Education vs. Content: What’s Really Helping Decorators Succeed?

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, Terry, Aaron, and producer Erich Campbell dive into understanding if decorators are truly being educated or just consuming content. We believe that after 13 years of carrying the flag for education, the industry as a whole is agreeing with us. With vendors ramping up their online videos, social posts, and expert partnerships, it feels like the tide is turning. But is this content really moving the needle for decorators? Or is the shift away from hands-on, in-depth training leaving some folks behind? We’ll explore how vendor education has evolved since our show began, where it’s headed, and why some companies are pulling back just as others are stepping up. Whether you’re a decorator trying to level up or a vendor wondering how to better serve your customers, this episode is packed with honest takes and practical insights. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [e-mail]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEAQtHY11TI Dad Joke Terry: Don’t you think it’s a shame nothing is built in the USA anymore? I bought a TV yesterday that said: “Built in Antenna”. I don’t even know where that is! Education versus Content 1. Opening Segment – Setting the Stage Why this topic matters right now (What we’re seeing in the industry) Quick welcome from Terry, Aaron, and Erich Shoutout to the 13 years of advocating for education 2. The Evolution of Vendor Education How vendor-driven education has changed over the past decade From manuals and in-person training → to webinars, YouTube, Reels, etc. Examples of companies stepping up: Partnerships with educators, influencer training, vendor events Is it education or marketing disguised as education? 3. Hands-On Training vs. Self-Service Content Discussion: What are decorators actually retaining and applying? The power of in-person training (real-time feedback, hands-on practice, deeper learning) The pros and cons of self-serve content (videos, PDFs, online communities) When is one better than the other? The Secret Sauce 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. OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays - Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks! - Wednesdays at 5 PM Central Time and then available to watch any time. Master of Success Inner Circle – Bi-weekly Mastermind Groups with accountability, support, and a built-in support group. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Atlas Screen Supply in Chicago June 7-8. Complete Screen Printing Business Course with Workhorse Products in Phoenix, AZ, TBD The Take-up with Erich Campbell – Fridays at 2:30 Mountain Time Demystifying Next Level Digitizing Online Training from Erich Campbell Understanding Emblems  Learn from Erich Campbell about digitizing for patches. Trade Shows Summit of Success - April 10-12, 2025 | Coteau des Prairies Lodge | North Dakota DAX Nashville Farm Bureau Expo Center, Lebanon, TN - May 9-10, 2025