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!
Coshocton, OH — October 22, 2025 — Hasseman Marketing, a leading full-service marketing and branded merchandise agency, is proud to announce that Adam Towne, a 20-year veteran of the promotional products industry, has joined the company’s sales team.
Towne brings over two decades of experience helping clients create impactful branded merchandise campaigns, develop promotional strategies, and strengthen brand loyalty through creative marketing solutions. Based in Hilton Head, South Carolina, Adam will also serve clients across Southeast and Central Ohio, expanding Hasseman Marketing’s reach in both regions.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Adam to the Hasseman Marketing family,” said Kirby Hasseman, CEO of Hasseman Marketing. “Adam’s reputation in the industry, his creative approach to branded merchandise, and his dedication to client relationships make him an incredible addition to our team. We’re excited to support him with our full in-house marketing capabilities — from design to fulfillment — and help him bring even more value to his customers.”
Towne, who has built long-lasting relationships with clients across the country, shared his enthusiasm about joining the new team.
“I’ve known about Hasseman Marketing for years and have always admired their mix of creativity, service, and integrity,” said Adam Towne. “Joining this team feels like the perfect fit. Their commitment to helping clients grow through thoughtful marketing aligns perfectly with my own philosophy. I’m excited to bring my experience and my clients into an organization that can deliver even more complete marketing solutions.”
As part of his launch, Adam will be introducing new branded merchandise and gift ideas to his clients, just in time for year-end gifting season. Clients can explore curated holiday collections and top gift picks through Hasseman Marketing’s online shop here: Shop the 2025 Gift Collection
Adam can now be reached at [email protected] or give him a call at 843-271-6080.
About Hasseman Marketing
Hasseman Marketing is a full-service marketing and branded merchandise agency based in Coshocton, Ohio. With a “Full House, In-House” approach, Hasseman Marketing helps businesses create meaningful marketing campaigns through promotional products, digital marketing, video production, design, and strategy.
After taking a short break for some well-deserved family time, Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie) and Kirby Hasseman are back for another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing! And this week’s conversation hit all the right notes — from football season and finding your audience to learning how (or maybe how not) to unplug.
Let’s dive into this week’s episode highlights.
What the NFL Can Teach Marketers
Football season is back—and so is the frustration of trying to watch it. Between Amazon Prime, Peacock, ESPN+, CBS, Fox, NBC, and YouTube TV, the NFL is scattered across at least six different platforms this year. Kirby and Jade both laughed about how confusing it’s become just to watch a game. But that chaos sparked a great marketing lesson.
Just like football, there’s no single platform to reach your audience. You can’t rely on one channel—whether it’s social media, email, or video content—to carry all your marketing weight.
That’s why it’s more important than ever to identify your perfect customer. When you truly understand who they are, where they spend their time, and what they care about, you can meet them where they already are—without wasting effort shouting into the void.
Kirby also added a great point about collaboration. Sometimes, instead of trying to do everything yourself, partnering with another brand that serves the same audience can help you reach your customers faster and more effectively. It’s a win-win.
The Art (and Struggle) of Disconnecting
Both Jade and Kirby took some time off recently for a family trip. And while they enjoyed the break, both admitted they weren’t perfect at truly “disconnecting.”
In today’s world, where work is always one notification away, it’s harder than ever to unplug. But as they discussed, learning how to step back can actually make you better when you step back in.
Jade talked about how planning ahead helps her relax on vacation—tying up loose ends before leaving makes it easier to actually enjoy the time away. Kirby shared how he’s learning to set more intentional boundaries, even if that means occasionally failing at it.
Their takeaway? You can’t pour from an empty cup. Recharging isn’t just good for you—it’s good for your business, your creativity, and your relationships.
“Locking In” — Gen Z’s New Take on Focus
The duo also dove into a Gen Z trend that’s taking over TikTok and beyond: “Locking In.”
It’s essentially about committing to a goal early—like starting your New Year’s resolution in October instead of waiting until January—and going all in with focus and intensity.
Jade couldn’t help but laugh at the idea that this is basically just rebranding “hard work” with a new name. But Kirby loved it. He pointed out that in today’s culture, we’ve almost made “hustle” a bad word, even though hard work is still one of the few things we can fully control.
His advice? Whether you call it “Locking In” or “grinding,” the key is to start. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Progress belongs to those who take action.
At first glance, it looks like a sleek, high-quality writing instrument (which it is). But the magic happens when you tap it to your phone. The pen can be programmed to take users directly to a website, video, digital business card, or landing page.
Jade and Kirby agreed this is one of the best examples of branded merch with function and flair. It’s practical, tech-savvy, and bridges the gap between physical and digital marketing. Whether you’re in real estate, education, healthcare, or any other industry—this pen has major potential to keep your brand in hand and in mind.
This week’s shout-out went to the folks at PromoCares, a collective of promo professionals using their platform for good. They’re currently raising funds to build water towers in underserved communities through their Water 4 Good initiative.
Kirby and Jade both praised the organization for leading with purpose and showing how branded merch can make a real difference in the world. It’s marketing with heart—and a perfect example of how this industry can give back in meaningful ways.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was all about clarity, balance, and action. Whether you’re trying to reach your ideal audience, take time off without guilt, or “lock in” to your next big goal, there’s one big takeaway: Be intentional.
Because whether it’s your marketing, your mindset, or your merch—when you align your actions with your purpose, great things happen.
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!
