Premier industry event returns for its third year of future-forward programing, exploring the transformative impact of AI on the jewelry industry.
NEENAH, Wis. (January 15, 2026) – Jewelers Mutual® Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, announced the return of Conversations, its premier leadership retreat bringing together forward-thinking jewelry industry leaders for meaningful discussion, shared learning, and authentic connection.
The 2026 Conversations retreat – the third edition – will take place April 10–12, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, convening leaders from across the jewelry industry for curated conversations centered on the future of the business, evolving customer expectations, innovation, and long-term industry resilience.
The 2026 conference agenda will once again be curated by returning future expert, Jeff Weiner and will carry the theme, “The Transformative Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Jewelry Industry.” Sessions will feature perspectives from leaders outside the jewelry industry, offering cross-industry insight into how AI is reshaping customer engagement, operations, and growth strategies.
As with past editions, Conversations will feature a perspective from outside the jewelry industry, offering attendees fresh insight into leadership, brand-building, and innovation. This edition’s speaker is Mike Cessario, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Liquid Death. Since launching the canned water brand in 2019, Cessario has built Liquid Death into a category-disrupting company currently valued at $1.4 billion. He brings a distinctive perspective on how purpose-driven branding and innovation can fuel rapid growth while challenging industry norms.
“The Conversations retreat was created to give industry leaders the opportunity to step back, think differently, and engage with peers in a meaningful way,” said Mike Alexander, President at Jewelers Mutual. “The jewelry industry continues to evolve, and creating space for thoughtful dialogue and collaboration is essential to shaping what comes next.”
In addition to its core programming, the 2026 retreat will feature a selection of optional à la carte excursions designed to deepen connection and reflection outside the sessions. These curated experiences range from outdoor adventures like mountain biking, kayaking and horseback riding, to creative options such as glass blowing and more.
Past participants consistently cite the retreat’s unique format, intimate scale, and blend of strategic insight with experiential engagement as catalysts for new ideas, challenged assumptions, and strengthen professional relationships across the industry.
Conversations reflects Jewelers Mutual’s long-standing commitment to supporting the jewelry industry beyond insurance by investing in education, leadership development, and jewelry community-building experiences that move the industry forward.
To find out more about 2026 Conversations, such as updates on speakers, how to register, and a complete list of à la carte excursions, visit JewelersMutual.com/conversations.
