This week’s Thirsty Thursday episode brought us the perfect blend of Southern charm and practical design. With the full crew—Jade, Briar, and Kirby—back in action, the mood was light, the banter was strong, and the reviews were unusually unanimous. That’s right: all thumbs up this time around. Let’s talk about what made this week’s sip session a success.
The Mug: 12 oz Stackable Ceramic Mug from BelPromo
First up, the drinkware. This week we featured the 12 oz Stackable Ceramic Mug from BelPromo, and it was a winner from the moment we unboxed it.
This mug is the perfect mix of classic and convenient. The ceramic build gives it that satisfying weight and smooth texture you want in a coffee mug, while the stackable design makes it ideal for small office kitchens, home cabinets, and anyone trying to save space. Whether you’re sipping on something warm during your morning routine or using it as a conversation starter in the break room, this mug is ready for action.
With a nice surface for decoration, it’s also a great piece for branded merch. If you’re planning a staff appreciation gift, launching a new campaign, or just want your logo in more hands (literally), this mug checks a lot of boxes.
Now for the surprise hit of the episode—the drink. This week we tested Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Vodka, and let’s just say we were skeptical going in. Sweet tea and vodka? It could go either way.
But it didn’t take long to win us over.
Sweet Carolina somehow hits the sweet spot (pun intended) between flavor and balance. It’s smooth and lightly sweet without being syrupy, and the tea flavor is genuine—not artificial or overpowering. You could definitely see this becoming a summer go-to, especially when mixed with lemonade, soda water, or even just poured over ice.
All three of us gave it the coveted thumbs up, which doesn’t happen often. That’s how you know this one’s worth trying for yourself.
One of the reasons we love Thirsty Thursday is that it gives us a chance to showcase promotional products in real life. We’re not just talking about mugs and tumblers—we’re using them, washing them, comparing them, and seeing how they feel in hand. It’s the best way to find out which pieces are worth putting your logo on.
This week’s ceramic mug was a great reminder that sometimes the simplest products are the most effective. Stackable mugs like this are easy to store, easy to ship, and always useful. When you combine that practicality with strong decoration and quality feel, you’ve got a piece of merch that people won’t toss in the back of a cabinet.
And when it comes to building brand recognition, that’s exactly what you want.
Stock Your Shelf with the Thirsty Thursday Shop
If you’ve been following along with us, you know the Thirsty Thursday crew takes drinkware seriously. We’ve tested everything from flasks to tumblers, shot glasses to mugs—and we’ve built a collection of our favorite branded drinkware in one convenient spot.
If you’re looking for a fun giveaway, a premium client gift, or something fresh for your internal swag closet, check out the full Thirsty Thursday drinkware shop here:
Each item in the shop has been tested by real people drinking real drinks—sometimes the good, sometimes the questionable—and you’ll find honest reviews and ideas for how each piece might fit your brand.
Final Pour
This week’s episode was a reminder of why we love doing this show. A great drinkware piece, a surprisingly enjoyable drink, and a few laughs along the way.
Whether you’re here for the product ideas, the drink reviews, or the camaraderie, we’re glad you’ve joined us. Be sure to catch the episode above, and if you’re ready to find branded merch that people will actually use, 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.
We made it! After 6 months of episodes filled with ideas, laughter, strategy, and yes, plenty of merch, we’ve wrapped up Season 1 of the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast. This final episode of the season was all about reflection, creative inspiration, and preparing for what’s next.
Here’s a quick recap of the finale—and why you’ll want to catch it, whether it’s your first time tuning in or you’ve been along for the entire journey.
Lessons from Season 1
Kirby and Jade kicked things off by reflecting on what they’ve learned during the creation of this weekly podcast.
Kirby’s biggest takeaway? The importance of having fun and being authentic. When you’re building content consistently, it’s easy to overthink it. But the episodes that really resonated—and the ones that were the most enjoyable—were the ones that felt natural, unscripted, and just plain fun.
He also talked about the willingness to pivot. Even when you like an idea or plan, it’s okay to change it if something better emerges. Adaptability is a marketing superpower.
Jade shared a powerful reminder for any content creator: “Done is better than perfect.” If you wait until you feel fully inspired or have the perfect plan, you’ll never hit publish. Not every episode felt effortless, but doing the work—even when it wasn’t easy—made all the difference. That consistency added up. Want the rest of the lessons (and the conversation)? Watch the full episode!
Jade’s Creative Process
Jade also gave listeners a peek behind the curtain into a large project she’s been working on. When the pressure’s high, she doesn’t just rely on raw inspiration. Instead, she builds out mood boards, dives into Pinterest, explores colors and aesthetics, and gathers inputs from outside the typical path.
The big insight here? Don’t wait for inspiration—go chase it. Sometimes the act of collecting and curating visuals can re-ignite creativity in ways you don’t expect.
If you’re stuck on a campaign, project, or even a logo design—this part of the episode is a must-listen.
What to Expect at the Hasseman Marketing Customer Show
Jade and Kirby also spent time previewing one of Hasseman Marketing’s biggest events of the year: The Customer Appreciation Show (aka Branding Basecamp). Whether you’ve attended before or this is your first year, they shared helpful tips on how to come prepared and get the most out of it.
Some quick reminders:
Bring your curiosity: You’ll see LOTS of great branded products.
Take notes and take photos: It’s a great place to gather ideas for the next quarter (or year).
Come ready to connect: Whether it’s chatting with suppliers, the Hasseman team, or other attendees, this is a fantastic networking opportunity.
Product of the Week: Proline 12′ Tape Measure
Every week features a standout product—and this episode did not disappoint. The Proline 12′ Tape Measure from HPG is a practical and reliable branded item that gets used again and again. It’s the kind of merch that brings real utility to your clients…while keeping your brand top of mind.
Check it out here: Proline 12′ Tape Measure. Learn more about our featured products and even order for your organization!
Shout-Out of the Week: Good Boy Bakery
Finally, this week’s shout-out goes to Good Boy Bakery, a beloved local business that just received a grant and announced a big expansion. Based in Coshocton, they’ve been a favorite in the community—and now they’re growing!
We’re thrilled to see small businesses succeed, and this is a shining example of turning passion into impact. Great stuff!
Final Thoughts
Season 1 has been a fun, insightful ride—and if this final episode is any indication, Better Merch…Better Marketing is only getting better.
We’ve talked about everything from branded merch strategy and personal branding to content marketing and creative processes. And through it all, the heart of the podcast has remained the same: helping you build a better brand with better tools.
We’ll be taking a short break to gear up for Season 2. Until then, be sure to catch up on any episodes you’ve missed and subscribe so you’re ready when we launch the next chapter.
Thanks for tuning in, sharing, and supporting Better Merch…Better Marketing. Here’s to what’s next!
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.
When it comes to building a brand that sticks, most marketers turn to digital ads, emails, or social media. And while those tools are important, one of the most underutilized and undervalued strategies continues to be branded merchandise.
But here’s the truth: Done well, branded merch can become one of your most powerful marketing tools. It’s targeted. It builds relationships. It lasts.
So in this week’s DMJ 1 on 1, I wanted to break down 10 truths about branded merch—and more importantly, share how you can act on them to elevate your marketing strategy.
1. Branded Merch is Targeted
Not all impressions are created equal. When you hand a product to a client or prospect, you’re choosing who sees your brand—and when. That’s incredibly powerful.
Action: Define your perfect customer and give them something they’ll actually use.
2. It’s the Only Marketing People Say “Thank You” For
No one thanks you for sending an email. But give someone a hoodie, a tumbler, or a hat they actually love? You’ll hear “thanks!”—and that positive association sticks.
Action: Build a “thank you” campaign using branded merch for your best customers or partners.
3. Useful Merch = Repeated Impressions
We’ve all kept a favorite pen for months—or used the same water bottle every day. That’s the power of usefulness.
Action: Audit your existing merch. Is it useful? Is it visible? Make sure it earns a place in their daily life.
4. Design Matters More Than You Think
It doesn’t matter how “on brand” your item is—if it’s ugly, no one’s wearing it. Good design transforms merch from disposable to desirable.
Action: Don’t just slap on a logo. Collaborate with a designer and ask, “Would I wear this?”
5. Merch Builds Internal Culture and Community
It’s not just for customers. Your team wants to feel part of something meaningful. Branded apparel and gear can help solidify that connection.
Action: Launch an internal drop when you hit a big milestone or welcome a new hire. Culture matters.
6. Good Merch Can Drive Action
Want merch to do more than build awareness? Add a call to action, QR code, or unique promo. Great merch can also be great lead generation.
Action: Link a product to a landing page or exclusive content. Measure how it performs.
7. Not All Merch is Created Equal
Cheap merch sends the wrong message. You want to feel proud when someone receives your product—not hope they toss it quietly.
Action: Quality over quantity. Better items, in smaller batches, often make a bigger impression.
8. Branded Merch is a Long-Game Strategy
A digital ad is gone in a scroll. But a high-quality product? It might be building your brand for months—or years.
Action: Think long-term. Invest in merch that reinforces your brand values and identity over time.
9. Emotional Connection Increases Impact
Products tied to a story, memory, or cause have more meaning. They don’t just get used—they get remembered.
Action: Add context to your campaign. Tie your merch to a moment, message, or mission.
10. Great Merch Sparks Word-of-Mouth
When people love your merch, they wear it, share it, and talk about it. It becomes part of their story—and yours.
Action: Make your merch photo-worthy. Encourage people to post about it. That’s the kind of marketing money can’t buy.
Final Thoughts
Branded merch isn’t just a swag bag. It’s a storytelling tool. It’s a relationship builder. It’s a way to make your brand feel real—not just digital.
So the next time you’re planning a campaign, ask yourself: how can I use branded merch not just as a giveaway… but as a strategy?
Let’s keep delivering marketing joy, one product (and one idea) at a time.
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.
Welcome back to Better Merch…Better Marketing, the weekly podcast where Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider break down the latest in marketing, branding, culture, and of course—branded merch. This week’s episode covers everything from managing the new “infinite workday” to launching successful golf outings, plus a product that’s perfect for summer getaways.
The “Infinite Workday”: When Work Creeps Into Everything
This week, Kirby and Jade kick things off by diving into a fascinating term recently coined by Microsoft—the infinite workday. Thanks to technology and remote work, our ability to connect anytime has slowly blurred the lines between work and life. The result? Many professionals feel like they’re always on.
While that can boost productivity, it also opens the door to burnout and disconnection. Jade stresses the importance of creating healthy boundaries, and Kirby shares the idea that we can send the email when it makes sense—but that doesn’t mean we need to expect an immediate reply. In short, just because we can work 24/7 doesn’t mean we should.
This conversation is a great reminder that intentionality matters—not just in what we do, but when we do it.
Products That Should Trend (and Ones That Shouldn’t)
Next up: product trends in the promotional products space. Jade and Kirby put some popular items under the microscope and ask, “Should this actually be a thing?”
Jade’s take: She’s not loving the phone holder on a lanyard trend. Functional? Sure. Fashionable or necessary? Not so much.
Kirby’s pick: Stress balls. A classic, yes—but do they really align with how today’s audiences deal with stress? They might be popular, but they are poison for the environment. Is that really what you want representing your brand?
That said, there are some underrated products that deserve more attention—especially when they’re used in the right context. One insight Kirby shared that might surprise people: Gen Z actually loves print. While they’re digital natives, they seem to really enjoy tangible, well-designed printed materials, especially when it stands out in an all-digital world.
This is your sign to stop assuming everything has to be digital. Done right, print can feel premium.
Why Your Organization Should Host a Golf Outing
If your company or nonprofit is looking for a new way to engage the community, raise funds, or connect with supporters—a golf outing could be your next great move.
Kirby and Jade walk through a few key reasons to consider it:
It creates community. Whether it’s a charity fundraiser or client appreciation event, golf outings naturally bring people together in a casual, interactive way.
It opens the door for sponsorships. Merch, signage, branded tees, coolers, and more—there are endless opportunities to integrate promotional items.
It gives people something to remember you by. When paired with high-quality branded merch, events like these stick with participants long after the last hole.
Jade and Kirby also discuss Shriver’s Hospice, which has created a signature golf outing in Muskingum County that shows just how powerful this kind of event can be when done right.
Product of the Week: Sublimated Quick Dry Sand Proof Beach Towel
This week’s featured product is one you’ll definitely want in your summer merch lineup: the Sublimated Quick Dry Sand Proof Beach Towel from our pals at Terry Town. Check it out here
Why we love it:
Bold, full-color branding
Sand-resistant texture (yes, really!)
Dries fast, making it ideal for trips to the pool, beach, or lake
Jade led the charge on this one, and Kirby shared how he and Amy recently took the towel on a quick vacation—it traveled well, looked great, and worked exactly as promised. This is the kind of promo item people will use and appreciate. Learn more or shop here.
Community Shout Out: People’s Bank
Last but not least, this week’s community spotlight shines on People’s Bank, which recently donated $5,000 to the Genesis Foundation’s Hospice Capital Campaign. The funds will go toward replacing the Morrison House inpatient facility, a critical part of hospice care in the region.
This generous donation is just one example of how People’s Bank consistently shows up for the communities it serves. It’s always good to highlight businesses that walk the talk. Learn more about People’s commitment to giving back here.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing packed in plenty of thought-provoking insights, helpful product recommendations, and real-world marketing strategies:
Create boundaries around your time to fight off the infinite workday
Question the trends—some products deserve more attention, while others may need to be retired
Golf outings are more than a day on the green—they’re strategic branding opportunities
Summer merch is in full swing, and the quick-dry towel is a must-have
Community matters—support and recognize the businesses doing good
Thanks for listening (or reading)! As always, if you need help making your brand more memorable through creative merch and smart marketing, we’d love to help.
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.
This week’s Thirsty Thursday episode brought all the flavor, fun, and a few mixed reviews as Jade, Briar, and Kirby gathered once again to test out a mystery drink from an impressive piece of branded drinkware. As always, the laughs were plentiful, the reviews were honest, and the drinkware stole the show.
Let’s break it all down.
The Star of the Show: Rhine 2-in-1 Vacuum Eco-Friendly Bottle
This week’s featured drinkware is the Rhine 2-in-1 Vacuum Eco-Friendly Bottle from PCNA. With a 30 oz capacity and a design that’s both stylish and functional, this piece immediately impressed the whole crew.
What sets this bottle apart is its clever two-in-one design. It functions as both a bottle and a cup, giving users two ways to enjoy their beverage of choice. That flexibility makes it perfect for outdoor adventures, tailgates, work commutes, and just about any other setting where hydration or indulgence is key.
We loved the sturdy build, the clean design, and the eco-friendly credentials. Whether you’re sipping water, your favorite sports drink, or something a little more festive like we do on Thirsty Thursday, the Rhine delivers a quality experience. All three of us agreed—it’s a win.
The drink of the day was the Chocolate Cherry Bomb Imperial Stout. The name alone had us curious—was it going to be sweet and rich, or heavy and overpowering?
Turns out, it depends who you ask.
Jade was quick to deliver a thumbs down. The blend of chocolate and cherry didn’t quite hit the mark for her palate, and the heavier stout profile wasn’t her favorite.
Briar, the diplomat of the crew, went with a “meh.” Not terrible, not terrific—just a middle-of-the-road experience.
Kirby, on the other hand, was all in. He gave the stout a thumbs up, appreciating the bold flavor combo and the depth that the imperial style brings. He’s always had a soft spot for creative brews, and this one fit the bill.
It just goes to show, even among friends, taste is a personal thing.
The Real Winner: Branded Drinkware That Works
Even though the drink brought out a range of opinions, one thing was unanimous—the drinkware was a home run. This is why we love doing Thirsty Thursday. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about showcasing promotional products in real life, in fun and unexpected ways.
We’ve featured all kinds of drinkware on Thirsty Thursday—from flasks to mugs to tumblers and more. If you’ve got an event coming up, are planning customer gifts, or just want to stock your team with cool gear, check out the full Thirsty Thursday drinkware shop here.
Every piece in the shop has been field-tested by the Thirsty Thursday crew, which means it’s been held, used, filled, sipped from, and reviewed—live, on camera. That kind of product experience gives you confidence when you’re looking for something special to represent your brand.
Final Thoughts
This week’s episode had everything we love about Thirsty Thursday. A drink that sparked strong reactions, a piece of branded drinkware that impressed everyone, and a good time had by all.
Whether you’re here for the product reviews, the laughter, or the occasional side-eye over a stout, we’re glad you’re along for the ride.
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.
