Taktiful Tuesdays

Ep 53: Digital Embellishment as a Business Strategy with Ed Wiegand

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Ed Wiegand, President and CEO of JetFX Inc., to talk about digital embellishment as more than a visual upgrade. It can be a strategy for profitability, differentiation, sustainability, and growth.

Ed shares how his background in labels, packaging, combination printing, and digital production shaped the creation of JetFX. He explains why digital embellishment is gaining traction across labels, nutraceuticals, cannabis, cosmetics, candles, flexible packaging, and more.

The conversation covers how UV inkjet based embellishment can reduce waste, lower make-ready time, support variable effects, improve margins, and help brands stand out in crowded markets. Eric and Ed also discuss retrofit systems, single pass embellishment, security printing, flexible packaging, tactile effects, and why touch remains one of print’s strongest advantages.

Plus, Ed previews the upcoming Taktisphere Live! event, "Profit is the New Green", happening Thursday, June 4 at 1 p.m. Register here: https://taktisphere.com/c/taktisphere-live/profit-is-the-new-green-how-digital-embellishment-changes-the-game

Ep 52: Web-to-Print, AI, and Mental Health in Print with Chris Minn

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels talks with Chris Minn, founder and CEO of Digital Ink, about the evolution of web-to-print, print on demand, automation, AI, and why print businesses need to rethink how their systems, marketing, sales, operations, and production connect.

Chris explains why web-to-print is not dead, but the old way of thinking about it is. The future is not just a storefront or a customer portal. It is connected software stacks, cleaner data, integrated workflows, APIs, automation, and print on demand systems that help printers deliver the kind of buying experience customers now expect.

Eric and Chris also discuss how AI is changing search, marketing, and software development in print, including why printers need better content, clearer websites, and more useful information if they want to be found by AI-driven search tools.

The conversation also turns to Mental Health Awareness Month and Chris’s work with She*t 4 Brains, an industry effort focused on creating more honest conversations around mental health, stress, leadership, burnout, and the human side of print.

Topics include:

• Why web-to-print has evolved beyond storefronts
• How print on demand changes business models
• Why software strategy needs to come before implementation
• Where AI creates real value in print today
• How search behavior is changing with AI tools
• Why printers need to tell their own story better
• The importance of mental health conversations in the print industry
• Why being present matters at work and at home

Featuring Chris Minn of Digital Ink.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 in the United States to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Ep 51: Brand, Culture, and Mental Health in Print with Jessica DeCola

Jessica DeCola joins Eric Vessels on Taktiful Tuesdays for a conversation about print, people, brand, culture, and mental health. Jessica shares how she accidentally found her way into the print industry, what kept her here, and why her new role as Director of Brand and Strategic Growth at Blooming Color feels like the right cultural fit. The conversation explores why print companies often struggle to market themselves, how brand is more than a logo or campaign, and why the human side of business matters just as much as the manufacturing side. Eric and Jessica also discuss She*t for Brains, the mental health and wellness initiative she co-founded with Dave Rosendahl, Chris Minn, and John Bailey. Jessica explains how a moment of vulnerability at Dscoop sparked a broader movement to create safe, honest spaces for people in the print community to talk about stress, trauma, therapy, leadership, and the pressure of working in a demanding industry. In this episode: • Jessica’s unexpected path into print • Why culture shaped her move to Blooming Color • How printers can tell better brand stories • Why people buy from people, not companies • The origin and mission of She*t for Brains • Mental health, vulnerability, and leadership in print • Why taking care of people is good business If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 in the United States to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Ep 50: Why Paper Is the OG Embellishment with Michele Pistone

In this special 50th episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Michele Pistone, Marketing Manager at Neenah Paper, for a conversation about paper, packaging, and tactile communication.

Michele shares why paper is not just a substrate, but part of the brand experience. They dig into what makes packaging feel premium, why print still builds trust in a digital world, and how color, texture, weight, and restraint can shape perception before foil or varnish ever enter the picture.

The conversation also sets up an upcoming Tactisphere Live session with Neenah Paper, where the team will go even deeper into paper, unboxing, and why paper is the OG embellishment.

Join us for "Neenah Paper Live Unboxing: The O.G. embellishment explained" in The Taktisphere on Thursday, Apr 23 at 1pm EDT 👉 https://taktisphere.com/c/taktisphere-live/neenah-live-unboxing

Ep 48: Reinventing Print Without Losing Identity with Al Kennickel

What does it take for a print company founded in 1892 to keep evolving without losing what made it successful in the first place?

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Al Kennickel, President of the Kennickel Group in Savannah, Georgia, for a conversation about reinvention, leadership, curiosity, and staying ahead in a changing print industry.

Al shares the story of joining the family business, buying it in 1981, and leading its growth far beyond traditional print into wide format, digital printing, fulfillment, and digital embellishments. He also talks about what it really means to invest in new technology, why experimentation matters, and how printers can create competitive advantage by doing what others cannot.

They also get into:
• lessons from the Citadel and college football
• why wide format changed the business
• what makes digital embellishment different from other print investments
• how to know the difference between strategy and a shiny object
• the importance of peer groups, curiosity, and shared knowledge
• why having fun still matters after decades in business

This episode is a masterclass in how to keep pushing forward while staying true to who you are.

#TaktifulTuesdays #PrintInnovation #DigitalEmbellishment #WideFormat #PrintingIndustry #Leadership

Ep 49: Why Embellishment Is a Business Strategy with Christine Yardley

In Episode 49 of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Christine Yardley, president of PrintPanther Direct and founder of Eat, Print, Love, for a conversation about how embellishment moved from a cool effect to a serious business strategy.

Christine shares how her work in high-impact presentations led her into embellished print, why COVID became a turning point for more meaningful print, what many printers still misunderstand about the opportunity, and how community and education can help move the industry forward. From bespoke branding to sample programs and standout print experiences, this episode is packed with practical insight for printers, marketers, and brands that want print to create more value.
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Ep 47: Why Luxury Print Still Wins with Karlien Murray

In Episode 47 of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Karlien Murray for a wide-ranging conversation on print, packaging, luxury materials, and the power of embellishments to create real value.

Karlien shares her unconventional journey into print, from writing legislation in South Africa to working in photography, building a print business, moving to the United States, and ultimately finding her place in luxury cover materials and packaging.

They dig into what makes embellishments matter, why perceived value starts before someone even touches a printed piece, and how printers can better connect brand vision to production reality. Karlien also offers sharp insight into the role of specifiers, the importance of samples, and why showing is always more powerful than telling.

Topics include:

• Karlien’s path into print and packaging
• Why embellishments create perceived value
• The connection between touch, attention, and luxury
• How printers can position embellishments as a value driver
• Why samples matter more than explanations
• The role of the specifier in bridging concept and production
• Building relationships instead of staying transactional
• Why happiness is a choice - and how that mindset shapes everything

If you care about print, packaging, customer experience, and the future of premium branded materials, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

#TaktifulTuesdays #Print #Packaging #DigitalEmbellishment #LuxuryPackaging #BrandExperience #CustomerExperience #PrintInnovation
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Ep 46: Paper Is the Original Embellishment with Jason Leonard

In Episode 46 of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Jason Leonard of Neenah Fine Paper, now part of Mativ, to kick off a new series featuring members of the Taktisphere Advisory Council.

Jason shares his journey from growing up in a black and white photo lab to working across major print technologies, OEMs, and paper innovation. The conversation dives deep into the often overlooked role of paper as a foundational element of print and why it should be considered an embellishment in its own right.

They explore how paper, digital embellishments, and technology work together to create emotional impact, why printers must rethink commoditization, and how collaboration across competitors can move the industry forward.

Key topics include:
• Why paper is the OG tactile experience in print
• The balance between embellishment and over-design
• The “armpit test” and what makes print worth keeping
• Challenges facing printers today and how to overcome them
• The importance of collaboration across OEMs and print providers
• Why creativity and value matter more than cost

Plus, Jason shares insights on music, guitars, and his unexpected background in culinary school.

This episode is all about blending timeless print fundamentals with modern innovation.
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Ep 46: Paper Is the Original Embellishment with Jason Leonard

In Episode 46 of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Jason Leonard of Neenah Fine Paper, now part of Mativ, to kick off a new series featuring members of the Taktisphere Advisory Council.

Jason shares his journey from growing up in a black and white photo lab to working across major print technologies, OEMs, and paper innovation. The conversation dives deep into the often overlooked role of paper as a foundational element of print and why it should be considered an embellishment in its own right.

They explore how paper, digital embellishments, and technology work together to create emotional impact, why printers must rethink commoditization, and how collaboration across competitors can move the industry forward.

Key topics include:
• Why paper is the OG tactile experience in print
• The balance between embellishment and over-design
• The “armpit test” and what makes print worth keeping
• Challenges facing printers today and how to overcome them
• The importance of collaboration across OEMs and print providers
• Why creativity and value matter more than cost

Plus, Jason shares insights on music, guitars, and his unexpected background in culinary school.

This episode is all about blending timeless print fundamentals with modern innovation.
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Ep 45: State of Digital Embellishment – Trends, Data, and the Future of Print with Richard Romano

After a long hiatus, Taktiful Tuesdays is back with Episode 45 and a conversation that takes a big-picture look at where digital embellishment stands today.

Eric Vessels sits down with Richard Romano, Managing Editor at WhatTheyThink, to explore how the embellishment landscape has evolved since his first appearance on Episode 2. With decades of experience covering the printing industry, Richard shares insight into what has changed, what misconceptions still exist, and why the data matters.

The discussion dives into the growing visibility of digital embellishment following drupa, the importance of industry surveys, and how printers can better position embellishments to drive value rather than simply adding cost. Eric and Richard also explore emerging applications, the need for clearer terminology and standards, and the role new technologies could play in the next phase of print innovation.

Topics covered include:

• Why digital embellishment adoption is accelerating
• Key findings and expectations from the WhatTheyThink and Taktiful Digital Embellishment Survey
• Misconceptions about embellishments being limited to luxury brands
• Applications gaining momentum including direct mail, packaging, labels, and book covers
• The importance of training, sales strategy, and business planning
• Why standards and shared terminology will matter as the market grows
• Emerging opportunities including direct to object printing

If you’re a printer exploring embellishments, a designer curious about tactile print, or simply someone who wants to understand where print is heading next, this episode is packed with insight.

Take the Digital Embellishment Survey and help shape the industry’s understanding of where this technology is headed.
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Ep 44: From Rugby to Labels: Bryan Topham on Print, Packaging & Pushing Creative Boundaries

On Episode 44 of Taktiful Tuesdays, we're sitting down with Bryan Topham — a marketer, technologist, and former rugby player who’s seen it all in the world of print. From wide format to packaging to digital embellishment, Bryan brings the kind of creative energy and practical insight we love around here. We talk about the evolution of label and packaging, how embellishments drive brand decisions, what sports teach us about leadership, and how curiosity (and a willingness to break the rules) opens doors. There’s even a Jayhawk wall decal story in here.

Whether you're a print geek, a packaging nerd, or just someone who believes in the power of collaboration and great design, this one’s worth your time.

👀 Watch. Like. Subscribe. Let’s go.
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Ep 43: From Garage Startup to Game-Changer: Brad Drever on Making Embellishment Accessible for All

This week on Taktiful Tuesdays, I sit down with Brad Drever, the founder and driving force behind Skandacor. Brad shares the wild ride of starting out in a garage with a laminator and a dream, to becoming one of the most innovative forces in the digital embellishment game.

We talk about the brand new Finish Pro 3D1623 - a machine that's shaking up the market by making high-end inkjet embellishment actually affordable for smaller shops. If you're a printer who's been priced out of this space in the past, you're going to want to hear this.

But it’s not just about machines - Brad drops some serious wisdom on design, implementation, and why training and creativity matter more than ever in the value era of print.

And as always, we go beyond the business and dive into what drives Brad personally, from his passion for reimagining education to the teachers and mentors that shaped his path.

Don't miss this one – it’s full of heart, hustle, and ideas that could change your business.
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Ep 42: From Paint Brushes to Packaging: Paul Furse’s Wild Ride in Print Embellishment

This week on Taktiful Tuesdays, we’re joined by Paul Furse – aka the digital embellishment guy – who recently stepped into a new role as Global Director of Marketing and Head of Business Development Americas at Harris & Bruno.

We talk about his journey from growing up in a third-generation sign-painting family in New Orleans to helping brands scale digital embellishment across packaging, publishing, and beyond. Paul shares insights from his time at Scodix, Konica Minolta, and now Harris & Bruno – and we dig into why education and accessibility are still the biggest barriers (and opportunities) for this industry.

We cover:

• How Paul got pulled back into print after trying to leave it behind
• The impact of digital embellishment on short-run, personalized, and regional packaging
• What Harris & Bruno is doing differently with X-MAT, X-Foil, and sustainability
• The future of design, AI, and the next 10 years of embellishment

We even talk hiking, teenagers, and QR code tattoos. Yep, it’s that kind of episode.

Watch. Listen. Rub your hands on a nice soft-touch finish while you do.
This one’s a good one.
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Ep 41: Chris Curran on Building Connection, Community, and the Future of Print

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I finally sit down with my longtime friend and print industry legend, Chris Curran - VP of Media and Events at Printing United Alliance. From his first hands-on experience printing t-shirts at summer camp to shaping the voice of the industry's biggest expo, Chris has built a career on curiosity, connection, and a genuine love for print.

We talk about:

• His wild ride through Heidelberg, HP, Landa, and beyond
• Why listening between the lines is the next level of consultative sales
• How Printing United Expo is becoming a true crossroads of the industry
• The power of physical print in a digital world
• And of course, what it means to be a good steward of the print community

We also geek out on sensory marketing, rugby, and the real reason those cinnamon rolls in the mall smell so damn good.

🎧 Tune in, share it with a print friend, and don't forget to subscribe — lots more ahead.

Register for the PRINTING United Expo: https://www.compusystems.com/servlet/ar?evt_uid=284

🎟️ Learn more about the Embellishment Technology Tour we're running at this year's Printing United Expo: https://web.cvent.com/event/5a51b380-3ac8-41a0-9ab4-10d1c42b8bbe/summary
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Ep 40: From Ruby Lith to Digital Embellishment: Sean Roberts on the Print Evolution

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays (#40!), I’m joined by my longtime friend and industry badass Sean Roberts, National Director of Digital Embellishment at Konica Minolta Industrial Print. We dive deep into his journey from Rubylith and Goldenrod paper to leading the charge on digital embellishment and helping reshape how printers add value beyond CMYK.

Sean shares his perspective on how print has evolved over the decades, why mentorship matters more than ever, and how digital embellishment is aligning perfectly with today’s market needs. We also nerd out on why short-run packaging is exploding, what’s driving innovation at Konica Minolta, and how printers can use embellishment to boost margins and differentiation.

Oh, and we definitely talk about Printing United Expo and what folks can expect when they stop by booth 5200 for the Digital Embellishment Technology Tour.
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Ep 39: From Commodity to Luxury: Marco Boer on the Future of Print & Embellishment

What happens when print stops being a commodity and starts becoming a luxury?

In this week’s episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I finally sit down with someone I’ve admired for a long time - Marco Boer, VP at IT Strategies and one of the most respected thought leaders in the print industry. We talk about where print is heading, why embellishment is finally hitting its stride, and what the “haves and have-nots” trend means for your business.

We also cover:

• Why inkjet embellishment is turning a corner (finally)
• What finishing automation is solving for print shops right now
• The rise of specialization and the death of “generalist” printing
• Why taxonomy actually matters (and how it can help your shop get found)
•The surprising profitability of wide format
• Marco’s sailboat (yes, really)

It's a deep and honest conversation about where this industry is going and why the next five years might look very different than the last five. And trust me, if you're a progressive printer—or want to be—this one’s for you.
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Ep 38: From Legacy to Leadership – Ashley Roberts on Steering Printing Impressions into the Future

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric sits down with Ashley Roberts, Content Director at Printing Impressions, for a real, honest, and wide-ranging conversation about taking the reins from industry legend Mark Michelson and shaping the next generation of industry media.

They get into everything from digital embellishment trends and storytelling to personal branding, imposter syndrome, and building trust with your audience. Ashley also shares her passion for travel, Stephen King novels, and her two rescue pups.

Whether you're in print, content, marketing, or just figuring out how to be yourself while honoring the work that came before you — this one's for you.

đź‘€ Watch the full episode to hear:

• Ashley’s career journey and what it’s like stepping into big shoes
• The evolving role of media in the print space
• How print and digital storytelling can dance together
• Why personal brand matters more than ever
• What makes digital embellishment so powerful right now
• A preview of the upcoming Embellishment Tech Tour at Printing United Expo!

📍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe.
New episodes drop every Tuesday!
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Ep 37: Inside Taktiful – New Tools, Big Moves, and What’s Coming at Printing United

We’re back with another Taktiful Tuesdays! In this episode, I sit down with Taktiful CEO (and my good buddy) Kevin Abergel to catch up on all the exciting things we’ve been building and rolling out.

We cover:

• The growth of Taktiful’s training, consulting, and software arms
• Updates on Tactify – our AI-powered pricing tool for digital embellishments
• The upcoming launch of Reaktor (with a K!) – our groundbreaking 3D embellishment preview tool
• A sneak peek at Creator – the next evolution in embellishment design
• A full breakdown of the Embellishment Technology Tour powered by Taktiful happening at Printing United

This one’s packed. Whether you're in the thick of the embellishment game or just starting to explore it, there’s something here for you.

👉 Make sure to subscribe, hit that like button, and if you're headed to Printing United Expo, don’t miss the tour. Limited spots! Register here: https://cvent.me/bAVWEM
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EP 36: Dan Johansen on Print Innovation, Customization, and Why Curiosity Wins

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I sit down with Dan Johansen, VP of Sales and Product Management at Roland DGA. Dan’s been at the leading edge of innovation in wide format and industrial print for decades — from Creo to Kodak, Ricoh to Roland. And let me tell you, the man knows a thing or two about what actually drives success in this industry.

We get into the intersection of wide format and embellishment, the shift toward value-driven print, and how curiosity and creativity are fueling the next wave of innovation. Dan also shares his thoughts on helping small businesses grow, how Roland is expanding beyond traditional signage, and why it’s all about the why — not just the what.

We also go off the clock to talk motorcycles, music, writing, and what it really means to lead with compassion in business.

This one’s packed with insight and inspiration. Give it a listen and let me know what you think.

🖨️ Topics We Cover:

• The evolution of wide format print
• Why small print businesses are the heartbeat of the industry
• Applications that go beyond banners and signs
• Roland’s approach to innovation and market expansion
• The value era of embellishment (yes, it’s real)
• Creating emotional connection through tactile print
• Why curiosity is the best business strategy
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Ep 35: Profit Isn’t a Guess – Nick Gawreluk on Fixing Print’s Costing Problem

Print shops are leaving money on the table — and most don’t even know it.
Nick Gawreluk has worked in over 40 countries for Heidelberg, HP Indigo, Taylor Corporation, and now as founder of Print Profit. He’s on a mission to help printers ditch outdated costing models and rethink profitability in real time.

In this episode, we dig into:

• Why most job costing models are broken (and how to fix them)
• The dangers of “cost plus” thinking
• How embellishment fits into a real profit strategy
• The next wave of disruption in print (spoiler: it’s software)

Whether you’re running a small shop or a global operation, this conversation will get you thinking differently about the numbers behind the ink.

👉 Connect with Nick: https://www.printprofit.com/
👉 Follow Taktiful: https://linktr.ee/taktiful