We’re back with another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing! This week, Kirby and Jade dive into some of the quirks and challenges in the marketing world, sharing insights from the PPAI Expo, discussing the best ways to reach prospects, and of course, enjoying a little father-daughter banter.
Check out the latest episode below:
Marketing Pet Peeves: What Drives Us Crazy?
Every marketer has those little things that make them cringe. In this episode, Kirby and Jade talk about some of their biggest marketing pet peeves—from bad branding choices to messaging mishaps. If you’ve ever been frustrated by a clunky campaign or an organization missing the mark, you’ll relate to this segment!
Our Favorite Finds from the PPAI Expo
One of the highlights of the year for branded merchandise pros is the PPAI Expo in Las Vegas. We got to see some of the latest and greatest products in the promotional world, and we’re sharing our top picks! If you’re looking for innovative and exciting branded merch ideas, you won’t want to miss this part of the episode.
Sales & Prospecting: Phone Calls vs. Emails
When it comes to sales outreach, is it better to pick up the phone or send an email? Kirby and Jade debate the effectiveness of each approach and share their personal experiences in the world of prospecting. Whether you’re a die-hard caller or a strategic emailer, there are key takeaways here for anyone in sales or marketing.
Dad Was Right: Jade Actually Enjoys Reading!
In a fun twist, Jade admits that Kirby was right about something this time: reading is actually enjoyable! They talk about what changed her mind and some of the books that have made an impact. (Don’t worry, Kirby is taking full credit for this one!)
Shoutout of the Week: Shrivers Hospice
This week, we’re giving a huge shoutout to Shrivers Hospice, which is opening a new office in Coshocton County. Their work in providing compassionate care to those in need is truly inspiring, and we’re excited to see them expand their reach in our community.
Key Takeaways from Episode 3:
The most common marketing mistakes that drive professionals crazy.
The latest and greatest in branded merch from the PPAI Expo.
A candid discussion on phone calls vs. emails for sales outreach.
Proof that sometimes (just sometimes), Dad is actually right.
A celebration of Shrivers Hospice and their commitment to serving the region.
What’s Next?
We love hearing from our listeners! If you have a marketing or branded merch question, send it our way and we might answer it in a future episode. Stay tuned for more great discussions, insights, and fun on the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast!
Make sure to watch Episode 3 above, share your thoughts, and subscribe to stay updated on all future episodes. Together, we’re creating Better Merch…Better Marketing!
Got a topic or question for a future episode? Let us know in the comments or reach out directly—we’d love to hear from you!
If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! 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 the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast! We’re thrilled to bring you Episode 2, where Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman dive into exciting topics in marketing, business, and branded merchandise—all while adding their unique father-daughter dynamic to the mix. If you missed Episode 1, don’t worry; you can catch up anytime. But today, we’re diving into new discussions that we think you’ll love.
Check out the latest episode below:
What’s in Episode 2?
Here’s a rundown of what we covered in this week’s podcast:
1. The TikTok Drama: What Happened and What’s Next?
We kicked off this week’s episode by discussing the recent TikTok drama. From its sudden removal to the widespread reaction, Jade shared how she felt when the app disappeared briefly and what it meant for content creators and marketers alike. Kirby and Jade also speculated on what might come next for the platform and how businesses should approach TikTok moving forward. Spoiler alert: This conversation was packed with insights into adapting to change in the digital marketing landscape.
2. Lessons from the PPAI Expo
Last week, we attended the PPAI Expo in Las Vegas, the premier event for promotional products and branded merchandise. We had the chance to explore new trends, connect with industry leaders, and come away with some important lessons in business. In this episode, we share our key takeaways that can help you in whatever business you are in!
3. Audience Question: How Can You Attract and Retain Clients?
This week’s listener question comes from someone who tuned in to Episode 1: How can you attract and retain clients? Kirby broke down his TARGET method for effective marketing, offering actionable steps to help businesses stand out and build lasting relationships.
To make it even better, Kirby is giving away his book, Hit The TARGET, for free! Head over to HitTheTargetBook.com to grab your free copy, which includes the ebook, audiobook, and online course.
4. When Dad Was Wrong
In this week’s fun and lighthearted segment, Jade turned the tables and shared an area where she thinks Kirby is wrong. This playful moment highlighted how different perspectives—even within a family—can lead to some lively discussions and even better ideas.
5. Shout Out to Local Stars: Main Street Station & Sorrell’s on the Square
We wrapped up the episode by celebrating two amazing Coshocton businesses, Main Street Station and Sorrell’s on the Square, both of which were recently featured on America’s Best Restaurants. These local spots are doing incredible things for our community, and we couldn’t be more proud to shine a spotlight on their achievements. If you haven’t visited them yet, make it a priority!
Key Takeaways from Episode 2
TikTok’s impact on marketing is undeniable, and adaptability is key as platforms evolve.
Live events like the PPAI Expo are invaluable for networking, learning, and staying ahead in your industry.
Attracting and retaining clients requires a clear strategy, like Kirby’s TARGET method, and a focus on delivering value.
It’s okay to challenge ideas and perspectives—that’s where growth (and sometimes laughter) happens.
Supporting local businesses is a vital part of building strong communities.
What’s Next?
We’re already planning Episode 3, and we’d love to hear from you! Have a question or topic you want us to cover? Send it our way, and we might feature it in an upcoming episode. Whether it’s about branded merchandise, marketing strategies, or building better business practices, we’re here to help.
Make sure to watch Episode 2 above, share your thoughts, and subscribe to stay updated on all future episodes. Together, we’re creating Better Merch…Better Marketing!
Have a question or comment? Drop it below or reach out directly—we’d love to hear from you!
If you need help creating Better Merch & Better Marketing reach out to us! 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.
Social media can be one of the most powerful tools to grow your organization, connect with your audience, and build your brand. But let’s be honest—many businesses struggle to make it work. Why? Because they focus on being perfect instead of simply being better.
At Hasseman Marketing, we believe the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. The key is to consistently get a little better each day.
If you’re looking to improve your social media presence, here are 5 simple tips to do social media BETTER for your organization. And if you want to dive deeper into this, head HERE to get the Hit The TARGET book for free.
1. Give Value First
Too many organizations treat social media like traditional advertising: Buy this. Hire us. Look at us. But social media is different. It’s about building relationships, and relationships thrive on value.
Ask yourself:
How can I help my audience?
What can I teach, inspire, or share that will make their lives better?
Providing value could mean sharing helpful tips, answering FAQs, entertaining with behind-the-scenes content, or offering inspiration. When you lead with value, people will engage, trust you, and stick around for the long term.
Remember: give first, ask second.
2. Be Consistent
Social media is like fitness—you can’t post once or twice and expect results. You build trust and credibility with consistency. Whether you post daily, three times a week, or weekly, the key is to show up regularly.
Here’s why consistency matters:
It keeps your brand top of mind.
It builds integrity (your audience knows they can rely on you).
Social media algorithms reward consistent posting.
The good news? You don’t need to go viral to succeed. Small, consistent efforts over time create meaningful results. Keep showing up, and the growth will come.
3. Post More
If you’re struggling with social media growth, ask yourself this: Are you posting enough? Many organizations are hesitant to post frequently, worrying about “bothering” their audience.
Here’s the truth: social media is a free tool to grow your business. Use it!
The more you post:
The better your reach and engagement will be.
The more opportunities you have to connect with your audience.
The more content you can test and learn from.
If you’re not sure where to start, try this:
Share updates about your team, products, or community involvement.
Post tips, quotes, or behind-the-scenes videos.
Repurpose older content into new formats.
Social media is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets.
4. Engage With Your Audience
Social media is a two-way street. If someone takes the time to comment on your post, comment back! Engagement isn’t just polite—it’s how you build relationships.
When you respond to comments or messages, you:
Show your audience that you care.
Build a loyal community around your brand.
Increase the visibility of your posts (engagement boosts algorithms).
It doesn’t take much—a quick “Thank you!” or a thoughtful reply can go a long way. The brands that succeed on social media don’t just talk at their audience—they talk with them.
5. Gather Information
Social media is not just a place to post—it’s also a tool to gather valuable information for your business.
Here’s how you can leverage it:
Encourage people to sign up for your email list.
Use polls or surveys to learn what your audience wants.
Offer lead magnets (like free guides or webinars) to build your database.
Your ultimate goal should be to take your audience off social media and into your ecosystem—like your email list—where you can communicate directly. Social media is borrowed space, but your list? That’s something you own.
Social Media: It’s About Progress, Not Perfection
Social media doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, follow these 5 tips, and focus on getting better—one post, one conversation, one audience interaction at a time:
Give value—be helpful, inspiring, or entertaining.
Be consistent—show up regularly to build trust.
Post more—take advantage of this free tool.
Engage with your audience—reply, connect, and build relationships.
Gather information—turn your audience into lasting relationships.
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s about showing up, providing value, and putting in the work over time. That’s how you’ll grow your brand, strengthen your community, and do social media BETTER.
Are you ready to improve your organization’s social media presence? Start with one tip today, and let’s pursue better together.
If you need help creating social media content that connects, reach out to us! 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.
It’s hard to believe it’s already June. But here we are! And in honor of the 6th month of the year, we want to show you 6 promotional products you need to know about. So if you are in the market for a cool (or hot) piece of branded merch that is sure to move the needle this summer…this is for you. Oh…and if you want to just skip all of “the words,” you can head to our shop here.
6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June
Our goal is to show you some timely, and hopefully trendy, promotional products that will hit many different price points. In addition, we will tell you what we love about the products…but also some drawbacks as well. Let’s dig in!
The Coolie Cappy Combo
The Coolie Cappy Combo is a unique and practical solution for promoting your message and keeping your drinks at the perfect temperature. This combo includes a full-color beverage insulator and a handy Cappy can cover gadget that transforms any can into a spill-proof container. The insulator is made from high-density foam to reduce condensation and keep drinks cold, making it great for outdoor events and picnics. The Cappy clips onto the tab of a can, and can be opened and closed to prevent unwanted things from getting in, spills, retains carbonation, and has a key ring hole for easy portability.
Positive: This is a super cool piece for outdoor events with the team or your customers. What we love about this product (or product combo) is that it is a conversation starter. When you give this away it will give you the chance to explain the product and show the audience how much you care. No one wants to have a bee (or anything else unwanted) to surprise them in their drink. This helps protect from that!
Negative: It’s a conversation starter because it needs an explanation. The product DOES come with instructions, but how many of your team (or customers) actually even read an email?
Overall, we really like this because it’s timely (especially for summer events), it’s unique, and it really is useful, once you explain it!
Lightweight Loop Terry Beach Towel
Enjoy spa-level treatment from the pool to the beach with this super absorbent towel! Measuring 30″ x 60″ this, promo weight hemmed 100% ring spun cotton loop terry towel is perfect for budget-friendly promotions and summertime giveaways.
Positive: We are a big fan of Beach Towels. They have a high perceived value, a HUGE imprint area, and they are kept for a long time. Studies will tell you that the average beach towel is kept for at least 7 years. That means that most are kept longer than that. We certainly never seem to throw them out!
Negative: Since the imprint area (and the item) is so big, the setup charge is larger too. It takes a lot to cover that much area!
Overall, we are big fans of the beach towel. They show appreciation and are used for years!
Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Enjoy your favorite music from anywhere. The Fabric Clip Waterproof Bluetooth® Speaker easily clips to your favorite bag, letting you bring it to the pool, the park, or to your next house party. Enjoy hands-free operation with built-in microphone and music controls. The 5W output fills any room with quality sound. It has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can submerged under water without damaging.
Positive: We have always said, if you can give an item that enhances your customer’s life AND ties to their phone, it’s a home run. This can be both. In addition, we are getting more and more requests for WATERPROOF speakers. Apparently everyone thinks they are going to be near a pool or lake this summer!
Negative: You need to know your audience. If you are spending money on an item in this budget, you want to make sure it’s an audience that will appreciate it!
Overall, we love it! This item speaks to quality, function, and summer fun.
Mini Beachcomber Bag / Tote
The made-for-one personal beach bag to hold your essentials for a day of relaxation. The 15” x 13” size easily holds sunscreen, sunglasses, lotion, flip-flops, a book, and more. It’s waterproof and lightweight, plus it has a comfortable strap which makes for easy carrying. A bold full-color imprint option commands attention.
Positive: These totes are all the rage. Not only are they functional, but they show that your brand is on trend this summer.
Negative: These take some time to get in. They are done overseas, so if you need them in a hurry, they are not for you. There is a BIG difference in the timeline from air freight and ocean…so make sure you discuss your in hands date. But if you are interested, now is the time to order!
If your brand is one that is on the cutting edge of trends, this would be a great and functional piece. Just make sure you order soon!
Pinnacle Recycled Travel Tumbler with Straw 40oz
Meet the Pinnacle, a budget-friendly 40 oz travel tumbler that doesn’t compromise on style or performance – all while being made from recycled materials. Constructed using 91% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel – the 40 oz Pinnacle Travel Tumbler features high-performance copper vacuum insulation that will keep drinks cold 24+ hours for all-day hydration, and a durable power coating with a sleek matte finish that matches the handle, straw and lid slider for a premium, retail look and feel. The 100% recycled plastic, press-on swivel lid securely holds the Tritan straw in place, is easily rotated to expose the drink opening, and features a proprietary lid slider to prevent spills. A sturdy ergonomic handle makes carrying this tumbler effortless, and the slim base fits in most car cup holders
Positive: Everyone loves drinkware. The latest trends show it. And summer is often vacation season. So drinkware is perfect for road trips and to makes sure you are hydrated on the beach. In addition, this product is more eco-friendly than many of its competitors.
Negative: We are big fans of drinkware, so this is tough. The one negative might be that there are lots of competitors out there.
Overall, we feel like this one stands up. It’s great for this (or any) time of year…and it’s got a great price point considering the eco-friendly components. This makes us want to hit the road!
NBN Recycled Outdoor 15 Can Cooler
The NBN Recycled Outdoor 15-Can Cooler has a sleek design featuring an easy-access front pocket and one side pocket. The cooler is fully insulated, and its body material is made with recycled material. Through a partnership with 1% For The Planet, one percent of sales of all EcoSmart® products will be donated to nonprofits dedicated to protecting the planet.
Positive: Everyone can use a cooler…especially this time of year. And with a giveback component, you can feel great about giving a really nice item that will last.
Negative: Hmmm…maybe that it ONLY holds 15 cans?
Overall, we love a cooler for this time of year. Even if you are not going on vacation, you can still use this at home, on the golf course, or on a family picnic in the park. You can’t go wrong with this one!
So there you have it! These are 6 Promotional Products You Need To Know About In June! Want to see more? Check out our Summer Shop here!
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.
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.
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.
