Shop Talk Speakers
Doug Berger, KIWO
Doug started his screen printing career in 1992. He has worked his way through the industry with printing in the Graphic side, Textile side, Distribution side and is now a Territory Sales Manager for Kiwo/Ulano. Doug enjoys and understands the science behind making the perfect screen and a perfect print. Understanding how all the components of screens, ink, emulsion and chemicals work together is something that he strives to look for whenever he is in a partner’s shop. Doug is also well versed in Digital printing, DTF, and Embroidery.
Nick Buettner, ISW
Nick Buettner has neen in the digital print industry since the late 80’s. He printed my 1st transfer off an Alps printer with Neenah Duratrans paper and micro dry resin wax ink. Nick currently work for Imaging Supplies warehouse as Director of Business Development managing all of North America (including Canada) and the Caribbean. He has been working with different forms of DTF since 2011. Sublimation since the late 90’s.
Dave Conner, STAHLS’ & Transfer Express
With over a decade of experience in the print industry as a marketer and designer, Dave’s passion for print has helped brands stand out and thrive in an increasingly digital landscape. In his current role as Content Director at Stahls’ and Transfer Express, he’s helped thousands of apparel decorators of all sizes achieve their goals with screen printed and digital heat transfer solutions.
Christina Haines, BELLA+CANVAS
Christina has had a career spanning leadership, brand engagement, and operational expertise in the apparel decoration industry. She currently serves as a Brand Engagement Specialist at BELLA+CANVAS, where she works in collaboration with print shops, putting some needed focus on blanks in the whole print process. She is the Executive Director of The Shirt Show, managing production and content. She was a founder and has been a leader of the Print Girl Mafia, building a thriving community of over 550 women in the industry. She has a deep history in publishing and printing, and was even an elementary teacher for some years.
Tim Gibson, US Standard Apparel
Tim Gibson president of sales US Standard Apparel. Tim has held various executive positions in the apparel manufacturing industry, including director of field sales at Hanes/Champion, national sales manager at BELLA+CANVAS, and western regional sales manager at Next Level Apparel.
His passion for the imprinted apparel industry is unrivaled.
Rich Jacobs, SanMar
Rich has been involved in the promotional products industry since 1994. He joined SanMar in 2008 as a territory manager and now enjoys working with decorators to find solutions for their business and decorating needs.
Kevin Kauth, Chromaline
Brian Lessard, MADE Lab
Brian’s started in apparel decoration started with art school, then printing including numerous Golden Imager awards at Mirror Image and then to Rutland as a tech rep. He now heads up MADE Laboratory’s testing program.
Melle Minor, Little Minor Designs & Lioness Ink
Melle Minor: “Want Clients? This is Where You Start.”
Melle Minor is the powerhouse entrepreneur behind Little Minor Designs and Lioness Ink, two brands transforming custom apparel and products through screen printing, embroidery, heat press, and laser engraving. She has built a strong client base that includes sororities, fraternities, booster clubs, schools, churches, organizations, as well as trade shows and conferences. Known for turning first-time opportunities into long-term partnerships, Melle shares step-by-step strategies to help newcomers break in, gain clients, and build lasting success.
Michelle Moxley Hruby, Ink Kitchen
Creative artist and printer, always on the cutting edge in the garment decoration world of technology, ink, and art with stops at Gildan, Virus, and some top production companies.
Brian Potash, Devilfish Ink
Potash and Devilfish Ink has been bringing a fine art approach to the commercial print world since 1997. Apparel, gig posters, black velvet art, beer/liquor labels, slate shingles, wrenches, license plates, glassware, record jackets, and even his wife have been printed in his quest to rid the world of bad art.
Jared Peeler, Midsouth Digitizing
Jared Peeler is a seasoned CEO and Business Consultant specializing in the decorated apparel industry. With over 13 years of experience in accounting and operations across various business scales, from small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies, Jared brings a wealth of expertise to his role. As the CEO of Midsouth Digitizing, he advises industry professionals on implementing efficient workflow management and decorating techniques to boost both decoration quality and profitability.
Charity Pruitt, Custom T-Shirt Request
I’m Charity Pruitt, a Screen Printer and Workshop Instructor based in Houston, Texas, specializing in garment decorating. I have hands-on experience running a screen printing business and love teaching kids about both the craft and the entrepreneurial side of the industry. To stay sharp and inspired, I regularly attend trade shows and industry events. When I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with my family.
LaTonna Roberson, Dallas T-Shirt Shop
Lady Print Boss, also known as LaTonna Roberson, is a powerhouse in the decorated apparel industry with over 24 years of hands-on experience. As a master screen printer, consultant, and speaker, she has made it her mission to help startups and growing businesses master the critical elements of printing, sales, marketing, and customer acquisition. Known for her straight-talking, no-nonsense style, LaTonna empowers entrepreneurs—especially women and those starting from scratch—to achieve success in the highly competitive apparel industry.
Born and raised in the urban streets of Dallas, Texas, Lady Print Boss blends her street smarts with business expertise, offering practical solutions in a down-to-earth, relatable way. She’s not just focused on growing her own business to financial freedom—she’s committed to guiding others along the same path. A champion for women and underserved communities, LaTonna brings her real-life experience and wisdom to every project, mentorship, and speaking engagement. With a strong passion for family, entrepreneurship, and empowering others, Lady Print Boss is living proof that you can hustle hard, keep it real, and still achieve your dreams.
Kelly Walters, STAHLS’
Kelly Walters is the Director of Experiential Marketing at GroupeSTAHL. In her role, she strategically plans and develops visual content and educational materials across various channels and social media platforms. Additionally, Kelly is a dynamic presenter at both physical and virtual events, hosts the “Heat Press for Profit” Podcast, and plays a key role in the creation of merchandised displays and product presentations. With more than 15 years of experience in the apparel and sportswear industry, Kelly brings extensive knowledge in business development, merchandising, e-commerce, and social media to her discussions. Her expertise covers a broad spectrum of topics, encouraging heat decorators to explore innovative perspectives and think beyond traditional printing methods.