It’s time for another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this week Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie) and Kirby Hasseman are back to talk about nostalgia, growth, travel frustrations, and — of course — great branded merch.
Let’s unpack this week’s topics.
Nostalgia and Experiential Marketing
Jade and Kirby kicked off this week’s episode by talking about a new campaign from Kodak that’s tapping into the power of nostalgia. The company is bringing back old-school cameras, encouraging people to experience photography again — winding the film, waiting for the perfect shot, and developing the photos afterward.
Kirby pointed out that the magic of this campaign isn’t just nostalgia — it’s experience. By giving customers a tactile, emotional connection to a brand they already recognize, Kodak isn’t just selling cameras. They’re creating moments.
The lesson for marketers? Don’t overlook the power of experiences. Whether it’s through an exclusive event, a creative campaign, or a well-timed piece of branded merch, experiences connect customers to emotions — and that’s where brand loyalty lives.
Learning, Growth, and the Power of Repetition
Next up, Jade shared that she’s at the Leadership Development Conference (LDC) this week — both to attend and to be recognized for her PPAI Rising Star Award (huge congrats, Jade!).
She talked about the value of investing in yourself through learning, networking, and surrounding yourself with people who push you to grow. Even if you’ve heard something before, hearing it again after a year of experience can hit totally differently.
Kirby agreed, noting that personal and professional development is rarely about hearing new ideas — it’s about hearing familiar ideas from a new perspective. Growth changes how we absorb wisdom.
It’s a reminder that training, conferences, and events aren’t just expenses — they’re investments in your long-term success.
Travel Pet Peeves (and the Case for Common Sense)
Since Jade was traveling for her conference, it only made sense to vent a little about travel pet peeves.
Her biggest frustration? People who lack spatial awareness — whether that’s standing in the middle of a busy airport walkway or taking forever to get through security. Kirby agreed (wholeheartedly) and added that his personal travel headache is people who don’t listen or don’t understand the “rules” of travel.
Their conclusion: travel brings out the best and the worst in people, but there’s a simple fix — a little patience, awareness, and empathy go a long way. It’s a lesson that applies to more than just airports, too. Whether in business, marketing, or life, slowing down to pay attention to your surroundings can save a lot of frustration.
Product of the Week: The OxFord Backpack
This week’s featured product is one that’s stylish, practical, and perfect for professionals on the go — the OxFord Backpack from AceHigh.
This high-quality laptop backpack combines clean design with everyday functionality. It’s perfect for travel, commuting, or as part of a company gifting program. Jade and Kirby agreed this one deserves a spot in the Hasseman Marketing Year-End Gift Shop— and it’s easy to see why. It’s a functional gift that still feels elevated and thoughtful.
Shout Out: Coshocton County’s New Ice Rink
Finally, this week’s shout-out goes to the Coshocton County Commissioners for bringing a new ice rink to the community. The ribbon cutting is coming soon, and it’s just one of many impressive projects that local leaders have pushed forward in recent years.
Jade and Kirby both reflected on how cool it is (no pun intended) to see momentum building in Coshocton County. From the ice rink to major development projects, the community continues to invest in growth, opportunity, and fun.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was a mix of fun and insight — from travel rants to marketing strategy to celebrating local wins.
Whether you’re creating a campaign that taps into nostalgia, investing in your own growth, or just trying to survive the airport with your sanity intact, the message is clear: stay intentional, stay self-aware, and always keep learning.
Because better marketing — and better business — always starts with better people.
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!
Digital Grabs Attention. Physical Builds Connection. Together…They Build Loyalty.
When it comes to marketing, most organizations feel pressure to pick a side: Digital — fast, data-driven, measurable. Physical — tangible, personal, and lasting.
But the truth is, you don’t have to choose. The most effective brands know that when you blend digital and physical marketing, you create a one-two punch of awareness + connection that builds real loyalty over time.
Let’s explore five practical ways you can make your digital and physical marketing work together.
Start With a Unified Message
You’ve seen it happen: a brand launches a slick online ad, you click to learn more, and suddenly it feels like you’ve entered a different world. The tone shifts. The visuals don’t match. The vibe is completely off.
That kind of disconnect breaks trust.
Your digital and physical presence should look, feel, and sound consistent. If your social media is playful and colorful but your branded merch looks like it’s from a different decade, your audience notices—even if they can’t quite explain why.
At Hasseman Marketing, we encourage clients to think of their brand as a single story told across multiple touchpoints. Whether someone encounters your logo on Instagram, your website, a billboard, or a water bottle, the tone and message should align.
Because when your marketing feels seamless, people feel confident they know who you are.
Use Merch to Enhance Digital Experiences
Here’s where physical marketing can transform your digital funnel.
Imagine someone downloads your free guide, registers for your webinar, or subscribes to your video series. Most companies stop there—they send a confirmation email and hope the lead stays engaged.
But what if you went a step further?
Send a small, thoughtful piece of branded merch that ties into the experience. Maybe it’s a notebook that matches the design of your guide, or a coffee mug that includes the series name.
That one physical touchpoint adds weight and warmth to an otherwise digital transaction. It keeps your brand on their desk (literally) and in their mind long after they’ve closed the browser tab.
It doesn’t have to be expensive; it just has to be intentional. When your physical follow-up supports the same story your digital marketing started, you build connection—and that’s what drives conversion.
Make It Interactive with QR & NFC Technology
We’ve all seen QR codes make a big comeback, but there’s another tool marketers should be paying attention to: NFC technology (the same tech that powers tap-to-pay).
You can now create pens, tumblers, or notebooks that let customers tap their phone and instantly visit your website, a campaign page, or even a personalized thank-you video.
This is where the physical and digital truly merge. At a recent fundraiser, one team printed QR codes on their shirts that linked directly to their donation page. It turned every participant into a walking call-to-action.
Imagine taking that same concept into your next trade show, customer event, or direct-mail campaign. A piece of merch that connects instantly to your digital world becomes more than swag—it becomes a gateway.
Use Social Media to Tell the Story Behind the Merch
The merch itself is great, but the story behind it can be even better.
For our Customer Appreciation Show, we didn’t just hand out products—we told the story of why we chose each one. We filmed behind-the-scenes clips of our team debating product options, explaining why an item fit the event theme, and sharing what we hoped it would mean to our clients.
That authenticity resonated. Attendance went up, and engagement skyrocketed because people felt part of the journey before they ever walked in the door.
So, don’t stop at showing the finished product. Use your social platforms to celebrate the people, creativity, and emotion behind your merch decisions. That’s what transforms ordinary promo into meaningful marketing.
Guide Behavior and Track Results
Finally, remember that every piece of merch can serve a purpose.
By embedding a QR code, NFC tag, or even a custom short URL, you can turn your giveaways into measurable, actionable tools.
Add a simple card that says, “Scan here to book a demo,” or “Tap your mug to join our VIP list.” Then track the responses. You’ll know exactly who’s engaging and which campaigns drive real ROI.
For influencer kits or event boxes, create an intentional next step—like encouraging recipients to post and tag your brand or share an unboxing video. When you combine the tactile power of merch with the trackability of digital, your marketing becomes both human and smart.
The Big Takeaway
Digital grabs attention. Physical builds connection. And together—they build loyalty.
If your marketing feels one-sided right now, start small. Add a tangible follow-up to your next email campaign. Include a QR code on your packaging that points to a heartfelt video message. Or hand out NFC-enabled gifts that drive people straight to your website.
Every digital campaign deserves a physical complement—and every piece of merch deserves a call-to-action.
Because when the two worlds work together, your audience doesn’t just remember your brand… they believe in it.
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!
It’s time for another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing! This week, Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie) and Kirby Hasseman are back to talk about marketing that actually makes sense, creative ways to connect with clients, and a little bit of tech-induced rage.
This episode was packed with fun stories, smart lessons, and a few laughs along the way—let’s dive into the highlights.
Canva’s Confidence: The Power of Transparency in Marketing
We’re starting this week’s episode with a rare shoutout for a big brand that’s doing it right.
Canva—one of the world’s most popular design platforms—recently sent out subscription renewal emails in advance of renewal. Sounds simple, right? But in an era where most companies quietly renew subscriptions and hope customers don’t notice (or cancel), this move stood out.
Kirby pointed out that this shows confidence—and integrity. Canva isn’t trying to trap customers. They’re saying, “Hey, your renewal is coming up. Make sure this still works for you.”
That kind of honesty builds trust. It also makes customers more likely to stay with a brand long-term. As Kirby said, “When you do the right thing, it shows that you’re confident in your value.”
It’s a great reminder for all of us in business: transparency is marketing, too.
Jade’s Creative New Prospecting Strategy
Next up, Jade flipped the script on traditional sales outreach—and it’s paying off.
Instead of cold emails or standard pitches, she’s using social media to introduce herself and her style. She created a video asking people to tag brands that might fit her vibe, and then she follows up by creating short videos showing what merch she would recommend if she worked with that brand.
It’s creative. It’s personal. And it’s fun.
The early response has been fantastic—and it’s easy to see why. It’s a fresh take on outreach that feels more like a collaboration than a sales pitch.
This strategy also highlights something Jade and Kirby both preach: in marketing, show—don’t just tell. Instead of telling people she’s great at branding, Jade is proving it through her creativity and initiative. It’s an inspiring approach for anyone looking to stand out in their industry.
The Tech Glitch That’s Causing Calendar Chaos
Then came the rant (and honestly, who could blame him?).
Kirby shared a growing frustration: companies automatically adding meetings to his calendar without his consent—and when he deletes them, they come back. It’s not just inconvenient; it’s infuriating.
The marketing lesson here? Just because technology lets you do something doesn’t mean you should.
Automation is powerful, but when it crosses the line into intrusion, it damages your reputation. As Kirby put it, “If your marketing tactic makes people mad, it’s probably not good marketing.”
This was a great reminder that empathy should always guide technology use. Ask yourself: Is this helpful or annoying? The answer matters more than the feature list.
Product of the Week: 24-Can Glacier Peak XL Cooler Bag
This week’s featured product is one that’s cool in every sense of the word.
The 24-Can Glacier Peak XL Cooler Bag from HPG Brands is the kind of branded merch that checks all the boxes: functional, durable, and totally giftable.
It’s perfect for tailgates, outdoor events, or employee appreciation gifts—and yes, you can find it in our shop.
With its generous capacity and quality construction, this is one promo item that won’t get left behind.
Shout Out: Friends of the Park Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K
Finally, this week’s shoutout goes to a fantastic local cause: the Friends of the Park Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K!
This event raises funds for the park system in Coshocton County, helping improve the trails, greenspaces, and recreation opportunities that make the area such a special place to live and visit.
Whether you’re running or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a great way to support the community—and get a little exercise in, too!
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing had a little bit of everything—brand lessons from Canva, creative sales inspiration from Jade, and a healthy reminder from Kirby that not all tech tricks are good marketing.
The through-line? Great marketing is human. It’s transparent, creative, respectful, and intentional. Whether you’re designing merch, crafting a campaign, or just sending a renewal email, how you do it matters.
Catch the full episode now and join the conversation. And don’t forget—if you want help creating branded merch that gets people talking (in a good way), reach out to the team at Hasseman Marketing. We love helping brands do marketing that makes people say “thank you.”
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!
It’s time for another round of Thirsty Thursday—our favorite excuse to sip, laugh, and test out a great piece of branded drinkware (all in the name of marketing research, of course).
This week, Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert from Simple Signs & Print, and Kirby Hasseman gather around the table again to take on a fall-inspired drink and a new branded favorite.
Let’s dive into this week’s mix of cozy flavors, sustainable design, and honest opinions.
The Drink: Apple Spice Donut Wine
The mystery pour this week came straight from St. Julian Winery — their Apple Spice Donut Wine, part of a limited-edition fall series that promises “sweet, spiced, and seasonal” in every sip.
The team’s reactions? Let’s just say it was…mixed.
Jade kicked things off with a hesitant but fair review: “Not bad.” You could tell she appreciated the seasonal flavor, but it wasn’t going to be her go-to.
Briar gave it a weak thumbs up — which, if you’ve watched a few episodes, you know means it cleared the bar but didn’t earn a spot in his personal fridge.
Kirby brought it home with perhaps the most accurate description of all: “It tastes… thick.”
In other words, this one’s perfect for fans of sweeter, dessert-style wines that bring a little nostalgia with every sip. Think cider meets donut shop — but with a bit more kick.
The Drinkware: Ball 16 oz. Recycled Aluminum Cup
Now, while the drink sparked some debate, the Ball 16 oz. Recycled Aluminum Cup was a slam dunk.
Everyone on the crew was impressed by this simple yet powerful piece of branded merch. It’s lightweight, durable, and 100% recyclable — a refreshing change from the typical disposable options.
Here’s what made it stand out:
It feels premium. Despite being a cost-effective option, the cup has a sleek, modern vibe that feels great in hand.
It’s sustainable. Made from recycled aluminum, it’s a win for eco-conscious brands and events.
It’s practical. Perfect for concerts, company events, outdoor parties, or even as a giveaway that people actually use.
Jade, Briar, and Kirby all agreed — this one’s a keeper. And with a low minimum order quantity, it’s perfect for companies who want to make an impact without breaking the budget.
If you want to check it out for your next branded event, you can find it (and tons of other great drinkware ideas) in our Thirsty Thursday Shop.
The Verdict
When the final sips were tallied, the Apple Spice Donut Wine might not have taken the crown, but the Ball 16 oz. Recycled Aluminum Cup definitely earned a permanent spot in our merch rotation.
It’s affordable, customizable, and eco-friendly — everything you’d want in branded drinkware.
As Kirby summed it up, “The drink was thick… but the cup was slick.” (Okay, he didn’t say that exactly—but we’re claiming it anyway.)
Why Thirsty Thursday Works
Beyond the laughs and honest reviews, Thirsty Thursday is our reminder that branded merch doesn’t have to be boring. The right piece can be functional, fun, and memorable — just like this show.
Each week, we get to test, touch, and toast to great drinkware options that keep your brand top of mind all year long. Because when your logo ends up in someone’s kitchen cabinet (instead of a junk drawer), that’s a win worth celebrating.
So grab your own favorite cup, pour something seasonal, and catch the full episode of Thirsty Thursday — The Return of Jade “Cider” and the Case of the Apple Spice Donut Wine.
Cheers to great drinks, better merch, and the relentless pursuit of marketing joy.
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!
This week’s Thirsty Thursday was full of laughs, light-hearted banter, and maybe just a little bit of bullying—courtesy of Jade!
In this episode, Kirby, Jade, and Briar tested out the Chili Lime Mexican Lager from Parsons North Brewing Company—and it definitely brought some heat. The crew had mixed reactions, but one thing they all agreed on? The drinkware was a winner.
They sipped (and debated) from the 32 oz Hydrapeak Insulated Tumbler, a sleek and sturdy piece that keeps your beverage cold no matter how spicy the conversation gets. You can check it out or order your own here:
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.
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:
Learning from smart brands (like McDonald’s)
Staying intentional with your goals
Using the right platforms
Choosing the right merch
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!
