Best Engagementring Podcasts (2026)

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Ep. 93 - The #1 Mistake Guys Make Buying Her a Ring (And How to Avoid It) 21:36

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2d ago21:36

21:36

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 m…

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Guest: David Kellie (4th Appearance) 49:08

10d ago49:08

49:08

In this 80th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, David Kellie, CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), joins for a final appearance on the eve of his retirement. The episode begins with Paul sharing a glimpse of diamond industry catalysts he is monitoring going into 2026. Next, Paul and David discuss the future of the marketin…

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Ep. 92 - Part II: The Truth About Natural Diamonds: Beauty, Character & Meaning 14:26

14d ago14:26

14:26

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 tho…

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Guest: Tobias Kormind 46:23

16d ago46:23

46:23

In this 79th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul is joined by Tobias Kormind of 77 Diamonds in London. The episode begins with Paul and Tobias discussing the "inventory light" business model of online diamond jewelers. Next, the two discuss the more mainstream emergence of jewelry customization and how consumers are respond…

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Guest: Tony Carroll 54:46

24d ago54:46

54:46

In this 78th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul is joined by Tony Carroll, a distinguished international trade advisor, lawyer and economist based in Washington DC that has consulted for the diamond industry. The episode begins with Tony sharing his experience serving in the Peace Corps in Botswana in the 1970's. Next, Pau…

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Ep. 91 - Natural Diamonds: Nature's Greatest Masterpiece with Ari Jain 22:25

1M ago22:25

22:25

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 in…

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Ep. 90 - How to Buy Your First Luxury Watch Without Getting Scammed 22:03

2M ago22:03

22:03

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, auctio…

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Guest: Amish Shah (5th Appearance) 54:31

1M ago54:31

54:31

In this 77th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Paul welcomes back lab-grown diamond entrepreneur Amish Shah –president of ALTR Created Diamonds and J'EVAR. The episode begins with Paul suggesting that autonomous driving technology should be stress tested in Surat, India. Next, Paul and Amish discuss when the diamond and jewelr…

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Ep. 89 - The Art of Time: How to Buy a Real Watch with Christian Bruhn 20:02

2M ago20:02

20:02

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 wi…

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Guest: Rob Bates (9th Appearance) 1:09:18

2M ago1:09:18

1:09:18

In this 76th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, novelist and jewelry industry journalist Rob Bates returns. The conversation begins with Rob addressing some of the feedback that his new novel "Making A Killing In Diamonds" received. Next, Paul discusses his recent keynote presentation at the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Lab-g…

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Guest: David McKay 43:11

3M ago43:11

43:11

In this 75th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, independent mining journalist David McKay joins the show from Johannesburg, South Africa. The conversation begins with Paul recounting a multi-week journey he took through South Africa in 2023 and David sharing his views on the current economic and political state of the nation. N…

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Guest: Aleah Arundale 33:49

3M ago33:49

33:49

In this 74th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, natural diamond wholesaler Aleah Arundale from Chicago-based Olympian Diamonds joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Aleah discussing the state of the U.S. diamond market going into the holiday season amidst tariff complications. Next, Aleah enthusiastically shares her …

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Guest: Tom Moses 55:53

4M ago55:53

55:53

In this 73rd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Tom Moses, Executive Vice President of The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), joins the show to discuss an array of timely industry topics. The episode begins with Tom giving his perspective on the current downturn in the diamond market and how it stacks up against others tha…

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Guest: Richa Singh 54:26

5M ago54:26

54:26

In this 72nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Richa Singh, the Natural Diamond Council's (NDC) Managing Director for India, joins the show for the first time. The episode begins with Paul recollecting his experience of being in India last year, especially as it pertains to the size of the gems and jewelry industry in Mumbai a…

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Guest: Sam Indelicato 1:08:12

6M ago1:08:12

1:08:12

In this 71st episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Sam Indelicato from U.S. wholesaler RDI Diamonds joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Sam talking about how retailers are viewing the proposition of selling lab-grown diamonds as of mid-2025. Next, the two discuss why certain larger, fancy-shaped natural diamond catego…

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Diamonds As Bad Investments 9:58

6M ago9:58

9:58

Episode Overview Andy takes on the YouTube critics and industry cynics head-on, delivering a family legacy perspective on why dismissing diamonds as "bad investments" completely misses the fucking point. From his grandfather's 1919 start in the business to today's lab-grown revolution, this episode cuts through the financial advisor bullshit to rev…

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The Four C's (Part 2)-Clarity and Carat Weight 12:23

7M ago12:23

12:23

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 bullshit to give you what actually matters when you're standing in that jewelry store. Key Takeaways The Clarity Reality Check:…

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The Four C's (Part 1) 11:25

7M ago11:25

11:25

_*]: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 h…

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Finding Your Guy on the Inside 9:30

7M ago9:30

9:30

Episode Overview Andy reads Chapter 1 from his new book, "The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" - a no-bullshit diamond and ring buying guide for guys who'd rather be anywhere else than a jewelry store. This episode covers the single most important piece of advice for buying an engagement ring without getting screwed over. Key Takea…

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The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring 2:59

7M ago2:59

2:59

This is the first installment of the audiobook version of my book The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring. I'll be releasing one chapter a week, right here in the podcast feed. If you'd rather read the whole thing now (because waiting is for people in line at the DMV), you can grab the full book on Kindle or paperback by clicking here.…

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Guest: Jon Phillips Returns, Again 34:43

9M ago34:43

34:43

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, well respected Canadian diamond industry veteran Jon Phillips returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Jon analyzing the current state of the natural diamond market. They then discuss the "elephant in the room," i.e. lab-grown diamonds, and the impact that the product is having o…

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Guest: Rob Bates (8th Appearance) 1:08:12

11M ago1:08:12

1:08:12

Author and industry expert Rob Bates joins Paul for the 8th time in episode #69 of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast. The episode begins with Paul airing his frustration over how some retailers are selling lab-grown diamonds. The two then discuss the current state of the larger diamond industry and the evolution of natural and LGD coexist…

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Guest: Amelia Bourdeau Returns 52:53

1y ago52:53

52:53

In this 68th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Amelia Bourdeau returns for a macro-themed episode. The conversation begins with Paul and Amelia discussing the upcoming U.S. presidential election and the impact that it can have on the economy, financial markets and diamond demand. Next the two discuss the Federal Reserve's late…

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Guest: Erez Rivlin Returns 1:07:52

1+ y ago1:07:52

1:07:52

In this 67th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, long-time industry expert Erez Rivlin returns to the show. The conversation begins with Paul and Erez analyzing the severity of the current industry downturn. Next, the two share thoughts on the longer-term implications of lab-grown diamonds on the legacy diamond industry. Then, t…

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Ep. 88 - Taking A Break 1:54

1+ y ago1:54

1:54

Andy here with an announcement. I'm taking a break for the next couple of months so I can line up some guests I plan on having on the show. I plan on being back in October, ready with new episodes hot off the press so stay tuned for that. I want to make sure I'm delivering value in these episodes, so if you've learned something or know of someone w…

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Guest: Charles Stanley 54:54

1+ y ago54:54

54:54

In this 66th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, now-retired, long-time De Beers executive Charles Stanley joins the show. The episode begins with Charles recounting his earlier days at De Beers in the 1990's, especially as it pertains to the marketing side of the business and the "A Diamond Is Forever" campaign. Next, Paul shar…

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Ep. 87 - Ask Andy: A Quick and Easy Way to Ruin The Moment 6:01

1+ y ago6:01

6:01

I'm going to share something I learned first hand about what you should not do when you buy and give something as special as an engagement ring, an anniversary gift...hell...any gift for that matter. I get right to the point when I tell you, "Don't tell her how much it cost. Not even a hint." Telling her what you paid for something can quickly turn…

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Guest: Maarten de Witte 45:07

1+ y ago45:07

45:07

U.S.-based "master diamond cutter" Maarten de Witte joins Paul to discuss an array of industry topics. The episode begins with Maarten explaining what it's like being an independent diamond manufacturer in American given that the large majority of this work is now done in India and China. Next, the two discuss the process of creating a proprietary …

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Ep. 86 - Love Unscripted: Bridging the "In-Between" with a Commitment Ring 7:04

1+ y ago7:04

7:04

In this episode, I'll talk about the concept of the commitment ring, that beautiful bridge between dating and engagement. Whether you're sipping beers at a cookout or pondering your future, this episode dives into the emotional significance of giving and receiving a ring that says, "We're in this together." Join me as I discuss why a commitment rin…

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Ep. 85 - Ask Andy: Lab-Grown Diamonds or Natural Diamonds? 7:30

1+ y ago7:30

7:30

In this episode we're going to dip our toes into the realm of lab-grown diamonds. I'll shed a little light on the ever-evolving diamond industry, exploring the distinctions between lab-grown and natural diamonds, their formation processes, and the ongoing debate surrounding their place in the fine jewelry world. Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Historical Per…

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Guest: Andrew Rickard 42:18

1+ y ago42:18

42:18

In this 64th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Andrew Rickard from RDI Diamonds, a large diamond and jewelry wholesaler in Upstate New York, joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Andrew talking about Oak Hill Country Club of which Andrew is a member. Next, the two analyze the state of diamond inventory in the supply…

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Ep. 84 - Ask Andy: How Much Should You Spend On An Engagement Ring? 4:50

1+ y ago4:50

4:50

One of the most common questions I get is, how much does an engagement ring cost? Or how much should I spend to get a decent ring? Now there is no single answer to that, but today I'll share some numbers that might help you and then give you the single best answer I know of. If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at andy@buylikeagu…

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Ep. 83 - Diamond Fluorescence: How Excited Electrons Can Save You Money and Light Up the Dance Floor 7:16

1+ y ago7:16

7:16

In this episode, I'll discuss diamond fluorescence, a topic that is rarely talked about. I'll explain what fluorescence is in my own words, and how it affects the appearance and value of a diamond. I'll also address the question of whether fluorescence is a "good or bad" thing and per usual, how the ultimate answer to that question comes down to pe…

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Ep. 82 - Crafting Time Part II: The Artistry, Challenge and Value of Independent Watches and the People Who Make Them 23:00

1+ y ago23:00

23:00

In this episode Tim Jackson, founder of Independent in Time, continues our chat about the Independent Watch world, something most people know very little about. We'll talk more about the dedication, discipline, and expertise required to excel in this field. The craftsmanship, technology, and artistry behind mechanical timepieces is impressive to sa…

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Ep. 81 - Crafting Time: The Artistry, Challenge, and Value of Independent Watches and The People Who Make Them 24:10

1+ y ago24:10

24:10

It was a pleasure to welcome Tim Jackson on the show again! Tim is the founder and owner of Independent In Time, and a passionate supporter and dealer for Independent Watches and they people who make them. He shares his journey into this niche industry and the unique challenges faced by Independent Watchmakers. The discussion also explores the dedi…

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Guest: Anthony Tsang Returns 37:34

1+ y ago37:34

37:34

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Anthony Tsang, CEO of The Future Rocks, returns. The conversation begins with Anthony giving an update on the company and the two discuss Chinese consumers' acceptance of lab-grown diamonds. Paul and Anthony then discuss the background of the company's proprietary "The Ring II," a lab-…

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Ep. 80 - Bourbon Slang: The Angel's Share, The Devil's Cut, Tater's, Legs, and Other Such Things 33:42

1+ y ago33:42

33:42

Me and Derek, our resident bourbon expert, explore more aspects of the bourbon world, including brand loyalty, the cost of collecting bourbon, and the emotional connection people have with their favorite brands. We talk about 'taters' (bourbon enthusiasts who wait in line for rare bottles and collect them without opening) as well as some other bour…

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Ep. 79 - Men's Wedding Rings: From Gold to Breastmilk (Yes, You Read That Right.) 10:41

1+ y ago10:41

10:41

[Look at me. I'm your expert now.] In this episode, I'm going to talk about the different materials used to make men's wedding rings. I'll cover the most popular options like gold, platinum, titanium, tungsten carbide, palladium, tantalum, and cobalt, and touch on additional materials you've heard of, and probably not heard of. (A ring made with br…

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Guest: Amish Shah (4th Appearance) 59:04

1+ y ago59:04

59:04

In this 62nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Amish Shah returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Amish analyzing the current "tornado" of factors impacting the global diamond industry: supply hangover, Russian sanctions, LGDs and a possible sale of De Beers. Next, Amish explains the sentiment of…

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Ep. 78 - A Man's Guide to Wristwatches Part 2: Finding The Right Watch Style 16:46

1+ y ago16:46

16:46

Tim Jackson and I continue our discussion about fine watches, and what makes them "tick." Tim is the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time, a company that deals in watches made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. We cover a lot of ground here, including different watch options, brands, and other things to consider when choosing the…

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Ep. 77 - A Man's Guide To Wristwatches: How to Choose the Right Watch 23:46

1+ y ago23:46

23:46

In this episode we're going to talk about watches with Tim Jackson, the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time. He deals in watches that are made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. When it comes to watches, he knows his sh*t. We talk about the basics of buying a "nice watch," the appeal of owning and collecting fine watches, the di…

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Ep. 76 - Thinking About Buying a Gun for The First Time? Listen to Leland Before You Do 26:03

1+ y ago26:03

26:03

In this episode my guest, Leland Conway, provides valuable insights on buying a handgun for the uninitiated. He emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on friends' recommendations or the advice of gun store employees, as the choice of a handgun is a personal and individual decision. (There are exceptions, and he'll cover that as well.) Lela…

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Guest: Rob Bates (7th Appearance) 1:06:37

1+ y ago1:06:37

1:06:37

Mystery novelist and JCK News Director Rob Bates returns to the show for a seventh time. The show begins with Paul analyzing whether the current diamond market softness is more cyclical or secular in nature. Next, Paul and Rob talk about how the retail segment of the trade is currently viewing lab-grown diamonds and whether a "pivot" back to natura…

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Ep. 75 - Glitter & Grit: Pat Finn on the Sparkle of Necessity, Bonds of Friendship, and a Chris Farley Gem 21:24

1+ y ago21:24

21:24

In this episode, Pat Finn and I continue our off-the-cuff exploration of the significance of fine jewelry, including a pretty sweet story about Pat's late friend, the legendary Chris Farley, and his love of gift-giving. We get a little sentimental, but it's cool, because that's one of the unexpected powers of jewelry: it can connect us to our past …

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Ep. 74 - The Male Experience of Buying Jewelry: Advice and Stories from Pat Finn 26:41

1+ y ago26:41

26:41

Pat Finn is a well-known actor, comedian, and writer with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He's appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, including The Middle, Seinfeld, "It's Complicated," and the "I Am Chris Farley" documentary. He has an almost endless list of professional accomplishments, and I wanted him on the show b…

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Guest: David Kellie Returns, Again 47:59

1+ y ago47:59

47:59

David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), returns to the show for a third time. The conversation begins with David discussing the NDC's recent marketing shoot in Canada's Northwest Territories with actress Lily James. David then shares his cold-water plunge experience in minus 30-degree temperatures. Paul and David then go on to t…

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Ep. 73 - The Bourbon Brotherhood: A Beginner's Guide From "A Guy" Who Knows His Sh*t 30:57

1+ y ago30:57

30:57

Bourbon continues to be a "go to" for guys who want to move away from cheap beer and fruity drinks, and I support it. It's a crazy big world of choices that are mind boggling, even to seasoned bourbon hunters. My guest today is definitely a guy who can help us traverse the multi-leveled landscape of the bourbon world. Derek works in the heart of Bo…

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Ep. 72 - One for the Ladies: What NOT to Do When He's Picking Out His Wedding Ring 5:52

1+ y ago5:52

5:52

This is an auspicious moment because in this episode, for the first time, I'm going to address "The Ladies." Specifically, I'm going to talk about what you, as a woman, should NOT do when you and your fella go to look for his wedding ring. When it's time to pick out his wedding ring, he just might for your opinion. (Most likely he will!) And you sh…

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Ep. 71 - Ask Andy: What is the Custom Jewelry Design Process Like? 7:01

2y ago7:01

7:01

Customer involvement in designing jewelry is a growing trend in the jewelry business. Independent jewelry stores offer a range of options, from changing metals and gemstones to adding unique touches. However, there's a crucial balance between personalization and potentially compromising the integrity of the original design when people who don't kno…

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Ep. 70 - Ask Andy: What is a "Push Present?" and Why It's a Legendary Gift 8:01

2y ago8:01

8:01

A lot of guys have no idea what a "push present" is. I have to confess that until there was a baby in my future, I never heard of it, nor did I know what it was. (And I'm in "the business!") So what is a push present? Is it something you should consider when there's a baby on the way? First, a push present is a gift that you present to your wife or…