In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook sits down with Jessica Gibbons-Rauch, Senior Manager of Professional Development at PPAI, to explore the future of continuing education in the promotional products industry.

Jessica shares her passion for learning and innovation—discussing how PPAI is modernizing education through modular learning, certifications, micro-credentials, and interactive workshops that meet today’s diverse learning styles. She also dives into PPAI Advance, the organization’s revamped professional development program, and offers insights on how continuing education empowers professionals, strengthens companies, and elevates the entire promo industry.

🎓 Topics Covered:

The role of ongoing education in advancing the promo industry

How learning styles are evolving in 2025 and beyond

PPAI Advance and its “choose your own journey” certification model

Collaboration between PPAI and other associations

The future of professional development and education outreach

💡 Whether you’re new to promo or a seasoned pro, this episode offers practical insights into how education is shaping the next generation of industry leaders.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations with industry experts and innovators shaping the future of promo!

#PromotionalProducts #PPAI #ProfessionalDevelopment #PromoPerspectives #ContinuingEducation #MarketingEducation #IndustryPodcast

In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook sits down with Alok from PPAI to unpack the latest research and insights shaping the promotional products industry heading into 2026.

They discuss key economic trends, growth opportunities, and the challenges suppliers and distributors can expect in the coming year — from inflation and tariffs to AI-driven efficiency and the rising demand for sustainable products.

You’ll also learn which product categories are leading the way, how technology is transforming buyer expectations, and what upcoming policy changes could impact the promo space.

Whether you’re a supplier, distributor, or industry enthusiast, this episode will help you navigate what’s next for promo with clarity and confidence.

🎧 Topics Covered:

2026 economic outlook and industry growth

Top product categories and buyer trends

Sustainability and ESG’s growing influence

AI, personalization, and automation in promo

Tariffs, compliance, and workforce legislation updates

📈 Stay informed and get ahead of the curve with this insightful discussion!

🍫 In this episode of Promo Perspectives, host Nicole Cook chats with David Miller of NC Custom about one of the sweetest segments in the promotional products industry, food promos!

David shares how his family business evolved from a small chocolate manufacturer into one of the top suppliers in the industry, creating everything from custom-shaped mints to gourmet chocolates and branded gift sets. Discover why food remains one of the most powerful (and underused) promotional tools, how distributors can tap into the opportunity, and how personalization and packaging can make food gifts truly unforgettable.

You’ll also hear fun stories, like the time they made a pastrami-flavored mint, and how one simple conversation led to a $500,000 order.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make your brand more memorable, or just love hearing about creative marketing ideas that taste as good as they look, this episode’s for you.

🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about NC Custom at nccustom.com and explore more promo insights at SAGEworld.com/podcast.