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Taktiful Tuesdays

Taktiful Tuesdays

by Eric Vessels

Business Technology

Season 1

Ep 23: Crafting Success & Giving Back with Jay Mandarino of CJ Graphics

In this inspiring episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Jay Mandarino, President & CEO of CJ Group of Companies. Jay shares his incredible journey from overcoming childhood challenges to leading the world’s most awarded printing company. Discover how his passion for craftsmanship and community service led to the creation of CJ Skate Park, one of the largest indoor not-for-profit skate parks. From print innovation and digital embellishments to philanthropy and entrepreneurship, Jay’s story is a must-watch for anyone looking to make an impact.

Ep 22: Omnichannel Magic and Direct Mail Innovation with Morgan DiGiorgio

Episode 22 is here - and it’s a strong one. I’m joined by the always insightful Morgan DiGiorgio, Chief Revenue Officer at DirectMail2.0 and Who’s Mailing What. We dig into what makes direct mail actually work in 2025 (hint: it’s all about integration). Morgan breaks down how omnichannel marketing is changing the game, what embellishments and sensory touches really do to lift response rates, and why marketers need to stop thinking about channels in silos. Plus, we go off-script (as usual) and talk about leadership, alignment, and walking away from opportunities that don’t serve your values. She even teaches me a thing or two about tarpon fishing and the life of a competitive gymnastics mom. This one’s loaded—don’t miss it. 🎯 More on DirectMail2.0: https://www.directmail2.com ☕ Grab your favorite beverage and join us!

Ep 21: Tactile Design, Digital Foil & Ren Faire Armor — April Lytle of Scodix

In this special 21st episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with April Lytle, Global Brand Innovation Manager at Scodix, to explore where creativity meets cutting-edge print technology. From holographic foil and glitter effects to SAT materials for the visually impaired, April breaks down why digital embellishment is so much more than “shiny gold.” She also shares her unexpected side hustle in the Renaissance Faire world. Topics include: The power of SHD and smart print effects Inclusive packaging and tactile print for accessibility Design trends in foil, texture, and luxury print April’s passion project: handmade leather armor Don't forget to like and subscribe to Taktiful Tuesdays!

Ep 20: Jeff Peterson Talks FSEA, DEA & Amplify

What’s the future of foil, finish, and shine in print? 🤩 In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I sit down with Jeff Peterson, Executive Director of FSEA, to talk all things print embellishment — from analog classics to digital disruption. We get into: How FSEA is adapting to a rapidly evolving print landscape Why they launched the Digital Embellishment Alliance (DEA) What to expect at Amplify Print this June in Chicago And of course, we peel back the layers on Jeff himself — Chiefs fan, country music lover, and all-around industry trailblazer. This one’s full of energy, insights, and some behind-the-scenes takes on where the industry is heading. You’ll walk away smarter (and maybe with a new concert playlist). 🎶 👉 Visit https://fsea.com and https://amplifyprint.org for more.

Ep 19: The Real Art of Selling with Bill Gillespie

In Episode 19 of Taktiful Tuesdays, I sit down with the one and only Bill Gillespie - 40+ year print industry vet, master storyteller, and sales whisperer. Bill has made a career not just out of selling print, but understanding people. We talk about the evolution of sales, what really matters to buyers, and why asking the right question is often more important than pitching the perfect solution. Bill shares insights from his early days as a print buyer to now consulting with teams across the industry - plus, we dive into why empathy and authenticity still win the day. 💬 Topics we cover: ✅ What’s changed (and hasn’t) in print sales over 40 years ✅ How to move from “vendor” to “trusted partner” ✅ The power of better questions ✅ Lessons from teaching at Clemson ✅ Skiing, fly fishing, and getting schooled by your kids This one’s packed with value - and a few laughs along the way. Let’s go! Don’t forget to follow and share with your sales team!

Ep 18: Print, AI, and the Power of Storytelling — Joanne Gore on Marketing That Matters

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I finally sit down with the one and only Joanne Gore — B2B marketing strategist, print evangelist, and president of Joanne Gore Communications. We go deep into why print still deserves a seat at the marketing table, how to tell your story in a way that resonates, and what most companies get wrong when talking about themselves. Joanne brings decades of experience to the conversation, plus a sharp take on how AI is shifting everything from marketing workflows to how printers can stay relevant. We talk lumpy mail, sustainability that’s more than a checkbox, and how printers can stop selling capabilities and start selling value. Whether you're in print, marketing, or just trying to figure out how to stand out in a noisy digital world — this one’s for you. 🎧 Stick around for: The biggest misconceptions about print How to think holistically about sustainability AI as a lifeline (not a threat) for marketers and printers The best piece of marketing advice Joanne ever got Why breathe might just be the best marketing message ever Connect with Joanne: 🔗 https://www.joannegorecommunications.com 📚 Thriving in Chaos - Now available wherever you read.

Ep 17: From Inkjet to Rocket Science: Michael Poulin Talks Fujifilm, Embellishments & Fishing

What do rocket launches, snook fishing, and the future of inkjet printing have in common? Michael Poulin. In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, I sit down with Michael Poulin, Senior Manager of Inkjet Solutions at Fujifilm (after I totally botched his title… classic). We talk shop about Fujifilm’s big digital disruption moves, trends in embellishment, and the growing role of automation and AI in streamlining print workflows. Oh, and we also nerd out over SpaceX rockets and Everglades fishing. Whether you're curious about the next frontier for inkjet, looking to future-proof your shop, or just want to hear some fish tales, this episode’s for you. Don't miss the story about the business card that was too nice to throw away. 🎣 Featuring: — The evolution of digital embellishment — What’s next for inkjet (spoiler: it’s big) — How Fujifilm is automating the workflow — Michael’s favorite fish (and the one his son always catches better) Follow for more Taktiful Tuesdays!

Ep 16: Digital Embellishment, Design, and Dogs: A Live Chat with Xerox’s Kelly Leahy

In this special live episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, we're coming to you straight from the Xerox Partner Summit in Las Vegas. I sat down with my longtime friend and Xerox legend Kelly Leahy - Senior Global Product Marketing Manager - to talk about everything from digital embellishment trends and the Genesis Initiative to the psychology of print, AI in design, and how print service providers can better educate their customers. We also dive into career growth, continuous learning, and yes...baseball tournaments and dogs. If you're curious about where the print industry is headed, how digital embellishments can boost engagement, or just want to hear two print geeks talk shop (and dogs), you’re in the right place. Follow for more conversations at the intersection of print, marketing, and innovation.

Ep 15: Ken Huizenga - From Pressman to Print Expert, Ken's 40-Year Print Journey

In this episode of Taktiful Tuesdays, we sit down with industry veteran Ken Huizenga, a print production expert with over 40 years of hands-on experience. From running sheet-fed presses in the ‘80s to embracing cutting-edge digital print and embellishment technology, Ken has seen it all. We dive into: ✅ How print production has evolved over the decades ✅ The growing demand for faster turnaround times and higher-quality print ✅ The role of digital embellishments in shaping the future of print ✅ The skills modern press operators need to succeed ✅ Why preventative maintenance is key to keeping your press running smoothly And on a fun note, we also talk car racing, whiskey, and the thrill of going fast - on and off the press! 🏎️🥃

Ep 14: The Future of Print Design: Digital Embellishments with Matt Redbear

Welcome back to another episode of Taktiful Tuesdays! 🎉 This week, we’re diving deep into the world of digital embellishments, print design, and creative innovation with none other than Matt Redbear - a design powerhouse and thought leader in specialty printing. From his roots in analog photography to pioneering modern digital embellishments, Matt shares his expert insights on: ✨ The magic of blending artistry with technology ✨ How to make print more impactful and interactive ✨ The importance of negative space and subtle embellishments ✨ How AI and automation are shaping the future of print If you're a designer, brand, or print enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Plus, we geek out over vinyl records, creative inspiration, and more! 🎶🔥 📩 Want to learn more about digital embellishments? Drop us a comment or visit Taktiful’s website: https://www.taktiful.com/

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