Welcome to another episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we venture into the exciting world of beverages, this time with a mystery drink that promises to tantalize your taste buds. In this episode, we not only delve into the unique flavor profile of this enigmatic drink but also introduce you to the stylish drinkware we’re using, the 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass.
Thirsty Thursday is all about exploring new flavors and sharing our experiences with you. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine beverages or just looking for something new to try, we’re here to guide you. In this episode, we’re sipping on a mystery drink that has left us intrigued and delighted. We’re also showcasing the 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass, a piece of drinkware that’s as functional as it is stylish.
Branded Drinkware – 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass
Let’s start by introducing the drinkware we’re using in this episode. We’re sipping from the 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass, a brand known for its quality and style. We were lucky enough to get our hands on these at a recent event and we’ve been in love with them ever since.
Currently on special for just $4.95 with a one-color imprint, these glasses are a steal. But it’s not just the price that’s impressive. The Elemental series features a 3D feel and bamboo accents, making it not just visually appealing but also environmentally friendly. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite beverage while also doing your bit for the planet.
Tasting the Mystery Drink
Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the mystery drink. On the first sip, the drink tastes like Baja Blast, a flavor similar to Mountain Dew (according to Jade). It’s a refreshing taste that’s perfect for a hot summer day. But there’s more to this drink than just its initial flavor.
We also found it comparable to the Truly Lemonades, another popular beverage. But what sets this mystery drink apart is its alcohol content. Despite having 5% alcohol, it contains zero sugar, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those who like to enjoy a drink or two without worrying about the calories.
Review and Recommendation
After thoroughly tasting and analyzing the mystery drink, it’s time for our review. We thoroughly enjoyed the drink and gave it a thumbs up. The unique flavor profile, combined with the zero sugar content, makes it a winner in our books.
However, we do have one caveat. Given its alcohol content, we wouldn’t recommend drinking more than one can. As for the drinkware, the 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass gets our full endorsement. Whether you’re looking for a gift or need drinkware for summer events, this series is a great choice.
Conclusion
That brings us to the end of this episode of Thirsty Thursday. We hope you enjoyed our exploration of the mystery drink and the 20 oz Elemental series from Modern Glass. We’d like to thank you for joining us on this journey and look forward to sharing more exciting beverage experiences with you in the future.
Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up. Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up. This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Taylor Borst about creating great events and saying YES to opportunities outside of your comfort zone.
In this Delivering Marketing Joy, Taylor Borst, the Senior Director of Marketing and Vendor Relations at ASB, pulls back the curtain to reveal the intricate behind-the-scenes work that goes into orchestrating successful events. Taylor’s insights offer a unique perspective on the event planning and marketing industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
From discussing upcoming events to the evolution of her role, Taylor provides a comprehensive overview of her work at ASB. She delves into the importance of building relationships within the industry, the challenges and insights gained in vendor relations, and the philosophy behind creating events that foster long-lasting connections.
Upcoming Events
As the Senior Director of Marketing and Vendor Relations at ASB, Taylor Borst is always looking ahead to the next big event. In the video, she mentions two upcoming events that the team is currently preparing for – an end-user show in Minnesota and a similar event in Denver. These events are significant milestones in ASB’s calendar, requiring meticulous planning and coordination.
Each event is a unique opportunity for ASB to showcase its offerings and build relationships with end users. The team puts in a lot of effort to ensure that each event is a success, from securing the venue to coordinating with vendors and ensuring that every attendee has a memorable experience.
ASB Accelerate Event and Summit
ASB is also gearing up for an ASV accelerate event and their 10th-anniversary Summit. These events are significant landmarks for the company, marking a decade of success and growth. The ASV Accelerate event is designed to fast-track the success of ASB’s partners, providing them with valuable insights and resources.
The 10th-anniversary Summit, on the other hand, is a celebration of ASB’s journey so far. It’s an opportunity for the team to reflect on their achievements, learn from their experiences, and set goals for the future. Taylor and her team are working tirelessly to ensure that these events are memorable and impactful.
Website Refresh and Trend Report
In addition to planning events, ASB is also working on a website refresh and updating a trend report for sales associates. The website refresh is a crucial project aimed at improving the user experience and showcasing ASB’s offerings in the best possible light. The updated trend report, on the other hand, will provide sales associates with valuable insights into the latest industry trends, helping them stay ahead of the curve.
Both these projects underscore ASB’s commitment to continuous improvement and staying at the forefront of the industry. They are a testament to the team’s dedication to providing the best resources and support to their partners and associates.
Collaboration and Building Relationships
One of the key themes that Taylor emphasizes in the video is the importance of collaboration and building relationships in the industry. She believes that success in the event planning and marketing industry is built on strong relationships – with vendors, partners, and attendees.
Collaboration is at the heart of everything ASB does. From planning events to updating their website, every project is a team effort. Taylor also highlights the importance of building strong relationships with vendors, as these partnerships are crucial for the success of their events.
Evolution of Role and Insights in Vendor Relations
Taylor also discusses the evolution of her role at ASB and the insights she has gained in vendor relations. Over the years, she has learned to navigate the challenges of vendor relations, gaining valuable insights that have helped her in her role.
She talks about the importance of understanding the needs and expectations of vendors, and how this understanding can help create successful events. Her experiences in vendor relations have also taught her the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the fast-paced world of event planning and marketing.
Creating Events with Great Experiences and Long-lasting Connections
Creating events that provide great experiences and foster long-lasting connections is at the heart of ASB’s philosophy. Taylor shares how the team focuses on every attendee as a customer, ensuring that each person feels valued and appreciated.
They prioritize attendee feedback, utilizing a vendor advisory board for input, and conduct multiple site visits for each property to ensure everything is perfect. They also learn from other industry events, constantly seeking ways to improve and provide the best experience for their attendees.
Saying Yes to Opportunities Outside of Comfort Zone
Taylor emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities outside of one’s comfort zone. She believes that growth comes from challenging oneself and stepping into the unknown. She cautions against using boundaries as a crutch and encourages intentional decision-making.
Whether it’s taking on a new project or stepping into a new role, Taylor believes in embracing challenges and learning from them. This mindset has been instrumental in her success and is a key part of ASB’s culture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Taylor highlights the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and continuous learning in the event planning and marketing industry. She believes that success comes from working together, building strong relationships, and constantly seeking ways to improve.
Her insights offer a unique perspective on the industry, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into creating successful events. Whether you’re an industry professional or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, Taylor’s insights offer valuable lessons and inspiration.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby talks talk about the importance of reading and 5 books he thinks every entrepreneur (and aspiring entrepreneur) should read.
DMJ 1 on 1: 5 Books Every Entrepreneur Should Read
Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges, opportunities, and lessons. One of the best ways to navigate this journey is by learning from those who have walked the path before. This is where books come in. They offer a wealth of knowledge, insights, and experiences that can help entrepreneurs avoid common pitfalls, make informed decisions, and ultimately succeed in their ventures. This DMJ 1 on 1 discusses five must-read books for every entrepreneur. These books cover a wide range of topics, from creating scalable businesses and improving profitability, to understanding customer needs and launching successful businesses.
Reading is an investment in oneself. It not only broadens one’s knowledge but also improves communication skills, which are vital for any entrepreneur. The more you read, the more you understand the world around you and the better you can communicate your ideas, thoughts, and feelings. This can lead to increased earnings, as you can articulate your business ideas more effectively, negotiate better deals, and build stronger relationships with your clients, partners, and employees.
“E-Myth Mastery” by Michael Gerber
“E-Myth Mastery” by Michael Gerber is a must-read for every entrepreneur. The book demystifies the myths surrounding starting and running a business, and provides a clear roadmap for entrepreneurial success. Gerber emphasizes the importance of creating systems and processes in a business. These systems and processes, he argues, are the backbone of any successful business, allowing for repeatable success and scalability.
Gerber’s book is a masterclass on the importance of scalability in business. He explains that a scalable business is one that can handle increased demand without compromising performance or losing revenue. This is achieved through effective systems and processes that ensure every aspect of the business runs smoothly. By understanding and implementing the principles in this book, entrepreneurs can build businesses that are not only profitable but also scalable.
“Profit First” by Mike Michaelowicz
“Profit First” by Mike Michaelowicz is another essential read for entrepreneurs. Michaelowicz introduces an innovative accounting system specifically designed for entrepreneurs. This system, he claims, can significantly impact a business’s profitability, leading to financial success and stability.
The book also tackles the issue of entrepreneurial poverty, a situation where entrepreneurs are constantly struggling financially despite running successful businesses. Michaelowicz’s accounting system aims to eradicate this problem by ensuring that profits are prioritized. By applying the principles in this book, entrepreneurs can transform their businesses into profitable ventures.
“Buy Back Your Time” by Dan Martell
Time is a precious commodity for entrepreneurs. In “Buy Back Your Time,” Dan Martell explores the concept of delegating tasks to buy back time and focus on driving the business. Martell argues that entrepreneurs often find themselves running out of time because they try to do everything themselves. This, he says, is a recipe for burnout and business failure.
Martell suggests that by hiring the right people and delegating tasks, entrepreneurs can free up their time to focus on what they do best – driving the business. This not only leads to better business performance but also improves work-life balance. This book is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking to maximize their time and productivity.
“100 Million Dollar Offers” by Alex Hermozi
Understanding the market and customer needs is key to business success. In “100 Million Dollar Offers,” Alex Hermozi emphasizes this point. He explains how entrepreneurs can create offers that are so irresistible that people can’t refuse them. This, he says, is the secret to generating massive sales and revenue.
Orosi’s book provides insights into understanding the market and customers, and how to add value and answer objections. By applying these principles, entrepreneurs can create offers that not only attract customers but also lead to repeat business and referrals. This book is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking to create irresistible offers and drive sales.
“12 Months to a Million” by Ryan Daniel Moran
“12 Months to a Million” by Ryan Daniel Moran is a guide for entrepreneurs looking to launch a successful business and achieve a million dollars in revenue within a year. Moran shares strategies for understanding the audience, narrowing in on a specific product, and applying strategies for success.
Moran’s book is a roadmap for rapid business growth. He explains how entrepreneurs can launch a business and achieve rapid growth by understanding their audience and offering a product that meets their needs. By applying the strategies in this book, entrepreneurs can achieve their financial goals and build successful businesses.
Bonus: “Hit the Target” by Kirby Hasseman
As a bonus, Kirby recommends his own book, “Hit the Target.” This book is a guide for those looking to start or market their business more effectively. It provides insights into understanding the market, creating irresistible offers, and driving sales.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recommended books provide a wealth of knowledge and insights for entrepreneurs. They cover a wide range of topics, from creating scalable businesses, improving profitability, delegating tasks, and understanding customer needs, to launching successful businesses. By reading these books, entrepreneurs can equip themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the entrepreneurial journey and achieve success.
So there you have it! These are the 5 books that every entrepreneur should read! As always, we want to provide you with value. So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby talks about mastering the 3 R’s of business…and how branded merch can help. Watch now!
How To Master The 3 R’s Of Business with Branded Merch
Mastering the three R’s of business – retention, repeat business, and referrals – is a crucial aspect of any successful enterprise. In this article, we delve into the importance of these three R’s and how branded merchandise can be leveraged to optimize these business aspects. We’ll explore how showing appreciation to your customers can significantly improve retention, how branded merchandise can boost repeat business, and how it can also incentivize referrals, thereby contributing to business growth.
Branded merchandise is not just a marketing tool; it’s a tangible representation of your brand that customers can appreciate and remember. It’s a way to make your business more top-of-mind for your customers, increasing the likelihood of repeat business and referrals. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to master the three R’s of business with branded merch.
Retention
Customer retention is a vital aspect of any successful business. It’s often said that it’s cheaper to keep an existing customer than to acquire a new one. However, many businesses lose customers due to perceived indifference. This is where showing appreciation to your customers comes into play.
One effective way to show appreciation is through the use of branded merchandise. It’s a tangible way to express gratitude, making your customers feel valued and appreciated. Consider creating a quarterly appreciation program for your top customers, where you can distribute branded merchandise as tokens of your appreciation. This not only improves customer retention but also strengthens your brand’s relationship with its customers.
Repeat Business
Repeat business is the lifeblood of any successful enterprise. It’s a testament to your brand’s quality and reliability. Branded merchandise can play a significant role in increasing the frequency and size of customer orders. A study showed that customers who received branded merchandise ordered 18% faster and 18% more, highlighting the impact of branded merchandise on repeat business.
Offering customers something of value, like branded merchandise, helps them remember your brand when making a purchase. It’s also important to consider where your ideal customer is when they realize they need your brand’s service. By strategically placing your branded merchandise, you can ensure that your brand is top-of-mind when your customer needs your service.
Referrals
Referrals are a powerful tool for business growth. A happy customer is the best brand ambassador, and with the right incentives, they can refer others to your business. Branded merchandise can be an effective incentive for customers to refer others.
Consider creating a referral program where customers are rewarded with branded merchandise for successful referrals. The key here is to utilize quality branded merchandise that represents your brand well. This not only incentivizes referrals but also ensures that your brand is represented positively in the eyes of potential customers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, branded merchandise is more than just a marketing piece; it’s a tool that can significantly improve customer retention, boost repeat business, and incentivize referrals. By strategically utilizing branded merchandise, businesses can ensure that they are always top-of-mind for their customers, leading to increased business growth and success.
Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up. Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up. This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Adam Callinan on profitability, Shark Tank, and why every entrepreneur is struggling right now. Watch now.
In this insightful interview, we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Adam Callinan, the founder of Pentan, an e-commerce-focused SAS company. Callinan, who previously co-founded BottleKeeper, a company that achieved a staggering $8 million in sales without a single employee, shares his experiences, challenges, and lessons learned. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, software, and automation in building a business, as opposed to the traditional approach of hiring people.
Through his unique journey, Callinan provides a fresh perspective on entrepreneurship, highlighting the struggles that every entrepreneur faces, and the importance of creating structure and maintaining physical and mental well-being. He also discusses why many early-stage companies struggle with profitability, and shares his experience of appearing on Shark Tank, which significantly boosted his company’s revenue. Lastly, he offers a special deal for listeners to access Pentan for the first 30 days for just $1.
Building a Company with No Employees
Callinan’s journey with BottleKeeper is a testament to the power of technology and automation in business. With a foundation rooted in a previous medical device business, BottleKeeper was built with strict guardrails to avoid hiring employees. Instead, Callinan focused on using technology and automation to build platforms and manage operations.
This unconventional approach allowed him to maintain control over the business, reduce overhead costs, and achieve impressive sales figures. The success of BottleKeeper serves as a compelling case study for entrepreneurs exploring alternative business models.
Challenges of Building Bottlekeeper
Despite its success, the journey of building BottleKeeper was not without its challenges. Callinan faced difficulties with inventory management and the cyclical nature of the business, which resulted in swings in revenue throughout the year. These challenges, while difficult, provided invaluable lessons that shaped the growth and evolution of the company.
Moreover, Callinan also discusses the mental challenges of dealing with the highs and lows of the business. The entrepreneurial journey, while rewarding, can often be a rollercoaster of emotions, and Callinan’s experience underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability.
Struggles Faced by Entrepreneurs
Callinan highlights the struggles that every entrepreneur faces, emphasizing the need for entrepreneurs to create structure and take care of themselves physically and mentally. The entrepreneurial journey can be fraught with challenges and uncertainties, making it crucial for entrepreneurs to prioritize their well-being and avoid isolation.
Creating structure, setting boundaries, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are essential for long-term success. Callinan’s insights underscore the importance of self-care in entrepreneurship, a topic that is often overlooked in the pursuit of business success.
Reasons for Early Stage Companies Not Being Profitable
Callinan discusses why many early-stage companies struggle with profitability. He points out that the default approach of raising capital can lead to frivolous spending, and the tendency to add fixed expenses without understanding the necessary revenue levels can hinder profitability.
Understanding financial metrics and marketing efficiency is crucial for profitability. Callinan’s insights provide a valuable perspective for early-stage entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of financial literacy and strategic planning in achieving profitability.
Impact of Appearing on Shark Tank
Callinan shares his experience of appearing on Shark Tank, a platform that provided incredible free advertising for BottleKeeper. The company experienced a significant boost in revenue after the episode aired, demonstrating the power of strategic exposure and publicity.
The ongoing impact of the Shark Tank appearance on the company’s success is a testament to the importance of seizing opportunities and leveraging platforms for business growth. Callinan’s experience provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to maximize their visibility and reach.
This offer provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to leverage the power of Pentan’s platform to streamline their operations and enhance their profitability. With its focus on solving financial operation problems, Pentan is poised to be a valuable resource for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of e-commerce.
Each week on DMJ 1 on 1, Kirby Hasseman takes on a different topic to help provide value to those looking to grow a brand or organization. This time Kirby tackles the question everyone has been asking. “What are all these charges on Branded Merch?” Have you ever been confused or frustrated by your invoice after purchasing branded merch? Then this episode is for you! Watch now…and feel free to read below.
DMJ 1 on 1: What Are All These Charges on Branded Merch?
The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. It’s a common experience for clients to receive an invoice that’s significantly higher than the initial quote, leading to confusion and frustration. Today we set out to demystify the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers on the various charges associated with it.
The video acknowledges the complexity of the pricing structure in the branded merchandise industry. It explains that these extra charges are often necessary for suppliers to compete on price in the industry. The goal of the video and this article is to provide insight into the pricing structure of branded merchandise and educate viewers about the extra charges associated with it.
Screen Charges
Screen charges are fees associated with creating physical screens for screen printing. These charges are necessary for each color used in the design. This means that a design with multiple colors will have multiple screen charges. Suppliers often save screens for up to two years, which can save on costs for repeat orders. However, screen charges can significantly impact the cost of branded merchandise, especially for small orders or designs with multiple colors.
While these charges may seem excessive, they are a necessary part of the screen printing process. The creation of screens involves labor and materials, and these costs need to be covered. Understanding this can help clients make informed decisions about their design and color choices.
Setup Fees
Setup fees are another common charge in the branded merchandise industry. These fees cover the time and labor required to set up machines and prepare for printing. Setup fees are common in digital printing and other printing methods that don’t require physical screens. Repeat setup fees may be charged for subsequent orders of the same design. These fees help suppliers cover the cost of labor and maintain competitive pricing.
Run Charges
Run charges are additional fees for running the job multiple times or in different locations. These charges may apply when printing multiple colors or printing in different areas of the product. Additional run charges can increase the overall cost of the order, especially for small quantities or complex designs.
Embroidery Charges
Embroidery charges are associated with creating digital files and setting up embroidery machines. A DST file is used to guide the sewing machine and ensure accurate embroidery. Embroidery charges are typically a one-time fee unless modifications to the design are requested. Keeping the art consistent can help avoid additional charges.
Art Charges
Art charges may apply when the provided artwork needs to be converted to a vector or camera-ready format. Vector art ensures that the design remains clear and doesn’t pixelate when resized. Art charges can be avoided by providing high-quality vector art. However, suppliers may need to clean up or modify artwork, resulting in additional charges.
Proof Charges
Proof charges are fees for reviewing and approving artwork before production. Proof charges act as an insurance policy to ensure the correct artwork is used. Some suppliers may charge proof fees, while others may not. As Kirby mentioned in the video, this charge can be a source of frustration for distributors and clients. But these charges have been created by using the supplier as the “art department” and requesting multiple proofs on every order. Implementing a system of one free proof could encourage better artwork preparation.
Less Than Minimum Charges
Less than minimum charges are fees for ordering quantities below the supplier’s minimum requirement. Suppliers may charge less than minimum fees to compensate for the inconvenience of producing smaller quantities. These charges cover the cost of handling and storing excess inventory.
PMS Color Match Charges
PMS color match charges are fees for matching specific colors using the Pantone Matching System. PMS color match ensures precise color reproduction for brands with specific color requirements. Matching colors accurately may require additional time and effort, resulting in extra charges. This fee will be charged for each color that needs to be specifically matched.
Shipping Charges
Shipping charges cover the cost of delivering the branded merchandise to the client. Shipping charges are necessary when products need to be shipped across the United States. Suppliers may include shipping charges in the overall pricing or list them separately. Considering shipping options and planning ahead can help mitigate shipping charges. But make no mistake, no distributor has the space to house the (over) 1 million promotional products for sale. So there will be a cost of shipping to deliver your order.
Conclusion
The world of branded merchandise can be a labyrinth of extra charges and hidden fees. However, understanding these charges can help clients make informed decisions and avoid surprises on the invoice. The goal of this article is to educate viewers about the extra charges associated with branded merchandise and provide insight into the pricing structure of the industry.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to ask for all charges upfront. This can help avoid surprises on the invoice and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money. So the next time you’re ordering branded merchandise, don’t be afraid to ask questions and get the information you need.
