It is time for a brand-new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this one kicks off 2026. Let’s learn a few lessons from Quick Serve Restaurants…and much more! Watch now!
In this episode, Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider share business lessons inspired by quick-serve restaurants and what marketers can learn from their consistency, systems, and customer experience. They also break down the top five categories of branded merchandise that people actually keep, offering insight into what creates long-term brand value.
Kirby and Jade then talk through their goals for 2026 and what they are focused on improving in the year ahead. Hopefully, this gets your wheels turning!
The Product of the Week is the Moon Jams Bundle, a fun and engaging kit that brings energy and creativity to branded merch programs. The episode wraps up with a spotlight on Marlite and their commitment to giving back during the holiday season. A strong start to the new year with practical takeaways for marketers and business owners alike.
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 Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
In the final episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade reflect on the year that was and look ahead to 2026. They share a few areas they want to focus on in the coming year, revisit the Dad Was Right/Dad Was Wrong segment including Jade’s realization that cold calling was not as bad as expected, and wrap up with their biggest takeaways from 2025. A thoughtful and candid conversation to close out the year.
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 Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
It is time for another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this week Kirby and Jade cover a wide mix of topics ranging from favorite Christmas movies to real-world sales visits, international policy debates, and a standout apparel item you should know about. As always, the conversation delivers practical insights, a little humor, and a look behind the scenes at what is happening in the world of branded merchandise and marketing.
Favorite Christmas Movies and Some Friendly Debate
The episode opened on a lighter note as Jade and Kirby shared their favorite Christmas movies, and the discussion quickly turned into a playful debate. Kirby listed three films that top his personal holiday rotation: Scrooged, Red One, and Die Hard. Each one brings a different flavor of storytelling that reflects his sense of humor and nostalgia.
Jade, however, made the case that the Grinch is the greatest Christmas movie of all time. She defended the story, the character arc, and the emotional impact, arguing that no other holiday film captures the spirit of redemption and joy quite the same way.
The conversation made it clear that Christmas movies are personal, and every viewer has strong feelings about what deserves the top spot. But we want to hear from you! Jade and Kirby invited the audience to weigh in, and it will be fun to see where this debate lands with listeners.
Kirby Visits Bluffton and the Team Takes Action
The episode then shifted into a recap of Kirby’s recent visit to the region. A lot of progress was made on multiple fronts in a short amount of time. First, Hasseman Marketing officially joined the Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, an important step for strengthening relationships in the area and supporting the growth of the newest team member, Adam.
Next, Kirby spent time training Adam, helping him improve his presentation skills, build his sales pipeline, and understand the Hasseman Marketing approach to serving clients. After that, Kirby traveled down to visit Jade and spent time joining her on sales calls. These in-person interactions help deepen client relationships and set the team up for future success.
This portion of the episode highlighted the importance of showing up in person, supporting your team directly, and becoming involved in the local business community. Whether you are onboarding a new salesperson or expanding into a new market, the fundamentals remain the same. Commit to the process. Build relationships. Reinforce your mission.
The Australia Social Media Ban Debate
One of the more serious topics this week was the recent news about Australia considering a ban on social media for children under a certain age. Kirby expressed mixed feelings about the idea. On one hand, he understands the desire to protect young users from harmful content, addictive patterns, and the pressures of digital culture. On the other hand, he wondered how much regulation is appropriate and whether such decisions should come from governments, parents, or a combination of both.
Jade took a more definitive stance. She believes the ban could be a positive step. In her view, children should not be exposed to social media until they are developmentally ready, and giving them more time before entering that online world could be beneficial. She noted the challenges young people face with comparison, anxiety, and constant digital input, and believes a delay could help set healthier habits in the long run.
The conversation opened the door for listeners to share their views. It is a topic with real implications for parenting, technology, and culture. Both hosts agreed that the audience will likely have diverse opinions, and they are interested in hearing them.
Product of the Week: BELLA+CANVAS Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie
This week’s featured product is the BELLA+CANVAS Unisex 10-Ounce Heavyweight Pullover Hoodie. You can find it here: https://www.sanmar.com/p/64674_Dust
This piece is a standout. It is thick, durable, and designed with a quality that makes it ideal for branded apparel programs, retail environments, employee gifts, or winter promotions. Heavyweight hoodies are trending because they offer a premium feel and long-lasting construction. When someone receives apparel that feels substantial and well-crafted, they wear it more often and your brand gets seen more often.
The hoodie’s unisex fit, modern look, and strong construction make it a smart addition to any merch strategy. If your organization is looking for a winter item that people will appreciate, this is one to consider.
Shout Out: Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce
The shout-out this week goes to the Greater Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. They hosted the ribbon-cutting for Hasseman Marketing and were incredibly welcoming throughout the entire process. Beyond that, they have welcomed 150 new members this year, which speaks to their growth, leadership, and strong presence in the region.
Their support of local businesses and willingness to help newcomers integrate into the community is impressive. Chambers play a vital role in connection-building, resource-sharing, and fostering a business-friendly environment. This one is clearly making a big impact.
Final Thoughts
This episode blended personality, practical advice, and thoughtful discussion. From the fun debate over Christmas movies to the real work of training, visiting markets, and joining a thriving chamber, Jade and Kirby provided insight that applies to both marketing and leadership.
They also tackled a meaningful international issue and highlighted a top-tier apparel product that can elevate any brand’s merch program. And, as always, they closed by recognizing positive work being done in the community.
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 Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
It is time for another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this week Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider cover several topics that blend retail insights, smart marketing tactics, long-term planning, and a standout merch piece you should know about. From Black Friday failures and wins to the importance of QR codes and seasonal strategy, this episode offers takeaways for any organization trying to build stronger marketing momentum heading into the new year.
A Tale of Two Black Friday Promotions
Kirby and Jade opened the episode with a look at two Black Friday promotions that produced two very different customer reactions. One came from TARGET and the other from Lowe’s. Both brands had the right idea with offering giveaways, but the execution yielded very different results.
TARGET promoted an experience. They advertised special gifts, exclusive opportunities, and a large branded bag intended to enhance the shopping experience. The problem came when customers discovered that the bag was filled with underwhelming items. There was a disconnect between the expectation created by the promotion and the reality of what was delivered.
Then came Lowe’s. Their promotion featured a branded utility bucket filled with products that had real value. Useful tools, recognizable items, and a tangible sense that customers were receiving something worthwhile. To take it a step further, Lowe’s added a sweepstakes opportunity, including the chance to win a gift card worth up to $2,000 toward an appliance purchase. The entire campaign created excitement, value, and loyalty.
The lesson from both examples is clear. If you are going to run a promotion, do it well. Make sure the value you promise matches the value you deliver. Customers are willing to engage and participate, but they can quickly tell the difference between a thoughtful campaign and a hollow one. Lowe’s nailed the execution. TARGET fell short.
QR Codes and the Missed Opportunity in Merch
Next, Jade and Kirby talked about the use of QR codes in branded merchandise and marketing. QR codes have become more common across industries, but they both agreed that most organizations still do not use them enough.
The simplest marketing rule is this. For every call to action you include in your digital or traditional marketing, you should use that same percentage of calls to action in your merch. If you invite someone to sign up, learn more, watch a video, or claim an offer through your ads or social, you should give them that same pathway on your physical products.
Branded merchandise already lives in front of your audience. It is handled, seen, worn, or kept nearby. That makes it a prime opportunity to connect the physical world with your digital presence. A well-placed QR code can lead to an exclusive offer, a landing page, a product demo, or a discount. The goal is to treat every branded item as a touchpoint that leads to the next step. Most businesses are still leaving this opportunity untapped.
Seasonal Influence and Planning for 2026
The conversation then shifted to seasonal influence in branded merchandise. Jade talked about the importance of thinking ahead and planning for the upcoming year. Her message was simple. Now is the time to start planning for 2026, not when January arrives.
Businesses often limit seasonal thinking to apparel, but Jade encouraged listeners to look beyond that. Your region, your customers, and your industry should all shape the promotions you plan and the merchandise you choose. If you understand the rhythms of your customers, you can map out smarter, more intentional campaigns throughout the year.
This type of planning helps you avoid last minute decisions that may not align with your goals. It also ensures that your merch program supports your marketing strategy instead of reacting to it. Whether it is event season, recruitment season, outdoor season, gifting season, or onboarding season, thoughtful planning today creates better results tomorrow.
Product of the Week: The Sonosphere
This week’s featured product is the Sonosphere, a standout offering from HPG Brands. It is part wireless speaker and part award, with a one piece minimum and impressive value. It is one of those rare pieces where form and function are equally strong.
The Sonosphere is ideal for employee recognition, executive gifting, year end awards, or branded displays. It has the look of a premium desk award while providing the usefulness of a wireless speaker. That combination makes it memorable and appreciated. You can see it (and many of our other Year End Gifts) here in our shop!
This is the type of merch that elevates a brand and makes a statement, both visually and practically.
Shout Out: Peoples Bank and the Peoples Bank Foundation
The shout out this week goes to Peoples Bank and the Peoples Bank Foundation. They announced that they will be donating more than $150,000 during the holiday season. In addition, they highlighted the volunteerism of their team members, who consistently serve their communities throughout the year.
It is a powerful example of a company that supports the regions they serve in meaningful ways. Their commitment to giving, community programs, and hands on involvement shows what leadership looks like in the financial industry. You can learn more here.
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 Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
Welcome back to Thirsty Thursday, the weekly tradition where Jade Crider, Briar Swigert, and Kirby Hasseman bravely sip unknown liquids out of branded drinkware—all in the noble pursuit of better marketing.
This week’s episode brought a bold vodka, a color-changing party cup, and a quote from Jade that instantly entered the Thirsty Thursday Hall of Fame.
Let’s dive in.
The Drink: Sobiesky 100% Rye Vodka
This week’s mystery drink was Sobiesky 100% Rye Vodka, a spirit known for being clean, sharp, and—apparently—universally despised by the Thirsty Thursday crew.
Reactions were immediate and unanimous:
Jade: Hated it. Absolutely not for her.
Briar: Also hated it. No notes.
Kirby: Hated it and summed it up perfectly:
“It’s a hurricane in a cup.”
But the best moment came when Jade tried to guess the drink and missed badly. Her response:
“I don’t know my vodkas, but I do know my husband.” (Context: Johnny—her husband—was the one who picked this week’s mystery drink.)
Safe to say: Sobiesky is not making anyone’s top shelf around here.
Check out our Thirsty Thursday shop for more pieces we’ve tested and approved: Just Click Here!
✔ Final Verdict
Category
Verdict
Sobiesky 100% Rye Vodka
Hated by all three. Strong, sharp, and not a vibe.
Mood 14oz Hurricane Cup
Big win. Fun, functional, and perfect for events.
Another episode wrapped—full of laughs, strong opinions, and a drink we’ll never forget (even if we’d like to).
See you next week for another round of mystery drinks, merch testing, and the relentless pursuit of marketing joy.
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
