It’s that time of year—sunshine, vacations, and, for some, a slight dip in motivation. On this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider get honest about summer plans, productivity slumps, and the things currently grinding their gears in business.
But don’t worry, it’s not all venting. This episode is packed with laughs, practical tips, and a very cool (and useful) product of the week. Whether you’re counting down to vacation or trying to stay focused during the warmer months, this conversation has something for you.
Watch the full episode here:
Summer Plans: Time Off and Beach Dogs
We kicked off this episode by sharing what we’re looking forward to this summer.
Kirby admitted he’s planning to take most of July off—and while that sounds relaxing, it’s stressing him out a bit. Like many business owners, the idea of stepping away completely brings both excitement and anxiety. Will things fall apart? Will he actually unplug? Stay tuned!
Jade, on the other hand, is counting down the days until she can take her dog Maverick to the beach. Sometimes a little sand, sun, and a wagging tail are all the motivation you need to recharge.
The takeaway? Whether you’re planning a full month off or a weekend escape, making time for yourself is a crucial part of long-term success.
Business Pet Peeves: It’s Not Just You
Next up, we aired a couple of business pet peeves that have been popping up lately—and chances are, you’ve felt these too.
Kirby’s gripe? People not keeping their promises. In a world full of noise, trust and follow-through matter more than ever. When someone says they’ll deliver, call back, or send a proposal and then vanishes—it erodes confidence. If you want to stand out in business today, just doing what you say you’ll do puts you ahead.
Jade’s pet peeve? The dreaded customer service hand-off. You’ve been there—calling with a problem only to be bounced from one rep to another, none of whom can help. It’s not just frustrating; it’s a missed opportunity for brands to make a customer feel valued.
Both issues boil down to ownership. Whether it’s fulfilling a promise or solving a problem, great brands and people take responsibility—and that builds loyalty.
Summer Motivation: Keep It Moving (Even When It’s Hot)
How do you stay motivated when the sun is shining and distractions are everywhere?
Kirby’s strategy is simple but effective: work early. By getting up and moving in the morning—before emails pile up or the day gets away from you—he’s able to stay productive while still enjoying summer.
Jade is challenging herself to post on social media every single day in June. For her, it’s about building momentum and staying consistent. A daily post might not seem like much, but over time it creates engagement, awareness, and discipline.
Summer doesn’t have to mean slowing down—it can be a great time to double down on habits that fuel your long-term goals.
Product of the Week: The Trakard by Rupt
If you’re always misplacing things or want to give your brand a modern twist, this week’s product is for you.
The Trakard by Rupt is a smart Bluetooth tracker the size of a credit card. You can slide it into a wallet, bag, backpack, or even a moving box—which is exactly what Jade is doing as she preps for her next move.
Why we love it:
It’s sleek, modern, and actually useful
It connects to an app for easy location tracking
It’s a great branded item for tech-savvy audiences or people on the go
Branded merch doesn’t have to be boring—and this is a perfect example of a high-perceived-value item that your audience will thank you for. Shop now for details here.
Shout Out of the Week: Joel Jumper and Hartville Hardware
This week’s shout-out is both a farewell and a welcome.
Joel Jumper, the longtime owner of Coshocton Lumber, has sold the business and is heading into retirement. We want to thank Joel for his years of hard work and dedication to serving the Coshocton community.
At the same time, we’re thrilled to welcome Hartville Hardware as the new owner. Known for their incredible store experience and customer-first mindset, Hartville Hardware has an opportunity to expand their legacy into Coshocton—and we’re excited to see what they bring to the table.
Here’s to a smooth transition and continued service to our local builders, homeowners, and DIYers.
Final Thoughts
From beach dogs and business frustrations to smart tech and summer goals, this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing is all about balance.
Summer is a great time to slow down and refresh—but it’s also a chance to reconnect with your purpose, double down on habits, and invest in the tools (and people) that make your brand stronger.
So here’s to motivation, real talk, and merch that matters.
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’re back with another Thirsty Thursday—where the drinks are mysterious, the reactions are honest, and the branded merch is always the main event. This time, Jade, Briar, and Kirby team up to put both a new beverage (that has double the juice) and a fresh piece of drinkware to the test.
So, what’s on tap?
The drinkware: The sleek and sustainable Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA
The drink: Juice Jolt from Southern Tier Brewing—a fruit-forward double IPA with a lot of personality (maybe too much?)
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA
First up, let’s talk about what we were drinking from—and this one got high marks across the board.
Sustainable design: Made from recycled aluminum, this bottle is a win for both branding and the environment.
Generous capacity: At 26 oz, it’s big enough to keep you hydrated throughout the workday or a solid outdoor adventure.
Twist-on lid with carry handle: Easy to transport, secure, and leak-resistant.
Modern finish: The matte finish and minimalist design give it a retail-inspired look—perfect for employee gifts, wellness programs, or event swag.
Jade, Kirby, and Briar all agreed—this is a strong option for brands that want to combine function, eco-consciousness, and style. Whether you’re trying to eliminate single-use bottles or just want your logo traveling around town, this bottle delivers.
The Drink: Juice Jolt from Southern Tier Brewing
Now, the drink.
This week’s mystery beverage was Juice Jolt, a high-octane double IPA with bold citrus flavor from Southern Tier Brewing.
The reaction? Let’s just say… it was mixed at best.
The description on the can made some big promises—intense citrus notes, balanced bitterness, and a powerful punch—but our team felt it landed more in the “meh” zone than “wow.”
What we said:
Kirby described it as a drink that doesn’t quite know what it wants to be.
Jade felt like it had some fruitiness, but not enough to be refreshing.
Briar just wasn’t sold—especially after the first few sips.
Bottom line: We were excited going in, but Juice Jolt didn’t quite jolt us into a new level of beverage bliss. If you’re a big fan of bold IPAs, you might still enjoy it, but this one won’t be making our top-shelf list.
Merch First, Drinks Second
As always, Thirsty Thursday isn’t just about the drink—it’s about testing branded drinkware in the wild and having some fun while we do it.
The Duo bottle shined as the kind of promotional product that blends eco-friendly values with everyday usefulness. When your merch becomes a part of someone’s daily routine, you’ve done something right.
And even though the drink didn’t win us over this time, the bottle absolutely did.
Want More Thirsty Thursday Favorites?
We’ve been taste-testing and merch-reviewing for a while now, and we’ve curated a shop filled with Thirsty Thursday-approved drinkware—including bottles, tumblers, mugs, and more.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for your next client gift, event giveaway, or employee welcome kit, our team can help you find the perfect piece to make your brand unforgettable (and appreciated).
Final Sip
Every Thirsty Thursday brings a surprise—sometimes in the form of a new favorite drink, and other times in the unexpected success of a promo product we can’t stop raving about.
This week?
The drink fell a bit flat.
But the Duo 26oz Recycled Aluminum Bottle from PCNA? Total winner.
Thanks for joining us for another round of Thirsty Thursday. If you’ve got a drink you think we should try—or a piece of branded drinkware you want us to test—send it our way!
In this week’s episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby tackle the intersection of branding, consumer behavior, and employee engagement—with a healthy dose of fun and a few sharp marketing lessons along the way.
This episode covers:
The rise of plastic bag bans—and the merch opportunity hiding in plain sight
Two very different coffee campaigns—and what they teach us about promises and promotion
A new Gallup study on remote workers, stress, and engagement
Plastic bags are now banned in 12 states (and counting), along with many major cities. While some see this as an inconvenience, Jade—who lives in Colorado where the ban has been in place—says it’s really not that big of a deal.
In fact, both Jade and Kirby see this as a branding opportunity. If your business provides your audience with a high-quality, reusable tote, you’re not just solving a problem—you’re delivering a useful piece of branded merch that gets seen over and over again.
As Kirby put it, this is a great example of “creating marketing that people say ‘thank you’ for.” Functional, relevant, and repeat-use merch is how brands stay top of mind without shouting for attention.
A Tale of Two Coffee Campaigns
This week also brought two contrasting stories in the world of coffee marketing:
7 Brew Coffee launched a clever Mother’s Day campaign: Buy two coffees, get a coffee coolie. It worked—customers felt appreciated, and the gift made sense for the moment. The key? Knowing your audience.
In contrast, Dunkin’ promoted a Nurses Week campaign… but not all locations participated, leading to disappointment, confusion, and frustration. Jade and Kirby agreed that it’s better not to promise anything than to offer a campaign that falls apart in execution.
Marketing lesson of the week: Don’t overpromise and underdeliver. Whether you’re selling coffee or branded merch, clarity and consistency win trust.
Gallup Study: Remote Workers Are Engaged—But Also Stressed
A recent Gallup study found that people working from home report higher levels of engagement with their work, but also increased levels of anger, sadness, and loneliness. It’s a revealing—and important—data point.
Jade and Kirby discussed the balance between productivity and emotional wellness in remote settings. It’s not just about output; it’s about how people feel. Some solutions?
Create space for intentional connection (virtual or in person)
Encourage breaks and boundaries
Look for signs of burnout—not just performance metrics
This segment was a good reminder: Engaged doesn’t always mean okay. Leaders and teams need to pay attention to both.
Product of the Week: Pucker Up—It’s Lip Balm Time
This week’s Product of the Week is a pint-sized powerhouse—the Pout Pucker Mini Lip Moisturizer from HPG.
Affordable and addictive—people keep coming back for more
High use frequency—your logo is seen multiple times a day
New scents and flavors let your brand find its personality
Great for events, giveaways, wellness kits, and retail add-ons
This is a perfect example of small merch with a big impact. Your customer will literally carry your brand in their pocket.
Shoutout of the Week: The Coshocton Collaborative Is Now Open!
We’ve shouted out the Coshocton Collaborative before—but this time, it’s for something big: the ribbon has officially been cut, and the Collaborative is open for business.
Located in the heart of Coshocton, this new space is part coworking center, part innovation hub, and part small business incubator. It’s designed to serve entrepreneurs, startups, remote workers, and anyone looking for a collaborative community to build and grow.
Kirby and Jade shared their excitement for the investment in Coshocton County and the potential ripple effect this space could have across the region. From local economic development to entrepreneurial energy, this is a project worth celebrating.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was a mix of practical insights and inspiring stories, reminding us that great marketing isn’t about gimmicks—it’s about consistency, thoughtfulness, and relevance.
Here’s your quick recap:
Plastic bag bans = opportunity for functional branded merch
Great campaigns work because they deliver what they promise
Remote workers may be thriving—but also need support
Lip balm is small, affordable, and high-impact
Coshocton Collaborative is now open—and the future is bright
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing—and if your team needs help finding the right merch to stay visible and valuable, we’d love to help. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
Sometimes the best Thirsty Thursday episodes are the ones that have the worst kind of beer and go a little sideways—and this week’s edition is no exception. From mystery drinks to role reversals (and yes, a pink hoodie), this one had laughs, strong opinions, and a great piece of branded drinkware that we actually wanted to keep.
This time, Jade, Kirby, and Briar took their usual seats—except they didn’t. Jade and Briar switched spots, and for reasons that will only make sense if you watch the episode, Briar ended up wearing Jade’s bright pink zip-up hoodie. It was silly from the start… and only got sillier.
Watch the full episode here:
The Drinkware: 22 oz Full Color Big Game Stadium Cup from Hit Promo
Let’s start with the star of the show—the drinkware.
This week, we sipped (and struggled) from the 22 oz Full Color Big Game Stadium Cup from our friends at Hit Promo.
It looked like a Guinness, smelled like a Guinness… but that’s where the resemblance ended.
The flavor? Thin, watery, and confusing.
Briar’s now-infamous quote: “It tastes like a spit cup.”
Oof.
Whether you’re a diehard Guinness fan or just curious about NA options, we’ll say this: proceed with caution. If you’re after that classic stout flavor without the alcohol, this may not be the one to get you there.
The Vibe: Pink Hoodies and Punchlines
Beyond the drink and the cup, what made this episode fun was the energy. From the moment Briar zipped up Jade’s hoodie and took her seat, the tone was set. It was loose, unscripted, and full of laughs—the kind of vibe that makes Thirsty Thursday what it is.
One of the best things about this series is that it’s not just about drinkware—it’s about real reactions, real people, and relatable branded merch. Whether the drink is a hit or a flop, we always walk away with a product we’d be proud to recommend.
Want to Get Your Hands on Thirsty Thursday Drinkware?
We’ve tested dozens of drinkware items on the show—and we’ve put together a curated shop featuring some of our favorite pieces, including this week’s stadium cup.
Whether you’re planning a company event, onboarding kit, or just want to elevate your branded merch game, these products are tested, reviewed, and team-approved.
Final Thoughts
This episode had everything:
A fun branded item we truly loved
A mystery drink we’ll try hard to forget (with the worst kind of beer).
And the kind of spontaneous, lighthearted energy that makes branded merch feel personal and fun
Thirsty Thursday isn’t just about taste tests—it’s about helping you discover branded drinkware that people will actually want to use, paired with a little laughter along the way.
Thanks for tuning in! 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 Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby are back with a blend of wellness talk, favorite work tools, and one branded merch item that’s a hole-in-one.
This episode includes:
Real talk about work-life balance
The non-traditional products they swear by to boost their workday
A peek inside their morning routines
Product of the Week: The Magnetic Golf Towel from Gold Bond
A shoutout to the incredible work being done by Chili Baptist Community Church
Listen or watch the full episode here:
Let’s dig into the highlights.
Tips for Work-Life Balance: Grace, Boundaries, and Intention
The conversation around work-life balance is always a hot one—and this episode was no different. Jade and Kirby each offered a unique take:
Jade’s perspective: Balance starts with intention. Whether it’s time-blocking, setting boundaries, or saying no to protect your energy, being mindful of how you spend your time is critical. You can’t be everywhere at once—but you can choose where you want to be.
Kirby’s take: He pushed back on the idea of perfect balance. “There’s no such thing,” he said. “It’s about recognizing the season you’re in and giving yourself grace.” Some days work takes more. Some days family does. The trick is not trying to achieve a perfect 50/50, but being honest with yourself and being present where you are.
Bottom line? Balance isn’t a destination—it’s a daily practice.
One Non-Traditional Product That Improves Their Work Life
We’re always fans of useful tools, and this week, Jade and Kirby each shared a non-traditional product that has improved their workdays in a big way.
Jade’s pick: A quality mouse and keyboard. It may sound simple, but having tools that feel good, reduce strain, and enhance productivity makes a big difference when you’re spending hours at your desk.
Kirby’s favorite: His microphone and webcam setup. As a content creator and host of multiple podcasts and video series, investing in the tools that improve video and audio quality has elevated his ability to connect—and keeps things running smoothly across platforms.
Lesson: Don’t underestimate the value of the “little things.” Sometimes the gear that doesn’t get talked about much has the biggest impact on your daily experience.
Morning Routines: How They Start the Day Right
When it comes to productivity, how you start your day often sets the tone. Jade and Kirby each walked through their morning routines—and they couldn’t be more different.
Kirby’s morning routine is structured and intentional, including:
Coffee (non-negotiable)
A morning run or workout
Meditation or mindfulness
Push-ups
Breakfast (often at the Coshocton Regional Medical Center cafeteria)
It’s not just about routine—it’s about creating momentum early in the day.
Jade’s mornings are more fluid, but she emphasized getting the body and brain moving—whether it’s journaling, taking a walk, or just having a slow moment before diving into work.
The common thread? Start with something that fills your cup—before the day starts pouring out of it.
Product of the Week: Magnetic Waffle Golf Towel from Gold Bond
This week’s Product of the Week is a favorite for golf fans and corporate event planners alike: the 28” x 12.5” Magnetic Waffle Golf Towel from Gold Bond.
The magnet built into the towel allows it to easily attach to golf carts or clubs—making it super practical on the course
The waffle texture is both absorbent and sharp-looking
It’s a great branding opportunity—especially for company tournaments, charity outings, or corporate gifts
If your audience includes golf lovers, business development pros, or team-building organizers, this towel is a memorable and useful choice.
Shoutout of the Week: Chili Baptist Community Church
This week’s shoutout goes to a group doing incredible work in Coshocton County—Chili Baptist Community Church.
Not only are they building a beautiful new facility to serve their congregation and the greater community—they’re doing it themselves. With the help of volunteers and faithful determination, this group is pouring time, effort, and heart into something truly special.
We applaud the dedication, craftsmanship, and servant leadership they’re showing—and can’t wait to see the finished result.
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing was full of insight, energy, and ideas you can use—whether you’re leading a team, working from home, or just trying to figure out how to get going in the morning.
Here’s your quick recap:
Work-life balance is more about grace and intention than perfection
The “little” tools like a mouse or mic can transform your daily workflow
Morning routines don’t need to match—but they should be meaningful
The Maggy golf towel is a sleek and functional branded item for events
And we’re inspired by the dedication at Chili Baptist Community Church
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.
