AI and Human Connection: Bridging Generations in the Print Industry with Emma Farquharson

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Emma Farquharson explore AI's impact on the print industry, focusing on productivity, common mistakes, and industry readiness. They discuss generational and gender dynamics, emotional safety, and trust, while highlighting the importance of human connection in sales and collaboration. The conversation addresses hiring challenges, AI manipulation, and its influence on younger generations, emphasizing compassion and mentorship. They also stress the need for a unified print association and industry support. Future AI discussions and engaging young people in print are covered, concluding with closing remarks and appreciation.

Family, Innovation, and the Future of Packaging: Insights from the Kaneff Family

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Josh, Mitch, and Max Kaneff about the history and future of Arkay Packaging. They discuss raising the next generation in a family business, the impact of technology and AI, and transitioning from commercial printing. Mitch shares insights on Arkay's legacy, while the family discusses adapting to customer demands and innovation in design. The conversation also covers customer education and Arkay's future, including expansion and process innovation. The episode wraps up with reflections on family business challenges and future podcast plans.

Authenticity, Branding, and Thriving: Insights with Erica Diamond

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Erica Diamond about her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing authenticity and confidence. They discuss competition, learning from failure, managing burnout, and building a personal brand. Erica shares her Barbie experience, post-sale life, and evolving views on success. Topics include social media's role, interpersonal skills, email marketing, advice for women in business, and the Thrive 360 framework. They also cover teaching children self-regulation, traits of high-performing women, and Erica's upcoming women's retreat. The episode wraps up with ways to connect with Erica and a call for listener feedback.

Kim Woodin on Print Industry Growth and Embracing Print Innovation

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Kim Woodin about her journey at Aurora Fastprint. They discuss the role of expos in staff development, the evolution of QR codes, and digital printing at Aurora Fastprint. Topics include overcoming COVID-19 challenges, business growth through networking, and web-to-print solutions with Shopify. They also cover employee engagement, print education, customer service, and company culture. Kim shares insights on financial strategies, technology adoption, and maintaining passion and production optimization in the print industry.

Expanding Horizons: David Solomon on Global Growth Strategies and Market Entry Insights

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and David Solomon discuss international expansion in the printing industry. David offers strategies for entering the US market, overcoming global growth challenges, and avoiding common mistakes. They delve into navigating laws, engaging with international customers, and selecting countries for expansion. The conversation also covers building a successful global e-commerce strategy, understanding diverse business cultures, and the importance of in-person relationships. The episode concludes with insights on identifying reliable partners and opportunities for international podcast collaborations.

Navigating Used Printing Equipment: Insights from Dean Beckett on Buying, Maintenance, and Trends

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Dean Beckett about the world of used printing equipment. They delve into CalaLogic Ltd's role in the industry and compare new versus used equipment costs. Dean shares his journey into equipment sales, the founding of CalaLogic Ltd, and the importance of industry relationships. They discuss key considerations for buying used presses, the importance of inspections, and strategies for financing and budgeting. The episode also covers selecting bindery equipment, maximizing trade-in value, common pitfalls, market changes, global dynamics, and best practices for equipment care in 2026.

AI and Printing: Al Kennickell Discusses Innovations, Leadership, and Future Strategies

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Al Kennickell from The Kennickell Group about AI's transformative role in the printing industry. They explore AI's practical applications, including legal insights, contract analysis, and website construction. The discussion covers AI's impact on printing embellishments, new technologies, and strategies for purchasing and financing equipment, featuring a special offer on the MGI 3,600. Warren and Al emphasize engaging customers with print samples, leadership in experimentation, and balancing owner involvement in sales and production. The episode concludes with a call for industry collaboration and support.

Navigating Career Transitions: Insights on Resilience, Identity, and Connection with Nick Benkovich

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt talks with Nick Benkovich about navigating career transitions after being laid off. Nick shares his personal experiences and reactions to layoffs, reflecting on his thirteen-year tenure before the unexpected change. They discuss the importance of mental health, maintaining routines, and the role of support systems during tough times. The conversation explores how personal identity intertwines with professional life and the significance of leveraging industry relationships. Nick emphasizes the value of volunteering, gratitude, and kindness, offering advice on staying connected and supporting others. They also touch on social interactions in a post-COVID world and encourage embracing new opportunities.

Apparel Printing Insights: Ron Goodwin on Techniques, Challenges, and Industry Growth

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Ron Goodwin to explore the dynamic world of apparel decorating. They discuss Ron's journey and the significant changes in apparel printing, focusing on techniques like direct to film printing. The conversation delves into the size of the t-shirt printing industry, concert merchandise, and the challenges of on-demand printing and inventory management. They examine pricing strategies, customer categories, and supplier consolidation, comparing apparel and paper supply chains. Ron shares insights on customer value perception, handling large orders, and the impact of purchasing departments. The episode also highlights fundraising, charity programs, and the importance of doing good in the industry.

Innovating Print: Chris Minn on Digital Marketing, Automation, and Omni-Channel Strategies

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Chris Minn explore the evolving printing industry. They discuss Print United collaboration, strategies for protecting printers, and the challenges of selling print equipment. Warren shares his venture into the t-shirt market via Shopify. Chris, from Digital Ink Agency, emphasizes automation in digital marketing. They also cover maintaining relationships, social media's role, and company culture's impact on print businesses. The episode highlights omni-channel strategies, promotional merchandise, and introduces the Print Island platform, celebrating industry unsung heroes.

Mastering Print Marketing: Insights on Strategy, Differentiation, and Networking with Gee Ranasinha

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt delves into the world of marketing in the printing industry with Gee Ranasinha, CEO of Kexino. They explore the significance of trade shows like Drupa for networking and financial justification, and debunk common misconceptions about marketing in the print world. The conversation highlights the importance of strategic marketing, standing out, and avoiding budget pitfalls. Gee shares insights on transitioning from equipment-based selling to strategic marketing, emphasizing the power of storytelling and personal relationships. They discuss differentiation, trust-building, and the necessity of understanding customer profiles. The episode wraps up with practical business improvement steps and a proposal for future discussions.

Reimagining Print's Role: Richard Askam on Industry Challenges, Creativity, and Future Visions

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt welcomes Richard Askam to discuss the innovative concept of Print Island and its role in connecting the global print industry. They explore common challenges, such as the focus on pricing, and discuss strategies for promoting print in business. The conversation delves into rebranding the print industry, addressing generational communication differences, and media consumption trends. They also touch on hobbies, mental health, creativity, and the evolution of personal brands in modernizing print businesses. The episode highlights engaging younger generations, the success of Print Island, and Warren's vision for the podcast, with insights on personalization, language humor, and marketing strategies.

Selling Your Printing Business: Jim Russell on Valuation, Market Trends, and Key Considerations

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Jim Russell from New Direction Partners about selling a printing business. Jim shares insights on evaluating company worth, determining value factors, and preparing for sale. They discuss market trends, post-sale roles, private equity, and employee considerations in mergers and acquisitions. Key steps for selling, sale timelines, financial prep, and the impact of company culture on valuation are explored. They also cover selling expenses, the need for advisory services, and technology's influence on business valuation.

Revolutionizing Advertising with AI: Vince Cook on Ad Legends and Industry Transformation

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Vince Cook from Ad Legends about AI's impact on advertising. Vince discusses his journey and how Ad Legends is democratizing marketing for non-experts through AI-driven creative briefs and emotional branding. They explore how the platform enhances work-life balance by saving time for businesses. Warren shares his experiences, and they delve into industry disruptions and interest from major agencies. The episode includes marketing essentials, personalized consultations, and AI insights. It concludes with product demos, the Imagine AI Live conference, and contact info for Adlegends.ai.

Embracing Automation in Print: Julie Watson on Technology, Innovation, and Industry Trends

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Julie Watson from Ultimate Tech about the evolving world of printing technology. They delve into imposition, finishing automation, and the challenges of adopting new tech. Topics include attracting younger generations, balancing customization with cost, and overcoming resistance to tech investments. They discuss automation's role during COVID, tackling labor shortages with AI, and solutions for small shops. Warren shares his automation journey, touching on strategic planning, past challenges, and choosing the right software vendor. The episode wraps up with insights on embracing change, capital investment, and the importance of training and vendor support.

Exploring Creativity in Print: Doug Laxdal on Unique Projects and Innovative Techniques

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Doug Laxdal to explore the fascinating world of print. They discuss the origin of The Gas Company's name and its award-winning history, Doug's journey into bookbinding, and the company's unique services. The conversation touches on maintaining client relationships and innovative projects like the Hellmann's Garlic Aioli and the "Unburnable Book" for Margaret Atwood's Handmaid's Tale. They delve into budgeting and shipping challenges, high-stakes architectural jobs, and creative print solutions. The episode concludes with a focus on the importance of creativity and a commitment to exploring diverse topics in future episodes.

Navigating the Apparel Printing Revolution: Insights from Davis Slagle of BeeGraphix

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Davis Slagle from BeeGraphix to discuss the company's transformation during COVID and its transition to direct-to-film printing. They explore growth and price competition in the apparel printing market, as well as strategies for market diversification and managing seasonal demand. The conversation delves into BeeGraphix operations, equipment choices, and advice for newcomers to the industry. They highlight the importance of planning and marketing in equipment investments, the benefits of outsourcing, and industry trends from the Printing United expo. The episode concludes with insights on managing high-volume jobs, quality control, technological evolution, and pricing strategies.

Creativity, Sales, and Leadership in Print: Insights with Aaron Montgomery

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt welcomes Aaron Montgomery to discuss his podcast journey and Warren's new t-shirt shop concept. They explore the importance of creativity and positivity in t-shirt design, as well as the impact of donations to the Make A Wish Foundation. The conversation shifts to attracting young talent and the significance of training in the print industry. Warren shares insights on client engagement, leadership's impact on team morale, and his early experiences in print. They delve into sales strategies, using humor, and the value of persistence. The episode concludes with reflections on shared interests, the Chinese farmer proverb, and the importance of experiences.

Revolutionizing Print: Katelin Shanks on Automation, AI, and the Future of Printing

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Katelin Shanks from Racami about software implementation in the print industry. They discuss planning challenges, building internal teams, and the importance of communication. The conversation covers print automation trends, investment sizing, and common implementation issues, with a focus on AI's impact. Katelin offers insights on vendor relationships, solution architecture, and ROI. They also discuss Racami's platform and AI's future role. This episode provides valuable advice for small to medium-sized printers, stressing education, human interaction, and cautious AI adoption.

Empowering Print and Signage: Insights from Wendy Graves and the Make It Happen Academy

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Wendy Graves from the Make It Happen Signage Academy about its impact on the printing and signage industry. They discuss the academy's events, the importance of industry language, and Wendy's passion for signage. The conversation highlights the academy's programs, hands-on and online training balance, and community college partnerships. They also cover the importance of passionate trainers, unbiased sessions, franchise training challenges, training costs, ROI, AI impact, and fair pricing strategies. The episode concludes with insights into industry challenges and future plans.