Can you believe we’ve hit episode 21 of Better Merch…Better Marketing? Twenty-one straight weeks of marketing insights, merch magic, and honest conversations between co-hosts Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider. This episode brings another round of fun, candid takes—covering everything from subtle sales strategies to under-the-radar promo products and the behind-the-scenes details that make events unforgettable.
Let’s dig in.
Organic vs. Aggressive Marketing: What’s Working?
The episode kicks off with a discussion that’s probably already happening in your head (and your social feeds): what kind of marketing actually works these days?
Jade kicks off the conversation by pointing out a shift she’s seeing on social platforms—particularly TikTok and Instagram. Posts that feature a product but do so in an organic, natural, lifestyle-driven way are far more engaging than traditional, in-your-face sales content. The takeaway? Viewers are tuning out loud sales pitches and gravitating toward content that feels like a real moment.
Kirby agrees but adds nuance. While authenticity is critical, platform matters. What works on Instagram may fall flat on LinkedIn. The lesson for marketers? Tailor your message—but always aim to give value first. Your content should entertain, inform, or inspire. Sales come after trust and attention.
Planning a Killer Event? Here’s the Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed
Next, Jade and Kirby tag-team a topic that’s near and dear to our promo-loving hearts: what makes an event truly memorable?
They go beyond swag bags and catering (though those are nice) and dive into the strategic elements that elevate a good event into a great one:
Signage that shines. Your guests should know where to go and what’s happening without confusion. Bonus points if your signs look fantastic in photos.
Create a photo-worthy moment. Whether it’s a branded backdrop or a fun interactive display, give attendees a reason to snap and share.
Capture the data. This one gets overlooked too often. If you don’t gather info, you’re leaving opportunity on the table. Think QR codes, text-to-win campaigns, or simple digital forms.
Assign a content collector. Don’t assume someone will “just grab a few shots.” Designate a team member to document the experience and post in real-time.
They toss around more tips too—but we won’t spoil them all here. Trust us, if you’re hosting a corporate event, customer appreciation day, or even a big internal meeting, this checklist is worth the listen.
The Most Underrated Promo Product? Depends Who You Ask
What’s the most underrated item in the promo game? That was the question on the table—but of course, Kirby couldn’t pick just one.
While Jade sticks to the brief and names her top sleeper hit, Kirby rattles off a handful. Why? Because there’s no one answer—what’s underrated to one audience might be a staple to another. The key is to understand your client, your context, and your why.
One thing’s for sure: simplicity and usefulness win every time. If it solves a problem or becomes part of someone’s routine, it will build brand impressions again and again.
Product of the Week: Hangtune Magnetic Wireless Speaker
This little gadget does it all—it’s compact, magnetic (yes, it sticks to metal surfaces), and delivers impressive sound for its size. Whether you’re heading to the lake, working in the garage, or just need tunes at your desk, this speaker makes a killer branded gift.
It’s the kind of item people don’t just use—they show off. And that’s the kind of merch that builds real brand love.
Shout Out of the Week: Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival
We wrap up with a big community shoutout to the Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival, which is happening this weekend! This long-running event has become a signature celebration in the area, drawing visitors from all over.
From the volunteers to the vendors to the skies filled with color—this festival is a testament to what happens when people come together to create something uplifting (literally and figuratively). If you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by!
Final Thoughts
Episode 21 was packed with practical takeaways, fresh perspectives, and a little hometown love. Here’s your quick recap:
Skip the hard sell—organic content is winning hearts (and clicks)
Don’t host another boring event—plan with purpose
Promo products still surprise—if you choose wisely
Coshocton knows how to throw a balloon festival—go check it out
Be sure to watch the full episode below and subscribe so you never miss a dose of Better Merch…Better Marketing.
Got a favorite underrated product? Or an event planning tip that never fails? Drop us a comment—we’d love to hear it.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
We’re back for another episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we gather the crew, pour a mystery beverage into a fresh piece of branded drinkware, and let the fun unfold on camera. If you’ve followed the show, you already know this isn’t just about taste—it’s about team banter, big opinions, and testing out some of the coolest drinkware in the promo world.
This week’s session? Let’s just say it brought the tropics to the table—with a sustainable twist. Watch the latest episode now!
Now let’s dig into the details of this episode!
The Drinkware: Peak Recycled Insulated Sip Or Swig Mug – 24 oz
Here’s the thing—when it comes to drinkware on Thirsty Thursday, we’re not just looking for good looks (although this piece definitely has it). We want function, versatility, and let’s be honest—a little bit of “wow” factor. And this mug delivers.
With two drinking options (hello, flexibility), it lets you choose whether to sip like a latte-sipping pro or swig like you’re cooling down after a long hike. It’s insulated, made from 90% recycled stainless steel, and keeps your drink cold (or hot!) for hours. Also—it’s big enough to hold a real pour. None of that polite splash stuff. This is Thirsty Thursday, after all.
Verdict from the team? A full-throated thumbs up. Jade, Kirby, and Briar all gave the mug high marks—and honestly, we might just start keeping a few of these around the office for everyday use. Stylish and sustainable? Yes, please. Find more about this (and many of our recent Thirsty Thursday pieces here).
The Drink: Blue Chair Bay Banana Rum Cream
With a name like “Banana Rum Cream,” you know things are about to get tropical. This week, we cracked open a bottle from Blue Chair Bay, a brand known for beachy vibes and sweet island spirits.
This particular variety leans hard into the banana flavor—and if you’re a fan of creamy drinks that taste like dessert in a glass, this is definitely one to try. It’s smooth, a little decadent, and made us feel like we were sipping something in a hammock (even though we were very much in Coshocton, Ohio).
As always, the reactions were mixed—and that’s half the fun.
Kirby’s take? A definite thumbs up. “This tastes like a banana milkshake for grown-ups.”
Briar’s take? Also a fan. “I wouldn’t drink this every day, but if you’re sitting by a campfire or hosting a summer party—yeah, I’d have this again.”
Jade’s verdict? A maybe. “I don’t hate it, but I wouldn’t seek it out.” (To be fair, Jade is not typically drawn to cream-based or banana-forward drinks, so this wasn’t exactly playing to her strengths.)
That said, the consensus was clear: if you like banana and you like sweet, creamy cocktails, this one is worth a try. Just maybe have a sip before committing to the full swig.
The Combo: Surprisingly Great
Sometimes the magic of Thirsty Thursday is in the pairing. The sleek, insulated mug made even this thick, sweet rum cream feel a bit more elevated. And because it kept the drink cold, the texture and flavor stayed smooth from first sip to last. We’ve had some drinkware that clashes with the beverage. This week? Pure harmony.
Also worth noting: the mug made clean-up simple. We’ve tried a few creamy drinks in past episodes that left a film or were hard to rinse out. This mug handled it like a champ. So if you’re gifting this with a sweet drink—or just want a premium piece for your promo program—this is a win.
Final Thoughts: Sip, Swig, Smile
One of the best parts of Thirsty Thursday is discovering new ways to use branded drinkware in real life—and this week delivered. The Peak Mug is stylish, sustainable, and functional, and the Blue Chair Bay Banana Rum Cream added a little fun and flavor to the mix.
Want to grab this mug—or check out other branded pieces we’ve tested on the show? Visit our Thirsty Thursday shop to browse items we’ve loved, used, and sipped from with questionable beverages.
And don’t forget to watch the full episode to see our candid reactions, the banter, and maybe a surprise or two. We’ll embed the video right here in the blog, so you can sip and scroll with us.
Until next time—cheers to sipping, swigging, and making every Thursday a little more fun.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
It’s that time of year—sunshine, vacations, and, for some, a slight dip in motivation. On this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider get honest about summer plans, productivity slumps, and the things currently grinding their gears in business.
But don’t worry, it’s not all venting. This episode is packed with laughs, practical tips, and a very cool (and useful) product of the week. Whether you’re counting down to vacation or trying to stay focused during the warmer months, this conversation has something for you.
Watch the full episode here:
Summer Plans: Time Off and Beach Dogs
We kicked off this episode by sharing what we’re looking forward to this summer.
Kirby admitted he’s planning to take most of July off—and while that sounds relaxing, it’s stressing him out a bit. Like many business owners, the idea of stepping away completely brings both excitement and anxiety. Will things fall apart? Will he actually unplug? Stay tuned!
Jade, on the other hand, is counting down the days until she can take her dog Maverick to the beach. Sometimes a little sand, sun, and a wagging tail are all the motivation you need to recharge.
The takeaway? Whether you’re planning a full month off or a weekend escape, making time for yourself is a crucial part of long-term success.
Business Pet Peeves: It’s Not Just You
Next up, we aired a couple of business pet peeves that have been popping up lately—and chances are, you’ve felt these too.
Kirby’s gripe? People not keeping their promises. In a world full of noise, trust and follow-through matter more than ever. When someone says they’ll deliver, call back, or send a proposal and then vanishes—it erodes confidence. If you want to stand out in business today, just doing what you say you’ll do puts you ahead.
Jade’s pet peeve? The dreaded customer service hand-off. You’ve been there—calling with a problem only to be bounced from one rep to another, none of whom can help. It’s not just frustrating; it’s a missed opportunity for brands to make a customer feel valued.
Both issues boil down to ownership. Whether it’s fulfilling a promise or solving a problem, great brands and people take responsibility—and that builds loyalty.
Summer Motivation: Keep It Moving (Even When It’s Hot)
How do you stay motivated when the sun is shining and distractions are everywhere?
Kirby’s strategy is simple but effective: work early. By getting up and moving in the morning—before emails pile up or the day gets away from you—he’s able to stay productive while still enjoying summer.
Jade is challenging herself to post on social media every single day in June. For her, it’s about building momentum and staying consistent. A daily post might not seem like much, but over time it creates engagement, awareness, and discipline.
Summer doesn’t have to mean slowing down—it can be a great time to double down on habits that fuel your long-term goals.
Product of the Week: The Trakard by Rupt
If you’re always misplacing things or want to give your brand a modern twist, this week’s product is for you.
The Trakard by Rupt is a smart Bluetooth tracker the size of a credit card. You can slide it into a wallet, bag, backpack, or even a moving box—which is exactly what Jade is doing as she preps for her next move.
Why we love it:
It’s sleek, modern, and actually useful
It connects to an app for easy location tracking
It’s a great branded item for tech-savvy audiences or people on the go
Branded merch doesn’t have to be boring—and this is a perfect example of a high-perceived-value item that your audience will thank you for. Shop now for details here.
Shout Out of the Week: Joel Jumper and Hartville Hardware
This week’s shout-out is both a farewell and a welcome.
Joel Jumper, the longtime owner of Coshocton Lumber, has sold the business and is heading into retirement. We want to thank Joel for his years of hard work and dedication to serving the Coshocton community.
At the same time, we’re thrilled to welcome Hartville Hardware as the new owner. Known for their incredible store experience and customer-first mindset, Hartville Hardware has an opportunity to expand their legacy into Coshocton—and we’re excited to see what they bring to the table.
Here’s to a smooth transition and continued service to our local builders, homeowners, and DIYers.
Final Thoughts
From beach dogs and business frustrations to smart tech and summer goals, this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing is all about balance.
Summer is a great time to slow down and refresh—but it’s also a chance to reconnect with your purpose, double down on habits, and invest in the tools (and people) that make your brand stronger.
So here’s to motivation, real talk, and merch that matters.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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 to another DMJ 1 on 1—where we take a focused look at one important topic in marketing, branding, and personal growth. Today, Kirby dives into a common trap that businesses and personal brands fall into: relying solely on social media for marketing.
Let’s be clear up front: We believe in social media. It’s an incredibly powerful tool, and if you’re using it to genuinely provide value to your audience—especially through a “give first” mindset—you’re already ahead of the game.
But that’s where the warning comes in. Because using social media is not the same as building a complete marketing strategy. And when social becomes your only channel, you expose your brand to several major vulnerabilities.
Watch the full 1 on 1 episode here:
Here’s a breakdown of why you need more than just a Facebook post to move your business forward:
You Get a False Sense of Completion
“I posted it on Facebook.” Sound familiar?
It’s something we hear from business owners all the time. They believe that because they posted their big announcement, event, or promotion to social, they’ve “checked the box” on marketing.
But here’s the truth: posting once to one platform is barely the beginning.
In today’s crowded feeds, most of your audience won’t see your content the first time around. And even if they do, they might not take action unless they’re nudged again. If you’re only using social and only posting once, you’re not finished—you’re just getting started.
Algorithms Don’t Work in Your Favor
Social media platforms are businesses, and their top priority is keeping users engaged on their site—not ensuring your business reaches 100% of your audience.
Most platforms only show your content to a small percentage of your followers. Even on your best day, that killer post might only reach 10–20% of your audience organically.
That means if you’re not boosting posts or running ads—and even if you are—you’re still missing a massive portion of the people who actually want to hear from you.
You Don’t Own the Audience
This is one of the biggest risks of relying solely on social media: you don’t control the platform.
If Instagram changes its algorithm, if Facebook reduces brand page visibility, or if TikTok goes the way of MySpace, your entire audience can vanish overnight.
That’s why smart marketers use social to build owned media—email lists, websites, blogs, podcasts, and text communities that you control. When you own the relationship, you can reach your audience anytime, not just when the algorithm allows.
Not Everyone Is on Your Platform
You might love Facebook. But your next big client might be on LinkedIn. You may crush it on Instagram—but your referral partner might be an email reader. And let’s not forget the people who choose to be off social media entirely.
If social is your only strategy, you’re missing entire audience segments, even if they want to hear from you.
By diversifying where and how you show up, you increase the odds of meeting people where they are—not just where you are most comfortable.
Social Media Should Be… Social
This might be the biggest philosophical point of the episode: Social media isn’t just a billboard—it’s a community.
If every post is a sales pitch, your audience tunes out. People follow brands and creators because they add value, spark conversation, or create moments of connection.
Use your platform to:
Start conversations
Highlight others
Share behind-the-scenes stories
Ask questions
Celebrate wins (yours and your audience’s)
Marketing Joy happens when you create content people appreciate, not just scroll past.
So What Should You Do Instead?
Again—we’re not saying “don’t use social media.” We’re saying: use it intentionally. Use it as a gateway to something deeper.
Here’s how to diversify:
Use social to drive people to your email list
Share content that leads to your blog or website
Offer downloadable resources to build your owned audience
Repurpose your videos into articles, emails, and podcast episodes
Show up consistently across multiple channels
When you do this, you create a resilient brand—one that grows whether Facebook boosts your post or not.
Final Thoughts
Social media is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal—but it’s just one tool. The most effective marketers are the ones who use it strategically—to serve, to connect, and to grow their own platform, not just build someone else’s.
So keep posting. Keep sharing value. But don’t stop there. Build a system that’s bigger than the scroll.
And remember: you don’t need to be everywhere. But you do need to own something.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
On this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby dive into everything from AI-fueled PR disasters to generational purchasing preferences—with a few laughs, a sharp product of the week, and a well-deserved shoutout to a local summer destination.
This episode covers:
The Duolingo AI controversy and how brands can embrace tech without losing trust
The power of branded merch for events—and why it gets us excited
The buying behaviors of Gen Z vs. Gen X (and where we all fall on the merch spectrum)
A shoutout to The Boathouse Tavern & Canoe Livery—your next summer adventure stop
Watch or listen to the full episode here:
The Duolingo AI Controversy: When Tech Outpaces Trust
If you haven’t seen it, Duolingo recently came under fire for reportedly replacing human voice actors with AI-generated voices—without telling anyone. The response? Not great.
Jade’s take: This was a clear miss in audience understanding. Duolingo’s brand is fun, human, and quirky. So replacing real voices with AI—especially without warning—felt like a betrayal to many longtime users.
Kirby’s perspective: The real issue wasn’t the tech—it was the rollout. If Duolingo had been more transparent, tested the change, or even positioned it as a beta feature, the backlash could’ve been avoided. As Kirby put it, “Use AI in advance—and then announce it!”
At the end of the day, both agreed: we love AI, but brands have to be thoughtful about how and when they implement it—especially when it changes something core to the user experience.
Branded Merch for Events: Why It Matters
As Hasseman Marketing gears up for their big customer event in September (you can register here), Kirby and Jade talked about how branded merch sets the tone for events.
It’s not just swag—it’s expectation-setting. It creates a vibe, builds anticipation, and adds value to the attendee experience before they even walk through the door.
From high-quality apparel to drinkware, totes, and even desk items, well-executed branded merch becomes:
This part of the episode was both fun and insightful. Jade posed the question to Kirby: how does Gen X (his generation) compare to Gen Z (hers) when it comes to buying?
Some key takeaways:
Gen Z tends to value aesthetic, uniqueness, and social responsibility. They want things that look great and stand for something.
Gen X leans into function, durability, and value. Kirby admitted he’s likely to find something he likes—and buy multiples.
There’s no “right” way to shop, but understanding these patterns helps marketers and merch pros design campaigns and products that resonate across age groups.
Product of the Week: LeftRight Scissors from Alexander
This week’s featured product was unexpectedly awesome: the Left/Right Scissors from Alexander.
Why we love them:
Designed for left- or right-handed users
Sturdy, sleek, and surprisingly fun to give away
An underrated office essential—because everyone needs scissors and no one ever buys them for themselves
The magnetic case makes sure these awesome scissors never get lost
It’s one of those “why didn’t I think of this?” branded items that gets daily use and makes your logo stick around longer than a flyer ever could. Click here to learn more and buy now!
Shoutout of the Week: The Boathouse Tavern & Canoe Livery
This week’s shoutout goes to the Boathouse Tavern and Canoe Livery, a hidden gem for anyone looking to soak up summer in Coshocton County.
Whether you’re looking for kayaking, tubing, or a good meal and drinks on the river, this place delivers on all fronts.
Supporting local businesses like the Boathouse doesn’t just make for a great day—it keeps the local economy and culture thriving. We’re proud to give them some well-earned love.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was packed with takeaways for marketers, brand builders, and event planners alike.
Here’s your quick recap:
AI is powerful—but rollout and communication matter more than the tech itself
Branded merch sets the tone and delivers lasting impact at events
Understanding generational buying patterns helps you create more relevant marketing
Scissors are cool—when they’re branded and built for everyone
And summer in Coshocton just got better with the Boathouse on your weekend list
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing—and if your team needs help finding the right merch to stay visible and valuable, we’d love to help. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
