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.
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.
It’s time for a new episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, where Jade and Kirby dive into the world of promo, branding, and marketing strategy—with a healthy dose of fun and practical tips along the way.
In this episode, they cover:
Their favorite social media platforms right now—and why
How to do a Company Merch Shop the right way
How something as simple as a custom pin can build brand momentum
A shoutout to Genesis Healthcare, who just received top recognition for their commitment to patient care
Watch or listen to the full episode here:
Social Media Favorites: What’s Working Now
Social media is always shifting, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the platforms. This week, Jade and Kirby shared which channels are working best for them—and why.
Kirby’s picks:
LinkedIn for business. It’s professional, focused, and great for sharing ideas and building credibility in the B2B space.
TikTok for entertainment and inspiration. It’s where he scrolls when he wants quick creative ideas or just a laugh.
Jade’s pick:
Instagram is making a comeback in her world. With its visual storytelling and improving features for engagement, it’s once again a top platform for connection and content.
Takeaway: Choose the platforms that fit both your audience and your own energy. Then go all in on creating value there.
How to Build a Company Merch Shop That Works
Company merch shops are growing in popularity—but not all of them are created equal.
Kirby and Jade shared tips on what makes a great branded merch store for employees, clients, or partners:
Keep the options curated. Don’t overwhelm people with 500 items. Choose 10–15 on-brand, high-impact pieces.
Make it easy to order. User experience matters. A simple, intuitive interface goes a long way.
Tie it into the company culture. Let the shop support recruiting, retention, and internal celebrations.
Offer seasonal drops or limited releases to keep excitement and engagement high.
When done well, a company merch shop isn’t just about gear—it’s about amplifying culture and creating brand champions from within.
How a Custom Pin Can Spread Your Message
Sometimes it’s the small things that pack the biggest punch—and this week, Kirby and Jade spotlighted the power of custom pins.
They’re portable, collectible, and personal.
You can use them to celebrate milestones, raise awareness, recognize team members, or build community around a cause or idea.
Pins are easy to wear, share, and show off—making them perfect for both internal initiatives and public-facing campaigns.
If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-impact way to spread your message, a pin might be the perfect fit.
Product of the Week: 13 oz Barista Mug with Cork Bottom
This week’s featured product is a fan favorite—the 13 oz Barista Ceramic Mug with a Cork Bottom from our friends at Bel Promo.
Stylish two-tone design that looks great on any desk or kitchen counter
Cork bottom adds warmth, protects surfaces, and gives it a unique touch
Generous size without being bulky—perfect for coffee, tea, or even soup
This is a product that feels premium but remains accessible for giveaways, client gifts, or employee appreciation. And yes—it photographs beautifully for social, too.
Shoutout: Genesis Healthcare Earns Top Honors
We always love highlighting people and organizations doing great work, and this week we’re celebrating Genesis Healthcare for being awarded the highest overall star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
This recognition reflects the dedication and excellence of the Genesis team, and we’re proud to give them a well-earned shoutout on this week’s show.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing had a little bit of everything—social media insights, branded merch strategy, thoughtful recognition, and one very lovable mug.
Here’s your quick recap:
Use social media intentionally and go where you (and your audience) thrive
Build a company merch shop that reflects your culture and adds real value
Don’t overlook small but powerful tools like custom pins
Celebrate those doing great work—like Genesis Healthcare
Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe, and if you want help leveling up your branded merch strategy or creating your own company merch shop, 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.
