Long before there were banks or ATMS, there were pawn shops. Until the 1950s, pawn shops were the leading sources of credit in this country.

When the History Channel first started airing the show “Pawn Stars,” it had no idea it had a future mega-hit on its hands. But the show has resonated with audiences around the world. It’s now the No. 1 non-broadcast show in the world, airing in 150 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Canada, and across Asia, translated into 30 different languages.

One of the main reasons audiences love the show is its stars, the Harrison family. Three generations of Harrisons run the pawn shop in Las Vegas, Nevada, including the man in charge, Rick Harrison.

After nearly 30 years in the business, he has suddenly found himself an overnight sensation.

He explains why he thinks the show’s unique blend of history, game show-style drama and family-friendly material has resonated with audiences.

Plus, find out how he runs his pawn shop differently than the major corporations who run most of the country’s pawn shops and how his business has changed with the economy.

And, just where did Chumley come from? Rick explains how everyone’s favorite goofy, loveable young man became a part of the Harrison family.