The PromoPilot Podcast
Tech news and insights from the print and promo industry. More info at www.promopilot.io
Episodes

Jan 19, 2026
Jan 19, 2026
4 min
Discover the AI Automation Spectrum — a simple framework that maps automation from straightforward, rule-based workflows to intelligent, autonomous AI agents. This episode gives a clear, beginner-friendly overview of how automation is evolving and why it matters.We break down four levels: Workflow (deterministic, if-then rules), AI Workflow (a workflow with a single AI step), Agentic Workflow (multiple AI decisions within a structured flow), and Agent (an autonomous AI assistant that pursues goals). Each level balances predictability and adaptability in different ways.Learn where tools like Zapier fit on the spectrum, how to choose the right level for your needs, and practical tips for getting started — from adding one AI-powered step to exploring more agentic solutions as you gain confidence.

Nov 24, 2025
Nov 24, 2025
41 min
PromoPilot, Order Desk's founder, and promo industry friends from the supplier and distributor side, as we explore how distributors, suppliers, and SaaS providers connect through Order Desk. Learn how integrations streamline workflows, unlock new opportunities, and make your business easier to work with. Whether you’re a distributor, supplier, or SaaS platform, you’ll walk away with practical insights and a clear next step to get started. Try Order Desk at https://affiliate.orderdesk.com//idevaffiliate.php?id=1092
View the video version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbBtU9M0_-c

Aug 25, 2025
Aug 25, 2025
8 min
Promotional distributors often outsource fulfillment, but many traditional 3PLs are rigid—offering one-size-fits-all processes, limited custom packaging, poor handling of hybrid (stock + print-on-demand) orders, and constrained international reach. Those gaps can raise freight costs, slow delivery, and weaken the branded unboxing experience.This episode explains the 3PL vs 4PL difference and introduces Xpedite as a hybrid solution: a hands-on fulfillment provider that also acts like a strategic logistics partner. Xpedite combines warehousing, in-house digital printing, global partner networks, custom kitting/packaging, and batch project support to handle complex promo workflows and international distribution.In a Q&A with Laura Harper, Xpedite’s Owner/President, learn how their dedicated operations managers, white-glove customization, and flexible processes solve common distributor pain points—and what to look for in a fulfillment partner that truly understands the promo industry.

Jul 9, 2025
Jul 9, 2025
10 min
In this episode Alex Brown of PromoXcrm and I chat about the solutions they solve with PromoXcrm and why building a Zapier integration was important to them. You can learn more about PromoXcrm at https://promoxcrm.ai

Jun 26, 2025
Jun 26, 2025
36 min
In this episode, we sit down with Mika Kayt from Outgage to explore how modern marketers are using corporate gifting to drive real results. We unpack why gifting has evolved from a nice gesture to a strategic channel—and how platforms like Outgage bridge the gap between offline swag and online engagement with measurable ROI. Whether you're a promotional product distributor offering gifting solutions or just starting to explore the space, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiration.
🔗 Learn more about Outgage: https://outgage.co
👤 Connect with Mika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mika-bella-kayt-%F0%9F%92%8C-256b7169/

Sep 26, 2024
Sep 26, 2024
4 min
On The Blog.Grow print sales with this simple questionnaire.
On Our Radar.
Don't sell, educate!
Trupeer – Generate guides from videos.
Why Generalists Own The Future
Release Notes.
Order My Gear and Trust Center
Zoho DataPrep 2.0
Thanks.io
ShipStation
Popago Image Backgrounds and Redirect Links

Sep 6, 2024
Sep 6, 2024
3 min
Free Stuff: promopilot.io/free-stuff
On The Blog.Optimize Inventory
On Our Radar.
Hacking Sales as an Introvert
AI Won't Steal Jobs
Individual vs Administrative Efficiency
Release Notes.
Brikl
Liftoff Webhooks
Merch.ai Holiday Look Book

Aug 15, 2024
Aug 15, 2024
3 min
On The Blog.Sending Liftoff Orders to Spoke Custom
On Our Radar.
WeTransfer Acquisition
AI: 3D Assets from Photo
Perfect Bug Reports
Release Notes.
Brikl
Order Desk/S&S Activewear
Safsira Shopify App

Aug 8, 2024
Aug 8, 2024
3 min
On The Blog.Introducing Order Desk
On Our Radar.
Will AI turn Human Creativity into a Luxury?
Cloudflare Security Report
"Authentic" is Dead
Release Notes.
Order Desk Spoke Custom Integration
Order Desk Liftoff Integration
Swag Space
Order My Gear

Jul 25, 2024
Jul 25, 2024
3 min
On The Blog.Leveraging ASI's Ad Impressions Study
On Our Radar.
Merch.ai
Outcomes, not Outputs
Instagram HOP Method
Release Notes.
commonsku: Improved Reports
SAGE: Text Messaging in CRM
PCNA's GIVEE: New Website and Setup Wizard
CPS360: FAST Platform Integration






