The Printerviews

In this episode of The Printerviews, Colin is joined by Richard Askam, the host and founder of Print Island. Richard shares the story of his accidental pivot from a 50-year-old family wine business into the print industry, where he pioneered the use of personalised labels to stay ahead of retail giants. The conversation explores the deeper purpose of print, moving beyond technical specifications to focus on the emotional connection and transformation it provides to the end consumer. Richard also discusses his latest venture, Print Island, a content platform designed to act as the Spotify for print by hosting honest, unvested conversations about what the industry is actually for. Richard emphasises the need for the industry to ditch its technical jargon and reclaim its confidence through authentic storytelling. As a public speaking coach, he also offers advice on how to bridge the communication gap between manufacturers and the outside world to ensure the industry continues to flourish in 2026 and beyond. This episode is a must for anyone looking to understand the intersection of retail trends, consumer psychology, and the enduring power of print.  Key Takeaways Richard transitioned from a 50-year-old family wine business into pioneering personalised labels as a survival strategy. The Share a Coke project was designed as a communication tool to engage a younger generation. Print Island provides an unvarnished, honest space for the industry to tell its story to the outside world. Consumers value the emotional reaction and transformation of a product more than the technical process of printing. Success in modern marketing requires translating technical print jargon into clear consumer English. Personalisation has moved from a luxury to a standard consumer expectation that brands must now facilitate. Public speaking and storytelling are natural human skills that printers must unlock to build confidence.

In this episode of The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott welcomes Neil Wallis, owner of Inkwell Printing based in Northamptonshire. Neil shares his transition from a software and account management background into the printing industry, eventually taking over the family business from his wife’s parents roughly 11 years ago. We talk about his efforts to modernise the 40-year-old company by replacing manual, legacy equipment with digital-first solutions and advanced finishing technology. Neil discusses his passion for the tactile nature of print compared to software and highlights his strategic focus on workflow automation. He explains that automation is not about replacing staff but about buying back time for team members to focus on value-added tasks and human-to-human customer service. By documenting processes and integrating tools like Artworker and OPS, Inkwell has significantly improved turnaround times and accuracy. The episode concludes with Neil reflecting on the importance of knowing your value as a smaller printer and maintaining a relentless commitment to growth. Key Takeaways Transitioned from a software background to lead a 40-year-old family printing business. Modernised operations by replacing legacy manual presses with Speedmaster and digital finishing equipment. Utilises automation to free up staff time for high-value tasks and customer service. Emphasises the tactile value of print as a key advantage over digital-only media. Documented internal processes to remove manual inefficiencies and gain hours back in production. Advocates for standardising technical language to improve clarity for both staff and customers. Focuses on human-to-human relationships while leveraging tech like WhatsApp and automated job sheets. 

In this episode of The Printerviews, Colin Sinclair McDermott speaks with Dave Leskusky, President of Printing United Alliance, who reflects on a career spanning three decades in the industry. Dave details his journey from selling magazine classified ads in 1995 to leading the transition of Napco Media into a digital-first media and events organisation before its integration with the Alliance.   The discussion centres on the strategic vision behind bringing multiple trade associations under one umbrella to serve the entire printing ecosystem, from commercial and packaging to apparel and wide format. Dave shares insights from the recent Printing United Expo in Orlando, noting the high energy and the success of new initiatives like the AI Pavilion and expanded student programmes. He explains the concept of convergence, where printers leverage digital technology to diversify their offerings and capture more of their clients' marketing spend.  By focusing on common challenges such as workforce development, legislative advocacy, and technological education, Dave highlights how the Alliance aims to provide the resources and leadership necessary for the industry to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.  Key Takeaways Unified several major associations to create a single, powerful voice for the printing ecosystem.   Cultivated a talent pipeline by growing student membership from 200 to over 2,000.  Encouraged printers to diversify into segments like packaging and promotional products via convergence.   Established the AI Pavilion and consulting services to lead members through emerging technology shifts.   Emphasised the need for consultative sales training to capture more of client marketing budgets.   Provided over $150,000 in free educational courseware to students through the iLearning platform.   Acts as a central advocacy body for legislative affairs, OSHA standards, and sustainability issues.  

This is episode 40, the second one recorded live at Printing United Expo in Orlando, with Karis Copp from Karis Copp Media. Karis started in journalism working with Link Publishing on Print Monthly and Sign Link magazines. Then in 2018 she set up her own PR agency. She works exclusively with print and packaging businesses. And she's very good at what she does. In the podcast we talk about turning technical content into stories people actually care about. How the media landscape is changing. Why authenticity matters more now than ever. Especially with AI everywhere. She shares how she's scaled her agency and how she handles sustainability messaging. We discuss why knowing your worth matters, when to say no to clients who aren't the right fit, and how to build systems you can repeat. We also get into video content and LinkedIn's growing influence. Karis explains why you need a clear mission statement before you start communicating anything externally.  She knows the print industry inside out. She knows how to tell its stories, and she knows what works. Key Takeaways Karis emphasises the importance of storytelling in PR. Building relationships and trust is crucial in communications. The transition from journalism to PR offers unique insights. AI can enhance but should not replace authentic communication. Sustainability in print is becoming increasingly important. Consistency in PR efforts is key to success. Understanding your audience is essential for effective messaging. Karis highlights the value of case studies in showcasing success. Trust your instincts when it comes to client relationships. The print industry is diverse and constantly evolving.

This episode is different. I recorded it live at Printing United Expo in Orlando with Megan O'Reilly and Maurice Harold from Pitch Black Printing Co. They'd just got married, and they chose the expo as part of their honeymoon. That tells you everything you need to know about how much print matters to them. Pitch Black Printing has been going for ten years. It started with music and DIY screen printing. Now it's a respected Reno business that does fine art, commercial work, and numerous community projects. They're fiercely independent. And they've built something special. We talked about their journey. How they've stayed involved in local causes. Why they charge fairly and keep learning. Their location in the Brewery District serves as both a gallery and a coffee house, allowing them to constantly build relationships with artists and clients. We also got into the challenges. Managing a multifaceted business. Working as partners in life and work. What they've learned along the way. And, as always, there's the quick-fire round that shows their eclectic tastes and some quirky print adventures. This episode is all about embracing creativity, collaboration, and community. Megan and Maurice are doing it right. Key takeaways: Megan and Maurice advocate using print as a gift to support community fundraising and charitable causes actively. The business started when they realised they could screen print their own band's merch cheaper than outsourcing. Their unusual business model includes a front-of-house gallery and coffee shop to attract print customers. A key business lesson learned was the necessity to charge appropriately for their high-quality work. Coming from an art background allows them to use creative problem-solving on commercial print jobs. They stress that true sustainability goes beyond recycled paper and includes eco-conscious operational choices. The co-owners' success is based on their completely opposite and complementary skill sets in art and operations. They are excited about new equipment, like a specialised scanner for capturing oil painting brushstrokes. A highlight for their business was printing covers and wedding stationery for well-known musicians and actors.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott speaks with Chris Minn, a prominent figure in the print industry and the founder of Digital Ink. They discuss the evolving landscape of print and marketing, the integration of AI, and the importance of community and mental health within the industry. Chris shares his journey from being a semi-professional athlete to becoming a marketing leader, emphasizing the need for innovation and authenticity in marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on the significance of building strong networks and the initiatives like Sheet for Brains that aim to address mental health issues in the print sector. Chris highlights the future of print as exciting, innovative, and inclusive, urging industry professionals to adapt and embrace change. Takeaways Chris Minn is a positive disruptor in the print marketing space. The integration of AI is crucial for the evolution of the print industry. Building a strong community is essential for the growth of the print sector. Mental health awareness is a significant issue in the print industry. Authenticity in marketing content is becoming increasingly important. The print industry is transitioning from traditional printing to manufacturing. Networking and collaboration are key to success in the print industry. AI can empower employees and improve productivity. The future of print is exciting, innovative, and inclusive. Sheet for Brains aims to support mental health in the print industry.  

In this episode of  The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott interviews Shelby Sapusek, Chief Communications Officer at ColorCasters. Shelby shares her journey from the newspaper industry to becoming a color management expert, discussing the challenges and intricacies of color management in print. The conversation covers the importance of color consistency, the role of AI in color management, and the need for education in the print industry. Key Takeaways: Shelby transitioned from journalism to color management, emphasizing the importance of color in print. Color management is crucial for maintaining brand consistency across different media. Simple changes in design software settings can significantly improve color quality. AI is becoming increasingly useful in color management, though it requires careful application. Education and understanding of color theory are essential for achieving consistent print quality. Shelby advocates for transparency and teaching clients about color management processes. The print industry needs more automation to reduce human error in workflows. Shelby's passion for print is driven by its versatility and the continuous learning it offers. Networking and collaboration are key to staying updated in the print industry. Shelby encourages print facilities to embrace change and seek education to improve their processes.

In this episode of The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott engages with Mark J. Subers and Chris Curran from Printing United Alliance. They discuss their roles, innovations in the printing industry, and the upcoming Printing United Expo in Orlando. The conversation covers personal journeys into the printing world, the importance of customer service, and initiatives like the Women in Print Alliance and Student Day. They also delve into the significance of AI in printing, networking opportunities, and the planning involved in organizing such a large event. The episode emphasizes the collaborative spirit of the printing community and the commitment to fostering growth and inclusivity within the industry. Takeaways  Mark Subers is the Chief Innovation Officer at Printing United Alliance. Chris Curran is the Group President, Media & Events Chris Curran emphasizes the importance of customer service in their organization. The Printing United Expo is a unique event that showcases all facets of the printing industry. The All-Stars program aims to create ambassadors for the printing industry. AI technology is becoming increasingly important in the printing sector. The Women in Print Alliance is focused on empowering women in a male-dominated industry. Student Day provides free memberships to students to encourage new talent in the industry. The expo features hands-on training zones for practical learning. Networking events like Spill the Ink foster community and collaboration. The planning for future events is already underway, showcasing the commitment to growth.  

In this episode of The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott talks with Nicole Spencer from RMC Digital about her journey in the print industry, the challenges and rewards of running a business, and the importance of community and innovation in print. They discuss Nicole's career path, her involvement with Fespa, and the impact of print on education and global communities.  Takeaways Nicole started her career in recruitment before moving into the print industry. RMC Digital is a trade-only wide format print company. Nicole emphasizes the importance of decision-making and taking initiative. The print industry is often overlooked but is integral to everyday life. Nicole's involvement with Fespa has been pivotal in her career. Print has a significant impact on education and global communities. Running a business can be lonely, but community support is crucial. Nicole values helping others and sharing knowledge within the industry. The print industry needs to attract more young people and women. Nicole's leadership style is about working hard and being nice to people.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott interviews Lance Hill, CEO of Eight Group, who shares his journey in the print industry, from his early days as an apprentice to leading a successful business. Lance discusses the importance of leadership, company culture, and the role of AI in modern print operations. He emphasizes the need for transparency and communication within teams, the significance of customer relationships, and the value of giving back to the industry. The conversation also touches on the recent recognition of Lance as CEO of the Year and the importance of having an exit strategy for business owners. Takeaways Lance Hill is the CEO of Eight Group, specializing in digital print and marketing. He emphasizes the importance of leadership over management in business. Transparency and communication are key to maintaining a strong company culture. AI is transforming the print industry, improving efficiency and workflow. Customer relationships are vital; quarterly business reviews help strengthen them. Lance won the Biz X CEO of the Year award, highlighting his leadership success. Having an exit strategy is crucial for business owners, regardless of their current stage. Lance believes in giving back to the industry through various organisations. Employee engagement is often underutilized but essential for business growth. Print is evolving, and the industry needs to communicate its value effectively.    

In this insightful episode of The Printerviews, host Colin Sinclair McDermott engages with Andy Rogers from Stahls to explore the transformative trends shaping the print industry. They dive into the critical role of technology in driving innovation and efficiency, emphasizing the need for businesses to embrace digital tools and sustainable practices. Andy shares actionable strategies for navigating market fluctuations, including the importance of understanding customer needs and leveraging feedback for continuous improvement. The discussion also highlights the power of collaboration and networking in fostering innovation and opening new business opportunities. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to future-proof their operations and thrive in a competitive landscape. Takeaways Embrace new technologies: Staying competitive requires adopting the latest advancements. Understand market trends: Keeping an eye on trends is crucial for strategic growth. Adapt to change: Flexibility and adaptability are key in a rapidly evolving industry. Collaborate for innovation: Working together can lead to groundbreaking solutions. Value customer feedback: Listening to customers is essential for continuous improvement. Invest in quality equipment: High-quality tools lead to better results and efficiency. Network for opportunities: Building connections can open doors to new ventures. Prioritize sustainability: Eco-friendly practices are becoming a necessity. Leverage digital transformation: Embracing digital tools can enhance productivity. Commit to continuous learning: Staying informed and educated is vital for success.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott interviews Will Doherty, Managing Director of Digital Printing Systems UK Limited. They discuss Will's journey in the printing industry, the evolution of digital printing technology, and the importance of customer relationships. Will shares insights on leadership, the changing landscape of commercial printing, and the innovations that excite him. They also touch on the upcoming Print Show and the significance of community and collaboration in the industry. Takeaways Will Doherty is the Managing Director of Digital Printing Systems UK Limited. The company focuses on providing vendor-neutral digital printing advice. Will's journey in the printing industry began 30 years ago, starting from agriculture to sales. Leadership is about creating a community and being customer-centric. The digital printing technology has evolved significantly over the years. Building strong relationships with customers is crucial for success. The Print Show is an opportunity for brand awareness and open conversations. Innovations like Fujifilm's super color technology are changing the game. Service infrastructure is as important as the technology itself. Community and collaboration are key to thriving in the printing industry.  

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott interviews Duncan Sargeant, co-owner of Sigma Embroidery and Chelmer Print. They discuss Duncan's accidental entry into the printing industry, his early career influences, and the transition from sales to business ownership. Duncan shares insights from his experiences in the label printing sector, the challenges of acquiring Sigma Embroidery, and the lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of customer relationships, personal growth through challenges, and offers advice for aspiring business owners. The conversation concludes with Duncan's future plans for Sigma and a humorous story that you'll have to listen to full the episode if you want to find out what it is. Takeaways Duncan Sargent's journey into printing was accidental, stemming from a need for a job. Early career experiences shaped Duncan's strong work ethic. Transitioning from sales to business ownership presented unique challenges. Lessons from the label printing industry influenced Duncan's approach to business. Acquiring Sigma Embroidery was a significant milestone for Duncan. Managing two companies requires careful juggling and planning. Personal growth is a key outcome of facing business challenges. Advice for aspiring business owners includes thorough due diligence and understanding team dynamics. Future plans for Sigma include expanding customer base and potential acquisitions.

In this special episode to celebrate 5 years of The Online Print Coach, Colin Sinclair McDermott shares his journey in the print industry, discussing the evolution of print technology, his experiences volunteering in Malawi, and the importance of community and personal growth. He reflects on the challenges of balancing work and personal life, the philosophy behind his print coaching, and the success stories of his clients. Colin also talks about building a supportive mastermind community, the role of purpose in business, and his journey into public speaking. He emphasizes the need for resilience in a rapidly changing industry and offers advice for personal and professional growth. Takeaways Colin Sinclair McDermott is an online print coach with a rich background in the print industry. The print industry has evolved significantly, with digital technology becoming more prominent. Volunteering in Malawi provided Colin with a humbling perspective on life and community. Balancing work and personal life is crucial, especially when managing a business remotely. Community values and support are essential for personal growth and business success. Colin's coaching philosophy focuses on transformation and accountability for his clients. Success stories from coaching highlight the impact on both business and personal life. Building a mastermind community allows for peer support and shared learning experiences. Purpose drives Colin's business, emphasizing the importance of community and results over profit. Public speaking has become a valuable tool for Colin to share his message and connect with others.  

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott interviews Mel Foley, the owner of Drumnagorrach Designs, who shares her journey from managing a riding school to running a successful garment decoration business. Mel discusses the challenges she faced, including her diagnosis with Crohn's disease, and how it motivated her to prioritize her health and start her own business. She emphasizes the importance of networking, quality assurance, and personalised service for small businesses. Mel also highlights the significance of sustainability in the industry and shares her experiences with trade shows and social media as tools for growth. Business Contact: Email: mel@drumnagorrachdesigns.scot   Website: drumnagorrachdesigns.scot Social Media: Business Instagram: @drumnagorrachdesigns Facebook: facebook.com/drumnagorrachdesigns LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mel-foley85

In this episode, Colin interviews Mark Bidewell, Managing Director of BISON, a print,  signage and graphics business founded in 1976. Mark shares his journey from delivering paper at a young age to leading the company through significant evolution and growth. The conversation covers the importance of curiosity, lessons learned in business, the transition from traditional print services to modern solutions, and the value of company culture. Mark emphasises the need for businesses to be more than just service providers, advocating for a consultative approach to meet customer needs. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced during the lockdown and how BISON adapted to ensure the safety and well-being of its employees while maintaining a focus on growth and innovation. In this conversation, Mark Bidewell discusses the importance of communication in fostering a strong team culture, navigating challenges, and the journey of business growth through diversification. He emphasises the need to break free from the commodity trap in the print industry by focusing on client success and value propositions. Mark also shares insights on integrating sustainability into business practices, the challenges faced in implementation, and the importance of making sustainability both practical and profitable. The conversation highlights the significance of inspiration and shared knowledge in driving sustainable practices within the industry. Mark also discusses the importance of storytelling in business, fostering creativity within teams, and building a positive company culture. He emphasises the need for networking and learning from diverse industries to stay innovative. He reflects on personal growth and the significance of engaging the next generation in the print industry. He shares insights into his daily routines and the importance of making decisions, highlighting the value of collaboration and knowledge sharing in achieving success. Takeaways Bison was founded in 1976, originally focused on importing pulp and paper. Mark Bidewell joined the family business at a young age, delivering paper. The business has evolved from paper importing to a full-service print provider. Mark emphasises the importance of curiosity and listening in business. Bison transitioned from traditional photocopying to modern print solutions. The company values culture, teamwork, and a positive work environment. Mark believes in extreme ownership and accountability as a leader. During lockdown, Bison focused on safety and job protection for employees. The company has grown significantly in size and capabilities over the years. Bison aims to be a trusted partner for clients, not just a service provider. Communication is key to fostering a strong team culture. Good times are enjoyable, but tough times reveal character. Client success is integral to business success. Diversification can lead to unexpected growth opportunities. Breaking free from the commodity trap requires a focus on value. Sustainability should be a core value in business. Inspiration drives sustainable practices. Shared knowledge is essential for sustainability in business. Practical sustainability can be profitable. Luxury and sustainability can coexist in business. The story sells, while the price creates the problem. A total satisfaction guarantee can enhance client trust. Fostering creativity requires shared knowledge and insights. Networking in diverse industries can inspire innovation. Building a positive culture is essential for team cohesion. Personal growth is tied to the relationships we build. Engaging young people in the print industry is crucial. Daily routines can significantly impact productivity. Making decisions is more important than avoiding mistakes. Collaboration and knowledge sharing lead to greater opportunities.  

In this episode, Colin interviews Colm from Practical Printers, discussing his journey from a retail manager to a print business owner. Colm shares insights into transforming a traditional print business, adapting to industry changes, expanding product offerings, and maintaining strong client relationships. He emphasises the importance of word-of-mouth referrals and the challenges of running a family business while preserving its legacy. In this conversation, Colm shares insights on the dynamics of running a business with a partner, the challenges of work-life balance, and the importance of effective communication as they grow their team. He discusses the significant investments made in technology and how they adapted to the shift towards online business. Colm also reflects on successful marketing strategies and lessons learned from setbacks, while outlining future aspirations for the company. Takeaways Colm transitioned from retail to print due to a family opportunity. Practical Printers has evolved from a traditional business to a modern print solutions provider. The importance of expanding product offerings to meet customer needs. Colm's background in Aldi helped him identify inefficiencies in the print industry. Maintaining client relationships is crucial for business continuity. Word-of-mouth referrals have been key to their growth. The print industry is changing, not dying, with new opportunities emerging. Understanding industry margins is essential for profitability. The legacy of the business is a source of pride and responsibility. Adapting marketing strategies is necessary for attracting new customers. The commitment of both partners is crucial for business success. Maintaining work-life balance is a continuous challenge for business owners. Growing a team requires clear communication and defined roles. Investments in technology can lead to significant business growth. Adapting to online trends is essential for attracting new customers. Effective marketing involves educating clients about available products. Building strong relationships with clients is key to retaining business. Setbacks in business can provide valuable learning experiences. Future planning should include both stability and growth strategies. Personal aspirations can motivate business decisions.

In this episode, Colin Sinclair McDermott aka The Online Print Coach interviews Michael Ryan, head of FESPA global development. They discuss Michael's personal experiences, career journey, and the importance of community and networking in the print industry. Michael shares insights on language skills, challenges in event management, and the significance of first aid training for leaders. The conversation highlights FESPA's role in promoting the print industry and the launch of the FESPA Foundation, aimed at sustainable practices and community support. In this engaging conversation, Michael Ryan discusses the impactful work of the Fespa Foundation in enhancing educational environments for underprivileged communities. He shares personal insights on the transformative power of travel and its influence on creativity and perspective. The discussion also delves into leadership qualities, emphasising the importance of experience, support, and engagement in guiding teams.  Takeaways Traveling enriches life experiences and perspectives. Confidence in oneself is crucial for success. Trusting your gut can lead to better decision-making. Community engagement is vital in the print industry. FESPA plays a significant role in connecting the print community. Networking opportunities at events are invaluable. Leadership involves making tough decisions for the greater good. Sustainability practices are essential for the future of printing. Language skills can enhance personal and professional growth. Celebrating moments and reflecting on personal growth is important. The Fespa Foundation is dedicated to improving educational environments globally. Travel opens the mind and enhances creativity. Leadership involves supporting and engaging with team members. Experiences shape our understanding of the world. Investing in education can change lives in underprivileged communities. Personal growth is a continuous journey that requires self-reflection. Creativity can be sparked by new experiences and environments. Community support is vital for making a positive impact. Understanding different personalities can improve team dynamics. Embracing one's culture can lead to a deeper appreciation of life.

In this episode of The Printerviews podcast ,Colin interviews Mark Baker of CIM Sign & Graphics, who shares his journey in the signage industry, the challenges he faced, and the strategies that led to his company's success. Mark discusses the importance of quality service, the impact of technology and sustainability on the business, and offers valuable advice for other signage companies. He emphasises the significance of building strong relationships with customers and the need for continuous improvement in a competitive market. Takeaways Mark Baker has 25 years of experience in the signage industry. CIM focuses on quality design and excellent service. Hands-on experience is crucial for learning in the trade. Investing in technology has given CIM Display a competitive edge. Sustainability is becoming more accessible and important in the industry. Building strong customer relationships is key to business success. Mark emphasises the importance of teamwork and delegation. The signage industry is evolving with emerging trends in digital printing. Mark advises against competing solely on price in a saturated market. Listening to team feedback has been vital for growth and improvement.  

In this episode of The Printerviews podcast, Ben Gregory of Digiprint Group shares his unique journey in the printing and signage industry. From his early interest in signage during school to the evolution of his business, Ben discusses the challenges he faced, including the impact of personal loss and the rapid technological advancements in the industry. He emphasises the importance of quality, service, and eco-friendliness in his business strategy, while also highlighting the significance of networking and building relationships. As he looks to the future, Ben shares his plans for merging brands and expanding his eco-friendly offerings. Takeaways Ben's early interest in signage began with a school project. Digiprint Group evolved from a franchise model to a more independent structure. The printing industry has seen significant technological advancements. Quality and eco-friendliness are key focuses for Digiprint. Personal loss had a profound impact on Ben's leadership and business direction. Networking has been crucial for business growth and partnerships. Ben emphasises the importance of taking risks in business decisions. Investments in technology can lead to significant operational improvements. The future of DigiPrint includes merging brands for efficiency. Ben's personal challenges, including color blindness and dyslexia, shaped his approach to business.