The Highs and Lows of Running a T-Shirt Empire

Sponsored by- Seps.io MerchTroop.com In this episode of *Building Your T-Shirt Empire*, hosts Gavin StGeorges and Cole Lundstrom take a deep dive into the real-world challenges and triumphs of running a t-shirt business. From Gavin's transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settling down, to Cole's decision to shut down his long-running screen printing shop, this episode is packed with personal stories and industry insights. Gavin and Cole discuss the hard decisions shop owners face, like knowing when to pivot or even close a business that no longer serves you. Cole opens up about the challenges of managing a team, the impact of overhead costs, and how he found new opportunities in the industry by shifting to DTF transfers and consulting. They also explore the broader trends affecting the print industry, from the rise of digital printing to the recent consolidation of major distributors like S&S and Alpha Broder. If you're a print shop owner or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers a candid look at the realities of the business, along with practical advice on how to stay lean, adapt to industry changes, and ultimately thrive in a competitive market. Tune in for an honest conversation that might just inspire your next big move.