Sales Success in Print: Traits, Tools, and Trends with Bill Farquharson

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with sales expert Bill Farquharson about the changing landscape of sales in the print industry. Bill highlights key traits for today's successful salespeople, like kindness and authenticity. They discuss managing ineffective salespeople, setting clear expectations, and the strategic use of LinkedIn and AI. The conversation also covers the importance of company support, understanding client needs, and the value of leadership and training. Tune in to explore how to equip sales hires with the right tools and adapt to younger generations in sales.

Integrating Print and Promo: Exploring Opportunities with Tim Andrews from ASI

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Tim Andrews discuss ASI's role in the promotional product space and its partnership with Printing United Alliance. Warren shares his experience as an ASI member, offering insights into integrating promo products into print businesses. They explore industry evolution, quality improvements, and the importance of educating printers. Topics include marketing strategies, dispelling myths, enhancing customer service, the ESP platform, trade shows, and the ROI of quality items. Sustainability trends, tariffs, and the business advantages of promotional products are also highlighted, along with upcoming ASI shows.

Unlocking Profitability in Print: Strategies, Challenges, and Innovations with Nick Gawreluk

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Nick Gawreluk from Print Profit about print industry profitability. They discuss traditional vs. modern costing methods, contribution margins, and job profitability. Nick shares his industry challenges, highlighting the significance of sales, pricing strategy, and customer value. They also cover generational leadership, MIS integration, competitive pricing, and collaboration. The episode addresses ROI on equipment, support for small print shops, rising operational costs, and business ethics. Tune in for insights on navigating the evolving print landscape.

Mastering Marketing in Print: Strategies, Pitfalls, and Success Stories

In this episode of Printing’s Alive, Warren Werbitt—The Print Whisperer—is joined by marketing expert Amanda Bronowski to dive deep into marketing strategies tailored for the print industry. Discover Amanda’s journey, the most common marketing mistakes printers make, and why having a marketing playbook is essential for growth. Learn from a real-world case study on how an envelope manufacturer’s missteps in personalization and brand consistency cost them big. The conversation covers actionable, low-cost marketing tactics like targeted direct mail, pro bono community work, and engaging customer demos. They also share insights on leveraging social media, hosting events, and building stronger customer relationships. Packed with practical tips and real success stories, this episode is a must-watch for printers looking to elevate their marketing game. Stay tuned for upcoming segments that dive even deeper into print industry success.

Empowering the Next Generation: How Scholarships Are Shaping the Future of Print

Join Warren Werbitt, Jules Van Sant, and Steve Falk in Episode 20 of Printing’s Alive as they explore the power of scholarships in print education. They discuss Canadian Print Scholarships and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) and share personal industry experiences, highlighting strategies to engage youth and dispel misconceptions about print. The conversation delves into HR practices, the impact of modern technology, and the importance of company culture and mentorship. Success stories illustrate the long-term benefits of scholarships, while expert advice emphasizes supporting the next generation. The episode wraps up with insights on student involvement in fundraising and details on scholarship applications.

Inspiring the Future of Print: Youth Initiatives, Diversity, and Embracing Innovation

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Paul Stead, Georgina Hebbard, and Lara Vigar to delve into the Young People in Print (YPIP) initiative and its significance for the industry. The discussion covers the guests' backgrounds and their journey into print, highlighting programs like ASL's apprenticeship and the Printing Charity's Rising Stars. They explore the transition from social media to print, emotional connections to the medium, and the importance of diversity. The conversation addresses gender and age demographics, funding for YPIP, and perceptions among youth. Emphasizing communication across generations, the episode encourages young individuals to consider print careers and discusses AI's evolving role.

Harnessing AI in Print: Insights on Business, Innovation, and Generational Engagement

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and guest Al Kennickell from Kennickell Group dive into the intersection of AI and business, starting with insights for family business owners and the transition to AI-driven operations. They discuss BoodleBox's innovative AI applications and explore AI's impact across various industries, including nonprofit work. The conversation highlights engaging younger generations with AI, optimizing sales, and enhancing print shop operations. They touch on quantum computing, AI risks, and the art of summarization. Wrapping up with the importance of hard work, luck in business, and future AI dialogues, the episode sets the stage for upcoming events and keynotes.

Bridging Generations in Print: Baby Boomers, AI, and the Future of the Industry

In Episode 17 of Printing’s Alive, Warren Werbitt dives into the evolving role of baby boomers in the printing industry and how their legacy is shaping its future. The conversation covers the impact of babyboomers.org, the generation’s relationship with emerging tech like AI, and the challenges of an aging workforce. Learn how mentorship, succession planning, and young professionals’ associations are helping bridge generational gaps. From the fate of physical books to digital transformation and leadership lessons, this episode explores what it means to pass the torch and keep print alive in a rapidly changing world.

Navigating Burnout and Growth: Insights with Nile Said

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Nile Said from GoOneUp joins to discuss his journey from a diverse background to becoming a coach, sharing personal insights into the evolution of coaching and his experiences with burnout. The conversation explores recognizing burnout signs, the critical role of self-care, and navigating a nervous breakdown through daily habits. Listeners learn about overcoming negativity bias with self-awareness and acceptance. The transformative power of personal challenges is highlighted, along with the significance of personal achievements and strategy sessions.

Innovative Marketing in Print: Strategies and Stories with Alex Fechner

In this episode of Printing's Alive, delve into creative marketing with a special guest as we explore video marketing highlights and the synergy between direct mail and digital marketing. The discussion emphasizes the importance of authenticity and taking risks, showcasing successful companies that have modernized the printing industry. Discover the impact of generational shifts on digital presence, employee-generated content, and print's role in everyday life. The episode advocates for a national print awareness campaign and provides insights into direct mail strategies, sales training, and engaging content. Personal stories illustrate brand development, relationship building, and a call to action concludes with an invitation for future guests.

Empowering Print: Mental Health and Sustainability with Jessica DeCola

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Jessica DeCola from GPA shares her journey and challenges in the printing industry, emphasizing the growing leadership roles for women. She discusses her role at GPA, focusing on sustainability initiatives and the complexities of the industry. The conversation delves into the human and cultural aspects of sustainability and the mental health mission of the LinkedIn group "Sheet for Brains." Personal stories highlight the importance of therapy, with tools like Talk It Out and meditation apps discussed. The episode also explores the connection between mental and physical health, work-life balance, and company policies supporting mental health, concluding with future aspirations for the "Sheet for Brains" community.

AI Revolution in Printing: Insights from Imagine AI Live with Steve Metcalf

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Steve Metcalf unveils Imagine AI Live, inspired by a ChatGPT moment. Explore the need for business-driven AI conferences and how AI turns everyone into a startup, as Warren Werbitt suggests. Reflect on last year's event and discover this year's collaboration with Printing United, emphasizing AI's impact on marketing. Notable speakers tackle AI fears and job security. Delve into AI's role in automating workflows, historical tech comparisons, and its effect on the printing industry. Learn about AI's daily benefits and cognitive shifts, with insights from Warren's lead generation experience. Conclude with final thoughts.

Navigating M&A in Printing: Insights with Mark Hahn

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Mark Hahn delves into Graphic Arts Advisors' services and succession planning in the print industry. He outlines key steps for selling a print business, emphasizing timelines, advisor roles, future value, and human factors in acquisitions. Mark also tackles challenges in the due diligence process, ESOPs, family succession, and M&A trends, underscoring the need for specialized legal advice. He shares insights on M&A success rates, post-sale satisfaction, and the role of industry-specific advisors. Tips for business owners and common selling mistakes are discussed, with closing thoughts and a future episode preview.

AI Meets Publishing: Exploring Innovation with Yehuda Niv of Spines.com

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Yehuda Niv from Spines.com discusses Spines' AI-based services and their impact on publishing and company growth. He contrasts AI with traditional publishing, highlighting benefits for authors and addressing misconceptions about AI and printed books. Warren shares insights on the industry's AI-driven evolution. Topics include Spines' market focus, brand strategies, collaboration with printing companies, and AI's role in content review. The episode also covers book production pricing, distribution options, new author tools, and the future of one-click publishing. Yehuda offers advice for aspiring authors and future collaborations.

Sustainability, Growth, and Women in Print with Jennifer McConnell

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Jennifer McConnell from Royal Out West discusses her role and the company's innovative printing services, including sustainable sugar sheet paper. She highlights effective marketing strategies and PrintForward's training program, debunking the myth that print is dead. Jennifer explores Royal Out West's growth, investments in equipment, and staff development. She shares advice for women in the industry, discusses company culture, and reflects on family business dynamics. Jennifer emphasizes self-awareness, overcoming adversity, and the power of belief and support, encouraging listener engagement.

Innovation, Leadership, and Mental Health in Printing with Jon Bailey

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Jon Bailey from Precision Proco discusses the company's evolution, specialization, and commitment to a customer-centric approach. The conversation delves into innovation, the role of customer feedback in shaping marketing strategies, and the impact of company size on culture and leadership. John highlights the importance of employee engagement, the leadership approach, and their recruitment philosophy. The episode also covers storytelling, industry gossip, and the exchange of ideas. Mental health awareness and work-life balance are emphasized as crucial components of a healthy work environment. The episode concludes with John's closing remarks and a glimpse into future plans.

Empowering Women in Print: Insights from Girls Who Print

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Deborah Corn and Kelly Mallozzi discuss the transformative journey of Girls Who Print and the advantages of its nonprofit status. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship in addressing the workforce crisis and tackling unconscious and gender biases in the printing industry. They share future plans to enhance inclusivity and the role of the industry in attracting talent, including the relationship with FESPA. The episode explores strategies for global expansion, member engagement, and challenging industry norms. Deborah and Kelly emphasize the value of vocational training, the need for positive work environments, and the celebration of pride and community within the print industry.

Behavioral Science, Marketing, and Print Strategies with Gee Ranasinha

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Gee Ranasinha from Kexino explores the intersection of behavioral science and marketing, highlighting the role of emotions and being remarkable in consumer behavior. The discussion covers print's impact in marketing, Super Bowl ad insights, recruitment challenges, and senior-level distrust in marketing. Gee and Warren discuss Hatteras' strategies, industry challenges, and the importance of customer experience, modern equipment, and educating digital-native buyers. They also touch on strategic marketing, sales systems, and proactive action in the print industry, concluding with reflections and advice for print business owners.

Jeroen van Druenen from Jubels on Specialty Printing and Industry Challenges

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Jeroen from Jubels shares their transition from traditional letterpress to digital printing, focusing on specialty binding and papers. Discover marketing strategies, margin nuances, and a high-end custom book project that highlights the luxury print market. Explore the challenges of print buying groups, the value of personal customer interactions, and sustainability practices. Jeroen also discusses the skilled worker shortage, graphic arts education evolution, FSC certification costs, and current print embellishments. The episode wraps up with reflections on passion in print and audience engagement.

Hatteras Printing: Growth, Innovation, and AI with Bill Duerr

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Bill Duerr from Hatteras Printing shares insights into the company's rich history and commitment to customer satisfaction. The conversation delves into the quality standards and technological investments that set Hatteras apart. Bill discusses the challenges of recruiting skilled human labor and the strategies employed to attract both clients and employees. The episode explores innovations in business cards, sustainability efforts, and boosting employee morale. Bill highlights the influence of leadership and emerging industry trends, including AI's role in sales and marketing. The discussion rounds off with tips on maintaining professional relevance and concludes with acknowledgments and book promotion.