(PRESS RELEASE) NORWALK, CT — JCK has announced its 2026 Keynote speaker, Jesse Itzler, a renowned entrepreneur, globally recognized speaker, and #1 New York Times bestselling author.
Jesse’s session, “Spiritual Billionaire,” will explore how risk-taking, perspective, and hustle fueled his success as a rapper, runner, and entrepreneur, and how attendees can apply these principles to their own journeys. Sponsored by Angola’s Diamond Potential, the Keynote session will take place on Saturday, May 30, in the Marcello Ballroom on Level 3 of the Venetian. Doors open at 7:30 AM, and the session begins at 8:00 AM.
Jesse has spent his career proving that the most meaningful growth happens when you intentionally seek challenge, discomfort, and adventure in both business and life. Jesse has built and sold multiple companies, including Marquis Jet (acquired by Warren Buffett’s NetJets), Zico Coconut Water (acquired by Coca-Cola), and 29029 Everesting (acquired by iFit). An avid endurance competitor, he completed Ultraman in 2022 at age 53 and has also finished a 100-mile ultramarathon.
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Jesse’s unconventional path included launching a music career as a rapper on MTV, managing Run-DMC, and writing the New York Knicks’ anthem—early chapters that shaped his belief that you don’t have to be the smartest in the room, but you do have to be the most passionate.
Jesse is the New York Times bestselling author of Living with a SEAL and Living with Monks, and the creator of the viral year at a glance, Big Ass Calendar.
Above all, Jesse is most proud of the life he’s building with his wife, Sara Blakely (founder of SPANX), and their four children—living proof that success is about designing a life you’re excited to wake up to.
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In addition to Jesse’s inspiring story, the JCK Talks Education Program offers a wealth of practical insights and strategies tailored to the jewelry and watch industry.
JCK Talks Education Program Highlights
The JCK Talks sessions, starting on Thursday, May 28, are free to all attendees and take place in the Venetian 101 Meeting Room on Level 1 (Thursday only), and on the Showcase and Spotlight stages on the show floor (Friday – Sunday), spanning multiple tracks tailored to the evolving needs of the jewelry and watch industry.
Tracks include AI & Analytics, Business Management, Hot Topics, Marketing, Regulations/Governance & Ethics, Retail Trends, Social Media, and an all-new Watches track.
JCK Talks Signature Series
An exciting, elevated program debuting this year is the JCK Talks Signature Series, which includes advanced sessions designed to deliver even deeper insights. Program highlights include a Harvard Business Case Study as well as a Trends & Outlook session led by an industry veteran, exploring the economic indicators influencing the jewelry industry today. JCK Talks Signature Series sessions are included in JCK PRO badges or can be purchased a la carte for a minimal fee of $125. Limited availability remaining.
Watchmaking Workshops & Lectures
Another expansion of this year’s program is the highly anticipated workshop and lectures, presented by the renowned FHH (Fondation Haute Horlogerie). Workshops will take place Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31 and focus on the disassembly and reassembly of a mechanical movement. Lectures will take place on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31 focused on watchmaking complications as well as iconic watches. Seats are extremely limited. Workshops ($290 each) and lectures ($50 each) can be purchased during the registration process. Already registered attendees can ‘modify’ their registration via their confirmation email to purchase.
“This year’s education program offers a truly elevated experience that provides more than any in our history,” says Jennifer Hopf, JCK Event Director. “We’re bringing together some of the brightest minds to inspire meaningful growth and collaboration. Jesse Itzler brings a bold energy and a fresh perspective on success that will deeply resonate with our attendees. We designed the 2026 program to challenge our industry to think differently and grow intentionally. With an inspiring keynote from Jesse, expert-led JCK Talks, our new Signature Series Program, and immersive FHH watchmaking sessions, this year is not to be missed.”
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View the complete education schedule, including specific session times and speaker details.
Registration for retailers and attending professionals can be found here.
Members of the media can register here.
