From Stamps to Space: Ben Glazier on Designing for Stephen Hawking, NASA, and Beyond

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Ben Glazier explore the intersection of print, design, and space exploration. Ben discusses his journey from Xerox connections to designing iconic stamps for Stephen Hawking and NASA, including ones that landed on the moon. They cover the creative process, approval challenges, and collaborations with figures like Nicole Stott. The discussion includes the evolution of stamp usage, digital printing, and printers' roles in client education. Ben highlights the importance of engaging design education and UV printing's potential. The episode wraps up with insights on balancing passion projects with professional work.

Erik Norman on swissQprint, Sustainability, and Innovation in Large Format Printing

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Erik Norman from swissQprint to discuss the company's new facility and their decision to expand amid economic challenges. They delve into the importance of sustainability, critiquing FSC certification and emphasizing LEED certification. The conversation covers managing costs, delivering client value, and enhancing printing with textures and varnish. Erik shares insights on overcoming legacy thinking, engaging young employees, and the impact of young leadership. They also explore building a positive work culture, managing tariffs, and addressing mental health in the industry. The episode concludes with a call for open dialogue and empathy among printers.

Lee Murphy on Signage Industry Insights, Challenges, and Innovations

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Lee Murphy dive into the fascinating world of signage. Lee shares his journey into the signage industry and the variety of projects at Access Signs. They explore the differences between the sign and print industries, discussing steps for obtaining business signage, including permit processes and common challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of signage for businesses, the impact of Chinese manufacturing, and memorable installation experiences. They also touch on automation, labor challenges post-COVID, and future trends in signage. The episode concludes with a discussion on the pride of creating impactful signs and the importance of customer feedback.

NextGen Print: Engaging Youth, Leadership, and the Future of the Industry

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Bryce Poremba and Blake Peterson to delve into the diverse world of print. They discuss the scope and importance of the industry, addressing common misconceptions and the everyday impact of print. The episode highlights the challenges of an aging workforce and the need to attract young talent through engaging strategies and industry events. They explore opportunities presented by new technologies, the role of designers, and the importance of effective marketing. Emphasis is placed on mentorship, leadership, and collaboration among industry associations. The episode concludes with a positive outlook on the print industry's future and a call to involve young voices in shaping its direction.

Sheilae Siagian and Steve Falk on Promoting Print, Engaging Youth, and Building Industry Connections

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Sheilae Siagian and Steve Falk about the enduring appeal of print. Sheila shares her passion for hands-on print work and the tactile aspects that draw people to the trade. They discuss print's significance in daily life, Canadian Print Scholarships, and Sheila’s visits to printing facilities. The conversation covers attracting young talent, the role of packaging and print embellishments, and modernizing industry associations. Ideas for engaging the next generation, like a young print party and student print day, are also explored

Empowering Minds: Jessica DeCola on Mental Health, Culture, and Print Innovation

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Jessica DeCola to discuss the Sheet for Brains initiative, emphasizing the importance of mental health in the print industry. They explore strategies for attracting and retaining new talent, the significance of company culture, and managing generational differences. Jessica shares her transition from vendor to printer and the support she receives from her new employer. The conversation highlights the role of social media engagement, particularly LinkedIn, and the emotional impact of Sheet for Brains sessions. The episode concludes with insights into Jessica's new role at Blooming Color, their services, and her passion for her work.

Pressing Issues: Clark Scherer on Offset Challenges and Digital Printing Advancements

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Clark Scherer explore the evolution of the printing industry. They discuss Clark's transition from Komori, the longevity of various presses, and challenges in offset printing. Topics include private equity's impact, offset vs. digital profitability, and digital press lifecycles. They also cover technological advancements, service importance, staffing challenges, and creating a one-stop shop for printing supplies. The episode highlights attracting young talent with AI, social media strategies, sourcing press parts, future digital trends, and cost-effective inventory management.

Mastering the Niche: Vladimir Gendelman on Print Innovation and Company Culture

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt engages with Vladimir Gendelman, CEO of Company Folders, to explore his journey from computer repair to the print industry, focusing on niche printing's significance. Vladimir shares insights into starting in the folder business, transitioning from outsourcing to insourcing, and the benefits of trade houses. They discuss Company Folders' specialties, geographic reach, and early SEO success. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on customer acquisition and the challenges of rapid growth. They touch on finding market niches, the importance of company culture, and using customer testimonials for marketing. The episode concludes with reflections on business stability and future growth plans.

Navigating Print's Future: Jamie McLennan on Strategy, Innovation, and Building Relationships

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt sits down with Jamie McLennan to explore his journey from commodity selling to strategic selling in the print industry. They discuss the challenges of print pricing, managing customer expectations, and the importance of building strong customer relationships. Jamie shares insights on training newcomers, embracing new technologies, and the evolution from DMR to Invoke. The conversation touches on the significance of self-marketing, the relevance of 'premium' in print, and trends in paper quality. They delve into the future of print with AI integration, industry challenges, and strategies for engaging younger generations. The episode concludes with a focus on sustainability and the ongoing relevance of print.

Be More Mensch: Building Community with Josh Fineman

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Josh Fineman dive into the origins and philosophy of the Be More Mensch group. They explore what it means to be a "Mensch," focusing on personal growth, integrity, and evolving roles of men. The conversation covers accepting help, community impact, and balancing responsibilities with self-care. They discuss cultural backgrounds, societal pressures, and integrating masculine and feminine aspects. Touching on the emotional impact of movies and meditation benefits, the episode highlights compassion, mental resilience, and technology's influence on mental health, encouraging listeners to seek help and use community resources.

Empowering Print's Future: Bettylyn Krafft on Education, Engagement, and the Phoenix Challenge

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Bettylyn Krafft about her journey in the print industry and the impact of the Phoenix Challenge. They discuss differences between high school and college competitions, workforce development challenges, and student engagement. Bettylyn highlights the Phoenix Challenge's unique education program and the importance of industry involvement. They explore creating connections for workforce development, contributions from suppliers, and engaging students with hands-on demonstrations. The episode wraps up with success stories, addressing misconceptions about print, and a call to involve young people in the industry.

Reviving Marketing: Dharminder Biharie on Direct Mail, AI, and the Power of Personal Touch

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt chats with Dharminder Biharie about his journey in imaging technology, starting at Xerox. They discuss marketing mistakes, the shift to direct mail, and the impact of handwritten letters. Dharminder shares insights from a rubber company case study, exploring sales letter psychology versus metrics-based marketing. They cover AI's effect on marketing, outsourcing sales challenges, and the importance of follow-ups in direct mail. The episode highlights educating young marketers on print's potential, tackling digital fatigue, and innovative business card designs, ending with a call to action.

Selling a Print Business: Kelvin Gage on Negotiations, Emotions, and Lessons Learned

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt and Kelvin Gage discuss their journeys in the printing industry, focusing on Kelvin's path from starting his business to selling it to Australia's largest print company. They delve into the complexities of deciding to sell, involving external help, and negotiating while maintaining leverage and secrecy. The conversation addresses emotional and family considerations, financial discipline, and business readiness. Kelvin shares insights on creating win-win acquisition deals, managing staff reactions, and the emotional aftermath of selling. They also explore challenges working for the acquiring company, offering advice for potential sellers, and balancing outsourcing with new equipment investments.

Building Trust and Innovation: Mark Stephenson on OEM Partnerships and Printing's Future

In this episode of Printing's Alive, Warren Werbitt is joined by Mark Stephenson from Fuji to delve into the intricacies of OEM partnerships, focusing on trust-building and decision-making. They discuss the challenges and improvements in OEM-printer relationships, marketing strategies, and the reality of supplier infrastructure. The conversation highlights support for small and medium printers, emphasizing sales transparency and customer relations. Mark shares career insights and discusses the industry's evolution, addressing aging and youth engagement. They also explore leadership challenges, the importance of listening to younger voices, and the benefits of trade shows. The episode concludes with a focus on fostering industry unity and a call to action.

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.