2 Regular Guys Talking Decoration and Personalization

This week, we’ll be sitting down with Bo Betzler of Condé Systems to dive into the ever-evolving world of sublimation. With Condé’s recent relaunch under new ownership, we’ll discuss what’s on the horizon for the company and the sublimation industry as a whole. We’ll also explore how technologies like DTF and UV DTF are impacting the personalization and gift markets, and what that means for the upcoming holiday season. Join us for insights, trends, and what’s next in the world of sublimation.

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Terry: Last night I tried mixing Mexican alcohol with 20th-century American literature

Ended up with Tequila Mockingbird

Aaron: Welcome back to the show! I know you have been the face of Conde Systems for a while and we are excited to see you back in that role, but for our listeners who are not familiar, tell us a little about Bo. What has been your journey in the industry?

Terry: What has the transition been like for Condé Systems since its recent relaunch under new ownership?

Aaron: What are the biggest challenges Condé is facing as it rebuilds its product line, and how are you tackling them?

Terry: What are some common misconceptions about sublimation that you’ve encountered? 

Aaron: As businesses consider adding sublimation or other technologies you have at Conde to their toolkit, what advice would you offer?

Terry: With the rise of technologies like DTF and UV DTF, how do you see the sublimation market changing?

Aaron: How can smaller businesses in the sublimation space differentiate themselves from larger competitors in such a competitive market?

Aaron: What opportunities do you see for sublimation businesses as we approach the holiday season?

Terry: Can you tell us about any exciting new products or innovations that Condé Systems is working on?

Terry: What are some key strategies for decorators to scale their sublimation businesses you have seen in your time with Conde?

Aaron: What types of training or support will Condé offer to help decorators improve their sublimation techniques and business practices?

Aaron: Where can people go to learn more about the new Conde Systems?

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

While Aaron is off celebrating his 50th birthday at a business retreat, Erich Campbell joins Terry Combs to discuss the crucial role of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in creating business resilience and avoiding “single point of failure” issues within teams. Along with these key business insights, Terry and Erich take a lighthearted trip down memory lane looking at some different milestones from the journey journey. Tune in for a blend of practical advice and personal nostalgia in this unique episode!

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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 Spiderman has a winter jacket made completely out of flatbread?

It’s a Pita Parka

Erich: Though I hardly think we need much prompting to talk about processes, this is a topic with which I have not only a lot of experience but a ton of thoughts and opinions developed over the years. Before we go too much further, I’m going to explain the term that’s haunted me throughout my career: the ‘Single Point Failure’. 

EX: How an Employee, Equipment, Supplier, or Market can be an SPF. ‘Eggs in one Basket’

Terry: Define and Discuss SOPs as a way to avoid SPFs.

Erich: Discuss Consistency and Troubleshooting

Terry: Talk about the potential dark side of SOPs: Getting complacent and not reviewing the ‘Why’ (Art ledger story is a great one here)

Erich: Discuss workflow and the concept of a job as the ‘product’ delivered to the next department as a function of SOPs. (Flowchart ex.)

Terry: Explain the process of creating a simple SOP

Erich: Talk about employee expectations, job descriptions, and further employee feedback.

Terry: Best place to start with SOPs for screenprinting. 

Erich: The best place to start with SOPs for embroidery/digitizing

Terry: Last word and tips.

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

This week, we sit down with Sean Stewart from American Print and Supply to dive deep into the latest advancements in Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing technology. We’ll explore the evolution of DTF, focusing on the extended color gamut printing, building custom color profiles, and why CMYKRGBO printing could be a game changer. Sean will also discuss the growing trend of mixed media printing, showing how to balance perceived value with actual production costs using the right tools. Join us for an informative conversation on pushing boundaries in DTF printing!

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: What kind of music do lawn care specialists listen to?

Motown

Aaron: Sean, it wasn’t too long ago that you were on the show, but for any listeners who weren’t tuned in, give ]us the elevator pitch of your background in the industry.

Terry: What has been the biggest change in the DTF printing process over the past few years, and how has that impacted the industry?

Aaron: Do you see any resistance to the “feel” of DTF transfers?

Terry: Can you explain extended color gamut printing (CMYKRGBO)?

Aaron: For those new to DTF, how do you recommend balancing the perceived value of a print versus the actual cost to produce it?

Terry: Mixed media printing seems to be growing in popularity. What are some creative ways decorators can incorporate mixed media into their designs?

Aaron: How can smaller businesses stay competitive in the evolving DTF landscape, especially as new technologies emerge?

Terry: Next week is Printing United in Las Vegas. Tell us about your presence there. What can we expect to see new in your booth in Las Vegas?

Aaron: What’s your booth number next week, and how can our listeners find you?

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

In-Person Business Owner Retreat – St. Louis, MO Transform From ‘Have To’ into ‘Get To’.

October 10-12, 2024

Join us this week as we sit down with Dale Furtwengler, author of “Pricing for Profit: How to Command Higher Prices for Your Products and Services.” Dale brings his wealth of knowledge on pricing strategies that help businesses command higher prices without losing customers we want to keep. We’ll discuss key takeaways from his book and explore the psychology behind pricing, how to convey value effectively, and why most businesses leave money on the table. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to maximize your profits with smarter pricing tactics!

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: Wanna hear a joke about paper?

Never mind – It’s tearable.

Aaron: Welcome to our show. I’m excited to talk to you as I would consider you a mentor of mine. I’ve probably told this story on here before, but Dale was the gentleman who said to me “You can’t outgive the Universe” and it shaped how I operate. But for our listeners who don’t know you as I do, can you give us a short biography? Tell us the highlights that lead you to start Cutting Edge.

I’m a CPA with national firm experience, followed by CFO positions in a variety of industries, started a business providing fractional CFO services, did a lot of pricing work, and shortly after Pricing For Profit was published rebranded my company to focus on pricing, I’ve now expanded the pricing work to include helping companies gain, and sustain, a decades-long competitive advantage.

Terry: What inspired you to write “Pricing for Profit,” and what do you see as the biggest misconception businesses have about pricing?

I wrote the book because I realized I was only helping a handful of companies with my consulting work. I could have helped more if I had written a book.

The biggest misconception about pricing is that it’s the primary factor in the buying decision. J. Conrad Levinson in his original book, Guerrilla Marketing, said that of 10,000 buyers surveyed only 14% listed price as the determining factor in their buying decision. 86% listed other factors…with price being ninth on the list.

Aaron: What are some common mistakes companies make when setting their prices, and how can they avoid these pitfalls?

They tout their offering as being better than their competitors’ offerings, then price their offering at, or below, their competitors’ price. In doing so they confuse the buyer…and confused buyers always revert to price.

Terry: How do you address the fear many business owners have about losing customers when raising prices?

I ask them “Who are your most difficult customers? Are they the most demanding when it comes to price? What would your life be like if you were able to replace them with more of your other customers?

Aaron: How can small businesses or startups, with limited brand recognition, implement your pricing strategies effectively?

Pricing is a part of establishing a brand. When your price is congruent with the value your offering provides, you establish a brand that buyers trust.

Terry: How do you help businesses show the value of what they offer so they can feel confident in charging higher prices?

There are five elements (1) a clear brand promise i.e. the result the customer will get (2) a psychographic profile of their ideal customer…a profile based on values, behaviors, and characteristics (3) marketing messages that attract your ideal customer and repel those who aren’t (4) sales scripts that engage the prospect in calculating the value (5) producing three budget options along with guidance in presenting the options and language to use when presenting the lower-price options.

Aaron: What signs should a business watch for to know when it’s time to change its pricing?

One sure sign is that you’re nearing capacity in your business. Prices should be raised 3% to 5% annually. These increases are low enough that the customer is not likely to shop your offering, yet high enough to enable the company to outpace inflation.

Terry: What advice would you give to businesses in really competitive markets where prices keep getting lower?

The reasons why markets become highly price competitive are (1) lack of differentiation (2) market saturation. Differentiation is fairly easy to establish…discover what annoys customers and provide a solution. If the market is truly saturated, find another market.

Aaron: Can you share some examples of businesses that used your pricing ideas successfully? What can we learn from their stories?

A hunter-jumper trainer trained both horses and riders to win hunter-jumper events. When she called me she had a 95% vacancy in her barn. Within a month of completing her pricing work, she told me that she had gone from a 95% vacancy to a 5% vacancy. She picked up 25 new weekly riding lessons. She had so many horses for a show that she had to build some temporary stalls. And she was approached to design a hunter-jumper arena.

Another client said that she and her family had always wanted a swimming pool. A year after having completed her pricing work, she installed a professionally landscaped, inground pool.

A client, the day following the completion of her pricing work, emailed me saying that she’d been approached to do a project that she would have previously charged $100 to do. She quoted a price of $500 and got a deposit on the spot.

Another client had an assessment tool priced at $179. I showed her that it was worth $1,250. She said she could never charge that much. I suggested $895 which she said she could do. A week later she called excited at having closed her first $895 deal. Then she said “As soon as I closed it, I knew I could have gotten the $1,250. She raised her price to $1,250.

Terry: When can listeners find the book and learn more about these ideas?

https://cuttingedge-business.com/master-class/

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

This week, we’re bringing you a special Ask Me Anything (AMA) session with art expert Dane Clement. Whether you’re curious about the best software for creating production-ready artwork, need tips on designing standout graphics, or want to explore how AI can enhance your design process, Dane is here to help! Join us as we dive into all things artwork-related for the apparel decoration industry. Plus Aaron Montgomery will be along for the ride so don’t just limit your questions to artwork. We have seen a lot in this industry! Get your questions ready and tune in for valuable insights that can elevate your design game!

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: Every time the earth rotates, it really makes my day. ?

Aaron: Suggestions for making great artwork work for Direct to Film. How to ensure it won’t be a thick sticker on a shirt! (From Becky Kotzer)

Aaron: Dane Clement is the man! I would ask him: “How do you plan, use, and think about AI integration in art dept’s now?” (Thomas Trimingham)

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

Join us this week as we dive into crucial updates affecting the apparel industry with experts Cassie Green and Gary Jones from Printing United Alliance. Gary, an authority on OSHA regulations, and Cassie, a sustainability advocate, will provide insights on the latest regulations, including the proposed Carbon Black ban and Extended Producer Responsibility laws. We’ll also discuss how apparel businesses can proactively avoid fines and embrace sustainable practices. Whether you’re a shop owner or an industry professional, this episode is packed with valuable information to keep you ahead of the curve.

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Terry: Do you know what it means when your kid says, “I want mommy.”?

They’re really saying, “I’d like to speak with your supervisor.”

Aaron:  What is the latest on the proposed Carbon Black ban?

Terry: What are Extended Producer Responsibility laws? 

Terry: What is the latest on Extended Producer Responsibility laws impacting packaging? 

Terry: What is the latest on Extended Producer Responsibility laws for textiles and apparel? 

Aaron: How can apparel decorators ensure that their practices are not only compliant but also setting the standard for industry best practices?

Terry: How can small to medium-sized apparel businesses start implementing sustainability practices without overwhelming their current operations

Aaron: With Printing United Expo occurring in the coming weeks, how are you going to be addressing any excess garments that will be printed in the Apparel Zone?

Terry: What kind of coverage and education will be offered at the Printing United Expo regarding sustainability?

Aaron: Can you share examples of companies in the apparel industry that have successfully navigated sustainability challenges?

Terry: How can our listeners sign up for the show and reach out to you?

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

Join us this week as we welcome Cassie Green and Brandy Neth from Printing United Alliance and the Apparelist. We’ll dive into the exciting highlights of PRINTING United Expo 2024, specifically designed for apparel decorators. Discover the latest trends, technologies, and hands-on training sessions that will be available. Cassie and Brandy will share insights on the redesigned Apparel Zone, how to engage with industry leaders, and practical takeaways for your business. Tune in to learn how this event can benefit your business and keep you ahead in the industry.

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: Can one bird make a pun?

No, but Toucan

Aaron: Cassie and Brandy, welcome back to the show. Cassie we see you here on 2RG all the time, but if you could both share a little about yourselves and how you found your way to this industry.

Terry: Printing United in Las Vegas is upon us, September 10-12. Brandy, tell us about the buildup over the past couple of years of the Apparel Zone and Future State Theater. It’s clear Printing United has made a commitment to the apparel decorating community. Cassie, do you have anything to add?

Aaron: Cassie, last week Terry hinted at some double secret changes to the Apparel Zone this year. Tell us about that. Terry said there’s a cool theme but didn’t know if he could share it yet.Terry: I’m really excited about the Epson/Equipment Zone DTG space in the Apparel Zone. Who would you describe this area being directed to… beginners, long time decorators? And who c

Aaron: Can you share any innovative techniques or technologies that are currently gaining traction in the industry?

Terry: Based on the people you work with and hear from with the Apparelist, what are some of the biggest challenges facing apparel decorators today?

Aaron: Being as tapped in as you are at the Apparelist, where do you tend to look first to keep up on what’s trending? 

Terry: With so many voices now sharing, teaching, and looking to influence in our space, what do you think is a message that is not talked about enough? Who and what do you want to see more of in apparel decoration and the industry?

Aaron: We’ve done our podcast from a variety of locations in past shows? Where are we going to be broadcasting from this year?

Aaron: How can our listeners sign up for the show?

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

This week, we are excited to welcome Lisbeth Lyons Black from Printing United Alliance and the director of the Women in Print Alliance. Join us as we discuss the mission and evolution of the Women in Print Alliance, a dynamic initiative aimed at attracting, advancing, and advocating for women in the printing industry. Discover why membership benefits women and their employers, the key topics the alliance focuses on, and why this initiative is crucial for everyone in the industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on fostering an inclusive industry culture.

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Terry: What do you call the ghost of a mischievous chicken?

A poultry-geist

Aaron: Hi Lisbeth. We avoid the canned bios and just ask you to tell us a little about yourself and how you found your way into the industry. 

Terry: How did this all start? And where is the group today?

Terry: Why should women in the industry become members? And how will they benefit from membership?

Aaron: What are some key initiatives or programs that the Women in Print Alliance is currently working on to attract more women into the industry?

Aaron: Talk to us about the topics you focus on as a part of your programming

Terry: Tell us why this type of initiative is good for everyone in the industry, regardless of gender.

Aaron: Lots of talk around the Olympics and Flavor Flav. Talk to us about how can men in the print industry support the Women in Print Alliance and contribute to a more inclusive environment.

Terry: Can you talk about the role of advocacy in the Women in Print Alliance and how it impacts the broader printing industry?

Aaron: Where can our listeners find you and find out more about joining?

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisbethlyons/

Website: www.womeninprintalliance.org

See you all in Vegas soon! LLB

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

Join us this week as we welcome Amanda Hietter from Across the Horizon Travel to discuss the transformative power of incorporating retreats into your business plan. Amanda, an expert in planning international retreats, will share insights on how hosting retreats can help your business grow exponentially. Discover the most popular destinations, the detailed planning process, and how to tailor retreats to meet your unique needs. We’ll also cover essential tips for ensuring participant safety and provide advice for those planning their first retreat. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore a unique way to scale your business!

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: I gave all my dead batteries away today.

Free of charge.

Aaron: Welcome to the show Amanda. We skip the canned bios here. Just tell us a little about yourself.

Amanda: Hello everyone! Thank you so much Aaron and Terry for having me here. I am excited to share my knowledge and expertise with all of you today. My name is Amanda Hietter and I’m the CEO and owner of Across the Horizon Travel. I have two wonderful children who are 21 and 16 and love to travel right along with me. I fell in love with travel at the age of 5 as my parents always took us on one big trip a year as a family. It was so much fun! My specialties in the travel industry consist of international romance and group travel. In the group travel niche, I assist retreat leaders with planning international retreats so they can get closer to their clientele and have deeper connections while enjoying the perks of staying in luxurious accommodations in an environment that is relaxing.

Terry: Who do you plan retreats for? Management groups? Their top customers? Entire companies?

Amanda: I typically work with retreat leaders in the industries of wellness, business coaches, and inspirational speakers, but have been diving into working with CEO’s and owners of small businesses to assist them with increasing production within their sales force. How do we do that? By offering incentive trips to their sales force to entice the sales team to reach their sales goals. When an employee reaches their goal, they receive a complimentary trip to go on a retreat with the company and enjoy a getaway with their spouse while also growing their mindset on how they can continue to reach their goals the following year. *I will work with the retreat leader to curate an itinerary/curriculum for the retreat itself.*

Aaron: What are some of the most popular destinations for international retreats currently, and why?

Amanda: Most retreat leaders are looking to get away to the Caribbean. It tends to be more cost effective, flight time is much less lengthy and you get the wonderful views of the beach. Popular destinations include: Mexico, Aruba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica and others as well.

Terry: How much time is required for a retreat? When should we start the planning process?

Amanda: I recommend starting planning 1 to 1.5 years out as there is a lot of behind the scenes logistics that come into play that need to be addressed before we can even begin marketing the retreat. I always say that if you already have a training curriculum or a program that you are already currently using in your industry, you can utilize that same information/curriculum and micro-scale it down into a 3-5 day retreat with 1-2 sessions a day. What’s also really cool is that when a retreat leader works with me, he/she will receive complimentary accommodations as long as we meet a minimum threshold of attendees (usually 10 rooms booked).

Aaron: Walk us through the process of planning a retreat.

Amanda: Step 1 – Discovery call with me where I go over all the logistics (where do you want to go, when do you want to have the retreat, what are you looking to accomplish, how many potential attendees are you wanting to have, how long do you want to have your retreat for, etc.)

Step 2 – I begin the process of looking for the perfect location in the destination you are wanting

Step 3 – We work with the resort to put together a contract to lock in the group block for the dates requested (I also discuss with the resort your specific needs – do you need a conference room, a private area for a dinner, welcome cocktail hour, yoga on the beach, etc.) – these additional costs are added to the total cost of the retreat

Step 4 – Putting together the itinerary (I work with the retreat leader on this as well)

Step 5 – Marketing (sharing the retreat with others, getting people interested, creating a landing page on your website to collect information to forward to me) – usually this is started about 8-10 months before the travel date

Step 6 – Start signing up clients – I handle ALL logistics (flights, accommodations, airport transfers, insurance, goodie bags, etc.)

Step 7 – Prepare for travel – I send each attendee a package in the mail with all the details (flights, accommodations info, itinerary, etc. about 1-1.5 months before travel)

Step 8 – Enjoy your retreat! I will also connect the retreat leader with the coordinator that is on-site to ensure that the retreat leader’s desires are handled during the duration of the retreat.

Terry: How do you tailor retreats to meet the unique needs of different groups?

Amanda: This is where the discovery call with each retreat leader comes into play. During my 30 minute phone call or in person meeting, I have a long list of questions I ask (we previously discussed some of those questions earlier in the podcast). Additionally, I always make sure to ask each client if they have any disabilities or food allergies/special diets I need to be aware of so I can alert the resort and the restaurant staff.

Aaron: I’m sure safety is a concern. How do you ensure the safety and well-being of retreat participants, especially in remote or unfamiliar locations?

Amanda: I honestly cannot ever completely ensure the safety of any traveler, but one thing I do for them is prepare them by having a conversation about travel safety smarts. For example, you wouldn’t go walking around St. Louis in the middle of the night being half inebriated and not expecting something bad to happen, so just be smart about your surroundings when you are out and about and stay alert. I also always have my client’s take out traveler’s insurance to cover them if you receive any injuries as most people don’t know that you no longer have health insurance coverage once you leave the US. This covers you if you get sick, fall down and break a bone, etc.

Terry: How closely do you work with retreat leaders throughout the planning process?

Amanda: I work very closely with my retreat leaders. I call myself their “right hand woman” as I am there from the very beginning where we are brainstorming together on what they expect to get out of their retreat all the way to when they get back from hosting the retreat. I pride myself on being an advocate for my retreat leaders from the beginning to the end.

Aaron: What advice would you give to someone planning their first international retreat?

Amanda: I always ask retreat leaders, “Are you ready to put together a retreat right now?” Their answer is ALWAYS “Nope.” Then I ask, “Well, will you be ready in 1 to 1.5 years from now?” Their answer is always “Yes.” My recommendation: Start the planning process early. All the logistics will take a good amount of time to put together, so always start early. I also recommend working with a travel agent, as we know the ins and outs when it comes to the best locations, we can coordinate flights for all of your attendees, and we make sure that the process is seamless for the retreat leader.

Terry: Amanda, how can our listeners find you?

Amanda: You can find me on Instagram or Facebook at: Across the Horizon Travel, check out my website at: www.acrossthehorizontravel.com, email me at: [email protected] or shoot me a text or phone call at: 309-202-3519.

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific

Erich Campbell joins Terry and Aaron for a review of the top questions he gets from embroiderers and creatives who want to delve into the world of digitizing their own designs. From the question of in-house digitizing versus outsourcing, the ups and downs of automation, and the question of how much you need to buy into software to get started as well as some quick corrections on mindset for those who decide to go on the digitizing journey, Erich’s tips will help you hit the ground running with embroidery digitizing.

Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but rather for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!

Ready to have clarity and confidence in your business? Attend FUNdamentals Live on October 10-12, 2024 in O’Fallon, MO.

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

Aaron: Why are tennis players bad in relationships?

Because Love means nothing to them.

Aaron: I know our listeners are aware of my extensive 15 minutes of embroidery experience, but in that time I didn’t have a chance to digitize. Before we discuss anything else, will you define digitizing for us? I’m sure our listeners know what it is, but I have a sneaking suspicion you have a point to make with your definition.

Terry: Digitizing is something that a lot of people outsource. Do people really need to digitize for themselves? Are there good reasons to bring it in-house?

Aaron: Everyone knows I’m no stranger to employing AI in my workflow; is there automation to just make this thing happen? What’s the best tool that a digitizer can use?

Terry: Ok, so let’s say someone really does have a need for really creative execution, special techniques, or just a super-fast turnaround; what’s the best way to get started as far as learning to digitize?

Aaron: I see lots of people get really frustrated with their initial results in all forms of decorating, but it seems especially true of folks learning to digitize. What are the most common stumbling blocks that new digitizers keep tripping over?

Terry: Whenever you’re diagnosing problems with any kind of decoration, you have to hone in on the part of the process that’s not going your way. How can new digitizers tell if it’s their work affecting the results or something going on with their equipment? 

Aaron: We love to leave our listeners with What’s the one thing you think a mentor could have told you that would have made a difference for you as a new digitizer?

Terry: Aside from behind the scenes here, where else can people find you? What’s going on now and what’s next? 

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. Remember, the right tip at the right time can be just the secret ingredient you need for success.

Achieve Greater Profit with Fewer Sales – Are you ready to achieve a greater profit with less effort?

September 5th, 2024
9 AM Eastern | 8 AM Central
7 AM Mountain | 6 AM Pacific