It’s time for another Thirsty Thursday, where we put branded drinkware to the test—with a mystery drink, of course! This week, Briar Swigert, Jeff Wickerham, and Kirby Hasseman took on the challenge, sipping on something a little sweet, a little bold, and a whole lot festive.
What did we drink? The Cookie Exchange Milk Stout from Great Lakes Brewing. It was like cookies…and beer! What did we drink it from? The Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle with a Bamboo Lid. Did we like both? Spoiler alert: Thumbs up all around!
🎥 Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle with Bamboo Lid
Every Thirsty Thursday, we test out a piece of branded drinkware, because let’s be real—not all drinkware is created equal. This time, we sipped from the Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle, and here’s what we loved about it:
✅ Lightweight & Durable – Made from aluminum, this bottle is sturdy but easy to carry. ✅ Bamboo Lid = Premium Feel – That bamboo top isn’t just for looks—it adds a touch of style and sustainability. ✅ Sleek Design – The shape is comfortable to hold, making it a great option for on-the-go hydration. ✅ Good Branding Space – Plenty of room for a bold, clean logo imprint.
This gets the Thirsty Thursday stamp of approval! If you’re looking for a high-quality, customizable sports bottle, check out the Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle here: 👉 Ryze 22oz Aluminum Sports Bottle
The Drink: Cookie Exchange Milk Stout by Great Lakes Brewing
Of course, it wouldn’t be Thirsty Thursday without a mystery drink. This time, we cracked open a Cookie Exchange Milk Stout from Great Lakes Brewing.
So what exactly is a Cookie Exchange Stout? Picture this: 🍪 Rich, chocolatey notes 🥛 Creamy, smooth finish ☕ Hints of roasted malt & coffee
This dessert-inspired stout is the kind of drink you want to sip on while sitting by the fire after a holiday party. And in true Thirsty Thursday fashion, we all took a taste and gave it a big thumbs up.
Want to try it for yourself? You can learn more about this seasonal brew from Great Lakes Brewing here: 👉 Cookie Exchange Milk Stout
Final Verdict: A Winning Combo!
When both the drink and the drinkware get high marks, you know it’s a good Thirsty Thursday.
🚰 The Ryze Aluminum Sports Bottle – A solid, stylish, and eco-friendly option for branded drinkware. 🍺 The Cookie Exchange Milk Stout – A rich and flavorful brew that lives up to its name.
Would we drink another round? Absolutely.
At Hasseman Marketing, we are all about fun…and doing marketing BETTER. If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where we dive into branding, business, and the world of promotional products—all while keeping it fun. This week, Jade and Kirby tackled some hot topics, including:
🎙️ Podcasts that inspire us 👟 Nike’s partnership with Skims 🆚 Trendy vs. timeless branded merch 📢 Why fancy office gear actually matters 🚀 A shoutout to the Coshocton Collaborative
Watch the latest episode here now!
Now, let’s break down the highlights.
Podcasts We Love & Why You Should Be Listening 🎧
Podcasts have become one of the best ways to grow personally and professionally. They can motivate, educate, and inspire—whether you’re on your morning run, driving to work, or just need a little lift.
Jade’s Podcast Picks: 📢 Mel Robbins – Known for her high-energy motivation and practical advice on mindset and success. 📢 Ed Mylett – A mix of business, leadership, and personal development, featuring some of the top names in entrepreneurship.
Kirby’s Podcast Picks: 🎯 Alex Hormozi – The Game – Straight-up, no-nonsense business advice from a multi-millionaire entrepreneur. 🎯 Jon Acuff – All It Takes Is a Goal – A deep dive into setting and achieving goals in a way that actually works.
💡 Why this matters: If you’re in business, marketing, or sales, podcasts are an easy (and free) way to keep learning and stay motivated.
What are your favorite podcasts? Drop them in the comments! 👇
Nike x Skims: A Smart Play or Just Hype? 👟
Nike recently announced a partnership with Skims, Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, as a way to better connect with female athletes and consumers.
💬 Jade and Kirby’s take:
Nike’s strategy: They’re trying to tap into a younger, fashion-forward female demographic.
Skims’ role: Skims brings a strong brand identity and a built-in audience that trusts the brand.
Does it make sense? At the end of the day, Jade and Kirby agreed that it could make sense for Nike in the short term as they look to re-make their image in this area.
Final thoughts: The collaboration is bold, but we’ll have to wait and see if it translates into sales and long-term brand impact.
Branded Merch: Trendy vs. Timeless – Which One Wins?
When it comes to branded merch, should you go for trendy items or stick to timeless classics? The answer is it depends—on your audience and your campaign goals.
✅ Trendy items – Great for brands that want to feel fresh, modern, and relevant. But trends fade fast. ✅ Timeless classics – These are reliable, always in demand, and have staying power. But they can sometimes feel predictable.
💡 The takeaway? It’s all about the audience. If your merch is for a younger, trend-sensitive crowd, go for something trendy. If you’re creating corporate gifts or long-term brand builders, invest in high-quality, classic items that will be used and appreciated for years.
What’s your approach—trendy, classic, or a mix of both?
Dad Was Wrong: Fancy Office Equipment Edition 🖥️
In this episode, Jade called out Kirby in the latest “Dad Was Wrong” segment.
The topic? Fancy office equipment.
Kirby originally teased Jade when she wanted premium office gear, questioning whether it was really necessary. But now? Jade stands by her decision—because having the right setup makes her happier and more productive.
The lesson? Sometimes, investing in quality work tools isn’t just about luxury—it’s about creating an environment where you do your best work.
Shoutout to the Coshocton Collaborative 🚀
This week’s shoutout goes to the Coshocton Collaborative, a new space for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and creators in Coshocton, Ohio.
🏢 What’s exciting? ✅ The sign just went up, and the project is getting close to completion! ✅ It’s going to be a game-changer for local businesses and anyone who needs a place to work, meet, or collaborate. ✅ We can’t wait to see how this space supports business growth in our community.
Final Thoughts: Better Merch, Better Marketing, Better Conversations
This week’s episode covered a wide range of topics, from personal growth to global branding moves, marketing strategy, and workspace productivity.
Key takeaways: 🚀 Keep learning – Podcasts are a free way to stay sharp and motivated. 🔥 Brand collaborations can be powerful – But only if they make sense. 🆚 Trendy vs. Timeless? It depends on your audience. 💡 Your workspace matters – Investing in your environment can boost productivity. 🏢 Big things are happening in Coshocton! – The Coshocton Collaborative is set to be a huge asset to local entrepreneurs.
What’s your take on Nike x Skims, trendy vs. classic merch, or workspace investments? Drop a comment and let’s talk!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing, or creative ideas for your brand, let’s chat! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Branded merchandise is one of the most powerful marketing tools a business can use—but only if it’s done right. Too often, marketers approach branded merch the same way they approach traditional advertising, and that’s a huge mistake. Unlike digital ads or billboards, branded merch isn’t just about visibility—it’s about experience, connection, and value.
In this latest video, Kirby breaks down five common mistakes marketers make when it comes to branded merchandise. If you’re investing in promotional products, make sure you’re getting the most out of your merch strategy by avoiding these missteps.
🎥 Watch the full video here:
Now, let’s dive into the biggest branded merch mistakes—and how to fix them.
Obsessing Over Impressions Instead of Experience
Marketers often treat branded merch like other forms of advertising, focusing only on the number of impressions an item might generate. But branded merch is different—it’s not just about how many people see it, it’s about how it makes them feel.
Branded merchandise is the only form of advertising that people actually say “thank you” for. Think about that! When was the last time someone thanked a brand for a social media ad or a billboard? Probably never. But when you give someone a well-thought-out, high-quality piece of merch, they appreciate it, use it, and associate your brand with a positive experience.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Focus on creating a memorable experience with your merch. Consider the quality, the design, and how it will be received—because those factors matter more than just “how many people will see it.”
Choosing Cheap Over Quality
Let’s be real—budget matters. But too often, marketers prioritize cheapness over quality, and that can backfire.
Your branded merch represents your brand. If it’s low quality, flimsy, or falls apart after one use, what does that say about your company? Instead of building a positive connection, it creates a bad impression.
However, cheap isn’t the same as inexpensive. You can absolutely find high-value, cost-effective items that work for your brand without sacrificing quality.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Choose quality over cost whenever possible. Look for affordable but durable items that align with your brand values and resonate with your audience.
Ignoring the Message & Design
One of the biggest mistakes I see is when brands just slap a logo on a product and call it a day. If all you’re doing is printing your company name on an item, you’re missing an opportunity to create something meaningful and engaging.
Branded merch isn’t just about brand visibility—it’s about brand resonance. You want your audience to actually want to wear or use your merch, and that means creating something that speaks to their interests, lifestyle, or values.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Think beyond just your logo. Create a message, design, or theme that connects with your audience. If your merch tells a story, sparks a reaction, or aligns with something people care about, they’ll be more likely to wear it, use it, and love it.
Ignoring Packaging & Delivery
Great branding isn’t just about the product itself—it’s also about how it’s presented. Too often, marketers overlook the importance of packaging and delivery, missing out on a chance to elevate the entire experience.
With the rise of subscription boxes, influencer unboxings, and high-end packaging, presentation matters more than ever. A beautifully packaged product can make even a simple item feel premium and create an emotional impact on the recipient.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Consider how you’re presenting your branded merch. Can you use custom packaging, tissue paper, or a handwritten note to make the experience feel special? A great unboxing experience adds to the perceived value of your merch.
Ignoring the Brand Connection
At the end of the day, the most important question you should ask about your branded merch is:
Does this create a meaningful connection between my brand and my audience?
Branded merch isn’t just about putting your logo on things—it’s about building relationships. If your merch doesn’t align with your brand story, audience, or overall mission, then it’s just another giveaway item that won’t create real impact.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Choose products that reflect your brand values and speak directly to your audience. If you’re in the fitness industry, maybe it’s high-quality water bottles or performance apparel. If your brand is about sustainability, go for eco-friendly promo products. Whatever you choose, make sure it strengthens your brand identity and connection with customers.
Use Branded Merch the Right Way
Branded merchandise is an incredible tool when used correctly, but these common mistakes can hurt your ROI and brand perception. Instead of focusing only on impressions or cost, think about experience, quality, design, and connection.
Another week, another round of marketing insights, branded merch strategies, and a few laughs along the way! At Hasseman Marketing, we love creating content that helps businesses grow while keeping things engaging and fun. This past week was packed with valuable lessons, great conversations, and even a little time with Maverick (our favorite four-legged co-star).
If you missed anything, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s a look at what went down this week at Hasseman Marketing.
Monday Minute: The Sentence That Kills Progress
We kicked off the week with Monday Minute, where Kirby shared a phrase that stops progress in its tracks—“I am already good at that.”
It’s a dangerous mindset. The moment you decide you don’t need to improve, you stop growing. The best in any industry—from elite athletes to top entrepreneurs—never stop learning and refining their skills. The key to long-term success? Stay curious. Stay coachable. Keep improving.
Employee Appreciation Day Reminder (Starring Maverick!)
Jade and her pup Maverick took over the camera to remind everyone that Employee Appreciation Day is coming up on March 7th.
If you want to show your team some love, branded merch is a great way to make employees feel valued and engaged. Plus, Maverick steals the show in this one, so even if you don’t need the reminder, it’s worth watching for the cuteness overload. 🐶
Kirby shared a short but powerful productivity tip on YouTube this week, and it’s something we’re all guilty of doing. Constantly shifting between tasks kills focus and slows down progress. Instead, commit to one thing at a time, and you’ll get way more done.
Delivering Marketing Joy: From Bank Robber to Sales Leader
This week’s Delivering Marketing Joy was a special one. Kirby sat down with Luke Lunkenheimer, who shared his incredible journey from bank robber to sales leader.
Yep, you read that right. Luke’s story is one of redemption, resilience, and growth, and his insights on overcoming challenges to find success are truly inspiring. If you need a reminder that it’s never too late to change your path, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Thirsty Thursday: The Hangover Cure from Las Vegas
Thirsty Thursday is back! This time, we recorded from the PPAI Expo show floor in Las Vegas—and let’s just say, the theme was fitting.
In this episode, we put The Hangover Cure to the test in a mystery drink challenge. Did it actually work? Were our taste buds forever ruined? You’ll have to watch and find out!
Better Merch…Better Marketing: Super Bowl Ads & Branded Apparel
To close out the week, Jade and Kirby dropped a new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where they tackled:
🏈 The best (and worst) Super Bowl ads – Who nailed it, and who made us say, “WTF?”
👕 Why branded apparel shouldn’t be boring – And how to create apparel that people actually want to wear.
🔥 Branded merch trends – What businesses should be paying attention to right now.
If you’re in marketing, branding, or just love good (and bad) advertising, this one’s for you!
That’s everything from this week at Hasseman Marketing! From marketing insights to productivity hacks, mystery drinks, and an inspiring redemption story, it was a week full of valuable content.
Now, we’d love to hear from YOU! Which piece of content stood out the most? Drop us a comment or reply—we always love getting your feedback.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or just want to brainstorm big ideas, we’re here for you. Let’s make something great together! 🚀
Until next week, keep climbing! ⛰️
– The Hasseman Marketing Team
At Hasseman Marketing, we are all about fun…and doing marketing BETTER. If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing! 🎙️ This week, we’re breaking down some of our favorite Super Bowl ads (and a few that left us confused), why branded apparel doesn’t have to be boring, the ONE piece of branded merch every company should have, and—believe it or not—an area where Dad was actually RIGHT.
And before we wrap up, we’re giving a shoutout to John Larsen from OneGoodDeedJourney.com for the amazing work he’s doing.
Watch the latest episode right here 👇
Now, let’s get into the highlights!
Super Bowl Ads: The Good, The Bad & The WTF 🏈
Super Bowl commercials are a big deal. Brands pour millions into creating spots that will make us laugh, cry, or remember them forever. This year, we had some ads we really liked—and some that made us say, What were they thinking?
✅ Our Favorites:
Bud Light’s Ad – Simple, fun, and easy to watch. They nailed the tone.
Uber Eats Conspiracy Ad – A clever and silly ad where they pitch the idea that Football was created to sell you food.
Mountain Dew’s Ad Featuring Seal – An unexpected but hilarious use of Seal (the singer, not the animal).
❌ The WTF Moment:
The Tubi Ad with the Cowboy Hat Head – We both agreed… this one was just weird. Maybe it worked for some people, but for us, it was more confusing than entertaining.
Now, we want to hear from YOU! What were your favorite (or least favorite) Super Bowl ads this year? Drop them in the comments! 👇
Branded Apparel Doesn’t Have to Be Boring 👕
We say it all the time, but it’s worth repeating—branded apparel shouldn’t feel like a uniform.
Too many companies stick to generic polos and boxy t-shirts that no one actually wants to wear. But when done right, branded apparel can be:
✔️ Trendy and stylish—people should actually want to wear it.
✔️ Comfortable and high-quality—if it feels good, they’ll wear it often.
✔️ Well-designed—think about placement, color, and creativity beyond just a logo.
If you’re ordering apparel for your business, ask yourself:
Would I wear this if it didn’t have my company’s name on it?
If the answer is no, it’s time to rethink your approach.
The ONE Piece of Branded Merch Every Company Needs
We had a little debate on this one…
🥇 Kirby’s Pick: The Classic and Cool T-Shirt
A well-designed, high-quality t-shirt is the most wearable branded merch out there.
People wear their favorite t-shirts all the time—so if you do it right, your brand becomes part of their wardrobe.
🥇 Jade’s Pick: Custom Calendars
It’s functional, useful, and sticks around all year long.
Calendars put your brand front and center every single day—which makes them a smart marketing investment.
🥇 Honorable Mention (Because Kirby Broke the Rules): Drinkware
Let’s be real—branded drinkware is one of the best promo items out there.
Whether it’s tumblers, water bottles, or coffee mugs, people use them daily.
A high-quality piece of drinkware keeps your brand in constant rotation.
So, what do YOU think? If you could only pick ONE piece of branded merch, what would it be? Let us know in the comments!
Dad Was Right?!
This is a rare moment, folks. Kirby was actually right about something.
Jade shared how, while her husband was deployed this past year, she actually enjoyed moving home and being around family. While she didn’t expect to love it as much as she did, it turned out to be a great experience.
So, in this one instance… Dad gets to say, “I told you so.” 😉
Shoutout to John Larsen & OneGoodDeedJourney.com!
Before we close out, we want to give a huge shoutout to John Larsen and the work he’s doing with OneGoodDeedJourney.com.
John is on a mission to spread kindness and encourage people to make a difference—one good deed at a time. His work is inspiring, and we love seeing the impact he’s making.
Check out OneGoodDeedJourney.com to learn more and see how you can get involved!
Final Thoughts: Better Merch, Better Marketing, Better Conversations
This episode had a little bit of everything—Super Bowl ads, better branded apparel, the best merch picks, a rare “Dad was right” moment, and celebrating good people doing great things. But at the core of it all, it comes down to one thing:
BETTER marketing leads to BETTER brand impact.
If you want to level up your branded merch, marketing, or company culture, let’s chat. We’d love to help you find the right strategy for your brand.
And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing! 🚀
At Hasseman Marketing, we are all about fun…and doing marketing BETTER. If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
