2 Regular Guys Podcast

DTF printing has opened the door to more opportunities than ever, but trying to serve everyone can quickly turn into a race to the bottom. This week, Terry and Aaron bring back one of their most popular topics, Niche Market Ideas, with a special focus on DTF printing professionals. We’ll talk through real niche opportunities we’ve seen in shops, events, and travels, plus fresh ideas decorators can use to stand out in a crowded market. From customer groups with unmet needs to creative ways to use technology, service, and marketing as your advantage. Whether you print DTF, screen print, embroider, sublimate, or decorate in another way, this conversation will spark ideas for finding better customers, clearer messaging, and more focused opportunities for growth.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

From Regulator Jacque Granquist with Circle G Branding in Wisconsin

How was Rome divided up?

With Caesars (Scissors)

Terry: Opening angle: We’ve done “Niche Market Ideas” shows before because decorators are always looking for new opportunities. But this one is a little different because DTF has lowered the barrier to producing short-run, colorful, customized apparel. That creates opportunity, but it also creates a lot of noise. If everyone can say, “We can print that,” the real question becomes, “Why should they choose you?”

Aaron: At the DAX shows this year, including the one I’m heading to in Tampa next week, I have been teaching a class about the myth of “everyone is my customer”. When we think that way, we create a problem: A lot of decorators get into trouble because DTF makes it feel like every job is a good job. Small orders, weird art, last-minute requests, random one-offs, local businesses, Etsy sellers, teams, schools, family reunions, all of it feels possible. But possible does not always mean profitable or strategic. The goal is not to print for everyone. The goal is to become more valuable to the right someone.

Terry: With the ideas today, we hope that you are asking yourself this entire show: How do you stand out? A good way to frame this is that standing out usually comes from one or more of five areas: the customer you serve, the technique you are great at, the technology you use, the services you wrap around the product, or the way you market yourself. For DTF shops, the product might be similar from shop to shop, but the niche, service model, turnaround, artwork help, ordering process, or customer experience can be what makes you different.

Aaron: So, as we dive in, we want to be very clear: DTF is not the niche by itself. “I offer DTF” is not really a niche anymore. It is a production method. The niche is who you serve with it and what problem you solve for them. Are you helping gyms launch merch drops? Are you helping trades businesses outfit crews quickly? Are you supporting school spirit stores? Are you creating easy reorder programs for small brands? That is where the opportunity gets clearer. So let’s dive into as many ideas as we can get there today.

Dot-Tone Dan Campbell:  Additional DTF Niche (Production Art service). Be ok with all of the art issues that come with DTF and take on any art cleanup jobs, making using your DTF CO easy peasy for your customer. MOST DTF shops are having major issues with this. Get good at it. Gear your Co toward making ART services a PROFIT center.

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

DTF can be a great opportunity for decorators, but success is not just about buying a printer and hoping the rest works itself out. This week, Terry and Aaron take a practical look at what really goes into a profitable DTF workflow, from artwork and RIP settings to ink, film, powder, curing, pressing, and the support needed when things do not go as planned. This host show will focus on the real-world decisions that help shops reduce waste, avoid costly reprints, improve consistency, and protect their margins. Whether you are already producing DTF transfers or still deciding if it belongs in your shop, this conversation will help you think through the process as a complete system instead of another piece of equipment.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

From our good friend James Ortolani…

“A pirate walks into a bar wearing a paper towel on his head.

The bartender says, “What’s with the paper towel?”

The pirate replies, “Arrr… there’s a Bounty on my head.”

Like everything else in life, when it looks like all you have to do is push a button, there’s always more to learn.

Artwork/Gang Sheets

RIP Software

Printer/Ink

Film

Adhesive Powder

Powder/Shaker/Dryer

Pressing

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

Spectrum Designs Foundation is proving that growth and purpose can go hand in hand. This week on 2 Regular Guys, we’ll be joined by Tim Howe, Chief Operating Officer of Spectrum Designs, to talk about the incredible momentum behind their nonprofit social enterprise and the mission that drives it. From opening a new franchise in Pensacola, Florida, to launching its third East Coast shop in Hackensack, New Jersey, Spectrum Designs continues to expand its impact while creating meaningful employment and training opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. We’ll also talk about their upcoming book, INKclusivity, and what it means to build a business where inclusion is not just a talking point, but a working model for success. Plus, with Spectrum Designs expected to surpass 100 employees and $10 million in sales in 2026, we’ll explore what other shops can learn from their journey, leadership, and commitment to doing business differently. Join us for a conversation about growth, inclusion, social enterprise, and how the decorated apparel industry can create opportunity while building something that truly matters.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: Know what happened to the math teacher’s house plants?

They grew square roots

September 7, 2018 – https://www.2regularguys.com/spectrum-designs-a-non-profit-with-a-high-purpose/

November 15, 2024 – https://www.2regularguys.com/inkclusivity-disability-inclusion/ 

Aaron: Welcome back to the show, Tim. Can you share the story behind Spectrum Design Foundation and what inspired its founding?

Terry: How does Spectrum Design Foundation’s mission to hire adults on the spectrum shape your company culture? What size business in terms of number of employees and sales, are we talking about?

Aaron: What unique talents and strengths do adults on the spectrum bring to the garment decorating industry?

Terry: As COO, what are the biggest operational challenges in running a socially-driven business like Spectrum Design?

Terry: How do you train your management team and your staff to create an inclusive and profitable workplace?

Aaron: What advice would you give to other companies interested in hiring adults on the spectrum but unsure where to start?

Aaron: And there’s a new book, INKclusivity. (Mentioned) How can our listeners reach out to you and learn more?

Check out Spectrum and their mission at https://www.spectrumdesigns.org/
Check out the book upcoming at https://www.inkclusivity.com/

Dean Biscan – Text: Morning Fellas!! Impressive build out Tim. Love to hear about the growth and successes.
Tim, do you work the EOS at Spectrum?
Tim should read Traction. Pick it up today.
I finished Traction (intro book) recently and absolutely love the insight and methods. EXTREMELY helpful for any growing business.

@ramonamckee5367 – We want to see that shirt on the wall!!

@AMB3Rcreative – So many cool business models in our space. There is a place for anyone & everyone! -JP
Who is your favorite footy team Tim?

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

This week on 2 Regular Guys, Aaron takes you inside the recent Kornit Konnections event with exclusive interviews from several large print shops sharing what they’re seeing in the decorated apparel industry right now. From changing customer expectations to new ways shops are creating value, these conversations offer a real-world snapshot of where the market stands today. Aaron also shares his biggest takeaways from the event, trends that could shape the future, and what apparel decorators of every size should be paying attention to now. If you want insight straight from the people doing the work and a practical look at where the industry may be heading next, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Aaron: My wife said quilts are better than duvets.

I said you’d better be careful making blanket statements like that.

Thank Kornit for the invitation and hospitality. Was a beautiful place – Hollywood, FL

Impressed by the collaboration – Got to talk to several SuperGamut customers as well – They are solutions providers, not DTF v DTG v Screen etc.

Shout out to Justin and Jay from RIP Print. Working on having them on the show soon

Draymond John – Shark Tank – Agility. Saying Yes and Figuring it out. Had an awesome idea, but I’ll save that for folks in my free Facebook Group. OSG.link/group

Stand Outs

Overview: As you heard in the news segment with WIN last week, Kornit Digital just acquired PrintFactory, the workflow and automation platform. This was a theme. 

Saw a take from MerchTroop in CA that feels spot on. They said:

The industry is quietly shifting from a “who has the biggest press” business to a “who has the tightest system” business. Ten years ago, capacity was the advantage. Today, it’s workflow — how fast a shop can quote, proof, schedule, print, and ship.

That was the theme of this event: Agility! 

Faster turnarounds, smaller minimums, and more real-time visibility into orders.

MerchTropp said in their Facebook post – it means the competition isn’t the embroiderer across town — it’s any decorator who has built a real operating system behind the scenes.

One of the main slides in the opening talk from the Kornit CEO – Said Agility is not a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have.

This slide also stuck out to me with real-world applications for our listeners:

First, discovery has moved to social media. – The slide says 38% of people discover fashion brands through social platforms. That means customers are not waiting to search for brands anymore. Brands are finding them in Instagram feeds, TikTok videos, Facebook posts, and YouTube content. For decorators, this means your customers need branded content, not just branded products.

Second, engagement is happening daily. – Around 50% of U.S. consumers use social media every day. That means brands now have an ongoing relationship opportunity. It is no longer about one campaign or one catalog. People are interacting constantly. Shops that help customers stay visible with merch drops, seasonal campaigns, creator programs, or event apparel become more valuable partners.

Third, conversion follows online. The slide says successful fashion brands get 30 to 50% of their online sales through these efforts. In other words, attention can quickly translate into revenue when the systems are connected. Someone sees content, gets interested, clicks a link, and buys right away.

If you are an apparel decorator, promo distributor, or print shop, you are not just selling shirts anymore. You are helping customers fuel a marketing engine. Fast turn times, small runs, personalization, ecommerce integrations, and trend-responsive production matter more than ever.

The strongest companies in our space can no longer live by Terry’s minimum standard – Do Good Work and Deliver on time! Our role is to help our customers generate demand.

Also, they had this big poster board where attendees wrote the things keeping them up at night. I think there is a gold mine of information in this that the regulators can take away:

First takeaway: You are not alone. Many shop owners think their worries are unique. They are not. Across the industry, people are dealing with the same pressure points. Sometimes knowing that helps reduce stress and creates perspective. 

Second takeaway: Focus on what you can control. You cannot control tariffs, politics, or the economy. You can control customer experience, internal systems, training, pricing, communication, and speed of response. 

Third takeaway: Uncertainty creates opportunity. When markets feel shaky, customers want trusted partners. Shops that become reliable, proactive, and easy to work with often grow during uncertain times.

Fourth takeaway: AI is not the enemy; ignorance is. Several people mentioned AI. The smart move is not fear or blind hype. It is learning practical uses now: quoting, customer service drafts, art ideation, workflow help, and marketing content.

Fifth takeaway: Relevance is the real battle. One attendee wrote relevance, and that may be the most important word on the board. If you stay useful to customers, keep solving current problems, and adapt to what matters now, you stay in the game.

What struck me most is that nobody wrote embroidery tension, DTF/DTG head clogs, screen making or pretreat settings. They wrote economy, labor, sales, relevance, and uncertainty. That tells us the next level of success in this industry is less about machines and more about leadership. But you look at the education at some of the other shows, and the How To classes are always full, yet the leadership and mindset classes are not. Its why so many shops struggle.

The businesses that sleep best in the next few years won’t be the ones with no problems. They’ll be the ones with the best habits for handling them.

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

This week, we welcome back Jay Busselle of Branded Merch Network for a recap of the 2026 Sustainable Merch Summit and a deeper look at what apparel decorators, promo pros, and print shop owners need to know right now. We break down the biggest lessons from the event, what brands are really asking for, and how sustainability is shaping modern marketing conversations. More importantly, we talk about how shops of any size can turn sustainability from a buzzword into a profitable opportunity. From smarter product choices to stronger customer relationships and better storytelling, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can use right away. If you’ve wondered whether sustainability matters to your customers or how to make it work for your business, this conversation is for you.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: If Farmer A sells potatoes and Farmer B sells corn, What does Farmer C sell?

Obviously medicine 

Farmer C = Pharmacy

Terry: Jay, for any of our listeners who didn’t tune in Wednesday, tell us what the Sustainable Merch Summit was all about.

So, hit on some of the big takeaways.

Anything that the regulators can take away and use from the conversations?

Talk a bit about how sustainability plays in marketing today.

Give us a rundown of the sponsors.

Where can our listeners go back and see the entire two hour event?

And we can’t leave without a “what’s next?”

Jay, how can our listeners reach out to you and Branded Merch Network?

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

Previously, we talked about what “value” really means in your business. This week, we answer the question everyone is really asking. How do you actually turn that value into pricing that works? If you’ve ever felt unsure about what to charge, worried about raising your prices, or found yourself looking at competitors for answers, you’re not alone. In this episode, we break down why so many businesses undervalue what they offer and how confidence plays a bigger role in pricing than most people realize. We dig into the difference between cost-based and value-based pricing, the warning signs that your pricing might be too low, and how to figure out what your customers are truly willing to pay. You’ll also hear practical ways to communicate your value, so your pricing feels justified, not questioned, and how to raise your prices without losing your best customers. If you’re ready to stop guessing and start pricing with purpose, this conversation will give you the clarity and direction to take the next step.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: Someone ripped the 5th month out of my calendar… Terry’s Big Book of Travel

Yeah, I’m disMAYed 
(May is the 5th month for our podcast listeners… disMAYed)

Aaron: As we talked about 2 weeks ago, Pricing is one of those things that every shop owner knows matters, but too many are still guessing at. Maybe you’re looking at competitors, maybe you’re adding a little margin on top of your costs, or maybe you’re just hoping the numbers work out in the end. The reality is, if your pricing isn’t built on a clear understanding of your value, it’s always going to feel uncertain, and that uncertainty shows up in your confidence, your customers, and your bottom line.

On April 3rd, we talked about what value really means in your business. Today, let’s get Erich in here and talk about how to turn that idea of value into pricing that works for our businesses.

@CindyKightKing  Every Item you make is a Custom Product!! Hooping can be so different from brand to brand. Example: SanMar makes a Nice invisible zipper opening, but it can take longer to hoop. Caps: Structure vs Non

@CindyKightKing  This is just one little piece of the puzzle!

@XtraHandz1  Confidence in yourself and the work you produce will help guide you towards the people you need as clients.

Adelina Tagaduan Mozayeni, I just quit my job and started focusing on my business full-time! So excited and so scared!!!

@dougsobel2571  I work out of my garage, but I spent 10k converting it. epoxy floor installation and mini split AC.

@XtraHandz1  It’s good to know the competition you have, but not so good to try to compete against them. Know your costs, overhead, and future growth plans.

@dougsobel2571, if you are quoting and everyone is agreeing and not complaining or you are not losing some jobs, you are probably not charging enough

@XtraHandz1  Being sincere in what you have to offer to the client, this hits home; they need to believe they are making the correct choice. They will be lifelong clients.

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

Sustainability is everywhere right now, but for most apparel decorators and promo professionals, the big question is simple: what actually matters, and how do you turn it into something that grows your business? This week, we’re joined by Jay Busselle and the media partners behind the 2026 Sustainable Merch Summit to break it all down. We talk about what people are really trying to figure out when it comes to sustainable merch, when sustainability becomes more than just a good idea, and how to separate meaningful action from marketing noise. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by certifications, skeptical of sustainability claims, or unsure how this fits into your business strategy, this conversation will help bring clarity. Plus, we’ll share what makes this Summit different and why it’s built to deliver real-world value you can actually use.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: I always keep my guitar in my car now

It’s good for traffic jams

Aaron: Welcome to all of you. Jay, let’s start with what and when for this event.

Terry: What are people actually trying to figure out when it comes to sustainable merch right now?  

For all three of us – this helps ground the conversation in real audience questions and sets up why this Summit exists in the first place.

Aaron: At what point does sustainability move from a “nice idea” to a real growth strategy?

For all three of us – Connects directly to business impact and opens the door to real examples from across the industry.

Terry: A lot of sustainability messaging still feels like marketing. How can brands communicate sustainability in a way that actually builds trust instead of triggering skepticism?
For Theresa – reinforce the pillar: proof over promises. Helps differentiate good vs lazy messaging

Aaron: Certifications, materials, and claims can get confusing fast. How should people think about what actually matters vs what’s just noise?

For Cassie– Supports the goal of simplifying the conversation and reinforcing clarity over claims.

Terry: What makes the Sustainable Merch Summit different from other industry events or conversations happening right now?

For all three of us – Gives us a chance to clearly position the event and invite people into the experience. Reinforces the collaborative nature of the Summit and the value of diverse, real-world perspectives.

Aaron: Jay, where can people get more info, see the panelists, and register?

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

This week, it’s just the guys and producer Erich Campbell tackling a problem we’re seeing way too often. Shop owners investing lots of money into equipment and then asking the most important question after the fact… what should I charge? If you’ve ever struggled with pricing, felt unsure about your numbers, or found yourself looking at competitors and guessing, this episode is for you. We break down what “value” really means in your business and why pricing based on cost alone keeps so many decorators stuck. You’ll hear how to move beyond features and start understanding the real value your customers are buying, including the emotional side that often drives purchasing decisions. We’ll also talk about why competing on price is a race to the bottom, how to uncover what your ideal customers are actually willing to pay, and how to communicate your value so your pricing feels justified instead of questioned. If you want to stop second-guessing your pricing and start building a business that actually supports your goals, this conversation will give you the foundation to do it right.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Aaron: Mary ran to Peter and said, “Jesus has risen!” Peter said, “No way!” Mary smiled and said, “Yahweh.”

Aaron: As we were putting this show together and deciding what to talk about, I actually had 3 requests through SuperGamut from new customers asking what they should charge. They just spent a decent amount of money and had no pricing strategy other than to copy what we told them.

And I get it. Pricing feels like one of those things you’ll figure out once you get going. We just want people to have an understanding of what pricing is really all about, so you can think differently about the way you price your products. We have seen way too many good people create an expensive job for themselves because of their pricing strategy, or lack thereof.

This isn’t about formulas. This isn’t about copying your competitor’s price sheet. This is about understanding the value you actually bring to the table, who you’re best suited to serve, and how to turn that into pricing that’s both profitable and sustainable.

If you get pricing right, everything else in your business gets easier. If you get it wrong… you stay busy, stressed, and stuck.

So we’re going to break this into two parts. First, what value really means in your business. And then, how to translate that into pricing that actually works.

And of course, we’ve got Erich Campbell here with us today to help us make sure we don’t leave embroidery behind.

When you think about pricing, what does ‘value’ actually mean in your business?

How do you measure the value your product delivers to customers beyond just features?

Who should you NOT be pricing for?

How do you uncover the emotional value—not just functional value—of what you sell?

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

This week, we welcome back Dean Biscan to talk about a powerful opportunity many apparel decorators and promo shops are overlooking: employee appreciation and retention programs. While your customers are struggling to retain good people, there’s a real opportunity for you to step in as a strategic partner rather than just another vendor. Dean shares why this is becoming a major focus for businesses right now and how shops can position branded merchandise as more than just swag. We break down how to turn appreciation into a meaningful experience, build programs that drive real results for your clients, and show how this approach can open new revenue streams with customers you already have. If you’re looking for a simple, high-value way to stand out in your market, strengthen client relationships, and grow your business without adding new equipment, this conversation will give you a clear path forward.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: Did you know you can actually major in Dad Jokes at college?

Yeah, you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Sigh-cology.

Aaron: You were on recently, just give us a recap of what you’re doing right now in the industry.

Terry: Employee Appreciation and Retention… give us the “Why?” from the standpoint of your customers.

Aaron: So what we’re talking about here is how a decorator can help other businesses with their Employee Appreciation and Retention

Terry: Why should apparel and promo shops be talking about employee retention and appreciation with their clients right now as a sales tool?

Aaron: How can shops position branded merchandise as a strategic retention tool instead of just another swag order?

Terry: How can appreciation programs become a true differentiator for shops in their local market?

Aaron: How do you position yourself as a partner versus just another vendor?

Terry: Give us some specific examples of decorated items you would use in a program like this.

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.

This week on 2 Regular Guys, we’re joined by Stephanie Young of Sostephaniesays to talk about one of the biggest opportunities in apparel decoration right now, adding mixed media to your lineup. From embroidery to vinyl to sublimation and beyond, Stephanie shares how combining techniques can elevate your products, increase perceived value, and open the door to higher profits. We’ll also dig into why staying adaptable in a changing industry matters more than ever, and how ongoing education and creative inspiration can directly impact your bottom line. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your offerings, this episode will give you practical ideas and the confidence to start mixing things up.

Your business doesn’t need more tasks. It needs clarity, alignment, and a structure that supports you.

The Business Builder Accelerator is a guided 12-week experience that helps you uncover what actually matters, make confident decisions, and build a foundation you can grow on.

Explore the experience and sign up for a free clarity call –> OSG.link/Builder

If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”

Terry: On St Patrick’s Day I saw a leprechaun pushing a little wheelbarrow full of four leaf clovers

I thought, “That guy is really pushing his luck.”

Aaron: Let’s start with your journey. How did you get into mixing embroidery, vinyl, and sublimation, and what made you lean into teaching others?

Terry: For someone hearing “mixed media” and feeling a little overwhelmed, how would you define it in a simple, approachable way?

Aaron: What was one of the first mixed media projects you created where you realized, “Okay, this adds real value”?

Terry: From a customer perspective, why do mixed media designs tend to command higher prices or stand out more?

Aaron: Can you walk us through a couple of your favorite project examples and explain what makes them work so well?

Terry: For decorators who are currently focused on just one method, what’s the easiest way to start incorporating a second process without overcomplicating things?

Aaron: How does offering mixed media help shops stay adaptable as trends and customer expectations continue to shift?

Terry: You spend a lot of time teaching and inspiring others. How have you seen education directly translate into more revenue or better opportunities for decorators?

Aaron: Asking for a friend here… A lot of people get stuck in “I’m not creative enough” or “I might mess this up.” What advice do you have for getting past that fear and just starting?

Terry: If someone listening today wanted to take action this week, what’s one simple mixed media idea or experiment they could try to begin adding value right away?

We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.