2 Regular Guys Talking Decoration and Personalization

Last week, Aaron and Terry opened up the conversation around niche market ideas for DTF printers, and as usually happens with a good 2 Regular Guys topic, they only made it through a handful of the ideas. This week, Erich Campbell jumps in with Terry while Aaron is away at DAX Tampa to keep the conversation going. They’ll pick up where the first show left off and explore more niche market opportunities DTF printers can use to stand out, create clearer offers, and serve specific customers better. From overlooked customer groups to smart ways decorators can use DTF transfers to expand what they already offer, this episode is all about finding focused opportunities instead of trying to be everything to everyone. Whether you print DTF in-house, buy transfers, or use other decoration methods, these ideas will help you think differently about markets, messaging, and profitable growth. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: There’s an island off the coast of Italy with 5 million Sicilians That’s the biggest number I’ve ever heard 5 million-sicilian DTF Niche Ideas Part 2: More Markets Terry: I’ll repeat what Aaron shared before we jumped in last week. DTF is not the niche by itself. DTF is not really a niche anymore. It is a production method. The niche is who you serve with it and what problem you solve for them. Are you helping gyms launch merch drops? Are you helping trades businesses outfit crews quickly? Are you supporting school spirit stores? Are you creating easy reorder programs for small brands? That is where the opportunity gets clearer. So let’s dive into as many ideas as we can get there today. As always with our niche market discussions, we’re not suggesting you pick number 5 and run with it. We’re attempting to stimulate thoughts and ideas about your passions and opportunities Memorial and Celebration of Life Apparel – This needs to be handled with care, but it is a real unmet need. Families often want shirts, blankets, totes, or keepsakes quickly for memorial walks, reunions, celebrations of life, or fundraisers. DTF can reproduce full-color images and meaningful artwork on small quantities. The differentiator is service, compassion, speed, and making the process easy when people are overwhelmed. Rescue, Foster, and Animal Advocacy Merch – Animal rescues, foster networks, breed-specific groups, shelters, and adoption events always need fundraising and awareness. DTF is ideal for colorful, emotional designs with pet photos, breed artwork, slogans, event themes, and small fundraiser runs. The niche could be “fundraising merch for animal rescue groups.”  Youth Sports Parent Sideline Shops – Not just team uniforms. Think parent gear, grandparent gear, sibling shirts, tournament weekend shirts, coach gifts, and end-of-season items. The need is identity and belonging. DTF lets you create fun, full-color designs with names, numbers, mascots, and sport-specific themes without big setup requirements.  Workplace Culture and Internal Team Drops – This could be for dental offices, real estate teams, salons, vet clinics, restaurants, banks, insurance offices, manufacturing teams, and church staff. These groups may not need traditional uniforms, but they do need culture. Think onboarding shirts, anniversary shirts, team-building event apparel, holiday drops, internal campaigns, and customer appreciation items. DTF fits because these orders are often small, seasonal, and design-heavy. Outdoor Micro-Community Merch – Target very specific outdoor groups: disc golf leagues, pickleball clubs, hiking groups, Jeep clubs, kayak groups, fishing tournaments, hunting camps, cycling crews, running clubs, and campground communities. These groups love identity-based apparel and often buy around events, seasons, and trips. DTF allows highly themed, full-color designs with low minimums. The decorator’s edge is understanding the language and culture of the group. Pop-Up Fundraiser Stores for Small Causes – This is for families raising money for medical expenses, youth travel, mission trips, community projects, school trips, nonprofit campaigns, and local emergencies. The need is not just printing. The need is making fundraising simple. DTF works because you can offer limited-time designs, collect orders first, produce after the campaign closes, and avoid inventory. Small Business Grand Opening and Rebrand Kits – New restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, gyms, barbershops, salons, mobile businesses, and local retailers all need launch apparel. The offer could include staff shirts, owner shirts, soft opening apparel, giveaway tees, tote bags, and first-month promo items. DTF is great because logos are often full-color, quantities are uncertain, and timelines are tight. Faith, Mission, and Community Group Apparel – Church groups, youth ministries, mission trips, Bible study groups, volunteer teams, retreats, and community outreach programs often need apparel with meaning. The buying driver is belonging and shared purpose. DTF supports smaller groups, colorful artwork, trip-specific designs, and quick reorders. This is a good fit for decorators who already serve churches or nonprofits and want to expand beyond basic one-color shirts Personalized Employee Recognition and Milestone Gear – This is for companies that want to celebrate employees without giving another generic mug. Think “five-year club” hoodies, safety milestone shirts, employee of the month apparel, retirement gifts, sales goal celebrations, or project completion shirts. DTF makes it easier to personalize names, dates, departments, inside jokes, and limited-run designs. The niche is helping businesses build appreciation into their culture. The niche is not DTF. DTF is the tool. The niche is the customer group, the unmet need, and the way you package the solution. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/QU-Wn5IL3b0 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with SuperGamut and DTF Superstore. Trade Shows DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

This week on 2 Regular Guys, Aaron takes you inside the recent Kornit Konnections event with exclusive interviews from several large print shops sharing what they’re seeing in the decorated apparel industry right now. From changing customer expectations to new ways shops are creating value, these conversations offer a real-world snapshot of where the market stands today. Aaron also shares his biggest takeaways from the event, trends that could shape the future, and what apparel decorators of every size should be paying attention to now. If you want insight straight from the people doing the work and a practical look at where the industry may be heading next, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/aOt7ui715OI Dad Joke Aaron: My wife said quilts are better than duvets. I said you’d better be careful making blanket statements like that. What Top Print Shops See Coming Next Thank Kornit for the invitation and hospitality. Was a beautiful place – Hollywood, FL Impressed by the collaboration – Got to talk to several SuperGamut customers as well – They are solutions providers, not DTF v DTG v Screen etc. Shout out to Justin and Jay from RIP Print. Working on having them on the show soon Draymond John – Shark Tank – Agility. Saying Yes and Figuring it out. Had an awesome idea, but I’ll save that for folks in my free Facebook Group. OSG.link/group Stand Outs Overview: As you heard in the news segment with WIN last week, Kornit Digital just acquired PrintFactory, the workflow and automation platform. This was a theme.  Saw a take from MerchTroop in CA that feels spot on. They said: The industry is quietly shifting from a “who has the biggest press” business to a “who has the tightest system” business. Ten years ago, capacity was the advantage. Today, it’s workflow — how fast a shop can quote, proof, schedule, print, and ship. That was the theme of this event: Agility!  Faster turnarounds, smaller minimums, and more real-time visibility into orders. MerchTropp said in their Facebook post – it means the competition isn’t the embroiderer across town — it’s any decorator who has built a real operating system behind the scenes. One of the main slides in the opening talk from the Kornit CEO – Said Agility is not a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. This slide also stuck out to me with real-world applications for our listeners: First, discovery has moved to social media. – The slide says 38% of people discover fashion brands through social platforms. That means customers are not waiting to search for brands anymore. Brands are finding them in Instagram feeds, TikTok videos, Facebook posts, and YouTube content. For decorators, this means your customers need branded content, not just branded products. Second, engagement is happening daily. – Around 50% of U.S. consumers use social media every day. That means brands now have an ongoing relationship opportunity. It is no longer about one campaign or one catalog. People are interacting constantly. Shops that help customers stay visible with merch drops, seasonal campaigns, creator programs, or event apparel become more valuable partners. Third, conversion follows online. The slide says successful fashion brands get 30 to 50% of their online sales through these efforts. In other words, attention can quickly translate into revenue when the systems are connected. Someone sees content, gets interested, clicks a link, and buys right away. If you are an apparel decorator, promo distributor, or print shop, you are not just selling shirts anymore. You are helping customers fuel a marketing engine. Fast turn times, small runs, personalization, ecommerce integrations, and trend-responsive production matter more than ever. The strongest companies in our space can no longer live by Terry’s minimum standard – Do Good Work and Deliver on time! Our role is to help our customers generate demand. Also, they had this big poster board where attendees wrote the things keeping them up at night. I think there is a gold mine of information in this that the regulators can take away: First takeaway: You are not alone. Many shop owners think their worries are unique. They are not. Across the industry, people are dealing with the same pressure points. Sometimes knowing that helps reduce stress and creates perspective.  Second takeaway: Focus on what you can control. You cannot control tariffs, politics, or the economy. You can control customer experience, internal systems, training, pricing, communication, and speed of response.  Third takeaway: Uncertainty creates opportunity. When markets feel shaky, customers want trusted partners. Shops that become reliable, proactive, and easy to work with often grow during uncertain times. Fourth takeaway: AI is not the enemy; ignorance is. Several people mentioned AI. The smart move is not fear or blind hype. It is learning practical uses now: quoting, customer service drafts, art ideation, workflow help, and marketing content. Fifth takeaway: Relevance is the real battle. One attendee wrote relevance, and that may be the most important word on the board. If you stay useful to customers, keep solving current problems, and adapt to what matters now, you stay in the game. What struck me most is that nobody wrote embroidery tension, DTF/DTG head clogs, screen making or pretreat settings. They wrote economy, labor, sales, relevance, and uncertainty. That tells us the next level of success in this industry is less about machines and more about leadership. But you look at the education at some of the other shows, and the How To classes are always full, yet the leadership and mindset classes are not. Its why so many shops struggle. The businesses that sleep best in the next few years won’t be the ones with no problems. They’ll be the ones with the best habits for handling them. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/ZRX8t0UA-8I OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with SuperGamut and DTF Superstore. Trade Shows DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

This week, we welcome back Jay Busselle of Branded Merch Network for a recap of the 2026 Sustainable Merch Summit and a deeper look at what apparel decorators, promo pros, and print shop owners need to know right now. We break down the biggest lessons from the event, what brands are really asking for, and how sustainability is shaping modern marketing conversations. More importantly, we talk about how shops of any size can turn sustainability from a buzzword into a profitable opportunity. From smarter product choices to stronger customer relationships and better storytelling, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use right away. If you’ve wondered whether sustainability matters to your customers or how to make it work for your business, this conversation is for you. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/OXGK8Lx7zkU Dad Joke Terry: If Farmer A sells potatoes and Farmer B sells corn, What does Farmer C sell? Obviously medicine  Farmer C = Pharmacy Sustainable Merch That Sells Terry: Jay, for any of our listeners who didn’t tune in Wednesday, tell us what the Sustainable Merch Summit was all about. So, hit on some of the big takeaways. Anything that the regulators can take away and use from the conversations? Talk a bit about how sustainability plays in marketing today. Give us a rundown of the sponsors. Where can our listeners go back and see the entire two hour event? And we can’t leave without a “what’s next?” Jay, how can our listeners reach out to you and Branded Merch Network? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/4p-PG5lnJ6w OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with SuperGamut and DTF Superstore. Trade Shows DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Process is one of those things everyone knows they should work on, yet very few truly invest the time to get it right. In this episode of 2 Regular Guys, we welcome Dean Biscan, a 14-year industry veteran who has seen process from every angle. From owning his own apparel shop to working with powerhouse manufacturers, stepping into custom signage, and now operating within a national franchise model, Dean brings hard-earned perspective and plenty of war stories. We dig into why process is so much more than just production flow. Dean shares how refining processes across every part of the business can lead to faster turnaround times, improved efficiency, real cost savings, and long-term growth. You’ll hear practical examples, mindset shifts, and simple tweaks that consistently move the needle. Expect honest insights, a few laughs, and ideas you can apply whether you decorate apparel, sell promotional products, or manufacture custom gifts. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/OFPosQic7VM Dad Joke Terry: What did the French groundhog see on February 2nd? His chateau Chateau = Shadow Why Process Always Pays Off Aaron: Dean, welcome to the show. You messaged us recently about being back in the industry. Welcome back! (It is like Hotel California) Tell us about your industry journey and where you are now. Terry: In our back-and-forth about a specific topic, “process” kept coming up. What have you learned about “process” in your industry experience? Aaron: Once you felt you found the right process in your business experience, was it perfect every time? Terry: Why is process so important to success and our bottom line? Aaron: So let’s define it a little bit. Many people, when they hear the term “process,” they think of “production.” How can we get from point A to point B to point C and then out the door? Should we just focus on production processes? Terry: As you know, here on 2RGs, we like to get into the nuts and bolts of real-world examples. Can you share an example where a small process change made a big impact? Aaron: Was there ever a process you thought was “dialed in,” only to later realize it needed to change again? What triggered that realization? Terry: Many people believe a better process requires major equipment purchases. From your experience, when does process improvement require investment, and when does it just require better thinking? Aaron: If someone listening feels overwhelmed and says, “My whole business is a mess,” where should they start when it comes to improving the process? Terry: How can our listeners reach out to you? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/XV_O6OpTT5o OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 CANCELLED Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Terry and Aaron are back in host mode, breaking down practical, creative ways the Regulators can reach customers and potential customers without feeling salesy or getting lost in the noise. From quick wins you can try this week to longer-term visibility plays that compound over time, you will walk away with ideas you can put into action, whether you sell B2B, B2C, or both. Expect real examples, simple frameworks, and a few “why didn’t I think of that?” tactics that help you stay top-of-mind, start better conversations, and create more opportunities for quotes and repeat business. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/0JVAI1gJKqM Dad Joke Aaron: What do you call a nun who sleepwalks?  A Roaming “Roman” Catholic How to Reach More Customers Aaron: On the heels of last week’s Long Beach Impressions Expo show, we were talking about how decorators can reach any new potential buyers and the ones we are already working with. We both have some ideas we would love to share, and we also want to hear from those of you listening in live. We hope to share and uncover creative ways to reach out without feeling salesy or getting lost in the noise. We have plenty of ideas here, so we will see how many we get through and will save the rest for a future show. Terry, are you ready to dive in with your first idea? Terry:  My philosophy with running a production floor and running a business is, keep it simple.  This is a simple technique that has served me well for a long time.  Here’s a way for me to “touch” my current customers without sounding salesy On all my forms and paperwork, I say, “We hold your screens for 90 days.”  Whether I do or not is beside the point. At about 80 days, rather than calling and saying, “Hey, do you want to buy some more shirts?” I say, “I just wanted to give you a heads-up, we hold your screens for 90 days and that date is coming up.”  I’m not selling anything. I’m being a friend with a reminder. I’m helping you.   And surprising how many people would say, “We’ve been talking about getting more of those shirts.”  They might never have called. Most of our customers are not professional buyers. They’re business owners just like us who get caught up in the day to day.  So to start us off, I say, Keep it Simple, but Keep in Touch with the customers you have.  It’s far easier to keep the customers we have than to bring new ones on board.  A lot of us forget that and take those customers for granted. While we’re working to gain customers on this side, some of the ones we have are sliding ot the other Aaron: Micro-content from real jobs – I get to work with a group of Handmade Sellers who focus on Etsy, and one of the common statements is “everything is content.” Most of us don’t share enough on social media because we don’t know what to share or feel like it is a big production. But that is not true. One finished order could create 5 pieces of content: a quick photo of the finished product you are proud of creating, a short story about the customer, a 1-sentence lesson learned, a process clip or reel going from blank to decorated, and a “support our customer” post tagging them so they can share you too. Terry: I want to piggyback on this and share a simple Instagram story that any of us can accomplish. Mel Lay’s garage screen printer experience. Aaron: Can I piggyback again? Not sure how that works but… Customer spotlight pipeline: Feature one customer per week. They get visibility, you get shareable content, and prospects see proof you are active and trusted. Aaron: The “3-Minute Touch” list. Many times, we don’t follow up because out of sight, out of mind. But your past customers are a goldmine of potential future orders IF you build a relationship. So make a process, set an appointment on your calendar, and pick 10 past customers each week. Send a short check-in, a helpful link, or a quick compliment about their business. No pitch, just build a relationship. Instead of “just checking in,” lead with a real reason: seasonal timing, a new staff hire, upcoming events, a trend you are seeing, or a mistake you can help them avoid. Ask for replies, and ask questions about them and their business. You will see the patterns show up in building that relationship when the time is right to offer your services. Terry: Live decorating events, if you’re built for that On Tuesday, I was talking to a decorator in Pittsburgh about live printing. He’s going back for year two of a cheerleading competition. He’s a DTF decorator who is pre-making transfers and sets up with heat presses at the ready. He sent me a video last year of his live printing at an outdoor ice hockey tournament! Festivals, live bands, community gatherings, high school football games Printed Threads in Ft Worth Aaron: Borrowed audiences with tiny collaborations – Pair up with complementary local businesses (photographers, gyms, breweries, schools, nonprofits) for a simple giveaway, bundle, or spotlight swap. Terry: Reactivation campaigns for the “almost” list  Prospects who asked for a quote but never bought. Do a quarterly “still need this?”  Reach-out with a new angle: updated pricing tiers, a new product option, or a deadline-driven event calendar. I always watch for changes in pricing, availability, new information as a reason to touch base again with those “almost” customers. Sometimes it’s just a new video of the product in action, or especially a happy customer generated video. Aaron: The “quote magnet” offer. Create a low-lift hook that triggers quote requests: “Send your logo, we’ll mock up 2 options by tomorrow,” or “We’ll build your spirit-wear starter pack in 15 minutes.” The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/tW2hpN2k4N0 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 CANCELLED Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

What if profit came from clarity, not hustle? This week, we are joined by Becky Kotzer of BK Custom T’s to talk about what it really looks like to build a profitable business on purpose. Becky shares her garment decorating journey and how getting clear on her purpose changed the way she thinks about pricing, profit, and the role money plays in her business. In this conversation, we get practical. We talk about profit first thinking, a simple “need to earn” approach, and the unique budgeting system Becky uses to manage cash flow, expenses, and future goals. If you’re tired of guessing where the money goes and want systems that support better decisions and peace of mind, this episode will give you a clear picture of what’s possible. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/e93xGRw3R7Y Dad Joke Aaron: My doctor told me I’m suffering from paranoia. Well, she didn’t actually say that, but I could tell that’s what she was thinking. Purpose to Profit 1. Starting the Journey – Let’s start at the beginning. Can you share a little about your garment decorating journey and what business looked like for you before money and profit really became a focus? 2. Relationship With Money – Before you started working through this, how would you describe your relationship with money in your business? What felt frustrating or unclear? 3. Why “Purpose” Came First – When did you realize that purpose had to come before profit for you? What wasn’t working when profit was the only focus? 4. Masters of Success Influence – How did your experience inside Masters of Success shape the way you started thinking about numbers, decisions, and intentionality in your business? 5. The Budget Word Problem – You’ve said the word “budget” never really worked for you. What was it about traditional budgeting that always felt off or restrictive? 6. The Shift From Tracking to Directing – What changed when you moved from just tracking what happened with money to intentionally directing where money should go? 7. Profit First as a Concept – When you first heard about profit first ideas, what resonated with you and what didn’t quite fit your real world business? 8. Making Decisions With Clarity – How has having clearer numbers changed the way you make decisions month to month, even when things don’t go exactly as planned? 9. Managing the Emotional Side – What surprised you most about the emotional side of managing money once you started doing this differently? 10. What Might Be Coming – Without locking anything in, what possibilities do you see for how this could evolve or help other business owners in the future? 11. Advice for Where People Are Now – For someone listening who feels overwhelmed by their numbers and stuck between purpose and profit, what’s one mindset shift you’d encourage them to consider first? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/BpY2_ljd-Zk OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Trade shows can be one of the most powerful growth tools in your business or an exhausting expense with little return. The difference is having a clear plan before, during, and after the show. This week on 2 Regular Guys, we welcome back Angie Meese, sales consultant for UxPrint and the creative force behind That Shirt Shack. Angie shares practical strategies for preparing before the doors open, staying intentional on a busy show floor, and following up in ways that turn conversations into real, long-term relationships. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/p8IzatRF02I Dad Joke Terry: Did you know I had a job interview at UPS? I apologized for being late because I went to the wrong address, and they made me a regional manager. Trade Show Strategy That Works Terry: Welcome back. Before we dive into trade show strategies, remind our listeners about you and your story in the industry. Aaron: When you are evaluating a trade show, what are the key signs that tell you this one is worth your time and investment? Terry: What does strong pre-show preparation actually look like, and what are most people skipping that hurts them before the show even starts? Aaron: You have worked shows from multiple sides of the industry. How does your approach change when you are selling versus when you are building long-term relationships? Terry: What are the must-have tools, materials, or systems you bring with you to every show that make your life easier afterward? Aaron: How do you use social media before and after a trade show to extend the life of the event beyond the show floor? Terry: Looking back, what is one lesson from an early trade show experience that still shapes how you approach events today? Aaron: What does effective post-show follow-up look like after an event? Terry: Anything we missed today that could help people at an upcoming show? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/3XHYyd5TjBY OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Every year, we take a step back and ask a simple but important question. What do we really want to see change or improve in the garment and product decoration industry? In this annual tradition, Aaron, Erich, and Terry share their list of 10 things they hope to see in the year ahead. From meaningful innovations and smarter processes to shifts in mindset and industry culture, this conversation is about progress that actually helps shop owners run better businesses. And as always, this is not a one-way conversation. We want to hear your ideas, your frustrations, and your hopes for the future. Join us live and add your voice to the discussion. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/F-uPGvItDf0 Dad Joke Terry: I was going to quit all my bad habits for the new year Then I remembered that nobody likes a quitter. 10 Things We Would Like to See in 2026 Last year… Here is our update for the first week of 2026 Terry: High School and College Internship Program. Regulators, tell us. What are you seeing? Aaron: A Focus on Mindset Training for Business Owners. It was pretty much my solo focus, so I hope it came true. Not sure if I was just around it more, or if we are seeing more of it. I’ll keep carrying the flag. Terry: Promotions Calendar. I’m hopeful. Regulators? Aaron: Better Eco-Friendly Solutions Across All Decorating Methods. Unfortunately, I feel like AI took the focus off this, and so I feel like we need to get back on track in 2026. Terry: Think Outside the Box for New Employees. I think the world has changed a bit… Doug Sobel: My unicorn hope is to see someone creates dtf that would have the softness of dye sub with the color saturation of DTF to be able to do transfers on any type of fabric. no more plastic feeling. Craig Bradley: Some insight into laser engravers Simply Embroidery: How to utilize internships Ramona McKee: White toner might be the back-burner tech, but it is out there, and it does a great job for what it does. Regulators – Any updates? Terry: Calming Down of the DTF Industry. I’ve seen a calming and more consistent approach in the “how to” of DTF printing. Still early, but I think we’re in a good place. Aaron: More diversity in the blanks distributors. Unfortunately, it has been less than it feels like. Terry, I know you are going to talk to this later. Terry: Blue Checkmark as Recognized Authority. I think it’s still the Wild West for a while. Erich: Embroiders Getting a Seat at the Large Industry Table. At Printing United, I was happy to see embroiderers at the table when it came to the burgeoning world of digital print and fulfillment, as well as simply being more present in the larger conversations. I think that we still have a long way to go as far as really owning our part in the space, though watching large trade organizations recognize our percentage and pedigree in the market was fulfilling. Terry: Consolidation slow down It feels like every time we go to a tradeshow or have a guest here on 2RG, we hear about a company that’s been gobbled up by another. America West Airlines was awesome bought US Air and took their name, and quality of travel went down bought American Airlines and took their name, and quality of travel went down again I feel like we need a scorecard to keep up Garment and product decoration has always been a personal one-on-one type of interaction. We’re on track right now to lose a lot of that Aaron: Strength-Led Business Design – I see a lot of business owners who are focused on their weaknesses, the comparison trap. And the worst trap of all – Trying to be all things to everyone.  Owners building roles, schedules, and offers around what they are good at, not what the industry says they “should” do. See exhausted business owners because they are trying to build businesses that fight who they are. The comparison trap pushes owners to focus on gaps, weaknesses, and what they think they “should” be doing based on someone else’s success. Instead of asking, “What am I bad at and how do I fix it?” the better question becomes, “What am I naturally good at and how do I build around that?” Example – Someone who is highly relational. Love the connection, consulting, and relationships. But they compare themselves to someone who is “successful” in selling online, focusing on transactions. If they focus on strengths = business they love. SVPs This is exactly what the 13 business owners in the Accelerator are doing. They are not just tweaking tactics. They are redesigning their businesses from the inside out. We are in the first week of a 12-week program and this was one comment I got earlier in the week – The Accelerator helped me throw away the overwhelming to-do list and replace it with a clear road map and three to five achievable actions each day that are already creating momentum. Erich: Strengthening and Refinement after Industry Democratization This year, more than any, we saw the bar to entry drop precipitously, but I’ve also seen a wave of used equipment and embroiderers in quick-fail or never-launched situations on the back end of that wave. The industry needs some structure and thought to help new embroiderers enter the industry with more preparation We have to intelligently evaluate how this disruption will affect current markets and the place of servicers and vendors in this space. Education, Education, Education Terry: Appreciation of screen printing Yes, DTF transfers are easier, but now everybody and his brother is offering it Screen printing offers so many decoration options Puff ink, gels, suedes, multi-media, foil, etc The more DTF decorators enter the marketplace, the more end customers will crave something new You don’t have to become a screen printer, but you can offer the services Aaron: Real Number Literacy for Decorators – I’m still a little in awe of how many business owners I meet who don’t know how much it costs them to be in business. The challenge is – how do you set your pricing if you don’t know your costs? Many of them are just waiting to go out of business, but won’t know it until it is too late, and they are deeply in debt and have ruined a lot of other areas of their life too. We have had great examples of running your business from a place of strength in knowing your numbers, like Daniel Frank, the discussion we had with Brad Pengelly around Thanksgiving about automation, but we also talked about knowledge. Nick Gawreluk talking Smarter Profit Strategies for Apparel Decorators Pricing from clarity, not fear or Facebook comments. Pricing based on the perceived value, not on the race to the bottom – Starts with knowing your numbers This is FUNdamental #7 in my book – And my Friend Becky Kotzer has a program coming out this year – Purpose + Profit. Will be really helpful for decorators. Stay tuned! Erich: Reinforce the Value Proposition for Digitizers I know, easy for me to say. Constantly watching people complain about getting low-value commodity work when they are offering low-value remuneration and honestly not providing digitizers with key info Conversely, I want to educate high-value digitizers in how to market that value, extract that information, and provide something that goes beyond the commodity Two-way street of value education and marketing / understanding the spectrum of sourcing Terry: Tradeshow refocus on education Let me start with, “Yeah, I know, it’s a business.” New ownership, new management of late, and what feels like a primary focus on turning a buck “Yeah, I know, it’s a business.” Feels as if we’re losing track of who brought us to the dance When I was starting out, I went to the shows with education being 90% of the reason for my investment of money and time. Charging admission to education, I’m fine with. Charging admission to walk the show, not so much. Gives most of us a feeling of “this is all about making money” rather than a gathering of like-minded businesses and people I know vendors I’ve talked to don’t like it My Field of Dreams very loose reference – More and better education, and they will come Aaron: More Involvement in the REGGIEs – I know this might look self-serving at first glance, but in reality, our world gets more and more disconnected the more “connected” to our phones and computers we get. The REGGIEs are a way to keep the industry connected to REAL people. We are just the facilitators, so let’s make sure in 2026, you all break the nomination form with an overload of the amazing people in our industry that need to be recognized. I will take responsibility here, as I put the REGGIEs on cruise control. Thought if it wasn’t broke, don’t fix it. So this year, we will be revamping, improving, and hopefully bringing new voices to the room.  We will do our part, but the Regulators need to step up, too! Erich: Continue to Seek and Develop new Relationships and Enhance new Voices I want to encourage and facilitate more cross-disciplinary and cross-market relationships and to encourage new voices to come to the forefront. Personally and professionally, make the effort to reach out ‘across the aisle.’ Regulators from chat:@dougsobel2571  more embroidery and more Business processes like intake samples approval production ect… The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/SKtXHoGqEPA OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

As another year wraps up, it’s time for our annual planning conversation, but this one hits differently. In this yearly tradition, Terry and Aaron step back from the noise to help you reset, refocus, and plan for a year that feels clear, intentional, and sustainable. Instead of piling on more goals and tools, they walk through how to review the past year honestly, simplify your priorities, and make smarter decisions that support both your business and your life. This episode is for shop owners who want fewer surprises, better margins, and a plan that actually holds up once the year gets busy. If you’re ready to move into the new year with confidence instead of chaos, this is the planning conversation you want to be part of. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/uSUYkdSPySM Dad Joke Aaron: Why was the snowman digging through the bag of carrots? He was picking his nose Planning for 2026 and Beyond Last year… Terry: Let’s do my favorite thing, make a list! Sit down and think about what you would like to accomplish in your business in 2026. Anything from increasing sales, adding production capability, being more efficient, hiring a new employee, or even coming up with a new logo. I like to list 20 things without stopping. The deeper in the list, the more creative thinking is what I’ve found. After you make your list, pick one thing to dig deeper into and build a plan to get there. Aaron: I love a good list, too, but you know me, always the contrarian. Build a “No List” Before You Build the Plan. This is a list of things, opportunities, and even people you need to say no to. Because every yes costs something, and most of the stress we carry in our businesses comes from yeses we never should have made in the first place. Saying no is what creates space. Space to say yes to opportunities that are a fit, clients you actually enjoy working with, and real possibilities that feed your zone of greatness. Things you say yes to out of ego. Just because you can do it, or because it looks good on paper, does not mean it belongs in your business. (Long Beach, SkillsUSA) Decisions based solely on money. If your gut is throwing up red flags but the dollars are tempting, pay attention. There is usually a pattern there worth noticing. What decisions can I eliminate or pre-make so I am not reacting all year? Pricing exceptions. Rush jobs. Custom one-offs. Vendor swaps. Client expectations. If you keep “deciding” the same things over and over, that is not flexibility. That is friction. If your plan does not remove decisions, it will not remove stress. Terry: Try something brand new! It’s easy to stay with the status quo, but you’ll never grow your business or grow personally, trudging along doing the same old things. This doesn’t have to be a big capital expense. Try a new workflow to be more efficient. Order some specialty ink if you’re a screen printer and experiment. Order some different films and test them on your DTF transfers. Experimentation breeds innovation that breeds new opportunities. Aaron: I’m going to stick with my less-is-more theme. This is normally Terry’s place to bring me back down to reality, but I love that the tables have turned this year. Build the Year Around One Profit Driver. Choosing one primary profit driver for the year can make a massive difference. When you try to improve everything at once, it becomes overwhelming, and then nothing actually improves. Better planning means choosing where improvement truly matters. Not all growth levers are equal. One usually does most of the heavy lifting. (Decrease Expenses, Increase Revenue, Increase Margin) Improving average order size, tightening production speed and consistency, raising prices with clearer value and expectations, and saying no to low-margin work that blocks better orders Ask, “If we improved only one thing by 10 to 20 percent this year, what would most improve our profit and peace of mind?” Terry: Where do you want to be in 5 years, 10 years? Maybe you want to be doing exactly what you’re doing now. Maybe you’re considering retiring or doing something else moving forward. Are you positioning your business to turn over to the kids, or even sell in the future? Take a look now at what things would need to look like for that kind of transition. You can start now positioning for that intended eventuality. Future You Party The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/SKtXHoGqEPA OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Join us for one of the most exciting episodes of the year as we reveal the 2025 REGGIE Award winners and welcome as many of them as possible to join us live on the show. The REGGIES are the industry’s only fully community-driven awards, shining a spotlight on the decorators, educators, innovators, and companies who have made a real impact this year. From breakthrough products to exceptional customer care and rising leaders, this celebration highlights the people who continue to strengthen and inspire the garment decorating community. In this special episode, winners will accept their awards live, share a few thoughts, and celebrate alongside the rest of the industry. We’ll also talk through the categories, highlight what made this year unique, and recognize the community that makes the REGGIES so meaningful. To learn more about the awards and all the categories, visit https://www.2regularguys.com/reggies/ Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Aaron: Did you know that Rudolph didn’t learn to fly in school? He was “elf” taught 2025 REGGIE Winners Questions for winners What does winning the REGGIE Award mean to you? We’re coming into another new year. What’s one thing in the industry you hope to see in 2026? Looking back on 2025, what was the #1 thing you learned about our industry, or something our listeners could use for their business? 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award – This category shines a light on products that have made a notable difference in our industry during the calendar year. To qualify, products should have hit the market within the last three years and have yet to be on the voting list in previous years. This award aims to acknowledge the fresh and influential contributions these new products bring to our field, showcasing innovation and progress.  The Kraken from American Print and Supply 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award – This category is all about recognizing a company, and if applicable, a specific individual within that company, who has shown exceptional customer service in our industry. It’s about spotlighting those who go the extra mile to ensure customers are satisfied. Please list the company and, if there’s a standout person, mention them too. This award highlights the importance of a customer-focused approach and celebrates the companies and individuals who embody this principle in their daily operations. American Print and Supply – Keith, Jay and Sean 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award – This category recognizes the best teacher or online education source that helps people learn in our industry in 2025. It’s for those who love to teach and share knowledge, not sell things through their talks or posts. The award is open to amazing teachers and online spots like podcasts, blogs, video channels, virtual events, and training sessions that make learning fun and easy.  Aaron Montgomery  – Our Success Group 2025 Decorator’s Hub Trade Show Award – This category aims to honor an in-person event that significantly benefited, educated, and fostered networking within the decorator’s community. It’s about applauding the event that offered a robust platform for learning, connecting, and growing together. Through this award, we seek to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that go into organizing a trade show that truly serves and uplifts our industry’s community. PRINTING United Expo (Apparel Zone) 2025 Rising Star Award – This award seeks to highlight an individual under 40 who is making waves in our industry. The nominee should embody the essence of excellence in garment and product decoration, showcasing creativity, skill, and a positive impact in the field. Before making a nomination, please ensure they are indeed under 40. This is about fresh perspectives brought forth by the emerging talents in our industry. Rob Super – American Print and Supply 2025 Women’s Voice Award – This award is all about celebrating a person who is working hard to spotlight the roles and achievements of women in our industry. It’s for someone who is making a big difference in raising awareness and boosting the profile of women in the garment decorating field. Through this award, we aim to say a big ‘thank you’ and cheer on the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and inspiring industry for everyone. Cassie Green – Apparelist 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award – This award is all about appreciating the guest who not only shared a wealth of information that was a game-changer for your business but also kept you entertained on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast. It’s for the guest whose insights and engaging demeanor made a lasting positive impression, helping to blend valuable learning with enjoyment.  Dane Clement – Stahls 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry – This category is to recognize someone who represents our industry, within and without, and exemplifies all the positive aspects of garment and product decoration Jed Seifert (P.S. Check out his book – INKclusivity) The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/_JTS0SzkX6A OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Most decorators think networking means handing out cards or pushing a pitch, but Angie Meese has built her success by doing the opposite. As a Sales Consultant for UxPrint and the creative force behind That Shirt Shack, she’s learned how to turn simple conversations into long-term collaborations by being useful, consistent, and easy to trust. In this episode, Angie shares how decorators can prepare for events, avoid common networking mistakes, and follow up in a way that feels natural instead of salesy. You’ll hear practical steps any shop can use right away, whether you’re trying to grow customer relationships, strengthen supplier partnerships, or make trade shows more productive. We’ll walk through habits that help small shops build connections as powerful as the big players, plus one actionable step you can take this week to grow your network with intention. Perfect for screen printers, DTF/DTG shops, embroiderers, and sublimators looking to turn conversations into real business. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/5x6V8KERn10 Dad Joke From Keegan: What do you call it when you cross a dinosaur and a pig? Jurassic Pork! Networking for Decorators Aaron: Angie, welcome to the show. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey to where you are in the industry today. Terry: What role has networking played in your success and growth? Aaron: You like to be prepared for a tradeshow. What’s your strategy for preparing before a big trade show like Printing United? Terry: What are the most common networking mistakes decorators and suppliers make? Aaron: Follow-up is something tradeshow vendors struggle with. How do you approach follow-ups without sounding salesy? Terry: How can small shops build relationships that feel just as powerful as big distributors? Aaron: What advice would you give to someone who’s nervous about networking? Terry: What tools or habits help you manage and maintain industry relationships? Aaron: We like to have our guests leave us with one golden nugget. What’s one actionable step listeners can take this week to grow their network intentionally? Terry: How can our listeners reach out to you? https://uxprint.us/angie The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/pIXY9chTg_o OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. DTF Transfer from TransferDepot.com: Use code AMONTGO2025 for 10% Off DTFUniversity.com: The industry’s DTF education source in partnership with APAS and DTF Superstore Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Automation isn’t the future. It’s happening now. The 2 Regular Guys are joined by Brad Pengelly, Founder of Hoops, to talk about how automation is reshaping the print and promo industry. Brad shares real-world insights from running his own print business and building Hoops — modern order and sales management software made for decorators. Discover how automation can help you, eliminate wasted time and manual admin, build clarity and consistency into your workflow and unlock new capacity, growth, and profitability. We’ll cover why process is the true foundation of success, how to break the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset, and how automation empowers your team to focus on what really matters — creativity and customers. Tune in and learn how to prepare your print shop for long-term success in an automated future. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Rise of Automation Terry: Brad, let’s start with your story — what was the turning point that led you from running a print shop to founding Hoops? Aaron: What does automation mean in practical terms for a small or mid-sized print shop? Terry: Many shops feel automation sounds too complex or expensive. What’s the mindset shift they need to see it as accessible and empowering instead of intimidating? Aaron: Before adding software or automation, you talk about “process clarity.” What’s the best way for a business owner to uncover what’s actually happening in their workflow? Terry: Can you give an example of a shop that transformed their operations by getting their processes right before automating? Aaron: What kind of measurable results do you see — in time saved, errors reduced, or growth unlocked — when businesses implement automation effectively? Terry: How do you balance automation with the human side of the business — creativity, relationships, and personal service? Aaron: We’ve always done it this way – What’s your advice for leaders trying to break through that resistance to change? Terry: What are some early warning signs that a print shop is falling behind because it’s not embracing automation yet? Aaron: What do you see as the next big evolution in automation for the print and promo world? Terry: How does Hoops help decorators simplify their operations today and prepare for what’s next in this rapidly changing industry?  The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/PJhDaFKDGTE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

This week, the 2 Regular Guys welcome back Warren Werbitt, The Print Whisperer himself, to explore the growing convergence between commercial print and apparel decoration. Warren recently launched theprintwhisperer.shop, and we’ll talk about what pulled him deeper into the decorating world and why this crossover matters for the future of both industries. We’ll also continue the conversation Aaron and Warren started on his podcast, Printing’s Alive. Together, they unpack the challenges printers unintentionally create for themselves, the real drivers behind standout creativity, how sales mindsets have evolved, and what leadership really looks like in print today. Expect stories, laughs, and practical insights from two people who love this industry and aren’t afraid to say what everyone else is thinking. Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you. The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on. Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/tN1SuUs-7Sw Dad Joke Terry: I’ve been warned not to tell any more Thanksgiving jokes (How’s that going?) Well, I couldn’t just quit cold turkey Print Worlds Collide Aaron: Welcome in! It’s been a while since we had you on the show (July of 2020). Give our listeners a brief Warren 101 and as a bunch of apparel geeks here, what inspired you to launch theprintwhisperer.shop? Terry: On the podcast you did with Aaron, you talked about selling a large batch of shirts and how exciting that felt. What does that kind of excitement tell you about where creativity fits into print today? Aaron: When we talked on your podcast (https://youtu.be/ZfQpEBmcWiY?si=Eanh7jMqcaEXnb8I), we discussed some ways that printers often create their own challenges. What are a few of those patterns you see popping up again and again? Terry: You and Aaron had a great conversation about passion being fuel. How do you stay fired up about print after all these years? Aaron: You’re known for connecting with people anywhere… elevators, airplanes, trade shows. How can less extroverted printers learn to build the same kind of relationships? Terry: Many shops struggle without realizing they’re creating their own roadblocks. What’s one self-inflicted challenge you see all the time that printers rarely admit to? Aaron: We talked about young talent on your podcast. What do you believe needs to change for print and apparel shops to attract the next generation? Terry: Humor plays a huge role in your content and your sales style. How can printers use humor and positivity to stand out to customers? Aaron: When you look at shops that thrive, what habits or mindsets do you see consistently? Terry: After everything we’ve talked about today, what do you wish more printers understood about their own potential? Aaron: Tell us where people can connect with you, learn more about what you do and buy some fun shirts? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/PJhDaFKDGTE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, March 21-22, 2026 Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Daniel Frank, owner and CEO of Silverscreen Decoration & Fulfillment, to explore how process, leadership, and strategic outsourcing can completely transform a growing business. With more than 30 years of experience in logistics and manufacturing, Dan has seen firsthand how disciplined systems and a solutions-first mindset drive real, measurable growth. His company is up 30% to 40% this year, with monthly volume more than doubling. Proof that process can outperform hustle. Daniel shares how outsourcing marketing, IT, art, and finance actually strengthened his company’s control and culture, and how focusing on client-driven solutions led to new revenue streams and loyal partnerships. If you’ve ever wondered how to scale without losing your sanity, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/9ZGe96lNDTg Dad Joke Aaron: What do you call a happy cowboy? Jolly Rancher The Power of Process Aaron: Can you start by sharing your background and how your experience in logistics and manufacturing shaped the way you lead your company today? Terry: You’re in the middle of a 30 or 40% growth year — what are the biggest factors driving that success? Aaron: You’ve built a system that emphasizes process over chaos. How did you start creating those systems, and what was the first one that made a big difference? Terry: Many business owners fear outsourcing. What helped you get past that fear and build confidence in the decision? Aaron: How do you make sure those outsourced teams stay aligned with your brand and standards? Terry: Let’s get back inside your internal team… How do you develop and empower your leadership team to own their areas while maintaining overall accountability? Aaron: You run on a merit-based culture. How does that show up day-to-day, and what impact has it had on your team’s performance? Terry: What’s your process for identifying new opportunities or deciding when to say yes to something new? Aaron: I know you have added a lot of digital decoration in recent years. As a contract decorator, some people feel they have to stay analog primarily from a pricing standpoint. But you have a unique take on what digital decoration, like DTF, is doing for your business. Terry: How do you personally balance working on the business versus in it as you continue to grow? Terry: We have only scratched the surface of some of the wonderful conversations I have had with you. If people want to connect with you or learn more about the services you provide, how can they do that? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/PJhDaFKDGTE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026 Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

It’s one of our favorite shows of the year. The 2025 REGGIE Award Nominee Reveal! Join the 2 Regular Guys as we unveil the official list of this year’s nominees and celebrate the people, products, and companies making a difference in the garment decorating world. These awards are 100% community-driven — nominated and voted on by decorators, suppliers, and industry pros just like you. We’ll talk about what makes the REGGIES so special, highlight this year’s standout categories, and share some behind-the-scenes stories from the nomination process. Tune in for a fun, fast-paced episode packed with inspiration, gratitude, and a few surprises along the way. Let’s celebrate the heart of this industry — the people who make it happen! Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: Cars have too many gadgets these days I tried to back up yesterday, and my car played a video of a guy being run over by a car. 2025 REGGIE Nominees 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award – This category shines a light on products that have made a notable difference in our industry during the calendar year. To qualify, products should have hit the market within the last three years and have yet to be on the voting list in previous years. This award aims to acknowledge the fresh and influential contributions these new products bring to our field, showcasing innovation and progress.  Last year Siser Compostable PureHT Epson G6070 DTF Printer The Kraken from American Print and Supply 3DPuff foam from SPSI Maderia’s Sensa Green Sustainable Lyocell Thread The Sentinel – Automated Vision DTF Cutting Epson F1070 Hydra DTF Printer from American Print and Supply 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award – This category is all about recognizing a company, and if applicable, a specific individual within that company, who has shown exceptional customer service in our industry. It’s about spotlighting those who go the extra mile to ensure customers are satisfied. Please list the company and, if there’s a standout person, mention them too. This award highlights the importance of a customer-focused approach and celebrates the companies and individuals who embody this principle in their daily operations. Last year Joseph Eric from The Magic Touch American Print and Supply – Keith, Jay and Sean Equipment Zone – Roy and Dave Angie Meese UX Print Lane Seven – Morgan Malone Liz Beavers, Embroidery Specialist at SPSI David Hanes Corel Trainer Deana Iribe at Printer Biz (formerly DTG Connection) and The Print Bakery. Epson America – Paul Morales Joseph Eric from MagicTouch Marshall Atkinson Aimee Dowell Rene Rosales with Texmac Stahls Vik Patel Craft Express 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award – This category recognizes the best teacher or online education source that helps people learn in our industry in 2025. It’s for those who love to teach and share knowledge, not sell things through their talks or posts. The award is open to amazing teachers and online spots like podcasts, blogs, video channels, virtual events, and training sessions that make learning fun and easy.  Last year Jay Busselle Aaron Montgomery  – Our Success Group Dave Conner – Stahls Kim Johnson – Paisley Jo Designs David Hanes – CorelTrainer Bill Garvin Angie Meese Jeff Fuller Laurie Donovan Sawgrass Mark Coudrey Patrick Ali- Siser North America Sue Wilson Brown of OML Embroidery Cassie Green Katie Wubben of Trouble Me Knot Embroidery PRINTING United Alliance’s iLEARNING+ Education and Certification Platform 2025 Decorator’s Hub Trade Show Award – This category aims to honor an in-person event that significantly benefited, educated, and fostered networking within the decorator’s community. It’s about applauding the event that offered a robust platform for learning, connecting, and growing together. Through this award, we seek to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that go into organizing a trade show that truly serves and uplifts our industry’s community. Last year Printing United Las Vegas PRINTING United Expo (Apparel Zone) Impressions Expo Long Beach Applique Getaway ShirtLab 2025 Rising Star Award – This award seeks to highlight an individual under 40 who is making waves in our industry. The nominee should embody the essence of excellence in garment and product decoration, showcasing creativity, skill, and a positive impact in the field. Before making a nomination, please ensure they are indeed under 40. This is about fresh perspectives brought forth by the emerging talents in our industry. Last year Kylee Salva of Couture Kreations Rob Super – American Print and Supply Reese Barber – Chipply Davis Slagle – Bee Graphics Patrick Ali – Siser North America Sam Lapcevic of Branded Threads Allee Bruce Corbin Linder at Udder Color/Linder Screen Printing, Norman Oklahoma Angie Meese UX Print Meghan Rodenhouse from Craft Express Luna 2025 Women’s Voice Award – This award is all about celebrating a person who is working hard to spotlight the roles and achievements of women in our industry. It’s for someone who is making a big difference in raising awareness and boosting the profile of women in the garment decorating field. Through this award, we aim to say a big ‘thank you’ and cheer on the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and inspiring industry for everyone. Last year, Adrienne Palmer Cassie Green – Apparelist Lisbeth Lyons Black Nicole Pape, CEO at Embellishr Theresa Hagel – ASI Adrienne Palmer Alexis Galloway Angie Meese Jenna and Kelly stalls Megan Griffith at P&M Apparel Nikki Bowen, Cotton Street Apparel 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award – This award is all about appreciating the guest who not only shared a wealth of information that was a game-changer for your business but also kept you entertained on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast. It’s for the guest whose insights and engaging demeanor made a lasting positive impression, helping to blend valuable learning with enjoyment.  Last year Dane Clement Jay Busselle – The Branded Merch Network Dane Clement – Stahls Johnny Shell Kylene Montgomery Angie Meese from That Shirt Shack Erich Campbell Ramona McKee Theresa Hegel 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry This category is to recognize someone who represents our industry, within and without, and exemplifies all the positive aspects of garment and product decoration. Last year Cassie Green Jed Seifert Dave Conner – Stahls Aaron Montgomery – Our Success Group Terry Combs Brett Bowden Chuck Northcutt Kristyn Leary from Origin Apparel in Steamboat. Justin Armenta Marshall Atkinson The Print Whisperer Jeff Fuller Monty Mimms – Sanmar Lon Winters – Graphic Elephants www.2regularguys.com/reggies The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/SzkofbifGPE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025 ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

This week, the 2 Regular Guys are joined by our good friend Jay Busselle to talk about how automation and AI are transforming the promo, apparel, and print world. Jay is gearing up for his new event, Automate & Elevate, designed to help professionals work faster, sell smarter, and stay profitable. We’ll dive into why now is the time to embrace automation, how AI can elevate people—not replace them—and what trends are shaping the future of our industry. Tune in for a real-world look at how to turn new technology into a business advantage. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/RLgqiTuXLWk Dad Joke Terry: Which monster loves to go to the club? The Boogeyman Automate & Elevate 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award 2025 Decorator’s Hub Trade Show Award 2025 Rising Star Award 2025 Women’s Voice Award 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry The REGGIE Nominations are officially open – Nominate today at https://www.2regularguys.com/reggies/ Aaron: Jay, lots of changes for you over the past year. Share what you’ve been up to lately. Terry: The Big Picture: What makes Automate & Elevate different from a typical webinar or training session? And why is now the right time to focus on automation and AI in the promo, print, and apparel space? Aaron: The Mindset Shift: A lot of small business owners still feel like automation or AI is “too big” or “too technical” for them. What’s one mindset shift that can help them get started and actually see early wins? Terry: Humans + Machines: You’ve said before that automation shouldn’t replace people — it should elevate them. How are you seeing that play out in the promo and apparel world right now? Aaron: The Road Ahead: Without giving away all the secrets from Automate & Elevate, what’s one trend or tool you’re most excited about that’s going to change the way our industry works over the next year or two? Terry: It’s all happening here on the 2RG’s platform, but give our listeners the details about tuning in. And tell us how people can reach out to you. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/9HGRKIzczgQ OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025 ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026 Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026 DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026 ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026 Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026 Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026 DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026 DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026 DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026 DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026 ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026 DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026 Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026All dates and events are subject to change

Join Aaron and Erich live from the show floor as they discuss the highlights and happenings at this year’s Printing United Expo – from technologies on hand, to booth life, to the attendee reactions and educational opportunities, the Guys will let you in on what Printing United has to offer and very likely be joined by a couple of impromptu special guests. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/8YE3ZnsYl4Q Dad Joke Aaron: Why can’t you trust an atom? They make up everything. Printing United Recap Listen to Erich and Aaron chat about all things Printing United. Learn about next year’s event and get notified at https://www.printingunited.com/notify-me/ The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/n82HSF8-FAI OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Michael Thero of Pythias Technologies to explore how automation is transforming print shops of every size. From DTF and DTG to sublimation and fulfillment, automation isn’t about replacing people. It’s about removing bottlenecks, reducing waste, and giving decorators more time to focus on creativity and customers. We’ll dig into where to start with automation, and how connected workflows are leveling the playing field between small shops and large-scale producers. Whether you’re still printing manually or already testing connected systems, this episode will help you see what’s possible and how to take the next smart step toward a faster, more profitable shop. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/_NqZvuuysPI Dad Joke Aaron: What do you call a paper airplane that can’t fly? Stationary REGGIE Announcement 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award 2025 Decorator’s Hub Trade Show Award 2025 Rising Star Award 2025 Women’s Voice Award 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry The REGGIE Nominations are officially open – Nominate today at https://www.2regularguys.com/reggies/ Aaron: Michael, welcome to the show. Tell us a little about yourself and your journey in this industry. What got you interested in automation and workflow systems for the print industry? Terry: I’ve done some writing and consulting called Double Your Production in 30 Days or Less. You’ve talked similarly about going 0-60 in a few weeks. What does that look like in real terms? Aaron: Many decorators think automation means expensive robots or complicated software. What are a few simple automations that can make a big difference right away? Terry: I know you’re all about streamlining processes in the actual decoration. Share some thoughts on streamlining in DTF, DTG, and sublimation. Aaron: Automation is often viewed as a tech topic, but what mindset shifts do shop owners need to make before implementing it successfully? Terry: For shops selling online through Shopify, Etsy, or Amazon, what are some best practices for syncing orders, inventory, and fulfillment efficiently? Aaron: It feels like shipping costs are going up and up, and shipping times occasionally feel a little fluid. Share your thoughts on reducing shipping costs and times. Terry: How has the explosion of DTF changed the conversation around automation and connected workflows? Aaron: Looking ahead, what excites you most about where automation and the print industry are headed in the next few years? Terry: Tell us a little about your own software product and how our listeners can find you? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/n82HSF8-FAI OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

It’s one of our favorite shows of the year! The 2 Regular Guys are kicking off awards season by revealing the 2025 REGGIE Award categories. The industry’s only awards fully nominated and voted on by the garment decorating community. We’ll share what’s new, what’s returning, and how you can make your voice heard in celebrating the people and companies making a real impact. As a special bonus, Aaron Montgomery will close out the episode with a powerful segment on The Uncommon Mindset. The thinking that separates those who just get by from those who create lasting success. You’ll walk away inspired, informed, and ready to nominate your favorites (and maybe yourself) for this year’s REGGIEs! Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: I’ve changed my name on all my social media to NOBODY So now I can press the ‘like’ button on any stupid post and it’ll say NOBODY likes this REGGIE Announcement 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award – This category shines a light on products that have made a notable difference in our industry during the calendar year. To qualify, products should have hit the market within the last three years and have yet to be on the voting list in previous years. This award aims to acknowledge the fresh and influential contributions these new products bring to our field, showcasing innovation and progress.  Last year Siser Compostable PureHT 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award – This category is all about recognizing a company, and if applicable, a specific individual within that company, who has shown exceptional customer service in our industry. It’s about spotlighting those who go the extra mile to ensure customers are satisfied. Please list the company and, if there’s a standout person, mention them too. This award highlights the importance of a customer-focused approach and celebrates the companies and individuals who embody this principle in their daily operations. Last year Joseph Eric from The Magic Touch 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award – This category recognizes the best teacher or online education source that helps people learn in our industry in 2025. It’s for those who love to teach and share knowledge, not sell things through their talks or posts. The award is open to amazing teachers and online spots like podcasts, blogs, video channels, virtual events, and training sessions that make learning fun and easy.  Last year Jay Busselle 2025 Decorator’s Hub Trade Show Award – This category aims to honor an in-person event that significantly benefited, educated, and fostered networking within the decorator’s community in 2024. It’s about applauding the event that offered a robust platform for learning, connecting, and growing together. Through this award, we seek to acknowledge the hard work and dedication that go into organizing a trade show that truly serves and uplifts our industry’s community. Last year Printing United Las Vegas 2025 Rising Star Award – This award seeks to highlight an individual under 40 who is making waves in our industry. The nominee should embody the essence of excellence in garment and product decoration, showcasing creativity, skill, and a positive impact in the field. Before making a nomination, please ensure they are indeed under 40. This is about fresh perspectives brought forth by the emerging talents in our industry. Last year Kylee Salva of Couture Kreations 2025 Women’s Voice Award – This award is all about celebrating a person who is working hard to spotlight the roles and achievements of women in our industry. It’s for someone who is making a big difference in raising awareness and boosting the profile of women in the garment decorating field. Through this award, we aim to say a big ‘thank you’ and cheer on the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and inspiring industry for everyone. Last year Adrienne Palmer 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award – This award is all about appreciating the guest who not only shared a wealth of information that was a game changer for your business but also kept you entertained on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast. It’s for the guest whose insights and engaging demeanor made a lasting positive impression, helping to blend valuable learning with enjoyment.  Last year Dane Clement 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry This category is to recognize someone who represents our industry, within and without, and exemplifies all the positive aspects of garment and product decoration. Last year Cassie Green The REGGIE Nominations are officially open – Nominate today at https://www.2regularguys.com/reggies/ The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/x61ZKgKfcU0?si=Bivfdwb8TPjPlBIP OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, Aaron and Terry are joined by industry expert Erich Campbell for a no-nonsense look at the myths that keep decorators stuck. From the belief that you have to be the lowest price, to the idea that buying more equipment is the fast track to success, to trusting that YouTube or a supplier’s rep has all the answers, we’ll tackle the stories that sound good but cost shops time, money, and energy. Together we’ll break down why these common assumptions don’t hold up, and share what actually leads to growth, balance, and long-term success in this business. If you’ve ever wondered whether small shops can compete, if you should accept every order, or if working harder is really the key to getting ahead, this conversation is for you. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News https://youtu.be/6mNHDlJlrgE If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Aaron: I’m reading a new book about anti-gravity. It’s impossible to put down. Busting Myths in the Apparel Industry Myths That Hold Decorators Back The customer is always right, even when they’re wrong I have to compete on price… I have to be the lowest price If I just had more equipment, I could be successful If I take every penny I have out of savings and buy equipment, the world will beat a path to my door I don’t know where to start, so I’ll just roll the dice and hope for the best YouTube is the answer to all life and business problems I’ll just ask my supplier’s sales rep for everything I need to get started… they’re the experts The guy who is selling me his business and equipment says he’ll teach me everything Part 2: The guy selling me his business and equipment says, “This is what it’s worth.” You need to accept every order that comes in to grow. Small shops can’t compete with the big online players. If I work harder and longer hours, I’ll eventually get ahead. Trade shows and networking are just for vendors, not decorators. Hiring employees just creates more headaches than it’s worth. https://www.printingunited.com/attend/ – Use code 2RG25 The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/x61ZKgKfcU0?si=Bivfdwb8TPjPlBIP OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

In 2025, apparel decorators are facing uncertainty, shifting technologies, and more noise than ever before. That makes hands-on learning, real conversations, and in-person events more valuable than ever. In this episode, Cassie Green from Apparelist and Printing United Alliance joins the 2 Regular Guys to share why face-to-face training and networking give decorators an edge and how in-person experiences differ from what can be learned online. She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Apparel Zone and the new AI Pavilion at Printing United Expo 2025, while keeping the focus on the bigger picture of how decorators can apply these lessons whether they attend Expo or not. Listeners will walk away with practical insights into vendor selection, sustainable growth strategies for DTF, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in a year filled with challenges and opportunities. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News https://youtu.be/6hfruGAVnTs If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: My grandkids asked me what I used to play on the iPad as a kid I told them I used to talk into a fan to sound like a robot In-Person Events for Apparel Decorators Terry: Welcome – Give us a brief Cassie 101… Aaron: You know we love education here, and that has something you have always been very close to in the industry. Why do you think hands-on learning is especially important for decorators right now? Terry: Speaking of hands-on / in-person, the Apparel Zone at Printing United Expo has become a hub for decorators. What makes it a useful model of hands-on education? Aaron: AI is buzzing everywhere—what’s the real takeaway for decorators when it comes to AI tools in business and production? Aaron: We’ve had a tumultuous 2025—how do in-person events help decorators find clarity and direction? Terry: What role does networking play in shaping a decorator’s long-term business success? (Maybe share a story where attending an in-person event directly helped a business shift or grow?) Terry: What would you say to the shop owner who thinks, “I can’t afford the time or cost to attend an event”? Aaron: At the Apparel Zone, I get to chat with Rob Super of American Print and Supply about – What to Look for in Your Digital Vendor. We are both excited about the topic. Why is this important to think about for apparel decorators? Aaron: If decorators took just one mindset shift from events like these, what should it be? Terry: From your point of view, what lessons can decorators take home even if they don’t attend Expo this year? Terry: Let people know how they can register to attend the Expo, learn more, connect with you, and check out the amazing content you share through Apparelist all the time? – https://www.printingunited.com/attend/ – Use code 2RG25 The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/Cx3Zh3Yyf1Y OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

We’re continuing our conversation on planning for the busiest season of the year! In this follow-up episode, Aaron and Terry dive into the second half of our holiday preparation series for garment decorators, screen printers, embroiderers, sublimators, and DTF shops. This time the focus is on what makes or breaks Q4: clear customer expectations, simple and effective holiday marketing, and protecting your sanity while staying profitable. Learn how to set realistic cutoff dates, communicate policies that keep customers happy, and create a marketing plan that helps you stand out during the holiday rush. We’ll also talk about why saying “no” is sometimes the best business decision you can make. If you want to finish the year strong without the burnout, this episode gives you the practical strategies and encouragement you need to thrive this holiday season. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News https://youtu.be/fAMbH4LdASM If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: You know when you buy a bag of salad and it turns brown and soggy really quick?Yeah, a bag of cookies won’t do that Prepare for An Awesome Q4 for Apparel Decorators Segment 4: Customer Expectations & Policies Setting cutoff dates, rush order policies. Importance of clear deadlines and transparency. How early communication prevents complaints. This will not only be appreciated by your customers, but also subtlety let them know you are a serious and in demand decorator. The big deadline for most of us will be the last day before Christmas so that your customer can still place an order and receive it before the holiday. This includes the time to get in any product to decorate, and to allow you time to produce the product and deliver or ship in time. No one wants their order a day late here. If you’re new to this, pad your deadlines a bit. It’s hard to turn down orders, but better to have a shorter window for placing an order than by missing holiday deliveries. Be sure to give your regular customers a heads up that the holidays may stretch out turnaround times, so place your orders now so you’ll be at the front of the production line. Segment 5: Marketing for the Holidays Simple Q4 marketing plan (calendar, social, promos). Teasing products early, loyalty deals, Cyber Monday push. Focus on specialties instead of saying yes to everything. If you’re not taking advantage of promoting on social media, you are definitely leaving holiday dollars on the table. Don’t know where to start? Offer a holiday social media internship at the local college for a marketing student. They can get you and your company in front of thousands of eyes in no time. They add to their resume and portfolio, and you add dollars to your bottom line. And yes, people are interested in seeing you printing a t-shirt, or embroider a hat, or heat pressing a DTF transfers. To you it’s just making a sweatshirt, but for people browsing the internet, it’s something creative, amazing, and even magical. If you’re selling to customers who are reselling holiday-related goods, offer a discount for early orders. Or let’s go a step further. If you’re selling to end consumers, offer them a discount to make their holiday purchases early. That will open up more space in the schedule for new orders closer to the holidays. Next week I’ll have details for my 4th Quarter Marketing Masterclass and Workshop. Opportunity to be intentional. Segment 6: Protecting Your Sanity The power of saying no kindly but firmly. Balancing workload with profitability. Choosing joy and pride in being prepared. Wrap-Up Key takeaways: forecast, plan, communicate, simplify. Call to action: start your holiday planning now. Be sure to read Terry’s article in Impressions Magazine Your employees might like to give the same gift items they’re boxing and shipping out for you every day. As a screen printer, every year I would have a special and unique holiday graphic created. Employees could place orders for garments at my cost, and on a specified date we would print all the employee gift items as a single production run. Happy employees made for a happier holiday season around my shop, and into the coming year. Help your employees have a happier holiday too. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/2sT4ok1kHRQ OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

The holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of the year for garment decorators, screen printers, embroiderers, sublimators, and DTF shops. In this episode, Aaron and Terry share proven tips to help you plan ahead for Q4 so you can boost sales, meet deadlines, and keep your sanity. You’ll learn how to forecast holiday orders, manage inventory, train staff, and set customer policies that actually work during the rush. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the holiday chaos, this conversation will give you practical strategies to streamline production, simplify your marketing, and finish the year strong. Whether you’re decorating apparel, custom gifts, or promotional products, these Q4 preparation tips will help you avoid burnout and make the holidays your most successful season yet. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Aaron: How many tickles does it take to make an octopus laugh? Tentacles (10 Tickles) Holiday Production Success for Apparel Decorators Segment 1: Forecasting & Capacity Terry: Looking at last year’s numbers & trends.Aaron: Best-guess projections if you’re newer.Discussion: Facing real capacity vs. “perfect world” capacity. What volume of sales do we expect? If you were in business during the holidays last year, that’s your starting point.What dollar amount did you sell?How difficult was it to reach those numbers?And how much business did you leave on the table because you were overwhelmed?If you’ve been in business for multiple years, it’s all the better. You can look at trends up or down for October, November and December. Is it possible this year for you to add to what you’ve done in the past with new marketing, products, graphics, staffing, etc.?Or in semi-turbulent times will you be happy to just maintain your previous sales numbers?Either way, project a number and work backwards on how to achieve it, without the extra hours and the pain, both physical and mental, of previous holiday seasons.Projections are just that, a guesstimate of what we believe we can accomplish. Your best guess is probably more than most decorators do in the run up to the season.As the years go by and you track sales and production, these projections will become more and more precise. What’s your current capability Do you really know your current capacity?Unfortunately, most of us imagine our capabilities in a perfect world, not the world we live in day-to-day. It’s hard for you to admit that where we are today is where we are production-wise, but we have to face reality. And know that you can make it better in the future.If you’re up at night worrying about getting orders out the door, you probably haven’t admitted to yourself at what level you are truly capable of producing right now, today.Again, be honest with yourself, and then start working toward the things you need to do to increase production.For this holiday season, we need to work with what we’ve got. Short of a Christmas miracle, you’re more likely to be missing deadlines than magically producing more.I’ve worked with so many companies that base their sales and production schedules on operating in a world where nothing goes wrong. I don’t know about you, but my production floor doesn’t exist in a sealed bubble of perfection.Scheduling must take unknown delays and issues into account. I’m not saying sell yourself short on what you can accomplish. I’m saying take off your rose-colored glasses and see what you can do right now, today.In the new year, let’s focus on becoming more efficient and more production centric. Coming into the holiday season is not the time to try and shake up how you accomplish your current tasks.Do you have the equipment, staff, and capital to invest in equipment or products and so on, to produce what you anticipate?Obviously, if you are operating at your maximum capacity and you expect an increase in sales/production over the holidays, you need to make some auxiliary plans. Segment 2: Inventory & Vendors Buying smart: bestsellers, practical vs. high-end items.Building vendor relationships + backup plans.Anecdote: stocking up too late vs. planning early. Do an inventory of equipment, supplies, staff and more Take stock of what you have at hand to work with, whether that be equipment, employees, blank goods, supplies, etc. Think about what potential all these things combined together can accomplish.Does any of your equipment need some tender loving care? Is it time to replace or buy new equipment? Year-end tax savings can be a good motivator to make that purchase before the new year begins.As to blank goods or other supplies, everyone else is looking forward to holiday sales as well. Don’t be left scouring the internet to find product at the last minute.Planning to custom decorate Christmas stockings? Buy them now, before you’re on the “estimated delivery in January” list. What products or services do you offer that can maximize your potential? What do you do best and most efficiently that can maximize your profit potential? These are the products and processes where you should focus your attention and marketing. Promoting what you do best and what makes the most money for you only makes sense.Promote, promote, promote your specialty and what makes the most money per order. That alone can make you more money this season with exactly the same amount of production time and effort as last year. Segment 3: Staff & Workflow Temporary help, training before the rush.Shop layout tweaks, workflow, and realistic schedules.Showing gratitude and keeping morale up. Contract decorators If you don’t have the ability this season to meet your production goals, what are the options?You could take fewer orders, but that doesn’t make sense, or you could get some production assistance.Contract decorators are planning for the rush of production just like you. If you wait too long to get a slice of their production schedule, they may be booked up.Do you know any niche market decorators who don’t participate in holiday sales? They might be your perfect partner. When I sold exclusively in the fraternity/sorority marketplace, I was always looking for contract production between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, and all summer long.Ask to see samples of the contractor’s work and, if practical, ask for references of other customers (that aren’t your direct competitors).Anyone who has been in the garment and product decorating game for very long knows that some decorators are better than others. Poor quality work or late delivery could sabotage your entire holiday sales plans. Temporary employees Some college students have as much as 6-8 weeks off over the holiday season, and most would love the opportunity to make some money before going back to school.The more flexible you are, the greater the pool of potential employees. After school high school students (and full time when they’re on break), stay at home moms and dads, second job opportunities to help pay for the holidays, and so on.A Saturday shift for six weeks or so can add to your productivity. Or an evening shift can broaden your staffing potential to people who work full-time jobs but would love to make some extra holiday spending money.Have a great employee who can lead that shift? Give them the opportunity to head up the extra hours so you’re not working six or seven days a week, day and night. And with that opportunity, you might just find a potential new manager to relieve some of your burden year-round.Hire and train before the rush. Yes, you’ll spend a little more money with payroll on the front end, but you’ll gain more productivity in the heat of the season.It’s far easier to train someone when business is calm as opposed to rushing through it with orders stacking up. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/w4pzyWEmjM4 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Lisbeth Lyons Black, Director of the Women in Print Alliance, and Adrienne Palmer, Founder of AP Media Group and member of the WPA Advisory Council. We’ll explore the exciting milestone Women in Print Alliance just celebrated, the growing benefits available to members, and what’s ahead as the organization enters its second year of formal membership. Plus, get a sneak peek at WPA’s largest presence ever at PRINTING United Expo 2025 and the many opportunities for women in print to connect, learn, and lead. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/EAiz8IE-MFM Dad Joke Terry: I was driving and came across a temporary road sign that said “Survey Crew Ahead” Yeah, they’re actually not interested in your opinion. I know that now. Women in Print Alliance Terry: You’ve both been here before but tell our listeners a little about yourselves. And Adrienne, tell us what you’re doing these days. Aaron: Lisbeth, for those who might be new to Women in Print Alliance, can you share a quick overview of the mission and vision? Terry: Adrienne, what personally drew each of you to get involved with WPA and champion women in print? Aaron: Lisbeth, WPA just celebrated an important milestone. Can you tell us what it was?Adrienne, why is this such a great milestone for the industry to celebrate? Terry: Looking back at WPA’s first year as a formal membership organization, what stands out to you as the biggest success or most popular initiative so far? Adrienne, what stands out to you? Aaron: WPA has a student membership category. Adrienne, why is that important for the future of the industry? Lisbeth, why was this important to the organization? Terry: Can you both share an example of how WPA has supported a student, an individual member, or a business in a way that shows the power of this community? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Angie Meese of That Shirt Shack. She is a blank apparel enthusiast turned DTG and DTF print pro who’s redefining custom printing with creativity and speed. Angie shares what’s working now in apparel marketing, why not all blanks are created equal, and how to match the right print method to your project. Plus, she dives into the often-overlooked role of packaging and shipping in building loyal customers. Whether you’re just starting or scaling your custom business, Angie brings real-world strategies to help you pick the right products, print with confidence, and keep customers coming back. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/d5EJLrTEht8 Dad Joke Aaron:  I was on a diabetes awareness site, and it asked me if I accepted cookies. Is that a trick question? Blanks to Bold Prints Aaron: Tell our listeners a little about yourself and your journey in the industry. Terry: Over the past year, what changes have you noticed in how custom apparel businesses are marketing themselves effectively? Aaron: Where are you seeing the best ROI right now—email lists, vendor markets, local collaborations, or something else? Terry: How have platforms like Instagram Reels and user-generated content shifted the way you reach and engage customers? Aaron: What’s your process for helping customers choose the right blank apparel for their project? Terry: Can you share an example where the wrong blank choice caused issues and what you learned from it? Terry: How do you explain the differences between DTG and DTF to customers who don’t know the technical side? Aaron: What are some misconceptions people still have about these print methods? Terry: Why do you think packaging plays such a big role in branding and repeat orders?Aaron: If a new decorator came to you today asking, “What’s one piece of advice that will save me headaches down the road?”—what would you tell them? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/aT5cmkX-ejc OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago, Nov. 1-2. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems: Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Uncommon Mindset, Uncommon Results: How to Stop Operating Like Everyone Else – – October 3, 2025 at 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

Marketing today can feel overwhelming with endless platforms, ads, and tactics pulling you in different directions. This week on 2 Regular Guys, Terry sits down with Aaron to unpack an uncommon approach to marketing that cuts through the noise. The conversation is based on a seminar Aaron was scheduled to give at GPX Long Beach before GPX shifted away from real education and toward sales-driven sessions. Instead of chasing every new trend or burning out on busywork, you’ll discover a framework that helps small business owners simplify their message, attract the right customers, and build momentum with confidence. Whether you feel stuck, inconsistent, or just tired of guessing, this conversation will show you a clearer path to marketing better in 2025 and beyond. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/n08jct2a0Es Dad Joke Aaron: I saw a gentleman yesterday pulling aluminum cans out of the dumpster and he was crushing them. It was so depressing. (Soda Pressing) Better Marketing Strategies You were scheduled to present this seminar at GPX Long Beach, but GPX pulled back from education. Can you share a little about what happened there and why you still wanted to bring this message to people? GPX made a decision after I announced working with APAS to terminate their commitment to bring me out for shows as education. They wanted APAS to pay for the time, and that is not what this is about: trying to sell someone something. I respect their choice, but here’s the thing: small business owners are craving real strategies, not product demos disguised as classes. I felt strongly that this message still needed to be shared, so instead of leaving it behind, we’re bringing it right here to the 2 Regular Guys. You’ve been working with small business owners for nearly 30 years. Why do you think so many still feel overwhelmed or stuck when it comes to marketing? Most education, when it comes to marketing, focuses on the strategies. That’s great when people have a foundation, but most small businesses don’t, so for them, marketing feels like a moving target. There are so many options—social media, email, ads, networking, SEO now AI, and they are all changing daily. People end up dabbling here and there but never feeling confident. And the reality is, it’s not that they’re bad at marketing. It’s that they don’t have a clear plan or foundation. That’s what leads to inconsistency and frustration and what feels like wasted time and money on marketing. So what is the answer? How can we all market better in 2025 and beyond? The way I’ve simplified it is by focusing on three core elements that every business can apply, no matter its size or industry. It’s not about copying someone else’s exact formula. It’s about having a framework that works for you. And once you see it, marketing becomes much less about overwhelm and much more about consistency and connection. In the seminar, I call it our marketing superhero plan and it is 3 simple C’sCLARITY – Define WHO you serve and WHY they should choose you. I have borrowed a saying that I like to use to remind myself of how important this is. “When you try to be all things to everyone, you end up becoming nothing to no one.” Who specifically is your ideal customer? Get crystal clear on your ideal customer and what they truly need, not what you sell.CONNECTION – Shaping how you market and going away from marketing being about selling, but instead about awareness that builds trust and relationships. Your customers aren’t just buying your product—they’re buying into your story, your values, and how you help them.CONSISTENCY – Marketing works when you show up consistently, not when you try to do everything at once. All the shiny objects, new fancy strategies can be blinding. But they are easy to sell because of our instant gratification need. But real long-term success comes from being consistent. Let’s start with the first part plan, clarity. What’s the biggest shift small business owners need to make here? We try to market to everyone, trying to make the biggest fly trap to catch everyone, and as the saying goes, when you try to be all things to everyone, you end up being nothing to no one. It’s just too noisy out there for that wide net. The key is to get crystal clear about who you serve, what problem you solve for them, and why they would choose you. Once you have that clarity, your message stops blending into the noise. Once they make that shift, what changes in how they market their business? They realize it is much more important to have a conversation with one specific person so there is clarity and connection quickly. The flip from trying to convince people, and instead, they start attracting the right people. You stop chasing customers and start connecting with them, because your message is now speaking directly to their needs and their transformation. And that one person you are trying to connect with becomes the magnet that draws in all of the right customers for you. Definitely makes sense. It seems counterintuitive at first, but it is definitely a better and less costly use of a business’s resources. The second C is CONNECTION. Once they have clarity, what is a mistake when it comes to connection, and what’s a better way? The mistake is trying to copy this marketing guru or relying on hacks and tricks, like fear-based messaging, transactional offers, or just making the most noise. That doesn’t build trust or connection. The better way is to focus on genuine connection. I use what I call the I3 Formula: Be Interesting, Be Interested, Be Inviting. That could be a whole day session, but think about the 3 I’s in that order. What makes YOU stand out = interesting. Show that you care ABOUT THEM = interested and then invite people to take the next step. A clear, specific call to action is not salesy; it’s actually inviting. If you focus on the 3 Is, you build relationships instead of just pushing sales. The last C is consistency, and I know business owners tend to struggle with this due to all the hats they have to wear. How do you recommend they simplify it? You’re exactly right, it is the number of responsibilities with marketing just being another thing on the list. They try to do everything at once and see some new “strategy” that makes sense in the ad, so they buy the system, and it doesn’t work for them. People are telling them they have to get out there more, so they’re posting on five platforms, running ads, sending emails, networking, and they burn out. Or they give up too soon because results feel slow. My advice is simple: pick one strategy that matches your strengths and commit to it for 90 days. Stick with it. That’s how momentum builds. Obviously, there is some groundwork to do in this, as I said, pick a strategy that matches your strength. But I’m happy to help anyone through this. Sign up for an SVP Sessions osg.link/svp Lets make sure that listeners have a very practical takeaway. Can you give us an example of a simple 90-day action someone could commit to that would move the needle for their business? Let’s say that writing is your strength and you love to do that. Commit to a weekly email or blog for 90 days. If you love teaching, run a short live workshop series or do a daily “lesson” on social media. If you love face-to-face, focus on networking and referrals. Make sure you get out to at least one networking event a week for 90 days. Whatever fits your strengths, stick to it for 90 days, no bouncing around. What is the main key to marketing better in 2025 and beyond? The key is to let go of the overwhelm of all the strategies, time commitment, and uncertainty. I hear small business owners tell me all the time they don’t like marketing because it is so hard and time-consuming. They are looking at it backwards; marketing is simply making the right people aware of what you do, so they will want to do business with you when you can solve a problem for them or fill a need. And creating that awareness is only going to happen when you look forward to connecting with the right people in the way that works for you. When you focus on clarity, build real connections, and stay consistent, marketing becomes a natural extension of your business instead of a burden.  If you want a copy of the slides, notes and a white paper on ways to increase your perceived value, join the Entrepreneur’s Success Hub on Facebook at OSG.link/group. Then reach out to me directly at [email protected] The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/iJws1R6VtwE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 2, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Gawreluk of Print Profit for a deep dive into the real math behind profitable printing. Pricing your products the right way is the key to staying in business and winning more jobs. We’ll break down common pricing myths, overlooked cost factors, and how to think differently about value and margin. Practical insight you can use to grow your bottom line. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/DeE8B982PwY Dad Joke Terry: I’m sharing the dad joke telepathically today Yeah, so if you think of something funny, that was me Smarter Profit Strategies Aaron: Let’s dive right into pricing. What do most printers misunderstand about costing their work? Terry: What’s a common pricing formula or approach you see decorators using that actually puts them at risk? Aaron: Can you walk us through what a profitable job looks like vs a break-even one? Aaron: What should decorators consider besides just time and materials when pricing? Terry: What are the hidden “profit leaks” you see over and over again? Aaron: I know you typically work with larger shops, but for small shops or solopreneurs heading towards your ideal customer demographic, how can they begin thinking like profitable businesses? Terry: Have you seen any shifts in how successful shops are adapting pricing strategies in today’s economy, with supply costs, inflation, etc.? Aaron: What do you say to the shop owner who thinks they’re too busy to stop and figure out all their numbers? Terry: How can people learn more about what you do and follow you to connect? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/pwVa_erOBUA OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 2, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week, we’re joined by Theresa Hegel and C.J. Mittica from ASI Media to explore the findings from the latest Counselor State of the Industry report. As key editors behind the issue, they share valuable insights on how the promotional products industry is navigating challenges like tariffs, shifting client expectations, and project delays, while still showing resilience and optimism. We’ll also dive into trends around AI adoption, sustainability, and the growing interest in Made in USA products, giving listeners a clear snapshot of where the industry stands and what’s coming next. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/1BNKlQWhxZE Dad Joke Terry: Did you hear about the guy who fell into the upholstery machine? It’s OK. He’s fully recovered. The Real State of the Industry Aaron: Welcome to the show. Theresa is a regular on the show, but CJ, tell us a little about yourself and your journey into the industry. We’re looking forward to talking Counselor State of the Industry report again this year. Terry: We got a little “inside baseball” on the report, so our questions will reflect that. What’s the biggest theme that emerged from this year’s Counselor State of the Industry report? C.J./Theresa: The struggles of promo industry companies in the first half, but also the resilience they’ve shown in navigating issues like tariff challenges and the optimism that companies have for the rest of the year. Aaron: Something that hasn’t come up in a major way in previous reports, what’s been the impact of tariffs? C.J./Theresa: Our most recent ASI Research data shows that the vast majority of promo distributors are still concerned about tariffs, but it’s shifting from very concerned to somewhat concerned. Also most distributors and suppliers have raised their prices, and inventory shortfalls are expected. Terry: Your study the past two years has measured the scope of negative attitudes about promotional products. What does the data say this year? C.J./Theresa: 31% of distributors are concerned that clients are developing negative attitudes toward promo products, up from 23% last year. Choosing thoughtful, quality products and prioritizing sustainability can ease those concerns. Terry: Let’s Go Sew with Joanne Banko – I’m a big fan of consumables like experiences or food. Would be interesting to hear creative ways to customize that with swag 🙂 David Hanes – With the promo industry having “distributors”, have you noticed the fast growth of “print on demand” (distributors) for the apparel industry? Aaron: Are you seeing a shift to Made in USA manufacturing? C.J./Theresa: Made in USA suppliers performed very well in the first half of the year and are reporting greater interest, and distributors are reporting greatest interest among clients. The vast majority of promotional products will still be manufactured overseas, but a select group of companies have been reshoring production to the U.S. Terry: AI has become very big, and the State of the Industry survey asked companies about their AI usage. What did you find out? C.J./Theresa: Only a quarter of promotional products distributors compared to two-thirds of suppliers use AI. Writing copy is the most common use, followed by creating images, writing proposals, and offering customer service. Aaron: Your report shows half of promo distributors feel projects are taking longer. Why is that the case? C.J./Theresa: Stricter requirements from corporate clients are making the bid process a lot more complicated. Also there are more decision-makers involved, and the artwork is much more creative than just placing a logo on something, which is also causing delays Terry: Where can our listeners get more information, and reach out to each of you? Read the full Counselor State of the Industry report at members.asicentral.com/soi The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/sZCbE3obz24 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Cutting Through the Noise: Finding Success in the Wild West of DTF – October 2, 2025 at 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Chaos to Clarity: The Mindset Shift That Transforms Everything – October 22, 2025, at 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM The Time Myth: Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie and What to Do Instead – October 23, 2025 at 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM Setting and Achieving Goals Yet This Year: Making the Most of 2025 and Beyond – October 23, 2025 at 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week, Terry Combs is joined by special guest host Erich Campbell for a timely conversation about Production Training in the Digital Age. As training demands grow and time becomes more limited, the guys explore how shops of all sizes can take advantage of digital tools, from structured video libraries to AI-assisted learning, while still honoring the hands-on experience our industry requires. Whether you’re onboarding new employees, improving consistency, or just trying to stop repeating yourself, this episode is packed with real-world ideas, honest discussion, and new opportunities for smarter, more scalable training. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/UaFIGx_Aisw Dad Joke Terry: What did the janitor say when he jumped out of the closet? SUPPLIES!! Smarter Training and Education Let’s talk training in general to start Most people do little to no training. “Watch what I do.” “Watch what she does.” Why do owners and managers do limited training? There’s no time for training… you manage the business in crisis mode, daily They’ll take my double secret methods and techniques to the competition They’ll steal my ideas and go into competition with me Another option for training may not be the end-all-be-all if you’re not of a training mindset What’s reality? The more you invest in training, the more likely that person will want to stay with you The more you invest in training, the more efficient you’ll be, and the better product you’ll produce Most employees rarely want to change jobs if they don’t have to, so if you have a great work environment, they want to stay The bottomline truth, “I don’t know where are how to start.” What is the new opportunity with digital training? Some of us aren’t the best at structuring training in our own businesses Recorded training can get us started and stay on track with a structured format Can we turn training over to the internet? Hands on is still a part of the picture People who come to my screen printing classes who tried to start their business with YouTube training You still need to interact on the content as well. Showing them doesn’t mean they understand how it translates to your company. Onboarding new employees No matter the size of your company, time is at a premium. If you can use digital training for some part of this process, everyone is ahead. 52/15 Training Let’s talk ongoing training Using 2RG Secret Sauce If you’re not comfortable doing this training yourself, digital training may be your salvation Building a library of digital content A large well known company in the industry uses Aaron and my DTG training class available through Printing United Alliance for all their employees.Trade show: “I feel like I’ve been talking with you all week.” Rather than training binders, you’ll have training links. Recording your own content The next time you onboard a new employee, think about recording some or all of it while you’re going over the information. When you’re doing any training (like you should be now) record and edit it as a training tool. Ever invite any of your vendors to come into your workplace to train on their products or services? They’ll do that, you know. Record it for future use. Using AI in the training process AI is making the both the creation of training materials and the capture of trainable tasks easier and more accessible Tools for digesting and creating training regimens NotebookLM – Digesting materials to create audio content, training guidelines, and tests – using your own materials or those you access through trainers, guides, bullet points, summaries, podcast format Scribe – captures digital tasks and describes step by step processes on easy to follow guides. Think order systems, e-commerce, etc. Capturing idiosyncratic or multi-software practices that a user manual won’t describe completely.  Wrap up: Just like with new decoration methods, we decorators have multiple options with training as well. It’s just a matter of what we do with them. The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/sKiUCzXIJwE OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – Friday, Aug 01, 2025 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – Saturday, Aug 02, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, Terry turns the tables and interviews Aaron about how decorators can stop spinning their wheels and start building a business that actually works for them, not the other way around. Whether you’re just starting out or feeling stuck in survival mode, you’ll walk away with clear, actionable ways to gain control of your time, money, and direction. Aaron breaks down the five foundational areas every business owner will get tremendous value by focusing on, how to avoid common planning mistakes, and why even 30 minutes of intentional strategy can transform your entire shop. No fluff, just real talk and proven tools to help you create a business you’ll love showing up for every day. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/rBy9HL5PzOU Dad Joke Terry: I told the nurse I was bitten by a wolf, and she said, “Where?” Aaron: Where? No, a regular wolf. Business Planning You and I are both a little obsessive about planning, but in your business, you have seemed to really take the charge of encouraging people to a whole new level. Tell us about that. We hear a lot about hustle and scale, but you teach something different. What are some of the common misconceptions around business planning, and what are the signs a decorator is just winging it? What would you say to the decorator who’s afraid that writing a business plan will lock them into something rigid? How does mindset play a role in this kind of planning? Isn’t a plan just about goals and numbers? What are some key areas a business owner might want to focus on in their plans? Let’s talk time — how much time does someone need to invest to start seeing results from a real business plan? What kind of changes do they usually see after they go through your planning process? If someone’s listening right now and wants to get started — what’s the first step they can take today? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/DPGpzQS3214 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – Friday, Aug 01, 2025 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – Saturday, Aug 02, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Anthony Schmitt,  a full-time firefighter who turned a side hustle into a fast-growing screen printing business, Gladiator Graphics. Starting with a Silhouette Cameo in 2018 and leveling up through hands-on training (shoutout to Terry’s class!), Anthony now runs an automatic print shop approaching half a million in sales. We’ll dive into how he juggles firefighting and entrepreneurship, the unconventional strategies that have fueled his growth, from Google reviews and metal business cards to a mobile print bus and a podcast. Plus the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for new growth tactics, this is an inspiring and practical episode you won’t want to miss. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/sgpNcGmFV5M Dad Joke Aaron: A friend of mine got kidnapped by a group of mimes. They did unspeakable things to him. How to Build a Screen Printing Shop Aaron: Anthony, welcome to the show! Before we dig into your current success, take us back. What was the tipping point that made you go from casual creator to full-on garment decorator? (Terry: Take your time on this. Don’t leave any detail out!) Terry: A lot of our listeners are juggling a day job and a side hustle just like you are. What’s your real-world advice for staying focused and making meaningful progress without burning out? Aaron: You’ve gone from YouTube deep dives to hands-on training. For someone standing at that same fork in the road, how do you decide what’s worth your time and money? Terry: Every journey has speed bumps. What were some of the biggest mistakes or missteps that helped shape how you run your business today, and what would you tell others to avoid? Aaron: On the other side of our commercial break, let’s talk about some steps to success. Aaron: Let’s flip to the wins. You’ve done some things that moved the needle, like creative outreach. What’s worked best and why? Terry: Tell us about your (idea for?) podcast. How did that come about, and how has it helped your business or community connections? Aaron:  One of the coolest things you’re doing is mobile printing with a converted transit bus — seriously, that’s next-level. Walk us through how that works and what kind of impact it’s had. Terry: We always ask for one golden nugget. What’s the one mindset, habit, or strategy that you believe more decorators need to adopt right now? Terry: Where can our listeners connect with you, learn more about Gladiator Graphics? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/S9hAPyMR6HY OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – Friday, Aug 01, 2025 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – Saturday, Aug 02, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re diving into the evolution of sublimation with industry educator and Sawgrass Brand Ambassador Laurie Donovan. The rise of hybrid decoration, combining traditional sublimation with new materials and techniques, is opening the door to products and partnerships that were previously off-limits. Whether you’re a veteran decorator or just exploring your options, this episode will break down how hybrid sublimation works, where it fits into a broader production strategy, and how decorators can leverage it. From cotton to wood to uncoated ceramics, we’ll explore what’s possible and what’s practical as sublimation technology enters a new era. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/V21GSyC-cHU Dad Joke Terry: 4th of July joke from Kim Johnson What do you call a duck that bursts into flames? FIRE QUACKER!! Hybrid Solutions Terry: Hi Laurie. Share with our listeners a little bit about your journey in this industry. Terry: Let’s define “hybrid decoration.” What exactly are we talking about? Aaron: Why is now the moment for hybrid to become part of the mainstream conversation? Terry: What substrates are we talking about here? Aaron: This option is more expensive than other Sawgrass systems. What is the justification for the higher price? care.sawgrassink.com Terry: Give us an example of how you’ve used this system for an actual customer. How did you solve a problem for them? Aaron: How do you think this changes the conversation around “sublimation is dead”? Terry: If you already have a Sawgrass printer, can you convert it to Versiflex inks? Aaron: How can our listeners find out more? www.sawgrassink.com https://www.facebook.com/LearningSublimationwithLaurie https://go.oncehub.com/lauriedonovanworkshop The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/DhKt_yMrnKU OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – Friday, Aug 01, 2025 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – Saturday, Aug 02, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by decorated apparel legend Johnny Shell, Principal Analyst for Textile & Apparel Printing Services at Keypoint Intelligence. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Johnny brings unmatched insight into the current state of apparel decoration. We’ll explore where the market is shifting, which technologies are truly moving the needle (and which are just hype), and how small to mid-sized decorators can keep up with rising demand for customization, speed, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking to adapt, invest, or gain a competitive edge, this conversation will give you the clarity and strategic takeaways you need to thrive in today’s evolving print landscape. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/-mgcsYoFImU Dad Joke Terry: My 4 year old granddaughter made me realize I might have a road rage issue. She was riding in my shopping cart at the grocery store and yelled at the shopper in front of us, “Pick a lane, jerk!” Where Apparel Decoration is Headed Next Aaron: I’m sure all of our listeners know you, Johnny, but tell us a little about Keypoint Intelligence. Terry: You’ve been in the decorated apparel space for nearly four decades. How have you seen the industry evolve, and what would you say are the most pivotal shifts happening right now? Aaron: With your finger on the pulse of this industry, where do you see technology making the biggest impact today, and which innovations are being overhyped? Terry: How are decorators, especially small and mid-sized shops, adapting to the demands of customization, speed, and sustainability? Aaron: You’ve often spoken about market signals. Can you share where you see demand trending, both in product types and in printing methods? Terry: If a listener walks away from today’s episode with one strategic insight, what do you hope it is? Aaron: How can our listeners find you? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/XcWWy0EGj2U OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – Friday, Aug 01, 2025 at 2 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – Saturday, Aug 02, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Adrienne Palmer and the team from Fabric.ink to talk shop ownership at a deeper level. Beyond revenue goals and the daily grind. We’ll unpack the real struggles that keep decorators stuck, and the shifts needed to grow with intention. From building financial stability to gaining back control of your time, we’re asking the hard questions. What actually moves the needle in today’s print shops? What tools, habits, and mindset changes separate growth-focused owners from the rest? If you’ve ever felt buried in production or unsure what “growth” really means for your business, this episode is for you. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/i9hugEvCF2k Dad Joke Terry: (Aaron shared this one.) How does a sunflower ride a bicycle? With its Petals Growth Strategies Terry: We want to welcome into the show today, Fabric co-founders Steven Farag and Bruce Ackerman. Bruce, tell us a little bit about your journey in the industry. And Steven, you’re up. Erich: What do you think causes most print shop owners to plateau after a few years in business? Terry: Many shop owners got into this business for freedom, but end up chained to it. What are a few first steps to reverse that? Erich: How can owners begin shifting from being ‘doers’ to being strategic leaders, even if they’re still small? Terry: What’s a common bottleneck or fire drill in most print shops that could be solved with a simple system or process? Erich: If someone listening only has 5 hours a week to work on their business (not just in it), what should they focus on first? Terry: How do you help owners get clarity when they’re overwhelmed with too many ideas or directions to go? Erich: What’s one habit you see successful shop owners adopt that changes everything for them? Terry: What one golden nugget of advice would you give a business owner today? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/5qKhUhSzpSc OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we welcome Jared Barbosa from Heat Press Nation to set the record straight. Sublimation is alive and well. With rumors swirling that sublimation is fading, we’ll explore what’s really happening in the marketplace. Jared brings a front-line perspective from one of the most trusted names in the industry. From product trends and customer behavior to HPN’s support of SkillsUSA and the next generation of decorators, this episode dives into why sublimation still has a strong foothold and what the future holds. Whether you’re just starting or scaling your sublimation business, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/UWACgyijiC0 Dad Joke Aaron: It’s my first week at the bicycle factory. They’ve already made me the spokes person. (Thanks to Marcia and James) Sublimation in 2025 Terry: Welcome to the show. Give us a little background on you and your path to the industry. Aaron: Jared, I want to dive right in the deep end here. We’ve heard folks say “sublimation is dead” because of all the attention DTF is getting. What’s your take on that? Terry: With so many printing options out there, DTF, sublimation, UV, screen print, how should decorators decide what’s right for them? Aaron: For someone who’s thinking about getting into sublimation, or maybe coming back to it, what would you say makes it still such a strong option? Terry: From your perspective, what’s changed most in sublimation equipment over the years? Aaron: How does someone know if sublimation is right for their business, or if it’s time to branch into another method like DTF or UV? Aaron: Where do you see sublimation going in the next couple of years, and what products are still growing? Terry: To wrap it up, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to decorators trying to figure out the best path forward for their business right now? Aaron: Thank you so much for being here with us. How can people connect with you and learn more about Heat Press Nation? Links Main Website: www.heatpressnation.com Free Weekly Classes: https://heat.press/class  HPN YouTube: www.youtube.com/heatpressnation  Sublimation Video Playlist: https://heat.press/subplaylist  HPN Instagram: www.instagram.com/heatpressnation My Brand Instagram (not HPN): www.instagram.com/Tuesdays_Best  Grandview Research Report on Global Dye Sublimated Apparel Market Grandview Research North America Dye Sublimated Apparel Market Size & Outlook The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/MzRyrb99nZ8 OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

It’s our 600th episode! And what better way to celebrate than with Spencer Cenrnoff of Limitless Transfers, a two-time DTFPrinting.com Award Winner and standout in the world of Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing. We’re diving into Spencer’s journey. From how he got started to building an award-winning DTF transfer business. We’ll also break down what’s driving the explosive growth in the DTF market, what decorators need to know to succeed, and what’s next for the technology and the industry. Whether you’re deep in the DTF world or just DTF-curious, this milestone episode is packed with practical advice, inspiration, and a few golden nuggets you won’t want to miss. Join us as we celebrate 600 episodes of educating and elevating the decorating community! Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/AcadifnDm4o Dad Joke FROM OUR GUEST! Why did the screen printer go to the doctor’s office? He couldn’t stop cracking up and needed to be cured. Award Winning DTF Printer Aaron: Welcome into the show, Spencer. Tell us a little about yourself and how you found your way into the industry. Terry: I was at an event here in Phoenix where you won an award recently, and your 2nd DTF award! Tell us about that. Aaron: Let’s start with the “big picture”. What do you attribute the huge growth of DTF decorating and where do you think the industry is going? Terry: How about your specific business? What do you feel the future holds as to technology and beyond? Terry: For our listeners on the sidelines and thinking about this business, what’s your take on diving in with an equipment purchase, or starting by jobbing out your DTF transfers? Terry: Are there some downsides you see to DTF printing and the process? Or the end product? How about any downside to what you see being produced by DTF contractors that isn’t necessarily “award contenders”? Aaron: For 13 years, 2RG has done an annual show on what we would like to see in the coming year. What innovations would you like to see in the DTF world in the coming year, and beyond? Terry: What’s one golden nugget of advice you would give to other DTF decorators, or people thinking about taking the plunge into this marketplace? Aaron: How can our listeners reach out to you? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/e43KVyzl3ps OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re teaming up with Cassie Green and Kristine Shreve, co-hosts of the brand new Threads of Change podcast by Apparelist, to bring you a powerful collaborative episode. Together, we’ll explore the intersection of mental health, gratitude, and self-care in the decorated apparel industry and beyond. Our special guest is Kylene Montgomery is a vocational rehabilitation counselor, certified Success Principles trainer, yoga instructor, and author of The Gratitude Shift: A Simple Path to Find More Peace and Joy. We’ll have an honest conversation about how gratitude can be a transformative tool for navigating burnout, building resilience, and supporting the well-being of yourself and your team. Whether you’re a shop owner, creative, or industry pro, this episode offers a fresh, thoughtful perspective on how taking care of yourself is just as essential as taking care of business. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/6Ll5OlW632Q Dad Joke Aaron: Why can’t you trust an atom? Because they make up everything. The Gratitude Shift Aaron: Let’s welcome in the Threads of Change Co-Hosts first, Cassie Green and Kristine Shreve. Thanks for being here with us. Before we grab Kylene, can you guys give us a quick overview of the Threads of Change? Cassie: I put out a brainstorming call to my editorial advisory board quite a while back, asking them to send me topic ideas and things that the Apparelist should be covering. Kristine came back to me with this idea that there really isn’t a lot of discussion in the industry about topics like mental health or being a minority in the industry. Of course, groups like UNITE Together exist that are helping change the rhetoric, but we really wanted to bring these conversations to the public sphere. Kristine: Additional thoughts – how we met and started our brainstorming on how the podcast came to be Back and forth about our goals with the podcast, but then let’s bring the conversation back to Mental Health Awareness Month. Cassie: Our May guest is Amanda Delaney of Logomark, and she’s been openly discussing mental health for quite some time, so we felt it was perfect for Mental Health Awareness Month. Terry: Where can people tune in and learn more about the podcast? Lives on the Apparelist website here: https://www.apparelist.com/podcast/. Cassie: You do a lot of work in the health and wellness space: you’re a yoga instructor and I’ve listened to a few of your curated meditations. Can you tell us about your journey into this world and specifically into mental health? Kristine: What value do you think it brings to talk openly about mental health? Cassie: One of the things we talked about with Amanda is whether or not you have to share your personal story. How does each person’s experience with mental health differ, and why don’t we always have to share it? Kristine: Kylene, as a mental health and wellness advocate, what’s your experience been like leading conversations and being the one who’s more in the “public eye”? Cassie: I read your and Aaron’s book, The Gratitude Shift. Another topic we talked with Amanda about in Threads of Change May is the fact that there are resources like this out there, from books like yours up to professional help. How do you see resources like your book serving as a positive way to help others? Kristine: As you’ve gone through this journey of exploring and educating in the mental health and wellness space, what have you found to be the most powerful messaging that might help others out there going through some struggles? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 30, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 31, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Lon Riley. A seasoned expert in UV printing and manufacturing workflow innovation. Whether you’ve never touched a UV printer or are curious how it might fit alongside your current technology, this episode is for you. We’ll break down what UV printing is great for (and what it isn’t), explore how digital decorators can streamline their operations, and talk about the trends shaping the future of efficient, on-demand production. Plus, Lon brings insights on U.S.-based manufacturing, automation, and how to think smarter about your print processes, no matter the decoration method. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJ4LBy-STjU Dad Joke Terry: My neighbor has identical twins named Amal and Juan, but their mom only carries one baby picture in her wallet Aaron: Why does she only carry one baby picture? Because if you’ve seen Juan, you’ve seen Amal UV Printing and Workflow Innovation Aaron: Welcome to the show, Lon. Tell us a little about how you got into the industry and where you are today. Terry: I think traditionally, people would think of our podcast as one for t-shirt printers. Our listeners (Regulators) do cover a broad spectrum, but for anyone unfamiliar, can you explain UV printing technology to our listeners? Aaron: What are the ideal applications for UV printing, and are there scenarios where it’s not the best fit? Terry: How can UV printing complement other decoration methods like screen printing or embroidery in a shop’s offerings? Aaron: What are some common challenges print shops face when integrating new technologies, and how can they overcome them? Terry: What role does automation play in modern print shops, and how can businesses start implementing it? Aaron: How do you see the future of on-demand manufacturing evolving, especially concerning UV printing? Terry: What advice would you give to a print shop considering diversifying their services with UV printing? Aaron: Looking ahead, what innovations or trends in UV printing and workflow optimization are you most excited about? Aaron: Where can our listeners learn more about your business and connect with you? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lqp7GL4sNs OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 30, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 31, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Jay Busselle from the Branded Merch Network and Theresa Hegel from ASI to discuss a topic that deserves more attention across the industry—sustainability. We’ll explore why so many leaders in our space are dedicating serious time and energy to creating sustainable solutions and how these efforts go far beyond a single event. Along the way, we’ll highlight the upcoming Why It Matters: Sustainable Merch Summit and what attendees can expect from this free, virtual experience. Whether you’re a solo decorator or running a large production shop, this conversation is packed with insight into why sustainable merch isn’t just a trend, it’s a necessary shift for the future of our industry. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwwvG5PgRxc Dad Joke Aaron: Terry, I know we are known for our world famous Dad jokes, but if we could refrain from any about cars please. Terry: Why is that?Aaron: Because they are exhausting. Sustainability Aaron: Welcome to the show today Jay and Theresa. You’ve both been on the show enough times that we don’t need introductions. But I want to dive right into this topic of sustainability. Sustainability is a big buzzword these days. Why is this conversation so urgent for our industry right now, Jay? JAY: Because we’ve run out of time to treat sustainability like a side project. Our industry—promo, print, apparel—is built on physical products. And that means we’re in the hot seat. We can’t ignore how things are made, the resources used to make them, where they come from, or where they end up. More buyers are demanding better answers. More brands want to align their merch with their values. And if we can’t provide answers—or worse, if our answers feel hollow—we lose relevance. This isn’t just about being green. It’s about building trust, staying competitive, and doing business that aligns with people, planet, and prosperity. Theresa and how is this playing out in the promo world? THERESA: I would agree with everything Jay said. I’ve been writing about sustainability in promo for the last three years (www.promofortheplanet.com) and we’re increasingly seeing suppliers step up, by publishing annual impact reports – sharing detailed data about the progress they’re making. There are also more options out there for sustainable products – whether it’s a tote bag with a digital product passport, detailing its sustainable supply chain, notebooks made from certified recycled materials or a reusable water bottle that helps fund ocean cleanups or has some other robust giveback element. (As part of Promo for the Planet, we have a regularly updated list called the Do-Gooders Directory, where we publish suppliers’ and distributors’ giveback programs, corporate social responsibility initiatives and sustainability certifications. … And if you’re not on it, but think you should be, reach out to me at [email protected].) I think we still have a long way to go as an industry – there’s definitely a lot of greenwashing happening, either intentionally or due to lack of education – but we’re heading in the right direction.   Terry: Before we get into the upcoming summit, can you both tell us from your vantage points, what are the biggest misconceptions decorators or promo professionals still have about sustainable practices Theresa? THERESA:  “Sustainability just means eco-friendly”: We often break it down to the triple bottom line of people, planet and profit. The social aspects of sustainability – how we treat workers, how the community at large is affected – is just as important as whether an item is made of recycled materials. Sustainability is a much bigger tent than many people realize. “You have to be perfect right away.”: Sustainability is a journey. It’s more important to be authentic and transparent about what you’re doing and where you’re still falling short than to get everything “right” at once. I think the first step really is to get a good baseline of your impact – energy usage, water usage, etc. – so that you can meaningfully track your reduction efforts. “Who cares where items come from?” Traceable, transparent supply chains are important, not just for sustainability reasons, but also for business risk management. Think about big brands’ logos ending up in fast fashion dumping grounds in places like Chile or Ghana. Or apparel makers not realizing they’re using cotton sourced from forced labor.  “There’s a tradeoff between sustainable items and quality.” – Historically, there’s been something that’s referred to as the “sustainability liability,” the idea that manufacturers had to make quality tradeoffs to make it more sustainable and cost-effective. But that’s definitely not the case today, especially when there are so many more product options that are durable, high-quality and also have a great sustainable or giveback story to tell. Jay – How about your perspective? JAY There are a few, but here are the big ones: “It’s too expensive.” Not always true. Many sustainable options are cost-competitive, especially when you consider the lifetime value of a better-quality product that gets used longer and creates better brand impressions. “No one’s asking for it.” Maybe not in those exact words—but they’re asking for better. Better merch, better messaging, better sourcing. Sustainability is part of that equation, even if it’s unspoken. “It’s just about the products.” Nope. Sustainability lives in your process, packaging, printing methods, supplier relationships, marketing, and it even helps attract and hire new employees. We’ve got to stop thinking of sustainability as just another product on the shelf… I’ve learned that it’s not a line item, it’s a mindset. The real impact happens when it’s baked into how we source, create, print, deliver, and share the transparent story behind our merch. Aaron: Let’s dive into the upcoming summit we have teased a little bit, Jay, let’s start with you telling us how Why It Matters: Sustainable Merch Summit was born. Maybe it’s in the title. JAY: The summit’s roots go back to the Why It Matters video series—created and named by Jeff Solomon. Jeff took the lead on this project, conducting about 20 deeply honest interviews with industry leaders who don’t just talk about sustainability—they live it. Those stories sparked something bigger.  Together with ASI, Apparelist, 2 Regular Guys, and the Branded Merch Network, we decided to expand the reach and create a live event that could bring those voices to even more people. Because let’s be clear—this isn’t just a webinar. It’s a rally cry. We’re gathering the voices, values, and visionaries who are redefining what “sustainable” really means in the branded merch, print, and apparel industries. This summit is about moving past greenwashing and getting real about what works—and why it matters. Theresa, would you like to add to that? THERESA: One of the things I want to highlight is how perfectly this summit aligns with ASI’s strategic partnership with PRINTING United Alliance, where we’ve been emphasizing the growing convergence between print, promo and apparel for the last year or so. Cassie and I have been working together closely on content sharing and joining projects, including our monthly Branding Together podcast, so collaborating on a sustainability-focused summit was a no-brainer. Also, last year I went to the Sustainable Brands conference and one of the things they emphasized is how sustainability requires collaboration (“coopetition”) between companies to effect real change, so banding all of our organizations together to talk about this topic makes so much sense. [Also, promo, which has traditionally been such a collaborative and collegial space, should be ripe for these kinds of sustainability discussions and initiatives.] Terry: I don’t want to forget to mention that Cassie with the Apparelist is a major planner and contributor to this event. Cassie’s youngest son has a major presentation himself today that we could never ask her to miss. Theresa, talk to us about some of the subject matter we’ll be covering. THERESA: We have a variety of panel discussions planned with some great industry experts. The panel I’m moderating is all about “Why Transparency Matters” – how honest storytelling, clear sourcing and ethical choices build trust and business. Another panel – moderated by Cassie – is on “Why Certification Matters – Breaking Down the Standards.” She and her guests will be breaking down the labels, logos and language behind sustainable merch and how to use them with confidence.  We’ll also be talking about how “sustainability sells.” It’s a candid conversation about meeting client demand, driving revenue and doing the right thing.  Jay, what’s the format for the event? What should attendees expect to experience? JAY: The summit is a virtual, fast-paced two-hour event happening June 10 at 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT. It’s packed with: Short, insightful keynote presentations Live panel discussions with Q&A Real-world case studies Chat-driven interaction, Q&A, and idea-sharing This isn’t a snooze-fest. It’s designed for doers—people who care about merch and meaning. You will walk away with fresh ideas, practical tools, and renewed clarity… AND hopefully 100+ new friends in a related industry who feel the same way as you do about making a difference! Aaron: We’ve talked about the what, but let’s talk about the who. Jay, who will be offering keynote presentations? JAY: We’re excited to welcome voices who bring both strategy and soul to the conversation: Ryan Moor & Mel Lay – Allmade Apparel Gary Bell – US Trust Cotton Protocol Eric Henry – CEO of TS Designs Steven Baumgaertener – CEO of Cybergroup International More voices will be part of the panels, but these keynotes anchor the event with inspiration and practical direction. Theresa, a lot of names I recognize speaking on the panels. Who will we hear from on these discussions? Ben Grossman of SwagCycle / Grossman Marketing Group Brianna Mazze of SRG Amy Baker of Threadbared Printhouse Gary Jones: Hohenstein (OEKO-TEX) Mel Lay: Allmade Dom Rosacci: Superior Ink Printing Robert Fiveash: Brand Fuel Joseph Sommer: Whitestone Michele Dando: Facilisgroup Terry: We haven’t talked about this yet? Our listeners are large shops and small shops. Who is this event geared to? Who should attend? Jay? JAY: This summit is for anyone who touches branded merch, apparel, or print, and wants to do it better. Large shops, small shops, business owners, business leaders, distributors, decorators, suppliers, sales reps, brand marketers—if you’re wondering: How to source more responsibly How to talk to clients about sustainability How to build a reputation for doing the right thing… This is your space. No gatekeeping. No guilt. Just real people sharing what’s working. It’s all about collaboration and creating an opportunity for impactful conversations and sparking change.  Aaron: Theresa, will the attendees have an opportunity to interact and ask questions? How will that work? Theresa and Cassie monitoring the chat. Absolutely. Cassie and I plan to monitor the chat throughout the event, so we can make sure people’s questions are addressed and answered.  Terry: Jay, you’re our marketing and branding guy. Give us the details and make that final pitch to attend. JAY: If we want to change the industry, we have to change the conversation and emphasize why this matters The Sustainable Merch Summit isn’t just another webinar—it’s a rally cry.We’re bringing together the voices, values, and visionaries who are challenging the status quo and redefining what sustainable really means in the world of branded merch, print, and apparel. This is for the makers, the marketers, and the merch nerds who want to do better—not just say better. You’ll hear real stories, practical strategies, and no fluff. It’s fast-paced, interactive, and full of the kind of insights you can actually use. And look, let’s be honest—if it ends up in the trash, it wasn’t sustainable to begin with.The most impactful branded merch is the kind people actually want, use, and keep. So if you care about staying relevant, building trust, and creating merch that matters—this is where you need to be. It’s free. It’s virtual. It’s happening June 10. Let’s show the industry why this matters. Branded Merch Network – ASI – Apparelist – 2 Regular Guys  Why It Matters LIVE: Sustainable Merch Summit​ Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025Time: 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PTLocation: Virtual and FREE to attend. Registration is required  Register: https://bit.ly/4lWQNqm Aaron: In closing, what would you say to someone who still sees sustainability as a ‘nice-to-have’ instead of a ‘need-to-have’? Terry: Thanks to both of you for coming on the show today. Tell our listeners how they can reach out to each of you. Theresa, we’ll go to you first. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresahegel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresa_hegel_asi/  Email: [email protected] ASI’s sustainability hub: www.promofortheplanet.com The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/hZUd610fSAU OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 30, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 31, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we welcome Zach Dewhurst of DecoNetwork to explore one of the most powerful growth tools decorators are still underutilizing, outsourcing. Whether it’s contract decorating, wholesale trade partners, or print-on-demand fulfillment, Zach makes the case that focusing on sales instead of production could be the game-changer your business needs. We’ll break down what outsourcing really looks like in today’s market, how to find the right partners, and why it’s especially important for startups and small shops looking to scale. If you’re still trying to do it all in-house, you won’t want to miss this practical conversation packed with insights to help you grow smarter, not harder. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://youtu.be/hpzqeXslHeI Dad Joke Terry: Do you know how you can tell you’re getting older? When you have “upstairs Tylenol” and “downstairs Tylenol” Outsourcing Production Terry: Zach, rather than read a canned bio, tell us a little about yourself and how you found your way to this industry. Aaron: Let’s start with the big picture—why do you believe outsourcing is such a game-changer for today’s decorators? How do you recommend finding trustworthy contract decorators or POD partners for someone just getting started? Aaron: What are the most common concerns or myths you hear about outsourcing, and how do you respond to them? Terry: How should decorators price their products when using a contract or POD model while still staying profitable? Aaron: How can outsourcing free up more time or resources for business growth, especially in sales and marketing? Aaron: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a shop owner who’s hesitant to give up control of production but knows they’re stretched too thin?Terry: Where can our listeners connect with you and learn more about the tools and resources DecoNetwork customers have access to? The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/hZUd610fSAU OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Nashville Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN – May 9-10, 2025 DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 30, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 31, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change

This week, Aaron Montgomery goes live from the American Print and Supplies Open House. He and Terry will dive into the world of full cut-and-sew apparel decoration. Whether you’re curious about offering custom-made garments or wondering how to expand without sewing a stitch, this episode has you covered. We’ll talk about what makes cut-and-sew unique, from design and file prep to pricing and pattern considerations. Learn how to use cut-and-sew as a brand differentiator and how to market it. If you’re looking to add high-value products to your line without adding a whole new department, this show is for you. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40a2AnHCZIw Dad Joke Terry: I love telling Dad Jokes on Cinco de Mayo Yeah, that’s how “eye roll”  For our podcast listeners… Cut and Sew POD Aaron: How do you expand your business by just taking orders and cashing the check? Outsourcing can be a great and easy way to boost your revenue. Terry: Outsourcing has been a growth part of the garment decorating industry for a long time. And I know so many decorators who love the idea of taking the order, and then cashing the check. So Aaron, since you already had a scheduled trip to American Print & Supply this week, we thought using them as an example of an outsourced resource. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of this concept. Terry: Let’s start with what you offer customers who want to outsource. Are there services beyond just the printing?  Do you do fulfillment?  Custom packaging? Private labeling? And what about minimums? Let’s say one of our listeners wants to order an all-over print custom garment. What’s the process? (Show Some of the Videos) Why this topic matters to decorators now (rising demand for custom, differentiation, etc.) Segment 1: What is Cut-and-Sew? Examples of popular cut-and-sew products (jerseys, fashion pieces, uniforms, etc.) (Show Samples) For decorators unfamiliar with the term, what exactly is “cut-and-sew”? What makes it different from print-on-blank apparel? Segment 2: Why Add Cut-and-Sew to Your Business? How it can elevate your brand’s perceived value? Stand out from competitors with custom sizing, colors, and finishes Higher margins and more control over product outcome Segment 3: File Prep & Artwork Setup How should decorators prep artwork differently for cut-and-sew projects? Understanding bleed areas, seams, and alignment Working with vector vs raster files Segment 4: Pricing & Cost Strategy What should a decorator think about when pricing cut-and-sew apparel? Tips for quoting based on quantity, complexity, and material Segment 5: Using Cut-and-Sew to Differentiate Your Brand How can offering cut-and-sew give decorators a competitive edge? Telling your brand story through fully custom products Targeting niche audiences (e.g., sports, fashion, streetwear, events) Segment 6: Marketing Your Cut-and-Sew Capabilities Creating a “Wow!” product demo to get people talking How should a shop promote these services to current and new customers? Social proof, samples, photoshoots – American Print on Demand The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar. OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays – Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! – Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows DAX Nashville Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN – May 9-10, 2025 DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 30, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 31, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025 Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025 Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – August 1, 2025 at 2 PM How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – August 2, 2025 at 12:30 PM Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025 Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025 Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025 Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025 Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change