If you’ve spent any time scrolling through business content on social media lately, chances are you’ve seen Alex Hormozi. He’s everywhere. Hormozi is an entrepreneur, investor, and author who’s built and sold multiple eight-figure businesses — and now helps others do the same.
But what makes his content stand out isn’t just his success. It’s the fact that he’s direct, practical, and allergic to fluff. He tells the truth about what actually drives growth — not just what sounds good on a podcast.
In this week’s Delivering Marketing Joy 1 on 1, I shared five powerful business lessons I’ve learned from Alex Hormozi — and how I’ve tried to apply them in my own journey at Hasseman Marketing.
1. Volume Solves Most Problems
One of Hormozi’s core beliefs is that “volume creates skill.”
Too often, we think we have a marketing problem or a sales problem — when in reality, we just don’t have enough reps. The more you do, the better you get.
If you want more sales, make more calls. If you want to improve your videos, make more videos. If you want more visibility, post more consistently.
It’s not about waiting for motivation. It’s about taking action. Movement creates momentum. Consistency compounds.
So many of us get stuck tweaking our websites, refining our copy, or waiting for the perfect logo before launching something new. The problem? By the time it’s “perfect,” the opportunity has passed.
Progress happens when you ship. Get your ideas out into the world, gather feedback, and improve from there.
In marketing and content creation, this couldn’t be more true. Perfection is the enemy of progress. It’s better to release a “good” post today than a “perfect” one that never sees daylight.
3. Focus on One Thing
This was a personal one for me.
As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to chase new ideas — new frameworks, projects, and opportunities. But Hormozi’s line “scattered focus creates scattered results” is a reminder that we grow through focus, not chaos.
If you want to level up, commit to the thing that moves the needle most. At Hasseman Marketing, that means doubling down on what we do best — helping organizations use branded merch and marketing to move people to action — and letting go of distractions that don’t serve that mission.
When you focus, you multiply your results.
4. Make Better Offers
This idea is the foundation of Hormozi’s first book, $100M Offers.
He says your goal should be to “make offers so good people feel stupid saying no.”
Many businesses think they have a traffic problem. But in most cases, they have an offer problem. The value just isn’t compelling enough.
So how do you make it irresistible? By solving problems and removing friction.
That might mean adding bonuses, guarantees, or “done-for-you” options. In our world, it could be including free design help, delivery, or setup with branded merch.
Better offers create better results — because they make it easy for customers to say yes.
5. Be Boring, Be Rich
Here’s one of Hormozi’s most underappreciated lessons: “The wealthiest people do boring things consistently.”
We often think success comes from big, flashy moves — but in reality, the most successful businesses simply execute the basics better than everyone else.
Follow up. Deliver on time. Say thank you. Keep your promises. It’s not sexy, but it’s sustainable.
At Hasseman Marketing, we’ve learned that “boring” consistency builds deep relationships — and that’s what ultimately builds wealth.
Final Thoughts
These five lessons from Alex Hormozi aren’t complicated — but they’re powerful:
* Volume solves most problems. * Speed over perfection. * Focus on one thing. * Make better offers. * Be boring, be rich.
They remind us that success doesn’t come from chasing hacks. It comes from doing the work, consistently, over time.
So take one of these ideas and apply it this week. Whether it’s picking up the phone, publishing that post, or refining your offer — action beats hesitation every time.
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!
Digital Grabs Attention. Physical Builds Connection. Together…They Build Loyalty.
When it comes to marketing, most organizations feel pressure to pick a side: Digital — fast, data-driven, measurable. Physical — tangible, personal, and lasting.
But the truth is, you don’t have to choose. The most effective brands know that when you blend digital and physical marketing, you create a one-two punch of awareness + connection that builds real loyalty over time.
Let’s explore five practical ways you can make your digital and physical marketing work together.
Start With a Unified Message
You’ve seen it happen: a brand launches a slick online ad, you click to learn more, and suddenly it feels like you’ve entered a different world. The tone shifts. The visuals don’t match. The vibe is completely off.
That kind of disconnect breaks trust.
Your digital and physical presence should look, feel, and sound consistent. If your social media is playful and colorful but your branded merch looks like it’s from a different decade, your audience notices—even if they can’t quite explain why.
At Hasseman Marketing, we encourage clients to think of their brand as a single story told across multiple touchpoints. Whether someone encounters your logo on Instagram, your website, a billboard, or a water bottle, the tone and message should align.
Because when your marketing feels seamless, people feel confident they know who you are.
Use Merch to Enhance Digital Experiences
Here’s where physical marketing can transform your digital funnel.
Imagine someone downloads your free guide, registers for your webinar, or subscribes to your video series. Most companies stop there—they send a confirmation email and hope the lead stays engaged.
But what if you went a step further?
Send a small, thoughtful piece of branded merch that ties into the experience. Maybe it’s a notebook that matches the design of your guide, or a coffee mug that includes the series name.
That one physical touchpoint adds weight and warmth to an otherwise digital transaction. It keeps your brand on their desk (literally) and in their mind long after they’ve closed the browser tab.
It doesn’t have to be expensive; it just has to be intentional. When your physical follow-up supports the same story your digital marketing started, you build connection—and that’s what drives conversion.
Make It Interactive with QR & NFC Technology
We’ve all seen QR codes make a big comeback, but there’s another tool marketers should be paying attention to: NFC technology (the same tech that powers tap-to-pay).
You can now create pens, tumblers, or notebooks that let customers tap their phone and instantly visit your website, a campaign page, or even a personalized thank-you video.
This is where the physical and digital truly merge. At a recent fundraiser, one team printed QR codes on their shirts that linked directly to their donation page. It turned every participant into a walking call-to-action.
Imagine taking that same concept into your next trade show, customer event, or direct-mail campaign. A piece of merch that connects instantly to your digital world becomes more than swag—it becomes a gateway.
Use Social Media to Tell the Story Behind the Merch
The merch itself is great, but the story behind it can be even better.
For our Customer Appreciation Show, we didn’t just hand out products—we told the story of why we chose each one. We filmed behind-the-scenes clips of our team debating product options, explaining why an item fit the event theme, and sharing what we hoped it would mean to our clients.
That authenticity resonated. Attendance went up, and engagement skyrocketed because people felt part of the journey before they ever walked in the door.
So, don’t stop at showing the finished product. Use your social platforms to celebrate the people, creativity, and emotion behind your merch decisions. That’s what transforms ordinary promo into meaningful marketing.
Guide Behavior and Track Results
Finally, remember that every piece of merch can serve a purpose.
By embedding a QR code, NFC tag, or even a custom short URL, you can turn your giveaways into measurable, actionable tools.
Add a simple card that says, “Scan here to book a demo,” or “Tap your mug to join our VIP list.” Then track the responses. You’ll know exactly who’s engaging and which campaigns drive real ROI.
For influencer kits or event boxes, create an intentional next step—like encouraging recipients to post and tag your brand or share an unboxing video. When you combine the tactile power of merch with the trackability of digital, your marketing becomes both human and smart.
The Big Takeaway
Digital grabs attention. Physical builds connection. And together—they build loyalty.
If your marketing feels one-sided right now, start small. Add a tangible follow-up to your next email campaign. Include a QR code on your packaging that points to a heartfelt video message. Or hand out NFC-enabled gifts that drive people straight to your website.
Every digital campaign deserves a physical complement—and every piece of merch deserves a call-to-action.
Because when the two worlds work together, your audience doesn’t just remember your brand… they believe in it.
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 latest episode of the Better Merch…Better Marketing podcast, Jade and Kirby dive into a fun and insightful conversation centered around creativity, nostalgia, strategy—and, of course, better merch. Titled “McDonald’s Monopoly Marketing,” this episode is packed with takeaways for marketers, business leaders, and anyone looking to make the most of Q4.
Let’s break down the highlights of the show.
McDonald’s Monopoly Is Back—and It’s Brilliant Marketing
McDonald’s has brought back its iconic Monopoly game, and both Jade and Kirby are here for it. Why? Because it hits on two powerful marketing strategies at once: Nostalgia Marketing and Owned Media.
Nostalgia marketing is a term they’re hoping to coin, and for good reason. When you tap into a customer’s fond memories—especially from childhood or earlier in life—you tap into emotion. That emotion builds connection, trust, and attention. The Monopoly game has been a core memory for many McDonald’s fans, and bringing it back in the digital age just works.
But here’s where it gets really smart: this time, the game is tied to the McDonald’s app.
Instead of just peeling game pieces off fry boxes, customers now need to interact with the McDonald’s app, turning the campaign into a powerful owned media play. McDonald’s isn’t just driving visits—they’re building long-term customer relationships by getting people into their ecosystem. That means more push notifications, more loyalty, and more data.
Jade and Kirby both agree: this campaign is chef’s kiss marketing. It’s not just a throwback—it’s a strategic move that any business can learn from.
Takeaway: How can your business create moments of nostalgia for your customers—and tie those moments to platforms you own (like your email list or app)?
Q4 Goals: The Power of Starting Fresh (Every Quarter)
Next up, Kirby and Jade talk about the fresh energy that comes with the start of a new quarter. At Hasseman Marketing, goal setting isn’t just a once-a-year thing—it’s baked into the rhythm of the business. And Q4 is no different.
Kirby shares how they break down annual goals into quarterly checkpoints. It’s a method that keeps things practical, focused, and achievable. When you only focus on big, long-term goals, it’s easy to lose momentum. But quarterly goals keep the team aligned and energized.
Jade adds that she loves the “reset” vibe that comes with a new quarter. It gives her the chance to revisit what’s working (and what’s not), and bring fresh creativity to her projects.
Takeaway: If you’re not setting quarterly goals, you’re missing out on one of the simplest and most effective tools for keeping your marketing (and your mindset) on track.
LinkedIn on the Rise
Let’s talk about LinkedIn.
Jade noticed something—and she’s not alone. LinkedIn is growing. Not just in user count, but in content engagement and business relevance. While other platforms are battling algorithms and ad fatigue, LinkedIn is quietly becoming a go-to space for professional content, real conversations, and brand-building.
Kirby has been a longtime fan of LinkedIn and talked about how he uses it to connect with business leaders, share consistent content, and build credibility. The platform is less about viral dance trends and more about value-driven posts—and that’s exactly what makes it effective.
Whether you’re in sales, recruiting, leadership, or marketing, LinkedIn is worth a second look.
Takeaway: Now is a great time to double down on LinkedIn. Start by sharing what you know, celebrating your wins, and being authentically helpful.
Product of the Week: Gold Bond HydraPeak 32 oz Water Bottle
This week’s featured product comes from the team’s friends at Gold Bond—and it’s a winner.
The HydraPeak 32 oz Insulated Water Bottle with straw lid is a perfect blend of quality, function, and value. Whether you’re hydrating during your workday or keeping your brand in front of your customers, this bottle does the job.
High perceived value
Customizable with your brand
Built for everyday use
This is the kind of merch that doesn’t get tossed—it gets used.
Takeaway: Don’t just give stuff—give merch that earns a permanent spot in your customer’s daily life.
Shout Out: Groundbreaking at the AEP Site in Conesville
Finally, Kirby and Jade wrap up the episode with a BIG shout-out to the recent groundbreaking at the old AEP site in Conesville, Ohio.
This massive site has been under redevelopment since 2020, and now the first business is moving in—a major step forward for the community.
Huge kudos go out to the Port Authority, County Commissioners, City Officials, and the many organizations who have collaborated to make this happen. It’s proof that when people work together with vision and purpose, big things happen.
Takeaway: Community progress is something to celebrate—and it’s made possible by people who believe in building a better future.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a perfect snapshot of what Better Merch…Better Marketing is all about:
Learning from smart brands (like McDonald’s)
Staying intentional with your goals
Using the right platforms
Choosing the right merch
And celebrating progress—big or small
If you haven’t tuned in yet, this is a great episode to jump into.
Catch the full episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing wherever you listen to podcasts—and be sure to share it with a fellow marketer or business owner who needs a little spark.
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 July, I invested two months in Dan Martell’s Elite Coaching Program—and it was a great investment for my growth as a leader and entrepreneur. The program wasn’t cheap ($3,000), but it forced me to take a step back and remind myself of something important: I am the product. If I don’t invest in me, everything else eventually suffers.
Here are the four biggest lessons I took away from my time in the program.
Be Willing to Invest in Yourself
We say we want to grow. We say we want to lead better, sell better, market better. But often, we’ll invest in everything else—software, equipment, campaigns—before we invest in ourselves.
That’s a mistake. The truth is, you are the product. Your ideas, your leadership, your energy, your clarity—those are what drive your business and your team forward. If you don’t invest in sharpening those things, the rest will never reach its potential.
For me, the price tag of $3,000 was actually part of the lesson. It meant I had skin in the game. It made me show up differently. When you pay for coaching, training, or mentoring, you’re not just buying content—you’re buying commitment.
The Five Daily Non-Negotiables
Dan outlined a set of five daily habits that serve as a foundation for success. They’re simple, but powerful:
Workout – Move your body every day. Energy fuels everything else.
Read 10 pages of a self-development book – Feed your brain with fresh ideas and perspective.
Review your goals 2–3 times a day – Keep your eyes on the prize so distractions don’t pull you off course.
Post 3 Instagram stories – Share your journey, let people in, build your brand.
Make 5 reach-outs to prospects or customers – Growth is in the follow-up, not just the new ideas.
If you think about it, these five things cover your mind, body, brand, and business. Do them daily, and the compounding effect is incredible.
Make Your Goals Inevitable
This one was a breakthrough for me. Dan says: don’t just set goals—make them inevitable.
Here’s how:
Start with your big dream goal.
Break it down into what you need to achieve this year to move toward it.
Then break that down further into the daily actions that—if done consistently—make the big goal unavoidable.
For example, if your dream goal is a revenue number, break it into quarterly and monthly sales targets. Then, translate those into how many daily reach-outs or conversations you need. If you do those reach-outs every day for 1,000 days, hitting the big goal becomes inevitable.
I love this because it removes some of the mystery around success. It’s no longer about luck—it’s about math and consistency.
There’s Not Just One Way to Succeed
One of the things I’ve noticed in personal development is that every guru has their “one true way.” Some say you need to go all-in on a single focus. Others say you should diversify. Dan had his own take as well.
The truth? There isn’t just one way. Success leaves clues, but it doesn’t leave a map. The trick is to study the lessons, learn the patterns, and then carve your own trail.
That was freeing for me. I don’t need to copy someone else’s exact playbook. I can take what works for me and build my own system.
Final Thoughts
The biggest takeaway? Growth is intentional. If you want to be better in business—or in life—you have to commit to daily habits, make your goals inevitable, and be willing to invest in yourself.
I loved my time in the Elite Coaching Program, and I’m grateful for the lessons I learned. If you’re considering an investment in yourself—whether it’s coaching, a program, or just more dedicated time to growth—do it.
At the end of the day, you are the product.
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!
Season 2 of Better Merch…Better Marketing is rolling along, and this week Kirby and Jade are back LIVE in the Hasseman Marketing office for a lively conversation about tech, retail, events, and of course, branded merch. From futuristic glasses to giant grocery bags, they covered a wide range of topics you won’t want to miss.
Meta AI Glasses: Cool Tool or Creepy Gadget?
The episode kicked off with a look at the Meta AI glasses—a product that has sparked plenty of buzz and more than a few questions.
Jade pointed out some creative ways these could be used at a trade show or live event, like identifying brands in real time or helping attendees navigate a show floor. Imagine walking into a booth and instantly pulling up a brand’s story or product catalog, all without pulling out your phone.
Kirby, meanwhile, focused on the content creation angle. For marketers, the ability to record, stream, and create hands-free opens up some incredible opportunities. But he also acknowledged the elephant in the room: privacy concerns. How will people feel about wearing or being recorded by glasses that are always on?
Both agreed it’s a fascinating piece of tech—but they want to hear from you. Would you wear Meta AI glasses? Would you use them in your business?
Aldi’s Giant Bag Campaign
From futuristic tech to the grocery aisle, Jade and Kirby then tackled the latest campaign from Aldi. The discount chain made waves with their oversized shopping bags designed to perfectly fit their carts. To add to the buzz, they gave away 1,000 of them.
The verdict? Jade and Kirby loved the concept. The bag fits seamlessly into Aldi’s shopper experience, it’s fun, and it’s a walking billboard for the brand. But the limitation—only 1,000 bags—left them scratching their heads. Why not make this a bigger program that more shoppers could access?
The lesson: if you create branded merch that perfectly fits your brand and resonates with your audience, don’t stop at just a taste. Scale it up and let the campaign run.
Lessons from the Customer Show
With Hasseman Marketing’s Branding Basecamp Customer Show just wrapped up, Kirby and Jade shared their takeaways.
The T-shirt station was a hit. Giving attendees a chance to print and customize their own shirt was not only fun but also created an interactive brand experience.
You can never over-communicate. From emails to reminders, making sure people know what’s happening and where to go is critical for success.
People remember the highlights. The conversations, the experiences, and the special touches are what stick—not the little things you might stress about behind the scenes.
It was a great event, and Jade and Kirby were thrilled with the feedback and energy.
Product of the Week: The 10 x 10 Tent
This week’s Product of the Week is something many attendees saw firsthand at the show: the 10 x 10 Deluxe Steel Frame Tent.Check it out here.
Tents like these are perfect for:
Outdoor events and festivals
Trade shows and community gatherings
Company picnics or recruiting fairs
Not only do they provide function and shelter, but they also create a big, bold canvas for your brand. Learn more and get yours here.
Shout-Out: Baltic State Bank
Finally, Jade and Kirby gave a shout-out to Baltic State Bank, which is opening a new branch in West Lafayette. It’s always encouraging to see investment and growth in the local community, and this expansion is a win for the area.
Wrapping Up
This episode had a little bit of everything: tech trends, retail campaigns, event lessons, and a standout product for outdoor marketing. If there’s a thread tying it all together, it’s this: when you combine creativity with strategy, branded merch and marketing campaigns can create real impact.
From AI glasses to giant shopping bags, the landscape of marketing continues to evolve—and Better Merch…Better Marketing is here to help you make sense of it all.
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!
