Association of Progressive Rental Organizations
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RTO World™ | Education

Get ready for an action-packed RTO World™ filled with learning and networking opportunities!

This year’s education sessions feature an exciting lineup of industry experts and thought leaders. Explore the sessions below to start planning your experience, and don’t miss our keynote and super session speakers.

JUMP TO:  Monday  |  Tuesday  |  Thursday

Monday, August 11 | 1:00 PM

1:00-3:00 PM | Protecting Your Business

Join industry attorneys and compliance experts for a discussion and examination of real-world scenarios dealers face as part of running a business involving the RTO transaction.

 

This interactive deep-dive session will involve the presentation and discussion of recent real scenarios encountered by RTO dealers involving issues ranging from collections, marketing, HR, wage and hour, OSHA, to cybersecurity. Attendees will walk away with practical tips on how to mitigate their business risks and stay compliant.

Charles Smitherman

APRO

Charles Smitherman, JD, PhD, CAE, became CEO of APRO in 2023, bringing years of legal and executive experience in the rent-to-own industry. 

Prior to joining the association, Charles served as COO, General Counsel, and Vice President of PTS Financial Services, where he played an active role in the rent-to-own industry by representing his company through PTS’s club program offering with APRO member dealers. Charles is an attorney with two decades of experience across a wide variety of areas, including RTO, consumer financial services, antitrust, corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, litigation, franchise law, and privacy law. Following law school at the University of Georgia, Charles earned a Master of Legal Studies and PhD in Law from the University of Oxford in England.

Charles is credentialed as a Certified Association Executive (CAE) with the American Society of Association Executives, a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) with the International Franchise Association, and a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) through the International Association of Privacy Professionals. As APRO’s sixth CEO in its 45-year history, he brings a collaborative, member-focused approach to association leadership, emphasizing transparency, advocacy, and value creation. Outside of work, Charles is an active ultra runner and open water swimmer.

Charles Smitherman, Facilitator

Speakers

Justin Hosie
Zach Miller
Joshua Threadcraft

Justin Hosie

Hudson Cook LLP

Justin Hosie is a partner at Hudson Cook, and chair of their Small Dollar and Alternative Financial Services Practice Group. He counsels fintech, consumer credit, buy-now-pay-later, wage advance, and rent-to-own clients on compliance with consumer protection laws.

Justin frequently serves as a presenter at industry conferences, addressing consumer protections, the CFPB, innovation, and ethics. He also co-presents Hudson Cook’s monthly CFPB Bites of the Month webinar series with Eric Johnson. Justin is recognized in The Best Lawyers in America©2024 for Financial Services Regulation Law, and is AV rated by Martindale Hubbell.

Zach Miller

Burr & Forman LLP

Zach Miller has been representing consumer finance companies in federal and state litigation since 2008. Zach focuses 100% on the issues facing consumer finance and RTO/LTO companies. Zach has managed both class action and individual cases for large institutions. Zach heads a large team of consumer finance lawyers at Burr & Forman.

Joshua Threadcraft

Burr & Forman LLP

Joshua Threadcraft is a partner in the law firm of Burr & Forman LLP’s Financial Services Practice Group. He is admitted to practice law in the five Southern states where the firm has offices (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee), focusing his practice on defending state and federal court litigation and arbitrations in these states, as well as across the country. Joshua routinely defends individual and multi-plaintiff/class actions and has more than two decades of experience defending lawsuits involving the Fair Credit Reporting Act, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the FTC Holder Rule, Telephone Consumer Protection Act, and alleged violations of state and federal law.

Since 2016, Joshua has been selected by his peers for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America in the field of Banking and Finance, and was recently selected for inclusion by his peers in the fields of Commercial Litigation and Litigation Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants. Joshua has also been designated a top rated consumer law attorney in Birmingham, Alabama, and the Mid-South by Super Lawyers. Joshua frequently speaks and writes on various topics, including trial strategy, and federal and state statutes applicable to the financial services industry, including the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, 47 U.S.C. § 227.

3:15-5:30 PM | Women’s Forum
 Communicating with Confidence: Let’s Talk!

APRO is hosting the 2nd annual Women’s Forum, designed to connect and inspire the women of RTO. The goal is to build community, develop leadership skills, share ideas for success, and identify ways we can support each other in our love for this industry.

 

The theme of this year’s forum is “Communicating with Confidence: Let’s Talk!” Christa Haberstock will be facilitating a dynamic conversation about communication in the workplace. Using her experience as an inspirational speaker, former school teacher, and comedian, she will guide us through interactive and hilarious conversations about everything from difficult situations to generational differences that give us each our unique perspective on the world.

Christa Haberstock

Women’s Forum Facilitator

Christa Haberstock is the founder and CEO of See Agency, with decades of experience mastering every facet of professional speaking. She is also a best-selling author, of her signature framework, The Obvious Advantage, which helps leaders unlock the power of what’s already there. Christa teaches this framework to help individuals and teams discover and maximize their hidden potential for long-term success.

Christa was recently invited to contribute insights to Linked In’s Skills on the Rise in Business Development feature, which highlights rising industry trends in leadership, visibility, and strategic communication. Christa loves working with nice people on a mission to change the world and proudly considers herself a Mission-Preneur (yes, she knows it’s a made-up word and she’s good with that).

With See Agency earning a top spot *twice* on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and over three decades of professional experience in music and comedy… her refusal to accept “good enough” has worked out pretty well.

Christa Haberstock, Facilitator

Tuesday, August 12 | 8:30 AM

8:30-9:00 AM | Early Light Insights from Our Titanium Sponsor
40 Sunrises

Join us for a celebration of the long partnership of the Rent-to-Own industry and Ashley!  Reminisce on some of our best sellers over the years, B27, B44, and others, and get a glimpse of where Ashley Furniture Industries is headed!

Mike Kays

Ashley Furniture Industries

As VP of Rental Sales for Ashley Furniture Industries, Mike thrives on building relationships with our RTO industry veterans, helping businesses grow through new products, new marketing, and new supply chain options.

Mike works to leverage a wide breadth of relationships and influence, intimate knowledge of market trends, 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 our goal is to leverage the world’s largest furniture manufacturer to drive the continued growth of the RTO industry and all the suppliers.

Mike Kays

Tuesday, August 12 | 9:00 AM

9:00-10:00 AM | Keynote
Perform Like a Champion

Attitude, mental toughness, and the ability to change and adapt quickly are just a few characteristics that all champions possess. As a member of the Nebraska 1994 National Championship football team (considered by some as one of the best teams ever assembled), Aaron has a keen understanding of what it takes to achieve incredible results. Today’s corporate environment is more competitive than ever before and it’s those who are able to focus when others fold, who consistently stay at the top!

Aaron Davis

Keynote Speaker

Author & Speaker Aaron Davis has shared with over a million people about performing like a champion from personal experience. He is a leading authority & expert on the importance of having a Positive Attitude!

From the age of 8, he was helping his Dad work in the evenings as a janitor.

Through this experience, Aaron learned the importance of having a Champion Attitude no matter what your role or title is. Through mopping floors, cleaning bathrooms, emptying hundreds of trashcans nightly, Aaron learned that it’s not WHAT you do; instead, it’s HOW you do it!

As a member of the 1994 National Championship Nebraska Football team and working with numerous corporations & organizations, he understands firsthand what it takes to perform like a champion & experience incredible results both personally & professionally by maintaining a positive attitude!

 Aaron is not just a speaker “telling” other companies and individuals how a championship attitude leads to greater success. He’s a successful business owner, held roles in corporate America, and a cancer survivor!

He’s received numerous awards and accolades, and he’s a proud University of Nebraska alumnus earning his degree in Psychology. He’s shared the stage with some of today’s top luminaries in various fields. He has spoken for some of the leading companies & universities and numerous associations, including Farm Bureau, Walmart, ConAgra, USC, Penn State, Texas A&M, and many more.

Aaron and his wife, Brooke, reside in Nebraska, and they have two sons and a daughter!

Aaron Davis

Tuesday, August 12 | 10:30 AM

10:30-11:15 AM | Super Session!
Perform Like a Champion Deep Dive

Join Keynote Speaker Aaron Davis for a deep dive into Perform Like a Champion, where he expands on the principles shared in his keynote. This follow-up session will explore practical strategies for building mental toughness, embracing change, and sustaining a championship mindset in high-pressure environments. Gain actionable insights to help you focus, adapt, and lead with the consistency that sets champions apart.

Aaron Davis

Keynote Speaker

Author & Speaker Aaron Davis has shared with over a million people about performing like a champion from personal experience. He is a leading authority & expert on the importance of having a Positive Attitude!

From the age of 8, he was helping his Dad work in the evenings as a janitor.

Through this experience, Aaron learned the importance of having a Champion Attitude no matter what your role or title is. Through mopping floors, cleaning bathrooms, emptying hundreds of trashcans nightly, Aaron learned that it’s not WHAT you do; instead, it’s HOW you do it!

As a member of the 1994 National Championship Nebraska Football team and working with numerous corporations & organizations, he understands firsthand what it takes to perform like a champion & experience incredible results both personally & professionally by maintaining a positive attitude!

 Aaron is not just a speaker “telling” other companies and individuals how a championship attitude leads to greater success. He’s a successful business owner, held roles in corporate America, and a cancer survivor!

He’s received numerous awards and accolades, and he’s a proud University of Nebraska alumnus earning his degree in Psychology. He’s shared the stage with some of today’s top luminaries in various fields. He has spoken for some of the leading companies & universities and numerous associations, including Farm Bureau, Walmart, ConAgra, USC, Penn State, Texas A&M, and many more.

Aaron and his wife, Brooke, reside in Nebraska, and they have two sons and a daughter!

Aaron Davis

10:30 AM-11:15 | Breakout Session
The Art of Account Management in the New World

It’s time to change our decades-old “collections” mindset and process! Ask yourself these questions:

 

  1. Do you want to collect more money in a positive way?
  2. The world has changed – has your account management process?
  3. People pay the people they like! How can that be me?
  4. Anyone can grow a store if credit is not an issue.

 

If you want to improve your collections game, then come and learn how to:

 

  • Leverage Human Nature in your favor
  • Use the right script for counseling past due customers
  • Build positive, long-lasting relationships – not just “get a payment”
  • Learn about the number one complaint in RTO and how to overcome that instantly

 

You don’t want to miss this!

Mike Lewis

Central Properties dba Premier Rental-Purchase

Mike Lewis is a Premier Rental Purchase franchisee with multiple stores and currently serves as Vice President of Operations for The Premier Companies.

With 33 years of experience in the rent-to-own industry, he has spent the past 20 years working closely with franchisee owners and previously spent 12 years in Corporate RTO, gaining a strong foundation in the business. For the past five years, Mike has been sharing his knowledge by teaching managers and franchisees at the company’s Training Center.

Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, kids, and grandkids, and appreciates the simple things in life – especially riding his Harley Davidson with the sun shining on his face. If you know, you know!

Mike Lewis

10:30 AM-11:15 | Breakout Session
Dollars and Common Sense Roundtable

Join RTO professionals to share insights and strategies for enhancing revenue and saving money; this will be a fantastic opportunity for collaboration and growth. We will share techniques and many additional insights to maximize effectiveness.

 

Please be prepared to share your successful strategies at this thought-provoking event.

Larry Carrico

SKC Enterprises Inc. dba Rent One

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, he launched 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. He played a key role in cultivating relationships between rental dealers and elected officials, spearheading many IRDA Legislative Days in Springfield and ensuring IRDA member participation at the APRO Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.

Larry and his wife, Sharon, recently wrote a memoir, Own Your Life, about their four-plus decades together, building a strong family and a successful family business. They enjoy spending time with their grown children, Steven, Nicki, and Kelly, and their five grandchildren.

Kelly Martin

SKC Enterprises Inc. dba Rent One

Kelly Martin is currently the Chief Operating Officer at Rent One and 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 8, Andi 6, and Evie 5.

Larry Carrico
Kelly Martin

10:30 AM-11:15 | Breakout Session
“Why Didn’t They Buy?” – Cracking the Sales Personality Code

Ever had a sale slip through your fingers and thought, “What did I miss?” In this high-energy session, we’ll break down how different customer personalities impact the sales process — and how your team can connect with all of them using DISC. You’ll learn how to spot buying behaviors quickly, tailor your approach on the fly, and coach your team to close with confidence.

Whether you’ve been in sales for 20 years or two, this session will give you fresh tools, real-life examples, and a new lens for sales success.

Joe Luczak

Blue Ocean Brands dba Majik Rent-To-Own

With over 30 years of retail leadership experience, including 14 years at Walmart and 4 years with Pilot Travel Centers, Joe Luczak has honed the ability to adapt sales strategies to a wide range of people and situations.
 
Joe has been with Majik Rent to Own since 2016, and now serves as Sales Director. He completed training in the Sandler Sales Method, Predictive Index, and Working Genius, and led the development of Majik’s in-house advanced sales course, “Sales 201.” Joe has also gained valuable insights from industry leaders through APRO, TRIB, and Leadercast events.
 
Beyond retail, over 25 years of Tae Kwon Do have instilled a deep sense of discipline and focus that continues to influence his approach to discipline, focus, and – yes – even selling.
Joe Luczak

Tuesday, August 12 | 1:00 PM

1:00-1:45 PM | Super Session!
Team Building at Any Stage

How do you build a driven team that people are eager to join, motivated to stay with, and proud to promote? In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies and timeless principles for attracting, retaining, and multiplying great talent – whether you’re just getting started or scaling your business to a new level.

Adam Sutton

RNR Tire Express

Adam B. Sutton is a value-driven leader with a unique blend of creative, marketing, technology, and executive management skills. He founded Red Letter Studios in 2004, an award-winning creative agency in Tampa, FL, which focused on Video Production, Design, Digital media, and Printing. In 2012, RLS partnered with Thuzi, one of the world’s top digital + live agencies, where Adam served as the CXO, Chief Experience Officer, leading and producing hundreds of iconic projects and events for global brands such as Microsoft, Disney, Oprah, Under Armour, and top agencies alike.
 
Adam grew up in the RTO industry as the son of the legendary Larry Sutton and in 2017, he joined RNR Tire Express, the national franchisor of 200+ retail locations and currently serves as CEO of the franchise system.
Adam Sutton

1:00-1:45 PM | Breakout Session
The Future of RTO: Changing Customer Behavior

The rent-to-own customer has changed – big time – and post-COVID buying habits are driving them online faster than you can say “free shipping.” In this fun (but urgent) session, we’ll explore how e-commerce adoption, digital convenience, and speed are re-shaping RTO shoppers’ expectations overnight. You’ll hear the latest trends, discover what’s fueling these rapid shifts, and learn practical tactics to keep your customers engaged instead of scrolling off to the next deal. Whether you’re an owner or staff, don’t miss out – your future might just depend on it!

Ryan Krass

WOW Brands

Ryan is the CEO of WOW Brands, bringing 20 years of marketing expertise and over a decade of experience in the rent-to-own (RTO) industry. Currently pursuing a PhD in media psychology, he blends deep consumer insights with hands-on strategy to help businesses adapt and thrive. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys staying up on emerging tech trends and honing his skills in media research.
Ryan Krass

1:00-1:45 PM | Breakout Session
Ethics in Action: A Continuing Commitment to Trust and Integrity in RTO

Join this interactive, hands-on session that will explore real-world scenarios RTO professionals face every day, from fair customer treatment to responsible collections and even team leadership.

 

Grounded in the APRO Code of Ethics, this session will help you navigate gray areas with confidence, build stronger relationships with customers, and create a culture of integrity at every level. Come ready to share, reflect, and do business the right way—every time.

Jeff Smith

Your Hometown Rent To Own Inc. dba Hometown Rent To Own

Jeff Smith has 20+ years of experience in the RTO space, starting as an account manager for House of Television in August of 2000. Over the years, Jeff has been a store manager, IT manager, and now owner/operator. Since joining Hometown RTO in 2021, he has helped his business partner grow from one store to four (and counting).
 
Jeff also serves as the president of the NYRDA and is a member of the APRO Board of Directors. In June of 2025, Jeff spearheaded the opening of a Mr. Appliance franchise, the first of many new business ventures.
 
When he is not working, he enjoys playing golf, going to baseball games, writing for a fantasy football site (playing in many leagues), and watching football in the fall. 

Charles Smitherman

APRO

Charles Smitherman, JD, PhD, CAE, became CEO of APRO in 2023, bringing years of legal and executive experience in the rent-to-own industry. 

Prior to joining the association, Charles served as COO, General Counsel, and Vice President of PTS Financial Services, where he played an active role in the rent-to-own industry by representing his company through PTS’s club program offering with APRO member dealers. Charles is an attorney with two decades of experience across a wide variety of areas, including RTO, consumer financial services, antitrust, corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, litigation, franchise law, and privacy law. Following law school at the University of Georgia, Charles earned a Master of Legal Studies and PhD in Law from the University of Oxford in England.

Charles is credentialed as a Certified Association Executive (CAE) with the American Society of Association Executives, a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) with the International Franchise Association, and a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) through the International Association of Privacy Professionals. As APRO’s sixth CEO in its 45-year history, he brings a collaborative, member-focused approach to association leadership, emphasizing transparency, advocacy, and value creation. Outside of work, Charles is an active ultra runner and open water swimmer.

Jeff Smith
Charles Smitherman

1:00-1:45 PM | Breakout Session
Safety and Security Shockers: Turning Nightmares into Knowledge (Fire/Robbery/Natural Disasters)

What happens when chaos strikes? Join us as we explore potential cringeworthy disasters in retail, from fires and floods to thefts and medical emergencies. In this engaging session, we’ll share worst-case scenarios you never thought could happen and discuss how to handle them like a pro. You’ll leave armed with essential tactics to keep your store safe and secure. Let’s turn those terrifying tales into teachable moments!

Frank Rotert

Ace Furniture & TV Inc. dba Ace Rent-To-Own

Frank Rotert is the Vice President of Operations and Partner at Ace Rent To Own, with over 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.
Frank Rotert

Tuesday, August 12 | 2:00 PM

2:00-2:45 PM | Super Session!
Finding the Obvious Advantage

Christa’s back to share her 3-part framework to finding your ‘obvious advantage.’ She’ll help attendees identify their obvious skills, overlooked traits, and underlying lens and then leverage those advantages in leadership. Learn why strong cultures are built on complementary skills and why it’s your time to shine!

Christa Haberstock

Women’s Forum Facilitator

Christa Haberstock is the founder and CEO of See Agency, with decades of experience mastering every facet of professional speaking. She is also a best-selling author, of her signature framework, The Obvious Advantage, which helps leaders unlock the power of what’s already there. Christa teaches this framework to help individuals and teams discover and maximize their hidden potential for long-term success.

Christa was recently invited to contribute insights to Linked In’s Skills on the Rise in Business Development feature, which highlights rising industry trends in leadership, visibility, and strategic communication. Christa loves working with nice people on a mission to change the world and proudly considers herself a Mission-Preneur (yes, she knows it’s a made-up word and she’s good with that).

With See Agency earning a top spot *twice* on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and over three decades of professional experience in music and comedy… her refusal to accept “good enough” has worked out pretty well.

Christa Haberstock

2:00-2:45 PM | Breakout Session
Never in a Million Years Did I Think I’d Run a $2.5 Million Store

Experienced RTO store managers will break down the day-to-day decisions, long-term strategies, and leadership mindset required to operate a high-performing retail location.

 

From managing inventory to building strong teams and delivering exceptional customer experiences, this session will equip store managers and aspiring leaders with the tools they need to think and act like high-level operators. Are you ready to level up and run your business like it’s already there?

Mark Connelly

Arona Corporation dba Arona Home Essentials

Mark Connelly is a Partner at Arona Home Essentials and Executive Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions. Mark began his career in RTO in 1989 after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. He quickly rose through the ranks from Account Manager to Store Manager, to Regional Manager, and all the way up to his current role. Mark is a former APRO Board President and currently an active APRO Board Member who is committed and dedicated to the success of the RTO industry.

Mark Connelly, Facilitator

Panelists

Bobby Kirby
Started with Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership in 2011 and is running a Kentucky store larger than
$2.5 Million
Nick Ley
Started with Arona Home Essentials in 2009. This year, his Michigan store is projected to hit
$3 Million
Joe Tubb
Started with Rent One in 2002. Last year, his Southeast Missouri store was doing
$2.6 Million

2:00-2:45 PM | Breakout Session
Unlocking the Power of AI in Rent-to-Own

Join us and learn how our panel implemented AI into their RTO operations and how it’s making a big difference in everything from customer insights, collections, and even staffing decisions.

 

Learn more about how they’re leveraging AI to boost profitability – all while maintaining the human touch that defines RTO. Whether you’re new to AI or already exploring its potential, this session will give you practical examples for effectively using AI in your business.

Heather Cleek

Cleek’s Home Furnishings/Rentals & Sales

Heather Cleek is the Corporate Buyer for Missouri-based Cleek’s Home Furnishings/Rentals & Sales. She works alongside her husband, John Cleek Jr., and finds fulfillment in being part of the family business. Heather enjoys the daily variety of her role, values the opportunity to work closely with her husband, and takes pride in the positive impact they have on their employees and customers. She was recently honored with the 2024 TRIB Group James B. Baber Vendor Choice Award for Outstanding Buyer. She is also inspired by the Special Olympics motto: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

Heather Cleek, Facilitator

Panelists

Daniel Hajduk
Scott Kinnear
Jason Sexton

Daniel Hajduk

Vox-Pop-Uli Inc.

As client development manager at Vox-Pop-Uli, Daniel builds strategic customer partnerships and helps bring all of your branding dreams to life. He’s passionate about growing your brand, connecting with peers in the industry, and of course, Falcons football. 

Scott Kinnear

SR Kinnear Inc. dba Premier Rental-Purchase

Scott began his rent-to-own career with Rainbow Rentals until he purchased a Premier Rental Purchase that opened in February 2005. During his time with Premier, he has served in many leadership roles for the industry: Chair of the Marketing Committee in 2008-2012, APRO Board in 2009-2010, Ohio Rental Board President 2009-2010, and Premier’s OAC from 2019-2023.

Scott’s been married to his wife Nancy for 28 Years with two kids, a daughter, and son. His current hobby is boxing!

Jason Sexton

Titan Tech Dynamics

Jason is the CEO and Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer of Titan Tech Dynamics, combining over 100 hours of certified AI training with more than two decades of creative leadership.

Before launching Titan Tech, he spent 21 years as Creative Director for RNR Tire Express and led several ventures in technology, marketing, and print production. His passion lies in helping businesses grow through innovative customer engagement and AI-driven solutions.

A recipient of over 50 marketing excellence awards and a three-time 300-game bowler, Jason brings the same precision and energy to both work and life. He and his wife share a lively blended family, including their young daughter and two teenage boys.

2:00-2:45 PM | Breakout Session
Industry Trends & Tariffs:
Data & Insights to Help Your Buying Decisions Today

Are you asking yourself these questions: 

 

  • Should I buy now or wait?
  • Are prices going to go up or down?
  • How can I protect myself so I don’t miss an opportunity, or worse, get caught with overpriced inventory? 

 

In this learning session, we will look at industry trends and tariff impacts for key categories, including: Appliances, Televisions, Audio & Gaming.  Our goal is to provide as much information as possible from industry data and key manufacturers, so that you can be confident in our planning for Q4.

Andrew Terry

O’Rourke Sales Company

Andrew Terry is husband to Tabitha Terry and the proud father of 2 beautiful daughters Graciela (11) and Camila (8) and a son Andrew (5). He resides with his family in New Albany, OH located near O’Rourke’s Grove City facility.

Andrew started his career following in his family footsteps into actuarial science. He soon transitioned to LG Electronics and worked in Sales and Management roles for 10 years. During his tenure at LG Andrew managed National Accounts, Regional Accounts, Rental Accounts, E-Commerce Accounts and Distribution.

Following LG, Andrew worked as the Senior Vice President of Appliances at hhgregg, a 225 store appliance, furniture and electronics retailer. He was responsible for the Marketing, Merchandising, E-Commerce and In Store Selling strategies for Major and Premium Appliances. During his 2 years with hhgregg the appliance category experienced positive same store sales comps in 7 of the 8 quarters.

After hhgregg, Andrew joined O’Rourke Sales Company as President in 2017. O’Rourke Sales Company (OSC) is one of the largest National Distributors of Appliances, Electronics, Gaming, Computers, and Outdoor products in the country. OSC has 6 locations across the United States.

In his free time, he loves traveling and spending time with his family. Aside from his family, he is most proud of his work in philanthropy. Andrew serves as a Board Member on the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University and the Business Executive Committee. O’Rourke Sales Company is a founding sponsor of the Tee Off Against Pediatric Brain Cancer Golf Event which is associated with the Brain Tumor Center at Duke.

Andrew is a member of Betta Gamma Sigma Honor Society as well as Gamma Theta Upsilon Honor Society. He holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a concentration in International Finance and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics with a concentration in Actuarial Science from the University of Vermont (UVM). He also earned business accreditation from the Copenhagen Business School and from WU (Vienna School of Economics and Business). While at UVM he played varsity soccer.

Andrew Terry

Tuesday, August 12 | 3:00 PM

3:00-3:45 PM | Super Session!
LEAP Session 7: Building a High-Trust Team Culture

Join us for the 7th installment of the LEAP (Leadership Engagement and Advancement Program) series – LIVE and in person at RTO World 2025!

 

This session explores how leaders at any level can foster a culture of trust through transparency, accountability, and consistent communication. 

 

It’s not too late to get involved in the LEAP series, all are welcomed to attend!

Dan Fisher

Blue Ocean Brands dba Majik Rent-To-Own

Dan currently serves as 1st VP on the APRO Board of Directors, as well as serving on the TRIB Board of Directors. He remains a minority owner of Blue Ocean Brands dba MAJIK Rent to Own, and when not leading the LEAP program, he finds himself focused on guiding the Maria Fisher Foundation non-profit that he stewards, as well as working on mentoring business owners and leaders through his consulting business and SCORE (a non-profit leadership mentorship organization). He loves traveling and checking out amazing new restaurants with his wife, Tricia.

Dan Fisher

Thursday, August 14 | 8:30 AM

8:30-9:30 AM | Tissot Talk
Why They Buy

This business, like all others, is driven by sales. In our case, rentals. Mike will dive into why our customers rent from us. Identifying the profiles of our customers and what gets them in the store, on our site, and to sign the agreement.

 

The industry serves a core customer, but there are a variety of profiles within that core. He will discuss ways to acquire and retain them, all rooted in nearly 30 years of doing it in Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky.

Mike Tissot

Countryside Rentals Inc. dba Rent-2-Own

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 grow the family business to over 40 stores throughout Ohio and Kentucky, and 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 Treasurer, served on the TRIB board as Treasurer and 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 in Orange Beach, Alabama. He is an avid 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.

Mike Tissot

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Mike Lewis

Central Properties dba Premier Rental-Purchase

Mike Lewis is a Premier Rental Purchase franchisee with multiple stores and currently serves as Vice President of Operations. With 33 years of experience in the rent-to-own industry, he has spent the past 20 years working closely with franchisee owners and previously spent 12 years in Corporate RTO, gaining a strong foundation in the business.

For the past five years, Mike has been sharing his knowledge by teaching managers and franchisees at the company’s Training Center.

Outside of work, he enjoys time with his family, kids, and grandkids, and appreciates the simple things in life – especially riding his Harley Davidson with the sun on his face. If you know, you know!

Lauren Talicska

Arona Corporation dba Arona Home Essentials

Lauren Talicska is an experienced multi-channel marketing specialist and the Vice President of Marketing & Communications at Arona Home Essentials. She has found her home in the RTO community, supporting stores in branding, growth, and increasing traffic.

You may recognize Lauren as a former RTO vendor, including her time as a partner for Nationwide RentDirect, or her previous participation in the APRO Vendor Advisory Committee. Lauren calls Columbus, Ohio, home and spends her workday crafting and executing marketing promotions from inception to realization, all while supporting the branding and social media needs of all the Arona stores in 12 states (plus Puerto Rico!).

Charles Smitherman

APRO

Charles Smitherman, JD, PhD, CAE, became CEO of APRO in 2023, bringing years of legal and executive experience in the rent-to-own industry. 

Prior to joining the association, Charles served as COO, General Counsel, and Vice President of PTS Financial Services, where he played an active role in the rent-to-own industry by representing his company through PTS’s club program offering with APRO member dealers. Charles is an attorney with two decades of experience across a wide variety of areas, including RTO, consumer financial services, antitrust, corporate law, mergers and acquisitions, litigation, franchise law, and privacy law. Following law school at the University of Georgia, Charles earned a Master of Legal Studies and PhD in Law from the University of Oxford in England.

Charles is credentialed as a Certified Association Executive (CAE) with the American Society of Association Executives, a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) with the International Franchise Association, and a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US) and Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) through the International Association of Privacy Professionals. As APRO’s sixth CEO in its 45-year history, he brings a collaborative, member-focused approach to association leadership, emphasizing transparency, advocacy, and value creation. Outside of work, Charles is an active ultra runner and open water swimmer.

Mike Kays

Ashley Furniture Industries

As VP of Rental Sales for Ashley Furniture Industries, Mike thrives on building relationships with our RTO industry veterans, and helping businesses grow through new product, new marketing, and new supply chain options.

Mike works to leverage a wide breadth of relationships and influence, intimate knowledge of market trends, 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 our goal is to leverage the world’s largest furniture manufacturer to drive the continued growth of the RTO industry and all the suppliers.

Mike Tissot

Countryside Rentals Inc., dba Rent-2-Own

Mike grew up in the rent-to-own industry under the guidance of his father, former APRO President and RTO legend Darrell Tissot. For nearly 25 years, Mike’s innovative leadership has helped expand the family business to more than 40 stores across Ohio and Kentucky while also shaping the industry as a whole.

He has served as President of the Ohio Rental Dealers Association, an APRO board member and Treasurer, and President and Treasurer of the TRIB Group. His contributions have earned him the APRO President’s Award of Excellence and the title of APRO Rental Dealer of the Year.

Outside of RTO, Mike enjoys time at the lake house or in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his girlfriend, Angela Strong McCool. A passionate Cincinnati Reds fan, he rarely misses a game, whether watching or listening alongside his parents. He also takes every opportunity to visit Arizona, where his daughter is currently attending Arizona State University.