In the latest episode of the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast, Jade and Kirby dive into a fun and insightful conversation centered around creativity, nostalgia, strategy—and, of course, better merch. Titled “McDonald’s Monopoly Marketing,” this episode is packed with takeaways for marketers, business leaders, and anyone looking to make the most of Q4.
Let’s break down the highlights of the show.
McDonald’s Monopoly Is Back—and It’s Brilliant Marketing
McDonald’s has brought back its iconic Monopoly game, and both Jade and Kirby are here for it. Why? Because it hits on two powerful marketing strategies at once: Nostalgia Marketing and Owned Media.
Nostalgia marketing is a term they’re hoping to coin, and for good reason. When you tap into a customer’s fond memories—especially from childhood or earlier in life—you tap into emotion. That emotion builds connection, trust, and attention. The Monopoly game has been a core memory for many McDonald’s fans, and bringing it back in the digital age just works.
But here’s where it gets really smart: this time, the game is tied to the McDonald’s app.
Instead of just peeling game pieces off fry boxes, customers now need to interact with the McDonald’s app, turning the campaign into a powerful owned media play. McDonald’s isn’t just driving visits—they’re building long-term customer relationships by getting people into their ecosystem. That means more push notifications, more loyalty, and more data.
Jade and Kirby both agree: this campaign is chef’s kiss marketing. It’s not just a throwback—it’s a strategic move that any business can learn from.
Takeaway:
How can your business create moments of nostalgia for your customers—and tie those moments to platforms you own (like your email list or app)?
Q4 Goals: The Power of Starting Fresh (Every Quarter)
Next up, Kirby and Jade talk about the fresh energy that comes with the start of a new quarter. At Hasseman Marketing, goal setting isn’t just a once-a-year thing—it’s baked into the rhythm of the business. And Q4 is no different.
Kirby shares how they break down annual goals into quarterly checkpoints. It’s a method that keeps things practical, focused, and achievable. When you only focus on big, long-term goals, it’s easy to lose momentum. But quarterly goals keep the team aligned and energized.
Jade adds that she loves the “reset” vibe that comes with a new quarter. It gives her the chance to revisit what’s working (and what’s not), and bring fresh creativity to her projects.
Takeaway:
If you’re not setting quarterly goals, you’re missing out on one of the simplest and most effective tools for keeping your marketing (and your mindset) on track.
LinkedIn on the Rise
Let’s talk about LinkedIn.
Jade noticed something—and she’s not alone. LinkedIn is growing. Not just in user count, but in content engagement and business relevance. While other platforms are battling algorithms and ad fatigue, LinkedIn is quietly becoming a go-to space for professional content, real conversations, and brand-building.
Kirby has been a longtime fan of LinkedIn and talked about how he uses it to connect with business leaders, share consistent content, and build credibility. The platform is less about viral dance trends and more about value-driven posts—and that’s exactly what makes it effective.
Whether you’re in sales, recruiting, leadership, or marketing, LinkedIn is worth a second look.
Takeaway:
Now is a great time to double down on LinkedIn. Start by sharing what you know, celebrating your wins, and being authentically helpful.
Product of the Week: Gold Bond HydraPeak 32 oz Water Bottle
This week’s featured product comes from the team’s friends at Gold Bond—and it’s a winner.
The HydraPeak 32 oz Insulated Water Bottle with straw lid is a perfect blend of quality, function, and value. Whether you’re hydrating during your workday or keeping your brand in front of your customers, this bottle does the job.
- High perceived value
- Customizable with your brand
- Built for everyday use
This is the kind of merch that doesn’t get tossed—it gets used.
Learn more and get yours here!
Takeaway:
Don’t just give stuff—give merch that earns a permanent spot in your customer’s daily life.
Shout Out: Groundbreaking at the AEP Site in Conesville
Finally, Kirby and Jade wrap up the episode with a BIG shout-out to the recent groundbreaking at the old AEP site in Conesville, Ohio.
This massive site has been under redevelopment since 2020, and now the first business is moving in—a major step forward for the community.
Huge kudos go out to the Port Authority, County Commissioners, City Officials, and the many organizations who have collaborated to make this happen. It’s proof that when people work together with vision and purpose, big things happen.
Takeaway:
Community progress is something to celebrate—and it’s made possible by people who believe in building a better future.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a perfect snapshot of what Better Merch…Better Marketing is all about:
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Learning from smart brands (like McDonald’s)
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Staying intentional with your goals
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Using the right platforms
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Choosing the right merch
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And celebrating progress—big or small
If you haven’t tuned in yet, this is a great episode to jump into.
Catch the full episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing wherever you listen to podcasts—and be sure to share it with a fellow marketer or business owner who needs a little spark.
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!
