Printing's Alive

Welcome to Printing's Alive—the podcast that explores everything print and beyond! From traditional techniques to modern innovations, we dive into how print shapes industries, businesses, and our everyday lives

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

S1 E61 • Mar 17, 2026 • 62 mins

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.

Key Points

AI is transforming the print industry by enabling companies to move from fragmented approaches to structured capabilities, focusing on measurable impact and automation.
Despite the potential of AI and automation, the print industry struggles to include younger generations at decision-making tables, which could drive innovation and attract new talent.
Collaborative efforts across the print industry, including associations and businesses, are essential to create unified messaging and initiatives that support the integration of young professionals and new technologies.

Speakers

Warren Werbitt

Host • 44%

Emma Farquharson

Guest • 54%

Chapters

0:00	Introduction of guest Emma Farquharson and Overview of Shared Intel AI
3:00	AI in Print: Productivity, Common Mistakes, and Industry Readiness
10:38	Generational and Gender Dynamics in AI Adoption and Print Industry
18:05	Emotional Safety, Trust, and Industry Culture
22:37	Demographics and Collaboration in the Print Industry
26:38	Hiring Challenges and Distrust Across Generations
30:03	Human Connection in Sales and Experiences with ChatGPT
33:08	AI Manipulation Tactics and Implementing Change
37:18	Influences on Younger Generations and Compassion in Business
42:22	Collaboration and Mentorship in the Print Industry
49:09	Grassroots Movement and Engaging Industry Owners
55:09	The Need for a Unified Print Association and Industry Support
57:20	Industry Feedback, Aligning Goals, and Mission Statements
59:26	Importance of Free Consultations and Encouraging Their Use
1:00:54	Future AI Discussions and Engaging Young People in Print
1:01:34	Closing Remarks and Appreciation

Transcript

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