This week on Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade are back with another lively conversation that ranges from nostalgic mascots to how to support remote workers—and of course, some fun branded merch to sweeten the deal.
In this episode, they cover:
Their favorite brand mascots (with some fun surprises)
A shoutout to Gentlebrook for their investment in Coshocton County
Watch or listen to the full episode here:
Mascot Madness: Who’s Winning Our Hearts
Kirby and Jade kick things off by discussing something we don’t talk about enough in marketing—mascots.
Jade’s pick: The Duolingo Owl, who has gone viral on social media for its sassy, slightly unhinged behavior. Whether it’s dancing on TikTok or sending guilt-laden reminders to complete your lesson, this owl has become an unlikely fan favorite.
Kirby’s favorite: The one and only Energizer Bunny. Still going strong after all these years, this iconic pink battery-powered mascot represents brand consistency and staying power.
They share a few other honorable mentions too—but you’ll have to tune in to hear the full lineup. Spoiler alert: it’s a mix of nostalgia, clever marketing, and pure mascot chaos.
Advice We Don’t Always Agree With
Next up, the duo takes on a classic topic with a twist: bad advice that sounds good.
One that’s especially common? “Follow your passion.”
Sure, it sounds great on paper, but Kirby and Jade both caution against taking this advice too literally. Sometimes, your passion doesn’t make a sustainable business—or doesn’t pay the bills right away. A better strategy? Follow your skills. Develop your passion into something practical.
Jade also confesses her hesitation with the advice to “just trust your gut.” While intuition can be valuable, she explains why she sometimes needs data, reflection, and a second opinion before making big decisions. The conversation turns funny, relatable, and refreshingly honest.
Supporting Work-From-Home Teams the Right Way
As more businesses embrace remote and hybrid work, the conversation naturally shifts to how we support our WFH team members.
Jade’s take: Having a great home office setup is key. Comfortable, functional, and personalized space helps improve both productivity and mindset. She recommends investing in tools that make daily work easier and more enjoyable.
Kirby’s focus: Communication is everything. Without the casual interactions of an office environment, leaders need to be more intentional about how (and how often) they check in. Clear expectations, regular updates, and genuine connection go a long way.
If you’re leading a remote team or part of one, this segment offers some great reminders that go beyond tech tools—and get to the heart of culture and connection.
Product of the Week: Sweeter Cards with Gummy Bears
This week’s featured product brings a literal sweetness to the episode—Sweeter Cards with Gummy Bears from Maple Ridge Farms.
It’s delicious and delightful—who doesn’t love a treat paired with a thoughtful message?
The packaging makes it feel like a gift, not just another promo item
Great for employee appreciation, client gifting, or “just because” outreach
This is branded merch that adds joy and flavor, and it’s something people will actually enjoy (and remember).
Shoutout of the Week: Gentlebrook’s Big Move in Coshocton County
We always love celebrating organizations doing good—and this week’s shoutout goes to Gentlebrook, who is investing in a brand new facility in Coshocton County.
Gentlebrook is known for providing supportive services to individuals with developmental disabilities and seniors, and their investment in the community is both inspiring and impactful.
We’re proud to spotlight organizations like Gentlebrook that are building stronger communities and making a lasting difference.
Final Thoughts
From iconic mascots to the realities of remote work, this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing had laughs, lessons, and gummy bears—what more could you want?
Quick recap:
Mascots matter—when done right, they become brand icons
Not all advice is created equal—question everything (even the stuff that sounds nice)
Supporting your remote team goes beyond Zoom—it’s about intentional culture
And we love seeing organizations like Gentlebrook investing in the future
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing. As always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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 time for another round of Thirsty Thursday, the series where we take a mystery drink, pair it with a piece of branded drinkware, and give our honest (and usually entertaining) reviews.
This week’s episode, titled “Dehydrating Hydration,” features the full squad: Jade Crider, Kirby Hasseman, and Briar Swigert. And while our drink may have left us scratching our heads, the drinkware was a total win.
Let’s break it down.
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Buddy 24oz Recycled Shaker Bottle from PCNA
We always say Thirsty Thursday is really about the branded merch—and this week’s drinkware did not disappoint.
We tried out the Buddy 24oz Recycled Shaker Bottle from our friends at PCNA.
Sustainable: Made from recycled materials, it’s a win for your brand and the planet.
Large capacity: 24oz gives you plenty of hydration throughout the day.
Built-in mixing ball: Whether you’re mixing water, supplements, or mystery drinks, this bottle gets the job done.
Clean design: It’s sleek, functional, and has a nice imprint area for branding.
Secure lid and flip top: No mess, no fuss—just smart construction that works.
This is the kind of branded merch that employees, clients, and event attendees actually want to keep—and use.
The verdict? All three of us gave it a big thumbs up.
The Drink: Light Strike Lemon Lime
So about that drink…
This week’s mystery beverage was Lemon Lime from Light Strike—a hydration drink that’s supposed to give you a boost without sugar, caffeine, or carbonation.
We had high hopes going in, but the reactions were… let’s just say mixed.
Here’s the breakdown:
Kirby was intrigued by the flavor at first but wasn’t sure it delivered on the hydration hype.
Jade was immediately suspicious—and the first sip confirmed her doubts.
Briar was the most optimistic, but even he had a few moments of hesitation.
Overall, it felt like one of those drinks that talks a big game on the label—but doesn’t exactly win hearts at the table.
We get what they were going for, but this one might be more of a “try it and decide for yourself” situation. If you’re into lemon-lime hydration drinks with a strong kick, it might be up your alley. Otherwise… maybe not.
Why This Episode Is Classic Thirsty Thursday
This episode checked all the boxes:
One great drinkware piece
One questionable mystery drink
Plenty of laughs and strong opinions along the way
It’s a great reminder that branded merch has the power to elevate any experience—even when the beverage inside is… confusing. The Buddy Shaker Bottle handled it all with ease, and we could definitely see it becoming a go-to giveaway for fitness studios, health programs, or wellness initiatives.
Final Verdict
Drinkware: The Buddy Shaker Bottle from PCNA – Certified Thirsty Thursday Approved
Drink: Light Strike Lemon Lime – Mixed reviews, but worth a taste if you’re feeling adventurous
Vibes: 10/10 – Anytime we get Jade, Kirby, and Briar together, the energy is high and the laughs are plenty
Thirsty Thursday continues to be where great branded merch meets honest opinions and a little chaos.
And if you’ve got a drink or a drinkware product you think we should feature, let us know. We’re always up for the next sip—even when it leaves us dehydrated. And if you want to learn more or order, head to our Thirsty Thursday shop here.
On this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade are back with another round of insights, trends, and real-world lessons from the frontlines of branding and merch.
This week’s conversation includes:
The Trader Joe’s tote bag craze and what it teaches us about branding, scarcity, and audience connection*
Tariff lessons and how to respond (not react) as pricing shifts
Productivity apps that help keep the Hasseman Marketing team running smoothly
Product of the week: a name badge release program from Vault
A shoutout to the upcoming Shark Tub event in Zanesville—a pitch competition for entrepreneurs
Watch or listen to the full episode here:
Trader Joe’s Tote Bags: A Masterclass in Brand, Scarcity, and Culture
You’ve probably seen it by now—Trader Joe’s mini tote bags going viral. People are lining up. Resellers are flipping them online. And social media is buzzing with hype.
So what’s the lesson here?
Jade and Kirby break it down like this:
Great brand affinity + well-designed merch = success
Create something that resonates with your audience—not just another logo slap
Add scarcity to the mix, and the hype becomes real
The bigger takeaway: branded merch works when it’s emotional, meaningful, and hard to get. Whether it’s for employees, fans, or customers, the same formula can be applied to your brand—if you’re thoughtful and intentional.
Tariff Talk: What We’ve Learned So Far
Tariffs have been front and center in recent industry conversations. Some suppliers are already adjusting pricing, others are holding firm (for now), and many distributors and clients are wondering what to do next.
Here’s what Kirby and Jade shared as key takeaways:
Don’t panic—but don’t wait. If you know you need product this year, ordering sooner can help lock in current pricing.
Confirm all pricing before reordering. Don’t assume your old quote is still valid—always double-check.
Domestic and alternative sourcing is becoming even more relevant.
Be transparent with your clients and help them plan ahead.
With so much going on, staying organized is key—and this week, Kirby and Jade share their go-to productivity apps that help them keep things moving.
Jade’s Picks:
Notion – For project management, content planning, and internal documentation.
Google Calendar – For scheduling, visibility, and shared team planning.
Kirby’s Picks:
Outlook – For email, calendar, and daily task tracking.
Trello – For visual workflows, project timelines, and marketing tasks.
Whether you’re a list-lover, a visual thinker, or a calendar junkie, the right tools make it easier to focus on what matters—and keep teams aligned along the way.
Product of the Week: Name Badge Release Program
This week’s featured product isn’t just about the item—it’s about the program behind it.
Vault’s name badge release program simplifies how companies onboard and update name badges for new employees, locations, or events.
Why it matters:
Consistency across locations or roles
Reduces the back-and-forth on proofs and reorders
Saves time for internal teams (and your promo partner)
This is one of those “simple but smart” solutions that helps businesses look polished and professional without reinventing the wheel.
Perfect for organizations with frequent new hires or multiple departments.
Shoutout of the Week: Shark Tub in Zanesville
This week’s shoutout goes to the Shark Tub Pitch Competition happening in Zanesville on April 9th. Hosted by the Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation, Shark Tub is all about supporting and spotlighting local entrepreneurs.
Events like this are vital for the region—they foster innovation, create connections, and help the next generation of business leaders grow. Hats off to the organizers and participants!
Final Thoughts
From tote bags and TikTok trends to name badge programs and productivity hacks, this episode had a little bit of everything. It’s a reminder that great branding is about more than just product—it’s about strategy, intention, and execution.
Here’s your quick recap:
Trader Joe’s tote bag buzz shows the power of brand + scarcity
Tariffs aren’t the end of the world, but they require planning and flexibility
Tools like Notion, Trello, Outlook, and Google Calendar keep things moving behind the scenes
Vault’s name badge release program is a smart system for growing teams
And we love seeing communities support entrepreneurship, like at Shark Tub
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss the next episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
If you’re an entrepreneur or sales professional at a small to mid-sized organization, chances are you’re not sitting around waiting for business to land in your lap. You’re out there earning it—calling, emailing, networking, and building relationships. Or at least you WANT to be doing that.
Cold calling is an activity that most people strictly avoids…if they can. We get it…but it’s still one of the most direct and effective ways to grow your business. The problem? It’s uncomfortable. It’s awkward. And most days, it’s easy to avoid.
That’s exactly why we created the C.A.L.L.O.U.T. Framework—a system to help you take action with intention, energy, and consistency. This is what we use to get our minds right.
Watch the video now!
C – Connect with Your Why
Before you dial a single number, take a moment to connect with your purpose. Why are you making these calls? What are your goals? Whether it’s hitting your monthly revenue target, serving more people, or growing your brand—start with clarity. Your “why” is your fuel. You might not feel like doing it. On most days, I don’t. That’s why it’s so vital to remind yourself (before you begin), why you are doing this activity.
A – Adjust Your Mindset
You’ve heard it before: mindset matters. But here’s the twist—be the thermostat, not the thermometer. Don’t just react to people’s energy. That won’t end well for you. Set the tone. Bring confidence, positivity, and professionalism to every call. You are not begging—you’re bringing value.
L – Line Up Your Script
No, you don’t need to sound robotic. But you do need to know what you want to say and what you want to achieve. Write out your intro, a few powerful questions, and your ideal next step. Preparation creates confidence. In addition, understanding the overall goal helps you to understand where you are driving the conversation.
L – Lift the Phone
Here’s the most important (and often hardest) part: take action. You won’t feel ready. You’ll want to tweak your script again. Don’t. Just start dialing. Momentum builds as you go.
O – Organize Your Results
Document every call. Log who you spoke to, what happened, and what comes next. This creates a powerful feedback loop—not just for tracking, but for motivation. Every call logged is a step forward. (Bonus: crossing things off a list triggers a dopamine hit. Try it.)
U – Upgrade Your Energy
Celebrate the wins—big and small. Did you set a meeting? Awesome. Did someone say, “That’s interesting, call me next week”? That’s a win. Celebrate it. The more you attach positive emotion to your activity, the more likely you are to keep showing up.
T – Try Again Tomorrow
Cold calling is a muscle, not a one-time event. The secret? Show up consistently. Build the habit. Mastery follows repetition.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to love cold calling. You just need a system that keeps you focused, consistent and energized.
The C.A.L.L.O.U.T. Framework is here to help you do just that.
So the next time you hesitate to make that call, take a breath, review the framework, and start dialing.
Because the business you want is waiting on the other side of that call.
Want more tools like this to grow your business? Head over to HassemanMarketing.com for more blogs, video tips, and inspiration built for busy entrepreneurs like you.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
Unless you have been living under a rock, you have heard the word “Tariff” a lot lately! We certainly have started to hear rumblings across the promotional products industry about tariffs and their potential impact on branded merchandise. Some suppliers have already announced pricing changes. Others are doing what they can to absorb the increases in the short term, while still signaling that higher prices are likely on the horizon. And yes, President Trump has signaled a 90-day pause on Tariffs. But we want to be as prepared as possible as we move forward.
The bottom line? There’s still a lot we don’t know. But that doesn’t mean we should freeze. In fact, it’s the perfect time to be intentional and strategic with how you approach your branded merch.
Here are a few practical steps you can take to protect your brand and your budget as we navigate this evolving situation together:
Order Soon if You Want to Maintain Current Pricing
If you’ve already received a quote or placed a reorder in the past, don’t assume the price will hold for long. Tariff-related price changes could affect production costs quickly.
If you’re planning a fall event or year-end program and you know what you need, it’s smart to place your order sooner rather than later. Locking in pricing now can help you avoid unexpected cost increases later.
Double-Check All Pricing Moving Forward
Even if you have a saved quote or recently ordered a product, it’s important to reconfirm current pricing before placing your next order.
Some suppliers have already updated their pricing due to increased import costs, and others are adjusting weekly. Before you commit, make sure your pricing is up to date. If you’re working with us, we’re happy to check and confirm it for you.
Consider Domestically Produced Options
One way to avoid tariff-related price volatility is to explore products made in the USA.
Domestic products are often subject to fewer supply chain disruptions and are unaffected by many import tariffs. We have a curated shop of USA-made promotional products, and we’d be happy to help you find something that supports both your brand and domestic manufacturing.
[Link to your Made-in-USA product collection here]
Look at Alternatives from Other Countries
It’s also worth noting that not all imported goods are created equal. Tariffs may apply to certain countries or materials but not others.
In some cases, we can source comparable products from countries that are not currently impacted by new tariffs. This gives you more flexibility without compromising on the quality or function of your branded merchandise.
Communicate Your Deadlines Early
As pricing shifts and suppliers work through changing costs and inventory, longer lead times may become more common.
To avoid delays, it’s a good idea to start planning your campaigns and event merch sooner—and to communicate any firm in-hands dates early in the process. That way, we can help you avoid rush charges or shipping complications caused by availability or supplier transition periods.
Stay Flexible and Open to New Ideas
If your go-to item suddenly sees a price jump or becomes temporarily unavailable, we’re here to help. One of the best things you can do right now is to remain open to suggestions.
There are thousands of great branded merch options out there, and we love helping clients discover new pieces that fit their goals. Flexibility can make a big difference in maintaining your brand presence without blowing your budget.
Stay Informed—But Don’t Panic
The truth is, tariffs are part of a larger and often unpredictable global trade landscape. While changes are happening, this isn’t the first time the industry has faced cost pressure, and it won’t be the last.
The key is to stay in touch with your promotional partner (that’s us), stay informed, and make smart decisions. We’re actively tracking updates from suppliers and manufacturers and will continue to keep you in the loop.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to panic—but this is a moment for intentionality. If you’ve got branded merchandise projects in your pipeline, let’s talk sooner rather than later.
Together, we can:
Secure pricing while it’s still stable
Explore domestic and alternative product options
Build in extra time to avoid rush fees or unexpected availability issues
Keep your brand strong and visible, no matter what the headlines say
If you have questions or want to explore your options, we’re here to help. Let’s plan ahead and stay proactive—because that’s how smart brands succeed in any environment.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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 time for a new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where Jade and Kirby dive into the world of promo, branding, and marketing strategy—with a healthy dose of fun and practical tips along the way.
In this episode, they cover:
Their favorite social media platforms right now—and why
How to do a Company Merch Shop the right way
How something as simple as a custom pin can build brand momentum
A shoutout to Genesis Healthcare, who just received top recognition for their commitment to patient care
Watch or listen to the full episode here:
Social Media Favorites: What’s Working Now
Social media is always shifting, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the platforms. This week, Jade and Kirby shared which channels are working best for them—and why.
Kirby’s picks:
LinkedIn for business. It’s professional, focused, and great for sharing ideas and building credibility in the B2B space.
TikTok for entertainment and inspiration. It’s where he scrolls when he wants quick creative ideas or just a laugh.
Jade’s pick:
Instagram is making a comeback in her world. With its visual storytelling and improving features for engagement, it’s once again a top platform for connection and content.
Takeaway: Choose the platforms that fit both your audience and your own energy. Then go all in on creating value there.
How to Build a Company Merch Shop That Works
Company merch shops are growing in popularity—but not all of them are created equal.
Kirby and Jade shared tips on what makes a great branded merch store for employees, clients, or partners:
Keep the options curated. Don’t overwhelm people with 500 items. Choose 10–15 on-brand, high-impact pieces.
Make it easy to order. User experience matters. A simple, intuitive interface goes a long way.
Tie it into the company culture. Let the shop support recruiting, retention, and internal celebrations.
Offer seasonal drops or limited releases to keep excitement and engagement high.
When done well, a company merch shop isn’t just about gear—it’s about amplifying culture and creating brand champions from within.
How a Custom Pin Can Spread Your Message
Sometimes it’s the small things that pack the biggest punch—and this week, Kirby and Jade spotlighted the power of custom pins.
They’re portable, collectible, and personal.
You can use them to celebrate milestones, raise awareness, recognize team members, or build community around a cause or idea.
Pins are easy to wear, share, and show off—making them perfect for both internal initiatives and public-facing campaigns.
If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-impact way to spread your message, a pin might be the perfect fit.
Product of the Week: 13 oz Barista Mug with Cork Bottom
This week’s featured product is a fan favorite—the 13 oz Barista Ceramic Mug with a Cork Bottom from our friends at Bel Promo.
Stylish two-tone design that looks great on any desk or kitchen counter
Cork bottom adds warmth, protects surfaces, and gives it a unique touch
Generous size without being bulky—perfect for coffee, tea, or even soup
This is a product that feels premium but remains accessible for giveaways, client gifts, or employee appreciation. And yes—it photographs beautifully for social, too.
Shoutout: Genesis Healthcare Earns Top Honors
We always love highlighting people and organizations doing great work, and this week we’re celebrating Genesis Healthcare for being awarded the highest overall star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
This recognition reflects the dedication and excellence of the Genesis team, and we’re proud to give them a well-earned shoutout on this week’s show.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing had a little bit of everything—social media insights, branded merch strategy, thoughtful recognition, and one very lovable mug.
Here’s your quick recap:
Use social media intentionally and go where you (and your audience) thrive
Build a company merch shop that reflects your culture and adds real value
Don’t overlook small but powerful tools like custom pins
Celebrate those doing great work—like Genesis Healthcare
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe, and if you want help leveling up your branded merch strategy or creating your own company merch shop, we’d love to help.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. 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.
