There is a shift happening in culture. And smart marketers are paying attention.
In the latest episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman talk about what feels like a major movement back toward authenticity. After years of hyper-polished content, algorithm chasing, and constant connectivity, people are craving something different. They are craving real.
Before we dive in, we have a special gift for you. If you have not grabbed your free Hit The TARGET bundle yet, now is the time. You can get the ebook, audiobook, and video course all in one place at https://hitthetargetbook.com/. If you want to get clearer on your ideal customer and build smarter marketing strategies, this is a great place to start.
User Generated Content Is Winning
One of the clearest signs of this shift is the rise of user-generated content. Brands are discovering that content created by real customers often performs better than highly produced campaigns. Why? Because it feels authentic.
People trust people. They trust real experiences. They trust voices that do not feel scripted.
For brands, this means giving up a little control. It means encouraging customers to share stories, reviews, and experiences. It means highlighting real moments instead of perfectly staged ones. UGC is not just a trend. It is a signal that audiences want connection over perfection.
Gen Z and the Return to the iPod
Another fascinating trend is Gen Z rediscovering devices like the iPod and iPod Nano. Why would a generation raised on smartphones go backward in technology?
Because sometimes backward feels better.
These devices allow music without endless notifications. They offer entertainment without the constant pull of social media. It is not anti-technology. It is pro-boundary.
For marketers, this trend is instructive. More is not always better. Louder is not always smarter. Sometimes the brands that win are the ones that help customers simplify.
Homesteads and the Desire to Disconnect
Along the same lines, homesteading and self-sufficiency content are on the rise. People are learning to grow food, bake bread, and live more intentionally. Whether someone is moving to a farm or just planting a small garden, the underlying desire is the same. People want control. They want authenticity. They want tangible experiences.
Brands that can align with this mindset by offering meaningful products, hands-on experiences, or community-driven initiatives are more likely to resonate.
Why Street Style Interviews Land
Street style interviews have exploded online. A simple microphone, a real person, and an unscripted moment can outperform high-budget productions.
Why?
Because they feel real.
There is something compelling about hearing someone answer a question without preparation. It feels human. It feels immediate. It feels honest.
For brands, this is a reminder that you do not need a massive production budget to create engaging content. You need curiosity. You need personality. And you need a willingness to show up.
What This Means for Your Brand
The return to real does not mean abandoning strategy. It means aligning strategy with authenticity.
Encourage user-generated content. Create experiences people can touch and feel. Focus on connection instead of perfection. Simplify where you can.
The brands that thrive in 2026 will not be the loudest. They will be the most human.
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 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 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.
In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman take on a topic that might surprise some listeners: when you should not do branded merchandise.
Before we dive in, we have a special gift for you. If you have not grabbed your free Hit The TARGET bundle yet, now is the time. You can get the ebook, audiobook, and video course all in one place at https://hitthetargetbook.com/. If you want to get clearer on your ideal customer and build smarter marketing strategies, this is a great place to start.
When NOT To Do Branded Merch
Branded merch can be powerful. It builds connection, reinforces identity, and creates lasting impressions. But only when it is done with intention. In this episode, Jade and Kirby outline the key moments when merch does not make sense. They discuss why you should never order merch without a clear objective, why not knowing your ideal customer leads to wasted dollars, and why having no distribution plan is a recipe for boxes sitting in storage. They also tackle a critical one: if your organization is in the middle of a PR crisis, promotional products are not the solution. Fix the trust issue first.
Next, the conversation shifts to the recent Frida Baby controversy. The brand has faced criticism for marketing that many felt crossed a line and appeared to sexualize babies. Jade and Kirby discuss the importance of brand awareness, tone, and cultural sensitivity. Marketing that generates attention is not always good marketing. Brands must consider not only creativity but context and responsibility.
Building A Personal Brand
Finally, the episode moves into a conversation about personal branding. Jade shares why she created her “Branding Bestie” brand and what she has learned from building a distinct voice and identity. The discussion highlights how personal brands can elevate credibility, attract the right audience, and create new opportunities when built intentionally.
This episode blends strategy, current events, and practical advice for marketers and business owners who want to be thoughtful and effective with their brand investments.
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 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 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.
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 would love to help. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free.
In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman break down their favorite Super Bowl commercials, the weirdest ones, and the lessons small to mid-sized businesses can take away from the biggest advertising stage in the world. Let’s watch now!
Just like everyone you know…they did talk about commercials! They talk about the clever “Relax Your Tight Ends” prostate testing ad, Kirby’s love for the Dunkin’ commercial, and the brands that were boldly trolling their competitors. They also share why the Liquid I.V. singing toilet ad missed the mark for them. More importantly, they dig into what smaller brands can learn from the Super Bowl. What events can you dominate? What content can you create? And what would it look like if your company treated a local event like its own Super Bowl moment?
They even have some fun imagining what they would do if invited to participate in the Super Bowl experience.
The Product of the Week is a custom inverted umbrella from PopPromos. It is a practical, high-perceived-value item that is perfect as spring events and unpredictable weather approach. You can check it out here. Click to learn more.
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 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 would love to help. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free.
It’s time for another round of Thirsty Thursday—and this one came with a special introduction.
This episode, we welcomed our newest team member, Claire Bowman, to the table. Of course, Kirby immediately dubbed her “Ever Claire.” Because if you’re joining this crew, you have to have a sense of humor!
What better way to welcome someone to the culture of Marketing Joy than with a mystery drink and a new piece of branded drinkware? Watch now!
The Drink: Svedka Strawberry Lemon Flavored Vodka
This week’s mystery pour was Svedka Strawberry Lemon Flavored Vodka.
First impression? Strong.
Very strong.
But here’s the twist—while it packed a punch, the reviews were actually positive across the board.
Not something we’d typically drink straight.
Definitely something we could see becoming a staple in a mixed drink.
Sweet, fruity, and built for summer cocktails.
In other words: On its own? Intense. In a mixer? Dangerous in the best way.
And honestly, it made for a fun, lively episode—especially with Claire stepping into the Thirsty Thursday hot seat for the first time.
The Drinkware: “The Boss” – 26 oz RPET Water Bottle (Koozie Group)
This isn’t just another water bottle. The embossed imprint elevates it. It feels intentional. Clean. Professional. The kind of piece people keep on their desk, in their gym bag, or in their car.
And that’s the whole point of great branded merch—longevity.
Svedka Strawberry Lemon Vodka: Bold. Strong. Surprisingly solid—especially as a mixer.
The Boss 26 oz RPET Bottle: Clean design. Sustainable build. Premium imprint. A real winner.
And most importantly—welcome to the team, Claire. Or should we say… Ever Claire.
Another Thirsty Thursday in the books. Marketing should be fun—and this one definitely was. Cheers.
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!
This time on the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman talk about the year of big bets and bigger budgets. Let’s watch now!
It is time for a brand new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this one is all about momentum, confidence, and bold marketing moves. In this episode, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman dive into the news that Hershey’s is increasing its marketing budget by 20 percent and shifting more focus toward influencer marketing and digital channels. They discuss what this signals for brands of all sizes and why leaning into visibility when others hesitate can be a powerful strategy.
The conversation then turns to the rising cost of Super Bowl advertising, which is also up by 20 percent. While many brands may see that as a barrier, Kirby explains why he still believes Super Bowl ads remain a bargain when viewed through the lens of reach, impact, and long-term brand equity. It sparks a broader discussion about where companies should invest their marketing dollars in 2026.
Jade and Kirby also introduce the idea of 2026 as “the Year of the Horse” and what that mindset represents for businesses. Energy, movement, confidence, and forward progress define the theme. After several years of uncertainty and adjustment, they argue that 2026 feels like a comeback year for brands that are ready to show up, take action, and reconnect with customers in meaningful ways.
This episode is fun, forward-looking, and filled with encouragement for marketers and business owners who want to ride the wave of opportunity instead of sitting on the sidelines. It is a conversation about spending wisely, thinking boldly, and believing that 2026 is back.
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 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!
