Ahahahahaha. I occasionally cave. Generally for things I didn't know I needed. :)
I gotta admit, I've never had a hat stretched. I've got a good friend that owns a pair of boot stretchers that I've used a couple of times. He's a smooth size 15 (14 UK, 31.3cm 49.5 Euro) and has a problem getting big enough shoes.
I believe you'll like the Yellowstone series. One more week til it's finished here. I started watching because a brother just insisted I needed it. I have managed to keep from buying any 'branded' merchandise :) I didn't think I liked the first season because everybody was an ass crack. 7 years (6 seasons) and here I am recommending it. That might be marketing at it's very best.
RE: Cowboy up and smell good