Spotify’s Logo Change Controversy and Products we Just Don’t Get

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Before we dive in, if you want to elevate your marketing and create more intentional growth in your business, make sure you check out the free Free 5 Day Business Bootcamp available from Hasseman Marketing.

In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman tackle a mix of branding, trends, and strong opinions in a conversation centered around sustainability, perception, and authenticity.

The episode kicks off with a discussion about sustainability and purpose-driven marketing. Consumers increasingly want to support brands that stand for something meaningful, but Jade and Kirby discuss the importance of authenticity in that messaging. If your purpose-driven campaign feels forced or disconnected from who your organization actually is, audiences can see through it quickly. The best brands align their mission, messaging, and actions consistently.

Next, they dive into Spotify’s recent logo update and the surprisingly strong negative reaction from users. Even subtle branding changes can create emotional responses when people feel connected to a platform or company. It’s a reminder that branding is not just design. It’s identity, familiarity, and trust. Brands need to understand that changes customers see as “small” may feel much bigger to loyal users.

Then things get a little more fun. Jade and Kirby break down a few trending merch products they simply cannot get behind. Just because something is trendy does not mean it is effective, useful, or aligned with your brand. The conversation becomes a reminder that the best merch strategies are built around relevance and audience fit, not hype.

Product of the Week

As always, the episode also includes a Product of the Week, and this one combines tech, functionality, and everyday usability. Jade and Kirby spotlight the FusionBeat Multifunction Earbuds, a sleek wireless earbud set that also includes multiple charging capabilities in one compact device. It is the kind of branded merch that feels modern, premium, and genuinely useful, making it a strong option for employee gifts, client appreciation, or high-impact giveaways.

You can check it out here:
https://hassemanmarketing.commonsku.com/shop/12b4a1b1-31e1-41a2-abb1-bafd0cc5524e/shop/2ade6d38-fdf7-4cab-83e6-0a1249195f35

Finally, this week’s shoutout goes to Jessica Bowers from Community Bank, who was recently promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. Congratulations to Jessica on the well-deserved recognition and leadership opportunity.

jessica bowers

This episode is packed with marketing lessons, branding insights, and a few strong opinions along the way.

Hit play and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing.

If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, now is a great time to do it. You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy.”

And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. We would love to help.

Smarter Merch, Better Experiences & Perfect Timing

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Before we dive in, if you want to take your marketing to the next level, make sure you check out our latest resources and tools to help you build a smarter strategy.

In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby tackle a major shift happening in the industry right now: the move from logo-driven merch to message-driven merch.

For years, branded merchandise has been about slapping a logo on an item and calling it a day. But today’s best brands are doing more. They are using merch to communicate a message, tell a story, and create connection. When your merch says something meaningful, people are far more likely to wear it, use it, and share it.

Creative Merch That Stands Out

That shift naturally leads into a bigger conversation about creativity. Jade and Kirby discuss how thoughtful design can elevate even simple products. It is not always about spending more. It is about thinking differently.

Great merch answers a few key questions:

  • Would I actually use this?
  • Does it say something I believe in?
  • Would I be proud to wear or share it?

When the answer is yes, your merch stops being a giveaway and starts becoming part of someone’s life.

Turning Events Into Experiences

The conversation then moves into golf outings and events. Too many organizations treat these as routine sponsorship opportunities. A logo on a sign. Maybe a table. And that is it.

But the real opportunity is to create an experience.

Jade and Kirby share ideas on how to make your presence memorable. Interactive moments. Unique giveaways. Something that makes people stop, engage, and remember your brand long after the event is over. The goal is not just to show up. The goal is to stand out.

The Importance of Timing

Finally, they dig into something that can make or break a project: timing.

Even the best idea falls flat if it is rushed. Great branded merch programs require planning. From concept to production to delivery, having a clear timeline ensures that your merch arrives when it matters most.

Last-minute decisions often lead to average results. Thoughtful planning leads to impactful campaigns.

Product of the Week

This week’s featured product is a great example of merch that combines creativity and function. It is a piece that can be designed with intention and used in a variety of campaigns, events, and appreciation programs.

You can check it out here:
https://hassemanmarketing.commonsku.com/shop/12b4a1b1-31e1-41a2-abb1-bafd0cc5524e/shop/6a0a9ad8-d933-4e86-b470-9f84651fa407

This episode is packed with practical ideas for anyone looking to elevate their merch strategy. From messaging to design to execution, it is a reminder that better merch leads to better marketing.

Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing.

If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, now is the time. You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy.”

And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. We would love to help.