Better Merch…Better Marketing: Speakerphones, Sandwiches, and Strategy

In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman cover a mix of travel, brand behavior, and customer experience in an episode we titled Speakerphones, Sandwiches, and Strategy.

From Dirt To Shirt

First, Kirby shares lessons from his recent trip to Honduras with commonsku and SanMar. The trip brought together industry leaders, partners, and entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and strengthen relationships. One of the biggest takeaways is something that applies to any business: great communities create great opportunities. When organizations invest in relationships and experiences, the impact goes far beyond the event itself.

Tasting the Big Arch

Next, Jade and Kirby dive into a marketing moment from McDonald’s. The CEO recently tried the new Big Arch sandwich on video, which quickly sparked responses from competitors who created content poking fun at the moment. It is a reminder that brands are always in conversation with each other and with their audiences. When you create a moment, whether intentional or not, others may join the conversation. Smart brands stay aware of the landscape and understand how quickly content can take on a life of its own.

Turn Off Your Speakerphone

The conversation then shifts to a rule many travelers are celebrating. Delta Airlines recently announced that passengers are no longer allowed to play audio on speakerphone during flights. While this may sound like a small operational policy, it highlights something bigger. Customer experience matters. Small decisions that respect the comfort and experience of customers can strengthen a brand’s reputation and loyalty.

Product of the Week

As always, the episode also features a Product of the Week. This time Jade and Kirby spotlight a sleek double-wall stainless steel tumbler that is both practical and highly giftable. It is a versatile branded merch piece that works well for employee appreciation, client gifts, or event giveaways. You can check it out here.  We feature this amazing products and many others!

Finally, this week’s shoutout goes to two organizations doing great work in the community. The Coshocton Chamber of Commerce and Coshocton Regional Medical Center are partnering to host a Safety and Wellness Event for residents across Coshocton County. Events like this help bring valuable resources, education, and support to the community, and it is always great to see organizations working together for the greater good.

Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing.

If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it. You can find us on YouTube, Apple PodcastsSpotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy,” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place.

And before you go, make sure you grab your free Hit The TARGET bundle at https://hitthetargetbook.com/. It is packed with tools to help you identify your perfect customer, build reach, and execute your marketing with clarity.

Written by: Kirby Hasseman

Kirby Hasseman is the CEO of Hasseman Marketing & Communications, a full-service agency specializing in branded merchandise, digital marketing, and content creation. A passionate entrepreneur, speaker, and community advocate, Kirby creates weekly content through his popular video and podcast series, including Delivering Marketing Joy, Better Merch...Better Marketing, and Monday Minute. He is the author of several books, including his latest, Hit The TARGET, a marketing framework to help businesses reach their ideal customers, as well as Fan of Happy, Delivering Marketing Joy, Think Big For Small Business, and Give Your Way to Success. Kirby speaks to audiences across the country on topics such as marketing strategy, leadership, company culture, and personal development. Known for his energy, humor, and practical advice, he’s dedicated to helping businesses and individuals grow by building strong brands and stronger relationships.