Shawna Hicks Cranston didn’t set out to build a career in print — but when she and her husband went searching for a business that fit their skills and values, they found PostNet. Sixteen years later, she leads a thriving print, shipping, and business services center deeply embedded in the Lakewood Ranch community. In this episode of Her Imprint, Shawna shares how she built her business by focusing on relationships, adaptability, and truly understanding the needs of the people around her.

Shawna also offers a refreshing perspective on competition in the print industry. Instead of viewing other printers as rivals, she sees them as partners — building a network that supports both business growth and customer success. From mentoring employees to raising her daughter alongside the business, her story is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about revenue — it’s about community, connection, and showing up consistently for the people around you.

01:00 – Introduction to Shawna Hicks Cranston
02:00 – What PostNet Offers Beyond Printing
03:00 – How She Got Started in the Business
04:30 – Learning Print While Building the Business
06:00 – Partnering With Vendors and Solving Any Problem
07:30 – COVID and the Rise of Small Businesses
09:00 – Becoming a Community Connector
10:30 – Building Long Term Customer Relationships
12:00 – Starting a Business With a Young Family
14:00 – The Power of Franchise Support and Mentorship
16:00 – Learning From Other Owners and Growing Together
18:00 – Business Growth Through Networking
20:00 – Why Community Drives Opportunity
22:00 – There Is No Competition Mindset
24:00 – Collaboration and Referrals in Print
26:00 – Advice You Can Do This and Build Relationships