Automation isn’t the future. It’s happening now. The 2 Regular Guys are joined by Brad Pengelly, Founder of Hoops, to talk about how automation is reshaping the print and promo industry. Brad shares real-world insights from running his own print business and building Hoops — modern order and sales management software made for decorators. Discover how automation can help you, eliminate wasted time and manual admin, build clarity and consistency into your workflow and unlock new capacity, growth, and profitability. We’ll cover why process is the true foundation of success, how to break the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset, and how automation empowers your team to focus on what really matters — creativity and customers. Tune in and learn how to prepare your print shop for long-term success in an automated future.

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Rise of Automation

Terry: Brad, let’s start with your story — what was the turning point that led you from running a print shop to founding Hoops?

Aaron: What does automation mean in practical terms for a small or mid-sized print shop?

Terry: Many shops feel automation sounds too complex or expensive. What’s the mindset shift they need to see it as accessible and empowering instead of intimidating?

Aaron: Before adding software or automation, you talk about “process clarity.” What’s the best way for a business owner to uncover what’s actually happening in their workflow?

Terry: Can you give an example of a shop that transformed their operations by getting their processes right before automating?

Aaron: What kind of measurable results do you see — in time saved, errors reduced, or growth unlocked — when businesses implement automation effectively?

Terry: How do you balance automation with the human side of the business — creativity, relationships, and personal service?

Aaron: We’ve always done it this way – What’s your advice for leaders trying to break through that resistance to change?

Terry: What are some early warning signs that a print shop is falling behind because it’s not embracing automation yet?

Aaron: What do you see as the next big evolution in automation for the print and promo world?

Terry: How does Hoops help decorators simplify their operations today and prepare for what’s next in this rapidly changing industry?

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/PJhDaFKDGTE

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, March 21-22, 2026
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

ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026
Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026
DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026
ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026
Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026
Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026
DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026
DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026
DAX Tampa,...