Les Gold is a name that resonates with fans of reality television and pawn shop enthusiasts alike. Best known as the charismatic owner of American Jewelry and Loan in Detroit, Michigan, Les gained widespread recognition as the star of the hit reality show “Hardcore Pawn.” However, there’s more to his life than just the pawn shop business. From his early beginnings to his successful career, marriage to Lili Gold, and their journey as parents, Les Gold’s life story is one of ambition, perseverance, and family values. In this article, we delve deep into the life of Les Gold and his relationship with his wife, Lili Gold.

Quick Bio

Full Name	Les Gold
Date of Birth	June 20, 1950
Age	74 years old
Place of Birth	Detroit, Michigan, USA
Nationality	American
Height	6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)
Occupation	Entrepreneur, Television Personality, Author
Famous For	Owner of American Jewelry and Loan, Star of “Hardcore Pawn”
Spouse	Lili Gold
Children	Seth Gold, Ashley Gold Broad
Net Worth	Approximately $5 million
Book	For What It’s Worth: Business Wisdom from a Pawnbroker
Hobbies	Public Speaking, Philanthropy
Active Since	1978 (Started American Jewelry and Loan)

Early Life and Education

Les Gold was born on June 20, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, into a family already familiar with the pawn business. His grandfather owned Sam’s Loans, a pawn shop in Detroit, which inspired Les to follow in his footsteps. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, Les learned the value of hard work and perseverance early on.

From a young age, he was exposed to the world of negotiation and sales, which would eventually shape his career. Les attended local schools in Detroit but did not pursue higher education, opting instead to jump into the business world. By the age of 12, he was selling pizzas and working at his grandfather’s pawn shop, gaining firsthand experience that would prove invaluable later in life.

His entrepreneurial spirit was evident even as a child, and this ambition would drive him to open his own pawn shop, American Jewelry and Loan, in 1978. Today, his business is one of the largest pawn shops in the United States, attracting both locals and tourists.

Age, Height & Weight

Les Gold born June 20, 1950. Despite his age, he maintains an energetic and vibrant presence, both on and off the screen. Standing at approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall, Les has a commanding presence that matches his strong personality.

While his exact weight is not publicly disclosed, he is known for his tall and lean physique. Les has always emphasized the importance of staying active, which is perhaps one of the secrets to his youthful appearance and dynamic energy.

Family and Legacy

Family is at the heart of Les Gold’s life. He comes from a lineage of pawnbrokers, with his grandfather paving the way in the industry. Today, Les continues this legacy with his own business, which he runs alongside his children, Seth and Ashley.

His son, Seth Gold, and daughter, Ashley Gold Broad, are integral parts of American Jewelry and Loan, bringing their own unique skills to the business. This family dynamic was prominently featured on “Hardcore Pawn,” showcasing not just the business side of things but also the challenges and joys of working together as a family.

Les’s legacy is not only about the success of his pawn shop but also about the values he has instilled in his children—hard work, honesty, and perseverance. He is proud to see his family continue the tradition while also bringing their own innovations to the business.

Personal Life & Achievements

Beyond his business ventures, Les Gold is known for his charismatic personality and philanthropic efforts. He is a public speaker, author, and television personality who has inspired many through his success story.

In 2013, he published his autobiography “For What It’s Worth: Business Wisdom from a Pawnbroker,” where he shares his insights into entrepreneurship, negotiation, and leadership. The book became a bestseller, solidifying his reputation not just as a pawnbroker but as a motivational figure.

Les is also actively involved in charity work, contributing to various local and national organizations. His commitment to giving back to the community is an extension of his philosophy of hard work and gratitude.

How Les Gold Met Lili Gold

Les Gold met his wife, Lili Gold, in Detroit during his early years of establishing American Jewelry and Loan. Their meeting was a serendipitous one, rooted in their shared values of family and ambition.

The two quickly connected and began dating, finding common ground in their love for family and entrepreneurship. Lili, who has always been supportive of Les’s dreams, became his partner not just in life but also in business. Their relationship blossomed, leading to a marriage that has stood the test of time.

Who is Lili Gold?

Lili Gold is more than just the wife of Les Gold; she is a strong, independent woman who has played a significant role in the family business. Known for her supportive nature and business acumen, Lili has been a behind-the-scenes powerhouse at American Jewelry and Loan.

While she doesn’t often appear on “Hardcore Pawn,” her influence in the business is undeniable. Lili has been instrumental in helping Les grow the pawn shop into the empire it is today. Additionally, she is a dedicated mother and grandmother, ensuring that family remains at the core of everything they do.

Lili Gold’s Relationship with Les Gold

Lili and Les Gold’s relationship is one built on mutual respect, love, and understanding. Throughout their marriage, they have supported each other’s dreams and ambitions. Lili has always been Les’s confidant and biggest supporter, helping him navigate the challenges of the pawn industry and reality television fame.

Their partnership extends beyond marriage; they have worked together in building a successful family business, balancing the demands of work and family life. Their relationship is a testament to the power of love, patience, and teamwork.

Marriage to Lili Gold

Les and Lili Gold have been married for over four decades, making their relationship one of the most enduring in the industry. Their marriage is a symbol of stability and commitment, even amidst the pressures of business and public life.

Together, they have navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, parenthood, and fame. Their long-lasting marriage serves as an inspiration to many, proving that love and partnership can thrive even in the most demanding of circumstances.

Do They Have Kids?

Yes, Les and Lili Gold have two children—Seth Gold and Ashley Gold Broad. Both Seth and Ashley are heavily involved in the family business, playing pivotal roles at American Jewelry and Loan.

Seth Gold is known for his sharp business sense, while Ashley brings her own flair to customer relations and management. Their dynamic as a family was a major highlight of “Hardcore Pawn,” showcasing the complexities of working with loved ones.

Career Highlights

Les Gold’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. From starting American Jewelry and Loan in a small 1,500 square-foot location to expanding it into a 50,000 square-foot empire, his journey has been one of perseverance and vision.

His role in “Hardcore Pawn” made him a household name, turning his pawn shop into a tourist attraction and his family into reality TV stars. Beyond television, his success as an author and motivational speaker further solidifies his status as a business mogul.

Net Worth And Financial Insights

Les Gold’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, thanks to his successful pawn shop and reality TV career. His wealth is a result of his strategic business decisions, investment in real estate, and book sales.

Despite his financial success, Les remains grounded, attributing his achievements to hard work, honesty, and integrity. He continues to run American Jewelry and Loan with the same dedication and passion that he had when he first started.

Future Plans And Projects

Looking ahead, Les Gold shows no signs of slowing down. He is actively involved in expanding his business and exploring new ventures. Additionally, he remains committed to his motivational speaking engagements, inspiring others with his story of perseverance and success.

Conclusion

Les Gold is more than just a pawnbroker; he is an entrepreneur, television personality, author, and family man. His life story is one of hard work, ambition, and love. Together with his wife, Lili Gold, he has built a legacy that extends beyond the pawn shop. From his early beginnings to his current success, Les Gold continues to inspire and influence people worldwide.

FAQs

• Who is Les Gold?
  • Les Gold is an American entrepreneur, television personality, and author, best known as the owner of American Jewelry and Loan and the star of the reality show “Hardcore Pawn.”
• When was Les Gold born?
  • Les Gold was born on June 20, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
• How tall is Les Gold?
  • Les Gold stands at approximately 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm) tall.
• Who is Les Gold’s wife?
  • Les Gold is married to Lili Gold. They have been together for over four decades.
• Do Les and Lili Gold have children?
  • Yes, they have two children: Seth Gold and Ashley Gold Broad, who are both actively involved in the family business.
• What is Les Gold’s net worth?
  • Les Gold’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
• What is Les Gold known for?
  • He is known for his role in “Hardcore Pawn” and as the owner of American Jewelry and Loan in Detroit.
• Has Les Gold written any books?
  • Yes, he authored the bestseller “For What It’s Worth: Business Wisdom from a Pawnbroker.”
• Is Les Gold still active in his business?
  • Yes, Les Gold continues to run American Jewelry and Loan and remains active in motivational speaking and community work.
• What are Les Gold’s future plans?
  • Les Gold is focused on expanding his business, engaging in motivational speaking, and exploring new ventures.