It’s time for another round of Thirsty Thursday! This week was a special one because Jade is officially back in the office (for the Customer show), which meant the full crew—Jade, Briar, and Kirby—was together again. And in true Thirsty Thursday fashion, we celebrated by trying a mystery drink from a fresh piece of branded drinkware.
So what did we sip on this time? Let’s dive in.
The Drink: Downeast Pumpkin Blend
Since fall is in the air, it only made sense to try something seasonal. We cracked open the Downeast Pumpkin Blend cider, a drink that promised to bring cozy autumn vibes in every sip.
The reviews were solid across the board. Jade, who has been lovingly nicknamed “Jade Cider” for her fondness of this category, gave it a big thumbs up. She thought the pumpkin spice notes were flavorful and a perfect match for the season. Briar and Kirby were also on board, calling it “solid” and “good for the season.” While it may not be the kind of cider you’d drink every single day, it definitely has a place as a fall staple—something you’d want to enjoy by a campfire, after a hayride, or at a fall tailgate.
Bottom line? If you’re looking for a seasonal sip that pairs pumpkin spice with crisp cider, Downeast delivers.
The Drinkware: Vulcan Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Strap
Now let’s talk about the star of the show—the Vulcan Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Strap from Bel Promo. This 34 oz. bottle was an absolute hit with the team. Everyone agreed: it’s a great size, great value, and perfect for both everyday hydration and promotional use.
One of the standout features of this piece is its subtle, tone-on-tone imprint. Sometimes, less really is more. The design came out sleek and understated, which makes the bottle not only functional but also stylish. In fact, this was one of the giveaway items at our recent customer show, and it received rave reviews.
Another big win? The low minimum order quantity. With just 12 pieces as the starting point, this makes it a great option for smaller teams, special events, or exclusive giveaways. You don’t have to commit to hundreds just to get high-quality branded drinkware into the hands of your audience. Learn more and order yours here.
Why This Works
One of the things we love most about Thirsty Thursday is showing how branded merch can be more than “stuff.” When it’s done right, it’s useful, high-quality, and creates an experience. The Vulcan Water Bottle is exactly that kind of piece—it’s the kind of promo item people actually want to use. Pair that with a fun, seasonal drink like Downeast Pumpkin Blend, and you’ve got a winning combo that fits the vibe of the season.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Thirsty Thursday was a reminder of why we love doing this series. It’s about trying new things, testing out great merch, and having a little fun along the way. The Downeast Pumpkin Blend brought the fall flavors, and the Vulcan Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Strap proved to be an MVP in the branded merch game.
So what’s the verdict? Solid reviews on the cider (especially from Jade “Cider”) and unanimous love for the drinkware. That’s a Thirsty Thursday win in our book.
If you want to check out this piece for your team, event, or next campaign, you can find it here: Vulcan Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Strap. And don’t forget—if you want to see other great drinkware ideas we’ve tested on the show, you can shop our Thirsty Thursday collection here: Thirsty Thursday Shop.
Until next time, cheers from all of us at Thirsty Thursday!
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!
We’re back! After wrapping up Season 1, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman are kicking off Season 2 of Better Merch…Better Marketing with fresh stories, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. From big life changes to bold PR moves, this episode is full of practical takeaways (and a really cool product you’ll want to see).
Here’s what we covered in this week’s episode:
Big Changes in July
July brought big shifts for both Jade and Kirby.
Jade made a major move, relocating from Colorado to Georgia. In the episode, she shares what it’s been like to transition both personally and professionally, including the adjustments she’s making in a brand-new environment.
Kirby, on the other hand, spent the month “out of the office.” He didn’t completely disconnect from work but intentionally pulled back from his usual pace. He shares what worked (recharging and finding clarity) and what didn’t (because, let’s be honest, unplugging from a busy schedule isn’t always smooth).
The lesson? Sometimes you need to step back—or shake things up—to see your business (and your life) from a fresh perspective.
A Brilliant PR Move from Astronomer
We couldn’t resist talking about the story that took social media by storm: Astronomer’s CEO and HR director unexpectedly going viral after being caught on the “kiss cam” at a Coldplay concert. Instead of ignoring it, the company leaned in with humor and creativity—bringing in Gwyneth Paltrow as their temporary spokesperson to address the attention.
And it worked.
Both Jade and Kirby agreed: this was PR done right. It was smart, funny, and most importantly, human. It’s a great reminder that not every “crisis” is a crisis. Sometimes, if you embrace the moment with authenticity, it can turn into a win.
Instagram is Becoming a Search Platform
Jade led a fascinating discussion on Instagram’s shift toward becoming more of a search platform—and what that means for marketers.
Instead of just pretty pictures and short captions, users are now treating Instagram like a mini search engine. That means captions, keywords, and descriptions matter more than ever.
Some of the key tips we discussed:
Write captions with searchable terms that match what your audience is looking for.
Consider the questions people are asking and use your posts to answer them.
Don’t just post for aesthetics—think about discoverability.
If you’re using Instagram for business, it’s time to optimize not just for likes but for searchability.
Product of the Week: EZ Breezy Neck Fan
When it’s hot outside, you don’t just want to cool off—you need to. That’s why our Product of the Week is the EZ Breezy Neck Fan from HPG.
This hands-free fan is rechargeable, lightweight, and perfect for events, outdoor work, or simply surviving summer. It’s also a fantastic branded merch option because it’s useful, fun, and attention-grabbing—the kind of thing people will thank you for.
Shout Out of the Week: Coshocton Economic Development Win
Finally, we ended the episode with a huge shout out to the Coshocton Port Authority, Ohio SE, the Ohio Department of Development, and everyone involved in securing a $58.7 million grant for the old AEP site in Coshocton County.
This funding will help build out the infrastructure to make the site ready for future economic development projects—an incredible step forward for the local community.
This is a huge win for Coshocton County, and it’s a great example of what happens when local leaders, state agencies, and development organizations work together.
Final Thoughts
Season 2 is off to a strong start. From personal growth to smart PR strategies, from Instagram’s evolution to innovative branded products, this episode is packed with value—and plenty of reasons to get excited about what’s next.
Be sure to watch the full episode above, and if you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the time. Season 2 is going to be even bigger, better, and more insightful.
And if you’re battling the summer heat? Get yourself an EZ Breezy Neck Fan. Trust us.
And as always, 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’s time for another round of Thirsty Thursday with Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert from Simple Signs & Print, and Kirby Hasseman! If you’ve been following along, you know the rules by now: we take a piece of branded drinkware, pour in a mystery drink, and give you our honest—and usually hilarious—reactions.
This week’s episode brought great drinkware, a surprising beverage, and a lot of fruity flavor guesses.
The Drinkware: Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler
This week, we featured the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler from our friends at PCNA.
This tumbler is the perfect combination of style, function, and value. Made from recycled materials, it’s an eco-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. With its sleek design, comfortable feel, and excellent price point, it’s the kind of drinkware that’s ideal for giveaways, employee appreciation gifts, or even stocking your breakroom.
We especially loved:
The sustainable, recycled construction
The comfortable 16oz size—perfect for coffee, water, or a mystery drink!
The value: this is a budget-friendly product that still feels premium
When you’re looking for a practical piece of branded merch that people will use every day, this one checks all the boxes.
The Mystery Drink: Cider Boys Melon Mojito
Now, onto the fun part. The drink inside the tumbler was the Cider Boys Melon Mojito.
When we first took a sip, the initial reactions were mostly positive. It’s light, refreshing, and fruity with just the right amount of sweetness. But the real entertainment started when we began guessing the flavors.
Briar and Jade started throwing out so many fruit guesses that Kirby finally joked, “This must be a health drink!” From melon to citrus to mint, the conversation turned into a full-on fruit salad of speculation.
When the big reveal came—Cider Boys Melon Mojito—we all had to laugh. It made sense. The subtle blend of melon and mint gave it a unique profile that felt tropical, fun, and perfect for summer.
And the verdict? A solid thumbs up from all three of us.
Why We Love Doing This
Beyond the laughs and taste tests, Thirsty Thursday is about something bigger: showing how branded drinkware can make an impact. When you hand someone a product like the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler, you’re not just giving them a cup—you’re giving them a piece of your brand that they’ll see and use over and over again.
This tumbler is a perfect example of what we love about great merch:
It’s practical and has a purpose
It’s affordable but doesn’t feel “cheap”
It’s an eco-friendly option that aligns with modern values
Pair that with a fun episode featuring a tasty drink, and you’ve got a recipe for another classic Thirsty Thursday.
Want to Get This Tumbler for Your Brand?
If you want your customers or team members to enjoy a branded product they’ll actually use, the Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler is a fantastic option. With its eco-friendly appeal and everyday practicality, it’s the kind of item that turns a one-time giveaway into long-term brand impressions.
A mystery drink that kept us guessing (and laughing)
Another reason to love branded merchandise that’s both useful and fun
The Grande 16oz Recycled Tumbler got a big thumbs up from the crew, and the Cider Boys Melon Mojito was a hit too. If you haven’t watched the episode yet, make sure you do—you’ll see all the fruity flavor guesses and plenty of laughs.
Stay tuned for the next episode of Thirsty Thursday, where we’ll bring more drinkware, more mystery drinks, and more fun. Until then, grab your tumbler, pour yourself a drink, and keep delivering marketing joy!
And as always, 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!
When most people think about branded merchandise, they picture giveaways at trade shows or customer appreciation gifts. But some of the most powerful marketing doesn’t happen externally—it starts inside your own organization.
Today, let’s flip the script. We’re not talking about giving merch to your customers. We’re talking about using merch internally to build something even more valuable: your company culture.
Your First Audience is Your Team
Here’s the truth: if your employees don’t believe in your brand, your customers won’t either. Culture is not a buzzword. It’s the emotional glue that keeps your team aligned, motivated, and moving in the same direction.
That’s why internal branding matters. It helps your team feel connected to something bigger than themselves. And branded merch can play a surprisingly powerful role in that.
In a world of remote work, hybrid offices, and constant change, building a sense of unity isn’t optional—it’s essential. Branded merchandise can be the physical thread that ties your people together, no matter where they are.
How Branded Merch Builds Culture
Let’s break down a few ways internal merch can make an impact:
It Creates a Sense of Team
When your team wears the same logo, there’s a shift. It says, “I’m part of this.” Matching apparel, custom gear, or desk drops aren’t just swag—they’re signals. They foster identity, pride, and camaraderie.
Think about sports teams. Uniforms matter. Your company is no different.
It Reinforces Your Values
Merch is a powerful tool to bring your mission and values to life—visually and tangibly. Are you an eco-conscious brand? Give out high-quality, reusable drinkware made from recycled materials. Is innovation your thing? Deliver sleek, smart tech products that reflect that mindset.
Every item becomes a storytelling device. When done well, it communicates who you are without saying a word.
It Recognizes and Rewards
Merch is a fantastic way to say “I see you.” Whether it’s for work anniversaries, birthdays, performance milestones, or just a surprise thank-you—thoughtful gifts boost morale and make your people feel appreciated.
And here’s the secret: when people feel seen, they’re more likely to stick around and bring their best selves to work.
It Creates Excitement During Key Moments
First days, big meetings, new product launches, culture initiatives—all of these are opportunities to rally your team. A well-timed merch drop turns routine events into memorable experiences.
You’re not just handing out stuff. You’re marking the moment.
What Kind of Internal Merch Works?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here are some tried-and-true ideas:
Onboarding Kits: Make that first day feel like a warm welcome.
Employee Appreciation Gifts: Thoughtful, useful, and on-brand.
Seasonal Drops: Holiday gifts, summer gear, or winter wellness kits.
Sales Incentives: Reward performance with items they’ll be proud to use.
Team Uniforms: Polished apparel for events, client meetings, or just day-to-day branding.
Remote Work Kits: Branded mugs, notebooks, or ring lights for your WFH warriors.
Tips to Do It Right
If you want your internal branding to land well, here are a few quick pointers:
Let your team vote on items or designs—it builds anticipation and ownership.
Make it wearable or useful. No one wants another junk drawer item.
Invest in quality. A cheap hoodie doesn’t feel like a gift. A premium piece makes people feel valued.
Presentation matters. Package it with care and intention. This isn’t a handout—it’s a culture-builder.
Your Call to Action
Here’s your challenge: Take a hard look at your internal brand. Is it alive and well inside your company—or only visible to the outside world?
If you want a high-performing team, start by helping them feel like they belong. And you don’t need to launch a massive program. Start small. Create one drop. Celebrate one moment. Build from there.
Because when your people believe in your brand, they don’t just work for you—they advocate for you.
Final Thought: Your internal culture drives your external results. Merch can help make that culture visible, tangible, and unforgettable.
And as always, 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!
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.
