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
- Why it’s time to Spring Clean your merch closet
- Product of the Week: The Chillamanjaro Cooler Bag from HPG
- A shoutout to COTC’s Coshocton Promise, providing free college tuition to local residents
🎧 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We all have that merch closet (or cabinet… or warehouse corner) full of outdated, mismatched, or forgotten branded items.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.
Check it out (and order yours) here!
Why we love it:
-
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.
Learn more about this life-changing opportunity here:
https://www.cotc.edu/post/coshocton-promise
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.
