The Future of Printing: How Automation Frees You to Grow

This week on the 2 Regular Guys Podcast, we’re joined by Michael Thero of Pythias Technologies to explore how automation is transforming print shops of every size. From DTF and DTG to sublimation and fulfillment, automation isn’t about replacing people. It’s about removing bottlenecks, reducing waste, and giving decorators more time to focus on creativity and customers. We’ll dig into where to start with automation, and how connected workflows are leveling the playing field between small shops and large-scale producers. Whether you’re still printing manually or already testing connected systems, this episode will help you see what’s possible and how to take the next smart step toward a faster, more profitable shop. 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://youtu.be/_NqZvuuysPI Dad Joke Aaron: What do you call a paper airplane that can’t fly? Stationary REGGIE Announcement 2025 Fresh Impact Product Award 2025 Customer Care Spotlight Award 2025 Industry Education Excellence Award 2025 Decorator's Hub Trade Show Award 2025 Rising Star Award 2025 Women's Voice Award 2025 2 Regular Guys Podcast Guest Star Award 2025 Best Ambassador for the Industry The REGGIE Nominations are officially open - Nominate today at https://www.2regularguys.com/reggies/ Aaron: Michael, welcome to the show. Tell us a little about yourself and your journey in this industry. What got you interested in automation and workflow systems for the print industry? Terry: I’ve done some writing and consulting called Double Your Production in 30 Days or Less. You’ve talked similarly about going 0-60 in a few weeks. What does that look like in real terms? Aaron: Many decorators think automation means expensive robots or complicated software. What are a few simple automations that can make a big difference right away? Terry: I know you’re all about streamlining processes in the actual decoration. Share some thoughts on streamlining in DTF, DTG, and sublimation. Aaron: Automation is often viewed as a tech topic, but what mindset shifts do shop owners need to make before implementing it successfully? Terry: For shops selling online through Shopify, Etsy, or Amazon, what are some best practices for syncing orders, inventory, and fulfillment efficiently? Aaron: It feels like shipping costs are going up and up, and shipping times occasionally feel a little fluid. Share your thoughts on reducing shipping costs and times. Terry: How has the explosion of DTF changed the conversation around automation and connected workflows? Aaron: Looking ahead, what excites you most about where automation and the print industry are headed in the next few years? Terry: Tell us a little about your own software product and how our listeners can find you? 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. https://youtu.be/n82HSF8-FAI OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays - Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks!