Welcome back to Better Merch…Better Marketing, the weekly podcast where Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider break down the latest in marketing, branding, culture, and of course—branded merch. This week’s episode covers everything from managing the new “infinite workday” to launching successful golf outings, plus a product that’s perfect for summer getaways.
The “Infinite Workday”: When Work Creeps Into Everything
This week, Kirby and Jade kick things off by diving into a fascinating term recently coined by Microsoft—the infinite workday. Thanks to technology and remote work, our ability to connect anytime has slowly blurred the lines between work and life. The result? Many professionals feel like they’re always on.
While that can boost productivity, it also opens the door to burnout and disconnection. Jade stresses the importance of creating healthy boundaries, and Kirby shares the idea that we can send the email when it makes sense—but that doesn’t mean we need to expect an immediate reply. In short, just because we can work 24/7 doesn’t mean we should.
This conversation is a great reminder that intentionality matters—not just in what we do, but when we do it.
Products That Should Trend (and Ones That Shouldn’t)
Next up: product trends in the promotional products space. Jade and Kirby put some popular items under the microscope and ask, “Should this actually be a thing?”
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Jade’s take: She’s not loving the phone holder on a lanyard trend. Functional? Sure. Fashionable or necessary? Not so much.
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Kirby’s pick: Stress balls. A classic, yes—but do they really align with how today’s audiences deal with stress? They might be popular, but they are poison for the environment. Is that really what you want representing your brand?
That said, there are some underrated products that deserve more attention—especially when they’re used in the right context. One insight Kirby shared that might surprise people: Gen Z actually loves print. While they’re digital natives, they seem to really enjoy tangible, well-designed printed materials, especially when it stands out in an all-digital world.
This is your sign to stop assuming everything has to be digital. Done right, print can feel premium.
Why Your Organization Should Host a Golf Outing
If your company or nonprofit is looking for a new way to engage the community, raise funds, or connect with supporters—a golf outing could be your next great move.
Kirby and Jade walk through a few key reasons to consider it:
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It creates community. Whether it’s a charity fundraiser or client appreciation event, golf outings naturally bring people together in a casual, interactive way.
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It opens the door for sponsorships. Merch, signage, branded tees, coolers, and more—there are endless opportunities to integrate promotional items.
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It gives people something to remember you by. When paired with high-quality branded merch, events like these stick with participants long after the last hole.
Jade and Kirby also discuss Shriver’s Hospice, which has created a signature golf outing in Muskingum County that shows just how powerful this kind of event can be when done right.
Product of the Week: Sublimated Quick Dry Sand Proof Beach Towel
This week’s featured product is one you’ll definitely want in your summer merch lineup: the Sublimated Quick Dry Sand Proof Beach Towel from our pals at Terry Town.
Check it out here
Why we love it:
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Bold, full-color branding
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Sand-resistant texture (yes, really!)
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Dries fast, making it ideal for trips to the pool, beach, or lake
Jade led the charge on this one, and Kirby shared how he and Amy recently took the towel on a quick vacation—it traveled well, looked great, and worked exactly as promised. This is the kind of promo item people will use and appreciate. Learn more or shop here.
Community Shout Out: People’s Bank
Last but not least, this week’s community spotlight shines on People’s Bank, which recently donated $5,000 to the Genesis Foundation’s Hospice Capital Campaign. The funds will go toward replacing the Morrison House inpatient facility, a critical part of hospice care in the region.
This generous donation is just one example of how People’s Bank consistently shows up for the communities it serves. It’s always good to highlight businesses that walk the talk. Learn more about People’s commitment to giving back here.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing packed in plenty of thought-provoking insights, helpful product recommendations, and real-world marketing strategies:
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Create boundaries around your time to fight off the infinite workday
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Question the trends—some products deserve more attention, while others may need to be retired
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Golf outings are more than a day on the green—they’re strategic branding opportunities
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Summer merch is in full swing, and the quick-dry towel is a must-have
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Community matters—support and recognize the businesses doing good
Thanks for listening (or reading)! As always, if you need help making your brand more memorable through creative merch and smart marketing, we’d love to help.
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.
