missouri Rental Dealers Association Heartland Tradeshow. He holds a Bachelor's Degree and is the President of the Republic Missouri Chamber of Commerce, one of the fastest-growing areas in Missouri. Macy owns CrossFit Republic, established 11 years ago, and competes as a CrossFit Games athlete and 1st Phorm Supplements sponsored athlete. Macy was a 400m dash Collegiate National Champion and now coaches basketball and track for the Lighthouse Charger Athletics Homeschool Program. He is also a board member for three local non-profits. Macy is a homeschool dad to three children and has been married for 20 years. Known for his motto, "burn the ships!" he enjoys putting Frank's Red Hot Sauce on everything.
Panelist Bio: Sandi has been in the RTO industry for 33 years. She has spent the past 18 years growing as a business owner, leader, and educator. Sandi opened her Premier store in 2005. She dedicates time to help the industry and give back to her customers. She is the Vice President for the PA Association of Rental Dealers. She has achieved many awards throughout the years. "I humbly accepted each award and am very grateful for where I am today and the blessings I have received. I find it very rewarding to be able to meet the needs of our customers, work with my daughter as she helps grow the business, and help other franchisees along the way."
Panelist Bio: Dawn Tharp is a Store Manager at Rent 2 Own with over 11 years working in the industry. She is known as the Ellen DeGeneres of the RTO world and is just as funny, talented, giving, and famous in her local community. For fun, Dawn dressed up as Ellen a few years ago and had a “Dance with D-Ellen Show” at her store. Everyone was CRAZY for it, and ever since then, her customers call her the RTO Ellen.
Panelist Bio: Mark has worked in the Rent-to-Own industry for more than 30 years. His career at Rent One began in 1994, when there were only 16 locations: "I started working there when I was still in college. I found success early and stayed." Before becoming an executive at Rent One in 2005, he worked his way from part-time delivery to store management to middle management. Currently, he is Rent One's vice president of sales and marketing. In addition to overseeing advertising at Rent One, Mark also serves as the company's buyer. Mark's dedication and hard work have played a significant role in the growth and success of Rent One. From his humble beginnings as a part-time delivery person to his current position as vice president, Mark's contributions have been invaluable. Through his leadership and expertise, he has helped the company expand its reach and establish a strong presence in the Rent-to-Own industry. His favorite hobby is spending time with his wife, children, and seven grandchildren. Additionally, Mark enjoys participating in community activities and cooking.
Insights from RTO Buyers
Session Description: Eager to explore the motivations, hurdles, and triumphs of Rent-to-Own (RTO) product buyers? Join us for an illuminating panel discussion featuring actual RTO product buyers sharing their unique journeys. Our panelists will provide invaluable insights into the RTO buying process and a few tips and tricks they've learned over the years.
Facilitator Bio: Joe Fischer has been in the Rent to Own industry for 38 years, building a distinguished career with roles in multiple prominent companies. Starting as an account manager for Rainbow Rental, and currently serves as part owner of Eagle Rental Purchase. At Eagle Rental Purchase, Joe is involved in both the daily operations and the back-office functions of the business, particularly in purchasing and inventory management. His extensive experience and commitment have been instrumental in the success and growth of the company.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Joe is an active board member for several industry organizations including TRIB, ORDA, and PARD, where he leverages his extensive experience to contribute to the strategic direction and governance of these entities.
On a personal note, Joe has been married to his wife Sharon for 36 years. They have three grown children and one grandchild. Joe's passion for sports is evident in his avid support for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Michigan Wolverines. His personal and professional life reflects his dedication, hard work, and passion.
Panelist Bio: Julie began her journey with the company in 1993 as a part-time movie clerk. Over the next 5+ years, she immersed herself in various roles within the organization, gaining expertise in RTO (Rent-to-Own) and collections. Her dedication and hard work led her to a management position, which she held for over 15 years. However, life took an unexpected turn when her brother’s daughter was paralyzed in an automobile accident. She stepped away from her managerial role to support her family during this challenging time. Her compassion and commitment to family underscore her character. In 2019, Julie returned to Full-o-Pep, this time as a buyer for the company. Her keen eye for deals and strategic approach have made her an asset to the team. Notably, she received the James B. Baber Vendor’s Choice Award in 2021 from TRIB Group—an acknowledgment of her outstanding contributions. Beyond work, Julie finds solace in the great outdoors. Whether fishing, camping, or boating, she relishes every moment away from the office. And here’s a delightful twist: despite her many talents, she still can’t quite pronounce the word ‘orange’!
Panelist Bio: Ruth has accumulated a diverse range of experiences in the rental industry over the past 18 years, currently serving at Babers for the last two years. Prior to this, she was part of Sam's Furniture & Appliances for six years and spent a decade with Flexi. Ruth's role allows her the unique opportunity to discover new products and introduce them to the team, a process she thoroughly enjoys. She believes that a key aspect of being a successful buyer involves taking risks; without the occasional failure, there's no room for real success. Outside of work, Ruth enjoys golfing with friends, spending quality time with her 23 nieces and nephews, and traveling whenever the opportunity arises.
Panelist Bio: Larry has a 39-year tenure in the rent-to-own industry, starting in 1985 with Buddy BiRite as an account manager and delivery person. Initially a summer job, his passion for the industry grew over time. Advancing to district manager, Larry spent over a decade at Buddy BiRite before co-founding Rent King with Chris Kale Sr. and Paul Schaller. Today, Rent King operates 19 locations across Florida. Larry is also a part owner of several Great Rooms locations. A unique aspect of Larry's life is his adoption by two Spaniards who were considered old to be new parents at the time. After his mother passed away at 95, he explored his biological heritage through Ancestry.com and found his biological father, who had no other children. They have had a close relationship for over five years, and his father cherishes having a newfound family.
Panelist Bio: Josh Hogg, District Manager with Mike's Rent To Own out of Hutchinson KS. Have been with the company and in the RTO business for 22 yrs. Started in 2002 in Sales and worked my way into a GM, then in 2017 the company had grown large enough that a District Manager was needed. I currently wear many hats with the company from DM duties, IT, Ordering and maintaining inventory levels are a few. When not working kids sports rule my life, from baseball, basketball, and football. Getting to travel to make memories with my wife and kids is what I look forward to the most.
