This time on the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman talk about the year of big bets and bigger budgets. Let’s watch now!
It is time for a brand new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this one is all about momentum, confidence, and bold marketing moves. In this episode, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman dive into the news that Hershey’s is increasing its marketing budget by 20 percent and shifting more focus toward influencer marketing and digital channels. They discuss what this signals for brands of all sizes and why leaning into visibility when others hesitate can be a powerful strategy.
The conversation then turns to the rising cost of Super Bowl advertising, which is also up by 20 percent. While many brands may see that as a barrier, Kirby explains why he still believes Super Bowl ads remain a bargain when viewed through the lens of reach, impact, and long-term brand equity. It sparks a broader discussion about where companies should invest their marketing dollars in 2026.
Jade and Kirby also introduce the idea of 2026 as “the Year of the Horse” and what that mindset represents for businesses. Energy, movement, confidence, and forward progress define the theme. After several years of uncertainty and adjustment, they argue that 2026 feels like a comeback year for brands that are ready to show up, take action, and reconnect with customers in meaningful ways.
This episode is fun, forward-looking, and filled with encouragement for marketers and business owners who want to ride the wave of opportunity instead of sitting on the sidelines. It is a conversation about spending wisely, thinking boldly, and believing that 2026 is back.
Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing!
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it! You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy,” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
It is time for a new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman are fresh back from the PPAI Expo in Las Vegas. Today we talk about things you can learn from “The Trade Show of Trade Shows!” Watch now!
In this episode, they break down the biggest lessons from the show and what clients and business owners can learn from the trends shaping the branded merchandise industry. In other words, this is what you can learn to make your next show even better.
The Rise of Activations
One of the biggest takeaways from the Expo was the rise of activations. What does that even mean? They dive in and explain. Jade and Kirby explain why interactive experiences were everywhere on the show floor and how brands can use activations to create stronger emotional connections through merch and marketing.
In addition, Jade and Kirby talk about creating the perfect merch…regardless of niche. This simple trick helps you nail your branded merch (and the rest of your marketing) every time!
The Product of the Week is the 24 Can Cooler Tote, a versatile and practical item that fits perfectly with event marketing, client gifting, and outdoor promotions. You can check it out here.
This episode is packed with practical insights from the PPAI Expo and is a great listen for anyone looking to create more intentional, effective branded merchandise programs.
Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing!
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it! You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy,” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
What do a scratch-and-sniff billboard, smarter branded merch, and packing for a huge industry event all have in common? In this episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Jade and Kirby break it all down.
First, we dig into a bold (and surprisingly smart) out-of-home campaign from Subway, where a scratch-and-sniff billboard was used to stop attention, spark curiosity, and create a real connection. What can marketers and merch pros learn from sensory marketing like this — and when does it actually make sense?
Then, Jade introduces her brand-new Merch Pyramid, a simple but powerful way to think about branded merchandise that actually moves the needle: Utility (does it get used?) Aesthetic (does it look good?) Connection (does it make people feel something?)
Finally, we get practical as we talk through the branded merch items we’re packing for our upcoming trip to PPAI Expo in Las Vegas — why we chose them, how they fit the Merch Pyramid, and what we’re hoping they help us accomplish at the show. If you care about: Smarter branded merch, Creative marketing ideas that stand out Practical takeaways you can actually use …this episode is for you. Oh…and don’t forget our Product of the Week (which you can find here) that will help keep us charged on the trip!
Hit play, and let’s talk Better Merch and Better Marketing!
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it! You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy,” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
It is time for a brand-new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, and this one kicks off 2026. Let’s learn a few lessons from Quick Serve Restaurants…and much more! Watch now!
In this episode, Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider share business lessons inspired by quick-serve restaurants and what marketers can learn from their consistency, systems, and customer experience. They also break down the top five categories of branded merchandise that people actually keep, offering insight into what creates long-term brand value.
Kirby and Jade then talk through their goals for 2026 and what they are focused on improving in the year ahead. Hopefully, this gets your wheels turning!
The Product of the Week is the Moon Jams Bundle, a fun and engaging kit that brings energy and creativity to branded merch programs. The episode wraps up with a spotlight on Marlite and their commitment to giving back during the holiday season. A strong start to the new year with practical takeaways for marketers and business owners alike.
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it! You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
In the final episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade reflect on the year that was and look ahead to 2026. They share a few areas they want to focus on in the coming year, revisit the Dad Was Right/Dad Was Wrong segment including Jade’s realization that cold calling was not as bad as expected, and wrap up with their biggest takeaways from 2025. A thoughtful and candid conversation to close out the year.
If you have not already subscribed to Better Merch…Better Marketing, today is a great day to do it! You can find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Just search “Delivering Marketing Joy” and you will have access to all of our podcasts in one place!
And as always, we are here to help! If you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
