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

04/04/2025 1h 12min
Education vs. Content: What’s Really Helping Decorators Succeed?

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Episode Synopsis


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.




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News
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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

Fast Track Your Success: Halve The Time to Achieve Your Goals – May 9, 2025 at 2 PM
How To Master Pricing: Pricing For Profit – May 10, 2025 at 12:30 PM


DAX Chicago Schaumburg Convention Center, Schaumburg, IL – May 30-31, 2025
Graphics Pro Expo Indianapolis, IN – June 19-21, 2025

Marketing Better in 2025: Grow Profits with Clarity and Connection – June 21, 2025 at 11 AM


DAX Twin Cities Hilton Doubletree, Bloomington, MN – August 1-2, 2025
Graphics Pro Expo Long Beach, CA – August 21-23, 2025
Graphics Pro Meadowlands, NJ – September 12-13, 2025
Impressions Expo Dallas, TX – October 2-4, 2025
Printing United Orlando, FL – October 22-24, 2025
Graphics Pro Charlotte, NC – November 6-8, 2025All dates and events are subject to change


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