History of Wrap

In this episode of The History of Wrap, I sit down with Chris Ulmer of Crystal Coast Graphics to talk about his evolution from running a small local sign shop to becoming a full-service custom graphics powerhouse on the East Coast. Chris shares how his team built a reputation for quality and creativity while navigating the challenges of scaling, hiring, and staying ahead of industry trends. He opens up about the lessons learned from early struggles, the importance of finding the right people, and how leadership and culture shape long-term success.

We dive into topics like branding, diversification, and why investing in both people and process is key to growth. Chris also discusses his approach to large-scale projects, his perspective on certifications and craftsmanship, and what it really means to build a lasting business in the wrap world. It’s an inspiring and honest conversation about resilience, innovation, and the balance between creativity and consistency.

Chris Ulmer (Guest): IG @crystalcoastgraphics

BIG THANKS to WrapFam Unleashed and The Wrap Institute for their continued support.

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

Use code BRICE15 for 15% OFF your subscription to The Wrap Institute
https://www.wrapinstitute.com

Brice shares exciting news about a new partnership with The Wrap Institute. Brice opens up about the decision-making process, the benefits of this collaboration, and what it means for the future of the podcast. Listeners will get a sneak peek into upcoming episodes, featuring insightful conversations with industry heavyweights. Brice also discusses the shift to bi-weekly releases and the exclusive content available through The Wrap Institute. Join the community, share your feedback, and be part of this exciting journey. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn and grow with us!

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

In this episode of The History of Wrap, I’m joined by Krystal Mizewski — installer, trainer, wrap world road warrior, and the energetic force behind Candy Wraps in Orlando, Florida. Krystal shares stories from the field, including the importance of airtight approvals and print proofs, along with insights from big-brand commercial work and large-scale textured-wall installs. We dive into her passion for certifications, her experience teaching with ORAFOL/KPMF, and how industry connections and showing up to events have shaped her career.

Krystal also offers a real perspective on being a woman in a heavily male-dominated space — not as a drawback, but as a door-opener when paired with grit, skill, and follow-through. From SEMA Dream Team installs to traveling the country for training and major projects like LEGO® and bank rollouts, she has built a reputation based on hustle, capability, and showing up even when it isn’t easy. Her story is equal parts inspiring, practical, and full of that after-hours wrap-fam energy we all love.

Krystal Mizewski (Guest): IG @candywrapsllc

BIG THANKS to WrapFam Unleashed for the continued support and sponsorship. - thewrapfam.com

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

In this episode, I sit down with Jenn Stank of Stankin’ Good Design, the first female guest and first true designer on the podcast. Jenn shares her journey from discovering art in high school to earning a graphic design degree, landing in the wrap industry almost by accident, and eventually building her own design business. She talks about the lessons learned at shops like ID Wraps and Bay Image, the pivotal role Kickcharge Creative played in shaping her skills, and the courage it took to leave her “dream job” to pursue entrepreneurship.

Jenn also reflects on the power of mentorship, leadership, and collaboration in the wrap world. From learning how to design in scale to spearheading process improvements at Kickcharge, her story highlights resilience, growth, and the pursuit of creative freedom. Today, through Stankin’ Good Design, she partners with wrap shops nationwide, helping clients bring their brands to life with bold, impactful vehicle wraps.

Jenn Stank (Guest): IG @stankingood.design

BIG THANKS to WrapFam Unleashed for the continued support and sponsorship. - thewrapfam.com

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

In this episode, I talk with Alex Vazquez of Beast Coast Customs about his journey from running vape shops to becoming one of the most recognized wrap shop owners in the Northeast. Alex shares how the challenges of COVID and shifting regulations pushed him back toward the wrap industry, where his early experience and passion laid the foundation for Beast Coast. He breaks down how branding, marketing, and certifications have helped separate his shop in a crowded market, and why building the right team is the key to scaling quality work.

We also dive into the realities of managing growth—balancing quality with delegation, creating training systems, and learning to trust others with the work. Alex reflects on Beast Coast’s rapid rise in just four years, the role of networking and advanced training, and how his team is pushing to be among the very best. It’s a conversation about resilience, leadership, and what it really takes to turn a vision into a thriving wrap business.

Alex Vazquez (Guest): IG @beastcoastcustom_

BIG THANKS to WrapFam Unleashed for the continues support and sponsorship. - thewrapfam.com

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

In this episode, I sit down with Matthew Wolynski, better known as Tallest Wrapper Alive, to talk about life, business, and the evolving wrap industry. We cover everything from his recent experience working with WrapsCon on marketing and brand support, to balancing shop life with preparing for his first child—all while he walks his dog! Matthew shares his perspective on training, certifications, and how the industry is shifting with colored PPF and large-scale projects like yachts and high-end vehicles.

The conversation also dives into personal balance—how to juggle family, business, and passion without burning out. Matthew reflects on his past with Phenomenal Vinyl, his love for teaching and training installers, and his new ventures with Inozetek. Whether you’re in the wrap game or just curious about the people behind it, this episode is full of insight, honesty, and a reminder that success is about more than just installs—it’s about story, balance, and growth.

Matthew Wolynski (Guest): IG @tallestwrapperalive

BIG THANKS to WrapFam Unleashed for the continued support and sponsorship. - thewrapfam.com

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

In this episode, Brice sits down with industry veteran Tim Evans to talk about his decades of experience in the sign and wrap world. Tim shares how the industry has evolved—from the early days of hand-painted signs and plotters to the rise of digital printing and vehicle wraps—and what those changes have meant for shop owners and installers. We dive into the challenges he’s faced along the way, the lessons he’s learned about pricing, quality control, and customer communication, and why investing in training and certifications can make all the difference. Tim also reflects on the importance of happiness and creating a positive work culture, emphasizing that success in this business isn’t just about profits but about building an environment where people want to show up and do their best work. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your shop to the next level, this conversation is full of insights on how to grow, adapt, and thrive in the ever-changing wrap industry.

Be sure to find Tim and Wrapper Mapper online:

wrappermapper.com

@wrappermapper

@prosignsandgraphics

Check out this episode's sponsor, WrapFam Unleashed 

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

Brice recounts the last few months of life and why the podcast took an unexpected hiatus, then sits down with Drew Howard for an insightful conversation.  

The two speak on their experience in wrap industry, Drew's transition into training underserved markets across Canada, and the challenges of balancing business growth with personal focus. They also touch on the importance of hands-on learning, using innovative wrapping techniques like zero stretch, and leveraging social media and certifications to build a training business. 

Drew shared insights on equipment preferences, managing ADHD for productivity, and the value of creating memorable customer experiences to enhance client loyalty.

Find Drew on Instagram @squeegee_kid

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

Brice and Matt speak about their experiences in the graphics and wrap industry, including challenges with pricing and the importance of building relationships. They also discuss the benefits of the Fedrigoni film and the impact of the 75 Hard mental toughness challenge on personal and professional growth. Additionally, they touched on upcoming projects and events, such as the ISA trade show and potential collaborations.

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com

Alex Garcia, of New Age Wraps, shares his experiences and challenges in the vehicle vinyl wrap industry, including his journey from working in a sign shop to running his own business, and the importance of practical experience over online presence. The discussion also covered the challenges of working with materials like solvent-based vinyl and Inozotek, as well as the importance of ensuring the quality and consistency of materials. Lastly, the conversation touched on the value of a car wrap, the misconception that vinyl wraps are "just stickers", and the process of selling car wrapping services.

--

Brice Shepherd (Host)

• Partner: The Wrap Institute
• Podcast Website: historyofwrap.com
• IG: @historyofwrap
• YouTube: youtube.com/@historyofwrap
• Brice's Shop: Big Sticker
• Merch: WrapTees.com