Buy Like a Guy

Andy Koehn
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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 who know their stuff. Think diamonds have nothing to do with bourbon or beers? Think again!

  1. 3H AGO

    The #1 Mistake Guys Make Buying Her a Ring (And How to Avoid It)

    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 #1 mistake guys make when buying a ring—and how to avoid it Why just "surprising her" is mostly dead (and what actually works now) How to figure out her style (even if she sends you a million new ideas after you buy) The right way to use family stones and heirlooms without losing meaning How to handle the money talk (and why the price is nobody's business but yours) Real-world advice for guys who feel lost or overwhelmed by the process Why finding "your jeweler" matters more than any brand or store Key Quotes from Carter: "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: How to get her style right (even if she "changes her mind" halfway through) What to do with family rings and old gold How to set a budget you're actually comfortable with—no three-months-salary BS Why collaborating with a jeweler you trust makes the whole process easier (and way less stressful) Carter's Top Advice: Don't guess. Ask her, or ask her inner circle. If she says "surprise me," a classic round solitaire is your safest bet. Check her Pinterest or Instagram—the answer is probably there. Set your own budget—never go into debt for a ring. Find a jeweler who feels like "your guy"—someone you can text, call, and trust. Who Is Carter? 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: Carter Eve Jewelry: https://carterevejewelry.com/ 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 andy@buylikeaguy.com    Website: buylikeaguy.com Instagram: @buylikeaguy 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

    22 min

  2. DEC 11

    Ep. 92 - Part II: The Truth About Natural Diamonds: Beauty, Character & Meaning

    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. Key Quotes from Ari: "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: misunderstanding diamond pricing relying too much on certificates choosing the wrong stone based on specs alone falling for "perfect" stones that look average in person overlooking diamonds with true personality and beauty 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:  sales@hod.live 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 andy@buylikeaguy.com and I'll point you in the right direction.   Andy's Jewelry Store: Koehn & Koehn Jewelers Instagram: @buylikeaguy, @koehnjewelers, @andykoehn 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

    14 min

  3. NOV 27

    Natural Diamonds: Nature's Greatest Masterpiece with Ari Jain

    Thinking about buying an engagement ring — or trying to decide between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond? This episode cuts through all the noise, hype, and half-truths in the diamond world.   Part I of Andy's conversation with Ari from House of Diamonds (an eight-generation diamond expert with roots in Jaipur's royal gemstone trade) dives into the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of buying a natural diamond — from the meaning behind natural stones to why warmer colors are making a comeback.   If you're a guy trying to buy the right stone for the woman you love, this episode will calm the nerves and sharpen your instincts. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The story behind natural diamonds: Why Ari calls them "nature's greatest masterpiece," and why the story matters Natural vs. lab-grown — the truth: Is one "better"? Or are consumers being pushed in the wrong direction? Why J-color or K-color natural diamonds might be your best choice: How guys are saving thousands by choosing warmer stones with real character The spiritual side of diamonds: Yes, energy is real — and Ari has the stories to back it up How to choose a jeweler you can trust: Why independent jewelers beat mass-market retailers every time Key Quotes from Ari: "Natural diamonds are nature's greatest artwork — billions of years old. When a man is making a sacred bond with a woman, he should give her something rare, real, and born of the earth." "People have been preferring warmer color diamonds. They want G to J color because they want to show it's natural." "The jeweler you buy from matters more than the certificate. Trust the person who does this every day." "The world has become too financial and not personal enough. Jewelry is still personal — it's emotional. And that matters." Natural vs. Lab-Grown (The Real Difference): Natural diamonds: Billions of years old, finite supply Hold value over time due to rarity Carry emotional and symbolic weight Can be passed down with a real story Lab-grown diamonds: Created in weeks in a factory Unlimited supply, depreciating value Chemically identical, but no origin story Ari's take: "When a man is making a sacred bond with a woman, he should give her something rare, real, and born of the earth." The Warmer Diamond Secret: Warmer natural diamonds (J, K, L color) are becoming more desirable because they have character and look distinctly natural. They're significantly less expensive than colorless stones and look beautiful in yellow gold or vintage settings. Ari's insight: "People are calling me for three-carat-plus stones, but they don't want G color. They'll pay me more for J to K color." Why Independent Jewelers Matter: Ari's take: "I think all consumers should prioritize independent retailers. The owners are always in the store. They care about the store. That shows you the owner actually cares about it." The difference: Independent jewelers build lifelong relationships They have accountability — reputation is everything They personalize and customize jewelry Mass-market retailers only push profit, not education or trust Who Is Ari? Ari is part of an eight-generation gemstone and diamond family whose roots trace back to Jaipur's royal courts. Today, his company House of Diamonds specializes in natural diamonds, rare color stones, and ethical sourcing. Resources Mentioned: House of Diamonds: https://www.hod.live/ Contact Ari:  sales@hod.live Want Personal Help? Email Andy directly: andy@buylikeaguy.com   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

    22 min

  4. NOV 13

    How to Buy Your First Luxury Watch Without Getting Scammed

    Thinking about buying your first real watch? Here's what the dealers won't tell you about ghost listings, fake prices, and why that "deal" you found online doesn't actually exist. Part II of Andy's conversation with Christian Bruhn from The Art of Time dives into the messy reality of buying luxury watches in 2025 — where online listings lie, auction prices mislead, and first-time buyers get burned by doing their own "research."   What You'll Learn in This Episode: Ghost listings exposed: Why that Rolex Daytona you found online for $8K cheaper probably doesn't exist (and what luxury drop-shipping really means) The trust problem: How to find an honest watch dealer when everyone online claims to be an expert Watches as art, not commodities: Why buying for resale value is the wrong approach for your first luxury timepiece The secondary market advantage: How to get a better watch for 25-40% less than authorized dealer pricing (with full warranty transfer) First-time buyer mistakes: What guys get wrong when shopping for Rolex, Omega, Breitling, and other high-end watches Where to actually start: The 3 questions you need to answer before you spend $5K-$50K on a watch Key Quotes from Christian Bruhn: "You'll have individuals interested in a watch doing their own research, and their research leads them to ghost listings that aren't in stock and bottom auction pricing that isn't realistic. Then they come to me saying they want it for X, Y, and Z." "For first-time buyers, I would say trust the dealer. Trust the person doing this every day, because it's getting harder and harder to tell what's real online." "When you go into a boutique and walk outside, that watch settles into the secondary market and is now competing against every single boutique in the mall versus just the one you walked in." Why This Matters for First-Time Watch Buyers: If you're the guy who's always said "someday I'm gonna get a nice watch," this episode will save you thousands of dollars and massive headaches. Christian breaks down: How online watch pricing is flooded with fake listings for SEO purposes Why authorized dealer pricing doesn't reflect real market value The smart way to buy gold watches as an investment (hint: melt value matters) How to avoid the hype and buy what actually fits your style and lifestyle Christian Bruhn is a former 75th Ranger Regiment member who founded The Art of Time, a luxury watch dealership focused on authenticity, education, and helping collectors buy smart. He sources rare timepieces, navigates the secondary market daily, and calls out the BS that confuses first-time buyers. Resources Mentioned: The Art of Time: Christian's luxury watch dealership (https://www.theartoftime.com/) Contact Christian: christian@thearttoftime.com | Instagram: @theartoftimehq Part I of this conversation: "The Art of Time: How to Buy a Real Watch with Christian Bruhn" (Episode #89, October 30, 2025) Luxury Bazaar: Roman Scharf and Adrian's content on watch market realities Platforms discussed: Chrono24, Grailed auctions, gray market dealers Connect with Buy Like A Guy: Need help finding a trusted jeweler? Email Andy at andy@buylikeaguy.com and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth.   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

    22 min

  5. OCT 30

    The Art of Time: How to Buy a Real Watch with Christian Bruhn

    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 andy@buylikeaguy.com 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

    20 min

  6. JUN 27

    Diamonds As Bad Investments

    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 f*****g point. From his grandfather's 1919 start in the business to today's lab-grown revolution, this episode cuts through the financial advisor b******t to reveal what diamonds are really worth. Key Takeaways The Investment Reality Check: Not once has Andy heard someone say "I'd like your finest appreciating asset, please" Diamonds end up on fingers of teachers, truck drivers, accountants - people marking moments, not building portfolios That "worthless investment" often outlasts first houses, careers, and everything else people own Ask anyone celebrating their golden anniversary if their diamond was a good investment Historical Truth Bomb: Diamonds in engagement rings since the 1400s - Archduke Maximilian started the trend in 1477 That's 400 years before De Beers existed, 500 years before marketing executives were even a thing "A Diamond is Forever" amplified the tradition but didn't create it Humans have always been drawn to rare, beautiful shit that lasts - it's why the Louvre isn't full of Dollar Store crap The Hidden Logic: Hardest natural substance on the planet (perfect 10 on Mohs scale) Transparent - light passes through without distortion Forged under intense pressure deep within the earth Unlike other gems that fade or cloud, diamonds stay brilliant for generations Customer brought in grandmother's 1923 diamond - after cleaning, sparkled like brand new Natural vs. Lab-Grown Investment Reality: Lab-grown are chemically identical but prices are in free fall Natural diamonds: billions of years to form, millions to find and extract They're finite, ancient, with history predating humanity Natural values historically increase; lab-grown prices dropping fast Like owning a Monet vs. owning a poster of a Monet The Artistry Factor: Diamond cutting isn't automated factory process - it's generational craft Cutters visualize how to release a rough diamond's potential Weeks of precise cuts to maximize brilliance One wrong move = thousands lost in value Gabi Tolkowsky: "I imagine myself inside the crystal and see where I want the light to go" Value Beyond Balance Sheets: Sold diamonds to multimillionaires and kids who saved forever Sometimes big-ass diamonds carry expected weight, sometimes tiny stones pack the biggest punch Favorite customers return yearly, sharing proposal stories and struggles to afford their ring Diamond becomes physical embodiment of shared history 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: andy@buylikeaguy.com 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: Available wherever you get your podcasts. Book available on Amazon Show notes compiled from episode transcript

    10 min

  7. JUN 13

    The Four C's (Part 2)-Clarity and Carat Weight

    Chapter 2: The Four C's (Part 2)  Episode Overview 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 b******t to give you what actually matters when you're standing in that jewelry store. Key Takeaways The Clarity Reality Check: She doesn't need a flawless diamond unless she specifically asked for one - she just wants it to look that way Clarity grades are determined by gemologists with microscopes, not naked eyes in natural lighting The difference between technically flawless and "looks flawless" can save you thousands 99% of diamond inclusions are invisible without specialized equipment Focus on VS2-SI1 for best value - they look identical to higher grades but cost significantly less Carat Weight - Size vs. Reality: One carat = 0.2 grams = about one Skittle (finally, a measurement that makes sense) Carat measures weight, not size - two diamonds can weigh the same but look completely different Diamond cutters face a constant battle: preserve weight (money) vs. create ideal proportions (beauty) The real artists sacrifice weight for performance every time The Money-Saving Secret: Diamonds jump in price at half and whole carat marks A 0.9 carat might cost 20% less than a 1.0 carat of identical quality Nobody can spot the difference with the naked eye Buy just under those magic thresholds: 0.9 instead of 1.0, 1.4 instead of 1.5 The Quick Decision Guide: Cut Grade: Excellent/Ideal worth every penny, Very Good is the sweet spot, Good or lower proceed with caution Color: G-H is the sweet spot, I-J smart value, D-F if you have the budget and appreciate the difference Clarity: VS2-SI1 best value, SI2 can work if inspected, Flawless-VVS for bragging rights The Diamond-to-Steak Conversion Chart: Cut = Chef's Skill: Best beef poorly cooked is a travesty, average beef perfectly cooked is a religious experience Color & Clarity = Grade of Beef: Prime costs more than choice, you're paying for rarity within rarity Carat Weight = Portion Size: An 8-ounce filet costs more than a 6-ounce of the same quality Memorable Quote "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 Next The "investment value" of diamonds - and dear Lord, they've got it so wrong. Contact Andy Email: andy@buylikeaguy.com 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 3 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches. Connect with Buy Like A Guy: Available wherever you get your podcasts Book available on Amazon Show notes compiled from episode transcript

    12 min

  8. JUN 6

    Chapter 2: The Four C's (Yeah, We Gotta Talk About Them)-Part 1

    _*]:min-w-0 !gap-3.5"> Episode Overview 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 Takeaways The Bottom Line on Diamond Education: You'll spend roughly 2 hours of your entire life discussing the Four C's Don't overthink it - learn enough to have an intelligent conversation with a pro Find someone you trust to guide you through the rest Why the Four C's Exist: Created by GIA in the 1940s to standardize diamond grading Before this, buying diamonds was like the Wild West Gave everyone a common language (that's why color starts at D) Cut - The King of the Four C's: Cut is everything - it's what makes a diamond come alive Not about shape (round, oval, etc.) - it's about proportions and craftsmanship A great cut can make a diamond worth twice as much as a poorly cut one Andy's advice: "Get the best damn cut you can afford. Everything else is negotiable." Color Demystified: Scale runs D (colorless) to Z (noticeably yellow/brown) D-F: Exceptional white, priced accordingly G-H: Looks white to most people I-J: Still looks great, especially in yellow gold Most people can't tell D from H without training and special equipment The Reality Check: Your fiancé won't be carrying master stones around to compare Don't pay for colorless if near colorless looks the same to you But some guys want top shelf just for the satisfaction of knowing what they have Memorable Quote "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 Next Part 2 will cover Clarity and Carat Weight - the remaining two C's that complete the diamond grading system. Contact Andy Email: andy@koehnjewelry.com 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 2-Part 2 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches. Connect with Buy Like A Guy: Available wherever you get your podcasts Book available on Amazon Show notes compiled from episode transcript

    11 min
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out of 5
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About

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 who know their stuff. Think diamonds have nothing to do with bourbon or beers? Think again!

Information

  • Creator
    Andy Koehn
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Andy Koehn
  • Show Website
    Buy Like a Guy