Before we dive in, if you want to elevate your marketing and create more intentional growth in your business, make sure you check out the free Free 5 Day Business Bootcamp available from Hasseman Marketing.
In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman tackle a mix of branding, trends, and strong opinions in a conversation centered around sustainability, perception, and authenticity.
The episode kicks off with a discussion about sustainability and purpose-driven marketing. Consumers increasingly want to support brands that stand for something meaningful, but Jade and Kirby discuss the importance of authenticity in that messaging. If your purpose-driven campaign feels forced or disconnected from who your organization actually is, audiences can see through it quickly. The best brands align their mission, messaging, and actions consistently.
Next, they dive into Spotify’s recent logo update and the surprisingly strong negative reaction from users. Even subtle branding changes can create emotional responses when people feel connected to a platform or company. It’s a reminder that branding is not just design. It’s identity, familiarity, and trust. Brands need to understand that changes customers see as “small” may feel much bigger to loyal users.
Then things get a little more fun. Jade and Kirby break down a few trending merch products they simply cannot get behind. Just because something is trendy does not mean it is effective, useful, or aligned with your brand. The conversation becomes a reminder that the best merch strategies are built around relevance and audience fit, not hype.
Product of the Week
As always, the episode also includes a Product of the Week, and this one combines tech, functionality, and everyday usability. Jade and Kirby spotlight the FusionBeat Multifunction Earbuds, a sleek wireless earbud set that also includes multiple charging capabilities in one compact device. It is the kind of branded merch that feels modern, premium, and genuinely useful, making it a strong option for employee gifts, client appreciation, or high-impact giveaways.
You can check it out here:
https://hassemanmarketing.commonsku.com/shop/12b4a1b1-31e1-41a2-abb1-bafd0cc5524e/shop/2ade6d38-fdf7-4cab-83e6-0a1249195f35
Finally, this week’s shoutout goes to Jessica Bowers from Community Bank, who was recently promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. Congratulations to Jessica on the well-deserved recognition and leadership opportunity.
This episode is packed with marketing lessons, branding insights, and a few strong opinions along the way.
Hit play and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing.
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, now is a great time to do it. You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy.”
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. We would love to help.
