We’re back with another Thirsty Thursday—where the drinks are mysterious, the reactions are honest, and the branded merch is always the main event. This time, Jade, Briar, and Kirby team up to put both a new beverage (that has double the juice) and a fresh piece of drinkware to the test.
So, what’s on tap?
The drinkware: The sleek and sustainable Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA
The drink: Juice Jolt from Southern Tier Brewing—a fruit-forward double IPA with a lot of personality (maybe too much?)
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA
First up, let’s talk about what we were drinking from—and this one got high marks across the board.
Sustainable design: Made from recycled aluminum, this bottle is a win for both branding and the environment.
Generous capacity: At 26 oz, it’s big enough to keep you hydrated throughout the workday or a solid outdoor adventure.
Twist-on lid with carry handle: Easy to transport, secure, and leak-resistant.
Modern finish: The matte finish and minimalist design give it a retail-inspired look—perfect for employee gifts, wellness programs, or event swag.
Jade, Kirby, and Briar all agreed—this is a strong option for brands that want to combine function, eco-consciousness, and style. Whether you’re trying to eliminate single-use bottles or just want your logo traveling around town, this bottle delivers.
The Drink: Juice Jolt from Southern Tier Brewing
Now, the drink.
This week’s mystery beverage was Juice Jolt, a high-octane double IPA with bold citrus flavor from Southern Tier Brewing.
The reaction? Let’s just say… it was mixed at best.
The description on the can made some big promises—intense citrus notes, balanced bitterness, and a powerful punch—but our team felt it landed more in the “meh” zone than “wow.”
What we said:
Kirby described it as a drink that doesn’t quite know what it wants to be.
Jade felt like it had some fruitiness, but not enough to be refreshing.
Briar just wasn’t sold—especially after the first few sips.
Bottom line: We were excited going in, but Juice Jolt didn’t quite jolt us into a new level of beverage bliss. If you’re a big fan of bold IPAs, you might still enjoy it, but this one won’t be making our top-shelf list.
Merch First, Drinks Second
As always, Thirsty Thursday isn’t just about the drink—it’s about testing branded drinkware in the wild and having some fun while we do it.
The Duo bottle shined as the kind of promotional product that blends eco-friendly values with everyday usefulness. When your merch becomes a part of someone’s daily routine, you’ve done something right.
And even though the drink didn’t win us over this time, the bottle absolutely did.
Want More Thirsty Thursday Favorites?
We’ve been taste-testing and merch-reviewing for a while now, and we’ve curated a shop filled with Thirsty Thursday-approved drinkware—including bottles, tumblers, mugs, and more.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for your next client gift, event giveaway, or employee welcome kit, our team can help you find the perfect piece to make your brand unforgettable (and appreciated).
Final Sip
Every Thirsty Thursday brings a surprise—sometimes in the form of a new favorite drink, and other times in the unexpected success of a promo product we can’t stop raving about.
This week?
The drink fell a bit flat.
But the Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA? Total winner.
Thanks for joining us for another round of Thirsty Thursday. If you’ve got a drink you think we should try—or a piece of branded drinkware you want us to test—send it our way!
In this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby tackle the intersection of branding, consumer behavior, and employee engagement—with a healthy dose of fun and a few sharp marketing lessons along the way.
This episode covers:
The rise of plastic bag bans—and the merch opportunity hiding in plain sight
Two very different coffee campaigns—and what they teach us about promises and promotion
A new Gallup study on remote workers, stress, and engagement
Plastic bags are now banned in 12 states (and counting), along with many major cities. While some see this as an inconvenience, Jade—who lives in Colorado where the ban has been in place—says it’s really not that big of a deal.
In fact, both Jade and Kirby see this as a branding opportunity. If your business provides your audience with a high-quality, reusable tote, you’re not just solving a problem—you’re delivering a useful piece of branded merch that gets seen over and over again.
As Kirby put it, this is a great example of “creating marketing that people say ‘thank you’ for.” Functional, relevant, and repeat-use merch is how brands stay top of mind without shouting for attention.
A Tale of Two Coffee Campaigns
This week also brought two contrasting stories in the world of coffee marketing:
7 Brew Coffee launched a clever Mother’s Day campaign: Buy two coffees, get a coffee coolie. It worked—customers felt appreciated, and the gift made sense for the moment. The key? Knowing your audience.
In contrast, Dunkin’ promoted a Nurses Week campaign… but not all locations participated, leading to disappointment, confusion, and frustration. Jade and Kirby agreed that it’s better not to promise anything than to offer a campaign that falls apart in execution.
Marketing lesson of the week: Don’t overpromise and underdeliver. Whether you’re selling coffee or branded merch, clarity and consistency win trust.
Gallup Study: Remote Workers Are Engaged—But Also Stressed
A recent Gallup study found that people working from home report higher levels of engagement with their work, but also increased levels of anger, sadness, and loneliness. It’s a revealing—and important—data point.
Jade and Kirby discussed the balance between productivity and emotional wellness in remote settings. It’s not just about output; it’s about how people feel. Some solutions?
Create space for intentional connection (virtual or in person)
Encourage breaks and boundaries
Look for signs of burnout—not just performance metrics
This segment was a good reminder: Engaged doesn’t always mean okay. Leaders and teams need to pay attention to both.
Product of the Week: Pucker Up—It’s Lip Balm Time
This week’s Product of the Week is a pint-sized powerhouse—the Pout Pucker Mini Lip Moisturizer from HPG.
Affordable and addictive—people keep coming back for more
High use frequency—your logo is seen multiple times a day
New scents and flavors let your brand find its personality
Great for events, giveaways, wellness kits, and retail add-ons
This is a perfect example of small merch with a big impact. Your customer will literally carry your brand in their pocket.
Shoutout of the Week: The Coshocton Collaborative Is Now Open!
We’ve shouted out the Coshocton Collaborative before—but this time, it’s for something big: the ribbon has officially been cut, and the Collaborative is open for business.
Located in the heart of Coshocton, this new space is part coworking center, part innovation hub, and part small business incubator. It’s designed to serve entrepreneurs, startups, remote workers, and anyone looking for a collaborative community to build and grow.
Kirby and Jade shared their excitement for the investment in Coshocton County and the potential ripple effect this space could have across the region. From local economic development to entrepreneurial energy, this is a project worth celebrating.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was a mix of practical insights and inspiring stories, reminding us that great marketing isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about consistency, thoughtfulness, and relevance.
Here’s your quick recap:
Plastic bag bans = opportunity for functional branded merch
Great campaigns work because they deliver what they promise
Remote workers may be thriving—but also need support
Lip balm is small, affordable, and high-impact
Coshocton Collaborative is now open—and the future is bright
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.
Jade and Kirby are back with another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this one is all about intentional practices—whether it’s sustainability, team wellness, or simply clearing out the clutter. As always, they mix actionable ideas with real talk and a dash of merch magic.
In this episode, they cover:
Eco-friendly practices for your business that go beyond product selection
Mental health initiatives you can implement with your team
🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmcRTUigr58
1. Eco-Friendly Practices That Don’t Break the Bank
It’s easy to assume “eco-friendly” means expensive. But Jade and Kirby challenge that assumption by focusing on practical sustainability ideas that every business can implement—without blowing the budget.
Their tips include:
Encouraging team members to bring their own drinkware to the office to reduce single-use waste. A simple idea, but one that builds better habits.
Taking a closer look at your breakroom. Are there reusable containers available? Are you offering sustainable utensils or dishes instead of disposables?
Investing in quality over quantity when it comes to branded merch. If it’s cheap and gets tossed after one use, it’s not sustainable—or cost-effective. Well-made, functional merch will be used (and seen) again and again.
The takeaway: Eco-friendly isn’t just about products. It’s about choices and habits that add up over time.
2. Supporting Your Team’s Mental Health
With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, Jade and Kirby discuss ways to support your team’s well-being—no therapist or wellness app required.
Here are a few ideas they shared:
Do a service project together. Giving back can lift moods and build camaraderie.
Meet outside when you can. A walk-and-talk or lunch under the sun is good for focus and connection.
Check in intentionally. Sometimes a simple “How are you, really?” can go a long way.
The conversation underscores that promoting mental health doesn’t always require a big initiative—just a little thought and consistency.
3. Spring Clean Your Merch Closet
We all have that merch closet (or cabinet… or warehouse corner) full of outdated, mismatched, or forgotten branded items. Jade and Kirby say now’s the perfect time to do some Spring Cleaning.
Why?
Outdated merch sends the wrong message. If your old logo or messaging is still floating around, it may be time to move on.
Stale inventory takes up space. Make room for the new ideas and items that better reflect your brand’s current goals.
Unused items can still serve a purpose. Consider donating them, repurposing for internal use, or offering them in a giveaway.
If your team hasn’t audited your merch stash lately, consider this your sign.
4. Product of the Week: Chillamanjaro Cooler Bag
This week’s Product of the Week is a showstopper: the Chillamanjaro 12-Can Plateau Cooler Bag from HPG.
Stylish and rugged design that looks great while holding up to regular use
Holds up to 12 cans, making it perfect for outdoor events, picnics, or tailgates
Plenty of space for branding, with a retail-inspired look and feel
Padded strap and top handles for easy transport and all-day convenience
This cooler bag is more than just practical—it’s the kind of item people want to use. That means more visibility for your brand, and more value from every impression. Order yours here.
5. Shoutout: COTC’s Coshocton Promise – Free College for Coshocton Residents
This week’s shoutout goes to Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) and their Coshocton Promise—a groundbreaking initiative that offers free college tuition to Coshocton County residents.
Programs like this are powerful because they don’t just support individuals—they uplift entire communities. We’re proud to spotlight organizations like COTC that are investing in the future through access to education.
Final Thoughts
From smart sustainability ideas to community shoutouts, this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing is packed with insight, inspiration, and actionable ideas.
Here’s your quick recap:
Eco-friendly doesn’t have to be expensive—start with your habits
Mental health support is often about connection and consistency
Now’s the time to clean out your merch closet and make room for what’s next
The Chillamanjaro Cooler Bag is a stylish, functional win for events and giveaways
And we celebrate COTC for making college accessible to more students in Coshocton County
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and if you need help refreshing your merch strategy or sourcing new eco-conscious pieces—we’re here to help. 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.
Sometimes the best Thirsty Thursday episodes are the ones that have the worst kind of beer and go a little sideways—and this week’s edition is no exception. From mystery drinks to role reversals (and yes, a pink hoodie), this one had laughs, strong opinions, and a great piece of branded drinkware that we actually wanted to keep.
This time, Jade, Kirby, and Briar took their usual seats—except they didn’t. Jade and Briar switched spots, and for reasons that will only make sense if you watch the episode, Briar ended up wearing Jade’s bright pink zip-up hoodie. It was silly from the start… and only got sillier.
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: 22 oz Full Color Big Game Stadium Cup from Hit Promo
Let’s start with the star of the show—the drinkware.
This week, we sipped (and struggled) from the 22 oz Full Color Big Game Stadium Cup from our friends at Hit Promo.
It looked like a Guinness, smelled like a Guinness… but that’s where the resemblance ended.
The flavor? Thin, watery, and confusing.
Briar’s now-infamous quote: “It tastes like a spit cup.”
Oof.
Whether you’re a diehard Guinness fan or just curious about NA options, we’ll say this: proceed with caution. If you’re after that classic stout flavor without the alcohol, this may not be the one to get you there.
The Vibe: Pink Hoodies and Punchlines
Beyond the drink and the cup, what made this episode fun was the energy. From the moment Briar zipped up Jade’s hoodie and took her seat, the tone was set. It was loose, unscripted, and full of laughs—the kind of vibe that makes Thirsty Thursday what it is.
One of the best things about this series is that it’s not just about drinkware—it’s about real reactions, real people, and relatable branded merch. Whether the drink is a hit or a flop, we always walk away with a product we’d be proud to recommend.
Want to Get Your Hands on Thirsty Thursday Drinkware?
We’ve tested dozens of drinkware items on the show—and we’ve put together a curated shop featuring some of our favorite pieces, including this week’s stadium cup.
Whether you’re planning a company event, onboarding kit, or just want to elevate your branded merch game, these products are tested, reviewed, and team-approved.
Final Thoughts
This episode had everything:
A fun branded item we truly loved
A mystery drink we’ll try hard to forget (with the worst kind of beer).
And the kind of spontaneous, lighthearted energy that makes branded merch feel personal and fun
Thirsty Thursday isn’t just about taste tests—it’s about helping you discover branded drinkware that people will actually want to use, paired with a little laughter along the way.
Thanks for tuning in! 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.
In this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby are back with a blend of wellness talk, favorite work tools, and one branded merch item that’s a hole-in-one.
This episode includes:
Real talk about work-life balance
The non-traditional products they swear by to boost their workday
A peek inside their morning routines
Product of the Week: The Magnetic Golf Towel from Gold Bond
A shoutout to the incredible work being done by Chili Baptist Community Church
Listen or watch the full episode here:
Let’s dig into the highlights.
Tips for Work-Life Balance: Grace, Boundaries, and Intention
The conversation around work-life balance is always a hot one—and this episode was no different. Jade and Kirby each offered a unique take:
Jade’s perspective: Balance starts with intention. Whether it’s time-blocking, setting boundaries, or saying no to protect your energy, being mindful of how you spend your time is critical. You can’t be everywhere at once—but you can choose where you want to be.
Kirby’s take: He pushed back on the idea of perfect balance. “There’s no such thing,” he said. “It’s about recognizing the season you’re in and giving yourself grace.” Some days work takes more. Some days family does. The trick is not trying to achieve a perfect 50/50, but being honest with yourself and being present where you are.
Bottom line? Balance isn’t a destination—it’s a daily practice.
One Non-Traditional Product That Improves Their Work Life
We’re always fans of useful tools, and this week, Jade and Kirby each shared a non-traditional product that has improved their workdays in a big way.
Jade’s pick: A quality mouse and keyboard. It may sound simple, but having tools that feel good, reduce strain, and enhance productivity makes a big difference when you’re spending hours at your desk.
Kirby’s favorite: His microphone and webcam setup. As a content creator and host of multiple podcasts and video series, investing in the tools that improve video and audio quality has elevated his ability to connect—and keeps things running smoothly across platforms.
Lesson: Don’t underestimate the value of the “little things.” Sometimes the gear that doesn’t get talked about much has the biggest impact on your daily experience.
Morning Routines: How They Start the Day Right
When it comes to productivity, how you start your day often sets the tone. Jade and Kirby each walked through their morning routines—and they couldn’t be more different.
Kirby’s morning routine is structured and intentional, including:
Coffee (non-negotiable)
A morning run or workout
Meditation or mindfulness
Push-ups
Breakfast (often at the Coshocton Regional Medical Center cafeteria)
It’s not just about routine—it’s about creating momentum early in the day.
Jade’s mornings are more fluid, but she emphasized getting the body and brain moving—whether it’s journaling, taking a walk, or just having a slow moment before diving into work.
The common thread? Start with something that fills your cup—before the day starts pouring out of it.
Product of the Week: Magnetic Waffle Golf Towel from Gold Bond
This week’s Product of the Week is a favorite for golf fans and corporate event planners alike: the 28” x 12.5” Magnetic Waffle Golf Towel from Gold Bond.
The magnet built into the towel allows it to easily attach to golf carts or clubs—making it super practical on the course
The waffle texture is both absorbent and sharp-looking
It’s a great branding opportunity—especially for company tournaments, charity outings, or corporate gifts
If your audience includes golf lovers, business development pros, or team-building organizers, this towel is a memorable and useful choice.
Shoutout of the Week: Chili Baptist Community Church
This week’s shoutout goes to a group doing incredible work in Coshocton County—Chili Baptist Community Church.
Not only are they building a beautiful new facility to serve their congregation and the greater community—they’re doing it themselves. With the help of volunteers and faithful determination, this group is pouring time, effort, and heart into something truly special.
We applaud the dedication, craftsmanship, and servant leadership they’re showing—and can’t wait to see the finished result.
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was full of insight, energy, and ideas you can use—whether you’re leading a team, working from home, or just trying to figure out how to get going in the morning.
Here’s your quick recap:
Work-life balance is more about grace and intention than perfection
The “little” tools like a mouse or mic can transform your daily workflow
Morning routines don’t need to match—but they should be meaningful
The Maggy golf towel is a sleek and functional branded item for events
And we’re inspired by the dedication at Chili Baptist Community Church
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing. 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.
