We made it! After 6 months of episodes filled with ideas, laughter, strategy, and yes, plenty of merch, we’ve wrapped up Season 1 of the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast. This final episode of the season was all about reflection, creative inspiration, and preparing for what’s next.
Here’s a quick recap of the finale—and why you’ll want to catch it, whether it’s your first time tuning in or you’ve been along for the entire journey.
Lessons from Season 1
Kirby and Jade kicked things off by reflecting on what they’ve learned during the creation of this weekly podcast.
Kirby’s biggest takeaway? The importance of having fun and being authentic. When you’re building content consistently, it’s easy to overthink it. But the episodes that really resonated—and the ones that were the most enjoyable—were the ones that felt natural, unscripted, and just plain fun.
He also talked about the willingness to pivot. Even when you like an idea or plan, it’s okay to change it if something better emerges. Adaptability is a marketing superpower.
Jade shared a powerful reminder for any content creator: “Done is better than perfect.” If you wait until you feel fully inspired or have the perfect plan, you’ll never hit publish. Not every episode felt effortless, but doing the work—even when it wasn’t easy—made all the difference. That consistency added up. Want the rest of the lessons (and the conversation)? Watch the full episode!
Jade’s Creative Process
Jade also gave listeners a peek behind the curtain into a large project she’s been working on. When the pressure’s high, she doesn’t just rely on raw inspiration. Instead, she builds out mood boards, dives into Pinterest, explores colors and aesthetics, and gathers inputs from outside the typical path.
The big insight here? Don’t wait for inspiration—go chase it. Sometimes the act of collecting and curating visuals can re-ignite creativity in ways you don’t expect.
If you’re stuck on a campaign, project, or even a logo design—this part of the episode is a must-listen.
What to Expect at the Hasseman Marketing Customer Show
Jade and Kirby also spent time previewing one of Hasseman Marketing’s biggest events of the year: The Customer Appreciation Show (aka Branding Basecamp). Whether you’ve attended before or this is your first year, they shared helpful tips on how to come prepared and get the most out of it.
Some quick reminders:
Bring your curiosity: You’ll see LOTS of great branded products.
Take notes and take photos: It’s a great place to gather ideas for the next quarter (or year).
Come ready to connect: Whether it’s chatting with suppliers, the Hasseman team, or other attendees, this is a fantastic networking opportunity.
Product of the Week: Proline 12′ Tape Measure
Every week features a standout product—and this episode did not disappoint. The Proline 12′ Tape Measure from HPG is a practical and reliable branded item that gets used again and again. It’s the kind of merch that brings real utility to your clients…while keeping your brand top of mind.
Check it out here: Proline 12′ Tape Measure. Learn more about our featured products and even order for your organization!
Shout-Out of the Week: Good Boy Bakery
Finally, this week’s shout-out goes to Good Boy Bakery, a beloved local business that just received a grant and announced a big expansion. Based in Coshocton, they’ve been a favorite in the community—and now they’re growing!
We’re thrilled to see small businesses succeed, and this is a shining example of turning passion into impact. Great stuff!
Final Thoughts
Season 1 has been a fun, insightful ride—and if this final episode is any indication, Better Merch…Better Marketing is only getting better.
We’ve talked about everything from branded merch strategy and personal branding to content marketing and creative processes. And through it all, the heart of the podcast has remained the same: helping you build a better brand with better tools.
We’ll be taking a short break to gear up for Season 2. Until then, be sure to catch up on any episodes you’ve missed and subscribe so you’re ready when we launch the next chapter.
Thanks for tuning in, sharing, and supporting Better Merch…Better Marketing. Here’s to what’s next!
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.
When it comes to building a brand that sticks, most marketers turn to digital ads, emails, or social media. And while those tools are important, one of the most underutilized and undervalued strategies continues to be branded merchandise.
But here’s the truth: Done well, branded merch can become one of your most powerful marketing tools. It’s targeted. It builds relationships. It lasts.
So in this week’s DMJ 1 on 1, I wanted to break down 10 truths about branded merch—and more importantly, share how you can act on them to elevate your marketing strategy.
1. Branded Merch is Targeted
Not all impressions are created equal. When you hand a product to a client or prospect, you’re choosing who sees your brand—and when. That’s incredibly powerful.
Action: Define your perfect customer and give them something they’ll actually use.
2. It’s the Only Marketing People Say “Thank You” For
No one thanks you for sending an email. But give someone a hoodie, a tumbler, or a hat they actually love? You’ll hear “thanks!”—and that positive association sticks.
Action: Build a “thank you” campaign using branded merch for your best customers or partners.
3. Useful Merch = Repeated Impressions
We’ve all kept a favorite pen for months—or used the same water bottle every day. That’s the power of usefulness.
Action: Audit your existing merch. Is it useful? Is it visible? Make sure it earns a place in their daily life.
4. Design Matters More Than You Think
It doesn’t matter how “on brand” your item is—if it’s ugly, no one’s wearing it. Good design transforms merch from disposable to desirable.
Action: Don’t just slap on a logo. Collaborate with a designer and ask, “Would I wear this?”
5. Merch Builds Internal Culture and Community
It’s not just for customers. Your team wants to feel part of something meaningful. Branded apparel and gear can help solidify that connection.
Action: Launch an internal drop when you hit a big milestone or welcome a new hire. Culture matters.
6. Good Merch Can Drive Action
Want merch to do more than build awareness? Add a call to action, QR code, or unique promo. Great merch can also be great lead generation.
Action: Link a product to a landing page or exclusive content. Measure how it performs.
7. Not All Merch is Created Equal
Cheap merch sends the wrong message. You want to feel proud when someone receives your product—not hope they toss it quietly.
Action: Quality over quantity. Better items, in smaller batches, often make a bigger impression.
8. Branded Merch is a Long-Game Strategy
A digital ad is gone in a scroll. But a high-quality product? It might be building your brand for months—or years.
Action: Think long-term. Invest in merch that reinforces your brand values and identity over time.
9. Emotional Connection Increases Impact
Products tied to a story, memory, or cause have more meaning. They don’t just get used—they get remembered.
Action: Add context to your campaign. Tie your merch to a moment, message, or mission.
10. Great Merch Sparks Word-of-Mouth
When people love your merch, they wear it, share it, and talk about it. It becomes part of their story—and yours.
Action: Make your merch photo-worthy. Encourage people to post about it. That’s the kind of marketing money can’t buy.
Final Thoughts
Branded merch isn’t just a swag bag. It’s a storytelling tool. It’s a relationship builder. It’s a way to make your brand feel real—not just digital.
So the next time you’re planning a campaign, ask yourself: how can I use branded merch not just as a giveaway… but as a strategy?
Let’s keep delivering marketing joy, one product (and one idea) at a time.
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.
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?”
Jade’s take: She’s not loving the phone holder on a lanyard trend. Functional? Sure. Fashionable or necessary? Not so much.
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:
It creates community. Whether it’s a charity fundraiser or client appreciation event, golf outings naturally bring people together in a casual, interactive way.
It opens the door for sponsorships. Merch, signage, branded tees, coolers, and more—there are endless opportunities to integrate promotional items.
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:
Bold, full-color branding
Sand-resistant texture (yes, really!)
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:
Create boundaries around your time to fight off the infinite workday
Question the trends—some products deserve more attention, while others may need to be retired
Golf outings are more than a day on the green—they’re strategic branding opportunities
Summer merch is in full swing, and the quick-dry towel is a must-have
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.
This week’s Thirsty Thursday episode brought all the flavor, fun, and a few mixed reviews as Jade, Briar, and Kirby gathered once again to test out a mystery drink from an impressive piece of branded drinkware. As always, the laughs were plentiful, the reviews were honest, and the drinkware stole the show.
Let’s break it all down.
The Star of the Show: Rhine 2-in-1 Vacuum Eco-Friendly Bottle
This week’s featured drinkware is the Rhine 2-in-1 Vacuum Eco-Friendly Bottle from PCNA. With a 30 oz capacity and a design that’s both stylish and functional, this piece immediately impressed the whole crew.
What sets this bottle apart is its clever two-in-one design. It functions as both a bottle and a cup, giving users two ways to enjoy their beverage of choice. That flexibility makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, tailgates, work commutes, and just about any other setting where hydration or indulgence is key.
We loved the sturdy build, the clean design, and the eco-friendly credentials. Whether you’re sipping water, your favorite sports drink, or something a little more festive like we do on Thirsty Thursday, the Rhine delivers a quality experience. All three of us agreed—it’s a win.
The drink of the day was the Chocolate Cherry Bomb Imperial Stout. The name alone had us curious—was it going to be sweet and rich, or heavy and overpowering?
Turns out, it depends who you ask.
Jade was quick to deliver a thumbs down. The blend of chocolate and cherry didn’t quite hit the mark for her palate, and the heavier stout profile wasn’t her favorite.
Briar, the diplomat of the crew, went with a “meh.” Not terrible, not terrific—just a middle-of-the-road experience.
Kirby, on the other hand, was all in. He gave the stout a thumbs up, appreciating the bold flavor combo and the depth that the imperial style brings. He’s always had a soft spot for creative brews, and this one fit the bill.
It just goes to show, even among friends, taste is a personal thing.
The Real Winner: Branded Drinkware That Works
Even though the drink brought out a range of opinions, one thing was unanimous—the drinkware was a home run. This is why we love doing Thirsty Thursday. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about showcasing promotional products in real life, in fun and unexpected ways.
We’ve featured all kinds of drinkware on Thirsty Thursday—from flasks to mugs to tumblers and more. If you’ve got an event coming up, are planning customer gifts, or just want to stock your team with cool gear, check out the full Thirsty Thursday drinkware shop here.
Every piece in the shop has been field-tested by the Thirsty Thursday crew, which means it’s been held, used, filled, sipped from, and reviewed—live, on camera. That kind of product experience gives you confidence when you’re looking for something special to represent your brand.
Final Thoughts
This week’s episode had everything we love about Thirsty Thursday. A drink that sparked strong reactions, a piece of branded drinkware that impressed everyone, and a good time had by all.
Whether you’re here for the product reviews, the laughter, or the occasional side-eye over a stout, we’re glad you’re along for the ride.
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.
On this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade are back to cover a lot of ground — from building stronger morning routines to building better websites. As always, the conversation is filled with real-world marketing insight, a few laughs, and plenty of practical takeaways you can use right away.
Watch the full episode below and join us for the conversation.
Updating Morning Routines
The episode kicks off with some personal updates as both Jade and Kirby reflect on how their morning routines are shifting.
Jade shares that she’ll be moving to Georgia soon, which means she’ll officially be operating on Eastern Standard Time — the same as Kirby. The change may seem small, but it impacts how her days will start and how she wants to structure her workday more intentionally.
Kirby, on the other hand, talks about how he’s recently delegated a few of his morning tasks to his team. While that delegation helps free up time, it also creates space he wants to fill intentionally. Rather than waste that extra time scrolling or being reactive, he’s thinking about ways to invest that energy into personal development, creativity, or deeper planning work.
Both agree: your morning routine sets the tone for your day. And if you’re not adjusting it as your life and business change, you’re likely leaving opportunity on the table.
Improving Your Website: Your Digital Real Estate
From there, the conversation shifts into one of the most important assets every brand owns — their website. Or as Kirby calls it, your “digital real estate.”
Jade doesn’t hold back when she shares some of her website pet peeves. Things like broken links, outdated info, confusing navigation, or a lack of clear calls to action drive her crazy. In today’s world, your website is often your first impression and a bad experience can cost you business before you even know it.
Kirby adds one of the biggest mistakes he sees: websites that aren’t clear. Within seconds, a visitor should be able to easily understand what you do, who you serve, and how you can help them. Confusion kills conversions. If your visitor has to scroll or search to figure out what your business actually does, you’ve already lost them.
Beyond clarity, Kirby also discusses how a website should serve its audience. That means adding tools, resources, and content that actually help people solve problems, answer questions, or take the next step with your company.
A few simple ways to upgrade your website include:
Make it clear what you do within seconds of landing on your homepage
Ensure your contact info is easy to find
Add lead magnets or free resources
Create FAQ or knowledge base sections
Use video to introduce your brand and team
Keep your site updated regularly with fresh content
The theme here is simple: treat your website like a living, breathing asset, and it becomes one of your most valuable business tools.
Why Welcome Kits Matter
The third segment dives into a topic both Jade and Kirby love: welcome kits for new employees.
When someone joins your team, the onboarding experience is one of the first signals they get about your company culture. A great welcome kit helps them feel like part of the team right away — before they even step through the door on day one.
Kirby shares that the best companies start building culture and excitement even before an employee’s first official day. Sending a branded welcome kit to their home helps new hires feel valued and creates instant buy-in.
Welcome kits don’t have to be elaborate. A few well-selected branded items, a personal note from leadership, and useful tools for their new role go a long way. Plus, it helps build internal brand pride and creates consistency across the organization.
Product of the Week: Year-At-A-Glance Calendar
This week’s featured product is simple but powerful: a Year-At-A-Glance Calendar.
While it might not be the flashiest piece of branded merch, it delivers something marketers always want — staying visible all year long. When a customer hangs your calendar in their office or workspace, your logo is seen every single day. That’s long-term brand reinforcement you can’t get from a quick social post or one-time mailer.
Shout Out of the Week: The Downtown Ice Cream Parlor
This week’s shout-out goes to The Downtown Ice Cream Parlor in Newark, Ohio. The shop has built a great reputation for doing the simple things right. They serve up delicious ice cream in a warm, friendly atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. From classic flavors to the local charm of the store itself, The Downtown Ice Cream Parlor has created exactly what a great small business should be — consistent, inviting, and customer-focused.
Sometimes the best marketing is simply delivering a great product and experience, every single time.
Final Thoughts
This episode is packed with takeaways that apply whether you’re marketing a business, leading a team, or simply trying to build better habits.
A few quick reminders from the conversation:
Review and update your morning routine regularly
Make your website clear, simple, and truly helpful
Use welcome kits to create stronger culture and first impressions
Simple branded products like calendars can deliver year-round visibility
Great customer experience is still the most powerful form of marketing
Be sure to watch the full episode above for the full discussion, and stay tuned for the next edition of Better Merch…Better Marketing.
If you need help with branded merch, welcome kits, or creative ways to grow your brand, we’re always 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.
Can you believe we’ve hit episode 21 of Better Merch…Better Marketing? Twenty-one straight weeks of marketing insights, merch magic, and honest conversations between co-hosts Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider. This episode brings another round of fun, candid takes—covering everything from subtle sales strategies to under-the-radar promo products and the behind-the-scenes details that make events unforgettable.
Let’s dig in.
Organic vs. Aggressive Marketing: What’s Working?
The episode kicks off with a discussion that’s probably already happening in your head (and your social feeds): what kind of marketing actually works these days?
Jade kicks off the conversation by pointing out a shift she’s seeing on social platforms—particularly TikTok and Instagram. Posts that feature a product but do so in an organic, natural, lifestyle-driven way are far more engaging than traditional, in-your-face sales content. The takeaway? Viewers are tuning out loud sales pitches and gravitating toward content that feels like a real moment.
Kirby agrees but adds nuance. While authenticity is critical, platform matters. What works on Instagram may fall flat on LinkedIn. The lesson for marketers? Tailor your message—but always aim to give value first. Your content should entertain, inform, or inspire. Sales come after trust and attention.
Planning a Killer Event? Here’s the Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed
Next, Jade and Kirby tag-team a topic that’s near and dear to our promo-loving hearts: what makes an event truly memorable?
They go beyond swag bags and catering (though those are nice) and dive into the strategic elements that elevate a good event into a great one:
Signage that shines. Your guests should know where to go and what’s happening without confusion. Bonus points if your signs look fantastic in photos.
Create a photo-worthy moment. Whether it’s a branded backdrop or a fun interactive display, give attendees a reason to snap and share.
Capture the data. This one gets overlooked too often. If you don’t gather info, you’re leaving opportunity on the table. Think QR codes, text-to-win campaigns, or simple digital forms.
Assign a content collector. Don’t assume someone will “just grab a few shots.” Designate a team member to document the experience and post in real-time.
They toss around more tips too—but we won’t spoil them all here. Trust us, if you’re hosting a corporate event, customer appreciation day, or even a big internal meeting, this checklist is worth the listen.
The Most Underrated Promo Product? Depends Who You Ask
What’s the most underrated item in the promo game? That was the question on the table—but of course, Kirby couldn’t pick just one.
While Jade sticks to the brief and names her top sleeper hit, Kirby rattles off a handful. Why? Because there’s no one answer—what’s underrated to one audience might be a staple to another. The key is to understand your client, your context, and your why.
One thing’s for sure: simplicity and usefulness win every time. If it solves a problem or becomes part of someone’s routine, it will build brand impressions again and again.
Product of the Week: Hangtune Magnetic Wireless Speaker
This little gadget does it all—it’s compact, magnetic (yes, it sticks to metal surfaces), and delivers impressive sound for its size. Whether you’re heading to the lake, working in the garage, or just need tunes at your desk, this speaker makes a killer branded gift.
It’s the kind of item people don’t just use—they show off. And that’s the kind of merch that builds real brand love.
Shout Out of the Week: Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival
We wrap up with a big community shoutout to the Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival, which is happening this weekend! This long-running event has become a signature celebration in the area, drawing visitors from all over.
From the volunteers to the vendors to the skies filled with color—this festival is a testament to what happens when people come together to create something uplifting (literally and figuratively). If you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by!
Final Thoughts
Episode 21 was packed with practical takeaways, fresh perspectives, and a little hometown love. Here’s your quick recap:
Skip the hard sell—organic content is winning hearts (and clicks)
Don’t host another boring event—plan with purpose
Promo products still surprise—if you choose wisely
Coshocton knows how to throw a balloon festival—go check it out
Be sure to watch the full episode below and subscribe so you never miss a dose of Better Merch…Better Marketing.
Got a favorite underrated product? Or an event planning tip that never fails? Drop us a comment—we’d love to hear it.
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.
