It’s time for another episode of Thirsty Thursday, the show where we sip (or sometimes suffer) through a mystery drink out of a piece of branded drinkware—and this week’s episode was definitely one for the books.
In this installment, Jade Crider, Briar Swigert, and Kirby Hasseman gathered around for what started out as a promising tasting experience. We had a slick new drinkware piece from Gold Bond, and we were excited. But then we took a sip… and that’s where things went off the rails.
Let’s just say, the drink did not go down easy.
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Pour Caddy Stainless Steel Flask Set (Gold Bond)
Before we dive into the chaos that was this week’s mystery drink, let’s give some love to the real winner of the episode—the drinkware.
This week we tested out the Pour Caddy from Gold Bond, and it was a total standout.
Stylish and functional – The stainless steel flask set includes a pour spout and shot glasses that fit perfectly into the cap.
Portable and giftable – Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or gifting it to your favorite client, it’s sleek, compact, and screams quality.
Branding opportunity – It has a high-end feel that elevates any logo, making it perfect for executive gifting or team appreciation kits.
We all gave the Pour Caddy a resounding thumbs-up. It’s one of those branded merch pieces that people will actually keep, use, and remember.
The Drink: Jeppson’s Malört
Now, about that drink…
Jeppson’s Malört is a liqueur with a reputation that precedes it. Distilled in Chicago, Malört is often described as a “rite of passage” drink—something you try once, maybe for the shock value, and then never again.
Tasting notes (according to the internet and our faces):
Bitter.
Herbal.
Lingering.
Memorable… but not in the good way.
If you’ve never had it, imagine grapefruit peel mixed with rubber cement and despair. Okay, maybe we’re being dramatic—but it was rough. The reactions were priceless (you’ll definitely want to watch the video for the full effect), and the general consensus was: never again.
That said, it made for a hilarious episode.
What Makes Thirsty Thursday Work
We always say that Thirsty Thursday is about more than the drink. It’s about:
Testing out fun branded merch
Sharing honest reactions
Highlighting what makes products memorable
And of course, having a good time doing it
This week hit all those notes. We found a fantastic drinkware product that we’ll be recommending a lot going forward, and we had a little too much fun trying one of the worst mystery drinks we’ve ever pulled from the hat.
If you’re in charge of picking branded drinkware for an upcoming campaign, event, or client gift—don’t let this week’s drink scare you away. The Pour Caddy is the kind of item that brings people together and creates a lasting impression.
Final Verdict
Drinkware: Pour Caddy from Gold Bond – 10/10 recommend
Drink: Jeppson’s Malört – never again
Entertainment value: Off the charts
Thirsty Thursday continues to be a place where branding meets fun, and where we can laugh, learn, and sip (or suffer) together.
Have a drinkware item you want us to test—or a drink you think we have to try? Let us know! And if you want to learn more or order, head to our Thirsty Thursday shop here.
We’ve got a special edition of the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast this week because…Jade is in Coshocton! That’s right. Jade made the trip from Colorado, and we recorded this episode in person at the Hasseman Marketing Office!
This week’s conversation ranged from branding tips to quarterly strategy, and even a little merch love. Here’s what we covered:
Rebranding is more than just designing a pretty new logo—it’s about building a visual and emotional identity that connects with your audience. Whether you’re rebranding your business or helping a client through the process, here are a few key takeaways we shared:
Include a One-Color Version: Your logo needs to be versatile. From embroidery to screen printing to social media icons, having a one-color version ensures your brand always shows up clean and strong.
Think About Platform Applications: Will your logo look good as a profile pic? Can it scale up to a banner or down to a pen? Consider all the places your brand might appear and design accordingly.
Create Brand Guidelines: This is one of the most overlooked but essential parts of a rebrand. A brand guide sets the tone for consistency across platforms—fonts, colors, logo usage, tone of voice, and more.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget to update your branded merch! Rebranding is a great time to create a new merch collection that showcases your refreshed look.
Why We’re Loving 1-Piece Minimums
The promotional products world is shifting—and we love it. More and more suppliers are offering 1-piece minimums, and that’s opening up a world of possibilities.
Here’s why this trend matters:
More flexibility for smaller clients or internal company projects
Easier sampling and gifting without large order commitments
Great for personalization and test runs
We believe this shift will lead to more creative, thoughtful, and customized branding experiences, especially for companies that want to test ideas or give high-end gifts in smaller quantities. Want to see a few 1-piece options? Check out this shop.
Tactics to Make Q2 Your Best Yet
We’re officially into the second quarter of the year—and whether Q1 flew by or dragged on, now’s the time to get focused.
Here are a few strategies we discussed to help make Q2 count:
Revisit Your Annual Goals: What did you say you’d accomplish this year? Are you on track? If not, don’t beat yourself up—just reset.
Create New, Specific Q2 Goals: Sometimes yearly goals feel too big. Break them into quarterly targets and take it one quarter at a time.
Refocus Your Energy: Spring is a great time to clear the mental (and digital) clutter and lean into action.
This episode is your gentle nudge to take a deep breath, refocus, and get back on track with intention and energy.
Product of the Week: Fossa Ladies’ Skyline Soft Shell Half-Zip
Each week we highlight a piece of branded merch we love—and this one is both stylish and practical.
Not only is it a valuable service to the community, but it’s also a great example of giving first and adding value before asking for anything in return. Way to go, Community Bank!
Final Thoughts
This week’s episode had a little bit of everything—brand strategy, Q2 planning, merch trends, and local shoutouts. And recording together in Coshocton brought some extra energy to the table.
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss a new 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.
In this week’s episode of DMJ 1 on 1, we’re talking about something every business, brand, and marketer faces eventually—uncertainty.
Whether it’s economic, industry-specific, or just a natural ebb and flow, uncertain times can make even the most confident leaders question their next steps. But here’s the truth: great marketing still works, even during uncertainty. In fact, it’s often the best time to lean into what works.
In this episode, Kirby shares 4 Marketing Tips for Uncertain Times—but the real magic is that these tips aren’t just for rocky moments. They’re timeless principles that will serve you well no matter what the headlines say.
Watch the full video here:
Let’s dive into the four tips that can help you not only survive—but thrive—when the road ahead feels unclear.
When Everyone Is on Defense, Go on Offense
Uncertainty tends to trigger one common reaction in organizations: they pull back. Budgets are slashed. Marketing is paused. Risk-taking is replaced by caution.
But here’s the opportunity: when everyone else retreats, you can advance.
Now is the time to:
Increase your visibility
Share your message more frequently
Show up for your audience when others don’t
Why does this matter? Because when the dust settles (and it always does), your brand will be the one people remember. You didn’t go quiet. You didn’t disappear. You leaned in and provided value when others went silent.
Going on offense doesn’t mean reckless spending—it means being intentional, active, and bold while others play it safe.
Guard Your Customers
It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of new business. And let’s be clear—new customers are important. But during uncertain times, it’s more critical than ever to protect and serve the customers you already have.
Why?
They already trust you.
They’ve already chosen to work with you.
It’s significantly more cost-effective to retain a customer than to acquire a new one.
In uncertain times, these relationships can become even more valuable. Stay close to your existing clients. Check in. Ask what they need. Provide value beyond the transaction.
Retention becomes the real win.
Look for Ways to Add Value—Not Cut Price
When uncertainty hits, the knee-jerk reaction for many businesses is to discount. Price cuts feel like a quick fix for sluggish sales. But here’s the problem: it’s a race to the bottom, and it rarely builds loyalty or long-term growth.
Instead of lowering prices, look for ways to increase value.
Can you add a bonus service?
Can you improve the customer experience?
Can you bundle products in a creative way?
People don’t always want the cheapest option—they want the most valuable option. Show your audience that what you offer is worth every penny, and they’ll come back again and again.
Multiply Your Social Media Efforts
In uncertain times, communication matters more than ever—and social media is one of the most powerful tools you have.
Here’s the problem: too many brands use social media as a one-way announcement board. That won’t cut it anymore. If you want to build trust, grow influence, and create real brand equity, you need to:
Create content that helps people
Engage in real conversations
Be consistent and present
Now is not the time to disappear from your audience’s feed. In fact, this is the time to double down.
The beauty of social and content marketing is that the barrier to entry is low—but the return can be high. But like anything else, you have to put in the work.
Final Thoughts: Lean In When Others Lean Out
The instinct to retreat when times are uncertain is natural—but it’s not strategic. The brands that come out stronger are the ones that stay visible, stay valuable, and stay connected.
To recap:
Go on offense while others are on defense
Guard and care for your existing customers
Focus on adding value—not lowering price
Multiply your efforts on social media and content marketing
These aren’t just “uncertain times” tactics—they’re evergreen strategies that can elevate your brand and build momentum no matter what’s going on around 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.
On this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade dig into a mix of marketing insights, branded merch talk, and a few surprising media takes—from The Wolf of Wall Street landing on Disney+ to one very noisy pen.
This episode includes:
The Good, Bad, and Ugly of TikTok Marketing
Trade Show Tips to help brands show up and stand out
1. TikTok Marketing: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
First up, we waded into the ever-controversial waters of TikTok marketing. Like most platforms, TikTok can be a powerful tool—or a cautionary tale—depending on how it’s used.
The Ugly: We kick off with a story of influencer marketing gone seriously wrong. It’s a reminder that when brands hand over messaging to creators without clear boundaries or understanding, the results can backfire—big time.
The Bad: Poppi, a better-for-you soda brand, sent out mini vending machines to influencers as part of a campaign. Some users criticized the campaign as wasteful or out-of-touch. Kirby called it “fake outrage,” arguing that the brand earned awareness and engagement—which is, after all, the goal.
The Good: Then there’s the success story of an author whose book sales exploded after a single, authentic TikTok video took off. No gimmicks. No huge spend. Just a compelling story shared with the right audience.
Key takeaway: TikTok can amplify your message, but strategy, authenticity, and understanding the platform culture are essential.
2. Trade Show Tips That Actually Work
Trade shows are back—and if you’re going to invest time and money to show up, you’d better make it count. Jade and Kirby shared real-world tips that can help your booth rise above the sea of sameness.
Have a Theme: Make it memorable. A cohesive, creative theme ties your merch, booth, and messaging together.
Train Your Team: A great booth setup means nothing if your team isn’t energized, aligned, and trained to engage.
Pre-Event Communication: Don’t just show up—give first. Reach out before the show to offer value, create interest, and invite attendees to stop by.
Whether it’s a regional expo or a national trade show, the brands that prepare before the event are the ones that win during it.
3. Disney+ Gets Gritty: A Brand Shift?
Yes, it’s true—The Wolf of Wall Street is now streaming on Disney+. So, what does this mean for brand identity?
Kirby and Jade talked about the change in Disney+ since it merged with Hulu. The main thought of course is, you can’t let Disney+ be your child’s babysitter. But Kirby’s overall take is on knowing your audience. If you don’t create content that is tailored for your perfect customer, then it might feel like the Wolf of Wall Street doing sales training on your child!
4. Product of the Week: The Crinkle Pen from HPG
This week’s featured merch item? The wonderfully tactile and slightly addictive Crinkle Pen from HPG.
Why we love it:
It’s fun to fidget with (without being distracting).
The grip is unique and memorable.
It’s a conversation starter—great for trade shows, events, and desk drops.
Bottom line: It’s not your average pen, and that’s the point.
5. Shoutout of the Week: Coshocton Regional Medical Center
We always love highlighting great work—and this week’s shoutout goes to Coshocton Regional Medical Center for receiving the Patient Safety Excellence Award.
Their commitment to care and excellence makes a real impact in our community, and this recognition is well-deserved. Hats off to the entire team.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was a fun mix of insights, hot takes, and useful tools. Whether you’re navigating TikTok, planning for your next trade show, or just hunting for the next great piece of merch, there’s something in here for you.
Until next time, keep showing up, keep growing, and keep creating Better Merch…and 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.
It’s time for a brand-new episode of Thirsty Thursday, the series where we test out branded drinkware and sip (or sometimes shoot) a mystery drink—all in the name of fun, good vibes, and promotional product inspiration.
This time, we were joined by Briar Swigert from Simple Signs and Print and Kelly Bowe from our own Hasseman Marketing team, making for an entertaining and slightly mischievous tasting session.
What’s on the table? A stainless steel shot glass from Keystone Line and Spiced Apple Punch from Jack Daniels. Did we shoot it or sip it? You’ll have to watch to find out.
🎥 Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Stainless Steel Shot Glass from Keystone Line
Let’s be honest—shot glasses don’t always scream “high-quality merch,” but this one? It’s the real deal.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Thirsty Thursday without a mystery drink, and this one brought some warm fall energy to the table: Jack Daniels Spiced Apple Punch.
What we thought:
Flavorful and festive – Hints of apple and spice made this one feel like a cozy campfire cocktail.
Smooth enough to sip, bold enough to shoot – Which made our decision a little tougher.
Great for events or holiday-themed tastings – Definitely a drink we’d revisit.
While not every mystery drink is a crowd-pleaser, this one got a thumbs-up across the board.
Final Verdict: Fun All Around
The big debate? Do you sip or shoot when it’s Thirsty Thursday and you’ve got a stainless steel shot glass in hand? We won’t spoil the moment, but let’s just say everyone came ready to play.
The drink was solid. The shot glass? A total hit.
Join Us for the Next Thirsty Thursday
Each week, we:
Try out a new piece of branded drinkware
Taste a mystery beverage
And have a little too much fun doing it
If you’re looking for promo product ideas with personality, Thirsty Thursday is the place to be.
Have a drinkware item you want us to test—or a drink you think we have to try? Let us know! And if you want to learn more or order, head to our Thirsty Thursday shop here.
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where Jade and Kirby talk all things branded merch, marketing, and the latest trends in the promo world.
This week, it’s Merch Madness—a fun and competitive episode where we put branded merch head-to-head in a tournament-style showdown to determine the ultimate winner. But that’s not all. We also cover:
Unpopular opinions that might ruffle some feathers
How to create branded merch that stands out in the social media era
This week’s featured product: the Lean2 Magnetic Wallet
A special shoutout to the Coshocton Board of DD luncheon and the amazing award winners
Who won Merch Madness? You’ll have to watch or listen to find out!
Now, let’s break it all down.
Unpopular Opinions: Things That Might Get Us in Trouble
We kicked things off with some hot takes that might not sit well with everyone, but hey—they’re our opinions, and we stand by them!
Jade’s Unpopular Opinion: Just because you’re an A student doesn’t mean you’re the smartest person in the room. School rewards a certain type of intelligence, but real-world success is about more than just grades.
Kirby’s Unpopular Opinion: YETI tumblers are overrated in branded merch. There are plenty of high-quality, functional alternatives that provide the same (if not better) results, often at a better price point. Don’t just default to the brand name—explore other great options!
Do you agree or disagree with these? Let us know!
Merch Madness: The Branded Merch Showdown
In honor of March Madness, Jade created a bracket-style tournament featuring a mix of popular and underrated branded merch items.
Koozies vs. Tote Bags – Which one is more useful? More impactful?
Chisel Pencils vs. Lip Balm – Does function win over practicality?
Hand Sanitizer vs. Wireless Chargers – Which one is the must-have in today’s world?
The debates were heated, hilarious, and surprisingly difficult at times. Some of our picks might shock you.
Who took home the championship title? Watch the episode to find out!
How to Create Branded Merch That Stands Out in the Social Media Era
Branded merch isn’t just about slapping a logo on something and calling it a day—especially in a world where social media plays such a huge role in brand engagement.
Here are some tips on how to create merch people actually want to wear, use, and share:
Prioritize Great Design – The best branded merch doesn’t look like promo—it looks like something you’d buy in a store. Invest in good design, color choices, and aesthetic appeal.
Design for Your Real Audience – Think about who will actually be using the product. What do they love? What will make them want to show it off?
Make It Limited or Exclusive – People love limited-edition drops. Whether it’s for an event, a milestone, or a campaign, exclusive merch feels special.
Encourage Social Sharing – If your merch looks great, people will post about it. Create something photo-worthy and consider including hashtags or QR codes to drive engagement.
Want to create branded merch that people love? These tips will help.
Featured Product of the Week: Lean2 Magnetic Wallet
This week, we’re spotlighting a sleek, practical piece of branded merch that we both love—the Lean2 Magnetic Wallet. Check it out here
What makes it great?
MagSafe-compatible – Perfect for iPhone users who love a minimalist, no-bulk wallet option.
Holds essentials – Cards, ID, and cash stay secure while staying lightweight and convenient.
Premium feel – High-quality material makes it a great executive gift or giveaway.
We’re big fans of functional, everyday branded merch—and this one delivers.
Shoutout: Coshocton Board of DD Luncheon & Local Award Winners
This week’s shoutout goes to the Coshocton Board of DD for putting together an incredible area luncheon.
Not only was it a great event, but it also celebrated some incredible individuals and organizations making a difference. It’s always inspiring to see people recognized for their hard work and contributions to the community.
A huge congratulations to all the award winners—thank you for what you do!
Final Thoughts: A Fun Episode with Big Takeaways
This week’s episode was a mix of fun, debates, and valuable marketing insights.
Here’s what we covered:
Unpopular opinions that challenge conventional thinking
Merch Madness—a battle of branded merch items
How to create merch that stands out in today’s digital world
A product we’re loving: the Lean2 Magnetic Wallet
A shoutout to an amazing local event celebrating community leaders
Which branded merch item would YOU have picked as the winner of Merch Madness? Let us know!
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.
