Behind The Print: More Than a Magazine
Welcome to the latest episode of Behind The Print, where we bring you the creative stories of industry leaders shaping the world of professional printing. In this episode of Behind The Print, we’re joined by powerhouse publisher, editor, and CEO Trixie Gynn of Custom Trends Magazine. From red carpet coverage to community programs for youth, Trixie is the definition of multifaceted and mission-driven. She shares how she uses print, social media, and in-person connections to uplift small businesses, spotlight global fashion, and create meaningful platforms for creative people. If you’ve ever wanted to turn your vision into a magazine, a movement, or a brand that opens doors for others, this conversation is packed with inspiration.
Below, you’ll find the transcript of our conversation, edited for clarity to ensure easy reading. If you want the full, authentic experience, make sure to check out the video attached below.
7-minute read
“Print gives people something to take home with them. That physical piece helps them remember your brand. Go to events. Hand people something, a card, a little gift. That’s how you make a real connection.” Trixie Gynn, CEO
Transcripts from Behind The Print with Trixie Gynn, CEO, Publisher, & Editor of Custom Trends Magazine and TV
Welcome back to Behind The Print podcast, where we feature industry leaders and uncover the creative minds behind businesses in the professional printing world. Our mission is to provide you with inspiring, actionable resources to elevate your business projects and accelerate your journey to excellence in profit and print.
Today’s episode is More Than a Magazine, and I’m here with Custom Trends Magazine and TV CEO, publisher, and editor Trixie Gynn.
Trixie Gynn: Hi. Hello. Thank you for having me.
Zoe Fisher: Of course. We’re excited to have you. So, tell me, Trixie, who do you serve through Custom Trends?
“This is Custom Trends, baby! We don’t do boring. You can laugh, you can sparkle, and you can still be about your business. When someone picks up my magazine and says ‘wow,’ that’s the moment I live for.” Trixie Gynn, CEO
Trixie Gynn: We currently cover cars, sports, fashion, and nightlife across the world. I’m also a media partner for Thailand International Fashion Week, which is happening in Bangkok this August. It’s my first time in Thailand and I’m excited to bring my magazines with me so everyone can see the amazing quality of our work and of PrintingCenterUSA.
Zoe Fisher: That sounds amazing! We are so excited for you! What problems does your magazine help solve?
Trixie Gynn: We help people bring their business ideas to life. A lot of our audience is made up of new entrepreneurs who are launching something in the summer. They’re looking for web development, product marketing, flyers, and business cards. I help design, save them money, and promote their brand in my magazine. We have a wide audience, so it helps their product get seen and known.
Zoe Fisher: So you’re like a marketing manager helping people build up their brand during peak season.
Trixie Gynn: Exactly. It’s all about learning. Every week something new comes out. Technology keeps moving fast. But you have to balance digital and print. People still want something physical to hold, especially at events. It makes a difference when someone can take something home with them.
Zoe Fisher: Yes. And your magazines are gorgeous. I’ve seen so many issues now and they’re so vibrant.
Trixie Gynn: Thank you. I have an amazing team. Shout out to Ivan Morales in New York who helps creatively direct the magazine. You can put together a beautiful layout, but if the printer doesn’t deliver quality, it doesn’t work. I had that experience early on. The colors were off and the print looked mediocre. That’s not what I want clients to see. They deserve something beautiful that represents their brand well.
Zoe Fisher: So how do you curate campaigns to support your readers and partners?
Trixie Gynn: I track what people read through the digital flipbook from PrintingCenterUSA that I embed on my website. I study the analytics, what pages get traffic, what days are busy, and that tells me what content is landing. That feedback shapes my editorial planning and helps me make every issue stronger.
Zoe Fisher: That’s so smart. You’re always looking to improve each issue.
Trixie Gynn: Yes. I review fonts, colors, layout choices. I take notes on everything. It’s trial and error. I remember which fonts didn’t print well or which combinations popped. This latest issue has Sabrina Carpenter and Michael O’Hearn, and the quality is amazing. The high gloss, the vibrancy, when people hold it, they’re like wow. And that’s the moment I want to create.
Zoe Fisher: I feel like I can always recognize your magazine even if the title wasn’t on the front.
Trixie Gynn: That’s so good to hear. Now I’m doing a luxury landscape magazine, and I’m still learning through that. The dimensions are bigger and it’s a totally different experience. I can’t wait to print it this week. It’s Print Week and I’m so excited.
“We help people bring their business ideas to life. I help design, save them money, and promote their brand in my magazine. It’s not just a one-stop deal. I connect you with partners and platforms across all kinds of events.” Trixie Gynn, CEO
Zoe Fisher: I’ll keep my eyes peeled for that one.
Trixie Gynn: It’s the Warrior Edition, covering sports and fashion from the U.S., Thailand, and London. It’s going to be incredible. I’m bringing it to Thailand for International Fashion Week and I think the luxury format will really make an impression.
Zoe Fisher: What does a typical day look like for you?
Trixie Gynn: It’s a lot. I’m a web developer, so I also have clients who need websites. One of them sponsors my Future Fighters of America program, which serves kids ages 7 to 19 in Texas and Los Angeles. We’ll have a special July print just for them, featuring the kids, their goals, and how they’re staying on track with health and education. That’s a project close to my heart.
Zoe Fisher: That’s amazing. You do so much in your community too.
Trixie Gynn: I try. And if anyone wants to advertise with Custom Trends, just reach out through my website or Instagram. I’ll be bringing a booth to Thailand with all my magazines and products. It won’t just be red carpet interviews. It’ll be a full presentation. And I have upcoming events in Los Angeles too. When you work with me, it’s not just a one-stop deal. I connect you with partners and platforms across all kinds of events.
Zoe Fisher: What’s your top advice for networking?
Trixie Gynn: Instagram. I know it can feel intimidating, but once you understand how to post reels, share links, and build consistency, it becomes your best marketing tool. Also, go to events. Hand people something, a business card, a little gift. It helps them remember you. Then maybe their friend needs something you offer, and boom, there’s your next client. Word of mouth is everything.
Zoe Fisher: Getting started is the hardest part. But it pays off.
Trixie Gynn: It can be a little scary at first. Sometimes people just want to chat instead of do business. You have to stay focused. Keep your posts fun, be yourself, but always keep your business front and center.
Zoe Fisher: Humor helps so much in short-form content too.
Trixie Gynn: Yes. I love laughing at reels, and I know that makes people more likely to engage. This summer, I’ll be visiting seven gyms, covering car events, and attending fashion shows. Every week there’s something happening in Houston.
Zoe Fisher: Are there any awards or projects you’re especially proud of?
Trixie Gynn: I’ve won two Telly Awards. A bronze in 2018 and a silver in 2020 for a Super Bowl project we did for Amazon Prime Video. It highlighted sports and also charity, especially my favorite Houston cat nonprofit. It’s not just about business. It has to come from the heart. You have to care about your cause.
“Instagram becomes your best marketing tool once you understand how to use reels, links, and stay consistent.” Trixie Gynn, CEO
Zoe Fisher: So true. You can feel when it’s real.
Trixie Gynn: Exactly. I love cats. That one is easy for me.
Zoe Fisher: What’s the biggest challenge for Custom Trends right now?
Trixie Gynn: Honestly? Me. I need to be cloned. I do so much myself, editing, designing, publishing, and I’m realizing it’s time to bring in help. But I’m picky. I know exactly how I want things to look, and it’s hard to let go of that control. Still, I need to grow. If I don’t bring in help, I won’t be able to publish as many issues as I want.
Zoe Fisher: That’s so real. We all need help sometimes.
Trixie Gynn: It’s true. I missed a deadline this week because I had a big web project for an industrial company that also supports my youth charity. Everything connects. But I want to get better at delegating so we can grow faster.
Zoe Fisher: What’s something you hope listeners take away from this episode?
Trixie Gynn: Order the free sample pack from PrintingCenterUSA. That’s how I discovered the luxury landscape size. Being able to feel the papers and see the finishes opened my mind to what’s possible. Now I’m planning new projects I never would have dreamed of without that.
Zoe Fisher: Yes. That pack is free and full of surprises. You never know what might spark a new idea.
Trixie Gynn: Exactly. I have a whole list of things I want to create now. Before that, I thought I was limited to the standard sizes. That sample changed everything.
Zoe Fisher: If you had one day completely free, what would you do?
Trixie Gynn: The beach. I would drive to Galveston, soak up the sun, and eat something delicious. I need that reset.
“The high gloss, the vibrancy, when people hold it, they’re like wow. And that’s the moment I want to create. I review fonts, colors, layout choices. I take notes on everything. It’s trial and error. But I know what prints well.” Trixie Gynn, CEO
Zoe Fisher: I love that. So to wrap things up, how can people find you?
Trixie Gynn: Visit CustomTrends.TV or follow me on Instagram at @CustomTrends. Those are the two places I’m always active.
Zoe Fisher: Thank you, Trixie. It’s been so fun having you on the show. I can’t wait to see the new issues and hear all about your trip to Thailand.
Trixie Gynn: Thank you. I’m excited too. The fall issue will be amazing. It’s going to include everything from the trip. Food, fashion, culture, all of it. I can’t wait to bring it to life.
That’s a wrap on another episode of Behind The Print. Thanks to our listeners for joining us as we explore the artistry and innovation of the printing world. Remember, have a strong vision, build the right strategy, and use tools like print to amplify your message and make your brand stand out.
If you enjoyed today’s episode, be sure to get your sample pack today from PrintingCenterUSA.com and share it with your fellow business enthusiasts. Until next time, keep your creative sparks flying, and remember, there’s always more to discover behind the print.
Custom Made Trend Setting
Through Custom Trends, Trixie Gynn is showing that real impact happens when you lead with heart and hustle.
From honoring entrepreneurs and athletes to giving kids a platform to shine, her work reminds us that print is more than a product. It’s a powerful tool for storytelling, connection, and community. Whether you’re building a brand, launching a creative project, or dreaming of your first magazine cover, high-quality printing can help you turn your passion into something people can hold on to. Order today!
Listen to the full episode on Spotify or check out the interview on YouTube!
