Promo Perspectives by SAGE

Andy takes the stage at SAGE Conference 2026 with a forward-thinking session that explores how technology, data, and smarter tools are shaping the future of the promotional products industry. This session focuses on leveraging modern solutions to streamline operations, improve visibility, and make better business decisions. Andy shares practical insights on embracing change, using available tools more effectively, and positioning your business for sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive landscape. If you’re looking to better understand where the industry is headed and how to stay ahead of the curve, this session delivers valuable perspective and clear direction.

In this SAGE Conference 2026 session, Eric dives into practical strategies designed to help promotional product professionals work smarter, adapt faster, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Eric shares real-world insights on improving workflows, leveraging technology more effectively, and making strategic decisions that support long-term business growth. From simplifying everyday processes to identifying opportunities for greater efficiency, this session focuses on actionable takeaways you can apply immediately. Whether you’re looking to refine how you use SAGE tools, strengthen your operational approach, or better position your business for what’s next, this session offers valuable guidance rooted in experience and industry knowledge. Watch now to gain clarity, confidence, and practical ideas you can put to work right away.

Thinking about becoming a supplier in the promotional products industry, or looking to strengthen your presence in SAGE? In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook is joined by Jonathan Webb from SAGE’s Supplier Sales team for a practical, high-level guide to getting started as a supplier and growing successfully inside the SAGE ecosystem. Jonathan breaks down what it really means to be a supplier in the promo industry, why this relationship-driven space offers massive opportunity for small businesses, and how new suppliers can get listed, verified, and discovered by over 45,000 distributors using SAGE every day. You’ll also learn: The step-by-step process to becoming a SAGE Advantage supplier How product verification and supplier ratings impact search visibility Best practices for building trust and credibility as a new supplier How to upload and manage products in the SAGE Supplier Center Smart ways to use advertising and data to drive long-term growth Whether you’re brand new to the industry or ready to take your supplier strategy to the next level, this episode offers actionable insights straight from the experts who help suppliers succeed every day. 🎧 Tune in to learn how SAGE supports suppliers from onboarding to growth—and why the right tools, relationships, and strategy make all the difference.

As the new year approaches, what trends are shaping the promotional products industry? In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook is joined by SAGE Distributor Account Advisor Matt Parisi to break down what distributors and their clients are really looking for as they head into 2026. They discuss the shift from uncertainty to confidence in the market, how buying behavior has evolved over the past year, and why premium, functional products are gaining momentum. From drinkware innovations to recognizable name-brand apparel, Matt shares real-world insights straight from conversations with distributors of all sizes. You’ll also hear practical advice for distributors on presenting higher-quality options, building confidence with clients, and using SAGE Workplace tools and resources to stay ahead of trends. Whether you’re planning for the new year or refining your product strategy, this episode offers a valuable perspective to help you start strong. Be sure to explore SAGE’s quarterly STAT reports, product filters, and catalog resources mentioned in the episode to dive even deeper into what’s trending now and what’s next.

Featuring: Jessica Del Rio, Director of Trade Shows & Events, and Halayne Noah, Trade Show Coordinator at SAGE Hosted by Nicole Cook Ever wonder what it actually takes to prepare for a trade show as massive as The PPAI Expo? In this episode, we take you behind the scenes with the SAGE team responsible for bringing it all to life. Jessica and Halayne share: ✔ When Expo planning really starts ✔ How shipping, booth builds, electrical, union rules, and deadlines all come together ✔ The most common surprises new exhibitors never expect ✔ Tips to avoid costly mistakes ✔ What makes a trade show booth stand out today ✔ Their most rewarding moments from the show floor ✔ Why documentation, checklists, and backup plans are everything Whether you’re an exhibitor preparing for your first show or a seasoned pro looking to tighten up your strategy, this episode gives you a practical and highly entertaining look at the process. 👉 Subscribe for weekly episodes of Promo Perspectives! 🎧 Available wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Ellen Tucker of PPAI for an inside look at the promotional products industry’s biggest event of the year: The PPAI Expo. Whether you're a first-time attendee or an industry veteran, this conversation is packed with insights on how to navigate the show, make the most of your time, and understand why Expo remains the heartbeat of the promo industry. Ellen shares: ✔ What makes The PPAI Expo unique ✔ Why planning ahead is the key to surviving (and loving) the show ✔ How attendees can maximize connections, education, and product discovery ✔ Behind-the-scenes details on how a massive event like Expo is designed and executed ✔ Sneak peeks at new activations—including the Expo Exchange and returning fan-favorites like The Pitch Nicole also reflects on her first Expo experience, offering advice for newcomers (hint: wear comfortable shoes and make a walk list!). If you’re attending The PPAI Expo—or simply want to understand why it’s such a defining event for the promo world—this episode is for you. 🎟 Haven’t registered yet? Get all the details at ppai.org.

In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook sits down with Jessica Gibbons-Rauch, Senior Manager of Professional Development at PPAI, to explore the future of continuing education in the promotional products industry. Jessica shares her passion for learning and innovation—discussing how PPAI is modernizing education through modular learning, certifications, micro-credentials, and interactive workshops that meet today’s diverse learning styles. She also dives into PPAI Advance, the organization’s revamped professional development program, and offers insights on how continuing education empowers professionals, strengthens companies, and elevates the entire promo industry. 🎓 Topics Covered: The role of ongoing education in advancing the promo industry How learning styles are evolving in 2025 and beyond PPAI Advance and its “choose your own journey” certification model Collaboration between PPAI and other associations The future of professional development and education outreach 💡 Whether you’re new to promo or a seasoned pro, this episode offers practical insights into how education is shaping the next generation of industry leaders. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations with industry experts and innovators shaping the future of promo! #PromotionalProducts #PPAI #ProfessionalDevelopment #PromoPerspectives #ContinuingEducation #MarketingEducation #IndustryPodcast

In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook sits down with Alok from PPAI to unpack the latest research and insights shaping the promotional products industry heading into 2026. They discuss key economic trends, growth opportunities, and the challenges suppliers and distributors can expect in the coming year — from inflation and tariffs to AI-driven efficiency and the rising demand for sustainable products. You’ll also learn which product categories are leading the way, how technology is transforming buyer expectations, and what upcoming policy changes could impact the promo space. Whether you’re a supplier, distributor, or industry enthusiast, this episode will help you navigate what’s next for promo with clarity and confidence. 🎧 Topics Covered: 2026 economic outlook and industry growth Top product categories and buyer trends Sustainability and ESG’s growing influence AI, personalization, and automation in promo Tariffs, compliance, and workforce legislation updates 📈 Stay informed and get ahead of the curve with this insightful discussion!

🍫 In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook chats with David Miller of NC Custom about one of the sweetest segments in the promotional products industry, food promos! David shares how his family business evolved from a small chocolate manufacturer into one of the top suppliers in the industry, creating everything from custom-shaped mints to gourmet chocolates and branded gift sets. Discover why food remains one of the most powerful (and underused) promotional tools, how distributors can tap into the opportunity, and how personalization and packaging can make food gifts truly unforgettable. You’ll also hear fun stories, like the time they made a pastrami-flavored mint, and how one simple conversation led to a $500,000 order. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your brand more memorable, or just love hearing about creative marketing ideas that taste as good as they look, this episode’s for you. 🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about NC Custom at nccustom.com and explore more promo insights at SAGEworld.com/podcast.

🌍 In this episode of Promo Perspectives, Nicole Cook sits down with David and Scott from PromoCares to talk about their inspiring Water4Good initiative. Learn how the promotional products industry is coming together to fund clean water towers around the world, impacting communities, schools, and supply chain regions where access to safe water is limited. From the origins of PromoCares to the ripple effects of clean water on health, education, and opportunity, this conversation highlights the power of social purpose in business. You’ll hear stories from on-the-ground deployments in places like Vietnam and Mexico, the role of suppliers and distributors in driving change, and how anyone in the industry (or beyond) can get involved. 💧 Discover how small actions, whether through products, campaigns, or direct support, can add up to life-changing impact. 👉 Learn more and get involved at PromoCares.org.

In this episode, we sit down with William Rubsamen, who runs marketing for a small business called Whirlix Design. William uses AI every day in his workflow, so we dive into: ✨ Our favorite AI tools 🚧 Common hurdles when getting started ⚖️ How to set responsible, ethical guidelines for using AI in your own business Whether you’re curious about AI or already experimenting, this conversation is packed with practical tips and real-world insights you can apply right away.

🤖 What’s your gut feeling about AI? Is it the breakthrough that will take humanity to new heights? A powerful tool that works best with humans in control? A benevolent force (with great dental plans)? Or are you convinced Skynet is inevitable? Welcome to Promo Perspectives, a live podcast presented by SAGE. Each episode delivers tips, tricks, and insights designed to help promotional products suppliers and distributors grow their businesses, while tackling the big conversations shaping our industry.

On the final episode of our Band Merch Series, we're handing the mic over to the musicians themselves! Join us as we sit down with four different artists—Chris Jordan, Joshua Stone, Bradley Blackwell, and Myles Maestro—to get their real-world perspective on promotional products. You'll hear directly from your customers about what they want and need from their merch. They share honest stories about the lessons they've learned, the challenges they've faced, and what they're looking for in a reliable promotional products partner. From figuring out the right apparel to wear on stage to choosing between screen printing and direct-to-garment, these musicians reveal the struggles and successes behind building their brands. This episode is packed with invaluable insights, including: Why merch is critical for band revenue and legitimacy. The importance of material, fit, and design for both comfort and conversation. The challenges of finding the right products and decorators. Tips for creating professional branding that makes a band unforgettable. How distributors can build trust and grow with artists as their partners. Don't miss this crucial look into the mind of a musician. Whether you're a supplier or distributor, this episode will help you understand how to best serve artists, outfit their dreams, and turn their passion into a professional brand.  

Turn up the volume and get ready to rock with this episode of Promo Perspectives! We’re continuing our series on band merch and bringing you a conversation with Angelica and Caleb from Merch Media. Angelica and Caleb are music lovers at heart, and they've turned that passion into a business that helps independent artists create awesome promotional products. You'll hear about their own love for music, from the iconic concert experiences that shaped them to the artists that inspire them every day. We dive deep into the world of band merchandise, covering topics like: The difference between official and "unofficial" merch. How to get creative and stand out in the music market. Why band merch is a vital source of income for artists. The importance of online stores and other emerging tech like NFC chips. The value of networking and building connections within the music community. Whether you're a supplier, distributor, or a fan who wants to support your favorite artists, this episode is packed with great tips and insights.

On this episode of the Promo Perspectives podcast, we dive into the world of band merchandise from the distributor's point of view. We're joined by Adrian and Shadow from Seven Sins Printing and Embroidery, a company dedicated to helping artists translate their visual identity into profitable merch. Adrian and Shadow share their story of how they immersed themselves in the Texas music scene and the unique challenges and triumphs of working with bands. They discuss the importance of understanding different music genres' preferences, from the types of garments to specific artwork styles. They also reveal the secrets behind their success, including their commitment to fair pricing, lightning-fast communication, and building strong, lasting relationships with their clients. Whether you're a distributor looking to break into the band merch market or a supplier wanting to understand this niche better, Adrian and Shadow offer invaluable insights and practical advice. They touch on everything from navigating the unpredictability of tour life to the power of word-of-mouth marketing within the music community. Episode Highlights: The Nuances of Merch: Discover how different music genres, from death metal to alternative, have distinct preferences for apparel types, artwork sizing, and even colors. The Power of Connection: Learn why communication and building a relationship with your clients are just as important as the quality of your product. Beyond the T-Shirt: Adrian and Shadow discuss the deeper meaning of band merch as a "badge of honor" and a conversation starter, fostering a sense of community among fans. Don't miss this insightful conversation with two passionate professionals who are making a real impact in the music industry.

The live entertainment industry is booming, and promotional products distributors have a massive opportunity to profit from this growth. In this episode of Promo Perspectives, we take a deep dive into the $14 billion band merchandise industry.   Hosted by SAGE's Gabe Gotay, a musician himself, this podcast explores the history of band merch, from Elvis Presley's "I Love Elvis" buttons to the Grateful Dead's iconic t-shirts and Taylor Swift's Eras Tour. We break down the stats and explore why band merchandise is not just a side hustle, but a crucial revenue stream for artists. In this episode, we discuss: The numbers: The band merch industry is projected to reach over $16 billion by 2030. Learn which genres and products are driving the most sales. The history: We trace the evolution of band merch, from early pioneers like Elvis and the Beatles to modern-day icons and the rise of the t-shirt as a cultural canvas. The strategy: Discover how to find and connect with independent artists and mid-tier touring acts—the ideal clients for distributors. We'll also cover common pain points and how you can position yourself as a valuable partner. This is the first episode in a series all about the music merch market. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we'll hear from distributors and musicians themselves!

In this episode, we continue our series on decoration methods, focusing on insights from the supplier decorator side. Our guest is Jenna Sackett, Brand Engagement Manager at Stahls. Jenna shares how Stahls' educates the industry on best practices for various heat transfer methods, from foundational techniques to cutting-edge innovations like UltraColor Max and specialty finishes. Discover how understanding these methods can help you educate your customers, secure repeat business, and become a trusted consultant. She also touches on the importance of quality materials for your reputation and the exciting future of on-demand and small-batch production in the promotional products industry. What you'll learn: Stahls unique approach to educating decorators and distributors. An overview of popular heat transfer methods and their best use cases. The importance of quality and how it impacts your business and client relationships. Insights into the rise of on-demand and small-batch production. Tips for becoming a guide, not just a seller, to your clients.

Join SAGE for an insightful episode of Promo Perspectives as we dive deep into the world of promotional product decoration! This episode offers a comprehensive look at popular techniques like embroidery, screen printing, heat transfer, laser engraving, and embossing/debossing, breaking down their pros, cons, and best uses. Independent distributor Ryan Feigenblatt of The Boca Ratonian shares his invaluable expertise, revealing how he navigates client conversations, simplifies complex methods with relatable analogies, and ensures successful projects. Ryan also discusses the nuances of new innovations like DTF (Direct to Film) and the critical role of supplier relationships and continuous education. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the industry, gain practical tips to confidently discuss decoration options and elevate your promotional product game! Check out the SAGE Decoration Guide for more in-depth knowledge.

In this episode of the Promo Perspectives podcast, join us and special guest Jeremy Rossbach as we dive deep into the heart of marketing: passion and creativity. Jeremy, a seasoned tech professional who transitioned back to his marketing roots, shares his unique journey, from running data centers to becoming a passionate advocate for network observability and even a podcaster. Discover how Jeremy channels his marketing energy into meaningful endeavors, including his own podcast, "NetOps Expert," and pro bono work for a non-profit empowering underserved youth through tennis. This episode explores the vital connection between personal values, creative pursuits, and effective marketing. We also discuss how diverse creative talents within a marketing team, from authors and graphic designers to musicians, contribute to truly collaborative and impactful work. We also touch on the delicate balance of receiving and giving constructive criticism in the creative process.

In this episode, we're joined by SAGE's Vice President of Marketing, Billie Forman, to dive into the world of marketing with a large team. This episode serves as a powerful counterpoint to our recent discussion on marketing with a small, limited team. Billie, with 18 years of experience at SAGE and a deep understanding of the promo industry, shares invaluable insights on: The advantages of a diverse, specialized marketing team: Discover how having in-house experts like copywriters, graphic designers, and video producers can lead to greater efficiency, higher quality work, and a deeper understanding of your brand. Real-world examples of successful large-team initiatives: Learn how SAGE leverages its diverse team for major projects like the Promo Perspectives podcast itself and the industry's "Super Bowl," PPAI Expo. Overcoming the complexities of managing a large, diverse team: Billie discusses strategies for fostering communication, collaboration, and prioritizing projects, especially in a hybrid work environment. Fostering individual growth: Get tips on how to empower team members, provide transparency for career advancement, and trust your specialists to excel. Scaling a marketing team: Billie offers practical advice on identifying skill gaps, justifying new hires, and deciding whether to bring on a generalist or a specialist. The role of AI in modern marketing: Explore how SAGE's team is currently utilizing AI for tasks like image generation, voiceovers, content polishing, and strategic assistance. Whether you're looking to grow your marketing department or optimize your current large team, this episode is packed with actionable advice from an industry expert!