Advertise on podcast: The Printerviews

From print shop operator to print software founder: Lemay Sanchez on growth, automation, and AIColin Sinclair McDermott speaks with Lemay Sanchez, co founder and CEO of Plan Profit, about how a print shop owner’s daily frustrations led to building software for printers. The conversation focuses on why many print businesses stall at certain revenue levels, how to unlock more profit from existing customers, and what practical AI adoption looks like in a busy print environment. Lemay also shares the story behind Plan Profit’s customer community, the company’s AI roadmap, and the “Ink Runs Deep” jacket campaign supporting print focused education.

AI only creates value when it hits the P&L. Amy Servi-Bonner explains why most print companies are getting AI wrong, and how to build the governance, metrics, and knowledge capture needed to make it pay off - before the hype leaves you behind. Colin Sinclair McDermott, the Online Print Coach, continues the Printing United Expo series with Amy from Printing AI, whose career spans 30 years of business technology transformation, ERP, e-commerce, cloud, retail operations, and now sovereign AI in print. Amy shares how she moved from California to Michigan and into the print industry, how an early AI workflow for customer inquiries changed her perspective, and why she became convinced that AI is not a trend to watch, but a capability to manage strategically. You'll discover why so many AI projects fail to deliver commercial value, why the print industry's history of failed ERP and MIS rollouts has made teams understandably cautious, and why starting with the tool is almost always backwards. Amy breaks down her MAP-style governance approach through decision authority, override ownership, baseline metrics, and review cadence, and explains why the right question is not "What can AI do?" but "What problem are we solving, and how will we measure it?" She also makes a strong case for sovereign AI and knowledge sovereignty, arguing that one of the biggest opportunities in print is capturing the tribal knowledge locked inside experienced operators, estimators, and production leaders before it walks out the door. With the average commercial inkjet operator now around 48 years old, the stakes are real: if that knowledge is not captured, businesses risk costly disruption, lost customers, and a dangerous overreliance on tools that do not understand their workflow. Amy also previews the Printing AI Pavilion at Printing United Expo in Vegas, where the focus is on real P&L impact, curated sponsors, deeper conversations, and practical use cases, not a vendor petting zoo. Add in her book Owning the Machine, her no-nonsense take on overhyped AI use cases, and a quick-fire round that reveals the tools and processes she actually trusts, and you have an episode packed with straight-talking insight for print leaders who want to move from experimentation to real business outcomes. Essential listening if you're in print, operations, technology, or leadership and you want AI to do more than entertain you.

Trade shows are not dead - they are where industries still make the deals, meet the people, and spark the ideas that change everything. Joshua Carruth, Executive Vice President of Expositions at Printing United Alliance, reveals why the best events are built on buy-in, serendipity, and a lot of controlled chaos. From hurricane evacuations on dive boats in the Cayman Islands to bomb threats, sprinkler disasters, and even a live goat request, Josh shares the wildest moments from a career spent keeping major expos running when everything threatens to go sideways. But this conversation goes deeper than behind-the-scenes stories - it’s a sharp look at what makes a truly great trade show, why virtual events can’t replace real-world connection, and how Printing United is building spaces where the right conversations happen on purpose. You’ll discover: Why exhibitors, not organizers, are the real owners of a great trade showHow convergence is reshaping print and why technologies spread faster when industries collideWhat the Spilled Ink District is designed to unlock for attendees, from peer roundtables to headshots and workforce supportWhy the AI Pavilion is becoming a must-see destination for practical, business-changing ideasHow unexpected hallway conversations can lead to business shifts you never planned for Joshua also explains what surprised him most after entering print through the apparel world, why the industry is far more connected than outsiders realize, and why live events came roaring back after COVID. If you care about trade shows, print, or the power of getting the right people in the same room, this one is essential listening. Perfect for exhibitors, printers, marketers, and anyone who believes the best opportunities still happen face-to-face.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott speaks with Ford Bowers, CEO of PRINTING United Alliance, about his unconventional path into print, the lessons he learned running production operations, and why he believes the industry is stronger when it works together. Ford also shares the thinking behind Printing United Expo, the challenges of membership growth, and why advocacy, workforce development, and promoting print as essential are now central to the alliance’s mission. Key Topics Covered How Ford accidentally entered the print industryLearning print production from the ground upManaging a vertically integrated retail print operationThe collegial, supportive culture within printThe difference between running a print business and leading an associationHow SGIA evolved into Printing United AllianceWhy unified industry advocacy mattersWorkforce development and attracting new talentThe role of Printing United Expo in the industryMembership growth, value, and the challenge of long-term engagement

In this episode of The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott sits down with Warren Werbitt, the Print Whisperer, for a candid and entertaining conversation about print, marketing, leadership, resilience, and reinvention. Warren shares the story of building Pazazz into a multi-million-pound print business, why marketing and culture were always central to his approach, and how a simple, fun video helped put him on the map across the industry. He also opens up about the hard lessons that came later - from financial crisis and bankruptcy protection to losing the business he spent decades building - and what he learned from navigating some of the toughest moments of his life. Together, Colin and Warren explore what successful print businesses often underestimate, why transparency and follow-through matter so much, and how personal branding, mentorship, and honest conversations can make a real difference. They also touch on mental health, coaching, industry change, and why supporting the next generation in print is so important. Funny, honest, and full of hard-earned insight, this episode is a must-listen for print business owners, marketers, and anyone who wants to build a stronger business while staying true to themselves. Listen now for real-world lessons from one of print’s most outspoken and passionate voices.

Most print businesses are missing a game-changing opportunity to enhance customer experience and cut costs, without adding complexity. Angelo Coletta, CEO of Zakeke, reveals how visual commerce and AI are transforming the print industry from the front end to the back, enabling companies to personalize faster, reduce errors, and future-proof their operations. In this episode, Angelo shares his journey across multiple careers - from system integration to startups and how those experiences shaped his innovative approach with Zakeke. You’ll discover how a platform that simplifies customization has helped businesses of all sizes, from family-run shops to global brands - cut costs by up to 50% and boost customer loyalty through seamless, personalised experiences. We break down the specifics: how augmented reality, AI-driven customization, and omni-channel experiences revolutionise the visual commerce landscape. Angelo explains how industry players can leverage AI safely, the importance of cybersecurity in automation, and why personalisation isn’t just an add-on but a core strategic advantage - one that your competitors are already rushing to adopt. With insights into the future, Angelo advocates for a shift from technology as a problem to technology as a confidence-builder for customers. He emphasises that the biggest shift is in mindset - moving from "printing better" to delivering personalised, emotionally engaging products faster and more securely.  If you want to understand how to reduce costs, elevate customer experience, and harness AI without fear, this episode is essential listening.

Most print companies are running chaotic, legacy systems that limit growth - until Jason Tompkins reveals how a wild journey from software engineering to apparel printing turned into a trillion-dollar industry-shaking platform. Discover how identifying operational pain points first led him to build Fulfill Engine, a solution now transforming global printing operations and partnerships. This episode unlocks the behind-the-scenes truth about scaling print businesses in today's fast-paced e-commerce world. Jason shares how early chaos - think Frankenstein workflows, Spaghetti code, and manual bottlenecks- became the stepping stones to a data-driven infrastructure that supports multi-million-dollar volume growth. You'll discover how internal struggles with supply chains, automation, and product data inspired a software revolution with enormous ripple effects across the industry. We break down: the incredible power of partnerships, the importance of industry transparency, and the value of building solutions that serve your own pain first. Jason dives into how embracing AI, vibe coding, and continuous industry evolution opens new opportunities for decorators, suppliers, and brands alike. His insights show that understanding your operational leaks and data capabilities is key to future-proofing your business, whether you're a small shop or a scaling e-commerce empire. Why ignore these operational lessons at your peril? With global fulfillment expectations rising - think same-day shipping and regional on-demand printing - those who don’t build resilient, automated workflows risk falling behind. This is your blueprint to scale smarter, strengthen partnerships, and unlock the next wave of innovation - before your competitors do. Perfect for print shop owners, ops managers, and industry innovators eager to future-proof their business - this episode offers a candid look into the real challenges and bold solutions shaping the industry's future. Want your print business to thrive in a connected, fast-moving world? Hit play now, and learn from a trailblazer who's building the software and partnerships to make it happen. Jason Tompkins is founder of Fulfill Engine, now part of Stalhs' and a recognized pioneer for transforming print operations with innovative software solutions. His journey from software engineer to industry disruptor highlights the importance of solving your own pain points first and how that insight sparks industry-wide change.

In this episode, I’m joined by Nita Odedra, Strategy Director at Blue Rhine Industries, to explore how the Middle East is redefining digital signage and the built environment. We talked about how digital signage has moved far beyond simply displaying information. Today, it’s becoming part of the customer journey, the architecture, and the overall experience itself. Nita shared how projects like Expo 2020, the Dubai Fountain digital hoarding, and King Abdullah Financial District show just how powerful signage can be when it’s integrated early and thoughtfully. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the importance of communication. These projects are never just about the technology. They depend on collaboration between developers, architects, designers, engineers, operators, and content teams. When that conversation starts early, the results can be seamless, intuitive, and far more impactful.We also discussed the rise of AI and hyper-personalisation in digital signage, and how the future of wayfinding and visitor experience is becoming more connected, more responsive, and more human. From stadiums and malls to airports and hospitals, the goal is no longer just to help people get from A to B - it’s to create meaningful, emotionally intelligent experiences. Nita also shared a fascinating perspective on how the Middle East is influencing global expectations in signage and digital environments, and why the industry still has a lot to learn around education, collaboration, and long-term thinking. A really insightful conversation from the show floor at FESPA Global Print Expo about innovation, ambition, and the future of experiential environments.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott sits down with Verity from Dominion Print, Live at FESPA Global Print Expo, to explore what it really takes to lead a family-run print business through change, growth, and responsibility. Verity shares how her journey through production, finishing, and operations shaped her leadership style, and why hands-on experience matters at every level of the business. The conversation goes beyond print production and into the realities of retail, where print influences customer movement, supports storytelling, and often goes unnoticed until it fails. Verity explains how different retail brands use print in very different ways - from energetic, fast-paced visuals to calm, directional signage, and why understanding the customer journey is essential. They also discuss the importance of investing in new equipment, building a strong workplace culture, training the next generation, and leading with fairness, integrity, and empathy. A standout moment comes when Verity speaks candidly about personal loss and the need for more openness and humanity in the industry. A thoughtful and practical episode for anyone interested in print, retail environments, leadership, and the people behind the process.

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Theresa Hegel, Executive Editor for Special Projects and Sustainability at the Advertising Specialty Institute. Theresa has spent 12 years at ASI, built the industry's leading sustainability hub Promo for the Planet, won the Jesse H. Neal Award three times, and co-hosts the Branding Together podcast. Before ASI, she designed front pages under deadline at daily newspapers in Ohio and Pennsylvania. We get into convergence, where print and promo are already overlapping and where the gap still lies. Theresa makes the case that the two industries share more clients, campaigns, and opportunities than most people realise, and that the main barrier is not opportunity but language. We also cover what commercial printers get wrong about moving into promo, starting with the assumption that it requires significant capital investment.  Sustainability takes up a good stretch of the conversation. ASI ran a joint study with European partners and competitor PPAI comparing the carbon footprint of promotional products against five advertising mediums including digital. The headline finding was that promo has an eight times smaller carbon footprint than digital advertising, which surprises most people. Theresa explains why it makes sense, and why the industry needs to be part of that conversation now rather than waiting to be dragged into it.   Key Takeaways   Print and Promo Are Already Converging: The same clients, the same campaigns. The industries are more intertwined than most people realise. No Equipment Needed to Get Into Promo: The promo distribution model runs on consultative sales and supplier relationships, not machinery. Promo Has an Eight Times Smaller Carbon Footprint Than Digital Advertising: The finding from a joint ASI and PPAI study that most people do not expect. Do Not Wait for Clients or Regulation to Force the Conversation: The businesses ahead are building capability now, not waiting for permission. Collaboration Across Competitors Is Possible: ASI ran the carbon study jointly with PPAI — a direct competitor — because sustainability is bigger than any one company. The One-Stop-Shop Opportunity Is Real: Clients do not want to shop separately for print and promo — if you can offer both, the door is already open. Use AI for Transcripts, Not for Writing: Theresa's team use it to surface quotes and save time in interviews — they do not use it to write articles. TikTok Is Worth Watching Even If You Are Not Posting: Trends in branded merch often surface there first — keeping an eye on it gives you a head start on what clients will want.

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Jess DeCola, who has recently movedfrom substrate distributor GPA to Blooming Color as their Director of Brand and Strategic Growth. With over a decade in the print industry spanning thermal films, food packaging, distribution, and marketing, Jess shares what it feels like to be on day five of a brand new role and why it already feels like coming home. We explore what drew her to Blooming Color, from the leadership style to a culture where the CEO can tell you something personal about every single employee. Jess opens up about her eight and a half years at GPA, how she walked into a contractor role and told them they would have to hire her, and why she believes culture is the single biggest thing print businesses underinvest in. We also dive into the She*t for Brains sessions at Dscoop in Denver, which left both of us still processing weeks later. From the keynote on resilience and leadership to audience members grabbing the microphone and sharing deeply personal stories, the sessions proved that our industry is hungry for spaces where people can be honest about what they are going through. Plus, Jess shares her advice for the next generation, inspired by an unforgettable panel moment where a room full of seasoned print professionals were told that they need to catch up with the younger generation. Key Takeaways New Chapter at Blooming Color: Jess has joined Blooming Color as Director of Brand and Strategic Growth, bringing her decade of experience from the supply and distribution side to a PSP working directly with brands and end users. Culture Is Everything: Blooming Color's leadership is visibly present on the floor, personally invested in their people, and building a team that genuinely wants to work hard because they feel valued in return. Sheet for Brains Continues to Grow: The Dscoop Denver sessions created powerful, emotional breakthroughs with audience members opening up in ways nobody expected, proving the industry needs more safe spaces for honest conversation. Chase the Minnows, Not Just the Whales: PSPs often focus on landing the biggest accounts, but the real missed opportunity lies in partnering with smaller, growing businesses and building loyalty from the ground up. Invest in Your People: The single most impactful thing a print business can do tomorrow is invest in its team and its culture, because if your people are not okay, your business is not okay. Women in Print Are Making Progress: Visibility and voice for women in the industry are growing through organisations like Women in Print and the Women in the Printing Alliance, but there is still a long way to go. Advice for the Next Generation: Show up with enthusiasm and passion, advocate for yourself, and set boundaries early. Mackenzie Griffin's message to the industry was clear and confident: you need to catch up with us. The Power of Vulnerability: Men in particular struggle to show their vulnerable side in professional settings, and the ripple effect of one person speaking up at the Sheet for Brains sessions opened the floodgates for others to do the same. Find Your Safe Space: Whether it is therapy, a coach, or a trusted person, investing in yourself first makes everything around you feel a little bit easier.

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Mark Stephenson, who recently concluded an incredible 27-year career at Fujifilm.  With nearly 50 years of experience in the print industry, Mark shares his journey from starting as a letterpress apprentice to selling Apple Macs in 1989.  We dive into the massive technological shifts he has witnessed over the decades and how his passion for seeing printed products jump from someone's brain into physical reality has kept him captivated by the industry.  We explore the current state of inkjet technology, which Mark describes as finally becoming mainstream.  We discuss its ability to outperform offset when printing on expensive stocks by delivering a perfect first sheet with zero waste, as well as its dominance in high-speed variable data jobs.  Mark also reveals his brand-new venture, The Spark Organization, where he will be using his extensive network to serve as an MC, host, and presenter for the industry. Whether you are a seasoned print boss needing to get a grip on your margins or someone looking to leverage trade shows for real networking, this episode is packed with invaluable advice.  Plus, we announce Mark's upcoming role as a host for our Print Mastermind sessions.   Key Takeaways  The Spark Organisation: Mark is launching a new venture to act as a host, MC, and presenter, helping organisations share their value face-to-face or online.  Inkjet Goes Mainstream: Inkjet technology has reached a tipping point and offers massive potential, particularly for zero-waste printing on high-value substrates.  Proof of Concept Before Purchase: Avoid buying new technology like embellishment equipment without a ready audience; outsource the work first to build demand before investing. Simplify for the Buyer: The industry often makes print too complex by putting the burden of file formatting and problem-solving onto the customer instead of bringing them solutions. Know Your Numbers: The biggest area print business owners overlook is understanding the nuts and bolts of their business, specifically knowing their costs and pricing for margin. The Power of Face-to-Face: While digital connections made during COVID were valuable, in-person trade shows remain essential for breathing life into industry networking. The Comfort Zone Debate: Contrary to popular belief, not everyone needs to leave their comfort zone; there is massive value in employees who are happy and productive right where they are.  Long-Term Leadership: Alongside his new business, Mark has mapped out the next five years of his career taking on leadership roles within the IPIA, culminating in a future presidency. Print Mastermind Expansion: Mark is officially joining Colin and Jack to host upcoming sessions of the Print Mastermind community.

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Chris Edwards, Director of CVI Group and the CVI Training Centre. Chris is an industry veteran with over two decades of experience, but his start in the graphics world was entirely accidental. From washing cars on cold weekends to making Tasmanian Devil stickers layer by layer, he built his skills from the ground up on driveways and in workshops long before the advanced materials of today existed. We dive into Chris’s personal philosophy of getting comfortable being uncomfortable. This mindset shift has been the catalyst for his recent success, pushing him to overcome a lifelong fear of flying to judge the World Wrap Masters and to take on high profile projects like wrapping Eddie Hall’s truck. Chris also shares the reality of opening a dedicated training facility, discussing both the financial challenges and the immense reward of seeing young talent transform in just a few days. Whether he is talking about his passion for ice hockey or the technical nuances of a shark fin aerial, Chris’s energy for the trade is infectious. We explore why he believes every day is an apprentice day and why an open mindset is the single most important tool for any professional in the print and wrap industry today. Key Takeaways Accidental Beginnings: Chris entered the industry after getting fed up with cold hands while washing cars at a local garage. The Power of Mindset: Adopting the motto "get comfortable being uncomfortable" has been the key to accelerating his career in recent years. Overcoming Barriers: He conquered a major fear of flying specifically to accept a role as a World Wrap Masters judge. Training Reality: Opening a training center involves significant financial risk and "lessons" rather than just instant success. Youth Development: Chris has seen 15 and 16 year old students surpass expectations by being receptive "sponges" for new information. The "Shark Fin" Test: A signature part of his training involves teaching students to wrap a shark fin aerial in one piece to build their confidence. Industry Collaboration: Partnerships with associations like Fespa UK and the BSGA provide a "work family" that prevents the isolation of being a one man band. Eddie Hall Project: One of his proudest technical achievements was wrapping Eddie Hall’s truck with zero paint left on show. Continuous Learning: Despite 22 years in the game, Chris lives by the rule that "every day is an apprentice day". Openness to Help: He believes the industry would thrive if more people were willing to share knowledge and access the training resources available.

In this episode of The Printerviews, I am joined by Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, a primary resource for knowledge sharing and innovation within the textile and interior decor industries .  With a career spanning nearly 30 years, Debbie shares her journey from working as a designer in vertical manufacturing to pioneering digital textile printing in the UK .  We dive into the evolution of CAD, the early days of printing fabric on desktop HPs, and how her manufacturing background gave her a unique perspective on the entire product journey from design to the retail shelf .       We explore the current state of the industry, which Debbie describes as being at a tipping point where digital technology and consumer behaviour are finally aligning .  We discuss the growing demand for customisation and on-demand manufacturing, as well as the critical need for circularity and transparency in the supply chain .  Debbie explains why the biggest disconnect currently sits between design and production and how savvy printers can bridge that gap by sharing more technical data and specifications with their creative clients .       Finally, we look toward the future, touching on the upcoming Digital Product Passport and the importance of remaining naturally curious in an ever-changing landscape .  Whether you are a traditional large format printer looking to move into decor or a creative wanting to understand the production floor better, this episode is packed with practical insights on staying ahead of the competition and making print less wasteful .  Key Takeaways Texintel's Mission: A hub for knowledge sharing and innovation designed to help the industry navigate the complexities of textile and decor printing  A Tipping Point: The industry is accelerating into a phase where technology and consumer demand for personalisation have reached a perfect alignment  Closing the Gap: The most significant disconnect in the industry is between the design process and the production floor   Waste Reduction: Up to 15% of material is often wasted on the cutting table; digital cutting and on-demand printing are essential for recapturing that profit   The Future of Ink: True circularity may involve inks that do not last forever, allowing for easier recycling of the underlying components   The Digital Product Passport: A major regulatory shift is coming that will require printers to provide detailed data to their customers regarding sustainability   On-Demand Benefits: Manufacturing on-demand eliminates stock waste, but it requires deep collaboration to avoid causing chaos in the plant  Democratisation of Print: Modern technology allows for a high-end textile mill setup to exist within the footprint of a standard garage   Staying Curious: To move forward in this market, professionals must remain in a state of continual learning to stay ahead of the competition   Defining Sustainability: The term is often overused; genuine responsibility involves efficient technology, collaborative knowledge flow, and innovation

In this interview, Colin McDermott talks to Simon Wheeler to discuss his career, personal experiences, and his perspective on the future of the print industry.  Simon shares deeply personal stories, ranging from his battle with cancer at age 20 to unique professional highlights like meeting the Queen.  The conversation highlights Simon's commitment to vulnerability as a professional super weapon, arguing that being open and asking for help allows for the development of stronger, more authentic business relationships. The discussion centres on the evolution of technology, from photographic and digital to 3D and Artificial Intelligence. It also covers the importance of nurturing the next generation of talent. And, in a Printerviews first, Simon even shares a poem, written specifically for the podcast, which is a call to action for veteran industry professionals to mentor and support younger staff.  The interview concludes with an emphasis on the work being done by Fespa UK’s Next Generation initiative to educate and entice new talent into the field. Key Takeaways Opening up to others builds stronger and more authentic professional relationships Treat seeking assistance as a professional super weapon rather than a weakness Veteran professionals must guide the next generation to ensure long-term industry success The industry has evolved from traditional print to 3D and artificial intelligence Utilise Fespa UK to help educate and entice new talent into the field  Training staff may feel like a hardship but it pays big dividends later Choose authentic personal expression over AI-generated content to truly connect with others Personal hobbies like poetry can humanise and enhance your professional identity  Reach out to colleagues or Fespa UK to begin developing your staff  Use LinkedIn or direct email to maintain professional connections and industry dialogue