C.J. Mittica

For those doing business in the promotional products industry, navigating the abnormal has become, well, normal. Each year this decade has brought a fresh set of challenges for both distributors and suppliers to overcome. In 2025, the defining issue has been clear: the U.S. government’s tariff strategy and the resulting economic ripple effects. The impact on the promo industry has been significant.

The question was simple: “Was there a time when you ever considered quitting?” “No, heck no,” said NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Brian Urlacher. “I like being challenged. Putting yourself in those situations where you can be challenged, it’s going to benefit you in the long run. It’s going to teach you some things about yourself that you didn’t know.” The answer was fitting for “How To Harness Momentum & Triumph Over Adversity” – the ASI Show Chicago keynote Q&A with the Chicago Bears legend.

Key Takeaways • Speaker Mimi Brown emphasized that effective persuasion isn’t about being pushy, but rather about building trust, showing respect and guiding people collaboratively. Influence should feel empowering, not forceful. • Brown debunked the myth that people make decisions based on facts. Instead, most decisions are emotionally driven and later justified with logic. Understanding this helps sales professionals connect more authentically with clients.