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.
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.
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.
