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.
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.
We’re back for another episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we gather the crew, pour a mystery beverage into a fresh piece of branded drinkware, and let the fun unfold on camera. If you’ve followed the show, you already know this isn’t just about taste—it’s about team banter, big opinions, and testing out some of the coolest drinkware in the promo world.
This week’s session? Let’s just say it brought the tropics to the table—with a sustainable twist. Watch the latest episode now!
Now let’s dig into the details of this episode!
The Drinkware: Peak Recycled Insulated Sip Or Swig Mug – 24 oz
Here’s the thing—when it comes to drinkware on Thirsty Thursday, we’re not just looking for good looks (although this piece definitely has it). We want function, versatility, and let’s be honest—a little bit of “wow” factor. And this mug delivers.
With two drinking options (hello, flexibility), it lets you choose whether to sip like a latte-sipping pro or swig like you’re cooling down after a long hike. It’s insulated, made from 90% recycled stainless steel, and keeps your drink cold (or hot!) for hours. Also—it’s big enough to hold a real pour. None of that polite splash stuff. This is Thirsty Thursday, after all.
Verdict from the team? A full-throated thumbs up. Jade, Kirby, and Briar all gave the mug high marks—and honestly, we might just start keeping a few of these around the office for everyday use. Stylish and sustainable? Yes, please. Find more about this (and many of our recent Thirsty Thursday pieces here).
The Drink: Blue Chair Bay Banana Rum Cream
With a name like “Banana Rum Cream,” you know things are about to get tropical. This week, we cracked open a bottle from Blue Chair Bay, a brand known for beachy vibes and sweet island spirits.
This particular variety leans hard into the banana flavor—and if you’re a fan of creamy drinks that taste like dessert in a glass, this is definitely one to try. It’s smooth, a little decadent, and made us feel like we were sipping something in a hammock (even though we were very much in Coshocton, Ohio).
As always, the reactions were mixed—and that’s half the fun.
Kirby’s take? A definite thumbs up. “This tastes like a banana milkshake for grown-ups.”
Briar’s take? Also a fan. “I wouldn’t drink this every day, but if you’re sitting by a campfire or hosting a summer party—yeah, I’d have this again.”
Jade’s verdict? A maybe. “I don’t hate it, but I wouldn’t seek it out.” (To be fair, Jade is not typically drawn to cream-based or banana-forward drinks, so this wasn’t exactly playing to her strengths.)
That said, the consensus was clear: if you like banana and you like sweet, creamy cocktails, this one is worth a try. Just maybe have a sip before committing to the full swig.
The Combo: Surprisingly Great
Sometimes the magic of Thirsty Thursday is in the pairing. The sleek, insulated mug made even this thick, sweet rum cream feel a bit more elevated. And because it kept the drink cold, the texture and flavor stayed smooth from first sip to last. We’ve had some drinkware that clashes with the beverage. This week? Pure harmony.
Also worth noting: the mug made clean-up simple. We’ve tried a few creamy drinks in past episodes that left a film or were hard to rinse out. This mug handled it like a champ. So if you’re gifting this with a sweet drink—or just want a premium piece for your promo program—this is a win.
Final Thoughts: Sip, Swig, Smile
One of the best parts of Thirsty Thursday is discovering new ways to use branded drinkware in real life—and this week delivered. The Peak Mug is stylish, sustainable, and functional, and the Blue Chair Bay Banana Rum Cream added a little fun and flavor to the mix.
Want to grab this mug—or check out other branded pieces we’ve tested on the show? Visit our Thirsty Thursday shop to browse items we’ve loved, used, and sipped from with questionable beverages.
And don’t forget to watch the full episode to see our candid reactions, the banter, and maybe a surprise or two. We’ll embed the video right here in the blog, so you can sip and scroll with us.
Until next time—cheers to sipping, swigging, and making every Thursday a little more fun.
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 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.
Welcome to another DMJ 1 on 1—where we take a focused look at one important topic in marketing, branding, and personal growth. Today, Kirby dives into a common trap that businesses and personal brands fall into: relying solely on social media for marketing.
Let’s be clear up front: We believe in social media. It’s an incredibly powerful tool, and if you’re using it to genuinely provide value to your audience—especially through a “give first” mindset—you’re already ahead of the game.
But that’s where the warning comes in. Because using social media is not the same as building a complete marketing strategy. And when social becomes your only channel, you expose your brand to several major vulnerabilities.
Watch the full 1 on 1 episode here:
Here’s a breakdown of why you need more than just a Facebook post to move your business forward:
You Get a False Sense of Completion
“I posted it on Facebook.” Sound familiar?
It’s something we hear from business owners all the time. They believe that because they posted their big announcement, event, or promotion to social, they’ve “checked the box” on marketing.
But here’s the truth: posting once to one platform is barely the beginning.
In today’s crowded feeds, most of your audience won’t see your content the first time around. And even if they do, they might not take action unless they’re nudged again. If you’re only using social and only posting once, you’re not finished—you’re just getting started.
Algorithms Don’t Work in Your Favor
Social media platforms are businesses, and their top priority is keeping users engaged on their site—not ensuring your business reaches 100% of your audience.
Most platforms only show your content to a small percentage of your followers. Even on your best day, that killer post might only reach 10–20% of your audience organically.
That means if you’re not boosting posts or running ads—and even if you are—you’re still missing a massive portion of the people who actually want to hear from you.
You Don’t Own the Audience
This is one of the biggest risks of relying solely on social media: you don’t control the platform.
If Instagram changes its algorithm, if Facebook reduces brand page visibility, or if TikTok goes the way of MySpace, your entire audience can vanish overnight.
That’s why smart marketers use social to build owned media—email lists, websites, blogs, podcasts, and text communities that you control. When you own the relationship, you can reach your audience anytime, not just when the algorithm allows.
Not Everyone Is on Your Platform
You might love Facebook. But your next big client might be on LinkedIn. You may crush it on Instagram—but your referral partner might be an email reader. And let’s not forget the people who choose to be off social media entirely.
If social is your only strategy, you’re missing entire audience segments, even if they want to hear from you.
By diversifying where and how you show up, you increase the odds of meeting people where they are—not just where you are most comfortable.
Social Media Should Be… Social
This might be the biggest philosophical point of the episode: Social media isn’t just a billboard—it’s a community.
If every post is a sales pitch, your audience tunes out. People follow brands and creators because they add value, spark conversation, or create moments of connection.
Use your platform to:
Start conversations
Highlight others
Share behind-the-scenes stories
Ask questions
Celebrate wins (yours and your audience’s)
Marketing Joy happens when you create content people appreciate, not just scroll past.
So What Should You Do Instead?
Again—we’re not saying “don’t use social media.” We’re saying: use it intentionally. Use it as a gateway to something deeper.
Here’s how to diversify:
Use social to drive people to your email list
Share content that leads to your blog or website
Offer downloadable resources to build your owned audience
Repurpose your videos into articles, emails, and podcast episodes
Show up consistently across multiple channels
When you do this, you create a resilient brand—one that grows whether Facebook boosts your post or not.
Final Thoughts
Social media is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal—but it’s just one tool. The most effective marketers are the ones who use it strategically—to serve, to connect, and to grow their own platform, not just build someone else’s.
So keep posting. Keep sharing value. But don’t stop there. Build a system that’s bigger than the scroll.
And remember: you don’t need to be everywhere. But you do need to own something.
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.
