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.
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new podcast, Better Merch…Better Marketing, featuring Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider! This weekly show is designed to explore marketing, branded merchandise, and everything in between—all while sharing some laughs and insights along the way. If you’re looking for actionable tips, fun discussions, and a fresh perspective on building your brand, you’re in the right place.
Our very first episode is live, and we couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. You can watch the full episode below:
What’s This Podcast All About?
In this debut episode, we dive into why we’re starting this podcast and what you can expect in the weeks ahead. Whether you’re an HR professional, a marketing guru, or a small business owner/entrepreneur, our goal is to provide you with valuable insights that you can apply to your organization. Plus, we’ll bring our unique father-daughter dynamic to every conversation, adding a little fun and humor along the way.
Highlights from Episode 1
Here’s a sneak peek at what we covered:
Why This Podcast?
We kick things off by sharing our vision for Better Merch…Better Marketing. This podcast is all about helping businesses and organizations like yours create better branded merchandise and marketing campaigns that drive results.
Lessons from 2024
The past year has been full of opportunities, challenges, and valuable lessons. We share a few key takeaways that have shaped our approach to marketing and branded merch.
Goals for 2025
A new year means new goals! From expanding our services to building stronger connections with our clients, we outline what we’re working toward in the coming year.
Dad Was Right (Again)
In a fun segment, Jade shares a lesson where Kirby’s advice turned out to be spot on—proving that sometimes, dads really do know best.
Shout Out to the Friends of the Park 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon
We’re proud to spotlight the upcoming Friends of the Park event happening this April. This race raises funds to support our local parks, and we encourage everyone to get involved—whether you’re running, walking, or cheering from the sidelines. If you are interested in registering, head here.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning! Each week, we’ll bring you a mix of trending marketing topics, teachable moments, and standout branded merchandise campaigns to inspire your next move. Plus, we’ll be answering audience questions in future episodes, so stay tuned and send us your marketing or merch-related queries.
We’re excited to embark on this journey and hope you’ll join us. Check out the video above, share your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes. Let’s create Better Merch…Better Marketing together!
Have a question or topic idea for the podcast? 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.
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.
Imposter syndrome is a sneaky thing. It often creeps in when we’re pushing ourselves to grow, learn, or share what we know with others. I’ve felt it, especially when creating personal development content. Who am I to teach others when I don’t have it all figured out myself? That question used to hold me back.
But then, a simple realization shifted my perspective: I don’t need to be perfect—I just need to be BETTER.
This mindset—focusing on progress instead of perfection—has become the foundation for what I call The Relentless Pursuit of BETTER. It’s a personal development philosophy that acknowledges we’re all works in progress and gives us a clear roadmap to improve every day.
And here’s the best part: BETTER is more than just a word. It’s an acronym that serves as a step-by-step guide to help you stay on track in your own journey of growth.
B: Be Intentional
Growth doesn’t happen by accident. To improve, you must set intentional goals. These goals act as your compass, giving you direction and purpose. Think about what you truly want to achieve and write it down. Most people really struggle to name what they really want in their life. This is the first step to getting BETTER in your life. Be intentional about what you want…and write it down so you can see it every day.
E: Engage in Learning
The fastest way to grow is to learn. Seek out new knowledge, whether through books, podcasts, courses, or mentors. Every piece of insight adds to your toolkit, preparing you to take on new challenges. Learning is fun when you are working to learn something you WANT to know. And there are so many tools to learn for free. Dig in and learn as much as you can about what you are trying to accomplish.
T: Take Action
Ideas are great, but they don’t mean much without action. Make a plan and start moving toward your goals. Even small steps add up over time. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect—you just have to begin. Too many of us get stuck in learning because we think we will take action when we “know enough.” But we will always feel that pull to wait. Take action. More learning will happen as you go.
T: Track Your Efforts
What gets measured gets improved. Tracking your efforts helps you stay accountable and see how far you’ve come. Whether it’s writing down daily habits, logging workouts, or noting achievements, keep a record of your progress. I was late to the party on this one. I always thought, “I know what I am doing.” But when I started to measure every day…and write it down…it affected what I actually did.
E: Evaluate Your Progress
Every so often, take a step back and assess how you’re doing. Are you moving closer to your goals? What’s working? What’s not? This evaluation gives you clarity and keeps you focused.
R: Reflect and Adjust
Life rarely goes as planned, and that’s okay. Reflection allows you to celebrate wins and learn from setbacks. Then, adjust your approach to keep moving forward. Being adaptable is a superpower in the pursuit of growth.
Why BETTER Works
The beauty of this framework is its simplicity. It doesn’t ask you to have everything figured out. Instead, it encourages you to focus on consistent, incremental improvement. Each day, ask yourself: How can I be just a little bit better than yesterday?
The Relentless Pursuit of BETTER isn’t about perfection or reaching an endpoint. It’s about embracing the journey of becoming the best version of yourself—one intentional step at a time.
So, the next time imposter syndrome whispers in your ear, remind yourself: You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to pursue BETTER.
What will you do today to get started on your own relentless pursuit of BETTER?
In our fast-paced world, productivity and happiness can feel like elusive goals. However, achieving both can be simpler than we think—it often comes down to small but impactful daily habits. Here are five actionable steps you can take to increase both your productivity and happiness. Let’s dive in!
1. Get More Sleep
It sounds basic, but the truth is, many of us aren’t getting enough quality sleep. The benefits of a good night’s rest go far beyond just feeling alert. Sleep plays a crucial role in our ability to process information, manage stress, and make sound decisions. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived individuals are less productive and more likely to make errors at work.
Action Tip: Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep per night. To improve sleep quality, establish a wind-down routine, keep your room cool, and avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
2. Get Consistent Exercise
Physical activity isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about keeping your mind sharp and resilient, too. Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood, boost energy, and increase productivity. When you get moving, your brain releases endorphins, which help you feel happier and more focused.
Action Tip: If the thought of hitting the gym is daunting, start small. A daily 20-minute walk, some stretching, or a short yoga session can make a big difference in how you feel and perform each day.
3. Set Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals gives direction to your day. With a goal in mind, you’re more likely to stay on track and avoid distractions. Not only does achieving goals help you feel accomplished, but it also boosts confidence, which can lead to even more productivity and happiness.
Action Tip: Start by writing down one or two goals each morning. They don’t have to be monumental; even small wins can lead to big feelings of progress and satisfaction. Review your goals at the end of the day to see what you’ve accomplished and celebrate each step forward.
4. Be Mindful (Or Set Time for Meditation)
Mindfulness and meditation help us slow down, focus, and reduce stress—three things that greatly improve productivity. When you’re mindful, you’re more in tune with your thoughts and emotions, which makes it easier to handle stress, stay focused, and avoid burnout.
Action Tip: Start with just five minutes a day. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. You could also try guided meditation apps if that helps you stay focused. Over time, this simple practice can transform your mental clarity and emotional resilience.
5. Create an Intentional Morning Routine
A consistent morning routine can set the tone for a productive and joyful day. When you start your day with intention, you’re less likely to feel rushed or overwhelmed, which gives you a sense of calm and control. A morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about choosing habits that set you up for success.
Action Tip: Your morning routine might include something as simple as a few minutes of stretching, writing down a couple of goals for the day, or having a quiet cup of coffee while planning your schedule. Experiment to find what works best for you, and make it a daily ritual.
Improving productivity and happiness isn’t about drastic changes—it’s about small, consistent actions that build up over time. By getting enough sleep, staying active, setting goals, being mindful, and establishing a morning routine, you’re creating a solid foundation for both productivity and happiness. So, take one step today, and keep building from there. You might be surprised by how quickly you notice the difference!
